Aspiring manga artists around the world now have their chance to shine as the 19th Japan International Manga Award officially opens its call for entries. Known as one of the most prestigious global competitions for manga creators, the award celebrates outstanding works while strengthening cultural ties through the universal language of storytelling and art.
Established by Japan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the competition aims to spread manga culture beyond its home country and to recognize artists who are helping the medium flourish worldwide. This year’s award continues that mission, offering prizes and the opportunity for creators to showcase their work on an international stage.
At the heart of the contest is a commitment to rewarding excellence. One standout piece will be honored with the coveted Gold Award, while three more will receive Silver Awards, and approximately 11 entries will take home Bronze Awards. A Special Encouragement Award may also be given to an artist whose work stands out, even if it doesn’t qualify for silver.
Winners of the Gold and Silver Awards will be invited to Japan for a week-long trip, culminating in an award ceremony scheduled for early 2026 in Tokyo — a once-in-a-lifetime experience that allows creators to connect with industry professionals and fellow artists.
The competition is open to non-Japanese creators, whether they are seasoned professionals or emerging talents. Artists can submit works that are either published or unpublished, as long as they are original, at least 16 pages long, and created within the last three years. While the competition welcomes diverse styles and languages, it draws a firm line against entries heavily generated by AI, underscoring its commitment to human creativity and authentic storytelling.
Entries must be submitted in PDF format by June 30, 2025 (Japan Standard Time). Artists outside Japan are instructed to submit through their local Japanese embassy or consulate, while those in Japan will be given a special link to upload their work.
Send through this link: https://www.mofa.go.jp/about/emb_cons/over/index.html
The submitted works will first be reviewed by the Association of Japanese Manga Publishers before a final selection committee names the winners. As with previous years, selected entries might also be exhibited or donated to promote manga culture globally.
With the rise of webtoons, indie comics, and cross-cultural collaborations, the Japan International Manga Award remains a beacon for creators eager to make their mark beyond borders. As the 19th edition gets underway, artists worldwide are invited to turn their dreams into reality — and perhaps earn a place among the brightest stars in the global manga scene.
For full details and application forms, applicants can visit their nearest Japanese embassy or check the Ministry of Foreign Affairs’ official website.
