After nearly two decades of captivating readers in Japan and beyond, the critically acclaimed manga series Kingdom is finally set to receive an official English translation. The much-anticipated release, scheduled for November 11, 2025, is the result of persistent demand from fans across the globe who have long yearned to experience the series in their native language.

Created by Yasuhisa Hara, Kingdom has firmly established itself as one of the most celebrated manga series in history. With over 110 million copies sold worldwide, it ranks as the 15th best-selling manga of all time, cementing its legacy in the industry. Despite its remarkable success, including adaptations such as an anime series, live-action films, and video games, English-speaking fans have long faced challenges in accessing the story through official means. Until now, they have relied on unofficial translations or even learned Japanese to immerse themselves in Kingdom’s rich and meticulously crafted narrative.

Published by VIZ Media, a powerhouse in bringing iconic manga series such as Naruto, One Piece, and Chainsaw Man to the English-speaking audience, Kingdom will soon reach a broader international readership. The first volume of the official English translation will be available in both print and digital formats upon its release, with subsequent volumes following on a consistent schedule. Additionally, the series will become part of the Shonen Jump app, allowing fans to stay up to date with the latest chapters as they become available.

A Story of War, Ambition, and Unbreakable Bonds

At the heart of Kingdom is the gripping tale of Xin, a war orphan from the kingdom of Qin, who dreams of becoming the greatest general in China. Set during the Warring States period (475–221 BCE), the story follows Xin’s arduous journey as he rises from a lowly servant to a formidable warrior, determined to unite China under one rule. With a combination of strategic warfare, political intrigue, and emotionally charged character development, Kingdom masterfully blends historical elements with intense storytelling.

Throughout the series, Xin encounters a vast array of allies and adversaries, including historical figures such as Ying Zheng, the young king of Qin, who is destined to become China’s first emperor. Their intertwined fates and ambitions create a dynamic relationship, as Xin’s battlefield prowess complements Zheng’s visionary leadership. Alongside them are a host of remarkable characters, from brilliant strategists to fearsome generals, each contributing to the epic scope of Kingdom’s narrative.

Why Kingdom’s Official English Release is a Game-Changer

The announcement of Kingdom’s official English release is a significant milestone for both fans and the global manga industry. Despite its status as one of the most successful manga series in Japan, the absence of an official English translation had long been an anomaly. Many lesser-known series have received English releases over the years, leaving fans perplexed as to why Kingdom remained an exception.

Several factors contributed to this delay. One prevailing theory is that Kingdom’s sheer length and complexity made it a daunting undertaking for publishers. With over 70 volumes and counting, translating such a vast and historically intricate work required a major commitment. Additionally, its historical setting—rooted in ancient Chinese warfare—may have been perceived as a niche genre compared to the more mainstream shonen action series that dominate the English-speaking market.

However, fan demand for Kingdom has never wavered. For years, dedicated readers have relied on fan translations, many of which have played a crucial role in spreading the series’ popularity outside Japan. The official release not only ensures higher translation accuracy and quality but also supports the original creators, a crucial step in sustaining the manga industry.

The Legacy of Kingdom: More Than Just a Manga

What sets Kingdom apart from many other manga is its meticulous attention to historical detail and its cinematic storytelling. Yasuhisa Hara has often spoken about his passion for ancient Chinese history and how he sought to bring the Warring States period to life through his work. While Kingdom takes creative liberties, its depiction of large-scale battles, political maneuvering, and military strategy remains one of the most immersive and well-researched in manga history.

The battle sequences in Kingdom are particularly noteworthy. Unlike many action manga that rely on fantastical elements, Kingdom employs realistic military tactics and strategies inspired by historical events. From large-scale formations to psychological warfare, every battle feels intense, calculated, and unpredictable. Hara’s ability to convey the brutality of war while maintaining a sense of hope and ambition in his characters is a testament to his storytelling prowess.

Beyond its historical depth, Kingdom also explores themes of leadership, perseverance, and friendship. Xin’s journey is not merely about rising through the ranks but about proving himself on and off the battlefield, earning the trust of his comrades, and overcoming seemingly insurmountable odds. These elements make Kingdom a compelling read for both history enthusiasts and fans of character-driven narratives.

What to Expect from the Official English Release

With Kingdom’s official English debut now confirmed, fans can expect a high-quality translation that remains true to Yasuhisa Hara’s original vision. VIZ Media’s involvement in the project further reassures readers, as the publisher has a strong track record of handling complex series with the care and attention they deserve.

The release plan will follow a structured schedule, beginning with Volume 1 on November 11, 2025. While the full roadmap has yet to be revealed, it is expected that multiple volumes will be released per year to help catch up with the Japanese publication, which currently sits at over 70 volumes.

Additionally, Kingdom will be available on digital platforms, including VIZ’s official website, Shonen Jump app, and various e-book retailers. This ensures accessibility for readers worldwide, regardless of their preferred reading format.

One of the most exciting aspects of this announcement is Kingdom’s inclusion in the Shonen Jump app, which provides a subscription-based model for accessing the latest chapters. This move aligns with the industry’s growing trend of simultaneous digital releases, allowing international fans to keep pace with the ongoing story rather than waiting months or years for new volumes.

Anticipation Builds as Kingdom’s English Debut Approaches

With less than a year until the official English release, anticipation for Kingdom is at an all-time high. The announcement has already ignited excitement across social media, manga forums, and anime communities, with fans celebrating the long-overdue localization.

For longtime readers, this marks the end of a nearly two-decade wait. For newcomers, it is the perfect opportunity to dive into one of the most acclaimed historical manga series of all time. Whether one is drawn to Kingdom for its epic battles, rich character development, or historical intrigue, its official English translation ensures that more people than ever can experience the story as it was meant to be told.

As the countdown to November 11, 2025, begins, one thing is certain: Kingdom’s long-awaited global expansion is finally here, solidifying its status as a must-read masterpiece in the world of manga.

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