Manga Artist Ryuko Azuma Passes Away in September 2025: Comic Newtype Editorial Team Expresses Deep Sorrow Over Sudden Loss During Serialization

Ryuko Azuma, the manga artist known for works such as Duffle Coat Army and Space Battleship Yamato NEXT Star Blazers Lambda, passed away in September 2025, according to an announcement by the Comic Newtype editorial department. The news was shared on February 13 via the official X account of the Comic Newtype editorial team.

Sudden Passing During Work on Duffle Coat Army

In the statement, the editorial team wrote, “In September 2025, manga artist Ryuko Azuma passed away. We are overcome with deep sorrow at the sudden news of his passing while he was in the middle of writing Episode 19 of Duffle Coat Army.”

Azuma had been actively publishing ambitious works, including Iron-Armed Adam (JP: 鉄腕アダム, Tetsuwan Adam) published by Shueisha, as well as Space Battleship Yamato NEXT Star Blazers Lambda and Duffle Coat Army in Comic Newtype.

The editorial team expressed their profound respect for his creative achievements and offered their heartfelt condolences. They also reported that the funeral was held privately with close family members only.

Unpublished Materials and Future Publication Plans

Regarding Duffle Coat Army, the editorial team revealed that there are unpublished materials remaining, including storylines not yet compiled into volumes, manuscript drafts in name format, and future plot concepts.

While the serialization will conclude with the currently released chapters, a book collecting previously uncompiled chapters and related materials is planned for publication. Further details will be announced on the Comic Newtype website and social media platforms once finalized.

Source : ORICON NEWS