Manga "Space Brothers" Finally Nears Its Conclusion; Fans Flood with Comments of "Sad yet Happy" After Author Chuya Koyama Shares a Glimpse of His Workspace

On the official X account for "Space Brothers," an image of the author, Chuya Koyama, working on the final chapter was released, drawing much attention as fans shared their complex feelings regarding the series' imminent conclusion.

The post describes the current writing status: "I'm drawing (the final chapter). There are about 7 pages left. - Chuya Koyama."

The released image shows Koyama, wearing a brightly patterned shirt, facing his desk and working on the manuscript. The screen area has been mosaicked, hiding the content being drawn. Numerous wristwatches and tools are neatly hung on the wall, and the "Space Brothers" collected volumes can be seen lined up on the bookshelf.

"Space Brothers" is a Japanese manga series by Koyama. Serialized in "Morning" since 2008, it depicts the journey of brothers Mutta Nanba (CV: Hiroaki Hirata) and Hibito Nanba (CV: KENN), who promised as children to become astronauts, as they pursue space through their own respective paths. The series is highly acclaimed, having won the 56th Shogakukan Manga Award for General Category and the 35th Kodansha Manga Award for General Category, and has also been adapted into a TV anime and a live-action film.

In response to this post, fans have shared various reactions that express both sadness over the conclusion and anticipation, such as: "It's sad yet happy," "I want to see it soon, but I also don't want to... it's a complicated feeling," "I wonder what kind of feelings you'll have when drawing the last page," "Couldn't it stretch for another 7000 pages or so?", and "I'm currently re-reading all the volumes again."

(C)小山宙哉／講談社