Wakame Konbu, the mangaka behind hits like The Great Jahy Will Not Be Defeated! and The Maid I Hired Recently Is Mysterious, is back with a brand-new series. Young Jump’s 10th issue revealed that Konbu will launch Watashi no Koto Suki Janakatta ka yo!? (Wait, So You DON’T Like Me?!) on February 12. The new title promises the kind of playful, character-driven rom-com fans have come to expect from Konbu — this time leaning into harem comedy, misunderstandings, and overconfident characters.
Announcement teased in Young Jump issue 10
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What to expect from Watashi no Koto Suki Janakatta ka yo!?
From the initial magazine tease, the series is shaping up as a harem rom-com full of mistaken assumptions and comedic ego trips. The story centers on Okabe, a high school student who has vowed to focus on studying — but his plans quickly unravel when several girls around him start behaving in suggestive and mischievous ways. If you enjoy laugh-driven scenarios where misunderstandings snowball into awkward romantic moments, this new Konbu work looks poised to deliver.
Premise and tone
The pitch reads like a classic slice-of-life rom-com with harem elements: one male protagonist, multiple female characters who spark tension and comedy, and a steady stream of assumptions that escalate both humor and romantic ambiguity. Expect Konbu’s signature blend of expressive character art, timing-driven gags, and a balance between fanservice and heartfelt beats.
About Wakame Konbu: style and notable works
Wakame Konbu has built a strong reputation for lighthearted comedies with memorable characters and successful anime adaptations. Notable works include:
- The Great Jahy Will Not Be Defeated! — A fantasy-comedy manga adapted into a televised anime in July 2021. The anime was streamed internationally while it aired.
- The Maid I Hired Recently Is Mysterious — A popular rom-com manga that received an anime adaptation in July 2022; an English release is available through licensed publishers.
- Breasts Are My Favorite Things in the World! — Another Konbu title that highlights the mangaka’s comedic sensibilities and playful focus on character-driven humor.
Why fans follow Konbu’s work
Konbu’s strengths lie in timing and the ability to craft scenes that mix embarrassment, earnestness, and over-the-top reactions. Readers who appreciate rom-coms that don’t take themselves too seriously — while still making room for genuine emotional moments — will likely enjoy Watashi no Koto Suki Janakatta ka yo!?
Release details and where to follow
The new manga will launch on February 12 in Young Jump magazine’s issue 10. For readers outside Japan, keep an eye on official licensing announcements from English-language publishers and digital manga platforms, as Konbu’s past titles have been picked up for official English releases.
For the original announcement, see the Young Jump magazine notice (article available in Japanese) — Young Jump announcement on Natalie.
Streaming and English releases of Konbu’s previous works
Konbu’s prior series have been adapted and widely distributed. For example, The Great Jahy Will Not Be Defeated! was animated and simulcast, while The Maid I Hired Recently Is Mysterious received official manga releases and an anime adaptation that was available on major streaming platforms. Check official streaming services for availability in your region — for reference, here is a global streaming source that has carried Konbu’s anime adaptations in the past: Crunchyroll.
Characters to watch (anticipated)
While full character lineups and profiles will emerge once serialization begins, the announcement highlights Okabe as the central male lead. Expect a cast of female classmates and acquaintances who each bring a distinct comedic energy — from the teasing type to the obliviously romantic — creating opportunities for rivalry, miscommunication, and gradual emotional growth.
Potential themes
- Misunderstanding-driven comedy — jokes that build on false assumptions and escalating embarrassment.
- High-school life & study ambition — Okabe’s goal to focus on academics provides a contrasting motivation against the romantic chaos.
- Character-centered humor — the story will likely spotlight individual personalities, letting each supporting character shine through comedic beats.
How this fits into Konbu’s career
Watashi no Koto Suki Janakatta ka yo!? continues Konbu’s streak of mainstream rom-coms and comedy works that translate well to animation and international licensing. Given the mangaka’s track record, publishers and streaming platforms often pick up Konbu’s adapted works, meaning this new series has a solid chance to reach fans outside Japan if it gains traction.
Publication notes
The series debut in a major seinen magazine positions it for strong weekly attention from readers who enjoy romantic comedy and harem setups. Watch for tankōbon volume announcements and official English licensing statements following serialization progress.
Where to read responsibly
Always read official releases from licensed publishers and digital distributors to support the creator. Official platforms help ensure the mangaka and production teams receive proper credit and compensation — and they’re the best way to enjoy high-quality translations and editions.
Final thoughts
Wakame Konbu’s Watashi no Koto Suki Janakatta ka yo!? looks like a promising addition to the mangaka’s catalog, leaning into harem rom-com territory while retaining the charm and humor Konbu fans expect. With a February 12 debut in Young Jump, readers should soon get a clearer picture of the cast dynamics and comedic style. If you enjoy character-driven misunderstandings, awkward romantic setups, and lighthearted high-school antics, this is one to watch. Keep an eye on official publishers and streaming platforms for licensed releases and further updates.
