#Japan #Tokyo #Asobisystem #LINE Manga #Webtoon Audition

LINE Manga and Asobisystem Collaborate to Nurture New Storytelling Talent

In an exciting initiative to discover the next generation of storytellers, LINE Digital Frontier Inc., based in Minato, Tokyo, and Asobisystem Inc., headquartered in Shibuya, Tokyo, have joined forces to host the "ASOBI STORY AUDITION 2026 powered by LINE Manga." This contest, which began on August 5, 2023, seeks to find fresh talent and compelling narratives for the rapidly expanding webtoon industry.

As a leading digital comic service with the highest cumulative download numbers among manga applications in Japan, LINE Manga has a rich history of promoting original works. Teaming up with Asobisystem, known for its artist management and cultural outreach efforts, this initiative aims to uncover potential hits for the future.

Contest Theme and Structure

The central theme of the contest is "Stories of protagonists advancing into new worlds driven by their 'passion.'" Entrants can submit works in two categories: the "Original Story" category, focused on stand-alone narratives, and the "Illustration" category, which invites artwork based on a provided script. Winners will receive cash prizes along with dedicated support from LINE Manga and Asobisystem for their creative ventures.

The contest features a judging panel that includes prominent manga creators and guest judges known for their ties to the manga community. Among them is Pomu, the acclaimed creator behind the webtoon series "Senpai wa Otokonoko," which has gained widespread popularity, securing accolades in manga competitions and adaptations into anime.

Notable Guest Judges

The panel also includes notable personalities from Asobisystem, such as Yu-taro (actor and model), Kō-kun (creator), Yuna Takanashi (idol group member of MORE STAR), and illustrator Natsumi Yoshida. Each brings unique insights into the creative process and will comment on the inspiring power of passion in storytelling.

Yu-taro expressed, "The energy of 'passion' is unparalleled and can be transformative. I look forward to seeing your interpretations of passion through manga!" Similarly, Kō-kun emphasized the life-changing power of manga, urging participants to pour their genuine emotions and energy into their work.

Yuna Takanashi shared her gratitude for being part of the judging panel, while Yoshida highlighted the importance of conveying experiences and emotions through artistry. Pomu encouraged participants to let their creativity shine, emphasizing that submissions that resonate with personal experiences will stand out.

Contest Details

Submission Period

• - Date Open: August 5, 2026
• - Date Close: September 30, 2026 at 23:59

Categories

1. Original Story: A narrative limited to 15,000 words with a required 500-word summary.
2. Illustration: Submissions should be based on an original script by Pomu, focusing on webtoon-style artwork.

Awards

• - Original Story Category: Excellence Award with a cash prize of 500,000 yen and professional guidance.
• - Illustration Category: Excellence Award with a similar reward structure.

Both winning categories may also lead to collaborations for creating published webtoon content.

To see the detailed rules and submission process, visit the dedicated contest page here.

LINE Manga Overview

LINE Manga is a digital comic service launched in 2013, which has rapidly become the most downloaded manga app in Japan. It hosts a vast range of original works, exclusive releases, and early access comics. Recently, a focus on webtoons, characterized by a vertical scrolling format optimized for mobile devices, has attracted a growing audience. As innovations in storytelling continue to rise, LINE Manga is committed to enhancing the manga experience for fans everywhere.

Join us in this grand pursuit of creativity and express your passion through the art of webtoons!