Toworu Miyata’s boys’ love manga Aoharu Once More is receiving a “Light Anime” adaptation. The series was officially announced as the third entry from the BALLOON Project, a dedicated BL animation label.
The original Aoharu Once More manga, published by Shucream and serialized in from RED magazine, is a second-chance office romance following former high school classmates Hayato Kobayashi and Ritsu Onishi. During their school days, the two shared a special connection and even kissed in an empty library, but they drifted apart without ever defining their relationship. Years later, they unexpectedly reunite as adults at the same workplace. Realizing far too late that his lingering feelings were true love, Hayato resolves to finally win Ritsu over, proposing that they do their “aoharu” (youth) over again. The series has garnered popularity for its contrast between the characters’ hesitant high school days and their adult lives, alongside the dynamic of a natural-flirting “large-dog” type and a pure “kuudere” beauty.
To commemorate the announcement, an official website, YouTube, and X account were launched, revealing a teaser visual and the main staff for the upcoming project.
The adaptation will be directed by Rikako Machida, with music composed by Morrigan (WAVE) and production supervision by Kazuya Takahashi. Animation production is being jointly handled by Imagica Infos and Imageworks Studio.
Series creator Miyata shared a message expressing their excitement for the project:
It is the utmost honor to be able to see my own work and characters moving and talking. Although this ‘Light Anime’ is a slightly different format from standard anime, I would be happy if you all enjoy this new side of Aowan! To everyone experiencing Aoharu Once More for the first time through this, please check out the original manga as well. Once again, a huge thank you to all the readers and everyone involved!
The BALLOON Project is a joint animation label established by Imagica Infos, Dai Nippon Printing (DNP), Cybird, and BLUE RIGHTS. The project utilizes DNP’s registered “Light Anime” technology, which bridges the gap between motion comics and traditional animation. It significantly reduces the time and cost required for standard broadcast anime by utilizing original manga illustrations and bringing them directly to life with motion, full voice acting, and audio design.
Release dates, streaming platforms, and voice cast information for the Aoharu Once More Light Anime have not yet been announced. Miyata is currently serializing a direct sequel, Aoharu Once More: Lover’s Arc (Koibito-hen), in from RED.
