Yes, Bulma is indeed older than Goku.
Bulma, a brilliant scientist and one of the central figures in the Dragon Ball series, was born in Age 733. Goku, the series' protagonist, was born in Age 737. This places Bulma as four years senior to Goku, a detail that often becomes a point of humorous contention or self-deprecating humor for Bulma throughout the series as she tends to be sensitive about her age.
Understanding Their Ages
The age difference between Bulma and Goku is a foundational detail established early in the Dragon Ball timeline. While Bulma has, on occasion, expressed a desire to appear younger, even claiming to be 38 years old, her 45th birthday celebration in Age 778 confirms her actual birth year and consistent age progression within the series' continuity.
Key Chronological Information:
- Bulma's Birth Year: Age 733
- Goku's Birth Year: Age 737
This chronological gap means that Bulma was already a pre-teen or young teenager when she first encountered Goku as a naive child, a dynamic that profoundly shaped their initial adventures and their long-standing friendship.
Comparative Timeline
To provide a clearer perspective, here's a brief comparison of their birth years:
| Character | Birth Year (Age) |
|---|---|
| Bulma | 733 |
| Goku | 737 |
This table clearly illustrates the four-year age difference, confirming Bulma's elder status. This age gap remains consistent throughout the Dragon Ball storyline, influencing their evolving relationship from childhood companions to adults who are both pillars of the Z-Fighters' community. Bulma's maturity and resourcefulness, often stemming from her slightly older perspective and worldly experience compared to Goku's sheltered upbringing, played a crucial role in many early adventures.
