Hunter x Hunter Returns: Volume 39 Release Date Officially Announced for French Fans

A Beacon of Hope for Hunter x Hunter Enthusiasts

For fans of Hunter x Hunter, patience is not just a virtue—it is a requirement. Being a devotee of Yoshihiro Togashi's masterpiece often feels like an endurance test, characterized by long hiatuses and unpredictable publication schedules. However, the long wait is finally nearing an end for the French community, as publisher Kana has delivered some highly anticipated news.

The series has faced significant hurdles over the last decade. Due to Togashi's chronic and severe back health issues, the manga transitioned from its traditional weekly slot in Weekly Shōnen Jump to a sporadic release schedule. Chapters are now produced only when the author's health permits, ensuring that the quality of the art and storytelling remains intact despite the physical toll on the creator.

Mark Your Calendars: Volume 39 Arrival

After nearly two years of anticipation, the French edition of the manga is set to expand. Following Shueisha's announcement that Volume 39 would launch in Japan on July 3, 2026, French readers were left wondering when they could get their hands on the physical release. Kana has now officially confirmed that Volume 39 of Hunter x Hunter will hit bookstores in France on December 4, 2026.

This new volume is a crucial addition to the collection, compiling chapters 401 through 410. These chapters represent a triumphant return for Togashi, marking the end of a grueling hiatus and the continuation of one of the most complex narratives in modern manga history.

Deep Dive: The Black Whale and the Succession War

Volume 39 picks up exactly where the story left off, plunging readers back into the claustrophobic and high-stakes environment of the Black Whale ship. The narrative continues to follow Kurapika and his allies as they navigate the treacherous waters of the Succession Contest.

The current arc is a masterclass in political intrigue and psychological warfare. As the ship sails toward the Dark Continent, the tension among the royal princes reaches a breaking point. Readers can expect a continuation of the deadly games of influence, strategic assassinations, and the intricate web of Nen abilities that make this arc one of the most intellectually stimulating in the series.

A Global Phenomenon: 100 Million Copies Sold

This release comes at a symbolic moment for the franchise. Just as the manga prepares for the launch of Chapter 411, the series has officially surpassed the milestone of 100 million copies sold worldwide.

This staggering achievement cements Hunter x Hunter's place in the pantheon of the best-selling manga of all time. It is a testament to the series' enduring quality; despite the irregular publication rhythm, the global audience's appetite for Togashi's world-building and character development has only grown stronger over time.