Kono Kaisha ni Suki na Hito ga Imasu [Season 1 Episode 12]

Review: Kono Kaisha ni Suki na Hito ga Imasu Season 1 Episode 12 – A Sweet Yet Bittersweet Farewell

If you’ve been following Kono Kaisha ni Suki na Hito ga Imasu (or I Have a Crush at Work), you already know it’s the kind of anime that sneaks up on you. What starts as a lighthearted workplace rom-com slowly evolves into something deeper, more heartfelt, and—dare I say—relatable. Episode 12, the season finale, wraps up Yui Mitsuya and Masugu Tateishi’s secret office romance in a way that’s both satisfying and leaves you craving more.

The Setup: A Workplace Romance Done Right

For those who haven’t tuned in yet, Kono Kaisha ni Suki na Hito ga Imasu follows Yui and Masugu, two coworkers who are hopelessly into each other but bound by the unspoken rule of keeping their relationship under wraps. The tension between them is palpable, and the show does an excellent job of balancing humor, awkwardness, and genuine emotional moments.

The anime, based on Akamaru Enomoto’s manga, aired from January to March 2025, totaling 12 episodes. Produced by BLADE (a studio known for its knack for slice-of-life adaptations), the series captures the essence of the manga while adding its own flair. The animation is clean, the voice acting is on point, and the pacing—though sometimes slow—feels intentional, letting the characters breathe.

Episode 12: The Final Confession

The finale picks up right where Episode 11 left off: Yui and Masugu are at a crossroads. Their secret is teetering on the edge of exposure, and the office gossip mill is spinning faster than ever. What makes this episode stand out is how it handles the climax of their relationship. Instead of a grand, dramatic confession, we get something quieter, more intimate—and honestly, more realistic.

Fans on MyAnimeList have praised the episode for its subtlety. One user wrote, “It’s rare to see a rom-com finale that doesn’t rely on over-the-top theatrics. Yui and Masugu’s resolution feels earned, not forced.” Another pointed out how the show’s strength lies in its ability to make mundane moments feel significant: “The way they exchange glances in the break room says more than any monologue could.”

The Bittersweet Aftertaste

While the episode ties up most loose ends, it doesn’t shy away from leaving a few questions unanswered. What happens next for Yui and Masugu? Will their coworkers find out? The post-credits scene (yes, there’s one!) teases just enough to keep fans speculating.

Some viewers, however, expressed frustration with the show’s brevity. A comment on Lost in Anime reads, “Twelve episodes just isn’t enough for a story this rich. I need a second season, stat.” It’s a valid point—the manga spans 15 volumes, and while the anime covers the core plot, there’s clearly more material to explore.

Why It Works (And Why It Might Not)

Kono Kaisha ni Suki na Hito ga Imasu isn’t groundbreaking, but it doesn’t need to be. Its charm lies in its simplicity and authenticity. The characters feel like real people, and their struggles—balancing love and professionalism—are relatable to anyone who’s ever had a workplace crush.

That said, the show’s pacing can be a double-edged sword. Some episodes drag, and the lack of a streaming platform (as of now) has made it harder for international fans to access. Still, as one Reddit user put it, “This anime is a hidden gem. It’s not flashy, but it’s got heart.”

Final Verdict: A Must-Watch for Rom-Com Fans

If you’re into slow-burn romance with a side of office shenanigans, Kono Kaisha ni Suki na Hito ga Imasu is worth your time. Episode 12 delivers a heartfelt conclusion that stays true to the series’ tone—quiet, sweet, and undeniably human.

And hey, if we’re lucky, maybe we’ll get a Season 2. Until then, I’ll be rewatching that post-credits scene on loop.

Rating: 8.5/10
“A satisfying finale that leaves you wanting just a little more.”