“Life is really simple, but we insist on making it complicated” – Confucius “Simplicity is the ultimate sophistication.” – Leonardo Da Vinci * When I think of Ju Rhyu and her Mighty Patch success story, I am awed by the simplicity of her journey. In 2017, Rhyu bootstrapped one product and launched it the fastest…
In recent years, South Korean cinema has captivated audiences worldwide, transcending language barriers with its unique blend of storytelling, innovation, and artistry. Far from being newcomers to the industry, Korean filmmakers have been been honing their craft for decades. From the groundbreaking brilliance of “Parasite,” which made history at the Oscars, to the intense political…
Three Giants of Joseon Art Jeong Seon, Kim Hong-do, and Shin Yun-bok are among the most representative painters of Korea’s Joseon period, a 500 year dynasty which lasted from 1392-1897. These artists’ works reflect the customs, landscapes, and spirit of Joseon, marking an important era of Korean painting history. Their works are fundamental to Korean…
Captured on grainy black-and-white film, surrounded by the roar of a stadium, a broken Olympian cast his gaze down to his feet. Looking utterly humiliated while clutching a laurel plant to his chest, the Korean Gold Medalist hears the anthem of a country that’s not his own. And so we start, on the “Road to…
Michael ByungJu Kim, chairman and founder of MBK Partners, donated $25 million to his alma mater, Haverford College, earlier this year. This transformative gift is slated to establish the Institute for Ethical Inquiry & Leadership. Michael B. Kim is a private equity firm leader who has the distinction of being one of the richest people…
There is a scene in an episode of the sitcom Kim’s Convenience, where a father asks his daughter’s date when the Korean War started, just to test the suitor’s Korean-ness and make sure he is worthy of a date with his daughter. Passing a test like this may not be a concern for most people.…
From innovative formulas to adorable packaging, it’s no wonder that beauty enthusiasts worldwide are constantly seeking out the latest and greatest from the Korean cosmetics scene. My last article in this series featured five viral K-Beauty products with my honest reviews, and I’ve come back with six more, all priced reasonably and widely accessible to…
It may be a surprise to some that the Twin Cities is home to a thriving Korean community. This is underscored by the daily direct flights between Minneapolis-St. Paul and Seoul, reflecting the deep connection between the two cities. We still have a long way to go before having the selection of the Koreatowns in…
Call me biased, but South Korea should be at the top of your travel wish list. Beyond the allure of kimchi, K-Pop idols, K-Dramas, and remarkable skincare, you’ll discover a country steeped in rich history, culture, and breathtaking landscapes. As a Korean Adoptee, I didn’t grow up in a ‘typical’ Korean family. While I learned…
Long before Netflix got into the K-drama game, there was Viki. As viewers across the globe increasingly fall under the spell of Korean dramas, Viki still stands as the OG leader in this genre. Born in 2007, Viki had a small but dedicated following of drama lovers. The streaming platform grew steadily and was introduced…