Kishōtenketsu (起承転結) is a four-part structure used in traditional East Asian narratives—especially in Chinese, Japanese, and Korean storytelling, poetry, and essays. It's particularly notable for lacking direct conflict as a necessary component, unlike Western narrative structures.

The first part, Ki (起), serves as the introduction. It sets the stage by presenting the characters, setting, or initial premise of the narrative. This section provides the groundwork without introducing conflict or tension.