Square Enix Confirms They Won’t Suspend The Apothecary Diaries Manga Serialization Following Artist’s Conviction

Square Enix has confirmed that they have no plans to suspend the serialization of The Apothecary Diaries manga despite the recent conviction of its artist, Nekokurage. This was revealed to ITmedia NEWS on July 24, 2024,

The statement came after Fukuoka District Court handed down a guilty verdict on the same day to the manga’s artist, Nekokurage, for violating the Income Tax Law.

The Fukuoka District Court sentenced the artist to 10 months in prison, with a three-year suspended sentence, and imposed a fine of 11 million yen.

The court found Nekokurage guilty of failing to report approximately 260 million yen in income from 2019 to 2021, resulting in the evasion of approximately 47 million yen in income tax. The artist failed to file tax returns by the deadline, leading to the tax evasion charges.

Judge Takeda pointed out that Ikeda’s manga gained sudden popularity, leading to significant income, but she prioritized her immediate work and personal life over fulfilling her tax obligations.

Although, the artist had paid the full amount, including any applicable late fees, she had a pattern of filing her tax returns late, combining several years’ worth into single submissions.

She had continued this despite her editor and the original author of The Apothecary Diaries had urged her to address her tax responsibilities.

The Apothecary Diaries manga adaptation by Itsuki Nanao and illustrated by Nekokurage began in the 2017 6th issue of Square Enix’s Monthly Big Gangan, released on May 25, 2017. Square Enix has compiled its chapters into individual tankobon volumes.

The first volume was published on September 25, 2017. As of March 25, 2024, 13 volumes have been published.

Source: ITmedia News, Livedoor News