Who is the Second Strongest Demon in Demon Slayer?

Last Updated on 1 June 2024 by Arman Deep Sharma

The second strongest demon in “Demon Slayer” is Kokushibo, who is also known as Upper Moon 1.

The “Demon Slayer” series, known for its intense battles and profound characters, unfolds in a world plagued by demons who prey on humans.

Amidst the chaos, the Demon Slayer Corps stands as humanity’s last line of defense.

These warriors train rigorously, achieving superhuman feats that place them on par with some of the most formidable demons.

While the series boasts a wide spectrum of demon strengths, there is a clear hierarchy, with Kibutsuji Muzan reigning supreme.

But who claims the title of the second strongest demon in this captivating saga? Let’s delve deeper into the identity and prowess of the Upper Moon 1 demon.

Understanding the Demon Hierarchy

In the world of “Demon Slayer,” demons are ranked based on their strength and abilities.

The weakest demons fall easily to novice slayers, while the mightiest require the combined efforts of the Corps’ most elite fighters.

The most powerful demons are the Twelve Kizuki, divided into Upper and Lower Moons, with the Upper Moons being the pinnacle of demon strength.

Who is the Upper Moon 1 Demon?

The Upper Moon 1 demon, Kokushibo, is recognized as the second strongest demon in the “Demon Slayer” series.

Before his transformation into a demon, Kokushibo was known as Michikatsu Tsugikuni, the elder brother of Yoriichi Tsugikuni, the legendary swordsman whose skills nearly led to Muzan’s defeat.

Kokushibo’s formidable strength stems from his unique ability to utilize a Breathing Technique, a skill typically exclusive to demon slayers.

He created the Moon Breathing technique, an adaptation of the Sun Breathing technique pioneered by his brother Yoriichi.

The Rise of Tanjiro Kamado

As the series nears its conclusion, Tanjiro Kamado briefly becomes a demon and exhibits the rare ability to conquer the sun.

However, before his true potential could be fully realized, a vial of Shinobu’s medicine reverts him to his human form.

Had he remained a demon, Tanjiro might have surpassed Muzan, leaving the Upper Moon 1 as the third strongest.

Yet, in the context of the series, Kokushibo retains his position as the second most powerful demon.

Comparing the Upper Moons: Kokushibo vs. Doma

The Twelve Kizuki’s ranking system underscores the vast gap between the Upper Moons.

Kokushibo, as Upper Moon 1, significantly outmatches Upper Moon 2, Doma, in terms of combat abilities.

While Doma’s Blood Demon Art allows him to manipulate ice, creating deadly ice particles, Kokushibo’s abilities are far more lethal.

Doma’s defeat came at the cost of Shinobu’s life, who allowed herself to be consumed after infusing her body with a potent Wisteria-based poison.

Inosuke and Kanao delivered the final blow, ending Doma’s reign of terror.

In stark contrast, Kokushibo’s defeat required the combined might of Gyomei Himejima, Sanemi Shinazugawa, Genya Shinazugawa, and Muichiro Tokito.

The battle resulted in the deaths of Muichiro and Genya, highlighting the immense disparity in power between Kokushibo and Doma.

Kokushibo’s Powers Unveiled

Kokushibo’s unique prowess lies in his dual mastery of a Breathing Technique and a Blood Demon Art.

His Crescent Moon Blades, created through his Blood Demon Art, can be paired with his swordsmanship, making him a formidable adversary.

Sanemi Shinazugawa, the Wind Hashira, acknowledged that without his rigorous training, he wouldn’t have withstood Kokushibo’s attacks.

Kokushibo’s Moon Breathing technique comprises sixteen forms, encompassing both short and long-range attacks.

His exceptional swordsmanship, honed from training alongside his brother Yoriichi, further amplifies his combat capabilities.

The Legacy of Michikatsu Tsugikuni

Michikatsu’s transformation into Kokushibo was driven by a deep-seated desire to surpass his brother Yoriichi.

Despite his initial intent to protect humanity, his fear of aging and death led him to accept Muzan’s offer of demonhood.

This decision granted him immortality and immense power but at the cost of his humanity and moral compass.

Kokushibo’s tragic story adds layers to his character, making him not just a powerful antagonist but also a figure of empathy and regret.

His battles against the Hashira and demon slayers are not just physical confrontations but also emotional and philosophical clashes, exploring themes of mortality, ambition, and the true essence of strength.

Final Words

In the world of “Demon Slayer,” the hierarchy of demons is a testament to the varying degrees of power and malevolence.

Kokushibo, the Upper Moon 1, stands as the second strongest demon, a title earned through his unparalleled skills and tragic backstory.

His dual mastery of Breathing Techniques and Blood Demon Arts makes him a unique and formidable adversary, requiring the combined efforts of the strongest demon slayers to defeat him.

As the series unfolds, Kokushibo’s legacy as Michikatsu Tsugikuni and his eventual downfall remain pivotal to the story’s exploration of power, ambition, and redemption.