Kadokawa Breaks Silence on Fantasy Series Co-Creator Scandal & Recall

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The ongoing scandal involving Japanese artist Gaou is causing significant ripples within the light novel sector, particularly impacting Kadokawa. Gaou was previously responsible for the visuals of the light novel series “I May Be a Guild Receptionist, But I’ll Solo Any Boss to Clock Out on Time” and “Welcome to the Outcast’s Restaurant!“. Recently, it emerged that Gaou was accused of having inappropriate relationships with a minor. The allegations were extensively reported by Anime News Network, suggesting that Gaou had been involved with a girl who was only 14 at the time. In response to these accusations, the publishers for “I May Be a Guild Receptionist” and “Welcome to the Outcast’s Restaurant“, Dengeki Bunko and Overlap Bunko respectively, have confirmed that Gaou has been dismissed as illustrator for both series.

As an observer, I find myself noting that Dengeki Bunko, a publishing branch under Kadokawa Future Publishing, which is itself part of the expansive Kadokawa Corporation – one of Japan’s leading multimedia companies – has made a significant announcement. Previous rumors hinted at potential changes in artwork for titles like Dengeki Bunko and Overlap Bunko, including those already published. However, an official press release from Kadokawa revealed their intention to retract all eight previously released novels of the series “I May Be a Guild Receptionist“. The series will be republished under a new artist, marking a departure from the original artwork.

Interestingly, this is the first time Kadokawa has publicly acknowledged the controversy surrounding Gaou’s involvement in the series. This confirms the validity of the claims about Gaou and extends an apology to the readers for the events that have transpired. It’s worth mentioning that an anime adaptation of “I May Be a Guild Receptionist” concluded its 12-episode run in March 2025.

Kadokawa Drops Controversial Artist Gaou

Gaou, a well-known artist, created the combined artwork featuring “I May Be a Guild Receptionist” and “Sword Art Online Alternative Gun Gale Online”. According to Anime News Network’s report, Gaou was publicly accused on a live stream by YouTuber KoreKore, who is known for exposing individuals. The alleged victim, now 17, claimed that she had been involved with Gaou when she was 14, and their relationship only recently ended. Parts of the stream were censored due to the victim’s age, but KoreKore later confirmed the individual’s age on social media. A person who identified as Gaou appeared on the live stream, expressing remorse for his actions and stating his intention to retire from illustration.

Evidence suggests that Gaou is in his late thirties, making him significantly older than his alleged partner when their relationship started. It’s important to note that while Japan raised its age of consent from 13 to 16 in June 2023, engaging in certain sexual activities with someone under the age of 18 is still considered a crime. Gaou is not alone in this; Toru Furuya, a well-known Japanese voice actor, confessed to having a four-and-a-half-year affair with an unidentified fan and being abusive towards her, within the Japanese entertainment industry.

Our thoughts and sympathies are with Gaou’s alleged victim.

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2025-07-24 02:11