A lot of time has gone by since I caught wind of these DNT fellas. Actually, not only did I completely forget about them, but I used to think that they were only two members (One guy named “Dragon” and another called “Tiger”, how bad ass does that sound?). But Oh how they’ve come to prove me wrong! Apparently, they’re teaser got over 50,000 views and I remember some (Obviously paid) article going around about how netizens (On crack) thought that they reminded them of Big Bang or something…
LOL
I can see them pointing fingers at each other now. I know I didn’t say anything…
They remind me more of UKiss or A’st1, tbh
Song is meh to me, but the guy at 0:30 strangely reminds me of a pencil, it kinda startled me, he caught me off guard (They really need to change his hair). I actually preferred the ballad they debuted with…
All in all, I think they’re OK, not really that interested really, just LOLed at the fact that they were compered to Big Bang
But really, doesn’t the guy on the far right look like JoKwon (2AM) and Kevins (UKiss) lovechild?
Nope, just the little SHINee boys looking confused in their latest spread for Numero.
The boys in some shots look really confused and awkward, and can you blame them really? They’re making them dress in lady clothes with coiffed up-dos!
“I’m a man, I’m a man, I’m a man”
My Grandma has similar beads to hold her glasses up Key, wanna trade the Chanel ones?
Apparently the stylist really didn’t like Key, or liked him too much and made him wear her pants…
At least they’re roomy for once.
Numero are really lacking creativity with this shoot, all they really channel with this are their previous shoots with the BB boys and tend to not actually know who SHINee are. And what’s up with Numero making boys/ men look far more feminine than they should?
A little late for the Am.I.Go promotions MinHo!
So, if they dress SHINee like Big Bang, does that mean next time they’ll make Big Bang dress as SHINee? I’m gonna wait patiently for that in my swirly chair.
It looks like Rain has hired out some YMCA trainers for the shoot
Rain is releasing his Fifth Korean Album soon and has entitled the album “Rainism”. What is with Celebs these days and their strange Comeback Album names? Lee HyoRi started it with her “It’s HyoRish”, and the DBSK men tried thier go with the name “Mirotic”. Rain will start his promotional activities this week with a performance in the MBC Dream Concert on the 9th and MBC will air his comeback showcase on the 17th.
Talented actress Ha JiWon will be staring in his Music Video “Love Story”, teasers have been released and are “interesting”, we’ll post the video in it’s entire release. Mostly because I hate the “teaser” trend, it’s too annoying for words.
But it will be interesting to hear and see what he does without Grand Master JYPs backing.
Big Bang release their new MV
The Big Bang boys have released their new MV, which I’m guessing is for Japan since it’s subbed in Japanese. They shot the MV in Seoul, because I actually recognise some of the dancers, that is as detailed as my research is. Watch it for yourselves and tell us if you think it’s going to be a big hit.
Big Bang feat. Aimee Lucas “Number 1″
G-Dragon needs to be told that glasses are made to improve your eye sight, not bar you from seeing completely. Sometimes I commend his boldness, but the glasses thing is getting boring. Plus it makes you look like a fly, or your eyes are wearing nappies. It sounds childish but seriously there is no other way around it.
“crazy hottie, mad party” Sing it…
JYP desperate for China and the U.S
Well, it sure looks like it.
JYP announced earlier this week that a “Chinese Wonder Girls” are in the works to take over the Chinese charts like their Korean counterparts. He actually sounded a lot like LSM to me, when he claimed that Zhang LiYin was the “Chinese BoA“, and well, it’s only a matter of time to see the “Female Big Bang” (Thank God YG isnt branching out to a Chinese Headquarters, the Korean Music Industry is in a bad enough slump). Everyone wants to remake they’re most successful artists I guess, don’t they know that individual charm is most successful? If you label them something beforehand, they wont be able to shine on their own and won’t be taken seriously.
JYP tells you, tells you, tttttetells you, he looks strange dancing the “Tell Me”
Apparently the Wonder Girls are also going to be either making it as singers or actresses in the States, when they plan to debut there. What’s so bad about the K-Music Industry that everyone wants to be anywhere but there? Shouldn’t the big Cahoonas try and improve the Industry and make it so fresh and lively that people from abroad will take a huge liking to it, without having to try every method under the Sun trying to make it big somewhere else? I like the “make them come to you wanting more” method, rather than the “try to make it big without that much interest” method.
It’s seriously infuriating that Big Record Companies and every one else involved, complain about the slump and do nothing about it. Instead of complaining, how about putting more effort in to the “music”, in to the promotions, make people interested instead of running to other Industries abroad where more money is available. The HallYu wave spread because of foreign interest in the Korean culture, not because they sold arms and legs to get their Music, Movies and Dramas to garner some interest abroad. Something needs to be done about these Companies and their lack of Nationalism, funnily enough their reasons are “for the sake of Hallyu”, sure, I believe you(!).
_________________________________________
Credits: Newsen, Empas, Youtube, Naver
Credits for SYP: noonoo_shoo, Tangera
SYP forums list some Credits
Well, not entirely, but that shot makes him look so much like him. Is it me or are there so many Rain lookalikes these days (a member of FT Island and 2PM)? Heck, noone is complaining.
Anyhow Jiyeong of Big Bang aka G-Dragon has gained a lot of attention for his many fashion statements lately. This time he had been asked to model in a Numero spread, and frankly he fits the model kind of look. Supposedly it took a whopping 6 hours for his makeup and hair, and well it doesn’t really show. I could dab that on in 5 minutes and mousse up his hair, I cost cheaper as a makeup artist too.
This shot reminds me of Final Fantasies’ Cloud Strife just more asian.
I personally enjoy seeing artists spread their wings and explore other sides of themselves and the industry. G-Dragon is an avid fashion supporter, so let’s hope he grows as a person as well as his arts through his self-expression.
Though as an after thought, stick to concealer.
[Edit]
Whoa.
A comment made me so curious that I hunted down the rest of the photoshoots stills.
He really shouldn’t be allowed to wear such skintight material. I do though have to still say he is an avid supporter of fashion, but fashion is not always appealing, or pretty.
_______________________________ Credit: sookyeong.wordpress, pics credit as tagged.
Credit for SYP: xtraycee and noonoo_shoo
SYP forums lists full credits
Delays seem to be constant, but really there is not much to cover anyhow. Nevertheless, here is the weekly round-up of last weeks news. (Monday 1st September to the Sunday 7th).
Ahn JaeHwans depressing death
Not many people know Ahn JaeHwan internationally, except perhaps that he is married to Comedian/DJ Jung SunHee. Nevertheless, this man was as funny and sweet as his wife. He took part in many variety shows and was loved by plenty, when he married Jung SunHee he seemed like the happiest man on Earth. Behind it though laid a sad human being that took his own life in seclusion. Ahn JaeHwan was missing for a month before his body was found in his own van, and he had been dead for nearly 2 weeks (10-15 days). This of course, is devastating news and this year has been a sad year in Celeb-dom. Ahn JaeHwan rest in peace and our heartfelt condolences are sent to his wife, family and friends.
2PM in the evenings… aaaahh… so that’s the secret to their energy…
2PM have finally debuted and they blew many a person away with their dance moves. When I watched their debut performance I couldn’t help but marvel at their dancing. I mean they were really well choreographed (what else do you expect from JYP), although the song is a little on the naughty side, I do like it. The dancing made it easier to stomach, it was more light-hearted. Their singing though, was as expected not that great since, a) it’s live and b) debut performances are hardly flawless. Looking forward to them getting used to the stage and blowing us all away with their more vocally-talented other halves…. 2AM.
Ya Shim Man Man making celebs dish since ever
Ya Shim Man Man is back, and oh has it been missed. Once again every episode seems to have celebs revealing a new secret or embarrassment. The first episode was aired on the 1st and Kim Heechul of Super Junior revealed a thing or two. Heechul revealed how after performances of “Don’t Don!” at the time of the Super Junior second album, he was told to scream his rock star scream at every performance. That very thing was the source of coughing blood after the performances. Can you say, damn? He also humorously added how he was asked if he was a “cyborg” at an airport because the metal detector kept on beeping, although he had no metal on him. The reason of course being that he has a metal rod in his leg, due to an accident a year or two ago. I can’t do his story telling justice, one must watch the show to truly enjoy it. Welcome back Ya Shim Man Man you were missed, and Kang Ho Dong is as cute as ever.
Another exciting comeback!
Oh yes, girls and boys alike can get excited with the comeback of Koreas favourite boyband, DongBangShinKi. The Dong Bang boys are on their way back to their motherland for their fourth album, it was announced last week. We can all expect their album released on the 24th of September. With their picture releases, one can tell that they are coming back with more of a raunchy manly image… bordering on strongly sexy. Girls may appreciate that the most… Music wise also goes along the lines of their image… Check out the teaser…
YounHa comeback performance Like a bowl of Kellogg’s Corn Flakes in the morning…
As long as we’re on the subject of comebacks, we need to mention YounHa. Her refreshing vocals and “different” style of mainstream is nice to listen to, and of course she is adorable. She made her own comeback performance last week on Mnet, showing how lively she is on stage and how well she can do live. Looking forward to more performances, and of course listening to her entire album. The Tablo (Epik High) collab I am keen on, and title track “Someday” is a good listen too.
Big Bang new album to hit Japan this October
Yup, Big Bang are releasing a Japanese album this October, as well as their Korean I gather. Big Bang seem seriously busy what with everyone doing something different, as well as promoting their mini album. Haru Haru is doing extremely well, and a well done to them for that. We wish them a lot of luck in their Japanese efforts, they have done well so far.
Spectrums…
The underground in South Korea is so much richer than it may seem. Although Kpop is interesting unto itself, the underground music scene boasts amazing talent. After all, Epik High were once under the Underground title themselves and look at how creative, talented and artistic their music is. EZ Hyoung is one of those talented people that need to emerge completely from the underground and be welcomed in to the mainstream. His vocals are soothing and touching, the video is artistic and absorbing. Two years of writing, composing and producing, at least deserve a look-see dont’cha think…
Now with the Top 10 of the last week, thanks to Edward1849 of Soompi.
Weekly Music Chart- September Week 1
1. Big Bang – 하루하루 (Day By Day))
2. Seo In Young – 신데렐라 (Cinderella)
3. Cool – 사랑을 원해 (I Want Love)
4. Seo Tai Ji – MOAI
5. Kim Gun Mo – Kiss
6. Lee Hyori – U-Go-Girl
7. Davichi – 사랑과 전쟁 (Love and War)
8. Kara – Rock U
9. 2AM – 이 노래 (This Song)
10.Uhm Jung Hwa (feat. T.O.P) – D.I.S.C.O
As last week I’m afraid this week doesn’t have that much news-wise. Nevertheless here we go with last weeks main news update for Monday 25th of August to Sunday 31st.
YounHa is coming back I reckon she looks like Song YuRi, what do you think?
First of all, in those pictures I could barely recognised the young talented songstress. YounHa looks stunning in that dress for sure. Anyhow, YounHa comes back to Korea for the release of her second album “Some Day” which came out on the 28th. This year is full of so-called “come-backs” isn’t it? And its fun to watch the people strive to make an effect in the Music Biz. YounHa is hella talented and she is looking hella good on her comeback, let’s look forward to her promotions. Just please keep away from Ajoo, for your credibility sister. O_O
WheeSung no longer wheezing
Yeah that has nothing to do with his operation. WheeSung, the vocally talented musical whizz is back as well. He has fully recovered after he went under the surgical knife to remove a cystoma on his vocal chords. And Thank goodness to that. He performed on the awesome Yoon DoHyuns Love Letter with Ko YooJin, and also performed a rock version of his last hit single “Love is Tasty”. Mmmmmm, sounds scrumptious. (Yeah I know that was lame, I don’t have much to say this week that’s why.)
Lee HyoRi looking for her Mr….BIG?
Lee HyoRi has officially stopped promotions for “U-Go-GRRL” and started promoting her new single, “Hey Mr. Big”. Check out the MV above ^^. She looks stunning as always of course, and the video is also, all about her. And heck if you looked that good wouldn’t you just want it to have no theme at all, but you?
FT Island wash up on Korean shores
FT Island have come back!! Oh my God, who saw ANOTHER come back in the works? Comebacks are sort of starting to lose their super effect on me, I just want good entertaining music, like now. FT Island have been drifting around Asia for a while now and I think they finally got the directions back to their homeland. Gah, Men and their pride, never want to ask for directions when they’re lost… In this case, still boys though. I like FT Island actually, they’re cute and they don’t suck up to noona that much. They play hard to get. Joking of course, this noona still prefers her men, but I like the pop “rock” of this cute little group that twang and beat on their instruments.
G-Dragon and his flares?
Excuse the typo, I meant artistic flair. Although I would pay money to see him in 70s inspired flares, it would be…interesting. G-Dragon of Big Bang is known to be a little artiste that likes to experiment with his music and style-sense. And he has been in the limelight for it recently, would I call him a “fashion Icon”? Hell no, but he is brave and bold and that’s respectable. I also do like some of his getups to be honest, sometimes K-Pop can get a little boring and dull fashion-wise so it’s nice to see some color. Ah, like lemonade on a hot summers day…. Strange lemonade sometimes, but refreshing nonetheless.
This is getting long….
Yes another comeback. Please show some excitement though for Jo SungMo. He has come back after 2 years of serving his mandatory military service and it’s nice to have him back. Well he left in May but that’s beside the point, he will be singing the official soundtrack to drama “Garden of Wind” on SBS.
Wonder Girls go Global
Global in the sense that Virgin Media have recognised them. Aaaaw, Wonder Girls, South Koreas little sisters, have made them proud by getting a shout out from Virgin Media as “the ones to watch”. Personally the following line stood out the most, “Candyfloss pop aimed squarely at the female teen market”. Um…. sure. If you can call it that. Nevertheless, thanks Virgin Media for that ignorant remark, at least they got some promotion. I shrug out of confusion as to how “So Hot” is candyfloss pop.
Edward1849 of Soompis Weekly Music Chart everyone….
Weekly Music Chart
1. Seo In Young – 신데렐라 (Cinderella)
2. Cool – 사랑을 원해 (I Want Love)
3. Lee Hyori – U-Go-Girl
4. Davichi – 사랑과 전쟁 (Love and War)
5. Big Bang – 하루하루 (Day By Day)
6. Uhm Jung Hwa (feat. T.O.P) – D.I.S.C.O
7. Kara – Rock U
8. Seo Tai Ji – MOAI
9. Kim Gun Mo – Kiss
10.Brown Eyes – 너 때문에 (Because Of You)
My sincerest apologies again for the lateness of this weeks update. Before we begin I would like to pass on my respects and condolences to Lee Eons’ family for their great loss. Rest In Peace.
This is the update for the past week, Monday 11th to Sunday 17th.
Festival rocks Jamsil to pieces
Two big Concerts took place in two Jamsil stadiums last week, ETPfest and SMTownLive ‘08. There were strange things to pick up in the media about one of them, but clearly they were both marked as successful. ETPfest opened up to a sold out audience opening its doors to over 40,000 spectators within the two days of the festival. The show was undoubtedly awesome and I think we can all be envious to those of which that attended. SMTownLive opened to Jamsil Olympic stadium with a less than enthusiastic response, but still went on to get a lot of positive remarks from the media due to the Big Name performers there.
Big Bang got busy
With Big Bang releasing their mini-album ‘Stand Up‘, it’s no surprise that they would be in the limelight a lot. With the Olympics still going on there is not much attention paid on the Celeb world or Music world since all eyes are on Beijing, yet Big Bang have found their own way to still pop up on the Media Radar.
First it was their crazy concert in Thailand:
Before they started their official promotions of their new mini-album the Big Bang boys held a concert in Thailand, causing many a fan girl to faint. 20 to be exact and it seems YG Entertainment was proud to mention it. “Our boys are studs and can knock you out with a look” is what they said in my head, after mentioning that.
The release of two MVs within a week.
It took a while to get here, “haru haru” of Big Bang that is, yet as soon as they released that MV with actress Park Min Young, we got another surprise with the release of “Oh My Friend” featuring the psychotically entertaining No Brain. I am all for promotion of underrated KRock Artists mainly because the underground K-Music scene is full of awesome talent, but seriously I couldn’t let ‘haru haru’ sink in and then got bombarded with “oh my friend”. Big Bang make it up though with being cute, and well seeing G-Dragon as a mental patient is always nice….
Thailand got lucky
Well to me, they did. Not only did they get Big Bang but soon after they left, Epik High came for promotions and a showcase for over 1000 fans. “We went there without much expectation, and it turned out we have a lot of fans here in Thailand. We were shocked when they sang along with us during our showcase performances. We have a tight schedule here, we are not feeling tired and is advancing smoothly.” Is what Tablo said on a phone interview about their trip. Any Thai fans out there willing to take me in next time they have Epik High around? Better yet any Thai fans that attended either event of Big Bang and Epik High?
SHINee need mouth to mouth resuscitation.
Noona’s, you wish. Well it’s a play on words to SHINees’ new single “You’re like Oxygen” that they teased us with the week before. The 5 young boys performed it at SMTownLive ‘08 (which was like a promotional tool for the upcoming SM plans to be honest), to a big happy response from fans. I am still waiting on the official MV, but in the forums you can get a listen. I hear only Michael Jackson with this song and as the official release is due tomorrow, wait for that. Although there is some controvercy surrounding the originality of this track, I am still giggling at their attempts to man-up these cute little boys.
lol, Beware of Darth Vader JungHyun….
It’s Wonder JIN?
Mnet is always the place to be for young music pop fans and their events are always fun to keep an eye on. You are bound to get some drama and interesting footage to keep you entertained till the next years version. And Mnet doesn’t want this years Mnet 20’s Choice (last years was the first), to go without some major attention. It’s not enough with their weird awards and choices but they have a strange collab stage going too. Jun Jin of Shinhwa and the Wonder Girls are going to share the stage for something, apparently spectacular. Well that’s what the PD is insisting on (I love how PDs get attention in SK don’t you?), and the PD also claims that after the performance it will by number 1 on search engines…. Ok, we will have our eyes on your project PDnim, but expect our laughter recorded and sent in a package to you if it ends up a joke….
Bae YongJoon forever young
In the heart and soul. The beloved Hallyu star had shoulder surgery recently after his well publicised shoulder ligament injury. After the two injuries Mr. Bae YongJun received after filming his last blockbuster he has been recuperating in the States and now will remain in the hospital for a week. South Korea’s prize smile should keep himself fitter and safer so he can swoon more Ajummas in to the Hallyu Wave…
East of Eden, right down the street
This has gotten tongues wagging for a while now with the uber awesome cast. The cast has a lot of big time names in it that leave your head reeling. Song Seung Hun, Yun Jung Hoon, Park Hae Jin, Lee Da Hae, Lee Yeon Hee, Han Ji Hye, Dennis Oh, Jo Min Ki, Lee Mi Sook, Kim Bum, Shin Eun Jung and many more are set to star in it. The teaser has finally been released and it will be interesting to tune in and see how this drama goes. The plot speaks of revenge, murder and ill-doings, definitely something to watch with a cup of tea and chocolates. Bring it on MBC.
The teaser:
damn, be prepared for drama, drama, drama and needless shedding of tears…
It’s also time for this weeks Music charts thanks to Edward1849 of Soompi
Weekly Music Chart – 3rd Week – August
1. Lee Hyori – U-Go-Girl
2. Davichi – 사랑과 전쟁 (Love and War)
3. Seo In Young – 신데렐라 (Cinderella)
4. Uhm Jung Hwa (feat. T.O.P) – D.I.S.C.O
5. Shinee – 누난 너무 예뻐 (Noona’s Pretty (Replay))
6. Wonder Girls – So Hot
7. Mighty Mouth (feat. Sun Ye) – 에너지 (Energy)
8. Zi-A – 사랑해 미안해 (I Love You, I Am Sorry)
9. Cool – 사랑을 원해 (I Want Love)
10.Brown Eyes – 너 때문에 (Because Of You)
Ok guys, here’s the latest roundup of the news of the past week (Monday 4th to Sunday 10th). Enjoy.
Super Junior-H with not so Happy news
Yesung of Super Junior Happy injured his back last Friday during the Music Bank Rehearsals. He tripped on a Power Cord and fell from the stage, he was sent immediately to the Hospital. The rest of the boys continued the performance like the troopers they are, check out the vid. My favourite of the lot is Ms. Patty (total lol soyboy!).
Get better soon and stay fit and healthy Yesung.
JYP ever the young’un JYPs new album concept, ‘pimp’?
Park Jin Young the coolest Producer on the block doesn’t seem to notice that he can never be sexy. As much as I love this guys talent, I think he should stay away from these crazy photo shoots. JYP please be as great as you are in the recording booth but please put on some clothes and act your age? Just a tip. By the by to the random netizen that said, “He is as sexy as a gorilla. His stomach muscles are like chocolate.” Please be exposed to some more men, thank you, take a look at Kwon SangWoo for instance, and since when were gorillas sexy?
Big Bangs comeback
Well 08.08.08 has come and passed and Big Bang released their newest mini-album. There were some rave reviews by some and not-so-happy reviews by others. No matter what, Big Bang showed us that they are as popular as ever as their album sold an impressive amount in just pre-orders (100k). The album as covered by the staff earlier this week has a wide range of genres and as some people here in the international section are not so keen on it, Big Bang dominates the Cyworld chart as the Top 10 includes every track of the album, even the intro “Stand Up”.
Korean Films rock the movie theatres
One of the main reasons for plenty of people to get in to the Hallyu Wave has got to be their movies. I for one am a huge KMovie fan and finally, the movies are nabbing a nearly 50% market share of the Korean Movie Market, 47.7% if you’re going to nitpick. Awesome movies are out this summer and one of the best picks has to be the Korean western “The Good, the Bad, the Weird”, starring three of the most talented actors Jung WooSung, Lee ByungHun and the ever awesome Song KangHo. Keep watching those Kmovies people.
Kang HyeJung hits the US
Well, kind of. Young actress Kang HyeJung has been cast in ‘American’ movie ‘Wedding Palace’ about two people who meet in L.A and get married. It focuses on their different cultural backgrounds and will be shot mostly in the US with some scenes in Korea. Its produced by Korean American company TU Productions.
Monday Kiz goes solo
After the devastating death of Kim MinSoo of the talented duo Monday Kiz earlier this year, news has reached us that the other half Lee JinSeong will continue. Monday Kiz’s record label gave up finding another partner and wants Mr. Lee to try his luck as a solo singer. We wish him the best of luck in his efforts.
Hana Yori Dango still dangling in the air
It was announced earlier this year that Mr. Hyunjoong of SS501 was going to star as Hanazawa Rui in the Korean adaptation of Hana Yori Dango, and then not too long after that they claimed it was not confirmed. Group 8 who is producing this version seem to be meticulous in their casting project as it has been extended yet again. I know that it’s going to air next year but it’s getting ridiculous as they refuse to tell us who is going to star in the drama. Apparently 80% of the idol stars have auditioned for the drama but no one has particularly stood out yet. They are still deciding on who is going to make them rake in the most money without looking like they sold out.
Maybee wants you to be as inventive as ever
Pretty and talented Songwriter/Singer/DJ Maybee has allowed her fans to produce both her recent single and Music Video. The single was written and produced by 20 high school girls who are avid supporters of Maybee. It was released on the 4th last week as a digital single. Maybee is great to encourage and reward her fans for their own creativity. And its pretty nice that the song is dedicated to her. It’s called “Maybee Praise Song” if you were wondering.
Nell makes their way in to Japan
After a successful comeback earlier this year with their album “Separation Anxiety”, Nell find themselves being invited to the Japanese SummerSonic Rock Festival. Foot traffic reaches highs of 80.000 (concert-goers) and it’s good to think that they will be able to be exposed to the almost-eerie yet ear pleasing music of Seo Taiji discovered Nell. All those hours “researching” in that insane asylum paid off, right guys?
It’s time for this weeks Music chart, credit goes to Mr. Edward1849 as ever, from Soompi.
Weekly Music Chart – 2nd Week – August
1. Lee Hyori – U-Go-Girl
2. Davichi – 사랑과 전쟁 (Love and War)
3. Uhm Jung Hwa (feat. T.O.P) – D.I.S.C.O
4. Shinee – 누난 너무 예뻐 (Noona’s Pretty (Replay))
5. Wonder Girls – So Hot
6. Brown Eyes – 가지마 가지마 (Don’t Leave Don’t Leave)
7. Mighty Mouth (feat. Sun Ye) – 에너지 (Energy)
8. Alex – 그대라면 (If It’s You)
9. Sung Shi Kyung – 안녕 나의 사랑 (Goodbye My Love)
10.Zi-A – 사랑해 미안해 (I Love You, I Am Sorry)
After what seems like my week vacation (while Michelle took over the reigns of the weekly update), I realised how much I enjoyed writing these up. And I hope that you guys do enjoy them. With a thanks to Michelle, lets go ahead with this weeks news.
The Legend is Here.
And it’s damn good he is. Musical God Seo TaiJi has made his comeback sooner than expected and we are not complaining. He dropped his album earlier this week and unsurprisingly it’s been selling like hotcakes. Let me be honest for a sec here and tell you how I reacted to the news, I fangirled when I heard he was coming back sooner, I fangirled when the teaser started, and I super fangirled when I heard his voice again. Funnily enough I am no fangirl, but you guys need to know how awesome this man is. He didnt just pave the way with pretty bricks for this generations biggest creative singers but he also planted flowers and added shrubbery. His impact breathed life and enriched the soils of the K-Music industry, as his single “Moai” sold an astounding 37,408 copies on the first day of release. (thats not even including preorders and illegal downloads throughout the week ). This breaks Brown Eyes record in June, that shook up the industry itself, (they only sold 15,000). This is more significant as it is a single album (commonly known as mini-album), as opposed to Brown Eyes’s full studio album. How is that for you? Seo TaiJis re-introduction in to the Music Biz, breathes life in to it and makes things more exciting! Bring it on.
Check out the super awesome MV teaser, that he shot on Easter Island:
Held Up Due to Heavy Rain
Is apparently the reason why Big Bang is not back. They were originally scheduled to release their MV and mini-album on August 1st. But, due to the downpour their MV filming had to be delayed as they are filming outdoors. They have set both their album and MV release for the novel date 08.08.08, those dates over the years are usually left for gimmicks and marriages (I prefer the date 11.11.11 wait for my album then). Oh right and on the day of the Olympics, I’m anticipating the release as the teaser was entertaining and the words “stand up stand up wake wake up” have been ringing through my head ever since I heard it. I like these boys more now since they also mentioned that they regard Seo Taiji as “the best of the best”. Oh little Big Bang you are after noonas heart. <3
Malaysia and MTV go hand in hand Huzzah! All thirteen! I counted it three times!
Hello to all the Malaysians first of all. Last week Malaysia were hosts to the 2008 MTV Asia Awards. Where the 4 nominees for Best Korean Artist were Big Bang, SNSD, Super Junior and Wonder Girls (in alphabetical order). Super Junior won that night and a big Congratulations to them! To those that didnt win, it’s an honour to just be nominated. And for Super Junior I was expecting an “You like me, *in between sobs* You REALLY like me” acceptance speech, ah well, maybe next time.
It pays to be pretty
No it really does. When formerly faceless star Zia revealed her entire face on Music Bank last week, people went nutso. Let me refresh your minds about Zia, when it took so long for her to show her face, netizens went around labelling her as “ugly” and “fat”. This naturally made the poor girl upset and took a little time off from the Biz. Netizens dont seem to remember that the faceless singer technique is tried and tested in Show Business and has been successful for some, you don’t just hide your face cos your ugly. O_O They have paperbags for that. Anyhow, Zia performed, people liked what they saw, she was the number 1 on the searchlist and her album sales increased to 1000 per day from a previous daily high record of 500-600 orders. Being pretty really does pay. Wow how shallow.
Here’s the performance that converted those non-believers:
SBS is powermad and reckless I love the running man, he’s almost mocking
As international fans its hard not to notice the latest crackdown on Korean Entertainment videos on Youtube. The most popular users have been suspended and videos have been deleted. SBS is behind it. They allied with youtube to delete any SBS videos due to copyright. Funnily enough, SBS can dish it out but they cant take it. Not too long after that, they were hit with a copyright violation themselves. How’s that for ha-ha worthy? They stupidly leaked a video of the Chinese Olympics Opening Ceremony Rehearsals on their channel. I don’t understand why they would do such a thing as I’m pretty sure they were told explicitly to keep ‘mum‘, but alas what goes around does come around my powermad friends. Ironically that very segment was put up on youtube and deleted due to copyright infringement. What do netizens say again, oh yes, LOL.
BoA returning to Korea?
We covered not too long ago a case of two concerts being held on the same night. It was unclear to some the true purpose of the comparison, but nevertheless it was relevant. Now it seems that poor SM is suffering and had to pull BoA out of Japan to increase ticket sales of his SMTOWNLIVE ‘08. We never knew it was that dire a situation SM, perhaps the ticketsales were actually lower? BoA fans are complaining as to the real reason why she couldnt perform in the first place. She was scheduled for the Chinese performances and not the Seoul performance. it was thought it was due to schedule problems but now people are thinking otherwise. Not our problem…..
Davichi are Vitchin’! Yeah, that’s really them, I just loved the picture.
These girls are undoubtedly talented. And their efforts are finally paying off. Ok, the ex-ulzzhang needs to work a little more on her vocals, but they have a lot of decent and excpetional music out there. Davichi are also quite the performers, they beat out so much great competition to hit the number 1 spot. Their first and most significant in my opinion (if my memory serves me right). They beat out competition from killer balladeer Sunbaenims Brown Eyes, and awesomeness Sunbaenim Uhm JungHwa. Well done girls, count me as a supporter!
Here is also the weeks top 10 from good ol’ Edward1849 of Soompi. Weekly Music Chart – 1st Week – August
1. Davichi – 사랑과 전쟁 (Love and War)
2. Uhm Jung Hwa (feat. T.O.P) – D.I.S.C.O
3. Brown Eyes – 가지마 가지마 (Don’t Leave Don’t Leave)
4. Shinee – 누난 너무 예뻐 (Noona’s Pretty (Replay)
5. Wonder Girls – So Hot
6. Mighty Mouth (feat. Sun Ye) – 에너지 (Energy)
7. Sung Shi Kyung – 안녕 나의 사랑 (Goodbye My Love)
8. Alex – 그대라면 (If It’s You)
9. Lee Hyori – U-Go-Girl
10.Super Junior Happy – 요리왕 (Cooking? Cooking!)
After being on hiatus for so long…I’ve decided to take a stab at writing the 7-Day Relay and do something around here. Usually, it’s noonoo_shoo who writes it but just for this week, it’ll be me … so I hope everyone will enjoy this post ^^
DBSK’s popularity still takes over
Does the picture look familiar…but with some certain people missing?? Yeah, it’s a picture of the Grand Canyon but without DBSK in it! And why isn’t DBSK in the picture?? It’s because I had a chance to visit the Grand Canyon about a week and a half ago and it was awesome, though I got a sunburn and I would totally love to write a whole review on my trip, but that’s not what I’m here for today!! With a comeback coming up later this year, the boys have just made another remarkable bang in the entertainment industry. Some pictures of the boys’ new photo book have been released all over the internet, and I’m sure most of you have already seen them. Released on July 21st, on Yesasia, had already sold all the copies of the two-versioned photobook! I guess it shows just how popular the boys are, even though they’ve been away from the Korean music scene for over a year.
While over in Japan, the boys new single, ‘Doushite Kimi Wa Suki Ni Natte Shimattan Darou?’, has hit #1 on the Weekly Oricon Charts for 3 straight weeks, breaking the record as the first foreign group to achieve it! As an ambassador of Universal Studios Japan, the amusement park has a new ride dedicated to the boys. Hollywood Dream the Ride is the new roller coaster at USJ and the song ‘Box in a Ship’, the other song from the new single, will be used for the ride! Also, stamps of the boys will be given out. Don’t you just wish this was at the Universal Studios in Hollywood just so you could be closer and actually have a bigger chance of going just for the ride?? Because I do!
From high school drop out to Stanford graduate to Epik High member, Tablo is going back to his Stanford days. He’ll be publishing a collection of short stories that he wrote way back in his college days. Tablo, who celebrated his 28th birthday on the 22nd, said that the stories will be a “diverse range of cityfolk” and that 10 of his stories will be translated into Korean, for the Korean folks…and there isn’t a title for the book yet.
On a side note, is having a concert tour, with Seoul being the first stop obviously. It is on September 27th at 7 PM at the Olympic Hall. For more details, visit the forum ^^
Here is Epik High’s new music video, Umbrella
SuJu Update
After releasing the U/Twins album on July 9th in Japan, the album ranked 4th on the Daily Oricon Chart and then ranked 8th on the Weekly Oricon Chart, becoming the first Korean album to make into the top 10 on the Weekly Charts. Also, the boys’ Super Show album and SuJu-H’s album, Cooking? Cooking! made it to #1 on Taiwan’s G-music chart. On the combo chart, they were ranked #2 and #4, making them the first Korean boy band to ever reach the #2 spot.
The boys have successfully ended their sold out fan meet and concert in Japan and Thailand on the 8th and 12th, respectively. On August 2nd, they will be attending the 2008 MTV Asia Awards in Malaysia and so far, only SuJu has been confirmed as the only performer from Asia.
Siwon recently revealed that the group will make a comeback in 2009 with a new album. It is unknown whether Henry and Zhoumi or any other unknown members will be in the album. And since it 2009 is within a few months, don’t be too excited yet, because who knows what SM has planned, but I’m sure ELF has started preparing for another war!
As the group hits their 1000th day together, SM is still tried to rip money off the fans. There was a celebration for the special day on July 27th but only half the group members was there and SJM members live via video. The whole party costed the fans 10 000 won just for fun and games, no performances. What’s even more upsetting was that the fans were not guaranteed into the party and only 1000 fans was allowed in to fulfill the whole “1000” concept. Because of the raging fans, SM decided to have 2 parties.
There will be a new reality show, featuring Kangin and Heechul. The new reality show will be showing the two boys as they prepare for the musical Xanadu. Clic k to read more about the reality show
Just a reminder to fans, Hankyung will be carrying the Olympic torch in Beijing from August 6th-8th. As to which day or activities he’ll be involved with is unknown at the moment. Just hope he will be doing the opening ceremonies just to everyone can get a glimpse of his handsome face on global tv ^^ Hankyung will also be starring in an upcoming Chinese drama, called Stage of Youth, where he plays a boy who loves to dance but his father wants him to follow his father’s footsteps. Continue reading more about the drama here
Big Bang’s Album Postponed
Once again, the VIPs are disappointed in their boys’ delayed mini album, which they were very excited over. The fans had waited forever for this album to come out, since Taeyang solo activities had gotten in the way. The new mini album, Stand Up, was supposed to be released on August 1st, but now the new release date is August 8th. The reason for this delay is so they can commemorate 08.08.08, a supposedly lucky day.
Taeyang, on the other hand, has become a very lucky fan boy of Alicia Keys, as he was chose and requested to open up for her upcoming concert in Seoul at the Jamsil Stadium on August 7th. Taeyang also ended his first solo concert on July 20th and got Big Bang and himself a mini fan, Ha Eum! Ha Eum is the daughter of Sean from Jinusean, who is rumored to be making a comeback later this year along with 1TYM, since Jinhwan was released from military a few weeks ago. Ha Eum is very famous among YG fans as the little kid who dresses just like her father ^^ (I love the YG family love and Sean’s family <3)
Here’s a recent performance of Jinusean – Phone Number
To guys kicking it old school in suits and with the dancers on stage? *shakes head and laughs*
Credits: automonmon@youtube
Kang Ho Dong’s Wife is Pregnant!
Kang Ho Dong is finally catching up to his buddy, Park Myung Soo!. KHD’s wife has been confirmed pregnant! I recently watched an old clip of KHD on Sang Sang Plus and he said that no one was able to carry him after he was 1 year old and on Star King, he said he ate like an adult at the age of 3. Just hope the kid won’t grow up to look like the daddy but have personalities just like the daddy!
Also, actress Park Eun Hye, who was in Dae Jang Geum, also recently confirmed pregnancy.
Congrats to them!
Credits: SUNSHiiNE@soompi + daum
Guess Who??
Trying to be like their “Sailormoon sisters”, SHINee dresses up like girls!
It’s ajumma Bada during a photoshoot for a magazine! Yay for make-up and photoshop!
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Full Credit When Posted Elsewhere
Credit for ShenYuePop.com: Michelle
SYP Forums list full credits and sources.
Music wise also goes along the lines of their image… Check out the teaser…
In this case, still boys though. I like FT Island actually, they’re cute and they don’t suck up to noona that much. They play hard to get. 
Last week Malaysia were hosts to the 2008 MTV Asia Awards. Where the 4 nominees for Best Korean Artist were Big Bang, SNSD, Super Junior and Wonder Girls (in alphabetical order). Super Junior won that night and a big Congratulations to them! To those that didnt win, it’s an honour to just be nominated. 
