Addressing Bakugo: The Nicknames Used for Him in My Hero Academia

Since the introduction of My Hero Academia to anime fans worldwide, Katsuki Bakugo has quickly become one of the series' most notable characters. Initially portrayed as Izuku Midoriya's childhood friend-turned-bully, Bakugo's evolution throughout the series has been truly remarkable.

Although often regarded as hot-headed by most characters, Bakugo has occasionally revealed his softer side. Midoriya affectionately refers to him as 'Kacchan', which is a combination of his nickname and the honorific "chan".

The only two characters who call Bakugo 'Kacchan' in My Hero Academia

Throughout the series, it is noteworthy that not everyone addresses him by his given name. In My Hero Academia, only Midoriya and Kaminari refer to Bakugo as 'Kacchan', and here's the reason behind it.

1) Izuku Midoriya

Izuku Midoriya as seen in My Hero Academia(image via Studio Bones)

The friendship between Deku and Bakugo has been a standout aspect of the series. Although they were friends in their childhood, Bakugo grew to resent Midoriya for his heroic nature. Instead of striving to be more heroic himself, Bakugo chose to relentlessly bully his former friend for lacking a quirk.

Despite Bakugo's mistreatment, Midoriya never held his friend in lower regard. However, over time, Bakugo stopped tormenting Midoriya and began to view him differently after learning about his possession of All Might's quirk. Motivated by the desire to surpass his former friend, Bakugo made a vow to become stronger and ultimately prove himself as the top hero.

2) Denki Kaminari

Throughout the series, Midoriya has affectionately referred to Bakugo as 'Kacchan,' a term of endearment that originated when they were just children. Even now, Midoriya continues to use this nickname as a way to connect with the person he believes Bakugo can be, rather than the brash and confrontational hero-in-training he currently exhibits.

Displayed above is Denki Kaminari, as presented in My Hero Academia (image via Studio Bones).

Despite not being particularly close, Denki Kaminari maintains a unique connection with Bakugo throughout the series. Initially, Kaminari harbored some reservations towards Bakugo, which stemmed from his conceited and impulsive demeanor.

Over time, their relationship has grown more candid, reaching a point where Kaminari occasionally addresses Bakugo as 'Kacchan', a nickname solely reserved for Midoriya. Despite Bakugo's impolite demeanor, Kaminari frequently overlooks it and opts for playful banter and irritating him.

As the story unfolds, the dynamic between the two gradually transforms. Kaminari's carefree and playful nature sharply contrasts with Bakugo's conceited demeanor, resulting in amusing and captivating instances throughout the series.

In conclusion, Bakugo and Kaminari, both aspiring to become professional heroes, have successfully developed a cooperative dynamic. Bakugo's wise counsel has greatly contributed to Kaminari's growth and enhancement of his quirk.

The nickname 'Kacchan' given to Bakugo by Midoriya during their childhood serves as a poignant reminder of their intertwined history. In contrast, Bakugo refers to Midoriya as 'Deku', a term conveying a sense of worthlessness. This perception stems from Midoriya's lack of a quirk from birth, rendering him largely defenseless.

In the latest season of My Hero Academia, Bakugo has refrained from referring to Midoriya as 'Deku', particularly after the events of the Paranormal Liberation War. Over the course of the past few years, their relationship has strengthened as they have battled together and strived to defend one another against their adversaries.

Editor's P/S

As a passionate fan of My Hero Academia, I find the exploration of the nicknames used for Katsuki Bakugo to be a fascinating topic. The use of 'Kacchan' by Izuku Midoriya and Denki Kaminari provides valuable insights into their relationships and dynamics with Bakugo.

The nickname 'Kacchan' carries a significant emotional weight, representing the complex history between Bakugo and Midoriya. Despite their childhood friendship, Bakugo's resentment towards Midoriya's heroic nature drove him to relentlessly bully his former friend. However, Midoriya's unwavering belief in Bakugo's potential and his affectionate use of the nickname 'Kacchan' suggest a deep understanding of the person Bakugo can become.

On the other hand, Denki Kaminari's use of 'Kacchan' adds a playful and lighthearted element to their relationship. Despite their contrasting personalities, Kaminari's ability to overlook Bakugo's abrasive nature and engage in playful banter creates amusing and entertaining moments in the series.

The evolution of Bakugo's relationships with Midoriya and Kaminari reflects his own character development throughout the series. As Bakugo grows and matures, his interactions with these two characters highlight his changing perspectives and motivations. The use of 'Kacchan' by Midoriya and Kaminari serves as a reminder of Bakugo's past and the bonds he has formed along his journey to becoming a top hero.