Is Wind Breaker: The Origin and Confusion, Explained

The Wind Breaker anime has been one of the most eagerly-awaited series of the Spring 2024 season, and it has certainly lived up to its high expectations so far.

Despite being compared to a Tokyo Revengers clone before its release, the series has already established its own unique identity as a delinquent shonen series.

Nevertheless, there has been some uncertainty among fans regarding the origin of the Wind Breaker anime series, with some speculating if it is Japanese or Korean. To clarify, the immensely popular TV anime series is undeniably of Japanese origin.

Although this concept may seem obvious to many, there is a valid explanation for why certain fans are perplexed by this subject of conversation.

Wind Breaker – A Japanese Manga Adaptation

Haruka Sakura's adventures in the Wind Breaker anime adapt the Japanese manga of the same name, not the Korean manhwa (Image via CloverWorks) — Haruka Sakura’s adventures in the Wind Breaker anime adapt the Japanese manga of the same name, not the Korean manhwa (Image via CloverWorks)

The source of the confusion surrounding the anime is due to the fact that there is also a Korean manhwa series with the same name, which is styled in exactly the same way.

Despite sharing the same name and similar stylization, the Korean manhwa is not related to the Japanese manga and anime series, which serves as the source material for the Wind Breaker anime.

Explanation of the Wind Breaker Manhwa

The Wind Breaker manhwa, written and illustrated by Yongseok Jo, began serialization in December 2013 and is not connected to the anime of the same name.

The series continues to be regularly serialized today and has been compiled into 25 volumes so far. It is currently available on the Naver Webtoon platform in Korean and on the Line Webtoon platform in English.

The main character of the sports series is Jo “Jay”Ja-hyeon, who is nicknamed “Super Rookie”by his fans. He was convinced to join his school’s biking team, known as the Hummingbird crew.

As a formerly straight-A student and president of the student body, this individual experienced a shift in their outlook and enjoyment of life after becoming a member of the Hummingbird Crew.

The series chronicles Jay’s growth as he ventures into the world outside of school, forming relationships with his new teammates, including his romantic interest Shelly Scott. With a diverse set of characters and a captivating storyline, it is a captivating manhwa that offers something for all readers to relish.

Understanding the Wind Breaker Anime and Manga

The Japanese Wind Breaker anime is the television adaptation of the original manga series of the same name by author and illustrator Saotru Nii. The series, which began serialization in January 2021, is still ongoing and continues to be regularly serialized, with 16 compilation volumes already released.

The narrative centers around Haruka Sakura, the main character who is preparing to start his high school journey at Furin High. Unfortunately, Sakura’s past struggles with bullying due to his distinct appearance have led him to adopt a delinquent persona, relying on fighting as his only means of coping.

In this manner, he joins Furin with the intention of securing the school’s top position and has no interest in associating with the feeble, nor does he wish to develop any friendships or meaningful connections.

On his first day, Sakura’s encounters begin with meeting Kotoha Tachibana, a local business owner, and coming to her aid during a street fight. This leads to Sakura meeting other individuals, such as Hajime Umemiya, who is currently the top member of Furin.

Despite the potential changes in his budding friendships, the desire to claim Furin’s top spot remains constant for him. Throughout the series, Sakura relentlessly pursues this unchanging goal.