Akira Toriyama, the creator of 'Dragon Ball' and 'Dr. Slump', has passed away at the age of 68. On March 8, his studio announced the artist passed away from acute subdural hematoma, bringing the industry to mourning.

The Dragon Ball manga series, which began serializing through Weekly Shonen back in 1984, has been beloved over the years and sold millions of copies worldwide. It was adapted into a popular animated TV series, which received much love globally, including in South Korea.

Despite South Korea's restrictive policies on Japanese imports during the 1980s and 1990s, which included a wide range of products from media to entertainment consoles like Nintendo and Sega, the cultural and entertainment landscape found its way to bridge gaps through selective media. Among the few Japanese media that permeated South Korean borders during this time was Akira Toriyama's iconic anime, 'Dragon Ball'. The series managed to captivate South Korean audiences, becoming a cherished part of many individuals' childhoods.

Following the news of the manga artist's passing, many Korean netizens shared their condolences on a popular online community.

"RIP."

"My favorite is the Dragon Ball series...Hope he rests in peace."

"My condolences to his family."

"He filled my childhood with so much fun and joy."

"The legend has passed away."

"This is so shocking. Omg. RIP."

"The artist for Yu-Gi-Oh and now the Dragon Ball creator. They will always be remembered."

"He left behind a great legacy."

"How did he pass so suddenly."

"Thank you for your wonderful work. Please rest in peace."

"I really watched Dragon Ball so much when I was younger."

"This is so shocking."

"So many good artists are leaving us."

"Dragon Ball is the first manga I've read and it's still my favorite."

"Oh man. Please rest in peace."

"I loved Dragon Ball and Dr. Slump."

"Please rest in peace."