Kaigaku in Demon Slayer: Character Overview and Explanation

The Demon Slayer series has provided fans with some of the most beloved characters, and Koyoharu Gotouge’s writing style receives the credit. He has brilliantly crafted a variety of characters embodying qualities that any admirable person would cherish. These attributes ultimately become the defining traits of the characters, which is why figures like Rengoku and Tanjiro are so well-loved.

Conversely, Gotouge has also introduced characters that are universally disliked by the fanbase. A prime example is Kaigaku, a minor antagonist in the series. Fans will finally see him in the upcoming Infinity Castle movies.

Disclaimer: This article contains significant spoilers from the manga chapters.

Kaigaku’s Role in Demon Slayer

Kaigaku before he became a demon (Image via Ufotable)

Kaigaku will take the place of Upper Moon demons Daki and Gyutaro. His ties to certain members of the Demon Slayer Corps trace back to his childhood. He was not only Zenitsu’s superior in the dojo but also the child who permitted demons entry into the temple where Gyomei Himejima served. His actions were directly responsible for the deaths of the children under Gyomei’s protection.

Kaigaku consistently opted for the easiest path, prioritizing his own interests above all else. Despite receiving instruction from Jigoro Kuwajima, he succumbed to the temptation of becoming a demon when overwhelmed by Kokushibo’s demonic powers.

Kaigaku had the choice of dying or drinking Muzan’s blood; he chose the latter and transformed into a demon. His decision also led to Jigoro ending his own life, feeling the weight of guilt for teaching a Breathing Technique to someone who became a demon.

Kaigaku’s Impact on Zenitsu’s Character Arc

Kaigaku becomes the new Upper Moon 6 demon (Image via Ufotable)

Zenitsu Agatsuma’s character arc delighted readers of the manga. He was portrayed as someone who frequently fled from danger and seldom faced challenges head-on. Zenitsu often made jokes and displayed fear whenever confronted by a demon.

He could only engage in battle while unconscious, as his instincts would take over. However, everything took a turn due to one pivotal letter. Kaigaku significantly influenced Zenitsu’s character development; Jigoro’s death ignited his rage, enabling him to eventually confront his fears.

Zenitsu's demeanor changes drastically after reading the letter that informed Jigoro's death (Image via Ufotable) — Zenitsu’s demeanor changes drastically after reading the letter that informed Jigoro’s death (Image via Ufotable)

His animosity toward Kaigaku empowered him to fight the demon while fully conscious, ultimately leading to his defeat with a technique he developed himself. This move was the seventh form of Thunder Breathing, a strike that decapitated Kaigaku.

Zenitsu overcame his fear and stood alone against an Upper Moon demon. His determination and affection for his master were put to the test, transforming him into a new warrior. This is how Kaigaku played a pivotal role in Zenitsu’s character arc within Koyoharu Gotouge’s brilliant series.

Stay tuned for more anime and manga updates as 2024 unfolds.

Source