Kadokawa is expanding its reach to English-speaking manga fans by publishing two new titles on BookWalker Global in May 2025: Isekai Samurai and The Hitman Stans. These releases promise to bring unique stories and art styles to a wider audience, catering to diverse tastes within the manga community.
Isekai Samurai: A Swordswoman’s Journey to Another World
Isekai Samurai, created by Keigo Saitō, will be available in chapter format on May 13, 2025. Yen Press will also begin releasing the series in English on June 24, 2025. The manga launched in Kadokawa’s ComicWalker service in 2023.
Synopsis
The story follows Ginko, a peerless swordswoman from the Sengoku period. Dissatisfied with the lack of worthy opponents in her era, she yearns for a true battle to the death. Just as she loses hope, she is transported to another world where the first thing she encounters is a dragon!
Genre
Isekai, Action, Fantasy.
Where to Read
- BookWalker Global (May 13, 2025 – chapter format)
- Yen Press (June 24, 2025)
The Hitman Stans: From Killing Machine to Idol Fanatic
The Hitman Stans (Japanese title: Koroshiya no Oshi), written and illustrated by Rintarou Ohshima, is also slated for an English release. The first volume will be available on BookWalker Global on May 28, 2025, with pre-orders starting on May 13, 2025. Yen Press will also begin releasing the series in English on June 24, 2025. The manga launched in Kadokawa’s Harta magazine in November 2022.
Synopsis
Owaru Endou, also known as “the Killing Machine,” is a legendary hitman who abruptly retires from his life of crime. His reason for leaving the underworld? To wholeheartedly support his favorite underground idol! However, old habits die hard, and Owaru struggles to reconcile his past with his new life as a dedicated fan. The story explores whether he can truly leave his violent past behind and fully embrace the world of concerts, meet-and-greets, and fan culture.
Genre
Action, Comedy.
Where to Read
- BookWalker Global (May 28, 2025 – chapter format)
- Yen Press (June 24, 2025)
About Kadokawa
Kadokawa Corporation is a major Japanese media conglomerate involved in publishing, film, animation, and games. The company is known for its diverse range of manga and light novel titles, many of which have gained international popularity. Kadokawa’s publications cater to a wide audience, from shonen and shojo to seinen and josei readers.
Yen Press
Yen Press is a publishing company that specializes in bringing manga and graphic novels to English-speaking audiences. They have licensed The Hitman Stans. They are also planning to release Isekai Samurai in English on June 24, 2025.
What is Isekai?
Isekai is a popular genre in Japanese light novels, manga, and anime where a character is transported to or reborn in another world. This other world is often a fantasy setting with magic, monsters, and different rules than the character’s original world. The protagonist typically has to adapt to their new surroundings and often becomes a hero or important figure in this new world.
What is a “Stan”?
“Stan” is internet slang for an obsessive fan. The term comes from the Eminem song “Stan,” about an obsessed fan. In the context of “The Hitman Stans,” it refers to a person who is extremely dedicated to supporting and promoting their favorite idol or celebrity.
