"A Black Person Sitting Next to Me on the Subway" by Yerong Explores Microaggressions and Cultural Appropriation

Courtesy of KAMOGAWA

The Japanese edition of the webtoon-based comic book, "A Black Person Sitting Next to Me on the Subway," is scheduled to be available in Japanese bookstores on February 2. Authored and illustrated by Yerong, the book is published by Kamogawa Publication in Japan.

Originally presented as a series of online webtoons on the author's Facebook account in January 2019, Yerong, a Korean woman born in 1993, documented instances of racism she encountered from her peers during her relationship with a boyfriend from Ghana. The webtoon highlighted microaggressions and prejudices, particularly focusing on the visible reluctance of people when a Black person sat next to them on the subway. 

▲ Courtesy of KAMOGAWAThe compiled comics were published as a printed book in October 2019. The Japanese edition is expected to feature new episodes addressing issues like cultural appropriation.

Yerong, reflecting on the project, expressed the hope that the book would raise awareness about subtle forms of racism in Japan, drawing parallels with her observations in Korea. The author emphasized the aim to alert Japan to the nuances of discrimination, urging reflection on these small acts of racism.

Kamogawa Publication noted the growing attention to the term "microaggression" in Japan and emphasized the potential of the book to educate a broader audience about these subtle forms of discrimination. The publication aspires to contribute to building a more understanding and inclusive society through increased awareness of microaggressions.

Sayart 

Blue YIM, yimyoungseo1010@naver.com