Kingdom is a historical epic currently being serialized in Weekly Young Jump. With the third season of the anime due to air on April 5, 2020, the series is already attracting even more attention.
In this article, we'll introduce you to Li Mu, the leader of the "Three Great Generals of Zhao," and one of the formidable foes that stands in Shin and his friends' way in the story. Whether you've watched the previous anime series or are just starting to watch Kingdom, this article will help you get a better understanding of this formidable opponent!
The leader of the "Three Great Generals" of Zhao! A brave general who combines wisdom and prowess!
Li Mu is known as one of the "Three Great Generals," the most powerful generals in the Zhao state, an enemy of the protagonist "Shin."
He first appeared at the end of the Battle of Mayang. He suddenly entered the battle with a massive army of 40,000, and became the catalyst for the defeat of Wang Qi, who was a pillar of strength both physically and spiritually within the Qin state.
In recognition of his achievement in defeating Wang Qi, Li Mu was also appointed Prime Minister of Zhao.
An excellent commander who hates meaningless death
One of Li Mu's personality traits is his "hate for meaningless death."
Not only does he prioritize reducing casualties on his allies, but he also values human life, even when he's the enemy, never killing non-combatants.
However, on the other hand, if he deems an enemy dangerous, he will order a complete annihilation, revealing his cold-hearted strategist side at times.
However, this duality may also be part of Li Mu's charm.
A broad perspective that sees the big picture and charisma that can even move a nation
Li Mu's prowess on the battlefield and commanding abilities are unmatched, but his abilities extend beyond those areas to include politics.
Threatened by the power of the Qin Dynasty, he called on the opposing states of Chu, Wei, Han, and Yan to form a five-nation coalition to surround Qin. Armed with overwhelming military might, Li Mu takes the Qin capital of Xianyang, demonstrating his drive and charisma to the fullest, causing great hardship for the nation.
What are Li Mu's weaknesses?
Excellent in martial prowess, leadership skills, and politics, Li Mu has almost no personal weaknesses. However, on the other hand, he seems to have been poorly blessed with a useful lord.
The King of Zhao, whom Li Mu serves, is a foolish king who only thinks of himself, and Li Mu, though competent, is merely a vassal and cannot disobey his orders.
Historically, the prevailing theory is that Li Mu was assassinated by the king, so perhaps Li Mu's weakness was his misfortune in not being able to choose a lord who could serve him.
Who was Li Mu in real life?
"Kingdom" depicts historical events. Li Mu, depicted in the work, is a real-life figure who left his mark in Chinese history.
The historical Li Mu appears in the Chinese historical book, Records of the Grand Historian, as a military commander in the state of Zhao.
His historical exploits are largely as depicted in Kingdom, and he is primarily remembered as a "great defensive general," having defeated the invading Xiongnu forces and the Qin forces.
[Extra] The longest-serving character in Kingdom?!
Li Mu first appeared towards the end of the Battle of Mayang, which is not exactly a new character, but did you know that he's actually a fairly veteran character in "Kingdom"?
In fact, Li Mu was the protagonist of a one-shot story written by original author Yasuhisa Hara before "Kingdom" began serialization. The high praise for that one-shot story led to the serialization of "Kingdom."
Summary
Li Mu is a military commander who excels in martial arts, leadership, and politics, and is trusted by his subordinates. He is truly a perfect superman.
He would be an incredibly reassuring ally, but now he stands in the way of the Qin Empire as an enemy.
How will Shin and his friends defeat this powerful foe, who even defeated Ou Ki? The third season of the ever-so-watchable "Kingdom" anime begins airing on April 5th!
