Delulu (/dəˈluːluː/ ⓘ) is an internet slang term used to describe the belief that one can influence one's own destiny through sheer willpower.
Derived from the English word delusional, the term delulu has its origins in internet communities obsessed with K-pop culture, such as the OneHallyu Forum active around 2013 and 2014.
Used as an adjective or a noun, it referred to individuals who harbored unrealistic hopes of meeting a celebrity of whom they were a fan, indicating a parasocial relationship characterized by delusional beliefs.
[4] Multiple creators have embraced the term "delulu", including incorporating it as part of their short-form videos.
In its modern form, it is used to denote the idea that one could influence their life position through utter force of will, drawing parallels to the "manifesting" movement kicked off by Oprah Winfrey in the 2000s or the "fake it till you make it" aphorism prevalent during the 1970s.