Like A Dragon

Kiryu has an extremely muscular build, most likely the result of getting into constant street fights since his child hood, as well as various other activities found in his daily routine, For most of the series, Kiryu's hair is a short and slicked back rather messy pompadour. Standing up to a point at the front with prominent sideburns, while his facial hair is trimmed to a pure goatee. Kiryu is seen wearing his trademark outdated suit, consisting of a light gray two piece suit, and a maroon dress shirt with a popped collar.

Kiryu is the stoic dreamer of the dark yakuza world, living by a strict code of honor and a very strong sense of justice. He does not judge others and is generally accepting of anyone who is friendly towards him. He is a good listener, giving advice in response to his environment rather than seeking out conversations. He is wise (but certainly not all-knowing) and generally means well for those around him, which makes him surprisingly pragmatic and well-liked. He still considers himself a yakuza at heart, and although he views violence as necessary, Kiryu is disgusted by violent yakuza who are corrupted by revenge and power.

Born on June 17, 1968, Kiryu's parents were killed by Shintaro Kazama when Kiryu was at a very young age. Out of guilt, Kazama adopted Kiryu and raised him at Sunflower Orphanage, where he met and befriended Akira Nishikiyama and Yumi Sawamura.As they grew up, Kiryu and Nishikiyama's admiration for Kazama became so fanatical that they tried to join the yakuza in 1985, prompting Kazama to beat them on a rainy night. However, Kiryu cried out that he "idolized him" and that "orphans deserve to dream too". Kazama eventually gave in, and the next day, the two had joined the Dojima Family.