Kumamoto Prefecture's Business Manager Visits Oxford

Kumamon, who has been active as a character for Kumamoto Prefecture since 2011 and currently serves as its Business Manager, was invited to the UK by Paddington Bear, a character with a similar bear motif that has been loved worldwide for many years.

He was guided by Paddington Bear, who was born in 1958 and is a senior figure in the world of bear characters, to the MINI factory in Oxford, which is celebrating its 100th anniversary this year. Paddington Bear, acting as his escort, cited the MINI, launched in 1959, as an example of enduring appeal, highlighting three key factors: its distinctive form, originality in design and color, and agile maneuverability.





After the factory tour, Paddington Bear surprised Kumamon with the unveiling of a "Kumamon-spec MINI." This MINI Convertible has been painted to resemble Kumamon's face, with the headlights serving as his eyes, the fog lights as his rosy cheeks, and the side mirrors as his ears. The sides are adorned with Kumamon's familiar illustration and the name "KUMAMON." in MINI's font.

It remains unclear whether Kumamon has obtained a driver's license, but his sheer delight is palpable in the photographs.

This Kumamon MINI is scheduled to be unveiled at a local dealership in Kumamoto on Saturday, July 13th. Additionally, a commemorative sticker will be distributed to those who test drive or receive a quote at MINI dealerships nationwide.