孤独のグルメが好まれる理由

In this episode, I examine why the Japanese drama *Kodoku no Gourmet* (Solitary Gourmet) has gained fans not only in Japan but also overseas. While many explain its popularity through Japanese food culture, I argue that the deeper reason lies in its lack of imposed meaning. The show offers no life lessons, no dramatic character growth, and no ideological message—it simply presents a man eating when he is hungry. In a world where people constantly feel pressure to justify choices and define purpose, this “meaning-free” design is refreshing. By placing desire without judgment, the series provides comfort to modern audiences who are exhausted by narratives demanding interpretation, success, and personal transformation.