I’ve Been Begging For This!

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Despite not yet receiving a global launch, Yasuhisa Hara’s “Kingdom” manga is one of the most widely read mangas in history. With over 100 million copies circulated worldwide, it joins an exclusive club of just 23 mangas that have achieved this milestone. First published in 2006, it has consistently been serialized in Weekly Young Jump magazine. For years, global fans have yearned for the English volume, and their plea is finally being answered. Viz Media officially announced on February 7th, 2025 that the first volume will hit shelves in Fall 2025. In a pre-announcement post, Viz hinted at revealing their most eagerly awaited title ever, and true to their word, they did not disappoint.

As an ardent manga enthusiast, I’ve been eagerly anticipating the official English volume of “Kingdom” for almost two decades. My excitement reached new heights when Shonen Jump editor Rae First officially confirmed his role as the editor for this beloved series. Known for his work on English Shonen Jump and Viz manga services like “Ichi the Witch,” “Dragon Ball Super,” “Akane-Banashi,” and others, Rae’s passion for “Kingdom” is evident. As a fellow fan, I can’t help but share in his enthusiasm over this latest announcement.

After a decade spent editing manga, constantly questioning and refining my work, I can confidently claim the role of English editor for Kingdom. This fact may not come as a shock to those who have listened to me rave about it over the years on this platform. For more details, check out my subsequent replies.

— Rae First (@Chronically_Rae) February 7, 2025

Kingdom’s Editor Shares Thoughts on the English Translation

Following the recent update, Rae posted on his X account, “After a decade of editing manga and persistently asking, I can now proudly say I am the English editor of Kingdom. This may not come as a shock to those who have noticed my unending enthusiasm for it here. For more details, check out my responses.

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Beyond just repeating what he said, let me rephrase it for you: In addition, he provides further details about the title, including the use of Chinese names for characters and the 7 kingdoms, as well as any historical context. I began studying this topic during my college years, which was part of my original major. My intention is to stay true to the manga and its historical accuracy.

Beyond this, he also expresses his deep affection for the series because it happens to be his preferred manga. To clarify, he is both the editor and an ardent enthusiast of the series, having been associated with it longer than his tenure at Viz. Furthermore, he has not only read the manga but also watched the anime and films associated with it. Consequently, he possesses a comprehensive understanding of the series.

Notably, the editor discloses that Nate Collins serves as the translator, Rina Mapa is the primary letterer, and Thom Kilcourse handles secondary lettering duties for this monumental project titled Kingdom. The story unfolds in ancient China during the Warring States era, focusing on a young orphan named Xin. He shares his days honing his swordsmanship with his brother, Hyou. However, a sad turn of events leads him to encounter Sei, a true prince who has been forced out of the palace by his treacherous stepbrother.

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Initially having a strained relationship in Kingdom, Xin chooses to safeguard Sei because of his brother Hyou. These two eventually unite, embarking on a journey to fulfill their personal aspirations. The road before them is fraught with challenges and bloodshed, as Xin’s ascension to the rank of general seems nearly unattainable.

Story confirmed via Kingdom editor Rae First on X.

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2025-02-08 03:09