Welcome, fellow fans, to the definitive hub for understanding the conclusion of Aka Akasaka's beloved manga, Oshi no Ko. While you might have landed here looking for "Armin Arlert in Oshi no Ko explained," it's important to clarify right from the start: Armin Arlert is a beloved character from Hajime Isayama's Attack on Titan, and he does not appear in Oshi no Ko. This guide is dedicated to unraveling the true ending of Oshi no Ko, exploring the fates of the Hoshino twins, the resolution of their long quest for revenge, and the lasting legacy of the series.
Oshi no Ko, which ran from April 23, 2020, to November 2024, captivated readers with its dark look at the entertainment industry, its poignant exploration of grief, and its complex characters. The series culminated with chapter #166, "Star," delivering an ending that was both hopeful and, for many, deeply controversial. Join us as we break down every pivotal moment, character arc, and the fan reactions that followed.
Unraveling the Grand Finale: Hope, Despair, and Broken Cycles
The heart of Oshi no Ko's ending lies in its overarching theme: the triumph of hope over despair, and the desperate struggle to break the tragic cycles of the entertainment world. For years, Aqua Hoshino was consumed by revenge, determined to unmask and punish Hikaru Kamiki, the man responsible for his mother Ai's murder and his own biological father. This journey led him down a dark path, often isolating him from those he cared about.
The final chapters brought this long-awaited confrontation to a head, challenging Aqua's resolve and forcing an ultimate sacrifice. Meanwhile, Ruby Hoshino, who had also grappled with her own pain and the burden of her past life, found a new path forward, embodying the enduring spirit of her mother. The conclusion forced every character to come to terms with their roles in the drama and decide how they would continue their lives after the final curtain fell.
Aqua's Ultimate Sacrifice: Confronting Hikaru Kamiki and the Price of Revenge
Aqua Hoshino's relentless pursuit of Hikaru Kamiki defined much of his journey. Hikaru, a master manipulator and the architect of immense suffering for many women in the industry, finally faced Aqua in a climactic showdown. Aqua, armed with a plan for vengeance, was prepared to take Hikaru's life, believing it was the only way to achieve justice for Ai.
However, Hikaru's final, chilling manipulation targeted Ruby's future. He argued that Aqua's act of murder would forever stain Ruby's reputation, branding her as the "sister of a killer." In a shocking twist, Aqua chose to protect Ruby's future above all else. He plunged a knife into himself and, in a desperate act, dragged Hikaru from a cliff into the sea, ensuring both their deaths by drowning. The subsequent discovery of their bodies allowed Hikaru to be framed for Aqua's murder, clearing Aqua's name and preserving Ruby's public image. This sudden and dramatic end for the protagonist in chapter #164, especially after his prior decision to live, left many fans reeling and questioning the execution of this pivotal moment.
Ruby's Resplendent Rise: Carrying On Ai's Dreams
In the aftermath of Aqua's death, Ruby Hoshino's journey took a profound turn. Overcoming her grief, Ruby chose to "lie to herself that she wasn't sad," transforming her sorrow into an unstoppable drive to fulfill her and her mother Ai's dreams. She became an even bigger pop idol, her story resonating deeply with fans worldwide.
Ruby continued B-Komachi with Mem-Cho and a new member, ultimately achieving the monumental dream of performing at the Tokyo Dome. This triumph wasn't just a personal victory for Ruby; it was a powerful echo of Ai Hoshino's aspirations, a testament to enduring hope and the ability to find light even after profound loss. Her resilience and unwavering commitment to her craft solidified her status as a beacon of inspiration, showing how one can move forward by embracing a new, self-created truth.
The Enduring Legacy: How Other Characters Found Their Way
While Aqua and Ruby's fates were central, Oshi no Ko's ending also provided glimpses into the lives of the supporting cast, showing their paths forward in a world forever changed by the Hoshino family's story.
- Kana Arima: The talented actress and former B-Komachi member continued to pursue her acting career, proving her strength and dedication beyond the orbit of the Hoshino twins.
- Akane Kurokawa: The brilliant method actress, who had played a crucial role in uncovering the truth about Hikaru, also moved forward with her career, her insights and talents invaluable to the industry.
- Miyako Saitou and Ichigo Saitou: The managers and guardians of the twins, who had tirelessly supported them, also found renewed purpose, continuing their work within the challenging landscape of entertainment.
Each character's journey underscored the theme of moving on, emphasizing that while tragedy leaves its mark, life continues, and new dreams can be forged from the ashes of the past.
The Unforgettable Controversy: Fan Reactions to Oshi no Ko's Conclusion
The Oshi no Ko ending, particularly Aqua's fate, sparked significant debate and dissatisfaction among fans. A major point of contention was the abruptness of Aqua's death in chapter #164. Many felt it was executed too hastily, primarily for shock value, especially after earlier developments suggested he had chosen a different, more hopeful path for his life.
Fans had invested deeply in Aqua's character arc, watching him evolve from a revenge-driven young man to one who seemed to embrace the possibility of a future free from vengeance. His sudden demise felt like a betrayal of this development for some, leading to a polarizing reception for the manga's final chapters. This controversy highlights the passion and emotional investment Oshi no Ko managed to cultivate throughout its run, proving its impact far beyond the final page.
As Oshi no Ko closes its curtains, its legacy is one of poignant storytelling, complex character arcs, and a brave, unvarnished look at the entertainment industry. The ending, for all its debate, ensures the series will be discussed and analyzed for years to come, solidifying its place as a modern classic.