Kudo is an archaeologist and Pokémon researcher who appears in the special Pocket Monster Crystal: Raikou Ikazuchi no Densetsu. He is a friend of Professor Elm and was in the area when the legendary Pokémon Raikou was injured by Team Rocket operatives Attila and Hun. Officer Jenny escorts him to the Pokémon Center where Raikou is receiving treatment. Kudo asserts that Raikou does not trust humans, citing a long history of people trying to control the creature, and advises that it be returned to the wild immediately. His expert insight is quickly overshadowed once the Legendary Pokémon enthusiast Eugene arrives and assumes the lead, leaving Kudo on standby at the Pokémon Center while Eugene, Marina, and Jimmy follow the escaped Raikou. Kudo’s primary relationship is his connection to Professor Elm, who wanted Jimmy and Marina to meet him. He also briefly interacts with Officer Jenny and the main trainers. His motivation centers on the well‑being of Raikou, and his notable ability is his scholarly understanding of Pokémon history and behavior, particularly the reasons behind Raikou’s distrust of humans. Kudo remains a calm, knowledgeable figure who does not undergo any significant personal development during the story.