Key Collector Comics
Karate Kid
View Key Issues

Creation & Design

Karate Kid was created by writer Jim Shooter and artist Curt Swan, debuting in the mid-1960s as a member of the Legion of Super-Heroes, showcasing martial arts skills in a superhero context.

Early Years

Initially introduced as a hero with no superpowers, Karate Kid's character was developed to emphasize his martial arts prowess and dedication to training, making him a unique member of the Legion.

Character Development

Over the years, Karate Kid has evolved from a martial arts hero to a complex character facing personal and team challenges, reflecting the growth of the Legion of Super-Heroes and its narratives.

Cultural Reception

Karate Kid has been well-received as a unique character in the superhero genre, praised for his martial arts skills and character depth.

Character Details

Real Name:
Val Armorr
First Appearance:
Adventure Comics #346
Aliases:
Karate Kid, Val Armorr
Species:
Human
Gender:
Male
Affiliations:
Legion of Super-Heroes, Justice League
Abilities:
Martial arts mastery, Enhanced reflexes, Superhuman agility
Equipment:
Karate gi, Various martial arts weapons
Weight:
160lbs
Height:
6' 10"
Eye Color:
brown
Hair Color:
black

Clicking on the eBay link and making a purchase may result in this site earning a commission from the eBay Partner Network.

Adventure Comics #346
DC ⋅ 1966
View Details
Adventure Comics #346
 
Low
$45
Mid
$175
High
$450

Key Facts

First written work in comics by Jim Shooter, revealed in the letters page of Adventure Comics #349 that 'One of Us Is a Traitor' was written by a 14-year-old Jim Shooter

1st appearance of Ferro Lad

1st appearance of Karate Kid

1st appearance of Princess Projectra

View more (2)

1st appearance of Warlord Garlak

1st appearance of Nemesis Kid

Karate Kid #1
DC ⋅ 1976
View Details
Karate Kid #1
 
Low
$2
Mid
$8
High
$25

Key Facts

First solo series of The Karate Kid, a member of the Legion of Super-Heroes

Legion of Super-Heroes #4
DC ⋅ 1984
View Details
Legion of Super-Heroes #4
 
Low
$1
Mid
$2
High
$3

Key Facts

Death of Karate Kid

Adjust Your Filters To See More Comics!

By default Key Collector searches for Standard Cover Key Issues.

Adjust the "Variants" and/or "Non-Key Issues" search filters above for additional content:

  • Variant Covers ([[totalVariants]])
  • Non-Key Issues ([[totalNonKeys]])

At Key Collector, our primary focus is on unearthing those rare Standard Cover Key Issues for you. However, the world of comic collectibles is vast and varied. We want to make sure you have the tools to explore it all!