ZEPETO, the avatar social platform operated by NAVER Z Corporation (Headquarters: South Korea, Representative: Kim Chang-wook), has officially released a new "2D-style avatar type" (feature name: 2D Avatar Type) so users can enjoy even more diverse self-expression and new forms of communication.
To celebrate the release, ZEPETO kicks off a special collaboration with two hugely popular TikTok creators among Japan's Gen Z, Kogachanchan and Nemuru. The two will go live in real time as their avatars in a style quite different from their usual videos, alongside a fan campaign offering a chance to win exclusive items.
A New "2D Avatar Type" Expands the Range of Self-Expression
ZEPETO has so far offered a variety of avatar styles centered on 3D avatars. Responding to users' requests to express themselves in even more varied forms, ZEPETO now adds the "2D Avatar Type (anime style)" as a new avatar option, available from July 16.
This new base avatar, dedicated to authentic anime- and illustration-style expression, makes it possible to build a cuter, more immersive world unlike the platform's previous styles. With just a smartphone, anyone can easily transform into their ideal anime character and start livestreaming or communicating right away. The feature offers new possibilities for both users who already enjoy ZEPETO and a new generation of creators who love 2D and anime culture.
Popular TikTok Creators Try Avatar Livestreaming for the First Time
To celebrate the "2D Avatar Type" release, a special collaboration has been arranged with popular TikTok creators Nemuru and Kogachanchan, both known for their striking looks and approachable personalities that have won them many fans.
Wearing "original avatars" made to reflect their individual styles, the two will try real-time livestreaming inside ZEPETO for the first time.
Featured Creator Profiles & Account Information
Kogachanchan
A hugely popular influencer whose short-form videos, mainly on TikTok, have earned over 1 million followers across social media. Kogachanchan captivates fans with the gap between an almost too-perfect, anime-like appearance and a friendly personality.
TikTok account: @kogachanchan
ZEPETO account: @abab\_abab\_0
Nemuru
A popular creator with over 340,000 followers across social media. Openly identifying as a fan of "2D fashion" and an "anime otaku," Nemuru has built up an enthusiastic following among fellow otaku and teen girls with content about glowing up to look more like an ideal 2D character, along with an overwhelmingly translucent visual style.
TikTok account: @zawa_4869
ZEPETO account: @nemurusuyaaa
Livestream Schedule
| Creator | Date & Time | Content |
|---|---|---|
| Kogachanchan | July 23 (Thu), 8:00 PM | A chance to become Kogachanchan's virtual boyfriend or best friend! Chat live and maybe even join the livestream together. Plus, a chance to win an Amazon gift card worth up to ¥5,000! |
| Nemuru | July 24 (Fri), 9:00 PM | Fans vote live to decide which of 3 avatars becomes Nemuru's ZEPETO debut look! Watch live to see which one is chosen, plus a chance to get ZEPETO outfits for free! |
How to Watch
- Install the "ZEPETO" smartphone app.
- Search for the ZEPETO accounts in the app, or follow Kogachanchan's and Nemuru's official accounts via the links above.
- When each creator's stream starts, watch it from the "LIVE" tab in the app or from the accounts you follow.
Fan Campaigns Offer a Chance to Win Great Prizes
During the livestreams, ZEM (ZEPETO's in-app currency) and items avatars can wear will be given away. Special campaigns celebrating the livestreams are also running at the same time.
Livestream Viewing Campaign (Nemuru)
Overview: Take a screenshot of the livestream and post it in the comments of the designated feed post on Nemuru's ZEPETO account to enter.
Prize: ZEM, given away by lottery to 20 winners.
Two-Shot Photo Campaign (Kogachanchan)
Overview: Take a "two-shot" photo with Kogachanchan's avatar and post it to the ZEPETO app feed with the hashtag "#KOGAZEPETO."
Prize: An Amazon gift card, given away by lottery to 3 winners.
ZEPETO Keeps Pursuing New Experiences
ZEPETO continues to evolve as a place where users around the world can freely express themselves and connect with others, embracing new trends and technology to develop innovative features.
Alongside this new "2D Avatar Type," which further expands the possibilities of avatar expression, ZEPETO also offers an AI-powered "Character Chat" feature as a new form of communication that blends technology with the platform, and it has been well received by many users.
Popular Feature Currently Available: AI-Powered "Character Chat"
This immersive feature lets users chat with characters from virtual stories, offering an experience where users can feel like the protagonist of a story, as well as the ability to easily create and share their own stories.
NAVER Z's Vision for the Future of Avatar Experiences
The addition of this "2D Avatar Type," the collaboration with influencers, and the ongoing "Character Chat" feature together reflect the platform's commitment to constantly evolving and offering new value.
NAVER Z will continue to focus on developing features that spark users' imagination, while expanding partnerships with companies, IPs, and creators to further broaden the possibilities of user experience in digital spaces.
