Yakuza is a famous and traditional Japanese mafia, known internationally for its violent crimes and its strict code of posture and honor.
The word Yakuza (Ya-Ku-Za) represents the number sequence 8-9-3, considered the worst type of hand in a typical Japanese card game.
This criminal organization emerged in the early 17th century, operating in the Osaka and Tokyo regions. Initially, the Yakuza consisted mainly of street vendors, criminals and some samurai.
Currently, the Yakuza is made up of four main families (clans) that control the criminal organization in Asia.
- Yamaguchi-gumi: the largest family of the Yakuza, with more than 40,000 members, spread among 750 clans.
- Sumiyoshi-laughing: Yakuza's second largest family, with more than 10,000 members in 177 clans.
- Inagawa-kai: it is the third largest family, with more than 7,000 members divided into 177 clans. It was the first family to work inside and outside Japan.
- Towa Yuai Jigyo Kumiai: first Yakuza family to operate in Korea. It has over a thousand members, spread across 6 clans.
The leader of each of the families is called oyabun (father), the members are the wakashu (children) and the partners are the kyodai (brothers).
Considered the biggest mafia in the world, the Yakuza maintains a severe and intense conduct of honor and respect, making its members loyal to their leaders until the death.
Yakuza members are also known for their extravagant tattoos, which cover practically the entire body area.
See also: the meaning of Seppuku.