Series & First Appearance
Hiromi Higuruma appears in Jujutsu Kaisen, created by Gege Akutami. He first debuts in Chapter 158 of the manga. The series has been adapted into an anime by MAPPA, captivating audiences with its unique blend of supernatural elements and complex characters.
Profile at a Glance
Hiromi Higuruma is a male character in his late 30s, serving as a prominent antagonist during the Tokyo No. 1 Colony Arc. Previously a dedicated public defense lawyer, he has become a player in the lethal Culling Game, amassing an impressive 100 points, making him one of the few characters to achieve such a score. His signature ability is the unique manipulation of the courtroom and legal concepts to influence interactions in combat, reflecting his past as a lawyer.
Personality & Motivations
Higuruma exhibits a profound cynicism towards the judicial system, stemming from his experiences with its failures in delivering true justice. He is portrayed as both analytical and cold, often viewing situations through a legalistic lens. Despite his harsh exterior, there remains a trace of idealism in his desire to protect the innocent, although he has abandoned any faith in the system that once empowered him. Higuruma’s duality emphasizes the conflict between his past ideals and his current reality—a theme that resonates deeply within his narrative.
Abilities / Powers
Hiromi Higuruma’s main ability, "Matter of Law," allows him to manipulate the court and the rules surrounding it. In combat, he can impose legal conditions on his opponents, effectively creating a courtroom environment where he serves as both judge and executioner. Higuruma can impose penalties, such as rendering his opponents unable to move or act as long as they are within the bounds of his courtroom domain.
This power evolves during the series, showcasing both its versatility and limitations. For instance, despite his potent manipulative abilities within his domain, he becomes vulnerable once pulled outside of it, highlighting that his strengths are contextually dependent.
Major Story Arcs & Growth
Higuruma’s narrative arc is primarily defined by the Tokyo No. 1 Colony Arc, where he confronts other players in the Culling Game. His backstory is revealed through flashbacks that illustrate his passion for defending the innocent and his eventual disillusionment with the justice system. This disillusionment culminates in his willingness to play a dangerous game where life and death hang in the balance.
His development shifts from a passionate defender in a failing system to a ruthless player manipulating the rules to exert control and influence, symbolizing his complete departure from the ideals he once held.
Notable Relationships
Higuruma’s relationships underscore the dichotomy between his past and present. He is primarily defined by the absence of allies; his isolation as a player in the Culling Game reflects his disconnection from the values he once cherished. However, his interactions with other characters, such as Itadori Yuji and Megumi Fushiguro, highlight contrasting ideals between justice and survival. The conflict with other players showcases his role as a formidable antagonist who challenges their convictions and identities.
Iconic Moments & Quotes
One of Higuruma’s most striking moments occurs in Chapter 162, where he declares, "The court is now in session," symbolically establishing the battlefield rules for his opponents. This quote encapsulates his approach to conflict—his transformation of combat into a legalistic duel—leaving a lasting impression on fans who appreciate its clever integration of his background as a lawyer.
Another memorable scene unfolds when Higuruma faces off against Itadori, showcasing not just his formidable abilities but also his philosophical stance on justice and morality. This clash highlights his role as a complex antagonist, challenging protagonists like Itadori to question their own beliefs about justice.
Trivia & Behind-the-Scenes
Despite being a relatively new character in the expansive Jujutsu Kaisen universe, Higuruma has garnered considerable popularity, with 397 member favorites on character polls. His unique backstory as a lawyer and the commentary on social justice resonate with fans, drawing parallels to real-world legal and ethical dilemmas. As of now, no voice actor has been officially assigned to Higuruma in either the Japanese or English versions of the anime, leaving fans eagerly awaiting his animated portrayal.
Higuruma is emblematic of the series’ broader themes, illustrating how individuals can become corrupted by the systems designed to protect them, further enriching the narrative complexity of Jujutsu Kaisen. His character design reflects a sophisticated professionalism, underscoring his previous life and the moral decay he faces; this juxtaposition captivates viewers’ engagement with his arc.
Ultimately, Hiromi Higuruma stands as a compelling figure within Jujutsu Kaisen, representing the interplay between ideals and reality, justice and morality, making him a character worth studying deeply.
