Born on Aug. 5, 1981, in Toshima, Tokyo, Kou Shibasaki is a Japanese singer and actress. She is a well-known actress in Japan with a very successful career in both singing and acting. She began her career at 14 and gained international fame for her role in the controversial 2000 film "Battle Royale." Her other famous films include "Suspect X," "Sinking of Japan" and "Soundtrack." Unlike most cute actresses in Japan, she features cool and glamorous style, making her unique Japan's entertainment industry.