Naruto Befriends Kurama Episode May 2026

Before we dive into the episode, let’s set the stage. It’s the height of the Fourth Great Ninja War. Naruto has already mastered "Nine-Tails Chakra Mode" by ripping out Kurama’s chakra and forcing it to obey him. But that was a battle of wills—not friendship.

The episode opens inside Naruto’s subconscious—the dark, flooded cavern where Kurama has been chained for decades. But this time, Naruto isn’t there to fight. He’s there to talk.

He calls out Kurama’s real name—not "Kyuubi," but "Kurama"—and acknowledges the fox’s suffering at the hands of Madara, Obito, and every human who treated him like a tool. This moment floors Kurama. For centuries, he’s only known hatred. He doesn’t even know how to process kindness. naruto befriends kurama episode

From this episode forward, Kurama becomes Naruto’s most loyal partner. He advises Naruto during the war, shares strategies, and even cracks dry jokes. Their bond allows Naruto to achieve and ultimately saves the world.

The Moment It All Changed: Breaking Down the Episode Where Naruto Finally Befriends Kurama Before we dive into the episode, let’s set the stage

Episode 328 isn’t just about gaining power. It’s about forgiveness. And that’s why, years later, it remains one of the greatest anime episodes of all time.

Watching Naruto vs. Kurama in the early series, you’d never imagine they’d become friends. But Naruto has always been a story about breaking cycles of hatred—even if that hatred is a 100-foot-tall fox demon. But that was a battle of wills—not friendship

Kurama, naturally, tries to intimidate him. The massive fox growls, bares his fangs, and mocks Naruto for being naive. He reminds Naruto of all the pain, death, and isolation he’s caused. For a moment, it looks like nothing has changed.