Section ONe

the basics.

PERSONALITY TRAITS:

Patient, caring, loyal, supportive
Observant, practical, non-confrontational
Reserved, inflexible, meek, perfectionistic

PERSONALITY:
Hyunjoo is, at heart, a very warm and loving person, who wants to believe the best in people. She values harmony and cooperation, and has an ability to bring out the best in others by her firm belief to believe the best. It may come across to others as her being naïve, at best, or somewhat delusional, at worst. Others might see her simply as being too innocent, which is far from the truth. It often surprises people just how connected Hyunjoo is with the real world, and what is really going on inside her own head. She has a rich inner world that is usually not obvious to observers, constantly taking in information about people and situations that is personally important to her, and storing it away. This big store of information, if used, is more often than not startingly accurate, thanks to her excellent memory about things that is important or interesting enough for her. It isn't uncommon for her to remember a certain facial expression or conversation in precise detail years after it occured, if the situation made an impression on her. She is very aware of her own internal feelings, as well as other people's feelings. She doesn't usually express her own feelings, keeping things inside, and she rarely lets on that she knows how others are feeling. However, she will speak up when she feels someone really needs help, and will do what she can to help them become aware of their feelings.

Hyunjoo has a very clear idea of the way things should be, which she strives to attain. She is a perfectionist through and through, definitely to a fault. She tends to get the most out of something through hands-on learning. Learning new choreography or lyrics is of little difficulty for her. Once learned and understood, she will faithfully and tirelessly carry through a task to completion. Her own standards tend to be high, but not impossibly so — when it applies to someone else. She is very dedicated as an artist and a hard worker, but is very reluctant to share her accomplishments with others. While keeping herself humble, she also has a tendency to downplay her own successes for the sake of someone else or at the thought that it could've been done better, however minor. At the same time, Hyunjoo seeks positive feedback from others. In the absence of positive feedback, or in the face of criticism, she gets discouraged, and may even become depressed. If what she does is not met with validation or acknowledgement, it can do a lot to her own self-confidence. Hyunjoo is very reserved and tends to internalize more than she lets out, and a lack of a healthy emotional outlet can lead to a lot of frustration and misunderstanding. She is so used to keeping things to herself that she doesn't really know how to expess it properly; put it together with her constant worry of others and need to be seen by those who matter, and you've got the mess that is Hyunjoo's internal affairs.

BACKGROUND:
Seo Hyunjoo was born on May 10, 1999, in Iksan, North Jeolla Province. She is the youngest member of an upper middle class family, which consists of four members. Her father, Seo Ilwang, works as an anesthesiologist, while her mother, Ryu Miran, is a homemaker who previously worked as a financial advisor at a law firm. She has an older half-sister, Kyungchae, with whom she shares a mother as well as a ten-year . Her childhood was rather normal as far as the definition goes, but she wouldn't be as quick at calling it a happy one. Her family was fairly open when it came to the arts, particularly seen when it came to her older sister, who was seen more on stage than anywhere else, be it a play or during one of Iksan's many festivals. Hyunjoo wasn't as active when it came to the stage and would be less open to showing it off, preferring to listen to music in her room and look up choreographies for her own enjoyment. Still, her mother encouraged her to try something out, as Hyunjoo was painfully shy as a child and didn't know how much she shined on stage. So, she gave it a try.

It wasn't easy, especially when she was both surrounded by perfectionists and guilty of being one herself. If it wasn't her sister trying to provide feedback on her attempts, which were more often than not of the negative sort, it was her mother with her comparisons of the sisters and unknowingly putting a huge damper on Hyunjoo's self-confidence. There were some positives here and there, but even then it felt more like critique than actual praise. Both women in the family were like producers and directors; they led the way, provided directions and gave their opinion where it was (or wasn't) needed. Her father was a member of the audience; he knew what was going on and would see the good side of it all, but was rarely there to see all the work and the stress that Hyunjoo experienced along the way. It took its toll on her, but she wouldn't always feel alone like this.

Hyunjoo's relationship with her half-sister wasn't the best in the old days. Both were very serious about their work, but while Kyungchae was passionate and dominating, Hyunjoo was practical and meek. The sisters would often take part in impromptu performances in the family's living room, only for Kyungchae to start criticizing her footwork or correct her on lyrics, notes or just her overall attitude, even when she was clearly a young and impressionable child. Hyunjoo admired her, but would later grow to simply brush off her comments and offer (attempts of) sarcastic one-liners. This relationship continued until Kyungchae moved away for university.

Things took a turn for the worst just as Hyunjoo was entering middle school. While her sister was visiting them over summer break, she got caught kissing another girl by their mother, which Hyunjoo got to hear all about when she found her sister storming out of the house just as she returned home from school. Her mother was hysterical and spared no expense in terms of what she thought of the whole ordeal; to discover that one of her precious daughters was engaged in such a thing. It was scandalous, in her not-so-humble opinion! Hyunjoo decided to hide away in her room until everything calmed down, but became worried when Kyungchae didn't return after several hours. She decided to send her a text. When she didn't get a response, she decided to be bold and go to the one place she knew Kyungchae went when she wanted to be left alone: an old playground a few blocks from their place of residence. She found her on the swings and joined her. It didn't take long for the revelation to come: Kyungchae was biual, and had known for a while. Being the society that South Korea is, she was scared to let people know. Hyunjoo didn't know what to do. Her sister, her brave and smart and talented sister, was scared. Well, Hyunjoo was nothing if not supportive, and after the initial shock, she told her sister:

"Unnie, I'm here. If you want me to."

She had never seen her sister cry quite like this before, even as a character on stage.

After this, things got better, at least in terms of the sisters' bond. Sure, there was still a bit of tension in the form of critique and comparisons, but Hyunjoo got a little better at letting her know when it got too far, and Kyungchae tries her best to be less critical and more open to "alternative forms of encouragements", as Hyunjoo gently put it. 

Hyunjoo was actually offered chances to audition ahead of her time of entering Bloom Ent., but she always declined or failed to pass the initial rounds. In 2014, at age 15, she was scouted by one of their representative at a music festival in Iksan, where she had a small performance with a couple of friends. He recognized her as Kyungchae's sister, who was beginning to move up the ranks of becoming an actress, and saw potential in her. She decided to give it one last try, before she entered high school, and was actually accepted into the company as an idol trainee. This did not come without a price. Her mother was furious with the idea of her youngest joining a girl group, but she had the support of her father and sister, although the latter gave it somewhat reluctantly. She took her aside one day and asked her: "You sure you want this, Jooyi?" "Yes." "Then I say, go for it." And so Hyunjoo began her journey to an idol trainee. And what a journey that would turn out to be.

LIKES:

✩ Fashion; it's a way for her to express herself without needing to use words.
✩ Peace and quiet; living with so many members, she appreciates it where she can find it.
✩ Music; her safe haven in the chaos that is real life.
✩ Oolong tea; she enjoys its sweet aftertaste and is a way for her to de-stress.
✩ Symmetry; both sides should be equal, it's more pleasing for the eyes to her.

DISLIKES:

✩ High heels; her feet scream for mercy everytime.
✩ Messy environments; please don't get her started on the dorms or practice room.
✩ Big crowds; they make her nervous.
✩ Disappointing someone important to her; it hurts when she does.
✩ Arguments, especially when they may turn physical; it makes her want to shrink through the ground and stay there until everything is calm.

HOBBIES:

✩ Technology; she enjoys messing with various gadgets and "thingamabobbers".
✩ Cleaning; yes, this is an actual hobby of hers, don't judge.
✩ Art; she enjoys drawing every once in a while and isn't too bad at it, either.
✩ Reading; she enjoys learning new things.
✩ Collecting; she likes to collect various items, like robots, old music and miniature weaponry.

HABITS:

✩ Bites on the side of her index finger when she is anxious or deep in thoughts.
✩ Messing with the parting of her hair, switching it from left to right and back.
✩ Jumping up and down in excitement, but doesn't make a sound while doing so.
✩ Appearing behind people all of a sudden because she forgets to make her presence known.
✩ Wiping her forehead with one-two fingers only.

TRIVIA:

✩ A running gag among the members is her clumsiness during practice, in which she hits people with her hair or her "pointy elbows of doom".
✩ Knows how to make daisy chains.
✩ Has past experience with ballet and fencing.
✩ Majors in Applied Music at Hanlim Multi Art School.
✩ Likes to bring a bottle of water with her to bed. It makes it easier for her to sleep, particularly if the water isn't too cold.
✩ Wasn't used to wearing makeup before becoming a member and would often ask one of the members to help her apply something, even something as simple as foundation. She does a mean wing, though!
✩ She is a presceterian; a vegeterian who eats fish. (Gotta get that omega-3!)
✩ Knows her way around the kitchen, but has been known to be a little generous when it comes to seasoning. She likes her food spicy.
✩ Has been known to recite movie quotes and song lyrics in her sleep.
✩ Likes to be prepared for long days and schedules. She will bring along snacks and drinks in case any of the members need it.
✩ She is allergic to mushroom and citrus fruit.
✩ Knows enough English to hold a conversation with someone. Wants to learn more in the future.
✩ Her favorite color is peach.
✩ Plays the piano, guitar and a bit of flute.
✩ Her personal music playlist is full av Celtic music these days, but no one gets to hear it aside from an accidential listen here and there.
✩ Suffers from extreme acrophobia.
✩ Her ideal type is open-minded and patient.

Section two

relationships

FAMILY: 

✩ Father — Seo Ilwang (42) | Anesthesiologist | Practical, open-minded, passive | 6/10
(FC: Shin Hakyun)
            Hyunjoo's relationship with her father has always been positive, and they are definitely more similar than others in their family. He raised her to be true to herself and try to enjoy life while keeping it realistic. These two may have argued a grand total of three times since Hyunjoo was born, but there is a slight distance between them due to him being away so often during parts of her childhood. Their relationship is mostly the result of the last few years when he has become more available (and less at the same time) in her life.

✩ Mother — Ryu Miran (50) | Housewife | Strict, temperamental, proud | 4/10
(FC: Oh Hyunkyung)
            For all intents and purposes, Hyunjoo's relationship with her mother is decent, but it has definitely seen better days. She shares her mother's need for validation and perfectionism, although that's where the similarities end. Her childhood consisted of many comparisons being made between her and her sister, courtesy of her mother, and it has caused a bit of a tear in their bond. Hyunjoo wants to have a good relationship with her mother, but at the moment, it's civilized.

✩ Half-sister — Ryu Kyungchae (27) | Actress | Passionate, strong-willed, self-absorbed | 7/10
(FC: After School's Uee) 
            Kyungchae is her sister and also the family member she is closest to these days. Despite having an of ten years between them, they get along very well, partly due to Hyunjoo's maturity and Kyungchae's youthful persona. Both of them are perfectionists who take pride in their work, and they will often help each other out with advice. After the revelation a few years back, Kyungchae has made more of an effort to be there for her sister instead of constantly criticizing her and bringing her down, which she didn't realize that she did in her search for success. Their relationship has its share of slopes and hills, but they try. Both are very creative spirits, which makes it easier for them to relate to one another than is possible for either of their parents, who are less emotional and more logic-driven.

FRIEND(S): 

✩ Best friend — Kwon Riae (17) | Student/Aspiring radio DJ | Creative, witty, cynical | 10/10
(FC: Seo Yeji)
            Riae is pretty much Hyunjoo's only friend outside of Flower Girls as well as the champion for longest-lasting friendship. She has a dream of becoming a radio DJ and is currently part of a small, local radio show in Iksan, where they discuss music, popular culture, etc. She is known for her witty commentary and pleasing voice, although she isn't much of a singer herself. Unlike Hyunjoo, Riae is from a humble family background and works part-time to help her parents make ends meet. She has a large social circle, but no one has gotten close to her quite like Hyunjoo has managed to, as she tends to drive people off with her somewhat bossy and pessimistic attitude. However, Hyunjoo recognized her struggles and was there for her all the way from fifth grade and throughout middle school. Riae is very supportive of her friend, but also very negative towards her company as she is worried that they will take advantage of her friend, then throw her aside like an unwanted or used toy. Hyunjoo is thankful for her, even if she does think Riae may exaggerate just a little bit. Riae is also not the biggest fan of Carnation (at first).

FLOWER GIRLS: 

✩ Matsumoto Hitomi | 9/10
            Hitomi (aka Rose) is the mother figure Hyunjoo never knew she needed before becoming a member of Flower Girls. She enjoys the attention she receives from her, and is always obedient and listening to her words. Her aloof and serious nature bothered her a little at first, but she has gotten used to it and sees it simply as one of Rose's many sides. She knows that Hitomi is far from perfect, but does her best to make her life just a little better.

✩ Bang Chanmi | 6/10
            Chanmi, or Chanson, is a peculiar one for Hyunjoo. She has never seen someone quite this bitter and resentful, and she feels like she has to tread lightly when it comes to discussing certain things with her. They do share a (somewhat) troublesome family history, and they do generally get along, even if Chanson isn't as eager to shower the youngest members with attention as some of the others. Hyunjoo does enjoy her spontaneous acts of kindness, though.

✩ Kim Yisoo | 7/10
            Both of them come from a wealthy background and are fairly serious characters, but that's just about where the similarities end. Yisoo reminds her of her older sister, Kyungchae, even though she is harsher in her judgements and less free-spirited. Still, she appreciates her desire to get things done and ability to speak out when it's needed, something she wishes to work on herself.

✩ Caira Park | 8/10
            Hyunjoo and Caira tends to get along very well with their similarly warm personalities and supportive natures. Both of them are good at seeing both sides and get along with both the members and the staff, even if her absent-mindedness can leave Hyunjoo feeling exasperated during busy times. Her blunt nature reminds Hyunjoo of Riae, and she tries to not be too hurt by some of the things that escapes her senior's mouth. Still, they get along more often than not and are often able to understand each other.

✩ Gladiolus, Lotus, Apple Blossom, Daffodil, Fuschia | 8/10, 6/10, 7/10, 6/10, 7/10
            Gladiolus | As the leader of Flower Girls, it is only natural for Hyunjoo to see her as an authorative figure in the group. She, along with the other members, view Gladiolus as the group's "father", and she certainly doesn't mind the attention she and the other members receive from her. It is most likely that Gladiolus sees Hyunjoo's struggles with her own self-confidence, and she is definitely one of the members she looks out for more. She appreciates her attempts to make everyone feel like equals in such a large and age-diverse group.
             Lotus | Lotus is a bit of a two-sided case with Hyunjoo. Her experience in the industry often has Hyunjoo asking her for advice, but her frustration with the same industry makes her hesitant to ask for too much. She appreciates her wisdom, but is definitely not as close to her as some of the other members. 
            Apple Blossom | Apple Blossom is someone Hyunjoo looks up to for her outgoing and happy self. She sees the way Lilac admires and looks up to her, and she is definitely one of her fans, if a little less obvious about it. Hyunjoo can see when something bothers Apple Blossom, despite her attempts to be all smiles, but doesn't usually confront her about it, preferring to let her come out with it. The stress Apple Blossom is under is something Hyunjoo recognizes in herself, but she doesn't know how to help the older member out.
            Daffodil | It wouldn't be a lie to say Hyunjoo was envious of Daffodil's beauty. She makes everything she wears look good and always comes out right on camera, be it professional or fan-taken. Still, Hyunjoo isn't too big of a fan of her obsession with her own looks. She recognizes a lot of her sister in Daffodil in the elegant visuals and great confidence in herself, but she doesn't understand the need for mirrors everywhere. Is there anyone she uses as a style icon, though, it would have to be this member. She is one of the members Hyunjoo is the least close to.
            Fuschia | Her confidence in herself is something Hyunjoo admires about her. She finds her to be as beautiful as Daffodil, but less vain and more open about it. Her level of comfort when it comes to her own body is something Hyunjoo never understood how to imitate, and she sometimes finds herself comparing how differently their stage outfits fit one another. 

✩ Lilac, Gardenia, Carnation | 6/10, 9/10, 7/10
            Lilac | Her confidence is a point of admiration for Hyunjoo. She appreciates her willingness to do exactly what she wants and not be afraid of what everyone else say and do. Her relationship with this member is good, but she isn't as close to Lilac as to some of the other members, mostly because of her different personalities. She is a little reserved for Lilac's taste, but Hyunjoo still looks to her as a source of inspiration for better self-confidence.
            Gardenia | Gardenia is definitely Hyunjoo's closest friend in Flower Girls aside from Rose, and was also the one closest to her age prior to Carnation's addition. Hyunjoo sees Gardenia's insecurity and the way it affects her, and she tries to be there for her and let her know about all the things about her. She makes sure to cheer her on when she feels down. Gardenia is also the only member who Hyunjoo talks informally to, even if it's still formal by the standards of a normal 17-year-old.
            Carnation | Before Carnation joined, Hyunjoo was the youngest in Flower Girls, and she wasn't one to admit it, but she really enjoyed the attention she received from it. Becoming the second youngest isn't quite the same, and she is afraid that things will not be the same after it. Still, Hyunjoo isn't one to judge by first impressions and gives Carnation a chance. She isn't too fond of her spoiled persona and has a slight envy for her obviously superior talent, but she also sees how lonely the girl seems at times and tries to be there for her, to let her know that she's doing well as a member. Carnation's relationship with Chanson fascinates her, too.

BLOOM ENTERTAINMENT: 

✩ Park Chunghee (40) | CEO of Bloom Ent. | Ruthless, driven, ambitious | 2/10
            Hyunjoo refers to her CEO with respect and just the right amount of politenes, but their relationship does not go beyond that. He is the one in charge of the group, and Hyunjoo respects that, but don't expect her to shower him with praises. He reminds her a lot of her mother, but even more critical and ruthless. At least her mother said something nice every once in a while. She doesn't quite hate him, but she doesn't see him as the right man for the job either, with his lack of experience in his position and past experience with other girl groups.

✩ Lee Jiae (34) | Manager | Serious, kind, strict | 6/10
            Hyunjoo has been noted by Jiae as being one of the less difficult members as she is usually quick to follow directions and polite towards her seniors. She does sometimes forget about her, though, and is often of the impression that she has run off or hidden somewhere. Jiae doesn't think too much of her, even though it's rarely negative, aside from the occasional "Smile more!" or "You should try standing out more". Jiae does have moments of kindness, however, and she does try to show that she cares when she clearly sees the younger member struggle, even if her issues are more known to the members and other members of the staff.

✩ Baek Taehyun (27) | Manager | Kind, diligent, overprotective | 7/10
            Flower Girls' youngest manager reminds Hyunjoo a little of her father, only more innocent and less "it's up to your mother". She is more likely to seek him out than Jiae, simply because he doesn't intimidate her as much. There is some frustration from her side about his overprotective nature, but she understands partly where it's coming from and doesn't really mind. She does feel like he is underestimating the group's abilities, but that is more in the back of her head than anything. He is more aware of her problems and is always there with words of hope and kindness, which she appreciates, even if it isn't always what she needs. She likes his diligent nature and tries to show her appreciation for his work every once in a while.

✩ Kim Misun (22) | Producer/director | Cheerful, excitable, hard-working | 7/10
            Hyunjoo doesn't get the chance to interact with the group's producer/director much outside of comeback times, but they have a good relationship. Misun appreciates Hyunjoo's eagerness to please and finds her cute. Hyunjoo is always interested to see what she will do this time and is fascinated by the woman's creative process.

✩ Kyung Subin (25) | Stylist | Ambitious, eager to please, stubborn | 8/10
            One would think these two wouldn't get along, but it's actually quite the opposite. Hyunjoo and Subin has a very respectable relationship with a mutual love for fashion and aesthetics. There is rarely any resistance from Hyunjoo when it comes to styling, which Subin appreciates with the amount of members that do. She doesn't understand Hyunjoo's aversion to heels, however. It's a struggle to get her into a pair that is more than one inch tall. Hyunjoo is patient with Subin and understands the want to please the ones in charge, so they tend to have be in agreement about most things. Hyunjoo will even try to talk with the stylist during dress-up, and Subin will generally reply in short, but friendly responses. 

✩ Ahn Shiwoo (27) | Choreographer | Strict, temperamental, hard-working | 7/10
            It's no lie that this guy is difficult at best, but Hyunjoo makes it work somehow. His perfectionism towards his work is something she can understand, and she is quite able to keep up with most of his demands, quick to understand choreography and work on it. He has commended for it, but does criticize her lack of flow in her movements from time to time. She isn't one to groan when he wants to repeat something for the twentieth time, and she tends to be friendly and respectful towards him. She doesn't say too much during practice, which he appreciates.

✩ Oh Eunha (24) | Choreographer | Meek, kind, diligent | 8/10
            There are so many similarities between Eunha and Hyunjoo that it may hurt. The two of them have a bit of an age-gap, but that hasn't stopped them from forming a friendly relationship through practice and casual conversation. Eunha appreciates that Hyunjoo listens to her and tries to make her feel noticed, even if it's hard to be noticed with Ahn Shiwoo in the same room. Eunha gives Hyunjoo advice from time to time, and Hyunjoo will often come and ask her for help with choreography she already knows in order to make her feel helpful. Eunha knows this, but still appreciates her for it.

Daisy

Lilac

STAGE NAME: Hyunjoo
PERSONA: The Sweetest of Sounds // She has a very sweet vocal tone and is often utilized as a counter-balance to some of the stronger voices in Flower Girls.

TRAINEE YEARS: 2 years
TRAINEE LIFE: Bloom Entertainment is Hyunjoo's first and only experience as a trainee, and she worked hard to keep up with the other members and to meet the standards of their instructors. Many find the life of a trainee difficult, and she was no exception, but the high standards and constant criticism was something she was used to, and so she knew how to handle it somewhat. The two years she spent training was both a blessing and a curse. The poor treatment some of them received was rough, and she felt sad when others were hurt by it. Still, she did her best to have a positive outlook on it. She worked hard to balance training and school, getting little time for friends and herself. It was rough, but she was nothing if not determined to succeed. She did keep her financial status hidden, though, as she didn't want others to think she got in thanks to money.

PREDEBUT: None

FORMER GROUP: None

SCANDALS:

✩ Flower Girls' Hyunjoo bullied by other members? (Early 2017) | False
         In the beginning of the group's debut, Hyunjoo was very shy and less open around the other members, who would often . This led to rumors of her being bullied by the others, which is far from the truth.

✩ Flower Girls' Hyunjoo bought her way into the group (2017) | False
         When news of Hyunjoo's family came out, there were speculations that she had bought her way into the group, considering her short training period and (according to some) lack of talent. 

✩ Flower Girls' Hyunjoo supports bandmate's treatment of new member (2017) | Partially true
           Gardenia is known for being more openly hostile towards Carnation than others, and Hyunjoo didn't really do much about it at first. She was a little bitter towards her, but it became better. Still, she isn't the best at dissolving arguments, even among the members. She is better at stopping somewhere before it begins than what has already started.

RETURN TO the STORY

TheLandofBrownSugar ✩ Anna

LAST COMMENT: This is the end of the line, my friend. I hope you enjoyed reading through and getting to know Hyunjoo's character! It's been a while since I last applied for anything (almost a year...), and I am sorry it took so long. School is keeping me busy, a blessing and a curse! ;A; Still, I was happy to get it done. So close to the deadline too... ^^;

SCENE REQUEST: 

✩ Hyunjoo has a panic attack prior to a stage performance and has to be calmed down by one of the members, probably Rose or Gladiolus.

✩ Hyunjoo thanks Chanson for something she did, and Chanson replies a little less sarcastically than usual. Hyunjoo appreciates the effort.

PASSWORD: Corolla (the petals of a flower, considered as a unit)