Benzō Karino is a supporting character from the anime Kiteretsu Daihyakka. He is a twenty-four-year-old university student living in the Omoteno area of Tokyo, where he is a neighbor to the main character Eiichi Kiteretsu and his family. Originally from Yamagata prefecture, Benzō moved to the capital to pursue his education at Takao University, where he is enrolled in the Faculty of Economics. His path to higher education was marked by significant perseverance, as he failed the university entrance examination six times before finally passing and gaining admission.

In terms of appearance, Benzō is consistently depicted wearing his school uniform year-round, regardless of the season, which features a notably tight collar. He also wears very thick glasses, often described as resembling the bottoms of milk bottles. His personality is defined by a strong sense of responsibility and a logical, methodical approach to problem-solving. He is generally a kind and compassionate individual who is always willing to lend a hand to his friends, although he can sometimes come across as being slightly self-important or condescending. His nature is more cautious and sometimes prone to anxiety, which can make him appear overly skeptical or hesitant when making decisions. Despite this, he is considered a reliable and trustworthy figure, valuing stability and order. His thinking tends to be structured and routine-oriented, which can make him resistant to change or improvisation.

Within the story, Benzō primarily serves as a mentor and older friend to the younger protagonists, including Eiichi Kiteretsu, Kumada Kaoru, and Kouji Tongari. He often tolerates their teasing while maintaining his supportive role in their lives. His motivations stem from a desire to help his friends, frequently using his academic knowledge to assist them with puzzles, mysteries, and various problems that arise during their adventures. His key relationships are centered on this group, and his dependable nature makes him an integral part of their circle, even if he is sometimes the target of their jokes. A notable aspect of his background is his status as a ronin, a student who has failed entrance exams, which highlights his determination and adds depth to his character as someone who has overcome significant personal challenges. Benzō is also a member of his university's Stone Buddha Study Group and owns a car. He has a strong interest in science and technology, often tinkering with gadgets and machines, which complements the series' focus on invention and discovery.