NEW YORK, NY – Kodama Tales Inc., a subsidiary of Kyodo Printing Co., Ltd., officially announced on Sunday at New York Comic Con that it has licensed Boichi’s action-drama manga Sun-Ken Rock and Yuzuko Hoshimi’s fantasy series MAGICA for English publication. Both highly anticipated titles are set to debut in 2026, expanding Kodama Tales’ diverse manga lineup.
Sun-Ken Rock to Receive “Perfect Edition” Treatment
Fans of gritty action and intricate storytelling can look forward to the return of Boichi’s Sun-Ken Rock in English. Kodama Tales plans to release the series in a “Perfect Edition” omnibus format, with each volume combining roughly two of the original Japanese compiled books. This new edition will feature exclusive new cover illustrations and will incorporate elements from both the original Japanese release and the newer Korean Perfect Edition, which includes revised dialogue by Boichi himself. The first volume of Sun-Ken Rock is scheduled for an April 1, 2026 release.
The Story of Ken Kitano
Sun-Ken Rock centers on Ken Kitano, a Japanese delinquent who follows the girl he likes to Seoul, Korea. Despite his intentions, his impressive fighting skills and strong spirit inadvertently lead him to become entangled with, and eventually lead, a local gang. The series, which ran in Shonengahosha’s Young King magazine from 2006 to 2016, is known for its intense action, mature themes, and cinematic art style. Previous English digital releases were handled by JManga and Crunchyroll, but the series has been unavailable for some time. Boichi is also renowned as the artist for the global hit Dr. Stone.
MAGICA Set for March 2026 Debut
Joining Sun-Ken Rock in Kodama Tales‘ 2026 lineup is Yuzuko Hoshimi’s enchanting fantasy series, MAGICA. This multi-age fantasy manga, described as a “heart-stirring fairy tale fantasy,” is slated for release in March 2026.
A World of Magic and Emotion
MAGICA will be presented across two full-color volumes, featuring distinctive foil treatments designed to enhance the immersive and emotionally rich reading experience. The series promises to weave together action, magic, and tragedy, inviting readers into a world where a mage with the power to turn the sparkle of life into a gemstone bears witness to the universe’s comedies and tragedies.
Kodama Tales’ Expanding Portfolio
These new acquisitions further underscore Kodama Tales’ commitment to bringing a diverse range of Japanese manga to English-speaking audiences. The publisher, a U.S.-based subsidiary of Kyodo Printing, aims to deliver high-quality print and digital editions, preserving the authenticity and artistry of the original works. The company has been actively expanding its catalog, with previous announcements including Mitei Hattori’s psychological horror series Smile! and the English debut of Baki the Grappler, which began official sales in October 2025.
