HIROKATSU KIHARA
Born in Hyogo Prefecture, Kihara considers himself a collector of mysteries. He is best known for the famed compendium of urban legends and ghost stories Shin Mimibukuro (New Earmuffs), cowritten with Ichiro Nakayama. He also performs as a host at various Japanesde culture events celebrating anime, kaiju, and toys. His other works include the series Tsukumo Kaidan (99 Ghost Stories) and Tonari no Kai (Monster Next Door).

JUNJI ITO
Junji Ito made his professional manga debut in 1987 and since then has gone on to be recognized as one of the greatest contemporary artists working in the horror genre. His titles include Tomie and Uzumaki, which have been adapted into live-action films; Gyo, which was adapted into an animated film. He is a four-time Eisner Award winner. In 2019 his collection Frankenstein won in the “Best Adaptation from Another Medium” category, and in 2021 he was awarded “Best Writer/Artist,” while Remina received the award for “Best U.S. Edition of International Material (Asia).” He also won his second “Best U.S. Edition” for Lovesickness in 2022.