Fans eagerly anticipating a live-action film adaptation of Yuu Saiki’s popular shōjo manga, “Yamaguchi-kun Isn’t So Bad” (Japanese: Yamaguchi-kun wa Warukunai), might need to temper their expectations regarding a June 5 release. As of current public information, there are no confirmed details or announcements from official sources about a live-action movie adaptation of the beloved series slated for this date. While the manga enjoys a strong following, information regarding a cinematic rendition remains elusive in official news outlets and databases.
Despite the absence of a live-action film announcement, “Yamaguchi-kun Isn’t So Bad” continues to charm readers with its compelling high school romance narrative.
The Popularity of “Yamaguchi-kun Isn’t So Bad” Manga
“Yamaguchi-kun Isn’t So Bad,” written and illustrated by Yuu Saiki, has captivated shōjo manga enthusiasts since its serialization began in Kodansha’s Bessatsu Friend magazine on September 13, 2019. The series quickly garnered attention for its endearing characters and classic romance tropes, earning it a dedicated fanbase both in Japan and internationally. Kodansha USA Publishing has licensed the manga for English digital release in North America, making it accessible to a wider audience.
A Glimpse into the Plot
The story centers around Satsuki Shinohara, a shy high school student determined to make a fresh start with a grand high school debut. Her plans are nearly derailed by an incident on a train, but she is unexpectedly rescued by Yamaguchi-kun, a classmate with a reputation as a “gangster” or delinquent.
Despite his intimidating appearance and the “bad rap” he has among other students, Satsuki is undeterred. She makes it her mission to get closer to Yamaguchi-kun and prove that there’s more to him than meets the eye. The manga explores their developing relationship as Satsuki navigates high school challenges and tries to uncover the true, kind nature beneath Yamaguchi-kun’s tough exterior. The narrative delves into themes of prejudice, perception, and the blossoming of unexpected romance.
Author and Publication Details
Yuu Saiki launched “Yamaguchi-kun Isn’t So Bad” in 2019. The manga has been consistently published in Bessatsu Friend and collected into individual tankōbon volumes by Kodansha. The series experienced a hiatus starting in June 2022 due to Saiki’s childbirth but successfully resumed serialization on July 13, 2023. As of June 13, 2025, eleven volumes have been released in Japan.
The Appeal of Shoujo Manga Adaptations
The enthusiasm surrounding a potential live-action adaptation of “Yamaguchi-kun Isn’t So Bad” is a testament to the enduring appeal of shōjo manga. Many popular romance and slice-of-life manga series have successfully transitioned to live-action films or television dramas, drawing in both existing fans and new viewers. These adaptations often aim to bring beloved characters and storylines to life, offering a new dimension to their narratives. While “Yamaguchi-kun Isn’t So Bad” has clearly resonated with readers, information regarding a live-action film on June 5 remains unconfirmed by official channels. Fans are encouraged to follow official announcements from Kodansha or Yuu Saiki for any future adaptation news.
