02② Relationship Between an Awkward Adult and an Honest Girl
Makio, extremely shy and bad at interacting with others, and the bright and honest Asa.
The charming way these seemingly opposite two gradually close the distance while acknowledging each other's "differences."
The message that you can stay close without forcing understanding stays in your heart 💕
03③ Visualization by Luxurious Production Team
Animation production by Shuka, known for the "Natsume's Book of Friends" series.
Music is handled by Kensuke Ushio of "Chainsaw Man" and "Liar."
The best staff team will visualize the delicate atmosphere of the original ✨
04④ Competition of Skilled Voice Actors
Protagonist Makio is voiced by Miyuki Sawashiro (Fujiko Mine in "Lupin III," Daki in "Demon Slayer").
Newcomer Fuko Mori is cast as Asa, with fresh acting expected.
Luxurious supporting cast includes Junichi Suwabe, Sumire Morohoshi, Eriko Matsui, Sayaka Ohara, and more 🎤
05⑤ Theme of Diversity and Respecting Individuals
As the coined word "Ikoku" (different country) symbolizes, everyone is a different being.
The attitude of respecting others' boundaries without easily saying "I understand your feelings" or "I can relate" is depicted.
A work packed with messages that resonate with modern society 🌍
06① Makio's Relationship with Her Sister Minori
Asa's deceased mother Minori (Makio's older sister) often treated Makio overbearingly.
The complex emotions between sisters and how they affect the relationship with Asa becomes the story's axis.
The "diary" Minori left behind is also an important key point 📔
07② Asa's Growth and Independence
Asa's story starting at 15 eventually depicts her journey until she turns 20.
Pay attention to Asa growing through various experiences—high school life, friendships, career choices.
Her relationship with Makio also gradually changes 🌱
08③ The Presence of Nana Daigo
Nana Daigo, Makio's best friend since middle school, serves as the story's lubricant.
She creates opportunities for shy Makio and honest Asa to open up.
Her brightness and kindness become a bridge connecting the two 🌈
09④ Friendship with Kasamachi
Makio's ex-boyfriend Shingo Kasamachi continues a friendship after they broke up.
The subtle distance between him—a large dog type with a gentle personality—and Makio is also a highlight.
Looking forward to hearing Junichi Suwabe's sweet voice 💫
10⑤ Anticipation for Kensuke Ushio's Score
Kensuke Ushio, who has worked on numerous talked-about works like "Chainsaw Man," "A Silent Voice," and "Liar."
Music that accompanies delicate psychological portrayals will make the story even deeper.
Anticipation rises for a quiet and beautiful soundtrack 🎹
11① Meeting at the Funeral and the Decision
Her sister and brother-in-law died in an accident when a truck rear-ended them at a parking area.
At the funeral, seeing orphaned Asa being passed around among relatives, Makio impulsively offered "Want to come to my place?"
However, by the next day she came to her senses, realizing living with someone was impossible for her shy self 😰
12② Beginning of Awkward Cohabitation
Makio tells Asa "I can't be a substitute parent" and "You don't have to force interaction."
Meanwhile, Asa finds Makio, an "un-adult-like adult," puzzling but honestly accepts her new life.
The two begin exploring their respective distances as "residents of different countries" 🏠
13③ Gradually Closing Distance
Makio's best friend Nana Daigo comes between them, and changes begin in their relationship.
Through interactions with Asa's friend Emiri and events in high school life, both Makio and Asa gradually change.
By knowing each other's "vulnerability," they learn to treat each other gently 💕
14④ Mother Minori's Diary
Minori left behind a diary she intended to give Asa when she turned 20.
Written there was the meaning behind the name "Asa" (morning)—"something new and beautiful that surely comes."
An important item glimpsing a mother's love and the complex sisterly relationship with Makio 📔
15⑤ A 5-Year Story
The story depicts 5 years from when Asa is 15 until she turns 20.
Through various experiences—high school life, career choices, romance, friendship—Asa grows into an adult.
Makio also changes by living with Asa, and their relationship becomes "irreplaceable" 🌸
16📺 TV Broadcast
Premiere Date: From January 4, 2026 (Sun)
Broadcasting Stations:
• TOKYO MX
• ABC TV
• BS Asahi
• AT-X (from January 5)
A notable work of Winter 2026 anime 📺
17🌐 Streaming Services
Fastest Unlimited Streaming: Prime Video
Sequential streaming also planned on other services:
• Amazon Prime Video (fastest)
• Other streaming services sequentially
Check the official site for details 📱
18🎵 Theme Song Information
Opening Theme:
TOMOO "Sonare"
Ending Theme:
Bialystocks "Kotozute"
Both are masterpieces perfectly matching the work's worldview 🎶
19📱 Official Information
Check the official site (ikoku-anime.com) and official X (Twitter) for the latest broadcast and streaming information!
Official X: @ikoku_anime
20Makio Kodai (CV: Miyuki Sawashiro)
A 35-year-old young adult novelist with extreme shyness.
At her sister's funeral, seeing orphaned Asa being passed around among relatives, she impulsively decided to take her in.
Her personality is unsuited for living with someone, but she gradually changes while spending time with Asa.
🔥Trivia: Makio's pen name is "Makio Kodai." She serializes young adult novels, surprisingly with a romantic style 📝
