The iconic look from KPop Demon Hunters that's taking Halloween and cosplay by storm
Understanding the cultural phenomenon behind this iconic look
The Rumi costume refers to the signature outfit worn by Rumi, the main character of KPop Demon Hunters, a Netflix animated film that brilliantly combines music, mythology, and girl-power storytelling. This costume has become one of the most recognizable looks of 2025, representing a perfect blend of K-Pop glamour, Korean tradition, and modern fantasy style.
Rumi's look is instantly recognizable with its vibrant purple braided hair that symbolizes her bold spirit, a gold-and-black cropped jacket inspired by idol stagewear, a black hanbok skirt reimagined for modern fantasy, and a traditional Korean daenggi ribbon tied at the end of her braid. This costume isn't just a fashion choice—it's a cultural statement that celebrates Asian representation in global pop culture.
Represents Asian American visibility and cultural pride
Blends traditional Korean elements with modern K-Pop fashion
Inspired millions of fans worldwide to embrace their heritage
Rumi is portrayed as a demon-slaying idol warrior—a performer by day and protector of humanity by night. Her story brilliantly blends K-Pop stardom, Korean folklore, and female empowerment into one unforgettable character that has captured hearts worldwide.
The Rumi costume reflects this dual identity perfectly. The idol-inspired jacket represents performance and confidence, while the traditional hanbok elements honor Korean heritage. The battle-ready silhouette mirrors her role as a warrior, creating a look that's both fierce and elegant, traditional yet futuristic.
Fans love that the Rumi costume visually tells this story—it's not just clothing, but a narrative of strength, cultural pride, and modern heroism that resonates with people of all backgrounds.
Demon-Slaying Idol Warrior
Every detail tells a story of culture, power, and style
The Rumi costume uses a striking purple, black, and gold color scheme that creates visual impact while carrying deep meaning. Purple stands for power, mystery, and creativity—a nod to Rumi's dragon energy and magical abilities. Black adds a sense of strength and modernity, while gold accents highlight status, performance, and attention to detail.
Long braided hair with dragon-inspired highlights that symbolize Rumi's magical powers
Cropped black jacket featuring golden stripes and metallic buttons for that idol stage presence
A short, battle-style skirt inspired by traditional Korean hanbok, reimagined for modern fantasy
The traditional "dagi" or daenggi ribbon from the Joseon Dynasty used to tie braids
Combat-style boots, golden earrings, and sometimes a microphone prop for the complete look
The popularity of the Rumi costume represents more than just another cosplay trend. It marks an important milestone for Asian American visibility in media and pop culture. When Boston fashion influencer Jean Wang created a DIY Rumi costume for her daughter, her Instagram tutorial went viral, with parents and fans praising it for showing how Asian kids could finally dress as heroes who look like them.
The costume honors Korean aesthetics and traditions rather than appropriating them
Features a powerful Asian female lead that breaks stereotypes and inspires confidence
Fans mix fashion, fantasy, and tradition to create their own unique interpretations
"When I see my daughter wear the Rumi costume, it's not just cute—it's history."
- Reddit Community Member
Create your own magical Rumi costume with our step-by-step tutorial
For creative fans, making your own Rumi costume can be an exciting project! Here's a comprehensive step-by-step guide inspired by Jean Wang's viral tutorial that will help you create an authentic and stunning Rumi look.
Find a cropped black jacket (Zara or H&M styles work well). Add gold ribbon stripes using fabric glue or stitching to mimic the official design. This creates the foundation for your idol warrior look.
Buy purple hair extensions or a pre-braided purple wig. Divide the hair into sections, braid it tightly, and tie the end with a red daenggi ribbon for authenticity and cultural respect.
Use a black pleated skirt or design your own short hanbok-style piece using satin fabric. Add gold or red details to match the jacket and create a cohesive warrior-idol aesthetic.
Include black boots, fingerless gloves, and a fake microphone or sword to complete the warrior-idol look. These details bring the character to life and add authenticity to your cosplay.
Apply subtle purple eyeshadow and winged eyeliner for a fierce but glamorous appearance that matches Rumi's powerful yet elegant character.
The Rumi costume has created a vibrant global community of fans who share their creativity, cultural appreciation, and love for this iconic look. Join thousands of others who are celebrating diversity and empowerment through fashion.
Everything you need to know about the Rumi costume
No, according to NBC News and Parents.com, the Rumi costume is a respectful celebration of Korean culture. It's inspired by a fictional Korean heroine, and creators encourage cultural appreciation rather than mockery. The costume honors Korean aesthetics and traditions while promoting positive representation.
That's a daenggi, a traditional ribbon used in Korea since the Joseon Dynasty. It symbolizes femininity, respect, and heritage. This cultural detail is often missed in cosplay but can be purchased online on platforms like Etsy, eBay, or Korean shops like Coupang and Gmarket.
Absolutely! Fans worldwide enjoy wearing the Rumi costume to celebrate diversity and creativity. The key is to do it respectfully—appreciate the design, understand its meaning, and avoid stereotyping. The costume is about cultural appreciation, not appropriation.
The Rumi costume comes in kids, teen, and adult sizes, making it perfect for the whole family. Many parents love it for its empowering and age-appropriate aesthetic that promotes positive representation and cultural pride.
Use parts of it—like the gold-striped jacket or the purple braid—with your normal clothes. This "daily Rumi look" trend is popular among young K-Pop fans and allows you to incorporate elements of the costume into your everyday style.
We're here to help! If you have any questions about Rumi costumes, sizing, cultural aspects, or need personalized advice, feel free to reach out to us at support@rumicostume.net. We typically respond within 24 hours and love helping fans create the perfect Rumi look!
Join millions of fans worldwide who have discovered the magic of the Rumi costume. Whether you're preparing for Halloween, a cosplay convention, or just want to celebrate cultural diversity, the Rumi costume offers a powerful way to express creativity, confidence, and cultural pride.