A TV anime adaptation of Shishite Ikiru SSS-kyū Hunter (死して生きるSSS級ハンター) has been officially announced, accompanied by the release of a teaser PV and teaser visual. The SMARTOON series is based on a Korean novel, with Shinnoa as the original author, Neida handling the writing, and Bill K on art. In Japan, the series has been serialized on Piccoma since 2022.

Story

The story is set in a world where a mysterious tower suddenly appears, overflowing with ferocious monsters. Inside the tower, hunters engage in life-or-death games. Kongja, an F-rank hunter considered a total failure, spends his days in mediocrity while envying Yeomje, the world’s top-ranked hunter. One day, he acquires a Rank S+ copy skill that activates only upon his death — and the legendary former hunter Geomje becomes his ghostly partner. Together, the two set out to conquer the tower from the very bottom.

Staff & Cast

The TV anime is scheduled to begin broadcasting in January 2027 (Winter 2027 season). Key staff includes:

• Director: Sakurai Hiroaki
• Series Composition: Oba Sayuri
• Character Design: Yoshimatsu Takahiro
• Animation Production: Studio fu

The cast features Otsuka Taio as Kim Kongja and Hino Satoshi as Geomje.

Teaser Visual & PV

The teaser visual depicts Kongja lying in a dimly lit room while Geomje gazes down at him in silence, with a single dazzling card radiating brilliant light. The teaser PV showcases both characters and captures the pivotal moment when Kongja’s fate begins to shift dramatically.

Comments from Cast & Staff

Otsuka Taio (Kim Kongja)

“Kongja” — written with the characters for Confucius but read as “Konja.” His rise-to-the-top story unfolds at a brisk, satisfying pace alongside a colorful cast of characters. The recording sessions have been full of energy and momentum. Please look forward to the broadcast!

Hino Satoshi (Geomje)

I’m honored to voice Geomje in this TV anime. He’s a bold, positive character who uses his vast experience and strength to support Kim Kongja — voiced by Otsuka Taio — as his ghostly companion. Beyond the action and psychological battles, the banter between Geomje and Kongja is genuinely entertaining. Please enjoy it!

Sakurai Hiroaki (Director)

The source material grew from a novel into a comic and gained popularity worldwide — it’s an honor to bring it to anime, though I also feel the pressure. But the moment Yoshimatsu Takahiro came on board for character design, the path forward felt wide open. With the full team, cast, and the power of music behind us, we’re moving forward with great momentum.

Oba Sayuri (Series Composition)

This is a popular Korean work known for its roller-coaster-style drama. Kongja starts out as a bottom-ranked failure, but using the card he obtains, he rises to the top in a truly “die and live again” cheat-like fashion. I hope viewers enjoy the unpredictable and original story every episode — both fans of the original and newcomers alike.

Yoshimatsu Takahiro (Character Design)

When I received the request and looked at the source material, I found so many compelling characters that I immediately felt the urge to draw them. This felt like exactly what I needed creatively right now. I’m only handling the main character designs, but I’m truly happy to be working with Director Sakurai again after such a long time.