Xiumin, the eldest member of EXO, had always cherished the rare moments of tranquility amidst the whirlwind of idol life. On a sunlit afternoon, he decided to escape to the serene beaches of Jeju Island, seeking solace in the gentle waves and warm sands. The day was perfect—a clear sky, the rhythmic lull of the ocean, and a refreshing breeze that whispered through the coastal air.
As the sun began its descent, casting a golden hue over the horizon, Xiumin packed his belongings and prepared to return to his residence. The drive from the beach to his home was a familiar one, winding through scenic routes that he had always found calming. He started his car, the engine humming softly, and set off along the coastal road.
The tranquility of the drive was abruptly shattered when, rounding a sharp curve, Xiumin noticed a vehicle swerving erratically ahead. His instincts sharpened by years of performing under pressure, he quickly assessed the situation. The oncoming car veered into his lane, leaving him with mere seconds to react.
With a swift turn of the wheel, Xiumin attempted to avoid a collision, but the narrow road offered little room for maneuver. The two cars collided with a deafening crash, the force of the impact sending his vehicle skidding off the road and into a shallow ditch. Airbags deployed, cushioning the blow, but the sudden jolt left him momentarily disoriented.
As the dust settled, Xiumin’s training in maintaining composure under stress came to the forefront. He conducted a quick self-assessment, relieved to find no severe injuries. His thoughts immediately shifted to the other driver. Ignoring the throbbing pain in his shoulder, he unbuckled his seatbelt and forced his door open, stumbling towards the other vehicle.
The other car, a compact sedan, had come to a halt against a guardrail. Inside, a young woman appeared unconscious, her head resting against the steering wheel. Xiumin’s heart raced as he gently tapped on the window, calling out to her. When there was no response, he retrieved his phone and dialed emergency services, providing their location with as much clarity as his shaken state allowed.
Minutes felt like hours as he waited for help to arrive. Kneeling beside the woman’s car, he monitored her breathing, relieved to see the faint rise and fall of her chest. The distant wail of sirens was a welcome sound, signaling the arrival of paramedics and police. Xiumin provided his account of the events, his demeanor calm and cooperative, despite the underlying shock.
In the aftermath, both drivers were transported to a nearby hospital for thorough evaluations. Xiumin’s injuries were minor—bruises and a sprained shoulder—while the young woman, thankfully, regained consciousness and was expected to make a full recovery. The incident served as a sobering reminder of life’s unpredictability, even on days that begin with the promise of peace.
Reflecting on the day’s events, Xiumin felt a profound sense of gratitude—not only for his own safety but for the well-being of the stranger whose life had intersected with his in such an unforeseen manner. The experience deepened his appreciation for the fleeting nature of tranquility and the resilience required to navigate the unexpected turns alon
g life’s journey.
