When it comes to kawaii characters, there really isn’t a shortage of them coming from Japan! While most people will without a doubt be familiar with cute characters such as Hello Kitty, this character in the photo is less well-known outside of Japan. This is Penguin? (yes, the question mark is part of its name!), a Sumikko Gurashi.
Sumikko Gurashi literally translates to “Life in the corner”. That’s where they feel most comfortable. When you put a Sumikko Gurashi in the center of the room, they will run back to the corner.
Introverts might be able to relate. ~_^
Penguin? (ぺんぎん?) is unsure of its identity. It is implied that it is actually a Kappa, but regardless, its name is Penguin?, with a question mark because its identity is questionable.
Sumikko Gurashi (すみっコぐらし) is a set of fictional characters produced by the Japanese company San-X.
Sumikko Gurashi is special because it’s not just cute — it’s super relatable. The characters are all a little shy, anxious, or quirky, and they love staying in cozy corners where they feel safe. Each character has its own little story, like Shirokuma, a polar bear who doesn’t like the cold, or Tonkatsu, a fried pork cutlet that’s mostly fat and was left uneaten.
I have only one character of the Sumikko Gurashi, Penguin?.
Sumikko Gurashi characters are created by a Japanese stationery company called San X, who also made Rilakkuma.
Unlike other kawaii characters that are just happy and cheerful, Sumikko Gurashi has a more gentle, nostalgic, and even a little bittersweet vibe. It’s about finding comfort in small things, being yourself, and embracing life’s little odd moments. That’s why so many people—especially introverts and people who love cozy things—feel connected to them!
