This Halloween, something amazing is happening in costume culture. The Netflix blockbuster “KPop Demon Hunters” is becoming the go-to costume for kids across the country, but especially for Asian American children who are finally seeing themselves represented in pop culture.

Jean Wang, a Boston-based fashion blogger, experienced this firsthand when her 7-year-old daughter Nori wanted to dress up as Rumi, the purple-haired protagonist from the film. Wang carefully crafted a DIY costume, adding gold stripes to a cropped jacket and styling purple hair extensions - a process she documented on Instagram that quickly went viral.

“Growing up, finding a Halloween costume that felt ‘me’ was always a struggle,” Wang shared. “Now, it’s refreshing to see the ‘it’ costume featuring a dynamic female Asian character that appeals to people of all backgrounds”.

For many Asian American families, this represents more than just a trendy costume. It’s a moment of cultural validation. Ella Pereyra, an 11-year-old Filipina American who actually modeled for Spirit Halloween’s Rumi costume, expressed her pride: “I feel very grateful they made a movie about people that looked like me”.

Experts like Young A Jung, an assistant professor studying Korean culture, suggest the film’s appeal stems from its complex characters and authentic representation of contemporary South Korean life. The movie interweaves Korean folklore, mythology, and everyday experiences in a way that resonates globally.

However, some cultural critics like sociologist Nancy Wang Yuen caution against oversimplifying traditional garments as mere “demon wear”. The costumes carry deep cultural significance that shouldn’t be reduced to Halloween trends.

For many parents, like Jessica Castañeda, the appeal is simpler: catchy music, vibrant aesthetics, and characters their children find inspiring. Castañeda’s 5-year-old daughter Kasey not only wants to dress as Rumi but has introduced her friends to the entire “KPop Demon Hunters” world.

As Halloween approaches, this costume trend represents more than fashion - it’s a celebration of diverse representation, cultural pride, and the power of seeing oneself reflected in mainstream media.