A Journey to the Top in a World Where Talents Are Visualized: The First Volume of the "Under Idol" Manga Series Has Been Released
Square Enix released the first volume of its new manga series Under Idol, set in a dystopian world where talents and careers are predetermined by genetic tests, on May 12, 2026. Written and illustrated by Yuko Setsuna, the series follows the efforts of a young girl labeled "talentless" by the system to reach her seemingly impossible dreams. Serialized in Monthly Shonen Gangan magazine, the work draws attention by bringing a modern and social critique to classic idol stories.
At the center of the story is Mei Inuzuka, who attracts attention with her appearance but receives a "Jobless S" rating in her vocational aptitude test. In this world, while people are placed in the jobs where they will be most successful according to their genetic codes and test results, it is decided that Mei has no talent in any field. However, Mei rejects this label and is determined to pursue her biggest dream of becoming a "top idol." As a twist of fate, her path crosses with Yusei Usami, the most unremarkable student in the class who holds an "Idol Producer S" rating. This partnership, which begins when the duo accidentally swaps their test results, turns into an adventure that pushes the boundaries of the system.
Under Idol is not just a story of music and dance; it is also a "gekokujo" (rise of the underdog) story that tells of an individual's rebellion against the roles assigned to them by society. Yuko Setsuna blends the characters' internal conflicts and the injustice of the system with a humorous tone. In particular, the contrast between Yusei's ordinariness, whose presence is barely even noticed, and Mei's sparkling but system-defying personality stands out as one of the series' strongest points.
