Gang King

At first glance, Gang King appears to be a typical "yankee" manga centered around tattoos and street fights, but its true charm lies in the portrayal of friendship between Jimmy and his friends, and their pursuit of dreams as tattoo artists. The series introduces a diverse and quirky cast of characters, such as Banko, Jimmy’s sharp-minded right-hand man; Saiko, whose hairstyle is hilariously bizarre; and Zombie, who oddly carries around a vibrator at all times. Each character has their own unique backstory and personal dramas, adding depth and humor to the narrative. One standout aspect is the memorable nicknames and charismatic side characters. Banko, Saiko, and Candy, in particular, significantly contribute to the manga’s engaging and lively atmosphere. In Japan, tattoos are still rare and often viewed negatively due to their association with the Yakuza. Having a protagonist covered in tattoos while still a high school student provides an innovative and provocative twist.

June 17, 2025

Some Japanese manga review sites mention how Gang King started strong but began to feel repetitive in later chapters. Readers noted the protagonist’s speeches becoming overly preachy and philosophical, a significant departure from the manga’s original style, which caused some frustration among long-time fans. Indeed, as the story progressed, it shifted from a straightforward delinquent manga to incorporating deeper philosophical undertones, changing the manga’s initial atmosphere. Readers who prefer a classic delinquent-style story might feel slightly disappointed with this shift. Nevertheless, for readers interested in powerful stories of friendship or curious about Japan’s intriguing delinquent youth culture, Gang King is highly recommended.

June 17, 2025