Idolatory: New Manga Where Devotion Meets Desperation
The Arrival of "Idoltory" in Weekly Shonen Magazine
On July 16, 2025, shonen fans can look forward to a new and intriguing addition to their weekly reads: "Idoltory," debuting in issue number 33 of Weekly Shonen Magazine. This manga, written by Shin Ohtaka and illustrated by Homare, launched with a full-color first page, announcing its arrival with a striking message: "For the sake of your 'oshi,' aim to be a top idol! The girls' battle (audition) begins now!" The launch is presented as a promising project, seeking to capture the competitive and passionate essence of the idol world and offering a unique perspective on the industry.
The Premise: Obsession, Disappearance, and Idol Rebirth
"Idoltory" follows Himi Junna, a high school student whose life revolves around supporting her idol, Tsukishiro Fuwari. Her world crumbles when Fuwari’s idol group abruptly disbands. However, hope resurges when Junna discovers that Fuwari will participate in a new idol audition program. Determined to help her idol reach the top, Junna also decides to participate in the audition, but this time working behind the scenes to ensure Fuwari's success. The story promises an in-depth exploration of the sacrifices and challenges involved in both being a fan and pursuing a dream in the competitive idol world.
The Creative Team: Ohtaka and Homare Aim High
The combination of writer Shin Ohtaka, known for his acclaimed works like "Maou Gakuin no Futekigousha" (The Demon School of Martial Arts), with illustrator Homare, promises a high-quality narrative experience. Ohtaka has expressed his desire to share his passion for idols and the hope represented by Tsukishiro Fuwari-chan. Homare, on the other hand, emphasizes his commitment to authentically capturing the author's world through interviews with real idols and "cute" illustrations that reflect the story’s visual essence. This focus on authenticity and aesthetics is key to attracting fans of both shonen and those interested in idol culture.
A New Chapter in the Shonen Genre: 'Oshikatsu' at Center Stage
"Idoltory" introduces a relatively new concept to the shonen genre: 'oshikatsu,' which refers to the practice of actively and fervently supporting an idol. By focusing on this perspective, the manga offers a unique vision into the motivations, challenges, and rewards associated with idol obsession. The story not only explores the idol world from a fan's point of view but also delves into the selection and competition process within the industry, promising an exciting and informative narrative for readers.