#Korean Food Shop Near Me

[hiyouuk]

Korean Food Supermarket: Fresh and Traditional Groceries

HiYou is your one-stop Korean Food Supermarket for a huge range of genuine Korean grocery items in the UK. Buy 100% original groceries with fast delivery! Korea is a country that is rich with culture, history and food, and our aim is to make Korean food more accessible for everyone with our Korean online supermarket. Korean food is wonderfully bright, vibrant and full of flavour, so you need to make sure that you are getting the very best ingredients to make your meals authentic. As a leading Korean food supermarket, we understand Korean food and how specialist it can be. We want to make sure that you can find what you are looking for quickly and easily – whether that is in our Korean store or through our Korean supermarket online. Cooking and finding the right ingredients and inspiration shouldn’t be a chore!

[naomiknight-17]

Why is it so hard to just get some fucking fish stock

[hvacservicesdubai]

all ramen noodles

Korean ramen halal new items in UAE Dubai for the first time one of the best Korean spicy halal noodles in MENA now in UAE in the Korean grocery store family mart supermarket

DAEBAK is the name of the noodle's ramen brand. and the spicy levers are different. starting from the ghost pepper spicy chili daebak ramen with 2 flavors Korean ramen cup noodles and pouch.

1- spicy chicken ghost pepper daebak ramen 2- cheese spicy chicken ghost pepper daebak ramen

and the 2d s[picy ramen daebak level is the habanero spicy chili are 2 flavours only cup type as far as now 1- kimchi soup habanero daebak ramen 2- spicy chicken habanero daebak ramen

the normal or the original daebak halal Korean ramen are 5 flavors pouch type only as far as now.

1- daebak spicy mushroom flavor. 2- daebak jjampong seafood flavor. 3- daebak kimchi flavor. 4- daebak rabokki flavor. 5- daebak seaweed meyukgug flavor.

not spicy and it tastes so good it has the real taste of the Korean food tastes that each noodle is made with. REFER TO THIS WEBSITE FOR MORE INFORMATION: www.familyk.ae

[absolutebl]

This Week in BL - a shocking upset to the rankings

Organized, in each category, by ones I'm enjoying most at the top.

Nov 2023 Wk 4

Ongoing Series - Thai

My Dear Gangster Oppa (Thurs iQIYI) ep 5 of 8 - It remains absolutely delightful. We already knew this pair does boyfriends damn near perfectly. It’s a pleasure to watch them as a couple, coupling all over our screen. The relationship does feel a bit rushed but frankly I like the pacing, it’s kind of Korean style which makes sense considering the original IP. 

The Sign (Sat YT) ep 1 of 10 - You know what this is? It’s FUN is what it is. I haven’t felt this way about a BL in a while. Sure is has an uneven story, fight sequences, pacing, and acting but still… yay! Billy is great, he very good at thirst. It’s a crime Lee Long Shi isn’t in this, but otherwise weeeeeeeeee!

(Also was that Bangsean I spotted?)

Last Twilight (Fri YT) ep 3 of 12 - The montage of them learning and training together was so stinking cute I can hardly contain myself. Plus a little language play? (Did you catch the added “na” on to thank you? Gah! So sweet.) Have mercy. I love the banter that these two can execute so smoothly. It reminds me the most of TayNew back in their Kiss days. Or Nanon & Ohm in Bad Buddy.

There’s this breezy casualness to friendships and long-term relationships that Asian BLs seem to find really hard to execute (I’m thinking about something like Hospital Playlist as the best example). It’s more a friend chemistry than a lover chemistry, although of course it can morph into that.

Anyway, I am waffling, but I’m loving this show. (The bit with the teacher made me cry.) I also really love how much actual Bangkok we’re getting from it for a change. 

Finally... how much did @respectthepetty and I love the pink milk shirt moment? SO MUCH. Color theory, plot devise, fashion, food, and a trope reference all in one. Well done GMMTV! Very well done.

Twins the series (Fri GaGa) ep 4 of 10 - I would like it if we got onto the BL section of this BL. Please and thank you. 

Pit Babe (Fri iQIYI) ep 2 of 14 - it's delightfully trashy, btu slightly less trashy than last week because they introduced AlanJeff who are my new babies of age gap delight and you cannot have them. THEY ARE MINE. Also Way. WAY IS MINE. Also, I decided to do a trash watch.

Bake Me Please (Mon Gaga) ep 1 of 6 - It’s nice. It’s fine. Atmospheric and pretty and full of deserts. What’s not to love? Is it inspired? No. Definitely has an Antique Bakery (play it again, BL). But I do love food based cinema. 

Middleman’s Love (Fri YT & iQIYI ep 3 of 8 - What’s annoying is that this could’ve been so good. It’s a poster child for squandered potential. 

Absolute Zero (Weds iQIYI) ep 9 of 12 - Because of the temporal paradox, and Thai BL not being all that great on narrative consistency anyway, this is a confusing piece as well as a painful one. Now Ongsa seems to be nothing more than a stalker who cries all the time. 

Playboyy (Thurs Gaga) 2 of 14(!) eps - This really feels like Thailand is trying to relive the gory days of Japan's pinks. I wasn’t into it then and I’m certainly not into it now. It’s a mess and weirdly mechanically not sexy. I’ll stay watching it but, like Only Friends, I don’t think I’m gonna warm to it. I just don’t like shows where there are no likable characters. 

Also imma say it, so plug your assears. This is about as deep as a dildo can go. Which is to say, the size queens seem to be finding it more deep than the rest of us who are already bottoming out. Just make sure you're taking adequate lube prep with your psyches.

My Universe (Sun iQIYI) Friends Forever ep 14 of 24 - No thank you. 1/10 

I've decided, for spreadsheet reasons, that each of these is going to be tracked as its own 2 part show.

Ongoing Series - Not Thai

A Breeze of Love (Korea iQIYI) eps 5-6 of 8 - The shopping together scene was absolutely darling. But I’m getting a little frustrated not knowing exactly what happened in the past.

VIP Only (Taiwan Fri Gaga) ep 1-2 of 10 - Of course it starts with the crash into me trope, oh Taiwan. It’s cute enough, I love the support cast, and it’s always nice to have something from my favorite tiny island on my dash. 

You tell me: is it safe?

One Room Angel (Japan Gaga) 6 eps - This one finished. It's an adaptation of Harada’s manga (which I did not like and dnf'd) about a clerk who nearly dies and ends up cohabitating with an angel. Thoughts? Is it sad? Is it meh? TELL ME!

It's Airing But...

The Whisperer (Sun ????) 1 of 10 - Thai horror BL that ALSO involves cheating (what joy is mine). He has dimples (My Ride) but I don't think even that gives me the will. You can tell me how this goes if you can find it.

SHADOW (Thai Gaga) 14 eps - I'm not wild about Thai horror (or horror at all) even one featuring Singto and Fluke. I'm holding off. If told it's good, I'll binge.

7 Days Before Valentine (Weds WeTV) ep 1 of 10 - trailer here, horror-esk. Adapted from y-novel of the same name, directed by Tu (180 Degree) stars Jet (Why You… Y Me?). Giving me Luminous Solution vibes, so I'm waiting to binge if told it's safe.

Beyond The Star (Weds iQIYI) 8 eps - House of Stars meets Boyband. I was NOT impressed with ep one. Waiting to be told if I should bother.

What Did You Eat Yesterday Season 2 AKA Kinou Nani Tabeta? Season 2 (Japan Gaga) 10 eps - I find this series more fun to binge, so I'm waiting until it completes its run.

In case you missed it

I posted 20 BLs with the BEST Thirst! and decided to distinguish the different type son need in BL as follows:

Thirst wants to slide a hand under his waistband right tf now and grind.

Horny wants to rip his clothes off, and probably pop buttons and laugh about it.

Yearning wants to run both hands up his back while they kiss deeply.

Hunger wants to lift him by the ass and slam him against the wall.

Next Week Looks Like This

(Today) 11/26 Cooking Crush (Sun YT) 1 of 12 - OffGun are back, trailer here. Adapted from the novel “Love Course! เสื้อกาวน์รุกเสื้อกุ๊กรับ” by iJune4S this is about Prem who runs a not-so-popular restaurant with 2 friends. About to go on a cooking competition with a huge reward, Prem gets involved with Ten, a stressed-out med student who wants Prem to teach him to cook.

11/30 For Him (Thurs iQIYI) ep 1 of 10 - high heat trailer From the people who brought us Unforgotten Night (please no) based on a y-novel, man nursing a heartbreak has a one-night stand, but the other boy didn't want it to end. It looks terribly trashy so I'm in!

Original 2023 forthcoming BL master post (see comments, some are inaccurate, NOT KEPT UPDATED).

THIS WEEK’S BEST MOMENTS

Look at how gd cute they are!

Ah yes... (both Last Twilight)

We stan a supportive bestie/brother (orphans together? - not sure on the backstory)

It is a rule universally aknowledged that an cutie in a baceball cap must get his brim tweaked. (all from The Sign)

Way is the best.

I kinda love the BTS for Pit Babe.

(Last week)

[mamieishere]

Heat me

MDNI

disclaimer : fuff, making love, missionnary, unprotected sex (burrito guys BU-RRI-TO) breeding kink, dom/sub?, no name mentioned

Where you were from, windows were covered by interior curtains and shutters on the outside, all this to prevent the heat in summer and cold in winter.

When you woke up this morning, you were surprised and blinded by the light.

- "Aaaaah... I really need to buy some curtains to prevent the morning light", you grumbled as you drag your feet to the kitchen downstairs.

The building was a medium one, only 4 dorms and a little rooftop apartment which seemed to be intended. You happily sign the contract after cautiously reading every details. Even if, the cost was medium (probably due to the weather exposition), the charges were more as acceptable, not to say cheap in comparison of your native.

However, a thing caught your attention We are extremely sorry because the neighbors are loud at night time. We hope it won't be a problem. They are out most of the time. But we'll have to met them to make some update about the different bills : electricity, gaz, light, cold and warm water.

"It's okay, I usually work at night time, because I'm dealing with local artists", the landlord looked reassured and the contract was signed the following second.

Fortunately for you, the previous tenant had leave some furniture including the bed, the kitchen and The armoires. You unpacked your things, clothes, art supplies, music supplies and the decorative items to picked here and there.

That was a first day but it feels like home already. Now, funny thing : groceries. You took the subway with individual caddie and made the ladies jealous. So much so that most sellers offer you discounts to promote their shops. Your Korean was harsh and unpleasant to hear but you guess that everybody was too happy to met a stranger trying to speak their language that they decide to not notice.

that's how you went home with plenty of various products. You laughed a bit to the situation. Then processed to make a dinner. You sort veggies, fruits, meats...

- "MEATS??? WTF?", you shouted of surprised before adding a little sorry.

Anyway, sauces, power, flour, juice. Ha Jeez, they didn't joke about gift. But there's something missing... a beer and a pizza. So, you grabbed your wallet and jacket to run down the next 7/7 near buy. you took yourself a little banana milk and a taro drink.

Putting the fresh groceries on the counter, you prepare the rest, washing the veggies, the fruits and drop them off in a cute basket. Then meats and liquids were put in the fridge.

You turned on the TV, and started to watch The Moving Castel. The pizza heating in the oven faisait spread a delicious smell and you open you beer.

You sat up from the sofa heating to the kitchen, took out the pizza, sliced it in several pieces before heading back to your place with your food.

*knock knock*

Oh noooo you sight, put the movie on pause, putting on a hoodie and you sadly answer the door.

- "Hey Hello ! I'm one of your new neighbors"

-... you opened the doors "Good evening?"

- "Excuse my curiosity but i smelt a delicious odor and then i all freak out because one of my favorite movies was playing somewhere.", the boy was black haired. "excuse me, it's very impromptu but would accept me to watch it with you?"

- "Oh huh, yes I guess?"

- "COOL ! i'm H/N btw"

- "Y/N"

- "So nice to meet you! hold on, wait for me, I'm gonna grabbed some snacks!", he run away before being back seconds later. "Let's watch it!"

You both jumped on each side of the sofa. The movie started to run. As the minutes passed, the clother you became. At the end, snacks and pizza empty, we were absolutely glued one to an other. It was late and you felt into sleep on the shoulder of your new friend.

- "Hey Y/Nnie you need to go bed", you grumbled "bulama good yoa arms", He sight. "Okay, guide me to your room".

He grabbed you princess style and lean to your bed, help by your lazy finger.

- "Here you go, good night sweet dreams", he whispered.

- "Stay with me pleeeease... it's a new town and I'm lonely."

No-one will ever know why he stayed. November was a cold month, specially at night. "Heat me up please. I'm freezing." Your host turn around and wrapped his legs and arms around you.

- Is it better now? ", he asked. But your body seems to keep shaking. So He tightened his grip around you. Your nose in the little of his neck permits you to inhale his fragrance. Oh boy, he smelt heavenly.

one thing leads to another, both of you find their shelves kissing each other. The kiss was light and passionate.

his arms went to keep you tight and his lips intensified the connection. As this happens, you were in awe, this man is wonderful, muscular and sweet in the same time. How to say no?

His hands cupped your chin and your legs opened as he positioned himself on his knees. He looked at you for your consent and nodded shyly.

- "Jagiya, don't need to be shy with me okay?", his hands went to brush the garnement of the tank top betraying your erected nipples. His touch were soft, teasing the flesh and keep starting to add more pressure. Your first moan escaped your mouth but the second were caught by his own lips.

Everything was sweet and slow he removed your panties gently while keep cheesy smiling to you. You didn't know what was in his eyes, was it love? nuh unfortunately, lust ? hum carrying? yes, looked like it.

He layed down, leaving pecks here and there. Then he reached your private part, kissing, licking, sucking like his life was in game. You tried to touch him.

- "No sweetheart, the pleasure is mine. You no move and stay still. You don't want to be punish little thing?"

He grabbed your knees and left his dick spend free. He's was beautiful, tanned skin, define muscles and his cock.. wow hard, proud, brown-ish and leaking with precum.

- "Lemme lead", tonight is about you, you only ", he whispered lightly in your ears. You shivered, hard. He let you heading on the mattress.

- "Please, lift your hips", he said as he placed a pillow for a better leverage.

He ran a finger all the way down before entering his 2 digits. He was no the first man you had sex with. But boy, he was good. He covered you and praised sweet nothing into your ears. When your orgasm started to building up. He removed his finger, cutting you off a moan.

- "Ssshhh baby, it's going to be okay.", he lifted his hips and slowly penetrated you.

- "S-so big aaahh~" and he bottomed out. "For suck sake you're tight!", His length was big enough for you, you felt absolutely everything, his pulses, his tips kissing your cervix. " I'll start to move sweetheart", and moving he did.

His pace was slow, deep but firm. He encaged you between his arms.

Blank, everything is blank, sounds, odors only remains the slapping sounds skin under skin and the heat increasing at each second.

- "hhha hahahaha~ you so big. f-fuck", you were a mumbling mess.

- "You're so soft, so kind, offering me your sweet little pussy... but", he gripped your hips and sending you head down, ass up. "Baby, you did so good to mount you, making you mine and no one else."

His pace became barely impossible to follow. You found yourself trying to absorb his cock. He grunted and suddenly shot his load. Hot, long and copious spurs filled up your cunt.

You collapsed from exhaustion.

- "Tsk tsk tsk baby, get up, I'm not done with you yet. I came yes, but you no. So, be prepared for one of the longest night of your life".

[carelessflower]

saturday recap 🧃🎀

PACKED DAY

fit check, anti jinx i love LOVE this snoopy shirt tho this outfit give off spring summer vibe more than winter

i have to go to kinda like coffee shop/cat cafe place where I worked at and I had watermelon milk shake. so good and fresh and obviously sweet

look at the kitties today!! the one who used to be so friendly with me so grumpy today :((( doesn't even let me pet him much. and eepy kitties. the one sleeping near my bag is warming up today with me anti jinx anti jinx!!

more meowtie, this one let me pet so much, the owner even asked me how can I pet it cause usually it doesn't allow people to pet hehe, it even moved his head along with my palm when I stopped petting its head. funny story it was hiding under the chair and I come close wanting to pet then another cat came up and pushed my destined kitty out of the way and then the kitty just like slapped the other one. like that one doesn't even want pet, it just wanna ruin other getting pet. and when I sit on chair they suddenly come near and sit like that lmaoo

this place is like having a pop up stores like key chains, clothes, hair clips, brushes, postcards. i wanna buy all but I dont have enough money :(((

but i did got this keychain heheehe, look at me styling my bags, which one better thoooooo? (also I basically got the most expensive one and got like a spa voucher or something)

then we went to lunch, trying out this like chinese-vietnamese restaurant that famous for their crab sticky rice (expensive asf), the restaurant decor so pretty tho, that lights decoration ughhh

ranking of the food again

crab sticky rice: 8.8/10. very solid crab sticky rice. i love the crunchy outside and the fried scallion and the peeled crab meat within the rice. the pickled is so perfect for it

sea food stir fried vermicelli: 9/10. the seasoning is sawr good, with a tiny bit of spice to kick off the flavor and yk I love spice. also there scallops which is a big plus

thú linh nướng (grilled end part of pork large intestine): 9.5/10. i love love the crunchiness and the fattiness and the flavor and dipped it with chilli sauce is the best feeling ever

dried pangasius kunyit hotpot: 8/10, the broth is good, the fish is fatty and crunchy enough but im just too full lmao

after that we went to this mega big coffee & dessert exhibition on its final day, like there so many sections and also some of them not even coffee or desserts they like appliances and also Korean food?? all the things I tried

coffee, very bitter

black tea, so rich in that black tea flavor tho im afraid im not gonna be able to digest all that caffeine

a dumpling with extra spicy chili oil, it so good

red bean and durian mochi, decent

some cheese cake snack, dont like cheese much tho

chocolate flavored nuts, so so good like it amazing

durian flavored chocolate, it taste all durian and no chocolate

ended up buying the chocolate hehe, the tiramisu chocolate is sooo good, also got dark chocolate one, yogurt chocolate and another brand durian chocolate

[bangtanhoneys]

BTS MOMENTS: OT8 - CHRISTMAS COOKIES

It was difficult to plan Christmas around being a member of BTS. Their diaries were planned to the last second, December being the worst month with performances and award shows, two members’ birthdays in between and barely getting to see your family. In the early days, there was no money to do anything, now there was no time. 

Christmas was important as well. Grace had grown up in a mixed household in England where Christmas was all about spending time together, eating food, Christmas shopping and presents, and decorating the tree. Koreans did things a little differently but her mother made sure that was Christmas still the same until Grace entered the idol world.

And from there Grace had to take what time she could.

The dorm always had a tree, stuck in the corner near the large windows, decorated in a mix of red and gold. There would be a hint of Christmas in every room including the bathroom where she swapped out the towels for Christmas themed ones. Every bedroom door had a wreath hanging from it, decorated and designed to match who it belonged to. 

Dinner and presents were never an option as they didn’t have time so it was always done at the company where they could spend time with staff who had given up their own Christmas’ for whatever BTS was doing. 

This year, Grace was determined it was going to be different. 

They had three days off where they could enjoy Christmas, albeit a little early. 

She had gone into full Christmas mode - starting with her mother’s famous gingerbread cookies. 

“Oh it’s started,” Jimin grinned as he came out of his bedroom, still looking half asleep as he wandered into the kitchen. “Ooh gingerbread.”

“Don’t even think about it,” Grace gently slapped his hands away from where some gingerbread cookies, shaped like stars, were chilling on the counter after being in the oven. “I’ve got plenty to make and I’ve got some decorating things if you wanna decorate them.”

“Let me call in the reinforcements then,” Jimin spun around and headed back down the hallway. 

Taehyung was first, already awake and showered with a Christmas jumper on then Hobi followed soon after, pulling a ridiculous Christmas hat. They turned on the music speaker that was near the TV, putting on the classic Christmas playlist they found on Spotify. 

The two of them soon cleared off the dining room table, Jimin joining them after taking a quick shower himself. 

Namjoon clambered out of his room at the sound of the noise coming from the kitchen, taking one look at the chaos before grinning and soon returning dressed and ready to go. 

And finally, the last three slowly crawled out of their pits to join in on the Christmas cookies. Most of the cookies went into six mouths while Seokjin and Grace took over the kitchen, getting more cookies out and starting to organise their Bangtan dinner.

It wasn’t much in terms of a Christmas weekend but it was enough for them to spend time together, Christmas cookies, dinner and movies and do nothing for three days until their manager came knocking. 

[milkthecouch]

Mission accomplished!

Yes, today I had a mission: find Wonderful Pretty Cure merchandise and a Sprigatito from Pokémon plush. And what better place to look than Little Tokyo?

I started off looking in Marukai, which is famous for selling shokugan, or candy toys. After two minutes of searching for the candy toy aisle, my eye saw something I had been wanting to buy for a while: the PreCute figurines for Wonderful Pretty Cure! They had all four, but I wound up picking up my two favorite Cures from the season: Cure Wonderful and Cure Lillian. They also had the playset for the dolls and some keychains. In Marukai's sister store, they had a bit more, but I decided to pass on it.

As for Sprigatito, I found her at a little store that mostly sold figurines such as nendoroids. They had plush keychains of various Pokémon characters, the one I was looking for included. And according to the tag, this doll is a Korean import!

After this, I stopped in Kinokuniya, and they had many Hirogaru Sky Pretty Cure-era books, and even some books of the NHK preschool show I like, Inai Inai Baa!, in the toddler section. One of the books they had was one I got for Christmas last year, Wanwan no Kakurenbo.

I then went to go find an anime plush, preferably a nesoberi, by looking in the main marketplace of Little Tokyo. After some failed attempts in several stores, I found a Tokyo Japanese Outlet store that had Hololive Friends With U plushies...including Momosuzu Nene. I was going to buy her to have a smaller Nene, but she was $55, which would've left me with NO MONEY to buy the Joy from Inside Out plush in Disneyland (which, coincidentally, I saw another kid in our hotel lobby with this morning), so I passed.

I did get two snacks from Little Tokyo. The first was a melon pan I bought from Nijiya Market. Melon pan is one of my favorite foods, and this particular one looked pretty! Later, Dad bought me a pizza bun, which tasted really familiar, but I can't remember what food it was like.

After failing to find another plush, I went inside this anime-centric Book-Off, which had Pretty Cure stuff...but it was overpriced, like $40 for Cure Honey's baton from HappinessCharge and $70 for the music box from Fresh. I opted to go to the toy store near where this store was...only to find it closed.

After this, we went to Hollywood Boulevard with my brother. First, we went to the El Capitan Theatre, where we saw a long line for a showing of Moana 2, as well as merchandise for said movie in the gift shop. Then, we ate at Mel's Diner for lunch, where I had some delicious fried chicken. Following this was a trip to the Netflix store, where I saw the mailbox from one of the favorite shows of my sister @ashleypureheart22, Gabby's Dollhouse. After this, we went to the biggest Miniso I had ever been to, but I didn't get anything, as I was saving for Disney. Then we had dessert at the Ghiradeli gift shop at the El Capitan Theater, where we saw many kids coming back from the Moana 2 screening that had just ended.

Now I'm headed back to the area of my hotel, specifically CityWalk, to take a break.

[goodwriterwithbadhabits]

Stray Kids Favorite Dates.

{Master List}

Warnings: Swearing (its me, come on)

Chan: Boardwalk Dates

Hear me out

Near the beach, enjoying the sun

Shopping

Goofing around at the record shop you find

If its somewhere like the Santa Monica boardwalk where there are rides and carnival stuff

He’s gonna try his darndest to win you a plushie. 

These kinds of dates remind him of home

Even if you’re not in Australia 

The date will not end until you’ve watched the sunset

And even then yall will inevitably end up staying up to watch the stars and try naming constellations. 

There are definitely some songs about these days

~~

Minho: Volunteering at a shelter

We all know Minho's love of animals

So his partner would have to love them too

You two plan this for days if not weeks

Its a super big deal

Cause you don’t get to do it often

But you do it enough for the staff to remember you

you guys remember all the shelters residents 

And absolutely love hearing about those that get adopted

It doesn’t seem like a date but you guys love it

It lets you do something you love together

Plus you get to hang out with and help cute pets

The last hour or so that you’re there, you end up just playing with the kittens

Constantly have to talk each other out of adopting another baby

~~

Changbin: Korean BBQ/ Hot Pot.

Rich boy loves simple dates

You always dress up a little

Nothing too fancy, but enough to make it feel special

You don’t get to go out often but when you do

He goes all out

No matter what you want, he’s got you. 

All the best meats

A private booth or room if possible

Just the two of you and some spectacular food

You never sit across from each other

Its easier to feed one another if you’re beside each other

He loves cooking meat and feeding it to you

And vice versa. 

The night always ends with the two of you cuddled together in food comas

~~

Hyunjin: Art Gallery/ Painting at home

You are his favorite muse

Loves taking candid pics of you admiring artwork

Or drawing you 

He also loves just getting coffee or tea and heading to whatever art exhibit he can find. 

It always feels like you’re the only two there

Shoulder to shoulder, sipping your drinks and whispering about the art. 

He will inevitably end up taking copious amounts of pictures

To him its art admiring art

If you do end up staying home to draw or paint or whatever he will draw you

He has several paintings of you that no one else is allowed to see

He might have even gifted you a painting of yourself at some point

~~

Jisung: Nap Dates

Nothing beats coming over to his place with some snacks

Throwing on a Studio Ghibli movie 

And passing the fuck out all cuddled together.

No matter what you come over wearing

You will end up in his hoodie

He likes the way they end up smelling like you after

Also, on the rare occasion you’re the only one asleep he can take a cute picture of you in his hoodie. 

Most of the time he’s the one falling asleep first.

You guys are practically fused together every time

Just a mess of limbs

The other boys probably have tons of pics of you two 

He just loves waking up with you in his arms tbh

~~

Felix: Shopping/ Mall dates

loves people watching and coming up with ridiculous scenarios for people's lives. 

Whoever makes the other laugh harder gets to pick which shop you go in first

The loser has to pay for lunch

Also greatly enjoys just buying you things

You guys play this game in clothing shops where you make outfits for each other

Outfits you end up wearing on future dates probably

He loves buying matching clothes

Or lowkey matching accessories.

Like a ring that matches your necklace

Or hats that match each others bags or shoes

No matter how many clothes he buys you, you’ll just end up wearing his anyway

Most things you buy end up shared either way.

Your jewelry collection has increased dramatically cause of him

~~

Seungmin: Picnic Dates

He thinks there's nothing more romantic 

Always has to make the food together

Or shop for the food together

Unless its a surprise date

You guys actually bought one of the cheesy picnic baskets from the movies

And the red checkered blanket

He has a whole backpack of related supplies

Like sunscreen, bug spray, baby wipes, the important stuff.

Loves finding the quiet, hidden spots for your dates. 

His favorite is this peaceful meadow with a little duck pond

You will end up spending hours laying on your backs staring up at the clouds

Sometimes you stay out late enough to see the stars

He always gets pouty when you finally decide to pack everything up and head home

~~

Jeongin: Cafe Date

He's a sucker for the classics 

He just wants to hold your hand over the table and feed you cake

Your first date was at this little cafe and it quickly became your spot

he adores going back there for any big occasion

Always gets a window seat so you can people watch

At this point he knows your order 

And vice versa

So whoever gets there first orders for the both of you

He always tries to get there first so he can pay

He loves planning matching outfits and posting OOTDs on Insta for everyone to see

If you’re having a bad day, he makes a point to dress you up and take you to the cafe

Or if you don’t want to get dressed, you guys go in your pjs

He really doesn’t care, he just wants to take you to the happy place.

[haitanislvt]

"Lets go to Korea-town!"

tokyo rev x Korean reader

tw: cigarettes

characters: Wakasa

not proof read

"hey waka!"

"hm?"

"lets go to korea-town"

"what-town?"

your jaw dropped.

"babe do you know what korea is? its literally a country near japan?!?"

"hm? never was good with geography-"

"waka- im literally korean."

you saw his eyes widen

"shit really-? im so sorry, i never realized, nor did it matter to me to ask you about where you were from"

you rolled your eyes and grabbed his wrist, dragging him to the car. as you drove to korea-town you can tell hes not an outside person. his life just revolves around you and his gym.

You parked in a parking garage and told him that you guys arrived, he subtly nodded and left the car waiting for you to get out. you opened the door to leave and walked towards him who was just on his phone. he looked up quickly and reached his hand towards you. you gladly took it and you two left the parking garage.

you two entered korea-town. you first took him to a beauty supply shop because you wanted to grab something. he looked around mindlessly. k-pop playing in the background he walked towards the hoodies, he actually liked some of the designs.

"hey y/n? should i get this?"

"do you listen to them?"

"no."

you just looked at him. he changed his mind. you checked out your stuff and walked towards him to let him know you're done. he leaned his head forward to see what you got and you slight opened the bag. he saw a beanie, stationaries, and a poem book.

"so what did you actually come here to buy?"

"nothing, i just was curious"

he grabbed the bag and your hand and you two walked out of the store. while walking around k-town, he realized how Korean culture is different yet similar. waka saw how passionate you were about your ethnicity. its like something snapped in his head. he realized maybe he should make an effort towards your nationality.

the two of you just goofed off around taking cute pictures together. you felt a sense of warmth at the fact that he was opening up and having fun with you. as the sun was slowly setting you two decided to end the night at a korean restaurant for dinner.

the waitress seated you guys at a table outside to eat, she noticed you were korean and asked about your day. in korean. waka dismissed it and looked at the menu and he had a look of confusion in his eyes. once the waitress left all you saw was a very confused wakasa, this made you chuckle a bit. sucking up his pride he set it down and asked what the fuck it all meant. you looked at the menu and saw he was pointing at a picture with text under on what it was but there was no translation. it broke out laughing a little, you took the menu to read it, "일본 라면“ japanese ramen?

"it say's japanese ramen, do you want that?"

he nodded slowly with an embarrassed face, you didnt know why he was embarrassed but you could tell. its like his ego went down just by asking you for a translation. about 3 minutes passed and the waitress came by with some cha, she asked if you two were ready to order. you looked up and said 네 (yes),

"일본 라면 하나랑 김치찌개 하나 주문해도 될까요?" (can i order one japanese ramen and one kimchi stew?)

she wrote it down and nodded telling you guys it wont take long. when she left waka asked how long you lived in korea and when you moved to japan. you told him you moved to japan when you were 10 but since your parents were deeply cultural, they forced you to talk to them in korean to extend your language.

with a dumbfounded look on his face he had the audacity to ask, "do you know bts?" in a stupid "korean" accent. you stared at him with an unimpressed look and he apologized shortly after.

the food came out after a few minutes and you two talked about, or you were telling him some stories from korea and just your experience and funny family stories as he just ate his food and nodded.

when you two finished he payed and tipped the waitress, by the time you two left the restaurant it was already night and it was cold, not freezing but it was chilly. waka took his jacket off and draped it over your shoulders while holding onto you. "lets go home yeah?" you nodded against his shoulder as you two slowly made your way to the car.

a/n: idk why but i was hella unmotivated to write anything so if this is bad im so sorry😭 but i wanted to write this bc im korean. yeah thats kinda it. its kinda cheesy and kinda dumb but hey why not! 💀

[hiyouuk]

Korean Supermarket Online: Unlock a World of Korean Flavors!

Our Korean Supermarket Online stocks a lot of brands and ingredients that you would find in a traditional Korean grocery store to make your experience as authentic as possible. If you are looking for a Korean food shop near me and having no luck, then worry not! Our Korean online supermarket is full of all the same fresh produce and familiar brands as our physical Korean grocery store. With affordable pricing and fast delivery, you don’t need to worry about searching for Korean groceries in mainstream stores. Our Korean market is available online and we are dedicated to making all our wonderful products accessible to everyone. So, whether you are looking to replicate a meal that you found on your travels, cook the familiar recipes from home, or you want to try something new and exciting, our online Korean shop is here for you.

[dreamstate4you]

The fall of Illian.

3.1k words

Chapter 1

Bold = Korean

Not bold = English

---------------------------------------------

My name is Senara. Nara, for short. I'm a young unemploymend woman who moved to South Korea.

Why did I move here? Simple. My uncle recently passed away and I inherited his house.

I lived in New York before, Worked as a part timer in a family restaurant. My life was hell, Literally. Waking up everyday to work from nine in the morning until four in the afternoon, getting paid the minimum wage just for all the money to go to rent and food.

I can't even remember the last time I spent money on luxury things I wanted.

Now, I stand here in a stuffy, dirty house my Uncle owned. I was never close with my uncle. I myself am surprised that he left the house for me, but I am Greatful. He gave me another chance to start a new life in South Korea, the country that's gaining fame through the new media. Kpop idols, Korean drama and all.

I am found of their books. Korean Manhwa. To be fact I happily moved here knowing access to the manhwa's will be easier, a little of a stupid reason to move here into a new country ,but I still did know some Korean, not much.

I covered my nose to block the dust from entering. Taking a good look around the house, I grabbed my suit case and walked in further.

My suitcase was light considering I had nothing valuable to it.

The house my uncle owned was a good looking house. A two story house, a small  living room greated you when you walked in. The kitchen ,side of the stairs that led upstairs.

I held the side of the stairs tightly in fear of the wood collapsing. In the small platform of the stairs was a mirror. I looked at my reflection.

My short black hair was neatly presented on my head. My brown eyes looked tired from the jet lag. And my outfit looked ridiculous, the bright red sweater and grey/black pants were not a great combination.

I let you a big sigh and kept walking up the stairs and finally reached the main room. The upstairs of the house had a single bathroom and two bedroom. One of them was my uncle's and the other belonged to guests.

I opted to rest in the guest house. I still wasn't comfortable to sleep in my dead uncle's room.

The door opened with a creak as more dust blew onto my face. Granted the trauma cleaners had done their jobs in removing what they could ,but with no one setting foot in the house, dust was all over the place.

I sighed at the sight on the room. It was bigger than my appertment in new York. I Set down my suit case on the bed and started to look for something inside.

A brown envelope that my uncle's lawyer had given me. Before I could arrive to the house. I had met with the Lawyer, Mr choi. He told me I could come to him for help anytime. And he gave me an envelope of money, money my uncle saved up for me.

800 000 won, about 555 USD.

That was more than enough for me and considering I was given a free house that was completely paid for. I couldn't complain.

It was in the afternoon but I bet shops in Korea were still opened. I took the side bag that was in my suitcase and wore it around my neck. I placed the money in my bag as well as my phone.

Running downstairs I looked for anyplace where cleaning materials were being kept. I found an old worn out broom and a few cleaning materials.

I was going to go out buy some cleaning supplies and food. I might be lucky score a part time job.

Hesitating I held the door knob, I was scared that this was a dream and if I walk out I'll never return.

" You're okay, Senara. You're perfectly fine." I repeated to myself. Calming myself down.

With a bit more confidence I opened the door, Stepping outside into the humid air of Korea. Considering that I moved to a house that was near Seoul The air wasn't the best.

I looked to my neighbours Infront of my house. An elderly woman who seemed to be heading this way infact.

" Ah, hello." She waved at me.

" Hello miss."  I greatest back as I watched her cross the street. She was holding some sort of lunch box in her hands.

" Wow, your Korean is very good."  She smiled innocently at me. I found it funny I only said two words yet she's complimenting me.

" thank you. I'm still learning."  I humbly replied.

" My name is Kim Seyeong. I made Korean kimchi for you."  She held out her box to me. I lightly took it from her.

" Thank you miss Kim, my name is Senara."   Kimchi huh, I only ate it once in a restaurant in New York. It wasn't the best taste.

" Ah, you can always come to my house in for anything Se-nara. You're uncle was one of my friends"  She laughed as he said my name. Her face slightly fell as she mentioned my uncle

I couldn't understand some words in her sentence, but I'm guessing she said something about coming to her house and my uncle.

" yes, but right now I go to shops." I cringed as I forgot some of my sentence structures.

" Ah, yes yes.  Goodbye."  The elderly woman smiled, waving from me as she walked back to her house.

I looked at the lunckbox in my hand. Breathing out a breath I smiled at my first interaction with a native Korean, except Mr choi, . I walked back to the house, placing the kimchi in the fridge.

I ran out of the house. Making sure to lock the door since I couldn't be too safe. I wanted to go to A shopping center.

The walk only took a few minutes. I had no trouble expect some weird looks here and there, People mattered the word "foreigner" a lot on my way.

The first shop I stopped in was a home supplier shop. I only needed some wiping paper and a mop. The broom I have now will do.

Checking them out was a success. They proved to be surprisingly cheap. The convince store was my next stop.

On my way there something caught my eye. A book store. A wide smile appearing on my face.  This was it. My 70% motivation of coming here.  Maybe I could treat myself... Just a bit.

The bell rang in the shop signaling the owner.

" Welcome-" the owner stopped after looking at me

"oh, umm hello, welcome to my store." The owner cringed at his English speaking skills.

" You can talk Korean, I know some."  The owner laughed once I spoke. My mind thought I had made a mistake in my sentence.

" Ah, you should have stopped me. Now I look like a fool."  He covered his face with his hands. I giggled at his reaction.

" Ah, no your English is good." I comforted the shop owner. He only dismissed my comfort as he tried to bury his head into his hands with embrassment.

I chuckled again at his reaction.

Walking further inside the book store I was met with the manhwa section. Amongst them I saw my favourite and first ever manhwa. Who made me a princess. Further into the section were more manhwa's I recognized.

It seemed the isekai, historical manhwa was popular since it was the one mostly In stock.

A special manhwa caught my attention.  It was covered in a rich, red  glowing cover that sparkled when you looked from a different angle.

My hands lightly took the manhwa from its shelf. The cover was even more amazing. It was a girl, a red head girl. She was beautiful, but she looked sad.

The story of  Marie. ( Fan favourite winner )

It was a side story for Marie. It seemed she was a fan favourite and got her own side story. The original book was ' The great fall of Illian '.  My hands searched for a book with that title.

And finally found it. The book itself was half glowing blue and red. I read the back summary of the manhwa.

Cursed by an Ancient magic , the kingdom of illian is faced with challenges. The five princesses must set aside their differences and work together for their kingdom, only to realize they, themselves are the cause of the curse.

I held the first volume of the manhwa in my hand as I took out the phone in my pocket. I searched up the manhwa and I saw how it was an ongoing manhwa.

As of now, five volumes and a side story volume have been released.

Before I made the decision of buying any of the manga's physical I searched for them on any online website i knew. I had found all five volumes ,but I couldn't find the side story.

I made my decision.  I'll read the main story online ,but treat myself to the side story as a physical, soft cover.

Walking over to the cashier.  I placed the side story of Marie on the counter. The owner from Earlier taking it to swipe. Asking me if it was cash or card. I answered Cash since I hadn't made a card yet.

I bid my goodbye to the owner before continue to buy some food to stock up on food back home.

---------------------------------------

I arrived home a bit later, at about five pm. I think picking out that food I wanted lasted longer than I hoped. I still wasn't confident in my Korean cooking skills and didn't have the time to search up YouTube tutorial so I opted for the easier option, instant food.

I quickly went up to take a shower, I made sure to be aware of the water and my hair. I remember reading somewhere that the water in Korea might not be the best unless you have a shower filter. I didn't want to risk any hair loss yet.

The water wasn't as warm as I hoped, but it was better than cold water. After showering I dried myself with my little towel from new York. I dressed myself in simple Pj's - which were a simple black oversized shirt with some sport pants from highschool - after getting dressed i walked downstairs.

I turned on the TV and the first thing was the news, but I wasn't going to pay attention to the television. I just needed some background music while I read my manhwa.

I walked to the kitchen to pour some hot water in a pot to put on the stove and prepared a cup of instant Noodles. One thing I like about moving to Korea is how cheap things were. Back at new York they were crazy expensive. I smiled at how much my life had changed in such a short time.

The water on the stove started boiling. I quickly put them in one of the brand new cups I bought and continued on preparing the noodle packs.

After I was done, I poured the hot water in the noodle cup, and closed it so the hot water could be trapped instead.

I took the cup noodles to the old sofa next to the TV.  I took out my phone to look at the time.

6:05 pm.

I'm surprised how well I was handling jet lag and how I was about to hit two days without sleep (?) The time zones messed me up ,but when I left America it was sunset and when I came here to Korea, it was in the middle of the day.

I started going to my online websites to look for ' the great fall of illian.' once I found it I started reading like a mad woman.

The first seven chapters already had me hooked. I almost forgot to eat the instant noodles I prepared.

So far, there are five Illian princesses. The first born princess Bloom and her twin Willow, Diana the sketchy princess, Marie who seems the shy type and Evelyn the youngest.

I kept reading the Manga pulling me into its thick plot. It wasn't until I was on volume 3 , did a yawn break my concentration. I checked the time.

8:34pm

It would be bad to sleep late ,but it just won't hit the same in the morning. I looked around the house and noticed that the moon that was bringing light was no longer there and the house was black and dark. I quickly went to close the curtains and light up the house.

I discovered the kitchen lightbulb wasn't working.

But it was fine. The light from the living room would be enough.

When I returned back to my set. I noticed how the TV now showcased something about Tax's rising. The person was also talking at a fast pace that I couldn't understand it all.

Whatever. The fall of Illian was calling to me. So far I could See why Marie was the fan favorite, she willingly agreed to be sold off to  the tyrant of another kingdom for her kingdom to gain an alliance and she also had a heartbreaking moment when she was defending Evelyn from her sister so they wouldn't sell her off to the neighboring kingdom. I'm thinking that the second book tells us of her life after her marriage because she hasn't appeared since her marriage.

Oh to be sold off to the cold duke of the north. I started fan girling at the thought. I placed my phone down as I started talking to the closest wall beside me.

" Now listen Mr wall, imagine. You're a princess and you're living in a big mansion with jewels and big pretty dresses and more jewels." I threw my arms up in the air.

" And suddenly, the cold tyrant duke of the north." I stood up and covered my lower face like a villain "comes to you and your father sells you for Jewels and money."

" But!" I turned dramatically. " The cold duke of the north that is somehow always back haired with red eyes isn't a cold duke at all. He's a kind giant who will do anything for you, he hates everyone except you and his personal guard friend."

I collapsed onto the sofa, my ears not missing the sound of the springs.

" Oh to have a life like that. One where you don't have to work yourself to the bone, one where you don't question what you're going to eat tonight, one where you have a life and people love you. I desperately wish to have that life. "

I lay down on the sofa holding my phone in my hand , ready to continue reading.

All the five sisters were illustrated to be red hairs, except Bloom. She had white hair. Or to have blue or red eyes. Their mother had red hair and blue eyes. While their father was a white haired man with red eyes. Marie was the only one in the family to have only one family feature. Red hair. She had light silver eyes.

I myself still classify her eyes in the blue colour category ,but the people in this Kingdom didn't. I don't blame them honestly. The author made it clear that a symbol of the royal family were their bright eye colours ,but Marie had the eye colour of a commoner. This led many to believe she was a child not born from the king.

" You deserve the world Marie."  I cried out in frustration.

I continued on reading volume 3. Until I was done with the whole of volume 5

11:46 pm

I had so much questions. I knew Diana was sketchy, she was after the throne. Diana killed her own blood. She killed Bloom right infront of Evelyn.

I stood up with my messy hair and held my head tightly. I was going to get a headache.

And I was right. Marie never appeared again. Once she hears that her big sister was killed by her sister... Oh my I can't sleep now. I need to find out what happens next.

I quickly held the side story of Marie in my hands. My bed time was practically non existent at this point.

The book consistent of 12 chapters, But they seemed long considering the books thickness.

I started reading the book . My head was buried deep in the pages as I tried to get answers.

1:56am

I ended up throwing the book to the wall in a fit of anger and shock.

" No more!"

Honestly that side story is traumatizing. The cold duke of the north is actually a cold duke of the north. He-he raped her, he abused her. He's an animal.

He manipulated Marie into thinking she's nothing but a useless vessel for him to order around.

I only ended at chapter seven. With the way things were going. Marie was going to kill herself.

I placed around the room and I started to bit my nails. A bad habit I picked up over the years.

" Honestly if I was her I would also kill myself." I held my head in frustration furiously combing through my hair.

I took a breath as I walked to the kitchen and saw Miss Kim's Kimchi. Maybe if it it won't taste so bad.

Taking a slice of a leave with my hand. The crunchy, spicy flavor overpowered flowed in my mouth. This was good. Definitely better than the one I ate in the restaurant in New York.

I ate another leafy piece before I licked my hands to go pick up the side story of Marie.

.

.

.

2:26am

I hate the author of this book. This crazy animal of a man stabbed Marie and made it look like she did it herself. His acting skills somehow convinced everyone to think she actually did it.

Marie's side story ended when she's in bed and we still don't know if she's alive or dead, only the fake as Duke who's crying crocodile tears beside her, tricking everyone to believe he's a good husband.

Such a cliffhanger and I don't think there'll be any new chapters considering the author is on hiatus.

I laid the book on the wooden floor.

Staring at the ceiling of the living room, my eyes feeling heavy. I guess it was time to sleep, maybe I might have a good dream.

Tomorrow I need to properly search for a job. I can't really survive on the money my uncle left, not when Korea has such nice things.

I turned my body, the spring in the sofa accompaning me with a song at my movement.

I could get used to this life.

[elaine-abroad]

Volume 5 Part 2

The most anticipated part of the week was my trip to Busan. There was a lot of switching up with the original plan which was to go for the weekend with Grace and Bianca. It ended up being that Bianca was staying the whole weekend, I was only going for a day, and Grace wasn’t going at all.

I remember being obsessed with the movie Train to Busan a couple years ago. Vivian and I even made both of our families watch it. It felt surreal to take the same exact route from Seoul Station to Busan Station.

Our already long 3 hour ride was delayed so we ended up getting there an hour after, at around 2:20 pm. I knew it was going to be a long day as my return ride was leaving shortly after 10 pm so we had to hustle. We took this mini tour bus to one of the cultural villages. The bus ride was absolutely insane and ten times worse than the worst MBus driver. 

The actual village was super pretty and nice to look at. It was refreshing to see so much color in one space and on buildings after being surrounded by bland high rises in Seoul. This layout reminded me a lot of San Francisco and Capitola Beach. It was very quiet too which was nice.

Bianca told me this was where a lot of refugees went to live after the Korean War so it was a lot more traditional than the trendy cafes and buildings elsewhere. The village was painted and decorated as a part of the Village Art Project, and has become a tourist attraction since. There were a lot of houses and old people there.

My favorite part was this trinket shop near the entrance. There was this cute golden retriever dog named Honey Jar and there was a sign that said to call him Jar.

The entrance had all the fun foods and snacks as the rest of the village was mostly houses and older restaurants.

I liked how there were little stories behind parts of the village. This stairway was called Stairway to See Stars because people would feel dizzy when going up the 148 steps with heavy loads on their backs.

We couldn’t stay too long at the village and booked it to the beach. Apparently Haeundae Beach is the most famous beach in Busan, but it was a little underwhelming. I’m sure the night view is more impressive than what we saw though. It just looked like sand on the side of the road, but it was peaceful. Swimming wasn’t even permitted, but I did see people surfing at the coast.

Bianca’s kind of an old man and likes to do old people things. Busan is her type of life. She would love it to sit on the beach, hike mountains, go fishing, and watch the sunset every day of her life. She says she just walks and walks when she’s traveling alone and gets up to 20-30,000 steps. She told me she was going to climb a mountain the next day.

It wasn’t long before our beach train time slot. 

We rode sideways and saw the water. It was pretty, but nowhere near as nice as our sky capsule ride.

We booked a ride from 7:30 - 8 pm and it was actually the most perfect timeslot. We got to see the entire sunset and night lights.

We got off at the Blue Line Park which was filled with lights.

We both wanted to try authentic raw marinated crabs, but all the crab restaurants closed at 8 so we couldn’t get them. We opted for this porridge place that also served seafood dishes. Again, I’m not big into seafood, but we were in Busan so we felt obligated.

I got this bean sprout hangover soup which had an abalone in it. It was my first time trying an abalone.

Anyways I was really nervous about traveling back by myself. Bianca was so nice and took a taxi with me back to the station before going to her hotel. Once I got there I found out that my train departure was being delayed by half an hour. I waited by myself and eventually boarded. It was very scary because I had booked the last train from Busan to Seoul of the night so I couldn’t afford to mess up.

Luckily I did not mess up and got to Seoul at around 1:30 am. I immediately felt a lot safer there than Busan. I don’t know why but Busan was a little scary. We passed by buildings with totally busted windows and a lot of the city looked less populated/abandoned. There were also a significantly less amount of traffic lights which was intimidating. 

The subway didn’t start again until 5 am and I didn’t want to call a taxi/get in by myself so I walked about 40 minutes back to campus. It honestly wasn’t even that bad because of all the street lights. There were still shop owners out cleaning up and people walking around.

I came back and took the whole day to sleep and rest. Grace and I went to the witch restaurant again, but this time in Hongdae because there looked to be more menu options. We also wanted the blue blood bag drink this time. 

I got this mummy pizza that was pretty good. One thing stood out to me and that was that all of the pizzas said that they were made with pastry dough. That was true as it was super flaky. I was able to eat more that way which was nice. It’s interesting to see how everything in Korea is made to be sweet. I know that a lot of my classmates aren’t real big fans of that.

Seeing as I leave very soon, I am trying to get one more full day of fun. I’m really disappointed that the Ewha merch shop has been closed for the rest of the month because I wasn’t able to buy anything. 

It’s definitely been an experience I’ll never forget, but I do want to go home.

-Elaine

[cerissy]

something about yesterday

i like errand days, sometimes.

yesterday, my partner cory and i went to have brunch at the neighborhood pancake house. he was making it up to me for sleeping in until 5:30 pm the day before (yes it was ridiculous - we didn't get any chores done). the clouds that hung over the city gave a constant threat of a rainy day. when we got to the restaurant, it was busy, and the food was mid, but the coffee was just how i like it. something about that was so comforting. it was about finding comfort in simple things amidst the general discomfort and inconvenience of it all. one of my profs in grad school once said that the mundane can be a portal to the sacred. and it's true. magic is everywhere, even in your morning coffee.

after that, we went to a japanese cosmetics store (tokyo no beauty). this was unplanned. yesterday was supposed to be about brunch and grocery shopping, but i asked to go to tokyo no beauty on a whim. cory agreed to drive us there, and there i got an oil cleanser, vitamin c essence, and hair mask that were all over tiktok 😋 the impulse shop gave me a dopamine hit and cory commented on how i became so much more energetic after the stop at the cosmetics store lol

we also happened to walk by a complex which was supposed to have a hidden coffee shop. we tried looking for a secret entrance but could not find it. it was like a side quest that hadn't been unlocked! i found amusement in being unable to locate a secret coffee shop, because if it was a secret coffee shop, it should stay a secret. at least from me, at this time.

we headed to the asian grocery store for some kimchi, soba noodle dip, and some kitchen supplies. i was frustrated and overwhelmed as usual because it was so crowded and i could not find furikake. i ALWAYS get overwhelmed at asian grocery stores. it gets very crowded and the shelves are often too close together. after being unable to find furikake and fuji salad dressing, i gave up, we paid, and left.

after expressing my frustration with asian grocery stores, cory calmed me down by holding my hand and suggesting that we check out the korean bakery near where we parked. they sell pastry that i really like, something they call mammoth bread. we ended up getting matcha donuts instead of that, and then we drove to the grocery store where we did most of our shopping.

the grocery store was as normal as it could be, which is perfect. normal is good, familiar, comforting. no surprises. we got what we needed for dinner (beef stew). cory wanted milk tea after shopping, but i didn't, so he went to order milk tea while i walked around the pharamacy and bought drugstore makeup. i accidentally spent more on that than actual groceries 😐

apparently cory's bestfriend was waving at us somewhere sometime during the day. we did not see him, and cory thought it was funny. his friend said "i didn't say hi because i didn't want to interrupt your date" to which cory replied, "dude we were just grocery shopping!"

we got home, put the groceries away, and then we ate our donuts. it was cory's turn to cook so he started making beef stew, so i went into the bedroom to watch a korean drama (celebrity) while waiting. soon after that, it was dinner time, then i cleaned the kitchen, and then i binged the kdrama until 2 am 🤭

something about yesterday was perfect. it wasn't perfect, but it was. it probably wasnt the same for cory because i know he would rather stay home or hang out with his friends. i just like slow days with the right amount of adventure and disappointments and surprises. there was no rush, and we could afford to stop and be curious about a hidden coffee shop or a bakery. we safely returned home, stocked up the fridge, had a comfortable bed waiting for me. it's a reminder of a simple and safe privileged life that i will always be grateful for.

i could go on and on. as simple as my life may be, simple is extravagant these days, and life is never guaranteed. i hold onto these things right now while i am still alive 💖

[ereardon]

Do you have specific spots you wanna hit while in NY? I know mentioned general areas like Ktown and getting a bagel but I didn't know if you had specific shops in mind. Where I live there is a town a few hours away and every time we go we have to stop at a specific candy shop (it's locally owned and amazing). I didn't know if you had anything like that

I'm annoyingly going for a work offsite so almost every minute of my time is accounted for, especially since I'm trying to squeeze in seeing lots of friends that are still in the city! I'll make it to a few of the below but here's an overview of my top places:

Food:

Bagels – I'm partial to Murray's on 6th Ave because I lived a few blocks away for a while but Ess-a-Bagel is good too or H&H (a classic)

Maman for pastries, Breads Bakery in Union Square for choc babka and Bourke Street Bakery near Madison Square Park for a sausage roll

The kale Brussel Caesar at Blank Slate when I'm working I'll have it delivered lol it's a guilty pleasure

Gotta have a Mister Softee in the summer

I'm a sucker for a slice of cake from Magnolia Bakery. I'm not a banana person but I know the banana pudding is everyone's fav

Alta on W. 10th is a fav date night spot, amazing tapas/vibe, it's tucked away on a residential street

Turntable Jazz Chicken. Hands down best fried Korean chicken, I will not leave New York without eating this. Get extra daikon radish and the dumplings and thank me later

Sant Ambroeus – just get a coffee/pastry to go and walk in the park!

Stores/shops:

Minamoto Kitchoan – technically food but it's really beautiful Japanese wagashi I always get some to send my dad

The Face Shop in KTown

Bloomingdales – basic but I'm not even sorry. Also it has a 40 Carrots froyo that I lowkey love to stop in and it's close to my office so I'll just pop by after work I'm on the hunt for a new YSL Manhattan bag so I want to see it in person!

Economy Candy in LES is super fun if you haven't been!

[purplesurveys]

1663

What were an average day’s tasks at your favorite job you’ve had so far? Working with big brands/clients = campaigns around the clock, all year long. That said I’m constantly brainstorming for and conceptualizing PR proposals for consumer campaigns; looking for 50-100 influencers at a time who can best fit my running campaigns; I write a lot and cover stuff from press releases to event scripts to lifestyle articles; working with suppliers for stuff like PR kits, mounting events, brand sponsorships; and I help in handling even financial aspects like ensuring talents are paid after they fulfill their contract. The work is very 360º in nature, is fast-paced and you can usually tell early on if a new hire is gonna last or not depending on how fast they can adjust/keep up.

Does your house have an separate laundry room? Idk if it counts as a room...but we did erect this makeshift ‘room’ at the rooftop for laundry stuff. It’s basically a super tiny customized room we had made to fit the washing machine because those things just take up so much space indoors and usually end up being an eyesore.

Do your parents still help you financially? Technically, yes. I never ask for money anymore (unless I have to borrow) and I always make a transfer every payday, but they do remain in charge of managing the bills and buying groceries. I imagine whatever I contribute becomes absorbed in the bills and whatnot, but for the most part it’s fair to say they still support me.

List 3 things you can see from where you’re sitting? I can see my phone, the TV, and my earphones.

Do you go by any nicknames? I just go by Robyn most of the time, but I have a few relatives who call me Byn.

Are you a very talkative person? Depends on the crowd.

What stereotype about your age group do you definitely live up to? I’m obsessed with social media and it’s a must for me to check each of my feeds on a daily, hell hourly, basis. Except for TikTok I guess as I find that shit annoying and most edits cringey for the most part.

When was the last time it rained where you live? Thursday. Such a refreshing sight, too; it hasn’t rained in months.

Where is your local polling place for elections? My village’s clubhouse.

What was the topic of the last documentary you watched? It was that new MH370 documentary that came out on Netflix a month ago. Around that same period I also started on In the Name of God which is about Korean cults, but found it too upsetting to be able to finish it.

Does your car have a backup camera? I’m not sure what a backup camera is but I do have a dashcam in case some idiots mess with my car and pretend to get run over.

Have either of your parents ever been in trouble with the law? My mom for some minor traffic violations. I don’t think my dad’s ever run into an issue; he’s barely in the country anyway HAHA.

What was the last restaurant you ate at? It’s a local coffee shop called Daily Habit.

Are you in the same mood most days or are your emotions all over the place? The only time I’m all over the place is when I’m nearing my period; otherwise I can manage my emotions quite well.

Have you ever had a pet that lived to be really old for its breed/species? Kimi lived to be 14, which was way longer than I ever expected. I thought that little dude was going to last forever with how he always bounced back from every single health scare. 14 years is above average for a dog, but I’m still very impressed and amazed by him.

Do you have a preferred brand of bottled water? I avoid bottled water whenever I can since all of them have a ~taste.

Have you ever spilled food or drink in your car? Once or twice. My bigger issue is when the dogs throw up in the car hahaha. Much harder to handle and clean up.

Is your skin more oily, dry, or combination? Dryness is a major problem for my skin at the moment.

Have you ever been in a relationship that was progressing faster than you wanted it to? I don’t think so. My previous one had an okay pacing for the most part, but it was the rapid crashing and burning towards the end of it that really threw me off-guard and messed me up mentally.

What kind of flooring is in the room you’re in? Hardwood.

Pop quiz! Who is the prime minister of Germany? Germany doesn’t have a Prime Minister. < Ok there you go then, haha.

What was the last strong scent you smelled? My black forest-flavored coffee. Not the biggest fan of this variant but it’s the only kind left in the pantry (and it’s the only one left since I avoided it this entire time hahaha), and I wanted to drink coffee before sleeping so here we are.

Are you more prone to overthinking things, or being too impulsive? I’m a very toxic combination of both. Overthinking makes me impulsive. When was the last time you wore an article of clothing that wasn’t yours? A month ago when I borrowed my sister’s sweatpants for an event.

Which one of your friends do you see the least often? My college friends BY A MILE.

Do you know anyone with a life-threatening food allergy? A number of them have food allergies but idk they themselves don’t seem to concerned by it?? Like all they need are antihistamines and that’s all I ever hear about it.

When was the last time you were outside? This morning when my family went to Sunday mass.

Who was the last person you sent a birthday card to? How old did they turn? I don’t send birthday cards...not a practice here.

[A/N: another two-in-one just because]

- Past -

Are you happy with your upbringing? No. I know my elders tried their best, but sometimes the best still isn’t good enough. I grew up in a very crowded half of a duplex; my parents were barely home (something for which I hold no grudge – they were just working to make us as comfortable as possible back then); I had relatives who drank and smoke on a sickeningly regular basis – sometimes leading to embarrassing, loud, public, and physical fights that the entire neighborhood would be witness to; and there was rarely a platform to be a kid. We never did anything during summer vacations and I can’t remember most of my childhood birthdays because there had been no plans for them.

I’m not resentful and have moved past that shitfest, but I imagine I’d do everything in my power for my hypothetical kids’ childhood to be entirely different.

Who was your first best friend? Someone in kindergarten named Kaye. Who was your first love? Not naming any people we’re trying to healthily move past :)

Did you ever attend any school dances? Like...prom? Yeah I had to go to my school’s own prom because it was required (ew), then I got invited to be a date at another school’s senior ball.

Did you play any sports growing up? Table tennis. I’m pretty sure I had potential in football/futsal because we had to take up a few sessions in school and was surprisingly an ok goalkeeper lol – even the PE teacher pointed it out – but I never pursued it.

Did you have a special blanket when you were younger? I didn’t.

What movie reminds you of your childhood? Toy Story, Shrek 2, and Finding Nemo.

Were you a picky eater as a child? Very picky. I only liked eating eggs and hotdogs. Took hours to finish anything else.

What’s your favorite memory with a family member? Growing up with my eldest cousin on my mom’s side. He’s always been an older brother rather than a cousin.

Did you ever have to share a bedroom? Yes I shared one room with my parents and siblings until I was 10.

Are there any smells that remind you of the past? There’s a very specific coffee smell that would hurl me right back to my childhood if I ever smelled it again. My maternal grandparents always drank coffee together in the morning, and they always used the same combination of brands (instant coffee, creamer, etc) that would result in the same aromatic smell every day.

Did you play outside or inside as a child? Outside. Indoors was crowded enough with more than 10 people squished in three small rooms, so if we wanted to run around and be kids we had to ask permission to play outdoors.

What was your first favorite song? Continued from last weekend. Idk man, something from Hi-5 maybe? Or High School Musical? Were you ever pranked at a sleepover? Hmm, I don’t think so.

- Present -

What’s your favorite color to wear? I like olive green, burgundy, and mustard yellow.

Who is your favorite musical artist? Currently and has been for a while, BTS.

Do you have any pets? I have two dogs. Kimi also hangs out with them in the living room, just as an urn on the coffee table hehe. :)

If so, how many and what kind? I have a beagle and a Yorkie.

Do you live with your parents or on your own? I live with my parents and siblings.

Are you in school? Nopes.

Do you have a job? I do.

If so, do you like it? I don’t love it, but like I’ve also got no plans to leave it any time soon. I’m still learning and I work really well with everyone; there’s really no reason for me to leave.

How often are you on the internet? Everyday...this survey must be quite old, because I think a good majority of people have at least one reason to go online at least once a day at this point.

On average, how much time a day do you spend on your appearance? 0 minutes, 5 minutes if I have to show up to work or at a work-related event.

Do you have any children? I don’t have any, no.

Are you in a relationship? Nope.

Are you subscribed to any streaming services? Spotify, YouTube, Disney+ yeah.

What time do you usually go to sleep and wake up? These days I’ll sleep anywhere between midnight to 2 AM at the latest; I usually wake up at 7.

- Future -

Do you have any long-term goals? Sure, but they’re all leisure-related – like going to Wrestlemania or traveling to a different continent and experiencing jet lag for the first time hahaha. I’m not a fan of making work/career-oriented goals; it brings in unwanted pressure more than anything.

Do you want children? (Or more if you already have any) I used to want to have kids, but ever since my failed relationship made me stoic I’ve been emotionless about the idea of having a family. I’m just not interested anymore; and kids annoy me these days lol so.

Where would you like to be in your career five years from now? In a higher position, with an even higher salary. Only time will tell if I’ll still be on the agency side or actually make the switch to the brand side by then haha.

Do you think you’ll ever move from the city you’re in? For sure. I have plans for that anyway; I’ve stayed here for more than 20 years and I know that eventually I’ll crave a new environment.

How do you hope your life will look in 10 years? I hope I’ll be more independent by then.

Do you think you’re heading in that direction? Bit by bit, yeah.