The 30th anniversary exhibition of the beloved gourmet manga Solitary Gourmet will be launched on April 4 at the Shinsaibashi PARCO (Osaka's Chuo Ward). This iconic series, created by Masayuki Kusumi, tells the story of Goro Inuoh, who enjoys food alone, and has become notable for its unique portrayal of solitary dining.
Since its inception, Solitary Gourmet has captured audience hearts, leading to the successful drama adaptation starring Yoshiyuki Matsushige, which first aired on TV Tokyo in 2012. The series has continued to maintain its popularity, culminating with the theatrical film Gekiei Solitary Gourmet, which Matsushige not only starred in but also directed and wrote. The film has garnered impressive box office figures, surpassing ¥9.4 billion and drawing over 660,000 viewers.
The exhibition promises to immerse fans and newcomers alike within the world of Solitary Gourmet, featuring highlights such as iconic quotes from Goro Inuoh, the diverse cast of characters, and the series' culinary delights. Attendees can expect to view high-resolution reproductions of original art and timelines detailing the manga's history and its adaptations, including costume displays from the series.
Merchandise from the exhibition will also be available, showcasing original designs inspired by the source material. Fashion items like T-shirts (¥4,500), long-sleeve shirts (¥6,000), and tote bags (¥2,500) will be for sale, as well as collectible acrylic keychains modeled on memorable scenes from the series (various types available at ¥500 each).
The Solitary Gourmet exhibition at Shinsaibashi PARCO will run until April 20, with the venue's hours from 10 AM to 8 PM, and tickets priced at ¥700.
Aside from its domestic success, Solitary Gourmet has made significant waves internationally, most noticeably within South Korea, where the series has redefined local dining customs. The series portrays Goro Inuoh's enjoyment of meals alone, challenging traditional views of communal dining prevalent in Korean culture. This shift has helped normalize solo dining, leading to the coining of the term “Hongbap,” reflecting greater acceptance of individual dining experiences.
Recent developments include the seventh season of the series, which featured on-location filming in South Korea, contributing to its popularity across borders and earning accolades such as the Most Popular Foreign Drama of the Year at the 2018 Seoul Drama Awards.
Film critics highlight the continuing evolution of the project, noting impressive storylines and character developments. The engaging narrative of Goro Inuoh, embodied by Matsushige, remains at the forefront of viewer contention, driving interest and expectations for both new episodes and the forthcoming theatrical release.
Anyone interested will want to catch Gekiei Solitary Gourmet, which builds on previous seasons, featuring star appearances from actors like Yoo Jae-myung, known for his role as Chairman Jang from the popular Netflix series Itaewon Class. The film offers tantalizing new adventures tied to the gastronomic delights showcased throughout the series.
With its 30-year history, Solitary Gourmet continues to thrive, inspiring spin-offs and continuing to attract audiences both domestically and internationally. This exhibition not only celebrates the legacy of the manga but also its significant cultural influence on cuisine and dining habits around the globe.