Cosplay, also known as costume play, is a popular activity in which participants wear costumes and accessories to represent a specific character or idea. The origins of cosplay can be traced back to science fiction conventions in the 1930s, but it has gained widespread popularity in recent decades, particularly in Japan and other parts of Asia.
When was cosplay popular?
In Japan, cosplay has been popular since the 1970s, when it was first introduced to the country by manga and anime fans. The activity quickly gained popularity among Japanese youth, and it has since become a major part of Japanese popular culture. In recent years, cosplay has also become increasingly popular in other parts of Asia, such as South Korea and China, as well as in the United States and other Western countries.

Reasons for cosplay popularity
The popularity of cosplay can be attributed to a number of factors. For many people, cosplay is a way to express their love for a particular character or story, and it allows them to become that character for a short time. It also allows people to showcase their creativity and attention to detail, as many cosplayers spend a lot of time and effort creating their costumes and accessories.
In addition to being a form of self-expression and creativity, cosplay has also become a major part of the entertainment industry. Many anime and manga conventions, as well as other pop culture events, feature cosplay competitions, where participants compete for prizes and recognition. Cosplay has also become a popular subject for media coverage, with many television shows and websites dedicated to showcasing the best cosplay costumes and performances.

Overall, cosplay has become a popular activity around the world, and it shows no signs of slowing down. Whether it is a way to express love for a favorite character, showcase creativity, or compete in competitions, cosplay continues to be a beloved pastime for many people.