Paid Content Session IP: Anime & Videogram 　Pre-recorded

E-books 3.0: A New Form of Light Anime Led by Publishers

Speakers

Seigo Kato　General Manager, IP Production Department, SORAJIMA Co., Ltd.

Ryo Wakabayashi　Sales Leader, Cycomi Sales Team, Manga Division, Cygames, Inc.

Tatsuya Maeda　President and CEO, IMAGICA Infos Co., Ltd.

Moderators

Tetsuya Hayama　Manager, Light Anime Promotion Section, Publication Innovation Division, Dai Nippon Printing Co., Ltd.

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Session Overview: “Light Anime” is a production technique that utilizes original manga assets directly to create anime adaptations quickly and cost-effectively. Could this publisher-led digital animation model represent the next evolution of e-books? Speakers from both publishing and animation studio perspectives will discuss the current state and future prospects of Light Anime.

Agenda:
・Overview of Light Anime:Tetsuya Hayama
・Strategy and Rollout of SORAJIMA’s “With Vengeance from the Saint Full of Wounds”:Seigo Kato
・Strategy and Rollout of Cygames’ “Chikuwa Senki”: Ryo Wakabayashi
・Light Anime from a Production Studio’s Perspective:Tatsuya Maeda

Panel Discussion
・Synergy with the Original Work and Fan Feedback
・Reactions from Original Authors
・Future Outlook and Prospects

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Profile *All Profiles Are From The Time Of The Event

Seigo Kato

In 2016, I joined a major entertainment company, where I managed promotions for multiple game titles.

Later, I joined a hospitality startup, leading marketing for locations nationwide. After overseeing marketing at an HR and organizational development firm and working as a freelancer across various industries, I joined SORAJIMA.

Currently, I am driving the launch of a new IP business centered on Webtoons.

Ryo Wakabayashi

I joined Cygames, Inc. in 2017. As Sales Leader of the Manga Division, I oversee the sales and distribution of both print and digital publications.

I also manage merchandise manufacturing, sales, and event operations related to the manga business. Additionally, I served as the Producer for the TV anime Chikuwa Senki: Invading Earth with My Cuteness, which began airing in April 2025.

Tatsuya Maeda

I joined Shufunotomo Co., Ltd. in 1995. After spending 15 years editing women’s magazines such as Ray, mina, and Cawaii!, I transitioned to book editing. During this time, I produced numerous bestselling books and actively promoted media mix projects, including live-action and anime adaptations.

In 2019, I joined Shufunotomo Infos, becoming part of the IMAGICA GROUP. I assumed the position of Representative Director and President in 2023, coinciding with the company’s rebranding to IMAGICA INFOS Co., Ltd.

Currently, I am developing diverse IP-centric business models that transcend traditional publishing boundaries. Notable projects include the anime adaptation of the hit series The Apothecary Diaries (over 40 million copies in circulation) and the “Light Anime” business in collaboration with DNP.

Tetsuya Hayama

I joined Dai Nippon Printing Co., Ltd. (DNP) in 2009. In 2021, I launched the “Light Anime” business and have led the initiative ever since.

As a pioneer of Light Anime, I oversee the production of titles, the development of domestic and global distribution channels, and the formation of alliances with partner companies.

Sessions