SAMG Entertainment Launches "Wish Cat × NCT WISH" Collaboration Project

Global IP content company SAMG Entertainment (CEO Kim Suhoon, hereinafter referred to as SAMG Entertainment) is launching a collaboration project between the animation "Wish Cat" IP and NCT WISH, a group under SM Entertainment. This collaboration will include character merchandise, an original soundtrack (OST), and other products, as part of SAMG Entertainment's strategy to expand its IP business.

In anticipation of the launch of "Wish Cat" Season 2, titled "Wish Cat Magic Card," which is scheduled to air in the first quarter of this year, SAMG Entertainment has unveiled cat collaboration characters inspired by the concepts of NCT WISH members. Starting from January 12, these characters will be released sequentially as a variety of merchandise, including figures, plush keyrings, cushions, blankets, and stickers.

An OST collaboration is also underway. NCT WISH will perform the Season 2 OST "Wishing Star," further enriching the narrative of the work through music. SAMG Entertainment plans to release the soundtrack at noon on January 7 and gradually introduce music video content and related merchandise to maintain fan interest.

The animation "Wish Cat" delicately portrays growth, friendship, and emotional changes in relationships through the meeting of a special cat named "Ainyang," who accidentally falls into the human world of "Nyantababara," and a kind, cheerful girl named "Anna." The series has resonated with teenagers and Millennials & Gen Z. Season 1, which aired on SBS and Tooniverse in 2024, expanded its audience and recognition through major OTT platforms.

Season 2, "Wish Cat Magic Card," will depict Anna, Ainyang, and new Wish Cats in action as they face various villains threatening the peaceful Nyantababara. Anna will transform into "Wishiella" with special magical powers, showing her growth, and will team up with Wish Cats who each have unique personalities and abilities. The new season promises even more vibrant visuals, dynamic action, immersive adventures, and an expanded universe.

Prior to this official collaboration, Wish Cat had already presented voluntary collaborative content last year, including a parody of the album art and participation in a dance challenge for NCT WISH's mini 2nd album title track "poppop," using the keyword "WISH" as a bridge. Since their simultaneous debut in Korea and Japan in 2024, NCT WISH has rapidly built a global fandom, and in December last year, they participated in the OST for Season 6 of SAMG Entertainment's "Catch! Teenieping" with the "Prince Ping Song," actively collaborating with major content IPs.

Wish Cat has demonstrated its potential for IP expansion through various means, including brand collaborations, offline campaigns, and musicals. The brand has collaborated with Paris Baguette and SPAO, conducted offline campaigns at Shinsegae Outlet, and expanded its universe through the musical "Wish Cat: Sing Your Wish," the "Wish Cat Theme Park Seoul" exhibition, and a special exhibition at Daegu Aquarium.

A representative from SAMG Entertainment stated, "Through the collaboration with NCT WISH, SAMG Entertainment will expand its IP into music, merchandise, and licensing businesses, providing a unique consumer experience to the 10-30 age group and global fandom shared by K-animation and K-pop. We will continue to grow our IP business through the synergy between content."