The Controversial Mei Mei and Ui Ui Scene in Jujutsu Kaisen Season 2: Unraveling the Debate

The latest episode of Jujutsu Kaisen season 2 has sparked controversy with a scene involving Mei Mei and Ui Ui, who abandoned Shibuya during a crisis to head to Malaysia. There have been discussions among fans about whether it was better for MAPPA to skip this scene, but the decision to include it has led to many online debates. The scene itself deals heavily with child abuse and can be seen as a critique of Jujutsu society.

Explaining the problematic nature of the scene between Mei Mei and Ui Ui in Jujutsu Kaisen Season 2

During the climax of the Shibuya Incident arc, Mei Mei and her younger brother Ui Ui made a daring escape from Japan. They sought refuge in a luxurious hotel in Malaysia, a deliberate contrast to Nanami Kento's desired retirement location. Shockingly, it is unveiled that Mei Mei is entangled in an inappropriate relationship with her brother, a controversial plot point that the Jujutsu Kaisen season 2 team skillfully brought to life through animation.

This scene in the manga was highly controversial, and the reaction in the anime has been even more notorious. Many people have expressed discomfort with Mei Mei's character and have criticized author Gege Akutami. The author has been criticized for including this scene, as many fans felt it was unnecessary to highlight Mei Mei's corruption, as her leaving Shibuya and abandoning the sorcerers already showcased that. The scene is problematic on several levels, from Mei Mei and Ui Ui being siblings to the fact that it depicts a grown woman manipulating a small child to do her bidding. This behavior was also seen during the arc itself, with Mei Mei gaslighting her brother to risk his life in battle for her own gain, revealing her lack of genuine care for Ui Ui.

Was this scene necessary?

Mei Mei and Ui Ui in Jujutsu Kaisen season 2 (Image via MAPPA).

Gege Akutami's intention in highlighting this scene is to demonstrate the moral corruption of Mei Mei and her representation of the natural decline of Jujutsu society. While it aligns with the thematic perspective, some may argue that her abandonment of the sorcerers serves as sufficient evidence of her moral corruption.

Although MAPPA chose to include this scene in Jujutsu Kaisen season 2, it is important to note that the series has not explicitly validated this moment or justified Mei Mei's actions. A valid criticism is that she faces no consequences for her actions and ultimately returns to the sorcerers as if nothing had occurred, a factor worth considering.

Final thoughts

The Mei Mei scene in Jujutsu Kaisen season 2 was always destined to stir up controversy, and it's understandable considering the real-life issue it addresses. It's no surprise that many people take issue with the mistreatment and emotional manipulation of a child.

Editor's P/S

As a passionate fan of Jujutsu Kaisen, I feel compelled to express my opinion on the controversial Mei Mei and Ui Ui scene in season 2. While I understand the intention behind its inclusion, I believe it was unnecessary and potentially harmful. The scene depicts a disturbing dynamic between Mei Mei and Ui Ui, with Mei Mei exploiting her brother's vulnerability for her own selfish desires. It is deeply uncomfortable to watch and raises important questions about the portrayal of child abuse in entertainment.

Furthermore, the scene seems to lack a clear purpose within the narrative. While it is meant to highlight Mei Mei's moral corruption, her abandonment of the sorcerers during the Shibuya Incident already serves as sufficient evidence of her character flaws. Including this additional scene feels gratuitous and exploitative, as it delves into sensitive territory without offering any meaningful insights or contributing to the overall plot.