Top 10 Most Popular Anime Characters of 2024: Why We Love Them

Hey, anime fam! 2024 was an absolute banger of a year for anime, wasn’t it? From heart-pounding action to tear-jerking moments, the characters we met or grew to love even more stole the show. If you’ve ever found yourself wondering who the most popular anime characters in the world are, you’re in for a treat. This article dives into the top 10 most popular anime characters 2024, focusing on why they’ve captured our hearts. These aren’t just characters, they’re icons who’ve sparked cosplay crazes, fan art explosions, and endless X posts. From underdogs to overpowered legends, let’s explore why these characters are the most popular anime characters in the world in 2024 and what makes them so unforgettable.

Why These Characters Are Loved

What makes a character one of the most popular anime characters in the world? It’s more than just being in a hit show. It’s about their ability to make us laugh, cry, or cheer through their stories, personalities, and growth. In 2024, anime’s global reach hit new heights, with platforms like Crunchyroll reporting a record 51 million votes for their Anime Awards. Japan’s Joysound survey (PR Times) and global rankings like Sportskeeda show a mix of new faces and timeless heroes dominating the scene. These characters resonate because they reflect our own struggles, dreams, and quirks, making them more than just animated figures, they’re friends we root for.

1. Sung Jin-woo (Solo Leveling)

Who He Is: Sung Jin-woo is the star of Solo Leveling, a manhwa-turned-anime that exploded in 2024. Starting as the weakest hunter in a monster-filled world, he gains a mysterious power that transforms him into a powerhouse.

Why Fans Love Him: Jin-woo’s journey from zero to hero is the ultimate power fantasy, but it’s his heart that truly wins fans over. His relentless determination to protect his family and grow stronger resonates with anyone who’s ever felt underestimated. Fans on X have called him “the embodiment of grinding through life’s challenges,” and his calm, strategic mind makes every battle a thrill. His emotional depth, balancing newfound power with loyalty to his loved ones, makes him a character you can’t help but admire.

Impact: Jin-woo’s popularity soared when Solo Leveling won Anime of the Year at the 2025 Crunchyroll Anime Awards, with Jin-woo himself snagging Best Main Character. His story of self-improvement has inspired countless fans to chase their own goals.

2. Frieren (Frieren: Beyond Journey’s End)

Who She Is: Frieren, the immortal elf from Frieren: Beyond Journey’s End, is a mage who’s lived for centuries, exploring life and loss after defeating the Demon King.

Why Fans Love Her: Frieren’s quiet wisdom and emotional journey make her a standout. Her struggle to understand human emotions while cherishing fleeting moments hits fans right in the feels. As one fan on MyAnimeList put it, “Frieren teaches us to slow down and value the little things.” Her stunning magical displays and heartfelt bonds with her companions, like Fern, add depth to her character, making her both relatable and awe-inspiring.

Impact: Frieren: Beyond Journey’s End won four awards at the Crunchyroll Anime Awards, including Best Director, cementing Frieren’s status as a global favorite. Her introspective story has sparked deep discussions among fans.

3. Satoru Gojo (Jujutsu Kaisen)

Who He Is: Satoru Gojo is the charismatic, blindfold-wearing sorcerer from Jujutsu Kaisen, known for his unmatched power and playful demeanor.

Why Fans Love Him: Gojo’s confidence and humor make him magnetic, but it’s his protective nature toward his students that seals the deal. Fans love his ability to steal every scene with his witty banter and epic battles, yet his mysterious past adds layers of intrigue. “Gojo’s the guy you want to be and befriend,” one X post raved. His balance of strength and vulnerability makes him a character fans can’t get enough of.

Impact: Gojo topped Japan’s Joysound survey for the second year running (PR Times) and has a massive global following, with his iconic blindfold inspiring countless cosplays.

4. Tanjiro Kamado (Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba)

Who He Is: Tanjiro is the compassionate protagonist of Demon Slayer, fighting to save his demon-turned sister Nezuko and defeat evil forces.

Why Fans Love Him: Tanjiro’s boundless kindness sets him apart in a world of violence. His ability to empathize with even his enemies makes him a unique shonen hero. Fans adore his determination and the way he carries his family’s legacy, with one Reddit user saying, “Tanjiro’s heart is what makes him unstoppable.” His iconic haori and sword fights are just the cherry on top.

Impact: Demon Slayer won Best Continuing Series at the Crunchyroll Anime Awards, and Tanjiro’s emotional depth keeps him a fan favorite worldwide.

5. Izuku Midoriya (My Hero Academia)

Who He Is: Izuku Midoriya, aka Deku, is the quirkless-turned-hero of My Hero Academia, striving to become the world’s greatest hero.

Why Fans Love Him: Deku’s journey from an underdog to a powerful hero resonates with fans who see themselves in his struggles. His selflessness and determination to save others, even at great personal cost, make him inspiring. “Deku’s the hero we all wish we could be,” a fan on X shared. His growth and friendships at U.A. High add relatability and heart to his story.

Impact: My Hero Academia remains a global juggernaut, and Deku’s inspiring message of heroism keeps him among the top characters of 2024.

6. Kafka Hibino (Kaiju No 8)

Who He Is: Kafka is the lead of Kaiju No 8, a 2024 hit where he transforms into a kaiju while chasing his dream to join the Defense Force.

Why Fans Love Him: Kafka’s relatability as an ordinary guy with big dreams makes him a fan favorite. His struggle to balance his human life with his monstrous powers is both thrilling and heartfelt. Fans love his friendship with Mina Ashiro and his determination to prove himself, with one Sportskeeda review calling him “the underdog we all root for.” His unique premise adds a fresh twist to the action genre.

Impact: Kaiju No 8 earned 16 nominations at the Crunchyroll Anime Awards, and Kafka’s story has made him a rising star in 2024.

7. Bakugo Katsuki (My Hero Academia)

Who He Is: Bakugo is the explosive, hot-headed hero from My Hero Academia, known for his rivalry with Deku and his growth into a true hero.

Why Fans Love Him: Bakugo’s fiery personality and intense battles make him a standout, but it’s his character development that wins fans over. His journey from arrogance to self-awareness, especially in his relationship with Deku, is compelling. “Bakugo’s growth is what makes him real,” a fan on Reddit noted. His loyalty and drive to be the best resonate deeply.

Impact: Bakugo ranked high in Japan’s Joysound survey and has a global fanbase, with his dynamic personality inspiring fan art and cosplay.

8. Anya Forger (Spy x Family)

Who She Is: Anya is the telepathic little girl from Spy x Family, adopted by a spy and an assassin, bringing chaos and charm to their lives.

Why Fans Love Her: Anya’s adorable antics and telepathic shenanigans make her a joy to watch. Her innocence and desire to help her family, despite her mischievous streak, create heartwarming moments. Fans on X call her “the ultimate mood-lifter,” and her catchphrases like “Waku waku!” have become iconic. Her bond with Loid and Yor is the heart of the series.

Impact: Anya won the “Must Protect At All Costs” award at the Crunchyroll Anime Awards, solidifying her as a global favorite.

9. Okarun (DAN DA DAN)

Who He Is: Okarun is the high schooler from DAN DA DAN, caught in a world of spirits and curses alongside his friend Momo.

Why Fans Love Him: Okarun’s quirky personality and growth from an ordinary teen to a supernatural fighter make him endearing. His dynamic with Momo and his bravery in facing bizarre threats add humor and heart. “Okarun’s chaos is so relatable,” a fan on Reddit shared. The wild energy of DAN DA DAN makes him a unique protagonist.

Impact: DAN DA DAN received 22 nominations at the Crunchyroll Anime Awards, and Okarun’s charm has made him a breakout star.

10. Laios (Delicious in Dungeon)

Who He Is: Laios leads an adventuring party in Delicious in Dungeon, cooking monsters to survive their dungeon-crawling quests.

Why Fans Love Him: Laios’s passion for food and optimistic leadership make him a breath of fresh air. His resourcefulness and care for his team, combined with the series’ unique premise, win fans over. “Laios makes you want to cook a dragon,” a MyAnimeList user joked. His enthusiasm for culinary adventures adds a fun twist to the fantasy genre.

Impact: Delicious in Dungeon earned 16 nominations at the Crunchyroll Anime Awards, and Laios’s charm has made him a beloved character.

Why These Characters Matter

These characters aren’t just popular, they’re the heart of anime’s global phenomenon in 2024. They inspire fans to create, connect, and celebrate through cosplay, fan art, and discussions on platforms like X. Whether it’s Jin-woo’s perseverance, Frieren’s wisdom, or Anya’s charm, these characters reflect the diverse emotions and stories that make anime so special. They remind us why we keep coming back to anime, to feel, to dream, and to find heroes who inspire us.

Wrapping It Up

The top 10 most popular anime characters of 2024 have left an indelible mark on fans worldwide. From Sung Jin-woo’s epic rise to Laios’s culinary adventures, these characters have brought us joy, inspiration, and countless reasons to keep watching anime. Who’s your favorite? Share your thoughts, and for more anime news and character rankings, visit Shinime.blog. Here’s to another year of epic anime moments!