Popular Chinese cartoon character Luo Bao Bei to debut globally next year

Kongfu Panda and Monkey King - popular Chinese characters known around the world - will soon be getting some company on the global stage.

The cartoon Luo Bao Bei, which debuted in China in 2008, will soon be making its international debut.

The show is named for its main character, a seven year old girl, and also features her family and friends. Luo Bao Bei is intended for children between four and seven years old.

Created by DYTM, a leading Chinese media group, the show has brought great happiness to Chinese children. There are over 1000 episodes.

DYTM has invited award-winning writer Dave Ingham, the author of Shaun the Sheep, as a consultant to co-create a new 52 episode series featuring Luo Bao Bei.

DYTM CEO Su Zhong (right) and 9 Story Executive Chairman Neil Court shake hands during the signing ceremony for the international distribution of Chinese animated series Luo Bao Bei. [Photo: China Plus]

This week, DYTM and Toronto-based 9 Story Media Group signed a contract to distribute the children's series worldwide.

9 Story Executive Chairman Neil Court said China is a significant market for them and he is looking forward to Luo Bao Bei's popularity around the world.

Su Zhong, Chairman of DYTM, said the animated girl will bring love and happiness to children and families globally.

"The series is about family care and children's innocence, as well as help and support among people. It is spreading the spirit of Chinese culture," said Su.

A poster of animated series Luo Bao Bei [Photo courtesy by DYTM]

Rather than magic and superpowers that have been popular in children's stories in recent years, Luo Bao Bei is an ordinary girl full of imagination that that anyone can identify with.

Natlie Osborne, Chief Strategy Officer at 9 Story, said they are attracted by Luo Bao Bei because it is not just a Chinese story, but deals with common experiences for every child around the world.

"Our company believes if you want to make the world a better place, you have to start with children,” said Osborne, “this show makes kids happy because it's about company and love. And there are also educational elements. So its company, its happiness and education. It is perfect in line with what our company want."

A poster of animated series Luo Bao Bei [Photo courtesy by DYTM]

Su Zhong said the new episodes also involve many traditional Chinese elements in the story through Luo Bao Bei's daily life.

"The toy Luo Bao Bei plays with, such as kites and diabolo, are Chinese cultural heritage. This is an indirect but effective way to spread Chinese culture to the global audience," added Su.

The animated series will be screened in China in November and in seven western countries next year.