Latest news with #Japan-exclusive
Tokyo Weekender
12-08-2025
- Entertainment
- Tokyo Weekender
Michelin-Recognized Restaurant Okdongsik Brings Korean Comfort Soup to Tokyo
Kimchi. Bibimbap. Painfully spicy ramyun. These are a few items that come to mind when most people think of Korean food. While the global awareness of Korean cuisine has risen dramatically over the past decade as part of the 'K-Wave' phenomenon, a wealth of flavors and recipes remain outside of mainstream recognition. Gomtang , a hearty broth typically made with slow-simmered beef parts, is one such underrated classic. Luckily for us, a globally renowned gomtang specialty restaurant has opened its doors in Tokyo. Established in Seoul in 2017 with only 10 seats, Okdongsik has been awarded a Michelin Bib Gourmand for 8 consecutive years for its signature Dweji Gomtang (pork gomtang). Unlike the typical beef gomtang, founder chef Ok Dongsik's version features a clear soup made from simmered pork shoulder and aromatic vegetables. Located near Tokyo's Koreatown Shin-Okubo, the store is the fifth permanent Okdongsik location worldwide, following two hugely successful New York branches and a Hawaii branch. The restaurant is set to open another branch in Paris this September. 'Perhaps because of the geographical proximity and cultural similarities between South Korea and Japan, many Japanese customers have dined at our Seoul and New York branches,' Chef Ok says in a press statement. 'While there are many Korean restaurants in Japan, I am passionate about sharing a traditional and authentic dish that I have been perfecting for the past 20 years.' okdongsik's dweji gomtang The Essence of Simplicity Unlike most Korean restaurants in Japan, which serve a large variety of stews, stir-fry dishes and shared plates, Okdongsik — with the apt slogan 'Essence of Simplicity' — focuses on one perfectly prepared bowl of gomtang. As mentioned, gomtang is a staple soul food dish in Korea, a milky, cloudy broth typically slow-cooked with meat, bones and offal, served alongside steaming rice and kkakdugi (diced radish kimchi). Okdongsik's Dweji Gomtang is distinguished by its unique clear broth, achieved by slow-simmering pork shoulders, green onions, radish, onions, garlic, ginger and peppercorns. The pork shoulder was chosen for its ideal balance of lean muscle and fat, which provides a robust and deep flavor profile. The broth is seasoned only with salt to highlight this delicate flavor. The rice component is prepared using the traditional Korean toryeom method: a kombu-salt broth is poured over the cooked rice multiple times to soften it, letting the grains better absorb the gomtang broth once combined. The technique results in a gukbap -like dish, a humble and warming 'soup rice' category rich with umami and texture. Those who enjoy spice can add gochuji , a Korean fermented chili paste, to the meat while eating. The Tokyo location will also offer a few Japan-exclusive dishes, including Dweji Deopbap (stir-fried pork over rice), Shrimp Donggeurangttaeng (fried shrimp pancake) and Cold Jeyuk (cold boiled pork). Diners will also get to enjoy Japan-exclusive sparkling alcoholic beverages from the Korean brand, NERD Brewery. About Chef Ok Dongsik After completing a comprehensive four-year culinary arts program at Kyung Hee University, Chef Ok Dongsik developed his culinary skills through diverse experiences, including working in the inflight catering division of an airline, at the Korean embassy in Côte d'Ivoire and as a head chef at a prestigious hotel in Korea. Chef Ok Dongsik's culinary philosophy revolves around bringing out the finest flavors of ingredients, and he emphasizes the importance of ingredient freshness over price. For more information, check out @okdongsik and @ on Instagram. Discover Tokyo, Every Week Get the city's best stories, under-the-radar spots and exclusive invites delivered straight to your inbox. By signing up, you agree to our Privacy Policy . Related Posts Inside Sangai, The SG Club's New Exclusive Tokyo Bar The World's 50 Best Restaurants List 2025 Features Four From Japan A Foodie's Guide to Higashi-Azabu: Restaurants Near Tokyo Tower
GMA Network
06-08-2025
- Entertainment
- GMA Network
SB19 to release physical CD of 'Simula at Wakas' EP in Japan
For the first time in SB19's history, the P-pop group is releasing a physical CD of their "Simula at Wakas" EP in Japan! The P-pop kings announced the good news in a video posted by Sony Music Japan on X (formerly Twitter), saying that Japan Japan-exclusive CD will be coming out this September. "'Simula at Wakas' is about a journey of making everything into a period. As humans, we were taught that we must find our purpose and in the process, we tend to seek three things and those three things are knowledge, immortality, and legacy," they said in the video. "Don't miss this overture and the last installment of Ikalawang Yugto! Arigato gozaimasu (thank you)," they added. SB19 dropped their "Simula at Wakas" EP in April. It includes the songs "DAM" and "DUNGKA!" In May, SB19 held a two-day concert at the Philippine Arena to kick off their world tour with the same name. SB19 is composed of Pablo, Josh, Stell, Ken, and Justin. Among their popular songs include "MAPA" and "GENTO." —Jade Veronique Yap/MGP, GMA Integrated News
Hypebeast
30-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Hypebeast
Bandai Namco Teams Up with Jordan Brand for Air Jordan 1 Hi '85 Collectibles
Bandai Namcoand Jordan Brand are kicking off a nostalgic celebration with a new line of collectibles centered around theAir Jordan 1High '85. As the Jordan 1's 40th anniversary rolls on, this collaboration introduces full-scale plastic display models of the iconic 'Shadow' and Japan-exclusive 'Reverse Shadow' colorways. While not wearable, these collector-grade replicas will be available in the U.S., offering sneakerheads a striking display piece. Meanwhile, Japan-based fans can take part in a gacha-style release featuring miniaturized versions of the Air Jordan 1 Hi '85 in 18 colorways. Sixteen of these are faithful recreations of original releases, while two remain mysterious—potentially the elusive 'Reverse Shadow' and another rare or unreleased variant. Pre-orders for the Bandai Namco x Jordan Brand Air Jordan 1 Hi '85 display models begin July 30. The gacha mini-figures will debut in-store across Japan this October, with online reservations starting August 7 and shipments expected by December.
Time Out
23-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Time Out
Lee Kum Kee launches miniature gashapon collection of HK-style sauces
Lee Kum Kee is getting a playful makeover by teaming up with Japanese toy giant Bandai to launch a miniature gashapon collection. Following a successful Japan-exclusive release, the collection introduces six iconic Hong Kong-style sauces as adorable capsule toy charms. From June 22, 2025, Bandai's official GBO shops in Hong Kong and Macau, along with gashapon machines in major department stores and malls, will feature exclusive Lee Kum Kee sauce-themed gashapon machines. Priced at $30 per capsule, each toy is a mini-replica of Lee Kum Kee's most beloved Hong Kong sauces: oyster sauce in 'glass' bottle and squeeze bottle, steamed fish soy sauce, spicy shrimp chilli oil, char siu sauce, and XO sauce. The miniatures also come with a small metallic chain to double the toy as a cute keychain or bag charm. Want to get your hands on one? Head to the following official Bandai GBO shops in Hong Kong and Macau: T.O.P GBO: Shop 413, 4/F, T.O.P, 700 Nathan Road, Mong Kong (12nn-9pm) The Wai Namco GBO: Shop 401, 4/F, The Wai, Che Kung Miu Road, Tai Wai (11am-10pm) The Lohas Namco GBO: Shop 403-405, 4/F, The Lohas, 1 Lohas Park Road, Tseung Kwan O (11am-10pm) Festival Walk GBO pop-up: Shop 2, MTR level, Festival Walk, Kowloon Tong (11am-9pm) Macau GBO: Shop A, Edf. Seng Lok, 84-E R. do Alm. Costa Cabral, Macau To sweeten the deal, Lee Kum Kee is also offering limited-edition Lee Kum Kee x Bandai gashapon toys (at random while supplies last) to those who join the Lee Kum Kee Quick Cook membership programme or make purchases at select retail stores. Stay tuned to Lee Kum Kee's official channels for the latest updates on these exclusive collectables. Recommended stories: The Pocari Sweat Run Fest 2025 opens for registration Hue Dining and Ink Cafe are closing down at the end of June
Hypebeast
17-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Hypebeast
Dr. Martens Unveils Japan-Exclusive Adrian Loafers Collection
Summary Dr. Martensis set to release a Japan-exclusive Adrian Loafers Collection, putting a bold spin on a timeless silhouette. The standout pieces in the lineup feature striking red welt stitching and subtle hits of crimson woven into the tassels, adding a unique visual pop. A rich red insole further elevates the design, offering an understated yet intentional detail. Rooted in the spirit of Tokyo's vibrant street and fashion culture, the collection brings a fresh edge to everyday wear. Another one of their highlights is their reimagined classic loafer, finished with a sleek metallic accent across the tongue and complemented by traditional tassels — a great blend of classic elegance and modern edge. The collection will be available in Japan starting June 20, priced between ￥26,400 JPY and ￥27,500 JPY (approximately $190 USD) on their Japansite.
