It was announced on the 5th that Kazuo Umezu (real name Kazuo Umezu), a manga artist known for his manga "Makoto-chan" and other works, passed away on October 28th. He was 88 years old. He was from Wakayama Prefecture. He was said to have been suffering from stomach cancer and was undergoing treatment at a facility. The funeral was held by close associates.

The UMEZZ general incorporated foundation released the following statement: "During his lifetime, Umezu wished for his works to reach people all over the world and for them to be read forever. He also believed in the artistic value of his work. We hope that this aspiration will continue to remain in everyone's hearts. We would like to express our deepest gratitude to all the readers who have read and supported his works until now, and to all the people involved who have helped him."

Umezu was born in Takano-cho, Ito-gun, Wakayama Prefecture in 1936, and grew up in Nara Prefecture. He began drawing manga when he was in the fourth grade of elementary school, and made his debut when he was in his third year of high school with "Another World" and "Forest Brothers and Sisters." He was known as the "god of horror manga" thanks to hits such as "Snake Girl," but his comedy manga "Makoto-chan" also became a huge hit. The comedy gag "Gwashi," in which the main character bends his middle and pinky fingers, became a social phenomenon.

In addition, he has produced many hits such as "Drifting Classroom," "Cat-Eyed Boy," "Orochi," "Baptism," "I Am Shingo," "God's Left Hand, Devil's Right Hand," and "14 Years Old." In 2022, he released his first new work in 27 years, "ZOKU-SHINGO."

In 2019, he received the Commissioner of the Agency for Cultural Affairs' Award, and in 2011, he received the 27th Tezuka Osamu Cultural Prize Merit Award.