Monday, August 18, 2014
JYJ Shows Their Real Selves Through 'Just Us' Album
JYJ is back with their latest album 'JUST US' after a hiatus of 3 years! In this second album, we get to hear the evolution of their music to a more mature and sexy sound.
I was actually surprised that they came back with a mellower sound compared with their previous album, where songs such as 'Get Out' and and 'Mission' are more fast-paced dance songs. Even 'Unnamed Song' was particularly different because it was written to express pent-up frustrations.
The title song 'Back Seat' is a sexy R&B song that shows that JYJ are now 'officially' men, no longer sweet poster boys. Personally I like this song very much, although Engrish is all over the place. That's JYJ for you!
The music video is equally sexy as well, and I think they shot it that way since they knew it wouldn't make it past the Korean broadcasters anyway. Why waste time when they can please all their global fans? I particularly think the video is fresh especially the light show part at the end. It's like as if they have broken free from box sets (ahem... which a certain agency favours for music videos) finally.
My other favourites off the album are '2.30AM', 'So So', 'Dad, You There?', and 'BaboBoy'. I love listening to their harmony in '2.30AM' although the song is so sad, since it's talking about not being able to sleep because of an ex. Though I can't sleep after listening to it in the wee hours in the morning too...
'So So' is a ballad littered with many English phrases that is quite easy listening. I find it quite uplifting, though it's actually talking about loving someone without much dedication... hence the title, 'So So'. I love how the English phrases gel with the Korean lyrics in this one very much.
'Dad, You There?' is a song written by Yoochun for his late father. It's a mellow song but instead of making me sleepy, it actually gives me a chance to unravel after a long day. I can totally listen to this song all day. Their voices in this song will definitely melt your heart!
'Baboboy' is actually a mid-tempo dance song, and I didn't really like it till I listened to it a few times. I died when Yoochun whispered 'Hello beautiful, is anybody home?' :p Too bad they don't have a music video for this song, but you should check out the fancams of their performances in their concerts. Hip trusts way to go!
Each member's solo songs also have shown evolution since their last album. Junsu's solo is musical-inspired, Jaejoong's rock-inspired and Yoochun's hippie-inspired. Just joking!
Yoochun's '30' is as fresh as his previous 'Unnamed Song' since this round he is addressing the worries (and gratitude?) in turning thirty. I think they will forever stay young in my memory although they have reached thirty... But anyway, he slow-raps in the song, almost as if telling a story by talking. He inserts bits and pieces of people who have been special in his life (eg. Junsu, Jaejoong, Yoohwan and Dong Hee), which I think was pretty clever :D
I have never been disappointed in a JYJ album so far and I wish it will stay that way. They will soon enlist in the military once they finish their world tour, and I will still be waiting for them even after that. Always Keep The Faith, yo!
The author is happy yet sad that 'JUST US' signals the impending military enlistment of the members. This album is definitely precious to all fans!
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Sunday, August 10, 2014
How To Cook Yukgaejang (The Simplest Way)
If you're a fan of Korean food, chances are you've heard of Yukgaejang, a spicy beef broth that will sure to leave you craving for more.
During my trip to South Korea, I chanced upon an instant Yukgaejang soup base from Ottogi being sold in a grocery store. Since I loved the spicy beef soup so much, I decided to buy one pack to try back home.
Bought the Yukgaejang instant soup base in a box with another foil packaging inside. I think it costs around 3000 won (approximately RM9), but mianhae, my memory might have failed me since it was some time ago when I bought this.
Inside the foil packaging you will see 2 dried soup base and 2 sachets of oil. You can opt to use one pack each for a single portion, but I decided to use all since I was cooking for two persons.
The instructions were in Korean, so I had to take a wild guess on what fresh ingredients to add. Meat (beef or chicken) is a must, to give the soup more flavour. I used chicken since I couldn't find fresh beef :(
I also added mushrooms, some spring onions and some fresh chillies which I sliced to thin strips. Bring all ingredients and soup base together to a boil, and voila! Instant Yukjaejang awaits you!
Overall, my instant Yukgaejang tasted good, but would have been better with beef slices I think. I have yet to come across the same Ottogi instant Yukgaejang soup base in Malaysian stores, but if you have, do drop me a comment on where I can get it.
Hoping to try cooking this again in the future, whether from scratch or with instant soup base. But the latter probably warrants a trip to South Korea again... ;)
The author regrets not having the foresight to buy back more instant soup bases home. Cooking Korean food for comfort would be so much easier then!
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Wednesday, May 7, 2014
Korean Beauty Show: 'Get It Beauty' with Yoo In Na
As South Korean women are obsessed with beauty and flawless skin, this programme will show you how to copy the latest looks in Korean dramas and K-pop music videos.
In South Korea, the programme is widely known to conduct blind tests on beauty products, and whenever you see a product in a skincare or make-up store with the 'Get It Beauty' recommendation, rest assured the product will not disappoint on its promises.
I was shopping in Myeongdong, Seoul and I came across many of 'Get It Beauty' recommendations in the plethora of make-up and skincare stores. I bought Etude House's Moistfull Collagen Cream which was recommended by the programme, and surely the cream worked wonders on my skin! :)
I hope those of you who are interested in better skincare and make-up will benefit from watching the show!
To watch the show with English subtitles, click on the link here!
The author did not regret buying a product recommended by 'Get It Beauty' programme. She hopes those who are shopping in South Korea will use it as a benchmark to buy products worth-for-your-money in the future.
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Wednesday, April 16, 2014
High4 & IU Breaks Norms in 'Not Spring, Love, or Cherry Blossoms'
Rookie group High4 debuted with a sweet ballad track 'Not Spring, Love, or Cherry Blossoms' featuring IU, the nation's little sister.
Though they looked more like the typical idol group, they can sing well and harmonize well with IU, creating a wonderful melody for the cherry blossom season.
Though the song isn't about falling in love, it is rather about feeling lonely when everyone is out enjoying one of the most beautiful times of spring with their loved one.
When I looked up the English translations for the lyrics, the lines below caught my attention:
Everyone but me is in love, singing spring songs
Flowers bloom and sway before my eyes
But I want to hear something else
Something to sweep away everything
Not spring, love or cherry blossoms
Check out the music video for 'Not Spring, Love, or Cherry Blossoms' below!
Looking forward to listen to their next release!
The author loves the cherry blossom season when all the streets are lined with pink blossoms, and intends to at least see it in person once in a lifetime!
Do follow me on Twitter for the latest updates!
Though they looked more like the typical idol group, they can sing well and harmonize well with IU, creating a wonderful melody for the cherry blossom season.
Though the song isn't about falling in love, it is rather about feeling lonely when everyone is out enjoying one of the most beautiful times of spring with their loved one.
When I looked up the English translations for the lyrics, the lines below caught my attention:
Everyone but me is in love, singing spring songs
Flowers bloom and sway before my eyes
But I want to hear something else
Something to sweep away everything
Not spring, love or cherry blossoms
Check out the music video for 'Not Spring, Love, or Cherry Blossoms' below!
Looking forward to listen to their next release!
The author loves the cherry blossom season when all the streets are lined with pink blossoms, and intends to at least see it in person once in a lifetime!
Do follow me on Twitter for the latest updates!
Tuesday, April 1, 2014
Park Yoochun, The Elite Bodyguard in 'Three Days'
‘Three Days’ is a drama that centers on the race to find the South Korean president, portrayed by Son Hyun Joo, who goes missing at his holiday villa.
The clock ticks as his elite bodyguard, portrayed by Yoochun, hunts for him in the short span of three days.
Directed by Shin Kyung Soo (Tree With Deep Roots) and written by Kim Eun Hee (Ghost, Sign), the drama shows lot of promise to be stellar in terms of production and cast.
The drama is currently airing in South Korea and has been getting good ratings and reviews. Although it may seem like a drama that will appeal more to the male audience, many females have been interested in the drama, probably mainly because of the main lead, Yoochun (and there's where I come in too!).
‘Three Days’ will be premiering on ONE HD (Astro B.yond, Channel 393) starting April 2, 2014 and airs every Wednesday and Thursday at 8.55pm. Don’t miss out on this cool action-packed drama!
The author is excited to catch 'Three Days' on air soon. Although she had already watched it online as quick as the fan-subbers subbed the Korean broadcast of the drama. Tee hee!
Do follow me on Twitter for the latest updates!
Thursday, March 27, 2014
Tous Les Jours at WOLO, Bukit Bintang: Cozy Korean-French bakery in the heart of KL
Tous Les Jours' Berry Berry Tiramisu overlooking the busy Bukit Bintang street |
The name Tous Les Jours (pronounced TOO-LEH-JOO), which means 'everyday' in French may have some thinking that the bakery is a French chain, but in actual fact the chain originated in South Korea. During my trip to South Korea, I did manage to see a few of these outlets, but did not have the chance to try their products.
Now that I'm back in KL, I wish that I can visit the bakery 'everyday'... Or whenever I miss South Korea. Sigh....
So back to my visit.... Although I went in mid-afternoon, the bakery was quite full, and there were a few empty seats left.
Tea break time at Tous Les Jours while people-watching |
The tiramisu was smooth and creamy... Yummy! And not to mention there was a little macaron to sample too... My stomach was full after one cup but instead my mouth still wants more. Guess I gotta come here 'everyday' huh? :p
My brother loved their signature Milk Bun (RM3.80), which was expected since he was a milk lover. One bun just wasn't enough, he said, so we had to take-away more home!
Tous Les Jours' Mango Yoghurt drink |
Tous Les Jours' pastries selection |
Tous Les Jours' buns on display |
Tous Les Jours cakes and desserts on display |
Tous Les Jours' country-inspired decor |
Tous Les Jours' WOLO: the upstairs felt like a huge reading room |
While relaxing, I heard the strains of K-indie band Busker Busker's song playing in the background. That moment just transported me back to South Korea again because most cafes there loved Busker Busker's songs...
Tous Les Jours buns for breakfast (wait... somebody stole some of my madeleines already!) |
Even my elderly grandparents loved the Red Bean buns and madeleines, so it's quite safe to say they cater to our Malaysian tastes as well.
I'll definitely make Tous Les Jours a place to stop by whenever I'm in the vicinity next time!
The store address is:
WOLO Bukit Bintang
126A-C, Jalan Bukit Bintang
Kuala Lumpur
Tel : +603-4065 0088
Opening Hours : 8AM – 11PM
They do have a store in Bangsar as well:
39-41 Jalan Telawi 3 | Bangsar Baru | 59100 Kuala Lumpur
Tel : +603-2201 3526
Opening Hours : 7AM – 12AM (Sun - Thurs)
7AM - 1AM (Fri, Sat & Public Holiday)
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TLJMalaysia
Pic credits: TLJ Malaysia
The author is glad to have finally found a place where she can visit whenever her 'hunger pangs' for South Korea comes.
Do follow me on Twitter for the latest updates!
Monday, March 3, 2014
2NE1 Finally 'Come Back Home'
I have been looking forward to writing this piece over the last 2 years. I can't believe it's being posted on my blog at last! With this, it signals the return of YG's hip hop/dance/electronica girl group, 2NE1!
I never particularly loved 2NE1 for their style and sound during their debut days, but ever since the release of 'I Am The Best' I have been a converted fan.
Imagine my excitement when 'I Love You' was released late 2012, ahead of their album's release. After many of waiting, the album never came. Fans like myself were frustrated, but remained loyal and calm.
Then in 2013, we were teased by the release of 'Falling In Love', followed closely by 'Do You Love Me'. Speculations of an album release was in the air.
And then the long wait began again... this time many were already calling YG a troll... until the release of the slow-tempo number 'Missing You' in November 2013. They even performed the song during the 2013 MAMA Awards in Hong Kong!
Then came another long wait. We were being left in the cold after being all teased up! Then around January 2014 rumours which led to confirmation of a new album were all around the internet.
After a superbly long wait, their music video for 'Come Back Home' and 'Happy' are released on March 3. Their album dropped on the online stores on February 26, on CL's birthday. As expected, they achieved an all-kill on the music charts!
Check out the music video for 'Come Back Home' below!
In their latest album, 2NE1 managed to keep their sound fresh while experimenting with a more hip-hop/swagger style mixed up with some mellow ballads.
While 'Crush' reminds me very much of 'I Am The Best', 'Come Back Home' is a mid-tempo track which brings out the best in every member, in terms of vocal and individual colour.
Another track which I loved was CL's solo 'MTBD', also known as 'Mental Breakdown', which is a mind-blowing track full of CL's signature swagger and rap. While the bass proves to be an addictive element, the lyrics itself is another story.
The lyrics revolved around karma and revenge towards a former lover, but the part which I liked most was the reference to Bob Marley's famous hit, "Karma karma karma is looking for you/ Watchu' gonna do when they come for you"!
Their latest album 'Crush' certainly did not disappoint me the very least and to sum up what it's done to me, let me borrow a line from one of their songs, 'Boom, boom, boom!"
Check out the music for 'Happy' below!
The author is totally relieved that the long wait is over. Now let's look forward to 2NE1's upcoming 'All Or Nothing' concert in Malaysia this coming May!
Do follow me on Twitter for the latest updates!
I never particularly loved 2NE1 for their style and sound during their debut days, but ever since the release of 'I Am The Best' I have been a converted fan.
Imagine my excitement when 'I Love You' was released late 2012, ahead of their album's release. After many of waiting, the album never came. Fans like myself were frustrated, but remained loyal and calm.
Then in 2013, we were teased by the release of 'Falling In Love', followed closely by 'Do You Love Me'. Speculations of an album release was in the air.
And then the long wait began again... this time many were already calling YG a troll... until the release of the slow-tempo number 'Missing You' in November 2013. They even performed the song during the 2013 MAMA Awards in Hong Kong!
Then came another long wait. We were being left in the cold after being all teased up! Then around January 2014 rumours which led to confirmation of a new album were all around the internet.
After a superbly long wait, their music video for 'Come Back Home' and 'Happy' are released on March 3. Their album dropped on the online stores on February 26, on CL's birthday. As expected, they achieved an all-kill on the music charts!
Check out the music video for 'Come Back Home' below!
In their latest album, 2NE1 managed to keep their sound fresh while experimenting with a more hip-hop/swagger style mixed up with some mellow ballads.
While 'Crush' reminds me very much of 'I Am The Best', 'Come Back Home' is a mid-tempo track which brings out the best in every member, in terms of vocal and individual colour.
Another track which I loved was CL's solo 'MTBD', also known as 'Mental Breakdown', which is a mind-blowing track full of CL's signature swagger and rap. While the bass proves to be an addictive element, the lyrics itself is another story.
The lyrics revolved around karma and revenge towards a former lover, but the part which I liked most was the reference to Bob Marley's famous hit, "Karma karma karma is looking for you/ Watchu' gonna do when they come for you"!
Their latest album 'Crush' certainly did not disappoint me the very least and to sum up what it's done to me, let me borrow a line from one of their songs, 'Boom, boom, boom!"
Check out the music for 'Happy' below!
The author is totally relieved that the long wait is over. Now let's look forward to 2NE1's upcoming 'All Or Nothing' concert in Malaysia this coming May!
Do follow me on Twitter for the latest updates!
Friday, February 28, 2014
CNBLUE: They 'Can't Stop' Surprising Us
CNBLUE is back with a new album a year since their last, titled 'Can't Stop'. Are you readers excited?
Their past albums have centered on a pop-rock sound, but this time CNBLUE returns with a mellower sound, more of a soft-rock sound.
Although I have always listened to their songs, this particular album captured my interest since I'm a fan of ballads.
My 2 favourite songs off the album are 'Can't Stop' (title track) and 'Sleepless Night'. While the former is a half-ballad track which picks up pace in the chorus, the latter is a soothing number that will (ironically) soothe your restless mind on a sleepless night.
Check out the music video to 'Can't Stop' below!
Can't wait to see them perform their latest hits on music shows soon!
The author is in a good mood lately, what with new releases from CNBLUE, Girls' Generation and 2NE1 being released back to back!
Do follow me on Twitter for the latest updates!
Their past albums have centered on a pop-rock sound, but this time CNBLUE returns with a mellower sound, more of a soft-rock sound.
Although I have always listened to their songs, this particular album captured my interest since I'm a fan of ballads.
My 2 favourite songs off the album are 'Can't Stop' (title track) and 'Sleepless Night'. While the former is a half-ballad track which picks up pace in the chorus, the latter is a soothing number that will (ironically) soothe your restless mind on a sleepless night.
Check out the music video to 'Can't Stop' below!
Can't wait to see them perform their latest hits on music shows soon!
The author is in a good mood lately, what with new releases from CNBLUE, Girls' Generation and 2NE1 being released back to back!
Do follow me on Twitter for the latest updates!
Tuesday, February 25, 2014
Korean grocery buys in Kuala Lumpur: Beverages
Green tea latte & Honey citron tea |
Recently, I went grocery shopping in Aeon and found some Korean beverages that might interest some of you.
I bought a pack of Green tea latte for RM15.90, which contains 15 sachets. I also bought a bottle of Honey citron tea for RM30.90, weighing 1.1kg.
While a green tea latte might sound normal to those who often frequent cafes, I think they honey citron tea is something most would like to try.
It's an Asian twist on lemonade and the plus point is, it is taken by Koreans as a herbal remedy to reduce the common cold!
If you're interested, you can get these products at your local Aeon store :)
The author is excited to have found a new haven to stock up on Korean snacks and beverages!
I will try to keep up with my postings on Korean-related culture in Malaysia, so keep yourself updated by following me on Twitter!
Thursday, February 20, 2014
In Between Crossroads
Pic credit: http://beyondthebunker.com |
I'm actually in the midst of waiting for my thesis to be reviewed and to be called for a viva voce. It's something every student dread, but as much as I do dread it, I can't wait for it to be done and over with too.
After I get my thesis done, it's back to the working world again for me. I last left the corporate world 3 years ago when I had a crisis and decided to pursue my master's degree.
Time flies and I'm back here again. Soon, I'll be looking for a job, like many other graduates, and I really hope this time round I will get job, or better still, a career, that suits me.
Writing has always been my passion but I am always afraid that my experience will be a hindrance to my career advancement, therefore I have lowered my expectations this time round on my job scope.
My family members have been questioning what organization do I have in mind when it comes to applying for a job, but in my mind, the organization nor position does not matter.
As long as I have a chance to learn and climb up the corporate ladder to get to my dream career (and own my dream car and house at it!), I am willing to try out any job scope pertaining to writing or editing.
I hope that when I'm old and retired, my first choice will not be one I will regret. After all, we wouldn't know what lies at the end of the road not taken, right?
At this moment, I still have a long way to go...
Here's the source of my inspiration and strength, JYJ. Hope you don't mind the K-pop twist to my post!
The author is in between crossroads and hopes to make the choice that she will never regret with a path less taken.
Do follow me on Twitter for the latest updates!
Thursday, February 6, 2014
Korean beverages on the streets of South Korea
Latte drinks at Hello Kitty Cafe |
Caffe Bene's lime & mint drink, hot chocolate & strawberry smoothie |
Hollys Coffee's Iced Lemon Tea |
Angel-in-us Coffee's ready made coffee sold in convenience stores |
Banana milk and Chocopie for breakfast |
Strawberry milk and Ottogi slimming cup noodle |
Blueberry yogurt drink |
Maeil yogurt drink |
Apple flavoured probiotics multifunction yogurt drink |
Vita 500 drink endorsed by miss A's Suzy |
Surprisingly after she drank it she didn't complained much anymore. The sore throat went away the next day miraculously. Then when the same thing happened to me, I immediately looked for Vita 500 and drank a bottle. The next day the sore throat disappeared too! Yeay! :)
Etude House's Pink Pong collagen water |
Daily C vitamin water: Skin Glow |
Pocari Sweat |
Brown rice tea drink |
Mojito Lemon & Lime with Mint drink |
That's all for the beverages I had while on the streets of South Korea peeps! I hope you'll have your share of fun in exploring Korean beverages!
The author missed her breakfast drink of banana milk so badly she had to stock up on them from local supermarkets even when back home!
Do follow me on Twitter for the latest updates!
Labels:
Angel-In-Us Coffee,
Autumn,
Banana Milk,
Beverages,
Brown Rice Tea,
Caffe Bene,
Daily C,
Etude House,
Hello Kitty Cafe,
Hollys Coffee,
Ottogi,
Pink Pong,
Pocari Sweat,
Shopping,
South Korea,
Travel,
Vita 500
Tuesday, January 21, 2014
South Korea Trip 2013: 8 Days Busan & Seoul Itinerary
To round off my posts on my South Korea trip in November 2013, I'll do a compilation of all my related posts which works as an itinerary guide for those who want to visit both Busan and Seoul within a week.
My self-guided South Korea trip itinerary is as follows, with KTX being the mode of transportation between the two cities.
Day 1: Busan Nampodong, BIFF Square and Gwangbok Street (Busan)
Day 2: Seoul Chungmuro, Namdaemun and Myeongdong
Day 3: Seoul Edae, Hongdae, D-Cube City and Dongdaemun
Day 4: Seoul N Seoul Tower, Namsangol Hanok Village, Garosugil and Go-To Mall
Day 5: Seoul Gyeongbukgung, Bukchon Hanok Village, Samcheongdong, Changdeokgung and Insadong
Day 6: Seoul to Busan (KTX and Busan City Night View Tour Bus)
Day 7: Busan Jagalchi Market, Gukje Market, Haeundae Beach and Seomyeon
Day 8: Busan Pusan Int'l University Street, Oncheonjang and Busan Trick Eye Museum
On a side note, here are some of my previous posts that might interest some of you who are curious to learn more about South Korea before you head over there.
Korean beverages on the streets of South Korea
K-pop album haul and Korean souvenirs
Beauty buys from South Korea
Grocery buys from South Korea
I hope my travel itinerary might have given some ideas to those that will be visiting South Korea in the future.
Feel free to leave a comment if you have any questions, and I'll be more than willing to share with you whatever knowledge I have! :)
Update: Check out my latest account of my trip to Japan in 2015. Stay tuned for more updates on this trip!
Osaka: Sightseeing, Shopping & Dining Attractions
The author might have missed some places of interest since it was a tight schedule of 4 days in Busan and 4 days in Seoul. Someday she wishes to return and visit many more beautiful places in South Korea.
Do follow me on Twitter for the latest updates!
Labels:
Autumn,
Busan,
Itinerary,
Self-guide,
Seoul,
South Korea,
Travel
Monday, January 13, 2014
K-pop album haul & Korean souvenirs
K-pop album haul from my trip |
I bought JYJ Kim Jaejoong's WWW album for myself, CNBLUE's Re:BLUE album for my first brother, and G-Dragon's Coup D'etat for my youngest brother. Possibly the lightest and slimmest souvenirs, but yet the most expensive ones!
I bought my albums from the Music Korea outlet in Myeongdong. To get there using the subway, stop at Myeongdong Station, and take Exit 6. You'll see a Nature Republic outlet. Enter the outlet and go up one floor.
Music Korea is just upstairs and they have an extensive range of K-pop albums, both old and new releases.
Korean souvenirs |
I also managed to get some fridge magnets in Hongdae (not pictured above), as well as a bookmark and postcards from Insadong.
Insadong is a good place to buy cultural souvenirs, but if you are not heading there then you can find them at Namdaemun or Myeongdong too. Insadong has more authentic souvenirs, but prices can be on the pricey side. For a more upscale souvenir hunting spree, try Ssamziegil. I got my cute postcards there from a small stall vendor :)
That's all for my K-pop album haul and Korean souvenirs. If you have yet to, check out my previous posts on Korean beauty buys and Korean grocery buys!
The author is grateful that she managed to get a copy of Jaejoong's WWW album before it was sold out!
Do follow me on Twitter for the latest updates!
Labels:
Albums,
Autumn,
CNBLUE,
G-Dragon,
Insadong,
JYJ,
K-pop,
Kim Jaejoong,
Myeongdong,
Seoul,
Shopping,
South Korea,
Souvenirs,
Subway,
Travel
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