[TRAVEL KOREA] Restaurants go Hallyu

The tourist boom fueled by the Korean Wave is nothing new. Nor is the impact of the hit television series "A Jewel in the Palace" on the popularity of Korean cuisine abroad.

Hallyu stars and their dramas have become an effective medium through which to attract tourists, primarily from Japan, China and Southeast Asia.

The continual influx of Hallyu fans into Korea has spurred the proliferation of Hallyu-related tourist attractions, including restaurants run by the stars and entertainment companies that stand at the epicenter of the Korean Wave.

The increase in such eateries has given Hallyu fans the opportunity to enjoy cuisine inspired by their favorite dramas or dine in restaurants run by their favorite stars during their trip here.

Here are three Hallyu-related establishments -- one a karaoke-meets-restaurant venue -- that fuse two major components of the Korean Wave: food and entertainment.



S.M. goes gastronomic

S.M. Entertainment, the entertainment and media group that spawned K-pop icons TVXQ! and Girls` Generation, opened multi-entertainment space "e" last September.

A five story -- plus a basement floor -- complex where fans of S.M. Entertainment`s stars can sing, dine and splurge on idol paraphernalia, e attracts visitors from all over Asia.

"20 to 30 percent of our customers are Hallyu fans," said an S.M. Entertainment representative, who said cites Taiwanese and Chinese tourists as a big part of the entertainment space`s customer base.

Even though it is a weekday afternoon, quite a few Asian fans are checking out the wide range of star souvenirs on sale on the second floor.

Souvenirs run the gauntlet from SuperJunior mirrors to TVXQ! blotting paper for the face. Several of the items on display already sport sold-out signs, evidence of the overwhelming popularity of the paraphernalia and the K-pop icons who grace them.

In mid July, "I STAR SHOT" -- a sticker photo booth where fans can take pictures that feature their favorite stars -- opened. Up until Aug. 9, SuperJunior star shots were available. Starting this week, visitors can get glossy snaps that feature the boy band SHINee.

The snack bar, e-block is slated to open in mid August, says an S.M. Entertainment representative. According to S.M. Entertainment Food and Beverage Team Leader Kwon Yong-ki, e-block will serve up yogurt ice cream, noodles and tteokbokki made from two different kinds of chili powder.

Customers can drop by e.table for upscale Korean cuisine. Located on the fifth floor, the cozy yet chic joint dishes out elegant fare, but not before inducting customers into the world of Korean cuisine with a complementary glass of "makgeolli" (rice wine).

"Kimchi is brought in from Jeolla Province," Kwon attests to the high quality of the ingredients used at e.table. "No MSG or artificial food additives are used."

Excellent judgment is used in both the presentation and seasoning of each dish. Yuzu marmalade and two kinds of chili powder play up the sweet flesh of the butterfish, while imbuing it with a citrusy fragrance and a bit of kick.

While e.table alone merits a visit, S.M. Entertainment`s "everysing" -- their karaoke space -- lives up to its name.

Three floors worth of colorful and clean karaoke rooms offer major perks to K-pop fans and aspiring singers.

Fans can request rooms that SuperJunior, Girls` Generation, SHINee and TVXQ! have filmed in, check out making-the-video montages of their favorite stars and sing songs where the choruses feature the voices of the K-pop singers.

Aspiring singers will be pleased to know that all the songs sound like they are straight off the album, meaning that guitar chords, real voices and pianos, etc. will be playing in the background.

"Our karaoke system uses real sound, so that our trainees can practice," an S.M. representative explained. "Our artists come with their friends frequently to sing and practice."

In regards to the current legal action taken by members of TVXQ! against S.M., the representative stated that it would not affect the sales of TVXQ! paraphernalia or the use of TVXQ! songs at e.



Mr. Tears hits Myeong-dong

In mid-May 2010, Hallyu star Kwon Sang-woo opened a coffee shop in tourist hotspot Myeong-dong.

On a weekday afternoon Kwon`s TEA`US is brimming with Japanese customers. While the storefront and stairs leading up to the cafe sport life-sized pictures of the "Stairway to Heaven" star, the spacious shop itself is surprisingly devoid of Kwon paraphernalia.

Photos of him are stealthily hung here and there and a secluded area to the right showcases montages of the star on an LCD screen.

Hardcore fans can still get their Kwon fix by nibbling on cookies and cupcakes that bear edible pictures of him.

"Fans tend to know when Kwon Sang-woo is here," said TEA`US director Kim Yoon-kwan.

When asked how, Kim divulged the secret to catching a glimpse of the star.

"Because he always comes when there are not many people," said Kim, who stated that Kwon visits his shop on a near daily basis.

"When he isn`t busy he visits the shop once a day and supervises the employees, checks the menu -- and also develops and tastes new items," Kim elaborated.

Kwon`s involvement in the menu resulted in the creation of three special teas, each bearing a reference to the star and "Mr. Tears" -- the nickname given to him by his Asian fans, after which the shop is also named.

"Kwon Sang-woo tried each tea," said Kim. "He selected three teas that truly reflected his tastes, him and that suited his image and made them into special teas."

Titled Natural Tears, Mr. Tears and August Five (in reference to the day he was born), the three blends top the menu hanging above the counter.

The August Five blend incorporates the tang of yogurt into the brew, which suits the slightly bitter green tea base of the drink.

Natural Tears fuses apple, hibiscus, peach and apricot for a fruity brew, while Mr. Tears blends rooibos and orange peel.

The gelato, which is made at TEA`US, is respectable. The Bon Bon, in particular -- a luscious chocolate-based Italian ice cream with a nutty flavor -- is good.

According to Kim, their gelato and waffle dessert is one of their most popular dishes.

A mug bearing the slogan, "Taste coffee, tea and him," is on sale for those who want to take home a souvenir.



`Sikgaek` restaurant open

The set where scenes of the restaurant Unamjeong were filmed for the hit SBS drama, "Sikgaek," was transformed into an upscale restaurant and opened its doors on July 10.

Located in High1 Resort in Gangwon Province, the restaurant features elaborate courses that start at 35,000 won, including a multi-course meal based on dishes featured in the original comic book series that inspired the drama.

"I believe the `Gourmets Set Meal` is the most popular," said a High1 Resort representative.

According to the representative, 90 customers a day visit Unamjeong, sampling delicacies like red sulfur duck and badger.

Dishes are served up on artisanal pottery, which, according to the representative, is collectively worth 370 million won ($302,50).

Guests can also experience the art of ceremonial tea-making and take a stroll through the scenic grounds.



Details

Multi-entertainment space e

Opening hours for everysing are from 11 a.m. to 3 a.m. daily. Karaoke prices range from 10,000 won to 35,000 won per hour. Teens are allowed. No alcohol is available at everysing and will not be served at e-block.

Opening hours for e.table are from 11:30 a.m. to 3 p.m.; 6:30 p.m. to 2 a.m. Reservations are required for dinner. Multi-course meals cost 15,000 won to 70,000 won per person.

To get there go to Apgujeong Subway Station Line 3, Exit 2 and walk towards Galleria Department Store. Before reaching Galleria, turn right onto Rodeo Drive. e will be on your right, before you reach Starbucks.

To make reservations at e.table call (02) 545-6676. For more information call (02) 6404-9850 or visit www.everysing.com



TEA`US

Opening hours are from 7 a.m. to midnight, daily. Drinks cost 3,300 won to 6,500 won. Food costs 1,300 won to 10,000 won, take-out gelato not included. To get there go to Myeongdong Subway Station Line 4, Exit 6. TEA`US is located across the street from Migliore. For more information call (02) 2079-0990 or visit www.tea-us.co.kr



Unamjeong

Opening hours are from noon to 3 p.m.; 6 p.m. to 10 p.m. daily. Multi-course meals start at 35,000 won and can run as high as 350,000 won. The restaurant is located at High1 Resort in Jeongseon-gun, Gangwon Province. For more information call (02) 1588-7789 or visit high1.co.kr

(oh_jean@heraldm.com)

By Jean Oh

☆★☆★☆★☆★☆★☆★☆★☆★☆★☆★☆★☆★☆★☆★☆★☆★

专属天使の悪戯なKiss　m(~_~)m

동방신기,

언제나 비가와도 칠흙같이 캄캄한 어둠이 와도...

그대 곁에서 기다릴께 ...

Nothing better than that...

[Color - Melody & Harmony]

誰かのために

For someone’s sake

僕らはここで

we are here,

小さな事しかできないけれど

Although we can only achieve small things,

一秒だけでも

Even just for 1 second,

世界上に涙止めて

We still want to stop all the tears in this world,

笑顔になってくれるのなろ

And turn them all into smiles

My music is my life

For you, for your smile..

.

[TRAVEL KOREA] Seoul's Ewha and Hongdae: Fashion-friendly buys at student-friendly prices

Seoul's Ewha and Hongdae: Fashion-friendly buys at student-friendly prices

Head to Ewha and Hongdae in the South Korean capital for cool, original accessories and a thumping nightlife experience

By Gregory Curley 3 August, 2010

 

One can never tire of accessories. Friends stop along one of Hongdae’s main roads to try on earrings.

When it comes to shopping, South Korea's capital, Seoul, has plenty of options. Myeongdong is probably the city’s best known destination for tourists with money to burn. But for the adventurous and those wanting something a little more unique, the areas of Ewha (locally pronounced "Ee-day") and Hongdae are where the locals go to grab the best buys and hunt around for the latest trends.

Both are located near university campuses and are loaded with creative items catering largely to the more open-minded shopper. Around these streets originality trumps uniformity.

Ewha Street 

Ewha may take a little getting used to. You'll need to familiarize yourself as there are many backstreets and narrow alleyways lined with outdoor stalls and racks of clothing. But it’s worth the effort. With all the students, prices are kept relatively low as shopkeepers realize many are on shoestring budgets. Aesthetically, the area got a face lift in 2005. Streets were newly paved and trees were planted to give it a more European feel. Favored items include shoes, vintage wear and, above all, accessories.

Accessorize. A shopper leans in for a closer look. The backstreets of Ewha is where you’ll grab the best deals and find some of the more original accessories.

Appraising the goods. Shoppers huddle up over a case of jewelry.

Mannequins draped in the latest streetwise fashion along one of the area’s narrow backstreets.

No prescription needs. A student tries on a pair of glasses more for style than for reading.

With rack upon rack of clothing, shoppers can find all sorts of variety.

Shopkeeper with an ear for fashion.

Getting there: Subway Line 2 straight to Ewha Station. Walk out exit 1.

Hongdae Street

With Hongik University nearby, a prestigious school known for its leading arts and design programs, the area attracts students and visitors alike. Many items are conceived by the students themselves. The highest concentration of clothing stalls and vintage shops can be found along the main passageway, Eo Ulmadang-gil, minutes away from the subway station. There’s also a weekly market called Art Free Market (a flea market put together principally by students) that runs from March through November between 1 p.m. to 6 p.m. Another local favorite is Volkswagen (+822 (0) 2 334 8817), about a 30-second walk from Hongik Station. Many surrounding shops cater strongly to females, but men can find a good assortment of vintage designs here too, including t-shirts, man bags and a variety of hats.

People don’t come to Hongdae simply to shop. When the evening kicks in, the nightlife steps up. Give Café aA (+822 (0) 2 3143 7312) a try before heading over to Club Mansion.

Hongdae’s weekly Art Free Market draws styles of all kinds to grab deals on student designs and garments. Here a shopper checks out some rings.

Student shows off her creative muscle.

Shoes and garments are just some of the authentic sold at the market.

Musicians perform for shoppers and passersby.

Getting there: Subway Line 2 to Hongik Station. Take exit 5.

Read more: Seoul's Ewha and Hongdae: Fashion-friendly buys at student-friendly prices | CNNGo.com http://www.cnngo.com/explorations/shop/seouls-ewha-and-hongdae-havens-shopping-and-street-gawkers-844122#ixzz0xOyY5s6b

☆★☆★☆★☆★☆★☆★☆★☆★☆★☆★☆★☆★☆★☆★☆★☆★

专属天使の悪戯なKiss　m(~_~)m

동방신기,

언제나 비가와도 칠흙같이 캄캄한 어둠이 와도...

그대 곁에서 기다릴께 ...

Nothing better than that...

[Color - Melody & Harmony]

誰かのために

For someone’s sake

僕らはここで

we are here,

小さな事しかできないけれど

Although we can only achieve small things,

一秒だけでも

Even just for 1 second,

世界上に涙止めて

We still want to stop all the tears in this world,

笑顔になってくれるのなろ

And turn them all into smiles

My music is my life

For you, for your smile..

.

[TRAVEL KOREA] Sleepless in Seoul? Head out for a night of... shopping

Sleepless in Seoul? Head out for a night of... shopping

While the rest of Seoul sleeps, Dongdaemun night market buzzes with celebrities and other nocturnal patrons

By Niels Footman 17 May, 2010

Dongdaemun shops show no signs of slowing down late into the evening.

It's a nippy 1am in the morning, and while much of Seoul sleeps, Dongdaemun shops. In Doota, a multi-floored labyrinth of clothes, manicurists, accessories, coffee bars, shoes, toys, toiletries and teapots, clusters of very late-night shoppers drift from concession to concession, perusing an array of wares that will be selling right up until this mall closes -- at 5am.
One of the most boisterous shopping areas in Seoul, Dongdaemun attracts well over 2 million visitors a year and almost 50 percent of the tourists who come to Seoul. Comprising a string of vast, neon-drenched, cut-price department stores (of which Doota and Migliore are the most famous) and several wholesalers markets, the Dongdaemun Fashion Town, as the outlets here are collectively known, has long attracted a broad church of Korean and foreign customers, along with a very specialized niche: nocturnal shoppers.

Bags full of goods bought by wholesalers and waiting to be taken away on buses and vans.

The night owls

But just who are these night owls? “Though not this late, we sometimes have up to two times more customers in the evenings,” says Park Dong-su, manning trendy menswear store Horse Cabbage. “While there are lots of kids during the day, nighttime sees more wholesalers, students and a lot of Japanese and Chinese tourists.”
Perhaps unsurprisingly, nighttime, according to some of the staff here, brings a more dedicated and even refined breed of shopper. “We see so many little fights during the day,” says Im Min-seong from next to a railing of studiously dowdy retro-chic dresses. “People always want discounts, which we don't do.” (As the swankiest of Dongdaemun's late-night malls, Doota operates a no-barter policy.) “We have more regulars at night,” adds a nearby attendant. “The people that come then are more like friends.”

Which is not to say that the wee hours don't bring their share of more exotic characters. “Quite a few celebrities come here at night,” says Lee So-yeong at the women's boutique Ruby. “The famous ones can be a bit harder to spot, as they'll usually be wearing hoods and caps. The C-listers, though, will be fully made-up and looking glamorous.”

But the stars, high-flying or not, aren't even the most memorable of Lee's clientele. “We sometimes get transgenders late at night,” she says. “They'll come in here and I won't know anything about it until they open their coats and I can see they're flat-chested -- and they haven't had the operation down below.”

Inside U:Us

As lively as the malls are, however, the shopping action really kicks into overdrive at the cluster of wholesalers across the street. It may now be pushing 2am, but around this large, four-way junction, techno music booms, saucy K-pop videos play on a massive overhead screen, and the pavements are clogged with rows of laundry bags stuffed full of newly bought garments. The junction separating the three biggest wholesalers has turned into a virtual bus terminal, with a slew of signposts welcoming vans from as far afield as Daejeon, Gwangju and Busan.

Inside U:Us, one of the biggest stores here, the scenes are no less manic. Rapt-looking buyers, notebooks in hand, scuttle from stall to stall, striking and abandoning deals on bulk buys. “It’s like this pretty much every night,” says Ms Kim, standing next to an impressive array of Popeye and Olive Oyl t-shirts. “Our stuff goes out all over the country, so Dongdaemun influences what people everywhere from Daegu to Jeju Island are wearing.”

Yet these wholesale superstores are no less of a draw for casual shoppers too. As well as being far more nicely fitted out than the words “wholesale market” might suggest, the sheer spectacle of a shopping area hitting its stride after midnight is a magnet for people from far beyond Korea’s shores. “I come to Dongdaemun four times already,” says Miyu, a Japanese tourist. “It’s very exciting. There’s nothing quite like this at home.”

Pyounghwa Fashion Plaza is easy to spot.

Pyounghwa Fashion Plaza

Equally unique, but rather less manic, is the nearby Pyounghwa Fashion Plaza. Founded almost 50 years ago by a group of merchants displaced during the Korean War (Pyounghwa is Korean for “peace”), Pyounghwa is a throwback to a Korea of yore, where boisterous ajumma (middle-aged women) sit cross-legged and swap noisy banter, and the smell of kimchi and dried octopus hangs heavy in the air.
Business is slow today, so some of the stalls -- packed to bursting with straw hats, cut-price jeans, gaudy golf shirts and thick, gold-buttoned blousons -- are either closed or have their owners fast asleep under blankets. “We do a fair bit of retail sale by day,” says underwear merchant Park Jin-ho as he dusts off a box of long johns. “But after midnight we get people driving in from Gangwon and even Jeolla Province to buy stuff for their shops.”

Made in North Korea

Though wholesale was long the lifeblood of the Dongdaemun area -- with clothes being designed, made and sold within a few floors of one another -- the dynamics are changing due to lower cost producers from China and, more recently, even closer to home. “About 30 percent of our stock is now made in Kaesong,” says Park, referring to the largely South Korea-funded industrial complex just over the border with North Korea. “It’s cheaper because of the exchange rate, and we can get it down here even faster.” In a market largely founded by victims of the Korean War, the power of reconciliation -- and cash -- is alive and well.

Getting there

Take subway line No 2 or 4 to Dongdaemun History & Culture Park Station, leave via exit 14 and a row of stores, including Doota and Migliore, are on your left. To get to the wholesale markets, including U:Us and Designer Club, leave via exit 2.

Read more: Sleepless in Seoul? Head out for a night of... shopping | CNNGo.com http://www.cnngo.com/explorations/none/i-late-night-trip-through-dongdaemuns-fashion-markets-516238#ixzz0xOy0jxm4

☆★☆★☆★☆★☆★☆★☆★☆★☆★☆★☆★☆★☆★☆★☆★☆★

专属天使の悪戯なKiss　m(~_~)m

동방신기,

언제나 비가와도 칠흙같이 캄캄한 어둠이 와도...

그대 곁에서 기다릴께 ...

Nothing better than that...

[Color - Melody & Harmony]

誰かのために

For someone’s sake

僕らはここで

we are here,

小さな事しかできないけれど

Although we can only achieve small things,

一秒だけでも

Even just for 1 second,

世界上に涙止めて

We still want to stop all the tears in this world,

笑顔になってくれるのなろ

And turn them all into smiles

My music is my life

For you, for your smile..

.

[TRAVEL KOREA] 48 hours in Seoul: Your essential guide

48 hours in Seoul: Your essential guide

Two days to cover 234 square miles is no easy task, but we're nothing if not fast workers

By Gregory Curley 20 October, 2009

Where do you start exploring in the world’s second-largest metropolitan area, a sprawling city of more than 10 million people? At the beginning, of course, with a trip through the Old City.

Day One: Old City - North of the Hangang River

A teahouse in Insadong

Insadong

Insadong is a narrow corridor stretching from Anguk Station (subway Line 3) to Tapgol Park that's stuffed with antique shops, small galleries and craft shops. Branching off the main drag are plenty of side streets dotted with low-ceiling hanok, traditional Korean houses, many of which have been converted to cafes and restaurants.
Don't miss the group of teahouses in the courtyard of the Kyung-in Museum of Fine Arts. Another top attraction is Min’s Club (tel: +82 (02) 733 2966, Exit 6 at Anguk Station and turn down the fourth street on your left where you’ll see Sudo Pharmacy), a restaurant and wine bar built in the 1930s by one of Korea’s first modern architects. There’s a great assortment of set menus blending Western and Korean-style cuisine.
Getting to Insadong: Insadong Can best be reached by taking subway Line 3 to Anguk Station. Get out exit 6 and walk around 50m to where you see the large statue of an upright paint brush. This is the top-end of the street. Simply follow it down and explore – the area’s loaded with shops and plenty of backstreets to keep you busy for a while. Whether it’s tea or trinkets you’re after, you can comfortably spend the entire day here.
Getting to Kyung-in Museum: Kyung-in Museum of Fine Arts & Min’s Club From the top-end of the Insadong street, turn down the fourth street on your left where you see Sudo pharmacy. From there take your first left to get to the courtyard of Kyung-in Museum of Fine Arts. To get to Min’s Club simply walk a little further and turn left at the large, open parking lot. Min’s Club is adjacent to Kyung-in.

Gyeongbokgung Palace

Gyeongbokgung Palace and Samcheong-dong Sujebi

Gyeongbokgung Palace is the most prominent of Seoul’s five palaces. Like Beijing’s Forbidden City, Gyeongbokgung was once a city in itself and takes several hours to see. Along its eastern wall is Samcheong-dong Road, a stretch lined with gingko trees -- beautiful for autumn walks -- that eventually forks, with one road leading to the Presidential Mansion and the other to a road of cafes and shops that are always crammed with locals. Samcheong-dong Sujebi (102 Samcheong-dong, Jongno-gu, In Samcheong-Dong, tel: +82 (02) 733 1109) whips up a  refreshing bowl of potato noodle soup.
Getting to Gyeongbokgung Palace: Pretty straightforward. Simply take subway Line 3 to Gyeongbokgung Station. Exit 5 will lead you past the National Palace Museum of Korea. Admittance is 3,000 won for adults (2,400 won for group). The palace is closed every Tuesday. Regular hours of operation are 09:00~18:00 (March through October) and 09:00~17:00 (November through February). Getting to Sujebi from Gyeongbokgung’s east gate: Turn left and continue up the tree-lined road until it forks (you’ll see a book café here). Follow it right and you’ll reach Samcheong-dong. The restaurant will be a little further up on the left-hand side.

Rak-Ko-Ja hotel

Bukchon

It's a five-minute taxi ride from Gyeongbokgun to Bukchon, the area to really get a feel for the Seoul that existed prior to its late 20th-century modernization. The majority of the hanok are located at 31 Gahoe-dong. There are also a host of traditional and contemporary galleries to explore. For those looking for a place to sleep, the Rak-Ko-Jae hotel (tel: +82 (02) 774 2261) is replete with beautifully renovated traditional guesthouses. Meals are provided and the friendly owners sometimes host cultural events for visitors.
Rak Ko Jae (774-2261) Take subway Line3 to Anguk Station and hop out exit 2. Walk straight for about 300m until you reach Gahoe-dong Office, and take your first right. Set in an attractive bamboo garden, you’ll see the entrance about 80m down from there.

Cha Masineun

Cha Masineun Tteul

Cha Masineun Tteul (Samcheong-dong 35-169, Jongno-gu SEOUL tel: +82 (02) 722 7006) literally translates to “A garden where people drink tea.” Cha Masineun Tteul offers relaxing views and a spirit of ancient tradition. The signature sweet pumpkin rice cake (6,000 won) is superb, as is the chilled omija cha, a five-flavor berry tea (7,000 won.)
Getting toCha Masineun Tteul from Gyeongbokgung Palace’s east gate: Follow the tree-lined road, follow it right as it forks until you reach the police station on your right-hand side. Then take your first left at the Museum of Embroidery on the corner, and then make another left at the end. The teahouse will at the top of the hill.

Day Two: New City - South of the Hangang River

Bongeunsa Temple

Bongeunsa Temple

Dating to 794, Bongeunsa Temple is one of Seoul’s largest and most impressive temples. Its trademark 23-meter-tall statue of the Maitreya Buddha alone makes it worth the visit. Detached from civilization, even beside the modern grid of Samseong-dong’s business district, there’s a real calm inside its grounds. The Buddhist artwork is also remarkable.
Getting to Bongeunsa Temple (tel: 511-6070): Take subway Line 2 and get out exit 6. The temple is beside the COEX across from the Business Intercontinental Hotel.

Korean BBQ at Koggi Koggi

Apgujeong

A playground for the nouveau riche, the ritzy area of Apgujeong is a favorite among Seoul’s most successful elite. The shops along upscale Rodeo Street (Is there such as thing as a non-upscale Rodeo Street?) are worth a browse. Korean BBQ restaurant Koggi Koggi (tel: +82 (02) 543 4244), a local favorite, is a great choice for lunch or dinner. Koggi Koggi serves up amazing samgyeopsal, bite-size strips of pork marinated in basil and paprika (8,000 won per serving.) Both the side dishes and traditional soybean soup (doenjan jjigae) are excellent.
Getting to Apgujeong’s Koggi Koggi restaurant: Take subway Line 3 to Apgujeong Station and make a u-turn as you walk out exit 2. From there walk straight for about 10mins until you reach your first intersection. Turn right after the crosswalk and then make your first left. Koggi Koggi is a short 50m walk down on your right.

Garosugil Street

Garosugil Street

This tree-lined street (Apgujeong Station, Exit 5) is full of European-style street side cafes, boutiques and wine bars. Buccella’s (tel: +82 (02) 517 7339) is a great choice for lunch. The tender beef sandwich (8,500 won) is the menu item of choice. Mug for Rabbit is a great place to to people watch over a cappuccino (4,500 won.)
Getting to Garosugil Street: Just south of the river, the easiest way to get here is to take subway Line 3 to Sinsa Station and get out exit 8. It’ll be the second street on your left. There’s a ton of cafes, shops and great restaurants all along this strip. Find your own hideaway and while away the hours.

Read more: A down and dirty guide for 48 hours in Seoul | CNNGo.com http://www.cnngo.com/explorations/none/48-hours-seoul-321258#ixzz0xOwdBaMg

☆★☆★☆★☆★☆★☆★☆★☆★☆★☆★☆★☆★☆★☆★☆★☆★

专属天使の悪戯なKiss　m(~_~)m

동방신기,

언제나 비가와도 칠흙같이 캄캄한 어둠이 와도...

그대 곁에서 기다릴께 ...

Nothing better than that...

[Color - Melody & Harmony]

誰かのために

For someone’s sake

僕らはここで

we are here,

小さな事しかできないけれど

Although we can only achieve small things,

一秒だけでも

Even just for 1 second,

世界上に涙止めて

We still want to stop all the tears in this world,

笑顔になってくれるのなろ

And turn them all into smiles

My music is my life

For you, for your smile..

.

[TRAVEL KOREA] Seoul yummy: Insider guide to eating in Seoul

Seoul yummy: Insider guide to eating in Seoul

Navigating through Seoul’s restaurants can be daunting if you don’t know Hangul. That’s why we badgered our friends for their favorite places to eat like a local

By Edwin Tam 19 October, 2009

Read more: Seoul Yummy: Insider guide to eating in Seoul | CNNGo.com http://www.cnngo.com/explorations/none/seoul-food-096366#ixzz0xOvUUhsq

We’ve hounded our Korean friends for their favorite restaurants and food. After endless rounds of bantering and Shoju, we’ve finally gotten the goods and here they are in no particular order for your chomping pleasure.
Now, where’s our bottle of Pepcid?

Toppoki.

1. Toppoki at Jaws Food

What is it? This Korean street snack is essentially rice compressed into cylinders and smothered in bright red chili sauce and fish cake. Mix a batch of tempura into your Toppoki for a few more won and crunch.
Cost: 2,500₩
Address: Jaws Food (Along Eoul Madang Gil; Tel: +82 02 337 1525; Getting there: Follow the rows of parked cars from Sang Sang Madang. It’s directly opposite Prince Edward Karaoke.)
Insider's comment: “I don't usually eat Tempura, but theirs are fresh and good, and their Toppoki’s really spicy. It’s also nice and clean, not like your usual Toppoki place.” – Pae Soo Hyun, English localization editor for Netmarble.

Ssam Bap Jeong Sik.

2. Ssam Bap Jeong Sik at Sam Kam Ma Ma

What is it? Put meat, rice and whatever else that you fancy onto a raw leaf, roll it into a little packet, and pop it into your mouth. It comes with a little earthen pot of beans and rice. Pour tea into it and leave until the end of the meal. Drink the mix to cleanse your palate.
Cost: 9,000₩
Address: Sam Kam Ma Ma Duck Galbi (Jong-re-gu, Sam Cheong Dong, 9A; Tel: +82 02 920 9621; Getting there: From Angguk subway station, head north-west towards the prime minister’s residence. It’s in a nondescript building beside it.)
Insider's comment: “I like to go to this place for lunch. They give you a piece of beef; you put bean paste sauce on it; put it on rice; and then [mimes a folding square]… You know? Mmmm…” – Lee Min Kyeong, waitress at Seoul Selection.

Galbi.

3. Galbi at Yang Hwa Jung Galbi

What is it? Galbi is marinated meat grilled over charcoal fire in front of you. Your table’s waitress will do everything from firing up the charcoal brazier to cooking the meat, leaving you with the messy and fun work of wrapping lettuce dumplings from freshly grilled meat. Goes well with Shoju and friends.
Cost: 11,000 to 30,000₩
Address: Yang Hwa Jung (Ma Po Gu, Ham Jung Dong, 383-26; Tel: +82 02 323 5777; Getting there: From exit 8 of HapJeong Station, turn right into an alley behind a Toppoki shop, the restaurant is in the middle of the alley.)
Insider's comment: “Galbi is meat barbequed on an open grill. It is so good. But you have to order two portions. They also have pork, but you really must eat the beef. Smack smack smack.” – Mrs Kim, owner of Kims’ Guesthouse

Sam Gye Tang.

4. Sam Gye Tang at Groyeo Sam Gye Tang

What is it? Chicken stuffed with glutinous rice and ginseng, and simmered until the meat slips off the bones at a poke. It might taste bland at first, but be patient, take slow sips, and you’ll find that it’s utterly Umami.
Cost: 13,000₩
Address: Groyeo Samgyetang (164 Sejongno Chongno-gu, 110-822; Tel: +82 02 737 1888/1889; Getting there: From Gwhanghwa Plaza exit at Gwhanghwa subway station, cross over to Starbucks and head into the alley with a signboard with the words “Korean Ginseng Chicken Soup”.)
Insider's comment: “Koreans love foods with ‘deep’ taste, like Sam Gye Tang [Ginseng Chicken Soup] that’s boiled for hours. If you’re in the city, you should try Groyeo Sam Gye Tang. It’s so popular that we must wait 20 minutes in the heat for a place!” – Jay Lee, owner of Blu Guesthouse

Read more: Seoul Yummy: Insider guide to eating in Seoul | CNNGo.com http://www.cnngo.com/explorations/none/seoul-food-096366#ixzz0xOvZ71Km

☆★☆★☆★☆★☆★☆★☆★☆★☆★☆★☆★☆★☆★☆★☆★☆★

专属天使の悪戯なKiss　m(~_~)m

동방신기,

언제나 비가와도 칠흙같이 캄캄한 어둠이 와도...

그대 곁에서 기다릴께 ...

Nothing better than that...

[Color - Melody & Harmony]

誰かのために

For someone’s sake

僕らはここで

we are here,

小さな事しかできないけれど

Although we can only achieve small things,

一秒だけでも

Even just for 1 second,

世界上に涙止めて

We still want to stop all the tears in this world,

笑顔になってくれるのなろ

And turn them all into smiles

My music is my life

For you, for your smile..

.

[TRAVEL KOREA] Seoul's Namdaemun Underground Market

By Gregory Curley.

Shoppers can buy everything under the sun at the underground market "except nuclear weapons and tanks" 
 
Looking for imported goods in Seoul? Seoul's Namdaemun Underground Market more than likely has what you're looking for.


Below one of Korea's largest and oldest and outdoor shopping areas, just north of the Han River, spreads the seemingly endless series of aisles of imported goods that make up the Namdaemun Underground Market. Also known as Doggaebi Market, if its been imported to South Korea, it can be found here.
Deodorant, kitchenware, mountain gear, linens, toys, fishing equipment, Lifesavers candy, vitamin supplements, protein powder, Twizzlers, Old Spice, oatmeal, Jim Beam, or even candy canes explode onto the narrow, labyrinthine walkways, beneath the swinging lights and under the noses of countless vendors looking to make a deal.
Throw in some steaming food stalls selling spicy noodles and other Korean fare and its a great atmosphere to kill a few hours.

Seoul Yummy: Insider Guide to Eating in Seoul

Nuclear weapons and tanks

There's also a host of medicinal and nutritional products not normally available at Korean pharmacies, and available six days a week as the foreign goods section is only closed on Sunday. Keeping very much in tune with other traditional Asian markets, Doggaebi is also a great place to experience the local culture and breathe in everyday life. Stalls and stands don't have names so it's really just a question of combing the maze of alleyways thronging with visitors until you see what you wish to purchase.
Locals here joke that you can buy anything under the sun except "nuclear weapons and tanks".

48 Hours in Seoul: Your Essential Guide - Read It on CNNGo

Dirt-cheap since 1964

While nearby Dongdaemun Market may specialize in apparel for fashion-forward shoppers, Namdaemun Underground Market sticks to everyday goods and those hard to find essentials for both foreigners and locals alike, and has done so since 1964.

A lot of the goods in Seoul's Namdaemun Underground Market are of questionable provenance (don't expect refunds) and are usually dirt cheap. Both perishable and non-perishable goods are stacked so high the shelves strain under the weight.

5 Treasures Under $5 from Sungei Road Thieves' Market on CNNGo

Getting there, getting in, and around

The most recognizable entrance is close to Shinsaegae Department Store, just up from the main road's bus stops and subway exits. The best way to get there is to take subway Line 4 to Hoehyeon Station. Take exit 5 and walk straight up until you see a tourism information booth, and they should have all the information you need.
Getting there can be a little tricky because there aren't street signs in the area, so look for the landmarks like a woman selling rice cakes just outside the green glass-enclosed entrance, and just past her one can find tons of military gear and camping paraphernalia.
Once inside, a shopper has to map out their own route and use their mental radar to track down the cool stuff as walkways tend to morph into one another making getting out a lot harder than getting a deal. But maybe that's how they planned it.

Top Tips for Shopping Shanghai's Clothing Colossus, Qipu Lu on CNNGo

☆★☆★☆★☆★☆★☆★☆★☆★☆★☆★☆★☆★☆★☆★☆★☆★

专属天使の悪戯なKiss　m(~_~)m

동방신기,

언제나 비가와도 칠흙같이 캄캄한 어둠이 와도...

그대 곁에서 기다릴께 ...

Nothing better than that...

[Color - Melody & Harmony]

誰かのために

For someone’s sake

僕らはここで

we are here,

小さな事しかできないけれど

Although we can only achieve small things,

一秒だけでも

Even just for 1 second,

世界上に涙止めて

We still want to stop all the tears in this world,

笑顔になってくれるのなろ

And turn them all into smiles

My music is my life

For you, for your smile..

.

For all girls who love meotjin namjas...

【Hero】Boyfriend (JaeJoong version)


【Xiah】Boyfriend (Junsu version)


【Micky】Boyfriend (Yoochun version)


【U-Know】Boyfriend (Yunho version)



【Max】Boyfriend (Changmin version)


romanizations by: QK (also credit: aheeyah.com)
translation by: Delacroix @ delacroix.egloos.com

* 어쩌다 어쩌다 어쩌다
eojjeoda eojjeoda eojjeoda
How come, how come, how come
널 사랑하게 됐는지
neol saranghage dwaenneunji
How did I end up loving you
내가 왜 이꼴이 됐는지
naega wae iggori dwaenneunji
How come I’ve ended up like this
어쩌다 어쩌다 어쩌다
eojjeoda eojjeoda eojjeoda
How come, how come, how come
내 맘 다 타버렸는지
nae maum da tabeoryeonneunji
How come I’m in such distress
내가 이런 바보 였는지
naega ireon babo yeonneunji
How come I was such a fool like this


이거 참 이럴줄은 몰랐어
igeo cham ireoljureun mollasseo
Didn't know it would be happen to me
오늘도 난 지쳐 너만 기다리다
oneuldo nan jichyeo neoman gidarida
I get exhausted waiting for you again today
너 때문에 눈물 쏙 뺀 여자들
neo ddaemune nunmul ssok bbaen yeojadeul
So many girls who cried rivers because of you
그 중에 하나가 되기는 싫었어
geu junge hanaga dwegineun shireosseo
I never wanted to be one of them
너를 바라보다 아차 싶었어
neoreul baraboda acha shipeosseo
I lost myself watching you
다잡았던 내 맘 놓치고 말았어
dajabatdeon nae mam nochigo marasseo
My firm mind got loose
그런 나를 부르면 Oh My Honey
geureon nareul bureumyeon Oh My Honey
Whenever you call me, Oh My Honey
일분일초만에 니 앞에 있는 나
ilbunilchomane ni ape inneun na
I’d show up in front of you without delay
너무 멋진 멋진 그대
neomu meotjin meotjin geudae
You are so handsome handsome
널 바라보면 어질어질해
neol barabomyeon eojireojilhae
Watching you makes me dizzy dizzy
너무 나쁜 나쁜 그대
neomu nabbeun nabbeun geudae
You are so mean mean
다 모르는 척 웃고만 있네
da moreuneun cheok utgoman inne
Smiling like you don't know a thing

* repeat

아무렇지 않은 척 해도
amureochi aneun cheok haedo
Even if you don't show it
네게는 다 보이겠지, 난
negeneun da boigetji, nan
You must be able to see right through me
유명했어 까칠 도도..
yumyeonghaesseo ggachil dodo..
I was famous for being arrogant and proud
이런 내가 변해, 너로 인해
ireon naega byeonhae, neoro inhae.
But I changed because of you

고로 나를 도로 돌려놔줘
goro nareul doro dollyeonwajweo
So should you change me back to what I was
나를 봐줘 Red Alert
nareul bwajweo Red Alert
I’m warning you Red Alert
너와 있으면 왜
neowa isseumyeon wae
Why am I like this when I'm with you
이럴까 심장이 멎어!
ireolgga shimjangi meojeo!
My heart stops beating




끝이 뻔히 보이는 게임이야
ggeuti bbeonhi boineun geimiya
It’s a game with such a predictable ending
나를 모두 말려 니 말만 나오면
nareul modu mallyeo ni malman naomyeon
All tell me to stop everytime I mention you
그래도 난 어쩔수가 없잖아
geuraedo nan eojjeolsuga eopjana
But I can't help it
너만 생각하면 입가엔 미소만
neoman saenggakhamyeon ipga-en misoman
Just thinking of you makes me smile


하루 하루 고민고민 해봐도
haru haru gomingomin haebwado
Even if I worry about it every day
너의 속을 몰라 깜깜한 밤이야
neoye sogeul molla ggamggamhan bamiya
I can't see through you, its like a dark night
나만 보고 말해줘 Oh My Darling
naman bogo malhaejweo Oh My Darling
Tell me while looking at only me, Oh My Darling
지겹지도 않니 그 많은 여자들
jigyeobjido anni geu maneun yeojadeul
Aren't you sick of having all those girls around you?


너무 멋진 멋진 그대
neomu meotjin meotjin geudae
You are so handsome handsome
날 바라볼 땐 아찔아찔 해
nal barabol ddaen ajjirajjil hae
Watching you is so thrilling thrilling
너무 바쁜 바쁜 그대
neomu babbeun babbeun geudae
You are so busy busy
하루라도 더 보고 싶은데
harurado dae bogo shipeunde
I want to be with you every day

* repeat


R.E.S.P.E.C.T.ME
내가 널 더 좋아하지만
naega neol deo joahajiman
I know I like you more than you like me but
You don't be nasty
미치겠어 나의 마음이
michigesseo naye ma-eumi
I'm going crazy, my love
커커커커 커져가네
keokeokeokeo keojyeogane
is becoming bigger
난 어어어어 어쩔까예~
nan eo eo eo eo eojjeolggaye~
What should I do?
오로지 그대에게 반했죠
oroji geudae-ege banhaetjyo
You’re the only one that fascinates me
사랑한다고 내게 말해줘~~
saranghandago naege malhaejweo~~
Tell me that you love me


어쩌다 어쩌다 어쩌다
eojjeoda eojjeoda eojjeoda
How come, how come, how come
그렇게 넌 태어났는지
geureoke neon tae-eonanneunji
How come you were born like that
내 맘을 다 뺏어갔는지
nae mameul da bbaeseoganneunji
How come you’ve stolen my entire heart
어쩌다 어쩌다 어쩌다
eojjeoda eojjeoda eojjeoda
How come, how come, how come
내 눈앞에 나타났는지
nae nunape natanneunji
How come you came up in front of me
사랑하게 만들었는지
saranghage mandeureonneunji
How come you made me love you
어쩌다~
eojjeoda~
How come~

☆★☆★☆★☆★☆★☆★☆★☆★☆★☆★☆★☆★☆★☆★☆★☆★

once i saw this on youtube (jaejoong's version), i knew i had to post it up...
the song is STUCK in my head, and everytime i hear it, my mind will conjure up the dorky images of my boo, and i'll start smiling... (same like the lyrics neh?) lol...
and was quite surprised to see they did it for every member...
so...
cassies...big east...
and/or all girls who love meotjin namjas...
enjoy...
^_^

☆★☆★☆★☆★☆★☆★☆★☆★☆★☆★☆★☆★☆★☆★☆★☆★

专属天使の悪戯なKiss　m(~_~)m

동방신기,

언제나 비가와도 칠흙같이 캄캄한 어둠이 와도...

그대 곁에서 기다릴께 ...

Nothing better than that...

[Color - Melody & Harmony]

誰かのために

For someone’s sake

僕らはここで

we are here,

小さな事しかできないけれど

Although we can only achieve small things,

一秒だけでも

Even just for 1 second,

世界上に涙止めて

We still want to stop all the tears in this world,

笑顔になってくれるのなろ

And turn them all into smiles

My music is my life

For you, for your smile..

.