What Good Is a Publishing Powerhouse When the MZ Generation Leaves? Japanese Idol Magazines Suspend Publication One After Another

The November issue of the Japanese idol magazine "Duet," which announced its suspension after the December issue. Shueisha

In Japan, a major publishing powerhouse, idol magazines are being suspended one after another due to the younger generation moving away from magazines and the rise of internet media.

According to Japanese media reports on October 1, the Shueisha Group's idol magazine "Duet" announced it would suspend publication after the December issue. The editorial department expressed its gratitude for the support of readers over the past 39 years, stating, "We will be suspending publication after the December 2025 issue (to be released on November 7). We sincerely thank you." The final issue, the December edition, will be released as a "39th Anniversary Special Edition."

Previously, on June 17, the idol magazine "BIG ONE GIRLS," published by Kindai Eiga-sha, was suspended after the "June/Summer Issue" released on the same day. In May, One Publishing announced that its idol magazine "POTATO" would be suspended after the September issue, which will be released on July 22. Also in May, "WiNK UP," a magazine for female teenagers published by Wani Books, was suspended after its June issue, and in March, Tokuma Shoten's monthly magazine "Entermaga" ended its 24-year history and was suspended.

Last year, Azabudai Publishing announced the suspension of its monthly entertainment magazine "Popolo." Popolo, first published in June 1992, was a male idol magazine that for a long time featured numerous articles focusing on former Johnny's Entertainment artists.