What is yandere?

Yandere is a Japanese term used to describe a character who appears to be loving and gentle on the surface, but becomes obsessively possessive and even violent when it comes to someone they love. The term is derived from the words “yanderu,” which means mentally ill or emotionally unstable, and “dere,” which refers to the lovestruck or sweet side of a character’s personality.

Yandere characters are often depicted in manga, anime, and video games. They typically exhibit extreme jealousy, possessiveness, and a willingness to go to extreme lengths to ensure the well-being and happiness of their loved one. This can include stalking, manipulation, and even murder.

Some popular examples of yandere characters include Yuno Gasai from Mirai Nikki, Kotonoha Katsura from School Days, and Ayase Aragaki from Ore no Imouto ga Konna ni Kawaii Wake ga Nai. The yandere archetype has gained a cult following within Japanese pop culture, but has also been criticized for romanticizing dangerous and unhealthy behavior.