Kawaki
Kawaki |
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| Kanji | うずまきカワキ |
| Rōmaji | Uzumaki Kawaki |
| Age: | No Information |
| Birthday: | May 13 |
| Height: | 160 cm–183 cm |
| Voice Actor | |
| Japanese | Yūma Uchida |
| English | Michael Schwalbe |
Kawaki, is a genin of Konohagakure with a troubled past rooted in experimentation and manipulation. Once raised by the secretive organization Kara, Kawaki was subjected to inhumane experiments to prepare him as the vessel for Isshiki Ōtsutsuki, a godlike being intent on taking over his body. His eventual rescue by Naruto Uzumaki marks a turning point in his life, offering him the family and love he never had.
Kawaki’s relationship with Naruto becomes a defining aspect of his character, influencing his decisions and shaping his path. His complex emotions of gratitude toward Naruto and hatred for Isshiki lead to dramatic events where Kawaki switches lives with his adoptive brother, Boruto Uzumaki, altering the perceptions of the entire world and earning him the title Kawaki Uzumaki.
Background
Appearance in anime
Kawaki’s early life was marked by suffering and despair. Born into an abusive household, Kawaki was sold by his father to Jigen, the leader of Kara, who saw him as a suitable vessel for Isshiki Ōtsutsuki. Within Kara, Kawaki endured relentless experimentation, including the implantation of the Kāma seal, which allowed Isshiki to slowly integrate his essence into Kawaki’s body.
Despite his harsh upbringing, Kawaki retained a deep-seated desire for freedom and love. His rescue by Naruto brought him into the fold of the Uzumaki family, granting him the stability and compassion he had never experienced. However, his traumatic past and insecurities continued to haunt him, influencing his actions and relationships.
Appearance
Kawaki is a lean, athletic young man with dark hair styled in an undercut and shaved patterns on the left side of his head. His most notable feature is the Kāma seal, a black geometric marking that appears on his left hand and spreads across his body when activated.
He typically wears a sleeveless, asymmetrical jacket over a black shirt and pants, embodying a rebellious and edgy aesthetic. His design reflects his tumultuous past and his attempts to forge a new identity in Konohagakure.
Personality
Kawaki is initially abrasive, mistrustful, and quick to anger, traits stemming from his abusive upbringing and Kara’s manipulations. However, beneath his tough exterior lies a deeply vulnerable individual who craves acceptance and family.
His bond with Naruto significantly softens his demeanor, revealing a more compassionate and loyal side. Kawaki is fiercely protective of those he cares about, particularly Naruto, viewing him as a father figure and a symbol of hope. At the same time, his hatred for Isshiki and the trauma of his past fuel a relentless determination to prevent others from suffering as he did.
Role in the Story
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Introduction and Life with Naruto
Kawaki is introduced as a mysterious figure tied to Kara’s dark experiments. After being brought to Konohagakure, Kawaki is adopted by Naruto, who provides him with the guidance and love he desperately needs. Kawaki’s integration into the Uzumaki family and his interactions with Boruto form the foundation of his character development. -
The Kāma Seal and Isshiki Ōtsutsuki
As the vessel for Isshiki Ōtsutsuki, Kawaki becomes a key player in the conflict with the Ōtsutsuki clan. His mastery of the Kāma seal and its abilities evolves over time, making him a formidable fighter and an essential ally in the battles against Isshiki and Code. -
Switching Lives with Boruto
In a dramatic turn of events, Kawaki switches lives with Boruto, using the power of Eida’s omnipotence to alter the memories and perceptions of everyone in the world. This act, born out of love for Naruto and a desire to protect him, causes the world to believe Kawaki is Naruto’s true son and Boruto is the outsider. This decision sets up Kawaki as both a protector and a controversial figure in the ongoing story. -
The Future Conflict
Flashforwards in the series hint at a future confrontation between Kawaki and Boruto, with Kawaki seemingly opposing the ninja world to create a new reality devoid of the chaos caused by the Ōtsutsuki. His motivations and ultimate goals remain central mysteries of the series.
Relationships
Naruto Uzumaki
Kawaki views Naruto as a father figure and the embodiment of love and compassion. Naruto’s influence inspires Kawaki to seek a better life and fuels his desire to protect him at all costs.
Boruto Uzumaki
Kawaki shares a complicated relationship with Boruto, rooted in brotherly affection but marred by their intertwined fates as vessels for the Ōtsutsuki. Their dynamic evolves into rivalry and conflict, especially after Kawaki’s life-altering decision to switch identities.
Jigen/Isshiki Ōtsutsuki
Kawaki harbors intense hatred for Jigen and Isshiki, blaming them for the pain and suffering he endured. His determination to destroy the Ōtsutsuki legacy drives many of his actions.
Eida
Kawaki’s alliance with Eida during the memory-altering events highlights his willingness to use drastic measures to achieve his goals, even at the expense of his relationship with Boruto.
Konohagakure
Initially mistrusted by the villagers, Kawaki gradually earns their acceptance through his actions. However, the memory switch orchestrated by Eida complicates his standing within the village.