The Golden Age Fades: Recent Losses in the Manga World

The manga community mourns the loss of Akira Toriyama, creator of the globally celebrated Dragon Ball series, earlier this month. Toriyama’s passing marks the end of an era, adding to the string of influential Japanese manga artists who have left us in recent years, leaving fans with a sense of profound loss. [[1]], [[2]], [[3]]

Remembering the Pioneers

Izumi Matsumoto: the Whimsical Touch of Kimagure Orange Road

In October 2020, Izumi Matsumoto, the creative mind behind the popular Kimagure Orange Road (also known as Whimsical Orange Road), passed away at the age of 61. This series,wich gained significant traction in the 1980s,resonated deeply with audiences,including a strong following in korea. The character Madoka was inspired by the famous Showa era singer Nakamori Akina (now 59). The manga sold over 20 million copies adn was adapted into a beloved TV series and theatrical film.

Kentaro Miura: The unfinished Epic of Berserk

The world lost Kentaro Miura, the visionary behind the dark fantasy manga Berserk, in May 2021 at the young age of 54. His death, attributed to an acute aortic dissection, left the sprawling Berserk narrative incomplete. fans often speculated that the intense pressure and workload associated with his meticulous artistry contributed to his untimely passing. Berserk, known for its intricate storytelling and dramatic character progress, captivated readers worldwide. Although the series faced interruptions due to Miura’s health challenges around 2010, with no new releases after 2013, devoted fans held onto hope for its eventual continuation.

Takao Saito: The Enduring Legacy of Golgo 13

September 2021 marked the passing of Takao Saito, the creator of the long-running action manga Golgo 13, at the age of 84. Saito had serialized Golgo 13 for an impressive 54 years. The series, which began its run in Big Comics, gained popularity for its realistic depictions, cool and calculated protagonist, and sophisticated action sequences.By 2016, Golgo 13 had surpassed 100 million copies in circulation. In an extraordinary move, Saito’s colleagues, students, and collaborators at Saito Productions and Big Comic continue to produce new chapters of Golgo 13, honoring his legacy and vision.

Motoo Abiko (Fujiko A. fujio): One Half of the Doraemon Duo

Motoo Abiko, also known as Fujiko A. Fujio, best known for his work alongside Hiroshi Fujimoto (Fujiko F.Fujio) on Doraemon, passed away on April 7, 2022, at the age of 88. Abiko, who also created the beloved Ninja Hattori-kun, formed the Fujiko Fujio duo with Fujimoto, gaining recognition for Angel’s Tama-chan. His death prompted an outpouring of tributes from fans, celebrities, and public figures, commemorating his contributions to the world of manga and his partnership with Fujimoto.

Leiji Matsumoto: The Visionary Behind Space Battleship Yamato and Galaxy Express 999

February 2023 saw the death of Leiji Matsumoto, the celebrated creator of iconic works such as Galaxy Express 999, Space Battleship Yamato, Captain Harlock, and Queen Millennia, at the age of 85. Matsumoto’s passing deeply saddened fans, who recognized him as a true visionary. Galaxy Express 999,which aired in korea in the 1980s,explored profound themes of humanity,family,love,space,the environment,and the future through the journey of a young boy. Matsumoto was admired for crafting a cohesive universe, interlinking characters and narratives across his major works.

A Lasting Impact

The recent deaths of these manga legends serve as a poignant reminder of their immense contributions to the world of art and storytelling.Their creations continue to inspire and entertain generations, ensuring their enduring legacy in the hearts of fans worldwide. The impact of these Japanese cartoonist giants will continue to resonate for years to come.