The article tells the story of Yeong-mi, a woman in her 40s and a full-time housewife, who experiences a worrying episode in a coffee shop where she believes her friends are reacting negatively to her body odor. After noticing her friends covering their noses while listening to her, she starts to spiral into self-doubt and embarrassment, questioning whether her sweat is causing discomfort. This incident leads her to obsessively shower, even spending over an hour attempting to rid her body of the odor, which only deepens her anxiety about social interactions.

Following this initial experience, Yeong-mi finds herself increasingly isolated as she tries to understand why her friends are distancing themselves from her. Each failed attempt to make plans escalates her worry, leading her to conduct a personal smell test by sniffing her own arm. The harsh realization that she is indeed emitting a strong, unpleasant odor feeds into her spiraling thoughts. In the midst of winter, when sweating is less common, the disparity only amplifies her concern, creating a cycle of insecurity and anxiety around her appearance and the reactions of others.

Finally reaching a breaking point, Yeong-mi hesitantly asks her husband if he notices any odor. His confirmation that he has detected a smell breaks her down emotionally, revealing the deep-seated fears and feelings of inadequacy that have manifested in her overblown worries about personal hygiene and social acceptance. The story poignantly explores not only the impact of body image and personal interactions but also the emotional struggles faced by individuals who feel socially ostracized due to issues beyond their control.