Webtoon Legend 'Calm Down Man' Confirms Full Retirement to Dedicate to Live Streaming

Lee Mal-nyeon, widely recognized by his online persona Calm Down Man and formerly as the acclaimed webtoon artist Chimchakman, has officially declared his complete and irreversible retirement from webtoon creation. This significant announcement, made during his appearance on MBC’s popular talk show Radio Star on August 20, 2025, leaves no room for speculation about a return to the comics medium.

Mal-nyeon candidly explained that his decision stems from a profound shift in his creative priorities. This shift is driven by his escalating success and deep involvement in live streaming and YouTube content creation. He articulated the inherent conflict between the rigorous discipline and continuous artistic effort required to maintain his drawing skills and his burgeoning focus on broadcasting. Ultimately, this led him to sever ties with webtoon artistry entirely.

A Distinguished Webtoon Career

Reflecting on a distinguished career, Calm Down Man's journey in comics began with his 2009 debut, the 'Lee Mal-Nyeon Series.' He later captivated millions with his highly popular satire-action webtoon, 'Lee Mal‑nyeon's Journey to the West,' which ran for an impressive 125 chapters from 2013 to 2016 on Naver Webtoon. Despite his considerable impact, he displayed characteristic humility, noting that he was never formally a member of the cartoonists’ association. This was a playful nod to his unconventional path and modest expectations for future artistic endeavors. The challenges he faced in upholding his earlier drawing standards were even acknowledged by respected industry figures such as Heo Young-man, underscoring the demanding nature of the craft.

The Rise of a Digital Entertainer

This transition marks a pivotal moment in his career. The prominent webtoon artist has successfully reinvented himself as a formidable YouTuber. His current focus on internet broadcasting, which includes hosting dynamic live shows featuring an array of notable stars, has proven to be incredibly lucrative. It reportedly generates sufficient revenue to invest in significant properties. This development not only highlights Lee Mal-nyeon’s adaptability but also serves as a compelling case study of the evolving landscape of creative careers in digital entertainment. Talented individuals increasingly pivot between traditional mediums like comics and modern online streaming platforms to sustain and expand their artistic expression and livelihood.