The popular webtoon "Here U Are," which has garnered over 390 million views worldwide, will be adapted into a TV anime. Based on the manga depicting the awkward yet straightforward love between two male college students, it has been announced that voice actor Yuki Inoue will play Yu Yang, a lovable senior, and Ryota Suzuki will play Li Fang, a quiet and cool freshman. Tomoe Makino will direct, and Rouse Act will produce the animation.
"Here U Are" tells the story of Yu Yang, a popular upperclassman at university, and Li Fang, a quiet and unfriendly freshman. The two, who make the worst first impression of each other, clash and rebel, yet are drawn to one another. The series has gained popularity for its delicate portrayal and relatable characters.
Inoue commented, "It's an incredibly delicate story, and I'm not sure what to say about it. I spent my days diligently trying to portray Yu Yang's feelings. In our daily lives, there are things that are visible on the surface and things that are moving about inside. Realities that we want to turn away from, and a past that we want to forget. It's a story about ordinary college students who are struggling and worrying about various things as they go about their daily lives. I put all the emotions and thoughts that welled up inside me into my performance. I would be happy if something comes across through the story."
Suzuki said, "This film delicately portrays the characters' personalities and relationships, and while it unfolds at a gentle pace, I feel it has the power to move the heart. I want to carefully portray the purity of the cool and taciturn Li Fang, and the drive and strong feelings that arise precisely because of that purity. I hope you will also pay attention to the beautiful visuals and music. Thank you!!"
Director Makino said, "Reading the original work made me think about how difficult life can be just because you fell in love with someone of the same sex. I hope that the words and actions that Yu Yang uttered after much thought will resonate with someone and give them a chance to think, even just a little, like I did."
Series composition writer Aiki Kawamura said, "When I read this work, I felt it was a story that made you feel the 'connection of hearts.' It reminded me that things that you couldn't do alone can become possible when you have someone you're connected to, and that the presence of that person gives you trust and a sense of security, which in turn gives you the courage to take a step forward. I think it's a heartwarming story about finding such a person. I am honored to be involved in the heartwarming 'Here U Are' as a scriptwriter. I hope everyone will enjoy it."
Asami Hayakawa, who is in charge of character design, commented, "I am very happy that we can deliver to everyone the ordinary everyday thing of people loving one another through this work. There are many shortcomings, but I will do my best to do what I can together with everyone involved. Thank you for your support."
Music composer Shinya Kiyozuka said, "I tried to express the charming and expressive characters in 'Here U Are' through a variety of timbres and genres. Please enjoy the performances by top-class musicians and the 'poignant' sensibility that Asia is proud of. Of course, there are also piano sounds!"
The original author, D-kun, commented, "I never imagined it would be made into an anime, so when I heard about it I was really excited, and now this day has finally come! I'm so happy that I'll be able to see the characters moving and talking! I hope the readers will enjoy it too."
