Meguru Ueno, the creator of the popular manga series “My First Girlfriend is a Gal” (Hajimete no Gal), has concluded his more recent manga, “PEEP.” The final chapter was published on April 5th on Kodansha’s YanMaga Web platform. “PEEP” is a youth x love/hate suspense manga that tells the story of a student who secretly runs an extreme cosplay account. The student’s life takes an interesting turn when he discovers that the person behind the account is a popular “gyaru/gal” in his class.
Publication Details
Ueno launched “PEEP” in Kodansha’s Weekly Young Magazine on June 17, 2024. The series later transitioned to the YanaMaga Web platform on March 1, 2025. Kodansha published the third and final compiled book volume on May 7, 2025.
Plot of PEEP
“PEEP” explores themes of identity, online personas, and the complexities of relationships in the digital age. The manga centers around a high school student named Riku, who is secretly a fan of an extreme cosplay account on social media. He is shocked to discover that the person behind the account, known as CB, is actually Aika, a popular gal from his school.
As Riku delves deeper into Aika’s world, he uncovers her hidden emotions and the reasons behind her online activities. The story also introduces Akeno Aika, the student council president, who has a strange connection to Riku. She is a 19-year-old cosplayer and dark influencer known as CB.
The narrative takes a suspenseful turn as Riku realizes that his own emotions are being observed by someone else. The manga is described as a blend of youth, love, and suspense, with elements of eroticism and psychological themes.
Meguru Ueno’s Other Works
Meguru Ueno is best known for creating “My First Girlfriend is a Gal,” which debuted in Kadokawa’s Monthly Shōnen Ace magazine in November 2015. The manga was adapted into a ten-episode anime television series that premiered in July 2017. Crunchyroll streamed the anime as it aired, and Funimation released a simuldub for home video in August 2018.
Ueno also created “Gal-Sen,” which ended in October 2023. This manga debuted in Weekly Young Magazine in September 2021 and moved to YanMaga Web in September 2022. Kodansha published the manga’s ninth and final compiled book volume in February 2024.
Another work by Ueno is “Does a Hot Elf Live Next Door to You?” (Otaku no Tonari wa Elf desu ka?), a five-volume manga that ran from July 2019 to March 2021. Seven Seas Entertainment released the manga in English.
Reception and Themes
Ueno’s works often feature elements of romance, comedy, and slice-of-life scenarios, often revolving around high school students and their relationships. “My First Girlfriend is a Gal” is known for its ecchi content and lighthearted approach to the genre, while also exploring themes of virginity, relationships, and personal growth. “PEEP,” on the other hand, delves into darker themes of suspense, identity, and the impact of online personas.
Where to Read
While “PEEP” has concluded its serialization, fans may be able to find it on online manga platforms such as MangaDex and Bato.To. These platforms offer a variety of manga titles, including those by Meguru Ueno.
Popularity and Community
Meguru Ueno has garnered a significant following, with fans eagerly anticipating his new works. The subreddit r/HajimeteNoGal is dedicated to “My First Girlfriend is a Gal,” where fans discuss the manga and its characters. Ueno also has a Patreon account where he releases his latest series for subscribers.
Final Thoughts
The conclusion of “PEEP” marks the end of another chapter in Meguru Ueno’s career. With his unique blend of romance, comedy, and suspense, Ueno continues to captivate readers and leave a lasting impact on the manga world. Fans eagerly await his next project, eager to see what new and exciting stories he will bring to life.
