LDH Japan Co., Ltd., a prominent name in entertainment and digital media, has officially announced the launch of its new animation production brand, LDH Animation. The company aims to push the boundaries of Japanese animation, with a vision to “deliver anime to the world.” The brand was unveiled shortly after a merger on January 1, 2025, which consolidated LDH Apparel Inc., EXPG Inc., and LDH Digital Inc. into LDH Japan, the surviving entity.
A New Venture Led by Industry Veterans
Former Studio Ghibli President Koji Hoshino and Masahiko Ibaraki, former editor-in-chief of Weekly Shonen Jump, have joined LDH Animation as key advisors. Their extensive backgrounds bring a wealth of experience and prestige to the new venture, signaling a major step forward for the company’s aspirations in the global anime market.
The company’s mission is centered around three core pillars: animation production, planning and licensing, and expansion into the digital sphere. LDH Animation plans to produce original anime, adapt popular comics and novels, and leverage cutting-edge digital technologies in collaboration with LDH Digital, the company’s digital subsidiary. LDH Digital has an established reputation for its work in CG animation, including contributions to Makoto Shinkai’s Suzume, Mahou Shoujo Magical Destroyers, and Bleach: Thousand-Year Blood War Part 3.
A Comprehensive Approach to Anime Production
Unlike traditional production companies that primarily take contractor work from production committees, LDH Animation aims to differentiate itself by forming its own production committees, investing in anime theme songs, and taking an active role in merchandising and licensing. The company has already established itself in the anime industry with its 2021 original anime TV series Kick & Slide, and it plans to expand its efforts with new anime productions.
Ibaraki, who also serves as the representative director of Shueisha Creative and Shueisha Games, has expressed excitement over the potential of LDH Animation. “We are committed to creating high-quality, innovative anime that will resonate with audiences worldwide,” he said. “With our collective expertise, we aim to be at the forefront of the global anime revolution.”
Hoshino’s Legacy and New Role
Koji Hoshino, who left Studio Ghibli in 2023 after an illustrious career, is credited with producing some of the studio’s most iconic films, including Spirited Away, Howl’s Moving Castle, Ponyo, and The Wind Rises. He also produced Ghibli’s most recent release, The Boy and the Heron. His transition to LDH Animation marks a significant move in his career, and his deep knowledge of the animation industry will undoubtedly serve as a valuable asset to the brand’s growth and international aspirations.
The name “LDH” stands for “Love Dream Happiness,” a sentiment that reflects the company’s mission to spread positivity and creativity through anime. With an experienced leadership team and a comprehensive production strategy, LDH Animation is poised to make a lasting impact on the global anime scene.
As the anime industry continues to expand globally, LDH Animation’s innovative approach could prove to be a game-changer in the way anime is produced, distributed, and consumed.
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