Akihisa Kobayashi is a supporting character in the story, working as an editor and reporter for the weekly magazine JIDAI. He is twenty-eight or twenty-nine years old and is depicted as having gray hair, gray eyes, and a heavy-set build, often wearing glasses. He and the protagonist, Hiroko Matsukata, began working at the magazine around the same time, which forms the basis for their enduring connection. In the editorial department, Kobayashi is responsible for the magazine’s "Food and Porn" corner, a section that is typically considered less prestigious than hard news.

Personality-wise, Kobayashi is characterized as a mild-mannered and even-tempered individual. He is portrayed as a loyal, reliable, and dedicated member of the team who takes his work seriously. His demeanor is more reserved and gentle, providing a quiet contrast to the intense and forceful personality of his colleague, Hiroko. While not as outwardly ambitious or aggressive as others in the high-pressure newsroom, he is deeply committed to his responsibilities and is known for his strong sense of duty to his colleagues and his job.

One of the key drivers for Kobayashi is his deep respect and admiration for Hiroko Matsukata. He sees her as a mentor figure and holds her work ethic in high regard. Their shared tenure at the magazine has fostered a unique bond; they are also drinking buddies, with Hiroko typically being the one to initiate their after-work gatherings. This relationship is a central aspect of his role in the story, as he is often a supportive and understanding presence for Hiroko amidst the pressures of her career.

In terms of his professional role, Kobayashi is a competent journalist who strives to meet expectations. He is a steady presence in the editorial room, known for his reliability rather than any flashy or groundbreaking reporting. His abilities lie in his consistency, his dedication to his assigned duties, and his capacity to be a supportive coworker. He does not possess any extraordinary or unique skills beyond the standard professional competencies of a magazine reporter, but his loyalty and steady nature make him a dependable asset to the JIDAI team. His development within the narrative is subtle, primarily manifesting through his reinforced role as a loyal friend and a steady professional, without undergoing a dramatic personal transformation.