Kodansha launches new “MANGA ACADEMY” to help international artists become manga creators
The major Japanese publisher Kodansha has launched the “KODANSHA MANGA ACADEMY,” a new website designed to teach and guide international creators on the path to becoming a professional manga artist in Japan.
The new platform aims to connect aspiring creators from around the world with the future of manga.
The website provides a detailed and structured guide to the entire process of creating a manga, from developing an initial idea to achieving serialization in one of Kodansha’s many publications, all while working hand-in-hand with the company’s professional editors.
The main content of the site is divided into several key sections.
“VOICES FROM OUR CREATORS” features interviews and insights from some of the most famous and acclaimed manga artists in the world, including Hajime Isayama (Attack on Titan), Makoto Yukimura (Vinland Saga), PEACH-PIT (Shugo Chara!), and Muneyuki Kaneshiro and Yusuke Nomura (Blue Lock).
Other sections provide practical and concrete advice.
“HOW TO BECOME A MANGA CREATOR IN JAPAN” gives specific instructions on how to meet and connect with an editor, while “THE PATH TO SERIALIZATION” offers a detailed, step-by-step breakdown of the entire journey, from pitching an idea to passing the editorial meetings and finally achieving a series.
An inspiring case study is also featured on the site.
In “CASE STUDY: JUAN ALBARRAN,” the Spanish artist Juan Albarran, who is currently the artist for the manga Matagi Gunner in Kodansha’s Morning magazine, shares his personal essay and experiences.
To further support this new global initiative, a brand-new manga award, the “KODANSHA MANGA AWARD,” has also been established, creating a direct pathway for new talent to be discovered.
This new platform is a major and unprecedented new step in opening the doors of the Japanese manga industry to the world.
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