Following a brief return, the popular manga series Dandadan has announced another hiatus, leaving fans eagerly awaiting its comeback. This news comes after the series just recently resumed its regular schedule. The manga, written and illustrated by Yukinobu Tatsu, is known for its unique blend of supernatural elements, action, and humor, and has garnered significant popularity since its debut in 2021. The series has also seen success with its anime adaptation, further expanding its fanbase.
A Month-Long Break
The hiatus began after the release of chapter 182, with the next chapter, 183, slated to appear on February 25, 2025. This break is scheduled to last for approximately one month, causing a temporary disruption in the manga’s weekly release schedule. This news has sparked discussion among fans, many of whom are anxious to see what happens next in the story, especially after the intense cliffhanger at the end of chapter 182.
Reason for the Hiatus
The exact reason for this sudden break has not been officially disclosed by the author or the publisher. However, the manga industry is known for the intense pressure it places on creators. Hiatuses are frequently attributed to the demanding workload and schedule required to produce high-quality manga on a weekly basis. Some fans speculate that Yukinobu Tatsu might need time to rest and recuperate, while others suggest the break could be for research purposes or to allow him to refine the next story arc. Health issues are also not uncommon among mangakas, making it a plausible reason.
Where to Catch Up
While fans wait for the manga to return, they can catch up on previous chapters through various platforms. Manga Plus and Viz Media both offer the series digitally, allowing fans to enjoy the story from the beginning or to revisit their favorite moments. Viz Media also offers physical copies for those who prefer to read the series in print. This offers a chance to delve deeper into the world of Momo and Okarun, the two main characters of the story, and their supernatural adventures.
What’s Happening in the Manga
The most recent chapters of Dandadan have been filled with intense moments. The story has focused on Momo’s struggle to return to her normal size after escaping from the dimension known as Danmanra. Her friends have been doing their best to protect her while facing new challenges. In chapter 182, a student named Kouki Yukishiro attacks Momo in an attempt to steal her powers, after being blackmailed by the main antagonist, Count Saint-Germain. The chapter also sees Granny Seiko continuing her search for a solution, while Zuma rescues an elderly man who had been trapped in Danmanra since his school days. In addition, Kinta has located the teacher who was manipulating Kouki, prompting Aira and Okarun to take action, ending with Kouki in danger once again.
Anime Adaptation
The anime adaptation of Dandadan debuted in the fall of 2024, quickly becoming a fan favorite. The first season ended in the middle of the Cursed House Arc, leaving fans with many unanswered questions and creating anticipation for the second season, which is set to premiere in Summer 2025. The anime has helped to introduce the series to a broader audience. The second season will continue the story with the Cursed House arc.
The Impact of Hiatuses
Hiatuses are not uncommon in the manga industry, and they often spark mixed reactions among fans. While they can be disappointing for those who eagerly anticipate new chapters, they are often necessary for the well-being of the creators. These breaks can allow mangakas to take time to rest, conduct research, or improve their craft. In the long run, these breaks can contribute to the overall quality and sustainability of the series, which allows mangakas to come back refreshed and ready to produce high-quality material.
Release Schedule
The Dandadan manga is serialized in Shueisha’s Shonen Jump+ app and website. New chapters typically arrive weekly. However, due to the recent hiatus, chapter 183 is set to release on February 24, 2025, for North American readers, and on February 25, 2025, for readers in Japan. Fans can expect to see the newest chapter on platforms such as Manga Plus and Viz Media.
Balancing Quality and Creator Health
The demanding nature of manga production often leads to these necessary breaks. The fast-paced nature of the Dandadan story and its intricate art style requires a lot of effort from Yukinobu Tatsu and his team. Taking these breaks allows creators to recover physically and mentally, ensuring that they can continue to produce high-quality work that meets the expectations of their readers.
Looking Ahead
Despite the temporary setback, fans of Dandadan remain enthusiastic about the series. The upcoming chapter 183 is highly anticipated, and many are eager to find out what happens next in the thrilling and unique story. The break provides an opportunity for fans to reflect on the previous chapters and to speculate about the future of the series.
The return of the manga on February 24/25 will undoubtedly be met with excitement, and until then, fans can continue to explore the world of Dandadan through its previous chapters.
