In a stunning development within the manga industry, Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba has officially surpassed Dragon Ball to become Japan’s second best-selling manga of all time, with an estimated 164 million copies sold. This milestone marks a defining moment in modern anime and manga history, signaling the incredible cultural and commercial impact of Koyoharu Gotouge’s dark fantasy series.
A Modern Phenomenon That Redefined the Industry
Since its debut in Weekly Shonen Jump in 2016, Demon Slayer has grown from a moderately popular series into a global juggernaut. The story of Tanjiro Kamado’s journey to avenge his family and save his demon-turned sister Nezuko captivated millions with its emotional storytelling, stunning visuals, and cinematic anime adaptation by Ufotable.
The series’ explosive popularity was further fueled by the 2020 film Demon Slayer: Mugen Train, which shattered records by becoming the highest-grossing anime film in history, surpassing even Studio Ghibli’s Spirited Away. The combination of masterful animation, heart-wrenching narrative arcs, and unforgettable characters propelled Demon Slayer into a household name both in Japan and abroad.
Surpassing a Legend
The fact that Demon Slayer has overtaken Dragon Ball, Akira Toriyama’s legendary 1980s creation, is nothing short of extraordinary. Dragon Ball laid the foundation for nearly every shonen series that followed, inspiring generations of creators and fans. For decades, it was considered untouchable — a timeless icon of Japanese pop culture.
However, Gotouge’s tightly written story and Ufotable’s groundbreaking anime adaptation created a phenomenon that transcended age groups and demographics. While Dragon Ball thrived over decades of serialization and adaptations, Demon Slayer achieved its monumental success in less than ten years, an achievement that speaks volumes about its cultural reach and emotional resonance.
The Decline of Long-Runners and the Rise of Short Masterpieces
This shift also highlights a broader trend in anime and manga consumption. Fans today often gravitate toward series that offer concise yet powerful narratives, rather than decade-spanning epics. While classics like One Piece continue to dominate in total circulation, the fatigue of long-running shows has made room for newer, shorter stories to shine.
Demon Slayer’s success demonstrates that tightly focused storytelling can capture hearts and dominate markets just as effectively as sprawling sagas. With only 23 volumes, the series tells a complete story without filler arcs or pacing issues — a balance that resonates with modern audiences who prefer intensity and closure over longevity.
A Legacy Cemented
With this milestone, Demon Slayer now stands shoulder-to-shoulder with the greats of Japanese entertainment. It not only redefined the shonen genre but also proved that emotionally driven storytelling and breathtaking visuals could revitalize a traditional format.
As One Piece continues its reign as Japan’s top-selling manga with over 520 million copies, Demon Slayer’s rise to second place shows how quickly a modern classic can emerge in the digital era. Even with its story concluded, the series’ influence endures through films, exhibitions, collaborations, and a passionate global fanbase that keeps the fire burning.
Demon Slayer has done more than just break records — it has carved its name into history, reminding fans that even legends like Dragon Ball can one day be surpassed.