Unveiling the Vertical Scroll Stars: “Tateyomi Manga Award 2025” Crowned Its Champions!

Vertical Scroll Manga Reigns Supreme: “Tateyomi Manga Award 2025” Winners Revealed!

Japan’s burgeoning vertical-scroll manga scene vibrated with excitement as Comic Natalie, the leading manga and anime news site, unveiled the results of its highly anticipated “Tateyomi Manga Award 2025.” This user-driven competition, which garnered an impressive 128,312 votes from December 1st to 22nd, 2025, celebrates the most captivating vertical-scroll stories, a format rapidly gaining global traction.

Domestic Division: “O-motome Itadaita Boukun Heika no Akujo desu” Claims Top Honor

In the fiercely competitive Domestic Works Division, the romantic fantasy “O-motome Itadaita Boukun Heika no Akujo desu” (お求めいただいた暴君陛下の悪女です) by Tenichi, STRAIGHT EDGE, and SORAJIMA was crowned the undisputed champion. This tale of a villainess and a tyrant emperor has clearly resonated deeply with readers, capturing hearts with its intricate narrative.

Creator Tenichi-sensei shared their gratitude, stating, “It is truly an honor to receive such a prestigious award. Realizing how much ‘O-motome Akujo’ has been enjoyed and supported by so many readers is the greatest joy. As the story approaches its climax, I will continue to strive to make every chapter enjoyable for our readers. My heartfelt thanks to everyone who has supported and encouraged me.”

International Division: “Konse wa Toushu ni Narimasu” Takes the Global Crown

The International Works Division saw “Konse wa Toushu ni Narimasu” (今世は当主になります) by Mon, Antstudio, and Kim Roah secure the first-place position. This captivating story has transcended borders, proving the universal appeal of compelling vertical-scroll narratives.

MON-sensei, the artist, expressed their appreciation: “Hello, I am MON, the artist for ‘Konse wa Toushu ni Narimasu.’ First and foremost, I am truly grateful for this meaningful award. It feels like warm encouragement for all the effort put into creating a good work, and it is a great source of motivation. Above all, I deeply appreciate everyone who has watched over Florentia’s growth and given her unwavering love. I will cherish the support received and continue to enjoy drawing the rest of the story. Thank you very much!”

Guest Judges’ Special Selections Add a Personal Touch

This year’s awards also featured special selections from renowned manga enthusiasts. INI’s Yūdai Sano and comedy trio Party-chan each picked a title that left a lasting impression.

INI’s Yūdai Sano Award: “Kareta Hana ni Namida wo”

INI’s Yūdai Sano chose “Kareta Hana ni Namida wo” (枯れた花に涙を) by Gae. The artist, Gae-sensei, conveyed their surprise and joy: “Hello everyone. I am Gae, the author of ‘Kareta Hana ni Namida wo.’ I still can’t quite believe this wonderful news that came as I was diligently drawing webtoons. I am so happy to receive such a wonderful award. This is all thanks to the readers who loved ‘Kareta Hana ni Namida wo.’ I send this message with gratitude and love to everyone who voted. There are still many stories I want to deliver, so please look forward to them. Thank you very much!”

Sano Yūdai elaborated on his choice, offering a glimpse into his reading experience: “This work begins with Juri, burdened by her unfaithful husband’s debts, working tirelessly day and night. As her love for him fades faster than her debt, a mysterious younger man appears in her life. He often buys rose bouquets from the flower shop where Juri works. Her colleague insists he’s interested, and it’s no wonder, given Juri’s inherent beauty and elegance despite her worn clothes. The suspense of whether this encounter will bring color back to Juri’s withered life, or if it’s just a misunderstanding, is truly captivating. I love how the story delves into the realistic human emotions within a serious, dramatic atmosphere. The unadorned dialogue pulls you into its world, making you eager for the next chapter. The monochrome art style perfectly complements the narrative, creating a unique world that feels detached from reality. I highly recommend it to everyone.”

Party-chan Award: “Ore dake Saikyou Chouetsu-sha ~Zensekai no Cheat Shishou ni Mitomerareta~”

Party-chan recognized “Ore dake Saikyou Chouetsu-sha ~Zensekai no Cheat Shishou ni Mitomerareta~” (俺だけ最強超越者〜全世界のチート師匠に認められた〜) by Eto Shunji, Fuwai, Tsuchida Kenta, 3rd Ie, maruco, and Studio No.9. Original creator Eto Shunji-sensei expressed thanks: “Thank you for awarding ‘Ore dake Saikyou Chouetsu-sha’ the wonderful ‘Party-chan Award’! I am grateful to all the voters and will continue to dedicate myself to creation, always prioritizing exciting our readers. Thank you again, truly!”

Newly Established Secretariat Special Awards Highlight Diverse Talents

This year also marked the debut of the Secretariat Special Awards, recognizing outstanding works in specific categories:

• Story Award: “Kōtarō-kun wa Usotsuki” (コータロー君は嘘つき) by Ono

  • Selection Comment: This work masterfully builds suspense around the titular Kōtarō-kun’s lies, keeping readers captivated. The unpredictable plot creates a thrilling experience, making it impossible to stop reading. The protagonist’s natural experience of