Leorio Paradinight: The Underrated Hero of Hunter x Hunter

Leorio Paradinight is a major supporting character in the popular manga and anime series Hunter x Hunter, created by Yoshihiro Togashi. While many fans often focus on powerhouses like Gon Freecss, Killua Zoldyck, or Kurapika, Leorio’s unique qualities, growth, and contributions to the story make him one of the most underrated characters in the series.

First introduced during the Hunter Exam arc, Leorio initially appeared to be comic relief or a sidekick character. However, as the series progresses, his true potential, values, and ambitions are revealed — transforming him into a symbol of sacrifice, loyalty, and purpose.

Leorio Paradinight’s Appearance and Personality

Leorio has a distinct appearance: tall, wearing formal suits, and often seen with a briefcase. His glasses and loud personality often make him stand out. He might not look like a fighter compared to other Hunters, but that’s part of his uniqueness.

Personality-wise, Leorio is often impulsive, loud, and emotional. He tends to act before thinking, which makes him clash with others, especially Killua. But beneath the surface, Leorio is deeply compassionate, selfless, and driven by noble goals. His dream of becoming a doctor and helping the poor shows that his purpose as a Hunter isn’t fame or power — it’s healing and giving back.

Leorio’s Goal: Becoming a Doctor

One of the strongest traits of Leorio is his unshakable goal: becoming a licensed doctor to treat people who can’t afford expensive healthcare. This goal stems from a tragic backstory — he once lost a dear friend who couldn’t afford treatment. That event shaped his future and motivated him to become a Hunter, not for glory or strength, but to raise money for medical school and help those in need.

In a world filled with superpowered individuals chasing ambition, revenge, or battle, Leorio’s goal is grounded, human, and realistic. That’s why fans appreciate his presence in the story — he represents the “normal guy” doing extraordinary things.

Leorio’s Role in the Hunter Exam Arc

Leorio is first introduced during the Hunter Exam arc, where he meets Gon, Kurapika, and Killua. He’s often seen arguing, especially with Kurapika, but their bond strengthens as they pass each phase of the exam.

Though not physically dominant, Leorio shows courage, determination, and cleverness. He plays a crucial role in teamwork-based challenges, including the Trick Tower test and the final matches. He also supports Gon during his recovery after the exam.

His character here provides humor, heart, and contrast to the more serious personalities, adding balance to the team dynamics.

Friendship with Gon and Kurapika

Leorio is one of Gon’s closest friends and acts like a big brother figure. He constantly supports Gon — emotionally and physically. His loyalty is seen when he punches Ging Freecss (Gon’s father) in front of the entire Hunter Association for abandoning his son.

With Kurapika, their bond grows stronger over time. During the Yorknew City arc, Leorio supports Kurapika’s quest for vengeance against the Phantom Troupe, even though he doesn’t participate directly in the battle.

These friendships are not just surface-level; they’re rooted in trust, respect, and loyalty — making Leorio a core member of the protagonist group.

Leorio’s Nen Ability: Emission-Type Power

Leorio is an Emitter-type Nen user, which means he can project his aura to perform attacks. His ability, revealed during the Election Arc, is called Remote Punch. Using Nen, Leorio creates a punch that travels through space and hits the target remotely — a powerful and surprising move.

This moment shocked fans, especially when he used it to punch Ging during a public speech. It was a fan-favorite moment because it showed:

• His growth
• His protective nature towards Gon
• His hidden strength

Though he may not use Nen frequently like Killua or Hisoka, Leorio’s Remote Punch proves that he’s not weak — he just prioritizes other things.

The Election Arc: Leorio’s Best Moment

The 13th Hunter Chairman Election Arc is where Leorio truly shines. When Gon is severely injured and on the verge of death, Leorio steps up to rally support and demand help from the Hunter Association.

During the election speeches, Leorio:

• Criticizes the Association’s lack of care
• Calls out Ging Freecss
• Shows deep love for Gon
• Becomes a fan-favorite candidate for Chairman

This arc shows his ability to influence others, inspire change, and gain respect — even from elite Hunters. Although he doesn’t win the Chairman seat, his speech and actions earn him a place among the top respected Hunters.

Leorio in the Succession War Arc

Leorio plays a minor but important role in the Succession War Arc, where he’s assigned as a medical professional aboard the Black Whale ship. While his screen time is limited, his dedication to healing, analyzing diseases, and helping fellow Hunters reinforces his core personality — a healer first, Hunter second.

Why Leorio Is One of the Most Relatable Characters

Unlike other characters who come from elite bloodlines or assassin families, Leorio is a normal human with a dream, a struggle, and a big heart. He doesn’t rely on flashy techniques or massive power-ups. Instead, he uses:

• Intelligence
• Medical knowledge
• Raw emotion
• Loyalty

That’s what makes him relatable and inspiring for many fans. He’s not flashy — he’s real.

Leorio’s Growth and Character Development

In the beginning, Leorio is impulsive and emotionally reactive. But as the story progresses:

• He matures
• Gains respect among elite Hunters
• Develops Nen powers
• Chases his medical dream
• Stands firm in moral decisions

He may not have the most screen time, but when he appears — he delivers impact. His development is one of Hunter x Hunter’s most subtle but satisfying arcs.

Leorio Paradinight Quotes

Some of Leorio’s most iconic quotes include:

“I want money! But not for greed… I want to save lives!”

“You’re a bastard of a father, Ging!”

“I may not be strong like them, but I will always be there for my friends.”

These lines show his honesty, passion, and values — qualities fans admire.

Conclusion: The True Strength of Leorio Paradinight

Leorio Paradinight may not be the strongest fighter in Hunter x Hunter, but his heart, brain, and loyalty make him a true hero in his own right. His medical ambitions, realistic struggles, and emotional depth offer fans a refreshing contrast in a world full of overpowered characters.

Whether he’s punching Ging or healing strangers, Leorio proves that you don’t need flashy power to be important. You just need purpose, passion, and persistence — and Leorio has all three.

FAQs: Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Is Leorio weak compared to Gon and Killua?
A: He’s not as physically strong, but his Nen and intelligence make him effective in his own way.

Q: What is Leorio’s Nen type?
A: Emitter — his power allows him to punch targets from a distance using Remote Punch.

Q: Why did Leorio become a Hunter?
A: To earn money for medical school and help poor people who can’t afford treatment.

Q: Did Leorio become a doctor?
A: He is shown studying and practicing medicine in later arcs, especially during the Succession War arc.

Q: Will Leorio play a major role in the future of HxH?
A: Possibly. Togashi has hinted at more depth in the Dark Continent arc, where Leorio might have more to do.