Toru Kazama, called Kazama-kun by classmates, is Shinchan's friend and peer. He presents an impeccably groomed appearance, focuses intensely on academics, and attends extracurriculars like English cram school. Kazama often exudes a know-it-all attitude that can seem snobbish, prioritizing studies above play. Despite this refined exterior, he secretly enjoys magical girl anime and manga, especially Magical Girl Moe-P, and harbors crushes on several girls, striving to hide these interests. He shares a close bond with his mother and admires his architect father, who frequently works overseas, for his English skills and easygoing nature.

In *Crayon Shin-chan: Roar! Kasukabe Animal Kingdom*, Kazama belongs to the Kasukabe Defense Organization. Exposure to a partial animalization drink transforms his body into that of a penguin while retaining his human head. This hybrid form enables him to employ penguin abilities, such as rapid swimming, to navigate challenges and evade foes. Alongside friends similarly affected—Masao as a bat, Nene as a rabbit, and Bo as a pangolin—he assists Shinnosuke in confronting the SKBE organization. Their animal traits prove essential for overcoming obstacles and resisting the human-animalization scheme.

Kazama's background includes recurring efforts to gain acceptance within elite social circles, often thwarted by Shinchan's antics. His complex friendship with Shinchan involves frequent teasing and arguments, yet underlying loyalty surfaces during distress or separation. Recurring narrative hints suggest a potential future romantic connection with Himawari, Shinchan's sister, depicted through episodes showing blushing and affectionate interactions like hand-holding.