Who is Karui’s love interest in Naruto? Explained

Most relationships in Naruto develop through fights, teamwork, or mutual suffering. Some, such as Naruto and Hinata or Sasuke and Sakura, are given focus and build-up. Others, such as Karui and Choji, occur quietly in the background. Their relationship seems abrupt, but it is an expression of a greater theme in the series—how relationships can develop without display.

Choji is Karui’s love interest in Naruto. Although fans don't get to see much of how their love starts, what they get is genuine. In Boruto, however, their family life feels authentic. Karui and Choji prove that love doesn't require a spotlight to be meaningful, as it merely requires time, work, and mutual trust to endure.

Disclaimer: This article reflects the writer's opinion and includes spoilers from the mentioned anime/manga.

Karui and Choji’s relationship in Naruto

Karui and Choji as seen in Boruto anime (Image via Pierrot)

The relationship between Karui and Choji in Naruto is the most surprising couple in the series. Karui, a kunoichi from Kumogakure, has a strict personality and strong loyalty to her village. Choji Akimichi belongs to Konohagakure's Akimichi clan and is famous for his eating habits and distinctive fighting style.

Their personalities are contrasting, making their relationship more surprising. Though they are a confirmed couple in the epilogue, their love is never explored in detail.

The first indication is from Sasuke Shinden: Book of Sunrise. Karui is looking into missing shinobi in her village. At the time, she contacts Choji and updates him on the state of her village. This lets fans know they were already in touch. There is also the implication of a certain level of trust between the two. It was not necessarily romantic on its surface, but it paved the way for more.

Karui as seen in anime (Image via Pierrot)

Later, Ino reveals something interesting. She tells Sakura that Choji makes excuses to visit Kumogakure. This means he is trying to see Karui. It's a pretty obvious sign that he likes her. It also indicates that their relationship grew over time. These small visits could have helped them bond with each other. The story doesn't depict these instances, but they are mentioned.

Eventually, they are featured together in several scenes. One such scene depicts Karui, Choji, Ino, and Sai waiting for their kids. They are getting ready for the next generation of the 'Ino-Shika-Cho' alliance. This assures us that Choji and Karui are dating. Although their initial romance is not depicted in detail, their being together assures everything.

Karui, Choji, Ino, and Sai as seen in manga (Image via Shueisha)

Their romance is not based on flashy or dramatic scenes. It appears to develop from quiet respect and simple understanding. Choji is easygoing and gentle, while Karui is straightforward and stubborn.

These characteristics might have suited each other. There is no grand confession or love scene. Nevertheless, their brief exchanges suggest a real connection. It's a quiet little love story that infuses both characters with subtle richness.

How their relationship evolves in Boruto

Karui and Choji at ChoCho's Chunin Exams in Boruto (Image via Pierrot)

In Boruto, the relationship between Choji and Karui is more visible. They are officially married and live with their daughter, ChoCho. Their family moments illustrate a normal but affectionate family life.

Choji is found relaxing or snacking, whereas Karui keeps everything clean. The three are illustrated looking extremely casual, for example, sitting at a café or eating meals at home. Their moments illustrate a natural family rhythm—chaotic, witty, and loving.

Karui and Choji raise ChoCho together. They train with her and support her in the Chunin Exams. Choji cheers from the crowd loudly, while Karui remains calm and asks about their daughter's skills.

ChoCho as seen in Boruto anime (Image via Pierrot)

Even when ChoCho asks herself if she actually does look like her parents, Karui and Choji don't become angry. They act like any good supporting parents would as they try to understand their daughter and facilitate her growth.

At home, their relationship includes lighthearted ups and downs. Karui often gets annoyed by Choji’s overeating, especially when he finishes the food made for everyone. In one moment, she storms off after finding the food gone, but later, she calmly joins Choji and ChoCho at a restaurant.

Karui, Chojo, and ChoCho as seen in anime (Image via Pierrot)

This shows that small arguments never shake their bond. Choji even participates in an eating contest to impress her, but amidst the chaos, he learns something more profound—that spending time together as a family means more than showing off.

Karui has confessed that she loves Choji because she finds goodness in him. When cornered to say more, she blushes, indicating her love is true but not something she will talk about openly. Choji continues to find Karui beautiful and works hard to gain her respect. Their love may have started quietly, but it is a true illustration of how love, patience, and respect lead to a long-lasting relationship.

Final thoughts

Karui and Choji's relationship in Naruto is one of the series' understated romances. Theirs is a relationship that evolved from reserved understanding and mutual respect, no dazzling moments and over-the-top gestures. Theirs was not one of the explored relationships deeply, but one that is truly there.

Boruto finds them established in comfortable family life with their daughter, Chocho. Against all odds, through good and bad, and even humorous debates, their love continues.

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About the author

Mudassir is an anime writer at Sportskeeda with 2.5 years of professional experience reporting on various developments in the industry. A data science enthusiast, Mudassir is currently pursuing a BCA, although his passion for anime and desire to connect with fellow fans pushed him to his current role. Mudassir's interest in anime and manga was piqued by the iconic Death Note series, with its intriguing premise and captivating characters prompting him to explore the genre and eventually write about the rich narratives and themes they had to offer.

Prior to joining Sportskeeda, Mudassir worked as a senior writer at OtakuKart and briefly at FandomWire, where his writing often trended on Google Feed. Mudassir feels deeply connected with the works of mangakas Isayama sensei, Oda sensei, and Toriyama sensei, and he respects their creativity, storytelling abilities, and profound impact on millions of fans worldwide.

Mudassir ensures accuracy in his reportage by researching thoroughly, staying updated with Reddit forums and official sources, and citing transparently. Furthermore, he upholds privacy, avoids misinformation, and maintains objectivity while covering anime news.

When he is not watching anime or writing, Mudassir likes to read non-fiction and play games, as well as spend time outdoors and explore new places.

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Edited by Bharath S