Biography | Michiru Noroi

Michiru Noroi (1965-) is renowned for his contributions to the horror genre. He attended Tokyo Zokei University, where he studied sculpture and initially pursued a career as a gag manga artist but after publishing "The Girl in the Clock House," in "House of Fear DX" (Leed Publishing, 1998) he transitioned to creating horror manga. 

Noroi's work is characterized by its detailed artwork and exploration of dark themes. He has been influenced by notable horror manga artists such as Hideshi Hino, particularly his work "Zoroku’s Strange Illness” which his younger brother had bought for him.

 

His stories feature rotting characters in alleyways, mutations, mushrooms overflowing from aquariums, beautiful women covered in grotesque scabs, or mysterious patterns beyond human comprehension.

 

“I believe he is a leading artist in the world of horror manga. What attracts me most about his work is his unique approach to drawing. Whether it is a devil, an insect, a machine, or something floating in the sky, everything is drawn with a certain eroticism, a unique touch, and inimitable forms.” – Junji Itō

 

Some of his notable works include: 

• "Kuchisake Onna Arawaru"

A manga adaptation of the Japanese urban legend of the Slit-Mouthed Woman.

• "Mieruko-chan: Official Anthology Comic":

An anthology comic based on the popular series "Mieruko-chan."

• "Manga Grimm Douwa: Goumon to Shokei no Sekaishi-hen"

A manga series exploring historical tales of torture and execution.

 

Starfruit Books

• "The Horrors of Noroi Michiru": A collection of his one-shot horror stories, showcasing his unique style and storytelling. 

Black Box Editions

• ·         Les Contes Noirs de Noroi Michiru Vol. 1 (2022)

A collection of horror stories, showcasing Michiru Noroi’s eerie and disturbing narratives. Manga News rated it 17/20, noting its unsettling strangeness and recurring dark themes that leave a lasting impression on readers.

•       Les Contes Noirs de Noroi Michiru Vol. 2 (2023)

A continuation of the first volume, further diving into Noroi's dark and unsettling world.

• ·           Légendes Urbaines Vol. 1 (2024)

A compilation of 11 short stories inspired by Japanese urban legends, including the well-known "Slit-Mouthed Woman." | Praised for its eerie atmosphere.

• ·         L'Horreur pour la Vie (Horror for Life) (March 2025)

A forthcoming collection featuring stories blending gothic darkness with visceral horror, populated by terrifying creatures.

• ·         L'Horreur pour la Mort (Horror for Death) (March 2025)