Finally, to commemorate the publication of 《The Happy Deliveryman》, we filmed an interview video at the publisher’s office. I shared my story while answering the host’s questions, and closed with a message to readers: offering comfort and encouragement, and urging them not to miss the ‘small happiness of this very moment’.

After filming, the staff member handling the camera remarked, “This is why people watch videos more than read books. Your words are so full of life!” Though I was worried since it was a one-take shoot, I felt relieved knowing my sincerity came through. Actually, right before filming, I took off my glasses to prevent reflections. My joke that “I couldn’t see a thing, so I just blabbed away” made the studio atmosphere feel much warmer.

After sharing the publication news with acquaintances, I was grateful to hear from the publishing house manager that over 100 copies had been ordered through Kyobo Book Centre. Typically, a first print run is 1,500 copies, and selling around 200 copies in the first month is considered a successful start. But achieving 50% of that target on the very first day felt like a miracle to me. Honestly, I was torn between worrying, “What if the book doesn’t sell?” and feeling grateful just to have it out in the world. But thanks to my friends’ generous support, I gained tremendous strength. Now, the thought of my personal story being publicly revealed feels a bit burdensome, and I’m cautious about facing the evaluations of an unspecified many.

But if my record can offer even a tiny bit of encouragement and courage to someone who’s experienced failure like me or is going through a difficult time with depression, that alone would be enough. I hope that 《The Happy Delivery Driver》, which has just left the starting line, will be planted as a warm seed of happiness in readers’ hearts.