Instead of attending the Ninja Academy, Naruto and Shikamaru decide that Kawaki’s existing skills allow him to bypass traditional schooling. To prove he is qualified, he must successfully complete several missions, which serve as his graduation exam:
: Kawaki is assigned to work with different teams, including Team 5 (Denki, Iwabe, and Metal Lee) and Team 15 (Wasabi, Namida, and Tsubaki). Boruto: Naruto Next Generations Episode 228
: His lack of social skills and disregard for cooperation cause major friction. During a mission to capture a panda with Team 5, he falls asleep, forcing the others to do the work. In another mission, his blunt and intimidating demeanor scares a young child they were tasked with helping. Internal Conflict and Growth Instead of attending the Ninja Academy, Naruto and
: Boruto tries to give him advice on missions, leading to an argument. Meanwhile, Hinata explains to Boruto that Kawaki's antisocial behavior stems from his years of abuse and being treated as a prisoner. During a mission to capture a panda with
Kawaki initially rejects the idea of becoming a shinobi, declaring he is unfit for the life and that he doesn't need friends. However, several interactions begin to shift his perspective:
In Episode 228, titled " Kawaki's Path to Becoming a Ninja ," the story centers on Kawaki’s struggle to integrate into the Hidden Leaf Village’s shinobi system. Having lost his Karma and living a life shaped by trauma and isolation, Kawaki is given a unique opportunity by Naruto to become a genin through a special practical exam. The Path to Genin
Recognizing Kawaki’s struggle, Naruto gives him one last chance to qualify: