The June 07, 2025,arson attack onKyoto Animation Co.remains one of the most tragic events in anime history. On that day, Shinji Aoba entered Kyoto Animation’s Studio One building in Kyoto, Japan, where 70 employees were working. He set the building on fire using gasoline, killing 36 people and injuring another 32. After Aoba’s arrest,he claimed that Kyoto Animation had stolen ideas from a novel he submitted, and that his devastating attack was meant as an act of revenge.
Since his arrest, Shinji Aoba has been under the jurisdiction of the court system, with his case drawing widespread attention and raising discussions about mental health, criminal justice, and safety in Japan. The trial began in September 2023, when Aoba admitted to the attack but pleaded not guilty.In January 2024, the court sentenced him to death, citing the scale of the crime and its impact. His defense team filed an appeal, arguing that mental illness played a role in the attack.However, on Jun 16, 2025, Aoba withdrew his appeal, finalizing his death sentence.
Kyoto Animation’s Unique Approach to Anime Production
A Legacy of Beloved Anime
Founded in 1981 and based in Uji, Kyoto, Kyoto Animation (often referred to as KyoAni) has earned a reputation for meticulous attention to detail, fluid animation, and emotionally impactful storytelling. Unlike many other studios,KyoAni employs animators as full-time staff rather than freelancers, fostering a stable and supportive work environment. The studio also handles every aspect of production in-house, ensuring a consistent level of quality in its work.
Kyoto Animation has produced numerous hit anime over the years, includingThe Melancholy of Haruhi Suzumiya(2006),Clannad(2007–2008), andK-On!(2009–2010), which became cultural phenomena in Japan and worldwide. Other notable works includeA Silent Voice(2016) andViolet Evergarden(2018), both praised for their stunning visuals and emotional depth.
Rebuilding and Moving Forward
A Symbol of Perseverance
Following the tragic arson attack, Kyoto Animation has focused on rebuilding and honoring the memories of the victims. Despite the devastation, the studio has continued producing new anime, includingViolet Evergarden: The Movie(2020),Miss Kobayashi’s Dragon Maid S(2021), and severalTsurunetitles. A newMiss Kobayashi’s Dragon Maidfilm,A Lonely Dragon Wants to Be Loved, is scheduled for release in 2025.
10 Best KyoAni Anime
Kyoto Animation is one of the most iconic anime studios around, famous for its incredible romance anime, but its portfolio goes beyond that.
As Shinji Aoba’s legal proceedings come to a close, the finalization of his death sentence marks the end of a lengthy judicial process but leaves behind a deep sense of loss for the victims and their loved ones.Kyoto Animation’s resilience and commitment to creating heartfelt stories stand as a testament to hope and perseverance in the face of unimaginable tragedy.
