Dingo Story is a beautiful concept where a family member or friend sends a request for their dear one, who is struggling in some way. DS then sets up a surprise meeting with their favorite celebrity. The celebrity spends some time encouraging them like a friend. They guide them and give advice that is actually helpful.
Siwan was featured in one such story on 3rd February. I took time to write about it, as I had to understand the entire concept before doing so. It is a lovely concept, and I have seen other videos, especially those with English subtitles.
In this feature, Siwan meets a 26-year-old Sanghee who has recently got a permanent job and is struggling to keep up with the pace of the work. Her aunt had requested this meeting. LG sponsored this particular show as it showcased its recent launch - Gram.
Here is the show below - DS has added nice English subtitles!
I loved quite a few things that Siwan did in this video.
How he encouraged her as a beginner driver.
How he confessed that he tried to imitate Khwanghee to connect fast with his peers, but then he realized that it was a "color" that didn't suit him. He decided to be himself and take time in opening up with people. He ended up making "deep" connections with his peers.
How he cutely guided her while parking the car.
The thing I loved the most was his reaction when she tells him that she is worried about the future.
'When you talk to people around you their lives seem so fancy, their lives seem full of joy. But when you take the courage to tell someone (that you are worried about the future), they will tell you me too!'
'You are living a life that many aspire to. Of course, you are working hard for it. But I think...
...it would be great to focus on strengths that only you have.'
I think this is great advice for anyone who is striving in life.
The fact that he didn't make it a big deal without making it feel trivial shows his maturity. He doesn't console her - but gives her great advice.
Then they have some fun moments with the new laptop. She's excited and exclaims that she will show it off to her friends. What he said next just won my heart all over again.
'And more importantly...
Enjoy.
Enjoy the success of your job.
Think about the future later.
Let's do our best together.'
In the end, Siwan helps her put the new bags in her car. Then in his signature sweet style, he tells her to tell him when something nice happens in her life. What a wonderful thought to say to someone - and that too a fan! Just this one gesture will make her look forward to good things happening to her... So positive!
Siwan sees her off, tells her to drive safely, and...
... watches after her like an older brother. A true 친구!
To Sanghee, I look forward to more good things for you, Sanghee, in the future.
(In formal Korean, the person's name is used instead of 'you'.)