Growing Global Recognition of the Gundam Series

TakaiGlobal recognition of the Gundam series has been growing significantly following the release of the animated television series Mobile Suit Gundam THE WITCH FROM MERCURY in 2022, the theatrical film Mobile Suit Gundam SEED FREEDOM in 2024, and the theatrical film and animated television series Mobile Suit Gundam GQuuuuuuX in 2025. This has been fueled by the global popularity of Japanese IPs and greater accessibility through online streaming platforms, which in turn has led to tangible results such as increased viewership and box office revenue. This surge in recognition has been especially pronounced in North America, signaling that our ongoing promotional efforts in the region are starting to bear fruit.

IkeuchiI feel that there is already solid recognition of the Gundam series in Asia, and our visual works have helped spur greater interest among fans in Gundam-related products and services. In Europe, differences in language and culture lead to diverse anime preferences and ways of enjoying content. For this reason, it is crucial to localize content based on an understanding of each culture rather than releasing content uniformly. We are therefore working to roll out our content in a manner that integrates seamlessly into local cultures and daily life.

Forging Direct Connections with Fans Through Close Collaboration with Local Personnel

TakaiIn our efforts to expand globally, it is imperative that we engage in close communication with our overseas Group companies, which have a thorough understanding of local cultures and market characteristics. To that end, we are constantly exchanging ideas with these companies so that we can move forward with effective promotional activities suited to current trends. In recent years, the widespread use of social media has brought us closer to fans than ever before. We are now able to receive fan reactions and listen to expectations in real time, giving us a clear sense of their level of enthusiasm. Aspects we were only able to understand intuitively in the past are now becoming more quantifiable through data such as viewership figures and user behavior, and we will utilize such valuable data in the formulation of future strategies.

IkeuchiWe have centralized the transmission of news and updates for fans through our official Gundam information portal site, Gundam.INFO, thereby enabling easy access to a broad range of Gundam-related information. The website is currently available in 10 languages, with plans to expand support to even more languages in the future. In addition, based on a deep understanding of local characteristics, we aim to go beyond simple translation by exploring and enhancing approaches and communication methods that truly resonate with local fans.

Striving to Expand the Licensing Business

TakaiAdopting an aggressive, 360° approach will be key to expanding our licensing business moving forward. Rather than limiting ourselves to specific areas, we must actively pursue unexplored markets if we are to drive the global growth of Gundam. For example, with the release of the theatrical film Mobile Suit Gundam SEED FREEDOM, we received an overwhelmingly positive response from many regions, including from markets where we had not yet made a full-fledged entry. This feedback and enthusiasm provide us with valuable insight as we consider our next area of expansion. Looking ahead, we will draw on our track record with theatrical releases and streaming to explore optimized approaches based on a thorough understanding of local market environments and cultures. There are over 200 countries around the world, each with completely different conditions, challenges, and rules and regulations. As such, it is crucial that we remain flexible and agile in our expansion without being constrained to one area or approach.

IkeuchiThe key to communicating the appeal of the Gundam series is providing a large number of opportunities for people to experience works in the series. Not everyone is immediately drawn to visual works, so it is crucial to offer multiple points of entry tailored to individual interests and preferences. There are many fans who discover Gundam through products such as model kits and figurines, which then lead them to visual works. These kinds of synergies between product and service development and promotional efforts have proven to be highly effective. Continuing to expand touchpoints with the series will be an essential part of further increasing its recognition moving forward.

Ensuring the Enduring Legacy of the Gundam Series

TakaiThe Gundam series celebrated its 45th anniversary in 2024, and we are currently planning a wide array of initiatives geared toward the 50th anniversary of the series in 2029. While the 50th anniversary is an important milestone, it also represents just one chapter for the series, and we must continue making efforts with a focus beyond this anniversary. To date, we have created many visual works for Gundam, which have been supported by a large number of fans. As we work to continue to roll out Gundam globally, our goal is to share its appeal with people of all ages and cultural backgrounds around the world so that fans everywhere can enjoy what the series has to offer.

IkeuchiSince the release of the first Mobile Suit Gundam 46 years ago, the series has continued to expand, with titles being made to this day. Therefore, we understand that fans have great expectations for the 50th anniversary of the series. We must consider efforts that enable all fans to enjoy the upcoming anniversary, including those who have supported the series for many years and those who have just recently gained interest. While meeting these expectations, we must avoid becoming too focused on nostalgia and instead work to create new value that resonates with the current generation and the generations to come.

Pursuing New Challenges Going Forward

TakaiWhen someone is asked, “What anime is special to you?” we want our titles to be the first ones that come to mind. Accordingly, to ensure that the Gundam series continues to be loved across generations, we will constantly explore new ways to share its appeal and deliver it to audiences around the world.

Ikeuchi I always place importance on approaching each work sincerely and handling it with care. I take steps to consider how we can faithfully communicate the worldview and message of each work while ensuring that it resonates with an even greater number of fans. Guided by these convictions, I will continue to help expand Gundam works across the globe from the perspectives of planning and promotion.