The Akiba Station section brought a vibrant surge of anime culture to the three-day LA Comic Con. A major highlight was the first US convention appearance of Saori Araki, also known as SAO. We sat down with her to discuss her LA Comic Con experience, her debut single, and more. Read the full interview below.
The-O Network: What are your first impressions of Los Angeles? Have you had a chance to explore the city at all?
SAO: I visited Los Angeles for a week about eight years ago. Ever since, I have been in love with the city. It gave me a very happy and nostalgic feeling. I was invited to the America's Got Talent final and an Anaheim Angels game. I didn't expect to attend such events and go viral, so I was really happy.
T-ONO: Are you a big fan of sports?
Yes, I used to play basketball in school.
T-ONO: LA Comic Con's Akiba Station is dedicated to Japanese pop culture. What aspects of Japanese pop culture are you most passionate about, and what did you enjoy most about the convention?
S: Growing up in Japan in general, we as Japanese have been very close to anime, games, and manga , just like many others. I am constantly amazed that this culture is now appreciated globally. At LA Comic Con, a lot of guests cosplayed as Japanese manga characters! What I enjoyed most was the energy and connection. My meet and greet line lasted two hours, and hundreds of people came to the show as well. Being able to interact directly with so many fans across the ocean was the absolute highlight.
T-ONO: Can you tell us if you have any personal passions or hobbies you're currently exploring or hope to pursue in the future?
S: I enjoy visiting shrines and aim to see as many as I can.
T-ONO: Your "Good Morning" photo went viral recently. What was that experience like, and how has it changed your career or public perception?
S: It felt genuinely strange and happy all at once. The viral nature of the photo opened up opportunities for me to be interviewed by various media outlets, both in Japan and around the world. I've noticed a big change in daily life too—I've been approached by tourists from LA even while in Japan, and fans have called out to me when I attended an Angels baseball game. When I was having lunch at the restaurant in LA I was recognized by a fan as well. It's surreal, and incredible, to know that people recognize me and connect with my work and passion in places across the ocean.
T-ONO: Following your viral post as the 'Japanese Salarywoman,' you are an established model, actress, and former idol. Can you tell us more about your experience working in those fields in Tokyo, and how they differ from the viral phenomenon?
S: I am still working as a salaried employee, and the company I am with is very flexible with me in terms of PTO and other benefits. I have a lot more freedom now. I was in an idol group long before Tokyo Girls Bravo when I was in high school. Being in an idol group with four other people is very different from being a solo idol. The amount of nervousness and anxiety I experience now is much greater than when I was in the group, which I find quite interesting.
T-ONO: You've launched a YouTube channel. What kind of content can fans expect to see there, and what inspired you to start it?
S: Currently, I only have one post. However, I would love to explore various activities, such as creating a food vlog. I really love French fries, and in LA and America there are so many different kinds of fries, and they're all delicious. In terms of content, the possibilities are endless.
T-ONO: What inspired you to create your debut single "OHAYO", and can you tell us more about the song's meaning?
S: After I went viral, many people interacted with me on social media. I want to show my appreciation to both my current and new fans. This is how I would like to express my gratitude.
T-ONO: What types of music or artists are you currently listening to and if so are there any in particular that you are inspired by?
S: I listen to many music artists, including Justin Bieber, BTS, Girls' Generation, and a lot of J-rock bands like RADWIMPS. This is where I draw my inspiration from.
T-ONO: Can you tell us a little about what you are currently working on and any information on upcoming projects you could possibly share?
S: I would love to do more concerts in the future if possible. Until then, I am hard at work in Japan.
T-ONO: Lastly, do you have any final words or a message you'd like to share with your fans at LA Comic Con and around the world?
S: Thank you very much for finding me. I hope to meet everyone one day, and I will do my best to make that happen.
Follow SAO:
https://www.youtube.com/@SAORI_ARAKI