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The Library
of Alexandria

A character in Water Margin

Who is Li Kui?

By the Library of Alexandria · 2 minute read · Updated 23 Ott 2026

In short

  • Li Kui is Song Jiang's fiercely devoted companion in Water Margin, traditionally attributed to Shi Nai'an.
  • His recklessness and violence show how loyalty can become dangerous rather than protective.
  • He belongs to an outlaw brotherhood whose shared cause leaves room for sharply different ideas of honor.

Who Li Kui is

Li Kui is a violent, reckless figure whose devotion to Song Jiang defines his place in the story. He belongs to the world of Liangshan Marsh, where outlaws gather amid injustice, corruption, and personal conflict.

Li Kui and the others in the story

Song Jiang is the central figure in Li Kui's strongest named relationship. While Song Jiang's generosity helps unite the brotherhood, Li Kui's devotion shows the danger that personal allegiance can carry.

Their bond sits within a larger struggle over honor and authority. Song Jiang values loyalty to the emperor, while the brotherhood faces disagreement about whether to trust the state.

Questions

Who is Li Kui in Water Margin?

Li Kui is a companion of Song Jiang, marked by fierce devotion, recklessness, and violence.

How does Li Kui relate to Song Jiang?

He is fiercely loyal to Song Jiang, one of the outlaw brotherhood's influential leaders.

Is Li Kui good or bad?

Li Kui is not presented as simply good: his devotion goes together with dangerous violence. He reflects the novel's tension between admirable loyalty and frightening conduct.

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