Tōtsuki Culinary Academy: Allies and Rivals
Sōma Yukihira
Like all of the first years, Kuga looked down on Sōma during Autumn Leaf Viewing and didn't considered him worth his time to be challenged in a Shokugeki. However, after Sōma stopped his perfect streak at the Moon Banquet Festival, he began to acknowledge Sōma's skills and told Rindō that he believed that the first year chef would continue to get stronger. To that end, Kuga appeared before Sōma during the third round of the Promotion Exams to offer the Chinese RS's help before his rematch against Akira Hayama. Here, he admitted to Berta that Sōma's greatest quality as a chef was his adamant refusal to rest until he finds what he is looking for.
Miyoko Hōjō
Kuga holds an interest for the heiress of the Hōjō family, Miyoko for her Chinese culinary skills and even offered her to join his Chinese Cuisine RS. However, Miyoko has shown to be annoyed by Kuga and declined his offers many times, which he is aware of it. Even though she declined his offer, Kuga tells her that she is welcome any time if she choose to join his Research Society.