Harlequin Original Magazine Ceases Publication
Harlequin Original magazine has closed after approximately 18 years of publication. This Japan-based digital/print manga magazine launched in 2008 under the name Monthly HQ Comic, later adopting the name Harlequin Original. The news of the magazine's closure was announced by Anime News Network on June 15, 2026.
Harlequin Original was the flagship of the manga division of the world-renowned romance novel publisher Harlequin in Japan. Throughout the magazine, countless manga adaptations of Harlequin novels were published; these stories revolving around love, passion, and drama garnered significant interest, especially among female readers. The magazine also carved a niche in the Japanese romantic manga market.
Although no official reason for the closure has been announced, industry analysts believe that changes in digital publishing and the shift of reading habits to mobile platforms have been influential. The Harlequin brand will continue to produce manga adaptations through single-volume books and digital platforms even after the magazine's closure. This move is seen as a sign that the company is transitioning to a more flexible publishing model.
The magazine's closure marks the end of an era, especially for romantic manga fans and readers following Harlequin adaptations. However, the continuation of Harlequin publications in other media may make it easier for new readers to access these stories. In the coming period, it is expected that Harlequin will return with a more digital-first strategy, possibly with a new magazine or app.
