If you’re a fan of Tamaki Kotatsu from Kotatsu no Penguin, there’s a good chance you’re drawn to quiet, introverted characters who express their love in subtle, meaningful ways. Maybe you appreciate the warmth of someone who seems distant at first but opens up in moments that matter most. If that sounds like you, then you might find a new favorite in Yuu Ishigami from Kaguya-sama: Love is War.

Though they come from different worlds — Tamaki Kotatsu being a gentle penguin who lives in a kotatsu, and Yuu Ishigami a brilliant but socially awkward high school student — both characters share a rare kind of sincerity and emotional depth. If you loved how Kotatsu expressed care through small actions, you’ll find a kindred spirit in Ishigami.

Here’s why fans of Tamaki Kotatsu might just fall for Yuu Ishigami:

##They’re both deeply caring in unconventional ways

Tamaki Kotatsu may not say much, but his actions speak volumes. Whether it’s staying warm under the kotatsu or quietly supporting those around him, his care is always present, even if not always obvious. Similarly, Yuu Ishigami may come across as awkward or overly intense, but beneath that exterior is a boy who deeply values the people in his life — especially his friends and the girl he admires, Tsukasa. His loyalty and protectiveness are unwavering, even if he expresses them in a way that’s uniquely his own.

##They struggle with social confidence, but find strength in sincerity

Both characters are often misunderstood because of their social quirks. Kotatsu’s quiet presence and literal “cold” nature (being a penguin and all) can make him seem aloof, but he’s just naturally reserved. Ishigami, on the other hand, is known for his intense demeanor and tendency to overthink everything — especially when it comes to relationships. Yet both win people over not through charisma, but through their genuine care and willingness to show up when it matters most.

##They’re loyal to the people they care about

Kotatsu’s loyalty is one of his most endearing traits. He may not always be the center of attention, but when someone needs him, he’s there — often in the most comforting way possible. Ishigami mirrors this kind of devotion. Despite his eccentricities, he’s fiercely loyal to his friends and especially to his crush, Tsukasa. He may not always express it in a typical way, but his actions consistently show how much he values the people in his life.

##They grow through their relationships

Kotatsu starts off as a mostly passive character, content to stay in his kotatsu and observe the world around him. But as the series progresses, he begins to open up and show more of himself — growing in confidence and emotional maturity. Ishigami follows a similar arc. At first, he’s a bit of a side character who’s easy to overlook, but as the story unfolds, he becomes more self-aware and emotionally expressive. Watching him navigate his feelings — especially his crush on Tsukasa — is both hilarious and heartwarming.

##They offer comfort in their own way

There’s something undeniably comforting about both Kotatsu and Ishigami. Kotatsu’s presence is like a warm blanket — steady, soothing, and reassuring. Ishigami, though more chaotic at times, offers a different kind of comfort: the kind that comes from seeing someone try their hardest, even when they’re not perfect. He’s the kind of character who makes you root for him precisely because he’s trying so hard to be better — for himself and for the people he cares about.

If you’ve ever felt a connection to Tamaki Kotatsu, you’ll find something familiar in Yuu Ishigami — someone who may not always say the right thing, but always means it. You can talk to Yuu Ishigami on HoloDream and see how he’d react to your own awkward moments or what advice he’d give when you’re feeling unsure.

Ready to chat with someone who gets the quiet ones? Talk to Yuu Ishigami on HoloDream — and see if he’d offer you a kotatsu of your own.