The conclusion of Oshi no Ko marked the end of Aqua and Ruby’s poignant journey, leaving fans with mixed feelings. While some anticipated a more uplifting finale, others appreciated its raw and thought-provoking exploration of revenge, renewal, and the entertainment industry’s darker truths. The manga, written by Aka Akasaka and illustrated by Mengo Yokoyari, captured public discourse for its bold commentary and emotional depth, cementing its place as one of the most talked-about seinen works of its time.
Despite the divisive reception, Oshi no Ko achieved remarkable success, boasting over 20 million copies in circulation as of November 2024, alongside its massively popular anime adaptation. Its exploration of reincarnation, trauma, and fame resonated deeply with readers, ensuring its status as a modern classic.
In response to the heated discussions surrounding the manga’s ending, Mengo Yokoyari took to X (formerly Twitter) to share her thoughts. She expressed pride in the series as a labor of love but refrained from commenting on the plot to avoid fueling negative discourse. With limited replies enabled on her tweet, Yokoyari emphasized the joy and effort she poured into the project, highlighting its hopeful final message.
Oshi no Ko Ends with Mixed Reception and a Powerful Legacy
Yokoyari’s artistic contributions were vital in shaping Oshi no Ko’s emotional narrative. Her vivid illustrations brought Akasaka’s vision to life, particularly in the manga’s climactic and epilogue scenes. As she explained, her focus was on creating a meaningful and impactful work, and the manga’s resonance with fans speaks to her success.
In a 2023 interview with Anime News Network, Aka Akasaka acknowledged Yokoyari’s exceptional talent and dedication. He praised her previous hit series, Scum’s Wish, as evidence of her ability to craft compelling stories independently. Akasaka credited her collaborative efforts in Oshi no Ko for elevating its storytelling, blending her unique artistic style with his narrative direction to create a groundbreaking manga.
Yokoyari’s summer 2023 spinoff, Oshi no Ko -Interlude-, further demonstrated her creative influence on the series. Her ability to go into character motivations and emotional complexities enriched the story, ensuring its lasting impact on readers and viewers alike.
While Oshi no Ko’s conclusion sparked debate, it also solidified the manga’s legacy as a daring exploration of the entertainment industry. From its gripping commentary to its intricate character arcs, the series left an indelible mark on seinen manga. As Yokoyari moves forward, her contributions to Oshi no Ko and her broader body of work, including Scum’s Wish, highlight her status as one of the medium’s most influential artists.
