Jujutsu Kaisen episode 22 was truly impressive, showcasing the intense battle between Kenjaku, Uraume, Noritoshi Kamo, Panda, Yuji Itadori, Atsuya Kusakabe, Utahime Iori, Momo Nishimiya, and Choso. The addition of Yuki Tsukumo at the end only added to the spectacle.
However, the episode started with a significant development as Mei Mei was shown in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, having last been seen fighting the Smallpox Deity during the Shibuya Incident.
However, after that, she completely disappeared.
Jujutsu Kaisen: Mei Mei personifies the dark side of Sorcerer Society
In episode 22 of Jujutsu Kaisen, it was revealed that Mei Mei and Ui Ui had escaped to Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. Mei Mei was shown at a hotel, answering a call from an unidentified person. They shared their whereabouts with the caller and credited Ui Ui's technique for getting them there.
She proceeded to share some unexpected advice, including recommending that the caller sell any stocks and real estate in Japan, as well as revealing that she had already converted all her Yen. She was confident that the global impact of the Shibuya Incident would be significant and wanted to capitalize financially on Japan's status as the world's third-largest economy. Finally, she requested to be kept informed of any insider information.
The dark side of Sorcerer Society
Mei Mei in Jujutsu Kaisen (Image via MAPPA)
The small exchange highlights the negative aspect of the Sorcerer Society in Jujutsu Kaisen. Characters like Mei Mei, despite their considerable power, opt to avoid fighting for their own personal motives. Mei Mei, a grade 1 sorcerer, operates solo and purely for financial reward.
On the other hand, there is Kento Nanami.
He is the complete opposite of his colleague, displaying selfless and protective behavior towards his students. He bravely fought during the Shibuya Incident but met a tragic end at the hands of Mahito. In contrast to Mei Mei, who exploited her little brother, Nanami prioritized the safety and well-being of Yuji, Nobara, and others, showing extreme care in keeping them away from danger.
Kento Nanami in Jujutsu Kaisen (Image via MAPPA)
After Gojo's disappearance, Pseudo-Geto and the Curses wreaked havoc. Many sorcerers, including Yuji, fought for their lives. Surprisingly, the white-haired sorcerer, instead of offering help, fled to Malaysia. Despite this, it was Nanami who, in his final moments, rid the station of lingering Curses before his passing.
Interestingly, Mei Mei also fled to the same destination Nanami had been longing to visit. He had saved up and planned to go after Shibuya was dealt with. It was his dream location, and it was the last thing he saw before losing consciousness.
Final thoughts
Mei Mei and Ui Ui in Jujutsu Kaisen (Image via MAPPA)
Mei Mei of Jujutsu Kaisen embodies the negative aspects of the Sorcerer Society. While some sorcerers bravely defend against threats, others prioritize self-preservation and personal gain. She manipulates Ui Ui, even though she treats him with care, often putting him in danger to serve her own purposes, such as during the Smallpox Deity fight.
Mei Mei and Nanami is probably one of Gege's top character parallels. From mannerisms to behaviour to situational reactions, there is a stark difference.
Editor's P/S
As a passionate fan of Jujutsu Kaisen, I was thrilled to watch episode 22 and witness the intense battle between Kenjaku, Uraume, Noritoshi Kamo, Panda, Yuji Itadori, Atsuya Kusakabe, Utahime Iori, Momo Nishimiya, and Choso. The addition of Yuki Tsukumo at the end only added to the spectacle. However, I was disappointed by the portrayal of Mei Mei in this episode.
Mei Mei is a grade 1 sorcerer, but she seems to be more interested in personal gain than in protecting people. She fled to Malaysia during the Shibuya Incident and has been hiding there ever since. She even advised an unidentified caller to sell their stocks and real estate in Japan, as she believes that the global impact of the Shibuya Incident will be significant. This shows that she is more concerned about her own financial well-being than about the safety of others.