Latest news with #Joseon
Time of India
6 days ago
- Entertainment
- Time of India
'Bon Appétit, Your Majesty' First Teaser: YoonA and Lee Chae Min starrer creates buzz
A new teaser for the highly anticipated time-slip drama , ' Bon Appétit, Your Majesty ', has just been released, sending fans into a frenzy! The sneak peek showcases the undeniable and intense chemistry between lead stars YoonA and Lee Chae Min , leaving viewers buzzing with excitement for their upcoming on-screen collaboration. About 'Bon Appétit, Your Majesty' 'Bon Appétit, Your Majesty' is about a chef and a Crown Prince, where YoonA's character is transported back in time due to an incident. Yeon Ji Yeong is a headstrong French chef in the present century, while Lee Heon is the king of the Joseon dynasty who is considered one of the worst tyrants at the time. This time slip drama follows YoonA's character as she is transported back in time to the Michelin star restaurant where she was to take on the role of the Head Chef. New character teaser dropped On July 24, the production studio for the show shared a video teaser for the main characters of the show. YoonA is all dolled up in the typical chef attire with a cap as well as an apron with a knife in her hand to showcase her prowess at cooking. On the other hand, Lee Chae Min is donning a regal red traditional robe with a longsword and a contrasting expression. The two are shown wielding their knives in their own way in the teaser. The drama is all set to air in the coming month of August on the 23rd and has managed to garner a lot of attention online. Cast of 'Bon Appétit, Your Majesty' Alongside YoonA and Lee Chae Min, the show boasts a powerful cast that includes but is not limited to Kang Han Na, Choi Gwi Hwa, Seo Yi Sook, Oh Eui Shik, Park Young Woon, Yoon Seo Ah, Lee Joo Ahn and Kim Hyun Mok.
Korea Herald
6 days ago
- General
- Korea Herald
Back from Japan, dragon-headed roof tiles and eaves offer glimpse of Joseon royal shrine
Carefully kept in good condition, with even dancheong colors preserved, 4,982 parts of Gwanwoldang reflect its noble status, aesthetics From a distance, the beam appears no different from an ordinary piece of timber. But stepping closer, its surface reveals cracks and dents that reflect its age, along with faint inscriptions looking like the Japanese characters "ho" or "ma," indicating it was likely marked or labeled during its time in Japan. These are parts of the disassembled pieces of Gwanwoldang, thought to be a royal shrine from the Joseon era (1392-1910), which were taken to Japan during the country's colonial rule of Korea in the early 20th century. Officials believe the writings were added by Japanese carpenters when the structure was dismantled in Japan. It was the first time the structure's components had been unveiled since its return to South Korea in May at the Korea Foundation for the Traditional Architecture and Technology — an institution dedicated to collecting and conserving traditional building frame materials — in Paju, Gyeonggi Province, Wednesday. The parts came back under an agreement reached with Kotoku-in, a Buddhist temple in the neighboring country's Kamakura city, and the Korea Heritage Service and the Overseas Korean Cultural Heritage Foundation. The long-lost royal shrine is a traditional wooden structure spanning three bays in width. Its architectural style features symbolic patterns, including dragons, spider webs and bats — all of which are characteristics of royal shrines from the late 18th to early 19th-century Joseon period. Research suggests that Gwanwoldang's size and structure indicate it was a royal shrine built for a "Daegun," which is a title given to the son of the king and queen, Lee Kyu-cheol, Associate Research Fellow at the Architecture and Urban Research Institute, told reporters as he toured the press. A total of 4,982 parts — 1,124 pieces of timber, 3,457 "giwa," or traditional Korean roof tiles and 401 stone elements — were revealed during the public display of Gwanwoldang's components at the institution's storage. They include decorative eave supports known as "choyeop," which are wooden elements placed on the sides of large traditional buildings, especially palaces, and roof tiles featuring symbolic motifs ike dragons, a symbol of royalty in Korean culture, spiders and butterflies, highlighting the architectural details that reflect the shine's royal status and aesthetics. Each piece was carefully wrapped to keep it in good condition. The roof tiles, which are often prone to fragility, were cushioned in bubble wrap to protect them from breaking, while "dancheong," the traditional coloring on wooden buildings and artifacts, was protected with plastic and paper to shield the surface and paintwork from scratches, moisture, and abrasion. The storage facility tries to maintain humidity below 80 percent to protect the wooden materials. The KHS and the OKCHF said they would conduct detailed studies on Gwanwoldang's components, as well as explore ways to display the pieces to the public. The KHS also pledged to continue working on bringing Korean artifacts home. "Over 247,000 Korean cultural assets are held overseas. Among them, many were illegally taken, especially during times of war or during the country's colonial rule. Our agency is committed to bringing back those items to Korea," Huh Min, the newly-appointed chief of the KHS, told reporters during the event.
Tatler Asia
23-07-2025
- Tatler Asia
Ideal travel coordinates for girls who love to explore with their BFF
If you adored the film When Life Gives You Tangerines , then Jeju Island is your next must-visit. Its radiant citrus groves and lyrical landscapes seem to have leapt straight from the silver screen. The island invites you into a realm of windswept beauty winding tree-lined roads, dramatic coastal cliffs, and golden fields of blooming canola, all set the stage for unforgettable friendship moments. Above All set the stage for unforgettable friendship moments (photo: Unsplash) Above All set the stage for unforgettable friendship moments (photo: Unsplash) A stroll through the verdant O'sulloc green tea fields offers a memory to treasure. The breeze dances through your hair, the golden light gleams across the tea terraces, and laughter rings clear through the air. Suddenly, the world's cares feel far away. Above Suddenly, the world's cares feel far away (photo: Pexels) Above Suddenly, the world's cares feel far away (photo: Pexels) Why not hike with your BFF to the top of Seongsan Ilchulbong Peak at dawn? The sky blushing in pink and the sea shimmering in first light might just leave you both breathless with delight. Afterwards, settle into a cosy café in Seongeup Village, sip warm tangerine tea, and lose yourselves in conversation. Pop into a hanbok shop for a whimsical throwback to the Joseon dynasty, where playful photoshoots and spontaneous giggles are guaranteed. Wuzhen (China) Above Wuzhen, dubbed the 'Venice of the East', charms with its poetic waterways and timeworn elegance (photo: Pexels) Above This water town has preserved its serene, rustic beauty, adding a quiet romance to your voyage of discovery (photo: Pexels) Often hailed as one of China's most picturesque ancient towns, Wuzhen, dubbed the 'Venice of the East', charms with its poetic waterways and timeworn elegance. With a heritage stretching back thousands of years, this water town has preserved its serene, rustic beauty, adding a quiet romance to your voyage of discovery. Read more: 5 beautiful little-known tourist destinations in Asia Above It's the kind of stillness where time seems to slow, inviting you and your best friend to cast aside your worries (photo: Pexels) Above It's the kind of stillness where time seems to slow, inviting you and your best friend to cast aside your worries (photo: Pexels) Let the journey begin with a poetic moment, drifting gently on a quiet boat through Wuzhen's glistening canals and under its moss-covered stone bridges. It's the kind of stillness where time seems to slow, inviting you and your BFF to cast aside your worries, let your thoughts float with the current, and share whispered secrets: stories that perhaps only this peaceful setting can draw out with ease. Wandering down cobblestone alleys, you'll pass wooden shops filled with delicate handcrafted treasures, tranquil tea houses laced with gentle aromas, and stalls offering fragrant, traditional sticky rice cakes. Stroll at your own pace, and when the mood strikes, pause by the canal at a petite tea house. Sip elegant chrysanthemum tea and speak of dreams yet to come and plans still taking shape. As evening descends, Wuzhen becomes almost otherworldly. Hundreds of scarlet lanterns glow along both sides of the canal, their flickering light dancing across the water's surface and warming the night sky. This is the moment to seek out a performance—perhaps a Peking Opera or a soulful Jiangnan folk dance—to absorb the spirit of a town that has stood for more than 1,300 years. Phu Quoc Island (Vietnam) Let the golden sunshine, cerulean waters and refreshing sea breeze of Phu Quoc create the perfect setting for a new chapter in your friendship. Nicknamed the 'Pearl Island' of Vietnam, it's more than just a resort haven of captivating landscapes. It's where the two of you can unwind in style, embrace nature's splendour, and collect a trove of cherished, just-the-two-of-you memories. Photo 1 of 5 Let the golden sunshine, cerulean waters and refreshing sea breeze of Phu Quoc create the perfect setting for a new chapter in your friendship (photo: JW Marriott Phu Quoc Emerald Bay Resort & Spa) Photo 2 of 5 Let the golden sunshine, cerulean waters and refreshing sea breeze of Phu Quoc create the perfect setting for a new chapter in your friendship (photo: JW Marriott Phu Quoc Emerald Bay Resort & Spa) Photo 3 of 5 Nicknamed the 'Pearl Island' of Vietnam, it's more than just a resort haven of captivating landscape (photo: JW Marriott Phu Quoc Emerald Bay Resort & Spa) Photo 4 of 5 Nicknamed the 'Pearl Island' of Vietnam, it's more than just a resort haven of captivating landscape (photo: JW Marriott Phu Quoc Emerald Bay Resort & Spa) Photo 5 of 5 Nicknamed the 'Pearl Island' of Vietnam, it's more than just a resort haven of captivating landscape (photo: JW Marriott Phu Quoc Emerald Bay Resort & Spa) Above La Festa Phu Quoc, part of the Curio Collection by Hilton, introduces a sleek, modern energy (photo: La Festa Phu Quoc) Above La Festa Phu Quoc, part of the Curio Collection by Hilton, introduces a sleek, modern energy (photo: La Festa Phu Quoc) Above Ocean-view villas, sun-drenched terraces and breezy loungers offer the perfect setting for heartfelt chats and elegant snapshots alike (photo: La Festa Phu Quoc) The JW Marriott Phu Quoc Emerald Bay Resort & Spa, designed with the charm of a vibrant, vintage university, offers an unforgettable backdrop. Lounge by the infinity pool, clink glasses over cocktails at sundown, and capture those dazzling 'million-like' photos that spark laughter and delight. For a fresh take, La Festa Phu Quoc, part of the Curio Collection by Hilton, introduces a sleek, modern energy. Ocean-view villas, sun-drenched terraces and breezy loungers offer the perfect setting for heartfelt chats and elegant snapshots alike. Above For sea lovers, Phu Quoc is an endless playground (photo: Unsplash) Above Don't miss a snorkelling excursion to Gam Ghi Island (photo: Unsplash) Above Soar together above the waves on a paragliding flight, take in panoramic island views (photo: Unsplash) For sea lovers, Phu Quoc is an endless playground. Sink into the powdery white sands of Bai Sao or Bai Khem, with crystal-clear waves lapping at your feet. Don't miss a snorkelling excursion to Gam Ghi Island, Mong Tay Island or the Ganh Dau reef, where a kaleidoscope of coral awaits below the surface. Craving a bit of adrenaline? Soar together above the waves on a paragliding flight, take in panoramic island views, or hop on a jet ski and test your rhythm as a duo. Whether thrilling or tranquil, these shared adventures will only bring you closer. Above A culinary journey in Phu Quoc is sure to delight even the most discerning of gourmets Above The flavours of the ocean, paired with the market's lively atmosphere, promise an experience you won't soon forget A culinary journey in Phu Quoc is sure to delight even the most discerning of gourmets. Head to Dinh Cau Night Market to sample the freshest seafood: think garlic butter grilled lobster, sweet steamed crab, and rich, creamy sea urchins. The flavours of the ocean, paired with the market's lively atmosphere, promise an experience you won't soon forget. Above Round off a fun-filled day with Kiss of the Sea, the spectacular water music show in Sunset Town (photo: Kiss Of The Sea) Above A dazzling interplay of lights, music and water (photo: Kiss Of The Sea) Round off a fun-filled day with Kiss of the Sea , the spectacular water music show in Sunset Town. A dazzling interplay of lights, music and water, set against the backdrop of the glimmering night sea, offers a romantic and satisfying close to a day filled with laughter and shared memories. Chiang Mai (Thailand) Chiang Mai, often called Thailand's 'Rose of the North', is a full-sensory experience made for two. With its dramatic mountains, ancient temples and deeply rooted local culture, it's the perfect place to explore with your best friend. If you're both drawn to adventure, Chiang Mai won't disappoint. Begin with a visit to Chiang Mai Night Safari, Thailand's largest nocturnal zoo. Aboard an open tram, you'll observe giraffes, zebras, tigers and leopards roaming under the spell of twilight. Then, for something bolder, Phoenix Adventure Park awaits. Zipline through forest canopies, test your strength on artificial rock walls or dive into a rainforest paintball match: activities designed to energise and bring out your inner thrill-seekers. A truly heartwarming highlight lies in connecting with Chiang Mai's beloved elephants. At ethical sanctuaries such as Maerim Elephant Home, Kanta Elephant Sanctuary or Mae Wang Po Ngurn Elephants Sanctuary, you'll get to learn about these gentle giants—feed them by hand, bathe them in cool streams and walk beside them through the forest. These experiences offer a profound and tender glimpse into Thailand's natural heritage. Chiang Mai is also home to sacred temples and mountain landscapes that invite reflection. Make time for Doi Suthep Temple, perched atop a mountain and accessible by climbing more than 360 steps. Its gold-plated architecture glows in the morning light, with panoramic views over Chiang Mai stretching out below. Nearby, the ancient ruins of Wat Chedi Luang exude the grandeur of Lanna architecture, while Wat Ku Tao holds historical treasures not to be missed. For a dose of nature, venture to Doi Inthanon National Park, known as the 'Roof of Thailand'. Towering at 2,565 metres, it's home to cascading waterfalls like Wachirathan and Sirithan, tranquil forest paths, and the twin royal stupas—Phra Mahathat Naphamethanidon and Phra Mahathat Nopphon Phumisiri. Each temple and peak reveals a different facet of Chiang Mai's soul. As night descends, the city transforms. Glittering lights and the aromas of sizzling street food turn Chiang Mai into a lively playground. The famed Night Bazaar is unmissable as a treasure trove of handcrafted souvenirs made by local artisans and northern tribes. Here, food becomes a journey in itself: mango sticky rice, Pad Thai, grilled skewers, charming cafés and even open-air massage spots create a vibrant street scene. Strolling side by side, sampling dishes, laughing at shared stories. These are the moments that make memories last. Sentosa Island (Singapore) A visit to Sentosa Island in Singapore is a dive into an entertainment haven where every moment is crafted to be unforgettable. From adrenaline-pumping attractions to immersive underwater explorations, from the fantasy of cinematic realms to dazzling light displays, this island offers a kaleidoscopic journey that's ideal for best friends seeking pure joy and adventure. Above At the heart of the island's excitement is Universal Studios Singapore (photo: Universal Studios Singapore) Above At the heart of the island's excitement is Universal Studios Singapore (photo: Universal Studios Singapore) Above Step through its iconic gates and you'll find yourself transported to seven distinct film-inspired worlds (photo: Universal Studios Singapore) Above Step through its iconic gates and you'll find yourself transported to seven distinct film-inspired worlds (photo: Universal Studios Singapore) At the heart of the island's excitement is Universal Studios Singapore. Step through its iconic gates and you'll find yourself transported to seven distinct film-inspired worlds. Wander along Hollywood's glitzy boulevard, lose yourself in Madagascar's wild jungle, feel the buzz of New York City, or uncover the secrets of ancient Egypt. Each zone offers its own set of games, stage shows and charming gift shops perfect for hours of fun and a few keepsakes to take home. Next door, the S.E.A. Aquarium™ invites you to embark on a mesmerising journey beneath the waves. As one of the world's largest marine aquariums, it houses over 100,000 marine creatures and 20,000 vibrant coral species, showcased in dramatic glass tunnels that offer an immersive, close-up view of the deep blue. Sentosa also brings dreams to life at Madame Tussauds Singapore, where you can strike a pose beside astonishingly lifelike wax figures of global icons. Whether it's pop legends like Michael Jackson, film stars such as Marilyn Monroe, or historical figures like Queen Elizabeth II and Barack Obama, it's a celebrity-filled gallery of photo opportunities. Afterwards, unleash your daring side at iFly Singapore, where a giant wind tunnel lets you experience the exhilarating sensation of free fall, Hollywood style. Then head to Mega Adventure Park, where MegaZip sends you soaring above the jungle canopy of Imbiah Hill, and MegaJump offers a 15-metre leap for the fearless. These thrill-filled moments are the perfect way to test your limits together. Above For a sweeping view of the island, take to the skies with the Singapore Cable Car Sky Network (photo: Singapore Cable Car Sky Network) For a sweeping view of the island, take to the skies with the Singapore Cable Car Sky Network. Suspended above Sentosa, it gives you a 360-degree perspective of the island and the city beyond. Afterwards, don't miss Skyline Luge Sentosa—a unique attraction that combines the thrill of a luge ride with scenic cable car views. Glide through curving tracks like Dragon or Expedition, and feel the rush of freedom with every turn. Whether you crave speed or scenery, this is one for the memory books. NOW READ Ho Nguyet Minh of Majesty Golf Vietnam: fearless on the fairway Pride Month: 7 of the world's most LGBTQ+ friendly destinations you might not know about The living legacy of Chinatowns around the world
Korea Herald
17-07-2025
- General
- Korea Herald
Savor bold flavors, cultural mash-up at fusion hansik restaurant Junghee
Junghee, nestled in heart of Seoul, creates one-of-a-kind dishes with unique mix of ingredients Ask foodies about the origin of "fusion" cuisine, and they will tell you that chef and US culinary legend Norman Van Aken introduced "fusion" into the lexicon of global cookery when he began serving Caribbean, Latin American and European food at his Florida restaurant Norman's. Fusion food is where tradition gets a little glow-up and classic flavors get a bold twist. It is a boundary-breaking culinary adventure that blends different flavors and ingredients to serve up dishes that are anything but ordinary. That is why fusion has become a leading trend in modern gastronomy, drawing inspiration from a diverse range of cuisines and giving chefs and restaurants endless room for creativity and innovation. Imagine a dish where delicate slices of raw fish are wrapped in tangy, aged kimchi ― a bold flavor pairing that is nevertheless unexpected. If you are looking for flavors that defy cultural expectations, head over to fusion hansik restaurant Junghee on Seosulla-gil in Jongno, central Seoul, on a serene and idyllic stone-walled route in the heart of Seoul. As you wander along the stone-walled path amid lush greenery lining Jongmyo ― a special shrine for the kings and queens of the Joseon era ― you will come across a modern restaurant with a warm wooden interior, nestled among Western-style eateries and pubs. One of the restaurant's signature dishes is beef rice on a griddle, which is a rich and savory creation featuring spicy stir-fried radish kimchi rice topped with cow-shaped "yukhoe," or Korean-style beef tartare, and green onion. It is also served with a raw egg yolk. Pour that yolk over the top before eating and the heat from the pot gently cooks the yolk, transforming it into a rich, creamy sauce that adds depth and enhances the overall texture and flavor of the dish. Do not forget to enjoy the scorched rice at the bottom of the pot, known as nurungji. This thin, crispy layer of browned rice forms when the rice is cooked over direct heat, adding a delightful crunch and a toasty, nutty flavor to finish off the meal. Priced at 13,900 won ($10), the dish is not so spicy, making it enjoyable for those who prefer milder flavors. Junghee's samhap, a traditional trio of fermented skate, boiled pork and aged kimchi, offers a bold and complex flavor experience. The fermented skate brings a pungent, slightly tangy funkiness that is both intense and unique. The boiled pork is tender and mild, providing a rich, savory contrast that balances the stronger flavors. The aged kimchi adds a deep, spicy, tangy kick with a satisfying crunch. Paired with seasoned cockles, which have a briny, slightly sweet seafood taste, and cham-namul, or Korean wild herbs, offering fresh notes, the dish creates a harmonious blend of textures and flavors: spicy, savory, tangy, fresh and umami-rich. It is a deliciously layered taste that's deeply rooted in Korean tradition, and it is perfect for adventurous eaters looking to experience authentic and vibrant flavors. Kimchi and seasoned cockles are available for refill. The dish is priced at 19,900 won. The restaurant's tweak to sujebi, a comforting Korean soup made with hand-torn wheat dough simmered in a flavorful broth, is also worth trying. It has a creamy base and features tenderly boiled bracken, truffle oil that adds an earthy aroma and gourmet touch, perilla seeds that enhance the depth of the flavor and gamtae, a type of edible seaweed that adds a subtle marine taste. Combining distinct culinary elements, the dish offers a fresh yet innovative take on traditional flavors. It is priced at 13,900 won. For those looking for something healthy, kale ssambap, priced at 10,900 won, could be an option. It consists of rice covered with kale dipped in thickened soybean paste sauce. Also try the gamtae tartare, or rice topped with Korean beef tartare mixed with gamtae, for a flavorful and nutritious experience. It is priced at 11,900 won. Junghee is open every day from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. The last order is taken at 8:30 p.m.
Korea Herald
15-07-2025
- Health
- Korea Herald
Baby's first haircut can go a little extreme in S. Korea
A baby's first hair naturally falls out over time, but some parents in South Korea choose to shave it early. Why? The practice stems from a long-held belief, though less common today, that shaving encourages hair to grow back thicker and fuller. As in many cultures, lush, full hair is highly valued in Korea, often regarded as a symbol of health and youth. The shaved hair is often kept as a memento, stored in decorative keepsake boxes or framed for display. Some even have it crafted into a brush, following a tradition once practiced by ancestors, as a symbolic gesture of hope for the child's future. During the Joseon era (1392–1910), many Confucian scholars shaved their children's first batch of hair and turned it into a brush known as taemopil, which was believed to bring academic success. Unlike the coarse and oily hair of adults, a newborn's first hair is exceptionally soft and fine, making it ideal for crafting delicate calligraphy brushes. Making a brush from a baby's first hair is a tradition not unique to Korea; it is also practiced in countries like China and Japan. Shaving in hopes of achieving fuller hair, however, has no scientific basis. According to local medical experts, while newly grown hair may appear fuller compared to before, this is merely an optical illusion. When hair is shaved, the blunt tips of the regrowing strands can make the hair look thicker and coarser. In reality, shaving does not alter hair's structure, density or growth rate. The experts also caution that a baby's scalp is highly sensitive, and shaving might cause unnecessary irritation. Although not as extreme as shaving, a baby's first haircut is often remembered as a small yet meaningful rite of passage, a tender milestone that parents cherish among the many 'firsts.' Is it time for your baby's first haircut? What will you do with those tiny strands?
