Hello everyone.
I’m writing today to tell you that I’m postponing the launch party of THE GHOST AND THE REAL GIRL in light of the tragedy that occurred in Itaewon, South Korea last night and in the early hours of this morning.
I’ve been living in Korea for almost four years now, and two of those years I lived in Haebangchon, a neighborhood adjacent to Itaewon. Though I moved out of the city recently, I still have deep ties to the community and friends I have in Itaewon. Thankfully, all of my friends are safe, but 151 people have lost their lives in this tragedy.
It would be easy to victim blame. It was people wanting to celebrate a holiday after two years of isolation, social distancing, and fear of getting sick. It was people dressing up in costumes, going out with their friends, having fun. There is no blame in that. There is only sadness that people who wanted a break from their everyday lives ended up losing them instead.
I will have more updates about the launch party postponement tomorrow. Today is a day to mourn.
Avery Carter 