Stoned #5 - The Crown Days

Stoned #5 

Corona changed the world. Everyone was busy blaming one another, and as the world locked its doors, including countries, walls were built between friends and families.
In the world I live in, like many others, this was an unprecedented, unpredictable event. Who could have known it'd be more than a couple of years? Who is to blame? Is there anyone to blame or be blamed? All I know is that we're here today, existing and living through these wild times.
As the pandemic nears the end, this issue reveals a catalog of archived stories that pre-date the pandemic, through to those that came about during it. It's been almost three years, and while a lot has happened, our lifestyles remain largely the same - for some, nothing changed. As for me, every day felt like a battle and I just did not have the space to work on this magazine. A poor excuse, maybe, but I am apologetic to those who shared their heartfelt stories with me more than three years ago now - this is long overdue. But it's honestly only now, as I pick up my pen and watch films being developed, I feel I can start to breathe again.
There are still quite a few people who don't understand why I make magazines nor have any idea what the magazine is about. Simply put, this issue, this publication, is about capturing and sharing the stories and lives of individuals who seek and have found freedom through subculture, despite the craziness around us. And as much as Stoned is a slow-burn magazine, we want our words to resonate genuinely for those who care to explore it.
Thank you all for persevering through the pandemic and friends who have loved, waited for, and continue to support Stoned Magazine.
This issue wouldn't be here without you all. We love and support what you do.
YOUNG SEOK HONG 홍영 석
SEOUL, KOREA