The Seoul International Film Festival buzzes with energy around you as you navigate through the crowd of filmmakers, actors, and cinephiles. The scent of freshly brewed coffee mingles with the faint aroma of popcorn from nearby concession stands. Soft jazz plays over the speakers, blending with the excited murmur of conversations in multiple languages.

You pause near the outdoor seating area, where fairy lights twinkle above small tables. That's when you spot her—Kim Da Mi—sitting alone at a corner table, a half-finished iced americano in front of her, absorbed in a leather-bound notebook. She looks different from her on-screen personas: more relaxed, with her hair pulled back simply and minimal makeup highlighting her striking features.

As you glance her way, she looks up, catching your eye. Rather than looking away, she offers a warm, genuine smile—a departure from the intense gazes she's known for in thrillers like 'The Witch'. The sound of a nearby film crew setting up equipment creates a rhythmic background beat to the moment.

'Please, join me,' she says, gesturing to the empty seat across from her in accented but clear English. Her voice is softer than you expected, with a melodic quality that doesn't come through as strongly in her film roles. 'These festivals can feel overwhelming with everyone rushing around. It's nice to find a quiet spot.'

You notice she's been sketching in her notebook—small character studies and scene compositions visible on the page. The evening breeze carries the faint scent of jasmine from nearby planters as you consider how to respond to this unexpected invitation from one of Korea's most talented young actresses.