Yakuza Fiancé episode 12 review: Yoshino finally confirms Kirishima and her relationship

Yakuza Fiancé episode 12 was released on December 23, 2024 and served as a final episode of season 1 and a conclusion. The episode mainly concluded a potential relationship between Yoshion and Kirishima while also setting up many other potential plot points.

The episode yet again followed an erratic pacing, with episode 12 being an adaptation of two chapters from the manga. Episode 12 adapted chapters 25 and 26 in its entirety. Although a season 2 has not been announced yet, episode 12 is a blatant attempt at setting up a continuation.

Disclaimer: This article contains the author's opinion and spoilers for the Yakuza Fiancé episode 11.

Yakuza Fiancé episode 12 recap

Yoshino as shown in the anime (Image via Studio Deen)

Yakuza Fiancé episode 12 started with both Yoshino and Kirishima returning from Osaka. Upon their return, Yoshino swiftly broke away from the group and returned to her house after bidding goodbye to Kirishima.

Although everything seemed natural initially, Yoshino began completely disregarding Kirishima and his existence. This behavior eventually led to events that annoyed every yakuza member as Kirishima desperately tried to get Yoshino's attention through his antics.

Kirishima eventually contacted Tsubaki and learned this silent treatment was a form of payback Yoshino often used. Tsubaki detailed how Kirishima could only wait for Yoshino to forgive him, which typically took about 24 hours.

This pattern was evident from previous instances when Shouma was subjected to the same treatment. However, Kirishima ended up waiting for 72 hours. Yoshino finally acknowledged his existence while he was sitting in the rain.

Yoshino then set some ground rules. She stated that Kirishima could not contact Shouma without her permission and was prohibited from starting fights with him under any condition. Kirishima verbally complied and asked why silent treatment was her punishment of choice.

Yoshino and Kirishima as shown in the anime (Image via Studio Deen)

Yoshino explained that she could not converse seriously with him because he would offer fake apologies and promises. She also could not yell at him due to his masochistic nature.

Yoshino then clarified that Kirishima should not involve any outside party in their issues. She emphasized that any problem or trouble would be handled by both of them together. Additionally, she verbally confirmed Kirishima's status as her boyfriend.

The ordeal ended with Yoshino getting slightly angry at Kirishima again after he performed the creepy act of licking hand cream off her hands. The scene then shifted to the next day, opening with news of a truck crashing into an office affiliated with the Kirigaya family. This family oversees all current yakuza groups. Yoshino worried about Shouma's well-being but soon cleared up the situation over a call. Shouma also raised questions about a bigger ordeal unfolding.

Shouma clarified that recent events might explain why Renji Somei, the third Yakuza executive from the top, had been so busy. Yakuza Fiancé episode 12 concluded with two other yakuza families plotting against Renji. Meanwhile, the red-haired goon from previous episodes showed Renji a poster for a high school entrance exam. Yakuza Fiancé episode 12 maintained its gripping mix of drama and intrigue.

Yakuza Fiancé episode 12 review

Shouma as shown in the anime (Image via Studio Deen)

Yakuza Fiancé episode 12 marked the conclusion of the buildup around Yoshino and Kirishima's relationship, which was initially built on a shaky foundation. While their relationship is yet to mature fully, their current arrangement, with a more professional tone, feels like a natural progression given their personalities and the earlier instability.

The animation remained consistent throughout the series. However, Studio Deen's production has often struggled during sequences that require extensive animation. This issue was noticeable in the sparse fight scenes within the series.

Yakuza Fiancé episode 12, however, presented a different scenario. The animation sequence of Kirishima creepily licking moisturizer from Yoshino's hands was impressively detailed. The facial expressions and the motion of their hands stood out as some of the best-animated moments in the series.

The sound design and overall soundtrack have been underwhelming since the first episode, with the opening and ending songs being the only notable exceptions. Yakuza Fiancé episode 12 maintained consistent plot progression.

The yakuza conflict storyline unfolded subtly in the background, while Yoshino and Kirishima's relationship remained the central focus. Yakuza Fiancé episode 12 provided a satisfying balance between these narrative elements, effectively closing this story chapter.

Final Thoughts

Yakuza Fiancé episode 12 marked the conclusion of Yakuza Fiancé season 1. The series debuted as part of Crunchyroll's Fall 2024 lineup. It stands out as one of the few yakuza love stories to be released in recent times. While a season 2 has not been announced, a continuation remains possible, given the numerous hints presented in episode 12.

Yakuza Fiancé episode 12 review: Yoshino finally confirms Kirishima and her relationship

Yakuza Fiancé episode 12 recap

Yakuza Fiancé episode 12 review

Final Thoughts

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