by Episode 54 of Jujutsu Kaisen Season 3, titled “Tokyo No. 1 Barrier 1,” aired late at night on February 12 and immediately became a trending topic among fans. While the episode continued to expand the intense Culling Game storyline, it was the unexpected reappearance of two familiar faces that truly stole the spotlight.
The senior duo from the Occult Research Club—Sasaki (voiced by Mariya Ise) and Iguchi (voiced by Kodai Sakai)—returned for the first time since the series’ very first episode. Their sudden comeback sparked waves of excitement online, with viewers posting comments such as:
- “Sasaki-senpai looks even cuter now!”
- “I never thought the Occult Research Club members would return!”
- “I’m so glad they’re safe!”
Who Are Sasaki and Iguchi?
For newer viewers, Sasaki and Iguchi were members of the Occult Research Club at Sugisawa Third High School—the same school once attended by protagonist Yuji Itadori (voiced by Junya Enoki).
In Episode 1 of the series, they unknowingly triggered the events that led to Itadori swallowing Sukuna’s cursed finger. After Yuji transferred to Tokyo Jujutsu High, the pair disappeared from the main storyline—until now.
Their return in Episode 54 creates a nostalgic callback to the anime’s humble beginnings, reminding fans how far the story has progressed.
What Happens in Episode 54?
Sasaki Caught in the Culling Game Barrier
In this episode, Sasaki is shown asleep in her room when she becomes trapped inside the barrier of the Culling Game (also known as the Death Reunion). Still in her pajamas—and notably without her trademark glasses—she is suddenly pulled into the chaos.
Soon after, she reunites with Iguchi inside the colony. Their confusion mirrors the audience’s early feelings when the Culling Game was first introduced.
This scene serves two major purposes:
- Emotional Impact – It connects the current high-stakes arc to the series’ origins.
- Rising Tension – It highlights how innocent civilians are being dragged into the deadly game.
Episode 54 Synopsis (Beginner-Friendly)
After securing the cooperation of Kinji Hakari, Itadori and his allies continue their mission inside the Culling Game.
Suddenly, Kogane—the Shikigami that manages players and rules—announces the addition of a new general rule.
With this update:
- The team identifies two players who already have over 100 points.
- They aim to use those points to add strategic rules.
- Their ultimate goal remains freeing Satoru Gojo by breaking the seal of the Prison Realm.
- They search for the mysterious “Angel,” a key figure who may have the ability to undo the seal.
The reappearance of Sasaki and Iguchi demonstrates that even non-sorcerers are now entangled in the escalating crisis.
Why This Cameo Matters
While Sasaki and Iguchi are not combat characters, their presence adds emotional depth to the arc.
Here’s why fans are reacting so strongly:
- It reconnects the series to its original premise.
- It shows how widespread the consequences of Kenjaku’s plan truly are.
- It raises concern for ordinary civilians caught in supernatural conflicts.
- It highlights Yuji Itadori’s past and how much he has grown.
This subtle storytelling choice reinforces one of Jujutsu Kaisen’s core themes: the cost of power and responsibility.
About Jujutsu Kaisen
Created by Gege Akutami, Jujutsu Kaisen has sold over 150 million copies worldwide.
The story follows Yuji Itadori, who becomes the host of the King of Curses, Ryomen Sukuna. After enrolling at Tokyo Metropolitan Jujutsu Technical College, he trains to battle curses while facing moral dilemmas, political conspiracies, and devastating battles.
Season 3 adapts the Culling Game arc, one of the most complex and strategic storylines in the series.
Fan Reactions: Social Media Buzz
Within minutes of the episode airing, hashtags related to Sasaki and the Occult Research Club began trending.
Fans noted:
- The updated character designs look sharper and more refined.
- Sasaki’s new look without glasses surprised many viewers.
- The nostalgic feeling reminded long-time fans of Episode 1.
Many praised the production team for carefully maintaining continuity while refreshing the characters’ visuals.
What to Expect Next
Episode 54 sets up several major developments:
- Strategic rule manipulation within the Culling Game.
- Increased danger for civilians inside the barriers.
- Possible emotional conflict for Yuji if he learns about his former classmates’ involvement.
- Progress toward freeing Gojo Satoru.
With stakes continuing to rise, even brief cameos now carry narrative weight.
Final Thoughts
Episode 54 of Jujutsu Kaisen Season 3 proves that even minor characters can have a major emotional impact. The surprise return of Sasaki and Iguchi bridges the gap between the anime’s beginning and its current high-intensity arc.
As the Culling Game intensifies, viewers can expect more shocking developments and meaningful callbacks.
Fans old and new won’t want to miss what happens next in this gripping supernatural battle series.
