Kazuo Koike & Ryoichi Ikegami - Crying Freeman Manga

Yō Hinomura was once an ordinary and talented potter—until a chance encounter with the Chinese mafia known as the 108 Dragons changed his life forever. Kidnapped, brainwashed, and transformed into a master assassin, Yō becomes the group’s deadliest weapon. But even after his conditioning, he retains one trait the Dragons never intended: he cries after every kill.

Branded with the title “Crying Freeman,” Yō is feared across the criminal underworld for his flawless technique and mournful tears. When a young artist, Emu Hino, witnesses one of his assassinations, Yō is ordered to eliminate her to protect the organization’s secrecy. Instead, the two develop an unexpected and powerful connection—one that challenges Yō’s allegiance and unravels the boundaries between love, duty, and personal freedom.

As Yō seeks to reclaim his identity, he becomes trapped in a labyrinth of gang wars, betrayal, erotic intrigue, and violent political conspiracies spanning continents. His struggle is not only against his enemies, but against the assassin he was forced to become.

Crying Freeman blends neo-noir action, martial-arts drama, erotic tension, and Kazuo Koike’s signature psychological conflict, creating a stylish, provocative classic that remains one of the most influential crime-thrillers in manga history.

Kazuo Koike is one of the most legendary manga authors, known for mature storytelling and cinematic pacing. Creator of numerous iconic works centered on identity, violence, and moral complexity. His writing often focuses on tragic masculinity, forbidden desire, and psychological torment.

Other Notable Works by the Creators

Kazuo Koike: Lone Wolf & Cub, Lady Snowblood, Path of the Assassin, Mad Bull 34

Ryoichi Ikegami: Sanctuary, Heat, Spider-Man: The Manga, Cecil no Kawa

Japanese Name: クライング フリーマン
English Title: Crying Freeman
Story: Kazuo Koike
Art: Ryoichi Ikegami
Original Publisher: Shogakukan
English Publisher: Dark Horse (Omnibus Editions)
Release Years: 1986–1988 (Japan), Dark Horse Omnibus published later
Volumes: 5 Omnibus Editions (complete collection)
Age Rating: Mature (18+)
Genre: Crime Thriller, Martial Arts, Erotic Action, Neo-Noir Drama

Comics & manga are assumed VG+ or better unless otherwise noted. No broken spines, no writing, no stickers, and may have light shelf wear. Mid-2000s or earlier manga may have slight yellowing due to the age of the paper. All manga and comics are assumed to be pre-owned.