A developer from Pakistan discovered that an npm package name he wanted was already taken. Rather than accepting defeat, I decided to contact the original owner—a developer from Korea named Hamin Lee.
Finding the Owner
After locating the package on npm, I searched for the owner's identity online and found Hamin Lee's professional presence.
Sending the First Message
I crafted a respectful message explaining my situation. I introduced myself as a developer working on an open-source project and mentioned that the existing package appeared unused and empty. The message remained honest and straightforward about my request.
His First Reply
Hamin Lee responded with unexpected kindness. Despite being a stranger, he offered immediate help—stating he was heading home from work in Korea and would transfer ownership after dinner. He expressed genuine support for the project.
The Transfer
Lee sent an npm access invitation, making me a maintainer. Subsequently, Lee removed his own access entirely, granting complete control of the package to me.
How It Felt
I felt profoundly grateful. What took Lee minutes removed a psychological barrier and created a meaningful connection between developers across continents.
Key Lessons Learned
1. Just Ask (Politely)
I realized that assuming rejection prevents action. Respectful, clear communication can yield surprising results.
2. Kind People Exist in Tech
Lee's generosity demonstrated that developer communities contain people willing to help strangers selflessly.
3. Small Actions Have Big Impact
A simple transfer provided significant motivation and reinforced community belonging.
How I Plan to Honor This
I committed to:
- Maintaining the package meaningfully
- Crediting Hamin Lee in the project's README
- Passing forward similar generosity when opportunities arise
Final Thoughts
This experience reinforced my belief in the open source community's collaborative spirit. Technology connects us across borders, cultures, and time zones. A small act of kindness from Seoul to Pakistan reminded me why I love building in public.
Sometimes the package name you want is just a polite message away.