Ken Takakura (Okarun): The Turbo Soul of Dandadan
Ken Takakura, better known by his nickname Okarun, is the male protagonist of Dandadan. A shy, awkward high-school boy with a passion for the occult, Okarun’s life changes forever when he encounters both aliens and yokai—resulting in him being possessed by the spirit of Turbo Granny. This possession grants him incredible speed and strength, turning him into one of the series’ primary fighters.
Okarun embodies the themes of Dandadan: he is both comedic and tragic, timid and heroic, human yet supernatural. His partnership (and budding romance) with Momo Ayase drives much of the series’ heart.
Character Summary Table
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Ken Takakura |
| Alias/Nickname | Okarun |
| Affiliation | High School Student, Paranormal Fighter |
| Age | Teenager (approx. 16–17) |
| Gender | Male |
| Hair Color | Black (sometimes appears dark blue) |
| Eye Color | Brown |
| Abilities | Turbo Granny possession, superhuman speed, agility, spiritual resilience |
| First Appearance | Dandadan Chapter 1 |
| Created by | Yukinobu Tatsu |
| Personality Traits | Shy, nerdy, loyal, determined, easily flustered |
| Known For | Transformation powers, courage under fire, relationship with Momo |
| Status | Active |
Who Is Okarun?
Ken Takakura starts as an outcast—a quiet boy often bullied for his odd interests in UFOs, ghosts, and all things paranormal. His nickname “Okarun” comes from classmates mocking his obsession with the occult.
After meeting Momo Ayase, Okarun gets caught up in a supernatural dare. During this encounter, he is attacked by the yokai Turbo Granny, who steals his “family jewels” but inadvertently grants him possession-based powers. This bizarre event sets Okarun on a path of battling yokai and aliens, protecting his friends, and slowly discovering his own courage.
Personality: From Timid Nerd to Reluctant Hero
At his core, Okarun is kind, nerdy, and self-conscious. He often second-guesses himself and gets flustered around Momo. However, his transformation throughout the series is striking: once empowered, Okarun reveals himself to be incredibly brave, loyal, and self-sacrificing.
His humor, awkwardness, and clumsy charm make him relatable, while his unwavering determination in fights proves his true heart as a hero.
Abilities and Powers
- Turbo Granny Possession
After being cursed, Okarun becomes the host for Turbo Granny’s powers. This grants him extraordinary physical enhancements.
Superhuman Speed and Reflexes
Okarun can move at supersonic speeds, sometimes faster than the human eye can follow. His speed makes him one of the deadliest close-range fighters in the series.
Agility and Acrobatics
Enhanced reflexes give him gravity-defying mobility, making him capable of wild parkour-like movement in battle.
Spiritual Energy Resistance
His possession also provides resistance against yokai and supernatural attacks, enabling him to clash with spirits directly.
Partial Transformations
At times, Okarun’s body takes on ghostly attributes (elongated limbs, distorted features) when Turbo Granny’s power manifests fully.
Key Relationships
- Momo Ayase
Okarun’s closest ally and love interest. Their relationship starts with comedic banter but deepens through trust, shared battles, and mutual protection. Okarun admires Momo’s strength and often risks everything to defend her. - Turbo Granny
Initially his tormentor, she becomes the source of his powers. Their connection is reluctant but pivotal to his identity as a fighter. - Seiko Ayase (Momo’s Grandmother)
Momo’s grandmother takes a liking to Okarun, guiding him in controlling his powers and subtly supporting his bond with Momo.
Notable Appearances and Events
- First Transformation (Chapter 1)
Okarun is cursed by Turbo Granny, gaining his abilities for the first time. - Early Battles with Aliens
Proves his loyalty to Momo by fighting against overwhelming foes despite his fear. - Speed-Based Fights
Okarun’s battles showcase his insane agility and speed, often turning the tide when the group is cornered. - Developing Bond with Momo
His interactions with Momo slowly shift from comedic awkwardness to genuine affection, forming the emotional backbone of Dandadan.
Quotes from Okarun
- “I don’t care if I’m scared—I’m not running away!”
- “Stop calling me Okarun! …Okay, fine, I guess I’m used to it now.”
- “If you touch Momo, you’ll have to go through me first.”
- “Turbo Granny… I didn’t ask for this, but I’ll use it to protect what matters.”
- “Even if I don’t believe in myself, I’ll still fight.”
Legacy of Ken “Okarun” Takakura
Okarun is the soul of Dandadan—the awkward, nerdy kid who becomes a supernatural warrior through misfortune and determination. His transformation highlights the series’ themes of courage, identity, and finding strength in the strangest of places.
Together with Momo Ayase, he balances Dandadan’s wild blend of horror, comedy, and romance. Whether sprinting at impossible speeds, cracking awkward jokes, or risking everything for his friends, Okarun proves that true heroes often come from the most unlikely beginnings.