When it comes to purchasing a gift card online as a gift, even for the most tech savvies, all the cumbersome steps customers have to complete just to find the receiving end have to go through the same hassle would have shooed them away. But there is a South Korean startup specializing in a turnkey solution for an easier and more pleasurable online gifting experience. And it has just been launched in the United States and Canada.

From its incubation period, SodaGift's idea received attention due to the underlying demand and the potential target population. Due to the ever-increasing need for online gifting, SodaGift has met an unprecedented demand both domestically and internationally. With over 300 brands and 3,500 gifts, shoppers around the globe could purchase anything for their friends and family back in South Korea. Not to mention their hassle-free checkout process with no need for a Korean phone number nor Korean debit/credit card. To top it off, their mobile gift allows shoppers to send gift cards via text or email with a few clicks.

Soon after growing the market as a whole and becoming the industry's largest shareholder, SodaGift decided to take on the next milestone: launch a global-wide service. To meet the relentless demand of cross-border gifting, SodaGift has launched their global service that truly transcends borders; shoppers can now gift realtime to USA and Canada from overseas or within USA and Canada. Popular US and Canadian brands such as Amazon, Starbucks, Nike, Tim Horton, and Walmart are all available in the form of a gift card. With this new launch, SodaGift is striving to expand their cross-border services to other countries in the imminent future.

While there are numerous providers offering a similar service, the majority caters to corporate gifting in bulk quantities. On the contrary, SodaGift not only provides bulk purchases but gravitates towards individual purchases with attention to personal details such as including an e-note along with the gift card. And this is only the beginning, as they are preparing to roll out many more exciting features in the soon to come future.

Many have said that the story of several Korean celebrities has made them believe in love again. It doesn't matter whether you've already endured multiple heartbreaks. It doesn't matter that you're suffering from the so-called dating app fatigue. Indeed, many have found themselves in a disillusioned state with matters of love and relationships. Admittedly, even the most jaded will find themselves swayed by the story of these celebrities.

Think of it: Due to the sensitive nature of the general Korean entertainment scene, most celebrities tend to conceal the details of their personal lives. They mainly do this to avoid public backlash. But the Korean celebrities we'd like to discuss have lived together for more than 10 years and have children; others have just recently gone public with the story of a budding relationship. Then comes the story of Blackpink's Jennie and Big Bang's G-Dragon; they just broke the internet with the exciting news that they've been dating for one year. Yes, some of these celebrities are enjoying K-drama-like romances. And the faith of many is slowly restored- to believe in love and romance.

G-Dragon and Jennie: Sure, you've read the names correctly. In February 2021, the Dispatch Korea news outlet unexpectedly released a report revealing that the famous Big-Bang leader, G-Dragon, and Jennie of Blackpink have actually been dating for more than a year. The head-turning article revealed that Jennie often goes to GD's residence located in Hannam-dong Street off from work. It also mentioned that Jennie's mother reportedly knows about the budding love affair and apparently approves of it. Some fans might remember that the pair first appeared together on the screen way back in 2012. At that time, Jennie was the lead female star in GD's music video, "That XX." Later on in 2013 Jennie appeared in GD's song "Black." This was well before Jennie made her own debut.

A source, Soompi, says that, in reaction to the Dispatch report, the artistes' agency, YG Entertainment commented thus: "We can't really confirm anything yet- anything about our artist's private life; we, therefore, ask for your patience and understanding." The stylish pair may soon become known as the YG couple (they were previously known as the YG siblings).

Son Ye Jin and Hyun Bin: You've likely heard about Hyun Bin and Son Ye Jin. The two are reportedly dating. Some have called them the power couple of 2021. And many fans seem to be excited about the chemistry evident between the plotline and the 2 leads. In January 2021, the Dispatch published a photograph of Son Ye Jin apparently waiting for Hyun to pick her up; yes, their global fans rejoiced. The actress soon turned to Instagram to announce that she has now found a good soul to care for her.

Hyuna and Dawn: Many admit it's quite rare for Korean celebrities to announce their relationship publicly. This is especially the case since dating matters are widely considered as scandals. Hence many celebrities fear that such reports could possibly ruin their careers. Despite this the former Pentagon member, Dawn and the female soloist, Hyuna recently proved to fans how powerful love can be; they announced that they've been happily dating for five years. So, in 2018 Hyuna and Dawn sensationally revealed they've been dating since 2016. As a result, their former agency CUBE entertainment decided to strike them off their schedule. But the love birds dared to sign up with PNation; the entertainment company is run by PSY. Henceforth, the celebrity couple has been gleefully flaunting their love on Instagram. Fans of the love birds can catch them in action in the 2021 Coach's fall presentation. In the production, the K-pop stars delightedly flex their skills in an exciting dance off.

Kim Woo Bin and Shin Min Ah: Have you discovered that K-dramas can actually happen in real life? Think of it: Shin Min Ah and Kim Woo Bin are not yet married, but the love birds have demonstrated that they are inseparable in sickness or health, for better or worse, to love and to cherish. How? In 2017 Kim Woo Bim was suddenly diagnosed with nasopharyngeal cancer; Shih Min Ah stuck to her boyfriend. She even accompanied him to his treatment sessions. And during her Chief of Staff comeback drama, Kim Woo Bim delivered an entire truckload of food as a sign of support for her achievements. Can anything get better?

Many agree that the Korean film industry is growing rapidly. Some even say the Korean movie exploits are drawing ever to the globally-celebrated Hollywood. Moreover, pundits note that the Korean film industry is playing a pivotal role in the national economy's development. It's providing healthy entertainment not just to the local audience but the entire world. At the same time, the Korean film industry is turning into a wonderful introduction platform for many beautiful actresses who're taking the aesthetic perceptions to new levels. Would you like to meet some of the most beautiful female figures in the thriving Korean film industry? Feel at home.

Choi Ji Woo: Choi Ji Woo is one of the most famous Korean TV actresses. She has appeared in popular TV series. She has also graced the Korean movie scene, taking important roles. The beautiful Korean celebrity rules the hearts of thousands of fans. She has significantly contributed to making the Korean film industry more modern. Moreover, Cho Ji Woo has set new trends in the film industry through her impressive skills.

Han GA-IN: Han GA-IN has received accolades as being among the most beautiful Korean actress. The actor kicked off her career in the TV industry, starring in several TV productions. Ha Ga-in's first ever dramas were Terms of Endearment and Yellow Handkerchief. But one of her most successful drama appearances was in Moon Embracing Sun. Apart from acting Han Ga-in is also a famous model. The popular model has been featured in many commercials. She also appeared in the Smash hit film, "Architecture 101."

Park Min Young: Park Min Young: Park Min Young is a reputable model and stunning dancer. In 2020 she was considered as the most beautiful actress of the year. Park Min Young is a true native of South Korea; many consider her a drop dead gorgeous woman. The actress is best known for her stunning performance in several TV series including the Healer, Scandal and Remember- War of the Son, and City Hunter. Apart from acting, Park Min Young has recently featured as a public face for famous international brands including LG, Sony Ericksson, Pizza, Lipton Ice Tea and Korea Air.

Nana: Im Jin-ah is, undoubtedly, one of the most beautiful Korean actresses. She's best known by her stage name Nana. The stunning South Korean actress and singer is ranked high on the global scene. In 2019 Nana ranked tops among the world's most beautiful actresses.

Bae Suzy: The South Korean actress Bae Suzy is a brand ambassador for the Goyang Korea Flower Show, Bae SuJi. The beautiful actress is popularly known by her stagename, Suzy. Suzy seems to be a jack of all trades- the gorgeous actor is a model, rapper, pin-up singer, and performer dancer. Bae Suzy was recently nominated for a place in the 2017 6th Gaon Chart K-pop awards. In the same year she scooped the 31st Golden Disc award. Suzy kicked off her career in 2010, starting off from the music industry. Later, the musician was connected with several advertising agencies, eventually featuring for big brands like Samsung.

Song Hye Kye: Song Hye Kye is an artist with peculiar characteristics. One of her most identifying characteristics is her jolly nature. She's always cheerful and ebullient despite her hectic schedules. She rose to popularity through the famous TV series House Full, All In and Autumn in My Heart. Song is considered to be among the most beautiful Korean actresses. She's such a popular actor that she scooped several accolades in recent film awards; she even won the prestigious PaekSung Art Award. Song is especially known as an outgoing philanthropist who donates a great deal to charity and children's welfare.

Ha Ji Won: Ha Ji Won is well known in her popular circles as the "Amazing Yeoja." Won is one phenomenal Korean actress who has featured in star roles in many television series and films. Ha Ji Won ranks as one of the most critically acclaimed and sought-after South Korean actresses. Ha Ji Won is especially recognized for her admirable versatility in playing multiple roles in different genres. She has successfully featured in several action, drama, comedy, and sports productions. At 38 years, the famous Korean actor still looks as young and beautiful as ever; yes, Ha Ji Won has carved out an enduring niche in the South Korean film industry. Ha Ji Won remains single- many consider this versatile lady to be among the most influential actresses of all time in Korea.

With its memorable monuments and piercing skyscrapers, Korea has been rightly described as ";a true colourful kaleidoscope."; Who'd not want to enjoy the country's exciting cultural diversity and heritage? Generally, Korea has vastly interesting traditions, rituals, a vibrant community and a unique culture. The country's natural beauty is just as spectacular and gorgeous as its national culture. But you cannot enjoy these aspects to the full without experiencing Korea's influential festivals. And you can do this while enjoying the country's natural aura. The best way to have a glimpse at Korea's historical heritage is by attending the country's famous festivals. These are simply incredible, a real taste of the native culture. First, here's an outline of Korea's most popular cultural festivals: The Jeju fire festival, hansik, jinju lantern festival, yudu, seongsan sunrise festiva, seollal, boryeong mud festival and Gwangju world culture kimchi festival. You can be part of all these. Let's delve in.

The Hansik Festival

The Hansik festival is also known as the ";Cold Food Festival."; During this festival, the people usually indulge in cooking without using fire; this means they eat cold food throughout the day. According to Korean mythology, the whole country is supposed to perform unique sacrificial rites. Among these are the Neungwon and Jongmyo royal shrines. The locals commonly visit their families' ancestral gravesites and hold personal memorial services. The Hansik festival strikingly marks the start of the farming season- at this time, the farmers spread seeds taken from the farmhouse as a sign of commencing the agricultural activity cycle.

Seolnal

Seollal is a happy New Year festival - it marks the New Year in the Korean calendar. Actually, Seolnal is among the most celebrated Korean festivals that marks the first day of the year. During Seolnal, the whole country is supposed to celebrate. Locals kick off the celebration by paying tribute to the ancestors and performing folk rites. At this time, the folks wear traditional dresses, listen to folk tales, and play folk games. People say greetings and exchange blessings, wishes, sweets and gifts.

Jeju Fire Festival

This is a major festival for welcoming Korea's health and harvest seasons. Held over three days in late February and early March, the Jeju fire festival is among the country's most popular celebrations. At this time, the city of Jeju usually sets ablaze- it's a sign of praying for and welcoming a new year. There is the promise of good health, ample harvest and happiness. Overall, the Jeju fire festival symbolizes the ancient grass-burning ritual- it's a sign of ridding the city of vermin) before the season resumes. The Jeju Fire Festival is so unique- the sight of Jeju consumed by fire is most exciting, stunning, and dazzling. The people celebrate the Jeju Fire Festival with torch marches, folk dance and tribal games activities.

Ice Festival, Hwacheon County

Ice festival is held in one of the frozen Hwacheon County rivers. Ice Festival is among the most exciting and mesmerizing Korean festivals. During this festival, the locals walk through sub-zero temperatures for trout fishing; they catch fish using bare hands from drilled ice holds.

Yudu

Yudu is another unique cultural celebration; it's one of the most famous celebrations. During this festival, the locals usually offer the first harvests to their gods (this is done at the local household level). They initiate the gathering of fruits and crops as an annual household stock. The local peoples also visit a nearby river or stream to get rid of evil spirits by washing their hair. Yudu is generally celebrated in summer; the people rejoice at the big festival by consuming healthy soups like ginseng, chicken broth, and other partaking.

Jinju Lantern Festival

The Jinju Lantern Festival is among the oldest festivals in Korea. It's a classic showcase of Korea's traditions and culture. During the Jinju Lantern Festival, the native people light thousands of red lanterns near the Nam River bank while making wishes for their well-being, prosperity and health. This custom first started in 1592. It was marked with a lantern-lighting custom to prevent Japanese troops from crossing the Namgang River (this was during the infamous Japanese invasion). The lanterns were considered a tribute to the veterans of the Jinjuseong Fortress Battle. While attending, you can enjoy these performances, street parades and local street food. You can even make your own lantern and hang it in the Tunnel of Wish Lanterns.