Sion Yip, Founder and CEO of INCUBASE Studio, was invited by Squarefoot for an in-depth interview, sharing his perspective on how anime IP is evolving from screen-based content into real-world experiences, and how this shift is contributing to the growth of the anime economy.

As audience engagement deepens, emotional connection naturally extends into participation through cosplay, merchandise, exhibitions, and community-driven experiences.

“Fans feel a very strong connection with that character. It represents the self and expresses the emotions of liking that work. That is why people do cosplay, and naturally they will buy merchandise of that character. Then through an exhibition, it triggers their impulse to spend.

Anime has become more profound in visuals, concepts and storytelling. This has deepened people’s emotional connection and formed a new economic effect.

I strongly believe Japanese anime will continue to have a major impact on the new generation. What was once a subculture is now mainstream globally, and this influence is driving a global economy,” shared Sion.