The RuriDragon manga, a charming and unique series by Masaoki Shindo, is once again taking a break. After a previous extended hiatus, the series had recently resumed publication, delighting fans with its blend of slice-of-life and fantasy elements. However, the latest news indicates another short break, with the manga slated to return in July 2025. This article will delve into the details of this hiatus, the manga’s history, and what fans can expect upon its return.
What is RuriDragon?
RuriDragon tells the story of Ruri Aoki, an ordinary high school girl who one day discovers that she has grown horns. This revelation leads to the even bigger surprise that she is half-dragon, her mother having kept her father’s identity a secret. Despite this fantastical twist, Ruri attempts to continue living a normal life, navigating the everyday challenges of school, friends, and family while also coming to terms with her newfound dragon abilities.
The manga began as a one-shot published in Shueisha’s Jump Giga magazine in December 2020. Its popularity led to a serialized run in Weekly Shōnen Jump starting in June 2022. The series quickly gained a following due to its heartwarming characters, relatable situations, and the unique premise of a teenage girl grappling with dragon heritage.
A History of Hiatuses
Unfortunately, RuriDragon‘s journey has been marked by interruptions. Just a few months after its serialization began, the manga went on an indefinite hiatus in August 2022 due to Masaoki Shindo’s health. This news was met with disappointment from fans who had quickly grown attached to Ruri and her world.
After a long wait, RuriDragon returned to Weekly Shōnen Jump on March 4, 2024. The return was structured with an initial five-chapter run in the magazine, followed by a move to Shueisha’s digital platform, Shonen Jump+, for bi-weekly releases starting on April 22, 2024. This new schedule was intended to be more manageable for Shindo, ensuring the continuation of the series while prioritizing his well-being.
However, as of May 2025, another hiatus has been announced, with the series expected to return in July 2025. While no specific reason has been given for this latest break, the previous hiatus due to the author’s health raises concerns among fans.
The Current Hiatus: What We Know
The announcement of the latest hiatus has sparked discussions among the RuriDragon fanbase. A Reddit thread on r/WeeklyShonenJump highlighted the news, with fans expressing both disappointment and understanding. While the exact reason for the break remains unconfirmed, the community is largely supportive, emphasizing the importance of the author’s health and well-being.
Some fans speculate that the break may be related to Shindo needing time to recharge or develop new ideas for the series. Others simply hope for a smooth and healthy return in July 2025.
Where to Read RuriDragon
For those new to the series or looking to catch up, RuriDragon is available through several platforms:
Shonen Jump App: The Shonen Jump app is a primary source for reading RuriDragon digitally. It offers access to the latest chapters and a backlog of previous releases.
Manga Plus: Shueisha’s Manga Plus platform also simul publishes RuriDragon in English, providing another avenue for international fans to stay up-to-date.
Viz Media: Viz Media has been publishing RuriDragon in English, with the first volume released in print on January 7, 2025.
What to Expect from RuriDragon’s Return
When RuriDragon returns in July 2025, fans can anticipate a continuation of Ruri’s journey as she balances her normal high school life with her dragon abilities. The series is known for its:
Heartwarming Slice-of-Life: RuriDragon excels at portraying everyday moments with a touch of humor and warmth. Ruri’s interactions with her friends, family, and classmates resonate with readers, making the series highly relatable.
Unique Premise: The blend of high school drama and dragon mythology sets RuriDragon apart. Ruri’s struggles to control her powers and understand her heritage provide a fresh and engaging narrative.
Charming Art Style: Masaoki Shindo’s art style is both expressive and endearing, perfectly capturing the emotions and personalities of the characters.
Community Support
The RuriDragon community has remained active and supportive throughout the manga’s various hiatuses. Online forums, social media groups, and dedicated subreddits serve as hubs for fans to share their thoughts, theories, and fan art. This strong community spirit underscores the manga’s impact and the anticipation for its return.
The Future of RuriDragon
The future of RuriDragon looks promising, despite the occasional setbacks. The series has garnered critical acclaim and a dedicated fanbase, proving its potential for long-term success. With a more manageable bi-weekly schedule on Shonen Jump+, there is hope that Masaoki Shindo will be able to continue the series at a sustainable pace, delivering more heartwarming and fantastical stories for years to come.
As fans eagerly await the July 2025 return, the focus remains on supporting the creator and celebrating the unique charm of RuriDragon. The story of a dragon girl navigating high school life is one that has captured the hearts of many, and the community is ready to welcome Ruri back with open arms.
