Last Updated on 25 July 2024 by Arman Deep Sharma
In a significant development in the Japanese manga industry, Nekokurage, the artist behind the popular manga adaptation of “The Apothecary Diaries,” has been sentenced to prison for tax evasion.
The Fukuoka District Court handed down a 10-month prison sentence and an 11 million yen fine to the mangaka, whose real name is Erika Ireda, on July 24, 2024.
This legal decision has also led to the suspension of all ongoing and future works by the artist during the incarceration period.
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The Incident and Court Ruling
Nekokurage, known for illustrating the manga adaptation of Natsu Hyuga’s light novel series “The Apothecary Diaries,” was found guilty of evading taxes amounting to approximately 47 million yen between 2019 and 2021.
The national tax agency’s investigation revealed that the evaded taxes were partly used to purchase real estate.
On May 31, 2024, following an investigation, Nekokurage admitted to the charges, expressing remorse and indicating a willingness to settle the dues.
In a statement released on April 1, 2024, Nekokurage attributed the tax evasion to ignorance and announced the engagement of a tax accountant to address the matter properly.
The artist clarified that the crime was not intended and was planning to pay the owed taxes in full.
Impact on “The Apothecary Diaries” Series
“The Apothecary Diaries” is a renowned light novel series authored by Natsu Hyuga and illustrated by Touko Shino.
The series received two manga adaptations: one by Nekokurage, which began on May 25, 2017, and another by Minoji Kurata, which started on August 19, 2017.
The story, set in ancient China, follows the protagonist Maomao, a girl abducted and forced into servitude in the Emperor’s palace, where she uncovers sinister secrets.
The manga adaptation by Nekokurage gained significant popularity, which led to an anime adaptation by Studio OLM and TOHO animation Studio in October 2023.
The anime series has been renewed for a sequel, demonstrating its strong following and critical acclaim.
Despite the legal issues surrounding the artist, the series’ narrative and artistic integrity remain unaffected, as clarified by Nekokurage, emphasizing that the original author and other contributors to the series were not involved in the tax evasion.
Broader Implications and Industry Reactions
The sentencing of Nekokurage has sent ripples through the manga industry, highlighting issues related to financial management and legal compliance among artists.
The case underscores the importance of proper financial oversight and the potential consequences of negligence, even if unintentional.
This incident serves as a cautionary tale for other creatives in the industry, stressing the need for professional assistance in handling taxes and legal obligations.
The response from fans and the wider public has been mixed. While some express sympathy for the artist, attributing the mistake to a lack of financial knowledge, others stress the importance of accountability.
The situation also raises questions about the pressures faced by artists in the industry, where sudden fame and financial gain can sometimes lead to unexpected legal challenges.
The Future of “The Apothecary Diaries”
Despite the temporary halt in Nekokurage’s work, the future of “The Apothecary Diaries” remains promising.
The series’ robust fanbase and critical success suggest that it will continue to thrive, possibly with new artists stepping in to continue the manga adaptation.
Moreover, the anime’s continuation ensures that the series will maintain its presence and appeal.
The ongoing popularity of “The Apothecary Diaries” highlights the broader appeal of stories set in unique historical contexts, combining elements of mystery, drama, and cultural exploration.
As the series progresses, fans are eager to see how the narrative will evolve, especially with Maomao’s character development and the complex dynamics within the palace setting.
Final Words
The case of Nekokurage’s tax evasion serves as a critical reminder of the responsibilities that come with success in the creative industries.
While the legal consequences are significant, they do not overshadow the artistic contributions made by the mangaka to the world of “The Apothecary Diaries.”
As the series continues to engage audiences with its intriguing plot and richly drawn characters, it also underscores the importance of integrity and accountability in all professional endeavors.
As Nekokurage serves the sentence, the manga community and fans alike await the artist’s return, hopeful for a future where creative talents can flourish responsibly and sustainably.
The incident, while unfortunate, opens a dialogue on the support systems needed for artists, ensuring they can navigate their careers with confidence and legal security.
A writer with a passion for sharing insights on anime, manga, and manhwa.