Nine Muses take us behind the scenes of their Comeback

[jeit91.livejournal.com]

There have been over a hundred girl groups who’ve made their debuts, but only 20 or so are in the public light. What does it take for a talented group to really shine in a pool full of equally talented rivals?

The answer is practice, practice, and more practice.

Even for the more seasoned girl groups like Nine Muses, comeback training is as hectic and uncertain as their debut process.

( Give Me My Great Goods! )

akp+naver



ready, i'm ready, i'm ready...for their comeback.

W KOREA to broadcast live SME fashionistas

[sungiebot.livejournal.com]

On January 19th & 21st, W KOREA will be broadcasting a live photoshoot through their channel, along with SM’s Youtube channel. It will feature Girls’ Generation Yoona and Seohyun, SHINee’s Jonghyun and Taemin, f(x)’s Sulli and Krystal, and EXO.

credit: fyexo @ tumblr
source: W Korea

wow, seriously excited to see this :D

STi - Long Distance Relationship (ft. Shin Hyunhee)

[woohyun.livejournal.com]

BGSS2Maknae

ZE:A Capture the Hearts of Filipino Fans

[empressmaruja.livejournal.com]

The popular South Korean boy group, ZE:A (a.k.a Children of Empire) finally arrived in the Philippines earlier via Asiana Airlines at 11:15 am today (January 11) and received a warm welcome from Filipino ZE:A Styles. Unfortunately, only six (6) members arrived namely: Kevin, Junyoung, Taehoon, Heechul, Minwoo and Hyungsik. The three other members: Kwanghee, Dongjun and Siwan still have schedules to finish. Kwanghee and Dongjun though will be arriving tomorrow after their schedules but Siwan on the other hand, won’t be able to make it due to drama filming.

At 3:30 pm, the group held a press conference to promote their album promotional tour wherein they’ll be promoting their CD “Exciting” released locally by Warner Music Philippines. Their promo tour will be held at Ayala Malls from January 12 – 14, 2012. The group introduced themselves in Filipino much to the delight and admiration of the media, press and fans present. The group answered the questions given by the press and the media with a smile, a laugh and by using basic Filipino phrases like, ‘salamat po (thank you)’, ‘mahal namin kayo (we love you)’, ‘mahalin niyo, ZE:A (please love ZE:A)’, etc. The group even said that if they were given a chance, they would want to release an album in Filipino. This statement caused loud cheers and screams much to the group’s happiness. The group also mentioned that they’re on the process of recording their next album which might be released mid-April this year.


( Preview of comeback at the jump! )

**********


( ZE:A Press Conference Coverage )

Source: Korea.com (more photos can be found there); OrangeMagazine TV on YouTube (1), (2), (3)

Their accents when speaking Filipino are so adorable!

T-ARA - Lovey Dovey (Zombie version) MV

[rexona-woman.livejournal.com]

LOENENT

Big Bang to do it big in 2012!

[benihime99.livejournal.com]

Big Bang is aiming to make a big comeback in 2012.

The group will release an album in February, followed by a set of concerts titled Big Show in Seoul from March 2-4.

It is undecided whether the new album will be a full studio album or a mini album, but the Big Bang members are currently working hard on their new album and preparations for their concert. With the new set of promotions, Big Bang will attempt to rebound higher after slipping up with Daesung’s car crash and G-Dragon’s drug scandal.

The five members of Big Bang previously forewarned their comeback by coming together at the 15th Anniversary YG Family Concert held on December 4. The group also performed in Osaka from January 7-8, and will continue with a performance in Saitama on January 21-22.

The reason why the March concerts mean more than the YG concerts, however, is that they will be exclusive Big Bang concerts. As two of its members had to go on a sudden hiatus, the group was previously unable to emerge in front of the public, but in 2012 it will be hitting the K-Pop scene yet again with an active line of promotions.

Because the concerts will be held for three days with 40,000 fans, they are expected to refuel Big Bang’s popularity. The group is also expected to land activities not only in Korea, but also overseas, as it stood at the center of the Korean wave.

Big Bang plans to use the year 2012 as a foothold to step up again in Korea and the world.

I lol'd at the title... sorry
Considering they can't do a Big Show without at least one new song we should have at least a mini-album by february


Source: BBupdate
            enewsworld

Eldest brother casts doubts on new NK leader's grip on power

[benihime99.livejournal.com]

The eldest brother of North Korea's new leader Kim Jong-un has expressed doubts about his half-sibling's hold on power, anticipating the ruling elite to extend their influence over the communist country, a Japanese newspaper said Thursday.

Kim Jong-nam told the Tokyo Shimbun in an e-mail sent on Jan. 3 that he has "doubts about how a young successor with some two years (of training as heir) can retain the 37 years of absolute power" wielded by his late father and former leader Kim Jong-il, the newspaper said.

Kim Jong-nam, believed to be in his late 30s, has lived abroad for years after apparently falling out of favor with his father for attempting to enter Japan on a fake passport in 2001. A source familiar with Kim's activity told Yonhap News Agency last month that the eldest son had arrived in Beijing from the Chinese gambling enclave of Macau, shortly before Pyongyang held a state funeral for his father on Dec. 28. It remains unclear whether Kim Jong-nam attended the funeral.

"I expect the existing ruling elite to follow in the footsteps of my father while keeping the young successor as a symbolic figure," he said in the e-mail, making his first remarks on the North Korean regime and succession process since his father's death.

"It is difficult to accept a third-generation succession under a normal reasoning (process)."

It is not the first time Kim Jong-nam has been critical of the hereditary succession in his country that started when his father inherited power from his own father and North Korea founder Kim Il-sung in 1994. Kim Jong-nam told the Tokyo Shimbun in January last year that "even Chairman Mao Zedong of China did not enforce hereditary succession."

"(Hereditary succession) does not fit with socialism, and my father was against it as well," he was quoted as telling the paper in an exclusive interview held in a southern Chinese city. (Yonhap)


From a strictly political pov he's saying some truthful things. Hereditary succession does not fit with socialism.

Source: Koreatimes

Girls’ Generation Wins ‘Best Jewellery Dresser’ Award

[ghiblys.livejournal.com]

Girls’ Generation was presented with a special award for the “Best Jewellery Dresser” at the International Jewels and Accessories Show in Odaiba, Japan. Hiroshi Mizohata, the Japan Tourism Agency Commissioner, presented the award to Girls’ Generation.

Seohyun represented the group by accepting the award and used a reference that is sure to be recognized by SONEs as she said, “We will continue singing songs that are as bright as the jewels”.

The girls are well-known for wearing fashionable clothing and accessories whether they are at red carpet events or at the airport.

Source: soshified

Sunny Hill - The Grasshopper Song MV

[hosnaps.livejournal.com]

LEONENT

Kang Hodong's return to the industry?

[unreal.livejournal.com]

It has been four months since MC-cum-entertainer Kang Hodong announced his voluntary retirement from show business. Barely a month after his withdrawal, fans already started missing him; even fellow colleagues Yoo Jaesuk and Lee Seunggi, amongst others, took care to mention him during their thank you speeches at various year-end award shows.

So it came as almost no surprise that by the first week of 2012, rumours of Kang Hodong finally making his return to show business began floating around. Unfortunately it was impossible to pinpoint their origin, and so they remained as just that -- unsubstantiated hearsay. To add to the confusion, various media outlets ran a gauntlet of reports, some stating conclusively he was making his comeback, others stating that he wasn't.
( One thing is certain though -- since the decision to leave was made voluntarily )

Source: dailian & koreaboo

Boram to release a solo album.

[fuckinmagnets.livejournal.com]

SeeYa‘s Boram will return to her fans with a new album this year!

On January 12th, Boram’s agency Core Contents Media revealed, “Although the specifics aren’t set, Boram will be coming out with a new album this year.”

The agency explained that details weren’t clear at this point because they’re still deciding on whether Boram should go alone or with a new group. ”We are still debating on whether Boram will be releasing a solo album as Boram, or be part of a newly-formed team to debut with a new album,” they said.

Until 2006, Boram had been garnering attention as part of female vocal group SeeYa with her outstanding vocals and adorable looks. After SeeYa disbanded last year, Boram worked on her own projects by featuring on producer Shinsadong Tiger’s project album, and releasing “2love” as 2Boram, a collaborative unit with Superstar K2‘s Lee Boram.

On another note, Boram has debuted as an actress by taking part in the romantic comedy musical, “Falling For Eve”, which ran from July to September last year.

Album probably won't be out until the end of the year but, I'm guessing the girl group CCM's referring to is their new 4 member girl group with Hwang Ji Hyun.

Sources: Allkpop, Star News

World Wide Wonders taking over the world.

[jcdhwg.livejournal.com]

Wonder Girls stopped by the Samsung booth at CES 2012. Samsung was playing the Flawfree Girls their new music video on 3D televisions.

( In case you missed the previous post about their new MV + download URL )

Source + source

YuBin helping the girls to take over the world~

Educators under fire over bullying

[benihime99.livejournal.com]

By Na Jeong-ju

Lawmakers criticized the education ministry Thursday for its poor handling of violence at schools, saying it should introduce effective training programs for teachers so that they can properly address bullying as well as help victims.

( Read more... )

Source: Koreatimes

120112 M! Countdown

[kei-enigma.livejournal.com]

Mnet Chart + Today's Winner

( Watch the performances )

source: CapsuleHD13

Korean Wave: Dutch magazine runs a (very well written, actually) article on Kpop

[timetobegin.livejournal.com]

Dutch magazine Stars dedicated four pages to K-pop in their most recent issue, becoming the first news media in that country to give such attention to Hallyu. Titled 'Very 2012: Kpop conquers the world', the article is a kind of Kpop for Dummies.

'K-pop: it's almost impossible to escape it! In Asia and the USA Korean pop music is already popular, but in Europe, it's only known with a small group of trendsetters. The trendy and distinctive looks and different music styles make these girlgroups and boybands absolutely hot. Watch out, because K-pop is about to rule the world!'




The article continues with bio's on T-ara, Super Junior, Big Bang, Beast, 2NE1, SHINee and Girls' Generation, giving info on the members of the groups, their signature songs, style and looks, and some nice facts. TVXQ is given a honorable mention for their legendary status.

Lastly, the writer recommends some more Kpop groups: 'Can't get enough of K-pop? You'll surely be hearing more of these groups! 2AM, 2PM, 4Minute, KARA, f(x).'

Scans & translations: yours truly timetobegin

My country is another one that doesn't really know Kpop exists, so I was really excited to see this (especially since there is almost no sloppy research, valid information and no awkward photo's (although members are missing for T-ara/Beast/SJ).

INFINITE remains humble despite concern: helps clean stadium at Idol Athletics recording

[cwazy-weiven.livejournal.com]

Idol group INFINITE has undoubtedly reached the upper heights of fame, but despite that, they’ve demonstrated that they’re still humble at heart.

A fancam from MBC‘s recent recording of the 'Idol Star Athletics & Swimming Championships' revealed footage of INFINITE staying behind to help clean up the stadium. Though there were plenty of crew members to clear the floor, the boys decided to lend a hand anyway.

Both fans and netizens were highly impressed by INFINITE’s gentlemanly manners as well as their sincere desire to please fans. It’s easy to see why INFINITE has quickly become one of the most respected idol groups in the industry.

In related news, the ‘Idol Star Athletics and Swimming Championships’ will air as an MBC Lunar New Year’s special later on this month.

Tip: kisa1909
Source: AKP, Youtube.

Flawless adorable bbs remain flawless and adorable. No one is surprised.


Edited the gif and img AGAIN. Special thanks to sai12 ♥

MBLAQ's Hello Baby Preview

[carmendove.livejournal.com]

Source: MBLAQYSH @ Youtube

In reference to the multicultural family line: all the kids are half Korean. Lauren is Canadian/Korean, Leo is French/Korean & Dayoung is Vietnamese/Korean.

Superior Junior Snatching Shinee , 2pm's Wigs and Soon DBSK's

[clowwykorea.livejournal.com]

( The Kings of Hallyu! DBSK 5 years, Arashi 7 years, Perfume 10 years...Superior Junior 7 months )

They have also sold over 100,000 over their Mr Simple Japanese cd too!
Have a receipt, a korean receipt, and another one.

EXO Sehun x Lu Han teaser - Chinese version

[rexona-woman.livejournal.com]

tsaipei0325

2pm's Junsu receives surgery on his knee

[nightfrost75.livejournal.com]

A recent photo and comment revealed some news about 2PM‘s Junsu being hospitalized due a knee injury.

Hong Q posted the photo above and tweeted, “Junsu, hurry up and recover your knees so you can shuffle dance. Don’t get hurt in the new year! ^^”.

Junsu also sent a tweet to One Way Chance writing, “Hyung I miss you”, to which Chance responded, “What is this.. I came back from America and you’re in the hospital… ㅠㅠ Hurry up and recover Junsu!! Miss u bro! I’m so sad that you are hurting ㅠㅠㅠㅠ.. My dongseng don’t be in pain ㅠㅠㅠ”.

Upon seeing the photo worried netizens commented, “OMO!!! PLEASE TELL ME THIS ISNT REAL! T.T”, and “Hope you heal fast”.

Hottest fans are wishing Junsu a speedy recovery.
source: AKP

Hong_Q later tweeted a friend.

"@beautymentor Because he continues to have a bad knee, now that theres no schedule for a while he went for a surgery. Because both of us have no family members that are in Seoul, i'm here as Junsu's guardian ^^ Noona, you take care of your joint too!"
Eng trans by KimBoPeepOppa @JunkayStreet

Hong's tweets 1, 2. Chance's twitter

ChanceSu is real guys. T^T

this is a slay-kiss video post that even smells good

[goshipgurl.livejournal.com]

( FANCAMS OF THE IDOL ATHLETICS EVENT  )

( VIDEOMESSEJ FOR A CONCERT IN MACAU (IN SEXY ENGLISH) )

( VIDEO MESSEJ FOR THIS CONCERT THAT I WONT BE ABLE TO ATTEND /STILL BUTTHURT )

( WANT TO BUY FRAGRANCES FOR SLAY-KISS? HERES A LIST WITH WHAT THEY LIKE )

sources:
woorikevin @ youtube
yankeepower100 @ youtube
soompi @ youtube
fuckyeahukiss @ tumblr and thewoman.donga.com

kiseop thanks you for your time

Winners from the 26th Golden Disk Awards (Part 2)

[es2pido.livejournal.com]

( AND THE WINNERS ARE... DUN DUN DUN DUN... )

Source: Akp 

LOL Supernova

Yoo Jia confirmed second member of Woollim Girl Group

[ginevragirl.livejournal.com]

The Woollim CEO has confirmed through his twitter that Yoo Jia is the 2nd member of the upcoming Woollim girl group, the first being Baby Soul who released a single last November. He also revealed that they would be releasing a song featuring a mystery artist.



Today a picture was released on Korean news sites of the two girls.


Yoo Jia on the left and Baby Soul on the right.

Woollim CEO's twitter + thestar.chosun.com

The Business of K-Pop

[gumiho.livejournal.com]

Here is a fun article from late last year about the business side of K-pop, and how the "idol industry" is dictated by business concerns.

* * *

YG-Version of Girls' Generation -- The Answer Lies In the Stock Market

On November 21, the media reported news about a new girl group by YG Entertainment ("YG") with a sensational headline. The headline from OSEN [TK: an entertainment newspaper] read: "YG's New Girl Group Contracted Not to Have Plastic Surgery." The story reported: "In its exclusive contract with a seven-member girl group to be debuted early next year, YG Entertainment is reported to include a clause that prohibited plastic surgery." It also quoted comments from a YG representative: "The new girl group is entirely consisted of members who did not receive any plastic surgery, and their contract with the company specifies that they would not receive any plastic surgery in the future." The representative further said: "The contract was made possible because the company focused on creating a new girl group that emphasizes the members' natural beauty."

The representative added: "This girl group began with looking at the pretty singers from other management companies, and wondering what color they would take if they performed YG's music. The previous color for YG emphasized talent, but good looks are now included as well. It will be a group that has not existed in the pop music market previously. This group already garnered attention because it would include Kim Eun-Bi, from Mnet's Superstar K 2. Right now it has seven members, although it could add one or two more. They are planning to debut by early next year."

The purpose of this news article appears to be rather clear, considering the timing and the content. The article ran two days before YG's initial public offering with KOSDAQ. It is common-sensical to view this as an information leaked in order to create a buzz right before the IPO. Regardless of the type of business, releasing information about a promising new product right before an IPO is not even a strategy -- it is just common sense.

YG Announces Plans to Benchmark Other Management Companies

But actually, the article was rather shocking, not in the least to the fans of YG, because the girl group described in the article is contrary to YG's original image as a label in every conceivable way. It was akin to YG attempting to imitate SM Entertainment, DSP Media or Core Contents Media. To a certain extent, it could be seen as a betrayal of YG's original direction. The article blatantly states: "This new girl group is the first group where YG can confidently say that we took the looks into account," and plastic surgery was unnecessary because of their excellent looks. By adding the extra bit about how they were "looking at the pretty singers from other management companies," YG reveals that it is benchmarking other management companies.

( read more... )

Original Source: Donga News
Translated by: The Korean