Neptune's Ken Horiuchi and Championz Members Appear as One-Day 'Otome' Ambassadors! Nobel Confectionery Celebrates New Chapter Launch of 'Otome' with PR Event Under the Theme 'Beyond Umeboshi'

Nobel Confectionery Co., Ltd. (Headquarters: Higashinari-ku, Osaka City; President and CEO: Toshiaki Baba; hereinafter 'Nobel Confectionery') held the PR event titled 'Beyond Umeboshi: Nobel Confectionery Otome New Chapter Launch Commemoration Event' to mark the new chapter of its 'Otome' brand, under the brand concept 'Beyond Umeboshi.' As one-day 'Otome Ambassadors,' Neptune's Ken Horiuchi and Championz's Osaki, known as Japan's funniest, and Ochan took the stage. They participated in talk sessions tied to the new chapter and sampling events, and challenged themselves in special initiatives—'Foot Reflexology Mat Challenge' and 'Plum Balloon Burst Challenge'—to wish for further success of 'Otome,' greatly energizing the audience.

Entering a New Chapter After 19 Years Since 'Otome' Was Born!

At the start of the event, it was announced that 'Otome' has reached its 19th year since launch, refreshing its brand concept to 'Beyond Umeboshi' and entering a new chapter. Ken Horiuchi of Neptune, appearing as an Otome Ambassador, greeted the audience with a big jump, shouting, 'Fly up to the sky! Otome! We won't lose!' Championz also opened with their signature comedy routine, warming up the crowd.

When asked about their impressions of 'Otome,' Horiuchi said, 'Otome gives off a bold, manly vibe. Just hearing the name “Otome” makes my dry mouth moisten—I can feel my body reacting!' Osaki of Championz recalled, 'The impact of “Otomezou” is incredible. I remember that waterfall CM aired when I was in high school—it brings back memories.' Ochan added, 'My grandmother often gave me Otome candy along with my allowance as a way to replenish salt.'

Asked about memories from 2009, the year the CM began airing, Horiuchi shared a precious anecdote: 'It was the year my daughter was born! I received a calligraphy scroll from a famous TV host on a show with the words “Safe Delivery Prayer,” and when I got home that evening, my daughter had been born.' Each shared nostalgic memories, delighting the audience.

Ochan Performs an Otomezou Impression! And Horiuchi's Moment That Made Him Famous Worldwide

Next, the newly refreshed key visual for 'Otome,' coinciding with the new chapter launch, was unveiled. Championz were thrilled, noting that the pose in the visual looked just like their famous gag, 'Don’t flick me!' 'Did you make this just for us!?' they exclaimed, exciting the audience.

Ochan then performed his signature impression of 'Otomezou.' Horiuchi poured water from a PET bottle to simulate a waterfall, recreating the iconic 'Otome' CM where someone stands under a waterfall—a memorable moment from past campaigns.

With the sampling event starting on Friday, July 17, in Shibuya and expanding to five cities nationwide, the hosts were asked, 'What have you done in the past to get people across Japan to know you, and what worked well?' Horiuchi replied, 'I had a moment that made me famous worldwide. Once in a casino, I passed gas, and an elderly couple next to me said, 'Oh my God!' and walked away. That’s when I thought, Ken Horiuchi is here!' Osaki immediately retorted, 'What are you talking about? (laughing) Don’t make your junior say such things!' sparking laughter. Meanwhile, Championz shared that they turned their 'Ochan' gag into a song and posted it on social media, reaching No. 8 on a music site—briefly surpassing popular artists—and said, 'We managed to get high schoolers to know us too,' reminiscing about the time.

Beyond the Pain! Foot Reflexology Mat Challenge

Next, they took on a daring mission themed 'Beyond Umeboshi.' The first challenge was the 'Foot Reflexology Mat Challenge,' where the two members of Championz ran in a relay over a foot reflexology mat. Success was defined as shaking hands with 'Otomezou' at the finish line within 40 seconds.

When the challenge began, first runner Osaki took 30 seconds, leaving Ochan only 10 seconds to run back and forth across the mat. Despite writhing in pain from the mat’s intense stimulation, both pushed forward with determination, receiving loud cheers from the audience. They successfully completed the challenge, celebrating with a high-five from Otomezou. However, Horiuchi unexpectedly demanded, 'Ochan strayed a bit—let’s do it again!' Championz desperately resisted, narrowly avoiding a repeat. The Foot Reflexology Mat Challenge concluded successfully.

Beyond Unity! Plum Balloon Burst Challenge

Next, to express the hope that 'Otome' will be loved for 20, 30, and more years to come, the 'Plum Balloon Burst Challenge' was held. The duo had to cooperate within the time limit to burst 'plum balloons,' aiming to break 20 or more.

Osaki, taking the lead, burst balloons at an astonishing speed, reaching 25—already clearing the mission. But at Horiuchi’s call of 'You can still go!' a new rule was added: Ochan had to burst all balloons in a basket to succeed. Ochan continued energetically, successfully bursting 19 with 12 seconds remaining.

Final Result…? Challenge Successfully Cleared! One Year’s Supply of Otome Products Awarded

After completing both challenges, Championz successfully cleared all missions!

They embodied 'Beyond Umeboshi' and fulfilled their role as Otome Ambassadors. To celebrate their success, all three were awarded a one-year supply of 'Otome' series products.

Finally, Horiuchi commented, 'Though brief, it was a truly enjoyable time. Summer is hot, but I’m determined to beat the heat by enjoying Otome for salt replenishment. I’ve decided to get through this summer with Otome by my side.' Championz also powerfully called out, 'Go beyond Otome!' blending in their comedy.

The venue remained filled with smiles and laughter throughout, closing the event on a warm and successful note.

About 'Otome'

The 'Otome' series proudly features a rich umeboshi flavor created with a secret 'Otome' powder that captures the authentic saltiness and umami of pickled plums. The lineup includes candies, gummies, soft candies, sheets, and more.

About Nobel Confectionery

Nobel Confectionery values the 'dream and romance' that spreads from sweets, delivering various confections as dreams in the form of 'new deliciousness.' Continuing to create 'one dream candy' that brings a smile to your face with every bite.