Kodansha USA’s K Manga subscription service has announced the acquisition of Suzu Kayukawa’s manga, The Noble Student and His Cinderella (original title: Taishō Gakusei Aisai-ka), as a simulpub title for its English-language platform. The announcement was made on July 2, via K Manga’s X (formerly Twitter) account, bringing the historical romance to Western readers concurrently with its Japanese release.
What a Simulpub Means for Readers
Simulpub, a portmanteau of “simultaneously published,” refers to the practice of releasing manga chapters in English at the same time as, or very close to, their original publication in Japan. This strategy has become increasingly popular among digital manga platforms, allowing international fans to read the latest chapters without significant delays. K Manga, managed directly by Kodansha’s editorial team, is committed to continually creating content and bringing new stories to U.S. readers as they are simultaneously distributed in Japan. The platform launched in March 2023 with an extensive catalog, including 70 simulpub titles, and has steadily added more since.
The Story of Fuki and Yugo
The Noble Student and His Cinderella is a historical romance set in Tokyo during the 10th year of the Taisho period, specifically 1921. The narrative centers on Fuki, a 24-year-old maid serving in the distinguished Tachibana family manor. Her life takes an unexpected turn when she is reunited with Yugo, the family’s son, who returns home to enroll at The First Imperial University.
With Fuki’s engagement having been dissolved and Yugo tasked with finding a suitable wife, he proposes marriage to her. Despite the significant age and social standing difference between the admirable maid and the elite student, Fuki accepts. In an era where parental consent was essential for marriage, their unconventional married life is poised to begin.
Suzu Kayukawa launched the series on Kodansha’s Morning two digital magazine in June 2024, with the second compiled book volume having been shipped on April 23. The addition of The Noble Student and His Cinderella to K Manga’s simulpub lineup means that English-speaking audiences can now follow Fuki and Yugo’s unique journey as new chapters are released.
