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Jun 17, 20261
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NHK Asadora 'Massan' Episode 121: Emma Develops Romantic Feelings for Kazuma
In the 121st episode of NHK's 'Massan,' Emma develops romantic interest in Kazuma while struggling with her mother Ellie's continued treatment of her as a child. Set during wartime Japan in 1943, the episode shows Emma finding maturity and validation through her interactions with Kazuma, even as her parents face the devastating consequences of Ellie's foreign identity.
Quick Facts
Who
Massan (Tetsuji Tamayama)
What
Emma develops romantic feelings for Kazuma
When
June 18, 2026 (broadcast date)
Where
Japan
- Emma develops romantic feelings for Kazuma
- Massan entrusts wine production to Kazuma
- Emma expresses frustration about being treated as a child
- Kazuma tells Emma she has grown up
- Massan signs a divorce agreement with Ellie
NHK's long-running morning drama series 'Massan' will air its 121st episode on June 18, marking the beginning of the 21st week titled 'When lips speak, autumn winds grow cold.' Set in 1943, the episode depicts protagonist Massan (played by Tetsuji Tamayama) entrusting employee Kazuma Morino (Shinta Horii) with wine production to extract tartaric acid for the Navy. Meanwhile, Emma (Yuki Miyao), Massan's daughter, expresses her frustration about being treated as a child by her mother Ellie (Charlotte Kate Fox), a Scottish woman facing wartime discrimination in Japan. Emma finds encouragement when Kazuma tells her she has grown up, marking an emotional turning point in their relationship. The episode comes after a tumultuous period in which Ellie, already targeted for her foreign nationality, faces community hostility. Massan ultimately signs a divorce agreement to allow Ellie to return to Scotland on an exchange ship, though the decision leaves Ellie deeply conflicted about abandoning her life and marriage in Japan.
Topics
Why This Matters
This episode marks a pivotal emotional turning point in 'Massan,' shifting focus from the parents' wartime struggles to the younger generation's coming-of-age during Japan's most turbulent period. The convergence of personal romantic development with the broader tragedy of forced separation underscores how World War II disrupted individual lives and family bonds, making this narrative thread relevant for understanding how historical events shaped intimate human experiences. For viewers following the series, this episode introduces new dramatic tension and character growth that will likely influence future plot developments.
Timeline & Sources
Jan 1, 1943
WireNavy requests wine production for tartaric acid extraction
Jun 18, 1943
WireEpisode 121 broadcast/rebroadcast; Emma expresses romantic interest in Kazuma