The Summer Hikaru Died has captivated audiences with its unique blend of supernatural horror and poignant slice-of-life elements, and Episode 7, titled “Determination,” delivered a pivotal and emotionally charged installment. Released on August 16, 2025, for global audiences via Netflix and August 17, 2025, in Japan, this episode marked a dramatic shift in the already complex dynamic between Yoshiki and the entity inhabiting his best friend, Hikaru.
Unraveling the Plot of Episode 7: Determination
Episode 7 picks up after the unsettling events of the previous episode, where the “Hikaru” imposter nearly harmed Asako. This incident deeply shakes Yoshiki, prompting him to confront the dangerous reality of his friend’s changed nature. The episode is largely divided into two distinct parts, beginning with a seemingly peaceful day that quickly descends into a chilling confrontation.
A Day Out: Beneath the Calm Surface
The first half of “Determination” portrays Yoshiki and “Hikaru” skipping school, ostensibly for a fun day out. Yoshiki’s calm demeanor throughout this period, however, subtly foreshadows his true intentions. While their classmates engage in a choir competition, Yoshiki takes “Hikaru” to watch a movie and spend time together, creating a sense of a “last day” for the unsuspecting entity. This carefully constructed normalcy heightens the underlying tension, as Yoshiki’s actions betray his internal struggle and his resolve to address the threat “Hikaru” poses.
The Shocking Confrontation: Yoshiki’s Desperate Act
As the day progresses and the sun begins to set, the tranquil facade shatters. Yoshiki brings “Hikaru” to his home, where he suddenly stabs the entity with a knife. This act is a direct consequence of Yoshiki’s realization that he cannot simply “teach” “Hikaru” to be human, nor can he ignore the danger it represents, especially after the incident with Asako. The imposter is initially in disbelief, but the attempt reveals a crucial truth: “Hikaru” cannot be killed by conventional means.
In a desperate turn, Yoshiki, facing the failure of his plan, asks “Hikaru” to kill him instead. However, in a surprising and emotionally resonant moment, “Hikaru” responds by pulling a piece of its own insides out and offering it to Yoshiki, symbolically weakening itself to assuage Yoshiki’s fears of its destructive power. This act, along with Yoshiki’s subsequent declaration to stay with “Hikaru” no matter the cost, even if “something inside him breaks,” profoundly deepens their already complicated bond. The episode concludes with ominous imagery suggesting Yoshiki is being absorbed by “Hikaru,” further blurring the lines of their relationship.
Deeper Themes and Character Development
Episode 7 explores several critical themes, showcasing the profound impact of “Hikaru’s” transformation on Yoshiki and the evolving nature of their connection.
Yoshiki’s Breaking Point and Betrayal
This episode marks a significant low point for Yoshiki. His decision to try and kill “Hikaru,” despite his previous promises of unwavering loyalty, represents a tragic betrayal born out of fear and a desperate need to protect his community. His calm and nonchalant attitude leading up to the stabbing underscores the depth of his internal conflict and the methodical, albeit heartbreaking, nature of his plan. This drastic action is a testament to Yoshiki hitting his breaking point, providing compelling character development for a protagonist who has largely tried to maintain control and understanding.
“Hikaru’s” Evolving Humanity
Despite the shocking confrontation, Episode 7 also highlights the growing emotional complexity of the “Hikaru” entity. Instead of lashing out, “Hikaru” demonstrates a surprising capacity for understanding and a desire to mend its relationship with Yoshiki, even offering a part of itself. This action, occurring so soon after the incident with Asako, showcases “Hikaru’s” rapid emotional growth and its unique, non-human way of demonstrating care and acceptance.
Where to Watch and What to Expect Next
The Summer Hikaru Died Episode 7, “Determination,” was released on August 16, 2025, and is available for streaming on Netflix worldwide. Japanese viewers could also watch it on various TV networks such as Miyagi TV, TV Shinshu, Sapporo TV, and Aomori Broadcast, as well as the streaming platform ABEMA. The first season is slated for 12 episodes, with new episodes releasing weekly.
With the intense climax of Episode 7, the series continues to explore the unsettling yet compelling relationship between Yoshiki and the being that is both his friend and something utterly alien. The ramifications of Yoshiki’s attempt and “Hikaru’s” response are sure to shape the narrative as the season progresses, leaving viewers eager to see how this uniquely unsettling bond continues to unfold.
