The One-Punch Man Creator Speaks Out: Major Manga Service Faces Industry Uproar Over Abuse Scandal

The Manga Industry Faces Its Biggest Scandal Yet

The manga industry was shaken to its core after allegations surfaced involving a well-known publisher employing a creator with a documented history of sexual abuse, operating under multiple pseudonyms. The outrage reached a boiling point when it was uncovered that Kazuaki Kurita, originally associated with the manga series ‘Operation Fallen Angel,’ was back at work for MangaONE, Shogakukan’s digital manga platform, under the false identity Ichiro Hajime. As details from the recent civil trial concluded and public scrutiny intensified, the publisher finally halted publication of his latest series, ‘Jojin Kamen,’ and launched an in-depth internal investigation.

One-Punch Man and Industry Voices Demand Accountability

ONE, the creative force behind ‘One-Punch Man’ and ‘Mob Psycho 100,’ became one of the most vocal critics in the aftermath, publicly condemning the platform’s handling of the case on social media. In his statement, ONE made it clear that any partnership with an organization incapable of unequivocally denouncing sexual abuse, especially against minors, would be impossible. His clear stance resonated widely within the manga community, with his remarks amplified by respected peers, including celebrated artist Yusuke Murata and major creator Rumiko Takahashi (the mind behind ‘Inuyasha’ and ‘Ranma ½’).

Going further, Sumi Eno, creator of ‘After God,’ elevated the discourse by suggesting direct editorial cover-up at MangaONE. Eno’s powerful statement implied that unless all individuals complicit in concealing Kurita’s crimes were removed from the platform, continuing her own work there would be untenable. Eno also detailed the full extent of criminal acts linked to Kurita, ranging from indecent assault and coercion in violation of child protection laws to direct acts of violence and injury, providing clarity on just how serious the breaches were.

Industry Fallout and Broader Investigations

The internal investigation at Shogakukan, now overseen by an external committee, zeroes in on several key questions: What led to the initial cancellation of Kurita’s original series? How was ‘Jojin Kamen’ greenlit despite existing legal constraints? What role did editors and staff play in circumventing due diligence, including the alleged attempt by MangaONE’s Takuya Narita to silence the victim with a bribe? Disciplinary measures for staff and a thorough review of hiring and internal processes are now underway, aiming to eliminate loopholes that might shelter problematic creators. The publisher is also reassessing policies to prevent similar incidents in the future.

Amidst these revelations, it was discovered that Kurita was not the only offender operating under an alias. Publisher statements confirmed that Tatsuya Matsuki, co-creator of the once-acclaimed ‘Act-Age,’ had returned to manga under the pen name Miki Yatsunami. Matsuki’s prior conviction for indecent assault had already shaken the industry, and while Matsuki reportedly showed remorse and engaged in counseling and self-reflection, the editorial choice to allow his return—albeit under a different name—created further mistrust and debate within the community.

Community Reactions and Path Forward

The public demands transparency and stricter safeguards, with fans and creators uniting to call for a zero-tolerance stance against exploitation and abuse within the manga world. This turning point for the industry echoes profound shifts in entertainment at large, where the pressure to pursue true accountability at both the individual and organizational level has never been greater. Official updates are now published directly on Shogakukan’s website to ensure the community remains informed about ongoing reforms and any further developments arising from the investigations.

The impact of these revelations is certain to influence editorial policy and creator relations for years to come. As the dust settles, the industry must confront the reality that genuine change requires vigilance, advocacy, and an unwavering commitment to safeguarding everyone—especially its youngest and most vulnerable talent and readership—across the world of manga.