Man, what a day! Seriously, I’m still reeling from it. So, I’m an ichthyologist, right? Yeah, I know, nerd alert! But today was anything but boring. Jinan-gun, you wild little city, you really threw me for a loop.
First off, I woke up late. Like, super late. My alarm? Totally ignored it. I jumped outta bed, threw on whatever I could find—definitely not my best look. I mean, who needs to impress fish, right? Anyway, I rushed outta my tiny apartment on Cheonggyecheon-ro, barely had time for coffee. Ugh, the horror!
So, I’m hustling down the street, dodging people like I’m in some weird video game. Jinan-gun is buzzing, man! The streets are alive. I pass by the Jinan-gun Market, and oh boy, the smell of fresh fish hits me. I’m like, “Dude, I’m in heaven!” But then I remember, I’m supposed to be studying fish, not drooling over them.
I finally get to the research center, and guess what? My colleague, Min-jun, is already there. He’s got this smug look on his face. Turns out, he found a new species of fish in the nearby lake. I’m like, “Seriously, dude? You couldn’t wait for me?” I mean, I was happy for him, but c’mon!
Then, we head out to the lake. It’s called Daecheong Lake, and it’s gorgeous. The water is sparkling, and the mountains in the background? Stunning! But here’s the kicker: we get there, and it’s packed with people. Like, what’s up with that? It’s a weekday! I thought I’d have the place to myself.
So, I’m trying to focus on the fish, right? But there’s this group of kids splashing around, yelling, and I’m just like, “Can’t a scientist work in peace?” I mean, I love kids, but not when I’m trying to study aquatic life!
After a while, I finally spot some fish. They’re beautiful, swimming around like they own the place. I’m all excited, taking notes, and then—bam!—one of those kids runs right into me. My notes go flying, and I’m like, “Noooo!” It was like slow motion. I could see my precious data fluttering away.
I’m fuming, but then I see the kid’s face. He’s so sorry, and I can’t stay mad. I mean, who can resist that? So, I end up showing him the fish instead. He’s fascinated! We’re both crouched by the water, and I’m explaining how important these little guys are to the ecosystem. It’s a moment, you know?
But then, just when I think the day can’t get any crazier, it starts to rain. Not just a drizzle, but a full-on downpour. I’m soaked, my notes are ruined, and I’m laughing like a maniac. I mean, what else can you do?
We dash back to the car, and I’m just thinking about how Jinan-gun is full of surprises. The streets are slick, and I’m slipping all over the place. I finally get to the car, and Min-jun is cracking up. “You look like a drowned rat!” he says. Thanks, buddy.
On the way back, we stop at a little café on Gyeongju-ro. I order a hot chocolate, and it’s like a warm hug in a cup. I’m feeling better already. We sit there, laughing about the day’s chaos, and I realize how much I love this job. Sure, it’s messy and unpredictable, but that’s life, right?
So, yeah, Jinan-gun, you’ve got my heart. You’re quirky, chaotic, and full of surprises. I can’t wait to see what tomorrow brings. Just maybe, I’ll set my alarm this time.