Kuromi is a girl character, but she is not Hello Kitty. Sanrio presents them as separate characters: Kuromi is known as My Melody’s self-proclaimed rival, while Hello Kitty’s name is Kitty White.
Why Kuromi can be mistaken for Hello Kitty
Both characters belong to Sanrio, but sharing a creator does not make them the same character. Sanrio lists KUROMI and HELLO KITTY as separate character brands in its character directory. Kuromi’s official profile calls her My Melody’s “self-proclaimed rival”; it does not identify her as Hello Kitty’s rival or another version of Hello Kitty. See Kuromi’s profile.
Kuromi’s official profile
Sanrio describes Kuromi as tough-looking but “actually very girly.” Her recognizable signature look is a black hood with a pink skull, and her favorite color is black. Her birthday is October 31, and she debuted in 2005, according to Sanrio’s profile.
Kuromi and Hello Kitty compared
| Detail | Kuromi | Hello Kitty |
|---|---|---|
| Identity | A separate Sanrio character; self-proclaimed rival of My Melody. Sanrio profile | Her name is Kitty White; a separate Sanrio character brand. Sanrio profile and brand directory |
| Gender description | Sanrio says she is “actually very girly.” Sanrio profile | Sanrio describes her as a cheerful and kind girl. Sanrio profile |
| Birthday | October 31. Sanrio profile | November 1. Sanrio profile |
| Debut or design year | Debuted in 2005. Sanrio profile | Designed in 1974. Sanrio profile |
| Signature detail | Black hood with a pink skull; favorite color black. Sanrio profile | Born in the suburbs of London, England, according to Sanrio. Sanrio profile |
What Sanrio’s character ranking says
In Sanrio’s 2026 character ranking, Kuromi placed No. 4 and Hello Kitty No. 5. These are results from that year’s Sanrio fan-voting event, not a universal measurement of popularity. Sanrio says the annual ranking began in 1986; see its 2026 ranking information. For context, Sanrio reported 63,166,096 votes in total for the 2025 ranking, the highest total in the event’s history; voting ran April 10 through May 25, 2025. That figure counts votes in that event, not people or fans. See Sanrio’s 2025 announcement.
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Quick Recap
Best Value
- KUROMI: The 8-inch Kuromi plush is dressed in the most supercute pajama set with a coordinating eye mask
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- OFFICIAL PRODUCT: Officially licensed Sanrio product from Jazwares
Rank #4
- KUROMI Kuromi's vibrant 12-inch Neon Plush, sporting a playful plaid skirt, two matching bows, and pompoms on the jester collar, brings a burst of color and joy that’s truly larger-than-life
- 12-INCH PLUSH Kuromi's delightful 12-inch Neon Plush is now joined by her neon friends, Hello Kitty and My Melody, creating a lively and colorful collection (each sold separately)
- ULTIMATE GIFT Transform every birthday, special occasion, and celebration into an unforgettable experience with the vibrant Kuromi Neon Plush that brings a burst of color and joy
- OFFICIAL PRODUCT Officially licensed Sanrio Kuromi product from Jazwares
Rank #3
- KUROMI UNICORN: This soft 6” plush features Kuromi looking magical as a pastel purple unicorn with a rainbow tail and mane. She also has a metallic gold horn and velvety pink hooves that match her iconic skull bow and the baubles on her jester hat
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Rank #2
- ✔ KAWAII PLUSH FOR EVERYDAY COMFORT – Ultra-soft, round plush made for hugging, relaxing, or adding a cozy touch to your space
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#1 Best Overall
- KUROMI: The 8-inch Kuromi plush is full of flower power in her daisy-covered, pastel-striped dress and matching daisies on her hood
- PASTEL FLORALS: Flowers and pastels scream spring vibes, and Kuromi is prepared for all the lovely weather adventures
- SIX STYLES: The Hello Kitty and Friends Pastel Florals Plush Assortment features Hello Kitty, My Melody, Kuromi, Cinnamoroll, Pompompurin, and Keroppi
- ULTIMATE GIFT: Make any special occasion or day unforgettable with the Kuromi 8” Pastel Florals Plush
- PRODUCT: Officially licensed Sanrio product from Jazwares
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