Oh jeez, this is like…a month late, isn’t it? To be fair, it took me a while to think of something proper and meaningful for this strip, and I’m still not sure if I managed to capture that. Also, you know how busy one can get when guests are stopping by for visits. That being said, if you’re still here, you’re swell.

It appears that after close to three years, Dear Korea has FINALLY hit 100 strips! I know this isn’t exactly a big deal in webcomic world, but it’s pretty huge for me. When I first arrived in this country back in 2010, I never expected to get to where I am now. Heck, I wasn’t even sure if I was capable of keeping up with something like this before I started (not that I’ve been doing the best job, but let’s ignore that for now). Is it safe to say that I’m a real comic artist now? If not, then I’m hoping that I can get to that point by strip 200, or possibly even 500 (?!). That all depends on how long I stay in the country.

Korea has been good to me. Too good, perhaps. I know not everyone has such a positive experience, and I do sympathize. For me, most of the good I’ve experienced in this country has been due to the amazing people that went from being complete strangers to some of the greatest friends that an awkward and weird girl like me could ask for. I came to this country unsure and doubtful of my future and skills as an artist (and everything else in general), and the support of those around me has helped me grow into someone I never thought I could be. The faces depicted in this strip may mean little to nothing to most of you reading this, but they mean the world to me. What can I say? I’m a big softie. I’m not even ashamed.

Anyways, to those of you that read this comic, I can’t thank you enough for being an awesome bunch of people. Life in Korea can be a little scary, especially if you’re new to the country. If this humble little comic has helped you cope in some way, heck if it’s even given you a couple of chuckles during a boring day of desk warming, please know that people like you are the reason why Dear Korea exists. I hope you’re looking forward to the next few years as much as I am. Regular updates will return starting November. Thank you for your patience.

P.S. Dear Korea in book form? This may soon become a reality! Keep an eye out for the news!