Latest news with #TokyoGhoul


Korea Herald
6 days ago
- Entertainment
- Korea Herald
Naver Webtoon's 'Wind Breaker' joins growing list of plagiarism cancellations
Popular series removed from platform after tracing allegations, highlighting systemic challenges in South Korea's digital comics market A decadelong franchise came to an abrupt end last week when Naver Webtoon pulled one of its most popular series from the platform after plagiarism allegations were confirmed. "Wind Breaker," a sports webtoon about a high schooler who discovers his passion for competitive cycling, had amassed over 600 million views since its 2013 debut. Created by Jo Yong-seok, the series followed protagonist Jo "Jay" Ja-Hyun as he broke into amateur racing circuits and built friendships through a cycling team. Controversy erupted on June 30 when readers noticed similarities between episode 176 and panels from the Japanese manga "Tokyo Ghoul." Side-by-side comparisons of the illustrations that show nearly identical compositions and character poses spread rapidly online. The artist made changes to the disputed artwork without any public acknowledgment. Throughout early July, users uncovered more instances of apparent copying from various Japanese manga and fan art. Each discovery prompted silent edits to the webtoon, which drew further criticism from fans who saw the unannounced changes as dishonest. On Friday, both Jo and Naver Webtoon issued statements acknowledging the allegations. "Among the reference materials I used during production, some scenes ended up being very similar to — or nearly identical in expression to — those from other works," Jo wrote in Korean. "This is clearly my fault." Jo posted the story's draft ending on his blog before the work was permanently removed from Naver's platform Saturday. A pattern in the industry Tracing represents one of the most blatant forms of plagiarism in the comics industry. It involves copying the exact composition, poses and angles from existing work — often by literally drawing over the original or reproducing it nearly identically. "Wind Breaker" adds to a growing list of webtoons canceled mid-publication over plagiarism. In 2018, veteran artist Kim Sung-mo's "High School Chronicle" was pulled after readers discovered traced panels from Takehiko Inoue's basketball manga "Slam Dunk." The plagiarism problem on the platform extends beyond traced illustrations. "Cat on a Hot Tin Roof" was pulled in 2021 after accusations of imitating character designs and layouts from Naoki Urasawa's "Monster" manga and the "Evangelion" anime series. In 2023, "Desperate to Date" faced cancellation over similarities in scripting and panel layouts to the popular manga "Kaguya-sama: Love is War." Following the "Wind Breaker" fallout, a Naver Webtoon official said the platform has enforced stricter internal measures since 2023. The company conducts regular monitoring and provides educational guidelines to creators, the official added. Gray areas Under South Korean copyright law, tracing constitutes an act of reproduction, defined as fixing or recreating work through any method. The reproduction does not need to be identical; substantial similarity is enough to establish infringement. Unauthorized tracing for commercial purposes can violate both reproduction and transmission rights, according to guidelines published by the Culture Ministry. What makes these cases tricky is that plagiarism remains a complaint-based offense in South Korea, as is the case in many other countries. Without the original rights holder pressing charges, these cases rarely become legal matters. This means that platforms can move on after terminating contracts and removing content. Given the absence of legal proceedings, some in the webtoon community have downplayed the gravity of these incidents. In 2021, the artist known as "248," who creates "Iseop's Romance" for Naver Webtoon, posted in the platform's comment section defending colleagues who had faced similar accusations. While acknowledging that tracing was "unethical," the artist argued that the practice should not result in career-ending consequences, particularly given the lack of legal action from original creators. "Comics artists should be more cautious about this issue," said an industry official who spoke on condition of anonymity. "We're in an era when viewers are paying to view work, and they have very high awareness about these issues. It's up to the artists to raise the standard."


Time of India
08-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Time of India
Tokyo Ghoul anime set to return to US theaters this July for one-night special screening; know date, time and episodes featured
Source: IMDb Crunchyroll and Sony Pictures Entertainment are bringing fans a thrilling one-night event—Sink Your Teeth: A Tokyo Ghoul Celebration. Scheduled for this July, this special theatrical screening will take place in select US theaters, offering viewers a chance to relive iconic moments from the dark fantasy anime Tokyo Ghoul on the big screen. The event is designed not just as a screening, but as a tribute to the series' powerful legacy and dedicated fanbase. For longtime followers and newcomers alike, it's a rare opportunity to unite with fellow fans and celebrate one of anime's most gripping stories. Tokyo Ghoul one-time scheduled for July 21 2025 across selected US theatres Crunchyroll and Sony Pictures Entertainment are collaborating to present Sink Your Teeth: A Tokyo Ghoul Celebration , a one-night-only theatrical event. This special screening offers fans a chance to experience key episodes from the acclaimed anime Tokyo Ghoul on the big screen. The event will be held in select theaters across the United States, providing an immersive experience for both new viewers and longtime fans. Source: Crunchyroll Tokyo Ghoul one-night screening in US theatres: Event details Date: July 21, 2025 Runtime: 2 hours and 26 minutes Language: English Dub Episodes featured: Episodes 1, 5, 8, 10, 11, and 12 from Season 1 All episodes will be presented in English dub, ensuring accessibility for a wide audience. This curated selection highlights pivotal moments in the storyline and character development, offering a condensed yet immersive experience of the anime's dramatic arc. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Is it legal? How to get Internet without paying a subscription? Techno Mag Learn More Undo Tokyo Ghoul: Ken Kaneki's transformation synopsis At the heart of Tokyo Ghoul is Ken Kaneki, a quiet and introverted college student. In a world where ghouls—supernatural beings that survive by consuming human flesh—exist in constant conflict with humans, Kaneki's life takes a drastic turn after a deadly encounter with Rize, a mysterious ghoul. Following a critical medical operation, Kaneki becomes a hybrid of human and ghoul, forced to navigate the dangerous and violent society where he must either hunt or be hunted. The series explores his internal struggle and quest for identity amid this dark, divided world. Tokyo Ghoul streaming details Tokyo Ghoul is currently available for streaming on Crunchyroll, where fans can watch the full series. Crunchyroll describes the show as a gripping blend of horror, action, and psychological drama that delves deeply into themes of survival, identity, and the moral complexities of coexistence between humans and ghouls. This theatrical event offers a chance for fans to revisit or experience these iconic episodes together in a cinematic environment. Also Read | This OTT platform reveals over 50% of its subscribers are anime fans, highlighting global surge in viewership with over 150 million


Time of India
29-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Time of India
Craving the thrill of Attack on Titan? These 5 anime deliver big time
The Japanese dark fantasy anime Attack on Titan has left a lasting impression on fans, thanks to its exceptional storytelling and animation. Set in a post-apocalyptic world where humanity hides behind massive walls to escape man-eating Titans, the series follows Eren Yeager and his close friends Mikasa Ackerman and Armin Arlert. If you're a fan of AOT and craving more anime with a similar tone and intensity, we've got some great recommendations for you. Anime like Attack on Titan to watch Tokyo Ghoul - Crunchyroll Tokyo Ghoul is a horror-filled dark fantasy series. It takes place in a world where flesh-eating ghouls exist hidden among humans. The story follows college student Ken Kaneki, whose life takes a dramatic turn after a violent encounter with a ghoul transforms him into a half-ghoul, half-human hybrid. Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood - Crunchyroll The story takes place in a world where alchemy is the most advanced form of science. It centers on brothers Edward and Alphonse Elric, who defy natural laws in an attempt to bring their mother back to life using alchemy. The series features deep world-building, gripping plot twists, and thought-provoking moral questions that captivate viewers throughout. Dorohedoro - Netflix In the dark and unusual city called Hole, sorcerers from a different dimension carry out experiments on humans. Cursed with a reptile's head, a man named Caiman seeks answers. Like Attack on Titan, the show mixes intense battles with fascinating supernatural elements. Vinland Saga - Netflix Set in the era of the Vikings, Vinland Saga tells the story of Thorfinn, a young warrior seeking revenge on the mercenary responsible for his father's death. The anime is celebrated for its powerful storytelling, well-developed characters, and breathtaking visuals. Death Note - Crunchyroll The story of Death Note revolves around Light Yagami, an exceptionally smart student who finds a mysterious notebook that gives him the ability to kill anyone whose name he writes down.


Time of India
25-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Time of India
From BTS' V to IU: Fans compare K-pop idols to iconic Anime characters — and the visuals are uncanny
When it comes to K-pop and anime, fans enjoy connecting their favorite stars to well-known animated characters. Some partnerships feel almost too ideal to pass up, whether it's due to remarkable visual similarities, matching personalities, or simply a vibe. Fans have pointed out mild to eerie resemblances on social networking networks and Reddit forums. Here are six K-pop idols and the anime characters they're most commonly likened to, as well as why fans can't get over the similarities. V (BTS) – Kaneki Ken (Tokyo Ghoul) Singer Kim Taehyung, known for his stage name V from BTS is one of the rare idols who resembles many anime characters due to his handsome looks. However, he is commonly compare Kaneki Ken from Tokyo Ghoul. They have a gloomy, enigmatic air, delicate but sharp facial features, and equally penetrating gazes. Many Reddit users say they share a weird, dark charm that makes the similarities almost frightening. Sana (TWICE) – Sakura Haruno (Naruto) Sana from TWICE is frequently likened to Naruto's Sakura Haruno, owing to their comparable soft face features and rosy-pink hair tones (particularly at various periods of Sana's style). Reddit users have commented that their youthful, cheery personality and physical similarities make the pairing feel natural. IU – Juvia Lockser (Fairy Tail) The Korean soloist and Juvia Lockser from Fairy Tail have been compared for their lovely, cheerful behaviors and common love of whimsical, cute aesthetics. Fans on Reddit note that both frequently exude a delicate warmth and emotional sensitivity, which heightens the likeness beyond appearances. Sehun (EXO) – Captain Levi (Attack on Titan) Sehun from EXO is often compared to Captain Levi from Attack on Titan due to their similar gloomy faces, sharp jawlines, and ferocious eyes. According to Reddit users, both have a collected, cool demeanor that underlines their visual and vibe similarities. Beomgyu (TXT) – Kou Mabuchi (Ao Haru Ride) Beomgyu from TXT is frequently likened to Kou Mabuchi from Ao Haru Ride, with fans praising their easy style and slightly cheeky demeanor. According to Reddit posts, their childlike features, combined with a calm yet mischievous demeanor, make the resemblance particularly intriguing. RM (BTS) – Kento Nanami (Jujutsu Kaisen) Many fans have noticed a strong resemblance between BTS leader RM and Kento Nanami from Jujutsu Kaisen. Reddit users point out parallels in the shape of their eyes, pronounced brows, and typically serious looks. Beyond physical characteristics, both are viewed as mature, dependable figures, which reinforces the comparison in the eyes of fans. For all the latest K-drama, K-pop, and Hallyuwood updates, keep following our coverage here.


Time of India
07-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Time of India
How many seasons of Tokyo Ghoul are there? Mentioned with watch order
Tokyo Ghoul could be dubbed one of the most amazing anime shows ever produced. Back in 2014, when the first season dropped, it took the fans by storm with the story of Ken Kaneki, a book-loving teenager who just wants to live a simple life. Tired of too many ads? go ad free now However, things take a more than wild turn when he goes on a date with a ghoul (accidentally) and it changes his life forever. Now, one of the most confusing things related to the anime is the number of seasons it has, along with the watch order. In simple terms, Tokyo Ghoul has four seasons as of now, but the naming of the seasons could be a little tricky to understand the chronological order. Moving forward, we have listed down all the seasons in chronological order with what they consist of, without indulging in spoilers. Number of Season in Tokyo Ghoul anime Tokyo Ghoul: The first season has a basic title, and it introduces us to the antagonist of the show, Ken Kaneki. Here, the viewers will get to see the journey of the protagonist from being a human to becoming a ghoul. And you will get really hooked by the end of it, as here you get to see a complete transformation of Ken Kaneki. Tokyo Ghoul √A: Tokyo Ghoul root A was the second season of the show, where we get to see Ken Kaneki make a name. He further goes on to join Aogiri Tree, which was one of the most controversial moments of the show; even the fans all over the globe were left in shock because of his history with the organisation. Tokyo Ghoul:re Part 1: This becomes one of the most awaited anime seasons of its time. Here we get to see Ken Kaneki joining a new organisation as Haise Sasaki. The protagonist drops his old identity along with the old squad. Tokyo Ghoul:re Part 2: This one serves as a finale, and the fans had one word to describe it - rushed. Here, we get to see Kaneki remembering who he actually was and then becoming the One-Eyed King and the medium of unification between humans and ghouls.