The popular manga series Dandadan has announced a one-month hiatus, much to the disappointment of its dedicated fanbase. The break comes after the release of Chapter 182, leaving fans eagerly awaiting the next installment of the paranormal action-comedy. The series, written and illustrated by Yukinobu Tatsu, has become a favorite since its debut in 2021.
Manga Hiatus and Return Date
The news of the hiatus was announced on January 20, 2025, through Shonen Jump+. According to the announcement, the manga will be taking a break, with the series set to resume on February 25, 2025, with the release of Chapter 183. This break marks the first hiatus for the manga in 2025 and will last approximately one month. The reason for the sudden hiatus has not been specified, leading to speculation among fans. It is possible that the author needs time to recharge, refine his skills, or conduct research for the series.
Previous Hiatus
This is not the first time Dandadan has gone on hiatus. The manga previously took a month-long break in July, with the author citing the need for research as the reason. The current hiatus however comes without any explanation.
What’s Happening in Dandadan?
Dandadan follows the story of Momo Ayase, a high school student who believes in spirits, and Ken Takakura, nicknamed Okarun, who believes in aliens. The unlikely duo, along with their friends, find themselves battling bizarre supernatural threats and extraterrestrial entities.
The most recent arc of the manga focuses on Momo’s inability to revert to her normal size after escaping from Danmanra. This has left her vulnerable, with her friends desperately trying to protect her from those seeking to exploit her powers. A new character named Kouki Yukishiro, a female student, has also been introduced. She has been blackmailed by the overarching villain of the series, Count Saint-Germain, and attempts to steal Momo’s powers. Meanwhile, Granny Seiko is diligently searching for a way to help her granddaughter, Momo. The manga is currently far ahead of the anime adaptation and is already publishing its tenth story arc.
Dandadan’s Rise to Popularity
Dandadan has become one of the most popular series on Shueisha’s Shonen Jump+ service since its launch in April 2021. The manga has garnered significant praise from fans and critics alike, with 18 volumes released as of January 4, 2025. The series is available in English on Shueisha’s Manga Plus platform, as well as on Viz Media’s Shonen Jump website.
The series’ popularity further increased with the premiere of its anime adaptation in Fall 2024. The anime, produced by Science SARU, was a fan favorite and earned the title of Best New Anime of the Fall 2024 season. The first season ended with the 12th episode on December 21, 2024, concluding in the middle of the Cursed House Arc, leaving several unanswered questions for the fans. This has further increased the anticipation for both the manga’s return and the anime’s second season.
Anime Season 2 on the Horizon
The second season of the Dandadan anime is scheduled to premiere in July 2025, continuing the Cursed House Arc. Studio Science SARU is returning to produce the second season, with Fuga Yamashiro as director. The season is expected to adapt the remainder of the Cursed House Arc, as well as the Evil Eye Arc and the Kaiju Arc. A key visual for the upcoming season has been released, featuring Momo, Okarun and Jiji with the Evil Eye in the background.
What to Expect
Season 2 is expected to introduce new challenges and characters, including Jiji and a powerful yokai known as the Evil Eye. Fans can anticipate the further development of Momo and Okarun’s relationship, as well as more comedic battles and dynamic character development. The anime has been praised for its unique blend of humor, action, and romance.
Crunchyroll and Netflix will be streaming the second season internationally, allowing fans around the globe to continue enjoying the adventures of Momo, Okarun, and their friends.
Other Developments
Dandadan’s popularity is not limited to manga and anime. The series is also collaborating with Uniqlo to release graphic t-shirts in February 2025. This collaboration further underscores the series’ reach and impact on popular culture.
Where to Read Dandadan
The latest chapters of Dandadan are officially available on Shueisha’s MANGA Plus platform and Viz Media’s official website. These platforms provide free access to the most recent chapter as well as the first and last three chapters of the manga.
Release Time
While the manga is released in Japan at midnight (JST) on Tuesdays, international fans can access the chapter on Mondays due to time zone differences. For instance, the release times for Chapter 182 were:
- Pacific Daylight Time: 7 AM, Monday, January 20, 2025
- Eastern Daylight Time: 10 AM, Monday, January 20, 2025
- Greenwich Mean Time: 3 PM, Monday, January 20, 2025
- Central European Time: 4 PM, Monday, January 20, 2025
- Indian Standard Time: 8:30 PM, Monday, January 20, 2025
- Philippine Standard Time: 11 PM, Monday, January 20, 2025
Conclusion
The Dandadan manga’s one-month hiatus may be disappointing to fans, but the return date of February 25 is highly anticipated. The series continues to captivate readers with its unique blend of supernatural elements, action, humor, and romance. The second season of the anime is also eagerly awaited, promising to continue the high standards set by the first season. As fans eagerly anticipate the return of both the manga and anime, Dandadan‘s future remains bright and exciting.
