One of 2025's Best New Anime Has Been Hit With Plagiarism Accusations
The anime Medalisthas quickly become one of the most talked-about series of 2025, captivating audiences with its stunning animation and heartfelt story. As a sports anime centered around figure skating, it has drawn praise for its realistic depictions of the sport and the emotional depth of its characters. However, the show recently found itself in hot water after viewers like @DalLacuna on X noticed similarities between an important performance in episode six and a real-world routine by legendary figure skater Kim Yuna.
Fans and critics alike have pointed out that the anime's protagonist, Hikaru, executes a sequence that mirrors Kim Yuna’s iconic 2009 World Championships performance. The choreography, pacing, and even certain signature movements appear to be almost identical. While some viewers see this as an homage to the beloved skater, others argue it crosses the line into plagiarism. As debates rage on social media, the controversy raises questions about artistic inspiration versus outright copying.
The Case for a Figure Skating Homage
Medalist Could Be Paying Respects to Kim Yuna
It could be argued that the similarities between Medalist's Hikaru's routine and Kim Yuna’s performance are a tribute rather than an act of plagiarism. In the world of figure skating, routines are often inspired by past performances, with skaters drawing from legendary athletes who came before them. The anime’s attention to detail in replicating the elegance and technical precision of a real-world champion could be seen as a way to celebrate the sport rather than steal from it.
Anime also has a long history of incorporating references to real-life moments, particularly in sports series. Some fans believe that rather than diminishing Kim Yuna’s legacy, Medalist introduces a new audience to her achievements. If the similarities were intentional, the anime could have been paying respect to one of the greatest figure skaters of all time rather than attempting to pass off her performance as original content.
The Argument for Plagiarism Within Medalist
The Performance of Hikaru is Eerily Similar to Kim Yuna's
On the other hand, it could be argued that Medalist may have crossed the line by lifting choreography without crediting the original source. Unlike general inspiration, which allows for creative reinterpretation, direct replication of a routine could be seen as plagiarism. Without an explicit acknowledgment of Kim Yuna’s influence, the anime risks misleading viewers into believing the performance is an original creation. Given the hard work and dedication that goes into skating routines, it's certainly understandable why the alleged lifting could upset enthusiasts of the sport.
As Medalist continues to gain popularity, the debate over its alleged plagiarism highlights the fine line between inspiration and imitation. Whether intentional or not, the comparisons to Kim Yuna’s 2009 World Championships routine have sparked an important discussion about artistic integrity in anime.
Medalist
- Release Date
- January 5, 2025
- Network
- tv asahi, ABC TV, Nagoya TV, HTB, Kyushu Asahi Broadcasting, NCC, Niigata Television Network 21, khb, KFB, HOME, KSB, Kagoshima Broadcasting, Oita Asahi Broadcasting, Asahi Broadcasting Aomori, Iwate Asahi TV, Akita Asahi Broadcasting, Yamagata Television System, Shizuoka Asahi TV, Asahi Broadcasting Nagano, Hokuriku Asahi Broadcasting, Ehime Asahi TV, Yamaguchi Asahi Broadcasting, Kumamoto Asahi Broadcasting, Ryu-Q Asahi Broadcasting
- Directors
- Takahiro Hirata
Cast
Natsumi HaruseInori Yuitsuka (voice)- Takeo OtsukaTsukasa Akeuraji (voice)
Medalist follows Tsukasa Akeuraji, a frustrated skater who encounters Inori Yuitsuka, an aspiring figure skater. Inspired by Inori's dedication, Tsukasa begins to coach her. As Inori's talent flourishes, Tsukasa transforms into an exceptional mentor, and together they strive to achieve her dream of becoming a medalist.
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