Korean artist, JAXX, issues an apology on X (formerly Twitter) for their “disrespectful depictions of other cultures and people” in their newest work, Song of the Wasteland (황야의 노래). Known for their previous titles, Walk on Water and Under the Greenlight, JAXX has been hard at work on their newest original story. Initially, JAXX teased an image of one of the characters on April 3rd, 2026.
Recently, Manta Comics announced the series launch and teased a global debut on June 20th, 2026. However, swift reactions soon popped up on social media after the early access episode went up online on June 23rd. The story drew criticism for its offensive portrayal of a relationship between a slave and slave owner during the American Civil War. As of this post, Manta Comics has deleted all promotional X posts for the series.
Comments flooded the recent announcement post, with many voicing their anger towards the work. Readers condemn it for the story’s “racist” portrayal of a “savior/slave” relationship and for platforming problematic colonialist narratives.
Others denounced Manta Comics for not screening and flagging the problematic elements to the author.
Below is the original summary listed for the title on Manta’s website:
Gerald Dern, the eldest son of the Dern family, joins the Civil War determined not to disappoint his father. However, the war takes everything from him-his entire
family is killed, and the shock of witnessing even his fellow soldiers massacred leaves him without the will to live.When it finally ends, the family fortune is gone as well, leaving him with nothing but a ranch in a distant wasteland. Once a war hero and the flawless heir to the Dern name, Gerald retreats there, intending to put an end to his life.
But his plans are completely upended when he meets Ezra, a cowboy of mixed Native heritage. “Me? I’m your humble slave, Master.”
Claiming to be Gerald’s slave, Ezra constantly crosses boundaries and provokes him at every turn. Yet in the face of Ezra’s relentless attention, Gerald’s heart begins to race once more.
“This is all his fault for getting me so worked up.”
One man has lost everything and wishes to end his life. The other is determined to keep him alive-and by his side. Thus begins a precarious romance on the wasteland.
This series is suitable for ages 16+
After JAXX’s statement, Manta Comics has taken down the BL webtoon’s promotional page from its site. The worldwide simultaneous launch of Song of the Wasteland was planned for June 30th, but will not continue after JAXX announced the story’s cancellation.
