The Apothecary Diaries Author Sentenced to Prison for Tax Evasion

The Fukuoka District Court declared on July 24, 2024 that Nekokurage, the creator of Apothecary Diaries, was found guilty of tax evasion and sentenced to a 10-month jail term along with a fine of 11 million yen. As a result, all of the mangaka’s works will be put on hold during this period.

Nekokurage is the illustrator of the manga adaptation of Natsu Hyuga’s light novel series, also titled “Nekokurage.”The light novel series was adapted into an anime in October 2023, produced by Studio OLM and TOHO Animation Studio. The sequel to the first season was greenlit after the final episode of the prequel aired.

Author of The Apothecary Diaries penalized for tax evasion

Maomao as seen in the anime (Image via OLM & Toho Animation Studio)

On February 29, 2024, Erika Ireda, known by her pen name Nekokurage, was arrested on suspicion of tax evasion totaling approximately 47 million yen from 2019 to 2021. The national tax agency disclosed that the money Nekokurage failed to pay in taxes was used for purchasing real estate, with a portion of it coming from her earnings as a manga artist, particularly from her work as the author of Apothecary Diaries.

On May 31, 2024, the Apothecary Diaries author admitted guilt for tax evasion following an investigation. Nekokurage clarified that they had no intention of committing a crime and had initially planned to pay the amount in full at a later date.

On April 1, 2024, the author of the Apothecary Diaries tweeted that their ignorance led to this action. They also disclosed that they have enlisted the help of a tax accountant to ensure that the taxes are properly paid.

Furthermore, it was made clear by the author that the tax evasion crime was not connected to the original author of Apothecary Diaries, Natsu Hyuga, or any other individual associated with the manga series.

On May 25, 2017, Nekokurage adapted the light novel series into a manga, followed by another adaptation by Minoji Kurata on August 19, 2017.

What is The Apothecary Diaries About?

The series takes place in ancient China and follows the genre of drama mystery. It focuses on Maomao, a girl from a rural area who is abducted and brought to the Royal Palace. Here, she is compelled to serve as a maid for the Emperor’s concubines.

As Maomao becomes more familiar with life in the Palace, she uncovers the truth that the palace’s unqualified doctor is neglecting proper medical care. The situation becomes dire when the newborn son of one of the Emperor’s consorts dies shortly after birth. After conducting her own investigation, Maomao discovers that the use of toxic makeup within the palace was the cause of the tragedy.

As she persists in her investigation, Jinshi, the overseer of the palace’s inner court, becomes curious about her endeavors. Will Maomao be able to alter the course of events, or will she be discovered and banished from the palace?

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