Heyyy.. can we talk, just for a bit? 😅
So you’ll notice that I’ve allowed ads on the site, for the first time in the 7.5 years that I’ve been here. And yes, I know that it’s not ideal, and not pretty, and creates visual clutter, and honestly, it’s why I’ve stubbornly kept away from having ads, all this time. I like this place to look clean and streamlined and pretty.
..But I’m deciding that I need to compromise now. I’m sorry, guys.
Basically, like so many other people around the world, my ability to work has been affected by the pandemic situation, and, well.. I still need to pay the bills.
This post is to let you know how you can help support the blog and keep it going. (Coz yes, it does cost money to run the blog, and also.. to keep my lights on and stuff.)
It won’t be hard, though, I promise.
Group huggg. We’ll get through this togetherrr. 🥰🥰
Here are 2 ways that you can help support me and this site.
1. By allowing the ads on your screen.
This new arrangement means that there’ll be ads on each page that you visit while you’re here. You don’t have to click on an ad (unless you actually want to), but just scrolling past the ad counts towards ad revenue.
If you’re using an AdBlocker, it would be great and really helpful if you could consider whitelisting this site (not just this page, but the site as a whole), coz as you probably know, if the ads are blocked while you’re hanging out here, your visit won’t count towards ad revenue (though I’ll still appreciate your presence!)
2. By making a contribution
If you’d like to, you can also make a cash contribution here: https://www.paypal.me/thefangirlverdict. Any and all contributions help, no matter the size! And no, you don’t need to have a Paypal account in order to make a contribution. 🙂
I’ve also put a handy-dandy link on the sidebar which you can find on the right of your screen if you’re on a computer, or at the bottom of your screen if you’re on mobile. So anytime you’d like to contribute to the blog, you can do it easily without having to come back to this post. It looks like this:
ADD-ON!
3. By supporting the blog monthly on Patreon
A number of you suggested I check out Patreon, to enable easy monthly contributions, and so I did!
You can find the blog on Patreon here: https://www.patreon.com/thefangirlverdict.
I’ve come up with a total of 6 different tiers that you can choose from. You can pick whichever works best for you, AND, you can change to a different tier (or pause or stop your monthly contribution) anytime you wish. So don’t feel like you’ll be locked in forever and ever, just by signing up!
I’ve also put another handy-dandy link on the sidebar which you can find on the right of your screen if you’re on a computer, or at the bottom of your screen if you’re on mobile. It looks like this:
..And that’s about it! I honestly feel kinda awkward talking about money on this blog since I’ve only ever talked about dramas, movies, and actors on here, but.. you guys understand, right?
I promise that even with the ads enabled, there won’t be any changes to the actual content of the blog. What I mean is, I won’t suddenly go all click-baity and traffic-hungry, changing blog content to maximize traffic. I plan to keep on doing exactly what I’ve been doing for the last 7.5 years. Just, hopefully with some earnings on the side now. Or, well, soon. 😅
Well, I guess that’s about it, for this post.. Thanks for reading, and thanks for being here!
Smooches. ❤
~kfangurl
You’re blog has been my go-to since I started watching kdramas, you are amazing! I hope my small contribution could of any help, stay safe!
Thank you so much! Yes, it definitely helps, I’m truly grateful for your support! <3
Hi Kfangurl I’m a little late for this but you have my support. Keep up the good work and love reading your reviews.
Thank you D! <3 Not late at all, it's only been a couple of days! And, thank you so much for your support, I appreciate you! ❤️
I know that I’m late to the announcement, but I hope you’re doing well, kfan!
I’m on the guilty side of putting ads on my blog quite early (^_^;;), but I was hoping that maybe the revenue would give me a few cents to buy books about Korean culture, just that I can share more information on the blog. It’s not much, but it has been helpful during few times I needed extra money.
As a fellow blogger and someone who knows how much work goes into writing, not to mention all the planning and editing and choosing shots to be included (that’s a lot!), I totally support your move. I was thinking of using Patreon too, but I feel that I don’t have much to offer to my patrons since I’m more like a sporadic blogger these days (I REALLY need to reflect myself lol) >.<
So, long story short, do what you feel right, because I believe you will always make the right decision! <3
Mimi!! 😄 How fantastic to see you! Thanks for dropping by, dear chingu. <3 Thanks for your support and understanding.. like you said, it's a lot of work required, so you don't have feel guilty either! As for Patreon.. now that I'm a little bit more familiar with it, I realize there's also a Per Creation option, instead of a Per Month. So if you're more of a sporadic content creator these days, maybe you could think along those lines? Before, when others had suggested Patreon to me, I didn't think I could fit into it either, because I wasn't sure what I could offer my supporters, but my current arrangement seems to work well, and those who've signed up and read the Patreon posts, have told me that they like it. Which gives me some assurance that this is working out. 🙂 So maybe brainstorm around a Per Creation sort of scenario for your content? You might surprise yourself! HUGS! <3
Wow, the Per Creation thing is new to me! I guess Patreon is also accommodating to people with sporadic content like me (ㅠㅠ) I’ll try to see more into it! Thank you so much for sharing hehehehe <3
I didn’t know either, until I joined! 🙂 So yeah, that would work for content creators who release new content more sporadically. I hope it works well for you! <3
First of all, keep up the good work and this is a good initiative…And you are so good at what you do.
I myself was wondering earlier as to how you are managing without ads and for free…
I am new to Kdrama Land and this whole website has been so informative, fun and a great place to exchange views/opinions without getting unpleasant….Kudos to you and all the people who write in here…You are all amazing.
I made a small contribution through PayPal for this month and once I get a hang of it, I will sign on to Patron.
Meanwhile, I am based out of Lion City as well and if you need anything I can share my personal email id and be of any help to you in terms of contributions, patrons etc…..
(I checked your twitter account and the CLOY troll video was fun…)
take care and be safe. (And I am yet to finish Coffee Prince …still stuck at episode 8….)
Thank you for your support, Princess Jasmine.. it really means a lot. <3 I've replied to your email, so you can check your inbox. 🙂 I'm so glad you're enjoying the blog (WELCOME, by the way!), and yes, everyone here is lovely indeed, and I'm really happy you're feeling comfortable here! 😀
YES that CLOY spoof was hilarious, wasn't it? I laughed out loud, and then hit replay! 😆😆 Ah, what's not working for you in Coffee Prince? I know not everyone ends up loving the show, even though it's a crowd favorite.
Great….I saw your email and replied back…bit delayed response though….
Thanks for the warm welcome and hope u are doing fine…
Coffee Prince – I don’t want to make any comment before finishing it off….So I reserve this one…so far its good and very warm and fuzzy….I mean the heroine is such a lovely fun normal girl…
Just that I am bit lazy during lockdown and have other work commitments as well…
But I have already earmarked – Healer; Fight my Way, Chuno, K2, Mr.Sunshine for the next few months…lets see how it goes…
Hi Princess Jasmine! Yes, I saw your email, I will reply to you soon! 🙂 Sounds like you’re enjoying Coffee Prince, even though you’re taking it a bit slow.. which is totally fine! 😀 And yes, the heroine is very likable, such a champ! I loved Healer and Chuno, really really liked Fight My Way, but K2 and Mr. Sunshine weren’t quite my cup of drama tea, unfortunately. But, you might feel differently, so no harm giving them a try! 😀
I meant my response was delayed….not yours….u have a lot on your plate and I am sure u have other priorities…take your time….no worries
Aw, thank you dear! <3
@kfangurl – I know you’re super busy. In fact, I don’t know how you’re finding time to respond to all of us, watch kdramas, write reviews, and then create lists at our requests. In fact, I was wondering “is she taking Ritalin or something because – WOW!” 😆
So I feel a tad guilty with what I’m going to say to you about Mr. Sunshine. It truly is epic although a slow burn. It has none of Kim Eun sook’s usual signature relationship faux pas even though it’s set in a time where you’d expect mysogyny and/or male dominance but as far as the OTP, there’s none of that. There isn’t even much restriction on the FL other than her grandfather’s fear for her safety. I only had two issues with it at all – 1) a bit of inaccuracy when it came to ML’s time in America; and 2) some of Lee Byung hun’s lines seemed foolish for his age. Not for what is probably the age of his character. I kept thinking “he could’ve pulled that off ten years ago”. In any event, Mr. Sunshine – if nothing else, watch some You Tube videos and watch the last episode, at least. I almost feel like if ever a history of classic Kdrama is compiled by some movie/theatre/drama official association. Mr. Sunshine will definitely be on the list. Don’t you want to have seen what all the hoopla was about?😘
Hahaha.. I’m not, in fact, on Ritalin, and I do flounder at balancing it all, though I try to keep it all straight! 😀
Thanks for the hearty endorsement of Mr. Sunshine. I’m slowly coming around to giving it another try. I’d gotten about 14 eps in, but wasn’t feeling it, even though I knew that I was supposed to feel it. Maybe it was a mood thing? I’m not sure. But I’ll get around to finding out. 🙂
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My Dearest Kfangurl
In an age where much has been forgotten, and some of it for the better, along comes a light at the end of the tunnel, and that is you!
Where would I be if I had not discovered Kdramaland, some thoughtful comments along the way, and then your wonderful, meaningful and thoughtful blog?
I once had a night (well many actually) sitting there on my own, far from home, enduring the political graveyard once again, while also trying to sort out an organisational mess and in drops a kfangurl review. I wasn’t working, I try not to do that at night any more, but I was just over the whole thing. So, there it was: Sky Castle! Well, I had to do something about that, and I did. Both in terms of the review, and watching Sky Castle (although I never liked, nor disliked it). Both your blog and Sky Castle allowed me to reflect on things that had once mattered including my grandfather (and he did make a difference to the world).
I have been fortunate through the current challenge the world has face. I am so sorry that it has impacted you. Don’t feel awkward. Such a welcome move by you is long overdue.
All aboard the kfangurl train, and never, ever look back 😉
In all sincerity
Well said.
Thank you, dear Sean! <3 Such kind and caring words, from one of my favorite people on the blog! <3 I'm so glad that you found dramas, and that you found this blog, and that it's been a spot of brightness in a sometimes (oftentimes, nowadays?) dark world. Thanks so much, not just for understanding, but welcoming the various initiatives for blog support. It truly means a lot. 🥰
PS: Bummer that Sky Castle didn’t work for you, but I guess we can’t always like the same shows.. that would make the world – and this blog! – too boring 😉
Thank goodness we are not all the same 🤣 The never ending diverse comments and opinions re each and every one of your blogs are a pure delight!
Kfangurl, you have been so generous, and I think that has allowed many, many constructive thoughts and comments here along with some cheeky ones too 😊
HG Wells said a long time ago: as strange as it may seem, politicians need to play their cards face up on the table. That has been me. It has cost me dearly at times, but on other occasions it has allowed me (and those around me) to achieve more than most.
At Christmas I made the decision to step back from the inferno and work from home and re- engage with the 100 acre wood (as that is what us Tiggers do best 🐯). On average I’m in the media 10 – 12 times a year. After watching one particular interview during the latter part of last year, it jumped out at me how run down I really was. She who must be obeyed said afterwards “you don’t need that sort of nonsense in your life anymore.” She was right of course 😊
So, one day before we had to start living our lives a bit differently this year, I started to get the band back together. Our first jam session in over 20 years despite the bad timing! Now that things are changing again re the number of people we can have in a gathering, both outside and in the home, I went and had my hair cut yesterday. My barber (and very good friend) and I discussed setting up Sunday week to try out the initial play list. One of the few things I do well is the 12 string guitar intro to Hotel California (well at least it’s recognisable). We are going to drag in one of my boys too as he is pretty good on the bass. Anyway, we will work our way towards a demo and just do enough to allow us to play at a winery or two.
Always refreshing is the kfangurl blog. Never a dull moment and as Drayton Bird always says “the longer the story you tell, the better the result will be.” 🤗😉
Gosh, I’m glad that you took a step back to take better care of yourself, Sean! For the record, you never sound run down when you’re here, but I can imagine that the kind of pressures you’re exposed to, with the work that you do, is unrelenting. It’s no wonder your wife put her foot down! I’m happy to hear that you’re spending your time on more fun and relaxing things now, like jamming with the band! 😀 I’m also so glad the blog gets a spot in your list of fun things; come hang out more, if your new schedule allows! Although I fully understand if your band gets lots of gigs and therefore requires you to spend more time performing than watching dramas! 😉
The blog is fun, and I will continue to be here, kfangurl!
WHERE IS THE LOVE BUTTON WHEN I NEED IT?? 😃❤
Great post Sean. Love the ‘Famgurl train’.
Thanks phl! 🚂🎭🎬
I think it’s great that you are monetizing the site because you really deserve it. You’re reviews are so high quality and you’re always so great at interacting with everyone. Many people don’t realize how much work goes into maintaining a blog. Even if you love what you’re doing, it’s still a lot of work. I felt super awkward when I started monetizing, but like you, I really needed the extra income. You shouldn’t feel bad at all, and we all know that you will still be giving us wonderful and insightful reviews like you’ve always done 🙂 Take care!
Thanks so much for the encouragement and support, Kay!! <3 You feel me; it really did feel super awkward to take this step. I felt like I was maybe.. "tainting" the purity of this blog, somehow, since I'd never allowed ads before, nor asked for any kind of monetary support. But you're right, I could use the income, especially since I haven't been able to work for the last several months, and am not sure when I can work again, with the situation as it is, and borders closed. Thanks for understanding, and for supporting this move.. HUGS! <3
Hey, just wanted to say I fully support the monetisation. Don’t feel bad about it. Needs must and you pour so much of your time and energy into this blog that we have all benefitted from. I really appreciate your hard work crafting (not just writing but crafting!) every review and replying to every comment. I’m so grateful you were so kind and welcoming when I first commented and you’ve always been kind and lovely since. I’ll think about how I can support (definitely with the ads, though finances are a little tight) and will always cheer you on! ♥️♥️ On a side note I saw your patreon – hope it means that non-subscribers won’t be able to access certain posts (just later than the rest?) cos I would be so sad if I couldn’t see some posts if I can’t afford to subscribe!!
@kfangurl: this is purely subjective and maybe not at all representative, but I have to say it. When you set up a Patreon account, I’m guessing they prompt you to come up with escalating swag to reward donors for higher tiers of contribution. But that doesn’t mean you should go overboard. It’s not “one size fits all.”
For an artist who sells merch, it certainly makes sense that monthly Patreons would get some stuff for free that others need to pay for. A songwriter I support gives us access to videos of new material — demos as well as rough studio cuts — long before they make it to the next album.
But a blog like this is different. I would hate to think I was getting access to posts sooner than others
or replies to comments just because I donated some money. It doesn’t fit the spirit of what you’re doing here at all.
I support people on Patreon because I believe in what they’re doing. Honest to god, that’s the reward that means the most to me.
Thanks for the perspective, MeriJ, I appreciate it! 🙂
You’re right, Patreon does encourage creators to come up with rewards for each Tier, which I think makes sense in that it’s a thank you token for the support given. What I’ve put in place for the Early Access tiers is not quite early access to reviews.. The reviews will always be based here, where everyone can read them in full, whether patron or not. What the Early Access provides, is a sneak peek at my episode notes for a drama. These notes will eventually make their way to the review, but they’ll be re-organized, sometimes trimmed, other times beefed up, and added to other remarks, to create the review, along with the screen shots, music etc. So what the sneak peek is, is a raw look at how I felt about a particular episode of a show. I thought this might appeal to folks who are curious to hear some of my thoughts early, perhaps to help them decide if the drama is for them, or just want a rough “recap” experience, without the actual recap included – just my afterthoughts. So it’s not additional posts per se; just a sneak peek at stuff that will eventually go towards creating the review. Kinda-sorta like the demo / rough cut that the songwriter you mentioned provides.
As for comments.. I try to stay current with replying to comments, and sometimes I do better than others. If I’m on top of things, I plan to reply to everyone as I normally would. But in the event that I’m unable to keep up with comments, I thought it’d be nice to at least keep current with patrons’ comments, but I do plan (and want) to stay connected with everyone by responding as soon as I can.
..Does that still go against the spirit of the blog? I didn’t mean to upset anyone. 😬🤭
Oh dear. No one’s upset! All is good. And anyhow, it’s your house, so if you say “please take off your shoes,” we will do so with respect and no hesitation.
I’m just saying, be aware of the advice you get. Patreon will encourage you to “commodify” donor support. But for some of us, offering support is really not about that.
Furthermore, wanting to reward people who are nice to you is a good and natural thing. But at the end of the day, I’d hope this remains a labor of love, because that’s such a huge part of what makes it special right now.
That’s great advice MeriJ, thank you!! ❤ I’m still very new to Patreon, so it’s really helpful for me that you point out these potential pitfalls early, before I actually fall into ’em! This blog has always been a passion project for me, and I will keep in mind, to always let it stay that way. 😀
Actually, I notice that kfangurl replies to ALL posts. It’s super generous and caring of her because most blogs rarely respond to anyone except maybe they first 2-3 comments. I’ve wanted to tell her for a while, not to feel obligated to respond to every one of my post because I know I comment a LOT! I haven’t told her until now because I do feel exhilarated when she does reply. But I’m letting her know now that unless I’m asking her a direct question or saying something that she feels compelled to say something about – I’m relieving her of that burden. 💕 to you @kfangurl.
Thanks dear Beez! <3 I will keep in mind not to feel burdened! But I do genuinely enjoy connecting with everyone, so I will keep on responding to as many comments as I can! 🙂
Thanks so much for your support, MC!! ❤❤ I’m so glad that you enjoy it here, and it makes me happy that you love the reviews! 🥰🥰 Thanks for wanting to help out, despite tight finances. Please don’t feel pressured to contribute if it’s impractical for you at this time.. I know many folks are challenged by the pandemic situation, so I perfectly understand!
As for the Patreon Early Access content, it’s not proper posts per se. Just very raw sneak peeks at my episode notes for a show, after I’ve watched the episode. The content in that raw form will eventually be published in the review itself, but re-organized, and trimmed down or beefed up as I feel is needed. All the additional remarks, screen shots and music and overall structure is only added for the actual review, which will always be hosted here, and available to everyone. So, everyone will eventually see it, just not in its raw form. An Early Access post would read something like less organized comments of a recapper, in a recap – but without the actual recap, if that makes sense? 🙂
Fangurl – Done and done – all signed up!
To those who would ask why is your site worth a donation, I would like to address a few things:
1. Cost – many people assume the internet is free and are shocked when they realize that they have to pay for a domain name, domain security add-ons, an SSl cert, hosting space and WP add-ons (these charges are steep). I completely understand these costs. The sites I maintain cost the owners lots of money but they insist on paying for the no-ad look, the privacy and content control.
2. Depth and quality of reviews – no one does it better that you girl. No one. From superior writing skills to the music embeds to the bullet points (I love those) to the intelligent psychological profiling of all the characters in these dramas – mind blowing. You also add heart to all of your reviews. I can start the review, turn on the OST embed and I am right back in that drama and feeling all the good and bad feelz.
3. Safety – this is one safe place to come to. As I have said in the past, coming here is like meeting a dear friend for tea, biscuits and a good long talk. You show the love – all the time – and I appreciate it. You appreciate the diversity of your viewers. Many drama sites are filled with viscous posts without respect for someone else’s point of view.
4. Artistic creativity – you already know how much I love your banners. I cannot tell you how delighted I am every time the Kim Soo Hyun banner pops up. This is my favorite banner hands down. How you got the text behind the fence is pretty cracky in itself. To create this using layers in PS would take hours. Love all of your fonts as well. Simply put – I love the whole look! It is called attention to detail and it takes a lot of time and energy which brings me to my next bullet point…..
5. Time – as a subscriber to your feeds I see all the time it takes to communicate with your viewers. Not to mention the time it takes to do a comprehensive review like the one you did for NIF or for CLOY. I can only assume that you take notes during a drama run and a lot of the verbiage is comprised of info from these notes. Kudos to you Fangurl if this is what you do – I tried this once and went nuts. However you do it, it takes time and lots of it. The time you spend is evident in the quality of the review.
To sum it up – I have been on your site for years but it was not until Padam, Padam that I posted a comment and then did so tentatively. I was welcomed then, and every time I would post. You bring the drama community together and provide a safe place for us to discuss what we like or do not like. I never would have found my beloved NIF without your post or spent so many delightful (an precious) hours following every A rated drama on your review page. For those of us who do not have family or friends to watch with us, this site provides us with a safe place to talk.
Every month i pay Adobe CC twice what I am donating. CC is something I need and use to work. In turn you are asking for very little for something I need and use for my soul health – LOL! You are so worth it Fangurl. Much respect and love to you!
Well stated! I agree wholeheartedly!
😭😭🥰🥰 I legit choked up reading your comment, phl.. thank you SO much, for expressing with such sincerity and passion, the reasons that you value this blog. ❤❤❤ I’ve always known that you guys like it here, and enjoy the reviews, but the way you’ve broken it down in such detail, with such fervor and confidence, makes me feel so.. SEEN. I do potter around this blog and do what I can to make this look pretty and feel welcoming, but it’s deeply, viscerally moving, to have someone else point out, blow-by-blow, all the things that I’ve been doing. I feel seen, and valued, and.. protected, and it’s so precious, truly. You really make me wanna cry – in the best way. Thank you so much, dear phl. I’m so happy that you found me, and that you decided to post a comment that day, on Padam Padam. It feels like you’ve always been part of the blog, and I couldn’t be more pleased to have you hang out here. HUGS. ❤❤❤
I understand your predicament and will definitely be contributing! I LOVE your reviews and always check your thoughts when I’m looking for a new drama to see if you’ve seen it and what your take on it was to see if it’s worth my time. Then, when I just finished one, I revisit the whole thing and spend a little longer with the story and characters and actors with your review. The time you’ve saved me alone is worth contributing for, but there is so much more with your reviews. Humor and voice and enthusiasm and authenticity. I love all of that, and that is why I come here. It’s like hanging out with a friend and chatting about stuff we have in common which is something we all need in this crazy, crazy time. I’ve been in awe at how you have been able to keep this up for so long without getting anything for it. I don’t know where you find the time to make this website so beautiful and so professional looking and your reviews so well-written and thorough while having a job. You’re incredible, and this is my favorite blog to meander through. Here’s hoping that things get a bit easier! Also, I recently bought a couple t-shirts through the link on your site. (Do you get anything from that?) I was sad that some of the ones from a few years ago are no longer available. Is there a way for you to bring them back monetize that? I’d buy them.
Exactly my point! I was so surprised that kfangirl doesn’t get anything out of it after investing so much hard work. It is definitely the right time to monetise the site and make money. There is this famous movie dialogues “If you are good at something never do it for free”. 🙂 🙂 All the best!
Heh. I felt more like I was having fun with friends and expressing myself, and that was satisfying enough for me, actually. But you’re right, it’s time to monetize the site and not be afraid to stand by my content. 🙂
Yes! That is what we always feel about it. Visiting your site and venting out our thoughts is therapeutic for us. I mean you do not normally come across korean drama fans in your day to day life. I don’t have any actually. *Sigh* So I enjoy coming here everyday and checking out stuff and see if my thoughts match yours. Then discussing it all is so good. Your content is so motivating. Just loveeeee itttt!! Thank you for being there. 😊😊😊😊😍😘😘😘
Aw. I hope that you’ll meet some kdrama friends around you soon! With more and more people tuning in thanks to Netflix, this might not be such a small possibility, after all? Either way, you are always welcome here, soumya!! ❤❤ It would very lonely without you guys here. I would’ve never lasted this long with the blogging thing, if you all didn’t come hang out and chat dramas with me, so thank YOU too, for being here! 😀
Ahhh, thank you so much for your kind words, lotusgirl!!! ❤❤ I am SO happy that you enjoy coming here, and hanging out, and YES, it really is like hanging out with a buddy and chatting about stuff that we like, and honestly, that’s one of the reasons I’ve been able to keep doing this for so long without feeling like I needed something extra back. The friendship and warmth of everyone who comes here is one of the biggest things that motivates me to keep blogging. 🥰🥰 Thank you for articulating the things that you value on the blog.. Not only does that make my day and fill my heart so, it also lets me know what I’m getting right, and what I should keep doing. I appreciate that feedback, thank you! 😘
Thanks for asking about the t-shirts! Yes, I do get something from the sale of the t-shirts. What designs were you thinking of? I might be able to work something out. 🙂
However, just so you know, I’ve switched platforms for the t-shirts, because Teespring was a hit or miss on whether a shirt would get made, because there’s a minimum number of orders within the campaign period, otherwise it’s a no go. I admit I purchased some shirts in the past, just to satisfy the minimum number of orders, so that folks who had ordered shirts wouldn’t be disappointed. 😅 Teepublic doesn’t have that limitation, and will print just 1 t-shirt if that’s what’s ordered, and there’s no campaign period, which means I can make the shirts available long-term. But, the downside is that Teepublic doesn’t have much capability to print on both front and back of the t-shirts (except if it’s a classic T). Which means that any t-shirt designs that I bring back might have to be slightly redesigned to only have the design on the front. If that sounds ok to you, let me know which shirts you’re interested in, and I’ll see what I can do! 🙂
I particularly loved the Healer 2–Lady Hacker shirt. All of the Healer shirts are really cute and so well designed. They could definitely be made one sided, although I do like the double sided aspect of these shirts. I’d also enjoy some from other shows that don’t exist but have that same style as the four Healer shirts in the initial #findmytribe post. I like the silhouettes better than actual pictures like the new Healer shirt.
Ah! That’s one of my favorites as well, actually! 😀 And for that design in particular, I think it would lose too much of its character as a one-sided design. After all, the whole idea is to have Healer in front, and the idea of his grumpy lady hacker behind him, on your back! I think having it available as a double-sided design on a Classic T, would be better than redesigning it as a single-sided T, but available in a variety of shirt cuttings. What do you think? 🙂 If you think the shirt cutting is too big of a factor to ignore, I’m happy to figure out a single-sided design as well. Let me know! 🙂
I’m also thinking of bringing back girlie-rebel of the Kill Me, Heal Me designs, but I’ll have to think about whether to keep it double-sided as a Classic T, or single-sided with options for shirt cuttings. 🤔
Thanks for the nudge to bring back the shirts, lotusgirl.. I didn’t realize there was interest in the older designs, coz I’m not a professional designer and I’d designed those myself, whereas the new Healer shirt was done by an actual professional. 😅 I feel so happily surprised, actually, that you prefer my designs to the professional one! 😱🥰
I totally prefer yours. I definitely like the two sided better than the one sided. You could potentially take orders from us and when you get enough put them in. Yours have a cleaner line and are clever.
You have no idea how chuffed I am, to hear you say that you totally prefer mine, over something that was professionally done! 😀 THANK YOU! <3 And also, thank you again, for nudging me towards bringing the shirts back. Wouldn't have happened if not for you! <3
Where are these shirts on the site? I have to be careful wandering around here lest I run into too many naked male torsos. Ooh. I bet you could sell lots of those shirts…
Funny!
HAHA, I won’t ever launch t-shirts with naked torsos on them, I PROMISE!! 🤣🤣 I’d launched t-shirts on the site some years ago, which you can read more about here. 🙂 Basically, it’d been a bit too taxing to handle, coz that platform ran on a campaign basis, and there was always a minimum number of orders required before a shirt got printed, so I eventually trailed off from doing them. The new platform I’m using allows shirts to be made available long-term, and I currently have 2 designs available, which you can see on the sidebar of your screen. The new platform has only recently had the ability to provide double-sided designs, and only on their Classic T. I’ll be looking into reviving some of the old designs, so that folks can still get them if they like. 🙂
Cool. And, of course, I was just kidding you about wandering into guy torsos on the site. Can you imagine what you’d be running into in this were a fanboy site?
🤣🤣🤣
@kfangurl – merij1 thought he was joking?! That means he hasn’t run across yet… 😄😁😂😂😂😂😂
Oh I’ve seen them! Was joking that I’d mind. It’s actually rather endearing to eavesdrop on an authentic fangirl in full-throttled squee. (Another word I didn’t know a few months ago…)
SQUEEEEEE!!!! 😄
Hi Fangirl,
You are amazing and I am such a fan of your reviews! I have been following you for years (though I had not commented) but you are loved from all across the globe. Your reviews are worth millions and just so on-point. It is so well written and thorough. I often read it and connect with your opinions and reviews so well. The review is also so fair and cautious that you never do a drama injustice (and if you do you admit it! Hahah).
The quality read and this website deserves to be supported. Like one of the viewers said below I hope this creates a tidal wave – and people can request you do reviews of certain dramas!
Because of your reviews I pick and choose which drama I wish to watch based on my mood. In fact at times I have saved myself countless number of hours and frustration because I have essentially read a pre-screen ‘quality assessment’ from a A-grade critic! Your short reviews are so short and sweet it allows one to make a good judgement call if they will pursue in a (usually 16hour) escapade or not. Or even pick a drama that fits in with their likes and dislikes. It also saves frustration if and when we hit slow spots since we are now expecting it! It makes the world of difference in the drama experience. Much like food critics, your opinion and review is valued and understood!
Like I posted in your CLOY review – I hope you can make this a full time role. I cannot picture a more suited person. Hopefully, with the support of your blog fans- your talents can get recognised on an international commercial level. Nothing is impossible and your talent and experience in this field far outweighs a lot of others!
I will definitely be doing a ongoing contribution since I wish to enjoy content for a long time and I know the amount of effort you must put in to maintain this blog must be massive!
Keep us posted!
Aw, thanks so so much for the love, HyunBinFan, my heart is so warmed, from reading about everything you enjoy about the reviews! Thank you for valuing them as you do, it means a lot! ❤ I’ve always seen this blog as a passion project that, as a bonus, allowed me to learn things on the side, like how to do photo editing and make a blog banner, so the idea of blogging full time is so surreal to me! 😀 I honestly don’t know where this will take me – and us! – but I’m game and keen to keep on keeping on; you guys make the journey so much richer, and I feel so loved and supported, among friends. 🥰
Thank you for wanting to support the blog on an ongoing basis – that means a lot to me! ❤😘
I am SO there! I was just thinking that your site is getting even busier now that there are lots more Kdrama fans (thanks to Netflix) and wondering how you were going to sustain the time and expense of the site traffic getting bigger and bigger.
So mark my “remember the Alamo” – “Remember what happened to Dramabeans!”
For those who don’t know – Dramabeans was THE Place to Be for Kdrama news, reviews, recapping and Community. But it became a victim of it’s own success. At one point Dramabeans was just the right size. So popular that the owners were in demand as guest panelist at Kdrama conventions and as guest speakers at universities that actually have Kdrama curriculum (don’t ask me how that works). So large the two recappers found a need to hire additional recappers. But as it became gargantuan, the two beloved owners of the site had to stop recapping because they had to get regular jobs to support the cost of keeping the site running. (I wish they’d had the foresight to do what Kfangurl is doing now.) If only they would’ve asked. As it stands, not only has the site suffered without their unique insight into Kdramas (they were both Korean-American) and their humor and style, but the site was bought by a company and actually wants visitors to sign up for a monthly dungeon of $40!!!! True, it’s voluntary and they have a giveaway box of Korean treats for that donation but it’s not worth the $40 for me. ($40 is a whole ‘nother bill in my house!)
So we don’t want that to happen to this beloved site. Oh no! Heaven forbid!
P.S. kfangurl – Once donation shows up in my transactions on Paypal – I’ll determine what my monthly amount will actually be. I picked an amount but when it showed me the currency conversion, I’m not really sure how much I actually contributed on your end. After the conversion, it seems far less than what I wanted to give. So once I see it appear in the transactions, if it’s as small as I think, I’ll up it next month. So glad you had the wisdom to let us know!
TYPO: “dungeon” should’ve been “donation”. (My auto correct did it again just now. Glad I caught it this time.) I’m not trying to imply anything negative about the current Dramabeans site in any way other than to say it’s lost it’s draw for me (and apparently many others). We frequented Dramabeans because if you didn’t understand why characters were doing things a certain way, inevitably in the recap, Dramabeans would explain and enlighten us about the cultural differences. That no longer exists. The recaps are still line-by-line but without the humor, flair or cultural insiders insight. That is what was so special about the old Dramabeans.
Thanks so much Beez!! I’m so grateful for you enthusiastic support! :’) I feel the love, truly. <3 More and more folks were urging me to get on Patreon, after this post went 'live' today, so I've been exploring it and getting set up, and now you CAN easily sign up for a monthly support thing, if that works better for you. 🙂 I've inserted the details into the blog post as Option #3, so you can check it out at your leisure.
I also agree that DB isn't quite the same without JB & GF around; I loved reading for their personalities, and I totally agree that it's a huge pity that things turned out this way. I'm happy to see JB & GF resurface on The Swoon's YouTube channel, though! If you haven't seen it, you can check out their reaction video to watching the first 2 eps of The King here. ‘Twas so great to see them again! <3
Cool. I’ve seen the original Dramabeans-ers reaction to ep1 but forgot to check for more videos. Thanks. And I’ll definitely go to your patreon page next month.
I haven’t seen other videos from them after that one, and I’m subscribed to JB’s personal blog where she announced the first video, so I think there aren’t any more just yet. I hope there will be more though! 🙂
Thank you, I hope Patreon works out for ya 🙂 I’m still figuring my way around there, though I think I’ve got the basics down. I find it fairly easy to use so far, so I’m hopeful it won’t give you willies! 😉
Eep! It just hit me – how would you even know who we are either through Paypal or Patreon? I don’t use my real name here on the blog and when I paid thru Paypal for this month already, and eventually thru Patreon should I choose to use it, I use a business email account, different from what I use to indulge in Kdrama blogs.😕
I’m a little detective! Based on what you said about your potential mix-up with your contribution, and the timing of the notification from Paypal, I’m pretty sure I figured out which one was you! 😉 On Patreon, if you use the same email address there as you do here, I’m able to trace who’s who, so that I know who I’m interacting with over there (rather than assuming you’re a brand new person to me, if I don’t recognize the name). I’m still figuring my way around Patreon, but I think I’m getting the hang of it! 🙂
Just for you kfamgurl. (Ha! I like that typo so I’m going to leave it ’cause you’re like our family.)
Just for you. I’ll use the same email account. My “play” email account is so over crowded with junk mail until I only come to it only to use the search feature to pull up comments on the blogs I frequent and ignore everything else in it. That’s why I usually don’t do any money transactions from it because I’d never see any notifications if there’s a problem with an account.
Eep. Don’t feel obliged to use the same account, if you have to risk not knowing if there’s a problem with your account!! 😬 Honestly, do what works better for you; we can easily figure it out on our end, like with the messaging function, and then we’re all good and you don’t risk not knowing if your account has issues! 🙂
I also wanted to say, there’s a messaging function on Patreon, that allows me to contact you & vice versa, so if I don’t recognize the name or email address, I can simply ask. “Do I already know you by another name on the blog?” And ta-da! Problem solved. Reunited and it feels so good! 🎶😆
Awesome!
On top of all that, kfangurl has been knocking it out of the park lately with all these great posts!
I support two talented people on Paetron — a singer-songwriter and one of my favorite fantasy writers (who got writer’s block after getting dumped by her fiancee and thus fell on hard times). I only give a little bit each month, but being able to do is one of the reasons I love the Internet.
If only all of us had guaranteed income and the security of the middle class, even in times like this. But since we don’t, it’s a pleasure to be able to offer even a little to support those who create value and art that enriches our lives.
Beez: On the Paypal conversion, switch the currency from SGD to USD and then you’ll know before you send it.
Awesome, although I’ll probably use the patreon account beginning next month (unless I feel some kind of way about it). But either method, I’ll definitely continue my support.
(If a page gives me the willies for some unknown reason then I go with Paypal. Us old people have our cautious nature when dealing with the internet)
> Us old people have our cautious nature when dealing with the internet
We are the same age, my dear. Early sixties, right? I call that type of caution “scar tissue!”
The Patreon wasn’t there this morning, but I have now signed up. Patreon is a great way to support creators like kfangurl.
Not weird at all. Happy to send a little help because I’ve been happily reading this blog for years. Stay safe!
Thanks so much ocelot, I sincerely appreciate the help, and the warm thoughts! 🥰 I’m so happy that you’ve been enjoying the blog all this time! ❤
Think about adding a pay monthly link on your PayPal.me. I’d happily donate monthly.
Aw, thank you!! 🥰🥰 I explored Paypal.me but couldn’t find an option for the monthly contribution. But, a few folks have suggested Patreon for a monthly arrangement, and after exploring it, it does look doable! I’m now getting myself properly set up in it (& figuring my way around, & figuring out possible patron tiers), but once that’s done, I’ll share the information. 😀
Hi there ocelot, just wanted to let you know that the Patreon page is now live! 😀 I’ve updated the post with the details, but you can also hop straight over to Patreon to check it out here.
Hah, great minds think alike! I’m also in a process of getting support on my blog with ads! I have been going back and forth about this. So many questions came to mind and I decided to proceed. I love your announcement and will follow your footsteps ^^
Ooh, hi5 nelly, we do think alike! <3 Yeah, it's a hard decision.. I was so reluctant to have ads, even when my friends nagged me to do it. "Why put so much effort into blogging if you're not even going to monetize it?" But I was all, "But it's uglyyy!!" 😆😆 But for me, I think it's really time to compromise. 😅 Glad you love the announcement, I'll look out for yours! 😉
Ugly and distracting! But I’m 💯 with you. It is time to earn some money. I’m not a business minded person so this is definitely me stepping outside of my comfort box.
Haha, let’s hold hands & step out of our comfort boxes together! 👭🏻😆
I feel for you Kfangurl and with gratitude, we are sending our support your way. My love for Kdrama started after I came across with your blog late last year. My two daughters and I are having our best bonding together watching Kdrama. We love your reviews and always look forward to your new post. Hang in there mate… we’ll get through this.
Ah! That’s so cool, that you and your daughters have been bonding so much, over kdrama!!! 🤩🤩 So precious, truly! 😀 I’m so glad to be part of your bonding process, what an honor! 🥰🥰 Thanks so much for your support, I truly appreciate it. <3 And indeed, we will get through this! ❤
So sorry to hear about your predicament. Times are tough all over the globe, but at least I’m still working. I’ll see about the adblocker situation once I’m back home today. Hang in there! 💗
Thanks Timescout, I appreciate it! 😀 Yes, these are weird and challenging times indeed.. I know many people everywhere are affected.. I’m blessed to have what I have, so I’m grateful! Good to hear that you have your job! <3
Hope my tiny amount helps to relieve a bit.
Thank you dear Usi! No amount is too small, honestly, so don’t belittle your contribution of love! Many people’s tiny amounts can add up to a tidal wave, and I am so thankful and grateful for the wave of encouragement, love and support that I’m receiving from you guys. I feel like I’ve been smothered in hugs. 🥰🥰❤
Probably you can make Paypal monthly donation button or whatever. Normally when I donate money I have a box that says “Make this a monthly donation” who I can click or not. Also donating to you does cost fees, what can people turn away who don’t like Paypal but use it to donate anyway. Probably Patreon would be an option for you.
Thanks Usi.. that’s great feedback! Thanks to yours and other’s suggestions, I’m looking into Patreon, and am still figuring my way around it. Once I’ve got that sorted, I’ll announce it! In the meantime, if you have suggestions for patron benefits that might work well for this site on Patreon, do let me know! <3
Well, since you do reviews: Let them vote what Dramas on your watchlist should be reviewed next despite the outcome. Don’t feel pressured to watch a Drama you don’t like. Honest opinions is – at least me – brought us here.
Thanks for the suggestion, Usi! <3 I'm in the process of figuring out Patreon, so give me some time to get myself sorted out – and the tiers too! – and I'll announce it soonish! 🙂 And, YAY for appreciating honest opinions! 😀
Hi there Usi, I just wanted to let you know that the Patreon page is now live, and details have been updated above in the blog post! 😀 You can also go right to Patreon to check it out here, if you prefer. 🙂
Welcome to Patreon :).
Thank you Usi!! Very thankful for your support! ❤
Done and done. Not as much as I’d like, but hopefully many of us will contribute to the cause, and more than once over time!
Thanks so much MeriJ! You rock! <3 Yes, it's definitely a community effort of love, and I feel so moved, to see everyone chipping in as they are able. 🥰🥰 Thank you for the love and support, I appreciate you! <3
Good call to set up the Patreon account. I just joined there.
Aw! Thanks so much for being the blog’s first patron, MeriJ!! <3 I'm so overwhelmed by everyone's warmth today, I feel like I'm happily drowning. 🥰🥰🥰
Yes definitely I will support you. 🙂 I really know how much effort it takes to articulate a lengthy post as you do. It takes hours of hard work to write such an awesome post. I am so happy that I came across your blogpost during my Korean drama journey that I just can’t tell you. 🙂
I am so sorry to hear that you are hit by this pandemic storm. Sending you lots of love and good vibes only. This too shall pass. ❤❤😍
Thanks dear soumya, I feel the love! 🥰🥰🥰 It does take time to write the reviews, and I’m really so happy that you value the posts as you do! <3 I'm so happy you found me too! 😘
Yes, it's not ideal at all, that I'm unable to work at this time (I travel for work, and now, borders are closed & stuff is canceled, so.. no work 😛), but I know that many are affected, not only me, so I'm grateful for what I have. And amen to that sister, this too shall pass. <3
Eyyy yes adblocker disabled. <3 wishing you well!
Thanks Julianne, I appreciate it!! You take care too! <3
Sending support and good vibes~~your content is worth millions to me! 🙂
Thank you bob! Sincerely grateful for the love. 🥰❤
dear kfangirl i will support you too.
thanks to your blog i have become a more demanding but also more amused viewer of the wonderful kdramaland. fighting!
Tee hee! More demanding AND more amused! I love it! 😄 Thanks so much for your support, I sincerely appreciate it! 🥰❤❤
Of course I’ll support! You have been such a kind, great friend and allowed me to express my kdrama creativity on here. I know it’s not much right now, but I’ll try and send more soon.
Aw! You are so sweet, THANK YOU! ❤❤❤ I appreciate the support, SO much! 🥰🥰😘