Krillin’s Bald Head: A Symbol of Tradition and Identity in Dragon Ball

Krillin’s Bald Head: A Symbol of Tradition and Identity in Dragon Ball

In the Dragon Ball universe, Krillin is one of the most recognizable characters, and his bald head is a key part of his iconic look. While Krillin is not the only bald character in the series, his shaven head is tied to his identity, traditions, and character development. Over the years, fans have speculated about why Krillin chooses to remain bald and how it reflects his journey as a martial artist and individual.

This article delves into the significance of Krillin’s bald head, exploring its origins, symbolism, and evolution throughout the Dragon Ball series.

1. Why Is Krillin Bald?

Krillin’s bald head is not due to natural hair loss but rather a deliberate choice rooted in tradition and practicality.

1.1 Martial Arts Tradition

Krillin’s baldness is tied to his training as a monk at the Orin Temple, where he studied martial arts before joining Master Roshi. Shaving one’s head is a common practice in some martial arts and monastic traditions, symbolizing discipline, humility, and focus.

• Symbol of Dedication: By shaving his head, Krillin demonstrates his commitment to his training and the principles of martial arts.

1.2 Practicality in Combat

A shaved head offers practical advantages in battle:

• Reduced Distraction: Without hair, there’s no need to worry about it getting in the way during combat.
• Streamlined Appearance: It aligns with Krillin’s no-nonsense approach to fighting, emphasizing efficiency over aesthetics.

2. The Six Dots on Krillin’s Forehead

Krillin’s bald head is further distinguished by the six dots tattooed on his forehead. These dots are another connection to his training at the Orin Temple.

2.1 What Do the Dots Mean?

The six dots are burn marks created as part of a monastic tradition. They symbolize Krillin’s devotion to his training and serve as a permanent reminder of his roots.

• Spiritual Significance: The dots reflect Krillin’s disciplined upbringing and his identity as a monk before joining the Z Fighters.
• Unique Trait: These dots make Krillin instantly recognizable and emphasize his individuality among the cast of characters.

3. Krillin’s Baldness in the Dragon Ball Series

3.1 Classic Bald Look

Throughout the majority of the series, Krillin remains bald, reinforcing his association with discipline and martial arts. His iconic look became a staple of his character design and a visual representation of his roots.

3.2 A Hairy Surprise in Dragon Ball Z

In a surprising twist during the Great Saiyaman Saga in Dragon Ball Z, Krillin is shown with hair for the first time. After marrying Android 18 and stepping back from constant combat, Krillin grows out his hair, signaling a shift in his priorities.

• Significance of Hair Growth:
  • It reflects Krillin’s transition from a full-time martial artist to a family man.
  • It symbolizes his embrace of a more relaxed and domestic life with his wife and daughter, Marron.

3.3 Return to Baldness in Dragon Ball Super

In Dragon Ball Super, Krillin shaves his head once again to join the Tournament of Power. This act signifies his renewed commitment to training and fighting alongside the Z Fighters.

4. Fan Reactions to Krillin’s Baldness

Krillin’s bald head has become an iconic part of his character, sparking various discussions and reactions among fans.

4.1 A Signature Look

For many fans, Krillin’s baldness is inseparable from his identity. It represents his dedication and his role as a grounded, relatable character in the Dragon Ball series.

4.2 Humorous Takes

Krillin’s bald head has also been the subject of lighthearted jokes and memes within the fandom. For example:

• Comparisons with Other Bald Characters: Krillin is often humorously compared to characters like Nappa or Master Roshi.
• Shaving as a Power-Up: Fans joke that Krillin shaving his head is equivalent to Saiyans going Super Saiyan.

5. Symbolism of Baldness in Krillin’s Journey

Krillin’s decision to remain bald—or to grow his hair—reflects the different stages of his life.

5.1 Dedication to Martial Arts

In his early years, Krillin’s baldness represents his dedication to martial arts and the traditions he learned at the Orin Temple.

5.2 Personal Growth and Change

When Krillin grows his hair, it symbolizes his shift toward family life and his willingness to step back from constant fighting to focus on his loved ones.

5.3 A Return to His Roots

Shaving his head in Dragon Ball Super shows Krillin’s readiness to re-embrace his warrior spirit and fight alongside his friends to protect the universe.

Conclusion

Krillin’s bald head is more than just a physical characteristic—it’s a symbol of his discipline, identity, and evolution as a character. From his early days as a martial artist to his later life as a family man, Krillin’s choice to remain bald or grow his hair reflects his personal growth and shifting priorities.

Whether bald or with hair, Krillin remains one of the most beloved and relatable characters in Dragon Ball. His journey reminds fans that true strength lies not only in physical power but also in dedication, adaptability, and the bonds we share with others.

ライト

鳥山明さんの大ファン

鳥山明さんの作品をこよなく愛するドラゴンボールが好きな漫画オタクです。世の中のアニメ全般が好きで、クリエイターの皆様を応援しています。