Yuta Okkotsu made a dramatic return in the season 2 finale of Jujutsu Kaisen, expressing a desire to kill Yuji Itadori despite not having met him. This latest development raises questions about his true intentions, especially considering his turbulent history as a special-grade cursed human haunted by the spirit of his late friend, Rika Orimoto. Yuta's journey, from being mentored by Satoru Gojo to enrolling at Tokyo Jujutsu High and becoming a Jujutsu Sorcerer, adds depth to his character as he navigates his second year at the school.
Disclaimer: This article contains spoilers from the Jujutsu Kaisen anime.
Jujutsu Kaisen: Does Yuta Okkotsu want to kill Yuji Itadori?
Yuta Okkotsu, portrayed in the Jujutsu Kaisen season 2 finale (Image via MAPPA)
No, Yuta Okkotsu does not have any intention to harm Yuji Itadori. However, he takes on the task and successfully rescues him. Satoru Gojo had previously tasked him with taking care of Yuji Itadori, and knowing that the people Yuta cared about extended their love and support for Yuji, he was determined to protect him.
Unfortunately, the suspended death penalty for Yuji Itadori was revoked by the Jujutsu Headquarters. This meant that the leaders of the Jujutsu world were determined to eliminate Ryomen Sukuna and would stop at nothing to ensure Yuji's demise. To prevent Yuji from being killed, Yuta made the decision to take on the role of his executioner.
Toge Inumaki as seen in Jujutsu Kaisen season 2 finale (Image via MAPPA)
The jujutsu leaders were unsure of Yuta's intentions, so he claimed he wanted to kill Yuji to prove his loyalty to them, as he believed Yuji was responsible for Toge Inumaki losing his arm. Yuta also agreed to a Binding Vow that required him to kill Yuji. Following through, Yuta confronted and fatally stabbed Yuji, then presented his body to Naoya Zenin during his fight with Choso to demonstrate his fulfillment of the vow. He then had Naoya report Yuji's death to the Jujutsu Headquarters.
Yuta Okkotsu featured in the season 2 finale of Jujutsu Kaisen (Image via MAPPA)
In reality, Yuta Okkotsu immediately began the process of healing Yuji's heart after stabbing him with his Reversed Cursed Technique. Despite Sukuna's attempts to take control of Yuji's body, Yuta succeeded in his mission. By assuming the role of Yuji's executioner, Yuta was able to fulfill the latter's death penalty, honor his Binding Vow, and most importantly, help Yuji stage his death for the second time.
Yuta successfully deceived the Jujutsu higher-ups by faking Yuji's death, allowing him to evade their detection. What made his deception even more impressive was that few people were aware of Yuta's ability to use the Reversed Cursed Technique.
Editor's P/S
As a Gen Z fan of Jujutsu Kaisen, I was initially shocked and confused by Yuta Okkotsu's sudden desire to kill Yuji Itadori. However, as the episode unfolded, it became clear that Yuta's intentions were not as straightforward as they seemed. I appreciate the complexity and depth that the writers have given to Yuta's character, making him more than just a one-dimensional villain. His motivations are understandable, and his actions, though extreme, are ultimately driven by a desire to protect Yuji and the people he cares about.
I also admire Yuta's resourcefulness and strategic thinking. By faking Yuji's death, he not only saved Yuji's life but also bought them time to figure out a way to lift the death penalty. This twist in the plot kept me on the edge of my seat and made me even more invested in the story. Overall, I believe that Yuta's character development and his role in the latest season of Jujutsu Kaisen have added a new layer of intrigue and excitement to the series, and I can't wait to see what happens next.