"Thank You for the Snacks"...Handwritten Letters from Elementary Students Posted at the Unmanned Stationery Store

In an unmanned stationery store in Cheonan, Chungnam, an unexpected line of 'Post-it note letters' is continuing. As news spread that the stationery store is about to close, regular children customers are attaching letters expressing their gratitude.

On the 22nd, a post titled "I am the owner of an unmanned stationery store" went viral on an online community. According to the post, Mr. A, a man in his 40s who operated an unmanned stationery store in Cheonan for two years, recently had to close the store due to personal reasons. He posted a notice in the stationery store informing customers that the store would close next month. Then one day, Mr. A discovered letters attached by children customers who frequented the store in front of the kiosk.

[Image source=Online community capture]

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In the photos shared by Mr. A, one child wrote in clumsy handwriting, "I am a student who used this stationery store. Thanks to you, I was able to buy delicious snacks and pretty school supplies, which made me happy. I will buy lots of snacks here until February 12. Thank you for everything. Also, thank you for giving me snacks before." Another child wrote, "When I first came, you were here, and I greeted you. Thank you for the snacks. If you can come again, I would be happy to visit. It's a shame."

On an envelope attached by a sixth-grade student, there was a phrase mimicking the unmanned stationery store's warning sign: "Do not open the letter. CCTV is watching." The letter inside expressed, "I used the stationery store well, but now that it is closing, I am very sad."

Mr. A said, "It’s nothing special, but the sincerity of the children was touching," adding, "While running the unmanned store, fortunately, there were no thefts or unpleasant incidents. Rather, I learned a lot by seeing other kids find and return cash or items left behind by friends."

As this story became known, netizens responded warmly with comments such as "These are wonderful children who will create a better future," and "The children grew up kind-hearted and upright. I think their parents must be good people too." Some also expressed hope, saying, "There have been many reports of owners suffering losses in unmanned stores, but I hope there will be more stories like this in the future."

[Image source=Online community capture]

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On the 9th, a story was shared about an elementary school student who accidentally made a mess in an unmanned cafe, then returned to ask for forgiveness with a note and left a 1,000 won bill.

The student spilled ice on the floor without taking out a cup and left the store. Shortly after, the student returned and left a note saying, "I came to the unmanned cafe for the first time and accidentally spilled ice. I will not do it again and will clean up next time. Although it is a small amount, I hope it helps. I wish you long-lasting business and happiness," along with a 1,000 won bill before leaving. The owner expressed gratitude, saying, "It was a note that fully compensated my weary heart."

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