The renowned mangaka Hisashi Eguchi is at the center of controversy after being accused of plagiarism. The artist, known for classic works such as Susume!! Pirates and Stop!! Hibari-kun!, was singled out for using someone else's photograph as the basis for one of his promotional illustrations.
The accusation and the artist's response
The controversy began when young Tamaki Kanai noticed a strong resemblance between a photo of herself and an illustration created by Eguchi to promote the Chuo Line Culture Festival 2025 event, scheduled for October 19. Kanai contacted the artist to clarify the situation, and Eguchi confirmed that he had used his image as a reference, claiming to have his consent. However, his explanation published on X (Twitter) did not convince the public.
Criticism for past contradictions
The situation generated even more criticism because Eguchi himself had previously expressed his rejection of the use of real photographs in illustrations, describing this practice as a sign of "lack of imagination". When it was confirmed that he himself had done the same, social networks were filled with comments accusing him of hypocrisy.
New accusations and reactions
Another user also claimed that Eguchi had copied a photograph of himself for an advertising campaign for the eyewear brand Zoff. Although the artist has not responded to this new accusation, several followers have shared comparisons between the images and the illustrations published. Faced with the increase in criticism, Eguchi began to delete posts from his account in X without issuing any further statements.
Hisashi Eguchi's career
Hisashi Eguchi is considered one of Japan's most influential mangakas, renowned for his clean and expressive style. He debuted in the 1970s with Susume!! Pirates in Weekly Shonen Jump magazine. His most popular work, Stop!! Hibari-kun!, combines comedy and social criticism, and continues to be a benchmark within classic manga. In addition, Eguchi has worked on editorial design projects, advertising illustration and collaborations in the fashion and animation industry.
