Synopsis
The animated adaptation at last reveals the truth behind Hamikuma's beginnings. Originally, Hamikuma was the main attraction of a traveling circus, captivating crowds with his cute appearance and strange movements, which drew in large audiences. This popularity bred jealousy among his fellow performers, who feared he would eclipse them. Acting on rumors that Hamikuma was not a real bear, the circus troupe tricked him into a big tent one night and cut open his stomach, only to find it vacant. To hide their crime, they set the tent on fire, sending Hamikuma and themselves to the underworld. After falling into that realm, the "Death Bringer," an entity seeking to return to the world above, took over Hamikuma's eviscerated body. This possession granted Hamikuma immortality, enabling him to resurface, though his soul remained trapped below. Now, Hamikuma has returned to the mortal world and reclaimed the spotlight, yet various mysterious beings continue to reside within his open belly, waiting for their chance to ascend.