A poignant farewell message from the owner of a long-standing stationery shop in Seoul’s Eunma Apartment complex has captured the attention of the online community. The shop, a familiar fixture in the Daechi-dong neighborhood, is set to close its doors, prompting a heartfelt goodbye from its proprietor.
A Handwritten Goodbye
The message, shared across various online forums, was displayed on the stationery shop’s glass window. It expressed deep gratitude to the young customers who frequented the store over the years. The owner wrote, “Dear young friends, thank you so much for everything.” While the shop is closing, the owner assured them of continued support from afar for their bright futures.
Fond Memories and Future Hopes
The note continued with a personal touch, listing the names of over twenty children the owner particularly cherished. “You will be greatly missed! I will always be cheering you on. Fighting!” the message read, conveying a sense of deep affection and enduring encouragement.
Community Reaction
The touching sentiment resonated with many residents, sparking a wave of emotional responses. Comments expressed how the shop had been a place that “planted dreams” in children and how the owner’s kindness was deeply appreciated. Many shared that they would miss the “emotional warmth” the stationery store provided.
The Decline of Traditional Stationery Stores
This closure highlights a broader trend affecting traditional stationery shops, which are increasingly becoming a rarity. Industry data indicates a significant decline in the number of these stores. From over 10,000 locations in 2018, the number of stationery retailers has fallen by more than 60% to fewer than 4,000 in the past year.
