Summary
In a vibrant suburb of Paris, a small publishing house named Ki-oon has soared to stellar heights, reaching the remarkable milestone of 10 million copies sold for its flagship title, “My Hero Academia.” Founded in 2003 by visionaries Ahmed Agne and Cécile Pournin, Ki-oon first dipped its toes into the manga world in 2004, but it wasn’t until 2014 that the series, which would redefine their trajectory, fell into their hands. Fast forward to today, and “My Hero Academia” has cemented its place as the fifth bestselling manga series in France, trailing behind titans like “One Piece” and “Naruto.” Ki-oon’s ascent has transformed it into the second-largest player in the French manga market, with bustling offices in both Paris and Tokyo. In celebration of the series’ monumental success and the upcoming 20th anniversary of the publisher, a grand event is set to unfold at the Trocadéro on September 14 and 15—a vibrant homage to both fans and the creators behind this phenomenon, complete with a photo opportunity alongside an impressive four-meter replica of the first volume. Why host such a monumental event? Agne expressed gratitude to the dedicated French readership who have championed the series since its introduction, as well as to the original Japanese creators. “France holds a unique position in the heart of ‘My Hero Academia,’ almost like its second homeland after Japan,” he reflected. The event promises not only a snapshot with the Eiffel Tower as a backdrop and an engaging exhibition but also an exclusive interview with the series’ creator and special giveaways for the devoted fans. When asked how Ki-oon achieved this meteoric rise, Agne pointed to their unwavering commitment to producing engaging manga for established fans while also inviting new readers into the fold. “We’re on a quest for legitimacy, seeking to share the magic of manga with a broader audience, despite the skepticism that once surrounded it,” he admitted. This open approach has allowed them to extend their offerings well beyond the typical shonen narratives, showcasing diverse themes through titles like “A Silent Voice” and “BeatStars.” The selection process for new titles rests upon a delicate balance of instinct and extensive market research. With a devoted fanbase nurtured over a decade, Ki-oon has taken considerable risks to diversify its catalogue, moving beyond conventional practices to unearth hidden gems. Agne emphasized the importance of staying true to the editorial philosophy while avoiding the temptation to expand into too many genres. Taking a chance on “My Hero Academia” was not solely about a financial bid; it was about embodying a profound respect and enthusiasm for the title. Noticing a gap in the market where optimism reigned in contrast to the darker tones of contemporary shonen, Agne felt a magnetic pull to the series. Once they secured the rights, they unleashed a creative marketing strategy—timing their promotional blitz with a cinematic event to captivate the audience’s attention. Ki-oon distinguishes itself not just as a license holder, but as an innovative creator of original works in collaboration with talented authors. Presently, about 15% of their annual catalogue comprises these original productions. Despite selling more internationally than anticipated, the organization continues to commit itself to quality over quantity. Their Tokyo office has expanded from a single editor to a trio, all dedicated to scouting new talent and quenching the thirst of readers for unique, engaging stories from Japan. As Ki-oon continues to ride the wave of success brought forth by “My Hero Academia,” their story serves as an inspiring testament to dedication, innovation, and the enduring power of connecting with audiences through the art of storytelling.
Original Source: www.francetvinfo.fr
