Manga artist Uru Okabe has brought the “1st part” of their Yajin (Night Person) manga to a close with its first new chapter in seven years. The conclusion comes alongside an apology from Okabe, who recently revealed a serious health battle involving a cerebral infarction, which caused paralysis in their upper right and lower limbs.
A Long-Awaited Return and Emotional Apology
Fans of Uru Okabe’s Yajin manga have finally received a new chapter, marking the end of the manga’s initial story arc after an extended hiatus since 2018. The return, however, is tinged with the revelation of Okabe’s personal health struggles. In October, Okabe shared on social media platform X (formerly Twitter) that they had suffered a cerebral infarction (ischemic stroke) and were hospitalized. The stroke resulted in the paralysis of their upper right and lower limbs, impacting their drawing ability and leading to an emotional apology to readers.
The news of the manga’s impending return was initially announced by Shogakukan’s Manga ONE app in August, with the goal of resuming serialization by the end of the year, stating that Okabe was actively working on it. The sudden health setback underscores the challenges creators often face behind the scenes. Okabe expressed uncertainty about rehabilitating their right hand or learning to draw with their left, highlighting the profound impact of the illness on their career.
Understanding Yajin
Yajin, also known as The Night Ones or Night People, is a youth x horror manga that debuted on Shogakukan’s Manga ONE and Ura Sunday services in May 2018. The story centers on two middle school friends, Utsugi and Takajō, who experience mysterious out-of-body phenomena. These experiences allow them to transform into “Yajin” at night, granting them the ability to fly freely and pass through walls. Their nocturnal adventures take a turn when they encounter Iko, a girl who can see ghosts, leading them to discover their own newfound ability to perceive and interact with the supernatural. The manga explores themes of the supernatural, school life, and horror.
Okabe’s Notable Works and Impact
Uru Okabe is recognized for several other manga series that have garnered attention. Their notable works include Good Night World (2016) and its prequel Good Night World End (2023), as well as Sekai Oni (2012). Good Night World received an anime adaptation that premiered worldwide on Netflix in October 2024. These works often delve into psychological, fantasy, and dramatic genres, showcasing Okabe’s diverse storytelling capabilities.
The outpouring of support from fans following Okabe’s health announcements reflects the impact their work has had on readers. Despite the severe challenges, Okabe has expressed determination to undergo rehabilitation and continue their creative endeavors. The conclusion of Yajin‘s “1st part” marks a significant milestone, albeit one achieved under difficult personal circumstances, leaving fans to anticipate what the future holds for Okabe and their compelling narratives.
