Series & First Appearance
Kofuku is a character from the anime and manga series Noragami, created by Adachitoka. She first appears in Chapter 8 of the manga and Episode 6 of the anime adaptation, which premiered in 2014 and was produced by studio Bones.
Profile at a Glance
Kofuku is a minor god and the personification of poverty, though she presents herself cheerfully and energetically. She has an apparent age in her late teens or early twenties and serves primarily as a supportive ally to the protagonist, Yato, and his friends. Kofuku possesses the ability to manipulate luck and fate, which she often uses to assist those around her, despite her associations often leading to humorous misfortunes.
Personality & Motivations
Kofuku is characterized by her vibrant energy and gentle demeanor, even in challenging situations. Despite being a god of poverty, she maintains an optimistic outlook and is known for her whimsical nature. She has a compassionate side, often helping Yato and others navigate their hardships. One of her notable quirks includes her adoration for food, particularly sweets, which often leads to comedic moments in the series. Kofuku’s primary motivation revolves around supporting Yato’s ambitions and helping those in need, despite her own limitations as a poverty deity.
Abilities / Powers
Kofuku’s main abilities are tied to her status as a minor god. She can manipulate luck and fortune, which she attempts to use for positive outcomes, although this often results in unexpected consequences. Her powers can also extend to influencing events around her, albeit with a sense of irony given her domain of poverty. In battle, Kofuku often relies on her wits and charm rather than brute strength. Notably, her powers are somewhat limited—while she can influence luck, it doesn’t grant her omnipotence, and her relationship with other gods can complicate her abilities.
Major Story Arcs & Growth
Kofuku plays a significant role in several story arcs throughout Noragami. In the beginning, she is introduced as Daikoku’s girlfriend and establishes a friendly rapport with Yato, demonstrating her willingness to support him. As the series progresses, her interactions deepen, revealing her backstory and the inherent challenges of being a minor god in a world dominated by more powerful entities. A turning point occurs when Kofuku faces her limitations and fears, ultimately leading her to re-evaluate her role in Yato’s life and the conflicts surrounding them, especially in episodes dealing with the aftermath of divine confrontations.
Notable Relationships
Kofuku shares a significant romantic relationship with Daikoku, a more prominent god of wealth, which adds depth to both their characters. Although her association with Daikoku presents challenges, Kofuku finds solace in her friendships with Yato and Yukine, forming a crucial support network. Her relationship with Yato is characterized by a mix of playful banter and mutual respect, as she often offers him guidance despite her own struggles. The dynamic between Kofuku, Daikoku, and Yato illustrates a complex web of interactions among gods that define her narrative arc.
Iconic Moments & Quotes
One memorable moment occurs in Noragami Episode 6, where Kofuku’s lighthearted response to serious situations provides comic relief but also hints at her deeper vulnerabilities as a poverty god. Another scene in Chapter 18 showcases her existential reflections on being a lower-ranked deity and her fears regarding her future status, resonating with fans for its depth.
Kofuku notably states, "Just because I’m a poverty god doesn’t mean I get a kick out of making others suffer," revealing her inner conflict between her divine status and personal desires while adding a layer of empathy to her character.
Trivia & Behind-the-Scenes
Voice actors who brought Kofuku to life include Kaori Nazuka in the Japanese version and Tia Ballard in the English dub, with both receiving praise for capturing her lively spirit. Kofuku has a strong fanbase reflected in her popularity poll rankings, often listed among favored characters for her quirky charm and relatable struggles. Her design features distinct, colorful attire reflective of her vibrant personality, emphasizing her dual nature as a divine being and a relatable character within the anime’s universe. Additionally, Kofuku’s portrayal challenges the stereotypes of gods, showcasing a more human side to divine characters while maintaining a connection to Japanese folklore.
