When it comes to Japanese horror manga, one name undoubtedly springs to mind: the unparalleled genius, Junji Ito. With masterpieces like "Tomie," "Lovesickness: Junji Ito Story Collection," and "Uzumaki" even adapted into films, he’s truly a modern master of terror.
On July 26, Junji Ito was inducted into the Hall of Fame at the 37th annual "Eisner Awards," one of the highest honors in the American comic book industry, officially cementing his status as a "Hall of Fame" creator!
Often dubbed the "Oscars of the comic world," the "Eisner Awards" are incredibly prestigious in the U.S. And making it into the Hall of Fame? That's no easy feat! Previously, only a handful of Japanese creators—Osamu Tezuka, Hayao Miyazaki, Moto Hagio, and Keiji Nakazawa—had received the honor.
▼ Keiji Nakazawa, known for his seminal work "Barefoot Gen," was inducted last year.
Ito has previously snagged multiple Eisner Awards for his English-language releases:
2019: "Frankenstein: Junji Ito Story Collection" won "Best Adaptation from Another Medium."
2021: "Remina" took home "Best U.S. Edition of International Material—Asia," and "Venus in the Blind Spot" earned him "Best Writer/Artist."
2022: "Lovesickness: Junji Ito Story Collection" was awarded "Best U.S. Edition of International Material—Asia."
All these accolades finally culminated in this monumental Hall of Fame recognition, which he received in 2025!
Junji Ito shared his heartfelt thoughts on the honor:
"I am truly overwhelmed to receive this Hall of Fame honor at the Eisner Awards. Having previously won four divisional awards, to now enter the Hall of Fame alongside such legendary masters still feels like a dream."
"I've always strived to put my best into every single work, without cutting corners. Looking back, it seems that dedication has finally paid off. But I won't rest on my laurels; I'll continue to create with the same earnestness."
"I want to extend my deepest gratitude to the Eisner Awards judges, my loyal readers who have supported me throughout, and all the publishers who have given me the opportunity to share my work—especially VIZ Media in the U.S. for their incredible translations and packaging. This honor truly fills me with immense gratitude!"
To stand among such titans is an extraordinary achievement, especially with Hall of Fame recognition from the American Eisner Awards. As he approaches 62, Junji Ito continues to create, further solidifying his legendary status.