Daisaku Tsuru's Ocean Sci-Fi Manga Protocol Ryugu Gets Serialized in Japan
Protocol Ryugu, the latest work by renowned mangaka Daisaku Tsuru, is drawing attention after being published first in English and then receiving official serialization approval in Japan. According to an Anime News Network report dated June 3, 2026, this ocean sci-fi manga first met readers in a special English issue of Weekly Young Magazine (English Special Issue). Now, preparations for regular serialization in Japanese have begun.
Daisaku Tsuru is known for his work on popular series such as Gakkō no Kaidan (School Ghost Stories) and Kuroko no Basket; however, Protocol Ryugu is a new genre for him: a deep-sea themed story blending mystery and science fiction. The manga takes its name from a combination of Ryugu-Jo (the undersea palace in Japanese mythology) and the word "protocol." The story is said to revolve around a mysterious structure discovered in the depths of the ocean and offers an adventure that pushes the boundaries of humanity.
This situation represents a rare cycle in the manga industry: a work being published first in a special English translation issue and then serialized in its primary market, Japan. Weekly Young Magazine, under Kodansha, typically publishes in the seinen demographic targeting adult male readers, and is known for series such as Kamen Teacher and GTO. This move can be interpreted as a sign that Japanese publishers are becoming more open to an international readership.
Fans are already wondering how Protocol Ryugu will handle themes such as underwater exploration, lost civilizations, and the human condition. Considering Tsuru's atmospheric artwork and engaging storytelling in his previous works, this series could be a must-read for both sci-fi and adventure enthusiasts. Although the serialization date in Japan has not been finalized yet, an official announcement from Kodansha is expected in the coming months.
