Mobile Suit Gundam SEED FREEDOM garnering significant acclaim worldwide

The Global Licensing Department serves as the gateway for the overseas expansion of visual works, including the Gundam series, and is responsible for the management and sale of licenses. For Mobile Suit Gundam SEED FREEDOM (hereinafter, SEED FREEDOM), we have undertaken the distribution of the theatrical work overseas, promoting theatrical releases and promotional activities worldwide.
As of July 2020, SEED FREEDOM has been screened in 22 countries and regions worldwide and has been expanded to a total of over 82 countries and regions when including distribution and streaming. In terms of distribution, it is essential to consider the various circumstances and cultural differences of each country and region. The key is to coordinate with Group companies around the world to ensure the optimal timing for local releases. Additionally, in promotional activities, we have endeavored to cater to each country by organizing screenings and events. As a result, we received a great response both in Japan and in countries around the world, attracting many fans and generating significant excitement. We believe we have successfully expanded our new fan base overseas, in addition to the existing fans of past works.

The success of SEED FREEDOM is underpinned by the 2023 TV series Mobile Suit Gundam THE WITCH FROM MERCURY. Although the overseas expansion of TV anime was primarily focused on distribution, the widespread adoption of Internet streaming has resulted in an unprecedented response and expansion of the fan base, making it a turning point compared with previous Gundam visual works. This foundation of interest and enthusiasm for SEED FREEDOM, combined with various promotional efforts, has led to its success. Additionally, the collaboration across the Bandai Namco Group under the ALL BANDAI NAMCO concept allowed us to launch products and services in conjunction with the theatrical release. Early information sharing and coordination with overseas Group companies and local distributors enabled effective cross-promotion as a Group.
Recently, the growing popularity of Japanese animation has led to an expanding market. However, recognition and popularity of Gundam still vary across different countries and regions.
I consider the challenge of exploring new regions as a mission to undertake. Moving forward, we aim to contribute to raising Gundam’s recognition by implementing measures tailored to local circumstances for the further global expansion of visual works.