ABOUT TOKYOPOP
Founded in 1997 by filmmaker and entrepreneur Stu Levy, TOKYOPOP has played a defining role in bringing Asian pop culture to global audiences. Its publishing division, TOKYOPOP, helped establish the manga market in North America—introducing the term “manga” into the English-language mainstream and shaping a new era of global graphic storytelling.
In 2004, publishing executive Joachim Kaps partnered with TOKYOPOP to launch TOKYOPOP GmbH in Germany, accelerating the company’s international expansion. Across its U.S. and European operations, TOKYOPOP has published thousands of titles in multiple languages, building a globally recognized catalog of manga and graphic novels. The company has also distributed anime and Asian films across home video and television, licensed merchandise with leading consumer brands, and developed graphic novels spanning both original works and adaptations of major IP.
TOKYOPOP has consistently embraced emerging platforms and technologies—from early innovation in social media and e-commerce to digital publishing initiatives that connect creators with global audiences and unlock new pathways for discovery and growth.
Today, TOKYOPOP is focused on expanding its portfolio of original and adapted IP into globally scalable franchises across publishing, film, television, animation, and digital platforms. Its production arm develops and produces both live-action and animated content, advancing projects from concept to screen while building cross-platform story ecosystems. Notable properties include Priest, America’s Greatest Otaku, Van Von Hunter, and Riding Shotgun.
TOKYOPOP continues to grow its international partnerships and co-production initiatives across Asia, including collaborations in China and Korea with leading regional media companies. With offices in Los Angeles, Tokyo, Hamburg, Hong Kong, and Shenzhen—and a network of more than 160 licensing and business partners spanning over 50 countries and 30 languages—the company is positioned as a global engine for IP development, franchise expansion, and cross-cultural storytelling.
OUR CORE
VALUES
MULTI-CULTURISM & DIVERSITY
We do not believe that any one culture should dominate the world and are dedicated to introducing a broad range of cultures and perspectives to wide audiences. Our stories and our team reflect diverse values that are respectful of all perspectives, across race, religion, gender & sexual preference.
AESTHETICISM & ARTISTIC INTEGRITY
We believe in fighting for artists to support and facilitate their dreams. An artist's tools may be a pen, a brush, a computer, a musical instrument or even a voice - and at POP we are dedicated to encouraging the artist in everyone.
PASSION & POSITIVE STORYTELLING
Without passion, art is without a soul. And without positivity, the world is a hate-filled, ugly place. While we are respectful of all emotions and expressions of such feelings, ultimately we believe we can change the world through meaningful - and positive - storytelling.