(Originally written in Korean on Brunch in November 2020, now reworked for an international audience.) An Unplanned Journey to the UK I never expected to study in the UK. My original plan was to complete my Master’s degree in Japan and continue research there. But life had other plans. One day, I received an unexpected…… Continue reading How My Unexpected PhD Journey in the UK Led to a Scone Debate
Category: Coffee & Culture
A Coffee Tour Without Coffee
For someone who loves coffee, enjoying a cup of specialty coffee during a trip is a small but delightful pleasure. So on that day, I set out to visit a cafe I had found online while traveling in Yeosu. After walking more than 20,000 steps, I was exhausted, and a good cup of coffee felt…… Continue reading A Coffee Tour Without Coffee
5 Days as a YouTuber: How an Introvert Manages a Channel
I’ve heard that as you get older, embarrassment fades away. Lately, I’ve found that to be surprisingly true. Being an introvert with a touch of perfectionism, I’ve spent much of my life mastering the art of procrastination. If something didn’t go well, I’d just drop it—no one else needed to know, just the sky and…… Continue reading 5 Days as a YouTuber: How an Introvert Manages a Channel
Serendipity and Connection: My Unplanned Journey Through Crete
In 2013, I embarked on a spontaneous trip to Crete with minimal preparation. After attending a tourism conference, I had a brief opportunity to explore the island. I expected to spend most of my time resting at the hotel, as I had no clear itinerary. Hoping to get travel tips during the flight, I was…… Continue reading Serendipity and Connection: My Unplanned Journey Through Crete
A Moment That Didn’t Take Ethiopia Away from Me
When people hear about my experiences in Ethiopia, they often assume that I only carry good memories. They see my love for Ethiopian coffee, my deep academic research, and my long-standing relationships with the people there. But life is never just a collection of beautiful moments—there are difficult ones, too. And Ethiopia, like anywhere else…… Continue reading A Moment That Didn’t Take Ethiopia Away from Me
[Book] Because Coffee Excites Me: A Special Moment on Amazon
A few days ago, I launched my Korean-language book, Because Coffee Excites Me (original title: 설레는 게 커피라서), on Amazon.com, the world’s largest online marketplace. Since it’s an English-based platform, I wasn’t sure if a Korean-language book would sell, but I uploaded it with a hopeful heart. Today, I was thrilled to see my first…… Continue reading [Book] Because Coffee Excites Me: A Special Moment on Amazon
Exploring Japan’s Diverse International Exchange Programs
Today, I’m stepping away from my usual coffee-related topics to share valuable insights into Japan’s diverse international exchange programs. As a Korean, I’ve had the privilege of participating in several of these programs, which have allowed me to build an extensive global network. These connections have been invaluable to my research and business ventures, including…… Continue reading Exploring Japan’s Diverse International Exchange Programs
[Book] Exciting News: My Korean Book is Now Live on Amazon Kindle!
I’m overjoyed to announce the release of my Korean essay, 설레는 게 커피라서 (Because Coffee Excites Me)! This book captures my personal journey of transforming from a complete coffee novice into an expert while traveling across three continents. It’s a story of passion, exploration, and transformation that I’m thrilled to share with you. This book is not…… Continue reading [Book] Exciting News: My Korean Book is Now Live on Amazon Kindle!
The Changing Landscape of the Ethiopian Coffee Ceremony: A Reflection on Tradition and Modernity
Last September, I had the opportunity to join a coffee tour program in Rwanda organized by a private coffee company. Among the many highlights, one stood out: the inclusion of an Ethiopian coffee ceremony as part of the itinerary. As an Ethiopian coffee tourism and culture researcher, witnessing this ceremony outside of Ethiopia was an…… Continue reading The Changing Landscape of the Ethiopian Coffee Ceremony: A Reflection on Tradition and Modernity
Coffee as a Bridge Between Tradition and Innovation: Reflections on the Global Coffee Scene
Coffee, often regarded as the drink that fuels our modern, fast-paced world, also carries a rich history that connects us to diverse cultures and traditions. From the coffee ceremonies of Ethiopia to the Japanese mastery of pour-over brewing, coffee represents a fascinating intersection of culture, ritual, and innovation. However, as we embrace new coffee trends…… Continue reading Coffee as a Bridge Between Tradition and Innovation: Reflections on the Global Coffee Scene
