In a column by Fukuda Makoto for “Through Otaku Eyes” for the Daily Yomiuri, Fukuda wrote, “Shogakukan Inc., one of Japan’s leading publishers, caused a stir after it was hit with a lawsuit earlier this month by Makoto Raiku, a mangaka whose works have appeared in its weekly Shonen Sunday.”
“Raiku charges that Shogakukan lost 5 of his color pages from the manga series Konjiki no Gash!!, which was carried in the magazine from 2001 to 2007.”
“Konjiki no Gash!! was later adapted into an animated television show.”
“Raiku said the publisher failed to return the five color drawings following the end of the series’ run. Shogakukan offered to compensate him 500,000 yen for the loss, but Raiku demanded 3.3 million yen in restitution, including a price tag of 300,000 yen for each of the missing artworks. Raiku is believed to have based the figure on bids for similar works on Internet auction sites.”
“The media have covered the lawsuit, but have focused on the superficial question of whether original manga works have artistic value. But I think part of the reason for the lawsuit is the peculiar relationship between Japanese mangaka and their editors.”
“In his blog, Raiku disclosed the statement he submitted to court. According to the documents, editors are treating mangaka like fools and looking down on them, although the two parties are supposed to be treated as equals. He said he was subjected to verbal abuse by his editors and forced to extend the publication of his manga.”