‘Miraculous’ Studio ZAG Launches Japan Outpost

Paris-based independent animation studio ZAG — creator of the global hit franchise Miraculous: Tales of Ladybug & Cat Noir — has announced the launch of ZAG JAPAN to expand its international footprint. The establishment of the new facility has been made possible through the support of Japanese partners.

“We are beyond excited to announce the opening of ZAG JAPAN,” said Jeremy Zag, Founder & CEO of ZAG. “Japanese culture holds a special place in our hearts, and we are incredibly proud to finally have the chance to work alongside the extraordinary talents who have inspired generations of dreamers worldwide.

“With ZAG JAPAN, our dream is to tell new stories that reflect the values we hold dear at ZAG. We want to explore the emotional depth and artistic beauty of Japanese storytelling by developing manga, anime series, and traditional animation films that will inspire audiences all around the world. This is a new chapter for us, and thanks to the incredible support of our Japanese partners, we’re ready to push the limits of imagination together.”

Kanji Kazahaya has been appointed as Chief Operating Officer (COO) of ZAG JAPAN. With over 15 years of executive leadership at Toei Animation, Kazahaya brings deep industry expertise and a profound love for animation. His leadership will be instrumental in shaping the future of ZAG JAPAN and driving the creation of content with global appeal.

“ZAG has consistently delivered unforgettable entertainment experiences for children through its remarkable creativity. By infusing the essence of Japanese manga and anime — particularly the inner strength of its protagonists — ZAG has brought a unique emotional depth to its storytelling. The groundbreaking global success of Miraculous has revealed the immense potential of blending Western animation with the soul of Japanese manga and anime,” said Kazahaya. “I firmly believe that the launch of ZAG JAPAN marks a pivotal step toward creating globally beloved shows by harnessing the synergy between Japan’s rich manga-anime heritage and ZAG’s innovative Western animation. Having been involved in Japanese animation for many years, it is a true honor to contribute to ZAG JAPAN from the very beginning of its journey.”

ZAG JAPAN has signed a partnership with Highway Star, one of Japan’s leading talent agencies. Singer Hironobu Kageyama, known for performing the title tracks for shows like Dragon Ball Z and Saint Seiya, has signed on to sing for ZAG productions.

“Music has always been at the heart of storytelling at ZAG, and Japanese music has greatly influenced our narratives. Today, having the opportunity to create such an incredible partnership with Highway Star allows us to turn dreams into reality,” said Zag. “Starting this first collaboration with Hironobu Kageyama, the legendary singer of Dragon Ball and many other iconic franchises from our childhood, couldn’t be a more meaningful symbol. We are truly and deeply grateful for the trust they have placed in us through this partnership.”

Kiyoko Matsumura, President of Highway Star, added, “It is our great honor to support the establishment of ZAG JAPAN as its first Japanese music partner. Our company, Highway Star, has a proud history of contributing to many of Japan’s most celebrated animated works, we are excited to embark on this new chapter with ZAG. We are especially delighted that two of our top artists, Hironobu Kageyama and Nami Tamaki, will perform for ZAG. We look forward to sharing this creative synergy with audiences around the world and hope it resonates far and wide.”

zag.com