Zom 100: Bucket List of the Dead follows Akira Tendo, a 24-year-old completely burnt out by an exploitative corporate job. When a sudden zombie apocalypse ravages Japan, Akira doesn't panic—he is overjoyed that he no longer has to go to work. He creates a "bucket list" of 100 things to do before he eventually becomes a zombie himself. [1, 2]

The Premise

Before the apocalypse, Akira worked at a "black company" (a notoriously toxic and abusive workplace). He spent three years doing endless unpaid overtime, suffering severe power harassment, and slowly losing his will to live. One morning, he wakes up to find his landlord eating a fellow tenant, realizing that the zombie outbreak has begun. Instead of fearing for his life, Akira is thrilled because his nightmare job is officially closed. [1, 2, 3, 4, 5]

The Core Plot

Inspired by his newfound freedom, Akira begins writing down a "bucket list" of 100 things he wants to accomplish before he turns into the undead. Along his journey to complete his goals, he runs into different companions: [1, 2]

• Kencho: Akira’s college best friend, who is rescued while hiding out in a high-profile party.

• Shizuka: A hyper-cautious, methodical survivalist who initially clashes with Akira's carefree attitude but slowly warms up to him. [1, 2, 3, 4]

Together, the trio travels across Japan seeking to cross items off Akira’s list while navigating a world overrun by zombies. [1, 2]

Thematic Meaning

At its core, the series serves as a satirical critique of toxic, soul-crushing work cultures, particularly in Japan. The show playfully suggests that the oppressive grind of modern capitalism turns people into lifeless "zombies" long before any actual viral outbreak occurs. [1, 2, 3, 4, 5]

Main Characters & Personalities:

• Akira Tendou

  • Personality: Optimistic, loyal, and ridiculously positive. After years of being a broken wage slave, the apocalypse gave him a new lease on life. He acts as the emotional anchor and beacon of hope for his friends, driven by a childhood dream of becoming a superhero. [1, 2, 3, 4, 5]

• Shizuka Mikazuki

  • Personality: Analytical, highly resourceful, and cautious. Initially aloof and guarded due to a restrictive upbringing, she takes a highly logical approach to surviving the apocalypse. Akira's infectious zest for life helps her let her guard down, embrace her own passions, and open up emotionally. [1, 2, 3, 4, 5]

• Kenichirou Ryuuzaki ("Kencho")

  • Personality: Charismatic, energetic, and a bit of a ladies' man. As Akira's best friend from college, he has a flair for the dramatic and a strong brotherhood bond with Akira. Despite his party-boy exterior, he is deeply supportive and seeks to fulfill his own lifelong dream of becoming a stand-up comedian. [1, 2, 3, 4, 5]

• Beatrix Amerhauser

  • Personality: Passionate, bold, and a massive Japanophile. An enthusiastic German exchange student who is deeply obsessed with Japanese culture. She brings immense energy, fierce determination, and incredible survival skills to the group's road trip. [1, 2, 3, 4]