Tokyopop Unveils Major Licensing Slate Featuring Supernatural Rom-Coms and Villainess Fantasies

Tokyopop, a leading publisher of Japanese comics in North America, has announced a significant slate of new licenses scheduled for release throughout 2026. This expansion signals an aggressive strategy focused on diverse storytelling, featuring a potent mix of romance, intricate fantasy, and sharp comedic narratives. The newly acquired titles are set to appeal to a broad range of readers.

Supernatural Comedy Leads the Lineup

Leading this collection is the highly anticipated supernatural series, Kyo Aizawa Doesn't Laugh by cojomo. The premise centers on Suzuki Tsukako, a 28-year-old otaku whose ordinary life is disrupted when a Shinigami counselor delivers a stark ultimatum: she must marry within one year or face eternal rest. This darkly comedic, high-stakes interpretation of the marriage pact trope is expected to resonate with readers who enjoy genuine suspense interwoven with slice-of-life elements.

Intrigue and Commitment to Niche Genres

Adding a layer of noble intrigue to the upcoming catalog is The Villainess' Bride. This title directly addresses the strong market demand for villainess reincarnation stories. While sharing thematic similarities with Moyori Mori’s BL series, Bride of Ignat, which focuses on the rescue of the sacrificial Dragon’s Bride, Rita, The Villainess' Bride promises a fresh exploration of political alliances and emotional barriers. Tokyopop continues to demonstrate its commitment to fostering the best of Boys' Love (BL) and sweeping romantasy narratives.

Expanding the Global Comics Reach

Beyond the main headliners, Tokyopop is further enriching its catalog with content from various global sources. Fans of Korean webtoons can look forward to Jeongussi’s heartwarming series, Unnie, I Like You, which will be released in both full-color hardcover and paperback editions. For readers seeking relaxing fantasy, A Gentle Noble's Vacation Recommendation by Misaki and Momochi will be available in convenient 3-in-1 omnibuses.

These new licenses join previously announced hits, including Reida Soragaki's In So Deep, It’s Already Love and Sal Jiang's popular Girls' Love (GL) title, Ayaka Is in Love With Hiroko!

This comprehensive licensing activity follows major announcements made at Anime Expo 2025 and the recent introduction of eleven new titles under the 'Love Love' imprint. With releases scheduled starting in Fall 2025 and continuing into 2026, Tokyopop's strategy is clear: to not only cater to established niche communities, such as BL and GL enthusiasts, but also to actively broaden the landscape by introducing compelling Chinese webtoons and manhua. This ongoing effort solidifies Tokyopop's vital role as a central cultural conduit connecting global comics with devoted English-speaking audiences.