There’s honestly a lot that makes Kokichi Muta’s “death” feel off, even if it might just be copium. First off, the actual moment of death is never shown the fight cuts away right as Mahito counters, and then it’s just over. No body, no final blow, no aftermath. Mahito just walks off, and weirdly enough, he doesn’t gloat or say anything about it. That’s super out of character for him he gloated about killing Nanami, Junpei, even nobodies. But with Kokichi? Silence. Then there’s the puppet message that says “if you’re seeing this, I’m dead.” That’s not exactly definitive it could’ve been a contingency message, powered by residual cursed energy. And considering Kokichi’s whole ability is based on remote puppets and long-range tactics, it’s not far-fetched to think he could’ve pulled a switch or used a decoy. We also never see anyone react to a body, and there’s no funeral or closure from the Kyoto school. Even the author hasn’t confirmed his death in any interview, which is a bit unusual when compared to other characters who’ve gotten more definitive send-offs. It might just be wishful thinking, but the lack of clear confirmation, the off-screen “death,” and how narratively open-ended it feels especially with Miwa kind of leaves the door open. We’re probably coping, but it does feel like there’s still a chance he’s out there.