Critically Acclaimed 'The Summer Hikaru Died' Expands Global Reach with Bilibili Launch

In a significant stride towards expanding its global footprint, the critically acclaimed television anime series, 'The Summer Hikaru Died,' has officially commenced streaming on Bilibili, China's largest video-sharing platform, as of July 29, 2025. This strategic launch is poised to introduce the haunting narrative to a vast new audience within the Chinese-speaking market, building upon its highly anticipated initial release just weeks prior. The series first captivated viewers on July 5, 2025, simultaneously launching globally on Netflix, in Japan via the popular ABEMA platform, and through a nationwide broadcast on Nippon TV, establishing its presence across multiple major distribution channels.

Delving into the Narrative

At its core, 'The Summer Hikaru Died' delivers a chilling and deeply emotional narrative, masterfully blending psychological suspense with profound human drama. The story centers on Yoshiki, a high school student whose seemingly ordinary life is irrevocably altered when a mysterious entity assumes the form of his beloved childhood friend, Hikaru. As Yoshiki navigates a world suddenly fraught with eerie phenomena and unsettling revelations, he is forced to confront the disturbing truth behind Hikaru's strange new presence. This gripping plot, which delves into themes of identity, loss, and the uncanny, promises to keep audiences on the edge of their seats.

From Manga to Screen: The Creative Forces

The anime adaptation derives from Mokumokuren’s acclaimed original manga, a work celebrated for its unique blend of horror and psychological depth, which has already cultivated a dedicated fanbase. This television series further elevates the narrative, bringing its intricate world to vivid life through the collaborative efforts of industry powerhouses CyberAgent and Kadokawa, with the renowned CygamesPictures studio skillfully handling the animation.

A New Era of Global Accessibility

The expansion onto Bilibili not only signifies a major milestone for 'The Summer Hikaru Died' in terms of international viewership but also powerfully exemplifies the increasing trend of Japanese anime leveraging global streaming services to broaden their reach and solidify their cultural impact worldwide, ushering in a new era of accessibility for acclaimed animated storytelling.