How Korean Corn Dogs Changed My Life: Finding Love, Fame and Myself in Seoul

by Alice Amelia

An addictive, tell-all memoir about what happens when you try to make your dreams come true - as well as a love letter to Korea

Aged twenty-one, fuelled by a love of K-dramas and a need to find herself, Alice Amelia moves to Seoul. She knows no one in her adopted country, doesn't speak the language, and hasn't tried kimchi, let alone grilled cow intestines or Korean corn dogs. But she soon realises that real-life Seoul isn't the romanticised city she'd watched on television - and it doesn't have subtitles.

Determined to follow her dream, Alice becomes everything she wasn't in adding spicy gochujang sauce to every meal, dancing in K-pop videos, dating HOT Korean models, and even injecting salmon sperm into her eye bags. But as she breaks into the Korean entertainment industry which she idolised from afar, her life spiralled in ways she never could have imagined. Wanting to stay true to herself, she wonders, will she ever belong in Korea? And what price will it cost her to stay?

Genres: Memoir, Nonfiction

315 pages, Kindle Edition

Published April 2, 2026

Reviews

[greta · Rating 4 out of 5]

*4.5⭐️

k-pop and k-drama fans, this one's for you!! I absolutely think everyone who loves south korea needs to read this. it was so good!

I appreciated the fact that the author was so transparent about her experience in the entertainment industry in south korea. all the ups and downs, the pressure of being perfect because of the abnormal beauty standards, her relationships with other people. it was so interesting to read about! the dry humour also made it fun to read.

I wanted to read more memoirs and non fiction overall for a while now and I'm so glad I had this book sent by the publisher to me because I thoroughly enjoyed it and would absolutely recommend reading it!

the ending made me quite sad, though. 🥺 also, if you decide to pick it up, check trigger warnings.

[Diana · Rating 5 out of 5]

Followed her on insta for a while- bc of my love of Korean food and dramas. I was excited for the book and was not left disappointed! I wouldn’t mind more books from the author!

[Bookworm Denz · Rating 5 out of 5]

How Korean Corn Dogs Changed My Life
Author : Alice Amelia

This is a memoir about the author herself, as she goes on a journey to the other side of the world, due to her passion & love for Korean TV dramas. Reality bit her too hard though as she faced challenging situations from the moment she stepped foot on the lands of South Korea.

It was an honest, transparent & eye-opening read, which I could consider as like a "preparatory manual" for those aspiring to go to the country not as a tourist, but as a student / worker / aspiring artist to join the entertainment industry. The book gives readers ideas about the cuisines, traditions, cultures, & of course the language & the people itself.

Such a hard slap of reality type of read. The racism she faced as well as the culture shock, were things that were very relatable to my past situation, & I can say, that this is just an entirely disgusting & disrespectful human behavior that is almost present unfortunately everywhere you go, especially if you are of another ethnicity/race/colour. In addition, she was able to "comparmentalise" two versions of herself w/ one being her English self & the other, her present Seoul self, indicating the strong effects on mental health on her, in order to "adapt" to the lifestyle of her peers, in order to feel like she "belonged". From her journey of finding love, fame & herself, all encompassed in this 304-paged novel, I completely ran out of words. Oh & I misunderstood the old lady (The Harpoon) completely. I shed tears once I found out how she saw Alice. Ajumma needs to be protected at all costs. 🥹

There's also the brutal treatment of those who pursue a career in Korea's entertainment industry & hope to enter the world-famous KPOP world. The toxicity of trying so hard to have that "perfect image" of an idol to the point it destroys & breaks you, living up to high standards & expectations, deal w/ the pressure to maintain your career; makes me really wonder if it is even worth it (no wonder the suicide rate in the Korean industry is so high). Imo, I see only manipulation & exploitation. You know like in a concentration camp where you are under control 24/7 of your life, everything taken away from you, even contact w/ your own families. All for the promise of "potential" fame & freedom at the end of it. The whole thing reminds me of poor Britney Spears tbh.

Experiencing all this second-hand from Miss Alice made me feel like I was stepping in her shoes all the while I was reading her whole story, diving into both of her best & worst days.

All in all, it was an astounding read! Bravo! 👏👏👏

5/5 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

P.S.
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[diamond · Rating 4 out of 5]

stood up and applauded when the J friendship to lovers clicked 🧎🏽‍♀️

[Chloë · Rating 5 out of 5]

5✨

“How Korean Corn Dogs Changed My Life is an addictive, tell-all memoir about ambition, belonging, and the cost of turning your dreams into reality”.

⭑ K-drama recommendation - Crash Landing On You / King The Land
⭑ K-Pop recommendation - BTS / Le Sserafim


~ review ~

This memoir is a love letter to Seoul/South Korea - it’s food & drink, people, traditions, industries & culture. Alice shares her open, honest, unpredictable story full of dreams, ambitions, fears, growth, change & new beginnings. It documents the highs & lows of a life changing move, learning a language that is in no way similar to your own, eating foods you can’t pronounce, making friends in a city where you know no-one, navigating a brand new dating scene & adjusting to cultural differences while learning the proper practices & etiquette as you go. Alice shares stories of friendship, unexpected connections, romance, working & so much more.

How Korean Corn Dogs Changed My Life is a book that’s been added to my ‘I wish I could read this again for the first time’ list. I was just 18 pages in when I had to pause to message the author about how I already didn’t want it to end. Without a shadow of a doubt, the most fun I’ve had reading a book for as long as I can remember.

As someone who follows Korean music, television, entertainment etc. closely I’m very aware of the standards & expectations set forth within the industry. Singers are literally referred to as ‘idols’ & are placed on pedastools so high that it’s almost impossible not to fall. The Korean media industry strives to display perfection & for the most part, they succeed!
It would’ve been easy to write a somewhat rose-tinted version of life in Korea however I really appreciated Alice’s honest, open, vulnerable account. She respectfully approached issues such as conforming to pressure, beauty standards & the effects on both physical & mental health. She shared the difficulties she had adjusting to life in Seoul & always kept things real - something I truly appreciated & found very refreshing.

I also found Alice Amelia’s natural, conversational writing style so enjoyable. It honestly felt like I was having a conversation with a best friend. From start to end, she painted a picture so vivid that it felt like you were walking the streets alongside her, connecting with Jung Soon, eating SO many delicious foods & navigating the chaotic, unpredictable Korean entertainment industry. Her story was entertaining, emotional, eye opening & engaging with sharp wit & dry British humour that had me laughing out loud with tears in my eyes. I honestly loved every second.

When the day comes where my dream of visiting Korea becomes a reality, How Korean Corn Dogs Changed My Life will be one of the first things I pack to take with me.

~

❣️Thank you to NetGalley, Little Brown Book Group & Alice Amelia for giving me the opportunity to read this ARC. This is my honest opinion & I’m sharing it voluntarily.

[Amanda Fiorani · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really liked it! With Hallyu still in full swing, this book reminds us that, just like in any society, the good comes with the bad in South Korea.

How Korean Corn Dogs Changed My Life is an autobiographical account of the British author's life in South Korea, a move that had been a teenage dream because of her love for K-dramas. She talks about the hurdles of learning the language, getting to know the culture better, and making friends in this completely new place she was now experiencing firsthand. During her time there, she starts a YouTube channel, lands acting roles, and appears in advertisements, all while navigating Korean beauty standards, which lead her down a path she had not anticipated.

Over the last few years, Hallyu (the Korean wave) has taken over the globe, and people have started to learn more and more about the country and its culture, myself included. However, with it came the idealisation of the country and its people, especially through K-dramas, as the author frames it. Alice Amelia discusses her journey as she forms her own opinion of the country she had long idealised, while also touching on the responsibility that comes with being an influencer. I had a great time reading this book. It delves into the joys and challenges of living abroad, and the author doesn't shy away from discussing sensitive topics. It is a fast-paced read you won't be able to put down.

Do check the trigger warning before reading the book, though.

Huge thanks to Virago for the proof and eARC!

[Udita · Rating 5 out of 5]

Over the past few years, the Korean wave has taken the world by storm. From addictive K-pop tunes and stunning choreography to heartwarming K-dramas that can make anyone swoon—it’s easy to fall in love with it all.
In How Korean Corn Dogs Changed My Life, Alice Amelia draws from her experience of living and working in the industry to present an eye-opening perspective on the K-world.
The book also highlights the author’s courage to take a leap of faith and move to Seoul. As she navigates the challenges of settling into a new country—often feeling like life comes with no subtitles—she gradually finds her footing. Along the way, she forms meaningful connections with unexpected people who become her chosen family, helping her navigate the city and build a life filled with love and laughter.
At the same time, the book sheds light on the harsh realities behind the glamour—the unrealistic body standards, grueling shooting schedules, extreme diets, and the years of relentless effort put in by idols, actors, and countless people working behind the scenes. It also highlights the struggles of aspiring models and actors trying to secure even the smallest roles in the vast world of dramas and music videos.
Alongside this, the author weaves in personal experiences and cultural observations, adding warmth and depth to the narrative. These moments make the book not just informative but also engaging and reflective.
A revealing read that reminds us there’s much more behind the polished surface we admire.

[Louise Hall · Rating 4 out of 5]

ARC received via NetGalley.
Disclaimer: I’m not a k-pop fan and I don’t think I’ve ever seen a k-drama but I’ve always been fascinated by Korea so I was really excited to read How Korean Corn Dogs Changed My Life.
It went beyond my expectations. Alice’s writing is so beautifully descriptive, I felt like I was experiencing Seoul right alongside her. I adored Jung Soon, the elderly lady she rescues during a storm and is repaid for her kindness with secret food packages. I want to sit on the rooftop at the Ramshackle and drink soju with Alice, Clara, Hanna, Mark, Max and J.
I appreciate that Alice can promote the country while still recognising its flaws just as she can still appreciate her favourite k-dramas despite knowing what really goes on behind the scenes. I thought it was interesting to compare Alice’s story to that of Lauren, who decides to move to Korea after watching Alice’s social media videos and struggles. It’s a love letter to a Korea that’s more vibrant because it’s not sanitised.
I was really rooting for Alice and J aka Headphones Boy and no spoilers but if you’re like me, you might be tempted to end the book a couple of pages early.
I couldn’t wait to get back to reading How Korean Corn Dogs Changed My Life and if you’ve ever been tempted to just get on a plane to Seoul, I cannot recommend this book highly enough.

[Mitsy_Reads · Rating 5 out of 5]

I expected a light, entertaining memoir about the author’s experiences in Korea (sort of like Abroad in Japan by Chris Broad) but this turned out to be far more serious and sadder than I anticipated. Of course it has all the fun bits, living abroad in a country she wanted to live, getting to know the culture and people there. And she writes about this with good humour. It’ll make you to want to vist there!

But in the end, it’s a story about the author coming to terms with her personal struggles working in Korea and becoming a Youtube star, seeing darker side of the country she idolised from listening to music and watching shows, and taking the steps toward change. The memoir offers interesting insight into the pressures of Korea’s beauty standards, especially in the entertainment industry. I’d recommend checking the trigger warnings beforehand, as it explores difficult themes. I admire the author for being honest about her experience and thoughts.

If you’re interested in contemporary Korean culture (music, film, television, books, in particular), you’ll appreciate this memoir a lot. Highly recommend.

My personal enjoyment level is 4.5/5 🌟 I wish the ending was longer. Feel like it wrapped too quickly. But it was an excellent read! And audiobook narrated by tye author was easy to listen to!

[Lucy · Rating 4 out of 5]

In How Korean Corn Dogs Changed My Life, Alice Amelia highlights the feeling of being two people, “England Alice” and “Seoul Alice." Living abroad myself, I recognised that immediately: the subtle way you become different versions of yourself in different places. After moving to Seoul and taking a leap of faith, she feels a quiet uncertainty about where she belongs.

At first, I wondered if I might be the wrong demographic, as the book leans towards younger readers with its focus on K-pop, beauty culture, modelling, YouTube, and the competitive world of Korean media. But as I read on, I found myself increasingly drawn in, and by 30%, I was even looking up K-pop bands and dramas!

What stayed with me most was her relationship with the elderly woman she befriends, which brought real warmth and depth. I also appreciated her honesty about beauty standards, workload imbalance, and the emotional cost of chasing a dream in such a high-pressure culture, alongside vivid food writing and the shadow of Covid.

It’s a thoughtful book about reinvention, ambition, and the uncertainty of belonging. It felt honest and self-aware, and certain moments have stayed with me, which, for me, is always the real test.

I received a free advance review copy, and this is my honest review.

[Ink · Rating 5 out of 5]

A memoir that conveys a deep love and respect gained from living in Korea. Alice Amelia decribes her journey through Korean culture; from her expectations, her culture shock, the food, people and places she encounters.

This memoir is memorable due to it's engaging, conversational style, as if you were talking with a friend. Alice Amelia is honest about the highs and the lows, her own vulnerability due to being in a place where she was starting a new life, not knowing the culture, the etiquette or the language, all of which she must learn to navigate in order to build her home in the city of Seoul

Alice Amelia explores the minutae of korean culture, from it's rich history to contemporary entertainment and beauty trends, along with the pressures that go with them

A stunning memoir that is as easy to read as a contemporary novel or as a memoir, both ways being equally satisfying. Loved it!

Thank you to The Little Brown Book Group and Alice Amelia for this wonderful ARC. My review is left voluntarily and all opinions are my own

[Emma · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a very lovely read and honestly, made me want to go back to Seoul. I think this particularly peaked my interest because I recently went to South Korea and for large parts, the good parts, it made me feel nostalgic for a life in Seoul I haven’t lived as a tourist (but have lived as an expat in the UK) - the expectations of how your life will be, the good people you meet, the somewhat shady jobs you meet. I feel like the author lived a very similar experience to me but in South Korea rather than England. It was really, really lovely and very engaging.

The book tells the story of Alice Amelia’s experiences as an expat in South Korea - the highs and the lows, including experiences with South Korea’s beauty and weight standards, fan culture, entertainment industry, plus some heartwarming friendships.

If you’re someone who has either been to South Korea (or want to go) or someone who has moved abroad in your 20s, this is definitely a book for you.

ARC/Netgalley

[A. · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a very strong and enjoyable read! GR tells me it's not out yet, but I bought it at at bookstore in Europe, so IDK how to explain that. Anyway, I didn't know who Amelia was when I picked this up, and it was definitely not exactly what I was expecting, but I really enjoyed this. She captures the experience of being foreign in a country without sounding overly and irritatingly ignorant, and it felt very authentic. Definitely recommend for anyone interested in travel, the foreigner's experience, or Korea.

[Hannah · Rating 4 out of 5]

I found How Korean Corn Dogs Changed My Life to be an easy-to-read, enjoyable memoir. I think it sets a good example of the challenges of moving to a different country and the problem with having an idealised image of a country in your mind vs the reality. K-Pop & K-Drama fans will enjoy reading this, as it provides some insight into that world. As with any memoir, it feels a little dramatised at times (almost like it's own K-Drama in a book!). Overall, a nice, easy break of a memoir.

[sima · Rating 5 out of 5]

this was an easy 5⭐️ read - i finished it in two sittings! it's a coming-of-age memoir that explores identity, ambition, and belonging. i loved how it balances the romanticised side of life in korea with its flaws, while also touching on deeper cultural themes.

the honest reflections and subtle humour made it such an engaging read, definitely a new favourite of mine. especially recommend it all my fellow girlies in their 20s

thank you Virago Press for the gifted copy <3

[Olivia Campbell · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is a fun and easy read that was very honest and relatable. I found myself giggling or even laughing out. It’s full of humour as she navigates cultural differences, new foods, and everyday mishaps in a completely unfamiliar place and it’s transported me back to when I first visited Korea almost decade ago.

It is a perfect for a quick, feel-good read. Overall, it’s a charming story that will leave you smiling and wanting to travel to Korea or move abroad!

[Raakel · Rating 3 out of 5]

A very unique memoir. I love learning about South Korea and was happy to see that a book like this had recently been published. The beginning of the book was interesting as it talked about the author moving to South Korea and what it was like but the majority of her book is about K-pop which is not my cup of tea so I struggled a little bit.
This book will be absolutely perfect for anyone who loves k-pop and Korean drama

[Qasim Salam · Rating 5 out of 5]

What an absolutely gorgeous book about finding your own path through life. It truly resonated with me in so many ways, and Amelia's writing has such an authentic, honest and vulnerable feel to it. Couldn't put it down!

[Erin Grace · Rating 3 out of 5]

Felt like a warm hug at times. Heartbreaking, frustrating, and funny, I love a story about someone working towards their goals and all the obstacles that come with this crazy life.

[Jo · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a fun read but there were parts of it that seemed a little hard to believe

[Josefa (June.Reads) · Rating 4 out of 5]

I enjoyed this memoir. It is told in a very entertaining way, like listening to a friend. I liked that she talked about the side that people don't talk about much. In particular, the entertainment industry. Not everything is a walk in the park. There are some bits related to famous people that I hope were either removed or changed in the final book(to avoid any legal issues) as I read this as an ARC.