Taste of Home: Yealim’s Rolled Yubu Rice and Bento Box Rituals

Personal Background & Journey

My name is Yealim Kong and I’m a content creator and photographer based in New York City. I was born and raised in Seoul, South Korea before my family moved to New Jersey, where I spent most of my childhood. Growing up between two cultures helped shape my visual and cultural identity—it gave me a unique lens to see beauty in both the everyday and the in-between.

I moved to New York to study at art school, which opened the door to my early career in design. But over time, I found myself drawn more and more to photography and content creation—spaces where I could tell stories in a more personal and visual way.

Now, I work with a variety of lifestyle brands, blending my background in design with my love for photography and storytelling. Through my lens, I’m always searching for those quiet, intentional moments that evoke feeling—whether it’s a well-composed still life or a fleeting gesture in natural light.

Life Aspirations

I want to continue building a life that feels mindful, creative, and deeply rooted in the things that matter to me—beauty, connection, and meaningful experiences. Whether it’s through an image or a story told online, I hope to keep creating things that spark a little joy or comfort in someone’s day.

What is a Bento Box / Lunch Box to you?

To me, a bento box is a small love letter in edible form. Growing up, I always looked forward to my mom’s carefully packed lunch boxes. There was something magical about the moment I’d open the box, not knowing exactly what to expect but always excited to discover what new flavors and combinations awaited inside.

It wasn’t just about the food—it was the feeling of being cared for, of having something special to look forward to during the day. Now, as an adult, the bento box still represents that same sense of excitement and nurturing. It’s more than just a container for food—it’s a way to show care, whether you’re making it for someone else or yourself.

What do you pack in your TAKENAKA Bento?

When packing my TAKENAKA Bento, I like to keep things balanced and colorful. One of my go-to items is rolled yubu rice, a dish I grew up with. It’s always been a favorite because it’s simple, flavorful, and holds up well throughout the day. The best part? It tastes even better when served cold, making it a perfect lunchbox staple.

I like to add a touch of sweetness with fresh fruit, giving the meal a light, refreshing end. This combination has always felt comforting and satisfying.

What is your favorite part of our boxes and what colors have you chosen?

I love how sleek, minimal, and beautifully designed the TAKENAKA boxes are. As a photographer and visual storyteller, I naturally gravitate toward objects that feel both functional and visually attractive—and these bento boxes fit right into that mindset.

I chose White Eggshell and Bamboo Green because they feel calming and versatile, and added a pop of Lemon Zest with the chopstick set. The design itself makes the whole lunch-packing experience feel elevated.

Serving: 2

Prep Time: 20minutes (minus the rice cooking time)

Ingredients:

• Yubu (Seasoned tofu skins)
• Rice
• Furikake (rice seasoning)
• Sesame Oil
• Pickled Radish
• Imitation crab
• Eggs
• Salt
• Roasted seaweed sheets

Prepare the rice:

While the rice is still warm, mix it with furikake and sesame oil. Let it cool slightly so it’s easier to handle.

Make the egg sheet:

Beat the eggs with a pinch of salt. In a lightly oiled nonstick pan, cook the eggs into a thin sheet over medium-low heat. Once cooled, cut into thin strips.

Prep the fillings:

Julienne the pickled radish and shred the imitation crab.

Assemble the rolls:

Lay a sheet of yubu flat on a clean surface then lay the roasted seaweed sheet on top. Add a spoonful of seasoned rice near one edge, then layer on some pickled radish, crab, and egg strips.

Roll it up:

Gently roll the yubu over the filling like a mini Kimbap roll. Roll it tightly so it keeps its shape.

Cut half:

Cut it half so it can be a perfect bite size to pack & enjoy!