Dream Collaboration Between "Medalist" and "Wandance" & Conclusion of "Vinland Saga"! Afternoon September Issue On Sale with Editorial Comment Included

The two works, the figure skating manga "Medalist" (by Tsurumaikada) and the dance-themed "Wandance" (by Coffee), have collaborated for the cover of Kodansha's seinen comic magazine Afternoon September 2025 issue (on sale July 25). An all-new, specially drawn visual adorns the cover.

"Wandance" is scheduled for a TV anime broadcast starting October 2025. Following "Medalist," which gained popularity with its TV anime in January 2025, the buzz continues. Inside the magazine, readers can enjoy a special collaborative visual of these two series, both of which have portrayed passion for dance in their own unique fields.

■"Vinland Saga" Concludes Grandly After 20 Years of Serialization

In this issue, "Vinland Saga" (by Makoto Yukimura) reaches its final chapter. After 20 years since its serialization began in 2005, and following an anime adaptation, the series has won fervent support both in Japan and internationally. The editorial team commented, "Including 'Planetes,' it has been 25 years. Though we were both young, now even our nose hair has gone gray," expressing their feelings on the long-running serialization. (Full comment below)

Afternoon Editor-in-Chief's Comment:
Afternoon September issue is packed, with the launch of the new series "Shingetsu no Ban ni" and the cover featuring the collaboration illustration of "Medalist" and "Wandance." But personally, I'm overwhelmed with emotion as "Vinland Saga," which I was in charge of for 20 years, finally concludes. Counting from "Planetes," it’s been 25 years. Though we were both young, now even our nose hair is white. Well done for making it to the end, Yukimura-san!

■"Wandance" Reprinted with Special Band Featuring Support from "Medalist" Author Tsurumaikada

To commemorate this collaborative cover, a special reprint of "Wandance" has been decided, featuring a newly drawn illustration and supportive comment by "Medalist" author Tsurumaikada on a special wraparound band. The copies with this special band will be available sequentially at bookstores nationwide.