Ko Shibasaki (also transcribed as Kou or Koh Shibasaki) is a Japanese actress and singer who rose to fame with her striking debut as Mitsuko Souma in the controversial 2000 film Battle Royale. Her breakout performance came the following year in the critically acclaimed film Go, where she played Tsubaki Sakurai. This role earned her numerous accolades, including the Best Supporting Actress Award at the Japanese Academy Awards, the Hōchi Film Award, and the Kinema Junpō Award, firmly establishing her as a prominent figure in Japanese cinema.
Shibasaki expanded her international presence in 2013 by making her Hollywood debut in 47 Ronin, starring alongside Keanu Reeves. The film, an English-language adaptation of the iconic Japanese legend of samurai honor and revenge, marked a milestone in cross-cultural storytelling. In 2017, she returned to Japanese television in a leading role, portraying the titular character in NHK’s Taiga drama Naotora: The Lady Warlord. Deeply committed to her craft, Shibasaki even visited the real-life grave of Ii Naotora before filming began, reflecting her dedication to authentically embodying historical figures.
