Seojun (Irvine, California)

The church basement buzzed with life after service, voices rising over the clatter of chopsticks and metal trays. Ajummas from Gwangju argued about the best kimchi recipe, while one from Daegu countered with pride. Seojun balanced a steaming plate of tteokbokki and bulgogi, laughing as her dad teased, “Even your mom’s accent softens around the elders.” Kids chased each other with plastic forks, and the youth group huddled over a guitar, strumming hymns. The smell of doenjang-jjigae mixed with laughter and the faint echo of prayer–a slice of Korea, right here in Irvine.