Seven K-Drama Inspired Gifts For The Holidays
The holidays are here, with Chanukah recently concluding and Christmas less than nine days away.
While the sounds of jingle bells and carols help to maintain Yuletide cheer, the most difficult aspect of the season is figuring out the perfect gift for someone who seemingly has everything.
Shopping for Hallyu enthusiasts presents its own challenges, particularly for last-minute buyers and crafters who are strapped for cash.
However, Korean drama-inspired presents are excellent for Hallyu enthusiasts and can be obtained from local retailers.
Here are seven ideas that evoke the romance and creativity of popular programs like "Oh My Venus," "She Was Pretty," "Pinocchio," "Producer," and "Imaginary Cat."
1. So Ji Sub romanced Shin Min Ah with coordinating scarves in 'Oh My Venus." Matching accessories in different colors are a simple way to create this look.
Hallyu fans are likely familiar with "couples" items, accessories and clothing that are worn by pairs who in a relationship. In "Oh My Venus," So Ji Sub casually uses matching scarves to let bystanders know he is romantically involved with Shin Min Ah.
2. AOA's Seolhyun and Yeo Jin Goo were featured in a "couples" look for "Orange Marmalade." Their denim jackets are also a throwback to the halcyon days of "Reply 1998."
Seolhyun and Yeo Jin Goo brought stonewashed denim jackets back into the spotlight before Hyeri ushered in the latest installment of the "Reply" series.
New York and other cities have experienced unseasonably warm weather, this winter. Ditch the bulky coats for denim jackets in coordinating washes for a timeless look for the most jaded holiday celebrant.
3. Kim Soo Hyun used an umbrella to unwittingly woo IU in "Producer."
Umbrellas may seem like an impersonal gift, but they have been used as the centerpiece of romantic scenes in dramas including "Oh My Venus," "Producer," and "I Can Hear Your Voice." Include an umbrella as a stocking stuffer and prepare to steal a kiss during a downpour or keep your crush dry during a storm.
4. Super Junior's Siwon rocked beanies in "She Was Pretty," taking the inexpensive cold weather accessory to another level.
Spend five minutes in winter-sieged Korea and the first thing you may notice is that almost every stylish person is wearing an adorable beanie. Super Junior's Siwon rocked stylish beanies throughout "She Was Pretty," whether it was in attention-grabbing orange or a more sedate gray knit hat.
5. Park Shin Hye may have worn an Agatha-branded necklace in "Pinocchio," but crafty gift givers can be inspired by her creative use of a button.
In "Pinocchio," Park Shin Hye used a button from the high-school uniform of her crush, Lee Jong Suk, to create an innocently sweet accessory. Use a button or meaningful item like an unused varsity letter to create a meaningful, yet inexpensive gift.
6. "Imaginary Cat" features Bok Gil, a snarky feline who quietly resents the actions of humans, but has a weakness for cat bells.
Animals are not always the best holiday gift, but pet owners will appreciate thoughtful presents like a homemade cat bell or a new carrier. In "Imaginary Cat," Jo Hye Jung crafts a new bell for Bok Gil, in her attempt to slowly win her over, while also warming up Yoo Seung Ho.
7. "She Was Pretty" sparked an onion-growing trend, making the homegrown gift a surefire hit with drama viewers.
If you're looking for a small token of thanks or affection, but at you're at a loss, the onion from "She Was Pretty" is a thoughtful present that can be gifted to office workers and apartment dwellers with low sunlight.
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Adrienne Stanley is an entertainment writer who is always a last-minute holiday shopper. Her writing can be found on KDramaStars, KpopStarz, and she has contributed to other online publications, including MTV Iggy. Follow her Christmastime in Hallyu exploits on Twitter (@retrogirladdy).
