Who is HamiKuma at Universal’s Halloween Horror Nights?

There’s a new HHN bear in town. HamiKuma, the adorably terrifying bear from Universal Studios Japan, has officially made his U.S. debut, and he’s now stealing the show at Universal Studios Florida! This fan-favorite character is the newest icon to haunt the shelves of the Five & Dime store at Universal Orlando Resort.

HamiKuma first crept onto the scene at Halloween Horror Nights Japan in 2021, where his blend of kowa-kawa (a Japanese style meaning “scary-cute”) instantly captured fans and quickly became the event’s mascot. As with any original theme park character, of course, there’s more than meets the eye…

HamiKuma’s Backstory

According to his eerie origin tale, HamiKuma was once a sideshow act in a traveling circus. His quirky movements and lovable teddy bear-like appearance drew massive crowds, quickly making him the most popular act under the big top.

However, his fame came at a price… jealous fellow performers grew suspicious – some even believed HamiKuma wasn’t a real bear. One fateful night, they lured him into the tent, slashed open his belly, and attempted to uncover the truth. To cover their tracks, they set the circus ablaze, and HamiKuma lost his life in the fire.

But death wasn’t the end.

In the afterlife, a parasitic demon known as Death Bringer discovered HamiKuma’s lifeless form and possessed his body. This unholy fusion brought HamiKuma back to the surface, but his soul remained trapped in the underworld. Now undead and driven by a mysterious force, HamiKuma continues to perform. His belly remains open, and many believe it holds dark secrets still waiting to emerge… or candy. Lots of candy.

Want to witness HamiKuma’s twisted tale? Watch the animated origin story here: 

Over the years, HamiKuma’s twisted persona has expanded with new character forms that each represent a different facet of his dark psyche. HamiKuma Soul was introduced as the physical embodiment of the bear’s lost soul. In 2023, HamiKuma Punk made his debut, channeling his inner rage. Now, in 2025, HamiKuma Candy is set to debut in Japan, representing the manifestation of the bear’s greed.

All four versions are represented in a new collection of plush bag charms, currently exclusive to Japan.

Merchandise at Universal Studios Florida

Now available for the first time in the U.S., exclusive HamiKuma merchandise can be found at Universal Studios Florida’s Five & Dime in the Hollywood area. From a Spirit Jersey, and plush accessories, stateside HHN fans can now celebrate this rising undead star. (Heads up: there are no Annual Pass or Team Member discounts being offered for this merchandise)

• HamiKuma Spirit Jersey | $85
• Plush I.D. Holder & Coin Purse | $20
• Plush Key Chain | $25
• Plush Headband | $30
• Fuzzy Hat | $35
• Buttons & Pins Set | $20

Walk-around character versions of the bear have also been spotted at Universal Studios Hollywood AND Universal Horror Unleashed in Las Vegas. Here’s hoping we see him wander the HHN streets of Universal Studios Florida soon!