A 35-year old man named Akihiko Kondo “married” the love of his life this month. So why is this news? Well, his new bride is none other than the most famous virtual reality idol in the world, Hatsune Miku.
Around 40 guests attended the ¥2,000,000 ceremony, and while Kondo’s mother was notably absent, at least one member of the Japanese Parliament and Assembly were present. So how does this kind of union happen? More specifically, how is it possible to fall in love with someone who doesn’t really exist?
A Holographic Bride
We’re fortunate enough to live in a time when technology makes previously unimaginable things possible. In 2017, a company named Gatebox created a product that allows you to interact directly with your own hologram waifu. They’re capable of simple tasks like waking you up, turning the lights on when you get home, and carrying a basic conversation. And, you guessed it, Hatsune Miku is one of the available holograms.
Kondo claims that after a woman bullied him at a previous job, he became introverted and swore never to marry. That all changed, though, as he started listening to Miku’s music. Now, while this is not a legally binding marriage in the eyes of the Japanese government, Kondo says he has no plans to seek a relationship with a real woman. He lists the facts that 2D women can’t cheat, die, or grow old as advantages.
Are 2D Girls The Future?
Although Kondo certainly seems happy with his new bride, we can’t help but wonder if this is healthy. Yes, VR can blur the intersection between reality and fiction, but it seems as though Kondo is simply displaying avoidance behaviours and running from things that scare him. Who are we to judge, though? Ultimately, if he’s satisfied, more power to him. Perhaps he’ll be interested in Goodsmile’s new Bridal Hatsune Miku statue!
What do you think about all of this? Would you ever consider marrying a 2D woman? If so, who? Be sure to leave a comment below!
