After nearly a decade of serialization, Tomohito Oda’s beloved manga, Komi Can’t Communicate, is set to conclude this week. The final chapter is scheduled for release on Wednesday, January 29, 2025, marking the end of a long journey for fans of the series.
The End of a Socially Awkward Journey
The manga, which began as a one-shot in 2015 before launching into full serialization in May 2016, has captivated audiences with its heartwarming story of Shoko Komi, a high school student with extreme social anxiety. The narrative revolves around her quest to make 100 friends, aided by her classmate Hitohito Tadano, who sees past her quiet exterior.
A Decade of Growth
Over the past decade, Komi Can’t Communicate has spanned 498 chapters, 36 compiled volumes, and numerous character-focused arcs. The series has seen its art style evolve and the story gradually shift towards a romantic comedy, all while maintaining its core theme of overcoming social barriers. The upcoming 37th volume is scheduled for release on January 17, 2025.
The Final Arc and Chapter Count
The series officially entered its final arc in July 2024, setting the stage for the story’s conclusion. Initially, it was speculated that the manga would end in three chapters. However, recent information confirms that the series will conclude in just two chapters with the final chapter expected to be either chapter 499 or 500, depending on how the mangaka decides to split the remaining content.
A Bit of Confusion
There was some confusion regarding the final chapter count due to the mangaka splitting the chapters, potentially to reach a specific number before the series concludes. While some sources indicated that the series would end with chapter 497, the most recent reports point to either 499 or 500. This final chapter will be available in the ninth issue of Weekly Shonen Sunday, which will be officially released on Wednesday, January 29, 2025, in Japan.
How the News Broke
The news of the manga’s conclusion first emerged through unofficial channels, with Twitter user @MangaMoguraRE initially reporting that only three chapters remained. These reports were then corroborated by other sources and later confirmed by the magazine itself.
A Look Back
The Weekly Shonen Sunday website now bears a message indicating that the final chapter is approaching, stating, “As high school life comes to an end, preparations for the graduation ceremony progress!!” This message is a clear sign that the series is reaching its natural conclusion.
What’s Next for Komi Can’t Communicate?
While the manga is ending, the Komi Can’t Communicate universe has also been brought to life through other mediums. The anime adaptation, which premiered in October 2021, has two seasons available for streaming on Netflix. The anime is available in over 190 countries, dubbed in eight languages and subtitled in 31, further expanding the series’ global reach. There was also a live-action series that premiered in September 2021.
The Impact
Komi Can’t Communicate has become a beloved series for its relatable characters and heartwarming narrative. Its focus on social anxiety and the struggles of communication has resonated with many, making it more than just a typical romantic comedy. The series has also been praised for its unique blend of humor and genuine emotional depth. The conclusion of the manga marks the end of an era for fans, but the series’ impact is sure to be felt for years to come.
Final Thoughts
As the final chapter of Komi Can’t Communicate approaches, fans around the world are eagerly anticipating the conclusion of Komi’s journey. The series will be remembered for its unique storytelling, relatable characters, and the important message that everyone deserves a chance to connect. With the final chapter set to release this week, the focus is now on the ending, leaving fans to wonder how Komi’s story will ultimately conclude and how many friends she’ll have made.
