Yakuza

Members of the Crazy 88, a Yakuza gang.

Overview

Yakuza (ヤクザ) are various crime organizations that are based in Japan. Although they partake in drug trafficking, human trafficking, pornography, and racketeering, they are still considered by some to be righteous organizations that serve the communities they inhabit.

In Kill Bill: Vol. 1, O-Ren Ishii assumed leadership over all yakuza clans and directed their affairs. However, Beatrix Kiddo eventually dethroned via killing her (but not before she killed the Crazy 88) for revenge.

Description

Tattoo

Often times, yakuza members are decorated in very ornate tattoos that almost completely cover their bodies. Sometimes they can be seen with a missing pinky or two, as it's customary for them to cut off this digit if they commit a serious offense against other members.

Kill Bill

In Kill Bill: Vol. 1, the yakuza, specifically the Crazy 88, wear fancy black suits and dark masks, giving them a more mysterious look. None of them are seen with tattoos or missing fingers like real yakuzas, but not all yakuzas look the same after all.

Trivia

• The reason for the acceptence of the Yakuza is the length of their existence in Japan. The Yakuza have become intertwined with legitimate Japanese corporations and exposure would dishonor all of Japan. Another reason is that the Yakuza have organized rescue efforts after disasters.
• A similiar organization is the Hogosha in "Freelancer".

Gallery

O-Ren Ishii surrounded by yakuza.

Yakuza encircle Beatrix Kiddo.

Real life yakuza members during a festival.