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TV Asahi, Sanrio Collaborate on New Mascot Character

The TV Asahi network collaborated with character goods maker and Hello Kitty creator Sanrio to launch a new mascot character on Tuesday: a panda named Goexpanda. "Go-chan" is a panda prince who came from the Expanda planet.

Yuko Yamaguchi, the designer of the original Hello Kitty, personally designed Go-chan. The panda character features a heart-shaped nose and a "V" on his chest. The official website for the character reveals that he's shy, but athletic.

Go-chan will raise awareness about TV Asahi's Digital 5 channel after Japan completes its transition to digital over-the-air television this July. His name ("Gō" sounds similar to the Japanese word for "5"), "V" shirt design, and May 5 birthday all represent the number 5.

The website is also currently streaming an introduction video for Go-chan. The video is not embeddable but will play automatically upon visiting the site.

Thanks to Liam for the tip.

Source: AnimeAnime.biz