Kumamon arrives in Thailand
In this article (5)
The first official theme stores of Japanese bear character Kumamon have opened in Thailand’s capital city, Bangkok.
Kumamon is a mascot created by the government of Kumamoto Prefecture in Japan. It was created in 2010 for a campaign called to draw tourists to the region after the Kyushu Shinkansen line opened. Now it has grown into an internationally-recognised character, especially in Southeast Asia where Japanese and Korean cartoon and animated characters, and fashion trends, are quickly adopted.
The first Kumamon store opened on the third floor of Siam Paragon shopping centre, at B-Trends in late July. That was followed by a more recent opening at Studio B Trend in the Emporium shopping centre.
The Thai rights to Kumamon have been acquired by ICC International, who invited Kumamon’s creators to visit Thailand during a recent trade fair.
ICC says it plans to open more themed stores inside premium department stores in Bangkok and in other Thai provinces.
Questions & Answers
Q.Which company holds the rights to Kumamon in Thailand?
Which company holds the rights to Kumamon in Thailand?
The Thai rights for Kumamon have been acquired by ICC International. This company also invited Kumamon's creators to Thailand for a trade fair and plans further expansion of theme stores.
Q.Where are the first Kumamon theme stores located in Bangkok?
Where are the first Kumamon theme stores located in Bangkok?
The first Kumamon store opened on the third floor of Siam Paragon shopping centre, specifically at B-Trends. A second store followed at Studio B Trend inside The Emporium shopping centre in Bangkok.
Q.Why was the Kumamon character originally created in Japan?
Why was the Kumamon character originally created in Japan?
Kumamon was created by the Kumamoto Prefecture government in 2010. Its original purpose was to draw tourists to the region after the new Kyushu Shinkansen line became operational.
Q.What are the future expansion plans for Kumamon stores in Thailand?
What are the future expansion plans for Kumamon stores in Thailand?
ICC International plans to open more themed stores. These new locations will be situated inside premium department stores within Bangkok and also in other provinces across Thailand.