Cyborg 009 is a Japanese science fiction manga series created by Shotaro Ishinomori. It was first published on July 19, 1964, and was serialized across numerous Japanese magazines over its long run, including Monthly Shōnen King, Weekly Shōnen Magazine, and Weekly Shōnen Sunday, finally concluding its regular serialization in 1981. The series is considered Ishinomori's first major success and is credited with introducing the concept of a super-powered team to manga.
The story follows nine ordinary humans from around the world who are kidnapped by the evil Black Ghost organization and transformed into powerful cyborgs. Led by the titular 009, a Japanese former delinquent named Joe Shimamura, the team rebels against their creators and uses their unique mechanical abilities to fight for peace and justice. The series explores themes of humanity, technology, and the trauma of war, with each cyborg grappling with their lost humanity.
Cyborg 009 is notable for its diverse international cast of characters, a progressive concept for its time, and its blend of high-octane action with social commentary. Its publication history is famously complex, having jumped between different publishers and magazines, which resulted in multiple distinct story arcs and shifting artistic styles. The manga's enduring popularity established it as a cornerstone of the sci-fi and superhero genres in Japan, influencing countless later works.
