RETURNING TO SEOUL

EPISODE 1

Chapter 1: Coming Home

Yo Nabi’s heart raced as she stepped off the plane, the familiar scents and sights of Seoul washing over her. Eight years had passed since she left for the United States, and though the years had changed her, she felt like the same nervous middle schooler who had once said goodbye to everything she knew. Now, at 21, she was determined to reconnect with her past and carve out a future in the city she once called home.

As the taxi weaved through the bustling streets of Seoul, Nabi gazed out at the vibrant cityscape. Neon lights and towering skyscrapers reflected in her eyes, each sight filling her with a mix of nostalgia and excitement. This was the city of her childhood memories, where she had shared laughter and tears with Minji and Jisoo, her two best friends. She wondered if they’d still recognize her. Would they still laugh at her silly jokes? Would they forgive her for leaving?

The taxi pulled up to her new apartment building in Gangnam, a sleek, modern structure that seemed to reach for the stars. The doorman greeted her with a polite bow as she stepped into the elegant lobby, her suitcases trailing behind. As Nabi entered the elevator, her reflection in the mirrored walls caught her attention. She had changed so much, from her style to her confidence, but deep down, she still felt like the shy girl who had left Seoul all those years ago.

Her new apartment was small but cozy, with large windows that offered a breathtaking view of the city skyline. As she unpacked, she thought about the life she was about to start. Her parents had stayed behind in the U.S., and though she missed them, this was her chance to rediscover herself. It was both thrilling and terrifying.

The next morning, Nabi awoke to the sounds of Seoul—honking cars, distant chatter, and the hum of life outside her window. She had barely begun to settle in when her phone buzzed with a message. It was from Minji, and her heart leapt as she read the text. “Café Blossom. Noon. Don’t be late!” Nabi smiled, her nerves replaced by anticipation. She quickly got ready and set out for the café.

As she entered the quaint little café, the smell of freshly brewed coffee and pastries enveloped her. At a corner table, she saw them—Minji and Jisoo. Minji’s face lit up the moment she spotted Nabi. “Nabi! Oh my gosh, it’s really you!” she exclaimed, rushing to pull her into a hug. Jisoo followed, her laughter warm and familiar. “You look so different! You’re glowing!”

The three of them spent hours catching up, sharing stories of their lives since they’d last seen each other. Minji had become a fashion designer, her creativity now fueling a thriving career. Jisoo, ever the free spirit, had taken up freelance photography, capturing moments that spoke to her soul. As they talked, it felt as though no time had passed at all. They laughed about their middle school antics, teased each other mercilessly, and promised to never lose touch again.

Later that evening, as Nabi returned to her apartment, she felt a deep sense of contentment. She was home. But her excitement soon turned to curiosity when she noticed a man stepping out of the apartment across the hall. He was tall, with sharp features and an easy smile. Noticing her, he paused. “Hi, you must be new here. I’m Jung Hwan. I live next door.”

Nabi smiled politely, introducing herself. “I’m Nabi. Nice to meet you.” But as he turned to leave, a flicker of recognition struck her. Jung Hwan wasn’t just a neighbor—he was one of South Korea’s most famous actors. Nabi’s mind raced. What were the chances?

Over the next few days, more surprises awaited. As Nabi familiarized herself with her new surroundings, she met Seo Joon, the enigmatic model whose intense gaze could make anyone’s heart race; Hyun Woo, the quiet yet brilliant music producer; and Taeyang, the mischievous K-pop idol whose grin seemed to hold a thousand secrets. Each introduction left her feeling more bewildered than the last. Was this fate, or some cosmic joke?

Despite their fame, her neighbors were surprisingly down-to-earth. Jung Hwan often offered her advice about the building’s quirks, while Hyun Woo shared recommendations for hidden cafés around the city. Taeyang’s playful nature often lightened her mood, and Seo Joon, though reserved, had a way of making her feel seen.

One evening, Nabi found herself on the rooftop, gazing at the city lights. To her surprise, Taeyang joined her. “Seoul looks better from up here, doesn’t it?” he said, his voice soft. They talked for hours, their conversation flowing effortlessly. Taeyang’s charm was undeniable, but there was a sincerity to him that caught Nabi off guard.

As she lay in bed that night, Nabi couldn’t help but smile. She had no idea what the future held, but for the first time in a long while, she felt like she was exactly where she was meant to be. This was just the beginning of her journey, and she was ready to embrace whatever came next.