King is the major manufacturer of man-made sharpening stones in Japan
They have become well-known around the world for producing uniform grade well-made stones that last most users a longer period of time than expected for the cost.
The Japanese sharpening stone maker Matsunaga, in Osaka, makes the brand King and is the oldest- and best-known maker of Japanese Waterstones in the West. King-Stones are relatively soft and have a comfortable feel in use because you can see and feel the stone cutting the surface.