Fans of The Apothecary Diaries manga are once again facing a pause in the story, as illustrator Nekokurage takes a break due to health concerns. The announcement was made ahead of the May 23 release of Big Gangan issue 6/25, where the latest chapter was originally scheduled to appear. This marks another unexpected hiatus for the popular historical mystery series, which has experienced brief delays before, but never quite like this.

The break comes at a time when anticipation for new chapters is especially high. With The Apothecary Diaries anime adaptation boosting the manga’s readership and international visibility, fans have been eager to see what happens next in Maomao’s palace intrigues. But Nekokurage, who illustrates the manga adaptation of the light novel series, has stepped back for health reasons, according to @dailykusuriya on X, citing a serious illness that made continuing work temporarily impossible.

"Big Gangan is scheduled to be release tomorrow, but because of my health worsened due to strep throat and whooping cough during my manuscript work, [The Apothecary Diaries] will be on hold. I'm sorry...! Both strep throat and whooping cough have been going around lately, so be careful please!"

- Nekokurage

Why The Apothecary Diaries Is Taking a Break

Illness Forces a Pause for the Illustrator Nekokurage

According to a post shared by Nekokurage on social media, the illustrator contracted both strep throat and whooping cough while working on the most recent manuscript. The double illness significantly impacted their ability to meet deadlines. While the message included an apology to fans, it also served as a reminder of the pressures manga artists face, particularly when juggling chronic deadlines and sudden health setbacks. Nekokurage also warned readers to take care, noting that these illnesses have been spreading widely.

Because of this, The Apothecary Diaries will not appear in the May 23 issue of Big Gangan, as originally planned. Instead, the manga will resume in the following issue, scheduled for release on June 25. Though it is a relatively short delay, fans are encouraged to be patient and the artist’s recovery. This is not the first time health issues have paused a beloved series, and it likely will not be the last in an industry known for its grueling pace.

What This Means for The Apothecary Diaries Fans

and Anticipation in The Apothecary Diaries Fandom

For readers eagerly following Maomao’s adventures in the imperial court, the month-long delay may be frustrating, but it is also understandable. The manga’s detailed art and complex plotting require immense effort, and quality work cannot come at the cost of the creator’s well-being. The short break may actually help maintain the high standards fans have come to expect from the series, especially given the rising pressure brought on by its growing popularity.

The delay also will not affect the anime or light novel release schedules. So, for those who are hungry for more of The Apothecary Diaries content, there are still plenty of ways to stay engaged while waiting for the next chapter. Whether fans are revisiting earlier volumes or catching up on the anime, this pause serves as a moment to appreciate the human effort behind the scenes, and to wish Nekokurage a full and speedy recovery.