Acclaimed voice actress Nao Tōyama has officially joined the cast of the Koupen-chan short TV anime, taking on the role of Mizuiro no Koupen-chan (Light Blue Koupen-chan). The character made its debut in the anime’s 20th episode and is set to reappear in the 21st episode, which will air on August 24.
Tōyama’s Role as Mizuiro no Koupen-chan
Nao Tōyama, known for her diverse roles across various anime series, will portray Mizuiro no Koupen-chan, a baby emperor penguin character. This particular Koupen-chan has uniquely turned light blue and is expected to revert to its original color. The character’s introduction adds a new dynamic to the whimsical world of Koupen-chan.
About the Koupen-chan Short TV Anime
The Koupen-chan short TV anime is an adaptation of Rurutea’s popular social media mascot character, which first gained widespread recognition through a series of charming illustrations debuted in 2017. The anime series premiered in Japan on TV Asahi on April 6, 2025.
The series follows the heartwarming everyday adventures of Koupen-chan and its friends as they find joy in the simple things in life. The original Koupen-chan, a baby emperor penguin, is voiced by Ayaka Saito and is known for its positive encouragement.
Key Staff and Additional Cast
The production of the Koupen-chan anime is helmed by director Kyo Yatate at animation studio Lesprit. Yoichi Kato is handling the series composition, while Akiyuki Tateyama is composing the music. Hazumu Sakuta serves as chief director, and Hiroyuki Nemoto is the art director.
Aside from Ayaka Saito as the titular Koupen-chan, the previously announced main cast includes Ayaka Saito also as Jaenaga-san, Sachi Kokuryu as Otona no Penguin-san (Grown-up Penguin-san), Junji Majima as Adelie-san, and Kazuya Ichijo as Oshietekureru Type Shirokuma-san (Polar Bear-san).
Nao Tōyama’s Extensive Voice Acting Career
Nao Tōyama is a highly prolific and award-winning voice actress who debuted in 2010. She is affiliated with the agency Intention and has lent her voice to numerous prominent characters across various anime genres. Some of her well-known roles include Chitoge Kirisaki in Nisekoi, Yui Yuigahama in My Youth Romantic Comedy Is Wrong, As I Expected, Chiho Sasaki in The Devil Is a Part-Timer!, Rin Shima in Laid-Back Camp, and Karen Kujō in Kin-iro Mosaic. Her addition to the Koupen-chan cast is expected to further enhance the series’ appeal.