Sachimo’s acclaimed boys-love manga, “Black or White” (Kuro ka Shiro ka), is set to reach its conclusion on April 30, 2025. The series, which revolves around the lives of two actors navigating their careers and secret relationship, has garnered a significant following since its debut in 2017.
A Beloved Series Comes to an End
The announcement of the manga’s conclusion was made via the official X/Twitter account for Kadokawa’s Emerald magazine, where the series is serialized. The spring 2025 issue of the magazine will feature the final chapter, bringing the story of Shin and Shige to a close.
Storyline Overview
“Black or White” explores the relationship between Shin, an actor often typecast as a villain due to his perceived awkwardness, and Shige, his secret lover and a rising star who frequently lands princely roles. The manga delves into the challenges they face as their careers progress, particularly the need to keep their relationship hidden from the public eye. The dynamic between their public personas and private lives adds layers of complexity to their romance.
English Release
For English-speaking fans, Viz Media’s SuBLime label is publishing the manga. As of now, nine volumes have already been released, with the tenth volume slated for release on June 10, 2025. SuBLime’s description of the series highlights the central conflict: “As their careers advance, can these two endure all eyes being on them not just in public but in private too?”
Series Background and Popularity
Sachimo launched “Black or White” in Kadokawa’s Emerald magazine back in 2017. The series has since grown into a major success, with Kadokawa releasing the 12th volume in August 2024. The manga’s popularity even led to the creation of two drama CDs in 2019, further expanding the “Black or White” universe.
Themes and Tropes
“Black or White” is notable for its exploration of several popular themes and tropes within the boys-love genre. These include:
- Secret Relationships: The central conflict of the manga revolves around Shin and Shige’s need to keep their relationship hidden due to their careers. This adds an element of tension and drama to their romance, as they constantly risk exposure.
- Actors and the Entertainment Industry: The manga provides a glimpse into the lives of actors, showcasing the challenges they face in navigating the competitive entertainment industry. This includes issues such as typecasting, managing public image, and dealing with industry pressures.
- Established Couple: Unlike many romance stories that focus on the initial stages of a relationship, “Black or White” centers on an established couple. This allows the manga to delve into the complexities of maintaining a long-term relationship, including issues such as communication, intimacy, and personal growth.
- Insecurity and Jealousy: The manga also explores themes of insecurity and jealousy, as Shin and Shige grapple with their own personal insecurities and the challenges of being in a relationship with someone who is in the public eye.
- Possessive Lovers: The character of Shige is often portrayed as being possessive of Shin, which adds an element of intensity to their relationship.
Reader Reception
“Black or White” has generally received positive reviews from readers, with many praising its engaging storyline, well-developed characters, and exploration of complex themes. The series currently holds a rating of 8/10 on MangaUpdates, based on 91 votes, and a rating of 3.89/5 on Goodreads, based on 1,132 ratings.
Where to Read “Black or White”
For fans interested in reading “Black or White,” the manga is available in both Japanese and English.
Japanese Version
The Japanese version of the manga is published by Kadokawa and serialized in Emerald magazine. It is also available for purchase in physical and digital formats from various online retailers.
English Version
The English version of the manga is published by Viz Media’s SuBLime label. It is available for purchase in digital format from online retailers such as Amazon. Physical copies are also available from select retailers.
Scanlation Groups
In addition to the official English release, “Black or White” has also been scanlated by various fan groups, such as Exiled Rebels Scans. However, it is important to note that scanlations are often unofficial and may not be of the same quality as official releases. Supporting the official release helps to support the creators and the industry.
Sachimo: The Author Behind the Series
Sachimo is the author and artist behind “Black or White.” While information about Sachimo’s personal life is scarce, they are known for their work in the boys-love genre.
Impact on the Boys-Love Genre
“Black or White” has made a significant impact on the boys-love genre. Its exploration of complex themes, well-developed characters, and engaging storyline have resonated with readers. The series has also helped to raise the profile of the boys-love genre, attracting new readers and contributing to its growing popularity.
Similar Manga Recommendations
For fans of “Black or White,” here are some similar manga recommendations:
- Bokunchi no Kaseifu-san: A manga about a housekeeper.
- Twittering Birds Never Fly: This series delves into the complex relationship between a yakuza boss and his bodyguard, exploring themes of power, control, and vulnerability.
- Seven Days: A poignant story about a high school student who dates someone different every week, exploring themes of love, loss, and self-discovery.
- Classmates: A classic boys-love manga about two high school students who fall in love, known for its beautiful art style and heartwarming story.
The Future of Boys-Love Manga
The boys-love genre continues to grow in popularity, with new series being released all the time. With its diverse range of themes and tropes, the genre offers something for everyone. As “Black or White” comes to an end, fans can look forward to discovering new and exciting boys-love manga in the future.
