Why suica Is Trending Today?

Suica's penguin mascot is retiring, causing concern among fans, including those of the Kotsu Line in Kagawa. The penguin's departure has sparked discussions about potential replacements, with some suggesting Duolingo's owl. Meanwhile, JR East is introducing QR code payments and increasing limits on its Suica card app, aiming to compete with PayPay. The penguin's retirement has led to a surge in traffic on JR East's e-commerce site.

Suica, the iconic penguin mascot of JR East's Suica contactless payment system, is set to retire at the end of the 2026 academic year. This news has sparked sadness and shock among fans, with some speculating that the move is a result of JR East's cost-cutting measures. The penguin, which has been a symbol of public transportation integration and a beloved figure in the Tohoku region, will be replaced by a new character. Meanwhile, the mobile Suica service is reportedly planning to increase its charge limit to over 20,000 yen, potentially making a popular internet joke a reality.