This new “Summer Glow” K-beauty box worth $217+ is yours to bag home at just $67+

BEAUTY BOX AUG (Summer Glow BOX) Banner

Always wondered how Koreans achieve that summer glow even when the temperatures are high af?

Then you don’t want to miss out on Olive Young’s “Summer Glow” K-beauty box—filled with skincare products valued at over $217, now available for just $67+.

This is the steal of the summer season and here’s what you get:

FULL SIZE

SOME BY MI AHA-BHA-PHA 30 Days Miracle True Cica Clear Pad 70ea

SOME BY MI AHA-BHA-PHA 30 Days Miracle True Cica Clear Pad 70ea

Ready for your 30-day skin transformation?

SOME BY MI’s Miracle True Cica Clear Pads are here to make it happen.

These dual-sided pads are packed with AHA, BHA, and PHA, and are gentle enough for daily use. 

One side soothes, while the other removes dead skin cells.

With 85% white willow bark water, a natural BHA, these pads dissolve impurities and excess sebum.

Get smoother, clearer skin with 95% acne improvement.

These pads have scored a perfect 0.00 on the skin irritation test so you can safely battle breakouts.

Torriden Dive In Modeling Pack 25g

Torriden Dive In Modeling Pack 25g

Torriden’s Dive In Modeling Pack brings the spa to you.

This trendy 25g pack provides cooling relief for sensitive, heated skin.

Packed with Torriden’s unique 5D Complex hyaluronic acids, it provides deep hydration from every angle.

The pack adheres to your skin, creating a soothing mask that not only cools and moisturizes but also helps your skin drink in all those good-for-you creams/serums/essences afterward.

ROUND LAB Birch Juice Moisturizing Mask Sheet

ROUND LAB Birch Juice Moisturizing Mask Sheet

Or if packs aren’t your thing, try this moisturizing mask sheet that quenches even the driest complexions.

Packed with nature’s hydration heroes, it’s got birch sap to keep moisture locked in tight, hyaluronic acid to attract more H2O than a camel in the desert, and althaea rosea root extract to soothe and soften.

Get skin that’s dewier than a morning meadow and say goodbye to flaky patches.

This mask gives you round-the-clock hydration so let your skin drink up the goodness.

SKIN1004 Madagascar Centella Hyalu-Cica Water-Fit Sun Serum 50ml

SKIN1004 Madagascar Centella Hyalu-Cica Water-Fit Sun Serum 50ml

Hate greasy sunscreens? Me too.

Try this sun serum boasting SPF50+ and PA++++ ratings instead, shielding your skin from harmful UV rays while showering it with moisture.

It contains a blend of seven sprout extracts, carefully preserved through ultra-low temperature extraction.

Centella Asiatica extract soothes sensitive skin, while the Hyalu-CICA formula quenches dry complexions.

Free from harmful ingredients, this eco-friendly serum is as kind to the planet as it is to your skin.

COSRX Advanced Snail 96 Mucin Power Essence 100ml

COSRX Advanced Snail 96 Mucin Power Essence 100ml

This lightweight essence contains 96.3% snail secretion filtrate, nature’s weapon for skin rejuvenation.

No more dull, rough skin as this fast-absorbing formula works its magic, fading dark spots and improving texture for a smoother, more youthful complexion.

Great for those seeking intense hydration without the heavy feel, it keeps your skin moisturized and illuminated all day long.

Fine lines and skincare “blahs” making you mad?

This essence has got you covered, snail-tastically!

Anua Heartleaf Pore Control Cleansing Oil 200ml

Anua Heartleaf Pore Control Cleansing Oil 200ml

This bottle doesn’t just remove makeup and sebum, it gives your pores a break.

Formulated for acne-prone and problematic skin, it promises a deep clean without the drama.

It’s like a green smoothie for your face, packed with a blend of plant-derived oils including grape seed, jojoba, macadamia, sunflower, and olive (wow!).

So go ahead and put on that full-face make-up—this cleansing oil will make sure your pores stay clear at the end of the day.

COSRX Acne Pimple Master Patch 24-Count

COSRX Acne Pimple Master Patch 24-Count

Like a protective forcefield, these patches shield your blemishes while working to extract impurities and speed up healing.

No need to worry about them falling off for they stay put through showers, face washing, and whatever else your day throws at you.

With three different sizes, you will find a fit for every unwelcome visitor on your face.

The cellulose gum and liquid paraffin keep your skin hydrated and clean, creating a good environment for faster healing.

fwee Lip & Cheek Blurry Pudding Pot (30 Colors) (SINGLE/SET)

fwee Lip & Cheek Blurry Pudding Pot (30 Colors) (SINGLE/SET)

This Korean beauty sensation is here to blur the lines between makeup and skincare.

With its pudding formula, it smooths out lip wrinkles.

But wait, there’s more!

This little pot of magic isn’t just for your pout—it’s a cheek color too.

With 30 rich shades to play with, you can mix, match, and create your signature look.

Infused with cocoa seed butter and agave leaf extract.

too cool for school Frottage Pencil

too cool for school Frottage Pencil

Here’s a multi-tasking tool from too cool for school.

Ranked #1 at Olive Young, this blendable pencil works on eyes, and cheeks, creating that Korean aegyosal you’ve seen on K-pop idols.

With 9 shades like “Classy Fig” and “Scented Bouquet,” you will find a match whether you’re going for subtle or statement.

The formula glides on and blends well with just your fingertips.

From peachy nudes to warm browns, there’s a hue for every skin tone.

Even So-yeon from (G)I-dle is a fan.

TRAVEL SIZE

Beauty of Joseon Relief Sun: Rice + Probiotics (SPF50+ PA++++) 10ml

Beauty of Joseon Relief Sun: Rice + Probiotics (SPF50+ PA++++) 10ml

This Korean sunscreen offers powerful SPF50+ PA++++ protection with a non-oily formula that glides on smoothly, leaving your skin soft and moisturized thanks to soothing rice extracts and skin-strengthening probiotics like Saccharomyces and Lactobacillus ferments.

Safe for all ages and skin types, it’s the ideal choice for the whole family.

Toss the travel-friendly 10ml tube in your bag for on-the-go UV defense.

SKIN1004 Madagascar Centella Ampoule 30ml

SKIN1004 Madagascar Centella Ampoule 30ml

Here’s a Centella-powered ampoule that’s a soothing whisper for your face, delivering hydration.

Sourced from Madagascar, the Centella Asiatica extract works to strengthen your skin’s natural defenses.

It’s a pH-balancing act that even the most finicky skin will applaud.

With its EWG Green Grade, you can trust that only the good stuff made the cut.

SKINFOOD Carrot Carotene Calming Water Pads

SKINFOOD Carrot Carotene Calming Water Pads

Last but not least, SKINFOOD’s Carrot Carotene Calming Water Pads are here to save irritated complexions.

These vegan pads contain beta-carotene, extracted from organic Jeju-grown carrots through a special steaming process.

It’s like a juice cleanse for your face, minus the veggie aftertaste.

The carrot seed oil, rich in carotene, delivers a soothing effect that will make your skin feel as calm as a zen master.

Get Olive Young’s BEAUTY BOX AUGUST (Summer Glow Box) at $67+ here.

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How to negotiate long-term influencer rates

lady speaking in front of the camera

New to the influencer game?

Then I guess navigating long-term influencer rates can feel a bit too much.

But worry not about a thing, for we’ve got your back with this post.

Know your marketing goals and budget
  • Marketing objectives

What do you want to achieve through influencer marketing?

Are you looking to boost brand awareness, drive sales, or increase engagement on your social media platforms?

Your goals will shape your strategy, including the type of influencers you/your brand want(s) to work with and the content you will ask them to create.

For example, if your aim is to increase product sales, you might focus on influencers who excel at product reviews or unboxing type of videos.

If you’re after brand awareness, you might lean towards influencers with a larger, more diverse audience.

  • Write up a marketing plan

Once you’ve got your objectives, it’s time to pen down a plan. Consider factors like:

  • The platforms you want to target (Instagram, TikTok, YouTube, etc.)
  • The type of content you want influencers to create
  • The frequency of posts or collaborations
  • Any additional promotional activities (e.g., giveaways, exclusive discount codes)

Be realistic about what you/your company can afford.

Research influencer rates and metrics
  • Know the average costs

First things first: you need to understand what influencers typically charge.

Rates can vary wildly depending on follower count, engagement rates, and niche.

Refer to reports from marketing agencies that specialize in influencer collaborations since those often provide average rates based on follower tiers or engagement levels.

And make an effort to network with fellow marketers where in-field professionals share updated insights (LinkedIn is a good place to start).

  • Track social media engagement metrics

Numbers don’t lie in marketing so here’s what to look for:

  • Engagement rate: This includes likes, comments, shares, and saves.
  • Reach and impressions: How many unique users see the content?
  • Audience demographics: Do they align with your target market?
  • Content quality: Is it consistent?
Negotiate multi-post and bundle discounts
TikTok

Image Credits: unsplash.com

  • Bulk booking

Think of influencer collaborations as buying in bulk.

For instance, let’s say you’re eyeing a particular influencer for a product launch.

Instead of booking a single post, consider proposing a package deal. Think something like:

  • A teaser post
  • A main product reveal video
  • A follow-up post showcasing the product in action
  • Another follow-up post a month later or so

By bundling these together, you could potentially score 25% or more off the total price compared to booking each piece/task/post separately.

That’s a win-win: more content for you/your brand and more guaranteed work for the influencer.

  • Weekly collaborations

This weekly recurring approach can be effective if you’re looking to build a long-term relationship with an influencer who fits like a glove with your brand.

Securing a weekly video series, for instance, could slash your per-video cost.

Plus, this consistent presence can help cement your brand in the minds of the influencer’s audience, leading to higher conversion rates over time.

Draft long-term influencer contracts

A three-month agreement might be good for a product launch, while a year-long partnership could work if you’ve got the budget to spare and the influencer you’re working with is a match made in heaven.

Just note that when you’re drafting your contract, consider:

  • Campaign objectives
  • Content deliverables
  • Performance metrics
  • Payment terms
  • Exclusivity clauses

Influencers are humans so treat them as valued partners, not just post-pushers. Be transparent and stick to the signed contract. Not all negotiations have to be successful so keep an open mind and be ready to work a little out of your comfort zone. Good luck in securing that influencer deal!

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Here are the top 10 must-visit Starbucks outlets in South Korea

Daegu Jongro Gotaek Store_exterior

Are you the sort that goes to Starbucks around the world to bring home some local-specific merch?

If yes, you would want to drop by one (or more) of the top 10 must-visit Starbucks outlets in South Korea.

These stores aren’t handpicked by me, but by Starbucks Korea together with the Korea Tourism Organization.

And they are not just in Seoul, just in case you’re visiting other cities for your upcoming trip to Korea 😉

KYUNGDONG 1960 STORE

KYUNGDONG 1960 STORE

Dedicated to revitalizing and restoring the Kyungdong Market’s heritage, this store preserves the original architecture and materials of the old Kyungdong Theater.

3F Kyungdong Market, 1036 Jegi-dong, Dongdaemun-gu, Seoul

THE YANGPYEONG DT STORE

The Yangpyeong DT Store_interior

The largest Starbucks store in Korea, located in Yangpyeong, offers scenic views of the South Han River and flexibility for any travel style.

76 Yanggeunro, Yangpyeong-eup, Yangpyeong-gun, Gyeonggi-do

THE YEOSU DOLSAN DT STORE

The Yeosu Dolsan DT Store_exterior

Located on Dolsan Island, this store features an observatory to enjoy breathtaking ocean views of Yeosu.

697-20 Udu-ri, Dolsan-eup, Yeosu-si

THE JEJU SONGDANG PARK R STORE

The Jeju Songdang Park R Store_exterior

Korea’s largest Starbucks Reserve® store in Jeju City offers views of Hallasan Mountain and Jeju Stone Park, with an interior design by local kinetic artist Jo Byeong-cheol.

2635-3 Songdang-ri, Gujwa-eup, Jeju-si

EDAE R STORE

Edae R Store_interior 2

The first Starbucks® store in Korea, remodeled into a Reserve® store, located in the Ewha Womans University area.

54-4 Daehyeong-dong, Seodaemun-gu, Seoul

THE BUKHANGANG R STORE

The Bukhangang R Store_interior

South Korea’s only pet-friendly Starbucks® store, located along the Bukhan River and provides open space for pets and their owners.

806-1 Geumnam-ri, Hwado-eup, Namyangju-si

THE BUKHANSAN STORE

The Bukhansan Store_exterior

Near the entrance of Bukhansan National Park, this store offers a unique café experience with a special photo zone capturing Bukhansan Mountain.

277-11 Jingwan-dong, Eunpyeong-gu, Seoul

BYULDABANG STORE

Byuldabang Store_interior

An oasis known locally as ‘Byuldabang’, this store features a large digital art wall and LEED-certified design.

88 Hoehyeon-dong 2-ga, Jung-gu, Seoul

CHUNCHEON GUBONGSAN R STORE

Chuncheon Gubongsan R Store_exterior

This store offers panoramic views of Chuncheon City, lovely for sunset viewing on Gubongsan Mountain.

340-61 Mancheon-ri, Dong-myeon, Chuncheon-si

DAEGU JONGRO GOTAEK STORE

Daegu Jongro Gotaek Store_exterior

Housed in a century-old hanok, this store honors Daegu’s heritage with over 100 years of history.

58 Jong-ro 2ga, Jung-gu, Daegu

Starbucks Korea celebrates 25 years

If you haven’t heard, Starbucks in Korea is celebrating 25 years of coffee and connections this year.

To share the milestone with their loyal customers, they will offer some special drinks and deals for a limited time.

If you’re in Korea during this period, look out for their global-inspired beverages like the London Fog Tea Latte, French Vanilla Latte, and Melon of Melon Frappuccino on the menu.

Starbucks Korea 25th anniversary

Image Credits: starbucks.co.kr

The new Oleato Golden Foam Iced Shaken Espresso with Hazelnut is also available!

As an eco-friendly option, you can get an Americano, Latte, or Caramel Macchiato at the original 1999 price when buying a reusable cup.

To mark the anniversary, Starbucks Korea has also launched a limited collection with the heritage logo.

You can pick up mugs, tumblers, and a big Bearista Bear.

Exclusive merch made in collaboration with Bernardaud and Bialetti is also on sale.

All image credits to Starbucks Korea/Starbucks Asia Pacific.

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Singapore Airlines Crowned 2024 Best Airline in Asia, Ranked #2 Globally

With our leave requests finally approved, it is time to pack our bags and escape the daily grind of the Lion City. It is important that our adventure is enjoyable from the moment we step on the plane as traveling is our chance to truly unwind.

To help us make the best choices, Skytrax, a UK-based consultancy specializing in the air transport industry, conducted the 2024 World Airline Awards. Since its inception in 1999, the World Airline Awards have been based on an annual global customer satisfaction survey. This year, the competition was fierce, with results so close they required a recount. Qatar Airways claimed the top spot globally, while Singapore Airlines secured a close second.

ASIA’S BEST AIRLINES IN 2024

#1: SINGAPORE AIRLINES

Singapore Airlines not only topped the list as Asia’s best airline but also secured the second spot globally. Known for its exceptional cabin crew and world-class service, Singapore Airlines has consistently ranked as a 5-star airline by Skytrax for the past three decades.

It was the first to introduce the Airbus A380 and Boeing 787-10 into service and is the only operator of the ultra-long-range Airbus A350-900. The airline is celebrated for its efficiency, convenience, and spacious cabins, making it a favorite among travelers.

#2: ANA (ALL NIPPON AIRWAYS)

Ranked fourth globally, ANA (All Nippon Airways) is a Japanese airline offering both domestic and international flights. Known for its excellent service, ANA has received a 5-star rating every year since 2013. The airline also won awards for the World’s Best Airport Services and the World’s Cleanest Airline. Committed to expansion, ANA plans to introduce new short-haul and medium-haul aircraft by 2030.

#3: CATHAY PACIFIC

Cathay Pacific, the flag carrier of Hong Kong, flies to over 200 destinations and consistently ranks high in customer satisfaction. This year, it was recognized as the World’s Cleanest Airline and the provider of the World’s Best Economy Class. It also received the Cargo Airline of the Year award at the 49th Annual Airline Industry Achievement Awards.

#4: JAPAN AIRLINES

Japan Airlines, founded in 1951, was Japan’s first international airline and now connects over 349 airports in 54 countries and regions. Known for its hospitality, it has been awarded a 5-star rating by Skytrax and consistently ranks high in customer satisfaction.

#5: EVA AIR

EVA Air, one of Taiwan’s largest airlines, operates both passenger and cargo services to more than 40 international destinations. Celebrated for its cheerful environment and brightly painted livery, EVA Air is known for its fun in-flight experience and a wide range of service items.

WORLDWIDE RECOGNITION

The World Airline Awards are based on a survey conducted from September 2023 to May 2024, with over 21 million customers from 100 countries who evaluated more than 350 airlines. This extensive survey captures a wide range of opinions and experiences, providing a comprehensive overview of the global airline industry.

Qatar Airways’ win marks its eighth time as the World’s Best Airline, highlighting its commitment to quality and service. Although Singapore Airlines slipped to second place, it remains a key player in the industry, renowned for its exceptional service and innovation.

LOOKING AHEAD

The World Airline Awards serve as a benchmark for excellence in the airline industry, recognizing airlines that excel in service quality, customer satisfaction, and innovation. The prominence of Southeast Asian airlines in these awards indicates a positive trend for the region’s aviation industry.

As these airlines continue to invest in fleet modernization and service enhancements, they are likely to further strengthen their positions in the global market.

Sources: 1,2, & 3

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Singapore’s Gold Medal Payout: World’s Most Generous Prize

As the 2024 Paris Olympic Games unfold, the world’s top athletes are competing not only for individual glory but also for their countries’ pride. The medals themselves are a spectacle: gold medals consist of 523 grams of silver coated in 6 grams of gold, while silver medals weigh 525 grams and are made of pure silver. Bronze medals weigh 455 grams and are composed of copper, tin, and zinc. Adding a unique touch to their traditional design, this year’s medals also incorporate a piece of iron from the Eiffel Tower.

While nations like the U.S., China, and France currently lead the medal tally, another exciting race is taking place behind the scenes: which country offers the most generous reward for Olympic gold?

The answer is Singapore, as it stands out with its extraordinary prize offerings. Through its Major Games Award Programme (MAP), it awards an impressive S$1 million to gold medalists in individual events. Silver medalists receive S$500,000, while bronze medalists are given S$250,000. For team events—such as athletics relays or badminton doubles—the reward is even higher, with winners taking home S$1.5 million. In the case of team sports like basketball or football, the prize reaches S$2 million. Silver and bronze medalists in team events receive 50% and 25% of these amounts, respectively.

To date, the only athlete to have claimed this substantial prize is swimmer Joseph Schooling, who won gold in the 100m butterfly at the Rio 2016 Olympics.

In comparison, American athletes are awarded US$37,500 (approximately S$51,000) for each gold medal, US$22,500 (about S$30,600) for silver, and US$15,000 (around S$20,400) for bronze. And the neighboring country, Malaysia, offers one million ringgit (approximately S$341,000) for a gold medal.

Other notable countries include Hong Kong, which provides HK$6 million (approximately S$1.03 million) per gold medalist through its Athlete Incentive Awards Scheme, and Serbia, which awards US$218,000 (about S$295,000) for gold medalists.

Image Credits: facebook.com/Olympics

With its impressive prize structure, Singapore leads the world in Olympic gold medal payouts, highlighting its dedication to celebrating athletes’ extraordinary accomplishments. As the Paris 2024 Olympics continue until August 11, we look forward to seeing more Singaporean athletes make their mark in sports.

Sources: 1,2, & 3

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