🎯 Quick Overview
Trailer
- Director: John G. Avildsen
- Genre: Action, Drama, Family, Martial Arts, Romance, Sport
- Release year: 1986
- Runtime (length): 1h 53min
- IMDb rating: 6.1/10 (103K votes)
- Rotten Tomatoes: 43%
😅 Plot Summary – Badly Explained
Daniel and Mr. Miyagi visit Okinawa, where Miyagi confronts his ex-BFF while Daniel finds new love and more karate-related problems.
🍿 The Karate Kid Part II: Detailed Plot Synopsis
Aftermath of the Tournament and New Beginnings
Following Daniel’s victory at the All-Valley Karate Tournament, Mr. Miyagi confronts the vengeful John Kreese, teaching him a lesson in humility without violence. Six months later, Daniel’s relationship with Ali ends, and he faces a summer transfer to Fresno. However, Miyagi intervenes, offering Daniel the opportunity to stay with him, setting the stage for a new adventure.

Journey to Okinawa
Miyagi receives news that his father is ill, prompting a return to his home village in Okinawa. Daniel accompanies him, eager to learn more about Miyagi’s past and his karate origins. This journey marks a significant shift in focus, delving deeper into Miyagi’s personal history and the cultural roots of his martial arts philosophy.

Confronting the Past and New Rivalries
In Okinawa, Miyagi confronts his former best friend, Sato, now a bitter rival, while Daniel finds himself entangled in a new rivalry with Sato’s nephew, Chozen. Daniel also develops a romance with Kumiko. This sets up a series of conflicts rooted in honor, tradition, and personal vendettas, testing Daniel and Miyagi’s skills and principles.

⚠️ Spoilers and Ending Explained
🎬 Cast & Characters
- Daniel LaRusso (Ralph Macchio): A high school student who accompanies his mentor to Okinawa and finds himself embroiled in a new rivalry.
- Miyagi (Pat Morita): Daniel’s wise karate mentor who returns to his homeland of Okinawa to confront his past.
- Chozen (Yuji Okumoto): Sato’s nephew and Daniel’s primary rival, fueled by a sense of dishonor and personal animosity.
- Sato (Danny Kamekona): Miyagi’s former best friend turned bitter rival, consumed by a decades-old feud.
- Kumiko (Tamlyn Tomita): A young Okinawan woman who becomes Daniel’s love interest and is tied to the conflict between Miyagi and Sato.
- Yukie (Nobu McCarthy): Miyagi’s former love interest, whose past relationship with Miyagi fuels the ongoing feud with Sato.
💬 Memorable Quotes
- Mr. Miyagi: “For person with no forgiveness in heart, living even worse punishment than death.” – Miyagi explains why he didn’t kill Kreese, highlighting the importance of forgiveness.
- Mr. Miyagi: “Daniel-san, karate here. Karate for defense only.” – Miyagi reaffirms his philosophy of karate as a defensive art, not for aggression.
- Daniel: “Live or die, man?” – Daniel confronts Chozen after defeating him, echoing Chozen’s earlier taunt but choosing mercy instead of violence.
- Mr. Miyagi: “Never been attacked by tree.” – Miyagi’s witty response to Daniel’s question about breaking a board, emphasizing practicality over showmanship.
💰Box Office
- Budget: $13,000,000
- Domestic Gross: $115,103,979
- Worldwide Gross: $115,103,979
💥 The Karate Kid Part II Reviews
Personal Review
I remember watching this as a kid and being transported to Okinawa! The visuals were so vibrant, and I was really invested in Miyagi’s backstory. The scene where Daniel rescues the little girl during the typhoon had me on the edge of my seat, and ‘Glory of Love’ still makes me feel nostalgic.
- Who would enjoy:
- “Fans of the original Karate Kid movie”
- “Viewers interested in martial arts films”
- “Those who enjoy stories about friendship, honor, and overcoming adversity”
- “Individuals seeking family-friendly entertainment with a cultural element”
- Content warnings ⚠:
- “Some martial arts violence”
- “Mild language”
- “Themes of revenge and confrontation”
Professional Reviews
- The New York Times: “While not as fresh as the original, ‘The Karate Kid Part II’ offers a compelling exploration of Miyagi’s past and a visually stunning setting. The narrative can be predictable, but the emotional depth and strong performances make it a worthwhile watch.
- Variety: “A solid sequel that expands on the relationship between Daniel and Miyagi. Though it lacks the underdog charm of the first film, the Okinawa setting and exploration of Miyagi’s past provide a fresh backdrop for familiar themes.
Audience Reactions
The Okinawan setting and culture were beautifully portrayed and added a unique layer to the Karate Kid story.: The film’s exploration of Miyagi’s past and the emotional connection between Daniel and Kumiko were highlights for many viewers.
The final fight between Daniel and Chozen was intense and satisfying, showcasing the drum technique.: While some found the plot predictable, most agreed that the film delivered a heartwarming and exciting experience.
Overall Consensus: A visually appealing and emotionally resonant sequel that expands on the world of The Karate Kid, though it may lack the surprise and freshness of the original.
Awards
- Academy Award (Best Original Song)- 1987
🛠️ Behind the Scenes
- “Although set in Okinawa, the film was primarily shot in Oahu, Hawaii, due to its similar climate, large Okinawan population, and the convenience of filming on US soil.”
- “The shooting of ‘The Karate Kid Part II’ commenced just ten days after the release of the original ‘The Karate Kid’ (1984).”
- “The film’s success surpassed that of the original, earning more at the box office.”
🖥️ How to Watch The Karate Kid Part II?
The Karate Kid Part II is available to rent or purchase on various platforms including Amazon Prime Video, Apple TV, Google Play Movies, and Vudu. Check local listings for availability on cable or satellite services. Digital purchases provide the convenience of owning the movie for repeated viewings.

🎥 Similar Movies
If you enjoyed The Karate Kid Part II, you might like these similar films:
- Rocky IV (1985): Both films involve the protagonist traveling to a foreign land to face a personal and physical challenge, emphasizing themes of honor and perseverance.
- Cobra Kai (2018-2024): A modern continuation of the Karate Kid saga, directly revisiting characters and storylines from the original films, including the Miyagi-Do vs. Cobra Kai rivalry and Daniel’s relationships.
- Bloodsport (1988): Features martial arts tournament fighting with a focus on honor and discipline, echoing the competitive spirit of the original Karate Kid but with more intense action.
- Rambo: First Blood Part II (1985): Like ‘Karate Kid II,’ this sequel takes the protagonist to a foreign setting (Vietnam) to confront personal demons and engage in intense conflict, driven by themes of loyalty and redemption.
🛒 The Karate Kid Part II Related Products
- The Karate Kid Part II (Original Motion Picture Soundtrack): Relive the emotional journey of Daniel and Miyagi with the complete soundtrack, featuring the iconic ‘Glory of Love’ and Bill Conti’s score.
- The Karate Kid Collection (Blu-ray): Own the complete Karate Kid saga on Blu-ray, including ‘The Karate Kid Part II’, featuring restored visuals and bonus content.
- Karate Kid II Movie Poster Print: High-quality print of the original movie poster of Karate Kid II.
- Funko Pop! Mr. Miyagi with Chopsticks – The Karate Kid Part II: A stylized Funko Pop figurine capturing Mr. Miyagi’s character from The Karate Kid II.
🎧 Soundtrack
The Karate Kid Part II features a captivating soundtrack that enhances the movie’s atmosphere and emotional impact. Here are some notable tracks:
- “Glory of Love (Theme from The Karate Kid Part II)” – performed by Peter Cetera
- “Fish for Life” – performed by Mark Safan
You can find the complete soundtrack on Amazon Music and Apple Music.
🤨 FAQ
While the movie is set in Okinawa, Japan, the filming primarily took place in Oahu, Hawaii, chosen for its similar climate, Okinawan population, and the convenience of shooting on US soil.
The drum technique is a defensive karate move based on the movements of Okinawan ceremonial drums. It involves twisting the body to deflect attacks, a principle Miyagi teaches Daniel to help him defend against Chozen.
In The Karate Kid Part II, Daniel and Kumiko are together at the end of the film. However, their relationship does not continue in subsequent movies in the Karate Kid franchise, though the Cobra Kai series has hinted at Kumiko’s lasting impact on Daniel’s life.
🔥 Bonus Content
The Untold Truth Of The Karate Kid
Curious about the hidden stories and fascinating facts behind the iconic ‘Karate Kid’ movie? This video uncovers the secrets, from casting decisions to the real-life inspiration that sparked the story. Dive in and discover the untold truths that shaped this beloved classic!
The Karate Kid explained by an Asian
Hey there, movie buffs! Looking for a fresh take on ‘The Karate Kid’? This video gives you an Asian perspective on the film, analyzing its cultural significance and offering insights you might not have considered before. Check it out for a deeper understanding of this iconic movie!
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