Oshi no Ko: A Disappointing Ending in the 2024 Manga Landscape

Earlier this year, it was revealed that the highly acclaimed manga series Oshi no Ko, created by author Aka Akasaka and illustrator Mengo Yokoyari, is set to wrap up in November 2024. Specifically, the story will reach its finale with the publication of its 166th chapter in the 50th issue of Shueisha’s Weekly Young Jump magazine on Thursday, November 14, 2024.

With the series heading toward its conclusion, anticipation among fans is palpable, particularly regarding the latest spoilers. Unfortunately, the recently leaked details from chapter 164 suggest that the manga may join the ranks of unsatisfying endings released in 2024.

WARNING: The following article contains spoilers from the manga.

Shocking Spoilers from Oshi no Ko Hint at a Disappointing Finale for the Beloved Series

The spoilers for chapter 164 of Oshi no Ko were unofficially shared on October 24, 2024, by a credible anime and manga news source on X (previously Twitter), @dØnut2x. According to these reports, the main character, Aquamarine “Aqua” Hoshino, appears to meet his demise in the forthcoming chapter—news that has left fans distressed for several reasons.

Among the main concerns is the failure of the two major ships involving Aqua (both of which had been hinted in the narrative) to materialize. Fans were hoping for Aqua to end up with either Akane Kurokowa or Kana Arima, both of whom express their emotions regarding Aqua’s potential death in the 164th chapter.

Moreover, fans have voiced their dissatisfaction with Aqua’s supposed death, arguing that it lacks logical reasoning and stems from poorly developed character decisions. In general, it’s evident that fans are expressing their disapproval of the series’ conclusion, with many labeling it as yet another disappointing manga ending for 2024.

Oshi no Ko's fandom is poised for a divisive ending (Image via Doga Kobo) — Oshi no Ko’s fandom is poised for a divisive ending (Image via Doga Kobo)

Comments like these have often been made with comparisons to Kohei Horikoshi’s My Hero Academia and Gege Akutami’s Jujutsu Kaisen, both of which have seen their endings spark considerable divisiveness among readers, earning them reputations for having some of the least appealing conclusions in manga history.

There are valid critiques regarding the endings of those two series, as well as the seemingly bleak conclusion Oshi no Ko is approaching. However, it’s important to recognize that the digital age has given rise to platforms where such negative feedback is increasingly prevalent.

Furthermore, fan communities seem to focus more on their personal interpretation of how a story should conclude rather than trusting the creator’s vision for the narrative. While legitimate criticisms are certainly present regarding these endings, some feedback may stem from a disingenuous place.

Fan Responses

Nonetheless, Akasaka’s fanbase is not holding back in their reactions to the impending conclusion. A significant portion of the community is openly criticizing what they perceive as a lackluster ending, even labeling it as “the worst” among other recently concluded series:

“Fans of Jujutsu Kaisen and Attack on Titan can celebrate now; Oshi no Ko’s ending is the worst lol,” declared one user.

“Oshi no Ko is a disaster. I can’t believe I dedicated my time to this manga just to see it turn into absolute rubbish. Aka, what were you thinking?,” expressed another fan.

However, some fans are defending chapter 164’s purported events, urging others to reserve judgment as the final weeks unfold:

“The backlash against Oshi no Ko feels exaggerated. This is not the ending yet; the true finale is on November 14. If you actually take the time to read the chapter, it’s fantastic,” wrote a supporter.

“It’s sad to see Oshi no Ko headed in this direction. I doubt there will be a satisfying resolution for characters like Kana, Ruby, Mem, Miyako, and even Aqua. If Aqua is truly gone, I hope something salvages this ending,” lamented another.

As it stands, the ultimate resolution of the series is destined to be a polarizing one, given the fervor it has already ignited. While some readers will likely embrace the direction that Akasaka has chosen for the narrative, many others will undoubtedly advocate for it to be remembered as one of the most infamous manga conclusions ever.

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