Inochi no Utsuwa Final Volume 100 Released, Ending a 35 Year Run; 79 Year Old Creator Kimiko Uehara Says, “I Want to Enjoy the Rest of My Life”
Inochi no Utsuwa reaches its historic conclusion with the release of its final Volume 100, marking the end of a 35 year serialization by Kimiko Uehara. The final volume was published on April 16, following the manga’s conclusion in the April issue of For Mrs. released in March.
The manga Inochi no Utsuwa has concluded
A Rare Milestone in Manga History
Originally launched in 1991 in Eve Special for Mrs. No.30, the series continued after the magazine transitioned into the monthly For Mrs. in 1995. Over the decades, it became one of the magazine’s flagship titles and, as of March 2026, the longest running manga under a single title.
The story follows Kyoko Ariyoshi, an obstetrician and gynecologist, as she navigates life with her family while supporting patients with diverse and often difficult circumstances. Through these encounters, the series portrays the value of life and the importance of family bonds.
In Japan, only around 20 manga series have released more than 100 volumes under the same title, and in the women’s manga category, such cases are extremely rare according to Akita Publishing as of March 2026.
Final Chapter Reflections
The manga Inochi no Utsuwa has concluded
To commemorate the release of the final volume, a video showing Kimiko Uehara’s last inking process has been released. Reflecting on her long career, Uehara shared:
“I was able to continue because I love drawing manga. When my editor proposed the theme of a female obstetrician and the human stories surrounding pregnant women, I felt strongly that I wanted to draw it, especially since I myself knew very little about pregnancy at the time. Over these 35 years, I always tried to create a manga that would be enjoyable if it could bring comfort to readers. When readers enjoy a work, it is also enjoyable for the creator.”
She also reflected on completing the final chapter:
“When I started drawing the final chapter, I thought I would cry, but as I approached the last page, my heart became strangely lighter. The moment I put down my pen on the final page, a sense of accomplishment burst within me and I found myself smiling. I have no regrets. I want to enjoy the rest of my life.”
The manga Inochi no Utsuwa has concluded
Source : ORICON NEWS
