The beloved shojo manga "Honey Lemon Soda" by Mayu Murata is officially coming to a sweet, yet bittersweet, end. After a remarkable decade of captivating readers with its heartwarming story of self-discovery and romance, the series will conclude in the May 2026 issue of Ribon Magazine. Fans across the globe are preparing to bid farewell to Uka Ishimori and Kai Miura as their journey culminates in the 124th chapter.
The Sweet Farewell: Manga Conclusion Details
Mayu Murata first introduced us to the world of "Honey Lemon Soda" in December 2015, launching what would become a cornerstone of Ribon Magazine. The final chapter, the 124th, will be released on April 3, 2026, marking the official conclusion of its serialization. This extensive run speaks volumes about the manga's enduring appeal and the dedication of its creator. Shueisha has already shipped the 30th volume, and fans can look forward to completing their collections with the 31st and final volume, scheduled for release on May 25, 2026. It has been a truly impressive journey for a series that has touched so many hearts.
A Legacy of Popularity and Acclaim
"Honey Lemon Soda" isn't just a popular manga; it's a phenomenon. With a cumulative circulation exceeding 16 million copies, its success is undeniable. This massive readership highlights the universal themes and compelling characters that have resonated deeply with audiences. The series also garnered critical recognition, receiving a nomination in the Shoujo category of the 45th Kodansha Manga Awards in 2021, a testament to its quality storytelling and artistic merit. Furthermore, its global reach has been cemented by Yen Press, which licensed the manga in English in July 2022, allowing international fans to immerse themselves in Uka and Kai's world. The tenth English volume was released in September 2025, with the 12th volume slated for April 28, 2026, ensuring that English readers can follow the story until its conclusion.
From Pages to Screen: The Anime Adaptation
Adding to its impressive list of achievements, "Honey Lemon Soda" made its highly anticipated leap to animation. Produced by the renowned studio J.C.Staff, the first season of the anime aired in Winter 2025, bringing the vibrant world and dynamic characters to life with 12 episodes. Anime enthusiasts in Asia were able to enjoy the series thanks to Aniplus Asia's licensing, while a global audience accessed it via Crunchyroll, which simulcast the series with multiple subtitles and dubs. The anime adaptation has undoubtedly introduced "Honey Lemon Soda" to an even broader audience, allowing existing fans to revisit their favorite moments in a new format and attracting newcomers to this captivating story.
Live-Action Success: Bringing Uka and Kai to Life
The popularity of "Honey Lemon Soda" extends beyond print and animation, reaching into live-action cinema. A live-action film adaptation was announced in September 2020 and subsequently released in Japan in July 2021. The film proved to be a significant success at the box office, grossing approximately 1 billion yen (around US$8.4 million). This adaptation further cemented the series' cultural impact and demonstrated the strong connection audiences have with its narrative and characters, proving that Uka and Kai's story transcends different mediums.
The Heart of the Story: Uka and Kai's Journey
At its core, "Honey Lemon Soda" is a beautiful tale of transformation and first love. We meet 15-year-old Uka Ishimori, a high school freshman scarred by a challenging middle school experience where she was known as "Rocky" due to her debilitating shyness and constant bullying. High school offers a fresh start, a chance for Uka to shed her past and finally grow. However, her new beginning takes an unexpected turn when she has an accidental encounter with Kai Miura, a flashy, popular classmate with striking lemon-colored hair. Kai is everything Uka isn't: bold, confident, and unafraid to speak his mind. Despite their contrasting personalities, Kai sees something special in Uka. He extends a helping hand, encouraging her to slowly emerge from her shell and offering support where others once showed avoidance. What begins as a desire for friendship gradually blossoms into a deeper emotion for Uka—she realizes she has fallen deeply in love with Kai. This pivotal moment, sparked by a simple lemon soda, sets both Uka and Kai on a path of profound personal growth and an unforgettable romance.
Why "Honey Lemon Soda" Captivated Millions
The enduring appeal of "Honey Lemon Soda" lies in its relatable depiction of overcoming adversity and finding courage within oneself. Uka's journey from a bullied, withdrawn girl to a confident young woman is incredibly inspiring. Her struggles with self-esteem and social anxiety are authentic, making her transformation all the more satisfying to witness. Kai, initially appearing as the cool, unapproachable type, quickly reveals layers of kindness and genuine support, making him an ideal partner in Uka's growth. The manga beautifully explores themes of friendship, self-acceptance, and the exhilarating experience of first love. The "lemon soda" motif, symbolizing refreshing change and a bittersweet zest for life, perfectly encapsulates the essence of their evolving relationship and Uka's personal awakening. It's a story that reminds us that even the shyest individuals can find their voice and their strength with the right support.
What's Next for "Honey Lemon Soda" Fans?
As "Honey Lemon Soda" prepares for its final bow in the manga world, fans can anticipate an emotional conclusion to Uka and Kai's story. The final chapters and the release of the last volume will undoubtedly be cherished moments for readers who have followed their journey for a decade. While the manga concludes, the anime adaptation offers continued excitement, with the potential for further seasons to animate the remainder of this beloved narrative. Mayu Murata-sensei has crafted a truly special series that has left an indelible mark on the shojo genre, and its legacy of sweetness, growth, and heartfelt romance will continue to resonate for years to come. We eagerly await the final pages and look forward to celebrating the enduring magic of "Honey Lemon Soda."
