Tokyo-based tech and entertainment company CyberAgent has announced the establishment of a new animation production subsidiary, Studio Kurm, as part of its growing investment in the anime industry. The studio, founded on 1 October 2025, will be led by veteran anime producer Maiko Okada, the producer behind various anime titles such as Stand by Me Doraemon, Kabaneri of the Iron Fortress, and Great Pretender.
The move follows CyberAgent’s continued expansion into the animation and IP business. Earlier this year, in February 2024, the company established its Anime & IP Business Division to enhance its presence in global markets through the development of original properties and co-productions. Among its recent ventures is the co-investment with KADOKAWA on The Summer Hikaru Died. The company also operates CygamesPictures, the animation studio behind several of its major adaptations.
According to CyberAgent, the creation of Studio Kurm was driven by the increasingly complex conditions within Japan’s booming anime production environment. As the number of projects and genres continues to grow, the company aims to provide a sustainable and rewarding space for talented young creators. The studio’s mission will be to “maximise the value of creators” while exploring innovative animation styles and expressions.
“Visual storytelling has the power to preserve something precious for the future,” Okada said. “I’ve dedicated my life to ensuring that this great culture continues. Yet, as the market expands, production environments are becoming increasingly strained. I’ve come to feel a real sense of crisis. That at this rate, anime itself could become unsustainable.” Okada stated in an interview.
Okada, who began her career at Shin-Ei Animation before joining WIT STUDIO as a producer, expresses her optimism about the studio’s future. The studio will also welcome animator Yoshinori Kameda as its creative representative in January 2026.”With Kameda at the forefront, we intend to build an exceptional team united by shared purpose and create works that can truly resonate with audiences around the world.” She added.
The Indonesian Anime Times | Source
