Ken is gotten early, but you can find them later too. Get to the construction site around Metro City, and you will meet a worker who will insist that you wear the Safety Helmet Gear before continuing. The side quest Safety First will give you this, which is gotten after finishing The S...
Also available starting in 9-2 is the side quest "Yoga Statue" which, spoilers, involves Dhalsim. It's located at the southernmost part of the map so fast travel down to the Training Center during the day and find the NPC named Anik who will sell you a yoga statue for 7,000 Zenny. ...