KPop Demon Hunters Takes Over Halloween: The Costume Craze of 2023

As Halloween approaches, a new trend is sweeping North America, and it’s all thanks to Netflix’s global animated hit, KPop Demon Hunters. This vibrant series has captured the hearts of audiences, and now it’s making waves in the costume department. With October 31 just around the corner, fans are gearing up to celebrate the spooky season by dressing as their favorite demon-fighting K-pop idols. Many are dubbing this the biggest "K-costume" wave since the phenomenon of Squid Game.

The Dominance of KPop Demon Hunters in Costume Rankings

According to Google’s official Halloween trend tracker, Frightgeist, characters from KPop Demon Hunters have completely taken over this year’s North American costume rankings. This year, it’s not just about ghosts and goblins; it’s about K-pop exorcists and demon boy bands.

The Top Characters

Leading the charge is Lumi, the purple-braided leader of the K-pop exorcist girl group HUNTR/X. Her striking look and charismatic personality have made her a favorite among fans. Following closely behind are her upbeat teammate Joy and the graceful dancer Mira. In fourth place is Jinwoo, the fierce leader of the demon boy band Saja Boys, while Baby, the mint-haired rapper from the same group, rounds out the top five.

Interestingly, even Duffy, the tiger character inspired by the traditional Korean painting Jakhodo, has made it to No. 8 on the list. This means that more than half of the top 10 spots are filled by characters from KPop Demon Hunters, showcasing the show’s immense popularity.

Themed Parties and Celebrations

The influence of KPop Demon Hunters extends beyond Halloween costumes. NBC News has reported a surge in themed parties inspired by the film, not just for Halloween but also for birthdays and other family celebrations. This trend highlights how the show has become a cultural touchstone, bringing people together to celebrate in style.

Official Costumes and DIY Creations

In partnership with major retailer Spirit Halloween, Netflix has produced official costumes of the HUNTR/X members, which have seen remarkable demand. Several sizes have already sold out online, both for adults and children. This frenzy has spilled over to platforms like Amazon and eBay, where DIY and look-alike costumes are multiplying.

Fans are also getting creative, sharing their handmade creations on social media. One standout is a viral Duffy candy bucket, crafted and painted by a dedicated fan, showcasing the community’s enthusiasm and creativity.

A Cultural Phenomenon

Experts have noted that the KPop Demon Hunters craze is reminiscent of the Squid Game phenomenon of 2021. Back then, the show’s pink guard uniforms and green tracksuits vanished from store shelves across the U.S. Similarly, KPop Demon Hunters has become a defining force at the center of today’s entertainment landscape. As USA Today aptly pointed out, it’s no surprise that this animated series is leading the costume charts.

The excitement surrounding KPop Demon Hunters is not just a fleeting trend; it’s a testament to how animated series can influence popular culture and seasonal celebrations. As fans prepare to don their costumes and celebrate Halloween, it’s clear that this K-pop-inspired phenomenon is here to stay.