The following notes were taken during “Decoding Success: The Anatomy of Storytelling in Japanese Manga,” a panel featuring Noboru Segawa of KADOKAWA, presented at Anime Expo on 4 July 2026. The panel discussed the development and publication of manga, including what can contribute to a successful debut, the relationship between manga creators and editors, the importance of feedback and communication, and the process of developing memorable characters and a distinctive creative identity. Below are a copy of the notes taken at the panel:

1. Developing Your First Work

• Don’t rush your first work. At the same time, don’t sit on it forever trying to make it perfect.
  • Embrace trial and error. Experimentation is part of developing your skills and finding your creative identity!
  • Your first project does not have to be perfect. Sometimes the first step towards success is just posting it.
• Keep your work current.
  • Consider what is happening in the current manga market.
  • Be aware of contemporary trends and follow them. Trending genres do tend to be more successful. You can follow and use without simply copying them.

2. What Makes a Debut Series a “Hit”?

• A successful debut is not necessarily just about sales numbers. What counts as a “hit” can depend on the author, editor, and publisher.
• Author/editor compatibility matters. Often times, it is the biggest indicator of a future success.
  • A strong working relationship between the creator and editor can have a major impact on a series.
• Crossing over with current trends can help.
  • Being aware of what readers are interested in can give a work additional visibility.
• A wide range of expressions can also help a manga stand out.
  • Characters who have varied, memorable expressions can be particularly appealing.

3. Mochikomi (持ち込み) — Bringing Work to Publishers

“Mochikomi” refers to bringing your manga or other work directly to a publisher/editor for review and feedback. Creators can bring their work/submissions to publishers and potentially receive feedback from editors. The goal isn’t necessarily just to get accepted or published. These meetings can be opportunities to:

• Develop your work.
• Learn what needs improvement.
• Understand what editors are looking for.
• Ask questions about things you’re uncertain or confused about.

As such, approach the meeting as a chance to exchange dialogue about your work. Remember that, at its core, the Mochikomi is a conversation. Talk with the editor rather than simply presenting your work and waiting for a verdict of whether they think it is publishable or not. Ask questions too. If you don’t understand a piece of feedback, ask the editor to explain it. Use the meeting as an opportunity to learn and develop as a creator!

4. Showing Your Identity as a Creator

When meeting with publishers/editors: Focus on showcasing who you are as both a person and a manga creator. Your individual perspective and creative identity are important. Don’t be afraid to communicate your own ideas and vision. Think about what makes your work distinctly you.

5. Creating Memorable Characters

A memorable character needs something that makes them immediately recognizable. Give characters a unique identifying feature. Think, for example, of One Piece. Each character is identifiable not just from silhouette but also characteristics that make them easy to spot in different forms (like chibi). Ex: Luffy’s scar, Nami’s wide eyes and mouth, Sanji’s eye-brows.

• This identifying feature could be:
• A distinctive design element
• A particular expression
• A recognizable silhouette
• A unique mannerism

Think carefully about details in character design. Characters should have more than an appealing appearance. They also need a background, personality, flaws, complexes/insecurities, and motivations. They should be, essentially, well-rounded. These details help make characters feel distinctive and memorable.

6. Working With an Editor (returning to this idea from earlier)

A strong creator/editor relationship should be based on mutual trust.

Build a relationship where both sides can communicate openly. Communicate your vision clearly, but be willing to receive feedback. At the same time, don’t be afraid to discuss feedback that you disagree with.

If you disagree with feedback, don’t automatically reject advice you disagree with. Talk it over with the editor and explain why you feel strongly about a particular creative decision. The goal is not necessarily to accept every piece of advice exactly as given. Long-term success may come from learning how to:

• Incorporate useful feedback
• Preserve your unique creative identity
• Find compromises that strengthen the work

Regardless of your position or stage in the process: Consistency matters. Feedback can come quickly, so creators need to be prepared to respond and revise.

Other Notes / Resources

Shueisha Manga Art Program – Worth checking out if you are interested in becoming a mangaka