On May 31, 2024, we closely followed the first hearing in the trial of Erika Ikeda, better known as Nekokurage, creator of the manga 'Kusuriya no Hitorigoto'.
- “Kaijin Fugeki”: New manga from the creator of “Air Gear” on the cover of Shounen Magazine
- "School Submarine Fleet": New post-apocalyptic manga featuring marine aliens
As you know, Erika is the talented author behind the adaptation of the popular manga and novel “Kusuriya no Hitorigoto (The Apothecary Diaries)”. Unfortunately, she is facing serious charges for violating the Income Tax Law, due to the failure to file tax returns estimated at around 47 million yen, equivalent to approximately 300,000 US dollars.
During the hearing, Erika admitted to the accusations, explaining that she intended to settle her accumulated tax obligations over several years. It's sad to see such a situation, especially considering that she was aware of the need to file her tax returns from the beginning of her career as a manga artist back in 2010. But, unfortunately, the deadlines for delivering her manga always seemed to take precedence over her tax responsibilities.
Risks involved in continuing Kusuriya no Hitorigoto
Therefore, the testimonies during the hearing highlighted that this was not an isolated incident. Erika had faced similar problems in the past, submitting 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 there are 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, we can only hope that this situation does not 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