The popular “ Hunter
x Hunter ” manga, which has been on hiatus since December 2022, is
closer than ever to an official return. According to the official
Shueisha site, Volume 38 of “Hunter x Hunter” will be released in Japan on
September 4, 2024. This volume will be 208 pages long and will collect
the chapters that have not yet been published in volume format. The cover image
has not yet been revealed.
Fans should temper their enthusiasm, as
the new volume likely won't contain any entirely new work from creator
Yoshihiro Togashi. Instead, it will include chapters
390-400 of the manga, which were initially published in 2022 before Togashi
took his most recent hiatus due to health issues. However, the release
of the new volume strongly suggests that "Hunter x Hunter" fans can
expect an announcement regarding the manga's return to regular serialization
very soon , possibly in the coming weeks.
Fan speculation about this return has
been supported by Togashi's Twitter posts , which
have been regular since May 2024. Some of these posts include chapter-specific
captions such as “ No405, I'm working on it! ” and “ Color
job finished. I feel energized, so I will do my best .” In
recent weeks, Togashi has also shown numerous illustrations both old and new ,
including redraws of covers for “Hunter x Hunter” in Shonen Jump and even
drawings for “Resident Evil” for PlayStation.
“Hunter x Hunter” has been on constant
suspension due to the health problems of Togashi ,
who has struggled with chronic pain and mobility issues that make it difficult
for him to maintain regular serialization. The author's health has
always been a priority , and both fans and publisher Shueisha have
shown understanding and support during these periods of hiatus.
Despite these frequent hiatuses ,
Shueisha continues to reserve a space for “Hunter x Hunter” in the major
magazine Weekly Shonen Jump, which might seem surprising given that there are
many promising new authors who could fill that space. The reason behind
this lies in the immense popularity and cultural impact of “Hunter x Hunter” .
Since its debut in 1998, the series has amassed a devoted global fanbase and
has influenced numerous other manga and anime. Its ability to engage readers
and remain relevant, even during long hiatuses, is a testament to the quality
and appeal of Togashi's work.
Furthermore, “Hunter x Hunter”
represents a sure value for the magazine . Every time the
series' return is announced, the magazine's sales increase significantly, and
the collected volumes are often highly successful in the market. This provides
financial stability that can allow Shueisha to invest in new talent and
projects.
Source: WSJManga
