Diversity and representation have become increasingly important in comics over the years. DC Comics has sought greater inclusivity with its pantheon of godlike and otherworldly heroes. That includes Asian heroes as well. Within the pages of other heroes like Batman, Green Lantern, and The Atom, Asian characters have been able to share in the spotlight as they take on some of the most dastardly villains that DC has to offer.
Let’s celebrate AAPI Pride by shining a spotlight on some Asian DC heroes in the franchise.
Cassandra Cain
As one of the most prominent members of the Batfamily, Cassandra has worn many cowls. Having been born and raised in a family of assassins, she was taken in by Barbara Gordon and Batman, who set her on the path of justice. She takes on the role of one of the Batgirls and also operates with the alias Orphan. But no matter what name she uses, she’s always dedicated to nocturnal justice on the streets of Gotham.
The Atom (Ryan Choi)
The mantle of The Atom has changed hands a few times over the years. In recent years, Hong Kong native Ryan Choi answered the call. He originally studied under the previous Atom, Ray Palmer, at Ivy University. After discovering his predecessor’s secret, he began to help him with his heroics. But when Ray mysteriously vanishes, Ryan uses a spare size-changing belt to become the new Atom. With his powers of shrinking and growth, Ryan follows in Ray’s footsteps in the fight against evil.
Katana
Despite her rigorous samurai training, Tatsu Yamashiro lived a happy life with her family. But when a suitor from her past murders her loved ones, she takes revenge by wielding the Soultaker Sword. Now, she works as a mercenary willing to cut down evil by any means necessary. She’s been closely associated with several organizations, including Justice League and Suicide Squad. Though she’s merciless against evil, she’s got her allies’ backs. But if you’re unfortunate enough to be felled by her blade, your soul will end up trapped within it.
Dr. Light (Kimiyo Hoshi)
Though she shares the name with a Justice League villain, Kimiyo Hoshi fights for justice as Doctor Light. She was originally an astronomer before she was granted light powers by an entity named The Monitor. She has since joined forces with other heroes to fight evil, including the first Doctor Light.
Solstice
As another light manipulator, teenager Kiran Singh is a shining ray of hope among the Teen Titans. She was known to travel the world with her archaeologist parents before joining up with the Titans. She becomes fast friends with the likes of Wonder Girl and the Kid Flash.
Ravager (Rose Wilson)
Deadliness runs in the family when you’re the daughter of infamous assassin Deathstroke. As a child, Rose Wilson received merciless training and grew into one of the most dangerous assassins in the world. Unlike her father, however, she decides to use her powers for good by joining up with the Teen Titans. She also possesses the uncanny ability to assess an infinite number of details in order to predict certain outcomes with high probability. In other words, she can essentially see the future.
Red Arrow (Emiko Queen)
In yet another family affair, Emiko Queen is actually the half sister of Green Arrow and the daughter of an assassin. After being kidnapped and raised as a killer, she is eventually rescued and brought to Seattle. Emiko later becomes the second Red Arrow and fights alongside Green Arrow to protect Star City.
Gold Lantern (Kala Lour)
In the 31st century, blind schoolteacher Kala Lour lived a regular life in the Philippines before being approached by the Elders of Oa. They offer him a Gold Lantern Ring, which is said to be the most powerful of any of the previous lantern rings. As the first-ever Gold Lantern, he is fully conscious of the incredible weight he now bears as a defender of the universe.
