Amid the rise of artificial intelligence tools in creative industries, Gachikuta creator Kei Urana has publicly voiced strong opposition to the use of AI in manga production. In a recent social media post, Urana emphasized that while technology can be a useful tool, relying on AI-generated artwork undermines the core spirit of manga — human emotion, imperfection, and passion. “Manga is about expression, not replication,” Urana wrote. “Every panel, every line, every mistake reflects the artist’s heartbeat. AI doesn’t have that.”
Urana’s comments come at a time when discussions around AI-assisted illustration have become increasingly heated within the manga community. Some smaller creators have started experimenting with AI tools to speed up background art or coloring, but many professionals fear it could erode artistic integrity and threaten opportunities for aspiring artists. Fans have praised Urana for taking a stand, describing their message as a much-needed reminder of the craft’s authenticity in an age of automation.
A Larger Debate Within The Industry
The issue of AI in manga art has divided both fans and professionals. While some see it as an innovation that could reduce workload and production times, others warn that it risks replacing the very individuality that defines manga as an art form. Several veteran creators, including Attack on Titan’s Hajime Isayama and My Hero Academia’s Kohei Horikoshi, have previously hinted at concerns over automation’s role in creative storytelling.
Kei Urana’s stance adds to a growing resistance movement within Japan’s creative scene — one that insists manga should remain a human-driven craft. As Gachikuta continues to gain international popularity for its gritty aesthetic and bold social themes, Urana’s message resonates all the more: the future of manga shouldn’t just be faster or easier — it should remain deeply, undeniably human.
