On My Feet, Finally

Dear Jin-ho,

You won’t believe it—I finally got them.
A real pair. Brand new. Still in the box, still smelling like possibility.

North Korea’s first real sneakers.
Made here, designed here, and now… on my feet.

They’re light. Soft. Almost too soft. When I walk, it feels like the ground forgives me.
No more stiff soles or blistered heels. Just movement. And maybe a little pride.

I took the long way home, just to feel them hit the pavement.
Three people noticed. One of them asked where I got them. I told him, “They found me.”

Have you seen anyone with them in your town yet?
They say this is just the beginning—that soon we’ll have more models, more styles, more steps forward.

But honestly? I’m just glad they fit.
I’m glad they’re mine.
And I’m glad I can walk to school without thinking about every single step.

Write me back.
Tell me what’s on your feet these days.

Your friend,
Tae-jun