On May 31, 2024, we closely followed the first hearing of the trial of Erika Ikeda , better known as Nekokurage , creator of the manga 'Kusuriya no Hitorigoto' .
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As you know, Erika is the talented author behind the adaptation of the popular manga and light novel "Kusuriya no Hitorigoto (The Apothecary Diaries)." Unfortunately, she is facing serious charges for violating the Income Tax Law due to failure to file tax returns estimated at around 47 million yen, equivalent to approximately 300,000 US dollars.
During the hearing, Erika admitted the charges, explaining that she intended to settle her tax obligations accumulated over several years. It's sad to see such a situation, especially considering she was aware of the need to file her taxes since the beginning of her career as a manga artist, back in 2010. But unfortunately, her manga delivery deadlines always seemed to outpace her tax responsibilities.
Risks involved in the continuation of Kusuriya no Hitorigoto
Therefore, the testimony during the hearing highlighted that this was not an isolated incident. Erika had faced similar problems in the past, filing her tax returns years late. Witnesses, including her editor and even the original author of "Kusuriya no Hitorigoto," expressed concerns about the risks involved in this behavior, suggesting it could affect the continuity of her series.
Although, despite the difficulties, there is hope in the end. Erika has committed to regularizing her tax situation , paying all taxes owed in full, including late payment interest. Now, all that remains is to hope that this situation doesn't negatively impact her brilliant career as a manga artist. Her contribution to the world of manga, especially with her version of "Kusuriya no Hitorigoto," is immeasurable.
Source: Mainichi Shimbun
