Ningbo character Tuntunzai makes Bangkok buzz

Tuntunzai's second Thai pop-up opens at Central World in Bangkok. [Photo provided to chinadaily.com.cn]

Tuntunzai, a hit character created in Ningbo of East China's Zhejiang province, has returned to Bangkok with a limited-time immersive bakery pop-up blending Thai flair and emotional comfort.

On July 14, "Tuntunzai" — a capybara-inspired character known for its calm, healing vibes — opened its latest pop-up experience at Central World's ground floor atrium, transforming the space into a warm and whimsical Thai bakery utopia.

Inspired by the internet's fascination with capybaras — known for their calm and unbothered demeanor — Tuntunzai was created in late 2023 by Ningbo Kule Chaowan Creative and Cultural Co Ltd. Wu Shengfeng, the company's founder and CEO, saw the potential in turning the mellow charm of the water-loving rodent into an emotional anchor for young people navigating modern life. With its plump body, sleepy eyes, and laidback personality, the character quickly rose to fame, becoming the brand's best-selling creation and a regional sensation.

Following a buzz-worthy debut at the 18th Seoul Illustration Fair in 2024, where it drew over 50,000 visitors in just three days, Tuntunzai made a major splash in Thailand this May with a pop-up at Bangkok's EmSphere shopping mall.  

At the ongoing pop-up at Central World, visitors are greeted by a life-sized Tuntunzai dressed as a baker, surrounded by tropical greenery, Thai-style motifs, and warm bakery scents, creating a multi-sensory escape from the summer heat. Exclusive Thai-themed merchandise, including a durian-shaped plush that opens to reveal a mini Tuntunzai, has proven particularly popular among locals.

Timed with the 50th anniversary of China-Thailand diplomatic relations, the event underscores a unique blend of cross-cultural creativity. Visitors can explore the space daily from July 14 to 27 and soak in the joy, relaxation, and healing energy that have made Tuntunzai a top-selling character in China's designer toy market.