TV Asahi Corporation has announced the launch of PicoAni, a new short-form anime brand and dedicated programming block designed to meet the evolving viewing habits of audiences consuming content on platforms such as TikTok and YouTube Shorts.
Created as a platform for developing next-generation character IPs, PicoAni will showcase a diverse slate of short-form animated series targeting Gen Z viewers, children, and young adults. The initiative is also intended to strengthen international licensing and merchandising opportunities by introducing Japanese-born character brands to global audiences.
The brand name combines the words “Pico,” meaning small, and “Anime,” reflecting its focus on bite-sized, highly engaging content optimized for digital consumption and cross-platform distribution.
Building on TV Asahi’s growing portfolio of successful short-form animation titles, PicoAni will serve as a unified umbrella brand for the broadcaster’s expanding character-driven content strategy. In addition to domestic television broadcasts, the initiative is expected to support international growth through licensing, merchandising, and digital distribution.
Spearheading the Global Lineup:
momomo! Ninimo (Releasing January 2027): A Non-Verbal 3DCG Comedy Co-Produced with The Pinkfong Company
TV Asahi has partnered with The Pinkfong Company—the global entertainment company behind Baby Shark—to co-produce momomo! Ninimo, a non-verbal 3DCG comedy series.
The series follows “Nini,” a clumsy orange cat familiar to Pinkfong fans worldwide, and a mysterious tiny companion named “Mo.” Built around slapstick comedy and expressive animation, the series is designed to cross language barriers and appeal to families globally.
“momomo! Ninimo is a non-verbal ‘cat-medy’ about cats turning tiny everyday moments into dramatic crises,” says Ayako Mitarai, Producer of momomo! Ninimo. “We hope audiences around the world will laugh and connect with the characters beyond language.”
“We are excited to collaborate with TV Asahi on this project,” says Gemma Joo, Chief Business Officer of The Pinkfong Company and CEO of Pinkfong Japan. “We hope momomo! Ninimo brings joy to children and families across generations and cultures.”
Sirotan (Releasing October 2026): The Beloved Kawaii Character’s First TV Anime
After more than 26 years as an iconic Japanese kawaii character, the fluffy harp seal Sirotan will receive its first TV anime adaptation.
The series offers a gentle and relaxing look into Sirotan’s everyday life, delivering a heartwarming and soothing viewing experience for audiences of all ages.
“Sirotan has been cherished in Japan for over two decades, and now we’re bringing that signature charm to animation,” says Ayane Seike, Producer of Sirotan. “‘Bring Fuwafuwa (fluffiness) to the world!’ is our guiding motto. We hope viewers around the world will enjoy Sirotan’s warm and soothing world.”
Josemaru (Releasing January 2027): A Relatable Gen-Z Character Born on Social Media
Originally born on social media, Josemaru is a fluffy “0-year-old stuffed dog” navigating adult life—working five days a week, paying rent, and dealing with everyday stress.
The anime adaptation combines 2D animation and live-action stop-motion techniques in collaboration with creators from dwarf studios. Josemaru’s relatable humor and honest catchphrases strongly resonate with Gen-Z audiences.
“Josemaru expresses the honest feelings people often keep to themselves, like ‘I don’t want to work,’” says Yuki Tsudo, Producer of Josemaru. “We hope audiences can relax and laugh together with Josemaru and friends.”
Koupenchan: The hugely popular emperor penguin chick character known for encouraging people through small everyday achievements.
Pop Pap Polters: A stop-motion miniature animation by internationally acclaimed creator Mozu, following three tiny ghosts living inside the walls of a house.
Seeking Global Partners
TV Asahi is actively seeking international broadcasting and streaming partners, master licensees, and licensing agents to expand its growing portfolio of character IPs worldwide.
The TV Asahi Global Business Department will showcase the PicoAni lineup at major international markets and events including MIPCOM, the Annecy International Animation Film Festival, and Licensing Expo.
The first wave of PicoAni titles is scheduled to launch between late 2026 and early 2027. Upcoming projects will include a major co-production with The Pinkfong Company, as well as series based on viral social media characters and established kawaii-themed IPs.
