The anime is based on Tsukasa Monma’s manga series.
The 45th issue of this year’s Kodansha’s Weekly Young Magazine has announced that Tsukasa Monma’s manga series “Manchuria Opium Squad” is getting an anime adaptation. The manga was previously illustrated by Shikako, who unfortunately passed away in November 2025 due to choroidal melanoma, a rare eye cancer. He was 37 years old. Since 2026, the manga has been illustrated by Tsurushima.
Manchuria Opium Squad manga
Author: Tsukassa Monma
Artist: Shikako, Tsurushima
Publisher: Kodansha
Where to read: K Manga
What do we know about the “Manchuria Opium Squad” anime so far?
A key visual has been released for the anime. However, no other details, such as its cast, crew, or release window have been revealed.
Pony Canyon has announced that the cast and staff details will be announced at a later date.
The manga finally resumed serialisation on Monday, 5 October, with illustrations by the new artist Tsurushima.
What is “Manchuria Opium Squad” about?
The anime is based on the manga series written by Tsukasa Monma and illustrated by Shikako. It began serialisation in Kodansha's Comic Days online platform in 2020. In 2021, it was transferred to the publication’s Weekly Young Magazine.
After the passing of Shikako, Young Magazine followed the wishes of the artist that the manga be completed. The staff of the magazine placed the manga under hiatus to find a replacement, a role that was later filled by Tsurushima. The manga resumed serialisation this year.
K Manga releases the series digitally in English and describes the story as:
“Here in Manchuria, the cheapest thing you'll find is a person's life.” In 1937, Isamu Higata is sent to the Japan-controlled Chinese puppet state of Manchukuo to serve in its standing army. After losing sight in his right eye during battle, he's banished to an agricultural facility where he's constantly abused by the commanding officers. Then, in a dusty corner, he discovers a field of poppies, the raw materials for opium. In order to raise money for his seriously ill mother, Isamu decides to produce the illicit drug—a choice that sends his future and the fate of all Manchuria into directions unknown.