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Expanding the ever growing Manga Market Overseas (2010/2/1) JA

As the market for Japanese comics or “manga” grows, both inside and out of Japan, many publishers are constantly looking for new ideas to catch the attention of readers. Most readers are becoming tired of the unoriginal plot lines, mundane characters, or the bland artwork. As the population who can create manga is very limited, possibly as low as only a mere several hundred as opposed to the millions of readers, it may be an extremely challenging task to do, but a must if a company plans to succeed in this esoteric field.

When asked what the most popular titles are, people often name titles of comics published by major publishers. (Bleach, Naruto, Inuyasha, etc.) This trend can be observed almost anywhere manga is sold. Often people who are not fanatics or extreme enthusiasts of manga do not know that there are literally hundreds of manga magazines all containing over 10 titles a piece. Many readers are unaware of the vast genre, which leaves a large opportunity for publishers in foreign countries to expand their readers.

It is said that the Japanese comic market is somewhat of a pyramid according to each genre. As an example let us take a look at the magazines which targets a male audience. At the peak there are three major magazines: Jump, Magajin, and Sunday.

Jump: http://shonenjump.com/j/index.html
Magajin: http://kc.kodansha.co.jp/magazine/index.php/02065
Sunday http://www.websunday.net/

These are known as Shonen comic magazines meaning they all are generally for children to young adults. Under these there are the less popular but famous nonetheless( Champion, Evening, Young Jump, etc.) Finally at the bottom numerous numbers of magazines targeting a much more particular target. So how do the Magazines at the bottom of the pyramid stay alive, one may ask. Many minor magazines have become famous thanks to one or two big titles. (such as Dengeki Daioh with hit seller “Yotsubato”)

Dengeki Daioh: http://daioh.dengeki.com/index.html

This goes to show that even though the magazine may harbor many titles which are difficult for a large population to enjoy, but there is always several that can catch the country by storm.

Popular titles will always be the easiest way. By introducing new titles, publishers can find that one title to get noticed. Readers all across the globe want new sensations. Is it not the job of publishers to give it to them?

JA
2010/2/1

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