Most-Read Manga in Japan in 2024

The annual report by GEM Partners has revealed the most dominant manga titles in Japan for 2024 — a year defined by the conclusion of iconic anime series, the rise of breakout hits, and a rapidly evolving reader landscape.

Here are the key highlights from the report:

One Piece Remains on Top

Despite an irregular release schedule in the second half of the year, One Piece once again claims the #1 spot. Eiichiro Oda’s legendary saga continues to captivate fans across generations, proving its lasting impact and unmatched storytelling power.

Jujutsu Kaisen Grabs Second Place

Following the completion of its story, Jujutsu Kaisen soared to second place. Its emotional finale, divisive yet unforgettable, drove a massive spike in readership — making it one of the most talked-about manga of 2024.

Oshi no Ko – Controversial but Popular

In 4th place, Oshi no Ko closed out its serialization this year. Though its ending stirred mixed reactions, the final chapters sparked intense debate and drew in waves of new readers.

Frieren – Anime Boost Pushes It to the Top

Frieren: Beyond Journey’s End enjoyed a strong rise in rankings, thanks to its anime adaptation, which aired throughout the year to critical and fan acclaim. The series solidified itself as one of the standout fantasy stories of the year.

Trending Insights from the GEM Report

• Demon Slayer continues to thrive, even four years after its manga ended in 2020, supported by the ongoing success of its anime.
• Kaiju No. 8 surged into the top 20, fueled by its popular anime adaptation, earning it new fans and visibility in the broader anime-manga ecosystem.
• My Hero Academia, despite significant anticipation around its finale and the anime’s continuation, struggled to break into the top 10, indicating a plateau in mainstream traction.

Surprise Entry: Dandadan

One of the year’s most unexpected entries was Dandadan, which broke into the top 20 after a massive popularity spike in late 2024. Its anime adaptation, launched in October 2024, turned this once-niche favorite into a mainstream hit.

2024: A Landmark Year for Manga

From enduring icons like One Piece and Demon Slayer, to new favorites like Frieren and Dandadan, 2024 has reshaped the manga landscape.

Classic series continue to hold readers’ hearts, while fresh narratives and anime adaptations introduce new contenders to the stage. The balance between legacy and innovation is what made 2024 a truly remarkable year for manga lovers.