𝐇𝐞𝐚𝐥𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐇𝐞𝐚𝐫𝐭𝐬 ★

Elena is a 16-year-old girl from the U.S. who has always felt like she has to hold everything together. After her parents' divorce, Elena became the "strong one," taking care of her younger sister, Sunny, and hiding her own emotional pain. With a mother who works long hours to provide for them and a father who abandoned them due to commitment issues, Elena struggles with feelings of loneliness and abandonment. She's been stuck in a toxic relationship, which makes her wary of love and trust, pushing her to believe that if she lets people close, they'll eventually leave.

In an attempt to reconnect with their cultural roots and escape the painful memories of the past, Elena's mother takes her and Sunny to Korea. There, Elena faces not only the emotional baggage of her family's separation but also an opportunity to rediscover who she is. Amid the beauty and challenges of Korea, Elena meets new people who will help her heal and grow. Her loyal best friend, Ji-Won, provides emotional support, while the ambitious Soo-Jin starts as a rival.

Elena's complicated relationship with Jae-Sung, a charming yet emotionally distant guy, begins to develop slowly. Though Jae-Sung is kind and patient, Elena's past toxicity makes it difficult for her to trust or love him. Their relationship starts as a slow burn, with Elena fighting her instincts to shut him out. As Elena's journey unfolds, she learns that she doesn't need to be perfect to be loved. Her slow transformation, from closing herself off to allowing others to help her through her pain, is a vital part of her emotional growth.

Throughout the story, Elena must learn the value of self-acceptance, forgiveness, and understanding that healing doesn't come overnight. As she embraces her Korean heritage and uncovers the complexity of her family's struggles, Elena begins to realize that love, in all its forms, can heal-and that she deserves it.