JOCHUM (ONA)

Jochum is a Japanese-produced original net animation (ONA) series, released in 2024 to capitalize on the collaborative mascot project between Sanrio and the members of the K-pop boy band JO1. The characters were developed as personalized avatars for each of the eleven members, blending Sanrio's classic character design philosophy with the distinct personalities and visual traits of the musical artists. The project emerged from a successful merchandising partnership that sought to bridge the gap between idol culture and character goods, creating a narrative space where these mascots could interact.

The animation was designed to be accessible and lighthearted, aimed primarily at the fan base of JO1 and Sanrio enthusiasts. By transitioning the mascots from static illustrations into an animated format, the studio aimed to flesh out the lore and interpersonal dynamics of the group. While the production is a niche commercial endeavor, it was received as a natural extension of the cross-branding trend, successfully converting static merchandise into a coherent, albeit brief, episodic entertainment experience.