The popular "Hunter x Hunter" manga, which has been on hiatus since December 2022, is closer than ever to an official return. According to Shueisha's official site, Volume 38 of "Hunter x Hunter" will be released in Japan on September 4, 2024. This volume will be 208 pages long and will compile chapters that have not yet been published in volume format. The cover image has not yet been revealed.
Fans should temper their enthusiasm, as the new volume likely won't contain any entirely new work from creator Yoshihiro Togashi. Instead, it will include chapters 390-400 of the manga, which were initially published in 2022 before Togashi took his most recent hiatus due to health issues. However, the release of the new volume strongly suggests that "Hunter x Hunter" fans can expect an announcement about the return of regular serialization of the manga very soon, possibly in the coming weeks.
Fan speculation about this comeback has been supported by Togashi's Twitter posts, which have been regular since May 2024. Some of these posts include chapter-specific captions such as "No405, I'm working on it!" and "Color work finished. I feel energized, so I'll do my best." In recent weeks, Togashi has also shown off numerous illustrations both old and new, including redrawings of "Hunter x Hunter" covers in Shonen Jump and even "Resident Evil" drawings for PlayStation.
"Hunter x Hunter" has been on constant hold due to Togashi's health issues, who has struggled with chronic pain and mobility issues that make it difficult for him to maintain regular serialization. The author's health has always been a priority, and both fans and Shueisha Publisher have shown understanding and support during these periods of pause.
Despite these frequent hiatuses, Shueisha continues to reserve a slot for "Hunter x Hunter" in the major Weekly Shonen Jump magazine, which might seem surprising given that there are many promising new authors who could fill that slot. The reason behind this lies in the immense popularity and cultural impact of "Hunter x Hunter". Since its debut in 1998, the series has amassed a devoted global fanbase and has influenced numerous other manga and anime. His ability to engage readers and maintain his relevance, even during long pauses, is a testament to the quality and appeal of Togashi's work.
In addition, "Hunter x Hunter" represents a safe bet for the magazine. Whenever the return of the series is announced, the magazine's sales increase significantly, and the collected volumes are usually very successful in the market. This provides financial stability that can allow Shueisha to invest in new talent and projects.
Source: WSJ Manga
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