Kuma-chan Flash Mob in Taipei: New Gymnastics Dance Features "Hold Each Move for 4 Seconds"

▲ Kuma-chan's newly launched "4U (for you) Gymnastics Method."

Reported and photographed by You t
ru / Taipei

The globally popular Kuma-chan (Kumamon) has launched a new gymnastics dance. The "4U (for you) Gymnastics Method," which features moves held for four seconds each, promotes a healthy lifestyle. Making its first stop in Taiwan, Kuma-chan held a flash mob dancing event this afternoon (16th) on the streets of Taipei. The event featured a performance of the new gymnastics routine, with Kuma-chan also making a special appearance in its "slim version," drawing crowds of fans with its adorable look.


▲ Kuma-chan (Kumamon), has launched a new gymnastics dance.


Born with the opening of the Kyushu Shinkansen in Japan, Kuma-chan was appointed as the Happiness Minister of Kumamoto Prefecture in 2014, and its merchandise has become a must-buy for tourists visiting Kumamoto. In early 2015, reports emerged in Japan that Kuma-chan had secretly eaten Valentine’s Day chocolate and hadn’t taken weight-loss efforts seriously, resulting in a demotion from "Marketing Minister of Kumamoto Prefecture" to "Acting Marketing Minister."

To slim down, Kuma-chan has launched the new "4U (for you) Gymnastics Method," giving rise to a brand-new gymnastics demonstration DVD titled "Kuma-chan 4U Happy Health Workout." Following the rhythm of the music, each move is performed for a benchmark duration of four seconds. At the launch event, Kuma-chan specially performed the moves from the DVD and even demonstrated how the "slim Kuma-chan" would look — stuffing its hand into its big belly — impressing fans with its incredible flexibility and hilarious moves, which drew loud cheers.


▲ Kuma-chan (Kumamon) performs getting slim, while a sister figure helps put the tracksuit back on.


▲ International media report on Kuma-chan's health campaign.