Series & First Appearance
Haruna is a character from the anime Kore wa Zombie desu ka? (Is This a Zombie?). She made her first appearance in Episode 1, which aired in January 2011. The anime was created by Shinichi Kimura and produced by Studio Deen. Haruna is labeled as a "Masou Shoujo," a clever play on "Mahou Shoujo," meaning magic equipment girl rather than a magical girl, highlighting her unique character role.
Profile at a Glance
Haruna is a 15-year-old (or appears to be in her teenage years) with a height of 150 cm and a weight of 41 kg, sporting measurements of 76-57-78. She serves as a comedic yet pivotal protagonist in the series, often embodying a blend of magic and quirky charm. After losing her magical powers to Ayumu Aikawa, she becomes a freeloader in his household, using a pink chainsaw as her signature weapon.
Personality & Motivations
Haruna is characterized by her vibrant, energetic personality, marked by a mix of competitiveness and jealousy. She exhibits strong feelings for Ayumu, especially as they evolve throughout the series; her jealousy becomes particularly evident whenever Yuki, another character, attempts to get close to him. While Haruna enjoys her carefree lifestyle, her longing for love and acknowledgment drives many of her interactions, leading her to act flamboyantly. Notable quirks include her whimsically exaggerated reactions and her pursuit of becoming Ayumu’s "husband," showcasing her humorous yet earnest approach to affection.
Abilities / Powers
As a Masou Shoujo, Haruna possesses a unique ability to summon and wield magic weapons, specifically her iconic pink chainsaw, which she uses in combat. However, her powers are significantly diminished after losing her magical abilities to Ayumu, shifting her role from a powerful fighter to a more comedic figure entrenched in domestic life. Her combat style combines her past magical expertise with a humorous touch, often resulting in slapstick scenarios rather than serious battles.
Major Story Arcs & Growth
One of Haruna’s pivotal story arcs occurs in the early episodes, particularly following Ayumu’s accidental kiss with Yuki in Episode 7. This incident ignites Haruna’s jealousy, prompting her to confront her feelings for Ayumu. Importantly, Episode 8 marks a turning point when she directly asks Ayumu to kiss her to solidify her claim to him, indicative of her transition from a carefree character to someone deeply invested in her romantic interests. Throughout the series, her character evolves from merely a magical girl to a multifaceted figure grappling with her emotions and societal expectations.
Notable Relationships
Haruna’s significant relationships include:
- Ayumu Aikawa: The protagonist with whom she has a tumultuous romantic interest. Their dynamic evolves from simple comradeship to a complicated relationship marked by jealousy and the need for validation.
- Yuki Yoshida: A rival for Ayumu’s affections, Yuki’s presence often triggers Haruna’s jealous outbursts, fueling much of the comedic tension in the series.
- Kyouko: As fellow magical individuals, Kyouko serves as a mentor figure, further highlighting Haruna’s growth in navigating her abilities and feelings.
Iconic Moments & Quotes
One memorable scene occurs in Episode 8 when Haruna, frustrated by Yuki’s budding relationship with Ayumu, boldly declares, "Kiss me! Make me your husband!" This line stands out as a fan-favorite moment, capturing Haruna’s comical yet earnest pursuit of love while influencing audience perceptions of her character. Another important scene is her frequent banter with Ayumu, where her jealousy provides comic relief yet deepens the complexity of their relationship.
Trivia & Behind-the-Scenes
Haruna enjoys a solid fanbase, reflected in the 273 member favorites she has garnered. She also ranks in popularity polls among fans of the series, emphasizing her appeal as both a strong-willed character and a comedic element. Haruna is voiced by the talented Japanese voice actress, Rie Kugimiya, known for her work in various iconic roles. In the English dub, she is voiced by Brittney Karbowski, bringing her character’s lively essence to a broader audience. Her design often incorporates vibrant colors and exaggerated proportions typical of the anime style, enhancing her larger-than-life personality.
Haruna’s character encapsulates a blend of humor, charm, and emotional depth, making her a memorable figure in Kore wa Zombie desu ka?. Through her journey, fans witness both her comedic antics and her struggles with affection, resulting in a character that resonates deeply within the anime community.
