Among the many reality dating shows, "BADLY in LOVE" stands out as a unique presence. When all 10 episodes were released on Netflix in December 2025, it topped the Weekly TOP 10 (Series) in Japan for four consecutive weeks and reached as high as 7th place in the Weekly Global TOP 10 (Non-English Series), sparking conversations around the world.
The show's biggest feature is that all the participants are “Yankees,” a Japanese term for delinquents. The heated romantic mind games they play were a fresh experience even for me, who has watched many dating reality shows. On social media, cast members like Otosan, Yanbo, Amo, and Kii-chan became hot topics, and some people were drawn to the show because of the buzz online.
In this article, I, who grew up far removed from the world of Yankees, will explain the highlights and memorable quotes from Season 1 of "BADLY in LOVE," which I became completely hooked on.
*This article contains spoilers.
Japanese Culture? The World is Obsessed with the Yankees’ Love Reality Show "BADLY in LOVE"!
The setting of "BADLY in LOVE" is “Rabu Joto Gakuen,” a school deep in the mountains. Eleven men and women with Yankee backgrounds—former biker gang leaders, former yakuza members, and people whose highest level of education was time spent in juvenile detention, and others feared as delinquents—spend 14 days together at the school, clashing in both fights and romance.
Their story captivated many, earning the show the top spot in Japan’s Weekly TOP 10 (Series) for four consecutive weeks right after its December 2025 release. It also reached as high as 7th in the Weekly Global TOP 10 (Non-English Series). As the first unscripted series from Japan to break into the Weekly TOP 10 in Korea, it also ranked in Hong Kong, Taiwan, Singapore, and more.
The English title is "BADLY in LOVE." The words and actions of young people raised in Japan’s unique "Yankee" culture caught the attention of international viewers. Additionally, with anime like “Tokyo Revengers” gaining popularity across Asia, interest in Yankee culture was already on the rise, contributing to the show’s success.
Where Can You Watch "BADLY in LOVE"? Streaming Availability and Total Episodes
"BADLY in LOVE" is exclusively available on Netflix. Audio is available in Japanese, English, Spanish, and Portuguese. Subtitles are offered in English, Korean, Chinese, Indonesian, Thai, Filipino, Vietnamese, Malay, and more.
List of "BADLY in LOVE" Episode Titles (All 10 Episodes)
Even just reading the episode titles, their impact is huge. The lineup is so unique, it’s hard to believe they’re from a dating reality show, which only adds to the intrigue.
| Episode | Title |
| 1 | You'll Fall Badly in Love |
| 2 | I'm Pissed. Got a Spare Katana? |
| 3 | I Swear I Didn't Do It |
| 4 | Water, Seriously? |
| 5 | I Was So Lonely. I Want a Baby |
| 6 | Once I Fall in Love, Everyone Else is Just Noise |
| 7 | Better to Jump in Than Sit Out |
| 8 | Nothing Beats Devotion |
| 9 | Being Around People Isn't So Bad |
| 10 | I'll Embrace it All, Even Your Past |
When is "BADLY in LOVE" Season 2? Scheduled for Release in 2026
"BADLY in LOVE", which shocked not only Japan but also audiences overseas, announced the production of its second season at an unprecedented speed on December 24, 2025. The setting for Season 2 is Okinawa. We can't wait to see how the delinquents' love and inner struggles will explode amidst the tranquility of the seaside!
The 11 Legendary Cast Members of 'BADLY in LOVE' & Where They Are Now
Here are the 11 cast members who are indispensable when talking about 'Love Joto'. We introduce their profiles and what they've been up to since the show.
Tsuu-chan (Shunya Tsukahara)
A 30-year-old cabaret club owner. Although he once led a biker gang and his highest level of schooling was time in a juvenile detention center, he also has a cute side—he hates tomatoes. He firmly declares, "Looks are everything for women."
'A Romantic Who Knows Loyalty'
Despite his tough appearance, as the episodes progress, his gentle side gradually comes to light, and in the end, he becomes someone who moves everyone's hearts.
Tsuu-chan's Iconic Scene!
In Episode 1, he picks a fight with Milk the moment they first meet, leading to an unusual scene in a dating reality show where security had to step in to break up the fight.
What Happened to Tsuu-chan Afterwards?
As of February 2025, he is dating Baby, whom he became a couple with on the show. He has openly talked about their long-distance relationship and posted photos on Instagram of the two visiting Tokyo Disney Resort together.
Milk (Takumi Sato)
A 22-year-old working in construction. Former head of a biker gang in Kawasaki. He is devoted when it comes to love and applied to the show saying, "I want to experience true love."
'A Devoted Softie When in Love'
While many members on “Love Joto” fall for someone quickly (and just as quickly change their minds), Milk stayed devoted to Baby from the very beginning.
Milk's Iconic Scene!
In Episode 8, he straightforwardly confessed his feelings over the school broadcast, saying, "I want to see Yuria-san (Baby)."
What Happened to Milk Afterwards?
Milk is still working in construction. In a post-show interview, he said, "People from all kinds of backgrounds and industries came together and lived together, and it really broadened my horizons and changed the way I think."
Tackle (Sho Tsuda)
A 24-year-old working in the bonsai business. He has a past of taking down rowdy club customers as security. Despite his large build, he is very considerate.
'Charging Straight at the One He Wants'
His unwavering devotion to Kii-chan is endearing. When it comes down to it, he has the courage to protect the one he loves.
Tackle's Iconic Scene!
In Episode 3, Tackle made takoyaki with Kii-chan. When Tenten ate an obviously failed takoyaki and said, "This doesn't taste good at all," Tackle shocked everyone by literally tackling him to protect Kii-chan!
What Happened to Tackle Afterwards?
He is still working in the bonsai business. His main work involves leasing bonsai, and he also sells bonsai and apparel at a store in Marunouchi.
Nisei (Nisei Sakurai)
A 27-year-old bar owner. After a past full of fights, he decided to become a boxer after seeing his mother cry. He is confident in his looks and popularity.
'In the End, Everyone Falls for Me'
Nisei is overflowing with confidence. In fact, the female members were drawn to him, and a development unfolded where Baby, Oto-san, and Amo all found themselves attracted to him.
Nisei's Iconic Scene!
In Episode 7, four days before graduation, everyone boards a yakatabune (traditional Japanese houseboat) together. For the first time, Nisei invites Oto-san, who had never been asked out before. Without telling her whether he would respond to her feelings, he showed a cruel kindness by saying, "If you still like me, I want you to invite me. If you do, I’ll be happy."
What Happened to Nisei Afterwards?
After becoming a couple with Amo on the show, he revealed that as of late December 2025, they "haven’t been in touch much." However, on January 21, 2026, he posted a video of the two of them taking a purikura (photo booth) together.
Yanbo (Isamu Nishizawa)
A 30-year-old rapper. A former intellectual yakuza who dropped out of university. After being arrested, he decided to go straight for the sake of his family. He expresses his emotions in a very direct way.
“I walk my own path.”
Clumsy and straightforward, he cares deeply for his friends. When angry, his words and actions can remind people of his yakuza past, sometimes frightening those around him. Unfortunately, due to concerns about the show’s rules, he was forced to leave midway.
This is the scene that defines Yanbo!
The shocking moment in Episode 3 when his sudden expulsion is announced. The reason was remarks that reminded people of past drug use, though he denies this himself.
What happened to Yanbo afterwards?
He is still active as "136youngboss" (Isamu Youngboss). On December 15, 2025, he released a 7-track EP titled "Jibun, Bukiyou Desukara" ("I'm Clumsy, That's Why").
Tenten (Tensei Nanase)
A 25-year-old active host. Despite his refreshing looks, he says he’s “done all kinds of bad things.” A handsome guy with a 100% confession success rate.
“Born with the talent to be loved.”
His gentle demeanor is his charm. Unlike the other male members, he doesn’t have a “bad boy” vibe, so at first, the other guys disliked him, but gradually he became accepted.
This is the scene that defines Tenten!
Right after Yanbo’s sudden departure in Episode 3, Tenten joins as a transfer student. He immediately invites Oto-san on a horseback riding date, looking every bit the prince. However, their conversation during the ride is heavy, as you’d expect from Love Joto.
What happened to Tenten afterwards?
He is still working as a host and occasionally participates in cleanup activities in Kabukicho.
Oto-san (Otoha)
A 22-year-old juggling vocational school and working at a cabaret club. Her dream is to launch a lingerie brand with traditional Japanese patterns.
“If I fall in love, I’ll follow you to hell.”
Until now, her relationships were always about spending money and devoting herself to her partner, and she joined the show hoping to change that. Her single-mindedness is fully displayed in the main story.
This is the scene that defines Oto-san!
In Episode 5, Oto-san invites the second-generation member to a sauna. The way she shows a side of herself that she only reveals to someone she likes is enough to make viewers’ hearts race.
What happened to Oto-san afterwards?
She continues to attend vocational school and work at the cabaret club. She remains one of the most talked-about members after the show aired.
Baby (Yuria)
A 25-year-old who works in painting and is also active as a talent. On Instagram, she shares her daily life with her beloved dog and rabbit.
“Behind her strength lies a thirst for love.”
Raised in an orphanage after growing up in an extremely poor family. Although she trained her mind and body through Kyokushin Karate out of resentment towards those around her, deep down she has a strong desire to be cared for and spoiled.
This is the scene that defines Baby!
During the sauna date in Episode 1, Baby felt attracted to her partner. Unable to hold back, she expressed her excitement by saying, “That’s so Love Joto, seriously.”
What happened to Baby after that?
She continues a long-distance relationship with Tsuu-chan, with whom she became a couple, and has been making more media appearances, such as taking on the challenge of being a ring girl.
Tekarin (Hikaru)
23 years old, works at a bar while also competing as an underground fighter. She was expelled from high school after getting back at a senior. Though she speaks with a rough, rolled-tongue accent, she loves children.
“Every guy I choose is a bit too exciting”
Tekarin, who is drawn to wild guys, found herself attracted to Yanbo. She loves children so much that she once wanted to become a nursery school teacher, so she found herself interested in Yanbo because of the gap between his tough side and his gentle way with kids.
This is the scene that defines Tekarin!
The must-see scene is in episode 3, when Yanbo is expelled from school and they are suddenly separated. Tekarin was heartbroken for a while, but as she spent time with transfer student Tenten, she gradually began to open her heart to a new romance.
What happened to Tekarin after that?
She continues to balance her bar job and underground fighting. On Instagram, she posts comedy videos with fellow cast member Tackle, showing her ongoing activities.
Kii-chan (Kirei)
A 23-year-old model and makeup instructor. A self-proclaimed and widely recognized gyaru. A former fighter who once carried a wooden sword as her trademark. Warm-hearted and strong-willed.
“She’s naturally both strong and sexy”
As a former model for a gyaru magazine, both her looks and personality are the epitome of gyaru. Her real name, “Kirei,” is striking, and her visuals have also attracted attention in Korea.
This is the scene that defines Kii-chan!
Kii-chan is known for her straightforward way of speaking. In episode 2, regarding Tackle, who kept giving her passionate looks, she said, “I feel like he’s going to eat me up sooner or later.”
What happened to Kii-chan after that?
She’s active as Japan’s youngest all-girls school makeup instructor and influencer. Her transformation into a K-pop–style long black hairstyle after the show and her makeup-free posts on social media have drawn huge attention.
Amo (AMO)
A 27-year-old show dancer. A popular girl who once received confessions from 50 people and loves bad boys. Confidently declares, “I’ll win over everyone.”
“Whether it’s love or the stage, only the lead role suits me.”
Amo, with her distinctive medium-length black hair, joined in episode 4. Her calculated cuteness, which made her popular since her school days, was on full display during the group living, leaving the men at her mercy.
This is the scene that defines Amo!
In episode 6, there’s a memorable scene where Amo goes to the smoking area to invite Nisei. But since Oto-san was clinging to him and crying, Amo silently left the scene—pay attention to her expression at that moment.
What happened to Amo after that?
Occasionally, two-shot photos of Amo and Nisei appear on official social media, but it’s rumored that their relationship fizzled out naturally. Amo herself is still active as a show dancer.
10 Iconic “Love Joto” Quotes That Took Social Media by Storm
When talking about “Love Joto,” you can’t miss the many memorable quotes that only came about because of the gathering of delinquents. Here, we introduce 10 iconic quotes from the cast and MCs.
Baby: “Water, Seriously?” / Episode 4
This is arguably the most famous quote. When new member Amo, a show dancer, splashed water on the audience as part of a performance, some of it hit Baby, prompting her to say this line in anger.
Milk: "Sit down. You came here to find love, didn’t you?" / Episode 1
This was Milk's response when Tsuu-chan picked a fight with him the very first time they met.
Kii-chan: "You don't have the face of a woman." / Episode 3
Kii-chan, who dislikes not being able to return Tackle's sincere feelings for her, said this when she told Tackle that she couldn't see him as the opposite sex.
Yanbo: "I'm Pissed. Got a Spare Katana?" / Episode 2
This line was used in a tense scene after a clash between Yanbo and Milk in the sauna.
Tsuu-chan: "It'd be better if you just jumped in." / Episode 7
Oto-san, who has feelings for Nisei, quietly waits while Nisei enjoys some one-on-one time with another woman. Tsuu-chan suggests that Oto-san should just jump in and interrupt.
Milk: "Honestly, I’d rather you just be harsh with me." / Episode 7
This was Milk's comment as she struggled to keep the conversation going with Baby.
Amo: "If that's the kind of Nisei you are, I don't need you." / Episode 8
During the interview segment, while talking about her feelings for Nisei, Amo said, “If I’m just one of the girls you casually see, I know I’d never be happy—so if that’s the case, I don’t need you.”
AK-69: "Yankees always sit at the end of the table. They don't want anyone behind them."
Rapper AK-69 said this after observing how the male cast members sat down. Having been a bit of a delinquent himself in his youth, he knows all about these "yankee" habits.
MEGUMI: "They're living in the moment. They're 'living now' people."
MC MEGUMI, who is also the producer of "Love Joto," described the cast as "living now" while watching the episode in the studio.
Nagano: "They move on so quickly, it's refreshing. It's like a one-shot manga."
MC Nagano said this about the cast members who are able to move on quickly even after fights, perfectly expressing what the viewers are feeling.
The Heisei Retro Song "Love again" That Fired Up Real Romance
The theme song for "Love Joto" is globe's 1998 hit "Love again." Written and composed by Tetsuya Komuro, one of the most iconic music producers of the Heisei era, it is globe's 12th single.
Many of Japan's hit songs from the 1990s feature a glamorous worldview centered on "love," and for many people in their 30s and 40s, listening to these songs brings back memories of their youth. "Love again" is one of those songs, and its melody—a mix of trance and J-POP—fits perfectly with the world of "Love Joto." Thanks to its use as the theme song, it has also sparked renewed interest in "Heisei retro" among the younger generation.
Even If You’re Not a Fan of Delinquents, “Love Joto” Will Make You Want to Watch!
“Love Joto” might be the perfect opportunity for those who have always felt uneasy about delinquents to discover a new culture. Even if their appearance is intimidating, you may find their true charm once you get to know them. Season 1 was already so entertaining that it’s exciting to imagine what Season 2 will bring!
Netflix reality series “Love Joto” Season 1 is now streaming exclusively. Season 2 is set to be released in 2026.
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