Japan’s Future in High School Eyes: An Interview with the Stars of “Happyend”

Happyend is set in near-future Japan. (© 2024 Music Research Club LLC)

During a raid on a dance club, police use special handheld devices that instantly identify individuals and inspect their belongings. (© 2024 Music Research Club LLC)

Yūta (Kurihara Hayato, left) and Kō (Hidaka Yukito) live it up at a dance club event. (© 2024 Music Research Club LLC)

Kurihara Hayato was born in Niigata in 1999. As a model, he has appeared in numerous commercials and music videos. His hobbies include boxing and table tennis. (© Hanai Tomoko)

Hidaka Yukito, born in Osaka Prefecture in 2003. He speaks fluent Korean and works as a model in both Japan and South Korea. He has practiced track and field since school. (© Hanai Tomoko)

Yūta and Kō are childhood friends who attend the same high school. (© 2024 Music Research Club LLC)

(© Hanai Tomoko)

One morning, an unexpected event unfolds at school. (© 2024 Music Research Club LLC)

The school’s principal, Nagai, played by Sano Shirō, intimidates both students and teachers. (© 2024 Music Research Club LLC)

When the AI surveillance system deems a student has flouted the rules, it deducts “points.” (© 2024 Music Research Club LLC)

Differences begin to divide Kō (left) and Yūta. (© 2024 Music Research Club LLC)

Kō grows closer to Fumi (left, played by Inori Kilala) after joining a protest. (© 2024 Music Research Club LLC)

(© Hanai Tomoko)