Kodansha is set to unveil a unique American edition of Young Magazine, a prominent Japanese manga publication celebrated for its influential series such as AKIRA, Ghost in the Shell, and Initial D. This special edition marks a significant milestone, commemorating the 45th anniversary of Young Magazine in Japan and is poised to introduce a total of 19 new manga titles to U.S. audiences. Among these titles is "Subaru and Subaru," the latest creation from the acclaimed author of Initial D, who has also written the follow-up series, MF Ghost.
The U.S. edition is being dubbed as "UN-filtered MANGA," a concept that aims to present readers with stories that delve into the raw, unfiltered experiences of ordinary people navigating extraordinary circumstances. This initiative is positioned to broaden the appeal of manga by highlighting themes of science fiction, dark horror, and cyberpunk, specifically tailored for an adult audience. Unlike the shonen manga that primarily targets younger readers, Young Magazine has historically focused on seinen content, which is crafted for adults, often exploring complex psychological and horror-based narratives.
This special issue features contributions from a roster of celebrated manga creators, ensuring that readers will encounter a rich variety of storytelling styles and artistic expressions. Notable names include Shuzo Oshimi, known for works like The Flowers of Evil and Blood on the Tracks; Masaaki Nakayama, the creative mind behind Fuan no Tane and PTSD Radio; Shuichi Shigeno, the genius behind Initial D; and Kengo Hanazawa, recognized for Under Ninja. These artists are well-regarded within the manga community, and their involvement adds significant weight to this new release.
Out of the 19 new titles, 16 will be open for fan voting. Readers are invited to cast their votes for their favorite series through the official website of the magazine and its social media presence on X (formerly Twitter). According to a recent press release, the titles that garner the most votes will be selected for serialization in future editions of Young Magazine. Additionally, the winning manga will be featured on Kodansha’s official manga app, K MANGA. The voting period is set to run from August 21 to November 10, with results expected to be revealed on December 15.
To promote this launch, the magazine will be distributed free of charge during Anime NYC, which takes place from August 21 to 24, and will also be available at 17 Kinokuniya bookstores across the U.S. from August 21 to November 10, while supplies last. Certain Kinokuniya locations will host exhibitions, exclusive giveaways, and themed displays starting on August 18. Alongside these promotions, there will be panel events and autograph sessions featuring contributors to Young Magazine, including creators like Minetaro Mochizuki, known for Dragon Head, and Kengo Hanazawa.
The complete list of titles includes a mix of eligible and featured works. Among the titles eligible for fan voting are:
- BOYS RUN THE RIOT – IN TRANSITION by Keito Gaku
- Fasciation by OUGA
- Godmother by Rin Shimokawa
- GOUMA: The Blade that Slaughters Gods by Hiroki Ishizawa
- Into the Dark by Anri Morikuma
- Is My Love Strange? by Hikari Azuma
- KIKIKAIKAI by Kyuri Yamada
- Pregnant by Denchi Matsumoto (story) and Keita Nishijima (art)
- PROJECT METALLIA by Yukito Iwai
- Protocol Ryugu by Daisaku Tsuru
- Still You by Kami Nishio
- The Graveyard Shift by Yoshimi Sato
- The Journey of a Dark Elf with Fading Powers by Daisuke Itabashi
- The Knight of Blasphemy by Ray Kindo
- THE LAST TERRAN by Hiroshi Takashige (story) and Tatsumi Hitomoji (art)
- To Dusk and Twilight by Robico
In addition to these eligible titles, the edition will also feature several highlighted works that include:
- ME AND BOB DYLAN (AND MY FATHER) by Shuzo Oshimi
- The Silent Forest by Masaaki Nakayama
- Subaru and Subaru by Shuichi Shigeno
- UNDER NINJA by Kengo Hanazawa
This upcoming launch represents a pivotal moment for manga fans in the United States, as it not only brings a selection of new stories to the forefront but also invites readers to engage actively in the future of Young Magazine through their votes. The blend of established artists and emerging talent promises to offer a diverse and exciting reading experience that reflects the evolving landscape of manga.
To further engage with readers, the official website and social media channels will feature additional content, including promotional videos, summaries, and interactive campaigns. This initiative aims to foster a vibrant community around the magazine, encouraging fans to explore the depth and breadth of the stories being presented.
As the manga landscape continues to expand in the U.S., this special edition of Young Magazine is poised to resonate with adult audiences who seek more mature themes in their reading material. The initiative not only showcases the rich tapestry of Japanese manga but also highlights the unique storytelling capabilities of its creators, paving the way for a new generation of manga enthusiasts.
In conclusion, the U.S. launch of Young Magazine’s special edition is a notable event that emphasizes the importance of adult-oriented manga in the American market. With a variety of titles to explore, readers have the opportunity to engage with new narratives and support their favorite creators through voting. This initiative marks a significant step in the ongoing evolution of manga, inviting readers to experience stories that challenge norms and reflect the complexities of the human experience.
