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Few fans take their fascination to this level, but even occasional and casual TV viewers will recognize the names of the stars of those first few NHK series -- Bae Yong-joon, Choi Ji-woo, Lee Byung-hun, Ryu Shi-won and Lee Young-ae -- and their works -- "Winter Sonata," "Daejanggum," "Stairway to Heaven," "Beautiful Days," and "Hotelier" -- which top a list of the most popular Korean dramas in Japan, according to a survey of 1,600 Japanese, mainly women in their 30s, done in 2007 by the TV Asahi program SMAStation. Hosted by SMAP's Shingo Katori, the program unfortunately has had to compete with these dramas in the Saturday, 11 p.m. time slot. And even Japanese TV scripts have begun to recognize the hanryu presence as a part of the modern 21st century Japanese lifestyle. In the recent Japanese TV series "Hatachi no Koibito," the heroine's colleague is a devoted Lee Byung-hun fan who reads hanryu magazines on her breaks, and rushes off from work to attend his fan meetings.
This brings us to the second important aspect of the hanryu success: the timing was right. Had the Korean Wave arrived five or 10 years sooner, when Japan's own TV dramas were at their peak and bringing in average ratings of over 30 percent, the hanryu boom might have faced a more difficult challenge. But, for the last few years, Japanese dramas have been weathering a considerable slump. Although two dozen series are launched each quarter, it has become extremely difficult for most to get anywhere near 15 percent ratings, and few top that figure. Only dramas starring SMAP's Takuya Kimura have been consistently capable of climbing up over the 30 percent mark in the new century. Irritating or inconclusive endings, predictable dialogue and a trend away from serious romances have discouraged viewers, and created a vacuum that the quality Korean products have very conveniently filled. Serious drama fans have taken refuge in the parallel hanryu world with its overall high quality, straightforward and sincere style, freer expression of emotions and romantic leading men.
Hanryu dramas might even be able to help enliven the Japanese prime time lineup, now heavy with variety shows and trivia quizzes, if given a chance, but foreign TV series have been unable to significantly break through into the 8-11 p.m. market. Since 1990, I can recall only one foreign drama that was able to crack that barrier and be welcomed into the Japanese prime time schedule -- "The X Files" in 1995.
Still, the hanryu phenomenon has become secure enough in its niche that it has been able to make some dents in the barrier in two ways: Japanese remakes of Korean hits, and appearances by Korean stars in Japanese dramas. In 2006, Tokio's Tomoya Nagase starred in a successful remake of "My Boss, My Hero," the Korean comedy about a gangster who goes back to high school that was among the top ten-rated Japanese TV dramas that year. A Japanese remake of "Hotelier" was less successful, even though it featured a cameo guest appearance by Bae Yong-joon. SMAP's Tsuyoshi Kusanagi and actress Reina Tanaka will appear in "Ryokiteki na Kanojo," a remake of the 2001 hit Korean movie "My Sassy Girl" beginning in April, 2008.
Korean stars who have tried acting in Japanese dramas have faced a bigger challenge. Choi Ji-woo starred in "Rondo" in 2006 and Ryu Shi-won co-starred with Japan's top actress Yukie Nakama in "Joshi Deka (Lady Detective)" in 2007, but the latter reached only 54th place in the year's drama rankings. Both series met with only moderate success, in part because the Korean stars were not given ample opportunity to display their talents.
While hanryu fans in Japan might idolize the Korean stars, and rush to their fan club meetings, what they are really buying is the whole Korean drama package -- the excellent camera work, the passion, the direction, the perkier dialogue and plots, the detail regarding fashion, and the beautiful background music that make them a distinctly Korean commodity. Thus, Korean stars might want to think twice before accepting roles in Japanese series.
Korean actors who want to try their hand at Japanese dramas may find it educational, but it is also a career choice fraught with peril. Their popularity on the archipelago may be more secure if they continue to star in domestic Korean dramas with export value, and only pop across the sea for periodic personal appearance tours, rather than getting caught up in the slumping continuing-drama-series crunch in Japan.
Although Ryu Shi-won's week-long guest appearance on the 2007 NHK morning serial "DonDon Hare" significantly helped spike ratings for that series, just look at what he faced in one romantic scene with Yukie Nakama in "Joshi Deka:" In the scene where she is so distraught that she hasn't eaten all day, what does the script call for -- a kiss, a hug, empathy, sympathy? Not even some concerned and caring Korean drama-style wrist yanking (which makes one wonder if repeated strain wrist injuries are an occupational hazard for Korean actresses who have to rehearse scenes like that all day).
No, Ryu Shi-won has to tell her to close her eyes. Then he leans over and pinches her nose while shoving a morsel of food into her mouth. Ridiculously unromantic and a waste of his talents. And the Japanese networks wonder why their drama ratings are plummeting, while the public craves serious romances. As long as Korean dramas continue to fill this void, the hanryu boom should continue to be a lucrative niche industry in Japan.
The next bounce will no doubt come from "Taewangsasingi," starring Bae Yong-joon. Already running on NHK's satellite channel, it will be broadcast in NHK's lucky Saturday 11:10 p.m. terrestrial time slot from April 5. Japanese actor Masato Hagiwara, whose own career got a boost when he did the Japanese voiceovers for Yong-sama in "Winter Sonata," will be back to give voice to the hero again.
For now, it looks like the hanryu TV boom is here to stay and will continue to bring the peninsula and the archipelago closer together through couch-potato diplomacy.
By Kathleen Morikawa (Writer's Profile)
http://www.koreaherald.co.kr/ |
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March 4, 2008
Ryu Si-won Commended by Ministry of Finance
Singer and actor Ryu Si-won received an award from the Ministry of Finance on the 42nd National Taxpayer's Day. The award was in recognition of the actor as a model tax-paying citizen by the Seongdong district tax office.
On National Taxpayer's Day last year, Ryu Si-won was appointed as honorable section chief for the day at the Seongdong district tax office, where he received hands-on experience. Ryu announced that he was happy to have received an award this year and "proud to be a tax-paying citizen."
His management agency, RS Company, stated, "Ryu Si-won is admired by fans across Asia and he was commended for showing responsibility as a national taxpayer through all his work abroad."
Source: KBS Global
http://english.kbs.co.kr/mconten ... /1511281_11692.html |
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March 4, 2008
Love is no bed of roses in SBS drama
SBS tackles the thorny matter of marriage in its latest drama, "I Love You," slated to hit the small screen on March 31.
A spin-off of Hur Young-man's hit comic book series "I Love You," SBS's new miniseries keeps it light and fuzzy in what promises to be a bold and cheeky take on the lives of three married couples.
At the press screening held on Feb. 14 at Sangam CGV, reporters and fans were treated to a two-hour sneak peek at this upcoming series.
Judging from the preview, "I Love You" ventures into risky territory from the get-go -- adultery, divorce, premarital sex and pregnancy, all within two hours, and, with a comic slant.
When asked about the implications of dealing with such serious matters so lightly, Hallyu star Ahn Jae-wook, who will be playing the lead, shrugged it off with a joke or two:
"Contraception ... yes. There is a lot to be careful about," Ahn, 36, said, jokingly referring to the preview, in which his character, Suk Chul-soo, manages to get a girl knocked up.
Sound familiar? Yes, there are some similarities between Judd Apatow's hit flick "Knocked Up" (2007) and SBS's "I Love You." The hero gets the heroine with-child in both stories. But the similarities end there.
If Judd's hero, Ben Stone, was eager to wed his pregnant one-night stand, Ahn's character, Suk Chul-soo just wants to find a way out.
"Well, my character is immature," Ahn explained, in a knowing tone.
But, to be honest, Suk's reaction to the situation might just be a bit more realistic. After all, what man is eager to take full responsibility for a woman he hardly knows?
And Suk isn't the only guy in this miniseries to be forced into an unwanted marriage. Pop star-turned-actor Hwan Hee, 25, plays Park Byung-ho, a Jimi Hendrix-worshipping room salon band leader who manages to get his girlfriend pregnant, and now faces his own marital death sentence.
The two guys team up with a sleazy, third-rate divorce lawyer -- artfully played by veteran actor Kong Hyung-jin -- to try to find a way out for Hwan Hee's Park. But audiences will have to wait until the end of March to see how it all plays out.
After viewing the preview, Hwan Hee said, "Wow, these guys seem like real scoundrels."
Starring for the second time in a drama -- he played a pop star in the MBC drama "Over the Rainbow" (2006) -- Hwan Hee joked about his role as Park.
"Many people tend to think I am cold and unapproachable, and that if they try to talk to me, I will be rude," he explained. "But now, through this drama, I'll really hit it home.'Yup, this guy is a real cad.'"
"But I think this drama will be a real turning point for me," he added. "And I am worried that if you don't watch the rest of this drama, you will continue to think of me as a bad guy. So, please, watch this drama to the very end."
Actor Kong Hyung-jin, who plays a lame divorce lawyer in "I Love You," was quick to explain why it is important to watch this series.
"What is unusual about our drama is that all the men end up becoming good guys in the end," said Kong, 38.
And Kong's character, Doh Min-ho, is the one who needs the biggest makeover. Kong's Doh is not only a measly divorce lawyer; he also cheats on his wife.
But Doh's wife, played by actress Cho Mi-ryung, is not one to stand on the sidelines. A tough broad who ekes out a living as a couples' manager at a matchmaking-wedding firm, she stealthily tracks her husband down to a motel in the preview, determined to catch him in the act.
And, at the end of the two-hour preview, things seem a bit rocky between the two. But actress Cho, 34, assures viewers that her character and Kong's won't be fighting the entire time.
"In the beginning, we really fight a lot," said Cho, who starred in the hit sequel "My Wife is a Gangster 2" (2003). "But towards the end of this miniseries, the reasons why this couple had to fight become apparent."
Cho's and Kong's characters promise to give audiences a look at the difficulties of keeping a seasoned marriage going. And Ahn and actress Seo Ji-hye promise to delve into the hardships of being newlyweds.
Actress Seo, 23, starred in the MBC drama "Over the Rainbow" (2006) alongside Hwan Hee. She will now be playing Na Young-hee, a young, naive bank employee who falls head over heels for Ahn's character, only to find herself pregnant with his child.
"I Love You" premiers on Monday, March 31 on SBS at 9:55 p.m.
By Jean Oh ([email protected]), image from 'I Love You' soompi thread with thanks to ay_link
http://www.koreaherald.co.kr/ |
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March 4, 2008
'Last Scandal': A New Drama of Strong Spirited Ajumma
By Han Sang-hee
Staff Reporter
Jeoung Jun-ho, left and Choi Jin-sil will star in "The Last Scandal"
Dramas have always been the center of attention among Koreans with their cheerful characters played by young, hip and stylish celebrities. This year, the fever will go on, but this time it will be led by none other than "ajumma."
"Ajumma" is a Korean term that refers to middle-aged women who are married and usually represented as strong, fearless and dependable.
Two television networks have already aired dramas depicting the lives of these women: MBC's "A Beauty's Unmatched, Park Jeong -geum," and SBS's "First Wives Club."
Now, Korean fans will welcome another drama full of romance, humor and humanity, all conjoined into the life of a normal, but courageous "ajumma."
Choi Jin-sil and Jeoung Jun-ho, from "Marrying the Mafia" (2002), have teamed up with director Lee Tae-gon for the new drama, "The Last Scandal" (working title) a Cinderella story of a 39-year-old "ajumma."
At the press conference, Korea's famed actress Choi Jin-sil, from "Rosy Life" (2005), explained why she chose to portray this particular character.
"As an actress, it may be natural to want a role that is glamorous and pretty, but I'm more comfortable with acting as an ordinary person. Reality is an important factor in dramas, and so I wanted to portray the life of a real person," she said.
Hong Seon-hee, played by Choi, lived with her husband, 13-year-old daughter and her parents-in-laws. One day, her husband disappears and it is up to Hong to take care of the household.
While she struggles to make a living, she meets Song Jae-bin, played by handsome movie star Jeoung. Hong and Song were once high school sweethearts but now lead drastically different lives. Hong is a stubborn "ajumma," while Song has become a popular celebrity. The two coincidently meet, and their feelings for each other start to blossom, as if they were in high school again.
Jeong seemed excited about the drama as it is his first television drama appearance in two years.
"I feel awkward because it has been a long time since I starred in a drama, and especially because Song is an arrogant character," he said.
Lee, the director, defined "Scandal" as a "trendy housewife drama."
"The drama is about 'ajumma' who feel helpless or even hopeless when it comes to romance. I wanted to portray the romance of people who believe their good days are over," Lee said.
Distinctive actor Jung Woong-in from the movie "My Boss, My Hero" (2002) and model-turned-actress Byeon Jung-su will also perform as prominent characters. Jung will play Jeong's brother and the CEO of his agency, while Byeon will play Jeong's former lover.
When asked about what she thought about Korean "ajumma," Choi smiled.
"I am an 'ajumma' myself. I think Korean 'ajumma' are fearless. They are not afraid of anything, and this is what I will be portraying. Although Song goes through emotional downfalls, she doesn't give up. I think it is courage that defines 'ajumma','" Choi said.
The drama will air for the first time at 9:40 p.m., Saturday, March 8 on MBC.
Credits: [email protected]
http://www.koreatimes.co.kr/www/news/art/2008/03/135_20043.html |
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March 4, 2008
Different Bodies for Different Souls in 'Who Are You'
By Kwon Mee-yoo
Staff Reporter
From left, actors Kang Nam-gil, Yoon Kye-sang and Go A-ra star in the new television drama
"Who Are You?" that will air on MBC.
The producers of the 2007 hit drama "Thank You" have teamed up together for another drama for the family, "Who Are You?"
This drama employs "spiritual possession," a popular idea which was also used in the 2006 drama "Please Come Back, Sun-ae" and the Japanese movie "Secret" (1999), in which spirits take control of a human body.
Director of the drama Shin Hyun-chang explained the drama as human, fantastic, romantic and comical. "This is a family drama about recovering relationships," said Shin.
In a Korean tradition mixing Buddhism and Confucianism, the soul of a dead person is left on earth for 49 days before going to the afterlife. The drama is a story about those 49 days for a father who loves his daughter so much he possesses a stranger's body to care for her.
A cold-hearted corporate raider Cha Seung-hyo, played by ex-G.O.D. member and actor Yoon Kye-sang, is a stickler for cleanliness and a perfectionist. However, after a traffic accident, weird things start to happen around him and he finds out that a deliveryman spiritually possesses him for three hours a day. When he is possessed by Son Il-geon, he becomes a very funny guy.
At the preview, Yoon successfully portrayed the two sides of his character and drew laughter from the audience.
"It is rather easy for me to play In-geon since I am a cheerful person. The most difficult thing is that I have to play two totally different characters in the drama. Sometimes, it's confusing," said Yoon at a press conference last week.
Son, the overanxious father who takes care of his daughter even as a ghost, is played by middle-aged actor Kang Nam-kil. Besides being a devoted father, Son has a secret. When he was young, he was a nameless painter, but one of his paintings was sold for a high price in New York. Now, a gallery owner comes after him, offering him a solo exhibition.
"Yoon has to play my unique character and I was worried at first. However, he's doing very well and I am satisfied," said Kang. Yoon added that Kang helps him a lot by teaching his habits and ways of talking.
"However, I personally do not believe in spiritual possession," said Kang.
Ara, or Go A-ra, plays Son Yeong-in, the wanna-be cartoonist who lost her father in an accident.
The star from the teen drama "Banolim" (Sharp), Ara has starred in the movies "The Blue Wolf: To the Ends of the Earth and Sea" (2007) and "Subaru" (2008). Both movies were joint productions ― one Korean and Japanese, and the other with a Hong Kong company.
With the looks of a Barbie doll, she depicts a strong-spirited girl who has just graduated from high school.
"I am a freshman just like Yeong-in in the soap. She gave up school due to financial difficulties and works part-time instead. For myself, I hope to enjoy my college life just like any other freshmen," Ara said.
A musical actor turned TV star, Jin I-han plays Shin Jae-ha, the owner and director of Nuri Art Gallery who looks for the late Son's paintings. In order to find the work after his death, he tries to buy off Yeong-in with honeyed words.
"Shin is not a greedy guy; he is very passionate. He just uses the whole bag of tricks to achieve what he wants," said Jin.
The drama will start airing at 9:55 p.m., Wednesday, March 5 on MBC.
Credits: [email protected]
http://www.koreatimes.co.kr/www/news/art/2008/03/135_20049.html |
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March 4, 2008
Oldest Korean Film Shown for 1st Time
By Cathy Rose A. Garcia
Staff Reporter
A scene from the oldest surviving Korean film, "Cheongchun's Sipjaro," which was made in 1934
The Korean Film Archive (KOFA) on Tuesday screened the oldest surviving Korean film, "Cheongchun's Sipjaro," which was made in 1934.
A film archive official said the film, directed by An Jong-hwa, was discovered in Korea. However, the owner of the film declined to be identified.
"Cheongchun's Sipjaro," a black-and-white silent film, was first screened at the Joseon Theater, Seoul in September 1934. The film is a melodrama about lives of the poor..
There are two other films known to be older than "Cheongchun's Sipjaro," but the KOFA does not have any copies. The oldest Korean film is "Uilijeogguto (Fight for Justice)," which was screened on Oct. 27, 1919. The first dramatic Korean film is "Weolha-ui Mangseo (The Vow Made below the Moon)," which was directed by Yun Baek-nam and shown in 1923.
Before "Cheongchun's Sipjaro" was discovered, the oldest Korean film that KOFA preserved was 1936's "Mimong" (Sweet Dream). "Mimong" was directed and edited by Yang Ju-nam in 1936. The China Film Archive donated the film to the KOFA in 2005. Almost the entire reel of the film was preserved.
According to KOFA, there were seven domestic films produced between 1910 and 1920, and 61 films from 1920 to 1930. However, the KOFA does not have copies of the films made between 1910 and 1930.
Between 1930 and 1940, there were 73 films produced, but only copies of five films have been acquired by the KOFA.
The KOFA said the total number of films that have been produced in Korea is around 5,500, and some 40 percent of the films were lost.
Under the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism, the KOFA collects and preserves Korean films and film-related documents. It also promotes the artistic, historical, and educational development of Korean film.
The KOFA was established in 1974 with the purpose of collecting and preserving Korean films. It was reorganized as a government-affiliated public foundation in 2002.
Credits: [email protected]
http://www.koreatimes.co.kr/www/news/art/2.../135_20064.html
Related article - Korea's Oldest Film 'The Cross of Youth' Discovered |
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IVY facing a lawsuit
March 4, 2008
IVY’s troubles are still not over.
Months after her ex-boyfriend came out with the news that he and IVY has a sex video, MISSHA, a cosmetics product of Able C&C, which selected IVY as its commercial model, filed a lawsuit claiming 500 million won for the shock her issues have brought on its product image.
Flashback, IVY signed an exclusive 500 million won contract with Able C&C in April 2007. Then in November 2007, her boyfriend named as Mr. Yoo came out in the open and threatened IVY with their sex video. When this came about, IVY stopped all her activities.
“The product and corporate images crashed because of her private life scandal and lies,” Able C&C commented.
Source: Newsen + krnloop
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[color="#9932CC"][size="4"]Shinhwa and Fin.K.L scandal?
March 5, 2008
Fin.K.L member Ok Joo Hyun made a revelation during the recording of KBS “Happy Together,” wherein she mentioned that a member of Shinhwa wanted to meet up with a member of Fin. K.L.
“When the group just debuted, Fin.K.L was under strict management by our manager. At that time, a Shinhwa member called ‘wanting to meet up’ with one of the members. But before this took place, the rumor already spread and our manager confiscated our cellphones for 4 months, which caused a lot of hassles,” Ok Joo Hyun revealed.
The show’s MCs, Yoo Jae Suk, Park Myung Soo, Shin Bong Sun and Park Mi Sun were surprised at the revelation and began speculating who among the members of both parties were involved in this “idol group scandal.” However, they were unsuccessful in their attempt to know the persons behind the story.
Shinhwa member Andy, who is also a guest in this episode, immediately cleared his name and said “It’s not me” while Ok Joo Hyun said “I’m not going to tell who…”
Catch more of this episode on March 6 at 11:05 pm.
Source: Newsen + krnloop
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May Doni feels honored to be called the “Female Se7en”
March 6, 2008
It has been 7 years since May Doni, a Grade 4 student, participated in the SBS program “99% Talent Development Project Challenge.” For years, she trained to become a singer and now it is finally time for her to have her debut stage.
Those years were not a joy ride and if she gave up on herself, then she would not be on the same stage as Jo PD starting March 7 for the promotions of “ ull,” which she featured in.
“I wanted to give up for so many times. I was young and whenever I see my friends having fun while I’m shut inside a room doing vocal and dance training, I felt miserable,” May Doni said.
She could not forget the times when she slowly lost sight of her dream and just secretly cried. But in the end, the long wait did not make her give up.
“I didn’t know when I’d debut. If I were to describe that time in a word, I’d say it was pitch-black. (laughs) But still, I trained thinking that I’d become a singer.”
Then she soon saw the light at the end of a dark tunnel. She even earned the nickname of “Female Se7en” when Netizens saw a video of her training.
“I’m truly honored to be called the ‘Female Se7en.’ It’s a lot of pressure because it’s top star Se7en we’re talking about. But it actually makes me work harder because of that title. At first, I got insults like ‘What? She’s the ‘Female Se7en’?’ that hurt but now I just work even harder to prove myself.”
Source: Starnews + krnloop |
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Sandara Park to Star in Gumy's New Music Video
2008-03-07
Korean-Filipina entertainer Sandara Park will make her debut in Korea by appearing in a music video.
Sandara Park, who moved to the Philippines with her family in 1995, made her debut in 2004 when she entered the 'Star Circle Quest,' an open audition program on the local TV network ABS-CBN. She went on to make small and big screen appearances in the Southeast Asian country and soon became an idol star.
Park, who returned to Korea last year, has been getting acting lessons at YG Entertainment. She will star in the music video of Gumy's brand new song 'I'm Sorry,' the title track of her fourth studio album entitled 'Comfort.' It will be Gumy's first studio album in three years.
Word is out that Park will appear in the music video as the lover of sensationally popular Big Bang member T.O.P.
An official at YG Entertainment said Sandara Park will make her acting debut in Korea by starring in the much anticipated music video. He added that Park has also been cast in a new TV drama which will be launched in May.
c: KBS Global |
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45rpm, face to face!
March 7, 2008
45rpm members, who for the the past weeks have had their Power Rangers outfits and helmets, are finally showing their faces on March 8 in MBC “Music Core.” This will be the first time that they will be revealing their faces since they had their 2nd album comeback.
But it seems that the hip hop group is not quite confident with this change of concept.
“We’ve become accustomed to using the helmets that showing our faces is worrying us,” 45rpm said.
Since it has already been a month since 45rpm has worn their helmets, YG Entertainment decided that from now on, they will not be using them anymore and have a new concept. They will now project an image of trot singers, complete with the sunglasses.
Source: Starnews + krnloop
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Male singer to serenade you on “White Day”
March 7, 2008
From February 28 to March 5, JukeOn held a survey asking which male singer would people want to serenade them on White Day (March 14). Out of a total of 2,568 Netizens who participated, 943 (36.72%) voted for Clazziquai’s Alex, placing him on top.
In 2nd place, with 686 votes (26.71%), was Andy, who has captured more ladies because of his “heart dance,” which is included in the choreography of “Love Song.”
V.O.S leader Park Ji Hun ranked 3rd with 480 votes (18.69%), followed by Kim Dong Ryul with 284 votes (11.06%) and KCM with 174 votes (6.78%).
Source: Newsen + krnloop
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Seo Tae Ji’s auctioned belt
March 7, 2008
Seo Tae Ji’s leather belt, which he wore in a car advertisement, was successfully bid for 558,000 won.
Each of Seo Tae Ji’s outfit he wore in the advertisement were auctioned every week and have received high bids. Summing up all the money earned from 5 previous auctions, including the bid for the belt, Seo Tae Ji’s charity auction has already accumulated 12.136 million won.
An auction on Seo Tae Ji’s necklace is currently taking place and will close on midnight of March 12.
Source: Newsen + krnloop |
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Jewelry surpasses Park Ji Hun & Brown Eyed Girls
March 7, 2008
Jewelry members were in tears when “One More Time” was announced as the K-Chart top placer in today’s episode of KBS “Music Bank.” In only 3 weeks since the group’s comeback, Jewelry has already reached the top and managed to surpass Brown Eyed Girls and V.O.S leader Park Ji Hun.
“We didn’t think we’d rank 1st this fast. Thank you for all the love you’ve given us. Thank you,” Jewelry, in tears, expressed.
Source: Newsen + krnloop
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T.O.P.’s kissing scene with Sandara Park, popular
March 7, 2008
Sandara Park’s popularity rose among Netizens following news that BIG BANG member T.O.P. acted a kissing scene with her in Gummy’s “I’m Sorry” music video.
Sandara Park started her showbiz career in the Philippines in 2004 through “Star Circle Quest” and finally came back to Korea in August 2007. Since then, she has been receiving acting trainings.
Earlier today, March 7, the keyword “Sandara Park” ranked 1st in Naver’s “real-time most searched” list followed by “Gummy I’m Sorry,” “Gummy,” “TOP,” and “TOP Kiss Scene,” respectively. In Daum’s “real-time news search” list, “TOP Kiss Scene” ranked 2nd while “Sandara Park” ranked 4th.
Because of the unexpected turn of events, YG Entertainment could not help but express its surprise and a hint on what is next to come for Sandara Park.
“We didn’t know that Sandara Park will be receiving this kind of hot reaction. She’ll soon officially debut as an actress in a drama. She left the Philippines for a career in Korea and that’s sad. But after establishing a strong base here, we’re planning on doing promotions in the Philippines.”
The “I’m Sorry” music video revolves around the story of T.O.P’s character getting through the sadness of Sandara’s character leaving him.
Source: Yonhap + krnloop |
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May Doni’s sister as her backup dancer
March 8, 2008
Who would have guessed that May Doni’s sister is going to make headlines?
May Doni, who had her debut performance in KBS “Music Bank” yesterday, seems to have been outshone by her older sister Kim Yeni, who was one of her backup dancers during her performance of “ull” with Jo PD. Although May Doni has been ranking in the most searched lists of portal sites for 2 days now, Kim Yeni, who is a year older than May Doni, still seems to attract more attraction because of her tall and slender build and dancing ability.
Nega Network confirmed the news that the two are real sisters and that Kim Yeni is actually planned to also enter the music industry.
“Kim Yeni will have to polish and improve her abilities before debuting as a singer,” a Nega Network official said.
Source: Newsen + krnloop
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AJOO wants to make a name for himself
March 9, 2008
In only 2 weeks since his debut, new singer AJOO has been getting the attention of a lot of music fans because of his good looks (clear skin, red lips and shy smile), impressive dance skills and debut song “First Kiss,” which brought the genre “teen rock” into the Korean pop music scene.
As reported before, AJOO took 6 years before finally debuting on stage and that was no joke.
“I’ve loved music so much since I was young. I started training when I was in Grade 6 and it was fun but also hard. For a long time, I was only trained on basic singing and dancing and I grew tired of doing those. But the AJOO that I am now is because of what I went through.”
In such a young age, AJOO already possesses passion for music. Although he started with a teen rock song called “First Kiss,” he plans on venturing into other music styles.”
“I’d like to do other music styles. Right now, I’ve done music of teen pop and rock. In the future, I’d like to try mixing ballad and R&B with rock.
When he entered the music industry, he reminded people of Se7en because of his intense dancing and singing power and was even called the “2nd Se7en. Although AJOO feels that it is a lot of pressure to be given that title, he also says that it inspires him to be better.”
“I followed and practiced a lot of Se7en’s dancing. I’m very honored to be called the ‘2nd Se7en.’ Although it’s a lot of pressure, I’ll work harder to be better. I’m not the ‘2nd Se7en’ and I’ll try to make my mark as AJOO!”
That being said, watch out for AJOO for if his name speaks for itself, which was given to him by his grandfather and was taken from the phrase ( 아시아의 주인공) “Master of Asia,” it will not be long until we see great things from him.
Source: Newsen + krnloop
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Min Kyung Hoon, solo concert in April
March 9, 2008
After going solo in December 2007, Min Kyung Hoon is holding his first solo concert on April 18 and 19 at the Seoul Olympic Park Olympic Hall. This is going to be the start of his nationwide concert tour.
Aside from singing his songs, Min Kyung Hoon will also be performing hit songs of his former band, BUZZ. There will also be a chance for someone from the audience to win a dinner and movie date with Min Kyung Hoon.
The former vocalist of BUZZ is currently devoting his time on preparing for the concerts and promoting his song “Cry Only Today.”
Source: Mydaily + krnloop |
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March 5, 2008
Actress Lee Involved in Another Assault Case
By Kim Rahn
Staff Reporter
Lee Min-young
The police are investigating an assault allegedly committed by actress Lee Min-young.
It would be the second time for Lee to be involved in a violence case ― she was the victim in a previous case in 2006.
According to the police, Lee allegedly visited the house of a 25-year-old woman, whose name was not disclosed, in eastern Seoul Monday morning and assaulted her.
The woman testified that she was at home with her boyfriend and Lee came and hit her without reason, according to the police. She said Lee and the man dated for a while last year, but they broke up. Lee beat her after seeing the two together out of jealousy, she claimed.
The police asked Lee to present herself for investigation that evening. But her mother and lawyer appeared instead, claiming Lee was beaten, not the woman.
According to Yonhap News, Lee's mother claimed the woman called Lee early in the morning and demanded money, threatening that otherwise she would disclose a video clip which is believed to carry scenes of sexual relations involving Lee. Lee visited the house to protest, but the woman beat her, Yonhap quoted the mother as saying.
But the police said Lee's side did not talk about the video clip.
The actress was involved in violence in 2006, when her former husband, actor Lee Chan, beat her severely, resulting in a broken nose and miscarriage and ending their 12-day marriage.
Credits: [email protected]
http://www.koreatimes.co.kr/www/news/nation/2008/03/117_20170.html |
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March 6, 2008
Actor Kim Young-chul to Narrate Documentary on the National Seal
Actor Kim Young-chul, who currently stars in 'The Great King Sejong,' an epic history drama on KBS 1TV, will narrate a special documentary on the national seal.
Kim will narrate the 'The National Seal - The 600-year Vision' which will air on KBS 1TV on March 6 at 10:00 p.m. The program will show viewers how the new national seal was produced and the secret behind the production of the national seal that has been passed down from centuries ago.
Kim Jeong-jung, who produced the program, said he chose the actor as his image, personality and voice went well with a documentary that deals with the national seal, the symbol of a nation's sovereignty. He added that the actor enthusiastically agreed to the proposal, saying it was his first time narrating a documentary.
Kim Young-chul, who has appeared in other history dramas in the past, currently appears on 'The Great King Sejong' as the third king of the Joseon Dynasty, Taejong, who is portrayed as a sensitive yet strong leader.
Source: KBS Global
http://english.kbs.co.kr/mconten ... /1511658_11692.html |
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Actress Kang Seong-yon
March 6, SEOUL, South Korea -- Actress Kang Seong-yon participates in a Seoul fashion show on March 6. (Yonhap) (END)
Actress Kim Min-son
March 6, SEOUL, South Korea -- Actress Kim Min-son poses for photographers on March 6 at a Seoul fashion show. (Yonhap)(END)
Source: http://app.yonhapnews.co.kr/YNA/ ... E=2&AGINGPAGESIZE=5 |
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March 6, 2008
Actress Kim Nam-joo Gives Birth to a Baby Boy
Star couple Kim Seung-woo and Kim Nam-joo recently welcomed the birth of their second child, this time a son.
Actress Kim Nam-joo gave birth to a 3.3-kilogram baby boy in Seoul on March 5. The couple married in May 2005 and gave birth to their daughter in November that same year.
Her husband, actor Kim Seung-woo, said he was grateful that both his wife and his son were in good health. Thanking his wife, Kim added that he is ecstatic to be the father of a boy and a girl.
Source: KBS Global
http://english.kbs.co.kr/mconten ... /1511734_11692.html |
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March 6, 2008
Rejected with "It's not going to do well".. Found to be an entertainment success?
These days, the entertainment rule, "The movie that everyone says is going to fail actually succeeds" is well-known.
It is said that the movie "The Chaser" was rejected by many investors at the producing stage because of a new director, and the eerie topic of a serial killer. In reality, the movie is counting down until they reach an audience of 3 million.
However, this movie is breaking records in various entertainment categories and is moving toward an overall number one spot in the entertainment industry.
Director Na Hong-jin, who was in charge of the script and producing, apologized to the residents of Mang Won Dong, saying that the value of the land may decrease. But the scenery of Seoul, Mang Won Dong, is what enabled the movie to succeed in the entertainment industry.
The start for this year's best hit movie, Forever the Moment, was not smooth either.
It was because of the bias that movies about sports do not do well, or that movies with only females do not do well.
The final investment came in only after the preview, and after many complications, the movie attracted 4.1 million viewers.
In addition, movies with the top stars, "Venus and Mars" and "A Man Who Was Superman" only stopped at 400,000 and 560,000 viewers, respectively.
It has proved once again that the key to success in the movie industry is not top stars, advertising, or marketing, but a good piece of work.
Original article at news.empas.com
English translation by [url=http://www.hancinema.net/rejected-with-it-s-not-going-to-do-succeed |
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March 3, 2008
Why Hollywood is into Korean actors (American captivated by the Korean Wave)
Lately, Hollywood movie producers are making an effort to employ Korean actors and Korean-American actors. Once captured by Japanese and Chinese actors, Hollywood is slowly being taken over by Korean actors.
Lee Byeong-Heon (G.I. Joe), Rain - Jeong Ji-Hoon (Speed Racer), Jeon Ji-hyeon (Blood the Last Vampire), Jamie Jung, and Park Joon-Hyung (Dragon Ball), not Japanese actors are playing supporting roles in movies that are remakes of Japanese animations. This fact means that in a culturally, Korea has surpassed Japan as a strong nation, and it is welcoming news.
There are two main reasons why Hollywood keeps sending love calls to Korean and Korean-American actors.
It is because the Korean Wave that has blown in Asia has influenced Hollywood as well. Another reason is that the image of Koreans has risen in America. The power of the Korean community has increased enough that America would be interested.
In addition, because the movies are remakes of Japanese movies, it is established that the main character should be Japanese. Nevertheless, the script has been changed to a Korean, and actors such as Lee Byeong-Heon and Rain have been cast.
Also, the attractive image, acting skills, and sincerity of Koreans also play a part in this newly found interest in Korean actors.
Original article at kr.news.yahoo.com
English translation by www.hancinema.net |
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February 27, 2008
Choi Soo-jong, Becomes Student of English at Korean National Open University
Actor Choi Soo-jong (46) has become a scholar of English.
His entertainment company, Soft Land, has revealed on the 27th, "Choi Soo-jong will be entering Korean National Open University in coming March".
His company has said, "Choi Soo-jong has always felt the need to study English. Recently he was watching television and saw an adult in his 60s living in Singapore who was going to college and practicing lifelong learning. He was touched and has decided to enter college although he is at a late age".
In addition, they stated, "The reason why he chose English at Korean National Open University is because he judged that there would be no problem with continuing to pursue his acting career".
Original article at kr.news.yahoo.com
English translation by www.hancinema.net |
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Author
Post time 7-3-2008 01:14 PM
