The Beginning After the End (TBATE) creator TurtleMe has addressed reports of Tapas shutting down, admitting that he is still trying to understand the decision and what it could mean for his ongoing projects. The author shared his reaction in a series of posts on September 23, expressing shock and uncertainty about the future of his works on the platform.
TurtleMe explained that Tapas had been his home for the past eight years and currently publishes both The Beginning After the End comic and his Soul Forged novel.
“I’m still trying to understand what exactly is going on, but suffice to say, I’m still in shock,” he wrote, noting that he did not yet know what would happen next and was working to clarify the situation with Tapas.
Despite the uncertainty, TurtleMe emphasized his commitment to continuing his series. He also acknowledged that many other creators on the platform are facing similar concerns about the future of their works.
Kakao Entertainment Plans to Consolidate Digital Publishing Services
The author’s comments follow reports that Kakao Entertainment intends to shut down Tapas as part of a broader strategy to consolidate its webtoon and web novel business.
In South Korea, the company is also preparing to discontinue Kakao Webtoon and integrate its services into KakaoPage by the end of 2026. These changes form part of a wider restructuring of the company’s digital comics and fiction platforms.
However, the precise implications of Tapas’ reported closure for individual creators, ongoing series, and existing readers remain unclear. TurtleMe’s comments reflect the uncertainty surrounding the transition, particularly for authors whose works depend on the platform for publication and distribution.
TurtleMe Previously Discussed TBATE’s Anime Adaptation
TurtleMe previously spoke about The Beginning After the End during an interview ahead of its anime adaptation. At the time, he described Crunchyroll as “instrumental in bridging the creative vision with global reach,” highlighting the importance of international distribution in bringing the story to a wider audience.
The author also launched a Kickstarter campaign last year to fund print editions of the first three volumes, offering another way for readers to support the series beyond its digital release.
Crunchyroll streams the The Beginning After the End anime, which follows King Grey, a powerful ruler who dies under mysterious circumstances and is reincarnated as Arthur Leywin on the magical continent of Dicathen.
Although Arthur begins his new life as a baby, he retains the wisdom and experience of his previous existence. As he grows older, he develops his magical abilities while attempting to correct the mistakes of his former life.
The Future of TBATE Remains Uncertain
For now, TurtleMe has stated that he intends to do everything possible to keep his projects moving forward. However, no definitive plan for relocating or continuing the Tapas-published works has been confirmed in his comments.
Readers and fellow creators will likely be watching for further announcements as more information emerges about Tapas and the future of its publishing operations.
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