Osu!! Karatebu

Osu!! Karatebu, also known as Go!! Karate Club, is an action-packed manga that combines elements of comedy, martial arts, school life, and seinen genres. This high-quality series takes readers on a thrilling journey through the tumultuous world of teenage delinquent-gang subculture in Japan.

At the heart of the story is Matsushita Tadashi, a second-year student at Kangokou High. Matsushita is an everyday target of bullies who beat him up without fail after school. But he is not alone in his suffering, as his best friend Saitou Takaki also endures constant harassment. Fed up with their status as perpetual victims, the duo decides to join the notorious Karate Club of their school, known for producing the city's toughest teenage thugs while masquerading as a legitimate sports club.

However, their hope for respite quickly takes a different turn. Instead of finding solace, Matsushita and Takaki are subjected to even more torment by the club's existing members. Undeterred, they persist in their training and gradually develop into formidable fighters. As the story progresses, the series undergoes a shift in tone, and the characters begin to tap into superhuman ki abilities, elevating Osu!! Karatebu to the ranks of other epic Shōnen fighting manga, such as Yu Yu Hakusho, Dragon Ball, and Fist of the North Star.

One of the unique features of this manga is its satirical portrayal of Japan's teenage delinquent-gang subculture. The lighthearted humor and witty storytelling initially draw readers in, making it an engaging and enjoyable read. The narrative is primarily told from the perspective of Matsushita, who not only serves as the protagonist but also narrates the early Karatebu stories. This perspective provides an intimate connection to Matsushita's experiences and the challenges he faces.

As the series progresses, readers witness the growth and evolution of various teenage fighters. Their increasing strength and the emergence of superhuman abilities add an exciting and dynamic element to the story. The compelling characters and the thrilling action sequences captivate readers and keep them eagerly turning the pages.

Although wildly popular in its native Japan, Osu!! Karatebu remains relatively unknown in most other countries. Nevertheless, its compelling storyline, well-rounded characters, and intense martial arts battles make it a must-read for fans of the genre. For those craving a dose of thrilling action and well-executed comedy, Osu!! Karatebu is the perfect choice.

Read the latest issues of Osu!! Karatebu to immerse yourself in the captivating world of teenage delinquents turned karate fighters. With its high-quality artwork and engaging storytelling, this manga is sure to keep you entertained. Discover the hidden gem that is Osu!! Karatebu and enjoy the thrill of the fight by reading it online. Join Matsushita and his friends as they navigate the challenging path of youth, martial arts, and self-discovery.

Beyond the pages of the manga, Osu!! Karatebu has also inspired a four-episode OVA mini-series, released from 1990 to 1992. Additionally, it has been adapted into a live-action movie in 1990 and a Super Famicom fighting game in 1994. These adaptations speak to the popularity and enduring appeal of this incredible manga series.