Rum-Detective Conan

ByNawaz Yaqub

Introduction

In Detective Conan, the Black Organization has always been shrouded in mystery, and among its most enigmatic members is Rum, the Organization’s second-in-command. As a figure mentioned with fear and uncertainty, Rum’s presence looms large over much of the series’ long-running mystery arc.

Who Is Rum?

Codename: Rum
Real Name: Hyoue Kuroda (confirmed)
Organization Rank: Second-in-command of the Black Organization
Occupation (Public): Tokyo Metropolitan Police First Division Superintendent
First Mention: Chapter 704 / Episode 779
Confirmed Identity Reveal: Chapter 1008
Personality: Cunning, composed, ruthless, deceptive

Rum was initially introduced only through whispers and speculation. Described inconsistently as a large man, an elderly gentleman, or someone with a feminine appearance, the misinformation about him fueled a long-running guessing game among fans and characters alike.

Powers and Abilities

Strategic Genius

Rum is a master of manipulation and long-term planning. He:

  • Orchestrates complex infiltration and intelligence operations
  • Balances criminal activity with public-facing authority as a police superintendent
  • Anticipates the moves of the FBI, CIA, and even Conan Edogawa

His tactics are subtle but devastating.

Master of Deception

Rum managed to fool almost everyone for years by:

  • Maintaining a strong public persona as a respected police officer
  • Using misinformation about his appearance to throw off suspicion
  • Setting traps and baiting enemies into revealing themselves

His greatest strength lies in keeping his enemies unaware of who he really is.

Combat and Survival Skills

Though less often shown in direct combat than Gin, Rum is implied to be extremely capable. Depending on the mission, he is able to:

  • Issue execution orders
  • Operate under extreme pressure
  • Survive infiltration and exposure risks undetected

His presence is always accompanied by an air of danger.

Role in Detective Conan

As the number two figure in the Black Organization, Rum holds immense power and influence. He is not just a field agent like Gin or Vermouth — he helps shape the group’s direction and long-term strategies.

Key roles include:

  • Managing undercover operations and cleaning up internal threats
  • Hunting down traitors, especially Shiho Miyano (Haibara)
  • Overseeing surveillance missions and intelligence gathering
  • Planting himself within law enforcement to manipulate investigations
  • Keeping a close eye on high-profile figures, including Kogoro Mouri and Conan Edogawa

Rum’s status in the organization elevates the danger level for everyone involved. With his identity hidden for so long, his ability to blend into society makes him an even bigger threat.

Why Rum Is a Game-Changing Character?

Rum’s introduction and eventual reveal represent a major turning point in Detective Conan. He raises the stakes for several reasons:

  • He proves that the Black Organization has infiltrated the highest levels of society
  • He forces Conan to become more cautious than ever before
  • He symbolizes the Organization’s growing intelligence and threat level
  • His unpredictability and duplicity make him one of the most dangerous foes yet

Rum is not just another villain, he is a symbol of the Organization’s reach and a mirror to Conan’s own strategic brilliance.

Character Relationships

  • Gin: Though Gin is highly ranked, he takes orders from Rum. Their interactions suggest mutual respect, but also caution.
  • Vermouth: Like Gin, she respects Rum’s authority but often follows her own instincts. Rum is wary of her emotional decisions.
  • Conan Edogawa: Rum does not know Conan’s true identity initially but grows increasingly suspicious. Once aware, Conan becomes his top target.
  • Shiho Miyano (Haibara): Rum is obsessed with capturing or eliminating her due to her betrayal of the Organization.
  • The Police and FBI: Rum’s position within the police gives him an advantage in staying ahead of their investigations.

Final Thoughts

Rum is one of the most impactful villains in Detective Conan, not because of flashy actions, but because of how deeply embedded he is within the system. With his true identity hidden behind layers of lies and his influence extending into the police force itself, he embodies the threat of corruption, intelligence, and organized power.

Related Articles