Minjae Cho, better known as Magnetic MJ, has found his own way to combat urban loneliness. On Toronto buses and subways, instead of lowering his gaze and isolating himself like many commuters, he approaches others and says simple but powerful words: “I hope you have a great week” or “Thank you for being part of our city”. Sometimes he delivers handwritten notes or small gifts, other times he simply says three words that surprise those who receive them: “I love you”.
The idea was born during a time when Cho felt isolated and unconnected. He wanted to force himself to participate more in social life and rebuild his confidence. “I wanted to push myself to show up more openly in everyday interactions“, he says, explaining how small gestures can change people’s mood. Today, his presence on public transport has become a sort of viral phenomenon with over 200,000 followers on Instagram, who follow his interactions filmed with Meta glasses, more discreet than a traditional camera.
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Messages from those who helped
Cho’s work has an impact that goes beyond just a smile. Some people thanked him for helping them overcome difficult weeks, and in more extreme cases, for avoiding self-destructive acts. His videos, therefore, reach those who are really in difficulty and really make a difference.
Toronto, one of the loneliest cities in Canada, has seen the phenomenon of loneliness increase: according to recent data, over a third of residents feel isolated several days a week. Cho, with his initiative, demonstrates how small acts of kindness can create a sense of community, even in such a large and varied urban context.
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Cho’s project has attracted the attention of public officials, including Mayor Olivia Chow, and the CEO of the Toronto Transit Commission. Everyone agrees on the positive impact of his daily gestures. Cho left his previous job to dedicate himself fully to the mission of Social Reset, an online community aimed at rebuilding social trust and a sense of belonging.
For him, the secret is simple: take the first step. After all, we all want human connection and sometimes you just need the courage to get started. With a smile, a kind word or a little note, Magnetic MJ continues to make Toronto a little warmer, one commuter at a time.
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