A “cliffhanger” is a frequently used plot device in which the final scene, instead of completely concluding the story, ends on a suspenseful note, leaving the audience wanting more. In fact, our everyday lives are filled with cliffhangers, as every little twist and turn seems to thrust us into unpredictable situations of dilemma. On a slightly related note, June is the last month of the semester, and I am sure many Korea University (KU) students are starting to make plans for summer break. Likewise, The Granite Tower (GT) presents to you our June issue, encapsulating the sentiment of uncertainty and passion one may feel these days, through the short yet impactful theme of “cliffhanger.”

Inspired by the recent Washington Declaration issued by South Korea and the United States (U.S.), our Cover Story investigates the past, present, and future of North Korea’s nuclear weapons and the threat they pose on international relations. Moreover, our Features report on internal threats of South Korea, including the wrongdoings of authoritative figures and the long-lasting impact of financial difficulties. And last but not least, for GT Spotlight, my fellow editors and I each wrote farewell letters to GT, commemorating our time here and thanking those who accompanied us on our journey for the past two years.

One thing about cliffhangers is that although they do seem like the end, they are merely the beginning of the end. Although I will no longer be a part of GT, I am certain that GT will always be a part of me. Its people and legacy have moved me in ways unexpected, and while my time here was brief, my passion and support for GT will last for years to come. Thank you, to the reporters, editors, and readers of GT, for giving me a truly irreplaceable, once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.