This new “Summer Glow” K-beauty box worth $217+ is yours to bag home at just $67+

BEAUTY BOX AUG (Summer Glow BOX) Banner

Always wondered how Koreans achieve that summer glow even when the temperatures are high af?

Then you don’t want to miss out on Olive Young’s “Summer Glow” K-beauty box—filled with skincare products valued at over $217, now available for just $67+.

This is the steal of the summer season and here’s what you get:

FULL SIZE

SOME BY MI AHA-BHA-PHA 30 Days Miracle True Cica Clear Pad 70ea

SOME BY MI AHA-BHA-PHA 30 Days Miracle True Cica Clear Pad 70ea

Ready for your 30-day skin transformation?

SOME BY MI’s Miracle True Cica Clear Pads are here to make it happen.

These dual-sided pads are packed with AHA, BHA, and PHA, and are gentle enough for daily use. 

One side soothes, while the other removes dead skin cells.

With 85% white willow bark water, a natural BHA, these pads dissolve impurities and excess sebum.

Get smoother, clearer skin with 95% acne improvement.

These pads have scored a perfect 0.00 on the skin irritation test so you can safely battle breakouts.

Torriden Dive In Modeling Pack 25g

Torriden Dive In Modeling Pack 25g

Torriden’s Dive In Modeling Pack brings the spa to you.

This trendy 25g pack provides cooling relief for sensitive, heated skin.

Packed with Torriden’s unique 5D Complex hyaluronic acids, it provides deep hydration from every angle.

The pack adheres to your skin, creating a soothing mask that not only cools and moisturizes but also helps your skin drink in all those good-for-you creams/serums/essences afterward.

ROUND LAB Birch Juice Moisturizing Mask Sheet

ROUND LAB Birch Juice Moisturizing Mask Sheet

Or if packs aren’t your thing, try this moisturizing mask sheet that quenches even the driest complexions.

Packed with nature’s hydration heroes, it’s got birch sap to keep moisture locked in tight, hyaluronic acid to attract more H2O than a camel in the desert, and althaea rosea root extract to soothe and soften.

Get skin that’s dewier than a morning meadow and say goodbye to flaky patches.

This mask gives you round-the-clock hydration so let your skin drink up the goodness.

SKIN1004 Madagascar Centella Hyalu-Cica Water-Fit Sun Serum 50ml

SKIN1004 Madagascar Centella Hyalu-Cica Water-Fit Sun Serum 50ml

Hate greasy sunscreens? Me too.

Try this sun serum boasting SPF50+ and PA++++ ratings instead, shielding your skin from harmful UV rays while showering it with moisture.

It contains a blend of seven sprout extracts, carefully preserved through ultra-low temperature extraction.

Centella Asiatica extract soothes sensitive skin, while the Hyalu-CICA formula quenches dry complexions.

Free from harmful ingredients, this eco-friendly serum is as kind to the planet as it is to your skin.

COSRX Advanced Snail 96 Mucin Power Essence 100ml

COSRX Advanced Snail 96 Mucin Power Essence 100ml

This lightweight essence contains 96.3% snail secretion filtrate, nature’s weapon for skin rejuvenation.

No more dull, rough skin as this fast-absorbing formula works its magic, fading dark spots and improving texture for a smoother, more youthful complexion.

Great for those seeking intense hydration without the heavy feel, it keeps your skin moisturized and illuminated all day long.

Fine lines and skincare “blahs” making you mad?

This essence has got you covered, snail-tastically!

Anua Heartleaf Pore Control Cleansing Oil 200ml

Anua Heartleaf Pore Control Cleansing Oil 200ml

This bottle doesn’t just remove makeup and sebum, it gives your pores a break.

Formulated for acne-prone and problematic skin, it promises a deep clean without the drama.

It’s like a green smoothie for your face, packed with a blend of plant-derived oils including grape seed, jojoba, macadamia, sunflower, and olive (wow!).

So go ahead and put on that full-face make-up—this cleansing oil will make sure your pores stay clear at the end of the day.

COSRX Acne Pimple Master Patch 24-Count

COSRX Acne Pimple Master Patch 24-Count

Like a protective forcefield, these patches shield your blemishes while working to extract impurities and speed up healing.

No need to worry about them falling off for they stay put through showers, face washing, and whatever else your day throws at you.

With three different sizes, you will find a fit for every unwelcome visitor on your face.

The cellulose gum and liquid paraffin keep your skin hydrated and clean, creating a good environment for faster healing.

fwee Lip & Cheek Blurry Pudding Pot (30 Colors) (SINGLE/SET)

fwee Lip & Cheek Blurry Pudding Pot (30 Colors) (SINGLE/SET)

This Korean beauty sensation is here to blur the lines between makeup and skincare.

With its pudding formula, it smooths out lip wrinkles.

But wait, there’s more!

This little pot of magic isn’t just for your pout—it’s a cheek color too.

With 30 rich shades to play with, you can mix, match, and create your signature look.

Infused with cocoa seed butter and agave leaf extract.

too cool for school Frottage Pencil

too cool for school Frottage Pencil

Here’s a multi-tasking tool from too cool for school.

Ranked #1 at Olive Young, this blendable pencil works on eyes, and cheeks, creating that Korean aegyosal you’ve seen on K-pop idols.

With 9 shades like “Classy Fig” and “Scented Bouquet,” you will find a match whether you’re going for subtle or statement.

The formula glides on and blends well with just your fingertips.

From peachy nudes to warm browns, there’s a hue for every skin tone.

Even So-yeon from (G)I-dle is a fan.

TRAVEL SIZE

Beauty of Joseon Relief Sun: Rice + Probiotics (SPF50+ PA++++) 10ml

Beauty of Joseon Relief Sun: Rice + Probiotics (SPF50+ PA++++) 10ml

This Korean sunscreen offers powerful SPF50+ PA++++ protection with a non-oily formula that glides on smoothly, leaving your skin soft and moisturized thanks to soothing rice extracts and skin-strengthening probiotics like Saccharomyces and Lactobacillus ferments.

Safe for all ages and skin types, it’s the ideal choice for the whole family.

Toss the travel-friendly 10ml tube in your bag for on-the-go UV defense.

SKIN1004 Madagascar Centella Ampoule 30ml

SKIN1004 Madagascar Centella Ampoule 30ml

Here’s a Centella-powered ampoule that’s a soothing whisper for your face, delivering hydration.

Sourced from Madagascar, the Centella Asiatica extract works to strengthen your skin’s natural defenses.

It’s a pH-balancing act that even the most finicky skin will applaud.

With its EWG Green Grade, you can trust that only the good stuff made the cut.

SKINFOOD Carrot Carotene Calming Water Pads

SKINFOOD Carrot Carotene Calming Water Pads

Last but not least, SKINFOOD’s Carrot Carotene Calming Water Pads are here to save irritated complexions.

These vegan pads contain beta-carotene, extracted from organic Jeju-grown carrots through a special steaming process.

It’s like a juice cleanse for your face, minus the veggie aftertaste.

The carrot seed oil, rich in carotene, delivers a soothing effect that will make your skin feel as calm as a zen master.

Get Olive Young’s BEAUTY BOX AUGUST (Summer Glow Box) at $67+ here.

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How to negotiate long-term influencer rates

lady speaking in front of the camera

New to the influencer game?

Then I guess navigating long-term influencer rates can feel a bit too much.

But worry not about a thing, for we’ve got your back with this post.

Know your marketing goals and budget
  • Marketing objectives

What do you want to achieve through influencer marketing?

Are you looking to boost brand awareness, drive sales, or increase engagement on your social media platforms?

Your goals will shape your strategy, including the type of influencers you/your brand want(s) to work with and the content you will ask them to create.

For example, if your aim is to increase product sales, you might focus on influencers who excel at product reviews or unboxing type of videos.

If you’re after brand awareness, you might lean towards influencers with a larger, more diverse audience.

  • Write up a marketing plan

Once you’ve got your objectives, it’s time to pen down a plan. Consider factors like:

  • The platforms you want to target (Instagram, TikTok, YouTube, etc.)
  • The type of content you want influencers to create
  • The frequency of posts or collaborations
  • Any additional promotional activities (e.g., giveaways, exclusive discount codes)

Be realistic about what you/your company can afford.

Research influencer rates and metrics
  • Know the average costs

First things first: you need to understand what influencers typically charge.

Rates can vary wildly depending on follower count, engagement rates, and niche.

Refer to reports from marketing agencies that specialize in influencer collaborations since those often provide average rates based on follower tiers or engagement levels.

And make an effort to network with fellow marketers where in-field professionals share updated insights (LinkedIn is a good place to start).

  • Track social media engagement metrics

Numbers don’t lie in marketing so here’s what to look for:

  • Engagement rate: This includes likes, comments, shares, and saves.
  • Reach and impressions: How many unique users see the content?
  • Audience demographics: Do they align with your target market?
  • Content quality: Is it consistent?
Negotiate multi-post and bundle discounts
TikTok

Image Credits: unsplash.com

  • Bulk booking

Think of influencer collaborations as buying in bulk.

For instance, let’s say you’re eyeing a particular influencer for a product launch.

Instead of booking a single post, consider proposing a package deal. Think something like:

  • A teaser post
  • A main product reveal video
  • A follow-up post showcasing the product in action
  • Another follow-up post a month later or so

By bundling these together, you could potentially score 25% or more off the total price compared to booking each piece/task/post separately.

That’s a win-win: more content for you/your brand and more guaranteed work for the influencer.

  • Weekly collaborations

This weekly recurring approach can be effective if you’re looking to build a long-term relationship with an influencer who fits like a glove with your brand.

Securing a weekly video series, for instance, could slash your per-video cost.

Plus, this consistent presence can help cement your brand in the minds of the influencer’s audience, leading to higher conversion rates over time.

Draft long-term influencer contracts

A three-month agreement might be good for a product launch, while a year-long partnership could work if you’ve got the budget to spare and the influencer you’re working with is a match made in heaven.

Just note that when you’re drafting your contract, consider:

  • Campaign objectives
  • Content deliverables
  • Performance metrics
  • Payment terms
  • Exclusivity clauses

Influencers are humans so treat them as valued partners, not just post-pushers. Be transparent and stick to the signed contract. Not all negotiations have to be successful so keep an open mind and be ready to work a little out of your comfort zone. Good luck in securing that influencer deal!

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Here are the top 10 must-visit Starbucks outlets in South Korea

Daegu Jongro Gotaek Store_exterior

Are you the sort that goes to Starbucks around the world to bring home some local-specific merch?

If yes, you would want to drop by one (or more) of the top 10 must-visit Starbucks outlets in South Korea.

These stores aren’t handpicked by me, but by Starbucks Korea together with the Korea Tourism Organization.

And they are not just in Seoul, just in case you’re visiting other cities for your upcoming trip to Korea 😉

KYUNGDONG 1960 STORE

KYUNGDONG 1960 STORE

Dedicated to revitalizing and restoring the Kyungdong Market’s heritage, this store preserves the original architecture and materials of the old Kyungdong Theater.

3F Kyungdong Market, 1036 Jegi-dong, Dongdaemun-gu, Seoul

THE YANGPYEONG DT STORE

The Yangpyeong DT Store_interior

The largest Starbucks store in Korea, located in Yangpyeong, offers scenic views of the South Han River and flexibility for any travel style.

76 Yanggeunro, Yangpyeong-eup, Yangpyeong-gun, Gyeonggi-do

THE YEOSU DOLSAN DT STORE

The Yeosu Dolsan DT Store_exterior

Located on Dolsan Island, this store features an observatory to enjoy breathtaking ocean views of Yeosu.

697-20 Udu-ri, Dolsan-eup, Yeosu-si

THE JEJU SONGDANG PARK R STORE

The Jeju Songdang Park R Store_exterior

Korea’s largest Starbucks Reserve® store in Jeju City offers views of Hallasan Mountain and Jeju Stone Park, with an interior design by local kinetic artist Jo Byeong-cheol.

2635-3 Songdang-ri, Gujwa-eup, Jeju-si

EDAE R STORE

Edae R Store_interior 2

The first Starbucks® store in Korea, remodeled into a Reserve® store, located in the Ewha Womans University area.

54-4 Daehyeong-dong, Seodaemun-gu, Seoul

THE BUKHANGANG R STORE

The Bukhangang R Store_interior

South Korea’s only pet-friendly Starbucks® store, located along the Bukhan River and provides open space for pets and their owners.

806-1 Geumnam-ri, Hwado-eup, Namyangju-si

THE BUKHANSAN STORE

The Bukhansan Store_exterior

Near the entrance of Bukhansan National Park, this store offers a unique café experience with a special photo zone capturing Bukhansan Mountain.

277-11 Jingwan-dong, Eunpyeong-gu, Seoul

BYULDABANG STORE

Byuldabang Store_interior

An oasis known locally as ‘Byuldabang’, this store features a large digital art wall and LEED-certified design.

88 Hoehyeon-dong 2-ga, Jung-gu, Seoul

CHUNCHEON GUBONGSAN R STORE

Chuncheon Gubongsan R Store_exterior

This store offers panoramic views of Chuncheon City, lovely for sunset viewing on Gubongsan Mountain.

340-61 Mancheon-ri, Dong-myeon, Chuncheon-si

DAEGU JONGRO GOTAEK STORE

Daegu Jongro Gotaek Store_exterior

Housed in a century-old hanok, this store honors Daegu’s heritage with over 100 years of history.

58 Jong-ro 2ga, Jung-gu, Daegu

Starbucks Korea celebrates 25 years

If you haven’t heard, Starbucks in Korea is celebrating 25 years of coffee and connections this year.

To share the milestone with their loyal customers, they will offer some special drinks and deals for a limited time.

If you’re in Korea during this period, look out for their global-inspired beverages like the London Fog Tea Latte, French Vanilla Latte, and Melon of Melon Frappuccino on the menu.

Starbucks Korea 25th anniversary

Image Credits: starbucks.co.kr

The new Oleato Golden Foam Iced Shaken Espresso with Hazelnut is also available!

As an eco-friendly option, you can get an Americano, Latte, or Caramel Macchiato at the original 1999 price when buying a reusable cup.

To mark the anniversary, Starbucks Korea has also launched a limited collection with the heritage logo.

You can pick up mugs, tumblers, and a big Bearista Bear.

Exclusive merch made in collaboration with Bernardaud and Bialetti is also on sale.

All image credits to Starbucks Korea/Starbucks Asia Pacific.

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HDB has allocated over $742 million for upgrading works of these HDB flats islandwide

833 Jurong West Street 81

The Ministry of National Development (MND) and Housing & Development Board (HDB) have earmarked over 53,000 HDB flats for enhancements, as part of the latest Home Improvement Programme (HIP) selection.

These flats are dispersed throughout the island, and here’s the full list:

Hougang

Blks 358 – 363 Hougang Avenue 5

Blks 830 – 835 Hougang Central

Blks 460 – 468 Hougang Avenue 8/Hougang Ave 10/Upper Serangoon Road

Serangoon

Blks 531 – 535, 535A & 536 – 542 Serangoon North Avenue 4

Blks 500 – 506, 506A, 506B & 507 – 511 Serangoon North Avenue 4

Blks 232A, 234A, 236A & 255 – 258 Serangoon Avenue 2 / Central Drive

Ang Mo Kio

Blk 317 Ang Mo Kio Street 31

Blks 104A, 104B, 253 & 253A Ang Mo Kio Street 11/21

Blks 613 – 619 Ang Mo Kio Avenue 4

Toa Payoh

Blks 35 – 37, 43 – 46 & 48 – 50 Lorong 5 Toa Payoh

Blks 80, 80A, 80B, 81, 81A, 81B, 82, 82A, 82B, 84, 84A, 84B & 86 Lorong 2/4 Toa Payoh

Choa Chu Kang

Blks 201 – 204 & 205 – 221 Choa Chu Kang Avenue 1/Central

Blks 223 – 239 Choa Chu Kang Central

Blks 553 – 569 Choa Chu Kang North 6 / Street 52

Blks 305 – 308, 340 – 346 & 350 – 355 Choa Chu Kang Avenue 4/Loop/Central

Blks 150 – 152 & 154 – 160 & 162 – 164 Jalan Teck Whye

Blks 751 – 761 Choa Chu Kang North 5

Blks 762 – 771 Choa Chu Kang North 5 / Street 54

Bedok

Blk 140 Bedok North Street 2

Bukit Panjang

Blks 437, 440, 442 & 447 – 453 Fajar Road/Bukit Panjang Ring Road

Blks 170 – 176 Gangsa Road / Lompang Road

171 Gangsa Road

Image Credits: Google

Kallang

Blks 4, 5 & 6 Boon Keng Road

Blks 13, 14, 14A Upper Boon Keng Road

Blks 59A, 59B, 59C & 60 Geylang Bahru

Bukit Batok

Blks 285 – 287, 290A – 290G & 291A – 291E Bukit Batok East Avenue 3 / Street 24

Geylang

Blks 27 – 29, 33, 41, 42, 55, 56, 92 & 92A Balam Road / Circuit Road /Pipit Road

Blks 28, 30, 56 & 9 Cassia Crescent / Pine Close

Woodlands

Blks 401, 406, 408 – 410, 413 – 418, 421 & 424 – 427 Woodlands Street 41

Blks 851 & 856 – 864 Woodlands Street 83 / Blks 601 – 605 Woodlands Drive 42

Blks 701 –713 Woodlands Drive 40 / 70 / Blks 744 –747 Woodlands Circle

Blks 714 –720 Woodlands Drive 70 / Avenue 6

Blks 659 – 664 Woodlands Ring Road

Pasir Ris

Blks 463 – 466 & 478 – 487 Pasir Ris Street 41 / Drive 4

Blks 531 – 543 & 564 – 569 Pasir Ris Drive 1 / Street 51

Blks 544 – 562 Pasir Ris Street 51

Blks 203 – 216 Pasir Ris Street 21

Blks 217 – 230 Pasir Ris Street 21

Blks 231 – 251 Pasir Ris Drive 4 / Street 21

Blks 180 – 199 Pasir Ris Street 11/12

Blks 500 – 521 Pasir Ris Street 52

Sengkang

Blks 229 – 236 Compassvale Walk

Tampines

Blks 491A – H, 492B – D, 493A – E, 494B, 494C, 495A – F, 496B – G Tampines Avenue 9 / Street 43 / 45

Blks 242 – 247 & 253 – 256 Simei Street 1/5

Blks 472, 474, 476, 477, 479 – 484, 485A, 485B, 486A – C, 487A – C, 488A, 488B, 489A – C, 490A & 490B Tampines Avenue 9 / Street 43 / 44 / 45

Blks 301 – 323 Tampines Street 32 / 33

Blks 371 – 374 & 381 – 396 Tampines Avenue 7 / Street 32 / 34

Queenstown

Blks 129 – 133 Clarence Lane

Blk 134, 135 & 139 Jalan Bukit Merah

Blks 3, 3A, 5, 30, 30A Holland Close / Blks 7, 7A Commonwealth Avenue

Jurong West

Blks 961, 965 – 966 & 974 – 980 Jurong West Street 92 / 93

Blks 810 – 832, 828A & 830A Jurong West Street 81

Blks 357 – 363 & 365 – 369 Yung An Road / Corporation Drive

Blks 752 – 761 & 764 – 766 Jurong West Street 74

Blks 833 – 853 Jurong West Street 81

Blks 115 & 321 – 336 Ho Ching Road/ Tah Ching Road/ Kang Ching Road

A budget exceeding $742 million has been allocated for these upgrades.

Initiated in 2007, HIP assists flat owners in addressing prevalent maintenance issues like spalling concrete and ceiling leakage, which occur due to the natural aging of older flats.

This year, flats chosen for HIP will use a new Corrosion Resistant Repair (CRR) method in bathrooms to reduce recurrence.

Although the CRR method is more expensive and time-consuming, it will be primarily used for repairing spalling concrete in toilets, where the issue is most prevalent.

For other areas, HDB will continue using the current localized repair method.

The program will also include upgrades to improve the general living conditions of these flats.

Will you or someone you know be affected? Spread the news!

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The advantages of marrying a miser

wedding couple

Marrying/Married a penny-pincher?

Sure, your spouse’s frugal ways might drive you insane sometimes, but have you ever considered the perks of being hitched to a miser?

Before you roll your eyes… Hear us out.

Financial stability
  • Goodbye, money worries!

Your penny-pinching partner’s careful spending habits mean you’re less likely to get yourself into debt.

While your friends are maxing out credit cards, you will be sitting pretty with a healthy bank balance.

  • Your personal money guru

Think of your miser spouse as your very own financial advisor (minus the extra fees).

They are great at sniffing out deals and making investments; you will be building a nest egg that would make even Warren Buffett proud.

Who needs a lottery ticket when you’ve got a miser by your side?

  • Future-proofing your finances

With a miser in your corner, you’re likely to have a financial cushion to fall back on.

So when your car decides to throw a tantrum or your pipes’ got a leak somewhere, you won’t be left high and dry.

Budget consciousness

Ever catch yourself tossing out almost-empty shampoo bottles or letting food spoil in the fridge?

fridge filled with food

Image Credits: unsplash.com

Your thrifty spouse will put an end to that faster than you can say sorry.

They will influence you on what it means to stretch every dollar (and cent), making sure nothing goes to waste.

Long-term planning
  • Thinking ahead pays off

Your miser’s money meticulous character means you’re likely to have a solid retirement plan.

While others are scrambling to save near retirement, you will be sipping cocktails on a beach, thanks to decades of savings.

  • Weathering life’s storms

Your miser’s habit of living way below your means also ensures you’re always prepared for life’s lemons.

A sudden job loss or an unexpected medical bill doesn’t sound so scary anymore.

Minimalism and mindful spending
  • Embracing the simple life

When you’re with someone who’s very cautious with cash, you start seeing the beauty in less.

No more drowning in stuff you don’t need but want.

  • Thoughtful purchases, fuller wallet

You will probably find yourself asking, “Do I really need this?” before every purchase.

It’s not about depriving yourself, but about making smart choices.

Marrying a miser isn’t all doom and gloom. Yes, you might have to fight for every penny spent on fun stuff, but your frugal spouse is basically a human ATM, helping you save for the future especially when you’re not too good at it. Plus, you will become a pro at finding ways to live life on the cheap. Who knows, you might even find yourself enjoying clipping coupons and hunting for promotions yourself?

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