Latest news with #Hyori
Time of India
27-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Time of India
Lee Hyori's 42 crore comeback: Why Korea's pop queen is now the ultimate animal ally
Lee Hyo-ri volunteering at an abandoned dog shelter Celebrity? For Animals, Just Call Her "Unni Hyori"! What happens when Korea's biggest K-pop diva trades the stage for a dog shelter in midsummer? On July 26, Lee Hyori revealed her latest adventure, volunteering at the Anseong Pyeonggang Princess Shelter. Dressed down in a simple tee and bright red farm gloves, she was every bit the cheerful volunteer, scrubbing dishes and hauling cooling stones for over 100 panting rescue pups. Korean heatwave? Not a problem for Hyori-her biggest fans in that shelter wagged their tails, not yelled "Encore!" Even the shelter staff gushed over her humility, saying she showed up when the dogs were suffering from intense heat, ready to help. For once, no cameras or glamour-just sweat, smiles, and real care for Korea's forgotten animals. Not Just Big Bucks, But Big Heart So, what's the deal with that massive ₹42 crore payday? After a whopping 11-year break from commercials, Lee Hyori's comeback became headline news: more than ₩4.2 billion (about 42 crore INR) earned in five months. It's viral proof that "Hyori effect" still moves both products and popular opinion-even after a decade in semi-retirement. But unlike your typical celebrity CF queen, Hyori's actions go beyond bank statements. Instead of investing in luxury or chasing controversy, she simply spends her days and actual earnings-helping those who can't ever repay her: shelter animals. For her, "Do more, share more, help more" isn't a hashtag but the script for her life. That's why so many young Koreans and K-culture fans respect her-even if you're more into BTS or cricket! How One Star Changed the Meaning of Fame This isn't Hyori's first act of kindness. She's been a quiet force for shelter animals for years-volunteering, adopting, and encouraging her fans to do the same. What changed now is the scale: her every move (even just a single Instagram post!) now inspires thousands to follow in her footsteps, whether it's volunteering at a shelter or thinking twice before buying a pet. Korean social media LOVES her realness-many say Lee Hyori is proof that stardom in 2025 means giving back, not just posing. Far from the flashiness of K-pop or Bollywood idols, her raw vibe and actual sweat make "glamour" seem... well, kinda boring in comparison. Big brands and netizens might focus on her earnings and status, but what's making her iconic is something much cooler: her heart for animals. Maybe that's the real "comeback" Korean youth (and Indian fans!) find inspiring in 2025.
Time of India
14-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Time of India
K-pop stars Jenny and Shin Min-a have made 'Toe Shoes' the new cool
K-pop stars Jenny, Hyori, and Shin Min-a are making toe shoes the hottest trend-discover why these quirky kicks are catching on, their health perks, and how you can grab a pair in India. If you've scrolled through your Insta lately, you might've spotted Jenny, Hyori, or Shin Min-a rocking what look like superhero socks with toes. Welcome to the world of toe shoes-a wild blend of comfort, style, and a dash of "look at me!" Originally made for running, fitness, and water sports, these shoes have exploded into streetwear thanks to K-pop icons. Imagine feeling barefoot but with all the protection of shoes-pretty much the best of both worlds. Hyori's toe shoes Health Perks - Why Your Feet Will Thank You Toe shoes aren't just about flexing your style-they're actually good for you! The design lets your toes move independently, activating muscles that regular sneakers ignore. It's like a mini foot workout every time you walk. You get better balance, stronger feet, and even less sweat between your toes (bye, stinky feet!). Doctors say the separation of toes means less moisture build-up, making them perfect for humid Indian summers. But heads up: the thin soles mean less shock absorption, so if you have flat feet, bunions, or foot issues, these might not be your everyday kicks. Start slow, listen to your feet, and keep it fun. Can You Buy Toe Shoes in India? Absolutely! Here's the good news: toe shoes and barefoot-style footwear are now available in India, both online and in select stores. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Buy One, Get Two Free, Up To 60% Discount, Expiring Soon Adidas India Shop Now Undo While the trend is still catching on, you'll find minimalist running shoes and toe shoes from homegrown and international brands on popular e-commerce platforms. The market is growing, with more Indian youth getting curious about the "barefoot" movement and its health benefits. Prices vary widely, but expect to pay anywhere from a few thousand rupees for basic models to much higher for imported brands. The selection is still smaller than in Korea or the West, but it's expanding fast-so you can totally join the trend without waiting for your next trip abroad. Let's be honest-Indian youth have always loved comfort and quirky trends. Remember Kolhapuri chappals or those classic rubber slippers everyone has at home? Toe shoes are like their futuristic cousin, blending the freedom of going barefoot with a splash of K-pop cool. The "barefoot" vibe fits right in with our yoga, dance, and chill-at-home culture. Just like in Korea, where celebs spark trends overnight, Indian influencers are quick to try out anything bold and different. So whether you're a sneakerhead, a sandals loyalist, or just looking for something new, toe shoes are a reminder that fashion is about having fun, expressing yourself, and letting your toes wiggle free. And now, you don't have to look overseas-they're right here, ready for your next college fest or monsoon stroll.
Time of India
30-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Time of India
Veteran K-pop star Lee Hyori talks about moving to Seoul, her music career, says, 'I was feeling really down…..'
In a recent interview, singer Lee Hyori, who is well known for her hits like 'You-Go-Girl' and 'Bad Girls', revealed what it was like moving to Seoul and leaving behind her life in Jeju. She shared how she struggled during her move and what, or in this case, who, got her through the hard times. Lee Hyori talks about moving to Seoul and more Lee Hyori during a recent episode of popular Korean variety show 'Pinggyego' on June 28, delved into how her experience had been when she first shifted to the big city from Jeju island. She shared how at the time she had five dogs with her, all of whom she moved to Seoul with. The idol also delved into how uncertai she was with the move, and when immediately after, two of her dogs ended up getting sick, she started questioning whether she should go back or not. Slowly however, all of them managed to get settled in the city life and things got better. Hyori talks about what helped her manage the huge shift The 'Beach' singer also talked about how her husband Lee Sang Soon was a massive source of support, and how she used to talk to him about moving back. She shared 'I was feeling really down and would say, 'Oppa, I want to go back to Jeju,' and he'd say, 'Wanna go to the department store?' There are no department stores in Jeju. I'd think, 'What difference would that make?'' She even shared how her husband told her that he wanted to buy her a luxury bag once after collecting money from almost 3 to 4 paychecks. She shared how important the instance was as she had to sell all of her luxury bags before shifting all the way to Seoul. The singer shared 'After doing the radio show for three months and getting his paycheck, he told me he wanted to buy me a Chanel bag. Before moving to Jeju, I had sold all my luxury bags and didn't have a single one left. He said he had always dreamed of buying his wife a nice bag once he got married.' Hyori then shared how once she went into a luxury store, booked to purchase the bag, and then finally had it in her hands, she started feeling a lot better. She shared how when her husband finally bought her the bag, things ended up getting better.
Time of India
29-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Time of India
Lee Hyori opens up about emotional distress after leaving Jeju: 'I wanted to go back every day'
Beloved idol Lee Hyori recently opened up about her emotional struggles after moving from Jeju Island to Seoul. Appearing on the June 28 episode of Yoo Jae Suk's popular show Pinggyego, Hyori spoke candidly about how the relocation impacted her mentally and emotionally. The singer revealed that she moved to Seoul with her five dogs, and shortly after their arrival, two of them fell ill. She immediately feared the move had caused the distress. 'I wondered if I should go back,' she admitted. 'But we eventually adjusted,' she added, with a note of relief. Conversations with her husband, Lee Sang Soon Lee Hyori also recalled her conversations with her husband, musician Lee Sang Soon, during those difficult days. 'I was feeling really down and would say, 'Oppa, I want to go back to Jeju,' and he'd reply, 'Wanna go to the department store?'' she said. 'There are no department stores in Jeju. I'd think, 'What difference would that make?'' After their move to Seoul, Lee Sang Soon began working as the DJ for MBC FM4U's A Perfect Day with Lee Sang Soon, which meant Hyori often found herself alone at home. She admitted that the loneliness deepened her emotional struggle. However, one thoughtful gesture from her husband made a big difference. 'After doing the radio show for three months and getting his paycheck, he told me he wanted to buy me a Chanel bag,' Hyori shared. 'Before moving to Jeju, I had sold all my luxury bags and didn't have a single one left. He said he had always dreamed of buying his wife a nice bag after getting married.' by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Perdagangkan CFD Emas dengan Broker Tepercaya IC Markets Mendaftar Undo They went to the Shinsegae Department Store in Gangnam, and Hyori had to call her stylist Han Hye-yeon to understand the purchasing process and make a reservation. 'When he finally handed me the bag, it gave me butterflies,' she recalled fondly. From indifference to joy Despite previously being indifferent toward luxury goods, Hyori admitted that the shopping trip surprisingly lifted her spirits. Laughing, she said, 'I even have a song with lyrics like, 'What's the big deal about luxury brands? Do luxury bags make me shine?'' Then she added with a smile, 'I feel like I owe people an apology. When I stepped onto the escalator and saw my reflection, I was glowing. I was sparkling.' Her heartfelt honesty and humor won fans over, leaving them both touched and smiling at the end of the episode.
Eater
27-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Eater
How an Eater Editor Spends a Dreamy Weekend on South Korea's Jeju Island
'The one thing you'll notice is that it's really windy,' my mother said as we took off from Seoul's Gimpo Airport this past spring. We were on our way to Jeju, the island destination off the southern tip of the Korean Peninsula, accompanied by my wife and 2-year-old son. It was my first time visiting the island, but my mom had been half a dozen times with my dad before he passed away in 2021; they went whenever they wanted a break from bustling Seoul, where they were both born, or from Southern California, where they moved in the 1970s. It was the ultimate getaway. Though I'd traveled throughout South Korea, Jeju always felt like a fabled land, sunny and warm at times, rainy and blustery at others, but endlessly romantic. It's easily the most popular vacation spot for South Koreans. The flight route between Seoul and Jeju carries the most passengers in the world; on any given day, a plane takes off every seven to eight minutes. Jeju's fame outside of South Korea has grown recently with shows like Hyori's Bed and Breakfast (a super-chill reality show about people staying at the K-Pop star's actual vacation home) and Netflix's When Life Gives You Tangerines , a sappy coming-of-age drama starring yet another pop star, IU. The culinary nods in those series titles give a hint to the island's famed food. Surrounded by a bountiful ocean, Jeju depends heavily on seafood. Haenyeo, legendary free-diving women, hunt for abalone, urchins, and sea snails; they've developed an international reputation thanks to Japanese Breakfast singer Michelle Zauner, who wrote a song about them, and Eater's own James Beard-nominated coverage, but they also embody the resilience of Jeju culture against the mainland (even my mom has difficulty understanding their dialect). A distinct, moderate climate and eons of activity by the island's towering volcano, Mount Halla, have also made Jeju a fruitful place for raising all manner of agriculture and livestock, namely pigs. One long weekend isn't enough time to fully experience the island, which is about the size of Maui and requires up to an hour to drive across in any direction. Because we stayed at the towering Grand Hyatt in Jeju City instead of the more popular southern city of Seogwipo, most of our adventures were inland and scattered across the Western side. No matter where you stay or visit, the island provides opportunities to eat well in virtually every corner. There are cute cafes for matcha- or coffee-tinted drinks, homestyle restaurants offering bubbling stews and banchan, sleek barbecue spots serving Jeju black pig sliced over tabletop grills, seafood establishments turning out all manner of raw, grilled, and braised shellfish and fish, and rustic markets selling pristine produce and fried street food. The island abounds with incredible food, so trips long or short will include plenty of highlights. Note: The easiest way to get around is by rental car, which requires an international driver's license. Addresses for each venue below are presented in Korean so they can be plopped into a Korean-language navigation app like Naver. After a day of travel from LA (and a day lost to the time difference), we were in desperate need of a comforting, traditional Korean meal as soon as we landed on Jeju. We walked half a block behind the Grand Hyatt for a quiet mid-afternoon meal at Modajeong Haejangguk, a mom-and-pop restaurant filled with weathered tables, mismatched fans, and air conditioners. After reviewing the compact menu posted on the wall, we nibbled on nine types of banchan (including kimchi, lightly dressed soft tofu, candied anchovies, potato salad, and bean sprouts) until our meals arrived. After a long trip, nothing hits better than seolleongtang (profoundly sustaining beef bone soup) or haejangguk (a thrilling hangover cure with wilted cabbage leaves and chunks of coagulated pork blood). We also ordered godeungeo gui: pan-fried, extra-long mackerel (also called Korean seerfish) that boasted a luxurious texture, oily but not the least bit fishy. We scarfed down the fish, which were roasted a golden brown and served on an iron plate, until we'd picked the last bit of flesh from the bones. South Korea is more known for its dismal birthrate than its amenities for children, but when the country does have something for kids, it's world-class. The Arte Kids Park, a 20-minute drive from Jeju City, offers an immersive and extremely clean play experience for little ones. Upstairs, there's an adorable elementary school-style cafeteria with snacks, where we ordered a simple bowl of udon in odeng (fish cake) broth for our 2-year-old. Other dishes include jjajangmyeon (black bean noodles), tonkatsu, corn dogs, and fried rice. My favorite part was the well-organized array of utensils, metal cups, and other eating materials tucked into heated cases to protect against germs. A lot of play spaces I've experienced in America are kind of gross, so seeing this pristine haven in Jeju was itself a marvel (and the udon noodles were pretty tasty too). Address: 929 Wolgak-ro, Aewol-eup, 특별자치도, Jeju-si, Jeju-do, South Korea After leaving Arte Kids Park, our son fell asleep, which meant I needed to find myself a grown-up meal. Jeju's famous black pigs provide the island with ingredients for some of the best pork dishes in South Korea. I found this tiny roadside spot popular with golfers, and while my wife stayed with our son in the car, I bopped into the restaurant for a quick bowl of dwaeji guksu. The milky broth was sweet from the pork bones, making a great medium for simple wheat noodles and bite-sized pork belly slices. A tangle of sliced Korean scallions brought in a heady allium aroma, while seasoned radish shoots and short-fermented kimchi acted as the only sides. It reminded me a bit of Hakata-style ramen, with slightly chewy thin noodles and bites of meaty pork, and the simple broth was my favorite part. I spied a bottle of Jeju tangerine-flavored makgeoli in the fridge and wished I didn't have to drive, but otherwise it was a satisfying lunch just off the main highway. Address: 방문자 리뷰 86블로그 리뷰 15 I made it a point to try the popular galchi (belt fish, aka largehead hairtail), a silvery swordlike creature with elegant, flaky flesh. This popular seafood restaurant near the coast serves a twofer of spicy braised belt fish and whole-grilled belt fish. The braised version, also called jorim, comes in a big steel stainless box containing whole abalones, chopped octopus, rounds of radish, rice cakes, shrimp, and onions; a camping stove placed underneath the box keeps the fiery red chile broth simmering, reducing the liquid to a thick, sweet, salty, spicy sauce. Admittedly, eating belt fish requires picking out dozens of tiny bones, but it's worth the effort. The grilled version, which tastes of Dover sole, is a little easier to handle. Banchan of well-fermented kimchi, tiny anchovies, and even ganjang gaejang (raw soy-marinated crab) provide punches of umami between the spicy braised fish and the pan-grilled variant. Address: 제주 제주시 도리로 50 2층 The Five Day Folk Market in Jeju City opens on days ending in 2 or 7 (so each month on the second, seventh, 12th, and so on). We happened to catch it on a Sunday, when we had to fight for a free parking spot before entering. Walk through the sprawling semi-covered emporium for all manner of food, produce, clothing, and electronics. We picked up multiple varieties of Jeju gamgyul (tangerines), which lived up to their reputation as the finest citrus in the world, even out of peak season. The main hallabong variety is excellent — fragrant, sweet, tangy, and balanced — while the cheonhyehyang variety has thinner skin but a juicy flavor that's so sweet it hurts your teeth. We also snacked on piping hot hotteok: molten sugar-filled pancakes fried in butter. Just before heading out, we picked up a ketchup-laced corn dog fresh out of the fryer: a smoky, meaty wiener in a panko crust that was far better than anything at an American theme park. Osulloc is a big touristy tea farm and museum with a slick retail cafe serving matcha drinks and desserts. The day we went, the place seemed almost overrun. The classic steeped tea — brewed for exactly two minutes according to a tiny hourglass timer — was my favorite, a mellow, toasty sip whose aromas were amplified by the gourd-sized cup. On the more saccharine side, a cream-topped wedge of moist green tea cake was cut into a shape meant to recall Jeju's Mount Halla, while swirled soft serve ice cream blended yet more matcha with a simple sweet cream. The white-and-brown boricaeyeok spanner (green tea matcha floated over sweet barley tea) was probably the one to skip. After overloading on sugar, we headed to the tea fields for photo ops. My son found it hilarious to run through lanes of tea bushes that were too narrow for adults to chase him. Address: 15 Sinhwayeoksa-ro, Andeok-myeon, 특별자치도, Seogwipo-si, Jeju-do, South Korea Of all our meals on Jeju, I was most excited to try the island's famed black pigs, designated a heritage breed in 2015. Chef Hoon Song of Crown Pig carefully butchers the best-quality pigs and ages them to amplify their distinct, tender flavor, before lightly smoking the pork in applewood and oak. His somewhat isolated restaurant looks like a traditional Korean barbecue spot, with tables centered around steel pan grills, where servers handle most of the cooking. We opted for the Combination C, which comes with a pork tomahawk, arm shoulder, pork belly, and Boston butt for 99,000 won (about $70). Servers snip the rich, glistening pork with scissors as it cooks on the pan, allowing some fat to run off but keeping plenty of fatty chunks on the meat. Taking a bite, there's a gentle whiff of smoke followed by the most ethereal, tender pork that almost crumbles on the palate. The sensation isn't that different from a well-seared piece of wagyu beef, but with a juicy porcine sweetness that's distinct from almost all American pork. (There simply is no equal, and I'll fight someone on that.) The experience is heightened with chopstick dabs of ssamjang (fermented bean paste), grated wasabi, fine sea salt, and gochujang that add bursts of savory flavor. We wrapped our bites in fresh green lettuce or mounds of shredded scallions dressed in a red chile sauce. Korean barbecue might be known more globally for its tabletop grilled beef, but Jeju pork might better represent the spiritual zenith of the genre. Address: 특별자치도, 애월읍 애월읍 상가목장길 84 After a few days eating through South Korea's favored vacation destination, there's nothing better than strolling through a well-organized Korean supermarket for snacks to take home. Anyone who's enjoyed visiting a Korean grocery store in the U.S. should check out a Lotte Emart in South Korea. The location in Jeju City has some handy and affordable souvenirs to take home, including tangerine-flavored confections that are unique to Jeju. While you can find soju bottles from the more industrial brands like Jinro or Chamisul for around a dollar, there are also more expensive beverages, like the Asia-only crystal bottle of Suntory Kakubin blended whisky, which reminds me of Bill Murray in Lost in Translation ('For relaxing times…'). The hot foods section had handmade dumplings, pan-fried and boiled, while all manner of kimchi (napa cabbage, garlic chives, etc.) were displayed in the refrigerated areas. Those wouldn't necessarily travel well (though my mom likes to bring huge bundles of fresh banchan back to LA), but the rows of Korean candies (Koreans are particularly good at making coffee-flavored hard candies), chocolates, crispy snacks, and other sweets certainly would. Address: 제주특별자치도 제주시 탑동로 38 See More:
