LEE SOOHYUK
31 | Furniture Shop Owner | Straight

Background
Orphaned at a young age, Soohyuk spent his early years in a group home until being adopted by an elderly carpenter who became both his mentor and father figure. Focused on learning carpentry and helping his father with projects, Soohyuk often found himself out of step with his peers, preferring the company of wood shavings and tools to parties and sports. His lifestyle earned him a reputation as a "young old man" but he embraced it wholeheartedly. He opened his own furniture shop in his mid-20s, which quickly became successful thanks to his craftsmanship and dedication. Despite his achievements, Soohyuk remains deeply connected to the orphanage where he grew up, regularly visiting to spend time with the children, teaching them basic woodworking skills, and hosting workshops to inspire creativity and confidence.  Soohyuk's decision to join a dating show stems from his adoptive father's worry that he might grow old alone. 

Personality/Traits
> Growing up in a calm and disciplined household, Soohyuk picked up many of his adoptive father's old-fashioned habits, like waking up early, sipping tea instead of coffee, and reading the newspaper every morning
> Always carries a small wooden charm in his pocket, a gift from his adoptive father.
> Loves traditional Korean proverbs and often sprinkles them into conversations, sometimes confusing younger people.
> Hums old folk songs while working in his shop.
> Dresses practically and modestly, occasionally favoring vintage style cardigans and loafers when he's not working.

Hobbies and Interests
> Designing and crafting custom furniture
> Hosting woodworking workshops for orphanage kids
> Reading old novels and art history books
> Enjoying quiet walks in nature
> Watching classic Korean dramas or documentaries

Connections/Plots - Open to all orientation and age

Silent Book club - Every Friday evening, Soohyuk visits a quiet café for tea and what he calls "socializing", though it mostly consists of sitting by the window, reading a book, and quietly observing the world around him. One evening, he notices someone new occupying the corner table across from his usual spot. They're deeply engrossed in their book, seemingly as silent and reserved as Soohyuk himself. Over the next few weeks, the stranger becomes a regular, always bringing a book and settling into their spot across the room. Their presence becomes a quiet comfort, though neither has exchanged a single word. One evening, when the café is unusually crowded, the stranger hesitates before asking if they can sit at Soohyuk's table. Without thinking, he nods, and the two silently read together, an unspoken agreement forming between them.

The customer -  a lively and charismatic individual who doesn’t quite fit his typical clientele. Instead of simply purchasing a piece, they’re brimming with questions about the process, the wood, and the inspiration behind his designs. At first, Soohyuk finds their chatter overwhelming, but as the customer shares their fascination with handmade items, he softens and begins explaining the craftsmanship in his shy, detailed way. The customer, noticing his reserved demeanor and "old man" habits, teases him gently, sparking an unexpected but charming rapport. Over time, they keep returning to the shop, claiming they’re “just browsing” but always staying to chat or even offering unsolicited ideas for new furniture designs that surprisingly inspire Soohyuk.

The volunteer - Soohyuk rarely accepts help in his furniture shop, preferring the solitude of his craft. But when a young volunteer, a spirited individual eager to learn woodworking shows up asking for guidance, he reluctantly agrees to let them assist with small tasks. What starts as simple cleaning and organizing gradually turns into hands-on teaching as the volunteer's enthusiasm chips away at Soohyuk's reserved demeanor. As their bond deepens, the volunteer reveals that their time in the shop is temporary, they're preparing to leave to pursue a different path soon. 

Shared Passion - Soohyuk bonds with someone over their shared appreciation for craft and design. Perhaps  an artist, designer, or someone with a passion for handmade goods. Their interactions could involve working on a collaborative project, such as designing a unique piece of furniture or hosting a charity auction for the orphanage. Through their teamwork, Soohyuk learns to let others into his meticulously guarded world.

Connection to The Past - One of the contestants on the dating show turns out to have ties to the orphanage where Soohyuk grew up. Perhaps they volunteered there, or their family helped fund it. This shared connection creates an instant bond, but it also brings up old insecurities and memories he’s tried to leave behind.

Reunion with an Orphanage Friend -  One of the contestants on the show turns out to be someone from Soohyuk's past-another child from the orphanage who was adopted into a different family. As they reconnect, unresolved feelings from their childhood might resurface.