The supernatural romance manga Aono-kun ni Sawaritai kara Shinitai (I Want To Hold Aono-kun So Badly I Could Die) by Umi Shiina is heading toward its long-awaited conclusion, with the final arc now reaching its emotional peak.
First serialized in Kodansha’s Monthly Afternoon magazine in 2016, the series has built a loyal following for its haunting portrayal of love, grief, and the supernatural.
A Love Story Beyond the Grave
The manga follows high schooler Yuri Kariya, who falls in love with classmate Ryūhei Aono.
Their budding romance is tragically cut short when Aono dies just two weeks into their relationship.
"I Want To Hold Aono-kun So Badly I Could Die" Final Arc will reach its Story Climax soon!
Horror Romance by Umi Shiina about a newly dating high school couple. But then the boy suddenly dies 2 weeks into their relationship. Devastated by this, the girl tries to kill herself but… pic.twitter.com/8pmVYpawh6
— Manga Mogura RE (Anime & Manga News) (@MangaMoguraRE) July 24, 2025
Devastated, Yuri attempts suicide, only to be stopped by Aono’s ghost, who promises to stay with her.
Their relationship continues in secret, but the emotional toll deepens as Aono’s spirit begins to change.
A darker alter ego, “Black Aono,” emerges, threatening to possess others and drag Yuri into the afterlife. The final arc explores whether Yuri’s love can save Aono, or whether it will destroy them both.
Final Volume & English Release
- The latest Japanese volume, Volume 12, was released on July 23, 2024
- The English digital release by Kodansha is scheduled for December 24, 2024
- No official word yet on the total volume count, but fans expect the series to wrap up within the next 1–2 volumes
Live-Action Adaptation & Critical Praise
A live-action drama aired in Spring 2022 on WOWOW, starring Shori Sato and Hikaru Takahashi, bringing the eerie romance to life.
The manga has earned multiple award nominations, including the Tezuka Osamu Cultural Prize and Kodansha Manga Award, and was listed among Brutus magazine’s “Most Dangerous Manga” for its emotionally intense themes.
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