Square Enix’s Manga UP! Global continues to expand its English catalog with three fresh additions that showcase a range of tones — from sharp social commentary to rom-com whimsy and genre-bending action. For readers hunting for new series to binge or creators looking for trends in contemporary manga, these releases demonstrate how modern slice-of-life, horror-comedy, and romantic comedy can all find English-language homes on digital platforms. Below we break down each title, its premise, publication notes, who it’s for, and why it’s worth checking out.
Table of Contents
New on Manga UP! Global: What Was Added
It’s Not Easy Being Cute (Kawaii wa, Tokidoki Kurushii.) — Shō Asahina
Premise: College student Himesaki Nozomi has relied on plastic surgery to craft her beauty, while Tennōji Ruka represents natural attractiveness — yet both characters wrestle with the pressures of modern lookism. What begins as a “teach me how to be cute” setup becomes a nuanced exploration of identity, image, and the social expectations that come with perceived beauty.
Publication notes: According to the source material, Asahina launched the story on X (formerly Twitter) in September 2024 and later serialized it on Gangan pixiv; Square Enix shipped a second compiled book volume on February 20 as reported in the release notes.
Why read it?
This series is recommended for readers who enjoy character-driven slice-of-life dramas with social commentary. If you liked works that interrogate beauty standards and personal agency, It’s Not Easy Being Cute offers layered character dynamics and modern themes that spark conversation.
Slasher Maidens (Kaijin Reijō) — Tetsuya Tashiro
Premise: In Tashiro’s high-concept series, intense mental stress transforms people into murderous monsters called “Kaijin.” Pervert-turned-hero Asuma Sudo accidentally transfers into an all-girls school only to find it fronts an anti-Kaijin special agency — a setup that mixes ecchi-comedy beats with supernatural action and a battle-for-survival narrative.
Publication notes: Tashiro launched Slasher Maidens in Monthly Gangan Joker in April 2018. The series moved into a climactic phase noted as its “final battle” in November 2023. Square Enix issued the 15th volume on March 21, and Yen Press has been publishing English volumes (the 13th English volume was published on February 24 as reported).
Why read it?
If you like darkly comic action mixed with fanservice and high-stakes supernatural threats, Slasher Maidens balances thrills and laughs. Fans of series that combine school settings with military or special-agency elements will find this a satisfying, fast-paced ride.
Find more releases at Yen Press (no-follow)
Inuta: My Canine Classmate (Inuta-san) — Mo-suke Mattaku
Premise: Inuta brings a lighthearted, romantic-comedy twist: the most popular girl in class, Inuta-san, behaves 100% like a dog — affectionate greetings, shared lunches, and tail-wagging devotion (figuratively speaking). The series plays up “puppy love” in the most literal and charming ways possible.
Publication notes: Mattaku began the series on X (formerly Twitter) in April 2024, and Square Enix released the manga’s second volume on October 22, according to the release details.
Why read it?
Inuta is perfect for readers who want a wholesome, rom-com comedy with a novelty hook. The “doglike girl” trope is handled with affectionate humor, and the series is ideal for people who enjoy bubbly, character-rich school romances.
How These Titles Fit the Current Manga Landscape
Manga UP! Global’s addition of these three series showcases the diversity publishers are prioritizing for English audiences — social-issue slice-of-life, supernatural action-comedy, and a feel-good romantic comedy. Digital platforms are increasingly important for surfacing niche hits and letting international readers discover titles before or in parallel with print releases.
From a discoverability and SEO standpoint, these titles tick several boxes: distinct hooks (lookism critique, Kaijin monsters, canine-classmate romance), visual appeal, and author-driven fan followings from their original social media launches. For bloggers and reviewers, covering each series with focused keyword phrases like “It’s Not Easy Being Cute manga review,” “Slasher Maidens English release,” and “Inuta-san manga English” will help reach readers searching for new English-translated manga on digital platforms.
Who Should Read These Manga?
- It’s Not Easy Being Cute: Readers who appreciate thoughtful character work, social commentary on beauty standards, and drama centered on personal growth.
- Slasher Maidens: Fans of school-based action, dark humor, and supernatural fights with a slightly ecchi slant.
- Inuta: My Canine Classmate: Anyone looking for a light, cute rom-com with an adorable gimmick and heartwarming moments.
Where to Read & Further Information
These English releases are available on Manga UP! Global’s platform. For purchasing or official English print editions, Yen Press and other licensed vendors may carry collected volumes as noted in publisher release announcements. For the most current availability and volume release dates, check official publisher pages and digital storefronts.
Manga UP! Global — official site (no-follow)
Final thoughts
Square Enix’s recent additions to Manga UP! Global underline how varied modern manga tastes are — readers can find incisive social drama, genre-bending action-comedy, and pure rom-com charm all within one platform. Whether you’re drawn to stories that question beauty norms, crave supernatural showdowns, or want a cozy romantic escape, these three titles are strong additions to Manga UP! Global’s English catalog. Keep an eye on official release pages for volume drops and serialization updates, and dive in if any of these unique premises catch your eye.
