I Have a Crush at Work

I Have a Crush at Work, known in Japan as Kono Kaisha ni Suki na Hito ga Imasu, is a captivating romantic comedy anime series that brings to life the celebrated manga by Akamaru Enomoto. The narrative centers on the intricate relationship between Masugu Tateishi and Yui Mitsuya, two dedicated professionals who navigate the corporate landscape of Tsuda Confectionery, a prominent sweets manufacturing company. Within the bustling office environment, Masugu, from the accounting department, and Yui, a key member of the planning department, are notoriously recognized for their outwardly contentious interactions and spirited professional rivalry. However, this seemingly antagonistic dynamic serves as a clever guise for a much deeper, unspoken mutual romantic attraction. The series meticulously chronicles their journey as a series of professional and personal developments culminate in a heartfelt confession of their true feelings. Subsequently, they embark on a clandestine relationship, agreeing to meticulously conceal their romance from their colleagues to circumvent potential workplace gossip, complications, and the inherent challenges often associated with office relationships. This central premise allows the anime to skillfully delve into the delicate equilibrium required to uphold a professional demeanor while secretly nurturing a profound personal connection within a demanding corporate setting. The story primarily unfolds within the offices of Tsuda Confectionery, employing a blend of episodic slice-of-life storytelling with classic romantic comedy tropes. It showcases nuanced character development through relatable scenarios of adult romance, highlighting the genuine workplace challenges faced by both Masugu and Yui. Themes of professional integrity, the complexities of adult relationships, and the subtle art of emotional concealment are explored with charm and wit. The anime adaptation, produced by the acclaimed studio Blade, aired from January to March 2025, comprising 12 episodes. It faithfully translates the essence of the original seinen manga, which was serialized in Morning magazine from 2019 to 2023, offering viewers a delightful and authentic portrayal of modern office romance that balances humor with sincere emotional moments, carefully avoiding clichéd power dynamics or hierarchical conflicts.

I Have a Crush at Work distinguishes itself as a thoughtfully constructed romantic comedy, offering a nuanced exploration of adult relationships cultivated within a corporate environment. The series excels by presenting a believable secret romance founded on mutual respect, thereby sidestepping the often-problematic power dynamics or exaggerated dramatizations prevalent in many workplace narratives. The core strength lies in the palpable chemistry between Masugu and Yui, which effectively illustrates the genuine challenges faced by individuals navigating professional obligations while concealing a deep personal connection due to societal and workplace pressures. Character development is robust, portraying both protagonists as multifaceted individuals who adeptly balance career aspirations, friendships, burgeoning love, and the inherent stresses of their professional lives. Supporting characters also receive sufficient attention, contributing to a well-rounded ensemble that enhances the narrative without overshadowing the main couple. From an animation standpoint, Studio Blade employs a consistently soft and clean aesthetic, perfectly complementing the anime's warm and lighthearted tone. The character designs are appealing, and the animation for interactions is fluid, effectively conveying subtle emotional cues and enhancing the overall visual storytelling. While the narrative adopts an episodic and somewhat laid-back pacing, it maintains viewer engagement through its highly relatable situations and understated humor. The story progresses organically, allowing for gradual emotional development rather than forced plot points. Thematic depth is achieved through its authentic portrayal of adult responsibilities, the complexities of maintaining professional facades, and the joys and anxieties of a clandestine relationship. The voice acting, featuring Seiichiro Yamashita as Masugu and Yume Miyamoto as Yui, is commendable, bringing sincerity and charm to their respective roles and enhancing the characters' emotional resonance. The introduction of a secondary couple provides additional perspective and narrative richness without diluting the focus on the primary romance. In conclusion, the anime leaves a profoundly positive impression by depicting romance among working adults with a refreshing maturity and endearing charm, making it a compelling watch for enthusiasts of slice-of-life and workplace romance genres. Its strong character dynamics, consistent tone, and avoidance of common clichés effectively compensate for any potential narrative predictability.