Azuki Unlocks Kodansha's Young Magazine for U.S. Fans: Free 45th Anniversary Special Features New Series and Community Vote

In a significant development for manga enthusiasts across the United States, Azuki, the leading digital manga platform, has partnered with publishing giant Kodansha to release an exclusive U.S. special edition of the highly regarded Young Magazine. This landmark launch commemorates the original Japanese publication's 45th anniversary, bringing a wealth of content directly to American readers.

The digital issue is a sprawling collection exceeding 1000 pages, brimming with brand-new manga from a dynamic mix of emerging creators and industry veterans. It offers a fresh perspective on diverse storytelling, accessible completely free of charge until December 31, 2025, on Azuki's intuitive digital platform. This initiative effectively removes previous barriers, providing U.S. audiences with unprecedented access to a broad spectrum of genres. From the adrenaline-pumping narratives of action and the intricate character studies of drama to the captivating mysteries of the supernatural, there is truly something to enthrall every reader.

Highlighting New Series and Global Reach

Among the issue's most exciting features are the debut chapters of highly anticipated new series. These include the enigmatic UNDER NINJA and Subaru and Subaru, the latest creation from the legendary Shuichi Shigeno, widely celebrated for his innovative and impactful prior works.

The official announcement, made amidst the vibrant atmosphere of Anime NYC 2025, underscores a significant stride in international manga distribution. This collaboration between Azuki and Kodansha USA exemplifies a growing synergy between Japanese manga publishers and Western digital platforms, all geared towards fostering global manga promotion and accessibility.

Community Engagement and Future Offerings

More than just a content release, this venture actively engages the community. Readers are extended a unique invitation to shape Azuki's future lineup by casting their votes for favorite series by November 10, 2025. Fans can directly influence which titles will receive full English serialization on the platform. The top five contenders will earn this coveted opportunity, reinforcing Azuki and Kodansha's commitment to dramatically expanding and diversifying their English-language manga offerings. This strategic move not only celebrates a significant publishing milestone but also solidifies a vibrant, interactive future for manga readership in the U.S.