Shun Matsuena’s manga series, Kichijōji Shōnen! (Kichijōji Boy), is set to conclude with its next chapter on December 12. The announcement was made in the December issue of Shogakukan’s Monthly Shonen Sunday magazine, bringing the slice-of-life adventure to a close after a run that began in December 2024.
The series, which draws inspiration from Matsuena’s own childhood experiences, offered readers a nostalgic glimpse into the vibrant Kichijōji neighborhood of Western Tokyo.
The Journey of Kichijōji Shōnen!
Kichijōji Shōnen! originally debuted as a one-shot manga in Monthly Shonen Sunday in 2019 before being serialized in December 2024. The story immersed readers in an adventure set against the backdrop of Kichijōji, a popular town known for its unique atmosphere. Matsuena, who spent his formative years in the area, infused the narrative with elements of biography and autobiography, focusing on themes of childhood and nostalgia through its child protagonist. Shogakukan released the manga’s first compiled book volume on June 18.
Shun Matsuena’s Prolific Career
Shun Matsuena is a well-regarded mangaka known for his diverse range of action and adventure series. His work on Kichijōji Shōnen! showcased a different facet of his storytelling capabilities, leaning into a more personal, localized narrative.
KenIchi the Mightiest Disciple
Matsuena’s most recognized work is undoubtedly Shijō Saikyō no Deshi Kenichi (also known as KenIchi the Mightiest Disciple). This martial arts epic ran in Weekly Shonen Sunday from 2002 to 2014 and garnered significant popularity, inspiring a television anime series and a series of original video animation (OVA) episodes. The manga focused on Kenichi Shirahama, a timid high school student who trains under a group of martial arts masters.
Other Notable Works
Before Kichijōji Shōnen!, Matsuena concluded another significant series, Kimi wa 008 (You are 008), in May 2024, with its 33rd and final compiled volume published in July 2024. This spy action series, which ran in Weekly Shonen Sunday from February 2018, was Matsuena’s second-longest work.
Matsuena remains active, having launched a new manga titled Sora e… (To the Skies) in Shogakukan’s Weekly Shonen Sunday magazine on January 15. This new series, which centers on a child named Hiiro from the sky learning about human feelings, represents a shift in genre for the author, combining fantasy, sci-fi, and historical elements. Shogakukan has already published three volumes of Sora e…, with the latest released on October 17.
Matsuena’s extensive bibliography also includes works such as Tatakae! Ryōzanpaku Shijō Saikyō no Deshi and Tokiwa Kitareri!!. His ability to transition between different genres and storytelling approaches highlights his versatility as a mangaka.
