On Tuesday, February 6th, 2024, the official YouTube channel for the popular Japanese manga anthology Shonen Jump published animated videos with voice acting (known as VOMICs) for the first three chapters of the new manga series Kagurabachi.
These videos included English subtitles and dubbing, making them accessible to international audiences.
Previously, Shonen Jump had released Japanese-language VOMIC versions of the Kagurabachi chapters that were only viewable in certain regions. The English VOMIC release this week marks the first time a major new Shonen Jump manga has received this kind of promotional video in multiple languages simultaneously.
It’s notable that VOMICs were created by Shonen Jump’s publisher Shueisha as a way to generate interest and exposure for new manga series.
The fact that they made an English version for Kagurabachi seems to indicate that Shueisha has recognized the series’ popularity outside Japan and is actively promoting it more globally.
This expanded VOMIC release also coincides with the February 2nd launch of the first compiled volume of Kagurabachi’s manga.
By making these first three chapters of the series more accessible, Shueisha likely aims to further drive sales and readership in Japan and internationally leading up to and following the volume 1 publication.
Shueisha’s Bold Move For Kagurabachi
Earlier reports noted that on February 6th, Shueisha published English-translated videos with voice acting (VOMICs) for the first three chapters of the manga “Kagurabachi” on their official YouTube channel.
Initially, Shueisha had released Japanese-language versions of these animated videos that were only viewable in certain regions. However, various Twitter users pointed out that providing VOMICs with both English translations and the original Japanese audio is an unprecedented move for a new Shonen Jump series.
In particular, “Kagurabachi” garnered attention for originating from internet memes before being developed into a unique battle manga by its author.
So for Shueisha to produce high-quality VOMICs starring popular voice actors indicates they recognize the series’ increasing popularity domestically and abroad.
By removing region-locking and adding English support, the publisher aims to increase accessibility and exposure for “Kagurabachi” around its first volume release. This highlights Shueisha’s commitment to promoting the series widely through multiple languages.
It also reflects their confidence that diverse global audiences will respond positively to “Kagurabachi” if given the chance to discover it.
Further building excitement for the “Kagurabachi” VOMIC release, it features some well-known voice talents bringing the manga’s characters to life.
In the lead role of protagonist Chihiro Rokuhira is Shoya Ishige, best known as Gojo in the popular anime “My Dress-Up Darling.”
His brother Kunishige Rokuhira is voiced by Kenta Fujimaki, an experienced voice actor in various shonen anime.
Additionally, Jun Fukushima, renowned for his roles as Kazuma in “Konosuba” and Gabiru in “That Time I Got Reincarnated as a Slime,” now lends his talents to the key character Shiba.
Rounding out the rest of the announced cast are Tadano Akari as Hinao, Miko Tateishi as Char Kyonagi, Hideyoshi Nozawa as the Hishaku Sorcerer, and Koichi Kuroda as Madoka.
Having such well-known voice actors on board demonstrates the increased production value and promotion Shueisha is dedicating to “Kagurabachi” with this groundbreaking multi-language VOMIC release.
It has elevated an amusing meme-inspired manga into a hotly anticipated anime-style experience for more fans globally.
‘Kagurabachi’ Makes History with English VOMIC Release
As excited fans on Twitter have noted, the release of an English-translated VOMIC for the manga “Kagurabachi” marks an unprecedented first for a major Shonen Jump series.
Unlike current hits such as “Jujutsu Kaisen” and “My Hero Academia,” “Kagurabachi” is the first to receive this kind of voiced promotion with translations.
Created by mangaka Takeru Hokazono, “Kagurabachi” stood out for its unique meme-inspired premise focusing on protagonist Chihiro and his supernatural partner Kuro.
While initially regarded as an oddity, the series has gradually gained attention in Weekly Shonen Jump through its fascinating battle shonen narrative.
In recent months, even the magazine’s editor-in-chief acknowledged the manga’s substantial popularity overseas at an event.
Respected news agency Nikkei also surveyed and confirmed the international appeal of “Kagurabachi.”
Providing English VOMICs indicates the publisher Shueisha recognizes this global reach as well and wants to further boost “Kagurabachi” readership abroad.
This promotion decreases the chances of Hokazono’s unconventional series getting canceled prematurely.