Who is Katara and Sokka's father?

Hakoda is Katara and Sokka’s father. He is a leader of the Southern Water Tribe and a skilled warrior who leaves home to fight the Fire Nation during the Hundred Year War.

Hakoda’s absence shapes both children. Sokka becomes protective of Katara and takes on responsibilities within their village, while Katara continues developing her waterbending. Their mother, Kya, had already died during a Fire Nation raid, leaving the siblings and their grandmother Kanna behind in the South.

Hakoda later reunites with his children and helps lead the invasion of the Fire Nation on the Day of Black Sun. He is sometimes confused with Bato, his close friend and fellow Southern Water Tribe warrior. Pakku is a Northern Water Tribe waterbending master, while Arnook is the Northern Tribe’s chief and Princess Yue’s father.