Marumaru Manul

Marumaru Manul debuted in 2020 as a series of short, animated segments produced by Kachidoki Studio. The series centers on the daily life of a Pallas's cat, known as a manul, characterized by its notably round appearance and stoic expressions. Developed as a lighthearted, slice-of-life program, the project aimed to capitalize on the internet's enduring fascination with the manul's unique features, translating the animal's distinct biology into a simplified, charming aesthetic.

The character design leans heavily into the 'marumaru'—or 'round'—aesthetic, a common stylistic choice in Japanese character goods designed to evoke feelings of comfort and accessibility. By utilizing minimalist animation and a focus on the creature's slow-paced, often comical behavior, the studio created a meditative viewing experience. Upon release, the series was received as a gentle form of digital escapism, finding a niche audience among fans of animal-themed short-form media.