The car ride is surprisingly smooth; the traffic here is far more organized than what I'm used to back in my small town in Canada. As we drive through the streets, I'm struck by the vibrant scene around me. Groups of young people are dancing to K-pop songs and filming Tiktok, creating a lively atmosphere. I always knew K-pop was a significant part of Korean culture, but I never expected to see it come to life like this. It's truly spectacular, how people appreciate these young talents is amazing.
Trust me, no offence, but back home it's a lot more enclosed, everybody hustling for their daily life.
But here it's just so amazing, having everyone enjoying what they love dearly is just so amazing. Its like its part of them, and did I say the streets are designed so good, giving them so much space to gather and dance.
After a few minutes, the car slows down as we enter a trendy avenue, greeted by a stunning array of high-end boutiques, designer fashion stores, and upscale cafes. These establishments are housed in sleek, modern buildings that soar impressively into the sky. The architectural elegance of the area is marked by towering skyscrapers and chic low-rise structures, creating a striking skyline that reflects wealth and sophistication. The presence of luxury brands and the polished appearance of the surroundings signal that this is a destination for the affluent, where the air is filled with an aura of exclusivity and prestige. On the far edge, I can see a billboard playing a video that reads, "Welcome to Cheongdam-dong." I can tell this is a playground for the rich and stylish.
However, I can't help but feel confused about why the company would send me to this side. From my research, I know that Cheongdam-dong is one of the most luxurious streets in Seoul, Korea. It seems like Casey, my cat, is also fascinated by the streets, her eyes wide awake, purring in a beautiful rhythm. I grab my diary and scribble down my thoughts; this is one experience that definitely deserves a place in my keeper. I take multiple photos of the streets, contemplating whether I should post them on TikTok or not, ultimately deciding against it since this may be a fleeting moment.
"Hey, I'm sorry, but is this the street I'm staying on?" I ask the driver, who has been quiet ever since we began our journey. That's when I realized I didn't catch his name. "What's your name, by the way? I didn't catch it."
"Oh, I'm Do-yun. I was instructed to bring all the trainees here. I work for Celestial Dreams Agency," he replies cheerfully, exceeding my expectations.
Wow, that's the name of the company! They only indicated CDA on my invite letter, and I was so overwhelmed that I didn't even look it up. I argue inwardly, realizing he probably knows I don't even remember my company's full name.
"Wow, that's great! They seem to really love their employees, then, because I'm not going to lie, this is incredible. I'm just a trainee, you know?" I mumble, smiling as I grab a waffle and munch on it.
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As we drive deeper into the heart of Cheongdam-dong, I can't help but marvel at the luxurious surroundings. The high-end boutiques and designer stores create an intoxicating atmosphere of wealth and glamour. Yet, amidst my excitement, Do-yun's words linger in my mind, urging me to stay grounded.
"Just a heads-up, Chloe," he says, his voice steady but serious. "The employers at Celestial Dreams are part of what we call the 'chaebol.' They're essentially the conglomerate families that control a significant portion of the economy here in Korea. They can be incredibly demanding."
"Chaebol?" I echo, curiosity piqued.
"Yes, they're very influential and wealthy. Think of them as the elite of the elite. They expect perfection, and they have high standards for everyone, especially the trainees. So, while you might enjoy the luxurious dorms and the perks that come with this internship, remember that it's not all glitz and glamour." His tone is cautionary, and I feel a knot forming in my stomach.
"What do you mean by 'not all glitz and glamour'?" I ask, intrigued yet apprehensive.
"The dorms are indeed luxurious, filled with amenities that many people dream of. You'll have a private room, extravagant meals, and access to the latest technology. But the catch is that you're always under scrutiny. They want to see your dedication and commitment to the job," he explains, glancing at me in the rearview mirror. "You'll be sharing the space with 20 other trainees, and they're all vying for the same opportunities. Competition will be fierce."
"Wow, 20 trainees? And I'm the last one?" I say, feeling a mix of excitement and pressure.
"Exactly. You'll have to find your place quickly among them. They've likely already formed their groups and dynamics. You'll need to prove yourself right off the bat," Do-yun adds, his eyes focused on the road ahead.
I absorb his words, feeling the weight of the situation. "What if I don't fit in?" I ask, my voice barely above a whisper.
"You will. Just be yourself and show them what you're capable of. But be prepared for long hours and challenging tasks. The chaebol have a reputation for pushing their employees to the brink. They want results, and they want them fast," he warns, his expression serious.
"Is there any support for the trainees?" I inquire, hoping for some silver lining.
"There is obviously a kind of upkeep, especially since some of you are from abroad, but an increment often depends on the individual mentor you're assigned. Some are more supportive than others. Others might be tough on you to see how you handle pressure. Just remember, it's a learning experience. Take every challenge as an opportunity to grow," he advises, his voice softening slightly.
"Thanks for the heads-up, Do-yun. I really appreciate you being honest with me." I reply, feeling a bit more prepared for what lies ahead.
The conversation shifts as we approach the dormitory. The building looms tall, its modern architecture a stark contrast to the older structures around it. It's impressive, and my excitement begins to bubble over again.
"Here we are," Do-yun says, pulling up to the entrance. "This is your new home for the duration of your internship. Go inside, I will send your belongings later."
I step out of the car, Casey purring in my arms, as I take in the grandeur of the dorm. The entrance is adorned with glass and steel, and the lobby is bustling with activity. Young professionals rush past, and I can sense the energy of ambition and creativity in the air.
"Just remember, Chloe, stay focused and don't lose sight of why you're here. You have a chance to make a name for yourself in a highly competitive industry," Do-yun says, his voice firm yet encouraging.
"Right. I'll do my best," I reply, feeling a surge of determination.
As I walk inside, a mix of excitement and anxiety washes over me. The chaebol may be intimidating, but I'm ready to embrace this challenge. With Casey by my side, I take a deep breath and step into my new world, ready to carve out a place for myself amidst the luxury and pressure of Cheongdam-dong.
In the dorm, the atmosphere becomes increasingly vibrant, filled with the buzz of high-end boutiques and upscale cafes. The impressive architecture surrounds us, and I can't help but feel awestruck by the luxury that envelops this area. Yet, amidst the excitement, the weight of Do-yun's warning lingers in my mind, pulling my thoughts into a more serious realm.
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Once inside, I'm greeted by an expansive lobby that exudes elegance. The high ceilings and polished marble floors create an atmosphere of sophistication. A reception desk sits at the far end, where a friendly attendant smiles and waves me over.
"Welcome to Celestial Dreams Dorms! How can I assist you today?" she asks, her voice warm and inviting.
"I'm Chloe, the new trainee," I reply, feeling a flutter of nerves.
"Ah, yes! We've been expecting you. Here's your access card for the dormitory. You'll find it on the third floor. Your room number is 302. Enjoy your stay!" she says, handing me a sleek card.
"Thank you!" I say, grateful for the warm welcome.
As I head toward the elevator, I glance around the lobby. It's filled with young professionals, all seemingly busy and focused. I can't help but wonder what their stories are, what brought them here, and how they've navigated the challenges of working for a chaebol.
Once the elevator doors slide open, I step inside, pressing the button for the third floor. My heart races with anticipation and anxiety. The doors open, and I step onto the plush carpet of the hallway. The décor is modern and stylish, and I can see the doors of the other trainees' rooms lined up along the corridor.
I find room 302 and open the door to my new space. The room is surprisingly spacious, with a large window that lets in plenty of natural light. A comfortable bed, a desk, and a wardrobe fill the space, along with a few personal touches that make it feel inviting. I place Casey on the bed, and she immediately curls up, purring contentedly.
"Looks like you're already settling in," I say with a smile.
As I unpack my belongings, I can't shake the feeling of being the last one to arrive. I wonder what the other trainees are like, how they've bonded, and whether I'll be able to find my place among them.
So I decided to call my mom and brother; I can't help it, but I miss them already .I pick up my phone which actually needs some charging. how do I even charge it The sockets here look much different than others but anyway, I will worry about that later.
As the phone rings, I am a bit tensed already I can't help but think they have already moved on and forgotten all about me. I tend to overthink sometimes.
With a ding , another voice comes from the other end of the phone.
"oh dearly me , have you arrived? Ooh, I miss your nosy self already, "Andrew chirps off suddenly with his loud voice.
"Ooh jeez you almost broke my ears, Andrew, and yeah, I arrived an hour ago, just didn't have time to talk to you . A driver from the company picked me up and brought me to my hostel.
"Ooh, wow, that's nice, so how is it? Like the decor, the serenity of Korea, or rather, Seoul, spills the tea, sister. Does it look like what we see in movies or K dramas?"
"Trust me it looks more than that, brother. I am currently living in the most expensive street in all of Seoul , its like I am going to be invested in a Kdrama movie soon"
We both chuckle in delight
"I will be staying in Cheongdam-dong, for the next couple of months and trust me it looks serious here , I can't even believe I am still fazed , like the streets smells and screams chaebol."
"What? You've got to be kidding me did you just say chaebol like what the helly is going on.Looks like your employer company is freaking top notch , I am still incredibly fazed .I need to look it up asap, what was the name again." My brother exclaims and I can here his flipflops tapping the floor like he 's running
"Wait are you running? Where are you running to ?"
"To get my laptop you dummy , now what was your company's name again ?" He says , seemed like he's pissed off with my dummy self."
"What Andrew your so annoying jeez , ok its Celestial Dreams Agency "
The next few seconds are quiet or I can here is tapping of keyboards, and then suddenly a lot of screaming, because thats what I could hear from my side, so hilarious.
"What siz , that company is top tier, its the largest and most influential company in Korea, and guess what its owned by chaebol, ooh gosh, look chle I don't care, even if you love yourself you've got to catch a handsome chaebol there. Ooh I can't wait , look siz your pretty but try their beauty products, trust me you will look dashing ."
"What I am in disbelief Andrew ? why are you delusional? you think this chaebol will even look at me twice once they get to know I am an intern? There is no way. How can you forget all the female and male actors here? I am definitely not a catch. Andrew, stop make delusional kdrama scenarios in your head its not going to happen."
I chuckle loudly even waking Casey up from her sleep because what goes on in my brother's head is full of delusional kind of toxic drama, he creates a whole k drama within minutes , honestly I don't know why he hates filming while he watches the drama more than me, honestly he would be the better option here more than me.
"Why are you laughing, you never know Chloe, if my dream comes true you owe me alot and I mean a lot. I want a whole year travelling the world, because you don't trust me at all."
ooh I can tell he's sulking, pouting his mouth like I am his biggest enemy, thats one thing we have in similar.
"What are you're kidding me, Andrew; wait, and where is mom ?"
"Ooh stop being a baby, you already miss mommy," he says cockily like the craziest dude anyway she out doing grocery she left her phone charging so,"
"Ooh....speaking of charging, I think I am going to be offline for a bit, the charging pots are kind of different here ...I am going to cry, I think I am going to go and ask for maybe a spare because the town is a bit far from here ."
'That's one of the things you have to face , but don't worry Chloe you are a sweet pie , just approach a friend I'm sure you'll get one ...ok bye bye I have to go know, love you take care, ooh and snuggle the fur out of Casey for me, I miss my pillow"
"Hey, Casie is not your pillow , and I think she doesn't miss you at all , I think she's happy to be out of
Later that evening, I decided to venture out and explore the dormitory facilities. I step into the common area, where a few trainees are gathered, chatting and laughing. They seem to be enjoying each other's company, and I feel a flicker of apprehension as I approach them.
"Hey, I'm Chloe, the new trainee," I introduced myself, hoping to break the ice.
One of the trainees, a girl with bright hair and a friendly smile, turns to me. "Welcome! I'm Minji. It's great to have you here. We were just talking about the upcoming project we'll be working on."
"Yeah, we're excited to see what you bring to the team!" another trainee adds, his enthusiasm infectious.
"So when like what do you do ,exactly, just want to gets a head up" I ask Minji she seems friendly.
"Ooh, it's so much fun here!" Minji exclaims, her eyes sparkling with excitement. "You know, there are a lot of K-pop idols and K-drama shoots in this area. The company often sends us to concerts and filming sets to help out. That's what CDA does. It's one of the largest entertainment companies in South Korea."
She takes a sip of her drink, then adds, "Oh, and the owner has two kids who are kind of a big deal in Korea: Kim Lee Haerin and Kim Seung-jae. I wanted to mention them because you might encounter both of them. They're famous actors, and since we're trainees here, it's likely we'll cross paths."
I notice her expression shifts slightly, as if she senses my confusion about why she's sharing this information.
"Look, Chloe," she continues, her tone becoming more serious. "They're chaebols, so they might come off as rude at times, but you'll have to handle it. Just remember, we're all in this together."
Her words resonate with Do-yun's earlier warnings, yet they also offer a sense of comfort. I feel a renewed determination swelling within me. "Thanks, Minji. I'll keep that in mind."
As the night unfolds, I find myself laughing and sharing stories with the other trainees. Despite the chaebol's high expectations, the friendships and connections we form here seem to lighten the load.
Later, as I make my way back to my room, I can't shake off the thought of Lee Haerin and Seung-jae. Curiosity piqued, I decide to look them up. Settling into my bed with my laptop, I search for their names.
To my surprise, I discover that Lee Haerin is not just an accomplished actress but also known for her philanthropic work. Seung-jae, on the other hand, is celebrated for his roles in popular dramas and films, gaining a massive following.
Scrolling through pictures, my heart skips a beat when I see a familiar face—Lee Haerin. I realize in that moment that I had actually sat next to her on the plane! We had shared a brief conversation, but I hadn't recognized her at the time.