(Lee Dong Wook Lim Soojung)
(E Som)
(Jang Hyun Sung Kim Ji Young)
(Lee Mi Do Lee Sang Yi Ji E-Suu)
No way. I checked twice.
Must I come and find typos?
Twice means two people
go through it once each!
But Byung-su is still a trainee.
Then train him fast.
I told you, books...
Aren't made alone!
I'll check again.
Oh, no.
(Microdust)
Hello, boss. I'm listening.
What?
Why!
Why do unusual things happen
to writers who sign on with us?
The author of "Health First" gets sick
and stops writing.
The lawyer who wrote "Easy Law"
gets scammed.
The songwriter of "Love Being Alone"
suddenly gets pregnant!
I guess artists are like that.
The communication expert who wrote
"Laws of Communication" is ghosting.
That's why, chief editor,
you should've watched Choi Su-lin.
Yes, it's all my fault.
I should've made sure she carried condoms.
Watch that mouth of yours!
What do you think?
Should we call in a shaman?
Good idea!
Why you...
How about publishing
just "Single in Barcelona"?
Author Hong is our main headliner anyway.
The Publication Promotion Agency
funding requires a series.
Where can we find a new writer?
(University Prep)
Whoa. Hunky.
(Park Young-ho)
I'm Park Young-ho,
your new essay teacher.
No clapping.
You may think subjects like Korean literature
and essay writing are classy and easier to prepare.
Especially essays!
They're difficult in university entrance exams.
So, let's not get too excited.
The girl with dark glasses,
don't twirl your pen.
Boy in second row.
Spit out your gum.
Now,
what must we objectively do?
Identify the thesis.
If you understand the thesis in an essay?
You're gold!
May I ask a question, Mr. Park?
I'm done working. Tomorrow.
Mr. Park! Where are you going?
No staff dinner?
I have a prior engagement.
Meeting your girlfriend?
(Single in Seoul)
He's bordering on being sentimental and pretentious.
Writers need to be
sentimental and pretentious!
Who recommended him?
I found him myself.
"Searching for single men."
He lives in Seoul and his posts aren't bad.
His place is clean like a hotel.
Great food-for-one photos and recipes.
He takes good pictures.
He has to write well.
We're not publishing pictures.
His writing isn't bad either.
Though it's short, he has sense.
Informative, sensible, and stylish!
He has everything it takes to be a good writer!
I'll meet him.
Good decision. I'm sure you two will get along.
He looks like a meticulous man
who talks a lot, but not what's really inside.
He's probably excessively narcissistic and stubborn.
He's always alone,
so he probably has no friends.
Chief editor Joo...
I bet he's a difficult man.
- Right? - That's right.
Isn't this great?
We're all alums here.
Right?
It's nice to start off on a good note!
Young-ho, remember Hyun-jin?
- No. - Of course!
Young-ho? You don't remember?
That's understandable.
Hyun-jin is not the type
to enflame men's hearts.
What do you mean?
I set them on fire all the time!
You really don't remember me?
Joo Hyun-jin, class of '03?
Back off.
That's bad manners. Apologize and wear your glasses.
Jeez.
I don't remember. That's why I have no friends.
How can you not remember?
I guess this publishing company isn't busy?
Yes, we're busy.
I'll get to the point.
I don't know how much you've heard,
but we planned an essay series on
being single in the city.
We have writers for Barcelona,
Seoul, and New York.
But the writer for Seoul
suddenly got pregnant
and can't write about being single, so...
So you're asking me to sub in?
No! Let me explain.
Yes, it's a sub.
But it's not like we choose just anyone.
While looking for a suitable writer,
Boss showed us your social media
and our editing team agreed.
How about saying impressed rather than agreed?
Not quite impressed, but we liked what we saw.
We'll discuss on how to make good use out of your social media.
You said you wanted to be a writer.
Because I don't want to deal with
people like her.
I want to work on my own.
Writers don't publish books alone.
Ever seen a book without an editor?
Even the Bible has an editor.
Is there another editor?
Listen.
She may talk without thinking,
but she's the best editor.
She's really good at her job.
- Look. - Thank you.
- She's a smart gal. - Oh, no! Darn it!
She's different when she works.
I swear.
Now, let's summarize what we've learned so far.
Essays aren't written with magic but logic.
It means there's a formula.
Or else, it's wrong, not different.
Your unique style is not respected in essays.
Just follow my methods
and I'll make sure you learn the tips
to target the best universities in the country.
What?
He talks well like a show host.
He's got the tone to keep listeners glued.
He's not boring, but very informative.
He pushes and pulls
to keep people's attention.
He can't be boring,
not with a face like that.
You think?
I guess he's good looking.
That's a warning, ma'am!
That's judging a book by its cover!
I'm suddenly so bored.
Hello?
What is it this time?
I was just thinking about you.
What do you mean? Of course people read books!
Is he having an affair?
Who put liquor in here?
Look through the project plan,
then decide if you'll do it.
(Publishing Plan)
Isn't it great?
It's nice.
The mountain is...
Overall, it's convincingly written.
Are you okay with the chapter plans?
Things like walking, resting,
eating, and living alone in Seoul
need to be shown in an intuitive way.
Writer Hong has agreed to write
on Barcelona like this, too.
It's primitive but not bad.
Anything else you don't like?
Lots.
You changed "It's good to be alone"
to "It's okay to be alone."
That changes the tone of my book.
Yes. I'm asking you to change the tone.
I can't because I don't agree with that.
Even if I did,
I won't say singles must live well
to live well with others later.
That's too cliche.
You expect me to say that too?
Why?
There's probably a reason why everyone says that.
No one is completely alone.
Right. We're not alone from birth.
I mean
people can live with minimal relationships.
And "it's okay" sounds like
you're consoling.
I think you need to be alone to be evolved,
especially men.
You know you can't add stuff
like "especially for men", right?
Okay. I'll watch that.
But I'm not changing my mind.
It's true that it's good to be alone.
It may be true, but it's not a fact.
It's more like a twisted truth through your life.
Twisted truth?
Where'd you get that idea?
You want me to change my ideas
to yours?
What are you, a dictator?
Or are you power tripping?
The writer has the upper hand in our contracts.
(Publishing Contract)
I have the upper hand?
Will you stamp it or not?
It's good to be alone, no!
It's okay even if you're alone?
How about it's okay to be alone?
Fine. We need different views.
I'll stamp it later.
I need more time.
But we don't have time.
If you don't want to...
Who says I don't?
Then stamp it now, please.
If you don't have your stamp, you can sign it.
I thought you didn't want to,
but you've prepared a lot.
I can take a taxi home.
No need to drive me.
I don't want to impose.
It's on the way.
I'm not the type to beat around the bush.
Okay.
Going on a blind date today?
Your makeup seems different too.
Your heels are too high. Be careful or you'll fall.
For someone who likes singlehood,
why so much interest in others?
Just saying what I noticed.
Your skin tone is cool,
so instead of orange, try pink tones.
Nice car.
I love this car in red!
Hop in.
How can a girl be so...
No derogatory remarks, remember?
Okay. I won't!
But no one should do this
to a car.
Jeez.
What are you doing? It's bothering me.
What about this? This doesn't bother you?
What's your address?
Just drop me off
at the nearest subway station.
Are you using this as an air freshener?
You don't live in this car, do you?
Please stop.
Leave it.
I have things organized my way.
People who don't organize always say that.
You lied about not remembering me, right?
If not,
why do you talk like you've known me?
You remember.
Knock-knock.
Hello.
Were you busy last week?
We need you to come
to remind us it's Wednesday.
Since you didn't come,
the week felt so long.
Oh, really?
Thanks for the review on Instagram
about our book, 'The Prophet'.
We got more attention thanks to you.
That was your company's book? It figures.
The book was great.
I couldn't help raving about it.
How can I ever thank you
for all your help?
No worries.
How about a cup of coffee?
He's so cute.
See? It's a greenlight, right?
So did you go out for coffee with him or not?
I sent him a coffee coupon.
Are you kidding me?
It's so obviously a greenlight.
I thought I'd play a little hard to get.
Wanna change it to a redlight?
Did he ask you out
or go to bed with him?
He just asked for a cup of coffee.
Why play hard to get?
He's not completely my type,
but he makes me curious.
But Sun-woo lives in Bundang.
That's a bit far.
Don't go overboard.
Stop imagining things.
Soon, you'll be naming his baby.
You should've seen the way Sun-woo looked at me.
Remember that coffee shop?
You saw a man fold a piece of paper
and leave it behind.
You got so flustered and wondered
if you should date him or not.
I did?
It turned out to be the receipt.
Why did the jerk fold his receipt and leave it?
Remember?
You have a good memory.
It was so long ago.
It was last summer.
And that spinning instructor!
He liked me! He was just really shy.
Hello! Go in.
If he's so shy,
why'd he bring 20 people to dinner on you?
There is more.
That guy...
You said he looks like a handsome Middle Eastern man.
You bought a jade mat from him!
That was ages ago.
I have no luck in dating.
You think it's luck?
You grow apart without ever getting close to men.
Don't you think that's weird?
Look at all these great books!
How's business? How much do you make per day?
Is this a tax audit?
Why do you want to know?
Don't you want to come back to editing?
I hated editing so much.
Now that I stopped doing it, I realized
it totally sucked.
By the way,
how about Young-ho, the new writer?
You heard? He signed on yesterday.
Really?
Was Young-ho close with the boss?
I think they met at alumni gatherings and such.
Then why did he insist on him?
(Publishing Plan)
Oh my gosh! What is this?
A contract?
- Were you scouted? - No.
A publishing company?
You're publishing a book?
- Just a short essay book. - Wow!
The small publishing company begged for my help.
But please don't mention this to our director.
Of course, I won't.
Hi, Mr. Park.
- You're writing an essay book? - What?
That jerk.
It's okay!
It'll mention our tutoring school, right?
- Then you'll mention me too? - No, don't worry.
It's okay. You can write me in.
Let me know if you need my picture.
It's okay. Write it well.
I'll root for your essay.
Dad! What's wrong?
Will you take a picture of me doing planks?
What's wrong with this screen?
It's a photo effect.
The pictures turn out cute with that.
Give me my phone.
Your fiance likes muscular men?
Hyun-jin.
You don't exercise to show others.
You do it for your health.
Then why add photo effects
to your pictures?
That's in trend these days.
I guess late love affairs are scary.
Love affairs are scary early or late in life.
You have a lot of energy, huh?
Then use that to cook for me.
People will make fun of me
if I cook for my grown daughter.
Says who? You'll be complimented for being caring.
Hello?
I just set the table for Hyun-jin
and started reading a book.
Oh, my.
I just made some soup and eggs.
A caring father? Oh, please.
Hyun-jin!
You're getting ready to move out, right?
(Living Along in Seoul)
(Part 1 - Walking Alone)
(The Single Person, The Life, and Love)
(Part 1 - The Single's Dilemma)
Those who don't live alone, you're all guilty!
Has there ever been a time
humans have lived more well-off?
We have great food, clothing, shelter,
transportation and Internet.
Then what about the happiness index?
Ironically, people are living under
more dissatisfaction and stress.
Why?
Because we have less time alone.
Yes, right here.
We live alongside others all day
as someone's client, co-worker, or teacher.
We play so many different roles.
There is not enough time for you to be yourself.
Even at home, do you want to be someone's lover,
husband, parent, son-in-law, or brother-in-law?
Don't change for someone else.
If you want to be yourself,
singlehood is the answer.
The answer?
This is so frustrating.
Is there something wrong with Mr. Park's draft?
Way too many.
I asked him to write intuitively, but he's too resolute.
He's an instructor all right.
He asks questions and gives the answers.
- Did Ms. Hong send her draft? - Yes.
Things don't change much in the city of Barcelona.
It takes several centuries to build a church here.
The unchanging city gives a sense of security
with many passing people.
To enjoy short relationships
without changing myself,
this is the most suitable city.
I'm jealous.
I knew it.
Ms. Hong's draft is easy and catchy.
That's why I chose her.
But her tone is so different from Young-ho's.
That's why I chose you.
Listen. Ask him to write about his first love too.
He has a first love?
Wasn't he a born single?
Nope. He can't be a single.
He's never been single before.
First love? It's not fun.
Why do people always rave
about first love stories?
They've probably never been someone's first love.
That's why they're curious.
Try writing about it. I think it'll be interesting.
You know
that's like telling a vegetarian to write about having meat.
Don't write about having meat,
but quitting meat.
There must be a reason
why they turned vegetarian.
Can you step aside?
You said you voluntarily quit dating.
Dating? First love? I don't even remember.
It works well still.
I'll leave this
since you bought it for me.
No, just take it.
Take your watch
and half-burned candle too.
Take your Ugg boots and everything else.
You should re-wallpaper this place.
Worry about your fiance's house!
What's the reason?
You're too kind.
I'll be better.
See? You're too kind.
What?
I found another man.
Love is like a car accident.
What damn car accident!
Will you splash it on me?
You were that bad of a loser?
Maybe there were other reasons?
Was it like that with your first love, too?
Probably not.
Was it a traumatic first love?
Don't get any ideas.
There's no such thing as my first love.
Move.
- I heard there is. - Says who?
My boss.
Dammit.
(My First Love)
Park Young-ho, born in Seoul.
You don't have any experience?
No, it's my first job.
Are you a student?
I'm a Korean Literature major.
Hello.
You're here early.
He's here for an interview.
He's a university student.
Thanks.
- You're a student? - Yes.
A highly educated worker
for a laundry room job, huh?
Who was that lady?
Ms. Hong?
You'll be working with her.
She started a week ago.
She's your senior.
What senior? It's just a week.
How about sushi?
That's my spot.
- You owe me one. - What?
What are you reading?
Oh, no!
Haruki's book.
If it's good, lend it to me?
Sure. I will when I'm done.
Your hands are swollen.
Your hands can get ruined here.
Put lotion on often.
There is lotion all over the hotel.
(Hong Joo-ok)
You have a pretty name.
Here.
But you started a week earlier!
Happy birthday.
Thanks.
So? What happened next?
- What? - I read your draft.
Your first love story is honest and interesting.
But there's got to be more, right?
That's it.
This is where the readers get more curious.
Aren't you the one who's curious?
Yes, I'm curious too.
A writer who makes an editor curious!
Forget it. Bye.
Jeez.
Anyway, my writing made her curious, huh?
Why? What part is funny?
I just read here
a conversation we had.
I'll read the rest tomorrow.
Okay.
- Is it boring? - No. I need to rest.
Stop feeding the cat.
Stray cats have a lifespan of 2 or 3 years.
I should feed it while I can.
Don't eat sushi on rainy days.
- Sushi, please! - Meat!
Please go ahead. I'll be right there.
Sure.
Why'd you come?
We promised to watch a movie tonight.
Wasn't that tomorrow?
Sorry, I have a staff dinner now.
Let's talk later at home.
Chief!
Young-ho!
Long time no see. How are you?
- Where's Joo-ok? - Ms. Hong?
She quit a while ago.
I should go.
Foolishly, I went through several fiery relationships
and ended back at square one.
I thought maybe I'm not meant
to have relationships.
(Order completed)
Soon, something miraculous happened.
The world helps those
who spend on themselves.
With the online shopping points I used to buy women gifts,
I gave a gift to myself for the first time.
Then,
a whole new world opened up before me.
Investments in a relationship
like money, time, and effort,
I decided to use on myself instead.
Have you ever bought yourself a ring?
How about a watch?
Or AAA steak just for yourself?
Efforts for yourself
will never let you down.
I wanted caramel popcorn.
Why get cheese popcorn?
You said you like cheese popcorn.
Fine, I'll go exchange it.
Forget it. You eat it all.
Only when you're alone,
you can see
who you are, your tastes, and your emotions.
When you're no longer judged
by your background,
you find out what you hate
and what makes you happy.
(Young-ho loves Young-ho)
I want to ask couples out there.
When was the last time you felt excited?
As a single, I'm excited all day.
Every day is a celebration!
Hello?
Let's push our meeting back an hour.
I'm house hunting now.
Will one hour be enough for that?
Of course. They're pretty much the same.
No, they are not!
Where are you now?
The sunlight!
Please take a look.
It's cloudy today, but this faces south.
Imagine standing here in the sun
with a Starbuck's coffee in hand.
It's nice.
Actually...
You can look inside.
At a price like this, it won't last long.
It could be leased in a few hours.
It could be leased soon?
Here's the last room.
Ta-da!
It's noisy.
That's nothing.
It's a new condo,
so they left the window open for fresh air.
It's a double pane window.
If you close it like this, it's so quiet.
But you need some background noise.
White noise helps
with sleeping.
How about this?
I'll ask for a new door lock and bidet here.
That's a lot of money. It's a great deal, you know.
A door lock and bidet sound nice,
but we'll keep looking.
Right. Thank you.
Scratch this place off.
There are 6 units here with hardly any parking.
Only 3 cars will fit here.
It's okay during the day,
but what happens after work?
A parking war.
And why do you need an elevator
when you're young?
Just take the stairs.
It'll give you more square footage.
See that streetlamp?
You won't be able to sleep at night because of that.
You can rent a 2-bedroom unit
without paying a realtor.
Daylight, draft, water pressure and transportation
are important,
but it'll be hard to find a place that checks off all the boxes.
You have to prioritize
what is more or less important.
Get your deliveries using a man's name.
Use rough sounding names if you can.
Like Archer or Axel.
I've decided on the third place.
It didn't have CCTVs.
Ask for them.
Who cares about CCTVs?
Stop watching crime shows.
It's better to be safe than sorry.
Do you know how to pay for electricity and water?
I'll find it on the Internet.
Do you know how to set that up?
I'll find it with my cell phone. Happy?
Turn the car around up here.
That reminds me!
Give me a pair of shoes
- you don't wear. - Right.
Leaving men's shoes in single women's homes...
Why would I have shoes I don't wear?
See you.
What?
I don't get him.
One minute he's thoughtful, then he's cold.
(Where Do You Live?)
Really?
Okay.
Then let's do it with the design meeting.
I'll call Young-ho to join us.
Bye.
Hi, Sun-woo.
You're interested in home decorating too?
I've been forced to move out soon.
I should do some research.
Then, it's perfect.
It's a home welcoming gift.
It's one of our bookstore's latest goods.
What is it?
Oh! I love it!
Since you like it, here's one more for a set.
They're limited-edition cups.
The point is he gave me two cups.
It must mean one for me
and one for him.
How can you think that?
You normally think,
he must've had an extra one.
I only told him that I'm moving.
Did he notice I'll be on my own?
He's so obvious about his feelings.
Don't jump the gun.
Of course he'll congratulate your move.
He wouldn't say, "Oh, that's too bad."
Why you...
See?
Read the texts here.
Okay. Build up the courage next week to...
Are you crazy?
Why? Was I too straightforward?
Still, I should drop hints.
Oh, my god!
He's just saying see you next Wednesday.
You always go there on Wednesdays!
- You're making me dizzy. - Look at the details.
- Do you see the smiley eyes? - Yes.
It's all over the place.
Obviously, using smiley eyes is a habit.
You worry too much like an old lady.
I'm going to be straightforward.
No! You're going backwards!
Forget it.
She's clueless, not me.
Did you rent a place?
Young-ho helped me.
He's like an expert.
He checked everything thoroughly and compared prices.
It sounds like Young-ho may be interested in you.
What?
Park Young-ho? No way.
He only likes himself.
Really?
We'll be using a warm color
with a modern design book band.
We'll also use a thin, colorless vellum paper
to reduce thickness.
There aren't many pages.
Wouldn't eLight paper be better?
As the books size is on the small side,
we can expect to have more pages.
Right.
Let's go with vellum paper instead of eLight paper then.
Okay.
By the way, do we have someone to write the recommendation?
How about author Na Gwang-ryeol?
No way.
We've used his recommendations too much.
Do you have anyone in mind?
How about our junior Young-jin,
- the YouTube star? - Too weak.
And it should be someone who is single.
I have an uncle who is single
and is on TV sometimes.
Really? What does he do?
He's a priest. He's on Peace TV sometimes.
He's a celebrity.
I see.
- Go wash your face. - Yes, ma'am.
Let's look for the recommendations
and end it for today.
How about a staff dinner out?
Dinner?
I'm on herbal medicine. I can't drink alcohol now.
I have to also avoid spicy and flour-based food.
Okay. Wash your face and go home.
It's okay, ma'am.
I think going to staff dinners is part of the job.
Says who? It's okay, really!
You don't have to come. Go home.
No, it's okay.
We're not okay.
No alcohol!
Mr. Park! You're good at grilling meat.
- Did Ye-ri surprise you? - Yes.
We're used to this.
Next, she'll make soju-beer, milk-beer,
sweet and bitter beer, soju-coffee,
and finally fruity-beer for dessert.
Ye-ri loves staff dinners,
so she'll never quit.
Thank you.
How about a toast?
Wait. That guy isn't here.
- The priest's nephew. - Oh, him?
Can you warm this up for me?
Let's toast!
- Remember our members! - Remem...
What are you doing?
There it was.
I'm lousy at everything else
besides publishing.
I can see that.
Oh, it shows, huh?
Thanks for noticing.
Why do you want to be a writer?
Why the suddenly serious question?
I've always wanted to be one,
and I think I can do it now.
So confident!
New writers believe that
their books will shock the world.
But when it's released,
they're the ones who are shocked.
Because they don't sell much.
Everyone tries his or her best,
but anything can happen in publishing.
Then why do you work so hard
if you don't know what will happen?
Me?
I just started out in publishing
when it was time to get a job.
At first, I thought it was just a job.
Then I saw someone
reading a book I published on a subway.
I felt so proud.
Since then, I decided I should make good books.
I'm still working towards that dream.
What is your definition of a good book?
A book that sells well.
Royalties don't grow on trees.
We're here
because we love making books.
To my colleagues and myself,
I want to give enough to make our next book.
Chief!
How about talking down
casually to each other?
It's not the right time. Sit down.
Yes, ma'am.
Not!
Why should I? My legs are cramped!
Cho Ye-ri!
Stop making bomb shots!
You're our company's bomb!
I am?
Okay.
And stop taking off your socks when working at night!
Byung-su.
I think you should stop.
Oh Yoon-jung!
Who are you talking to?
Look people in the eyes when you speak,
stupid!
Funny, huh?
Wanna see something more hilarious?
See this?
See the red blob? It's your face!
You get red when you drink!
So why do you keep drinking?
Are you stupid?
Aren't you too old to be drinking like that?
Ow!
How many lives do you have?
It's talking down time!
You've said enough!
Are you drunk on your medicine?
- I didn't drink it yet. - Go wash your face!
- Let's toast. - Sure.
What's with him?
It's cold.
- What should we have? - I'm starving.
- I'm sorry. - It's okay.
Jeez!
Joo Hyun-jin!
What are you doing in there?
It's nothing. Just go.
Are you drunk?
No, I'm not. Just go!
Fine, but you should come out.
It's the men's bathroom.
Just my damn luck!
Do you know the couple that just came in?
I don't know the woman,
but Sun-woo works at the bookstore I go to.
So? Do you owe him money?
No. I...
I thought Sun-woo liked me.
So?
I texted him and said to be brave.
Brave for what?
I said he could ask me out.
Oh, you did, huh?
I also said,
None but the brave deserve the fair.
Did you just laugh?
Think this is funny?
He even gave me two cups!
Wait. Hold on.
(Men's Bathroom Key)
Hyun-jin? You're not using the toilet, right?
Are you dressed?
Why would I not be dressed inside the men's bathroom!
I'm opening the door.
Ready?
Let's try to get out without being noticed.
Hold on.
Ma'am! Can we buy some of your kimchi?
My boyfriend says it's so good. He wants to buy some.
Do you sell kimchi too?
- Jeez! - It's Gat kimchi.
You like this, right?
I do?
Ah, yes.
- Enjoy the kimchi. - Thanks.
You like Gat kimchi?
But can we leave like this without saying goodbye?
They have the company card.
They won't remember
when I left.
Wasn't that like in the movies?
Can we let go of our hands now?
I'm so embarrassed.
I wasn't really interested in him,
but he was so nice to me.
Right. He even gave you two cups.
Right! Why give me so many?
Meaningless kindness.
It should be a crime.
Right. It should be a crime.
Thanks! You're the best.
Why do you talk like we're friends?
You don't seem drunk.
It's been a long, hard day. I could use a friend.
You're not that much older.
I saw your ID. You're only a year older.
Hello?
That's right.
Please come to that address.
Thank you.
- I'll do it. - Hold still.
I can tie a knot that can't be undone.
There!
Chief!
Give us the company card!
- Ye-ri has it! - Yes, ma'am!
The taxi is here.
(Did you get home safely?)
(I had fun tonight)
(Joo Hyun-jin)
To singles, flings are mere indulgences.
No!
Snap to it, Park Young-ho!
Let's just write.
- Hello. - Hi.
Chief!
Did you see Mr. Park's draft?
He wrote so fast.
He must be writing day and night.
He's almost done.
And this is Ms. Hong's draft.
She wasn't the type to stick to schedule like this.
Aren't their pictures great?
It's as if one person took them.
Wow!
They look great.
Were you able to reach Young-ho?
He's been ghosting since that staff dinner.
Wait.
The staff dinner?
That night...
Mr. Park and you, chief...
What?
Didn't you two fight?
No way!
Mr. Park just posted on Instagram.
"All ties can be sadly undone"
What?
Sadly undone...
Maybe his writing isn't going well.
He must have writer's block.
Writers get sensitive
and get it at least once.
That must be it.
Then he needs some cheering up.
Who's going?
No! No! No!
Hi.
Why are you here?
What do you think?
For writer management.
- Are you sick? - No.
Are you eating well?
Wait! You can't come in.
My place is a mess.
What? It looks clean.
Can't I come in?
Is someone here?
Of course not. I have to work.
Really? You want me to go?
Yes.
Fine.
Make sure you eat well.
- Sure you're not sick? - I'm fine.
Why didn't you just say
you wanted me to stay?
Why lock yourself up at this time of night?
Got no chairs?
Wanna sit?
It's okay.
Why do you have just one?
It smells good.
What? Where's mine?
You want some, too?
I only have one mug.
No, thanks. No bowl.
There's wine, right?
How'd you know I have wine?
You posted on drinking wine often.
An editor knows everything.
By the way...
What?
You...
When are you going home?
I'm leaving even if you beg me to stay.
Wait!
Your cat! It's so cute.
Meow! Kitty! Where are you?
Don't name my cat, Kitty.
If it comes on a call like that,
- it wouldn't be a cat. - Vinyl records!
Of course you have these.
You collected everything that looks cool.
Looks cool? They are cool!
Aren't vinyl records too showy?
Someone who makes paper books shouldn't say that.
I love this album!
Can you play it, please?
It's a classic.
You have great taste.
I started liking your writing these days.
What? All of a sudden?
Do you know that I moved?
Why didn't you take my calls?
I had so many questions on the house.
By chance,
is it because of what happened that night?
Huh? Did something happen?
You don't remember?
We almost kissed.
I didn't know...
Or not?
Did we actually kiss?
No, we didn't!
We were just close like this.
Then you pushed me, and I fell.
You remember!
Do you like me?
Am I way off again?
Will you really stay single forever?
Even if the perfect match comes along?
I'm the only perfect match for myself.
How do you know? You never tried to match.
Must I try to know?
Yes, of course.
Have some tea.
When I went to India...
You're not drunk, are you?
No.
May I ask why you look so happy?
It's nothing.
But I like the non-stop greenlights.
Hot off the printer.
Done editing? Were there many typos?
Since Mr. Park is an instructor,
there were hardly any typos.
Ms. Hong had some colloquial words.
They're stylish, so we left them.
The mistakes are marked off.
What a surprise! You checked so thoroughly.
Ah, it wasn't me.
He did it.
By the way,
do you know author Hong Mi-na is here?
Really? Where is she?
Let's see her unveiled face.
She's in the cafe with the boss.
I'm printing the draft. Let's go when it's done.
By the way, while editing the drafts,
why do I see Ms. Hong in Mr. Park's writing?
Y was a Korean Literature major.
My first job was at a business hotel.
I met Y there.
Some episodes seem similar.
Hi!
This is our chief editor Joo Hyun-jin.
Hi, I'm Joo Hyun-jin.
Hi!
What are you doing?
Shouldn't this be on the morning talk show?
Is it amusing?
Yes! I love stuff like this!
Like makeup for the first time, we're clumsy with our first loves.
We're pretty, even without makeup in our 20s.
But we wear the thickest makeup then
because we don't know much about ourselves.
This is my hideout.
What are you reading?
Oh, no.
(Norwegian Wood)
Your hands are so dry.
Right.
Throwing them away after once use would be a waste.
It's a good idea.
Why go to college now?
It's a waste of time and money.
Still, I want to go.
What do you want to major in?
Tell me. I'll explain everything.
- Creative writing. - Really?
Instead of studying that, it's better to read more books.
It's almost 6 o'clock.
Aren't you going drinking with your peers?
Do you have money?
Stop feeding that cat.
It'll keep coming.
Let's help him eat well and rest
while he's alive.
Why didn't you take my calls?
Please go ahead. I'll be right there.
Sure. Call me later.
Sorry.
I was too busy to even use the bathroom today.
I worked at a hotel, too.
What kept you so busy
that you had no time for a break?
Fine. Just keep your voice down.
I have a staff dinner.
Let's talk later at home.
Damn staff dinners.
I'm coming too.
What's wrong with you?
I'll wait here till you're finished, then!
In his 20s, he had no money and no thoughtfulness.
He was busy pretending that he did.
He always said he did things for me,
but didn't know what I wanted.
This is wrong.
Were we in the same relationship?
There's no such thing.
Everything is relative.
This is just a novel.
Fine.
I'll edit mine, you edit yours.
You can't tell me to edit my draft.
What don't you like?
The part about sleeping together?
Are you crazy?
You got a long way to go to become a writer.
Mr. Park seems quite serious.
Would you consider editing it?
I wrote the hardest on my first love.
Really?
I thought so.
Readers like to read about first love.
What's the big deal about first love?
It's just dating when you're most awkward.
It's also when you're most innocent.
That's why you get hurt and hurt others the most.
Who doesn't have heartaches?
You want to hide them,
but want to be a writer?
- No! - Wait.
We need to calm down here.
This could be a blessing in disguise.
Two authors
who broke up 11 years ago meet as colleagues.
This could be a big issue!
Making your debut
with this kind of publicity is...
Wait.
How do you know that we haven't met in 11 years?
It must be around 11 years, right?
You wrote it in here.
I did no such thing.
You remembered Joo-ok.
You must've known your writer's real identity.
- Is it locked? - No!
Did you call me?
What? Is it true?
Young-ho!
What are you doing?
What am I doing?
What about you people?
Don't pretend you didn't know.
How can the chief editor not know that?
Are you that incompetent?
Count me out.
Fine. I'm sorry I'm incompetent.
But I honestly didn't know
and I'll publish the books.
Is this your idea of a good book
that you dream of making?
What are books and authors
to you?
What author gives up
because he doesn't like what someone else wrote?
I'll convince Ms. Hong.
Joo-ok's not the problem!
Do you know how I feel?
What about me?
(I was caught off guard and overreacted)
Dad?
Did I leave
my printer cable there?
Door opening.
He'll be here soon.
There are new books here.
It's expected, isn't it?
It's like the books married too.
What are these?
We both had these books.
- Here. - Thank you.
You must have a lot in common.
I guess so.
How are you doing?
Like living alone?
I'm not sure yet.
There are so many things to do.
It'll get better.
How did you like living alone?
It was good.
I had freedom and comfort.
Then why'd you give up such a good thing?
I didn't give up.
I met someone
that I can be free
and comfortable with.
Someone who accepts me as is.
As is...
That idiot.
Let's just do it.
Ms. Hong is here.
We'll be fine.
Okay. Let's get started.
Welcome to "Meeting with Authors"
live on the air with KANG Wook.
I mentioned that the two authors of
the "Single in the City" series,
Hong Mi-na and Park Young-ho
will be on the show today.
Unfortunately,
only Ms. Hong Mi-na was able to come.
Please introduce yourself.
Hello, I'm Hong Mi-na.
Ms. Hong is known as the queen of romance novels.
As you kept your face veiled,
there are many comments from curious listeners.
Is this your first essay book?
Yes, it is.
The series consist of Park Young-ho's book on Seoul
and Ms. Hong Mi-na's book on Barcelona.
Is there a special reason
why the book is set
in Barcelona?
Like the title says,
it's about the life of singles
in different cities.
Jane Austen once wrote,
"Good girls go to heaven,
bad girls go everywhere."
I'm a bit of bad girl.
So I've wondered around, and now live in Barcelona.
Actually, I read both drafts
to prepare for this show.
The story of your first love
stuck out the most.
Could you give a sneak peak on that to our listeners?
As I said,
our books are about the life of singles.
It's just a teaser.
Still, if a teaser is good,
it could lead to more sales.
I guess so.
He was a writer like me.
Is he writer Park Young-ho?
It's him, isn't it?
I read both books in the series
and got that feeling.
The comments' section is on fire.
ID 9254 claims to be an avid fan of yours
and asks why you two broke up.
Could you answer that?
I was scared.
He always said, as he prepared for
the Annual Spring Literary Contest,
he'd take responsibility of me if he wins.
So you broke up because you felt burdened?
Not exactly.
Whenever I heard that,
I wondered if I needed to be
the responsibility of someone else.
It's not because I didn't like him.
I left because
I wanted to be responsible for myself.
Then
you met by chance again through this book series?
It wasn't by chance.
The CEO made the suggestion.
I thought it would be helpful for him, too.
We'll return after this song
to hear about her life in Barcelona.
(Jin-pyo: I'm sorry)
(Are you sleeping?)
(Joo Hyun-jin)
Hello?
Do what you want.
Don't publish the book
if you don't want to.
I'm not working with you
if you're an irresponsible writer.
Irresponsible?
You heard everything on the radio show.
Joo-ok decided to write the book to help me.
Think I want to write it now?
Does it hurt your pride
to receive her help?
What about our help?
We worked days and nights to make your book well.
We edited and designed it.
Our help doesn't hurt your pride?
I'll send Ms. Hong's full draft.
Read it over then decide.
I'll do whatever you want.
(File received from Joo Hyun-jin)
(Single in Barcelona)
Oh, no!
(Norwegian Wood)
(2007 Spring Literary Contest Entry)
(by Park Young-ho)
Why isn't anybody here?
Even the ones who applied to come didn't show?
It started snowing really badly this morning.
It stopped after a bit.
Mr. Oh is here!
(New Poetry by Poet Oh Man-su)
He's wearing a new suit, too. Oh, no.
He's going to be so depressed.
He gets really hurt by things like this.
He looks really calm.
Jeez...
- His eyes are red. - They're teary...
Get to work.
Scatter out and gather some people.
Oh, no. Is he crying?
Thank you for the coffee.
We're having a book concert there.
A famous poet will be reading
his poems here today.
Are you sisters buying reference books?
Oh, my! No, she's my daughter!
Really? You look so young,
I thought you were sisters.
Oh, please.
- Are you in high school? - Grade 12.
In writing essays or doing interviews,
it's good to mention poems like this.
Mother and sister buying reference books?
Pardon?
- What? - We're friends.
It'll help your daughter with essays.
What?
Let's go.
- Move! - But...
(The Wind Brought It)
The wind brought it.
I wait for you because I'm afraid you'd run away
if I approach you.
I wait for you
because it may end like hammering a nail,
but I want to melt it with love.
I wait for you
because the years gone by feel like just yesterday
and I flounder through
the swamp of chaos.
I wait for you
because it is the reason for my living.
I have no other choice.
Mr. Oh, the poem was very touching.
Now, we'll take any questions from the audience.
Please don't be afraid
and ask Mr. Oh anything.
Anyone?
Joo Hyun-jin.
Yes, the man at the back.
What is your question?
Me?
Yes, the man wearing a coat.
Please ask your question.
Okay.
What is your question?
My question...
You've published many books.
I'm curious why you wrote a book
for the first time.
I first started writing
to look good to a woman.
She loved books and I loved her.
Did things go well with her?
We got married a year later.
Then we got divorced.
Now that I think back,
it was the happiest time of my life.
Writing a book for someone I love and publishing it.
Then...
After some time,
have you ever felt embarrassed
or regretted what you wrote?
I'm always embarrassed by it.
What I write today
may be embarrassing tomorrow.
But I never regretted it.
Writing is like traces of love.
Okay.
Bye.
We have a problem.
Su-lin, who was supposed to sing today,
suddenly got stomach pains and can't come.
Oh, no!
Should I sing?
Why?
I was in a band in college.
This is no time for jokes!
There is a star,
then there is you tonight
What? Why is he so good?
Exactly. Why?
I hesitated to profess my love,
but I didn't lie
You were angry and everything was quiet
through the long night
In the dark, you couldn't sleep
and cried as you spoke
By your side
When did you come?
Earlier.
Thanks for your help.
Things could've been awkward for Mr. Oh.
I appreciate it.
- Hyun-jin. - Hmm?
I want to publish it.
Our book...
Ironically, while writing about being alone
I thought about relationships more than ever.
(Writer's Note)
Being truly alone is not being bound by
relationships and not running away.
I realized that through this book.
Once again, ironically,
there are people who helped me truly stand alone.
I'd like to thank the publishing team
and chief editor Joo Hyun-jin.
You slept, didn't you?
No, I didn't.
Wash your face?
I hope the readers will also be happy
in relationships
and be true singles.
Park Young-ho.
He majored in Korean Literature.
He runs "Single_Almighty" on Instagram
and has been sharing know-hows
that apply to those who live alone.
Through 18 years of living on his own
and 5 years of voluntary singlehood,
he has found peace in living by himself.
(Even if you're alone/ Because you're alone)
In hopes of others being happy alone,
he continues to write even today.
Thank you very much.
Is this good? They're all the same.
It has to be brighter.
Could you print it one more time?
Please drink this and try it one more time?
(Single in the City Set)
(Flowers and Books Notting Hill)
(Single in Seoul)
(Writer Park Young-ho Executive Cheif Joo Hyun-jin)
What?
(Single in the City Set)
(Average Rating 5.8/10)
(More about love)
(rather than living single)
(Too much on first love)
You came?
You didn't reply, so I thought you wouldn't.
Do you want help?
No, I have to go in now.
Are you okay with our books not selling well?
What about you? Are you okay?
I'm okay because I saw you.
If not, I'd wonder about you for life.
I wanted to apologize to you.
About what?
Just this and that.
You've changed a lot.
Just like Seoul.
This isn't a movie. Just go.
Give me a hug, so you won't regret it later.
- Hey! - Sorry.
It's a habit.
I'd better go.
(Flowers and Books Notting Hill)
Here you are.
- Business is great. - It's not bad.
Take pictures and post them on your Instagram?
Why did you quit? Is it because of my book?
Of course not.
I flopped on my share of books.
I realized I'm not really cut out
for publishing.
Know what's our secret to success?
It's the foam.
What are you talking about?
That table wants a beer now.
- Hurry! Hurry! - Coming right up!
The secret is working hard
whether he quits his job or not.
Did you see this book?
Hyun-jin wrote it.
(I Don't Know How to Write BY Joo Hyun-jin)
(Village Book Publishing)
Boss.
Don't call me that.
Remember.
Interns must listen well and talk less.
And never ask to have talking down time at staff dinners.
Why?
What do you mean why?
Why you...
Yeah, why?
- Let's go wash our faces. - Why?
Your face gets oily when you're an intern.
- Why? - They suit each other.
They sure do.
By chance, are you author Park Young-ho?
Ah, yes.
Oh! Wait, please.
Could I have your autograph?
- Sure. - Thank you.
Was this book meaningful at all?
Yes! I live alone in Seoul.
I could relate to a lot of things in your book.
And I was also comforted
by thinking I'm not alone.
I see.
- Thank you. - No, I'm the one who's thankful.
Young-ho?
What brings you here?
Just hanging out.
Hi, Hyun-jin.
Don't you come here on Wednesdays?
I come here on Mondays now.
You didn't come here every day to wait for me, did you?
Of course not.
I know you'd never do that.
- Sign the book for me. - What?
It's good.
Publishing a book about stories of ordinary people.
I like the stories of the truck driver
and the cook who makes side dishes.
The book is just like you.
(Don't change for someone else,)
(but be yourself)
Some author told me this.
I guess it impressed you a lot?
Aren't you curious about that author's latest piece?
I don't know if he's still writing.
Oh, you're quite confident, huh?
I'm not. That's why I brought it.
Books aren't made alone.
You've changed a lot.
I should change.
(Hi, Bye Romance)
Nothing embarrassing in here this time?
- It's a novel. - Really?
Novels are hard.
I know, but I finally wrote it.
You came by bus, right?
I'll drive you to the bus stop.
Oh, I had something to ask you.
Think I need a dishwasher though I live alone?
Buy one if you want.
What about a dryer?
It wasn't in your book.
Hyun-jin.
Do you want to grab a beer together?