Kodansha has announced its exciting participation in the upcoming Anime Expo 2025, which will take place from July 3 to July 6 at the convention center in Los Angeles. This highly anticipated event will showcase two remarkable titles at the Kodansha booth: the anime adaptation of "Gachiakuta," set to debut in July 2025, and a fresh project related to the iconic "GHOST IN THE SHELL," scheduled for release in 2026.
Interactive Experiences at the Kodansha Booth
Attendees at Anime Expo 2025 can look forward to a wide array of interactive activities designed to immerse fans in the worlds of "Gachiakuta" and "GHOST IN THE SHELL."
Photo Opportunities: The booth will feature life-sized panels showcasing popular characters such as Rudo, the main character from "Gachiakuta," and a Trash Beast. Additionally, fans will have the chance to take photos with Major Motoko Kusanagi, a beloved figure from the "GHOST IN THE SHELL" franchise.
Gacha Gacha Capsule Toy Machine: Fans who engage with Kodansha’s social media platforms related to the highlighted titles will gain access to a unique capsule toy machine. This machine will dispense limited edition character and logo badges, making it a must-try for attendees looking to collect exclusive memorabilia.
“Drop the Claw” Giant Claw Machine: Visitors who post photos or videos from the booth and tag Kodansha’s relevant social media accounts will have the opportunity to participate in a claw machine game. This giant claw machine will feature exclusive prizes only available at the event, adding an extra layer of excitement to their experience.
Large-Scale LED Monitor: A prominent LED screen will be set up within the booth, showcasing a collaboration video that highlights both "Gachiakuta" and "GHOST IN THE SHELL." Attendees can look forward to exclusive trailers and promotional content displayed on this large-format screen.
Curated Displays: The booth will also feature carefully curated exhibits that delve into the creative processes behind both series. This includes video presentations, reproductions of original manga artwork, and additional materials that will be unveiled during the event, providing insight into the artistic journey of these projects.
Attendee Bag Distribution: Every attendee of Anime Expo will receive a special event bag upon entering the venue. The bags will feature one of four original designs created by Kodansha, making them a collectible item in their own right.
Kodansha’s Panel Events and Programming
In addition to the engaging booth activities, Kodansha has organized a series of panel discussions and events throughout the convention. Some panels may require prior registration, so attendees are encouraged to check the official Anime Expo website and follow Kodansha’s social media for the latest updates on scheduling.
Live Painting Session: One of the standout events is the live painting session hosted by the Gachiakuta Production Committee. Scheduled for July 3, 2025, from 1:00 PM to 3:00 PM in the South Lobby, this event will feature manga artist Kei Urana and graffiti artist Hideyoshi Andou. They will create artwork using recycled materials, reflecting the core theme of "Gachiakuta," which revolves around the creative potential of discarded items. This session is open to all attendees and does not require prior registration.
Panel Discussion with Gachiakuta Creators: Following the live painting, a dedicated panel featuring Kei Urana and Hideyoshi Andou will take place from 4:15 PM to 5:05 PM in Room 403AB. This discussion will include a Q&A segment, allowing fans to engage directly with the creators and witness live illustrations on a shikishi board.
Insights into GHOST IN THE SHELL x Science SARU: Another significant panel event will focus on the new animation project for "GHOST IN THE SHELL." Scheduled for July 3, 2025, from 5:15 PM to 6:05 PM in Room 408AB, production staff from Science SARU will share updates on the new project, including insights into its creative direction and production timeline.
Global Premiere of Gachiakuta: One of the most anticipated events of Anime Expo 2025 will be the global premiere of "Gachiakuta." This event, presented by Crunchyroll, is set for July 4, 2025, from 10:00 AM to 11:20 AM in the Platinum Ballroom. Attendees will have the exclusive opportunity to watch the first two episodes of "Gachiakuta," followed by a Q&A session featuring the creative team, including Kei Urana, Hideyoshi Andou, and Naoki Amano, a producer from Bones Film.
Why Attend Anime Expo 2025?
Anime Expo 2025 promises to be an unforgettable experience for anime enthusiasts. With its vibrant atmosphere and a wide range of activities, it’s the perfect place for fans to immerse themselves in the latest developments in the anime industry. Kodansha’s participation, featuring major titles like "Gachiakuta" and "GHOST IN THE SHELL," adds to the allure of the event.
From interactive experiences at the booth to engaging panel discussions with creators, there’s something for everyone at this year’s convention. Fans will not only get to celebrate their favorite series, but they’ll also have the chance to connect with other enthusiasts and gain insights into the creative processes behind their beloved shows.
Stay Connected
As Anime Expo approaches, fans are encouraged to keep an eye on Kodansha’s official social media accounts and the Anime Expo website for the latest news and updates. By engaging with these platforms, attendees can ensure they don’t miss any important announcements regarding booth activities, panel schedules, and special giveaways.
In conclusion, Anime Expo 2025 is set to be a landmark event, especially with Kodansha showcasing its exciting new titles. Whether you’re a long-time fan of "GHOST IN THE SHELL" or eager to discover the world of "Gachiakuta," this convention offers an incredible opportunity to celebrate anime culture, meet fellow fans, and participate in a variety of engaging experiences. Don’t miss out on the chance to be part of this unforgettable celebration of anime!
