If you think anime can only come from Japan, you might be in for a surprise. While Japan is the birthplace of anime, and most of it is produced there, animation styles similar to anime have been created in other countries. But can they really be considered “anime”? Let’s break it down.

To answer whether anime can be made outside Japan, we first need to understand what “anime” actually means.

The word “anime” is short for “animation” in Japan. However, outside of Japan, the term refers specifically to the distinct style of animated shows and movies that originate from the country. These are often characterized by:

• Unique art styles: Large, expressive eyes, colorful hair, exaggerated emotions.
• Storytelling depth: Complex plots, rich character development, and deep themes.
• Cultural influences: Japanese settings, traditions, and storytelling techniques.

Some argue that anime must come from Japan to be considered “real anime.” Others believe it’s a style that can be replicated anywhere. So, what’s the truth?

Korea has produced many animated shows similar to anime. Some Korean animations, like The God of High School and Tower of God, even get labeled as anime because they’re animated in Japan.

Chinese animation, or “donghua,” has gained popularity in recent years. Shows like The King’s Avatar and Scissor Seven have anime-style animation and storytelling. But are they anime, or something different?

The U.S. and Europe have tried their hand at anime-style productions. Examples include:

• Avatar: The Last Airbender – A show with anime-style animation and storytelling, but made in the U.S.
• Castlevania – A Netflix series with an anime look, though produced by an American team with international animators.

The answer depends on who you ask. There are three main viewpoints:

For some, anime is defined by its Japanese origins. No matter how similar a show looks, if it’s not made in Japan, it’s not anime.

Others argue that if something looks, feels, and sounds like anime, it should be called anime—regardless of where it’s made.

Many anime studios outsource animation work to other countries, like South Korea and the Philippines. If a show is directed and produced by Japanese creators but animated elsewhere, is it still anime?

With streaming platforms like Netflix funding anime-style shows globally, the definition of anime is becoming blurrier. We may soon see anime evolving into a worldwide industry, not just a Japanese one.

So, can anime be made outside Japan? The simple answer: it depends on how you define anime. While most people associate anime with Japan, other countries are proving that the style and storytelling can exist beyond its borders.

As anime continues to grow, maybe it won’t matter where it comes from—only that it tells great stories. What do you think?