AsiaPOP!

Experience the culture of AsiaPOP!

AsiaPOP! is more than an event — it’s an experience. From pulsing K-pop concerts and gripping Korean horror films to colorful art exhibits and lively conversations with international filmmakers, AsiaPOP! brings the sights, sounds and stories of contemporary Asia to life on campus.

Hosted by the Habib Institute for Asian Studies, this multi-day celebration explores how Asian pop culture shapes — and is shaped by — the global stage. Whether you're a longtime fan or new to the scene, AsiaPOP! offers an unforgettable journey through music, cinema, fashion, art and ideas.

Celebrating contemporary Asian culture

AsiaPOP! brings together scholars, students, artists and enthusiasts to delve into the world of Asian pop culture. Through interactive events and thought-provoking discussions, the event highlights the impact of Asian influence on global media and society.

With a special focus on the global influence of anime and manga, this event features exclusive screenings and engaging conversations between academic and industry professionals to create an immersive cultural experience. At AsiaPOP!, you’ll:  

  • Discover how artists, musicians and filmmakers are reimagining global culture through Asian perspectives.
  • Join conversations that challenge stereotypes, elevate underrepresented voices and explore the future of media.
  • Make meaningful connections with fellow fans, creators and scholars in an open, welcoming space.

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Event details

AsiaPOP! features a full schedule of events designed to entertain and inform. Whether you're a newcomer or a longtime fan, there's something for everyone. All events are free and open to the public. 

Have questions?
We'd love to hear from you!
Email: class-asia@uidaho.edu

AsiaPOP! Studio Ghibli

Studio Ghibli comes to life at University of Idaho with AsiaPOP!, a multiday celebration of the iconic Japanese animation studio’s influence on Asia and the world. AsiaPOP! events run Monday, Aug. 25, through Friday, Sept. 12, and include speakers from the animation industry and the academy, as well as cultural exhibits and activities, a musical performance and screenings of Ghibli’s beloved films. 

Speakers
  • Steve Alpert, former senior executive at Studio Ghibli, instrumental in bringing Ghibli films to the U.S. and the world.
  • Kaitlyn Ugoretz, instructor and associate editor at Nanzan University in Japan.
  • Lien Fan Shen, professor of animation at University of Utah.
  • Sixth Station Trio, a professional violin, cello and piano trio based in San Francisco.

AsiaPOP! Studio Ghibli is sponsored by the U of I Habib Institute for Asian Studies. Co-sponsors are the College of Letters, Arts and Social Sciences, the College of Art and Architecture, and the Lionel Hampton School of Music.

Schedule
  • Monday, Aug. 25, through Friday, Sept. 12
    • “Ghibli and the Natural World” exhibit and a life-size, Insta-ready Totoro, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. weekdays, ISUB Reflections Gallery
  • Tuesday, Aug. 26  
    • “My Neighbor Totoro” (1988) film screening, 7 p.m., Kenworthy Performing Arts Centre, 508 S. Main St.
  • Thursday, Aug. 28
    • Gallery exhibit opening reception, 4-5:30 p.m., ISUB Reflections Gallery. Refreshments served.
  • Tuesday, Sept. 2  
    • “Grave of the Fireflies” (1988) film screening, 7 p.m., Kenworthy Performing Arts Centre, 508 S. Main St.
  • Thursday, Sept. 4
    • Ghibli cosplay contest and Asian Studies Library open house, 3-5 p.m., Administration Building 204. For contest rules, email class-asia@uidaho.edu.
  • Monday, Sept. 8
    • Totoro origami with the Japan Club, 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., ISUB
  • Tuesday, Sept. 9
    • “Pom Poko” (1994) film screening, 7 p.m., Kenworthy Performing Arts Centre, 508 S. Main St.
  • Wednesday, Sept. 10:
    • Lien Fan Shen (University of Utah) lecture and workshop, “From ‘Nausicaä’ to Manga Aesthetics,” 3:30 p.m., ISUB Clearwater-Whitewater Room. Bring sketch pad and drawing tools.
    • Sixth Station Trio concert, “The Music of Studio Ghibli,” 7 p.m., Administration Building Auditorium. This is an ASUI Centennial Fine Arts Endowment event.
  • Thursday, Sept. 11:
    • Kaitlyn Ugoretz (Nanzan University) lecture, “Miyazaki is My Religion: Studio Ghibli and Spirituality,” 2 p.m., ISUB Clearwater-Whitewater Room
    • Steve Alpert (former senior executive at Studio Ghibli) lecture, “Studio Ghibli: Who’s the Audience?” 4 p.m., Clearwater-Whitewater Room
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