On March 18, 2025, episode 117 of the NHK drama Osumusubi, starring Tsubasa Hashimoto as Yui Komeda, was broadcast, capturing the attention of viewers with a poignant scene featuring Hana (Chise Niitsu). In this episode, Hana exhibits her innate tendency to assist those in distress, continuing a family legacy that has come to be known among fans as the "Komeda family curse." Demonstrating warmth and compassion, Hana’s actions resonated with audiences, propelling the phrase "Komeda family curse" to trending status on X (formerly Twitter).
The story unfolds as Hana, who is recovering from a soccer-related injury, finds herself in an unexpected position—helping Uta (Miyu Ohshima), a teenage girl suffering from malnutrition, who has sneaked out of the hospital where Yui works as a dietitian. This season of Osumusubi, centered around familial bonds and personal growth, fortifies its theme of compassion amid tumultuous times.
In episode 117, Hana’s journey starts at the hospital after suffering a sprained ankle during soccer practice, which leads her to undergo tests that reveal bleeding in her left ankle joint. This injury requires her to receive regular check-ups before she can return to her beloved soccer. While waiting, Hana notices Uta trying to conceal herself in the hospital corridors. Concerned for the girl’s well-being, she immediately calls out to her.
"I was always told to help people in need," Hana tells Uta, explaining her instinctive urge to lend a hand. Uta expresses gratitude, leading Hana to introduce herself and delve deeper into their circumstances. This exchange highlights a pivotal moment in Hana's character development, showcasing her family’s cherished ethos of empathy and support.
The Komeda family legacy extends back to Hana's great-grandfather, Nagayoshi (Ken Matsudaira), with the family commonly referring to their unwavering inclination to assist others as a "curse." Social media users chimed in, helping the term gain traction, saying things like "Here comes the Komeda curse!" and noting that this trait has evidently passed through generations, including Hana's grandfather Seito (Akinori Kitamura) and her mother Yui.
As the episode progresses, Hana's actions reflect the deep-rooted family tradition—an understanding that one cannot ignore the needs of those around them, even in the face of personal adversity. Viewers resonated with Hana's spirit, and numerous comments on social media echoed sentiments around the "Komeda family curse" being an admirable heritage rather than a mere burden. "Finally, the Komeda curse is activated!" one excited viewer posted.
Episode 118, airing on March 19, 2025, follows Hana as she continues her support for Uta in navigating hospital challenges, further solidifying her role in the show's fabric of kindness and family values. As Yui recognizes Uta’s situation, the complexities inherent in each character's journey come into clearer view, adding emotional depth to the narrative.
In the upcoming episode, Yui discovers that Uta possesses a compact mirror brand linked to Ayumu (Izumi Nakasato), adding layers to the plot and possibly revealing more family dynamics that will unfold in subsequent episodes.
Also, episode 119, which airs on March 20, 2025, hints at Seito contemplating a more significant life change as he reflects on his past while managing an underperforming barbershop in Kobe. This adds an intriguing counter-narrative to Hana's story, portraying the struggles faced in both familial and professional realms.
The show blends different life struggles—Hana's nurturing character juxtaposed against the quieter reflections of Seito demonstrates the broader family narrative woven with themes of resilience and support.
The writer, Nonji Nemoto, has crafted an engaging saga that keeps viewers invested in the characters’ journeys. The accompanying music by Hiroaki Tsutsumi and the poignant theme song by B'z aptly encapsulate the emotional backdrop of the series. Lily Franky guides audiences through important moments, anchoring the show with a relatable voice.
As episode 117 aired, viewers engaged across platforms, discussing the implications of lingering traditions shaped by familial ties and how the "Komeda family curse" reflects their own values. Many found comfort in the recognition of similar shared legacies, prompting discussions among fans about the importance of being there for others.
NHK's Osumusubi, airing daily from Monday to Friday, captures the heart of community and family, portraying the invaluable lessons gleaned from selfless acts of kindness, making every episode a testament to the enduring power of connection in the face of life's trials.
