Jeju’s salty air and laid-back pace were exactly what you needed.

You had heard about Yichunok, a cozy little restaurant tucked away near the coastline, from a local. “Get the mackerel ssambap,” they said. “You won’t regret it.” So here you were—solo, a bit sun-dazed, cheeks still warm from a morning spent walking the island trails.

When you entered the restaurant, it was bustling. The air smelled of grilled fish and sesame oil. One corner of the restaurant had cameras set up, but the crew seemed relaxed, eating just like everyone else. It looked like they were in between takes.

“Are you okay with sitting at a shared table?” the ajumma at the door asked, glancing at your party of one.

“Sure,” you nodded.

She motioned toward a spot. You walked over, sliding into the seat across from someone already halfway through their ssambap spread.

He looked up briefly, gave a polite nod, then went back to wrapping a piece of grilled mackerel in lettuce.

You settled in, not really paying attention—until he spoke.

“They weren’t joking about the ssambap. It’s dangerously good,” he said.

You looked up, and your brain paused for a second.

Kim Taehyung. Together with Jimin and Jungkook

Not on a billboard. Not on stage. Just… here. Chopsticks in hand, hair slightly messy, eyes kind.

You blinked. “I’ll take your word for it,” you replied with a light smile, keeping it cool.

He smiled too. “First time in Jeju?”