Kiyoko, identified as #25, stands out as the sole female among the Espers. Her skin is green and wrinkled, her hair long and white, styled into braids, and she dresses in a pink nightgown. In a flashback from the anime, Kiyoko's skin appears healthy, her hair light brown, and she wears a pink dress. Due to physical frailty, possibly caused by experiments or drugs, she remains bedridden, always seen in bed. She foresaw Neo-Tokyo's downfall and Tetsuo's connection with Akira.
Kiyoko was likely an orphan when the government of old Tokyo acquired her along with other young children. The Japanese government was then leading a secret project, overseen by Colonel Shikishima, aiming to develop psychic powers, potentially for military and political reasons. This is where Kiyoko met and befriended Takashi, Masaru, and Akira.
The project ended abruptly when Akira's power grew too immense, transcending to another level and causing a psychic explosion that obliterated Tokyo. Survivors founded Neo-Tokyo, while Kiyoko, Masaru, and Takashi, later known as the "Espers," were kept isolated to prevent the public from learning about the covert project. These children were continuously administered drugs to prevent them from gaining power like Akira, resulting in premature aging and developing physical disabilities. For Kiyoko, this led to extreme weakness, confining her to bed, sustained by life support.
Kiyoko possesses a kind and gentle nature, caring for Takashi and Masaru like a mother. She often worries about their well-being. As the leader of the Espers, she makes final decisions and, due to her abilities, is very wise and perceptive. Both her friends and the Colonel seek her advice on future actions. She believes every person has a destiny and feels responsible for ensuring its fulfillment.
