QMENG: "What stands out about him is his cheerful smile and attractive appearance, but I like the fact that these are things he has "learned." In fact, I believe the reason he appears mentally stronger than anyone else is actually because he has strong avoidant tendencies. However, to people who don’t know Ivan well, this comes across as calm and dependable which I find interesting. When you keep in mind that he is someone who trained himself, almost by the textbook, in the skills needed to blend in well with other people, his lines become even more interesting."

VIVIMENG on Ivan's character from the Animedia issue. VIVINOS: "When we were conceptualizing Ivan, the first thing that came to mind was a character who, despite having a cold and rational appearance, harbors emotions that are more intense and passionate than anyone else's. Because of that, we felt that both cool, icy colors and an intense siren-like red suit Ivan very well. On the surface, he appears rational and composed, but in reality, he can also be swept away by irrational emotions more than anyone else. I also think one of Ivan's appeals is the way he sometimes makes unexpected, imperfect choices and pushes those dangerous emotions through to the very end."