The popular “JOCHUM” TV anime, featuring characters co-created by Sanrio and Japanese boy band JO1, is officially returning for a second season, set to debut on October 4. The new season will continue to air within Fuji TV’s “Mezamashi Doyо̄bi” (Mezamashi Saturday) program, which broadcasts from 6:30 to 8:00 a.m. JST.
JOCHUM’s Expanding Universe
The announcement comes after the initial success of the first season, which began airing in July 2024. The anime centers on 11 unique characters, each representing a member of the boy band JO1, who reside together in a shared house known as “JOCHUM’S HOUSE,” where it’s believed dreams can come true. The series showcases their daily lives and their humorous endeavors as they pursue their individual aspirations.
The Genesis of JOCHUM
The “JOCHUM” characters are a result of a collaborative project between Sanrio, the renowned Japanese company behind iconic characters like Hello Kitty, and LAPONE Entertainment, the agency managing JO1. JO1, formed in 2019 through the reality show “Produce 101 Japan,” debuted in 2020, and the “JOCHUM” characters were subsequently created in 2022. This partnership merges Sanrio’s expertise in character design with JO1’s creative sensibilities.
Production and Voice Cast
FANWORKS is handling the animation production for the “JOCHUM” anime. Hazumu Sakuta, known for directing Sumikko Gurashi: Sorairo no Mainichi, is directing the series, with Yoichi Kato (Aikatsu, Yokai Watch) serving as both series composer and scriptwriter.
The diverse voice cast for the 11 “JOCHUM” characters includes:
- Yuri Noguchi as PiHai (representing Sukai Kinjo)
- Kaito Takeda as Rain (representing Ren Kawashiri)
- Taichi Kusano as Micoon (representing Junki Kōno)
- Nanami Yoshimura as Chimata (representing Syoya Kimata)
- Shoma Uno as Ya-nu-ka-mi (representing Sho Yonashiro)
- Sakura Kawaguchi as MAMEchi (representing Issei Mamehara)
- Momo Ishibashi as Pop-poh (representing Takumi Kawanishi)
- Masato Sugiyama as Chulala (representing Shion Tsurubo)
- Mahana Yamasaki as Moco (representing Shohei Ohira)
- Kanon Amane as Ruru (representing Ruki Shiroiwa)
- Yūdai Mino as Bira (representing Keigo Sato)
Anticipation for Season 2
Fans can expect the return of the lighthearted and humorous adventures of the “JOCHUM” characters as they continue to navigate their dreams and daily lives in “JOCHUM’S HOUSE.” The series, airing as one-minute animated shorts, aims to be an enjoyable watch for families. The decision to greenlight a second season underscores the positive reception of the initial collaboration between Sanrio and JO1.
