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Who Killed Kaji in Neon Genesis Evangelion?


Who Killed Kaji in Neon Genesis Evangelion
Credit: Gainax

Neon Genesis Evangelion is one of the most enduring fantasy anime not only because of what it did but also for what it did not. The questions the show left us with are still relevant and pursued by fans long after the show finished airing. This, of course, includes the fates of some of the most interesting characters. For instance, who killed Kaji in Neon Genesis Evangelion?

About Ryoji Kaji

Who Killed Kaji in Neon Genesis Evangelion 1
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Credit: Gainax

Ryoji Kaji is an inspector for NERV - the organization that was created to battle the Angels in Neon Genesis Evangelion.

However, Kaji appears to be a tripe agent as he works both for NERV against it. The same is true for SEELE, a powerful and enigmatic organization, while at other times his interests align with the Japanese Ministry of the Interior.

As such, Kaji cannot really be characterized by his allegiance to any organization but rather by his own personal motivations and desire to find the truth.

As a college student, Kaji maintained a relationship with Misato Katsuragi who at some point decided to break up with him.

Their relationship is still important in the narrative present and their unresolved feelings are important aspects of their characterization.

Related: Where to Watch and Stream Neon Genesis Evangelion Original Series and Movies

Who Killed Ryoji Kaji In Neon Genesis Evangelion?

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Credit: Gainax

The main Neon Genesis Evangelion anime doesn't confirm who killed Kaji. Misato is seen as a possible suspect but hints given suggest that someone more powerful was involved. Director Hideaki Anno later confirmed that Kaji was killed by the Japanese Government or a SEELE agent.

Prior to his death, Kaji was involved in the kidnapping of Kozo Fuyutsuki, Ikari's right-hand man, but later decided to free him, knowing he was likely going to suffer for his choice.

When Kaji's killer found him, Kaji recognized them saying"You're a little late, aren't you?" showing that he fully expected to die.

At the time the episode first aired a number of fans suspected it was Misato - who at that point was romantically involved with Kaji again - that killed Kaji.

Related: Who Does Shinji End Up With In Neon Genesis Evangelion?

After all, Misato was interrogated at around the same time and seemed devastated by his death - though the latter was most likely because she loved him rather than out of guilt.

In the Neon Genesis Evangelion video game called Secret of Evangelion, it's revealed that Kaji was killed by his old friend Kyoya Kenzaki. The killer's identity is never confirmed in the mecha anime.

For more articles like this, take a look at our Anime and Neon Genesis Evangelion page.