Are in korea
Adanna Ikechukwu had worked tirelessly to earn this moment. After years of relentless studying, side jobs, and overcoming more obstacles than she could count, she’d won a scholarship to attend university in Seoul.
Stepping off the plane at Incheon International Airport, she felt a wave of excitement and nervousness wash over her. This was the beginning of a whole new life.
The cold air of late autumn in Korea nipped at her as she stepped outside the terminal. She clutched her thin jacket tightly around herself, feeling the difference from the warmth of Nigeria. Everything felt larger and faster here, from the flashing lights of neon signs to the crowds bustling past her. It was both thrilling and overwhelming. After a bus ride to her temporary accommodation, Adanna found herself in a tiny studio in a student neighborhood on the outskirts of Seoul. The room was cramped, barely fitting a bed and a desk, but she didn’t care. This was hers, a new beginning. ---
First Day at University
The next morning, Adanna made her way to campus, taking in her surroundings with wide eyes.
The university was vast, with towering buildings of modern architecture, beautifully landscaped gardens, and a mix of students in trendy clothes, rushing to their next classes. She couldn’t help but feel a little out of place in her simple jeans and sweater, clutching her second-hand backpack.
Adanna’s first stop was the International Students Office, where she was greeted by a friendly staff member who handed her a map and pointed her toward the lecture halls.
“You’re the first Nigerian student we’ve had here in a while,” the woman said with a smile. “You’ll be a wonderful addition. If you have any questions, don’t hesitate to ask.”
Adanna returned her smile with gratitude. “Thank you so much. I really appreciate it.”
Navigating campus was a challenge, but as the day wore on, Adanna found herself gradually adjusting. She attended her first lecture, “Introduction to Economics,” sitting near the back and trying her best to keep up with the professor’s fast-paced, heavily accented English. The material was intense, more difficult than she’d anticipated, but she was determined to succeed.
After class, she noticed a few students glancing curiously in her direction. She wasn’t sure if they were interested in her or merely taken aback by her presence, as she was the only Black student in the class. She had been prepared for this but still felt the stares linger as she left the lecture hall.
Just as she was about to leave, a girl with short, cropped hair approached her with a warm smile.
“Hi! I noticed you looked a bit lost earlier. Are you new here?” she asked brightly.
Adanna felt a wave of relief wash over her. “Yes, I’m Adanna. It’s my first day, actually.”
The girl’s face lit up. “Oh, welcome! I’m Jiyoon. It can be pretty intimidating here at first, especially when you don’t know anyone. If you need a friend or a guide, I’d be happy to help.”
Adanna couldn’t help but smile at her kindness. “Thank you, Jiyoon. I could definitely use a friend right now.”
They spent the next hour walking around campus together, with Jiyoon pointing out all the key spots — the library, the student center, the best coffee shop. By the end of their tour, Adanna felt a little more at ease. She even learned that Jiyoon was studying cultural studies and had a fascination with West African art and history, which made Adanna feel even more connected.
Adjusting to University Life
Over the next few days, Adanna settled into a routine of classes, studying in the library, and keeping up with her assignments.
She quickly realized that her scholarship covered only her tuition and basic needs, and any extras — like meals or books not covered by the school — were her own responsibility. One evening, as she was flipping through a brochure of student jobs posted on a board in the library, she felt the pressure of her limited finances. The thought of taking on a job in addition to her studies was daunting, but it was becoming increasingly clear that she would need to work if she wanted to make ends meet.
The next day, Adanna met up with Jiyoon again for lunch in the bustling campus cafeteria. Jiyoon, ever the friendly guide, had insisted on helping her get settled and introduced her to other students from their department. They found a spot by the window, and after chatting a bit about their upcoming exams, Adanna mentioned her need for a job.
“Actually, I know of a position,” Jiyoon said thoughtfully. “There’s a family I know. They’re very wealthy, and I think they’re looking for someone to help with household work. It’s not glamorous, but the pay is supposed to be good, and they provide housing, too. You’d save on rent.”
Adanna hesitated, mulling over the idea. Working as a maid wasn’t exactly what she’d imagined, but she was willing to do whatever it took to stay in school and achieve her dreams. “Do you think they’d consider me?” she asked, biting her lip.
“Absolutely!” Jiyoon said enthusiastically. “I can put in a word for you. I think it would be a good way to balance school and work without stretching yourself too thin.”
Adanna nodded, feeling both nervous and hopeful. “Thank you, Jiyoon. I really appreciate it.”
The Lee Family Mansion
A few days later, Adanna found herself standing in front of the grand, imposing gates of the Lee family mansion. She adjusted her scarf, trying to keep calm as she took in the sight of the sprawling property.
The mansion looked like something out of a fairytale, with its stately stone facade, towering rooflines, and manicured gardens. A young man, probably around her age, opened the gate with a curious look. His casual clothes and friendly smile put her slightly at ease.
“Hi, I’m Jaeyoung, the younger son,” he introduced himself, his eyes twinkling with mischief. “You’re the new helper?” Adanna nodded, offering a polite bow. “Yes. It’s nice to meet you.” “Don’t be too formal,” he chuckled. “Our family can be a bit… intense, but I’m the friendly one, I promise.” Adanna smiled, feeling a little more comfortable. As they walked toward the main house, Jaeyoung pointed out various parts of the property, giving her a quick rundown of the family and her duties.
They entered the grand foyer, and Adanna was struck by the luxurious decor — marble floors, gleaming chandeliers, and elegant artwork on every wall. Just as she was about to follow Jaeyoung into the kitchen, she noticed a tall man at the top of the staircase, watching them.
“That’s my brother, Seojin,” Jaeyoung whispered. “The first son and the heir to the family business.” Seojin was everything Jaeyoung wasn’t — stern, reserved, and incredibly formal. His eyes met Adanna’s, and she felt a chill under his scrutinizing gaze. “It’s a pleasure to meet you, Mr. Lee,” she said, giving a small bow. Seojin nodded, his expression unreadable. “Welcome to our home. I expect professionalism and discretion.”
Adanna gave a small nod, noting the guarded tone in his voice. There was a part of her that wanted to prove herself to him, to show that she was more than just the “help.” But she simply replied, “Of course, Mr. Lee. I’ll do my best.”
Settling Into Her New Role
Later, as Adanna settled into her modest quarters in the Lee mansion, she took a deep breath, absorbing the day’s events. She had officially started her new job and felt a strange mixture of excitement and trepidation.
The Lees were a mystery to her, each member of the family so different from the others, and she could already sense there would be challenges ahead.
Her First Day Working in the Lee Household
The next morning, she began her duties, assisting the housekeeper with cleaning, organizing, and setting the table for meals. Her schedule was hectic, but she managed to balance it with her studies, spending every free moment reviewing her notes or studying late into the night. Despite her initial nerves, Adanna grew more comfortable in the mansion over time. Jaeyoung would often stop by to chat, always making her laugh with his playful humor, and the housekeeper was kind, offering tips to help her get through the day more easily. However, Seojin was a different story. She saw him only occasionally, always dressed impeccably, carrying an aura of authority and control. He rarely acknowledged her presence beyond a brief nod or an instruction here and there. She could feel his eyes on her sometimes, studying her from a distance, and it made her uneasy. Still, Adanna was determined to stay focused. She was here for a reason — to study, to build her future, and to make her family back in Nigeria proud. And she wouldn’t let anyone or anything distract her from her dreams.
