Happy Mother's Day 2025

 https://www.fuse.tv/shows/the-ride-life/gpVvQ2lxrsKm

Watching Episode 3 of The Ride Life, which was shot in Korea, I was surprised by a new fact Sung shared about himself. What caught my eye first, however, was him driving a very cool Hyundai IONIQ 5N. It reminded me that my husband and I had looked into getting the regular IONIQ 5 (not the performance N model), but we ended up with a VW ID.4 because our local Hyundai dealer wasn't certified for EVs yet. My husband had mentioned that classic cars are becoming a trend for wealthy Koreans, and Sung actually brought this up on the show as well. We were both unaware of Korea's growing passion for automobiles, much like Japan, which seems to be driven by their increased wealth allowing them to buy and restore interesting cars.

While I hate to spoil the show, I need to share my reflection on Sung's revelations about his family life. As a lifelong fan, I thought I knew his background, but I was surprised to learn Korea is his birth country. It's easy to forget that in the early 1970s, without the internet, maintaining ties to one's birth country and culture was incredibly challenging. Even for me, arriving in the US in the early 90s, a simple phone call across the Pacific could cost a week's allowance. It was around this time that Sung's mother moved back to Korea.

The mother-son dynamic is something I can only guess at. It's fascinating that my husband has shared such similar stories about his mom. Maybe I'm drawn to those who, like Sung, had a different kind of maternal relationship.

Ultimately, I doubt there's a single "correct" way for a mother and son to relate, though we see examples of both healthy and unhealthy dynamics. My own experience is quite different; I left home at twenty and have lived overseas ever since. Though my visits home are annual, and my parents' visits are less frequent (around every five years), and while I don't call often, sometimes going months without speaking, I've never felt truly disconnected from my family. Maybe I'm just lucky, or maybe this makes me empathetic to those who feel a sense of longing.

Sung Kang's New Show: More Than Just Cars, It's About Connection

 https://www.fuse.tv/v/uk/1ef7c0f4d32d2d999788b9aab00e25df

I'm absolutely hooked on Sung Kang's new show! I've been waiting for something like this, and it's already exceeding my expectations. I remember Sung mentioning this concept – a series that dives deep into the car cultures thriving in different countries, connecting the dots between people and their passion for mobility. We've seen countless food-focused travel shows, but this angle, exploring culture through the lens of automobiles, feels genuinely fresh and insightful.

And here's the real kicker: while the cars are undeniably a visual feast, the heart of this show is the people. Sung is the perfect guide, seamlessly navigating diverse communities and finding common ground through their shared love of cars. He's not just showing us the vehicles; he's revealing the stories behind them, the lives they've impacted, and the unique cultural landscapes they inhabit.

This show resonates with me on a personal level. Mobility is fundamental to our growth, our independence, and our connection to the world around us. I vividly recall my own "first car" moment. As a struggling college student in rural Kansas, lacking transportation was a constant struggle. Even simple errands became logistical nightmares. That experience underscored the profound impact a vehicle can have on someone's life.

While not everyone has had the chance to drive, the car serves as a surprisingly universal language. In a world where we often focus on our differences, this show highlights a powerful commonality that transcends borders and cultures. We may disagree on a multitude of issues, but the shared experience of driving, or simply appreciating the beauty and functionality of a car, can bridge divides.

Think about it: I've been driving since I was 18, and each car I've owned carries a unique story. Imagine the wealth of experiences waiting to be uncovered from people across the globe, individuals who might otherwise seem vastly different from ourselves. Learning about their car stories, their personal connections to their vehicles, is a fascinating way to understand their lives and cultures.

This show is a testament to the power of shared passion. It reminds us that even amidst our differences, we can find common ground and celebrate the things that unite us. And, dare I say, this might just be the best spin-off of the "Fast & Furious" universe yet, because it goes beyond the spectacle and focuses on the human stories that truly matter. If you haven't already, tune in and prepare to be captivated!

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Praying for everyone affected by LA fire

I don't know where precisely Sung's house is located, but according to some photos and videos posted by him earlier on SNS, it looks similar to the area impacted by LA fire in the news. I'm praying for him and his family's safety. Hope all his belongings are safe especially his dogs.