On the March 20 broadcast of MBC's 'I Live Alone', webtoon artist Kian84 met his long-time role model, Ito Junji.
The meeting was set up thanks to Kian84's friend Kangnam, who accompanied Kian84 on his visit and acted as interpreter. Thrilled but also anxious about meeting someone he'd looked up to for a long time, Kian84 went to great lengths to prepare for this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. He began by writing out a slew of questions in Japanese, then also painted a portrait of Ito Junji as a gift, along with a home-cooked lunch.
Finally, sitting down across from Ito Junji, Kian84 said, "It feels like a dream to meet you." He also honestly opened up about how he was inspired as a child by Ito Junji's work, and named Souichi Tsujii as his favorite character. While answering Kian84's numerous questions with a smile, Ito Junji pointed out that he had also seen Kian84's webtoons and other artworks. The webtoon artist was thrilled to hear this, as Ito Junji complimented, "The art had a realistic flavor."
Later on, to repay Kina84 for his gifts and time, Ito Junji decided to draw something on the spot, decorated with his signature. After handing over a stylized sketch of his iconic character Tomie Kawakami, the manga artist confessed that he had also already prepared another drawing in advance, handing Kian84 both gifts.
Eventually, Kian84 and Kangnam bid the renowned Japanese manga artist farewell. When it was all over, Kian84 was finally able to let go of some of his anxiety, choking up as he expressed his gratitude toward Kangnam. "I feel indebted to you. I'm going to study Japanese so the next time I meet teacher, I can talk to him more freely," the webtoon artist said.
Meanwhile, the March 30 broadcast of 'I Live Alone' once again topped viewership ratings for Friday night variety programs, averaging a citywide rating of 4.8%.
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