‘Weird,’ ‘Slayyyy’: Hello Kitty x Junji Ito Collaboration Divided Netizens

On July 7, 2024, renowned horror manga artist Junji Ito announced a unique collaboration with Sanrio’s beloved fictional character, Hello Kitty. This collaboration will culminate in a pop-up store event in Japan, combining elements of Ito’s distinctive horror style with the iconic Hello Kitty design.

The announcement visual for this collaboration featured Tomie, a character from Junji Ito’s debut manga series “Tomie,” dressed in an outfit inspired by Hello Kitty’s signature style. This visual merges the eerie elements of Ito’s work with the cute and charming aesthetics of Sanrio’s design.

The pop-up store will be set up in Shinsaibashi and Shibuya, Japan. It will showcase artworks that blend characters from Junji Ito’s horror manga with popular Sanrio characters, including Hello Kitty. This fusion of contrasting styles is expected to attract fans from both fanbases.

A significant factor behind this collaboration may be Junji Ito’s well-known affection for pets. The artist has frequently mentioned his two pet cats, which could have influenced this partnership.

Despite the excitement, some fans expressed confusion regarding the collaboration. They wondered if the fusion of Hello Kitty’s cuteness with Junji Ito’s horror elements would intensify the horror or soften it.

One person reacted with excitement, noting the fact that she needed the collaboration-respective merchandise –

Another reactor launched an open question. The netizen wrote that this collaboration either ‘tones down’ Ito’s horror to extreme levels, or it might be increasing it –

There were multiple netizens who expressed shock and bewilderment at this collaboration. One reactor asked the pertinent question as to why the cats had facial hair, as was shown in the graphic –

Screen Rant reported that even though Ito’s series has graphic material, the items available at the pop-up shops is cheerful, pastel-themed, and appropriate for a family. Furthermore, holographic stickers, keychains, coasters, tote bags, and t-shirts all depict three of Ito’s characters. But in the official image for the collaboration, Tomie (from the manga series of the same name) is given special attention.

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