Sanrio’s “Kuromi” is a mischievous character symbolized by her black hood and the pink skull drawn on her forehead. She is now known worldwide, and it’s no exaggeration to say she rivals—or even surpasses—the popularity of My Melody and Hello Kitty. Unlike Pompompurin or Cinnamoroll, Kuromi stands out with a bold personality often described as “mischievous” or “tough.” In this article, we’ll thoroughly explain everything about Kuromi, including her relationship with My Melody, her family, and friends.
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What is Kuromi? A Popular Sanrio Character
Kuromi is one of Sanrio’s most popular characters. In contrast to the adorable My Melody, she is characterized by her black hood and skull mark on her forehead. The word “mischievous” fits her perfectly, and she even claims to be My Melody’s rival.
Kuromi’s Profile
- Debut Year: 2005
- Birthday: October 31
- Favorite Food: Rakkyo (pickled shallots)
- Hobby: Keeping a diary
- Reference: Sanrio Official Website
When Was Kuromi Born? Her Debut Started with a TV Anime!
Kuromi first appeared in the TV anime series “Onegai My Melody,” which aired in 2005. She appeared in the anime and was later officially added as a Sanrio character. It is quite rare for a character to be officially added to Sanrio’s lineup after appearing in an anime or movie.
Kuromi is Hugely Popular Worldwide! Top Rankings in the “Sanrio Character Ranking”
In the annual popularity voting event, the “Sanrio Character Ranking 2025,” Kuromi ranked 4th, following Pompompurin (1st), Cinnamoroll (2nd), and Pochacco (3rd)! She even ranked higher than Hello Kitty and My Melody. In Hong Kong, she placed 2nd, and in France, Australia, Thailand, Italy, and Germany, she ranked 3rd.
What Kind of Character is Kuromi? Her Personality and Gender Explained
Kuromi’s Personality | Mischievous but Kind-Hearted
Kuromi gives off a slightly mean impression as she plays tricks on My Melody due to her rivalry with her. In reality, she is girly and loves handsome guys. She also has a meticulous side, such as making it a habit to keep a diary.
Although she is actually kind, her shyness and stubborn personality often make her come across as a bit mean... This "tsundere" quality might be the reason for her popularity.
Kuromi’s Gender｜Boy or Girl?
Kuromi’s gender is not clearly stated on the official Sanrio or Sanrio Puroland websites.
The Relationship Between Kuromi and My Melody｜Friends, Sisters, or Rivals?
Kuromi calls herself "My Melody’s rival." While My Melody is laid-back and easygoing, Kuromi has the opposite temperament. In the anime, they sometimes clash but also help each other out. There’s even a phrase, "MeloKuro relationship," to describe their unique bond—opposites who bring out each other’s charm despite being rivals, sharing a slightly special kind of friendship.
Kuromi’s Appearance｜Purple and Skull Motifs
Kuromi’s Features｜Black Hood, Skull, Arrow-like Tail
Kuromi’s defining characteristics can be summed up in three main points.
- She wears a black hood.
- She has a tail shaped like an arrow at the tip.
- There’s a skull mark on her forehead. It’s said that the skull’s expression subtly changes to match Kuromi’s mood!
Why Is There a Purple Version of Kuromi?
Although Kuromi is mostly associated with black, there are also versions of her designed around a purple color scheme. The purple color is mainly used for merchandise, and there doesn’t seem to be any particular reason for it.
Kuromi’s Family and Friends｜Her Sidekick Baku and Older Sister Romina
The only officially revealed family member is her older sister, Romina. While not family, Kuromi is always accompanied by her henchman Baku and Baku’s little sister, Bako.
Romina (Kuromi’s Older Sister)
Romina ties her long ears together with skull-motif accessories and wears plenty of red eyeshadow. Even more of a "little devil" than Kuromi, Romina is Kuromi’s idol and hero. They spent their childhood together, but Romina went missing when Kuromi was little. There are even rumors that she is being chased by an evil organization.
Who is Kuromi's Sidekick "Baku"? Meet Her Companions
Baku (Kuromi's Sidekick)
Baku is characterized by his chubby body and black-and-white two-tone coloring, resembling a tapir-like creature. From early in the morning, he is busy cooking Kuromi's meals, doing laundry, and cleaning. Even when Kuromi says mean things to him, he patiently endures and never gives up. His speech is notable for ending sentences with "zona," a quirky verbal tic unique to him. His favorite things are black musical notes, takoyaki, yakitori, enka, and kayōkyoku (Japanese popular songs).
Bako (Baku's Little Sister)
Baku's little sister, Bako, is the 14th child in the Baku family and the first girl. She has a pink color, droopy ears, and a ribbon on her head, giving her a very cute appearance. In the TV anime series "Onegai My Melody," Baku is shown overjoyed at the birth of his first little sister.
Kuromies 5
Kuromi's important friends also include the five-member girls’ team “Kuromies 5,” a five-member girls' team led by Kuromi herself. The team consists of the sunglasses-wearing leader Nyanmi (cat), Wanmi (dog) who wears an eyepatch, Churomi (mouse) who is quick on her feet, and Konmi (fox) whose favorite food is inari sushi. Each member has a unique personality. All of them wear capes with a heart-shaped skull at the neck.
Sasage & Tanba
Sasage and Tanba are original characters appearing in the Netflix series "My Melody & Kuromi." They are a duo: Tanba, a light green wolf, and Sasage, a light purple fox. They suddenly arrive in Mariland, where My Melody and Kuromi live, and work as staff at the Japanese sweets shop where Kuromi works, all while searching for the whereabouts of the heart that My Melody is hiding.
Spotlight on the Netflix Anime "My Melody & Kuromi"!
In July 2025, the Netflix series "My Melody & Kuromi" began streaming exclusively. The series was created to commemorate My Melody’s 50th anniversary and Kuromi’s 20th anniversary, both celebrated in the same year. This original story (12 episodes in total) follows the two as they face a major incident that shakes the fate of Mariland, where they live.
The series is notable for being produced using "stop-motion animation," where clay and dolls are animated frame by frame. It became a hot topic after achieving the remarkable feat of ranking second worldwide in the non-English series category.
Synopsis of "My Melody & Kuromi"
My Melody opens a cake shop in Mariland. Ever since she met Heart in the forest, mysterious things have started happening around her. Meanwhile, Kuromi's Japanese sweets shop across from My Melody's store is always empty. Kuromi is eager to uncover the secret behind My Melody's cakes. Both My Melody and Kuromi are excited to participate in a sweets contest judged by the popular patissier Pistachio. Little do they know, an event that will shake the fate of Mariland is about to unfold—
Netflix Series "My Melody & Kuromi" Now Streaming Exclusively / (C) ’26 SANRIO Copyright SANRIO CO., LTD.
Official Netflix Page: https://www.netflix.com/title/81318403
What is the "World Kuromi-ization Project"? The Goal is to Increase KUROMIES!
The "World Kuromi-ization Project" started on October 31, 2021 (Kuromi's birthday). With the goal of "increasing the number of 'KUROMIES'—friends who empathize with Kuromi and aim to be the best version of themselves together with her," the project is promoting activities such as sharing on social media, releasing music videos, and collaborating with chain stores.
Official Website: https://kuromi.sanrio.co.jp/
Kuromi Makes Her Major Debut as an Artist
The music video for "Greedy Greedy," the first song released as part of the "World Kuromi-ization Project," has surpassed 14 million views and become a hot topic. In October 2025, "KUROMI" released her first artist project, "KUROMI IN MY HEAD"! Keep an eye on "KUROMI" as she embarks on her full-fledged activities as an artist.
Get Cute Kuromi Goods at the Online Shop
From keychains, stationery, and hair accessories to plush toys, water bottles, and backpacks! The ever-popular Kuromi is available in all kinds of products. Each item features subtle differences—not just in facial expressions, but also in the angle of her tail and the shape of her hood—so be sure to find your favorite!
✨Check Out the Latest Popular "Kuromi" Goods (Sanrio Online Shop)
Places to Meet Kuromi in Japan | Sanrio Puroland and More
Finally, here are some places in Japan where you can meet Kuromi and other Sanrio characters.
Sanrio Puroland (Tokyo)
A theme park in Tama City, Tokyo, dedicated to Sanrio characters. Since it's indoors, you can enjoy it even in bad weather. There are live shows featuring Hello Kitty and others, attractions, and character greetings.
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Sanrio Puroland
- Address: 1-31 Ochiai, Tama City, Tokyo
- Access: About 30 minutes from Shinjuku by Keio Line Limited Express
- Opening Hours: Varies by season
- Closed: Irregular holidays
- Admission Fees:
- Adults: Day Passport ¥3,900–¥5,900, Afternoon Passport (from 2:00 PM) ¥2,800–¥4,000
- Children/Seniors: Day Passport ¥2,800–¥4,800, Afternoon Passport (from 2:00 PM) ¥2,500–¥3,700
- Official Website: https://www.puroland.jp/
🌸Read the article about "Sanrio Puroland"
Harmonyland (Oita)
An outdoor theme park featuring Sanrio characters. Enjoy popular character shows starring Hello Kitty, My Melody, and more, as well as a giant Ferris wheel and various attractions.
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Harmonyland
- Address: 5933 Fujiwara, Hiji-machi, Hayami-gun, Oita Prefecture
- Access: About 12 minutes by Kunisaki Kanko Bus (via Harmonyland) from Yoko Station, then about 5 minutes on foot after getting off
- Opening hours: Vary by season
- Closed: Irregular holidays
- Admission:
- Adults: Day Passport ¥3,600–¥4,200, Afternoon Passport (from 2:00 PM) ¥2,200–¥2,800
- Free for children 4 and under
- Official website: https://www.harmonyland.jp/
RESI STAY THE KYOTO (Kyoto)
An apartment-style accommodation located right next to Nishi Hongan-ji Temple. There are two themed rooms: the colorful and pop "Cosmic Kuromi Room" with a space motif, and the chic "Gothic Lolita Kuromi Room" featuring Kuromi dressed in stylish black. In addition to the unique interior, you can enjoy AR Kuromi that pops out, as well as exclusive photo spots only available here.
RESI STAY THE KYOTO
- Address: 308-2 Gakurin-cho, Shimogyo-ku, Kyoto-shi, Kyoto
- Access: About 13 minutes on foot from Kyoto Station
- Check-in/out: 15:00 / 11:00
- Reservation site: https://resistay.jp/ja/facilities/the-kyoto/
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