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Tokyopop Ending US Operations

Posted by Kaitou Ace in News Articles April 16, 2011 at 02:07:32 AM

The end of an era indeed. Come this May, Tokyopop, one of the original manga publishers is shutting its doors in the US. What started as a bright promise back in the late 90's with MixxZine, bringing us Sailor Moon and Magic Knight Rayearth quickly grew into a Manga conglomerate bringing us titles like Chobits, Initial D, Cardcaptor Sakura, Fruits Basket, Trinity Blood and many others, including manwha and original English language titles.

Trouble with Kondansha back in 2009 when they lost some of their most popular licenses, strong competition leading to a loss of 20% of their market share, and declining sales have all contributed to their downfall.

In a statement on the Tokyopop website, Founder and President Stuart Levy wrote of the company's history and summed it up:

Fourteen years later, I’m laying down my guns. Together, our community has fought the good fight, and, as a result, the Manga Revolution has been won–manga has become a ubiquitous part of global pop culture. I’m very proud of what we’ve accomplished – and the incredible group of passionate fans we’ve served along the way (my fellow revolutionaries!).

Their German language branch which handles international publishing will remain open, and they will announce the future of specific titles in the coming weeks.

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Posted by on October 04, 2011 at 02:44:40 AM

I can\'t believe it! Don\'t shut your door in the US.I don\'t think korean culture and songs are better than anime!

Posted by on April 28, 2011 at 09:46:35 PM

WOW!!! i'm happy, too! because i thought all the people of anime fans will be interested of korean culture and songs! i can't believe it!!!!! i'm happy for you!!!!

Posted by on April 17, 2011 at 03:16:03 PM

NOOOOOOOOO!!!!!! I can't believe it! What will happen to American Tokyopop fans? RIP, we'll miss you!