Okarun: How old is Okarun in Dandadan? Explored

How old is Okarun in Dandadan? Explored

Modified Nov 30, 2024 00:30 GMT

Ken Takakura aka Okarun (Image via Science Saru)

In Dandadan, Ken Takakura, aka Okarun, is a central character in the series, adored for his blend of awkwardness, courage, and connection to the supernatural. On initial looks, viewers got curious to know how old Okarun is in Dandadan due to his youthful energy and school-life setting.

Alongside Momo Ayase and others, Okarun's age aids in grounding the occult elements of Dandadan in a relatable coming-of-age backdrop. As revealed in the series, Ken Takakura is about 15 to 16 years of age, similar to the female protagonist, Momo. His age positions his role as a high-schooler and props his dynamic with Momo and others in the story.

Dandadan: Okarun's age and personality in the series

As mentioned, Ken Takakura, aka Okarun, is about 15 to 16 years of age, as per the manga. He is a high school student at Kami High alongside Momo Ayase and Aira Shiratori. His appearance is also that of a teenager, sporting a slender build and being a little short in height. As the series progresses, he packs more muscle onto his frame thanks to strength training and numerous battles.

Okarun's personality further cements him as an awkward teenager. He described himself as a socially awkward person with a deep interest in the paranormal, mainly focusing on aliens and cryptids. This interest dates back to his childhood when he attempted to contact aliens due to loneliness. As such, he also developed an inferiority complex due to his inability to fit in.

An age like this mirrors a transitional phase between adolescence and adulthood, underscoring his personal growth as he unravels his bizarre run-ins with aliens, spirits, and his own emotions. Further, Okarun's age is important in setting the tone of the series, mixing teenage awkwardness with bold heroics in a dynamic and mystic journey.

Okarun's role in Dandadan

Okarun in Turbo Granny Form (Image via Science Saru)

As mentioned, Okarun is one of the main protagonists in Yukinobu Tatsu's Dandadan. An edgy high school student navigating life, Okarun was initially shown to be shy and reserved and deeply passionate about the supernatural, UFOs, and aliens in particular. But Momo Ayase entering his life changed it completely as she brought the world of ghosts and spirits with her.

Okarun’s role in the series centers around his growth as both a character and a fighter. Following his bizarre encounter with Turbo Granny, Okarun gains Yokai's unique powers and abilities, which greatly enhance his speed and agility. As such, he becomes a vital part of the occult team (Momo, Seiko, Aira) as they battle supernatural threats.

Though he was quite timid and reserved in the beginning, he possessed a strong sense of bravery and determination. This is due to Okarun being a selfless individual who believes that it is right to help others when they are in danger. These qualities shine bright when he, on multiple occasions, jumps square into the face of danger to protect his friends and take on quite overwhelming odds.

Momo and Okarun (Image via Science Saru)

His swoon-worthy relationship with Momo Ayase is another major part of the narrative. It depicts a blend of endearing awkwardness, genuine camaraderie, and more-than-subtle romantic tension. His character growth is fueled by his interactions with her and the challenges they take on together. With time, he graduates from a socially awkward teen to a courageous and reliable ally.

His experience with the supernatural and his battles with various opponents teach him to embrace his newfound abilities and confront his fears. Yukinobu Tatsu wrote Okarun as a mix of pertinent insecurity, fierce loyalty, and impressive courage with a sprinkle of comedy. Thus, the product is a well-rounded and beloved character in the colorful yet chaotic world of Dandadan.

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Edited by Shreya Das