The long-awaited anime adaptation of Ganglion, a cult workplace comedy manga first published in 2009, is finally happening. Airing from October 2025, the series follows a salaryman foot soldier working for an “evil corporation” in early-2000s Tokyo—funny, bittersweet, and painfully relatable. With a star-studded voice cast including Yoji Ueda, Fumihiko Tachiki, Tomokazu Sugita, Aoi Koga, and more, this article explains what the show is about and spotlights official comments from the main cast.
Classic Comedy Manga “Ganglion” Finally Gets an Anime Adaptation
Originally serialized in Comic Yoshimoto and later published by Yoshimoto Books in 2009, Ganglion flips the classic hero-vs-villain setup. The protagonist, Kenji Isobe, works as a soldier for the evil corporation “Ganglion Inc.,” tackling absurd missions from pollen plots to wild Mt. Fuji schemes—only to be foiled by the so-called hero “Hopeman.” It’s a darkly comic lens on disposable workers and broken systems.
A Dark Yet Relatable Workplace Drama With a Comic Twist
Set in early-2000s Tokyo, the story satirizes corporate culture and the grind of middle management. Beneath the tights-and-battles gags, it explores overbearing bosses, compliance-era chaos, and the small acts of survival that keep people going. Expect sharp social commentary alongside laugh-out-loud moments.
Star-Studded Voice Cast Brings the Characters to Life
Yoji Ueda leads as Kenji Isobe (his first lead role in a TV anime). Fumihiko Tachiki plays the comically self-absorbed Colonel Shadow, while Tomokazu Sugita is the reluctant hero Hopeman. Aoi Koga voices Setsuko (Isobe’s wife), Yoshino Aoyama is their son Takashi, Hikaru Tono plays the sister-in-law Yumiko, and comedian-actor Itsuji Itao appears as the oden stall owner who hears Isobe’s woes.
Official Comments From Ueda, Sugita, Tachiki and More
Ueda promises an earnest, human portrayal of Isobe; Tachiki describes Shadow as a “tragic yet comical middle manager”; Sugita hints at Hopeman’s humorously self-serving approach to “justice.” Koga, Aoyama, and Tono praise the show’s unique perspective, and Itao calls it a “hidden gem” worth discovering. Together, their words amplify the buzz ahead of the premiere.
Meet the Characters of Ganglion’s Strange Corporate World
Isobe is the overworked foot soldier; Setsuko embodies quiet resilience; Shadow epitomizes clueless authority; and Hopeman, despite the title, feels more self-motivated than noble. This lineup makes Ganglion more than parody—it’s a pointed commentary on how people endure flawed organizations.
Reasons Fans Are Excited for This Offbeat Series in 2025
Amid a crowded fall slate, Ganglion stands out with its early-2000s setting, workplace satire, and instantly recognizable voice talent. It’s poised to be one of Fall 2025’s freshest oddball premieres.
Follow for Updates and Join Campaigns
The official website ganglion-anime.com and X account @ganglion_anime are live. A giveaway for a signed board by Yoji Ueda runs until September 4, 2025—perfect timing to follow and join.
Tune In This October and Share Your First Impressions
Don’t miss the Ganglion TV anime premiere in October 2025. Follow the official channels for broadcast updates, cast features, and event info. Tell us your first impressions once episode one drops!
©白岩久弥・いつきたかし/ガングリオン製作委員会