Mouse Rabbit Cafe: A Cafe by Super Junior Yesung

Food May 01, 2025

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Hansot Dosirak: My Favorite Affordable Korean Meal for Busy Students and Travelers

Food April 17, 2025

Hansot Dosirak: The Ultimate Cheap Meal in Korea

As a student who heavily relies on my allowance, I always have to make sure that I can eat well without spending too much.

Lately, because of my busy schedule, I haven't had time to cook, so eating out has become my only option. Luckily, I found a place that's affordable, filling, and easy to find across South Korea (just near my dorm!). I highly recommend it if you're planning to visit!

What is Hansot Dosirak?

Hansot (한솥) is a popular chain restaurant in South Korea that specializes in dosirak, or Korean lunchboxes.

You can find Hansot stores all over the South Korea, especially near schools, offices, and subway stations. It's a go-to place for students, office workers, and anyone who needs a quick but satisfying meal without breaking the bank.

Why Hansot is Perfect for Budget Travelers and Students

If you're living in Korea on a budget, or even visiting for a short time, Hansot Dosirak is an ideal choice for an affordable and satisfying meal. Most of the meals range from ₩4,000 to ₩7,000 (around $3–$5 USD), making it easy to enjoy a full meal without breaking the bank.

One of the main reasons Hansot is so popular is the big portions they offer. Each meal typically includes rice, a main dish like fried chicken, pork cutlet, or beef bulgogi, and a selection of traditional Korean side dishes (called banchan) like kimchi and seasoned vegetables. Not only is it budget-friendly, but you also get a variety of flavors in one meal, filling you up with authentic Korean tastes.

Another great feature of Hansot is the convenient locations. Stores are found in almost every neighborhood across Korea, especially near university areas, subway stations, and shopping districts. This makes it easy for anyone to grab a quick, delicious meal on the go. The quick service is also a big plus. With the option to order through kiosks, you can skip long lines and get your meal fast. Plus, Hansot offers a variety of options, so whether you're in the mood for spicy stir-fried pork, a crispy pork cutlet, or a classic bulgogi, there’s something for everyone.

My Go-To Hansot Meals: A Must-Try for Everyone

As a regular at Hansot, I have a few favorites that I always go back to. If you’re new to the chain or looking for something to try, here are some of my personal go-to dishes (I cannot remember the exact name of the dish but this is how I remember them):

Chamchi Bibimbap - This Tuna Bibimbap is a delicious mix of soft rice, fresh tuna, creamy mayo, gochujang, and vegetables. It’s simple but satisfying, and it always hits the spot when I’m craving something light yet filling.

Chicken Mayo - A rice bowl with crispy chicken, mayo, and egg. It’s one of their cheapest meals and packed with flavor. Perfect for when you're on the go but need something comforting.

Jeyuk Tonkatsu Dosirak - If you love a bit of spice, this dish is for you. The Jeyuk Donkatsu Dosirak combines crispy pork cutlet with a spicy stir-fried pork dish, giving you a perfect kick while satisfying your hunger.

Chicken, Burger Patty, and Tonkatsu Dosirak - Looking for variety? This dosirak offers a combination of crispy chicken burger patty and the beloved tonkatsu. It’s hearty and gives you the best of both worlds!

These meals are not just affordable but also pack a lot of flavor, and they’re perfect whether you’re a student, a busy worker, or just anyone looking for a delicious meal on the go. Every dish is carefully prepared to give you the perfect balance of taste and satisfaction, making Hansot Dosirak my go-to spot for a reliable, quick, and tasty meal.

How to Find a Hansot Near You

Hansot locations are literally everywhere.

You can use Naver Maps or Kakao Maps and search for "한솥" to find the nearest store. Most locations are open from morning until night, making it a perfect option whether you're craving lunch or dinner.

@annyeongruth When people ask me where I usually eat, I tell them “Hansot”. When I don’t know where to eat or when I lack money, I always go here. Plus, it’s near our dorm! #korea #southkorea #lifeinsouthkorea #lifeinkorea #globalkoreascholarship #gks2023 #gks2025 #koreanfood #kfood ♬ Little Happiness - Oneul

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Is Interpark's Play & Stay Package Worth It for K-Pop Concerts? My Honest Experience at SEVENTEEN Caratland 2025

Lifestyle April 05, 2025

Interpark Play & Stay Review: My Experience at SEVENTEEN's Caratland 2025

I’ve been familiar with Interpark’s Play & Stay package since Caratland 2024, but I hesitated at first because of the price. However, ticketing for Caratland 2025 was a whole new challenge. Interpark now only allows you to queue for one date at a time, making it harder to secure two-day tickets. That’s when I finally gave Play & Stay a try, and in this blog post, I’ll share my full experience for those who might be considering it too.

What is Interpark’s Play & Stay?

Play & Stay is an exclusive concert package by Interpark that bundles concert tickets and hotel accommodation — very similar to SM Entertainment’s SM Global Package. It offers several perks, making it ideal for international fans or anyone who wants a smoother concert experience.

Benefits of Play & Stay:

🎟️ Concert/ Fan Meeting tickets
🛏️ 3D2N hotel accommodation (twin or single room)
🛍️ Official merchandise/freebies
🚌 Shuttle service to and from the venue
🧾 Easy ticket pickup at the hotel (skip the long lines at the venue!)

My Experience with Play & Stay

Ticketing Queue Was Manageable

During the Caratland 2025 ticketing, one thing that stood out to me was how Play & Stay had noticeably fewer fans queuing compared to the general ticketing pool. I initially entered the queue with a number somewhere in the 700s, which gave me a little hope but unfortunately, I got kicked out of the system mid-queue (classic Interpark moment, right?). When I got back in, my number had jumped to the 2000s, and at that point, I was honestly just crossing my fingers and hoping for the best.

@annyeongruth I just realized that I didn’t take a video of myself while doing the ticketing 🙃 But still! The important thing is we have tickets 🩷 See you again soon SEVENTEEN! #kpop #seventeen #세븐틴 #caratland #caratland2025 #interpark #ticketing #lifeinkorea ♬ God of Light Music - SEVENTEEN

Surprisingly, despite the higher queue number, I was still able to secure a Twin Room package! I think the lower demand compared to general ticketing helped increase my chances. It seems that a lot of fans still hesitate to go for Play & Stay, possibly because of the price, but for those who are considering convenience and guaranteed tickets, this route is definitely worth looking into.

Thanks to the Twin Room booking, I was able to stay with my friend for the full 3D2N experience, making the whole trip not just easier but also way more fun.

Hotel Was Great

I don’t usually splurge on accommodations because I’m the type who’s always out and about, so I just need a clean place to stay. That’s why I rarely book hotels, and this was actually only my third time staying at a hotel in Korea. But honestly? Glad Yeouido Hotel exceeded my expectations.

The room was spacious, clean, and super cozy. It had a sleek and modern design with warm lighting that made the space feel extra relaxing. There was plenty of room to move around, even with two suitcases open on the floor (fangirl essentials, of course). The bathroom was spotless, and we had complimentary water bottles and all the basic amenities ready for us.

And the bed? Chef’s kiss. It was so soft and comfy. It's the kind of bed that makes you forget all your worries the moment you sink into it. After a long day of preparing for the fan meeting and running on barely any sleep, it felt like I was wrapped in a warm hug. I genuinely had one of the best, deepest sleeps I’ve had in months.

Check-in was also smooth and hassle-free. Just like the normal checking in, I just showed my passport and the staff gave us our keycards within minutes. The front desk staff were kind and professional, and even though we were international guests, everything went smoothly.

Ticket Claiming Was Convenient

One of the biggest perks of the Play & Stay package was the hassle-free ticket claiming process. We didn’t have to line up outside the venue with the crowd. Instead, we picked up our tickets and wristbands right at the hotel lobby between 9:00 AM and 12:00 NN. It was super convenient, especially for someone like me who gets anxious about queues and crowd control.

The process was simple and well-organized. All we had to do was present our Interpark verification page and a valid ID or passport to the staff stationed at the lobby. If you booked a twin room, make sure both guests are present during pickup. This ensures that the tickets are only given to the rightful holders, which I appreciated.

Along with our tickets and wristbands, we also received our official merch freebies for this package: a Bongbongie keyring (so cute!) and a trading card set. It was such a nice touch like a mini unboxing moment right there in the hotel.

As for the seating, it was randomly assigned but guaranteed to be in the R section, as mentioned in Interpark's announcement. While some hotels might get you better R seats (I assume the more premium ones), the difference wasn’t huge. Our seats still offered a great view of the stage, and I was able to fully enjoy the fan meeting without feeling like I was too far from the action.

Shuttle service to and from the venue

One of the biggest perks of the Play & Stay package was definitely the included shuttle service and I can’t emphasize this enough! Since Caratland 2025 wasn’t held in Seoul, going home from the venue on your own could’ve been a bit of a headache. But thanks to the shuttle, transportation was the least of my worries.

The shuttle buses were organized by the hotel and Interpark, and everything ran smoothly from start to finish. All we had to do was remember the pickup time and location that our guide mentioned during claiming of tickets. We just showed up at the designated spot, and there they were.

Our assigned guide was super kind and friendly, and honestly made the ride feel like a mini field trip. They gave us reminders in both Korean and English, helped fans stay organized, and even cracked a few jokes along the way. It really helped lighten the mood and added to the overall experience.

Bonus points for the free bottled water they handed out on board. It made me feel well taken care of, and it was clear they’d thought about the little things that make a big difference for concert-goers.

After the show, the shuttle was also waiting to take us back to the hotel, which meant no stress about navigating public transportation at night. I literally just followed the guide, hopped back on the bus, and was dropped off safely at our hotel.

Final Thoughts: Is Interpark Play & Stay Worth It?

Absolutely, if you have the budget. The convenience it offers - from ticketing and accommodations to shuttle service and freebies - is worth the price, especially for international fans or those who want to attend multiple days.

I didn’t feel any of the usual concert ticketing stress, and everything was organized and smooth. I’d definitely consider booking again for future events.

Mini Vlog

@annyeongruth Wondering what the Play&Stay Package for concerts and fanmeets in Korea? Here’s my experience! #kpop #seventeen #세븐틴 #캐럿랜드 #caratland #playandstay #interpark with @DM ♬ 蜜桃物语 - 仁辰 & 于行

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IDENEL PEPTAXEL at Obliv Clinic, Incheon – My Results & Review

BeautyFashion March 28, 2025

And it's true - Beauty is Pain

Who would have thought that a girl who never paid much attention to skincare would now be receiving collaborations for skin treatments?

Why I started my Skin Care Journey

My first-ever skin clinic visit in South Korea was at Xenia Clinic, where I got PicoSure Toning and a Glutathione White Injection. Since then, I’ve made it one of my 2025 goals to visit skin clinics regularly and improve my skin condition. Although I still have a long way to go, this collaboration with IDENEL and Obliv Clinic helped me take another step toward better skin.

If you’ve been following me on social media, you may have noticed I haven’t been as active lately. I always say I’m busy, but this time, I was busier than ever! When I received this collaboration offer, I scheduled my appointment during Caratland 2025 since I was already planning to visit Seoul. I had to fit multiple appointments into my trip, and this skincare session was one of them!

So in today’s blog post, I’ll be sharing my experience at Obliv Clinic in Incheon and trying IDENEL PEPTAXEL for the first time.

Obliv Clinic

📍 Obliv Clinic

🗺️ 인천광역시 연수구 인천타워대로 132번길 34, 3층

I had never heard of Obliv Clinic before, so I did some research. I found out that many foreigners visit this clinic, which made me more confident in choosing it. Plus, it’s located near SEVENTEEN’s Caratland 2025 at Incheon Munhak Stadium, making it a convenient stop during my trip.

When I arrived, there were several people at the clinic, but I was the only foreigner. Honestly, I felt a bit anxious since my Korean skills aren’t that great, and all the staff spoke in Korean. But despite the language barrier, they did their best to accommodate me and made me feel welcomed. Note to self: I really need to improve my Korean!

The clinic itself looked premium and high-quality, so I knew I was in good hands. I didn’t have to wait long before my session started.

IDENEL PEPTAXEL Treatment - What to Expect

Before the procedure, the clinic did a thorough skin analysis using a machine. That’s when I found out my skin was aged at 32 years old—which is not great since I’m not even in my 30s yet! 😭 Because of this, the doctor recommended PEPTAXEL, specifically a combination of TR Solution Powder and REGEN Concentrate.

These products were chosen to target my skin concerns and restore my irritated skin.

From IDENEL's IG account

What is PEPTAXEL?

According to IDENEL, PEPTAXEL is designed to:

✔️ Boost collagen production

✔️ Promote skin renewal

✔️ Heal and strengthen the skin barrier

It contains Altum Peptide, a blend of spicules & peptides that enhance healing and rejuvenation.

The Treatment Process

The staff mixed the TR Solution Powder and REGEN Concentrate, applied it to my skin, and massaged it in. At first, everything felt normal, but after a few minutes… the tingling kicked in! Thankfully, the staff kept checking on me throughout the process, which was reassuring.

After the treatment, my face was red and slightly irritated. To help calm my skin, they applied:

✅ IDENEL Glutathione Skin Booster

✅ Intensive Essential Sheet Mask

✅ LED Light Therapy (my favorite part because I fell asleep 😂)

✅ A final cream application to lock in moisture

Before and After - The Results

After the treatment, I experienced - redness, tingling sensation (which lasted for 4 days!), and skin peeling. I wasn’t prepared for the tingling—even putting on a cap hurt my face. Any slight touch from my hands, cap, or pillow was painful. But as they say, beauty is pain, and I had to endure it!

However, a few days after the treatment, my skin felt smoother, and the pigmentations around my nose disappeared. I even noticed the difference during a video call with my mom—and if my mom noticed, that means it really worked! 😂

Mini Vlog

@annyeongruth And all I can say is... wow! IDENEL PEPTAXEL is definitely worth the pain. It revitalized my skin to have that glowing look. And going to @Obliv Daily Life is also a good choice! The place was so nice was able to maximize my time while having a great experience. Will you also try it? #peptaxel #altumpeptide #microneedle #koreanskincare #incheonclinic #songdoclinic #koreanskinclinic ♬ original sound - Ruthie in Korea 🇰🇷

With my skin condition, it is recommended to do this treatment once every two weeks. But reality check, due to my schedule and budget, it might take longer before I can do this again. If I had the time and money, I would definitely go for another session.

If you’re interested, you can try Obliv Clinic to get your skin analyzed and see if this treatment is right for you. (Much better if you can communicate in Korean)

Have you tried PEPTAXEL or other skin treatments? Let me know in the comments!

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Caratland 2025: A Bittersweet Farewell Before Wonwoo’s Enlistment

Entertainment March 28, 2025

Let's Meet Again on a Winter Day When our Noses are Cold

Who would have thought that in less than a year, I’d be attending another Caratland? Just last July 2024, I was lucky enough to experience two days of Caratland 2024. So when PLEDIS announced the schedule for this year’s event, I was shocked - but little did I know, the reason behind it was so that Wonwoo could attend before his military enlistment.

PLEDIS confirmed that Wonwoo will begin his alternative military service on April 3, 2025. This means that Caratland 2025 marks his last public appearance before his enlistment, making this event even more emotional for CARATs.

Securing Tickets for Caratland 2025

I was beyond grateful to have secured tickets for both Day 1 and Day 2 during the pre-sale. My Day 1 ticket was under Play&Stay (which I’ll be writing about in a separate blog post), while my Day 2 ticket was a regular one.

Memorable Moments at Caratland 2025

OT12 Caratzone Photocards with PuzzleTeen Special Set

To celebrate SEVENTEEN’s 10th anniversary, this year’s Caratland photocards were released as a complete set (except for Jeonghan, who is currently serving in the military). In addition to this, SEVENTEEN introduced special PuzzleTeen photocards.

UPDATE: SEVENTEEN has launched their new mobile game, PuzzleTeen! It reminds me of Candy Crush, but with a SEVENTEEN concept. Safe to say, I am the target market.

Since the Caratzone photocards came as a set, there was no need for fans to trade on-site. While this was convenient, it also felt bittersweet. On-site trading has become a major part of concert and fanmeet culture in South Korea, and without it, some of the excitement was missing. Still, I’m very grateful to have received a full set!

My 10th Anniversary Caratbong Version 3

SEVENTEEN finally released a new version of the Caratbong, and this time, it features our official fandom colors: Serenity and Rose Quartz.

When Caratbong Version 3 was initially released, I’ll admit, I was disappointed. It was a downgrade from Version 2, as they changed the body to black. Many CARATs customized theirs with paint and stickers - including me! But now, the 10th Anniversary Edition brings back our beloved fandom colors.

Version 2 will always be the queen of Caratbongs, but this new one? It’s definitely the princess.

Interpark’s Face Pass: A New Ticketing Experience

I wasn’t planning to use Interpark’s Face Pass, but I ended up trying it - and it was surprisingly smooth! Once your face is registered in the system, all you need to do is scan your face at the entrance through a tablet. Your seat number appears on a screen, and they hand you your wristband without needing to show a ticket.

I didn’t record my experience for privacy reasons, but it was quick and seamless. However, I completely understand concerns about AI-generated images and privacy risks. If Face Pass isn’t for you, you can still opt for the traditional ticket verification process.

Spectacular Performances from SEVENTEEN

The setlist for Caratland 2025 was nothing short of amazing! I finally got to hear some of the songs I had been longing for:

Let Me Hear You Say – I’ve always wished to hear this live, and when it started playing, I was in shock! It’s not even my favorite song, but for some reason, I’ve always wanted to experience it in person.

Cheers – This is my TOTGA song. SEVENTEEN performed it at Be The Sun in Bulacan, but I couldn’t attend because of my friend’s wedding. So hearing it live for the first time—and as an OT12 performance no less—was an unforgettable moment!

My My – One of my all-time favorite SEVENTEEN songs. I first heard it live at their Love Fanmeeting in Japan, but I wasn’t able to record it due to strict policies. This time, I finally have a video of them performing it!

Leftover – I had high expectations that Wonwoo would perform this, and he did! Hearing Leftover live before his enlistment was an emotional experience. It may be a long time before I see him again, but I will definitely be waiting for him.

Mini Vlog

@annyeongruth FANMEET MINI VLOG | SEVENTEEN Caratland 2025 ✨💎 It’s already been a week since Caratland happened 🥹 And to be honest, I haven’t processed my emotions because I was so busy right after the fanmeet. But all I know is I’m happy I got to attend Caratland once again. I miss them already 🥹 #kpop #seventeen #세븐틴 #캐럿 #캐럿랜드 #caratland2025 #lifeinkorea ♬ Encircled SEVENTEEN - 𝒚𝒆𝒆𝒏🐰ྀི

Definitely from Cheers to Tears, my heart is experiencing a mix of happiness and sadness after Caratland 2025. With everything happening so fast (and me being so busy!), I haven’t had the time to fully process my emotions. I hope I can sit down soon, rewatch my fancams, and relive the magic of this special event. Until we meet again, SEVENTEEN! 💎

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SEVENTEEN to Star in NA PD's New Variety Show 'Nana Minbak'

Entertainment March 07, 2025

SEVENTEEN's Next Variety Show: Get Ready for Chaos and Laughter in Nana Minbak with Na PD!

Carats, get ready to scream and laugh (again!) because SEVENTEEN is about to bless our screens with another variety show! According to News1 on the 7th of March, the group is set to begin filming for Na PD's latest masterpiece, Nana Minbak. And honestly, I am so ready for it!

What is Nana Minbak?

The term Minbak (민박) in Korean refers to a type of guesthouse or homestay, usually a small, family-run accommodation where visitors can stay overnight. It’s similar to a bed-and-breakfast and is often found in rural or tourist areas in Korea. This means Nana Minbak could involve SEVENTEEN running a guesthouse, leading to some truly unforgettable interactions and hilarious moments!

While details about the program remain top secret (as expected from Na PD), the title Nana Minbak hints at a guesthouse-themed variety show. If you have seen Youn’s Kitchen or Jinny’s Kitchen, you know Na PD is great at creating shows that mix business with top-tier entertainment.

The title Nana Minbak also reminds us of Nana Store and Nana Tour, concepts that originally appeared in New Journey to the West and Game Caterers. SEVENTEEN first showcased their chaotic variety skills in Game Caterers back in 2023, leading to the birth of Nana Tour with SEVENTEEN in January 2024. And now? We’re getting Nana Minbak! Our boys are definitely booked and busy.

Another Kidnapping Arc?!

If you watched Nana Tour, you would remember how Na PD and his team “kidnapped” SEVENTEEN members by surprise which had me and every Carats screaming (and laughing). Given his history of pulling wild pranks, will we witness another “kidnapping” moment in Nana Minbak? Knowing Na PD, anything is possible, and honestly, we are here for the chaos they bring.

Na PD: The Genius Behind Hit Variety Shows

Na Young-seok isn’t just any PD—he’s THE PD. Over the years, he has blessed us with iconic reality and travel shows, from Grandpas Over Flowers to New Journey to the West and Three Meals a Day. He also gave us unforgettable food and travel content with Youn’s Kitchen, Youn’s Stay, and Jinny’s Kitchen.

But wait—there’s more! Recently, Na PD reportedly has been working on a new variety show with Netflix. While there’s no confirmation that Nana Minbak is related to it, the timing is interesting. Since Nana Minbak is set to air on Weverse and tvN, Netflix’s involvement seems unlikely but we can’t rule out the possibility of a connection just yet. With Na PD juggling multiple projects, there might be something bigger in the works. Either way, we’re excited to see what surprises he has in store for us next!

Where and When to Watch Nana Minbak

Nana Minbak will be available on the tvN channel and the online platform Weverse. The official release date is still under wraps, but one thing’s for sure, we're going to be looking forward for it!

Stay tuned for more updates.

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Pages

Mouse Rabbit Cafe: A Cafe by Super Junior Yesung

Another Cafe You Must Visit if You're an ELF

Location

Menu

Cafe Vibe

Overall Experience

Hansot Dosirak: My Favorite Affordable Korean Meal for Busy Students and Travelers

Hansot Dosirak: The Ultimate Cheap Meal in Korea

What is Hansot Dosirak?

Why Hansot is Perfect for Budget Travelers and Students

My Go-To Hansot Meals: A Must-Try for Everyone

How to Find a Hansot Near You

Is Interpark's Play & Stay Package Worth It for K-Pop Concerts? My Honest Experience at SEVENTEEN Caratland 2025

Interpark Play & Stay Review: My Experience at SEVENTEEN's Caratland 2025

What is Interpark’s Play & Stay?

Benefits of Play & Stay:

My Experience with Play & Stay

Ticketing Queue Was Manageable

Hotel Was Great

Ticket Claiming Was Convenient

Shuttle service to and from the venue

Final Thoughts: Is Interpark Play & Stay Worth It?

Mini Vlog

IDENEL PEPTAXEL at Obliv Clinic, Incheon – My Results & Review

And it's true - Beauty is Pain

Why I started my Skin Care Journey

Obliv Clinic

IDENEL PEPTAXEL Treatment - What to Expect

What is PEPTAXEL?

The Treatment Process

Before and After - The Results

Mini Vlog

Caratland 2025: A Bittersweet Farewell Before Wonwoo’s Enlistment

Let's Meet Again on a Winter Day When our Noses are Cold

Securing Tickets for Caratland 2025

Memorable Moments at Caratland 2025

OT12 Caratzone Photocards with PuzzleTeen Special Set

My 10th Anniversary Caratbong Version 3

Interpark’s Face Pass: A New Ticketing Experience

Spectacular Performances from SEVENTEEN

Mini Vlog

SEVENTEEN to Star in NA PD's New Variety Show 'Nana Minbak'

SEVENTEEN's Next Variety Show: Get Ready for Chaos and Laughter in Nana Minbak with Na PD!

What is Nana Minbak?

Another Kidnapping Arc?!

Na PD: The Genius Behind Hit Variety Shows

Where and When to Watch Nana Minbak

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