The Boyfriend episode 8: Recap and more details explored

The Boyfriend, a Japanese dating show, aired episode 8 on Netflix on Tuesday, July 23, 2024. The series follows 9 young men as they navigate the journeys of friendship and love together. This week's episode centered on the developing relationship between Shun and Dai. Following numerous misunderstandings, they finally confirmed their feelings for each other.

In the episode, the cast of The Boyfriend, which includes Dai, Shun, Kazuto, Alan, Gensei, Ryota, Taeheon, and Ikuo, forms deeper connections and reflects on their time together. In the absence of Usak, who left home for a work-related commitment, the dynamics in the house changed, with some new bonds and challenges.

The official synopsis for episode 8 of The Boyfriend reads:

"Over drinks, the group shares their different coming-out experiences. With one last chance for a romantic date, the boys must make their choice count."

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Tensions persist between Shun and Dai in The Boyfriend.

Despite the resolution that happened in episode 7 of The Boyfriend, tensions between Dai and Shun continued into the following morning. The cast engaged in a debate, which left Shun feeling uneasy. It was Dai’s turn to manage the coffee truck, yet Shun hesitated to raise his hand and volunteer, leaving Dai to choose Ikuo as his partner for the day. Dai later said:

"What I appreciate most about Shun, that he doesn't waste time trying to solve things by pretending and smoothing things over. He's also really honest with me. When he says something, he means it."

This decision by Shun sparked further discussions between Dai and Ikuo, during which Dai expressed disappointment over Shun's lack of support and participation. The incident left Dai feeling hurt, as he desired more involvement from Shun.

On the other side, Shun expressed to the other cast members that he was feeling overwhelmed. He was explaining why he was reluctant to join Dai at the coffee truck.

Later, Dai got a message from Shun, trying to clarify the situation and bridge the communication gap between them. However, their conversation took a turn for the worse when Dai voiced his hurt over Shun’s choice of words in the message.

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Shun & Dai become a couple in The Boyfriend

Taeheon, looking at all the drama happening, advised Shun to acknowledge Dai’s feelings and offer an apology. Taking this advice seriously, Shun approached Dai with an apology, expressing regret for any pain caused.

During episode 8 of The Boyfriend, the cast was given the task of choosing their private date that could shape their future connections. Dai was pleased with his pairing with Shun, as it could mark a significant milestone for their relationship in the show.

They discussed a wide range of personal topics during their date, from family to having children. Dai says to Shun:

"For me, the person I fell in love with, who's challenged me the most in my life is you."

The conversation between Shun and Dai added to their connection and compatibility as they talked about their visions for a shared future. They ended up sharing the same bed and kissing, officially beginning their journey as a couple.

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Other pairs on a private date

Episode 8 focused mainly on the relationship between Shun and Dai. As the episode progressed, it showed the evolving dynamics among the other couples who matched up for a private date, ie Kazuto with Alan, and Gensei with Ryota.

While Kazuto and Alan stayed at their lodging, talking and having BBQ, Gensei and Ryota headed out for a glass workshop. They made glass pendants for each other and then went to a cafe. Later on, they headed back to their place and made dinner together.

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Watch The Boyfriend episodes 9 and 10 next Tuesday, July 30, 2024, on Netflix.