Manga Artist Nekokurage Avoids Prison Time After Tax Evasion Plea
In a twist as unexpected as the plots in her renowned manga, Nekokurage, the artist behind The Apothecary Diaries, recently found herself in the spotlight for all the wrong reasons. Pleading guilty to evading nearly $300,000 in taxes, she narrowly avoided prison time.
The Fukuoka Regional Taxation Bureau indicted Erika Ikeda, known as Nekokurage, on April 1. They suspected her of failing to declare around 260 million yen ($1.7 million) in income from 2019 to 2021. This undeclared income carried a hefty tax bill of approximately 47 million yen (around $299,000).
Sentencing and Aftermath
Anime News Network reported that Nekokurage received an 11 million yen fine (about $70,600) and a 10-month prison sentence suspended for three years. This means she will not serve time if she maintains good behavior for the next three years.
Fans of The Apothecary Diaries can relax, as Square Enix has confirmed that the series will continue. The manga, serialized in Monthly Big Gangan magazine, will not be canceled. Square Enix told Japan’s ITmedia, “We have no particular plans to cancel.”
Moving Forward
On Twitter, Nekokurage assured fans she has paid the full amount owed and is now working with an accountant to ensure future taxes are correctly managed. This proactive step aims to restore her standing and focus back on her art.
The Apothecary Diaries, written by Natsu Hyuuga and drawn by Nekokurage, has been captivating readers since 2017. An English translation began publishing in December 2020, further expanding its reach. The series, based on Hyuuga’s light novels, also inspired a popular anime adaptation that started last year and recently began an English run.
The Legacy of The Apothecary Diaries
Despite the legal drama, The Apothecary Diaries remains a celebrated medical mystery manga. With its intricate plots and well-developed characters, the series has secured a devoted fanbase.
Nekokurage’s ability to blend detailed art with compelling storytelling ensures that The Apothecary Diaries continues to be a must-read. As the series progresses, fans can look forward to more thrilling adventures and mysteries in the world of apothecaries.
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