Kai from LEGO® NINJAGO – Complete FAQ: Story, Powers, Minifigures and More

Discover everything you need to know about Kai, the fiery heart of LEGO® NINJAGO! Whether you’re a new fan or a seasoned collector, this comprehensive FAQ covers Kai’s story, elemental powers, team dynamics, and all the must-have minifigures for your collection.

Core Identity & Origins

Who is Kai in NINJAGO?

Kai is one of the original four ninja and the Elemental Master of Fire in LEGO® NINJAGO. Starting life as a blacksmith with his family, Kai’s quest to rescue his sister Nya from Lord Garmadon’s forces launched the NINJAGO saga. Fiercely loyal, sometimes impulsive, and always brave, Kai’s journey from ordinary citizen to ninja hero makes him a fan favorite and the emotional core of the team.

What is Kai’s element?

Kai wields the element of Fire. His powers include summoning and controlling flames, heat resistance, and creating powerful fire-based attacks such as fireballs and Spinjitzu moves.

How did Kai become a ninja?

After Nya was kidnapped, Kai was recruited by Sensei Wu. He trained to master Spinjitzu, first out of a sense of vengeance, but soon grew to fight for the greater good. His journey is central to Season 1, where he learns teamwork, trust, and the true meaning of being a ninja.

What was Kai’s job before he became a ninja?

Kai was a blacksmith. He and Nya ran the Four Weapons blacksmith shop, forging swords and armor for the people of NINJAGO. His skill with metalwork and his father Ray’s training gave him a head start when he became a ninja.

Who is Kai’s sister?

Nya is Kai’s younger sister. She later discovers her own elemental powers as the Master of Water and joins the ninja team. Their sibling relationship is a core theme in the show, highlighting loyalty and courage.

Who are Kai’s parents?

Kai’s parents are Ray (former Master of Fire) and Maya (former Master of Water). Their story is explored in Season 7, “Hands of Time”, where Kai learns about their sacrifice and heroism during the Serpentine War.

How did Kai get his scar?

Kai’s distinctive facial scar first appears after Season 7 (“Hands of Time”). While the series doesn’t show the exact moment, it’s widely believed to symbolize the battles and hardships faced by the ninja. In-universe, it’s a badge of his courage and growth as a warrior.

Relationships & Team Dynamics

Who is Kai's love interest?

Kai’s love interest is Skylor, the Elemental Master of Amber. Skylor’s power to absorb other elements plays a key role in several storylines, and her chemistry with Kai is a recurring subplot, especially in Seasons 4 and 5.

Do Kai and Skylor end up together?

The show hints at an ongoing bond between Kai and Skylor, including several “almost” moments, but they are not officially a couple. Their relationship remains open-ended, allowing fans to speculate and hope for more in future episodes.

What is Kai's relationship with Lloyd?

Initially, Kai is jealous of Lloyd for being chosen as the Green Ninja, believing he himself was destined for greatness. Over time, their rivalry turns into mutual respect and deep friendship. Kai becomes a protective “big brother” figure for Lloyd, especially after Lloyd loses his father.

Why was Kai jealous of Lloyd?

Kai’s competitive nature and desire to prove himself led to jealousy when Lloyd was revealed as the Green Ninja—the destined leader of the team. This jealousy forms a major arc in early seasons and is resolved as Kai matures and accepts his unique strengths.

Who is Kai’s best friend?

Kai is closest to Jay and Cole within the ninja team, often sharing moments of comic relief and camaraderie. He’s the most passionate protector of his “ninja family.”

Powers, Skills & Key Story Arcs

Why did Kai think he was the Green Ninja?

Sensei Wu’s teachings led all four original ninja to believe one of them could be the prophesied Green Ninja. Kai’s ambition and hot-headedness made him especially convinced—until Lloyd was chosen, teaching Kai humility and teamwork.

What is Kai’s true potential?

Kai unlocks his “true potential” in Season 1, gaining control of enhanced flames that can melt or incinerate nearly anything. Achieving this state required overcoming his selfishness and learning to fight for others, not just himself.

What is the Shatterspin technique?

The Shatterspin is a forbidden Spinjitzu move introduced in Dragons Rising Season 1, capable of disrupting elemental energy and shattering barriers between realms. It’s primarily used by antagonists, but its temptation and danger are explored through Kai and his allies.

Why did Kai disappear in Dragons Rising?

At the end of Dragons Rising Season 1, Kai (along with Nya, Lloyd, and others) vanishes during the Merge event that brings multiple realms together. His return in Season 2 is a major plot point, fueling the ninja’s quest to restore balance.

What are all of Kai’s elemental powers?

  • Fire generation and manipulation (fireballs, walls of flame)
  • Heat resistance (can walk through lava)
  • Spinjitzu and Airjitzu (fire-augmented techniques)
  • Dragon transformation (Fire Dragon fusion)
  • Short bursts of flight (via flame propulsion in special suits)

What is Kai’s dragon form called?

Kai’s main dragon is known as the Fire Dragon (also called Flame Dragon). It appears in multiple sets and episodes, symbolizing his mastery of fire and courage in the face of danger.

What are Kai’s most powerful suits and forms?

  • Golden Dragon Kai – Ultimate Legacy power, gold armor, dragon wings.
  • ZX Kai – Season 1, silver armor highlights.
  • DX Kai – Dragon Extreme suit, Season 1 finale.
  • Hands of Time Kai – Red and gold armor, dual-sided head.
  • Fusion Kai – Combines elemental fire with energy powers.

LEGO® Products & Collecting

What are the best LEGO Kai minifigures?

What set does the Golden Dragon Kai come in?

Golden Dragon Kai is found in Set 71769 – Cole's Dragon Cruiser (2022) and select Dragons Rising/Legacy anniversary sets. Always check the product description to confirm the exact minifigure version included.

What is the rarest Kai minifigure?

The rarest retail Kai is Kai njo0327 from The LEGO NINJAGO Movie, found exclusively in set 70620 NINJAGO City. This version features unique prints and is highly sought after by collectors.

How many Kai minifigures are there?

As of 2025, there are 83 unique Kai minifigure variants released in sets, polybags, promotional packs, and special editions. Each one represents a chapter of Kai’s journey, from humble beginnings to ultimate fire master.

What’s the difference between Legacy Kai and normal Kai?

Legacy Kai minifigures are reimagined and updated versions of earlier Kai designs, created for NINJAGO anniversaries and special releases. They feature improved printing, new armor pieces, and details not seen in the original “core” or season-specific Kai figures.

“Versus” & Comparison Questions

Who is stronger, Kai or Cole?

It’s the classic matchup of unstoppable force vs. immovable object! Kai’s explosive fire gives him the offensive edge, but Cole’s raw strength and deep connection to the earth make him nearly unbreakable. In the show, their battles often hinge on who has the emotional high ground—sometimes fire wins, sometimes rock prevails, but the best stories are when they fight side by side.

Who would win, Kai or Nya?

Kai’s fire burns bright, but Nya’s water can douse even the hottest flame. Their sibling rivalry is a fan favorite—when they clash, it’s not just about power, but about who can stay cool under pressure. The series often shows them as equals, reminding fans that teamwork always wins in the end. Explore more about Nya in our Nya Minifigures Collection.

Is Kai the leader of the ninja?

Kai is the team’s spark and motivator, but Lloyd is the official leader. Kai often leads charges and inspires his friends, proving leadership comes in many forms.

Who is the most popular ninja?

Kai and Lloyd regularly top LEGO® fan polls. Kai’s fiery spirit, origin story, and dynamic presence make him especially beloved, while Lloyd’s journey from underdog to leader resonates with older fans.

Ready to Build Your Collection?

LEGO® parts are intended for ages 4 and up. They may pose a choking hazard for children under 3 years old.