1st Session

1. Introduce yourself.

2. What‘s one good thing that happened to you today?

3. Last Thursday was Teachers‘ day. Do you have any good memories with your teachers or professors?

4. Is there a YouTube channel you would recommend?

Korean audiences seek comfort in healing media as the fast-paced life takes a toll

(Korea JoonAng Daily)

In an era where speed and efficiency reign, audiences across generations are gravitating toward content that encourages stillness and restoration. From web variety shows and podcasts to music and offline events, a wave of “healing” media centered on slow living and emotional comfort is striking a deep chord.

JTBC’s YouTube series "hrlksim", released last week, follows Kim Dae-ho, former MBC anchor, as he immerses himself in a humble, back-to-basics life tending a vegetable garden. Raised as a farmer’s son, Kim applies his knowledge of country life in this slow-paced healing show. While offering advice to staff and admiring the rain with spontaneous exclamations like “Wow, this feels great!” the show unfolds with no major happenings or comical incidents ― and yet it surpassed 230,000 views within three days. Viewer comments include, “Why is watching someone farm so calming?” and “This is just so comforting.”

On Netflix, “Kian’s Bizarre B&B” is also garnering viewers' attention. The show features webtoon artist Kian84 welcoming guests to a guesthouse he built on Ulleung Island. The series highlights the charm of embracing discomfort for a taste of true peace. As other staffs gradually adopt Kian84’s rhythm of life, the show delivers gentle humor and has already sparked talk of a second season.

On YouTube, “ChimChakMan’s Nest” ― a podcast series by webtoon artist Lee Mal-nyeon, who goes by the name ChimChakMan ― continues to grow in popularity. Each episode features three guests who share a hobby, hometown or interest. Over the course of 90 minutes, they engage in relaxed, sincere conversations that have consistently drawn over one million views per episode, despite their longer runtime.

“Tired of dopamine-charged content, people are seeking a slower, more natural flow,” said critic Jeong Deok-hyun. “The analog sensibility ― whether through Kim Dae-ho’s earthbound lifestyle or the gentle discomfort in ‘Kian’s Bizarre B&B’ ― resonates as a form of authentic rest.”

1. For what purposes do you watch media (of any kind)?

2. What kind of events would you like to attend regarding nature, healing, or slow-lifestyle?

3. What do you usually do to relax?

4. Have you ever tried a dopamine detox or taken a break from screens?

2nd Session

1. Introduce yourself.

2. It‘s getting hotter outside. Do you have any plans for the summer?

3. Which do you prefer, alcoholic or non-alcoholic beverages?

4. When do you feel more energized, when you're alone or with others?

Unique drink pairings you need to try (The Korea Herald)

During the extra long weekend that stretches into Tuesday, sharing drinks with friends and loved ones can be the perfect way to unplug and celebrate a short break from work and life's daily stress.

Following are some drink mash-ups worth a try for those wishing for a taste of something they may have never expected to find in a drink before.

The unexpected marriage of soju and iced tea is a unique drinking trend among South Korean millennials and Generation Z ― roughly those in the early 40s and younger ― recently taking social media by storm. To ease the bittersweet flavor of soju, add iced tea mix for the perfect balance of bitter and sweet, letting it glide down your throat easily.

If you are looking to shake up your holiday night, grab a bottle of soju and iced tea mix. You might find it to be your new go-to.

Looking for a light yet flavorful buzz? Meet "Saero tonic," the latest mash-up making waves among low-alcohol, low-calorie drink aficionados.

The refreshing combo blends Saero, a smooth soju with low-alcohol content, and Jinro Tonic Zero, a sugar-free sparkling mixer. The result? A crisp, slightly sweet sip that is gentle on both the calorie count and the next day's hangover. Jinro Tonic comes in various flavors and varieties, including ginger and black tea, so you can easily switch up the vibe.

Another beginner-friendly favorite is the "screw bar soju," which is a playful mix of soju, soda water and Korea's beloved Screw Bar popsicle. Just pour two shots of soju, six shots of soda water and drop in one whole popsicle into a glass.

As the popsicle melts, it adds a fruity, creamy sweetness that makes this drink taste more like a sweet treat than a cocktail. For melon lovers, try replacing the popsicle with a Melona ice cream bar.

*aficionado : a person who likes and knows a lot about something

1. Is there a special pairing with alcohol you know?

2. What kind of food do you prefer when you drink?

3. Do you usually drink when you hang out with your friends?

4. Do you drink zero-sugar soda and alcohol-free drinks?