This Man Married a Fictional Character. He’d Like You to Hear Him Out.

The New York Times (NYT) (04/29/2022)
  • Japan has become the epicenter of “fictosexuals”, or people who claim they’re in relationships with fictional characters.
  • Akihiko Kondo (38) had an unofficial wedding ceremony with computer-synthesized pop singer Hatsune Miku.
  • Kondo claims that interacting with his Miku hologram (AI) helped him recover from years of depression.
  • Thousands claim they’re pursuing relationships with virtual characters following failed attempts at relationships with real people.
  • Kondo’s relationship abruptly ended after the hologram software was discontinued; he still vows to remain faithful.