I paid 40.10 SGD for botox injections at a famous skin clinic in South Korea. Here’s my honest review of the process

Lienjang Hongdae Experience

I’m sure you’ve heard of this social media-famous skin clinic in South Korea:

Lienjang.

I first heard about them through TikTok and have seen good, bad, and neutral reviews so far.

I was a little skeptical since they seem to cater to foreigners only, which may not be as “authentic” as it may seem despite being a cosmetic service provider in Korea. IYKYK.

So after much deliberation, I’ve decided to give them a go.

And one huge factor that pushed me to book that appointment is that I recently saw some New Year promotions via their Instagram page so I thought it was a good time now.

Anyway, I contacted them via WhatsApp on a Thursday for a Sunday afternoon appointment.

Lienjang WhatsApp Chat History

I only sent in my details on Sunday morning itself but still managed to grab that appointment slot.

Thank God!

Just make sure you book early, especially if you’ve got tight travel plans, yeah?

Oh yes, did I mention that Lienjang has several branches in Seoul?

You can view them here: enlienjang.com/lienjang-branches

I went to the one in Hongdae since I was in the area.

To get there, the nearest exit is number 8 from Hongik University Station.

Hongik University Station Exit 8

Once you exit via the staircase, just walk straight and you will see the “About Me” building right in front of you.

Hongik University Station Exit 8

Enter via the door beside “About Me”.

Building Entrance to Lienjang Hongdae

You will see “Lienjang Reception Beauty Clinic” on the 6th floor of the “Floor Guide” so you know you’re at the right spot.

Elevator to Lienjang Hongdae

Take the elevator up to the 6th floor and you will reach the clinic.

Lienjang Hongdae Entrance

As soon as I entered, I was greeted by about 3 staff at the reception counter.

I told them I had an appointment at 1 pm and they asked me to fill up my particulars on a visitors’ log at the front desk.

Also, do bring your passport along for registration purposes!

I was then told to take a seat right in front of the consultation rooms.

Lienjang Hongdae Consultation Rooms

The skin clinic was emptier than I expected it to be on a weekend so I guess I was next in line.

You can hang your coats/outerwear right by the racks in front of the reception counter.

Lienjang Hongdae Clothes Racks

I barely had time to settle in… and was whizzed into a consultation booth within minutes.

Lienjang Hongdae Consultation Room

I was also given a tablet with a pre-treatment form to fill up.

Lienjang Pre-Treatment Form

Nothing too difficult here.

I already had an idea of what I wanted to do: Botox injections.

So I was shown this file filled with Lienjang’s services and price list.

Lienjang Botox Price List

I chose the most affordable option, the Korean Wonder Botox at 39,000 KRW (before tax) for 3 concern areas: my forehead, crow’s feet, and under-eyes.

In all honesty, the consultant’s English wasn’t perfect (she’s not Korean, btw) but it was okay enough to get the conversation going and decide on the treatments I wanted for the day.

I had concerns about my smile lines too but was told that they don’t fall under “Botox” but “fillers” instead.

So I was shown this:

Lienjang Fillers Price List

They had a promotion apparently and I could get 2cc worth of injections on both smile lines at 178,000 KRW (before tax).

But since it was a little pricey, I had to think about it and maybe get them the next time around.

Anyway, I was asked to make payment immediately in the consultation room before they applied numbing cream to my upper face.

I was charged 42,900 KRW (including 10% tax) and I paid using my YouTrip card and the conversion came out to be 40.10 SGD.

Cheap! Heh.

Lienjang Numbing Cream

The numbing cream doesn’t look very hygienic to me (as a clean freak) but let’s get on with it.

Lienjang Treatment Tag

The consultant then gave me a treatment tag and I was told to wait for about 20 minutes right outside the treatment rooms.

Face with numbing cream on

I look funny with the disposable hairband on and some sparsely applied layer of numbing cream.

I’m not sure if that’s the norm because the other customers who were in the same space as I am had thick, evenly applied numbing cream over their whole face and a plastic wrap over it.

Hmm.

Lienjang Powder Room

Here’s the powder room where I guess I would be washing my face but even before the 20 minutes was up, I was asked to enter the treatment room.

I told the doctor’s assistant that I’ve yet to wash my face but she told me she would “swab it” for me.

I had no makeup on, only some sun cream but still…

Wouldn’t it be more hygienic if I’d washed my face?

So she wiped away the numbing cream with some alcohol-filled cotton pads and told me to wait a little while for the doctor to come over to do my injections.

Lienjang Treatment Room

Let me tell you, I am NOT a fan of needles so can you imagine the nerves I had while waiting?

It was a mere 10-minute wait but it felt like forever.

Lienjang Treatment Room Tools

I could see on the syringes beside me too so it didn’t make me feel any better. Meh.

Anyhow, the doctor came in, asked for my name, and confirmed the injection areas with her assistant.

I liked how she said “It’s going to sting” at every injection point she made so I could prep my heart for it.

I’m going to be truthful with you…

It hurts.

The sparsely applied numbing cream did not work at all because I could still feel the needle going into my skin and by the end of those “stings,” I had tears in my eyes.

But it was a quick process and the doctor who administered those injections felt professional, at least to me.

After I exited the treatment room, my face had bumps and I had some blood oozing out at selected injection points.

I took a picture of myself right after but I think it’s a little too scary to upload it here…

I don’t want to scar you for life if you’ve never done Botox before 😂

Also, it’s good to note that my skin’s extremely thin and sensitive so it could be a different experience for you, ya?

Lienjang Skincare Products

I then returned to the powder room to apply some sun cream before leaving.

They provide it there but I brought my own so I ended up not using theirs.

To wrap things up, the bumps and bleeding went away in minutes but a few hours after the injections, I had some bruising at selected injection points.

As advised by the consultant, I only washed my face 3 hours after my injections.

As I’m writing this, it’s been about 7 hours and my skin feels a little tight.

It’s going to take effect in about 4 to 7 days and supposedly will last me about 3 months.

Can’t say for now if it will work but I’m excited to see the results in about a week.

For 40.10 SGD, I reckon it’s something worth trying (if it works and lasts).

I would rate it an overall 7.5 out of 10 for the experience.

All image credits to Celeste Elle.

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Latest WFH internships posted from 17 to 21 February 2025

home-based work studio

We are sorry this came a little late.

Anyway, for those who’ve been eyeing this post, we’ve got opportunities in marketing, AI & web development, and more this week.

Take a look and apply to the ones that match your skill sets.

All the best! 👍

#1: Natalie Wong Photography – Marketing Intern

Website: nataliewongphotography.com

Allowance / Remuneration: $500 – 800 (project /contract based)

Job Qualifications
  • Creative mindset
  • Strong written communication skills
  • Basic understanding of social media platforms
  • Interest in digital marketing, SEO, content creation
Key Responsibilities
  • Social Media content
  • Boost SEO
  • Marketing planning
  • Write and edit blog posts
  • Assist with video content creation for digital platforms
  • Analyse marketing performance data
How to apply?

View the job post here and email your resume to [email protected]

#2: DaxAsia – AI & Web Development Intern

daxasia.comWebsite: daxasia.com

Allowance / Remuneration: $800 – 1,500 monthly

Job Qualifications
  • Programming Skills: JavaScript (Wix Velo, Node.js), Python (for AI & API handling)
  • Web Development: Experience with Wix, React, or other frontend frameworks
  • API Integration: Ability to work with REST APIs (e.g., Gate.io API, OpenAI API)
  • Database Knowledge: Basic understanding of SQL, Firebase, or NoSQL databases
  • AI & Automation: Interest in ChatGPT, AI APIs, and automation tools
  • Problem-Solving & Learning: Self-driven, eager to learn new technologies quickly
Key Responsibilities

Client Investment Tracking System Development

  • Develop and integrate a real-time investment tracking dashboard for clients on DaxAsia.com
  • Implement API integration with Gate.io to pull investment data
  • Use Wix Velo (Corvid) or other web technologies to build secure client dashboards
  • Ensure mobile-friendly and role-based access

 AI Chat Bot Development (ChatGPT-based)

  • Design & implement an AI-powered chatbot for customer queries using ChatGPT API
  • Customize the bot to handle client onboarding, FAQs, and investment-related inquiries
  • Deploy the bot on DaxAsia.com and integrate it with Telegram/WhatsApp

General AI & Web Development Support

  • Assist in developing other AI-driven applications for automation and user engagement
  • Work with APIs to fetch, process, and display data dynamically
  • Optimize site performance, UI/UX, and backend processing
How to apply?

View the job post here and send your resume & portfolio (if available) to [email protected]

#3: Nanyang Inc Pte Ltd – Marketing & Design Intern

nanyanginc.com

Website: nanyanginc.com

Allowance / Remuneration: $550 – 650 monthly

Job Qualifications
  • No specified.
Key Responsibilities
  • Organize and upload project photos to Google Photo Albums
  • Prepare product photos for the website gallery and update the website regularly
  • Edit videos for time-lapse projects and create engaging content for social media (Facebook & YouTube)
  • Design marketing collaterals, including logos, print & web advertisements
  • Assist in social media campaigns and digital promotions
  • Liaise with virtual tour clients and produce 360° product photos
  • Create 2D/3D drawings for project visualization & marketing decks
  • Handle basic inquiries and support the team in various ad-hoc tasks
How to apply?

View the job post here and write to Stephanie via this link.

#4: Rogue & Beyond – Marketing Intern

Website: rogueandbeyond.com

Allowance / Remuneration: $800 – 1,500 monthly

Job Qualifications
  • Enthusiasm: A genuine passion for the beauty and haircare industry.
  • Creativity: Innovative thinking with a flair for storytelling.
  • Communication Skills: Strong verbal and written abilities.
  • Social Media Savvy: Familiarity with Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok platforms.
  • Education: Currently pursuing or recently completed a degree in Marketing, Communications, or a related field.
Key Responsibilities
  • Content Creation: Develop engaging content for social media platforms, newsletters, and the website.
  • Campaign Support: Assist in planning and executing marketing campaigns to promote Hairsauce products.
  • Market Research: Analyze industry trends and consumer feedback to inform marketing strategies.
  • Collaborative Projects: Work closely with our creative and sales teams to align marketing efforts with business goals.
How to apply?

View the job post here and send your CV and a brief cover letter detailing your interest to [email protected]

#5: Smart Bite – Business Development Representative – Intern

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by SmartBite (@smartbite)

Website: trysmartbite.sg

Allowance / Remuneration: $600 – 1,000 monthly

Job Qualifications
  • Recent graduates or individuals completing their Bachelor’s Degree in any field.
  • Ability to commit to a 3 or 6-month period.
  • Strong work ethic, with a proactive and flexible approach to responsibilities.
  • Proven leadership skills through academic, extracurricular, or volunteer activities.
  • Excellent verbal and written English proficiency to thrive in a multicultural environment.
  • Analytical and problem-solving abilities.
  • Interest in entrepreneurship, startups, and contributing to a fast-growing company.
  • Passionate about pursuing a career in sales and business development.
Key Responsibilities
  • Support the sales team in identifying and building relationships with corporate clients and vendors.
  • Assist in lead generation, proposal preparation, and follow-up communications.
  • Participate in sales calls, meetings, and presentations to understand client engagement strategies.
  • Analyze sales data and market trends to inform decision-making and strategy development.
  • Collaborate on marketing initiatives to boost SmartBite’s brand presence.
  • Coordinate sales-related events and campaigns.
  • Provide administrative support for seamless sales processes.
How to apply?

View the job post here and write to Arun via this link.

Editor’s note: These positions are selected based on the “remote” tag, but some are hybrid ones and you may need to report physically to the office. For more details, contact the employer directly.

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35+ newly launched foodstuffs from Korea’s convenience store chain to try before February 2025 ends

CU Newly Launched Foodstuffs February 2025

Heading to Korea end of this month?

Winter temperatures are almost coming to an end and spring is around the corner! 🌸

As we look forward to the spring blossoms in about a month or so, let’s stay in the present as CU has launched a whole list of new foodstuffs for February.

Happy searching for these newly launched items in the convenience store chains located around the land of kimchi 🎂🍨🥗🍜🍩

#1a: Choco Mousse Cake (3,800 KRW; approx. 3.54 SGD)

#1b: Matcha Mousse Cake (3,800 KRW; approx. 3.54 SGD)

#2a: Berry Macaron (3,700 KRW; approx. 3.45 SGD)

#2b: Coffee Macaron (3,700 KRW; approx. 3.45 SGD)

#3a: Yozm’s Greek Yogurt Apple Cinnamon (4,900 KRW; approx. 4.56 SGD)

#3b: Yozm’s Greek Yogurt with Granola (4,900 KRW; approx. 4.56 SGD)

#3c: Strawberrymallow Bar (Ice Cream) (1,500 KRW; approx. 1.40 SGD)

#4a: Pizza Hotteok Burger (3,700 KRW; approx. 3.45 SGD)

#4b: Spicy Whole Sausage Kimbap (3,500 KRW; approx. 3.26 SGD)

#4c: Wow Omurice Cup (3,900 KRW; approx. 3.63 SGD)

#5a: Spicy Cheese Crispy Fried Burger (2,900 KRW; approx. 2.70 SGD)

#5b: Coleslaw Crispy Fried Burger (2,900 KRW; approx. 2.70 SGD)

#6a: Double Dacquoise (3,700 KRW; approx. 3.45 SGD)

#6b: Milk Choco Ball Cake (3,800 KRW; approx. 3.54 SGD)

#6c: Berry Choco Ball Cake (3,800 KRW; approx. 3.54 SGD)

#7a: Chicken Breast Salad (4,500 KRW; approx. 4.19 SGD)

#7b: Sweet Pumpkin Salad (4,500 KRW; approx. 4.19 SGD)

#8a: Spicy Fish Cake Glass Noodles (4,300 KRW; approx. 4.00 SGD)

#8b: Spam Rosé Glass Noodles (4,300 KRW; approx. 4.00 SGD)

#9a: Low Sugar Choco (Sola) Bread (4,500 KRW; approx. 4.19 SGD)

#9b: Yuja Cream Cheese Donut (3,100 KRW; approx. 2.89 SGD)

#9c: Crispy Fish-Shaped Bread (Bungeoppang) Tail Chestnut Cream (2,900 KRW; approx. 2.70 SGD)

#10a: Choco Jellymallow (2,000 KRW; approx. 1.86 SGD)

#10b: Lime Can Sherbet (3,000 KRW; approx. 2.79 SGD)

#11a: Savory Fried Shrimp Kimbap (3,700 KRW; approx. 3.45 SGD)

#11b: Jeonju Bibimbap Rice Ball (2,300 KRW; approx. 2.14 SGD)

#11c: Mayo Tuna Rice Ball (2,300 KRW; approx. 2.14 SGD)

#12a: Grilled Pork Dosirak (5,200 KRW; approx. 4.85 SGD)

#12b: Stir-fried Pork Dosirak (5,200 KRW; approx. 4.85 SGD)

#12c: Lobster Fishcake (2,900 KRW; approx. 2.70 SGD)

#13a: Green Kaya Sandwich (2,800 KRW; approx. 2.61 SGD)

#13b: Brown Kaya Sandwich (2,800 KRW; approx. 2.61 SGD)

#14a: Hachuping Ramyeon (Spicy Beef) (2,300 KRW; approx. 2.14 SGD)

#14b: Hachuping Ramyeon (Anchovies Kalguksu) (2,300 KRW; approx. 2.14 SGD)

Editor’s note: This ramyeon is a must-try if you or someone you know is a fan of Hachuping. And even if you’re not, the Hachuping-shaped mini fish cakes included will have you screaming “Omg, so cute!” 😂

I mean, just look at this:

Hachuping Ramyeon (Spicy Beef)

#15a: Plain Butter Bar (3,500 KRW; approx. 3.26 SGD)

#15b: Yellow Cheese Butter Bar (3,500 KRW; approx. 3.26 SGD)

#16a: Yonsei Strawberry Milk (1,600 KRW; approx. 1.49 SGD)

#16b: Yonsei Macadamia Choco Milk (1,600 KRW; approx. 1.49 SGD)

All image credits to CU.

Price conversion from KRW to SGD is accurate at the time of writing.

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5 sports leggings from $8.90 to help you move freely during your active sessions

Sports Leggings

Wearing the right sports leggings can make a difference in your workout routine.

If you’ve been hitting the gym, practicing yoga, or going for a run, good for you because we’ve curated a list of sports leggings from $8.90, that will help you move freely during your active sessions.

Women’s Stretch Cotton Leggings

Women's Stretch Cotton Leggings

Price: $8.90

These stretch cotton leggings are made with a soft and stretchy fabric blend that wraps you in everyday comfort.

With just enough elastane to move and stretch with your every step yet plenty of breathable cotton to keep things soft, these leggings are not too tight or too loose—just right.

Thanks to the flexible fit, you will stay at ease wherever your day takes you.

And at such an attractive price point, what more should we say?

Black Mesh Power Active Sports Leggings

Black Mesh Power Active Sports Leggings

Price: $45

Or go for these black mesh leggings that are athleisure done right.

The lightweight, stretchy fabric breathes easily as you work up a sweat while maintaining a figure-flattering “squat-proof” design that moves with you through every lunge.

A high, smoothing waistband streamlines your silhouette while the seamless front creates a put-together look from every angle.

For the eco-conscious warrior, you will be glad to know that it’s made using 75% recycled polyester.

Pocket Leggings (Full 24″) in Black Sesame

Pocket Leggings (Full 24") in Black Sesame

Price: $68

For workouts that demand both muscle and mobility, these leggings deliver a full 24″ inseam coverage, while the design and medium compression fit like a second skin, never restricting your movements.

Made from a quick-drying fabric blend, they wick away moisture during heart-pumping spin classes or grueling cardio sessions.

And those side pockets?

Just the right size for stashing a key, card, or phone when you’re on the move.

From jogging trails to weight rooms, these leggings are the perfect +1 for any fitness routine.

Scrunch Flare Legging

Scrunch Flare Legging

Price: $85

These flares know how to make an asset pop with a scrunch bum detail giving your backside an eye-catching boost, while the swingy 30″ inseam elongates your stems.

The fit is streamlined yet roomy enough for those deep twists.

The fabric’s downright lush that caresses your curves with a silky, peachy finish that’s lighter than air.

Feel like you’re wearing nothing at all, but look like you’ve got it all.

We are sure you can flow from Downward Dog to Pigeon Pose without a hitch.

Namaste to the leggings that always have your back (and front, ha!).

Optime 3-Stripes Full-Length Leggings

Optime 3-Stripes Full-Length Leggings

Price: $89

Last but not least, keep your focus where it belongs with these Adidas leggings that move and breathe with you.

The four-way stretch fabric hugs your body with a second-skin feel, while advanced CLIMACOOL technology wicks away sweat to keep you cool and distraction-free during high-intensity workouts.

Made with at least 70% recycled materials, they’re an eco-friendly choice you can feel good about.

A flat, stay-put elastic waistband ensures they will never slip or dig in as you lunge, lift, or sprint.

And a handy thigh pocket keeps essentials like your phone within reach.

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5 sports bras from $19.90 to provide better support for your boobs when you’re active

Sports Bras

Hitting the gym, going for a run, or practicing yoga?

Well, having the right sports bra can make a huge difference.

As such, we’ve rounded up a quick list of sports bras from just $19.90 to offer the support your boobs need while you’re active.

High Support Sports Bra

High Support Sports Bra

Price: $19.90

First up, we have this high-support sports bra that is stretchy, with an elastane-blend fabric that stays in sync with your body’s movements.

It promises not to restrict or rebound as you crush HIIT, cardio circuits, jumping jacks, rope-skipping sessions, or high-impact runs.

Adjustable racerback straps allow for an individualized fit, allowing freedom of motion to swing kettlebells, spike burpees, and bound through squat jumps without friction or chafing.

Its quick-drying fabric wicks away sweat and moisture, keeping you cool and dry no matter how hard you push your limits.

Revitalise Bra

Revitalise Bra in Zest

Price: $48

Your pursuit of an active lifestyle is possible with this bra from Anya Active.

Its versatile cut flatters nearly all body shapes, while the removable padding lets you customize coverage to your needs.

It keeps you supported and cool as you rack up those daily movements.

The strappy back design allows you to freely move, so your workout is never restricted.

And the cooling fabric blend is moisture-wicking, ensuring you stay dry no matter how intense things get.

Perhaps most impressively, the medium to light-medium support level keeps everything held in place, whether you’re an A or D cup.

Twist Bra

Twist Bra

Price: $55

This is THE bra that brings a twist to your sweatiest sessions.

With its chic crossover front detail, this sports bra offers a fashion take on activewear.

Thanks to its silky smooth fabric blend with ample stretch, it delivers the support and comfort you need to push through that Vinyasa sequence or Pilates reformer routine.

The removable cups add options, while the body-hugging fit and cropped length keep you free to move however your practice demands.

Nike Zenvy Strappy Wrap

Nike Zenvy Strappy Wrap

Promo Price: $59.90

Bend, stretch, move—and stay supported with this Nike Zenvy Strappy Wrap bra that’s engineered with a lightweight InfinaSoft fabric to provide breathable compression without restricting your range of motion.

Sewn-in pads deliver reliable coverage, while the detachable wraparound strap gives a little fashion edge.

We also like its eco-conscious design made with at least 50% recycled fibers so you can wear it to train hard and feel good about treading a little lighter on Earth.

Powerimpact Training Medium-Support 3-Stripes Bra

Powerimpact Training Medium-Support 3-Stripes Bra

Price: $69

What’s your hustle?

Power walk, yoga flow, spin cycle?

This medium-support bra has your back (and front, ha!).

Mesh panels strategically placed promote airflow, helping you stay cool and focused as the sweat starts dripping.

And with removable pads, you choose how much coverage you want.

At least 70% of the stretchy, moisture-wicking fabric consists of recycled materials, so you can breathe easy knowing you’re doing your part for the planet.

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