# Masami Kurumada embezzlement lawsuit

> Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/masami-kurumada-embezzlement-lawsuit
> Updated: 2026-09-04T06:12:25.000Z. Sources: 14. Developments: 2.

Masami Kurumada, the creator of the manga series ‘Saint Seiya’, has filed a lawsuit in the Tokyo District Court seeking approximately 2.89 billion yen ($19.6 million) in damages. The legal action follows the discovery of an embezzlement scheme involving three of Kurumada’s companies, including Kurumada Production.

A former manager and executive is accused of misappropriating approximately 4.68 billion yen between 2018 and 2024 through unauthorized fund transfers and the diversion of licensing fees. The funds were reportedly used for luxury nightclub expenses and cryptocurrency investments. 

While approximately 1.8 billion yen has been recovered or repaid, the lawsuit seeks to recoup the remaining balance. The former manager has reportedly acknowledged taking the funds, claiming he acted in Kurumada’s interests without malicious intent.

## Timeline

### 2026-09-04: Masami Kurumada sues former manager for $19.6 million

‘Saint Seiya’ creator Masami Kurumada is suing his former manager for roughly $19.6 million following allegations of embezzling billions of yen, some of which was allegedly used for cryptocurrency.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/masami-kurumada-sues-former-manager-for-196-million

### 2026-09-02: Masami Kurumada sues former manager for 2.89 billion yen embezzlement

Manga artist Masami Kurumada is suing a former manager for allegedly embezzling 4.68 billion yen from his companies through unauthorized transfers and diverted licensing fees.

12 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/masami-kurumada-sues-former-managers-for-28-billion-yen-embezzlement

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Cite as: Masami Kurumada embezzlement lawsuit. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/masami-kurumada-embezzlement-lawsuit