Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba Surpasses 220 Million Copies in Circulation! A Global Sensation That Refuses to Fade
On July 17, 2025, Shueisha, one of Japan’s leading publishing companies, announced that Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba, the blockbuster manga series by Koyoharu Gotouge, has reached an astonishing 220 million copies in circulation worldwide. This figure includes 164 million copies in Japan and 56 million overseas, with digital editions factored into the total. What makes this milestone even more impressive is that it comes just four and a half years after the series hit 150 million copies in February 2021, adding 70 million copies in that time. According to Shueisha, this surge reflects the series’ “overwhelming popularity” even after its serialization ended in May 2020.
For foreign readers unfamiliar with the manga world, this achievement places Demon Slayer among an elite group of best-selling comics globally. But what exactly has driven this phenomenon? In this article, we’ll explore the series’ explosive growth, its cultural significance, its impact on the manga industry, and why it continues to captivate readers worldwide—complete with some unique perspectives on its enduring appeal.
(Shueisha (Oricon))
From Humble Beginnings to a Global Powerhouse
When Demon Slayer first launched as an anime on April 6, 2019, its manga had a modest circulation of 3.5 million copies. At that point, it was a promising but relatively unknown title in Japan’s competitive manga market. However, the anime adaptation by Ufotable studio sparked a wildfire of interest, turning Demon Slayer into a household name. By the end of the anime’s first season in September 2019, circulation had soared to 12 million copies. Just three months later, on December 4, 2019, it hit 25 million, and by February 2020, it reached 40 million.
The momentum didn’t stop there. By May 2020—just before the manga concluded its run in Weekly Shonen Jump—circulation had climbed to 60 million copies. The release of Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba the Movie: Mugen Train on October 16, 2020, pushed it past 100 million copies, and by the time the final volume dropped on December 4, 2020, the total was 120 million. In February 2021, Shueisha reported 150 million copies, crediting the film’s massive success and ongoing demand. Now, in 2025, the series has added another 70 million copies, reaching 220 million—a testament to its staying power.
This rapid growth is unprecedented, even among manga giants like One Piece or Dragon Ball. So, how did Demon Slayer go from a niche title to a global juggernaut? Let’s break it down.
What Is Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba?
For readers new to the series, Demon Slayer is a manga that ran in Weekly Shonen Jump from February 2016 to May 2020, spanning 23 volumes. Set in Japan’s Taisho era (1912–1926), it follows Tanjiro Kamado, a kind-hearted boy whose family is brutally murdered by demons. His younger sister, Nezuko, survives but is transformed into a demon herself. Determined to save her and avenge his family, Tanjiro joins the Demon Slayer Corps, an organization dedicated to hunting demons, and embarks on a quest to defeat the demon king, Muzan Kibutsuji.
The story blends high-octane action with emotional storytelling, set against a backdrop rich with Japanese culture—think traditional kimonos, wooden architecture, and folklore-inspired demons. This mix of universal themes (family, loss, perseverance) and unique cultural elements has made Demon Slayer a hit far beyond Japan’s borders.
Why Demon Slayer Resonates With a Global Audience
So, what’s the secret behind Demon Slayer’s worldwide domination? Here are five key factors:
1. Universal Themes That Cross Borders
At its heart, Demon Slayer is about family and resilience. Tanjiro’s unconditional love for Nezuko and his refusal to give up, even in the face of overwhelming odds, strike a chord with readers everywhere. The series also explores redemption, showing that even demons—its villains—have tragic backstories. This depth makes it relatable, whether you’re in Tokyo or New York.
2. A Window Into Japanese Culture
For international fans, Demon Slayer offers a captivating peek into Japan’s Taisho era. The historical setting, combined with mythology about demons (oni), introduces foreign readers to a world they might not know. Yet, the story’s emotional core ensures it’s accessible, even if you’ve never heard of a kimono or a katana before.
3. Stunning Visuals
Koyoharu Gotouge’s art style is a feast for the eyes, with dynamic fight scenes and expressive characters. The anime takes this to another level, with Ufotable’s jaw-dropping animation—especially in battles like Tanjiro’s clash with the demon Rui. These visuals have hooked millions of fans, making Demon Slayer a sensory experience.
4. Emotional Storytelling
Unlike some action-heavy manga, Demon Slayer balances its battles with moments of quiet tenderness. Whether it’s Tanjiro comforting a dying demon or Nezuko’s silent loyalty, the series tugs at the heartstrings. This emotional pull keeps readers and viewers invested.
5. Perfect Timing
The anime’s 2019 debut aligned with the rise of streaming platforms like Crunchyroll and Netflix, making it easy for international audiences to jump in. The Mugen Train film, which grossed over $500 million worldwide, cemented its status as a cultural event. Accessibility and hype have been key to its global spread.
The Impact of Demon Slayer on Manga and Beyond
Demon Slayer isn’t just a success story—it’s a game-changer. Here’s how it’s shaped the industry and culture:
Reviving Manga’s Popularity
At a time when digital media was reshaping entertainment, Demon Slayer brought new readers to manga and anime. Its success has boosted sales across the board, proving that print comics still have a place in the modern world.
Smashing Records
The Mugen Train movie became the highest-grossing anime film ever, outpacing classics like Spirited Away. The manga’s circulation growth—jumping from 3.5 million to 220 million in six years—is unmatched, placing it alongside legends like One Piece (over 500 million copies) and Dragon Ball (over 260 million).
Cultural Ripple Effects
From cosplay costumes to katana replicas, Demon Slayer has sparked a merchandising boom. In Japan, locations tied to the series—like Mount Kumotori, said to inspire its settings—have become tourist hotspots. The series has even influenced fashion, with Taisho-era-inspired clothing trending globally.
Inspiring Creators
The success of Demon Slayer has led to a wave of manga exploring historical or folklore themes. Its concise yet powerful storytelling has also set a new standard for the shonen genre.
What Makes Demon Slayer Stand Out? A Unique Take
In a crowded field of shonen manga—think Naruto, Bleach, or My Hero Academia—Demon Slayer shines for a few reasons:
- Empathy for Villains: Unlike many series where bad guys are pure evil, Demon Slayer gives its demons tragic pasts. This nuance adds depth and keeps readers guessing.
- Short and Sweet: At 23 volumes, it’s a breeze compared to One Piece’s 100+ volumes. Every chapter counts, with no wasted space.
- Female Representation: Characters like Nezuko and the Hashira (elite demon slayers) Shinobu Kocho and Mitsuri Kanroji break the mold of typical shonen tropes, offering strong, memorable women.
This blend of empathy, brevity, and diversity gives Demon Slayer a fresh edge.
The Future of Demon Slayer
Even though the manga wrapped up in 2020, Demon Slayer is far from over:
- Anime Expansions: After the “Entertainment District Arc” (2021), “Swordsmith Village Arc” (2023), and “Hashira Training Arc” (2024), the story continues with the Infinity Castle Arc trilogy. The first film, Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba – Infinity Castle Arc: Akaza’s Return, hits theaters on July 18, 2025.
- Games and More: Titles like The Hinokami Chronicles have brought the series to consoles, while merchandise keeps fans engaged.
- Lasting Legacy: Quotes like “The bond between Nezuko and me can’t be broken!” have entered pop culture, ensuring Demon Slayer’s influence endures.
Meet the Creator: Koyoharu Gotouge
Koyoharu Gotouge is a bit of a mystery—no public photos or personal details here. They burst onto the scene in 2013 with the one-shot Kagarigari, earning praise in a Jump contest. After refining their skills with works like Monju Shiro Kyodai and Haeniwa no Zigzag, Gotouge launched Demon Slayer in 2016. By 2020, they’d created a masterpiece—and then stepped back, letting the work speak for itself.
Demon Slayer’s Circulation Milestones
Here’s a snapshot of the series’ journey, per Shueisha:
- April 6, 2019: 3.5 million (anime debut)
- September 2019: 12 million (anime ends)
- December 4, 2019: 25 million
- February 4, 2020: 40 million
- May 13, 2020: 60 million (pre-finale)
- July 3, 2020: 80 million
- October 2, 2020: 100 million (pre-Mugen Train)
- December 4, 2020: 120 million (final volume)
- February 15, 2021: 150 million
- July 17, 2025: 220 million
Final Thoughts
Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba is more than a manga—it’s a global movement. Its blend of heart, action, and culture has hooked 220 million readers and counting. Whether you’re drawn to Tanjiro’s courage, Nezuko’s quiet strength, or the sheer spectacle of it all, there’s something here for everyone. As the Infinity Castle Arc looms, one thing’s clear: this phenomenon isn’t slowing down anytime soon.
