"Kid the Phantom Thief"), is a fictional character and the main protagonist of the Magic Kaito manga series created by Gosho Aoyama.

After the leaking of this information, Yusaku Kudo, who is a famous writer, read the name that was scribbled by a reporter on paper news as “Kid” before it became a common name that other characters call him.

[15] He is confronted by the protagonist of the series, Shinichi Kudo; teen detective turned child under the alias Conan Edogawa, who often foils his plans but Kid still eludes capture.

In Case Closed: The Last Wizard of the Century, he steals a fabergé egg to return to its rightful owner while helping Shinichi on his investigation for an assassin.

[18] Kaito makes his third appearance in Case Closed: The Private Eyes' Requiem, where he indirectly helps Shinichi solve an old murder.

[19] His fourth appearance takes place in Case Closed: The Lost Ship in the Sky where Jirokichi baits him with a large gemstone on an airship as he attempts to capture him.

[21] While Magic Kaito initially focused solely on the adventures of the official character, production of the manga was periodic, with long intervals between chapters due to Aoyama’s other ongoing work, Detective Conan (also known as Case Closed).

The character’s role in Detective Conan boosted his fame, resulting in special anime episodes and his own dedicated arc within the larger series.

[22] Over time, various adaptations of Kaito Kid have been produced, including animated television specials, theatrical appearances in Detective Conan films, and merchandise.

[24] His charismatic personality and unique role as a gentleman thief have earned him comparisons to famous fictional thieves such as Arsène Lupin.

[25] Kaito's charm, wit, and ability to consistently outsmart law enforcement officers have been praised for adding excitement and entertainment to his character.

My Anime List also noted his popularity, particularly due to his lighthearted yet cunning persona, which contrasts with the more serious tone of typical crime-solving stories.

[29] The Fandom Post remarked that, while entertaining, Kaito’s character often feels like a 'recycled archetype,' heavily borrowing from classic thief tropes.

[31] Rebecca Silverman of Anime News Network also described him as "interesting" and noted that "it is a lot of fun" to watch how he defies Shinichi and serves as his "foil."