Travel Korea At Home: Reminiscing my dream come true Moonlight Tour at Changdeokgung Palace

This post is originally written and posted for korea.net as part of Honorary Reporters program. Minor edits have been made for my personal blog. Original article here: https://www.korea.net/…/E…/community/community/CMN0000003783

Watching one korean drama after another during these days of global pandemic made me miss travelling to South Korea more than ever. I have been to South Korea three times and I am supposed to go back this autumn but COVID-19 happened. To cure my longing to visit the country I started counting the places and experiences I have already checked in my Korea bucket list and this one stood out: Moonlight Tour at Changdeokgung Palace.

Visiting at least one of the five royal palaces in Seoul is among the most popular and highly recommended things to do for tourists travelling in Korea. During my first visit in 2010 the very first place in our itinerary was Changdeokgung Palace. I instantly fell in love with this ancient gem not just because of its intricate architecture but also because I felt like I am one with nature as we traverse the Secret Garden (Huwon) inside it.

Main Entrance: Daytour at Changdeokgung Palace in 2010

On our way to Secret Garden

As my love for Korean culture grow I came to know that they are offering night tours of the palace on a limited time period each year. I told myself that one day I will visit you at night. Fast forward to Spring of 2019, around a month before our much awaited come back trip to Seoul I saw an announcement via Korea Tourism Organization’s facebook page about a “Moonlight Tour” at Changdeokgung Palace. I can’t contain my excitement because the tour dates perfectly coincides with our travel dates so I booked tickets immediately on the first day the booking website is up.

view as we enter Changdeokgung Palace with our traditional korean lanterns

Everything is still vivid in my memory. The dreamy night tour under the moonlight started with the tour ushers giving us traditional korean lanterns to light our paths. We were divided into groups with one assigned tour guide per group. As me and my friend enter the palace holding the blue and red colored paper lanterns I can’t help but smile in awe. I felt like I am a character in one of the famous period dramas like Kingdom, Love in the Moonlight or Moon Embracing the Sun.

an authentic experience holding the blue and red colored traditional korean lanterns

The 90-minute moonlight tour is a walk down memory lane of korean history. We got to enjoy the cool Spring breeze while learning some stories (from the tour guides) behind the halls and main attractions of the palace. Walking into the unknown on a dimly lighted path illuminated by the moon and our lanterns makes the experience more authentic, like we are in the Joseon dynasty right there and then.

Like any other trip I have my favorite parts of this night tour. One that striked me the most is the main hall of the palace, the Injeongjeon Hall. The moonlight further accentuates the beauty of korean traditional architecture. It is a lovely sight.

Changdeokgung Palace main hall at night: Injeongjeon Hall

Another thing I wont forget is the part when we were treated to a very serene solo flute performance. It is at the Sangnyangjeong Pavilion located on somewhat an overlooking place. Climbing some steps to get here is all worth it. The view and sound from the flute combination was truly calming.

flute performance at Sangnyangjeong Pavilion

At the tail end of the walking tour is a sight to behold: the Buyongji Pond. Seeing this still little body of water at night made me forget my aching feet and the cold biting into my senses. The traditional royal place blended well with nature. It was also one of the best part in my memory when I visited it at daytime in 2010.

at Buyongji Pond

Just when we thought that it was the end of the tour we were told that we are about to enjoy a 30 minute performance. True enough we are then led into a hall with a theatrical ambiance (Yeongyeongdang Hall). We were comfortably seated and provided with some korean snacks and plum tea while watching traditional performances. I personally liked the shadow play that featured korean folklore with a hint of korean drama trivia.

traditional fan dance performance at Yeongyeongdang Hall

tea time while watching traditional performances

Seeing Changdeokgung Palace both at day and night times is indeed a major Korea bucket list tick-off. But this Moonlight tour is a different kind of experience I won’t trade for a night shopping in Myeongdong or clubbing in Itaewon, all worth it of the 30,000 korean won I paid for. It was truly a dream come true magical night. 🌙✨

after the Moonlight tour experience

The moon seemed to highlight the beautiful features of the palace and made it more blooming at night. Amid the global pandemic sharing this travel diary is just timely to send some inspiration. That even in the darkness there is a beautiful hope that when this health crisis is over we can still fulfil our dream to visit South Korea…soon. I can’t wait. ♥

Moonlight Tour at Changdeokgung Palace entrance overlooking the city

P.S.

One bonus for the night is that there is this cutie tour guide that looks like an oppa. Unluckily my friend and I were not assigned to the group he is in. Nevertheless have managed to take a snap photo while we were being briefed in about the tour, hahaha. 🙂

Oppa Tour Guide, hahaha

me and my friend with a royal palace guard

Tip: please wear comfy walking shoes as this is literally a “walking tour”. And also bundle up when you are joining the tour during spring or autumn as it really gets chilly as you reach the end. At the registration booth prior we start we are each given a hot pack. I wondered if it really would be of use and lo and behold it will really save you.

Moonlight Tour at Changdeokgung Palace pamphlet: such wonderful experience

Kdrama Thoughts: 10 Life, Classroom and Kdrama Lessons I Learned from Crash Landing On You

So many things have been written and said about this Korean drama well-loved globally but I still want to write my piece. This might be late but I hope this would give you some good laugh and reminded of the love we all wanted to have, the epitome of a guy that doesn’t exist in real life but existed in this drama. In this day and age of global pandemic sending you all some good vibes with these 10 lessons thought by Crash Landing On You.

<photo credits to tVN Drama Facebook Page>

1. The flower Edelweiss blooms in Switzerland and is regarded a national symbol of the country. This is first in the list since I can’t get over the idea of this flower being difficult to acquire to be synonymous to Captain Ri’s idea of true love. Who would not wish for someone to whisper you these words while crying in the Demarcation Line “Let’s meet where the Edelweiss blooms.” Writer-nim Park Ji-Eun is just so brilliant to inject this little trivia to give us a dreamy romantic happy ending as perfect as Ri Jeong Hyeok-ssi. 💐 (Reference article: https://inquirersuper.com.ph/super-k/why-did-hyun-bin-asked-son-ye-jin-to-meet-where-edelweiss-blooms/)
2. It made me believe that Hyun Bin > Song Joongki (coming from a confessed big fan of Big Boss). I have started to feel this after watching his zombie period film Rampant back in 2018 and now I am 95% confident that he is (leaving the 5% for my in denial mode there, *wink*). Hyun Bin’s charm never faded from My Lovely Sam Soon to Secret Garden to Captain Ri days. In fact he aged like fine wine and so his acting prowess. (My full my review of Rampant here: https://www.facebook.com/pinkyregblog/posts/2273677279317242)
3. CLOY virus is as infectious globally as COVID-19. Once your neighbourhood has been hit the addiction exponentially grows just as how the coronavirus infects. It is just so ironic that when the Korean drama aired its final episode that is when the coronavirus hit the globe at serious levels. Setting aside the insensitivity keep safe everyone and pray for this pandemic to end (but not the Hyun Bin craze).
4. If there is a kdrama that can make your boyfriend, fiancé, husband or even crushes to watch with you it is definitely Crash Landing On You. I bet the most macho in your friends list will confess he has watched and love it. Someone just confessed with me. 🤗
5. Captain Ri is right: “The thought of you bothers me” is not synonymous to ‘You are concerned with me”. It means “Saranghaeyo Seri”. Hahaha! I just loved this line by Ri Jeong Hyeok-ssi to Yoon Seri as they passed that tree lined path riding in a bicycle, ala Winter Sonata. 💞🌳

<photo credits to tVN Drama Facebook Page>

 

6. “A single step should be okay” is one of the most melodramatic romantic prelude to a kiss in kdrama history. This demarcation line send-off kiss scene tops the list of my favorites in the whole drama. 💚
7. When a guy lights up a scented candle on any important occasion in your life he is for keeps. Lol! This is 2nd in my most loved scenes. If I am not mistaken this is the 1st time Captain Ri cannot fight his feelings being shown to Seri. 🕯💕

<photo credits to owner as tagged>

 

8. In life there is someone out there who is willing to die for you or someone destined to be with you even if you are too star-crossed. And you will meet this person in a very unexpected way. Every person is destined to meet their soul mate, love of our lives but not necessary to end up with him/her. It might be to teach you how to be selfless or learn what true love is or someone who makes you say “it is worth the wait”. 💗
9. It seems that writer-nim Park (as attentive to details as she is) did not just randomly pick the song “The Song for My Brother” as a key element in the very fateful love story of Seri and Captain Ri. In the drama this is the song that made Seri think twice to end her life when she heard it. Try to listen to this song when you are down. It instantly soothes your mind and brings positive energy. 🎶🎹

<photo credits to owner as tagged>

10. And lastly but definitely not the least but the best: “Riding the wrong train will take you to your destination.” Yihee! 💘

<photo credits to tVN Drama Facebook Page>

>> Next kdrama review: Kingdom Season 2

 

This Review is originally posted in my Facebook Page:

https://www.facebook.com/pinkyregblog/

(credits to owners of the photos)

 

A Happy Birthday Blog: Who is the Birthday Boy Song Joong Ki to Me?

Just All My Fangirl Feels: Happy Birthday Song Joong Ki ♥♥♥ 

<photo credits as tagged>

He is the Captain Yoo Si Jin or Big Boss to many including his beloved goddess wife-to-be Song Hye Kyo. But who is really Song  Joong Ki to me? I have said so much about him but let me compile today on his 33^rd Birthday? Here yah go~ *insert kilig feels

1. Song Joong Ki is a Korean drama actor that taught me to watch Korean dramas freshly uploaded on streaming sites without English subtitles…just because I can’t wait for one more day, but then catches the same episode subtitled during lunch break at work, hahaha. 🙂 And I guess this is when I officially admit I am bitten by his charms. #DescendantsOf theSun

<photo credits KBS2 >

2. He made me feel excited to write and blog again after almost a year of hiatus in my personal blog pinkyreg.wordpress.com.  I penned a tribute blog article to him before the finale of Descendants of the Sun aired.  All my kilig feels in this global hit kdrama were poured here. ♥♥♥ 

Read here: Top 10 Captain Yoo Si Jin Personas We Fell in Love With

3. Everybody knows my undying admiration and love to him.  Ironically he is my ultimate Korean crush but I am the happiest when he announced his marriage plans to Song Hye Kyo.  It was one of my ultimate wish for him, to have Song Hye Kyo as his wife and imagine the joy I have in my heart on that fateful morning of July 5 that I even bought a cake to congratulate the Song-Song couple engagement hahahhahahaha, and I know a lot did too! ♥♥♥

<media file photo at 2016 Baeksang Awards>

4. He is the guy I have written the most blog articles on my personal blog and for korean entertainment news media hellokpop.com. Truly my one great inspiration that brought me so much luck in the writing world, including how did I became a writer for hellokpop. Will be forever grateful to him, however insane it might be to others~

5. I have joined a hundred Facebook, instagram and twitter contests realted to him. God really knows how I love Joongki and let me win what I wanted the most…Taddah, a Song Joong Ki JejuAir loot including a Joongki miniature plane model and Imagine Your Korea Song Joong Ki set. Literally screamed on top of my kilig feels when I got these limited edition items. To share my blessings, I did a Song Joong ki Mini Give-away event on my blog page to thank the universe, hahaha and it felt so good! ^_^

6. He is the actor that made me watch a Korean movie not once, not twice but three times on cinemas: the epic film, The Battleship Island, and it’s all worth it.  Crazy at it is, but having the chance to watch his film here in the Philippines is already a big blessing to me. My work scheduled me to fly to another country in time for the movie’s screening here. I literally cried and prayed even unconsciously and God answered my deepest prayer. My scheduled departure got delayed, hence I watched it 3x in so much gratefulness. Aww *insert tears*

Read on my mini review article written for hellokpop below, all for the love ♥♥♥

Beyond Song Joong Ki: 5 Reasons Why You Should Experience “The Battleship Island”

There are so much to say, but I guess these are the best parts of my Song Joong Ki fangirling experience.  I have yet to see him in person but I know I would in the right place and time.

Happy Happy Birthday Song Joong Ki, the person who made me inspired and do wonders on top of my busy world. Pinkyreg wish you all the best in career, love, future married life and health. Love you beyond admiration and I sincerely wish to find a man like you, one who would give priority to relationship, family and love over career and popularity. ♥♥♥

Photos below were taken during Filipino Ki Ailes Song Joong Ki Birthday celebration organized by Song Joong Ki Philippines. But of course I can’t miss it, haha! ^^

10 Thoughts on Why “Kita Kita” is a Must Ashiyu

Kita Kita Official Movie Poster (Spring Films/Kita Kita FB Page)

Sampu. 10x or more mo sasabihin ang Sapporo while and after watching the movie. And magiging travel bucket list mo ang makapunta ng Sapporo sa Japan. Being the backdrop of the film makes it all the more engaging.

Siyam. Siyam sa sampung friends mo ay nakapanood na or gustong manood neto. Yung isa kasi wala syang Facebook, eh meron pa bang walang FB these days? In short it’s the talk of the town and the movie deserves all the attention.

Walo. Walong beses ka mag google dahil curious ka sa Ashiyu, Otaru, Bell of Happiness, Sapporo Beer, Cabbage na pampasaya, saan yung bar ng puso at ng saging at yung ramen shop and the 1000 Paper Cranes Wish… baka sakaling makameet ka rin ng Tonyo na magmamahal sa yo like Lea. Hahahha, uy nag-google sya. ^_^

Pito. Seven days. For sure in the next seven days eto ang topic sa lunch and mga pila ng UV express. Kawawa ang hindi di pa nakanood, hindi makaka-relate or ma-spoliers lang hahahha.

Anim. At least 6 quotable quotes/realizations ang tatatak sayo sa movie na to. Yung sa akin fav ko yung “You can’t turn back time but you can keep up with it” and “Ang labo mo, nung nakakakita ka di mo ko makita. Nung bulag ka saka  mo ako nakita.” Awwww. Sakit sapul.

A Scene From Kita Kita (Spring Films/Kita Kita FB Page)

Lima. 5 extreme emotions ang mararamdaman mo sa movie: hahagalpak ka ng tawa kay Empoy, maiihi sa kilig, maiinlove kay Empoy (I mean sa character nya as Tonyo hahaha), mauubusan ng luha till matapos ang movie credits and di makaka move on as if nakipagbreak ka. In that sequence, ang saya in fairness hahaha, huhuhu!

Apat. 4 thumbs up ang ibibigay ko. Since I curled up in my seat, naka indian seat with my hands on my face sa sobrang engrossed sa movie.

Tatlo. Kung 3x ikinaila ni San Pedro si Jesus, 3x mo aaminin at ipost sa social media na pinaiyak ka ng bwisit na pelikula na to, in a good way. ♥

Dalawa. Two. “Two less lonely people in the world and its gonna be fine…” ma LSS ka sa song na to until makamove on ka with matching blindfolds at luha hahahah. 😥

Isa. Mag-isa ako nanood ng movie na to, yes alone ang peg dahil hindi ako makahintay ng kasama since Friday pa ko nagcrave. And I have no regrets since its a must watch. Pero hwag nyo ko gayahin…kasi wla ako mahampas kaya nagiiyak ako till ako na lang last person to come out the cinema hahahaha. 🙂

Yun. Saludo ako kay Empoy and Alessandra. Galing! Pati sa writers and behind the scenes. Nood na, or take 2 na! The 1 hour and 20+ mins is worth your money and tears. ♥ ♥ ♥ #AlEmpoy

 

Ji Chang Wook Philippines Fan Club Held a Sold Out Fabricated City Block Screening in Manila

A Successful SOLD OUT Manila Block Screening For the Love of Ji Chang Wook♥

Korean crime-action film Fabricated City, starring famed actor Ji Chang Wook (Healer, The K2) opened in Philippine cinemas last June 7. This CJ Entertainment movie is a certified local box office hit in Korea with more than 2.5 million domestic admissions since its official release on February 9 of this year.

Fabricated City Official Movie Poster, credits to VIVA International Pictures FB page

The Philippines is one of the privileged to be included in the 31 countries outside of Korea where Fabricated City movie rights were sold. The film was screened exclusively at Robinsons Movieworld cinemas nationwide, distributed locally by VIVA International Pictures.

Filipino fans of its lead actor Ji Chang Wook were the ones most thrilled since the news of the movie hitting the Philippine big screen came. This excitement lead to a movie block screening being organized by the Manila based fan club Ji Chang Wook Philippines (JCW Ph).

Fabricated City Movie Block Screening in Manila Official Event Poster, credits to Ji Chang Wook Philippines FB page

JCW Ph on June 10 successfully held a SOLD OUT Block Screening of the film in partnership with VIVA International Pictures and Robinsons Movieworld. Around 200 fans with their friends and family attended the exclusive screening for those who have registered and paid in advance thru the fan club’s official Facebook page.

As a confessed fan bitten hard by Ji Chang Wook’s charm I am one of the early birds who signed-up for the event and excitedly dressed up to watch the action film with fellow JCW fanatics. 🙂

The block screening event was scheduled at two in the afternoon at Robinsons Movieworld Galleria Cinema 7 in Quezon City, Metro Manila. But as early as 12 noon a long line of excited Filipino fans can be seen outside the cinema in extreme anticipation of watching the movie; all happy faces despite the rain and heavy traffic on this day.  In fact, some walk-in attendees showed up even if it was already announced on a SOLD OUT seating capacity days prior. #ThePowerOfJiChangwook 🙂

Excited Ji Chang Wook Filipino fans lined up outside the cinema

Excited Ji Chang Wook Filipino fans lined up outside the cinema

Fabricated City Block Screening Registration/Distribution of tickets

Snacks Distibution prior to Fabricated City movie Block Screening

(Photos from my cam and fellow attendees)

It’s More Fun Watching Fabricated City with Fellow Filipino Ji Chang Wook Fans!

The movie screening started a few minutes past 2PM. Before the movie proper some movie trailers were shown including two Korean films next in line to premiere in the Philippine big screen, also to be distributed by VIVA International Pictures: First is the 2017 action blockbuster film Confidential Assignment starring Hyun Bin (Secret Garden, My Name is Kim Sam Soon) and the other one is the most awaited comeback of the hallyu star and Descendants of The Sun lead actor Song Joong Ki, The Battleship Island. These teasers definitely tickle more excitement from the Filipino audience.

As soon as Ji Chang Wook’s voice aired and his close up battle face registered on the big screen loud screams automatically filled the cinema, as if the actor is present right there and then. Oh well it’s every attendee’s wish of course. ~~

Fabricated City movie teaser photo, credits to VIVA International Pictures FB page

Beyond being die-hard fans of the movie’s lead actor, the Pinoy movie audience’s great response during and after the movie lies in the overall execution of the film.  Fabricated City boasts of a very intelligent plot as well as twists, like can those happen in real life? The battle of the expert gamer team vs. the technological savvy villain towards the end surely left every moviegoer with a Wow experience.

photo credits to Fabricated City FB page

Fabricated City showcased Ji Chang Wook at this best as the ‘King of Action’ not only in dramas but now conquering the movie scene as well, as proved by his Best New Actor in Film category nomination at the recent Baeksang Arts Awards. Quoting hellokpop’s review: “He is strong in fight scenes yet memorable in emotional frames” as the movie narrated the main character Kwon Yoo’s (played by Ji) revenge to the cruel injustice of being framed-up.

Fabricated City movie teaser photo, credits to VIVA International Pictures FB page

Ji’s first lead role film is truly worth the SOLD out efforts of the Philippine fan club who organized the block screening.  Ji Chang Wook deserves to be watched on the big screen. ♥ ♥ ♥

Ji Chang Wook Philippines Fabricated City Block Screening in Manila Group Photo (Photo credits: VIVA International Pictures/JCW Ph, editing by Christine Joy Eugenio)

The After –Movie Screening Fun: Photo Ops and More Photo Ops

Every fan club event doesn’t end with the main activity. The group photos and say it all, along with everyone’s craziness over the Instagram-framed Photo Zone inspired by Ji Chang Wook’s ig selfie post. ^_^

The sold out movie screening memories sealed in these photos forever. It was really more fun watching Fabricated City on the big screen with fellow Filipino Ji Chang Wook fans. ♥ ♥ ♥

Fabricated City Block Screening in Manila crowd inside the cinema: winners of JCW-inspired raffle items, photo credits JCW Ph FB page

Fabricated City Block Screening in Manila souvenir items, c/o JCW Ph

Fabricated City Block Screening in Manila distribution of souvenir items, photo credits JCW Ph FB page

Fabricated City Block Screening in Manila crowd inside the cinema: winners of JCW-inspired raffle items, photo credits JCW Ph FB page

Fabricated City Block Screening in Manila crowd inside the cinema, photo credits JCW Ph FB page

Fabricated City Block Screening in Manila crowd inside the cinema, photo credits JCW Ph FB page

(Photos inside the cinema and distribution of JCW-inspired locally made items as event souvenir)

Ji Chang Wook Philippines Fabricated City Block Screening in Manila Group Photo (credits: JCW Ph FB page)

Ji Chang Wook Philippines Fabricated City Block Screening in Manila Group Photo (credits: JCW Ph FB page)

Ji Chang Wook Philippines Fabricated City Block Screening in Manila Group Photo (credits: JCW Ph FB page)

Ji Chang Wook Philippines Fabricated City Block Screening in Manila Group Photo (credits to owner)

Ji Chang Wook Philippines Fabricated City Block Screening in Manila Group Photo (credits: JCW Ph FB page)

Ji Chang Wook Philippines Fabricated City Block Screening in Manila Group Photo (credits: JCW Ph FB page)

Ji Chang Wook Philippines Fabricated City Block Screening in Manila Group Photo (credits to owner)

Ji Chang Wook Philippines Fabricated City Block Screening in Manila Group Photo (credits to owner)

Ji Chang Wook Philippines Fabricated City Block Screening in Manila Group Photo (credits to owner)

(All Happy Faces captured in group photos, credits to JCW Ph FB page and fellow attendees)

In lieu of Ji’s presence, we Filipino fans had this one to fancy and dream of, Oh Mr. Noh, hahaha. 🙂

(credits to Juleth Bautista, Ji Chang Wook Philippines admin)

(credits to Ji Chang Wook Philippines FB page)

(credits to Ji Chang Wook Philippines FB page)

(credits to Ji Chang Wook Philippines FB page)

(credits to Tin Agito)

(credits to Ji Chang Wook Philippines FB page)

(credits to Ji Chang Wook Philippines FB page)

(credits to Ji Chang Wook Philippines FB page)

(credits to Ji Chang Wook Philippines FB page)

(credits to Ji Chang Wook Philippines FB page)

(Crazy fangirls over Ji ChangWook Instagram-framed Photo Zone, photo credits JCW PH FB Page ♥)

Thank you so much Ji Chang Wook Philippines for hosting this Fabricated City Movie Block Screening for us Filipino fans. Congratulations for a successful one! JCW Ph is continuously active this 2017 hosting fan club related events. They already had two fan gatherings held in January and April this year.

Read here to know what happened on its 1^st Fan Gathering: Ji Chang Wook Philippines Fan Club Hosted 1st Fan Gathering in Manila

JCW Ph’s next scheduled event is ‘Ji Chang Wook’s Birthday Bash For A Cause’, an outreach activity happening this July 9 as a way of celebrating the actor’s 30^th Birthday. They will be giving school supplies and food to chosen kids at Bagong Pook, Cavite City.

‘Ji Chang Wook’s Birthday Bash For A Cause’ Outreach Activity Poster by Ji Chang Wook Philippines

For more details of this birthday bash for a cause, including how to help on donations as well as JCW related news and the fan club’s activities, like and follow them on Facebook and twitter accounts below:

FB Page: Ji Chang Wook Philippines
Twitter: @JCWPhilippines

And on behalf of JCW Ph admins and all the attendees of this block screening event we would like to give a big thank you to VIVA International Pictures for bringing in Fabricated City in the Philippines.  We can never thank you enough for this.  For their next Korean film offerings in the Philippines as well as other international releases Like and Follow them on Facebook and twitter.

FB Page: VIVA International Pictures
Twitter: @VIVA_Intl

photo credits to Fabricated City FB page

As mentioned its two next big k-movies are Confidential Assignment (currently showing since June 28) and The Battleship Island (date yet to be announced).

‘Confidential Assignment’ Official Movie Poster, credits to VIVA International Pictures

‘The Battleship Island’ Official Movie Poster, credits to CJ Entertainment

 

 

Ateneo Offers Korean Language Weekend Classes This March 2017, Open To Public

Want to learn the Korean language at a premiere university in the Philippines during weekends? Here’s for you:  Ateneo Korean Studies Program or KSP is offering weekend Korean Language classes this March as part of its Extramural Courses for 2nd Sem, SY2017-2018.

KSP is an autonomous office in Ateneo De Manila University which is in charge of developing, promoting  and organizing Korean studies courses, events and special activities to introduce Korea both to Ateneo and the Filipino public. It is formerly known as Ateneo Initiative for Korean Studies (AIKS) and was established since April 2012.

Ateneo Korean Studies Program logo

KSP is opening the two courses below to PUBLIC for a fee, with classes starting this March 4, 2017.

COURSE 1: Hallyu Korean: Learning Korean through K-pop & K-Drama
Fee: PHP3500
2017 March 4 to April 22 | Saturdays only (except Black Sat)| 9:00-12:00
7 sessions: 3 hours per session | 21 hours

This course is offered to Filipinos who are interested in learning Korean through K-pop and K-Drama. It aims to introduce learners to basic Korean vocabulary, grammar and expressions while learning Korean songs and watching drama clips. To be taught in Korean, the last session will be dedicated to class presentations.

This sounds so interesting right? Learning Korean the hallyu way.♥

COURSE 2: Intensive TOPIK Review (Test of Proficiency in Korean) Class
Fee: PHP3500
2017 March 11 to April 8 | Saturdays only (except Black Sat) | 9:00-12:00,2:00-5:00
5 sessions: 6 hours per session | 30 hours

This course is offered to Filipinos who are planning to take the Test of Proficiency in Korean I (TOPIK I) for Beginners. This includes vocabulary, grammar and reading lessons as well as mock TOPIK examinations. It aims to provide learners with the knowledge and skills necessary to pass level 1 and/or 2 of TOPIK, which is the official test of Korean proficiency administered by the Korean government.

Check out some guidelines below:

***Only those who have taken at least 30 hours of basic Korean classes are ENCOURAGED (though not required) to enroll in this course.
***Only those who will be able to attend at least 80% of the sessions will be issued a certificate of completion on the last session
***Once payment is made, payment can no longer be refunded in partial or full and/or transferred to other courses

Online registration is required. To register and for payment details click here: goo.gl/eVBrtn

Deadline for Registration is FEB 25. For more details and queries you can check out Ateneo Korean Studies Program Facebook page or contact Ms. Jamie Abucal via jabucal@ateneo.edu / 3511620.

I have once attended a conference hosted by KSP in 2015 when it was still called AIKS, their flagship annual activity, the 2015 AIKS Korean Studies Conference. I learned a lot from attending the conference and it opened me to topics related and beyond hallyu (K-pop/Korean drama) I never knew before through the different paper presentations.  Check out some photos below.

At the 2015 AIKS Korean Studies Conference

At the 2015 AIKS Korean Studies Conference

At the 2015 AIKS Korean Studies Conference

I will be attending the Hallyu Korean class so see you to those who will register.  Remember the deadline is FEB 25. Happy learning Korean in Ateneo. ♥

Ji Chang Wook Philippines Fan Club Hosted 1st Fan Gathering in Manila

A Mini Fan Gathering to Remember!

Korean actor Ji Chang Wook (well known for Korean dramas Healer and The K2), recently kicked off his 2017 Asia Tour with 2017 JCW 1^st Fan Meeting in Bangkok last Jan 21. The day after his successful Thailand fan meeting, fans of Ji from the Philippines gathered to celebrate and share their love for the handsome Korean star.

Ji Chang Wook Philipines (JCW Ph), a Philippine fan club of Ji Chang Wook based in Manila organized and held its first fan gathering dubbed as “Ji Chang Wook Ph 1^st Fan Gathering in Manila” on January 22 at Ulkeun Korean BBQ House, Malate Manila. As a confessed fan of him since last year (oh yes I’m a late bloomer fan), I can’t miss this event though I live far from the venue.

JCW PH 1st Fan Gathering in Manila poster

The event started with some opening remarks from the head admins of the fan club gathering. It was followed by a “getting to know” segment where each of the attendees introduced themselves and mentioned when/how they started to know and love Ji Chang Wook. Mostly became fans from watching Healer and The K2 series (much like me) but some were hooked even beyond Empress Ki period drama days.

Games, Photo ops and more!

The fun and excitement continued as JCW-related games and raffle were played. Everyone actively participated in the trivia game as well as the popular Filipino quiz ‘Pinoy Henyo’, where in a pair of participants team up to guess the word that is flashed on the forehead of one of them by saying/asking clues answerable by Yes or No. The words are of course related to Mr. Ji such as title of dramas he did as well as the characters he portrayed.  JCW-inspired locally made items like posters and mini standees were given as prizes.

‘Pinoy Henyo’ Game

‘Pinoy Henyo’ Game

raffle winner of JCW oh so handsome post cards~

raffle winner of the event tarp

Raffle Winner of JCW mini standee

While our Kim Je Ha is back to Korea from Thailand at the time of this event, his life size standee made every attendee fan kilig as if the manly handsome actor is just right in front of us. See below happy faces as each made their way to pose with ‘him’. ♥♥♥

Ji Chang Wook handsome life size standee

Ji Chang Wook handsome life size standee

Early dinner was served while each table ‘spazzed’ over the recent activities of the suave good-looking actor, mostly about his Thailand FM.

Ji Chang Wook Ph 1st Fan Gathering in Manila – Dinner time

Ji Chang Wook Ph 1st Fan Gathering in Manila – Korean Dinner Set Menu

Ji Chang Wook Ph 1st Fan Gathering in Manila – Dinner time

Ji Chang Wook Ph 1st Fan Gathering in Manila – Korean Dinner Set Menu

Ji Chang Wook Ph 1st Fan Gathering in Manila – Korean Dinner Set Menu

Since the announcement of 2017 Ji Chang Wook Asia Tour last December through Arirang World Facebook page, every Filipino fan can’t help but wish Philippines would be included. The hype that there’s a possibility of Manila being one of the stops in Ji’s Asia Tour started on that very same post when Arirang tagged the facebook page of Ji Chang Wook Philippines along with other countries’ fan club pages.

Our wishing game is further strengthened when local TV network ABS-CBN got the rights to air his latest action drama series The K2 in Philippine television.  The buzz that Philippines has also bought the rights (or is in talks) to his box office hit and first leading role film Fabricated City to be shown here adds more excitement and positive hopes to us Filipinos that we will be seeing Wookie in flesh before he enlist and fulfill his military duties. ♥♥♥

The K2 on ABS-CBN Teaser Photo (Kapamilyanovelas Official FB Page)

The K2 on ABS-CBN Teaser Photo (KapamilyaAsianovelas FB Page)

The fan gathering lasted for about 3 hours.  Each attendee got to take home a loot bag of souvenirs items from the event (locally made button pins, wallet-size photos, etc.) sealed with photo booth photos.

Ji Chang Wook Philippines 1st Fan Gathering in Manila loot bag (Photo from Regine Daplas)

Ji Chang Wook Philippines 1st Fan Gathering souvenir items

Ji Chang Wook Philippines 1st Fan Gathering souvenir items

Ji Chang Wook Philippines 1st Fan Gathering in Manila Photo Booth

Ji Chang Wook Philippines 1st Fan Gathering in Manila Photo Booth

Ji Chang Wook Philippines 1st Fan Gathering in Manila Photo Booth

Check this out for the complete set of pictures from the photo booth:
Photobooth Pics – Ji Chang Wook Ph 1st Fan Gathering

Yours truly didn’t go home without some take away fangirling memories. ^_^

Pinkyreg with JCW standee at Ji Chang Wook Philippines 1st Fan Gathering in Manila

Ji Chang Wook Philippines 1st Fan Gathering in Manila Photo Booth

And but of course the day won’t be complete without group photo ops. ♥♥♥

Ji Chang Wook Philippines 1st Fan Gathering in Manila Group Photo (photo credits to Regine Daplas)

Ji Chang Wook Philippines 1st Fan Gathering in Manila Group Photo (photo credits to Regine Daplas)

We here in the Philippines are patiently waiting for our chance to see our Healer, bodyguard and favorite action-drama actor like what the lucky Thai fans experienced for the first time. ♥♥♥

Ji Chang Wook with his Thai fans at JCW 1st Fan Meeting in Bangkok (credits: Feoh Thai Facebook)

Ji Chang Wook in Bangkok Fan Meet: Healer Snow Kiss Reenactment (credits: Feoh Thai Facebook)

Ji Chang Wook in Bangkok Fan Meet: Hi Touch (credits: Feoh Thai Facebook)

For the mean time it’s a sure thing that we will support Ji through his projects that will soon be shown here and any new drama or film lined up for him. Aja and keeping our fingers crossed!  ♥♥♥

Thank you so much Ji Chang Wook Philippines for hosting this 1st Fan Gathering in Manila.

To those who have missed this event, JCW Ph is planning to hold a bigger one this April. Like and follow them on Facebook and twitter below for updates on this and recent JCW news:

FB Page: Ji Chang Wook Philippines
Twitter: @JCWPhilippines

Honorary Ambassador for Korean Tourism Sue Ramirez Graced the Travel Tour Expo 2017 in Manila

Young actress Sue Ramirez made her appearance at the Travel Tour Expo 2017 on February 11, 2017 at the SMX Convention Center, Mall of Asia, Manila. This is her first public guesting as the new Honorary Ambassador for Korean Tourism by Korea Tourism Organization (KTO), a government agency dedicated to tourism promotion of the Republic of Korea, since she was appointed last Dec 2016.

Read more here: Sue Ramirez appointed as New Honorary Ambassador for Korean Tourism

Sue Ramirez as Honorary Ambassador for Korea Tourism (photo from KTO Manila)

Sue invited everyone to visit the different booths at the Korea Tourism Pavilion at the travel expo and also to book a trip to Korea. The lovely Korea Tourism ambassador also performed onstage and sang “You Are My Everything” (Gummy), one of the songs in the official soundtrack of the mega hit 2016 Korean Drama Descendants of the Sun.

Sue Ramirez performing at the Travel Tour Expo 2017 main stage (photo from KTO Manila)

Ms. Ramirez then went straight to the Korea Tourism Pavilion and held a meet-and-greet session where around 50-100 fans and attendees at the travel expo got their chance to have some photo ops and signature from the actress.

Sue is one of the celebrity guests invited by Korea Tourism Organization Manila (KTO Manila) to help promote Korea on the  3-day annual travel expo. Comedian and TV host Ryan Bang and I Love OPM Grand Touristar Yohan Hwang were the other guests who appeared at the expo.

Sue Ramirez and the crowd at her Meet and Greet session (photo from KTO Manila)

Mr. Inshik Park, Director of KTO Manila expressed his delight at the appointment of Ms. Ramirez as their honorary ambassador.  According to Mr. Park, Sue is the right choice as the she is very interested in Korean culture and as a rising star in Philippine showbiz with a million of followers in her social media accounts she has a great reach to promote Korea.

Sue Ramirez with KTO Manila Director Mr. Park (3rd from left) and staff (photo from KTO Manila)

Sue Ramirez with KTO Manila Director Mr. Inshik Park at her appopintment as Honorary Ambassador for Korean Tourism (photo from KTO Manila)

I was able to line up at the meet and greet and finally met her face to face.  As a fan of her, a lover of everything Korean and a KTO Manila WOW Korea Supporter (tasked to promote Korea tourism in social media) back in 2013, I am so happy to have this chance and felt like we are alike in so many ways. ♥♥♥

More photos here from my camera:

Pinkyreg meets Sue

Sue signs my Korea Travel Guide Book from KTO Manila

Pinkyreg meets Sue

As of writing Sue is now in Seoul South Korea for her first ever trip in the enchanting Korean drama land as posted in her official Instagram account (@sueannadoodles) and at KTO Manila Facebook page.

Feb 15, 2017 ig post of Sue Ramirez captioned #SueLovesKorea (@sueannadoodles)

Sue Ramirez in Seoul (source: KTO Manila facebook page)

For Sue Ramirez’s travel in Korea  follow her on social media at her official accounts below: 

Instagram: @sueannadoodles
Twitter: @sueanna_dodd
Official FB Page: Sue Ramirez Facebook Page

Also kindly visit and like Korea Tourism Organization Manila Office Facebook page or follow them on twitter @KTOManila for more of Korea travel and tourism information as well as Sue’s activities as Honorary Ambassador for Korean Tourism.

 

Pinkyreg Giveaway: My First Ever and Perfect Way to End 2016 and Hello 2017

2016 is one of my best years ever! I am so blessed in all aspects all year round, winning online contests left and right and getting what I have always dreamed of in unexpected ways outweighing all the bad vibes and stress all around. And for this I decided to share the overwhelming blessings in a form of a Giveaway.

I recently hosted a giveaway event thru my blog’s Facebook page Pinkyreg. I have joined almost every kind of Facebook/Instagram/Twitter/blogging contest and for a change I’m the one to raffle away something instead.

What items to give away? When the idea came into me the first person that popped in my mind was Song Joongki. Who doesn’t love Captain Yoo aka Bigboss? And he is the person who inspired me the most and the korean heartthrob everyone, of all ages) wished for (Read here for my last year’s favorite blogpost: Top 10 Captain Yoo Si Jin Personas We Fell In Love With).

And so I chose to give Song Joongki items, some of which were items I personally won in a contest, sharing some of it away since I literally won so much, hihi. ♥♥♥

As posted in my Facebook page, dubbed as #PinkyregGiveaway the above items were up for grabs: Sparkling Magazine Summer 2016 issue with Song Joongki on the cover and Jeju Air Song Joongki gift set, to those who supported my blog page and share my give away post.  I have also added some creativity flavor and asked to comment down their response to “Why you deserve to win these items?”

See here for the full details: #PinkyregGiveaway

My Giveaway event ended last January 6 that ran for about two weeks starting Dec 28. I have announced my two lucky winners on the evening of Jan 12. It was really hard to pick the winners since most of them are my friends, coupled by the excitement that I am now the one doing this thing for the first time ever. So instead of just raffling off the Joongki items I ultimately choose the ones with the best answer on why they should win.

Congratulations again to my first ever Giveaway event winners: Christine Dyan Belga (Sparkling Magazine) and Rochelle Bertulfo (Jeju Air Song Joongki gift set). You both deserve it.

Pinkyreg Giveaway Sparkling Mag Winner

I can’t describe the feeling as I have announced their names on my page and how happy it is to finally hand one of the prizes to a complete stranger and fellow kpop/kdrama fan. As I have said in my page, I do hope you both enjoy your Song Joongki prize items as much as I love him, hahaha. 🙂

Till my next contest wins and give away, Aja! Thank you so much to those who joined and for supporting my blog and facebook page. For new readers follow me on my social media accounts. Kamsahamnida~ ♥ ♥ ♥

Pinkyreg FB page: https://www.facebook.com/pinkyregblog/
Instagram: @pinky_reg

All Goodvibes At The 2016 Starbucks Christmas Grand Launch

The much awaited annual Starbucks Christmas tradition in the Philippines has already started this November 2 but I’ve got the chance to experience it days earlier. Last Oct 29, 2016 my Starbucks addict self excitedly dressed up to attend the 2016 Starbucks Christmas Grand Launch at the Grand Atrium of Shangri-la Plaza Mall.

The launch event was held for two days, Oct 29 and 30 free of charge to the public. Attendees just have to show a screenshot of their My Starbucks Rewards account page to enter and be given a Cheer Passport.

I have no idea of what’s in store for me there aside from seeing first hand and having a chance of winning the 2017 planners but since Starbucks equates to Goodvibes for me I immediately ticked “Going” at the official FB event page and saved the log-in screenshot before heading there.

I was not able to enter last year’s launch since I came in too late from work and the program is about to end. So literally it’s my first time. In my excitement I accidentally erased the photo while lining up hahaha, and so i went to a wifi ready place just to resave, lol. 😛

As I line up again that was the time I noticed a lot of booths and baristas were all around the venue, hmmmm…I smell something thrilling fun right there and then.

When the Cheer Passport and Starbucks Promo card were given to me the barista in the registration booth explained that I need to complete a total of 5 stamps by doing the activities/challenges in each of the 5 Cheer Stations inside to get a Special Gift. Ok, lets do this. And so I entered and to my surprise this greeted me: Cheer Station 1 – Christmas Selfie Challenge. I picked from a bowl of paper slips what I needed to do and tada, the challenge for me is “Take a selfie with a Starbucks Barista” and upload it on your social media account.

Hihihi, OMG, Kilig much, Im game!

(I said while smiling ear to ear, hahaha) ♡♥♡

The kilig turned into a different kind of cloud nine. It feels overwhelmingly heaven seeing everything Starbucks and Christmas and baristas so I decided to save the best for last and just go on the next 4 Cheer Stations before scoring that “selfie“.

Oh well the real reason is that I just wanted to look around for the most charming one and find the guts too. It’s harder in real life than what my imagination depicted, hahaha. 😛

Let’s get it on with the next Cheer Stations’ activities. Cheer Station 2 is the “Sips of Cheer” where you are asked to try on the new Christmas beverage Santa Hat Dark Mocha Frappuccino. Isn’t it so great, a free taste and you got a stamp.

This new beverage is the perfect Christmas frappe for me. Its bittersweet mix of Dark mocha, strawberry and java chips is just right and the coffee is not too strong yet it can perk you up. Finally my acidic stomach found a match and I can complete the right side of the planner promo card faster. Thank you Starbucks for this. ♡♥♡

Cheer Station 3: Flavors of Christmas is some kind of a memory game wherein you need to get 2 matches by flipping the cards of Starbucks flavors. I didn’t get a match here yet there is a prize item win or loose and a stamp of course for trying.

Cheer Station 4: Celebrate our Beloved Christmas Blend is a free taste station that comes with a lecture from the charming baristas of the choiced Christmas blend beans and how the normal brew and “siphoning” produces different levels of taste and coffee aroma. Yes I can be a Starbucks barista now hahaha. 😛

The last is probably the hardest for me. Cheer Station 5: Crafted by Hand and Heart needs the artist in you by designing a blank Starbucks Christmas greeting card.

I have no sense of the visual arts and its my hatest subject in school yet I have no choice but to draw and play with the gliterry and metallic pens/markers provided. Here are some of the finished product of others, nevermind mine hahaha.

So where is the Starbucks Barista selfie? Ok here it is, I can’t do it with the one I find the most charming but definitely it was one kilig flattering moment hihi. ♡♥♡

Lol! Its not just a selfie right. Caption it for yourselves hahaha. They even let me be a barista for a day in the next photo. ☆♡★

Before claiming the gift item its now time to get a first hand look at the colorful 2017 Starbucks Planner designs.

This year it comes in two hip and classy designs: the Blue Siren and Coffee Stains and it comes with an erasable pen, magnetic bookmark and a pouch to keep it neat. Nicee right! ★☆★

The Christmas tumblers are so eyecandy too as well as the new Starbucks card designs. Cant resist to touch and took photos.

I really did enjoy the event. So much goodvibes all around. ♡♥♡

Here are some more photos of the crowd and inside the event.

Here’s my completed Cheer Passport and my take home items and happy heart inside ♡★♡

Here’s one more takeaway~ I didn’t get a selfie but at least a photo with the most charming barista of the day (left), hahahaha. ♥♡♥

Thank you so much and Congratulations Starbucks Philippines for a very creative, interactive and enjoyable launch full of Starbucks Christmas spirit and goodvibes. Will forever be a Starbucks baby.

Even if I was not able to wait for the planner raffle draw it’s all worth it that I came here. Indeed an event worth blogging. ★☆★

Love,
Pinkyreg ♡♥♡