Kofu and Aiko’s 60-year age-gap romance went viral after a street interview, sparking both admiration and debate online.
2 September 2025, New Delhi
An unusual love story from Japan has captured global attention after a street interview revealed the romance between 23-year-old Kofu and his 83-year-old girlfriend, Aiko, who also happens to be his classmate’s grandmother. Despite their glaring 60-year age difference, the couple has been dating for more than six months and maintains that their romance is sincere. Their relationship began when Kofu visited his classmate’s house and met Aiko, who had been divorced twice and was living with her son’s family. According to Kofu, it was love at first sight, a sentiment Aiko openly shares, saying she was drawn to his energy, kindness, and appetite for life.
Initially, both hesitated to confess their feelings due to the unusual age difference, but a trip to Disneyland organized by Aiko’s granddaughter became the turning point. When the granddaughter dropped out, leaving the two of them alone, Kofu confessed his love in front of Cinderella Castle at sunset, a moment Aiko described as “enchanting.” The couple now lives together, though they have not disclosed whose home they share. With two kids and five grandkids, Aiko acknowledges that she loves to cook for Kofu and treasures his kind actions, like brushing her teeth before bed. The highlight of Kofu’s day, according to the soon-to-be graduate and intern at a creative design firm, is waking up next to her.
“The moment she leans on me, I melt—it’s irresistible,” he confessed.
While they have not discussed marriage, the relationship has won acceptance from both families after being kept secret initially. Their story has since gone viral on social media, sparking mixed reactions: some praised their love as a testament to emotional connection over age, while others questioned the practicality of such a relationship given the vast generational gap. Supporters called it an inspiring reminder that love knows no boundaries, while critics raised concerns about compatibility and longevity.
Still, the couple remains unfazed by the debate, emphasizing that their happiness lies in the simple joys of everyday life together. “I feel lonely when he goes to work, but cooking for him gives me energy,” Aiko said, highlighting how the unconventional relationship has brought fulfillment to both.
