Sophian-kun, the official mascot of Sophia University, is based on the motif of an eagle soaring toward the Light of Truth, the university’s emblem, and was designated as the official character in 2013. The letters displayed at the center represent “Lux Veritatis” (Light of Truth). Sophia University has long been known internationally as Sophia University, and “Sophian” is the collective term for its current students and alumni.

The creation of Sophian-kun began in 2012, based on an idea proposed by Fumio Morooka, a Sophia University alumnus and then professor in the Faculty of Humanities (now Emeritus Professor). The project was jointly funded with the organizing committee of the Johnan-sen (an intercollegiate sports competition between Sophia University and Nanzan University). The design was selected through an open call to students, and the character was developed through the collaborative efforts of faculty and staff, alumni, and students.

Sophian-kun debuted on May 26, 2013, at the All Sophian’s Festival celebrating the 100th anniversary of Sophia University, and first appeared as a supporting mascot at the opening ceremony of the Johnan-sen on May 31 of the same year. Subsequently, its activities at the Johnan-sen and various other events were recognized, and it was officially designated as Sophia University’s mascot in November 2013, on the occasion of the university’s 100th anniversary celebrations.

Today, Sophian-kun appears at a wide range of events and competitions, including campus festivals, cheering on current students and alumni.