Ajinomoto Celebrates AjiPanda's 20th Anniversary with All-Star Dance Song Featuring KAT-TUN's Kazuya Kamenashi

To commemorate the 20th anniversary of AjiPanda, the official mascot of Ajinomoto Co., Inc., a new music video (MV) for the original dance song “AjiPanda Hanikanda” has been released. The announcement of a star-studded creative lineup featuring top music industry professionals and popular artists immediately sent the project trending across social media, generating massive buzz.

The song was composed and produced by renowned music producer Akimitsu Homma, with lyrics penned by HIDE of GRe4N BOYZ, and choreography designed by globally acclaimed director and choreographer MIKIKO. Popular idol Kazuya Kamenashi of the group KAT-TUN was selected as the lead vocalist. The piece seamlessly blends a catchy, high-caliber sound crafted by this premier team with the adorable movements of AjiPanda.

Immediately following the video's release, social media erupted with praise and excitement from fans. Comments included, “The contrast between AjiPanda’s cuteness and Kamenashi-kun’s stylish vocals is the best,” “The songwriting team is unbelievably lavish,” and “I want to learn the dance moves and dance along!” Behind-the-scenes interview footage released alongside the video has also attracted significant attention, turning this anniversary celebration into a widely embraced viral sensation.

The Context

Ajinomoto Co., Inc. is one of Japan's leading food and biotechnology giants, best known for pioneering monosodium glutamate (MSG) and umami seasonings worldwide. Its beloved mascot, “AjiPanda”—a cute red-and-white panda shaped like Ajinomoto's tabletop seasoning bottle—was created in 2005 and has since become an iconic symbol in Japanese households. To celebrate two decades of the character, the company assembled some of Japan's most influential pop culture icons: choreographer MIKIKO (famed for her work with Perfume, BABYMETAL, and the Tokyo Olympic handover ceremony), hit producer Akimitsu Homma (known for working with acts like Porno Graffitti), HIDE of hit vocal group GRe4N BOYZ (formerly GReeeeN), and veteran J-pop star Kazuya Kamenashi.

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