Jiang Shi

Jiang Shi originate from Chinese folklore, where they are described as reanimated corpses that move by hopping with their arms outstretched. The name translates roughly to "stiff corpse," reflecting their rigid, zombie-like movement patterns. In traditional stories, Jiang Shi drain the life force of living beings, functioning as a cross between Western vampires and zombies. They are typically depicted wearing the formal attire of the Qing Dynasty period, with pale skin and distinctive red dots on their cheeks.

Dragon Ball's Interpretation

Dragon Ball incorporates the Jiang Shi concept as part of its broader inclusion of folklore and mythology from around the world. In the series, individuals can be transformed into Jiang Shi through various forms of dark magic. The witchcraft-created variety are identified by paper talismans placed on their foreheads, which serve as the mechanism of control. These talismans both sustain the undead state and bind the Jiang Shi to the will of whoever placed the talisman. The concept fits naturally into Dragon Ball's world, where ghosts, demons, gods, and magical transformations are all part of the established cosmology.