Fantagraphics Kicks Off a New Manga Imprint With Lovers of the Empire

Fantagraphics has launched a new imprint called Takumigraphics, which will focus on a selection of East Asian comics and graphic novels. The inaugural release from this imprint is "Lovers of the Empire," a romantic tale set during the turbulent era of Japanese occupation in Korea in the 1920s. The first volume of "Lovers of the Empire" is now available in bookstores and on Amazon.

Created by Yudori, the artist behind the Eisner-nominated "Raging Clouds," "Lovers of the Empire" tells the story of two teenagers from contrasting backgrounds who become entangled in a relationship. Arisa Jo, a modernized young woman from a wealthy family, embodies the changing values of the time with her Western-inspired attire and confident demeanor. Jun Seomoon, on the other hand, is a traditional and deeply rooted young man from the countryside.

Their contrasting personalities create an immediate clash, but their relationship gradually broadens their perspectives amidst the evolving world they inhabit. The novel explores the complexities of Korea at a pivotal juncture, a nation occupied by Japan, influenced by Western culture, and grappling with rapid modernization, which brings both progress and inner turmoil to its people.

Yudori describes "Lovers of the Empire" as a "cute boy-meets-girl romance" set against a backdrop of war and conflict. The author emphasizes the pervasive sense of unease and internal struggle faced by Koreans, as the external conflicts spill over into their daily lives. For Fantagraphics, "Takumigraphics" is an extension of their mission to showcase exceptional cartooning, both historical and contemporary, originating from around the globe.

Fantagraphics Associate Publisher Eric Reynolds highlights the importance of East Asian comics in shaping the future of visual storytelling. As they expand their roster of Asian works, grouping them under one imprint allows for a more cohesive presentation of the rich and diverse body of work being created in Japan, South Korea, China, and beyond.