One Piece: Did Vegapunk know about Imu’s identity? Explained

One Piece chapter 1113 was a significant moment in the storytelling of the Egghead Incident. Despite the ongoing break for the traditional Golden Week Holiday, the most recent chapter of One Piece brought about intriguing developments, such as the confirmation of Dr. Vegapunk’s passing and the commencement of the transmission of his message to the world.

One of the implications of Vegapunk’s message was that the fate of the scientist is now inevitable. He revealed that the broadcast was timed to activate upon his final heartbeat. His words stunned everyone, as he declared that the world of One Piece would soon be submerged in the sea.

Despite not explicitly stating what they were, Vegapunk revealed committing two grave sins that ultimately resulted in his execution by the World Government. This revelation only added to the intrigue surrounding the scientist, as he allegedly referenced Imu-sama as the mastermind behind his assassination. This suggests that Vegapunk was well-informed about Imu’s presence, and possibly even more.

Please be advised that this article contains significant spoilers from the One Piece manga up to chapter 1113.

The Truth Behind the World Government: Vegapunk’s Revelation in One Piece Chapter 1113

A Message That Shocked the World

In One Piece chapter 1113, Vegapunk’s message was finally broadcasted despite the Gorosei’s attempts to prevent it. The Elders watched with growing frustration as the transmission began, and their anger only escalated when York revealed to Saint Marcus Mars that Vegapunk was determined to complete the work that the Ohara scholars had started twenty years prior.

Vegapunk’s message began with the scientist explaining that he had scheduled the broadcast to start immediately following his death, attracting viewers from all corners of the globe. He acknowledged that his head would be sought as retribution for two major transgressions, but he chose not to disclose their specifics.

According to Vegapunk, he did not view the person who ordered his murder as evil, as he did not fully understand their motives. The scientist’s exact words on the matter were as follows:

“Whoever may have rendered their judgement unto me… I am not trying to convince you that their intent is evil. I will not apply the labels of good and evil… because I understand too little about HIM to begin with.”

The Greatest Mind’s Awareness of the Greatest Threat: Vegapunk’s Perspective

Despite not explicitly mentioning a name, One Piece chapter 1113 strongly implies that Vegapunk was referring to Imu when he used the pronoun “him”. This is supported by the fact that the individuals responsible for carrying out the judgement mentioned are Admiral Kizaru and Gorosei member Saint Jaygarcia Saturn, further solidifying the connection to Imu. Despite this, Vegapunk specifically chooses to use the gendered pronoun “him”.

Upon hearing that part of Vegapunk’s speech, Saint Saturn’s strong reaction suggested that the scientist had struck a nerve. This further supports the theory that the person Vegapunk mentioned was Imu-sama, whose identity is meant to be concealed from the general public.

The Empty Throne is a symbol of the equality among nations that adhere to the World Government, and it is believed that it should not have an occupant. This individual, who is the owner of the throne, is a well-kept secret and no one is permitted to know their identity. The monarch of Arabasta, Nefertari Cobra, was tragically murdered for simply witnessing Imu-sama entering the Phantom Room and sitting on the Empty Throne.

Imu-sama's ominous red-ringed eyes (Image via Toei Animation) — Imu-sama’s ominous red-ringed eyes (Image via Toei Animation)

The Five Elders are determined to keep Imu’s true identity as the leader of the World Government a secret, in order to prevent the exposure of the oppressive dictatorship that the institution truly is. Despite being a mysterious figure, Imu’s true form has not been disclosed and is only known as a shadowy silhouette, capable of giving direct commands to the Elders and transforming into a monstrous being with red-ringed eyes, sharp-pointed teeth, and devil-like limbs.

Despite his elusive nature, Imu’s complete identity and name continue to be shrouded in mystery, along with his rumored immortality. However, Vegapunk has acknowledged Imu-sama’s existence, as revealed by his own words. The renowned scientist refrained from categorizing “him”as either good or evil, as he lacked sufficient understanding of “him”.

Therefore, Vegapunk views Imu as a god-like being who transcends the understanding of ordinary humans. Additionally, Vegapunk’s statement suggests that he is not well-informed about Imu, indicating that although he acknowledges the tyrannical ruler’s presence, he lacks comprehensive knowledge about it.

Vegapunk seemed happy to meet the Five Elders (Image via Shueisha)

The source of Vegapunk’s knowledge about Imu remains a mystery, but it should not be surprising considering his tendency to acquire uncommon information. In his pursuit of knowledge and scientific advancement, Vegapunk often made ethically ambiguous choices, leading to controversy and skepticism.

In chapter 1075’s cover, it is shown that Vegapunk had a meeting with the Five Elders at Pangaea Castle in Mary Geoise. Judging from his expression, he appeared to be quite content about it. It is possible that during this gathering, the Elders disclosed the existence of Imu to him, or even granted him the opportunity to personally meet Imu.

Regardless, the uncertainty surrounding Vegapunk’s inability to determine Imu’s intentions only adds to the desire of fans to learn more. This limited information only serves as a preview of the greater revelations that are yet to be revealed.

Despite the complexity of One Piece’s story and absence of a clear good vs evil dynamic, characters often act according to their own moral codes. However, the actions of the World Government, which are carried out under the orders of Imu-sama, are questionable and cast doubt on Vegapunk’s statements.

It is anticipated that the upcoming One Piece chapters will offer further details, leading to a greater understanding of this intriguing enigma. Eiichiro Oda, the author of One Piece, will reveal some of the most significant revelations in the franchise’s history through the transmission of Vegapunk’s message to the world. The identity of the supposed ultimate antagonist could potentially be among these revelations.