💊 Illustrator Nekokurage Temporarily Steps Away
Fans of The Apothecary Diaries manga were met with unexpected news this week as illustrator Nekokurage announced a sudden hiatus due to health issues. The update came ahead of the planned May 23 release of Big Gangan Vol. 6, where a new chapter was scheduled to appear.
Instead, the manga will skip this issue and return in Big Gangan Vol. 7, releasing June 25.
🛑 Illness Forces a Short Hiatus
According to a message shared by Nekokurage on X (formerly Twitter), they were struck by strep throat and whooping cough while working on the manuscript, making it impossible to meet deadlines.
“My health worsened due to strep throat and whooping cough during my manuscript work… [The Apothecary Diaries] will be on hold. I’m sorry…!”
Nekokurage also took the time to warn others of the illnesses currently circulating and encouraged fans to take care of themselves.
The Apothecary Diaries Manga
Vol. 1 Cover
🌸 What It Means for the Series
While delays are never easy for fans, the break is relatively short and entirely understandable. With the The Apothecary Diaries manga riding high in popularity—thanks in large part to its anime adaptation—the pressure on its creative team is higher than ever.
This pause offers a moment of reflection: behind every chapter is a person, and prioritizing their health ensures that the quality of the series continues long-term.
📖 No Impact on Anime or Light Novel Releases
The hiatus affects only the manga and will not delay the anime or light novel releases. Readers can revisit past volumes or catch up on the anime while awaiting Maomao’s next palace mystery.
As always, fans are encouraged to support the artist’s recovery and thank them for their hard work. Square Enix and the editorial team at Big Gangan also expressed gratitude to readers for their continued support and patience.
🏮 About The Apothecary Diaries
Originally a light novel by Natsu Hyuga with illustrations by Toko Shino. The Apothecary Diaries has grown into a multimedia hit. The manga version by Itsuki Nanao (story) and Nekokurage (art) runs in Big Gangan, while a second manga adaptation by Minoji Kurata is serialized in Monthly Sunday Gene-X.
The anime, produced by TOHO Animation and OLM, debuted in 2023 and is currently in its second season.
The Apothecary Diaries
(TV Series 2023)
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Source: Big Gangan X (formerly Twitter) via Nekokurage
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