Who is Kiriya Ubuyashiki?
Kiriya Ubuyashiki was the middle child and only son of Kagaya Ubuyashiki, and he assumed the mantle of leadership over the Ubuyashiki Household and the Demon Slayer Corps following his father’s death, becoming the 98th leader. Kiriya is characterized by his light complexion and large, expressive eyes, and he shares the same black, bobbed hairstyle with a straight fringe as his siblings. Initially raised as a girl, Kiriya’s appearance is notably feminine in his early appearances.
For the Final Selection test, Kiriya is dressed in a traditional purple uchikake kimono adorned with a floral pattern, complemented by a green obi belt. The ensemble is completed with a white obiage sash and an indigo obijime cord, with a white juban worn underneath. A wisteria headpiece, symbolizing the Ubuyashiki family’s connection to the Demon Slayer Corps, decorates his head.
As the story progresses and Kiriya takes on his role as the leader of the Demon Slayer Corps, his attire changes to a more somber and authoritative black kimono, over which he wears a long white haori, echoing the garb of his late father and symbolizing his new responsibilities.
Kiriya Ubuyashiki’s Personality and Background
In his initial appearance during the Final Selection test, Kiriya Ubuyashiki presents himself as a composed and courteous individual, greeting the candidates alongside his sister with a calm professionalism and providing a thorough briefing on the test’s procedures. He maintains his composure even in the face of Genya Shinazugawa’s rough treatment of his sister.
Following the tragic deaths of his parents and sisters, Kiriya reveals his leadership qualities, swiftly assuming command and coordinating the Demon Slayers in their offensive against Muzan Kibutsuji and the Twelve Kizuki. This transition to leadership occurs without the opportunity for him to properly grieve, showcasing his emotional resilience and mental fortitude, which appear to surpass those of his younger sisters, who are momentarily overcome with sorrow.
Despite his strong front, the weight of casualties among the Demon Slayers during the battle against Muzan eventually overwhelms Kiriya, causing him to falter in his command. It is only after a firm intervention from his sister Kanata that he regains his composure and continues to lead.
Kiriya was the third child and only son of Kagaya and Amane Ubuyashiki, born between two sets of quintuplet sisters. As the sole male heir, he was destined to succeed his father as the head of the Ubuyashiki family and the leader of the Demon Slayer Corps. Due to his fragile health, he was raised as a girl from birth, a decision made by his parents to protect him and perhaps to conceal his identity or preserve his safety within the context of their society.
