Badtz-Maru: The Coolest Penguin in Sanrio’s World

Who Is Badtz-Maru? The Story Behind Sanrio’s Rebellious Penguin

Meet Badtz-Maru, or Baddo Batsu Maru in Japanese—a mischievous, cheekily confident penguin with a personality as spiky as his signature hair. Created by Sanrio in 1993, his name is a clever wordplay: "Badtz" (batsu) refers to an "X," symbolizing a wrong answer, while "Maru" means circle or "O," signifying a correct answer. Together, his name forms XO, a motif often associated with his character and his knack for mischief. Despite his "bad" reputation, Bad Badtz-Maru's irresistible charm has made him a beloved character, showing that even a mischievous penguin can capture hearts everywhere.

Badtz-Maru’s Unique Personality and Character Traits

Badtz-Maru, with his spiky hair and signature smirk, is a memorable and playful addition in the Sanrio universe. Born on April 1st, April Fool's Day, his birthday perfectly aligns with his witty, prankster personality. Often seen with one eye lowered and his tongue sticking out in a playful yet defiant manner, he does things his own way—even if it means siding with the "wrong" team just to keep life interesting. With his talent for turning everyday moments into a humorous life, he has won the hearts of fans who admire his bold and unconventional spirit.

When he's not causing trouble, Badtz-Maru enjoys his quirky hobbies and distinct tastes. He has a penchant for collecting photos of movie stars portraying villains and indulges in his favorite food—expensive sushi—at Ginza. While Badtz-Maru may seem like he's perpetually in the first grade, his ambitions are far from childish. He dreams of becoming "the boss of everything" when he grows up. Even if his mischievous antics occasionally get in the way, his determination to one day call the shots makes him a character full of rebellious charm and boundless ambition.

The World of Badtz-Maru: Friends, Family, and Rivals

Badtz-Maru resides in Gorgeous Town with his lively family. His household includes his pinball-playing father, his nurturing mother, and his energetic younger siblings—the Badtz twins—and his little sister, Tsunko, a pink penguin who sports a nurse's uniform. And let's not forget Pochi, Badtz-Maru's pet alligator, who is just as unpredictable as his mischievous owner.

Badtz-Maru's world is also filled with close companions, including his best friend, the sweet and gentle Hana-Maru, a white seal known as "Good Hana-Maru." Despite their starkly different personalities, they complement each other perfectly, demonstrating the charm of unlikely friendships. Another of his best friends is Pandaba, a lovable female giant panda with a flair for fashion, often seen in a frilly skirt. Together with his family, Badtz-Maru's friends help create a vibrant, humorous world where his adventures and sharp wit shine, bringing laughter and joy to everyone in the Sanrio universe.

Badtz-Maru in Pop Culture and Media

Badtz-Maru has firmly established his place in pop culture through numerous TV appearances, merchandise, and exciting collaborations over the years. In 2006, he became the official mascot for the FIBA World Championship of basketball held in Japan, with his mischievous persona making him a perfect fit for the event. His image appeared on a variety of promotional materials and merchandise, bridging the world of sports with Sanrio's colorful characters. Beyond sports, in 2020, Badtz-Maru joined Hapidanbui, a boy band created by Sanrio, alongside Tuxedo Sam, Keroppi, Pochacco, Hangyodon, and Pekkle. As the band’s vocalist, Badtz-Maru added another dimension to his already multi-faceted character. He also appears in TV shows like Kitty's Paradise and Hello Kitty and Friends Supercute Adventures, where his cheeky personality continues to shine.

Badtz-Maru's collaborations with various brands have solidified his presence in the world of merchandise. Over the years, he has been part of numerous high-profile partnerships with other Sanrio characters, ranging from limited-edition collections with global streetwear brands to collaborations with anime merchandise. This year, he was featured in a stylish partnership with A Bathing Ape, where Sanrio characters, including Badtz-Maru, teamed up with BABY MILO to celebrate its 25th anniversary, appearing on the shirts of this popular streetwear brand.

Badtz-Maru and Hello Kitty: An Unexpected Friendship

Badtz-Maru and Hello Kitty may appear to be polar opposites, but their presence together in Sanrio's world showcases the brand's charm and versatility. While Hello Kitty represents sweetness, kindness, and optimism, Badtz-Maru thrives on mischief, sarcasm, and a rebellious spirit. Despite their contrasting personalities, the two characters complement each other perfectly. Hello Kitty's unwavering positivity often tempers Badtz-Maru's cheeky antics, while his edgy humor adds a playful twist to their dynamic. Together, they exemplify Sanrio's ability to create a world where differences are celebrated, reminding fans that every personality has its unique place and value in a shared universe.

Badtz-Maru in Japan: Where to Find Him Today

Fans eager to experience Badtz-Maru's mischievous charm can find him at several locations across Japan. One of the best places to meet this cheeky penguin is Sanrio Puroland, an indoor theme park in Tokyo that brings Sanrio characters to life. Badtz-Maru, along with other beloved characters like Hello Kitty and Kuromi, appears in live performances, parades, and themed attractions. Visitors can snap photos with Badtz-Maru mascots, enjoy his signature antics up close, and shop for exclusive merchandise, including adorable plush toys and limited-edition items available only at the park.

For those wanting to add a touch of Badtz-Maru to their collection, Sanrio stores across Japan are filled with treasures. From plush toys and stationery to accessories and apparel, these stores offer a wide range of items that capture Badtz-Maru's rebellious spirit. Some locations even feature limited-edition products and pop-up events showcasing exclusive collaborations and designs, making each visit even more exciting.

Badtz-Maru’s Evolution Through the Years

Badtz-Maru was created by Hisato Inoue of Sanrio in 1993, a black penguin known for his spiky hair, wide-eyed expression, and cheeky attitude, capturing the playful spirit of the '90s. His simple design and slightly grumpy expressions quickly made him a symbol of youthful rebellion in the typically sweet and innocent world of Sanrio. In 1995, Hisato Inoue left Sanrio to pursue freelance work, and Kaori Harada took over his design, infusing fresh influences that amplified Badtz-Maru's edgier persona. Harada's designs introduced modern elements, refining Badtz-Maru's look to keep him relevant in the rapidly evolving worlds of fashion, entertainment, and digital media.

Over the years, Badtz-Maru's design has evolved to reflect changing trends while retaining the rebellious charm that defined him from the beginning. His image has appeared on a variety of merchandise, from clothing lines to digital media, and he has even taken on musical roles in Sanrio groups like Hapidanpui, allowing him to stay relevant with new generations. His once-simple look has transformed into a more stylish, fashion-forward version, often featuring bold accessories or new poses that resonate with both younger and older fans. Despite these updates, Badtz-Maru has remained true to his roots—bold, sarcastic, and unapologetically cool. By combining his classic design with modern elements, Badtz-Maru has successfully bridged the gap between nostalgic fans and newer generations.

Why Badtz-Maru Remains a Fan Favorite Worldwide

Badtz-Maru remains a fan favorite worldwide thanks to his relatable, multi-dimensional personality and timeless design, which resonate with fans of all ages. His mischievous, sarcastic nature and rebellious spirit make him a character that feels authentic to anyone who has ever felt out of place or challenged expectations. Although Badtz-Maru only claimed 1st place in the Sanrio Character Ranking once, in 1996, his ability to carve out a unique niche has allowed him to endure, even as other Sanrio characters like Cinnamoroll gained popularity. His design—edgy yet simple, with spiky hair and bold expressions—has proven timeless, allowing him to evolve while retaining the traits that initially made him captivating. Fans from all walks of life continue to connect with Badtz-Maru, as his unapologetically cool demeanor transcends age, ensuring that his quirky charm will remain relevant for generations to come.

Celebrating Badtz-Maru’s Legacy in Sanrio’s Universe

From his mischievous antics in the Sanrio universe to his ongoing presence in merchandise, collaborations, and TV shows alongside other Sanrio characters, Badtz-Maru has cemented his place as a beloved icon who continues to connect with fans worldwide. As a symbol of playful rebellion and a reminder to embrace individuality, Badtz-Maru inspires fans to stay true to themselves. Decades after his debut, his cheeky grin and bold spirit still captivate hearts, proving that sometimes being a little "bad" can sometimes be wonderfully good.

Much like Badtz-Maru's bold and playful spirit, Bokku Boutique offers an exciting selection of unique and quirky items that stand out from the ordinary. Simply browse, add your favorites to the cart, and enjoy a smooth checkout process, with delivery straight to your door. Embrace the cheeky side of life and make your shopping experience as fun and effortless as Badtz-Maru himself!