Must-Buy K-Drama Merchandise & Where To Find Them

A wonderful way to look back on the past year is to recognize that countless Singaporeans were introduced to K-dramas. Loyal K-drama fans were also delighted with new shows such as the Squid Game and My Name. The circuit breaker period gave people the chance to binge-watch on these shows on various streaming platforms. Due to its growing audience, K-drama merchandise are sold everywhere!

To help you get started with your Yuletide gifts, we produced a list of the most adorable K-Drama merchandise you can purchase online.

#1: VERSATILE CANVAS TOTES

These K-Drama themed canvas totes are both functional and personal. Skip the plastic bags next time you run errands and grab one of these canvas totes instead. A Shopee store called “kfcjunjun1.sg” sells a lineup of designs including Hospital Playlist, Vincenzo, Hometown Cha-Cha-Cha, and True Beauty totes.

Hospital Playlist and Hometown Cha-Cha-Cha totes come in a variety of designs costing as low as S$4.29. While the Vincenzo and True Beauty totes range from S$4.73 to S$5.70.

#2: CUTE MR. BUCKWHEAT (BOGLEGEL) TOY

If you are a fan of Goblin (Guardian: The Lonely and Great God), the Mr. Buckwheat toy is a recognizable item. Goblin revolves around the life of the immortal goblin Kim Shin who looks for a human bride to remove an invisible sword from his chest. Suddenly, a student named Ji Eun-Tak confesses to him that she is the chosen one.

Image Credits: facebook.com/bowmeowph (Guardian: The Lonely and Great God)

While shopping, Ji Eun-Tak points to a toy and tells the Goblin that it resembles him. They end up buying the toy to symbolize their relationship. Get the toy for S$18.90 at Lazada.

#3: CHILDISH DINO FAMILY SHIRT

Children and kids at heart can wear the matching dinosaur family tees worn by Moon-young (Seo Ye-ji), Sang-tae (Oh Jung-se), and Gang-tae (Kim Soo-hyun). These characters were the lead characters in the drama series “It’s Okay to Not Be Okay”. The series follows a life of an antisocial children’s book author and an employee in a psychiatric hospital.

Are you a Dino fan? Get yours for S$20 at Shopee.

#4: TRENDY PILLOW COVERS

Record breaking Squid Game is a deadly competition with hundreds of cash-strapped contestants and tempting prizes. It is one of the most popular shows on Netflix to date. If your friends and loved ones are obsessed with Squid Game, you may gift them with some printed pillow covers. All it takes is a quick browse through Lazada, and you will find countless options to choose from.

For instance, one shop sells pillow covers (45x45cm) for as low as S$1.89 per piece. The shop carries about thirty-nine designs. Snag a pillow case or two!

#5: FULLER-LOOKING LIPS

In an exclusive interview, Son Ye-jin’s glam team in “Crash Landing on You” shared the beauty products that they used for the actress. They used the ma:nyo Herbal Fresh Moist BB Cream, Jennyhouse Air Fit Artist Eyeshadow, TONYMOLY Back Stage Gel Eyeliner, and Jennyhouse Air Fit Lipstick.

Image Credits: facebook.com/115802663557977 (Korean Sunshine/Crash Landing On You)

Her lip color is naturally pink. Therefore, the glam team used the shade Monica Robe to enhance her lips. Get this shade at Shopee for S$34.18.

Note: Prices may vary due to sitewide promotions such as 11.11 events.

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6 Heart-warming Lessons From Hometown Cha-Cha-Cha

Hometown Cha-Cha-Cha is a Korean drama available on tvN and Netflix. It is a hilarious, heart-warming, and healing love story that surrounds a dentist from the city and a man who can do everything. The show has displayed a myriad of life lessons.

From its leads to the stories of the people in the community, here are 6 remarkable lessons you can learn from Mr. Hong Du-Sik (Kim Seon-Ho) and Dr. Yoon Hye-Jin (Shin Min-Ah).

Image Credits: facebook.com/groups/938482076948075/media

“Do you know what it means to be a good parent? It is staying healthy for a long time. They should not endure pain to save money for their children. They should take care of themselves.” – Dr. Yoon Hye-Jin

Health is wealth. Dr. Yoon’s parents sacrificed themselves to provide the best life for their daughter. We only see the products of the sacrifices without thinking of its effects. How will the sacrifices you make affect the people whom you will leave behind?

“Life isn’t so fair for all of us. Some spend their whole lives on unpaved roads, while some run at full speed only to reach the edge of a cliff.” — Mr. Hong

We all have different struggles and have been brought from diverse circumstances. Each of us has a distinct timeline in life. Mr. Hong reminds us that just because we have not experienced what others are going through, does not mean that their feelings are not valid. Let us keep our minds and hearts open to understand others.

“If you cannot pick up spilled milk, you should at least apologize to them for spilling the milk, rather than avoiding them.” — Mr. Hong

Escapism is often an easier route than taking responsibility for our actions. Some people tend to escape from the mistakes they have made towards others. Remember that there is nothing wrong with admitting a mistake and saying sorry.

“You’re bound to meet unexpected situations in life. Even if you use an umbrella, you will end up getting drenched. Just put your hands up and welcome the rain.” — Mr. Hong

Image Credits: facebook.com/netflixph

Much like the pandemic, unexpected situations happen all the time. Despite how ready you are, you still need to adjust to the current situation. Appreciate the circumstances coming your way to see the beauty in life.

“La-la-la-la-la-la-la-la-la,
Romantic Sunday,
La-la-la-la-la-la-la-la-la,
It’s a beautiful and shining day.” — OST

The OST is such an earworm! It is impossible not to sing the OST as you watch the entire series. This song highlights the beauty of life and the importance of love.

“Money and success aren’t the only valuable things in life. Happiness, self-contentment, world peace, love… Anyway, life is not a mathematical situation. It does not have a clear answer. There is no right answer either. You’re just given a problem and it’s up to you how you solve it.” — Mr. Hong

Indeed! There life’s problems do not have clear solutions. It is up to us to solve these problems as they come along. There is no right way to lead your life. It is in your hands to take responsibility for the decisions you make.

Source: 1

 

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6 Must-Try Korean Mint Chocolate Products Available Online

When it comes to mint chocolate, you either love it or hate it. While others feel as though they are biting into a tube of toothpaste, some foodies have fallen in love with its refreshingly sweet taste. What can I say? Mint chocolate complements each other.

Mint chocolate desserts usually come in the form of gelato or ice cream. After all, it was originally created through an ice cream competition back in 1973. Throughout the years, people have become increasingly creative on taking this flavor to the next level.

In Korea, mint chocolate was all the rage over the past months. You must try some of their products available online through Shopee Singapore.

#1: MINT CHOCOLATE BROWNIE

Most flavors would complement brownies, but this product tastes so well. Bite into the mint chocolate goodness of the Mint Chocolate Brownie. You will find yourself wanting more!

Price: S$10.81 at Shopee SG.

#2: GREEN TEA MINT CHOCOCHIP

Mint and chocolate could have one without the other, but it is better together. The Green Tea Mint Chocochip is a part of a wide I’m Yo Choco Mix Series. You can drink this either as a cold or hot beverage. Feel refreshed with its sweet mix of mint and chocolate!

Price: S$23.50 at Shopee SG.

#3: HERSHEY’S MINT CREME MINI WAFERS

The 100 grams of Hershey’s Mint Creme Mini Wafers is unique due to its smooth filling that is both refreshing and smooth. The Hershey’s chocolate sauce is not too sweet, and its wafers are crunchy. After eating this snack, your fingers will leave its chocolate sauce. Feel free to lick it!

Price: S$19.99 at Shopee SG.

Image Credits: facebook.com/ONGkoleyt

#4: ABC CHOCO COOKIE – MINT CHOCOLATE FLAVOR

Orion’s ABC Choco Cookie – Mint Chocolate Flavor boasts its crispy cookies filled with the sweetness of chocolate and the refreshing flavor of mint. This product is part of their 2021 Summer Limited edition offerings. Its cute packaging is a plus!

Price: S$10.99 at Shopee SG.

#5: MINT CHOCO PIE

With its appealing turquoise packaging, the Mint Choco Pie has an appealing mix of juicy cacao and the fresh taste of mint. It will spread in your mouth smoothly. Take a bite or two!

Price: S$9.80 at Shopee SG.

#6: KANU MINT CHOCOLATE LATTE

Korean instant coffees are popular for its convenience and rich flavor. What better way to spend your day than by sipping a Kanu Mint Chocolate Latte? Its great flavor is suitable for desserts. Each box contains 24 sachets. Do not be afraid to stock up because it does not expire for at least a year!

Price S$18.50 at Shopee SG.

Image Credits: facebook.com/stylekoreanblog

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Essential Updates On The COVID-19 Safety Measures From July 12 To Present

[This article has been updated to adhere to the recent announcements given last July 16.]

More COVID-19 safety measures will be eased from July 12 onwards. Here are some of the highlights.

#1: GROUPS OF UP TO 5 PEOPLE CAN DINE-IN AT F&B ESTABLISHMENTS

The limit on groups allowed to dine-in at Food and Beverage (F&B) establishments was raised from 2 to 5. Up to five people can eat together as long as they are all fully vaccinated, equipped with negative Pre-Event Testing (PET) results, proven to recover from COVID-19 within 270 days, or qualify for the 5-person group eligibility rule. You must adhere to other safety measures such as social distancing and always wearing their masks (i.e., except when eating or drinking) too.

Dining-in remains as a higher-risk activity due to having many people unmasked in close proximity with one another. We must do our best to reduce the expulsion of droplets while at these establishments. Thus, entertainment at these places such as live singing and video screening will continue to be prohibited.

#2: WEDDING RECEPTIONS RESUME WITH NO MORE THAN 250 PEOPLE

The wedding receptions have resumed with no more than 250 people allowed with Pre-Event Testing. For wedding receptions with 50 people or less, PET will only be required for the wedding party. The wedding party usually includes the couple, their bridesmaids, and groomsmen.

As wedding reception remains as a higher-risk activity where guests tend to socialize over a long period of time, guests must adhere to all other safety measures to reduce the risk of transmission.

#3: FITNESS STUDIOS AND GYMS MAY CONDUCT INDOOR MASK-OFF EXERCISE ACTIVITIES

Fitness studios and gyms are allowed to conduct indoor mask-off exercise activities in groups of up to 5 people. However, indoor high-intensity mask-off activities will limit to groups of 2 from July 19.

Image Credits: unsplash.com

The cap on class size for both outdoor and indoor mask-on classes will be raised to 50 (i.e., including the instructor) or to the capacity limit of the venue, whichever is lower.

#4: SOCIAL GATHERINGS AT THE WORKPLACE CAN HAPPEN

Despite having work-from-home as a default arrangement, employers are allowed to have social gatherings in the workplace until July 18. Up to 5 people can gather for said gatherings.

Furthermore, employers must ensure that they implement flexible working hours and staggered start times.

#5: ANTIGEN RAPID SELF-TEST KITS TO BE SOLD AT SUPERMARKETS AND CONVENIENCE STORES

Antigen Rapid Test kits were made available at designated local pharmacies from June 16. Fortunately for us, these self-test kits will be available at supermarkets and convenience stores from July 16 onwards.

Customers may also purchase more than 10 kits per person. This will allow the members of the public to buy as many kits as they need.

#6: TRACETOGETHER, SAFEENTRY REQUIREMENTS WILL BE REINTRODUCED IN SUPERMARKETS FROM JULY 21

Ministry of Health stated that the high volume of patrons in supermarkets increases the risk of transmission. Thus, all supermarkets will enforce TraceTogether-only (TT) SafeEntry (SE) and deploy SafeEntry Gateways from July 21.

The reintroduction of this rule will facilitate more targeted contact tracing for people who visited indoor buildings at the same time as an infected person.

According to MOH: “We encourage all members of public to comply with the SE check-in requirements and to carry their TT Token or keep their TT App active to facilitate contact tracing and help protect themselves and their loved ones.”

Image Credits: unsplash.com

When at least half of the population has been vaccinated, differentiated measures for people vaccinated under the national vaccination program will be introduced. The nation is expected to reach this milestone by the end of July.

Sources: 1 & 2

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Listen To These Motivating Podcasts To Brighten Your Day

We all deserve a little boost to help us get through the day. With a myriad of ways to feel motivated, you can try listening to podcasts. Whether you are enjoying a nice bath or cooking a hearty breakfast, tune in to these inspiring and informative podcasts to keep you energized.

#1: THE HARDCORE SELF HELP PODCAST

Amidst the chaos brought by the pandemic, people became more aware of their mental wellness. Know more about mental health by listening to The Hardcore Self Help podcast! It is a weekly podcast that answers your queries about mental health such as getting more information about dealing with anxiety, depression, relationships, addiction, and more.

Hosted by Psychologist and author Robert Duff, each episode invites other professionals to voice out their expert opinions on various mental health issues and related topics.

#2: TED HEALTH

The TED Health podcast, much like the TED Talks, provide the best educational talks from their conferences and events. Get your daily dose of innovative and significant health-related contents to uplift your spirits. For instance, one episode showcases a program that trains grandmothers in Zimbabwe to treat depression.

Hosted by Dr. Shoshana Ungerleider, the TED Health podcast covers everything from smart daily habits to new medical breakthroughs. It can answer some pressing questions you never knew you had and share ideas that you won’t hear anywhere else.

#3: GOOD LIFE PROJECT

What does it mean to have a good life? What is the role of happiness, love, kindness, and friendship to our lives? How does race, identity, gender, and economical status influence our lives? All these questions and other topics are explored every week in the stimulating conversations of the Good Life Project.

Thought-provoking, educational, and relatable, the “Good Life Project” exists to empower people to take action in important areas of their lives. Each episode features inspiring people including research professor Dr. Brené Brown, Bishop Michael Curry, activist Glennon Doyle, actor Matthew McConaughey, and many more.

#4: OPTIMAL HEALTH DAILY

As the name suggests, Optimal Health Daily is a podcast crafted for people who are looking for ways to improve their lives one step at a time. Let this podcast accompany you to your commute, workout, or regular routines. Each episode brings realistic and practical information about various topics such as activated charcoal, exercise, and dieting.

Image Credits: pixabay.com

What’s more? Each episode is under 15 minutes, with an average running time of 10 minutes. You do not have to read lengthy academic journals or blog entries; all you need to do is to listen and learn.

Sources: 1 & 2

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