Journal of Social Science and Human Research Studies (JSSHRS)

Signs That Come Before Stories: A Semiotic Analysis of the Creation of Kuromi as a Trend

safavi, Sarvenaz

8 June 2026 · Vol. 2, Issue 6, pp. 740-744

DOI: 10.65150/EP-jsshrs/V2E6/2026-11

Abstract

This study focuses on the semiotic approach of the construction of Kuromi as a trend that driven consumer icon between children. In spite of many children that not attracted with the media in which Kuromi characters appears, the character’s produced has achieved extensive popularity. This research aims to investigate the symbolic signs that are rooted in merchandise and create desire, identity formation, and trend that is independent of narrative familiarity by emphasizing the role of semiotics in children’s consumption path. This research focused on identifying recurring semiotic approach, including color schemes, iconography, facial expressions, and poses to investigates how these signs communicate, shape perceptions of identity, and also influence consumer behavior. This research reveal that Kuromi’s black and purple color palette, skull motif, and playful gestures function as signs markers of mischief, edginess, and “coolness”. The constant use of these motifs across merchandise and promotional things reinforces the character’s identity as a stylish, mischievous icon, demonstrating how semiotic strategies shape perceptions and cultural significance. This study shows the power of signs in merchandise-led media culture. Also, showing that semiotic can explain children’s trend driven consumption beyond narrative engagement.

Keywords: Kuromi, Semiotics, Children’s Media, Merchandise Marketing, Qualitative Content Analysis

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safavi, & Sarvenaz (2026). Signs That Come Before Stories: A Semiotic Analysis of the Creation of Kuromi as a Trend. Journal of Social Science and Human Research Studies, 2(6), 740-744. https://doi.org/10.65150/EP-jsshrs/V2E6/2026-11

@article{safavi2026,
  title   = {Signs That Come Before Stories: A Semiotic Analysis of the Creation of Kuromi as a Trend},
  author  = {safavi and Sarvenaz},
  journal = {Journal of Social Science and Human Research Studies},
  year    = {2026},
  volume  = {2},
  number  = {6},
  pages   = {740-744},
  doi     = {10.65150/EP-jsshrs/V2E6/2026-11},
  url     = {https://doi.org/10.65150/EP-jsshrs/V2E6/2026-11}
}

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