Series & First Appearance
Hak Son, often referred to simply as Hak, is a prominent character from the manga and anime series Yona of the Dawn (Akatsuki no Yona), created by Mizuho Kusanagi. He made his debut in Chapter 1 of the manga and Episode 1 of the anime adaptation, which began airing in 2014. The series is produced by Studio Pierrot.
Profile at a Glance
Hak is in his late teens to early twenties, serving as one of the main protagonists of the series. He is a skilled warrior and the bodyguard of Princess Yona, and he identifies as a member of the Wind Tribe. His signature abilities include exceptional hand-to-hand combat skills and proficiency with a spear, which he uses in battle to protect Yona and their friends.
Personality & Motivations
Hak is characterized by a strong sense of loyalty, bravery, and a caring disposition, particularly towards Yona. He often exhibits a stoic demeanor but reveals a more playful and teasing side in his interactions with the princess. His primary motivation is to ensure Yona’s safety and happiness, which drives him to protect her at all costs, even if it means putting himself in danger. He frequently expresses his feelings through light-hearted banter, often punctuated by his catchphrase, "Don’t be a fool."
Abilities / Powers
Hak possesses elite combat skills that set him apart from ordinary fighters, enabling him to defeat multiple foes with ease. His fighting style includes swift, powerful attacks and expert maneuverability, making him highly effective in battle. His spear adds versatility to his combat abilities, allowing for both ranged and close-quarters combat. Despite his strengths, Hak can be overprotective, which sometimes leads to reckless decisions. His abilities evolve throughout the series as he faces greater threats and learns to balance his protective instincts with Yona’s growth.
Major Story Arcs & Growth
One of the pivotal arcs in Yona of the Dawn occurs in the early chapters, where Yona’s sheltered life is upended by the murder of her father. Hak instantly transforms from a carefree bodyguard to a desperate protector, aiding Yona’s escape. As the story progresses, his character displays significant emotional growth, grappling with his feelings for Yona while also accepting her independence. Another transformative period is when he confronts his past with the Wind Tribe, revealing deeper layers to his character and motivations. His evolution reflects the broader themes of growth and resilience in the series.
Notable Relationships
Hak’s relationship with Princess Yona is at the core of his character, serving as both a protective guardian and a supportive ally. Their bond deepens throughout the series, often leading to moments of tension and emotional discovery. Additionally, Hak shares a complicated relationship with his childhood friend, the warrior Soo-Won, who becomes one of the series’ main antagonists. Other significant relationships include those with the four dragon warriors that he and Yona seek out, each contributing to his and Yona’s journey.
Iconic Moments & Quotes
One of Hak’s most memorable moments occurs in Episode 3, when he fiercely defends Yona from assailants, displaying his unwavering attention to her safety. Another impactful scene arises in Episode 10, where he confronts his past and validates Yona’s desires for independence. One iconic line from him, "You have your own strength now," serves as motivation and encouragement for Yona as she begins to forge her own path, emphasizing his role in her growth.
Trivia & Behind-the-Scenes
Hak is voiced by Masakazu Morita in the Japanese version and by Jason Liebrecht in the English dub. His character’s design reflects traditional anime aesthetics, combining elements of modernity with cultural inspirations consistent with the series’ setting. Over the years, Yona of the Dawn has gained popularity, with Hak consistently ranking high among fan-favorite characters in official polls. His appeal stems from his complex personality traits and depth that resonate with viewers, as well as his visually striking fighting style that captures the essence of action-adventure anime.
Overall, Hak Son stands out as a multi-dimensional character whose loyalty and growth make him an integral part of the Yona of the Dawn narrative. His journey from a protector to a supporter of Yona’s independence encapsulates universal themes of love, courage, and transformation, ensuring his lasting impact on the series and its fans.
