After five thrilling years, Kaiju No. 8 has officially reached its conclusion. Chapter 129, released on July 18, 2025, marks the final installment of the manga series by Naoya Matsumoto. Fans around the world are sharing their emotional goodbyes as the story of Kafka Hibino comes to a powerful end — but the excitement isn’t over just yet.
From Web Manga Hit to Global Phenomenon
Kaiju No. 8 began serialization in July 2020 on Shonen Jump+, quickly rising to fame with its gripping story set in a world plagued by monsters. Kafka Hibino, a former cleaner turned Defense Force recruit, gains mysterious powers that turn him into a humanoid kaiju — labeled "Kaiju No. 8" — making him both humanity’s last hope and one of its biggest threats.
The series earned the #1 spot in the 2021 "Next Manga Awards" and became a global hit thanks to its emotional depth, stunning battles, and relatable characters.
An Emotional Farewell from the Author and Cast
Author Naoya Matsumoto took to social media to thank fans and shared an illustration of all the main characters united. “I couldn’t include everything I wanted in the final chapter,” he wrote, “but I packed in as much as I could. Thank you for five incredible years!”
Voice actor Katsuya Fukunishi, who plays Kafka in the anime, also shared his gratitude with fans and praised Matsumoto-sensei for creating such a special series. The anime’s director, Shigeyuki Miya, contributed a celebratory illustration of Kaiju No. 8 raising his fist in triumph — a symbolic sendoff to this beloved series.
Season 2 of the Anime Premieres July 19
Don’t put away your Defense Force gear just yet! Season 2 of the Kaiju No. 8 anime premieres July 19, 2025, at 11:00 PM JST on TV Tokyo and will be simulcast globally on social media and streaming platforms.
The new season picks up right after the intense events of Season 1 and is expected to dive deeper into Kafka’s journey, the mystery behind Kaiju No. 9, and the future of the Defense Force.
What’s Next?
To celebrate the finale, the Kaiju No. 8 Exhibition in Niigata City has switched to a special "FINAL" version, featuring new photo spots and exclusive displays. The final manga volume is scheduled for release on September 4, 2025.
Whether you've followed Kafka’s battle from day one or just discovered the series through the anime, now’s the perfect time to revisit the world of Kaiju No. 8 — and prepare for what’s coming next.
