Bingeing anime can be a great source of comfort and entertainment for us media consumers and K-Pop idols are ultimately no exception. In this list, find out eight animated films and series that idols have explicitly stated as their favorites, or have otherwise mentioned in various sources.
1. THE BOYZ’s SunWoo: “Kimi no Nawa”
Genre: Drama, fantasy Summary: Two high schoolers inexplicably swapping bodies explore the vastly different lives they lead as they make plans to someday meet. “Kimi no Nawa” was significantly awarded during its 2016 release, cementing itself as a cult classic for any and all anime fans. SunWoo has reiterated his love for “Kimi no Nawa” in countless fansigns, even saying once that he’d watched the film at least eight times!
2. TXT’s SooBin: “Rascal Does Not Dream of Bunny Girl Senpai”
Genre: Psychological drama Summary: Sakuta Azusagawa encounters extreme cases of the ailment known as “Puberty Syndrome” within his high school, pushing him to better understand the lingering inner pains of those around him. In a March 2022 VLive, SooBin was talking about anime when he mentioned that “Rascal Does Not Dream of Bunny Girl Senpai” is one of his favorites. With an offbeat premise and an eccentric array of characters, the show manages to add emotional depth to science fiction concepts in ways that you’d never expect.
3. Stray Kids’s Lee Know: “That Time I Got Reincarnated as a Slime”
Genre: High fantasy Summary: A murdered corporate worker is reincarnated as a goop of slime in a supernatural world where he embarks on a daring journey unlike anything his previous life has ever experienced. When asked during a magazine interview what works from Japan he likes best, Lee Know was quick to respond that he enjoyed anime the most; in particular, he named “That Time I Got Reincarnated as a Slime”! Awarded Best Fantasy during the 2022 Crunchyroll Anime Awards, Lee Know’s choice pick is well-loved for its bizarre take on the otherworld genre.
4. NCT’s TaeYong: “Howl’s Moving Castle”
Genre: Fairytale fantasy, romance Summary: An evil, jealous witch curses Sophie—who was once an average milliner—to age prematurely. In order to return to her former self, she must adventure with the immature wizard Howl and his odd companions while residing in his quirky fortress. Studio Ghibli has produced some of the most beloved animated films to date, and “Howl’s Moving Castle” comfortably finds its place on that list. Fansigns and interviews have revealed TaeYong’s love for Ghibli movies, with him saying once that he personally thinks he resembles Howl from “Howl’s Moving Castle.”
5. ATEEZ’s MinGi: “Violet Evergarden”
Genre: Emotional drama Summary: War veteran Violet Evergarden finds a personal sense of renewed purpose by ghostwriting letters for people struggle to express themselves. MinGi revealed during a February 2020 VLive that he had watched (and cried over) “Violet Evergarden.” Anyone who gives the series is bound to agree; character-driven and melodramatic, “Violet Evergarden” is sure to stir up your emotions.
6. CRAVITY’s WonJin: “A Silent Voice”
Genre: Drama, romance Summary: A social outcast who once bullied his hearing-impaired classmate finds redemption by making amends and extending compassion. “A Silent Voice” proves to be remarkable for its sensitive treatment of rather serious societal issues. WonJin seems to think the same thing, too, having said in a fansign once that the film left a deep impression on him.
7. BTS’s V and Jin: “Wolf Children”
Genre: Family Summary: Single mother Hana struggles to raise her half-wolf daughter and son in a modern society that would not accept them. Both V and Jin have recommended “Wolf Children,” and it’s not hard to see why! Considered a truly touching film, the Studio Chizu picture will definitely have you crying once you unpack its impactful underlying message.
8. SEVENTEEN’s MinGyu, WooZi, SeungKwan, DK: “Haikyuu!!”
Genre: Coming-of-age, sports Summary: Despite his small stature which is viewed as disadvantageous in the sport, Shoyo Hinata aspires to be the best volleyball player he can be. Several members of SEVENTEEN have expressed their love for “Haikyuu!!,” even having their own favorite characters each. As one of the most popular animes to date, “Haikyuu!!” is worth the watch because it has a little bit of everything—from solid character development to a high-energy soundtrack. Anime And K-Pop Fans Are Creating “Attack On Titan” Crossovers With K-Pop Idols And We’re Here For It FANBUZZ|Jan 18, 2022
