As we start penning down our first note on our 2021 journals, KTO Singapore would like to wish everyone a HAPPY NEW YEAR!

2020 has been quite an eventful year for everyone due to the COVID-19 pandemic. On 7th April 2020, Singapore went into a partial lockdown, a preventive measure taken by the Government in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. Many industries, especially tourism, were badly hit, while cases were rapidly rising all around the world. In Singapore, we had to get ourselves quickly accustomed to the new norms of wearing a mask whenever we leave the house; gatherings with friends and families have become limited to video and phone calls.

Our yearly trips to Korea to catch our favourite K-Pop bands live, shopping in the streets of Myeongdong, and enjoying the busking sessions in Hongdae have been reduced to remnants as we scroll through our photos; while seeing our favourite K-Pop bands and shopping for our favourite K-Beauty products through online media and shopping platforms.

2020 has definitely reminded all of us to take care of our health. KTO Singapore would like to use this chance to once again thank frontline workers all around the world during this pandemic. Without your sacrifices, it would have been difficult for us to come this far. And to the rest of us, let's pat our own backs for pulling through these difficult times as well.

To make up for the lost trips, we would like to share more on our beloved Korean culture through our latest collaboration with Netflix, a feature on Season 3, episode 3 of “Chef’s Table” a hit series where they introduce the most exotic food in the world.

Located in Baegamsan Mountain in Jangseong County, South Jeolla Province, and hidden away from the bustling cities of Korea, sits Baekyangsa Temple, where locals and international visitors from all around the world visit to appreciate the peace and tranquility nature has to offer.

Find out from Jeong Kwan, a Buddhist nun from Baekyangsa Temple, as she explains the philosophy behind her temple food, which is recognized by the New York Times as the world’s most rare and precious food, and praised by star chefs around the world. Fill up your soul with the emotional stories she has to share, from her tough childhood to being revered around the world.

Find out more below:

Watch the video here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ibBZBd8ieX4&t=10s

Experience Templestay: eng.templestay.com

Explore Korea e-book (Guide to filming locations of Netflix Originals):
http://english.visitkorea.or.kr/enu/TRV/TV_ENG_3_5.jsp

“Chef’s Table” Season 3, episode 3 on Netflix:
http://www.netflix.com/sg/title/80007945?tctx=0%2C0%2Ca42492d0-641b-4c15-a726-2620cb560f34-45531233%2C%2C%2C&trackId=14277281