On October 14, 2025, the 4th Kadokawa Illustration Contest and a special seminar on manga illustration were officially launched at the University of Industrial Fine Arts (UIFA).
The event was jointly organized by UIFA, Kadokawa Corporation (Japan), and N&V Bridge Co., Ltd. (Vietnam).
This activity is part of the ongoing Vietnam–Japan cultural and artistic exchange program, offering Vietnamese students the opportunity to learn, experience, and engage with Japan’s professional creative environment in the fields of illustration and manga art.
Specialized Manga Workshops with Kadokawa Experts
On October 13 and 14, Kadokawa conducted specialized manga training sessions for students of the Faculty of Graphic Design at UIFA, featuring Mr. Ikegami Shohei – Editor-in-Chief of Comic Cune (Kadokawa) and Mr. Koshiya – Project Manager.
All sessions were interpreted in real-time by N&V Bridge, allowing Vietnamese students to interact directly with the Japanese experts and gain valuable insights into professional manga illustration techniques, storytelling, and creative production.
Inspiring the Next Generation of Creative Artists
During the launch ceremony, representatives from all participating organizations shared their perspectives on nurturing young artistic talent and encouraging Vietnamese students to express creativity, artistic thinking, and visual storytelling – the essential foundations of modern illustration and manga creation.
Distinguished Guests in Attendance
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Mr. Aoyagi Masayuki – Executive Director, Kadokawa Corporation
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Mr. Ikegami Shohei – Editor-in-Chief, Comic Cune (Kadokawa)
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Mr. Koshiya Katsuji – Project Manager, Kadokawa
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Assoc. Prof. Dr. Phạm Hùng Cường – Deputy Party Secretary, Rector, UIFA
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Dr. Trần Bá Tăng – Member of the Standing Committee, Vice Rector
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Mr. Đặng Minh Vũ, M.A. – Dean, Faculty of Graphic Design
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Ms. Lê Phương Lan, M.A. – Deputy Dean, Faculty of Graphic Design
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Mr. Nguyễn Võ Huyền Dương – Director, N&V Bridge Co., Ltd.
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Interpreter: Mr. Phạm Mạnh Cường – N&V Bridge
Strengthening Vietnam–Japan Artistic Collaboration
The event represents an important milestone in the collaboration between Kadokawa and Vietnam’s leading art institutions, with N&V Bridge Group serving as the co-organizer and strategic connector, bridging international exchange programs, creative training, and global contests with Vietnamese art students.
Empowering Vietnamese Young Talent on the International Stage
The 4th Kadokawa Illustration Contest is not only an artistic playground but also an opportunity for young Vietnamese artists to engage directly with Japan’s creative industry, broaden their perspectives, and showcase their artistic capabilities on the regional and international art scene.
🔗 Kadokawa Corporation: https://www.kadokawa.co.jp/
🎓 University of Industrial Fine Arts (UIFA): https://uad.edu.vn/
