Discover this Kapuso star’s K-drama moments
A rainy day spent watching Korean dramas, armed with some snacks and a bottle of Jinro Soju, can hit all the right feels for a K-drama fan. There’s something about the stories that reel people in and make them want to experience in real life what they see on screen. Goofy situations, back hugs, intriguing plots, amazing fashion, eating ramen from the pot, cheesy confessions over the famous Jinro soju? Yes to them all.
Kapuso star Therese Malvar is a proud K-drama fan. She knows why K-dramas keep her coming back for more, sleepless nights and all. “They know how to give you the right amount of cliffhangers and lots of plot twists!” the 21-year old actress gushes. "You would want to watch the next episode right away.” And who here has promised to watch just one more, but couldn’t stop until the very last episode?
It may have been that handsome oppa that caught our attention at the start, but we stayed in the fandom for the emotions that K-dramas bring out in us. It doesn't matter if the story is about a business rivalry or an alien love story. Everyone knows what it feels like to love or to be hurt, to laugh or cry, and these emotions are what make even the most fantastical K-dramas relatable to people. “I always like to see the positive in things as I search for myself,” Therese muses. “So, I think coming-of-age yung K-drama ng buhay ko.”
The actress, who has an impressive list of local and international awards under her name, even gets inspiration from K-dramas for her own acting. “It helped a lot because I see different types of characters and acting methods,” she explains. “Laking tulong ng puyat ko!” she jokingly adds.
For fans like Therese, imitating on-screen moments is a way to bring back the emotions felt when they first watched the dramas. She admits having plenty of Korean influences, like her love for her increasing collection of pastel and nude outfits, as well as eating kimchi every chance she gets. Even celebrations with her friends can be a scene out of a K-drama, complete with Korean barbecue and the ever-familiar green bottle of Jinro Soju. “K-dramas [introduced] me to soju since there are lots of funny scenes with soju,” Therese recalls. “It has become my favorite drink of choice because Jinro Soju is so light and refreshing.”
Jinro Soju has been a favorite in South Korea and abroad because of its clear and refreshing taste. It has been named as the world’s best-selling spirit brand for 20 consecutive years. It’s the real original soju, known for its trademark toad logo and subtle flavors like Jinro Green Grape, Grapefruit, Plum and Strawberry. People enjoy it as it is or mixed as cocktails. Because of its popularity, other brands have tried imitating Jinro and its iconic green bottle. These replicated products may be sold everywhere but nothing beats the original real Jinro soju.
There are many dreamy scenes in K-dramas that, paired with Jinro Soju, tug heartstrings that make fans want to relive the moment as their own. As for Therese, she is still waiting for her own oppa experience, a Jinro Soju wonderland scene of sorts that makes her heart flutter every time she sees it on screen: a sweet, clumsy confession while riding piggyback on her ideal oppa. “It’s one of my favorites!” she laughs, “It’ll be cute if that would happen to me.”
For the moment though, Therese is living her life to the fullest even without her dream oppa. Work may keep her busy, but she always finds time to relax with her friends over a refreshing bottle of Jinro Soju. “Yes, it's a bond for us!” she shares. “Kapag may celebration we drink Jinro Soju. We drink very moderately, but favorite drink namin ang soju!” For Therese, their favorite flavors brighten up even the simplest of gatherings.
K-dramas teach us to find joy in trivial moments, to never give up on our dreams, and gives us hope that even the most arrogant person can find redemption. So, for fellow K-drama stans, go on and indulge in your latest favorite series. Just remember that real life is just as good, or even better, than your favorite moments on screen.
Try this fangirl’s Jinro Soju recommendation!
Just like any fan, Therese has her own Jinro Soju favorite. She enjoys the fruity, sweet taste of Jinro Soju Strawberry. For a relaxing night of watching K-drama, she recommends Korean barbecue or sisig, paired with Jinro Soju mixed with strawberry milk and lime carbonated drink. Just the perfect Jinro cocktail for a relaxing and cozy night.
Jinro Soju is available both through online delivery and in supermarkets & convenience stores nationwide. Drink responsibly.
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