In a world where traditional relationship norms are rapidly evolving, stories of unconventional unions have continued to capture global attention. From self-marriage rituals to romantic connections with robotic companions, society embraces diverse expressions of love and companionship. Adding to these non-traditional relationships, a Japanese man who married the fictional character Hatsune Miku in 2018 is set to celebrate his sixth anniversary this year.
Akihiko Kondo, 41, recently shared on Instagram the receipt for a special anniversary cake inscribed with the heartfelt message, “I like Miku very much. Happy sixth anniversary.” His wedding anniversary with Miku, a popular Japanese “Vocaloid” or singing synthesizer character, falls on November 4. Kondo’s story, reported by the South China Morning Post, continues to intrigue those interested in the expanding definitions of love.
Kondo’s connection to Miku, who is visually recognized as a 16-year-old pop singer with turquoise twin-tails, began in 2007, the year of her release. He told Japanese outlet The Mainichi Shimbun that he had experienced challenges in his romantic life before discovering Miku. Attempts at confessing his love in his youth led to rejections, ridicule, and bullying for his passion for anime and manga. This, paired with workplace bullying that ultimately led to an adjustment disorder diagnosis, contributed to his unique romantic path.