Mimikyu first appeared in Pokémon Sun and Moon, instantly becoming a fan favorite due to its tragic backstory: it wears a rag fashioned after Pikachu to hide its terrifying true form and make friends. In the world of internet memes, Mimikyu represents the struggle of fitting in, imposter syndrome, or the contrast between a cute exterior and a darker internal reality. It is frequently used in wholesome contexts about wanting affection or in ironic memes where the costume represents a facade someone puts on to navigate social situations or online interactions.