Playing the Field (South Korea and Belgium)

[South Korea]

Seoul, South Korea, 2011

Ban Ki-moon, Secretary-General of the UN had hosted a gathering for key memebers of the UN and their respective countries. Yong had attended alongside the general and reaquainted himself with many of his allies. He was thrilled to see that Miss Belgium had attended. He had an interested eye on her for sometime and was spending time gathering information before he made his move, things like if she was single and things she liked and other tidbits. He had approached her confidentally, applying his charm and wit and asking her on an outing. He was smooth asking her to show her a night around Seoul (kudos for his man hosting the event in his home country) and was glad to recieve an acceptance of the invitation.

So now here he was standing outside the door of her hotel room, where the other countries were staying as they spent their time in Seoul. He was clad in black slacks and and a white button up shirt with a black vest, yet donned a leather jacket over it. His bangs were combed back from his brow yet hung loosely from the sides, his ahoge mingled with the dark strands, a big smile on the face held within. In his hands he held a small bouqet of white roses, his free hand rose to knock on the door. He pasted his most charming smile on his lips before she would open the door.

Remember to give her space, not all take to your affectionate nature he reminded himself. He wanted this night to go well as he was rather fond of the blonde woman. She was beautiful, gentle and smart and he wanted to learn more about her, but to assure a second meeting he would have to lay off his usual...flirtations.

He waited patiently by the door, glancing along the halls at some people that would pass by, nodding and smiling to them politely. Though he usually slid well into these kind of situations, he actually felt a little nervous. It had been awhile since he had attempted dating. For him, his life was usually littered with casual sex and couplings, it had been awhile since he tried something seriously, but he really liked Belgium and wanted things to go right tonight.


OOC: EDIT: I found this pic how convenient XD fc01.deviantart.net/fs46/f/2009/196/6/2/Romance_Originated_in_Korea_by_kazukorin.png

[angelinehofstee]

Belgium sat down and began to undo the tie around her neck. Letting out a small sigh she looked out of her hotel window. The sun had set and Seoul was really coming to life. The lights from the buildings, street lights, and cars made the city look like glitter on velvet. Belgium smiled. While Brussels and Antwerp were quite modern, this was certainly a different kind of sight. The lettering and neon signs were very intriguing as well. until recently, Belgium rarely left Europe. When she was younger, every once in a while she would go with Spain or her brother. However those days had long since passed.

She quickly changed from her business-woman-esque outfit into something more dressy for an outing. The choice for tonight was a pale orange evening dress, that ended around her lower middle thigh. Dark beads and sequins were sewn into floral designs. She wore a necklace that had some seashells and amber beads, as well as some matching bracelets. And put on her nice high heels which accented the beads and sequins on her dress. Last but not least for clothes, she put on a black hair ribbon, the kind she typically wore. Next, she applied make-up, perfume, had some mints, all the norm.

She had been lucky enough to get a little date with the one person that would know this city like no other. Korea himself. She smiled as she remembered his offer. Belgium didn't go on many dates. She was always so busy, what with the European Union and all. Plus, her brother felt the need to hound any of her suitors and inspect, or tear her away from them all together. Not that this stopped Belgium, she was a big girl and he needed to know that. It also made everything a bit more fun, doing things when her brother disproved.

She suddenly had a thought that made her panic; she forgot where she was to meet him. This was bad...she had no idea how to find her way around Seoul! Or as to where the young nation would be waiting! She started pacing, but could not for the life of her remember. "Was...it... the lobby...? Or..?"

After going through any possibilities she could think of, and coming to nothing, she decided she'd just look around. Maybe she could ask someone else who was in the hotel. Japan, or China perhaps? In any case she didn't want him to think she stood him up! She grabbed her purse and swung the door open. She was certainly worried about the whole ordeal.

Much to her surprise, and later to her relief, a dashing young man was outside her door in the hallway, waiting for her. He even had flowers, and was dressed in a handsome suit. Still her surprise outweighed her happiness of not having to worry about missing him. " Ah! Mr.Im!" she said loudly (though the volume was unintentional) still standing in the doorway with her hand on the door knob.

[South Korea]

The Korean looked up at her in mild surprise as the door swung open. He caught himself immediately and a bright friendly grin touched his lips, "Ah hallo je ziet er prachtig uit vanavond Miss Hofstee (Dutch: Ah hello! You look lovely tonight Miss Hofstee)" he nods to her as he holds up the flowers "Deze zijn voor jou (Dutch: These are for you)"

He hoped it would be impressive that he spoke to her in one of her languages. He had always studied phrases of other countries if anything to be impressive. Plus they were appreciative that he took the time to learn a little of it, it's part of what made him good diplomatically. "I'm delighted to spend the evening with you, I hope you will enjoy all that Seoul has to offer." He glances her over with a faint smile. "I must recommend a jacket however, it might get a little cold"

He tilts his head slightly. So far so good, he was taking extra care to watch his behavior, he knew he could be quite the...well he was determined to play it right tonight. He could sense a good vibe from her, he was fairly decent at reading others. He leaned agains the door frame and caught her gaze with his own "So....may I come inside or shall I wait out here?" Woops! Was that too much?! He held her gaze as if trying to read her emotions. Like testing the water before a swim. Keep throwing out little quips to get a feel of the situation he was in and how to handle it accordingly. It would be alright! Just put on a smile and it will smooth over, and that he did and as welcoming as possible.

[angelinehofstee]

Today was full of surprises. Southern Korea was right outside her door, right when she needed him. And now he was speaking to her in one of her own languages! Of course it wasn't perfect, but Belgium was delighted none the less. The accent was adorable, and at the same time he seemed so confident. She smiled and leaned her head against the door post as he finished by saying "These are for you." Absolutely adorable.

" A...ah....Kamsamnida. Chŏ-nŭn... han-gung-mal chal-mo-t'ae-yo" she replied with a nervous laugh. One reason she really admired his effort was because Dutch was not a language he probably needed to know. Belgium was displeased when countries like America and other insisted on not learning any other languages. As a nation with more than one language under her belt, she found no excuse in not learning another. But it was in Korea's better interest to learn Chinese,Japanese, or perhaps Russian. So she really was touched that he bothered to learn a bit of the language that was only spoken in a small area in Europe. She even felt a little sad that she only knew very basic things in Korean: "Thank you", "I don't speak Korean very well" and "Where is... ". She gently took the flowers and hugged them as close as she could to her body without getting any pollen on her outfit.

"And I am delighted as well! Thank you for inviting me! I really have never seen the city! So I am extremely excited!" She added, making her smile bigger.

After that...he had mentioned a jacket. It hadn't been terribly cold that day, but night time was a different story right? Well he knows best, so Belgium began to back up and go in, in a hurry. She already felt she had messed up, and didn't want to take any longer or make him wait more. However in her rush she had totally forgotten about him standing in the hall. He asked if he could come in and stared. Belgium was not used to this kind of stare, and not after the particular question either. She wasn't weirded out at all, but his locked eyes made her feel like he needed an answer right away. Of course, she had no problem allowing him in. "Ah yes please!" she added nervously, upset with herself for being so ditzy. "Please do come in! I'll be just a moment!" With that she rushed in and and looked through her suitcase as fast as she could. Finally she saw a jacket she thought would look nice with the rest of her clothes.

[South Korea]

Yong Soo grinned brightly as she responded in his native tongue. It was a bit rough around the edges but quite decent for a foreigner."You're welcome and that's quite alright. Your pronunciation is very good. Seoul is quite lively at night. It may be a bit overwhelming at first, but stay close to me and it will be alright." He smiled reassuringly to her. The nightlife around his capital was quite intense and a bit crouded in most outlets, but he had advantage at knowing where the best places are and having access to the less crouded VIP sections.

He stepped into her room and shut the door behind him, patiently waiting by the door as she grabbed her jacket. he smiled warmly to her as she returned and offered her his arm. "Shall we?" He then led her out into the hall, pausing so she could shut the door before leading her towards the elevator and down towards the lobby. They passed several familiar faces on the way and Yong gave a polite but discreet nod and greeting before leading them out the front doors.

There waiting for them was Yong Soo's ST7 cruiser. He let go of her arm gently and approached the bike. After swinging his leg over and getting settled he grabbed the helmet on the back and held it out to her. "Are you ready Ja-gi?" (korean: Darlin/Honey) he smiles at her a somewhat mysterious glint to his eye. After she puts on the helmet and gets on behind him he glances back at her over his shoulder. "Hang on tight." He says with a smirk and soon they are speeding off down the highway.

Bright and shiney lights and signs glittered over head as Yong glided around cars with ease. Every now and then he would glance back at her to see if she was doing alright "If I go to fast let me know." He wanted her to enjoy herself and wanted to avoid freaking her out with his speed riding. The streets were bustling but no problem for Yong to maneuver through. He took the longer route so she would enjoy the many sites of the store displays and street performers.

[angelinehofstee]

"Seoul is quite lively at night. It may be a bit overwhelming at first, but stay close to me and it will be alright."

As she was facing away from him,sorting her clothes, a smile crept on her face. "Aww That's so sweet..." she thought, almost chuckling. She wasn't sure if he was saying that to be reassuring in case she was worried, or if he was trying to make sure she kept close so he could put his arm around her. Something like that anyway. In any case, Korea certainly had this special charm. It was refreshing really. Belgium thought about it. Seeing his asian brothers always treating him as a nuisance was a surprise. Unless...of course, there was something he was hiding. But Belgium would not dwell on thoughts like those. Still she couldn't see why they disliked him.

Everything was set, and Korea took led her out. Belgium was usually against being led anyway, anywhere. However, on things like dates, she enjoyed being led. People they saw, including nations, gave a nod or wave as they walked out. It was now that Belgium was happy about not being a celebrity or having her existence known. She enjoyed the privacy that most politicians did not. Other nations typically did not care as well.

As they got out into the ope air, Belgium's eyes lit up as she saw their mode of transportation. A motorcycle, it was a shiny black and looked very modern. Like many countries in her general area, bicycles were used a lot, and cars were as well. But motorcycles were rare. Angeline had never ridden on one. She was the type that liked new things, especially exciting things like this. He held out a helmet and asked if she was ready. And that word "Ja-gi" sounded so cute.

"Yes, I am!" She bounced on, barely containing herself. Snapping on her helmet fast, she leaned forward and put her arms around him, trying to do it like she saw in the movies. She squeezed a little tight, because for all her excitement, she was a little nervous too. The engine was turned on and then they went. Angeline couldnt help but jerk a little bit as it took off. But one they were going it was amazing.

The neon lights flew by, and sometimes meshed together almost like a firework display. The people on the streets, especially performers and small open shops also added to the show. There some small noises audible, but for the most the engine was the main sound, and the wind. Cars too, were blurs; YongSoo weaved through them perfectly. Her eyes flickered to and fro, trying to absorb the modern city. Feeling overwhelmed almost, yet very calm, she nudged her face into his jacket. Since the sights and sounds were a bit too much at times, she'd close her eyes and just rest on his back and smile.

"If I go to fast let me know.", he said.

"No...this, this is fine." Angeline replied softly, but just barely audible.

[South Korea]

He smiles at her warmly over his shoulder, his eyes dark but vivid, the lights from around them glinting off the dark brown orbs. He found himself liking the closeness as she grasped him tightly. She felt so warm and snug against his back it took a moment to ward off all inappropriate thoughts. Not tonight. It was different tonight...

They soon pulled up to a large and well lit building the large sign overhead read TANI Nomadic Bistro. It was packed. Lots of people huddled in the cornors of the entry area and a line turning around the cornor. He parks the bike nearby and waits for Belgium to disembark before following suit. Tossing the keys to a Valet that greeted him and with a beam in his eyes moved to properly park the cruiser. He politely offers his arm to Belgium with a welcoming grin.

"This is the Tani. It's one of the fanciest places in town. Stocked with many exotic dishes as well as hometown delicacies. One of our top five star establishments. Let's give it a try hmm?" He leads her up towards the entrance, ignoring the line completely. Near the front some of the patrons greeted and waved to him, to which he returned them in kind. When they reached the entry way, the host smiled and bowed his head in greeting. The man greeted them in Korean but Yong spoke a few words to him and the host nodded and greeted them both in English.

"Ah Mister Im I take it you and your guest will be joining us this evening? Your table is ready and waiting sir."

Yong nods and a young woman in a nice uniform comes up and greets them "Right this way Mr. Im" Upon entering, it seemed almost as though they’ve been thrown through a cultural time warp, out of the metropolitan madness and into a secret hideaway, replete with natural elements fusing wonderfully together. The woman leads them past the various tables to a section off in the far corner, a bit isolated, but it was alright. He prefered it quiet and calm to spend time to get to know his date a bit better and perhaps impress her with Korean food and hospitality. He pulls out her chair for her and smiles as she takes her seat before moving to sit across from her.

"We also have sommeliers and translators to help you if you require. Or if you just want to know what goes good with what. Sometimes the tourists appreciate it as not most know Korean. Most of the staff here also speak various Asian languages and English. America has a lot of soldiers stationed here so it is nice that we can all communicate well."

A waitress brings them some menus and stands nearby as Yong leans in close to Bel so she can hear him over the various voices enaminating from the main room "Shall I order some wine?" he smiles warmly at her.

[angelinehofstee]

The ride ended when they reached a very busy restaurant. People waited outside; the line seemed to go on forever. But Yong Soo did not even begin to wait, he led her to the front, and the host knew exactly what to do. He led them to a small passage, and then a private room. While not completely gone, the sounds were now muffled and could be easily ignored. The decor was very oriental to a westerner like Belgium, and she loved the authentic feel it had.

Once they had left, Belgium was asked by Korea if she would like some wine. Belgium actually preferred beer, but also had a special place in her heart for wine. But was it European style wine? Belgium remembered the first time her brother had brought back some sake to try. She wasn't too fond of it. While Belgium would try at least everything at least once, she could be called a picky eater, and in this case, drinker. The menu She didn't want to seem so culturally dumb, but she decided to ask anyway.

"Hmmm some Merlot would be nice." she replied, also smiling. "Will you have some too? And, what are your recommendations?" Belgium blushed a little as she continued. "I'm afraid I am not very familiar with Korean cuisine." Angeline liked seeming very knowledgeable when it came to other cultures. And she knew how it felt to be a smaller nation that was not as famous as others. Still Southern Korea was emerging as a very strong and stable nation, she was sure he would soon become a very well known nation. But in any case, this lack of knowledge was embarrassing.

[South Korea]

"Ah of course I will Ja-gi" he smiles warmly at her. "I shall order us a bottle right away." and he did so, leaning over towards the waitress and speaking to her in Korean. She nodded politely and left the area. Yong rested his chin in his hand as he regarded Belgium with a kind smile "I'd love for you to try some of our home foods, but we also have a variety of European dishes as well if you'd prefer such. How about I order some Banchan for you to try and if it doesn't quite stimulate your pallate we can order something else."

"One thing about Korea, we usually serve Banchan which are usually a group of side dishes with a main course of rice. That way you can try a bit of everything" he begins to skim through the menu "That is if you trust me of course" he smirks a bit, a playful glint in his eye.

Soon the waitress returns with the Merlot and pops the cork, pouring it into glasses and setting it on the table for them. "I have a strong economical trade with Francis" Yong said as he pics up his glass and peers at the liquid inside "I enjoy importing a lot of his goods, they are quite good." He sniffs the wine and gives a satisfied sigh before taking a sip.

"So Miss Hofstee, now that I have you here at my whim." sly smile "I'd love to know a bit more about you....if you don't mind of course...." he sips at his wine peering at her curiously.

[angelinehofstee]

Yong Soo ordered the wine, or Belgium assumed he did. He then spoke about banchan and Korean dining style. They had many foods so they got a little of everything. Belgium always had liked that. Especially when trying food for the first time.

"So its simular to the Chinese style of eating...right?" she asked interestedly. Though she then regretted asking. She hoped it wasn't offensive or anything! She knew how annoying it could be to be associated or grouped with a larger nation.

He slyly asked if she trusted him. Belgium gave a flirty smile back. "Of course!"

The wine arrived, and the blonde's eyes sparkled with delight. Korea popped the cork off and spoke of Francis.

"Ah yes! His exported goods are quite nice...though he is a bit of a handful at times." She responded, with a little nervous chuckle at the end. "Bit of a handful" was an understatement for sure. But he was good company at least.

"Me? Well...Hmmm. What is it you want to know exactly?", she spun her wine glass in small circles and watched the light play on the liquid. She pursed her lips a little, but was still looking down. "I like sweets and scenic rides. I also really like cats! Though...hmmm I like dogs and rabbits too! My favourite color is red...and uh.... Hmmmm." She put her finger to the lower part of her lower lip. Then when the thing she wanted to say hit her, she put both hands down on the edge of the table at the same time and leaned in. Her eyes were locked onto his and there was a burning pride in them. "I think my greatest accomplishment is forming the EU! Or...were you looking for something else?" she asked, tilting her head slightly.

[South Korea]

"So its simular to the Chinese style of eating...right?"

"More like his is similar to mine! Banchan came from me after all!" he chuckles lightly as he sips at his wine, smiling at her over the glass, his dark eyes vivid and tinged with curiosity and amusement. He smiled as she replied to his mention of Francis.

"Ah yes! His exported goods are quite nice...though he is a bit of a handful at times."

"More so a...social individual. We're actually somewhat alike, though he's far more accustomed to the wonders of the world than I am." He sighed a little, just since the end of the Korean War, Yong Soo had been able to see other worldly places. He and his twin had lived so isolated for so long it had been a hard transition into the world of the Westerners, it both excited and disturbed him at the same time.


"I like sweets and scenic rides. I also really like cats! Though...hmmm I like dogs and rabbits too! My favorite color is red...and uh.... Hmmmm."

He smiles warmly at her, she was just too cute and he made no attempt to hide his admiring look upon her.

"I think my greatest accomplishment is forming the EU! Or...were you looking for something else?"

"Ah yes that is quite amazing. The EU has helped many in the past. It is quite useful" he nodded to her. "Still it must be a lot of work. Do you get much free time to yourself?"

As they spoke the waiters arrived with their food. They set a large plate of rice before them and in small dishes around it were various kinds of Korean delicacies. There was a Garlic chive Salad, Myeolchi Bokkeum (Anchovies), Milssam (Pancake wraps), Pickled cucumber, Hobak Jun (fried zucchini) with soy sauce, A fruit salad with apples, grapes and nuts, A potato Salad, Gaeran Mari (rolled omelettes), gaeran jim (steamed eggs), seafood salad, dubu tchim (Steamed tofu), soy braised beef and peppers, Sweet black beans, Chapchae (Fried Noodles) and last but not least a wonderful looking bowl of kaenip (sesame leaf) Kimchi.

"Mmmm it looks delicious!" he catches Belgium's eye once more. "You might want to start mild, such as the fruit salad. We tend to like a lot of pickled dishes, some of it's....an acquired taste. Please let me know if you prefer something else" he smiles warmly at her, being a polite host and waiting for her to dish up first.

[angelinehofstee]

So then, this was from Korea and not China? It was like french fries all over again. She was so silly to not have read up on this sort of thing before she went on the date, though the whole thing wasn't exactly premeditated on her end." Oh well!" she thought encouragingly. "This is my time to learn!"

She laughed at his comment about France." Yes, he has made his way around hasn't he..." she said smiling, but almost rolling her eyes. He knew a lot about the world because he felt it up so much perhaps; at least thats how she felt. Still, as dirty as his habits were, she didn't hate him or anything. She was just wary of the plotting Frenchman...especially on Christmas.

As she mentioned the things she enjoyed, his smile was not unnoticed. If Belgium had not been experienced she probably would be blushing like crazy. What young girl wouldn't in the prescence of such a handsome guy? But Belgium wasn't new to this date thing, she simply absorbed his smile, loved it and continued.

"Free time...? Well, it is quite time consuming, especially when dealing with countries that can't seem to pay off debt. Greece declared bankruptcy recently, and Bo....Spain and his sister aren't far behind unfortunately. That's the most pressing matter. Luckily, in Europe's case, another huge war is unlikely...I'm happy about that of course, but it's hard to keep everyone satisfied. Germany is very helpful too, but he's good at managing things... still I'm proud to say I work very hard!"

The EU was a huge challenge but Belgium quite enjoyed it. It made her feel important and for such a small country to have such an important headquarters in her borders was an honour. But she wouldn't admit annoyance with some other countries, particularly Eastern Europe and the Iberian peninsula. Those countries just couldn't seem to bounce back. And she was even more annoyed with Switzerland and Norway... since they wouldn't join no matter how much she pleaded. No, neither one was easy to talk to, let alone convince.

The food came, and what a surprise! It was certainly different, but not at all strange looking. It all looked quite good. She nodded in agreement at his statement that they were delicious, but her eyes were locked on the food. The one she really wanted was the Milssam; she loved sweets. But now was not the time, the meal first!

"Okay! I'll take your advise! Fruit salad it is...! Uh...May i take the plate...M...maybe you could show me how, so I don't do anything rude." Belgium said this because she could have sworn there was some sort of way you were supposed to eat. She didn't want the waitresses and waiters staring at the foreigner that didn't know how to eat. And she certainly didn't want to embarrass Korea.

[South Korea]

Okay! I'll take your advise! Fruit salad it is...! Uh...May i take the plate...M...maybe you could show me how, so I don't do anything rude.


"Ah of course! First you take one of these empty plates..." he picked up one of the square shaped plates on the side and picked up a set of chopsticks. He picked up some of the Hobak Jun with the chopsticks and set it on the plate "Then you grab portions of whatever it is you would like to eat. Sort of like a buffet, though the plates tend to be a bit smaller." He smiles as he hands the plate to her. When she grabs for it, their finger brush and Yong lifts his gaze to meet hers. His lips curve into a smile as he holds her gaze but after she takes the plate from him he leans back in his seat. Not much considering his usual approach to things, but he did plan to do it right with this one and small touches and faint glances would do to read how well she responded to their date.

He waits for her to begin before grabbing his own plate, going right for the kimchi. Predictably so, the Korean had no shame in dishing up his favorite food right away. He briefly wondered how Miss Bel would take to his signature dish. Al hadn't been to keen on him putting it on his hamburger even though Yong insisted it would 'make it better' He also added a bit of rice and Hobak Jun to his plate as well. He turns his head to request the waitress bring them some water, as much as he enjoyed wine, he was driving tonight after all and the last thing he wanted to do was endanger Belgium, even if they were immortal.

Dinner went on at a comfortable pace, however Yong, not too keen on leaving things quiet, held a steady conversation with Belgium, asking her many things about her country. Yong had always enjoyed learning about other countries and most of his questions were genuine.

"I've studied abroad for many years and I can't believe I haven't visited your country as often save for business matters. I'd like to come visit someday and learn some more about your culture." he smiles warmly at her "If it's alright of course"As they continued to converse and enjoy their meal, Yong took it upon himself to tell her a few jokes and encounters he found funny. Trying his best to get her to laugh and when he was rewarded with a chuckle he was quite enamored by the beauty of the sound. Yes, so far the date was going well and he was enjoying himself immensely. He only hoped she was enjoying it as well, especially since he was doing his best to be a 'good boy'.

"Would you like to try the kimchi?" he noticed he almost ate all of it and was still curious if she would like it, might be a deal breaker right there, he thought with a grin "It's my personal favorite. People usually have different opinions on it but I always thought it was good." He lifts some in his chopsticks and offers it to her.