Yoko Umezu, the celebrated manga artist behind the artwork for "Vermeil in Gold: The Failing Student and the Strongest Calamity Plunge Into the World of Magic," has tragically passed away on July 7 due to a cerebral infarction. Her age was not disclosed. The editorial department of Monthly Shonen Gangan announced her passing today (August 12) via their official website and X account.
Umezu-sensei's impressive portfolio includes illustrating "Mini Durarara!!," the official chibi gag manga based on Ryohgo Narita's light novel series "Durarara!!," and her breakout hit, "Vermeil in Gold: The Failing Student and the Strongest Calamity Plunge Into the World of Magic," which received an anime adaptation in 2022.
The "Vermeil in Gold" manga ran from August 2018 until June 12, 2026, with 11 collected volumes released in Japan. Its TV anime adaptation premiered in July 2022, where Umezu's exceptional artwork garnered widespread praise from fans.
The official Shonen Gangan website posted a heartfelt announcement: "Manga artist Yoko Umezu-sensei passed away on July 7, Reiwa 8 (2026), due to a cerebral infarction. This sudden departure, undoubtedly unexpected for Umezu-sensei herself, is an immense sorrow for her family, our editorial department, and everyone who had the privilege of knowing her. We wish to inform all readers who have supported her throughout her life of this tragic news."
The editorial team added, "All of us at the editorial department extend our deepest respect and gratitude for Umezu-sensei's manga career and and sincerely pray for her peaceful repose."
Regarding the future of "Vermeil in Gold," Shonen Gangan's editorial department confirmed that Umezu-sensei's funeral was privately held by close family and relatives. The ongoing serialization of "Vermeil in Gold: The Failing Student and the Strongest Calamity Plunge Into the World of Magic" will conclude with the content published in the July issue of Monthly Shonen Gangan, which went on sale on June 12, 2026.
Kouta Amana, the original author of "Vermeil in Gold," also shared his grief on X, stating: "Today, Shonen Gangan's main magazine and official website announced the passing of Yoko Umezu-sensei, who handled the artwork for 'Vermeil in Gold.' This news came as a complete shock to me, and my heart is filled with profound sadness. In every manuscript, I could feel Umezu-sensei's gentle personality and diligent work ethic, which makes this loss truly regrettable. I sincerely pray for Yoko Umezu-sensei's peaceful rest."
With this, the series' serialization officially comes to an end. As for future plans regarding the collected volumes, including whether any unreleased content will be published, the editorial department stated: "Further announcements will be made via Shonen Gangan's main magazine and official website once details are finalized."