Rilakkuma

Aki Kondo is the author of the fictional character Rilakkuma, which is produced by the Japanese company San-X. Since the character's introduction in 2003, San-X has used Rilakkuma to create stationery, merchandise, and a number of collaboration cafes. In addition to picture books and comics, the year 2019 saw the release of the stop-motion animated series Rilakkuma and Kaoru.

Rilakkuma first appeared in San-four-panel X's comic series Rilakkuma Seikatsu in 2003. It appears one day in the apartment of a female office worker named Kaoru, who only appears as a silhouette in Rilakkuma Seikatsu, which describes its origin story. Rilakkuma spends his days unwinding. The zipper on its back reveals that it is a costume, and its true form is unknown. It is accompanied by other creatures in the series, each with its own storyline.

Rilakkuma, the name of this animated character, means "Bear in relaxed mood." With his two close friends Kiiroitori, the yellow chick, and Korilakkuma, the white bear, Rilakkuma is a laid-back, carefree bear.