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I Pretended To Be A Kid And Got An Insider Look At KidZania – Here’s What I Found Out

Have you ever wondered or fantasized about what life would be like if you were in a different career?

Well, I do it all the time. What if I was a policewoman? What if I worked at an ice cream factory? Having always been curious about what people in other careers did, I decided to give them a try at KidZania Singapore!

[caption id="attachment_28250" align="alignnone" width="1600"] Excited to visit KidZania Singapore![/caption]

For those of you who haven’t heard of KidZania Singapore, it is an interactive indoor theme park that brings together inspiration, fun and learning through realistic role-play. Located at Sentosa, think of it as a kid-sized world that for the most part functions true to life. Think buildings, streets, vehicles and even a working economy!

[caption id="attachment_28251" align="alignnone" width="1600"] SCDF Fire Department[/caption]

Through exploring this 81,000 square feet space, and “working” like productive citizens of a society, children learn about different careers while gaining some understanding of how the world works. After all, you’re never too young to learn these things!

[caption id="attachment_28252" align="alignnone" width="1600"] KZ Express: KidZania Singapore’s postal service[/caption]

Here, there are more than 65 role play activities and over 40 establishments you’ll recognize from the real world including Esso, Mount Elizabeth Hospital, Lim Chee Guan, and more! The people at KidZania Singapore have already done the math – you’ll need 5 full days to complete every activity in KidZania Singapore!

While the theme park is designed for kids aged 4 to 17, that didn’t stop 25 year old me from crashing the fun.

Entering the park, I was blown away by this kid-sized city I never knew existed.

[caption id="attachment_28253" align="alignnone" width="1600"] The airport is KidZania Singapore’s only entrance[/caption]

Trying Out Other Careers

1. Being An Armored Guard

The first job I tried was being an armored guard.

I wore my vest like the rest of the kids and was told to transport money to 2 different locations – Nanyang Optical and 7-11. I was given a clipboard which flipped over to reveal a map of the KidZania Singapore grounds. My locations were marked ‘1’ and ‘2’.

I was instructed to do 3 things once I got to each of them: say ‘kai!’ (KidZania Singapore has its own language!) when I met the person-in-charge, say that I’ve come to deliver money, and ask them to sign on my clipboard to indicate that they’ve received it.

[caption id="attachment_28254" align="alignnone" width="1600"] Trying to find my way to 7-11[/caption]

With 2 (tiny) bags of money in my vault, and a clipboard in hand, I felt quite official – probably what the kids here feel too. I didn’t have much trouble finding my way to where I needed to go, but I did get plenty of weird looks from adults because clearly, I am too old to be doing this.

[caption id="attachment_28255" align="alignnone" width="1600"] Rolling in kidZos[/caption]

In exchange for my efforts, I got some kidZos – the currency in KidZania Singapore. For every job you do, you earn kidZos. Here’s a fun fact I found out: as with the real world, some jobs pay better than other. Working as a surgeon, for example, will give you one of the most kidZos in KidZania Singapore!

Like real currency, you can use your kidZos to buy things to take home. You can even use your kidZos to get a college degree, which will let you earn more kidZos when you work subsequently! Talk about realistic!

2. Being A Mountaineer

Another job I got the chance to try was being a mountaineer.

My agenda was simply to finish the high element course – easy peasy, or so I thought.

[caption id="attachment_28256" align="alignnone" width="1600"] Very seriously listening to instructions[/caption]

After one of the Zupervisors put me into my harness, I was ready to go.

[caption id="attachment_28257" align="alignnone" width="1600"] Terrified of falling[/caption]

While it seemed like a good idea at first, I quickly regretted my decision once I found myself on higher ground with nothing but a rope before me. Still, the Zupervisors at the station gave me very specific instructions on how to complete each challenge e.g hold on to the zaza (the KidZania Singapore term for ‘carabiner’), lean forward, do this, do that. I trusted them, and I was alright.

The harness and carabiner system used is extremely safe. Essentially, the entire course comes with ‘railings’, whether it’s the railings of the stairs or the supporting ropes that come with the various challenges. These ropes and stair railings are all linked such that you can drag your zaza through all of them, as you move through the course. You move your zaza with you as you go, and it serves as a failsafe in case you fall!

Initially, I was afraid to tackle each challenge, especially given the knowledge that this was designed for kids a fraction of my weight and height. After being assured multiple times that no kids have ever fallen from this course, I finally manned up and finished it.

Behind The Scenes

After getting a chance to play like a kid at KidZania Singapore, I got to take a look behind the scenes to understand the hard work that goes into running this city for kids. I quickly learnt that there was a lot that underpins this huge operation, and that there are plenty of neat technologies in place to aid the operation.

Tech In Security

Running an operation for kids comes with unique challenges – specifically, safety.

At peak periods (e.g school holidays) KidZania Singapore accommodates up to 1,500 people. Also, at KidZania Singapore, children are treated like adults and explore the world independently of their parents, which makes having good security measures in place even more necessary, both for the safety of the child and the peace of mind of parents.

One key security feature is the security bracelet kids are given at the airport (read: entrance) prior to entering KidZania Singapore. This contains key information about the child, including the child’s name, age, gender and their accompanying adults’ name. If a child runs out of KidZania Singapore on their own, the sensors will have their details reflected on the system so security staff can immediately track down the child.

[caption id="attachment_28258" align="alignnone" width="1600"] The Immigration Office of KidZania Singapore is the only exit of KidZania Singapore[/caption]

Also, as an additional precaution against children leaving KidZania Singapore unsupervised, there is only 1 entrance (the airport) and 1 exit (the immigration office) to KidZania Singapore, excluding emergency exits.

Tech In Human Resource

Another snazzy piece of tech that helps KidZania Singapore manage their 300-strong staff – including interns, part-time and full-time staff – is the Smart Board.

[caption id="attachment_28259" align="alignnone" width="1600"] Learning the KidZania Singapore language on the Smart Board[/caption]

Think of it as a huge iPad. It lets you surf the net, draw, save your ideas, and email them to all involved with the mere touch of a button.

This Smart Board comes in especially handy when it comes to remote training. People overseas or at home can dial in through Skype to view whatever is going on on-screen live. Given the large staff size at KidZania Singapore, this allows more people to undergo training at once, doing away with the need to hold multiple sessions or fly abroad for meetings.

[caption id="attachment_28260" align="alignnone" width="1437"] Staff clocking in and out is automated at KidZania Singapore[/caption]

Another feature that helps with the management of such a large group of staff is KidZania Singapore’s automated Human Resource (HR) system. Staff tap their staff pass on the machine to clock in, and their picture will also be taken and recorded by the system.

This system is integrated with the payroll system such that the entire process, from when staff clock in to work to when staff receive their pay, is seamless and almost fully automated.

Tech In Logistics

Finally, and perhaps the most interesting way tech is being integrated into KidZania Singapore’s operation is the RFID tagging of uniforms.

[caption id="attachment_28261" align="alignnone" width="1600"] Over 2000 uniforms to keep track of[/caption]

There are over 2000 uniforms to keep track of at KidZania Singapore, spread across all the roles Zupervisors play in KidZania Singapore. Some of these uniforms are linked to certain establishments, some are for performances, some are assigned to full-timers, and some are shared by different staff members.

This Radio Frequency Identification Device (RFID) tagging is an ID system that helps with identification and tracking of the uniforms by using small radio frequency identification devices. These tags are inserted into most of the uniforms.

[caption id="attachment_28262" align="alignnone" width="1600"] Trying my hand at ‘checking out’ a t-shirt[/caption]

When a Zupervisor takes their uniform out of storage, they tap the RFID tag against a reader at the uniform storage room to ‘check out’ their uniform. When they return it, they tap it again and an app called “Follow Suit” keeps track of who has taken or returned the uniform. Aside from this, a third party contractor washes all the uniforms at KidZania Singapore, and these washes are also tracked by the system.

[caption id="attachment_28263" align="alignnone" width="1600"] Seeing the Follow Suit app in action[/caption]

This straightforward system provides a fast and effective way for the people in charge to track where a uniform is, as well as the activity of a uniform to see if it is due for a wash, needs to be replaced, has gone missing, etc.

Automation Serves Both Businesses And Employees

Several of the technological implementations, including the RFID tagging, the Smart Board and integrated HR and payroll system was funded by Employment and Employability Institute’s (e2i) Inclusive Growth Programme (IGP).

The funding dispersed to KidZania Singapore was meant to help automate manual processes and increase productivity. Because the grant is tied to a firm commitment on the company’s part to pass on these productivity gains in the form of salary increments, both full-time and part-time staff at KidZania Singapore were able to get pay increments.

Because some of the more manual tasks have been automated, KidZania Singapore is better able to cope with the challenges of management of staff and uniforms, so staff can focus their attention and energy towards a more important job – delivering the KidZania Singapore experience to children.

HR Best Practices

KidZania Singapore’s partnership with e2i did not stop at productivity funding through IGP. KidZania Singapore has partnered e2i to hold two mass recruitment fairs and collaborated on a 10-week Place-and-Train programme to train newcomers to take up leadership roles. KidZania Singapore is also very open to hiring mature workers, back-to-work women and fresh graduates without working experience, as long as they have a positive attitude.

Such inclusive workplace practices are certainly of merit and KidZania Singapore was recently given an award at the National Trades Union Congress’ (NTUC) May Day Awards 2017 under the Future Growth, Jobs and Skills category, honouring partners who advance the interests of working people in Singapore.

Fun Times At KidZania Singapore

I had so much fun experiencing KidZania Singapore and learning more about the inner workings of this amazing world. I loved how realistic everything was, down to the tiniest detail, and also, the energy and excitement of the people who work here, making KidZania Singapore what it is.

If a place like this can ignite such wonder and amazement in a 20-something year old like me, what more a young child!

[caption id="attachment_28264" align="alignnone" width="1600"] Some of the friendly Zupervisors at KidZania Singapore[/caption]

If you haven’t been to KidZania Singapore already, make a date with this world with your nieces, nephews or your own kids! Explore the world of possibilities with them. You never know what you might ignite in them during your time there!

What’s more, they even have an adults-only event titled Back-to-Kidz for adults just like myself to relive our childhood aspirations, and job hop as we please! The next run is scheduled for 4 August 2017, and tickets are on sale at Website

NTUC members get a 20% off return voucher, details here.

This article is written in collaboration with the Labour Movement to encourage good HR practices.

KFC’s New Merch Lets You Show The World How Much You Really Love Fried Chicken

Fans of KFC, now you’ll be able to wear your love for the finger lickin’ good fried chicken on your sleeve – and in fact, the rest of your body.

KFC has just released a whole bunch of merch, so KFC lovers can pledge their allegiance to their favourite fast food chain in the country!

As part of a collection called KFC Limited, KFC’s line will include clothing, jewelry, and home items. We’re talking fried chicken socks, a fried chicken sweatshirt and blankets, pillowcases and prints to embellish your homes with!

With the exception of one very pricey Zinger Meteorite that comes with a USD$20,000 price tag, the rest of the items range from USD$1 to USD$80 – pretty affordable for some fun, charming pieces of clothing that truly speak to your soul.

Check out some of the items in the collection below:

Only available for purchase online, make sure to check out their website ASAP! Some of the items are already sold out, and we’re sure it won’t be long before the rest of the stuff goes off the shelves too!

Also read Our 100% #notspon Review On McDonald’s Nasi Lemak Burger, Chendol McFlurry And More

Tear Apart These Buns To Find A Colourful Centre – And Some Pretty Creative Fillings

Multi-coloured foods are all the rage these days.

From cakes containing all the colours of the rainbow to modernised, multi-hued kuehs, it was only a matter of time before multi-coloured buns became a thing.

Just Dough is a bakery at Suntec City that sells colourful steamed buns. Beyond their pretty exterior, these buns come in interesting flavours such as Durian and Pumpkin Salted Egg!

Dough Not Just Stop At One

Freshly made daily, the colours of the dough are derived from natural sources including green tea powder, charcoal, black sesame, carrot, cocoa powder, whole meal and red yeast rice.

The more health-conscious ones of you will be happy to know that the fillings of these buns contain low levels of sugar and oil, with no preservatives added. Both the dough and the fillings are made in-house, and Just Dough definitely doesn’t stinge on their fillings!

One of the signature buns at Just Dough is the Purple Sweet Potato Bun ($1.90), a light green coloured bun with a purple sweet potato mash within, topped off with a walnut. Tear the bun into half and you’ll find beautiful hues of light green, dark green, and purple within! With the subtle, natural sweetness of the sweet potato, this bun is a sure-win for those who love the taste of the understated root.

Another one of Just Dough’s signatures is their Yam Bun ($1.90). Inside the bright yellow bun, you’ll find hues of yellow, brown, and purple! Like the Purple Sweet Potato Bun, Just Dough lets the natural sweetness of the yam do all the talking – a choice that definitely pays off!

While the signature buns were fragrant and light, our favourite ones had to be the more flavoursome Durian Bun ($1.90) and Pumpkin Salted Egg Bun ($1.50).

The Durian Bun is black on the outside, and black, speckled and yellow on the inside. The durian cream within tastes AMAZING. Thick, creamy, and full of durian flavour, you almost feel like you’re eating durian flesh straight off the seed, durian fibres and all! The durian cream oozes out of the bun when you bite into it, and with just the right filling-to-dough ratio, you won’t be left in want of either durian or the bun.

Now that we’re in the thick of durian season, this is definitely a must-eat for fans of the king of fruit.

The Pumpkin Salted Egg Bun is another one of our favourites.

Half yellow and half speckled, break apart the bun to find a rich, decadent pumpkin salted egg filling within. The flavour of the filling is reminiscent of the salted egg centre of a mooncake, which we absolutely loved. Together with the chewy, fluffy bun, it was like having a delicious sweet-salty dipping sauce built into your bun!

Aside from these winning flavours, other flavours you’ll find here are Curry Potato Chicken ($2.50), Red Bean ($1.90), Banana Choc ($1.50), Peanut ($1.50), Coconut ($1.50) and Wolfberry Mantou ($1.90). With such a tantalising variety to choose from, you won’t have an easy time picking just one to eat!

Have Your Bun With Soup

Buns and soups are a match made in culinary heaven. Thankfully, Just Dough (ironically) doesn’t sell just dough; it also sells soups that perfectly complement their dense, delicious mantous.

Choose from Chilli Crab Soup ($7.90) and Pumpkin Soup ($5.90), each of which is served with one of their colourful variety of mantous!

The selection of buns sold at Just Dough is constantly changing, so don’t be surprised to find your favourites gone and new flavours being added to the menu!

If you’re passing by, or if you work in the area, make sure to pay Just Dough a visit! With chewy, flavourful buns that cater to both your sweet and savoury cravings, you’re sure to find something that suits your fancy, no matter the time of the day!

Just Dough
Address: 3 Temasek Boulevard, #B1-169/170 Suntec City Mall, Singapore 038983
Opening Hours: Mon – Thu: 7.30am – 9.00pm; Fri: 7.30am – 10.00pm; Sat – Sun & PH: 8.30am – 10.00pm
Contact no.: 6341 9619
Facebook 

Also read At The Affogato Bar, It’s Never Too Early To Get Drunk On Coffee And Ice Cream

Our 100% #notspon Review On McDonald’s Nasi Lemak Burger, Chendol McFlurry And More

By now, I’m sure we’ve all caught wind of the news that McDonald’s has released some new limited edition flavours in conjunction with Singapore Food Festival 2017.

While some of these sounded odd from the get-go (e.g Nasi Lemak Burger), some of these sounded like they had the potential to taste really, really good (e.g Chendol McFlurry)!

Curious about how these new local-inspired items would taste, we got our hands on all of them and here’s our verdict:

1. Nasi Lemak Burger

The Nasi Lemak Burger – the dish we were the most curious about. Does it taste like Nasi Lemak? Does it work as a burger?

The answer to that is yes, and somehow, yes. The fried chicken, fried egg, cucumber, and SAMBAL are all in there. The sambal is on the sweet side, coating everything in its sweet flavour and pulling all the ingredients of the burger together.

If you prefer your sambal spicy, or prefer spicy food in general, you might be a bit disappointed by the lack of heat. But overall, it was a tasty burger! While the coconut rice was missing in action, we didn’t miss it too much. After all, if we wanted something that tasted exactly like Nasi Lemak, we’d just order Nasi Lemak… right?

Worth trying at least once, this is definitely something we see ourselves returning for again and again, as long as they’re available in McDonald’s.

2. Chendol McFlurry

Chendol McFlurry – another item we were super stoked to try. Being people who appreciate a good bowl of chendol, an ice cream version of it sounded like a fantastic idea.

With green chendol jelly bits and gula melaka sauce, the Chendol McFlurry has all the makings of a good chendol dessert. Taste-wise, the soft serve complemented the chendol elements very well. The DiscoverSG team was torn on whether or not we liked this – some of us thought it was too sweet, while others (read: fans of chendol) thought it was nice, even if sweet.

Our verdict? Share it with a friend because it might get jelat after a while! Also, eat it quickly as it melts pretty fast!

3. Coconut Pie

The Coconut Pie, we initially weren’t too excited about. But after getting a taste, we were sold.

With the same crunchy, flaky crust as McDonald’s usual pies, the filling is not too sweet. The coconut flavour doesn’t come through strongly, but that’s actually what we love about it! The nata de coco was also a nice addition, giving you something to chew on between bites.

While coconut lovers may not be a big fan of these, those of you who typically steer clear of coconut should definitely give this a try. Those of us who aren’t the biggest fans of coconut had a change of heart after a bite of this!

4. Bandung McFizz

Finally, we’re left with the Bandung McFizz.

The Bandung McFizz is a fizzy twist on the classic rose syrup drink. Like Bandung mixed with 7-up, this drink is not too sweet and not too milky – the perfect pick-me-up for a hot day in Singapore!

And that concludes our verdict on the latest additions to McDonald’s menu!

To round up, definitely try the Nasi Lemak Burger and the Coconut Pie. The Chendol McFlurry too, is worth a try, especially for sweet tooths and chendol lovers. As for the Bandung McFizz, drink it or don’t – you won’t be missing much!

These brand new flavours are available from today (Jul 13) onwards at all McDonald’s outlets, so hurry and be one of the first to try them!

Also read Korean Food Is All The Rage Now – Here Are 11 Ways To Eat And Drink Like A True Korean

Get Nauti In August On Board This Party Ship – The Largest Foam And Water Gun Party At Sea

Party people, if you’re still recovering from your post-Ultra blues, here’s something that will cheer you up!

There’s another party happening very soon, and this one will take you off Singapore island.

Ready Set Sail is back again, and it’s bigger, better, and more exciting than ever! The first, largest foam and water gun party at sea, this two-day event will be happening on 26 – 27 August.

Some of you may remember 2016’s glorious Poseidon. After a successful maiden voyage, this cruise party will be returning once again, bringing a party experience like no other to those of you who love fun and are always on the hunt for new thrills.

A Beer Carnival On Board

This year, Ready Set Sail will be premiering its first ever beer carnival at sea. Expect games including ping pong, jenga, card games, roulette, and a dunking machine, but with a boozy twist. After all, isn’t everything more fun with a beer?

After the beer carnival, participate in the largest foam and water gun party at sea!

Have a splashing good time to the beats of renowned DJs in the industry the likes of up-and-coming DJ Yang & Dangerous, who will be spinning to mainstream EDM, bootlegs and mash ups. Groove and dance into the wee hours of the morning to other award-winning guest DJs like Mixmischiefs, Nicolette, Joshua Dillon, Debi, and more!

This party promises to be bigger and better than the one before, and everyone on board can look forward to being treated to a unique adventure!

A Priceless Adventure

Wondering what the price tag is on this one-of-a-kind experience? This experience will cost between $45/person (no cabin, 2 beers, all meals) for a normal tier ticket, to $2000/party of 10 if you book yourselves some VVIP tier tickets. As with any cruise, party packages are inclusive of drinks and all meals.

A cruise party, minus that hefty price tag you’ll find with many others like it, this is the most affordable way to check “cruise party”off your bucket list!

A total experience that begins with you boarding a ship, and literally drifting away from all your problems on shore, you’re bound to have an amazing time drinking, partying, and playing at Ready Set Sail!

For the best price, purchase your tickets NOW as early bird promotions are now on sale! This window will close on 22nd July 2017, so make sure you book your tickets early to avoid any disappointment!

To purchase tickets to Ready Set Sail 2017, click here. Take note that all ticket prices are not inclusive of a $45 embarkation fee per pax.

Also read Skip The Hawker Centre, You Can Now Get Your Nasi Lemak And Chendol Fix At McDonalds

Skip The Hawker Centre, You Can Now Get Your Nasi Lemak And Chendol Fix At McDonalds

Goodbye minions and hello Nasi Lemak burgers!

McDonald’s has just unveiled their new series for National Day 2017, and boy do they look scrumptious.

For an entire month, from July 13 2017, McDonald’s Singapore is joining the Singapore Food Festival with local-inspired food.

Singapore Burgers

Kick off your uniquely Singapore meal with the coconut pie with nata de coco chunks and a refreshing sip of bandung McFizz.

And once you’ve whetted your appetite, it’s time to dig into the good stuff. 

The Nasi Lemak burger comes with a chicken thigh patty with cornflake batter, a fried egg, caramelised onions and cucumber slices.

The final topping is a generous sambal sauce, because what’s Nasi Lemak without sambal?

Sweet Memories To Come

And the limited edition menu does not stop there, for after burgers comes desserts.

For this, the Chendol McFlurry with vanilla soft serve, gula melaka sauce and chendol jelly bits promises to deliver a sweet round-up.

And if you still have the space for extras, pick up a Chendol Melaka ice cream cone on the way out.

From the Chendol Melaka Twist to the more adventurous Chendol Melaka ChocoCone, there’s something for every palate.

But wait, it does not stop there. 

Pop by McCafe for a delightful pandan creation, in the form of a Pandan Coco Frappé or the Kueh Salat Cake (pandan custard and glutinous rice).

And if you feel like going traditional, McDonald’s is also offering their signature Vanilla cone at $0.50 from 4 to 10 August.

P.S. There Are Special Discounts For NS men!

As a salute to the 50th year of National Service, the fast food chain is offering all past and present NS men a free Apple Pie or Hot Fudge Sundae with every Extra Value Meal.

All you need to do is present your SAFRA ID, 11B or Pink IC.

We foresee crazy queues the moment they open, so be sure to snag your spot in the queue early!

Happy early National Day!

(Header Image Source: Coconuts)

Korean Food Is All The Rage Now – Here Are 11 Ways To Eat And Drink Like A True Korean

K-dramas, K-pop, Korean food… It seems Singaporeans are crazy for all things Korean, and for good reason.

Their heart wrenching drama storylines tug at our heartstrings. Their very successful reality-variety shows like Running Man leave us in fits of laughter. Their virally catchy pop tunes stick in our heads and are fun to sing along to.

But although Singaporeans do enjoy Korean food, do you know that some of us may unknowingly be flouting Korean table manners?

To help us better appreciate their cuisine and get the full Korean dining experience, here are 11 ways you can eat and drink like a true Korean.

How Koreans Eat

In Korea, rice is a staple food with most of South Korea’s agricultural policies centred on rice. Though we are seeing more unique Korean food creations, the Koreans still love their usual meal of rice with side dishes.

This is one act we are guilty of. While it’s that much more shiok to hold up your soup bowl for big gulps of the soup, it’s not recommended to do so in public, especially not so when you’re having Korean food – you’ll just seem rude.

3. Don’t reach across the table for food

As mentioned, a traditional Korean meal consists of a wide assortment of small side dishes that usually fill up the table. While it may seem normal for us to reach across the table for dishes placed further away, it isn’t for the Koreans.

It’s considered poor manners to extend your arm across the table to reach for food. The general rule is to bring the dishes closer to you, and if you really need to, get your friends to pass the food over to you.

4. When you’re done with your meal, place your utensils on the table

Once you’re finished with your food, don’t stick your chopsticks into your bowl, because they look like joss sticks offered to ancestors. It is regarded as disrespectful and a sign of bad luck. Place your utensils back on the table instead. But only do it after the elders have placed their utensils on the table, and make sure that you place them neatly.

Always wait for everyone to have their glasses ready before you toast and drink up together.

4. Do not refuse alcoholic drinks

The Koreans consider it rude when someone turns down a drink, especially when the elders offer it to you. So… bottoms up!

Remember to also hold your cup or glass with both hands when someone is pouring drinks for you.

5. Turn sideways when you drink liquor

Like the Japanese, Koreans emphasise a lot on societal ranking. One way that juniors show respect to elders, especially those higher in the corporate ladder, is to turn away when drinking.

6. Alcohol-food pairings

Did you know that some Korean alcohols were meant to be eaten with specific foods?

Korea has a long history of having alcohol when celebrating special occasions. Besides long-stemmed beliefs (like consuming Soju during the new year as a way to drive away bad spirits and illnesses), these alcohols actually make Korean cuisine that much more enjoyable.

Soju + Anju

While Anju is a general term for side dishes consumed with alcohol, Anju is most commonly paired with Soju.

These side dishes aren’t just any kind of foods. These are usually finger foods like nuts and fruits, or salads like Golbaengi-muchim (a mix of moon snails and vegetables).

Soju is also best paired with grilled meat like Samgyeopsal (pork belly).

Makgeolli + Jeon

The best food to eat with your makgeolli is Jeon, a fried pancake that at its most basic, consists of meat and/or vegetables, coated in flour and egg.

You can find all kinds of jeon—crispy, soft, doughy, and less doughy jeons versions, and they all pair deliciously with makgeolli.

Beer + Chicken

If you haven’t already heard of Chimaek, it’s about time you learnt of this.

A combination of “chicken” and “Maekju” (beer), Chimaek very literally means chicken and beer. The Koreans love their chicken with beer, particularly spicy and fried chicken. There are even Korean restaurants like Chir Chir that specialises in selling just that.

Learning from Asian Masters at e2i’s Taste Of East Asia

Wondering where we learnt all of this? It was at e2i’s Taste Of East Asia event that happened in May 2017, where Dr Dr Kim Sang-woo, Chairman of the East Asia Cultural Project[/caption]

A session intended to introduce people to the cultural, economic and political aspects of Korea, Dr Kim gave us a peek into Korean food and cultural traditions that went beyond the glitz and glamour we’ve all come to associate with the country.

We Singaporeans love Korean food, and so does the rest of the world. Interestingly, food is one of the mediums through which Korea has forged closer, friendlier ties with other nations.

Taste of East Asia is one of many masterclasses organized by the Employment and Employability Institute (e2i) to help working people.

For Taste of East Asia, people working in the F&B industry attended the professional development workshops by Korean, Japanese, Sri Lankan and Hong Kong masters, to increase their knowledge and mastery of food techniques.

Attendees also got to mingle with the masters, participants and booth exhibitors to expand their professional networks.

To find out more about future e2i events, you can contact e2i here.

This article is written in collaboration with e2i to help trade professionals upskill and network via trade events such as curated masterclasses.