New York/Present Day

Charlie "Byung He" (fake name) Lee - an insouciant jokester. Doesn't really let anything bother him and seemingly operates without a care in the world, but is actually kind and sympathetic (though reluctant to show it). Ex-art forger, was a detective for Interpol's Counterfeit Division (as a result of a plea bargain for his crimes) until he was laid off and the mysterious benefactor hired him. Appears to have no family or friendships outside of work besides Violet. Encyclopedic cultural knowledge, from low-brow to high brow as well as a wide-array of other skills. Loves crying at soap operas. (Highlight to view spoilers)

SPOILERS: In fact, he named himself after a character in a k-drama. In Volume 10 of the manga at the end of the French Arc, it is revealed that he has not been reincarnated into this life, but is actually immortal due to a curse inflicted on him during the Heian Period— he travels from life to life to win Julian's love over and over again and is also revealed to be the mysterious benefactor. His name in his cycle actually comes from a k-drama, one about a rock band.)

Julian Xu - studious and intelligent, most comfortable operating within clearly defined rules but has a bit of a, uh, unpredictable wild streak from being raised by strict parents. Hates liars and lying, and prides himself on being truthful (but not emotionally forthright). Reserved and polite, is a bit of a loner because he prefers being an independent person. Loves getting tasks done and also his cat, Patricia. Has the most beautiful (though rare) laugh. His sense of humor borders on dry and devastating. An excellent interrogator, in various situations.

Alex Okazaki-In his 60s, Julian and Byung Hee's old Interpol boss and seemingly Byung Hee's only friend besides Violet. The mysterious benefactor sends him messages to give to Julian and Byung Hee. Is always tired, loves ice cream. (SPOILERS)

It is revealed that Alex and Violet were friends with Byung Hee since they were teenagers and he was called something else. In Volume 15 Alex dies in a gunfight at the Metropolitan Museum to save Julian and Byung Hee from having to go through another cycle.)

Violet Drouhin-Lee - An old punk who loves Byung Hee like a son, or something like that. Is his sounding board, his voice of reason, but never really interferes with his life. They have tea together every Sunday. Is independently wealthy through mysterious means. SPOILERS:

She doesn't really like Julian all that much, if she's being honest (she loved his previous incarnation a lot better. Oh also she and Byung Hee used to be married-- it's unclear whether this was only for monetary or legal reasons).

Marsha Xu - Julian's silly younger sister in high school. Sometimes visits the mansion unannounced. May have accidentally destroyed an ancient artifact or two.

Raymond Le Bon- the mysterious elderly benefactor who Julian and Byung Hee works for. Appears on the video screen at the home, to give them instructions, but the rest of the time communicates through letters and through Alex, when he comes by the house. SPOILERS:

he's not real! Charlie paid an actor

Patricia - Julian's cat. The best cat. Blue-gray, very soft. Loves Byung Hee much to Julian's dismay. Mostly hates everyone else.