Eisner Award winner Derek Kirk Kim is teaming with rising star artist Jacob Perez for a new crime series, Royals. It is a six-issue miniseries from Image Comics. It launches this April.
Kim is known for The Last Mermaid and Same Difference. Perez broke out with Tales of the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles. Together, they bring readers into the dark back alleys of Seoul, South Korea. The series blends crime, action, and comedy. It delivers a fast, stylish, and character-driven caper.
Derek Kirk Kim on His Inspiration
Kim says Royals reflects his love for classic crime and action stories.
“Royals is my love letter to crime caper and action comedy classics like Baby Driver, Rounders, and Jackie Chan films,” Kim said. “Filter them through the panel gutters of great crime comics like Criminal and Stray Bullets, and you have Royals.
“And at the heart of it all, there’s the love/hate tug-of-war between two brothers which anyone with siblings can relate to, I think. All crystallized through the magnificent pen of Jacob Perez.
“It’s my incredible honor to be tagging along on Jacob’s comic debut, a prodigious talent who is sure to go down in comics history as one of the all-time greats. I am SO excited for comics fans to discover his work!”
Brothers, Cards, and Criminals
At the center of the story are twin brothers Paul and Castor.They run a flawless poker scam. Their secret is a powerful telepathic bond. It allows them to read each other’s moves instantly.
For a while, the system works. Then they take a dangerous risk. The brothers challenge the leader of the Bloody Cocks. The gang is Seoul’s most ruthless criminal syndicate. One bad hand could cost them everything. The game tests their trust. It tests their loyalty. It tests their survival.
A Major Debut for Jacob Perez
Royals also marks Jacob Perez’s first major comic series. Kim calls Perez a rare talent. He praises his ability to bring energy, emotion, and clarity to every page. Together, the creators aim to deliver a breakout crime series with global appeal.
Royals #1 arrives Wednesday, April 1. The issue will be available at comic shops and on digital platforms. With its mix of style, suspense, and sibling rivalry, Royals is positioned as one of Image Comics’ most anticipated releases this spring.
