The popular JOCHUM TV anime, featuring characters co-created by Sanrio and the Japanese boy band JO1, is set to return for its second season on October 4. The new season will air within Fuji TV’s Mezamashi Doyо̄bi (Wake Up Saturday) program, which broadcasts from 6:30 to 8:00 a.m. JST.
What is JOCHUM?
JOCHUM is an anime series centered around 11 unique characters, each a collaboration between Sanrio and a member of the Japanese boy band JO1. These characters live together in a shared residence known as “JOCHUM’S HOUSE,” a place where dreams are said to come true. The series depicts their relaxed daily lives as they strive to achieve their individual dreams.
The collaboration between Sanrio and JO1 began in June 2022 with the “JO1×Sanrio New Character Development Project.” The name “JOCHUM” itself is a blend of “JO1’s JO” and “CHUM,” which signifies a colleague or roommate.
The Eleven Characters of JOCHUM
Each of the 11 JOCHUM characters represents a member of JO1 and a corresponding Sanrio mascot. The characters and their JO1 counterparts include:
- PiHai the black fox (representing Sukai Kinjo)
- Rain the blue fox (representing Ren Kawashiri)
- Micoon the microphone (representing Junki Kono)
- Chimata the rabbit (representing Syoya Kimata)
- Ya-nu-ka-mi the dragon (representing Sho Yonashiro)
- MAMEchi the corgi (representing Issei Mamehara)
- Pop-poh the penguin (representing Takumi Kawanishi)
- Chulala the chihuahua (representing Shion Tsurubo)
- Moco the angel (representing Shohei Ohira)
- Ruru the white dog (representing Ruki Shiroiwa)
- Bira the sunflower (representing Keigo Sato)
Production Details
The JOCHUM anime is directed by Hazumu Sakuta, with Yoichi Kato responsible for both the series composition and script. Animation production for the series is handled by Fanworks. The first season of the anime premiered in July 2024.
Anticipation for Season 2
Fans are eagerly awaiting the continuation of the charming slice-of-life adventures of the JOCHUM characters. The first season provided glimpses into the daily lives and dreams of the 11 friends residing in JOCHUM’S HOUSE. The announcement of a second season just a few months after the first season’s debut highlights the positive reception of the collaborative project between Sanrio and JO1. The return in October positions JOCHUM among several other anticipated anime releases for the fall 2024 season.
