"I do not know whose son he is, but he is truly striking."
These were the words of blessing I offered to the young man checking digital records at our entrance. My heart wanted to welcome him warmly because his first impression was so clean and healthy. He was the very picture of the vibrant youth we see today.
The young woman beside him was equally beautiful. Her smile was refreshing, clear, and entirely unclouded.
The Smiling Child by Lee Soon-goo
It rained all day, leaving us with an available private room. Though they were only two, I guided them there for a more intimate experience. After serving the preliminary courses in order, the main tuna was prepared.
It is always my responsibility to personally carry the tuna to the guests. I believe in the idea that one only sees as much as they know, and things are revealed only through understanding.
Until I called his name, he was merely a gesture.
When I called his name, he came to me and became a flower.
Flower by Chunsui Kim
I feel the same way about the tuna I carry into the room.
Before it is understood, it is simply a fish. But the moment its essence is recognized, it becomes the most exquisite delicacy in the world. Perhaps that is an overstatement, but in my desire to present the finest tuna, I often find myself sharing stories—how to appreciate each cut and the heritage behind it. Through these quiet conversations, most of our guests come to know me personally, which is a joy I never expected.
Before explaining the selection on the platter, I greeted them by saying, "How are you both so bright and lovely?" They laughed and told me they had met only ten minutes ago. They had been chatting online for about two weeks and had finally met in person just before arriving here.
Then they asked, "How do we look together?"
I replied, "You look wonderful together, a perfect match."
I gave them my full support: "Make the most of today. Especially you—don't hold back too much. Open your heart and follow where it leads. This young man seems quite alright."
Stepping away, I realized that this is how romance happens now. This is the new generation. They laughed and joked with a comfort that felt like old friends. It was a scene of refreshing, uninhibited youth.
It was a truly bright and beautiful sight.
There wasn't a trace of shadow in them.
I could feel their vibrant, cool energy.
It may sound like the nostalgia of an older generation, but their youth is so different from my own. I entered university in 1985, a time when my eyes and nose were constantly stinging from thick tear gas. It was a turbulent era of social struggle and democracy movements. Campuses were filled with slogans of ideology, liberation, and resistance. I, too, spent my days beating traditional drums and singing songs of the movement while walking through the university grounds.
In such times, there was little room for sophisticated or elegant romance. The environment was one of gray skies and shouting voices. Moreover, like most boys from the countryside, I was always short on money. My mother back home would sell sesame seeds or beans to send me whatever she could, so the value of money felt much heavier than it does now. I couldn't bring myself to spend that money on the luxury of dating. Perhaps that is why I grew into the habit of spending generously when necessary, yet never wasting even a small amount on myself or trivial things.
Many young people visit our restaurant. While the main clientele of a typical tuna specialty shop is usually in their 50s—or 40s in younger districts—half of our guests are in their 30s. We have become known as a prime location for blind dates and couples, filling our weekends with romantic energy.
I enjoy joking with these lovely young guests. I often tell them, "The atmosphere of our shop has improved so much today thanks to you two. I am truly grateful." They catch the nuance of my compliment and burst into laughter. And I, in turn, can't help but laugh along with them.
Red Plum Blossom
As I reach my mid-fifties, youth appears increasingly beautiful to me. That vitality and energy are truly a sight to behold.
There is a sense of life and grace contained within them.
I hope the couple who visited today—who had known each other for only ten minutes—find a lasting connection. They promised to return for their 100th-day anniversary, and I find myself looking forward to seeing them again.
Pink peach blossoms.
Youth is the season when the blossoms of the heart are in full bloom.