Pour lire l’interview en Français, cliquez ici !
His humor and creativity have left a lasting mark on Japan Expo. Umikun, the artist behind Hello Baby, the official theme song of the 2015 edition, has build a strong bond with the festival. Eleven years later, he has once again been invited, this time to compose the theme song for Japan Expo’s very first short film, created to celebrate the festival’s 25th anniversary.
First gaining recognition online, Umikun wears many hats, making him a truly versatile and delightfully eccentric artist. While he approaches each of his many professions with dedication and professionalism, he embraces life with lightheartedness and serenity, allowing him to build a community of fans who share his unique sense of humor.
Nine years after our last interview with him in 2017, Umikun reflects on how surprised he was to learn that he would be returning to France for such an important project.
Could you introduce yourself?
Umikun: Hello, my name is Umikun. I’m a singer, and I love anime, video games, and music. I also compose music and upload videos on YouTube.
You first came to Japan Expo 10 years ago. What’s the first memory that comes to mind when you think about that edition?
Umikun: I remember that back then, the fans made a sort of a human bridge with their arms. I walked underneath it, and it was a lot of fun!
How does it feel to be back this year for Japan Expo’s 25th anniversary?
Umikun: I’m very happy to be back. Being asked to create a new song for this anniversary edition made me incredibly happy!
Ten years ago, did you ever imagine you’d be invited back for such an important anniversary and asked to compose the official theme song?
Umikun: Not at all. I never expected it!
You composed the official song for Japan Expo 2015 and now the 25th anniversary theme. How has your approach as a composer evolved between these two songs?
Umikun: Between those two editions, I’ve composed a lot of music. Through that experience, I’ve learned many things, and all of that is reflected in this year’s theme song.
If you had to describe the 25th anniversary theme in three words, which would you choose?
Umikun: If I had to describe it in three words, I would say: personal, life, and youth.
What emotion do you hope visitors will feel when they hear this new song?
Umikun: You know Jean-François, one of the co-founders of Japan Expo. He made a rather unique request for this song. He wanted it to evoke a sense of nostalgia for adults while also appealing to younger audiences.
ON A FAIT UNE ORIGINAL ANIMATION VIDEO POUR LES 25 ANS DE JAPAN EXPO !!!!!!!!!!!! 🔥🥳🌟🤩🫶
Projet lancé fin 2024, nous sommes très fiers de vous présenter le résultat de mois de travail ✨
Avez-vous vu toutes les références ?
Merci à Nobuyoshi Habara, Hiroshi Shimizu,… pic.twitter.com/VpddMEFv8Z
— Japan Expo ⛩🗼 (@japanexpo) March 9, 2026
If you could film a YouTube video anywhere in France, where would you go?
Umikun: I really enjoy filming at Japan Expo, but I’d also like to shoot videos in Paris and Marseille. If possible, I’d also love to film at the top of the Eiffel Tower.
Where do you find inspiration for your YouTube videos?
Umikun: My inspiration often comes from the anime, movies, and video games I enjoy. Sometimes it also comes from dancing or from my personal reading.
Which song are you the proudest of today?
Umikun: The song I’m proudest of is the theme song for Japan Expo 2026.
Which artist inspires you the most?
Umikun: Joe Hisaishi, the composer behind the music for Studio Ghibli films, including Princess Mononoke.
If you could collaborate with any artist, who would you choose?
Umikun: I’d love to collaborate with Masayoshi Soken, the composer of the music for the Final Fantasy series. I really admire his melodies and the way his chord progressions develop. If possible, I’d love for him to compose a piece of music for me someday.
A few years ago, you said you thought it might be your last Japan Expo. Now you’re back for the 25th anniversary. How did you feel when you received the invitation? (Editor’s note: In 2017, Umikun told CKJ that he was sad because he thought it would be his last Japan Expo. Several years later, he has returned for this historic anniversary edition.)
Umikun: At first, I was surprised when I was invited back for this edition. Then I felt incredibly happy, and it gave me a lot of motivation to compose this year’s theme song.
What message would you like to share with the visitors of Japan Expo 2026?
Umikun: To everyone who has supported me for a long time, thank you for continuing to support me and for remembering me. And to those who are discovering me for the first time, I hope you’ll support me in the future. I also hope I’ll have the opportunity to come back to Japan Expo again in the years to come.
