Rei Hiroe is a Japanese manga artist best known for creating the popular series Black Lagoon. Born on November 16, 1970, in Fukuoka, Japan, he began his career in the manga industry in the 1990s. His work is characterized by its gritty storytelling, complex characters, and action-packed scenes, often set in a crime-ridden world. Black Lagoon, which started serialization in 2002, follows a group of mercenaries known as the Lagoon Company as they navigate the dangerous underworld of Southeast Asia. Hiroe's unique art style and engaging narratives have garnered a dedicated fanbase, making him a prominent figure in contemporary manga.