The creators of the animated series Cuju Squad recently made their inaugural appearance at the 2023 Autumn TV Festival in Cannes, France.

Cuju, an ancient Chinese ball game that originated in Linzi, the ancient capital of the State of Qi during the Spring and Autumn Period (770BC-221BC), has a rich history spanning over two thousand years. It played a pivotal role in the development of modern football in England and was recognized as the origin of football by FIFA in 2004.

Zibo, which is located in Shandong province, China, is acknowledged as cuju's cradle. The sport was designated as a national intangible heritage in 2006.

In response to Zibo's initiative to promote the city's intellectual property related to Qi culture and enhance its cultural and historical influence on the origins of football, Kungfu Animation Co Ltd has crafted the animation titled Cuju Squad.

Cuju Squad was screened at the Autumn Cannes TV Festival and had attracted interest from customers from various countries and regions. Kungfu Animation then engaged in discussions with potential partners from nearly 60 countries before finalizing over 20 cooperation agreements on-site. Enthusiasm from participants from countries involved in the Belt and Road Initiative was especially high. Numerous parties also expressed an interest in purchasing the animation.

Capitalizing on the opportunity presented by the Cannes TV Festival, Zibo has been actively bolstering its cultural intellectual property ecosystem centered around cuju as part of efforts to become a hub for football enthusiasts around the world.

Visitors hold talks regarding Cuju Squad at the Cannes TV Festival. [Photo provided to chinadaily.com.cn]