About A Sign of Affection
A Sign of Affection, known in Japan as Yubisaki to Renren, is a tender college romance adapted by studio Ajia-do from the manga by the creative duo suu Morishita. It follows Yuki Itose, a gentle university student who has been deaf since birth and navigates a busy hearing world through sign language, lip reading, and her phone. Her quiet routine shifts the day she meets Itsuomi Nagi, a worldly, multilingual classmate of a friend who is endlessly curious about people and places. Where others talk past Yuki, Itsuomi leans in, fascinated by the way she experiences the world, and he begins learning sign language so the two can truly communicate.
The series is celebrated for its warm, respectful portrayal of a Deaf protagonist. Rather than treating Yuki as a source of pity, the story centers her perspective, using soft sound design, on-screen signing, and quiet visual cues to let viewers share how she perceives conversation, music, and the city around her. The romance unfolds slowly and sincerely, built on patience, small misunderstandings, and the courage it takes to reach for someone new. Themes of language, belonging, and self-confidence run throughout, as Yuki learns to trust her own desires and Itsuomi learns to slow down for the person he cares about.
Premiering in January 2024 and streaming worldwide on Crunchyroll, the first season spans twelve episodes and adapts the early arcs of the ongoing manga. It quickly drew a devoted international following for its gorgeous pastel art, its emotional restraint, and its thoughtful handling of disability and communication. With the manga still continuing, fans continue to hope for a second season to carry Yuki and Itsuomi further into their story.