GIFT GUIDE: K-pop and K-drama-inspired finds for your 'chingu'
Merch ban? We don’t know her.
There’s no such thing as “buying ban” for K-pop and K-drama stans—especially if their favorite group has been releasing a ton of content for the past year. Not to mention, the many end-of-the-year merchandise Korean celebrities put out for fans to enjoy.
As a result, finding the perfect Christmas gift for your chingu can be overwhelming. Not to mention that there’s a 50-50 chance of them having that merch you’re planning to buy.
Don’t worry, we’ve rounded up a list of gift ideas including official merchandise, fan-made items, K-pop and K-drama-inspired shirts, and other items to bring the biggest smile on a K-pop or K-drama stan’s face.
Full-length and deluxe albums
The safest gift option for any K-pop stan is buying an album of their favorite group. What better way to spread Christmas cheer than by giving a full-length or deluxe album for more inclusions and tracks to enjoy?
Verified online shops like CNA Philippines, N.Cat Philippines, Chingu Dachi, or KPOP Merch offer a variety of official full-length, deluxe, and repackage albums so you don’t have to worry about being scammed.
Photobooks
If your chingu is fond of collecting photos of their ultimate bias, a photobook is the best way to go. Luckily, groups like TWICE and SEVENTEEN have no shortage of releasing official photobooks for fans to enjoy.
Binders, binder fillers, and acrylic cases
The struggle in collecting your bias’ official photocards is real. Minimize the stress of your pc hunt by getting a binder (with fillers, of course) to keep them secure. It comes in different designs including a composition book, macaroon, or a mini photo album. These binders usually range from P59 to P600 on Shopee.
You can also get your chingu an acrylic case if they’re fond of kilabot photocards to get their money’s worth.
Season’s greetings calendars
‘Tis the season to prepare for 2022 in true K-pop flair. Luckily, it’s a tradition for K-pop groups to welcome the new year with their season’s greetings set which includes a calendar, photocards, stickers, and other merch.
Fanmade bootleg shirts
Time to wear your favorite ultimate group’s face on your sleeve—literally! Online shops like Vintage Vibe Manila, Hanadulsell, and Seoul Palette offer bootleg shirts inspired by Red Velvet, BTS, EXO, TWICE, and other K-pop groups.
BT21's doodle collection
If you don’t have the budget to get BTS-inspired merch on Weverse, how about getting Penshoppe’s apparel featuring adorable doodles of BT21 characters? The local brand offers hoodies, shoulder bags, shorts, and more.
Nike Kwondo x G-Dragon Shoes
Raise your hands if you miss Big Bang’s music. Don’t worry, you’re not alone. As we wait for Big Bang’s comeback, show your love for the group’s leader and main rapper G-Dragon by getting these Nike Kwondo shoes ($200 or ~P9,900). These one-of-a-kind kicks are designed by G-Dragon himself, showing off his unique sense of style.
Oppa-scented candles
Not all K-pop and K-drama fans have the chance to smell their oppas in person. Luckilu, 325Handscrafted sells handmade candles with scents that are similar to perfumes used by BTS’ Jungkook, BTS’ V, Song Joongki, Hyun Bin, and other celebrities. Oh diba, you can fangirl and make your room smell good at the same time.
K-pop inspired dolls and pillows
Struggling to sleep? Perhaps, cuddling these adorable dolls or pillows can keep you at peace. Falling asleep next to our bias is impossible, but it doesn’t hurt to dream with these cuddly items. Don't worry, these cuddly items usually range from P300 to P1,000 so they wouldn't break the bank.
K-pop and K-drama inspired necklaces
“It feels like something new is about to begin…” ?
— Tala by Kyla (@talabykyla) July 13, 2021
Wish you had an iridescent, sparkly suncatcher of your own?
Introducing our Nabi Collection, inspired by one of our favorite on-going dramas, Nevertheless! ? pic.twitter.com/1xCZ1nO9V3
Show up to your next fan event in style by getting this dainty jewelry from Tala By Kyla. This local brand offers handmade necklaces, bracelets, and fidget rings inspired by your favorite K-pop groups and K-dramas.
Hometown Cha-Cha-Cha mugs
Bring back the magic of Gongjin Fishing Village by getting a customized mug inspired by Hometown Cha-Cha-Cha. Shopee store Bevystory sells handpainted mugs with cartoon images of Captain Hong and Yoon Hyejin. The store also offers clear mugs with handpainted images of Hospital Playlist, BLACKPINK, BTS, and more.
Gift boxes
If you’re still unsure about which gift to get for your chingu, NY Giftworks offers personalized gift boxes that are thoughtfully put together—with your fave K-pop group or K-Drama icon in mind. The box includes sweet treats, snacks, and other fanmade items that will surely make your chingu happy. Send your orders to [email protected].
