At one of the biggest industry events for anime and manga, Anime Expo, publisher TOKYOPOP hosted a panel to announce its new print and digital licenses for 2026. Here at The Beat, we’re excited to share the diverse and notable works coming your way in the new year, ranging from BL and GL to romance and manhua.
So, without further ado, here are TOKYOPOP’s exciting announcements coming out of Anime Expo!
In So Deep, It’s Love Already
Story & Art: Reida Soragaki
A heartbroken fangirl meets a shy transfer student who reminds her of her favorite idol. When she uncovers his secret, her quiet high school life takes a dramatic romantic turn.
Ayaka is in Love with Hirokoi
Story & Art: Sal Jiang
Two office coworkers fall for each other–but each thinks their love is unrequited. This popular GL has also been adapted into a live action series adaptation in July 2024.
Walking in Your Tracks
Story & Art: Tatsumi Kifuu
Kizaki Ren has driven away every caretaker–until Maki Rintarou arrives. Ren, bitter and isolated from the accident that left him paralyzed, slowly opens up to Maki’s quiet persistence and warmth. A moving BL drama to tug at readers’ heartstrings.
The Tale of Luvelia Kingdom
Story & Art: Kioko, Shion
Alois, an imperial guard and royal descendent, is ordered by the emperor to marry Elina, the former fianceé of the crown prince. A romantic tale of duty, sympathy, and learning to love.
Bride of Ignat
Story & Art: Moyori Mori
By the creator of TOUCH WITHIN THE ABYSS (also published by TOKYOPOP), Rita, a lonely boy from a poor village, is chosen as the sacrificial “Dragon’s Bride” — only to be rescued by the dragon instead. A gentle and beautiful BL romantasy that will thaw the most frozen of hearts.
Apprentice Nail Artist in Another Land
Story & Art: Marukawa
Keiko Sahara, an office worker with a passion for cute gel nails, is suddenly transported to a magical world where nail art determines magical power. A fun and original isekai fantasy.
I Picked Up a No-Good Useless Prince
Story & Art: Gunjo Kazuki
As much fantasy romance as it is a cozy slice-of-life, this story offers a unique twist on the prince-and-commoner relationship. A cute and quirky fantasy romance about a banished spoiled prince and the inkeeper who takes it upon herself to improve him.
In addition to these seven manga, TOKYOPOP also revealed two more exciting licenses: Honkai Impact 3rd: Second Eruption from miHoYo Comics, which will be released in full color, and She Is Still Cute Today by Chinese creator Guo Si Te.
With 2026 just around the corner, TOKYOPOP’s upcoming lineup offers something for everyone—there’s plenty to look forward to!
For more coverage on Anime Expo 2025 news, you can find it right here on the Anime Expo 2025 archive on The Beat!
Source: TOKYOPOP
