Why the random katakana in 「すみっコぐらし」?


Some of you may be familiar with the San-X line of characters called
[すみっコぐらし](http://www.san-x.co.jp/sumikko/). The shtick is that they're timid
and like "living (ぐらし) in the corner (すみっこ)"

I know katakana is frequently used for emphasis, but what is the wordplay
intended by writing just the single syllable コ in すみっこ in katakana?

![enter image description here](https://i.stack.imgur.com/G4HTK.png)




What is a "corner" shaped like? ;)

In addition to drawing your attention by being unusual, it's visually
appropriate for the meaning. I'd suggest it's as much/more a graphic design
choice than any linguistic emphasis.




What is a "corner" shaped like? ;)

In addition to drawing your attention by being unusual, it's visually
appropriate for the meaning. I'd suggest it's as much/more a graphic design
choice than any linguistic emphasis.

