I had no idea the legend himself, Kim Jung Gi would be at San Diego Comic Con in 2018! I could not believe my eyes when I turned the corner at the artist alley and found myself just a few meters away from him. My time had finally arrived to meet the Grand Master.
He only speaks Korean so his manager was doing the translating between us, but the one thing that was really prominent was his happy and uplifting nature. I shared my deep appreciation and admiration for his mastery and before the end of the show I gifted him a signed copy of my biggest cover at the time - Batman #50. He was very thankful and was also surprised to learn that I was indeed the cover artist behind it.
I also ended up seeing him again later in 2018 at New York Comic Con. I bought two of his art books (one as a gift to a close artist friend at the time, Asia Ladowska). He drew a quick masterpiece on the front pages of both art books. It was very impressive to watch him create his magic. I will always cherish mine.
Very unfortunately, 3 years later on the 3rd of October 2022, Kim Jung Gi tragically passed away. Master Kim, thank you for blessing us with your positive energy and visual mastery. It was an honour to have met you.