by Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba is a story of courage, sacrifice, and tragedy. Created by Koyoharu Gotouge, this beloved anime and manga series doesn’t shy away from killing off major characters, leaving fans in tears with each loss.
The brutal battles against demons, led by the powerful Demon King Muzan Kibutsuji, result in devastating casualties, with many heroes and even some villains meeting tragic ends.
In this article, we’ll break down the most significant character deaths in Demon Slayer, exploring their causes, the circumstances of their final battles, and how their stories come to a close. We’ll also highlight the last standing survivors who live on to honor the memory of their comrades.
⚠️ Warning: This article contains major spoilers for the entire Demon Slayer anime and manga series.
Complete List of Major Dead Characters in Demon Slayer
Before we dive deep into the details, here’s a quick overview of the major characters who lived or died in Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba. This list covers the fate of Demon Slayer Corps members and Hashira, as well as the Twelve Kizuki (Twelve Moon Demons), including the volume and anime episode in which their fates were revealed.
Demon Slayer Corps & Hashira
| Name | Status | Death Episode / Manga Volume |
|---|---|---|
| Tanjiro Kamado | Survived | – |
| Nezuko Kamado | Survived | – |
| Zenitsu Agatsuma | Survived | – |
| Inosuke Hashibira | Survived | – |
| Kanao Tsuyuri | Survived | – |
| Giyu Tomioka | Survived | – |
| Sanemi Shinazugawa | Survived | – |
| Tengen Uzui | Survived (Retired) | – |
| Kyojuro Rengoku | Deceased | Volume 8 / Episode 66 |
| Kagaya Ubuyashiki | Deceased | Volume 15 / Chapter 138 |
| Shinobu Kocho | Deceased | Volume 17 / Chapter 143 |
| Genya Shinazugawa | Deceased | Volume 21 / Chapter 179 |
| Muichiro Tokito | Deceased | Volume 21 / Chapter 179 |
| Mitsuri Kanroji | Deceased | Volume 23 / Chapter 200 |
| Obanai Iguro | Deceased | Volume 23 / Chapter 200 |
| Gyomei Himejima | Deceased | Volume 23 / Chapter 200 |
Twelve Kizuki (Twelve Demon Moons)
| Name | Rank | Death Episode / Manga Volume |
|---|---|---|
| Rui | Lower Rank Five | Volume 5 / Episode 43 |
| Enmu (Nightmare) | Lower Rank One | Volume 8 / Episode 61 |
| Daki & Gyutaro | Upper Rank Six | Volume 11 / Episode 97 |
| Gyokko | Upper Rank Five | Volume 14 / Chapter 121 |
| Hantengu | Upper Rank Four | Volume 14 / Chapter 126 |
| Kaigaku | New Upper Rank Six | Volume 17 / Chapter 145 |
| Akaza | Upper Rank Three | Volume 17 / Episode 156 |
| Doma | Upper Rank Two | Volume 19 / Episode 162 |
| Kokushibo | Upper Rank One | Volume 20 / Chapter 175 |
| Nakime | New Upper Rank Four | Volume 21 / Chapter 183 |
| Muzan Kibutsuji | Demon King / Origin | Volume 23 / Chapter 200 |
The Meaning and Impact of Death in Demon Slayer
Death in Demon Slayer is never without meaning. Unlike many stories where characters are revived or their deaths feel temporary, every loss in this series is final—and deeply felt.
Ubuyashiki Kiriya revealed before that all demons are born from one source—Muzan Kibutsuji. As the progenitor of all demons, Muzan’s death means the end of every demon in existence. With his fall, the curse that had plagued humanity for centuries is finally lifted.
Throughout the series, death serves a purpose beyond loss. The sacrifices of the Hashira inspire younger Demon Slayers to fight on. Even demons—once feared enemies—are shown in their final moments to recall fragments of their lost humanity, adding emotional weight and complexity to their deaths.
Whether it’s a noble warrior laying down their life to protect others or a demon confronting the pain of their past, every death in Demon Slayer shapes the world, the survivors, and the story itself. It’s this unflinching honesty about life and death that makes the series so impactful—and unforgettable.
The Death of Tanjiro’s Family: Where the Tragedy Began
While we didn’t include Tanjiro’s family in the earlier chart of Demon Slayer Corps and Hashira members, their deaths mark the very beginning of Demon Slayer’s tragic journey—and are among the most important in the entire story.
Cause of Death: Slaughtered by Muzan Kibutsuji.
Death Scene: In the very first episode of the anime (Episode 1) and Chapter 1 of the manga, Tanjiro Kamado returns home from a day of selling charcoal to find his entire family brutally murdered. His mother, Kie Kamado, and his siblings—Takeo, Hanako, Shigeru, and Rokuta—lie lifeless in a blood-soaked home. Only his sister, Nezuko, shows signs of life, though she is quickly discovered to be turning into a demon.
It is later revealed that Muzan Kibutsuji, the Demon King and originator of all demons, was responsible for the slaughter. This horrifying moment ignites the emotional and narrative core of the series.
Tanjiro’s father, Tanjuro Kamado, had already died from an illness before the events of the series.
Significance: This massacre is the event that sets the entire story of Demon Slayer in motion. It fuels Tanjiro’s journey to become a Demon Slayer, seek revenge against Muzan, and ultimately search for a way to return Nezuko to her human form.
The pain of losing his family shapes Tanjiro’s character—fierce in battle yet deeply compassionate, always remembering what he’s fighting for.
Last Survivors from the Family:
- Tanjiro Kamado
- Nezuko Kamado
Hashira Deaths (Chronological Order)
1. Kyojuro Rengoku – The Flame Hashira
- Cause of Death:
Fatally injured by Akaza, Upper Rank 3 of the Twelve Kizuki. - Death Scene:
In the Mugen Train arc (Episode 33, manga Chapter 66), Kyojuro Rengoku battles Akaza after defeating Lower Moon 1, Enmu. Despite his tactical brilliance and Flame Breathing mastery, Rengoku is outmatched by Akaza’s regenerative powers and strength. Akaza punches holes through Rengoku’s stomach, and though Rengoku nearly immobilizes him, he succumbs to his injuries at sunrise. Rengoku dies smiling, urging Tanjiro to continue his journey and passing on his final words to his mother’s spirit. - Significance:
Rengoku’s death is the first major loss for the Demon Slayer Corps in the story and leaves a profound impact on Tanjiro, Inosuke, and the audience. His optimism, fiery passion, and final words to Tanjiro about continuing the flame of hope become a lasting legacy. The moment also underscores the overwhelming threat of the Upper Rank demons—and sets the emotional tone for the brutal battles ahead. - Final Words / Legacy:
“Set your heart ablaze.”
His death is honored across the Corps and among fans as one of the most heroic in the series.
2. Shinobu Kocho – The Insect Hashira
- Cause of Death:
Absorbed by Doma, Upper Moon 2, after poisoning herself. - Death Scene:
During the Infinity Castle Arc (Manga Volume 17, Chapter 143), Shinobu confronts Doma—the powerful demon who killed her older sister, Kanae Kocho. Though calm and composed on the surface, Shinobu burns with quiet rage and an unwavering resolve for revenge. Aware that she lacks the physical strength to defeat an Upper Rank demon in direct combat, she executes a long-term plan: over the course of months, she saturates her body with wisteria-based poison—enough to kill an Upper Rank demon many times over. During the battle, she is overpowered and ultimately absorbed by Doma. But in doing so, she injects a lethal dose of poison into his body from within. - Significance:
Shinobu’s death is both tragic and brilliant. While she loses her life, her sacrifice weakens Doma to the point where Kanao Tsuyuri and Inosuke Hashibira are able to defeat him shortly after. It is a victory born of calculated vengeance, bravery, and selflessness. - Final Legacy:
Shinobu’s death fulfills her promise to avenge her sister and becomes a symbol of clever resistance and sacrifice. She proves that strength isn’t always measured in brute force—and her legacy lives on through Kanao, who carries her will forward.
3. Muichiro Tokito – The Mist Hashira
- Cause of Death:
Slashed and dismembered by Kokushibo, Upper Moon 1. - Death Scene:
During the intense battle in the Infinity Castle Arc (Manga Volume 21, Chapter 179), Muichiro confronts Kokushibo, the most powerful of the Upper Ranks. Fighting alongside Genya Shinazugawa, Sanemi Shinazugawa, and Gyomei Himejima, Muichiro shows unwavering resolve despite facing an overwhelming opponent. Though young and physically overmatched, Muichiro demonstrates incredible skill and bravery. He loses an arm and sustains fatal injuries, but continues fighting until the end. In his final moments, he helps land a decisive blow against Kokushibo—proving instrumental in the Upper Rank’s eventual defeat. - Significance:
Muichiro’s death is heartbreaking, not only because of his youth but because he had only recently reconnected with the memories of his tragic past and the resolve to live fully. His growth from a detached prodigy to a passionate warrior adds emotional depth to his final stand. - Final Legacy:
A descendant of Kokushibo himself, Muichiro’s death brings poetic closure to a generational bloodline marred by demonic corruption. He dies not in vain, but as a hero who stood his ground against the strongest enemy and helped bring about a turning point in the war.
4. Genya Shinazugawa – Demon Slayer Corps Member
- Cause of Death:
Body fatally destroyed during battle with Kokushibo, Upper Rank 1. - Death Scene:
In the Infinity Castle Arc (Manga Volume 21, Chapter 179), Genya joins forces with his brother Sanemi, Mist Hashira Muichiro Tokito, and Stone Hashira Gyomei Himejima to take down Kokushibo. Though Genya lacks the swordsmanship of his peers, his unique ability to temporarily gain demonic traits by consuming demon flesh allows him to survive longer than expected. Despite being bisected and suffering devastating injuries, Genya continues fighting until the very end. He helps immobilize Kokushibo long enough for the others to deliver the final blows. As the demon falls, Genya’s demonic regeneration wears off—leaving his damaged body beyond saving. - Significance:
Genya’s death is one of the most emotionally intense moments in the series. Despite a strained relationship with his brother Sanemi, his final moments allow for a tearful reconciliation. He dies with a smile, having fought bravely and fulfilled his dream of protecting others. - Final Legacy:
Genya may not have held the title of Hashira, but he fought with equal courage and heart. His sacrifice helps bring down the strongest Upper Rank demon, and his death profoundly affects Sanemi, who carries the pain of his brother’s loss into the final battle.
5. Mitsuri Kanroji – The Love Hashira
- Cause of Death:
Mortal injuries sustained during the final battle with Muzan Kibutsuji. - Death Scene:
In the climax of the Final Battle Arc (Manga Volume 23, Chapter 200), Mitsuri fights valiantly alongside her comrades against Muzan, the Demon King. Despite being gravely wounded early in the battle, she refuses to give up. Her raw strength and flexible swordsmanship allow her to land critical blows, even as her body begins to fail. As the sun rises and Muzan is finally defeated, Mitsuri collapses from her injuries. In her final moments, she is comforted by Obanai Iguro, with whom she shares a deeply emotional farewell. - Significance:
Mitsuri’s death is a heartbreaking reminder of the personal cost of the war. Known for her joyful personality and loving heart, her loss is deeply felt. Her desire to protect others and be accepted for who she was made her one of the most human and relatable Hashira. - Final Legacy:
She dies knowing she fought with everything she had and was loved in return. Her final conversation with Obanai reveals the depth of their bond—making their joint passing one of the most emotionally impactful moments in the series.
6. Obanai Iguro – The Serpent Hashira
- Cause of Death:
Succumbed to injuries from the final battle with Muzan Kibutsuji. - Death Scene:
Fighting alongside Mitsuri and the rest of the Corps in the Final Battle Arc (Manga Volume 23, Chapter 200), Obanai pushes his body far beyond its limits. Blinded and gravely wounded, he continues attacking Muzan with unrelenting fury and precision. As Muzan is finally vanquished by the rising sun, Obanai, near death, crawls to Mitsuri’s side. In their final moments, they express their love for one another and imagine a peaceful life together in another world—free from demons and war. - Significance:
Obanai’s life was one of pain and guilt, but in his final act, he finds redemption and love. His devotion to Mitsuri and his sacrifice for the future of humanity complete his character arc in a powerful and poetic way. - Final Legacy:
His and Mitsuri’s final farewell is one of the most beautiful and tragic moments in the series—a rare and quiet moment of love in the middle of chaos.
7. Gyomei Himejima – The Stone Hashira
- Cause of Death:
Succumbed to fatal injuries after the battle with Kokushibo and the final confrontation with Muzan. - Death Scene:
During the Infinity Castle Arc and final battle (Manga Volume 23, Chapter 200), Gyomei plays a central role in the defeat of Kokushibo—fighting alongside Muichiro, Genya, and Sanemi. Despite suffering grievous wounds and losing a leg, he continues to fight on through sheer willpower and strength. After Muzan’s defeat, Gyomei’s injuries prove too severe. As the sun rises, he spends his final moments in quiet reflection, seated in prayer. He finds peace as he recalls the children he once protected at the temple—visions of whom come to greet him as he passes away. - Significance:
As the strongest of the Hashira, Gyomei’s death is a heavy loss. Yet, he dies fulfilled, having upheld his beliefs and protected humanity until his final breath. His calm strength, spiritual resolve, and compassion made him a pillar in every sense of the word. - Final Legacy:
Gyomei’s peaceful death, following one of the bloodiest battles in the series, brings a solemn closure to the Hashira’s sacrifice. His character embodied discipline, faith, and unwavering commitment—and his presence will be missed by comrades and readers alike.
The Legacy of the Fallen Hashira
The deaths of the Hashira mark some of the most emotional moments in Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba. Each one gave their life not in vain, but in pursuit of a future free from demons—a future they would never live to see, but one they helped create with their sacrifice.
From Rengoku’s fiery last stand to Shinobu’s calculated revenge, from the youthful courage of Muichiro and Genya to the heartbreak of Mitsuri and Obanai, and finally, Gyomei’s quiet acceptance—these warriors carried the hopes of the entire Demon Slayer Corps on their shoulders.
Their final moments left behind not just sorrow, but strength. The legacy they forged became the light that led humanity out of the darkness.
Deaths of the Twelve Kizuki (Demon Moons)
1. Rui – Lower Rank Five
- Cause of Death:
Beheaded by Tanjiro Kamado and Giyu Tomioka. - Death Scene:
Rui appears in the Natagumo Mountain Arc (Anime Episode 19 / Manga Volume 5, Chapter 40–43). As a member of the Lower Moons, he terrorizes a forest with his twisted idea of a “family,” manipulating other demons to play the roles of parents and siblings under his control. Tanjiro engages Rui in a brutal battle, awakening his Hinokami Kagura (Sun Breathing) for the first time. Though Tanjiro nearly beheads him, it’s ultimately Giyu Tomioka, the Water Hashira, who lands the final blow. Rui accepts his death after recalling memories of his lost humanity and the real love his parents had for him—something he had long forgotten. - Significance:
Rui is the first Upper Rank-level threat encountered by the main cast and the first real emotional exploration of a demon’s past. His backstory reveals that not all demons are evil by nature, but victims of circumstance, fear, or manipulation by Muzan. - Final Legacy:
Rui’s death is a turning point in the series. It sets the emotional tone for many of the demon deaths that follow—ones that blur the line between villain and victim. It also marks the first time viewers see the immense gap in power between Tanjiro and the real monsters he must face.
2. Enmu – Lower Rank One (“Nightmare”)
- Cause of Death:
Killed by Tanjiro Kamado and Inosuke Hashibira after a coordinated battle. - Death Scene:
Enmu appears in the Mugen Train Arc (Anime Episode 61 / Manga Volume 8, Chapter 54–66). Tasked by Muzan with killing Tanjiro, Enmu merges his body with the entire Mugen Train, turning the locomotive into a living demon designed to lull over 200 passengers into permanent slumber using dream-inducing blood demon art. Tanjiro and Inosuke work together to locate Enmu’s core and destroy it from the inside. After a relentless and dangerous battle aboard the moving train, they manage to kill him, saving the passengers just in time. - Significance:
Enmu’s death is the first major victory for the protagonists after Rui and marks Tanjiro’s rising strength as a Demon Slayer. However, the celebration is short-lived—Akaza appears immediately afterward, leading to the death of Flame Hashira Kyojuro Rengoku. This pairing of victory and loss becomes a recurring emotional pattern in Demon Slayer. - Final Legacy:
Enmu is a twisted, sadistic villain who takes pleasure in psychological torment. His death clears the way for more powerful demons from the Upper Ranks to enter the battlefield—and raises the stakes for the war ahead.
3. Daki & Gyutaro – Upper Rank Six
- Cause of Death:
Beheaded simultaneously by Tanjiro Kamado and Tengen Uzui’s team. - Death Scene:
Daki and Gyutaro serve as the dual holders of the Upper Rank Six title and are the primary antagonists of the Entertainment District Arc (Anime Episode 97 / Manga Volume 11, Chapters 85–97). Daki first appears as a beautiful and sadistic courtesan who terrorizes the red-light district, while her true strength lies in her brother Gyutaro, who emerges from her body mid-battle. The siblings are inseparable—both literally and symbolically—and can only be defeated if they are beheaded at the same time. The battle is brutal, with Tengen Uzui suffering grave injuries and Tanjiro, Zenitsu, and Inosuke pushed to their limits. In a climactic and synchronized attack, Tanjiro beheads Gyutaro while Zenitsu and Inosuke sever Daki’s neck, ending their reign of terror. - Significance:
Their deaths mark the first defeat of an Upper Rank demon in over a century—a major turning point for the Demon Slayer Corps. However, their backstory adds surprising emotional weight: the siblings were born into poverty and neglect, surviving together in a cruel world until they became demons. - Final Legacy:
In their final moments, Daki and Gyutaro argue and lash out at each other—only for Gyutaro to call out to her tearfully as they begin to disintegrate. They reconcile in death, with Daki (real name Ume) choosing to follow her brother into the afterlife. Their story highlights the tragedy of demonhood—and the humanity lost along the way.
4. Gyokko – Upper Rank Five
- Cause of Death:
Killed by Muichiro Tokito, the Mist Hashira. - Death Scene:
Gyokko appears in the Swordsmith Village Arc (Manga Volume 14, Chapter 121). Known for his grotesque obsession with “art,” Gyokko takes a sadistic interest in mutilating humans and displaying their bodies as his twisted masterpieces. He launches a deadly attack on the swordsmith village, aiming to destroy the Demon Slayer Corps’ supply of weapons. Muichiro Tokito engages him in battle, initially at a disadvantage due to poison and physical restraints. However, after breaking through his mental blocks and regaining memories of his past, Muichiro awakens his true strength and enters the Demon Slayer Mark state. Gyokko reveals his final transformation—gaining enhanced speed and durability—but Muichiro swiftly overcomes him with overwhelming precision and lands a clean beheading, killing the Upper Rank Five demon. - Significance:
Gyokko’s death is notable as the first time a Hashira defeats an Upper Rank demon solo in the series, marking Muichiro’s true coming of age. It also showcases how Demon Slayer characters unlock deeper powers through personal growth and emotional clarity. - Final Legacy:
Gyokko dies in arrogance and confusion, unable to accept that his opponent—just a teenager—was stronger than him. His twisted view of beauty and superiority is shattered in his final moments, adding yet another fallen Upper Rank to the list as the balance of power begins to shift.
5. Hantengu – Upper Rank Four
- Cause of Death:
Killed by Tanjiro Kamado after a relentless pursuit of his true form. - Death Scene:
Hantengu is introduced during the Swordsmith Village Arc (Manga Volume 14, Chapter 126), attacking alongside Gyokko. At first, he appears timid and frail, but when attacked, he splits into multiple powerful clones—each representing a different emotion (Anger, Joy, Sorrow, Pleasure, and more). These clones each have distinct personalities, abilities, and combat styles, making the battle incredibly complex. Tanjiro, Nezuko, and Genya work together to wear them down. The true challenge, however, is locating and killing Hantengu’s original, tiny core body, which he hides while his clones do the fighting. After a lengthy pursuit, and with Nezuko’s help, Tanjiro manages to expose and behead the core body, finally defeating Upper Rank Four. - Significance:
Hantengu’s death is one of the most drawn-out and exhausting fights in the series. It also marks a major turning point—Nezuko conquers her demonic weakness to sunlight, surviving dawn for the first time. This revelation stuns both the heroes and Muzan, shifting the direction of the entire story. - Final Legacy:
Hantengu dies in fear and delusion, blaming everyone but himself. His death adds depth to the series’ theme that even the most monstrous demons were once human—but some never truly take responsibility for their sins. He’s a perfect embodiment of cowardice and denial, making his final moments feel deserved.
6. Kaigaku – New Upper Rank Six
- Cause of Death:
Killed by Zenitsu Agatsuma using his original Thunder Breathing technique. - Death Scene:
Kaigaku appears during the Infinity Castle Arc (Manga Volume 17, Chapter 145). Once a fellow disciple under Jigoro Kuwajima, the same master who trained Zenitsu, Kaigaku defected to Muzan’s side and became a demon to gain power—eventually replacing Daki and Gyutaro as the new Upper Rank Six. During their confrontation, Kaigaku mocks Zenitsu’s perceived weakness and boasts about mastering multiple forms of Thunder Breathing—now enhanced by his demonic strength. Zenitsu, however, reveals a technique of his own: the Seventh Form: Honoikazuchi no Kami, a move he created himself. In a brilliant flash of speed and power, Zenitsu beheads Kaigaku in one decisive strike. - Significance:
This battle is a major turning point for Zenitsu’s character. It shows how far he’s come from the cowardly boy introduced early in the series. Instead of running, he faces someone who betrayed everything he held dear, including their master’s teachings. - Final Legacy:
Kaigaku’s death serves as closure for Zenitsu, who fights not only for victory but to honor their master, who took his own life after Kaigaku’s betrayal. The contrast between Kaigaku’s arrogance and Zenitsu’s humility highlights the true strength of spirit—and adds emotional weight to the Upper Rank’s fall.
7. Akaza – Upper Rank Three
- Cause of Death:
Self-destruction after regaining his human memories and rejecting Muzan’s control. - Death Scene:
Akaza reappears during the Infinity Castle Arc (Manga Volume 17–18, Chapters 154–156), where he faces Tanjiro Kamado and Giyu Tomioka in a brutal, high-stakes battle. Fueled by memories of Rengoku and a burning desire to grow stronger, Tanjiro pushes past his limits while Giyu unlocks his Demon Slayer Mark. Akaza, driven by his martial artist’s code, fights with unmatched ferocity, but Tanjiro’s resilience begins to wear him down. In the final moments, as he’s about to regenerate again, he hears the voice of his long-lost fiancée and recalls his past life as Hakuji, a kind-hearted boy who lost everything. Overwhelmed by guilt and sorrow, Akaza chooses to stop regenerating and lets himself die, effectively rejecting his demon nature and Muzan’s influence. - Significance:
Akaza’s death is unique—it’s not the result of a beheading, but of an internal choice. He is the first Upper Rank demon to redeem himself before death. His emotional backstory, coupled with his haunting regret, makes him one of the most tragic figures in Demon Slayer. - Final Legacy:
Akaza’s death isn’t just a victory for the Demon Slayer Corps—it’s a symbolic win over the darkness that consumed him. His story highlights the series’ core theme: that demons were once human, and even in their last moments, they can find redemption. His end brings closure to Rengoku’s legacy and Tanjiro’s quest for justice.
8. Doma – Upper Rank Two
- Cause of Death:
Killed by accumulated poison from Shinobu Kocho and a final blow by Kanao Tsuyuri. - Death Scene:
Doma appears in full force during the Infinity Castle Arc (Manga Volume 19, Chapter 162), where he faces Shinobu Kocho, Kanao Tsuyuri, and Inosuke Hashibira. Initially unshaken, Doma quickly overpowers Shinobu and absorbs her into his body, mocking her weakness. But this was part of Shinobu’s plan all along—she had spent months filling her body with highly concentrated wisteria poison. As the poison begins to destroy Doma from the inside, Kanao and Inosuke arrive and launch a coordinated attack. Kanao activates her Flower Breathing Final Form and lands the decisive blow, beheading Doma while his body weakens and disintegrates. - Significance:
Doma’s death is the culmination of Shinobu’s long-term revenge plan for the murder of her sister, Kanae Kocho. His defeat also allows Kanao, who had once relied on others to lead her, to rise and take decisive action. - Final Legacy:
In his final moments, Doma experiences a strange and almost comedic revelation: he may have felt something real for Shinobu. The demon who claimed to feel nothing confronts a flicker of humanity as he crumbles—making his death both ironic and surprisingly layered. It’s a win not just for the Demon Slayer Corps, but for the entire Kocho family.
9. Kokushibo – Upper Rank One
- Cause of Death:
Killed in battle by a combined effort from Gyomei Himejima, Sanemi Shinazugawa, Muichiro Tokito, and Genya Shinazugawa. - Death Scene:
In the Infinity Castle Arc (Manga Volume 20, Chapter 175), Kokushibo emerges as the final and most powerful Upper Rank demon. Formerly known as Michikatsu Tsugikuni, he was the twin brother of Yoriichi Tsugikuni—the original Sun Breathing user and the strongest Demon Slayer in history. The battle is long and vicious, with multiple Hashira working together. Muichiro, Genya, Sanemi, and Gyomei all push themselves far beyond their limits. Muichiro and Genya both lose their lives, but not before critically weakening Kokushibo. Eventually, Sanemi and Gyomei deliver the finishing blow, finally decapitating the Upper Rank One. As he dies, Kokushibo sees his reflection and is horrified by what he’s become. He wonders why he clung to life and power for so long—realizing, too late, that he was always chasing the shadow of his brother Yoriichi. - Significance:
Kokushibo’s death marks the fall of the last of the Twelve Kizuki, setting the stage for the final battle against Muzan. His story also explores a major theme in Demon Slayer: the burden of legacy, envy, and identity. Despite his immense power, he was never able to escape the shadow of his human past. - Final Legacy:
A tragic villain to the end, Kokushibo’s final moments show a rare level of self-awareness and remorse. His death brings closure to centuries of bloodshed—and stands as a hard-earned victory for the Demon Slayer Corps, paid for with great sacrifice.
10. Nakime – Upper Rank Four (Successor to Hantengu)
- Cause of Death:
Killed remotely by Yushiro through mind control. - Death Scene:
After Hantengu’s death, Nakime—the demon who manipulates the Infinity Castle—is promoted to Upper Rank Four by Muzan. She doesn’t fight directly but uses her biwa to rearrange the castle at will, trapping Demon Slayers and demons alike in a chaotic, shifting labyrinth. During the final battle, Yushiro, Tamayo’s demon assistant, infiltrates her mind and begins controlling her through blood demon art. Realizing she is being manipulated, Muzan panics and kills her instantly by crushing her head from afar to eliminate the risk of betrayal. - Significance:
Nakime’s death is less about action and more about strategy. It’s a rare instance in Demon Slayer where intellect triumphs over brute force. Yushiro’s interference prevents Muzan from using the castle to his advantage, evening the playing field for the Demon Slayer Corps in the final confrontation. - Final Legacy:
Though Nakime had no deep backstory or emotional monologue, her death demonstrates Muzan’s growing desperation and paranoia. It’s also a quiet victory for Tamayo’s legacy—her allies continue to weaken Muzan’s empire, one piece at a time.
11. Kibutsuji Muzan – The Demon King
- Cause of Death:
Destroyed by sunlight after an all-night battle with the Demon Slayer Corps. - Death Scene:
Muzan is confronted in the Final Battle Arc (Manga Volume 23, Chapter 200) after the fall of the Twelve Kizuki. With most of the Hashira either dead or gravely injured, the surviving Demon Slayers launch an all-out assault on Muzan to keep him fighting until sunrise—the only force strong enough to kill him. Despite transforming into a monstrous, infant-like form with near-limitless regenerative ability, Muzan is trapped above ground by the combined efforts of Tanjiro, Giyu, Zenitsu, Inosuke, and Kanao. As the first rays of dawn break through the sky, Muzan’s body is slowly burned away. In a final act of desperation, he tries to turn Tanjiro into a demon, hoping to preserve his bloodline and ideals. However, Tanjiro resists the transformation and defeats Muzan from within, ending the demon bloodline forever. - Significance:
Muzan’s death is the culmination of centuries of horror and grief. As the original demon, his destruction automatically eradicates all remaining demons, including those hiding in the shadows. The victory comes at an enormous cost, with many Hashira and corps members falling in battle. - Final Legacy:
Muzan dies with rage and denial, unable to accept that his legacy of fear and control has ended. Unlike Akaza or Kokushibo, he shows no remorse—only a desire to survive. His defeat not only frees Nezuko from her curse but ends the age of demons altogether. The cost of his death paves the way for peace in a demon-free world—fulfilling the mission of the Demon Slayer Corps after generations of bloodshed.
Sacrifices of Other Important Characters and Their Impact on the Story
The sacrifices of key characters are the emotional backbone of Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba. These moments don’t just drive the narrative forward—they reinforce the series’ core themes of legacy, duty, and the cost of peace. Each fallen character entrusted their hopes to the next generation, playing an irreplaceable role in the Demon Slayer Corps’ final victory over Muzan Kibutsuji.
Kagaya Ubuyashiki – The Mastermind Behind the Final Operation
- Cause of Death:
Suicide by explosives with his family. - Impact on the Story:
Kagaya Ubuyashiki, head of the Demon Slayer Corps, was a calm and kind-hearted leader—gentle yet unshakeable. Though physically weak and bound to his deathbed, his mind was sharp, and his foresight was unmatched. When Muzan located the Ubuyashiki mansion using Nakime’s blood demon art, Kagaya was ready. In a deliberate act of self-sacrifice, Kagaya, along with his wife Amane and two daughters Nichika and Hinaki, detonated the mansion, wounding and delaying Muzan. This suicidal ambush not only bought time for Tamayo to act but also marked the beginning of the final operation to trap and defeat Muzan. His quiet resolve became a rallying force for the Hashira and the remaining Corps members.
Tamayo – The Demon Who Defied Her Nature
- Cause of Death:
Absorbed and brutally crushed by Muzan. - Impact on the Story:
Once a demon created by Muzan, Tamayo turned against her maker and devoted her second life to his destruction. Her intellect, medical knowledge, and inner strength made her a vital ally to the Corps. During the explosion at the Ubuyashiki mansion, she took her chance—injecting Muzan with the humanification drug she had been developing for years. Though Muzan temporarily overpowered the drug, the cocktail of compounds Tamayo secretly administered—including cell division suppressants and aging formulas—continued weakening him throughout the final battle. Even in death, Tamayo’s efforts haunted Muzan’s body and bought the Demon Slayers enough time to bring him down. Her contribution was one of the most critical behind-the-scenes victories in the entire war.
Sabito and Makomo – The Lost Disciples Who Guided Tanjiro
- Cause of Death:
Killed by the Hand Demon (Teoni) during Final Selection. - Impact on the Story:
Though not present in the main timeline, Sabito and Makomo’s legacy shapes the very foundation of Tanjiro’s journey. Both were students of Urokodaki Sakonji and trained in Water Breathing. Sabito, in particular, was considered exceptionally strong—defeating nearly all demons during his Final Selection. However, the Hand Demon, who held a personal vendetta against Urokodaki, killed Sabito by destroying his head. Makomo, too, fell victim to the demon, losing focus out of anger and being torn apart. Their deaths haunted Urokodaki and exposed a flaw in the selection system. When Tanjiro trains under Urokodaki, the spirits of Sabito and Makomo appear and guide him through his swordsmanship and mindset, playing a spiritual mentor role. Without their influence, Tanjiro may never have survived his own Final Selection—or grown into the swordsman he became.
These sacrifices—some explosive, some quiet, and some posthumous—show that Demon Slayer isn’t just a story about fighting demons. It’s a tale about what people are willing to give up for a better world. Even characters who never lived to see Muzan’s defeat shaped the outcome in profound ways.
Last Survivors and the Future They Inherited
The battle against Muzan Kibutsuji ended with unimaginable loss—but not all was tragedy. A handful of warriors survived the war, carrying the weight of those who fell and the dreams of a world without demons. Their survival symbolizes not just personal endurance, but the hope that the Demon Slayer Corps fought for across generations.
Surviving Members of the Demon Slayer Corps
- Tanjiro Kamado:
Despite being pushed to the edge of death—and even briefly transformed into a demon by Muzan—Tanjiro survives. With Nezuko’s help, he regains his humanity and becomes the living embodiment of the Corps’ ideals: compassion, strength, and unbreakable will. - Nezuko Kamado:
The miracle of the final battle, Nezuko conquers her demon nature and walks in the sunlight again. Her survival represents the end of the demon curse and the fulfillment of Tanjiro’s greatest wish. - Zenitsu Agatsuma & Inosuke Hashibira:
Loyal to the end, both survive the final battle. Their journey from comic relief to full-fledged warriors is complete, and they remain as symbols of growth, friendship, and unexpected strength. - Kanao Tsuyuri:
Gravely injured but alive, Kanao plays a pivotal role in the final moments—delivering the dose that saves Tanjiro from his demon form. Her survival reflects the passing of the Kocho sisters’ legacy. - Uzui Tengen, Giyu Tomioka & Sanemi Shinazugawa:
Two of the last surviving Hashira, both endure serious wounds but live on. Their survival ensures that the ideals of the Hashira live on, even as the Corps itself disbands. Their grief, maturity, and strength hint at a quieter, more peaceful future ahead. And Uzui Tengen, who had already retired from his position as a Pillar, was thought to be in a relatively safe situation. - Yushiro:
The last surviving demon, Yushiro honors Tamayo’s memory by continuing her legacy in medicine and art. He vanishes from public view, choosing to live a quiet life, away from human eyes.
The World After Demons
With Muzan’s death, all demons ceased to exist. The Demon Slayer Corps disbanded, their purpose fulfilled. But the world they fought to protect continues to thrive—free of fear, bloodshed, and shadows.
The manga’s final chapters flash forward to modern-day Tokyo, where descendants of the fallen live peaceful, ordinary lives. Their reincarnated spirits walk the streets—proof that the sacrifices of the past were not in vain.
Final Thoughts
Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba is a story where death is never meaningless. Every loss deepens the story’s emotional impact. Every sacrifice pushes the survivors forward. And every battle fought—no matter the cost—was for a world that now knows peace.
In the end, it’s not just a tale of swords and demons. It’s about people: those who died, those who survived, and those who will remember.
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