Nippon Television Music Corporation (Nippon TV Music), the music publishing arm of Japan’s leading multi-platform entertainment powerhouse Nippon TV and a subsidiary of Nippon Television Holdings, Inc., has announced the appointment of Kako Kuwahara as its new President and CEO. She replaces Akihiro Shimizu, who has been appointed as President of Tipness Co. Ltd., also a subsidiary of Nippon Television Holdings, that operates fitness clubs throughout Japan. Nippon TV Music, established in 1969 and headquartered in Tokyo, plays a pivotal role in the global expansion of music and character IPs originating from Nippon TV. The company manages a wide range of musical works—including background scores and opening and ending themes—for popular anime titles such as HUNTER×HUNTER, DEATH NOTE, The Apothecary Diaries, and Frieren: Beyond Journey’s End, in collaboration with global sub-publishers around the world. Additionally, the company oversees international merchandising and game adaptation businesses for titles like HUNTER×HUNTER and Anpanman.
Kuwahara brings a wealth of experience to her new role, having previously served as Head of International Business and Head of Anime Business at Nippon TV. She was instrumental in launching globally successful anime titles such as The Apothecary Diaries and Frieren: Beyond Journey’s End, significantly expanding the company’s anime business on the international stage. Under her leadership, Nippon TV Music aims to further strengthen its presence in the global market. Kuwahara will report to Nippon TV Holding’s Senior Operating Officer, Keiichi Sawa.
Kako Kuwahara, President and CEO commented, “Anime titles from Nippon TV such as HUNTER×HUNTER, DEATH NOTE, The Apothecary Diaries, and Frieren: Beyond Journey’s End are enjoyed by audiences around the world. While Nippon TV is already a global powerhouse in Japanese entertainment, we at Nippon TV Music aim to further elevate our presence through music produced by us on Nippon TV’s hit shows. Together with anime, films, drama series, and variety shows—and in collaboration with Japan’s talented music creators—we aspire to create music and characters that resonate with audiences worldwide.”
Nippon TV Music is a music publisher within the Nippon TV Group, operating in two core areas: music business and character business. In the music business, the company coordinates theme songs and background scores for Nippon TV programs, handles master recording production and copyright management, and nurtures emerging artists and creators. In the character business, it oversees international merchandising and game adaptation businesses for titles like HUNTER×HUNTER, Anpanman, and Lupin the Third. The company is committed to delivering the essence and spirit of its works to fans in Japan and around the world through high-quality products and services.
