Kodansha’s Monthly Young Magazine announced on Monday that Jaku Amano’s manga series, A-DO, will go on an indefinite hiatus due to the author’s deteriorating physical health. The popular dystopian sci-fi action series will pause serialization, with a return date to be announced after Amano has fully recovered.
The news comes as A-DO was already nearing its conclusion, with the 11th compiled book volume revealing in July that the series is slated to end with its 12th volume, scheduled for release in early 2026. The manga had entered its “final series” in June.
Details of the Hiatus and Future Outlook
The announcement in the November issue of Monthly Young Magazine cited Jaku Amano’s poor physical health as the direct reason for the sudden suspension of the manga. While no specific details regarding the author’s condition were disclosed, the magazine reassured readers that the series would resume once Amano’s health improves and a definitive return date can be established. This indefinite break means fans will have to wait for further updates regarding the continuation of Riko and Eito’s journey.
About A-DO: A Dystopian Sci-Fi Narrative
A-DO (亜童, Adō) is a Japanese manga series written and illustrated by Jaku Amano. It began serialization in Kodansha’s Monthly Young Magazine in June 2019. Kodansha USA Publishing is releasing the manga in English, with the eighth volume having been released on August 5.
The story is set in a near-future Japan transformed by a wave of immigration, leading to a volatile mix of cultures and rising xenophobic extremism. The narrative follows Riko, a spirited young woman, who encounters Eito, a mysterious boy with extraordinary, plant-like abilities. After Riko saves Eito from being run over by a truck, they find themselves pursued by a distant army sniper, forcing Eito to reveal his powers when plant-like tendrils emerge from his arm to stop a bullet. The series delves into the mysteries surrounding Eito’s identity and why he is a target of the army.
Mangaka Health Concerns in the Industry
Jaku Amano’s health-related hiatus is unfortunately not an isolated incident in the demanding manga industry. The rigorous schedules and immense pressure faced by mangaka often lead to severe health issues, prompting many creators to take breaks or even end their series prematurely.
Notable examples include Yoshihiro Togashi, the acclaimed author of Hunter x Hunter, who has frequently paused his series due to chronic back pain, with breaks sometimes lasting years. Eiichiro Oda, the creator of the globally popular One Piece, has also taken several health-related breaks, with reports indicating he often works extreme hours with minimal sleep. Similarly, Iro Aida’s Toilet-Bound Hanako-kun and the creators of Frieren: Beyond Journey’s End have also announced hiatuses for medical treatment or health concerns.
These recurring instances highlight a broader industry challenge, where the creative output often comes at a significant personal cost to the artists. Fans and industry observers alike frequently voice concerns about the intense work culture and its long-term impact on mangaka well-being.
Anticipation for Amano’s Return
While the hiatus of A-DO is disappointing for fans, the priority remains Jaku Amano’s recovery. The manga community often rallies in support of creators during such times, understanding that a healthy author is essential for the continued quality and eventual completion of their beloved works. Details on when A-DO will resume its serialization will be eagerly awaited following Amano’s recuperation.
