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The manga industry very often resembles a mentorship program, in which popular artists take on assistants to help them deal with the grueling release schedule. Not only does this provide young artists with work and a chance to hone their skills, but it also allows experienced mangaka to mentor talented individuals and help them launch their own careers. That support doesn’t always end when someone leaves their studio, as evidenced by the touching message that Slam Dunk creator Takehiko Inoue had for his former assistant to celebrate the 20th anniversary of the Kingdom manga.

Takehiko Inoue has had a long career in the manga industry that continues to this day. His works include Slam Dunk, REAL, and Vagabond, and he has spent years working with many assistants, who have gone on to create their own successful work. Yasuhisa Hara is a former assistant to Takehike Inoue, who became best known as the creator and artist of Kingdom. Hara’s Kingdom recently celebrated its 20th anniversary and, to commemorate the occasion, Inoue drew a tribute sketch of Shin and Ouki from Kingdom. But, more than that was the touching message he shared about his former assistant.

“Congratulations on the 20th Anniversary of Kingdom’s serialization,” Inoue wrote in a message that was shared on social media. “Thinking back, it’s been over 20 years since you showed me the prototype drafts before Kingdom’s serialization began, and even I feel a deep sense of nostalgia. Please take good care of your health and enjoy the journey ahead.”

In a response, Hara said, “I also received tremendous support from Master Inoue, despite his incredibly busy schedule. He’s just too amazing. I’m at a loss for words. Even though 20 years have passed, the fact that you’ve continued to watch over me fills me with such joy. It’ll take a bit longer, but I’ll see the Kingdom manga through to the end. Master, thank you so much!”

It really is a wonderfully wholesome exchange between two celebrated and beloved mangaka, one a teacher and the other a student who has gone on to carve their own path in the industry. More industries, creative or otherwise, would benefit from the mindset that we are all here to lift up – not hinder – the generation that comes after us.

Each week, Popverse's resident anime expert Trent Cannon runs down the latest and, dare we say "greatest," in anime and manga in Popverse Jump. Some recent columns have included... 

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