LAFC and IPX Bring LINE FRIENDS' Iconic Character BROWN to LA for an Exciting Collaboration
LAFC and IPX Unite to Introduce BROWN in Los Angeles
The Los Angeles Football Club (LAFC) has formed a strategic partnership with IPX, aiming to integrate the beloved LINE FRIENDS character BROWN into the vibrant culture of Los Angeles. This exciting collaboration is aligned with the upcoming 2026 MLS season and promises to merge soccer with pop culture like never before.
BROWN's Debut on the Soccer Field
In celebration of LINE FRIENDS’ 15th anniversary, BROWN will be making his inaugural appearance at the LAFC's match against FC Dallas on March 7. This event will occur at BMO Stadium, where BROWN will not only be present but will perform the role of the honorary falconer for the match. Fans can also look forward to interactive pre-match experiences including opportunities for selfies and heartfelt hugs from the character, making this a memorable event for attendees.
BROWN, an emblem of enjoyment and connection, resonates with fans of all ages, embodying LAFC's commitment to cultural engagement within the community. According to Kyung Seok Cho, Director of IPX Original IP, the partnership is a harmonious fusion of culture and passion, enhancing the magical energy of match days at the stadium.
Celebrating Shared Values
Larry Freedman, the Co-President and Owner of LAFC, remarked on how this partnership is a fresh approach to embrace fans. By welcoming BROWN, a globally recognized character, LAFC is focusing on boosting the excitement of game days and offering unique interactions that connect with the diverse culture of Los Angeles. This collaboration allows fans to enjoy not just soccer but also a celebration of creativity and entertainment.
BROWN's Global Influence
Since entering the global scene, BROWN has captured the hearts of millions across the globe, especially in markets like Asia, the United States, and beyond, through various forms of media - from animation to branded merchandise. His first venture into live sports with LAFC signifies a natural intersection of entertainment and sports, paving the way for more fan-first experiences that go beyond a single match.
In addition to this debut event, there's more to come as LAFC and IPX have committed to rolling out additional activations and collaborations throughout the season. This could include more immersive fan experiences and special events featuring BROWN and other characters from the LINE universe.
About IPX and its Vision
IPX, previously known as LINE FRIENDS, is a renowned global character brand that originated with unique characters designed for the popular messaging app LINE, which boasts 200 million active users. As part of its new strategy, IPX is set on expanding its intellectual property (IP) portfolio while targeting audiences of all ages. This includes fostering partnerships with various global entities like Netflix and gaming companies, facilitating unique experiences designed to engage fans worldwide.
IPX operates in 18 international markets, including cities such as Seoul, New York, and Tokyo, signifying its extensive reach and popularity.
About LAFC
LAFC has established itself as a significant presence in Major League Soccer since its inception in 2018, building a community-rich soccer culture. The team has not only lifted the MLS Cup but has also set a mark by winning multiple titles, further intertwining sports with local diversity and entertainment. With a dedicated ownership group comprised of trailblazers from various industries, LAFC is keen on enhancing the fan experience, further evidenced by its investment in the state-of-the-art BMO Stadium.
As the 2026 MLS season unfolds, fans can look forward to explosive matches combined with enriching cultural experiences, as LAFC and IPX continue to innovate through their partnership.