KADOKAWA Acquires Doga Kobo: Strengthening Animation Production Capabilities
KADOKAWA announced on the 11th that it has agreed to acquire shares of Doga Kobo Co., Ltd., an animation studio known for producing the anime series "Oshi no Ko," making it a subsidiary.
As part of its medium-term business plan through the fiscal year ending March 2028, the KADOKAWA Group aims to promote its "Global Media Mix with Technology" strategy. This strategy focuses on the stable creation and worldwide distribution of IP (Intellectual Property) derived from a diverse portfolio. Central to this plan is the animation business, which seeks to expand production lines and enhance production capabilities to consistently produce appealing anime works, thereby maximizing the value of IP centered around anime.
Founded in 1973, Doga Kobo has a rich history of producing numerous hit anime series. Their meticulous animation, which captures the essence of characters and the world within the works, has garnered high praise from anime fans worldwide. Starting with the production of "Monthly Girls' Nozaki-kun" and "NEW GAME!", Doga Kobo has maintained a strong relationship with KADOKAWA for about a decade, creating various works together. Last year, "Oshi no Ko" became a historic hit, gaining significant attention both in Japan and internationally.
Moving forward, with Doga Kobo joining the group, KADOKAWA aims to strengthen its collaboration with its five group studios—subsidiaries ENGI Co., Ltd., Studio KADAN Co., Ltd., RagingBull Inc., Ltd., and Bellnox Films Co., Ltd., along with affiliated company Kinema Citrus Co., Ltd.—to further bolster its capabilities in creating globally appealing anime works.
"Oshi no Ko" (C) Aka Akasaka x Mengo Yokoyari / Shueisha, Oshi no Ko Production Committee
Comment from Ryo Ishiguro, President of Doga Kobo Co., Ltd.
As we enter our 51st year, we have created works with many production companies, specialized firms, and manufacturers. KADOKAWA has been a good understanding partner in this journey. We are committed to continuing to produce ambitious works and strive to release even better works to the world. We hope for your continued support.
Comment from Tsuyoshi Kikuchi, Executive Officer and Chief Anime Officer (CAO) of KADOKAWA Co., Ltd.
We are honored to welcome Doga Kobo, an anime studio with a history of over 50 years and loved worldwide, into our group. By further enhancing our collaboration, we aim to create even more appealing and exciting works that will resonate with people worldwide.
Source : ORICON NEWS
