Popular romantic comedy wraps up after a heartfelt run in Comic PASH!
After nearly three years of serialization, Makoto Kisaragi’s charming romantic comedy Kōhai-kun dake ga Shitteiru (English title: Only My Underclassman Knows) has officially concluded. The final chapter was published in the August 2025 issue of Comic PASH!, released on July 10.
The series, beloved for its sweet yet emotionally nuanced take on high school romance, first debuted in 2022. It quickly built a fanbase drawn to its relatable characters and sincere exploration of love and vulnerability.
A Quiet Romance with Real-World Emotions
Kōhai-kun dake ga Shitteiru tells the story of two high school students navigating a slow-burning, awkward yet heartwarming relationship. At its center is a reserved upperclassman and her well-meaning but oblivious underclassman (kōhai). Through gentle moments and gradual emotional development, the series explores themes of communication, insecurity, and the subtle acts of kindness that build intimacy over time.
The manga was praised for its minimalist storytelling, expressive art, and realistic depiction of adolescent emotions. Unlike over-the-top rom-coms, Kisaragi’s work leaned into authenticity and quiet moments rather than drama and gimmicks.
Makoto Kisaragi: A Rising Voice in Romance Manga
Known for their clean, expressive art style and emotionally resonant character work, Makoto Kisaragi has gained recognition as a manga artist to watch. Kōhai-kun dake ga Shitteiru represents their breakout work, and fans are already eager to see what project comes next.
While no new title has been announced, readers can likely expect Kisaragi to return to the romantic slice-of-life genre, where their subtle storytelling and emotional depth shine brightest.
Reader Reactions and Legacy
Since the final chapter dropped, fans have flooded social media with praise for the series’ conclusion, describing it as “bittersweet,” “satisfying,” and “true to the tone of the story.” Some expressed sadness at saying goodbye, while others celebrated the story’s full-circle emotional payoff.
The final volume of the manga will be compiled and released later in 2025, with bonus content expected to be included.
What Made This Series Stand Out
- Understated Romance: Instead of confessions and grand gestures, the series found emotional power in small moments—a shared umbrella, an awkward glance, a handwritten note.
- Slice-of-Life Realism: The pacing and tone mirrored real high school life: awkward, unspoken, yet meaningful.
- Soft Aesthetic: Kisaragi’s light, flowing line work and soft tones gave the story a dreamlike yet grounded visual identity.
Character Spotlight
The Senpai
Quiet and thoughtful, she often struggles with expressing her feelings directly. Her internal monologues reveal her insecurities, but her kindness shines through in her actions.
The Kōhai-kun
Innocent, friendly, and perhaps a bit too dense to notice he’s become the object of affection. But his honesty and warmth make him endearing—and eventually receptive.
