Terunori Kuga holds the Third Seat of Totsuki Culinary Academy's Elite Ten Council, a position he reclaimed after losing his original Eighth Seat for opposing Azami Nakiri's directorship and later advancing during the Regimental Shokugeki. Born into affluence, his childhood travels fostered a deep passion for Chinese cuisine, specifically Sichuan cooking, which became his signature focus at the academy. Physically, Kuga is the shortest male Elite Ten member, possessing a lean build, slanted brown eyes, and distinctive multicolored hair—dark brown with long blond bangs framing his cheeks. A single tress near his left ear is secured by three bobby pins forming a "Z". He typically wears the standard Totsuki uniform untidily, collar open to expose his collarbone, and dons a traditional Changshan while cooking. He reacts with sharp anger to any remarks mocking his height. Energetic and sociable, Kuga forms bonds quickly but chafes at formalities, often assigning nicknames like "Yukihira-chin" to Soma Yukihira. His demeanor blends cheekiness with confrontation, openly ridiculing peers such as Etsuya Eizan. Beneath this lightheartedness lies fierce competitiveness, particularly towards higher-ranked chefs, and unwavering loyalty to his Chinese Cuisine Research Society. He restructured the society solely around Sichuan cuisine, demonstrating strict dedication. This leadership extends to mentoring members and even training Soma for the Promotion Exams, proving himself a capable instructor. As a first-year, Kuga participated in the Autumn Election and Autumn Leaf Viewing, where he challenged the Elite Ten. He dueled First Seat Eishi Tsukasa in a Shokugeki, suffering a decisive defeat. Though initially depressed, he took pride as the only first-year to earn a match against Tsukasa. This loss fueled his determination for a rematch, leading him to propose a sales competition at the subsequent Moon Banquet Festival. During the festival, Kuga operated a Central Area booth serving Sichuan dishes. Soma Yukihira deliberately set up a nearby stall also selling Chinese cuisine, igniting a rivalry. Kuga initially dismissed Soma but later acknowledged his growth after being outperformed in sales on the fourth day, shifting his view of Soma from non-threat to respected rival. Opposing Azami Nakiri's Central administration for its stifling, "boring" policies threatening his research society, Kuga joined the rebel faction in the Regimental Shokugeki. He faced Tsukasa again in a tea-themed duel. Though defeated, his innovative dish—a fusion of Chinese and French techniques reimagining sweet-and-sour pork—earned Tsukasa's respect. This rematch symbolized Kuga's growth; Tsukasa, who once forgot him entirely, now recognized his prowess. Kuga expressed pride in having "irritated" the top chef, marking a personal victory. Kuga's culinary expertise centers on intensely spicy Sichuan cuisine. He delights in crafting dishes provoking strong physical reactions like sweating, viewing this as proof of addictive flavor. Signature creations include meticulously prepared Mapo Tofu by his society members and inventive fusions like his tea-focused Regimental Shokugeki dish, blending traditional Sichuan elements with creative techniques that showcase his adaptability.