Kikoru: Who is Kikoru Shinomiya in Kaiju No. 8? Explained

Who is Kikoru Shinomiya in Kaiju No. 8? Explained

Modified Apr 21, 2024 09:22 GMT

Kikoru Shinomiya in Kaiju No. 8 (Image via Production I.G.)

Kaiju No. 8's anime adaptation has finally begun releasing on the regular and it is shaping up well. Episode 1 introduced the set-up of the story, the Kaiju, and the Defense Force tasked with exterminating them. It also shone a spotlight on another group of heroes, the Clean Up Crew, who cleared the Kaiju corpses.

Fans got a first look at protagonist Kafka Hibino and his ambition to be a Defense Force Member. With him, Leno Ichikawa was also brought in. Now, the recently dropped episode featured the introduction of Kikoru Shinomiya, the tritagonist of Naoya Matsumoto's series. She too has arrived at the Tachikawa Base for the Defense Force examination, alongside Kafka and Leno.

Disclaimer: This article contains spoilers for the Kaiju No. 8 anime.

Kaiju No. 8: Kikoru Shinomiya's identity, explained

Kikoru Shinomiya makes her anime debut in episode 2. She is the daughter of Defense Force Director General, Isao Shinomiya. Upon appearing for the examination, she passes and is assigned to the Third Division.

In the initial part of the story, she appears quite often along with Kafka and Ichikawa, given that the trio ends up in the same division. Kikoru might come off as arrogant, prideful, and fully confident in her abilities, which is why she tends to look down upon those inferior to her.

However, she is also very persistent and determined, working hard to constantly better herself, become stronger, and be more useful when needed. Kikoru isn't afraid to hold up herself before superior officers, managing to show her confidence, but in a polite manner.

Despite all this, deep down, she cares for her comrades and does all she can to avoid or minimize casualties or injuries when on the battlefield. Kikoru is quite loyal too, expressing gratitude to Kafka Hibino for coming to her aid and keeping his secret. Her concern for her allies' well-being is hidden by her proud and unafraid nature and she doesn't hesitate to go the extra mile for her safety and support.

Being the daughter of Defense Force members, she too desired to join the force. However, since her mother's passing, she began to harbor an intense urge to grow stronger to protect those around her. This was further boosted by her father's high expectations of her.

No doubt, she seems to be a prodigy and nearly always performs exceptionally well. But hidden deep within her lies a burning desire to receive her parents' approval and praise, which fuels her will to become stronger and become worthy of their praise.

Conclusion

Kafka Hibino (Monster form) in Kaiju No. 8 (Image via Production I.G.)

Kikoru Shinomiya is a well-written character who contributes majorly to the overall plot. She represents the emotions and trials the child of a Force member experiences. But despite this, she manages to retain her composure and handle situations well.

As the story progresses, she grows quite strong and commands respect from other Force members. Her bond with Kafka develops well too, considering both are striving towards their respective goals and must achieve them no matter what.