Ken Akamatsu’s Manga Library Z, known for providing out-of-print manga for digital readers, is shutting down on November 26 due to pressure from Western credit card companies. Originally launched to combat piracy, Manga Library Z offered a mix of titles, including some with explicit content. However, recent scrutiny from credit card companies led to the termination of its payment services, forcing the platform to cease operations. 

Akamatsu, a notable manga creator and politician, had previously warned that demands to remove explicit content could expand, possibly affecting other forms of media like novels or manga with violent themes. He voiced concerns that, if Japanese content must strictly conform to international standards, it could dilute the uniqueness of Japanese media, potentially diminishing its appeal abroad.

Although Manga Library Z is ending, there is talk of a potential revival. Staff are exploring options like crowdfunding or restructuring as a nonprofit to continue the service. Akamatsu’s stance highlights the broader issue of creative freedom and the impact of payment service restrictions on media distribution, emphasizing his belief that this could mark a pivotal moment for Japan’s publishing industry.

Source: ANN