Japanese Sociocultural Dynamics in One Piece Wano Kuni Arc: A Visual and Narrative Analysis

Imam Santoso

doi:10.63922/ijebir.v5i05.6165

Imam Santoso Master of Design Program Institut Desain and Bisnis Bali

DOI: https://doi.org/10.63922/ijebir.v5i05.6165

Keywords: Anime, Glocalization, One Piece, Sociocultural Representation, Visual Narrative.

Abstract

The Wano Kuni Arc in One Piece represents a significant cultural phenomenon where Japanese feudal history is reconstructed within the framework of global popular culture. This study aims to analyze the visual and narrative representation of Japanese sociocultural dynamics in the Wano Arc and examine how the three-act structure effectively conveys these cultural messages. Employing a qualitative descriptive approach with inductive content analysis (Mayring model), this research scrutinizes episodes 890–1085. The analysis is theoretically grounded in Vygotsky’s Sociocultural Theory, Robertson’s Glocalization, Hjarvard’s Mediatization, and Hall’s Representation Theory. The findings reveal that Wano Kuni functions as a "glocal" ecosystem where traditional aesthetics (Ukiyo-e, Kabuki) are hybridized with global shonen tropes (pirate rebellion). The narrative progression—from romanticizing culture in the Setup to exposing social repression in the Confrontation, and culminating in ideological liberation via the "Rubber Hose" animation style in the Resolution demonstrates anime's capacity as a medium of counter-hegemony. This study concludes that the Wano Arc serves as a critical discourse on authoritarianism and cultural identity, negotiating local values for global consumption.

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