As the highly anticipated “My Hero Academia FINAL SEASON” draws to a close, Episode 169, titled “The Girl Who Loves Smiles,” delivers a poignant exploration of aftermath, redemption, and the lingering emotional scars of war. Airing on Saturday, December 6, 2025, this penultimate episode—the 10th of the Final Season and 169th overall—guides viewers through the immediate fallout of the heroes’ grueling confrontation with All For One, focusing intensely on the personal burdens carried by its central characters. It premiered in Japan at 5:30 PM JST and became available on international streaming platforms like Crunchyroll shortly thereafter.
The Weight of Victory: Uraraka’s Burden
The episode prominently features Ochaco Uraraka, embodying the “girl who loves smiles” from its title. While outwardly radiating her usual encouraging demeanor, Uraraka grapples internally with immense guilt and emotional turmoil, primarily stemming from Himiko Toga’s tragic demise. Her empathic nature means she carries a heavy weight, struggling to reconcile the “victory” with the personal costs and the complex nature of the villains they fought.
The narrative uses tight shots to underscore Uraraka’s isolation in her recovery, highlighting how fundamentally changed she is by Toga’s actions and her attempt to understand how a villain could save a hero. Her classmates notice her uncharacteristic quietness, setting the stage for deeper interpersonal moments. This arc is seen as a heartfelt conclusion to Uraraka’s journey, emphasizing that behind her constant smile is a character who deeply feels the pain of others and bears her burdens silently.
Echoes of the Past: Deku’s Encounters and Societal Shifts
Episode 169 also delves into the broader societal implications of the war. With news reports continuing to cover the devastation caused by Shigaraki across Japan, the country begins its slow path to reconstruction. Amidst this backdrop of change, Deku visits Spinner, a devoted member of the League of Villains, who is now in custody.
This encounter is a powerful moment, as Spinner expresses his unwavering loyalty to Shigaraki, viewing him as a hero who gave a voice to the voiceless. Deku, having shared Shigaraki’s final words, listens intently, demonstrating his growth and understanding that saving someone doesn’t always equate to “fixing” them or changing their deeply held beliefs. This interaction reflects the differing perspectives on the villains and the complex reality of their motivations, which the public is now beginning to understand.
Moving Forward: U.A. High and the Road to Healing
As society attempts to normalize, a new school year commences at U.A. High School, with Deku and his classmates entering their second year. Despite the return to a semblance of school life and ongoing reconstruction efforts, the emotional scars of the recent battles are evident. The episode subtly reveals Deku sensing Uraraka’s internal struggle, hinting at a moment where he, having previously been supported by her, now seeks to reciprocate and help her carry her own burdens.
The episode is noted for its ability to reflect the diverse opinions of Japan’s citizens following the war, showcasing a dichotomy between those rightfully angered by their losses and those who might empathize with Shigaraki’s backstory now that more details are emerging. This narrative thread highlights the series’ continuous exploration of what it truly means to be a hero in a world recovering from immense trauma.
The Penultimate Chapter
“The Girl Who Loves Smiles” is the penultimate episode of what is widely considered My Hero Academia‘s eighth and concluding season, with the grand finale (Episode 11 of the Final Season) slated for December 13. The episode is expected to cover manga chapters 426-428, bringing crucial character arcs to their emotional conclusions as the series meticulously wraps up its epic saga. It serves as a powerful setup for the ultimate resolution, cementing the emotional complexities and character growth that have defined the “My Hero Academia” narrative.
