Soichi Kofune

is a character that appeared in Ultraman Orb. He is the president of Kofune Manufacturing.
==Personality==
Kofune possesses a strong, outgoing, and bold personality. His motto is "Always strive for improvement," and he takes great pride in the springs manufactured in his own factory. He firmly believes that as human beings, we have the ability to overcome any difficulties by relying on our own strength and intelligence, constantly seeking solutions to problems.
Furthermore, he has a passionate heart and keen insight, able to provide important insights at critical moments. These qualities influence everyone around him, as he often cares for and nurtures the emotions of others, exhibiting a compassionate and personable demeanor.
==History==
===Pre-Ultraman Orb===
Kofune serves as the president of , a small-scale industrial production company. However, in reality, they hold a crucial role as a high-tech technology developer, providing spring components for VTL's assigned fighter jets.
Sixteen years ago, during an elementary school robotics competition, Kofune acted as a judge, where seven-year-old Shin participated. Unfortunately, Shin's robot creation did not secure victory, leaving him feeling disheartened and in tears. Noticing this scene, Kofune took notice and offered Shin some advice, guiding him towards a successful entry the following year.
Since then, Shin has frequently visited Kofune Manufacturing to engage in exchanges with Kofune, and the two have become close friends. For Shin, Kofune is a highly respected individual whose advice and guidance have played a significant role in his personal growth and progress. At the same time, Kofune has consistently supported Shin's dream of creating robots for disaster relief purposes.
===Ultraman Orb===
Recently, Kofune and his employees have been busy working on the development of escape devices for VTL's Z-VTOL aircraft, while also continuously improving the design of the device's springs. Upon learning about this, Shin visited the factory to observe and offer his assistance. After a full day of work, Kofune invited his workers to enjoy a meal of stir-fried noodles, and he allowed Shin to invite his friends to join as well.
However, suddenly, a peculiar robot landed in the factory's courtyard. This robot, named Galactron by Naomi, was believed by Jetta, after a brief analysis, to be a righteous robot. With approval from VTL and Shibukawa, the workers at Kofune Manufacturing began analyzing Galactron as extensively as possible.
That evening, Kofune revealed some information about Galactron. He pointed out that most of Galactron's structure was composed of extraterrestrial materials and that its internal workings were beyond human technological capabilities. Additionally, Kofune mentioned that Galactron's "tail" could emit a peculiar sensor, suggesting its potential use for underground object detection. Afterward, Kofune briefly discussed his past experiences with Shin with Gai.
The following day, Galactron's sensors abruptly ceased functioning and quickly regained power. It proceeded to kidnap Naomi and utilized her as a voice translator. Galactron initiated an attack on the factory and set its course towards the city. Kofune and the members of SSP launched a pursuit operation, while Gai speculated that Galactron might be a robot whose creator considered it defective and subjected it to unauthorized disposal.
When Shin saw the damaged factory, he felt guilty and asked Kofune if he should take responsibility for it. However, Kofune assured him that everyone had done their part and that it was not Shin's fault.
In the face of Ultraman Orb's defeat against Galactron, Kofune felt discouraged. He told everyone that people could be divided into two types: those who doubt and distrust others, and those who believe and trust others.
Later, when they witnessed Galactron's rampage again in the countryside, everyone watched in horror as Galactron crashed into a Z-VTOL. However, Ultraman Orb transformed into Thunder Breastar form and ruthlessly destroyed Galactron. Naomi was trapped inside the machine, and it was Jetta's loud shout that brought Orb back to his senses. However, as Galactron counterattacked and prepared to launch another assault, Orb had to swiftly retaliate and ultimately defeated Galactron.
While Naomi was being treated at the hospital, Shin was deeply affected by the incident and began to consider that Galactron's idea of resetting the Earth's entire ecosystem might be correct. However, Kofune reminded him that "only humans can understand each other, even robots cannot achieve that." 
He described Galactron as an "excessive sense of justice" and showcased the possibilities that humans possess, using examples of the food chain and scientific advancements in saving lives. 
Soon after, one of Kofune's workers revealed some good news: the pilot of the crashed Z-VTOL at the disaster site had survived. He explained that it was thanks to the built-in safety system of the aircraft, which successfully saved their lives. This news was uplifting for Shin and the entire company.
As Gai approached Naomi, he asserted that Ultraman Orb's actions were unforgivable. However, Kofune presented a different perspective. He believed that, just like science, having immense power also entails the presence of destruction and violence. This dark power cannot be completely controlled. However, humans should not always strive to rid themselves of their dark side; instead, they should accept it and let their own light shine upon the darkness, achieving coexistence.
Kofune's suggestion became a significant turning point and served as a hint for Orb's subsequent success in controlling the Thunder Breastar form and further awakening.
==Gallery==
===Ultraman Orb===
Soichi Kofune 1.png
Soichi Kofune 2.png
Soichi Kofune 3.png
Soichi Kofune 4.png
Soichi Kofune 5.png
Soichi Kofune.png
Soichi Kofune 6.png
Soichi Kofune 7.png
Soichi Kofune 8.png
Soichi Kofune 9.png
==Trivia==
*Kofune was originally planned to make his debut in episode 4, collaborating with Shin to develop an invention capable of repelling Maga-Pandon's flames. However, this storyline was ultimately canceled.
*Kofune's actor Ryo Kinomoto has played Gousuke Hibiki in Ultraman Dyna in the past.
Category:Male Characters
Category:Human Characters
Category:Ultraman Orb Characters
Category:Ultraman Orb
Category:Allies
Category:Civilians