Boichi's Cult Classic Sun-Ken Rock Manga Set for English Perfect Edition from Kodama Tales in 2026

Manga enthusiasts worldwide are anticipating Kodama Tales Inc.'s announcement at New York Comic Con: the seinen manga Sun-Ken Rock, by Dr. STONE artist Boichi, will receive an exclusive English Perfect Edition. This licensing agreement, revealed by the Kyodo Printing Co., Ltd. subsidiary, expands Kodama's 2026 catalog and offers Western audiences an opportunity to engage with Boichi's artistry and narrative beyond his more widely known works.

Sun-Ken Rock, which was published from 2006 to 2016, is recognized for its mature storytelling that explores ambition, identity, and power. Set in Seoul, Korea, the series follows Ken Kitano, a Japanese teenager whose journey to follow his crush leads to an unexpected turn. Possessing formidable fighting skills and an unyielding spirit, Ken becomes the leader of a local gang, confronting moral dilemmas and forging his own path in a new environment.

The Perfect Edition Details

Kodama's forthcoming Perfect Edition will consolidate the original 25 volumes into an omnibus format, with each volume combining approximately two of the Japanese originals. This compilation integrates content from both the initial Japanese manga and the more recent Korean Perfect Editions, aiming for a comprehensive reading experience. Boichi has meticulously revised the dialogue for this release to preserve the series' emotional intensity and artistic integrity for English-speaking readers. Each volume will also feature a newly designed cover exclusive to the English release, reimagining Boichi's illustrations.

Beyond Sun-Ken Rock, Kodama Tales Inc. is expanding its offerings with titles such as MAGICA by Yuzuko Hoshimi, demonstrating its commitment to introducing diverse storytelling to the English market. The inclusion of Sun-Ken Rock in their 2026 lineup reinforces Kodama's dedication to delivering seinen action manga characterized by emotional depth and visceral energy. Unlike series focused solely on physical strength, Sun-Ken Rock offers an introspective exploration of morality and the nature of power, providing a thought-provoking experience. Fans can expect the official launch of these new editions beginning in 2026.