Kingdom Celebrates 20 Years of Serialization as Author Yasuhisa Hara Says “The Journey Is Not Over Yet,” Announces Seven Anniversary Projects and Surpasses 120 Million Copies in Circulation

The manga series Kingdom has surpassed 120 million copies in total circulation, marking a major milestone as it approaches its 20th anniversary of serialization. Volume 78 of the manga was released on the 19th, and in celebration of the anniversary in January 2026, a newly illustrated 20th anniversary visual by creator Yasuhisa Hara, along with an official anniversary logo and details of the first wave of commemorative projects, were unveiled.

Kingdom Marks 20 Years

Commenting on the 20th anniversary, original creator Yasuhisa Hara shared a heartfelt message:

“Thanks to all of our readers, we have been able to reach the 20th anniversary of serialization. Thank you so much for supporting the series over such a long time. However, the journey is not over yet. The story will continue to build even more momentum as it moves toward the unification of China. I sincerely hope you will continue to support Kingdom. I will do my best to stay healthy and see the story through to the end.”

As the first anniversary project, a special opening movie titled “Believe and Move Forward (JP: 信じて、進め)”, announcing the start of Kingdom’s 20th anniversary, was released. Centered on the theme of the “fire of conviction,” the video depicts the path walked by the protagonist Shin so far, as well as the road that lies ahead.

The second project is another commemorative movie titled “BELIEVE YOUR KINGDOM”, which will be released starting on the 22nd. Aimed at everyone fighting their own battles in life, this drama series portrays the daily lives of readers who are supported by the words and ways of life of Kingdom’s characters. Three short films starring a student preparing for exams, a company employee, and a mother will be released, along with a longer version narrated by Takao Osawa. All videos will be available on the official Young Jump YouTube channel, Yanjan Manga TV.

Collaborations, Campaigns, and Special Releases

The third project is a collaboration with Sapporo Breweries’ chu hai products, including Sapporo Koime Lemon Sour, Grapefruit Sour, and Layered Lemon Sour. The collaboration was inspired by the shared concept of rich and intense character portrayals and life stories found throughout Kingdom.

As the fourth project, a limited time digital campaign will allow readers to read volumes 1 through 20 of the Kingdom manga for free on various e book platforms, including Yanjan Plus and Zebrack, from the 19th through February 8. (Note: This campaign is currently planned to be available only on Japanese digital manga services.)

The sixth project is the announcement of a special all in one publication titled Kingdom magazine 2026. This volume will condense the passion that continues to captivate modern audiences, featuring content woven together by the flames of conviction. The cover will showcase an exclusive newly illustrated artwork by Yasuhisa Hara. The magazine will also include retrospectives on legendary battles, a look back on 20 years of serialization, high profile discussions, and many other features that can only be found in this publication.

As the seventh project, special box set products are planned that will compile the Kingdom manga by story arc, each housed in an original design box created specifically for each chapter grouping

About Kingdom

Kingdom has been serialized in Weekly Young Jump published by Shueisha since 2006. Set in ancient China during the Spring and Autumn and Warring States periods before the Common Era, the story follows Shin, a young boy striving to become the greatest general under heaven, and a young king determined to unify China amid more than 500 years of warfare.

The television anime adaptation has aired up to six seasons. A live action film released in April 2019 became a massive hit, earning over 5.73 billion yen at the box office, followed by sequel films released in 2022, 2023, and 2024.

Source : ORICON NEWS