Hyperventilation

Lee Myeongyi has spent years living with pneumothorax, and school only makes it harder. His conspicuous hyperventilating and relentless coughing draw unwanted stares, and being excused from physical education and military service leaves him feeling singled out and isolated. Amid the whispers and resentment, class president Han Seonho stands out for treating him with quiet consideration—kindness that, paired with Seonho’s charm, becomes Myeongyi’s first crush.

Nine years later, Myeongyi returns to a high school reunion with one purpose: to see Seonho again and test the fragile hope that those feelings might be returned. The sight of a gold ring on Seonho’s left hand and the probing chatter of former classmates quickly undercut that dream. Stepping outside for a smoke despite his condition, Myeongyi is followed by Seonho—and that unexpected encounter becomes the start of a secret, illicit relationship.