Asahi Shimbun's Media Outlet 'Koshokojitsu' Launches YouTube Channel Featuring 'Books That Changed My Life' in June

〈For Immediate Release〉

Asahi Shimbun Company (President and CEO: Katsumi Tsunoda) is launching a new video project utilizing YouTube on its book information site, 'Koshokojitsu.' The project will produce videos where celebrities and people working in book-related fields discuss their 'cherished books' or 'books that changed their lives.' These videos will be released in conjunction with the evening edition of the Asahi Shimbun newspaper.

The first installment, featuring translator Yumiko Konosu discussing various books including 'Wuthering Heights,' was released in two parts in late June. Starting July 4th, the second installment will feature film director Yoko Yamanaka, winner of the FIPRESCI Prize at the Cannes Film Festival, discussing two of her favorite books.

Following this, NATSU (member of idol group 'WHITE SCORPION'), actor Kohei Shoji, horror writer Sekishun, and others active in diverse fields related to books and expression will appear sequentially, offering a wide range of content. Through multifaceted communication including videos and audio, going beyond just articles, we aim to convey the charm of books more deeply.

YouTube 'Koshokojitsu Channel' https://www.youtube.com/@koshokojitsu

Asahi Shimbun Company's Book Site 'Koshokojitsu' https://book.asahi.com/

Koshokojitsu Video Project: Presenting the Charm of Books Three-Dimensionally

This project will develop content along two axes: 'books that changed my life' as told by celebrities, and the reading experiences of people working in book-related professions. We will delve into what kind of books they encountered, what words influenced them, and what changes occurred in their lives and work, exploring their values and thoughts through books.

In addition to readers who love books and are looking for their next read, this project aims to provide an opportunity for those who don't often encounter books to think, 'I want to read a book recommended by this person.'

Across Evening Editions, Website, Video, and Audio

This project will be developed in conjunction with two new initiatives that began in the Wednesday evening edition of the Asahi Shimbun in April: 'My Cherished Books,' where celebrities introduce two of their favorite books, and 'A Professional's Guide to Book Lovers,' introducing books that influenced people working in book-related fields. Text articles will be concisely and clearly presented by professional newspaper reporters and editors in the Asahi Shimbun newspaper, the Asahi Shimbun Company's book site 'Koshokojitsu,' and the Asahi Shimbun (digital version). Videos will convey charm, including speaking style and expressions, and the atmosphere of the interviews. Furthermore, we are considering expanding into audio content by linking with the podcast 'Book Lovers' Lunch Break.'

By communicating across multiple media platforms such as print, website, YouTube, and podcasts, we will broaden opportunities for readers to engage with 'Koshokojitsu' through various entry points.

Asahi Shimbun Company is strengthening its communication using video and audio, focusing on book recommendations, and aiming to expand the recognition of the 'Koshokojitsu' brand and foster a community of book lovers.

Upcoming Releases

【Released June 27, 28】

Yumiko Konosu (Translator)

【Scheduled for Release July 4, 5】

Yoko Yamanaka (Film Director)

【Scheduled for Sequential Release from July Onward (in no particular order)】

NATSU (Member of idol group 'WHITE SCORPION')

Kohei Shoji (Actor)

Kaito Higashihata (Clinical Psychologist) - Interview for 'What is Counseling? Changing and Being Changed' (Shinsho Grand Prize 2026)

Sekishun (Horror Writer)

Matakoi Sugie (Book Critic)

Jun Kawana (Book Designer)

Noriake Suzuki (Picture Book Author)

What is Koshokojitsu?

Koshokojitsu is a web media outlet for books operated by Asahi Shimbun Company. Starting with a wide range of genres such as novels, non-fiction, business books, comics, and picture books, it carefully deciphers the author's intentions, the background of the work, and its connection to society and daily life, providing each reader with 'a trigger for thinking' and 'a broader perspective.'