Friday, October 31, 2008

New Sassy Girl

Anyone remotely familiar with contemporary Korean cinema will know of "My Sassy Girl", a 2001 romantic comedy about the unusual relationship between a young Seoul couple. The film, whose Korean title translates as "That Bizarre Girl", was a huge hit across Asia, fueling the "Korean wave" phenomenon and propelling its two young leads into stardom.

Given the incredible success of the original, it wasn't surprising that a U.S. company purchased the remake rights soon after its release. The project, however, took longer than anticipated to complete and now, seven years later and with the original film but a distant memory, the English-language version has finally hit South Korean theaters. (In the U.S., it was a straight-to-DVD release.)

The new Sassy Girl shares many traits with its Korean counterpart, including, unfortunately, its awkward English title. The remake stays true to the original storyline ― a shy, socially challenged college student falls for an impulsive young woman who makes bizarre demands of him. Many of the original's notorious misadventures are kept, including the drunken first encounter in the subway and the couple's surreal run-in with an AWOL soldier in an amusement park.

The new version, which takes place in New York City, has also added a few touches of its own, including the element of social class. The college student, named Charlie, is now a wide-eyed Midwestern boy who dreams of working for a tractor company, while the complicated young woman Jordan is an uptown New York girl who likes to hang out in contemporary art galleries. Another addition is Charlie's best friend Leo, a predictable sidekick character with overcharged hormones, bad hygiene and an endless stream of wisecracks.

Unfortunately, many of these changes are of the formulaic romantic comedy variety, which only serves to point out the deficiencies of the new version; namely, in trying to make the story more palatable, the American film waters down much of the original's edginess. The original sassy ― and borderline psychotic ― girl is toned down so that instead of the bizarre, we end up with the slightly quirky. Instead of vomiting in the subway train, we get a simple passing out in the station.

But the problems of the new version also point to another possibility ― that despite its massive popularity, the original film wasn't really that great to begin with. In fact, many of the problems that plague the U.S. film, such as random plot devices, incomprehensible edits and over-the-top dialogue, can be traced back to its Korean source. But moviegoers probably forgave much of it in the original Sassy Girl because they were smitten by the two charismatic lead actors, especially actress and model Jeon Ji-hyeon, who went on to achieve star status throughout Asia.

The new film, on the other hand, does not have Jun or actor Cha Tae-hyeon to help sell the frequent lapses in narrative logic. Although Elisha Cuthbert (24) and Jesse Bradford (Flags of Our Fathers) give adequate performances, they are not enough to keep what should be bizarre from feeling, well, rather ordinary.

In theaters. 92 minutes. 15 and over. Distributed by Showbox.

Antique will be released on 13 November, 2008.

Antique (앤티크) is a movie staring Joo Ji Hoon (Princess Hours), Kim Jae Wook (Coffee Prince), Yoo Ah In (Mighty Chil Woo) and Choi Ji Ho (Time of Dog and Wolf). The movie is based on the Japanese manga by Fumi Yoshinaga depicting the lives of four men who work in a small bakery. Yes, another manga remake!

The movie has gay kissing scenes, nude scenes and some erotic dancing in a club by Kim Jae Wook who plays a homosexual in the movie. This makes the movie only suitable for viewers 15 years and above. In the movie, Kim Jae Wook's lover is played by French actor Andy Gillet. But from the trailer, it looks as if Kim Jae Wook has the hots for Joo Ji Hoon's character as well.

The troubled prince Joo Ji Hoon as the owner of a bakery, Kim Jae Wook showing off his baking skills (as well as kissing skills) as a patisserie, Yoo Ah In as an apprentice...you know you want to watch this! If you liked Joo Ji Hoon in Goong / Princess Hours and Kim Jae Wook in Coffee Prince, i am sure you wouldn't want to miss this one. Check out the trailer...

Antique will be released on 13 November, 2008.

The Golden Bell Award

The Golden Bell Award is seen as Taiwan's annual grand award ceremony. Many people put great significance on being able to be nominated. This year, the Golden Bell Award's main excitement is in the "Television Queen" competition. Joe Chen, Ariel Lin, Rainie Yang, Angela Chang the 4 idol drama big sisters plus veteran actress He SuYun, the excitement can be imagined.

Before the GBA starts, Sohu Entertainment reporter had an exclusive interview with the candidate that is the favourite among internet users. "Sticky Note Girl" Joe Chen, the favourite among the favourite. With a good script and good acting between the male and female lead, the ratings kept getting higher and even the drama "They Kissed Again" that took the spotlight was pushed out of their top position. Joe Chen as the lead of course rose to popularity. Some even bet that she will take the queen position.

Softbank Mobiles has released

Softbank Mobiles has released a new line of mobile phones that supposedly has revised and updated functions found in Apple's iPhone. This line is tailored to customers' wants and the launch is aimed to up sales.

Most notably is the Tiffany-jewel-encrusted mobile that you see Ueto Aya carrying in the photos here. This phone costs 12, 980,000 Yen. It is a limited edition phone; only 10 are up for grabs.

Latest Top 5 MAndarin pop

1. Mayday (五月天) and Poetry of the Day After ( 後青春期的詩) with 42.37 percent of sales
2. Jay Chou (周杰倫) and Capricorn — Deluxe Package (魔杰座) with 27%
3. Shin (信) and Planet Music (集樂星球) with 5%
4. JJ Lin (林俊傑) and Sixology (JJ 陸) with 4.03%
5. Jam Hsiao (蕭敬騰) and Jam Hsiao (蕭敬騰) with 2.48%

Album chart compiled from G-Music (www.g-music.com.tw), based on retail sales.

Rain is Korea's most hot male artistes

Asia's Star Rain is super thrifty, spending on 50,000won (~US$35) per month!

Rain is one of Korea's most hot male artistes, but he still has a habit saving money, a habit he developed since young, hence saving a huge amount of his earnings in the bank.

According to Korea's media, Rain has always been letting his father handle his bankbook, he doesn't even know how many bankbooks there are to his name. Every month, he gets 50,000won as pocket money from his father and that makes up for his monthly expenses.

Rain is also different from other artistes who love branded stuff, he hardly buys any expensive and branded products. He once said that even though he received branded presents, he won't spend money buying those branded products for himself.

Even though Rain is usually so thrifty, he still feels that there are times where he is generous. After the Tae An oil spill inccident last year, Rain generously donated 300,000,000 won worth of drinking water and winter clothes to the residents there. At the same time, he actively participated in various public welfare donation activities.

At the recent Savings Day in Korea, Rain received an award, saying "To me, a penny saved is a penny earned, even thought it may seem little, but there will be a huge amount if you save over a long period of time. I hope that everyone will be able to develop the habit of saving during times like this where the economy is not doing well".

The World They Live In

Song Hae Gyo ditched her former innocent girl image, appearing as a blunt, straightforward character in The World They Live In as PD Joon Young who is talented but inexperienced. She also sported a short bob hairstyle.

The World They Live In has been highly anticipated because of Hyun Bin and Song Hae Gyo’s participation plus the production team of director Pyo Min Soo and screenwriter Noh Hee Kyung. But after the first two episodes were aired, the headline was Song Hae Gyo’s poor acting which was hotly disputed.

Viewers pointed out that Song Hae Gyo’s delivery of her lines especially for those that sees her speaking at fast speed was extremely awkward. Although Song Hae Gyo’s potrayal of her character left a deep impression, many also criticized her acting, “I really can’t understand what she is saying from her many scenes. This is especially if she is talking very fast, her pronounciation isn’t accurate at all and thus unable to convey the meaning at all.”

According to a staff in charge of promoting the drama, “It might be a little awkward in the beginning but this will improve from episode 4 onwards. So, everyone, please wait in anticipaton.” Screenwriter Noh Hee Kyung also expressed, “Song Hae Gyo didn’t deliver her lines properly in some areas. She herself understands that. But Song Hae Gyo’s acting in the earlier and latter half of the drama is vastly different. This will be evidently seen from episode 5 onwards. She has already made some changes to her acting.”

Episode 1 and 2 of The World They Live In only clocked 7.1% and 5.8% respectively this past week as it clearly didn’t meet their (KBS) initial expectations. But that is expected since they were going up against competing dramas East of Eden and Tazza that has already been airing for a while.

Wednesday, October 29, 2008

Solbi appeared on Sang Sang Plus Season 2

Solbi was asked if she had ever regretted anything about her character. She replied that she has.

On the 28th, Solbi appeared on ‘Sang Sang Plus Season 2′. She was asked “Was there anything you ever regretted?”. She revealed that “For a while, I had the kind of character that just talks without thinking and because of that, a CF I was to appear in got canceled”.

Following this, Solbi talked about her episode with singer Rain. Solbi told that “Rain, who was at the practice room, saw me and got up to greet me.” “Rain, who doesn’t act like a world star, was very courtious and considerate which Solbi was touched by.”

Beethoven Virus would be General Hospital 2

MBC announced yesterday that the follow-up drama to Beethoven Virus would be General Hospital 2 instead of The Return of Iljimae. The latter has now been delayed for broadcast officially to next year as a result.

General Hospital 2 was highly popular among viewers when it was shown 14 years ago. Cha Tae Hyun and Kim Jung Eun will lead the drama which will air on 19th November after Beethoven Virus in the Wed-Thus timeslot.

Jung Il Woo fans who have been waiting with anticipation for his version of Iljimae were noticeably disappointed with MBC’s decision. But the production team behind The Return of Iljimae welcomed the decision that MBC had made.

According to the production team, filming for The Return of Iljimae was originally set to begin early next year. But following some changes by MBC which set the broadcast date to 19th November, they had to alter their schedule to meet the change. But with this latest development, the team can now film the drama according to their original schedule without any rush.

According to PD Hwang In Roi, “The Return of Iljimae will require lots of post-production processing especially for the fighting scenes. Our filming schedule was disrupted several times due to the frequent changes but this new development is a good thing because we have more time now.”

Boys Don't Cry release on 6th November 2008

Kim Tae Hee and younger brother Lee Wan (real name Kim Hyeong Su) was at Seoul's Gangnam Coex mall, at the VIP preview of Lee Wan's new movie "Boys Don't Cry" (소년은 울지 않는다).

The movie is set during the 1953 Korean war and tells the story of two boys who fight to survive. Lee Wan and Song Chang-ee play Jong-du and Tae-ho in the movie

If you are interested to catch this movie, it will be released on 6th November 2008.

Antique Bakery

The boys from the pastry sweet manga-adapted movie, “Antique Bakery” had a press conference yesterday. Joo Ji Hoon and Kim Jae Wook obviously got dressed together as they sport similar boots and exhibit a matching lack of fashion sense. Yoo Ah In looked fresh and clean in a suit, though the shiny lapels are questionable. And Choi Ji Ho has been wearing a suit nonstop since the shooting of the film.

During the press conference tidbits were revealed about the filming. For a romantic-comedy the guys seemed to have a hard time shooting this film. Kim Jae Wook struggled with his gay character, saying that it was hard to touch other guys and portray feelings for his French love interest, Andy Gillet. Joo Ji Hoon ate so many cakes that he can’t look at a cake any longer.

KAT-TUN member Jin Akanishi star movie on 2010

KAT-TUN member Jin Akanishi will be making his big screen debut with a starring role in a movie titled "BANDAGE." The film, set in the early 1990s during Japan's "band boom" era, will be the first fictional film directed by music producer Takeshi Kobayashi.

In the movie, Akanishi plays Natsu, the leader and vocalist of a 4-member rock band called LANDS. The story follows the ups and downs of the members' friendship as they aim for fame.

In addition to directing, Kobayashi is producing the film and handling the music. He was chosen as director by Shunji Iwai, who wrote the movie's script. The pair have worked together before - Kobayashi did the music for Iwai's "Swallowtail" (1996) and "All About Lily Chou-Chou" (2001), and most recently they are both involved with Eriko Kitagawa's "Harufuwei." Kobayashi previously directed the 1995 documentary "es" about the group Mr.Children, but this will be his first time in charge of a movie with actors.

As music producer, Kobayashi is planning to write at least five songs to be performed in the movie by LANDS. The songs will likely see a CD release in the future.

Fans will have to wait until 2010 to see the movie, but filming begins on November 3.

Hong Kong sci-fi film X-Men

The witty schoolboy in Stephen Chow's comedy "CJ7" will play the daughter of Andy Lau in a Hong Kong sci-fi film on the lines of "X-Men."

Eleven-year-old actress Xu Jiao, who played a boy in her silver-screen debut "CJ7," will join Andy Lau and Barbie Hsu in Wong Jing's "Future Cop," the director told Beijing News on Tuesday.

The new film tells the story of a police officer in the year 2085, who travels back in time to 2008 to save his kidnapped daughter.

"At the end of next year, movie-goers will see a film with a style very similar to 'X-Men'," Wong, who also wrote the screenplay for the film, said.

The film will employ the same team that did special effects for the latest Batman movie, "The Dark Knight," Wong added.

Zheng Yuan Chang and Lin Yi Chen are the best couple

Zheng Yuan Chang (Xiao Zhong) and Lin Yi Chen are the best couple onscreen; Xiao Zhong’s family especially looking forward to the two going from reel to real. Unfortunately the two don’t telephone each other, from beginning to end not getting involved in rumours, however, when Zheng Yuan Chang recorded [Shen Chun Hua Life Show] last night, he revealed that he had previously been rejected by Lin Yi Chen, causing Lin Yi Chen to shriek loudly: “Really? You have pursued me before?"

Starting from the [It Started With a Kiss] series, Xiao Zhong and Lin Yi Chen play couples for the 3rd time in the new drama [Love or Bread]. Last night the two brought older Zheng sister Zheng Qi Xuan and younger Lin brother Lin Wei Sheng together to the show. Xiao Zhong said with a laugh, his entire family is very satisfied with Lin Yi Chen as "daughter-in-law", and even when his father bought his first digital camera, he immediately took pictures of Lin Yi Chen’s magazine photographs to carry around with him.

Because Xiao Zhong and Lin Yi Chen were both raised in single-parent families, they are very compatible in many ways; the two are not big spenders, and have very close relationships with family members. At yesterday night’s recording, the younger Lin brother took the initiative to help his elder sister carry luggage and close the car door; Xiao Zhong’s older sister was just going to the washroom, but Xiao Zhong was frightened and went looking for her everywhere, deeply afraid of his older sister going missing. The older Zheng sister has just gotten engaged, and she said with a laugh, the day of the engagement party Xiao Zhong was like a human cardboard cut-out, relatives and friends rushing to take pictures with him, completely stealing the spotlight of the bride, but she does not care, and instead feels very proud.

Accompanied by family members, the recording that night was full of non-stop laughter, but at the end the host Shen Chun Hua was moved to tears by Lin Yi Chen’s story. It was because Lin Yi Chen mentioned that when her maternal grandfather died of lung cancer, he gave her mother a gold necklace, but because her mother had to raise the children alone, the financial burden was heavy, in the end pawning off the necklace, only keeping the box and receipt. After earning money, she {Ariel} brought that receipt to a jeweller, and had a necklace exactly alike made to give to her mother as a 50th birthday present.

Chinese actress Li Bingbing

Chinese actress Li Bingbing unveiled her wax figure at Shanghai's Madame Tussauds Wax Museum on Wednesday.

The new figure dons a Dior black and white dress and renders the moment when the star won the Best Actress award at China's Huabiao Film Award ceremony on August 26 last year.

"I had been in the showbiz industry for exactly 10 years when I got the award, so it's a very meaningful moment for me," Li Bingbing said in an interview with the Southern Metropolis Daily.

"The dress was the one I wore to the ceremony," she said, "At first, the wax museum asked me to talk with Dior, to see if we can make a copy of it. But the brand officials said, 'Don't worry, the dress is yours.' I was quite touched."

Madame-Tussauds Shanghai, which is celebrating its two-year landing in Shanghai, plans to add three new wax dolls this year. Each takes several months and more than one million yuan to make. The wax figure of Australian actress Nicole Kidman was put on show in September, while one of South Korean star Rain is still being made.

SBS Family Outing announcing

PD Jang Hyuk Jae of SBS Family Outing announced today that the family on the variety show will remain as it is with no one being added or departing. This mean that Yoo Jae Suk, Lee Hyori, Park Ye Jin, Kim Suro, Lee Chun Hee, Daesung and Yoon Jong Shin will remain as it is. He was speaking in response to whether they might be any changes in the family lineup as reported.

PD Jang expressed, “They (family members) have excellent chemistry now and are well-liked by many regardless of age. Those in the 40s are taken care of by Yoon Jong Shin, the 30s by Kim Suro, Yoo Jae Suk, Lee Chun Hee, Lee Hyori and the 20s by Daesung and Park Ye Jin. Together, they are ‘Family‘.

With Family Outing currently enjoying a strong following and high ratings, the success must be attributed to the permanent family members who have contributed a lot with their wacky personalities. And when you add rotating guests like Kim Jong Kook, Rain, etc once every fortnight to the mix, the novelty factor and possible relationships makes it very interesting.

How are guest family members picked? PD Jang replied, “It’s not about inviting idols just because we want to create headlines or anything. Anyone can become a family member as long as their schedule permits them to.”

MBC Sunday Sunday Night segment, star wedding variety We Got Married is finding itself in a sticky situation. This was evidently seen via the ratings decline in the weeks after Andy and Solbi’s departure. This is despite the addition of Hwanhee, Hwayobi and Marco, Son Dambi couples, new PDs (from Episode 29 onwards), different studio recording format plus some subtle changes.

According to TNS Media Korea, the rating of We Got Married this past Sunday (Episode 31) was 13.5%. This was a drop of 2.2 percentage points from the previous episode of 15.7%. This is particularly worrying since it’s competitor in the same timeslot, SBS Family Outing had 27.5%, besting it’s own record.

The production team have been trying to assimilate the new couples into the show, hoping that the viewers can try something new (novelty factor) and take to them. But obviously, most of the viewers aren’t buying into it and felt that they are incapable of filling the void left behind by Andy and Solbi.

1N2D has been going on strong because it has stuck to it’s trusted 6-member team of Kang Ho Dong, Lee Seung Gi, Eun Ji Won, Lee Su Geun, Kim C and MC Mong for months now. The chemistry between them is excellent and viewers can identify with them easily when they tune in every week.

Taiwan pop-rock band Mayday latest album Poetry of the Day After

Taiwan pop-rock band Mayday promoted their latest album "Poetry of the Day After" in Taipei on Monday.

The album, Mayday's seventh offering, was released on October 23. It had already topped weekly sales charts in Taiwan and attracted more than 130,000 advance orders, Tom.com reports.

Front-man Ashin thanked fans by saying their support was particularly encouraging because of the economic slowdown.

The album boosted ticket-sales for Mayday's December 13 concert at the Taipei Chungshan Soccer Stadium. All 50,000 tickets were sold, prompting organizers to add a second show scheduled on the following day.

Perfect Man MV was leaked at Youtube

There has been a rather late realisation to the leakout case of singer WheeSung’s new song ‘Perfect Man’.

WheeSung’s company said on 28th October, “The song ‘Perfect Man’ has been leaked on the video streaming site Youtube on 24th October. Upon the discovery of the leakout, uploaders for it on Youtube were given the warning of infringement of copyrights, parties responsible for the leakout will also face legal actions.”

It has also been known that fans have sent protest letters in to request for the song to be taken off from the internet before the actual release.

A representative of the company said, “From our investigations, it was known that a 18-year-old foreigner was the one who started the music leakout. It is from this foreigner that we received messages of content that says, ‘I am sorry. I didn’t know that I have distributed a what was meant to be a secretly-released song’. “

Right now, cyber investigators are still looking into and tracking down this person who first leak the song.

Meanwhile, the slow jam song ‘Perfect Man’ was officially revealed on 27th October and has thus far been popular on various music sites.

And singer Lee Hyori would be the female lead to WheeSung’s upcoming MV. She also did the narration for Wheesung’s “별이 지다..”

TVB new series D.I.E II

It was the costume fitting for TVB new series "D.I.E II" yesterday. Roger expressed that these days there are quite a few series needing child stars. I thought I get to know babies quite well, but working with child star is not easy." Asked if he would let his 6 months old baby appeared is series? Roger replied "Sure not, acting is hard work. I can do it, but I would rather he finishes his study first, and than he can decide. I won't let him act even though he is 10 years old."

Sonija agreed with Roger not letting his son into acting. She reckoned acting TV series is very hard work. She disclosed a while ago, she saw Roger pointed at some artist picture in TVB studio saying "In 20 years time, my son will be in one of these posters here." Sonija teased Roger, she thinks deep down inside Roger would want his son to become an actor.

Hong Kong Asia Film Festival

It was the closing day for the "Hong Kong Asia Film Festival" the other night. The two closing films were "Claustrophobia" and "Dada's Dance". Ekin Cheng, Karena Lam, Derek Tsang and director Ivy Ho from "Claustrophobia" were there as well as director Zhan Yuan and Li Xinyun from "Dada's Dance".

Speaking about the Toyko Film Festival, Ekin and Karena told reporters they went to Japan early because they wanted to do some shopping first. But the exchange rate for the Yen is down, that have put them off having a shopping spree. Ekin revealed that he didn't buy any gadgets on new product. Therefore, he has saved a lot of money. Asked if Yoyo Mung is controlling his finance, Ekin replied "No, we have separate account and we are financially independent to each other." He also added that now he is older, he has good taste and he likes to invest his money. "I like to invest in property and jade because they keep their value. I have thought about going back to live in the countryside to grow organic produce as well as doing business on hot spring."

Shaorn Chan and Jacqueline Chong at Koon Tong APM shopping mall

Shaorn Chan and Jacqueline Chong dressed up as charming dolly in Koon Tong APM shopping mall for a promotion activity for Christmas yesterday. Sharon is a good friend of Nancy Wu, who doesn't get along with Jacqueline. In the shopping mall, Sharon and Jacqueline were having pictures taken together. Sharon told reporters "We are not embarrassed but I wouldn't want to be the peacemaker. I won't interfere either; I think adults should know what they are doing. I hope their differences can be dealt with peacefully."

Jacqueline also stated that she didn't talk about Nancy with Sharon and she would not say anything in her blog either. Asked if they were both invited to attend a function, would she agree to attend? Jacqueline replied "I won't refuse and I wouldn't ask for more money to work with Nancy either."

Myolie accepted an interview at the Radio Station

Myolie accepted an interview at the Radio Station today to promote her new album which is coming out next month.

Myolie is busy filming her new drama. In the drama, there are various martial arts scenes which caused her to have bruises all over her body.

Asked if her rumoured boyfriend, Bosco, feels painful in his heart? Myolie laughed and said: " No ah, didn't specially say ah, not say la, everyone is so busy."

Simple Manhwa poster opened to the public

The movie’s main poster was opened to the public. Based from the article, The “Simple Manhwa” manga series on the internet was viewed 60 million times, an average of 2 million views per day which caused a sensation to the fans. They’ve read the manga in advance, maybe they will compare the movie for the main plot.

Eighth Chinese Music Media Awards

Alternative musicians were the big winners of the Eighth Chinese Music Media Awards, symbolizing what organizers say is "the approaching of indie music's spring."

Taiwan pop-rock group Sodagreen won four awards to emerge as the biggest winner, Sina.com.cn reported on Sunday.

The indie band, which first came on the scene in 2004, bagged the awards for Best Group, Best Producer, Best Composer and Best Mandarin Album of the Year for "Incomparable Beauty."

Beijing-based experimental three-piece band Carsick Cars was named Best Rock Artist, an official recognition given to a band that has already gained a reputation in Europe through a series of self-financed tours.

The awards also saw blind folk singer Zhou Yunpeng beat better-known nominee Lin Xi to win the Best Lyricist award. Zhou was also named Best Folk Musician.

A special award honoring musicians' marketing skills was given to indie singer Cao Fang, whose 2007 EP "Farther than the Sky" achieved surprising commercial success after being released online.

"The awards collected by so many alternative musicians on the one hand shows a decline in the popularity of mainstream music; on the other it shows the approaching of indie music's spring," said You Wei, general secretary of the awards committee.

But there were still mainstream artists on the winners' list. They included Taiwan rock star Chang Chen-Yue (Best Mandarin Male Singer), Hong Kong pop stars Karen Mok (Best Mandarin Female Singer) and Eason Chan (Artist of the Year).

The annual Chinese Music Media Awards are organized by mainland newspaper Southern Metropolitan Daily, Hong Kong's Metro Showbiz Radio, as well as some other organizations. Prestigious critics from the mainland, Hong Kong and Taiwan take turns to vote for the best music and musicians of the year.

The ceremony accompanying this year's awards was cancelled to cut costs amid the current global financial crisis.

Sammul Chan accepted an radio interview

Yesterday Sammul Chan accepted an radio interview with Hong Kong Commerical radio. He responded to the stalking incident of receiving calls and messages from a unknown person. He said since the incident has been exposed to the public things have got better. He didn't receive any more calls or messages from this person. But last week someone rang his doorbell but when he opened the door nobody was present. Although he is scared he has no money to move properties. That is why he installed a security device. Sammul is currently to afraid to go out and even if he goes to the supermarket he will wear a cap so he won't be recognised. When he is throwing out the garbage he will chat on his handphone in order to feel comfortable. But he didn't have nightmares. Also it was reported that while he was in Iceland filming a documentary he specifically took care of Stephen Chan, such as preparing a hot pad. Sammul denied this and said there was no such thing. But he did not appear annoyed with the reports because he said people who know him will know what kind of person he is.

Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon star Michelle Yeoh

“Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon” star Michelle Yeoh will visit Ho Chi Minh City next week to support a road safety and helmet use campaign.

The actress, who first wowed Hollywood as Bond girl Wai Lin in the James Bond film “Tomorrow never dies,” will speak to the press and take part in various activities to raise awareness of traffic safety and helmet wearing, especially for children, on October 30.

Yeoh, Road Safety Ambassador for the Asia Injury Prevention Foundation (AIPF), will also take part in a walk to promote the campaign and present 1,000 helmets to primary school students in HCMC.

The campaign is co-organized by the Vietnam National Traffic Safety Committee and AIPF.

This is Yeoh’s second trip to Vietnam, but her first to HCMC. Yeoh visited Hanoi in March to promote another road safety program held by the Vietnam Helmet Wearing Coalition and the International Automobile Federation.

The actress’ fiancé Jean Todt, executive director of Ferrari’s Formula One constructor Scuderia Ferrari, was expected to accompany her to Vietnam, organizers said.

Yeoh recently appeared as an immortal sorceress in “The Mummy: Tomb of the Dragon Emperor” and as a nun in “Babylon A.D.”

Actor Cha Tae Hyun

Actor Cha Tae Hyun revealed his secret to having no scandals. in a production conference about his upcoming movie, Cha stated,

“The secret to a scandal-free life? Well, actresses have no interest in me.”

He continued by saying how he felt that they treated him like an older sibling and not as a potential lover. Internationally, Cha is best known for his protagonist role in the 2001 romantic comedy “My Sassy Girl”, his counterpart being Jun Ji-hyun.

His upcoming movie, “Gwaseok Scandal”, is scheduled to be released on December 4th. It is a comedic film portraying Cha as a popular DJ, and Park Bo Young takes on the role of Cha’s devoted stalker.

Monday, October 27, 2008

TVB series "The Gem of Life"

When Gigi attended the promotional function for her series, she unexpectedly announced retirement from the entertainment industry to focus on taking care of her brother who was seriously injured in a car accident last year. Gigi expressed that she has thought about this decision for a long time. She cried when saying these, as she is sad to be leaving behind her long acting career.

Gigi said that the new TVB series "The Gem of Life" will be the last of her work, a farewell series to the entertainment industry.

FUBU Creative Festival

As the spokespersons for urban streetwear label, FUBU, Crown J and Hwang Bo both attended a charity auction event FUBU Creative Festival yesterday afternoon at Patriot Park situated near Seoul Olympic Park as they auctioned off their jeans (with their faces) for a sum of 400,000 KRW (approx. 278 USD).

Min Sun Ye and actor Kim Myung Min of Beethoven Virus

Min Sun Ye and actor Kim Myung Min of Beethoven Virus were both chosen as ambassadors for Kia Soul CUV (crossover utility vehicle) last week.

Why only Sun Ye? Well, she’s the only one with a driving license. Yoo Bin doesn’t see the need to drive while Ye Eun thinks she will speed a lot so neither of them has gone for the driving test. The other two maknaes aren’t of age yet.

Golden Bell Awards Golden Bell Awards

Joe Chen Qiao En and Ethan Ruan Jin Tian, Ariel Lin Yi Chen and Joe Zheng Yuan Chang will guest this year's Golden Bell Awards as screen lovers. It was reported that Rainie Yang Cheng Lin will be alone as Mike He Jun Xiang will not be attending, so she has prepared many different types of clothes which she will wear during the ceremony and when she sings songs from OSTs, portraying the theme of elegance and gracefulness on television.

A few days ago, a fortune teller predicted that there is a possiblity of Rainie Yang beating the most supported Joe Chen, stealing the title of 'Best Drama Actress' award. Originally, the organizers wanted her to give out the award together with Mike He, but after it was confirmed that Mike He will not be able to attend the awards, the burden of portraying an elegant and graceful performance fell on her shoulders. In order to ensure that the performance will be interesting, Ranie Yang stepped up on more secret practice reharsals recently.

Other than Raine Yang, Lin Mei Xiu, who got an invitation to be an award presenter due to her superb acting in 'Fated to Love You', will present the 'Best sound effects award' and 'Mini-series best supporting actress award' along with Yang Li Yin, who is also from Guo Guang Arts School.

To encourage citizens of Taiwan after showing their indefatigable spirit at the Olymic Games, Su Li Wen also received an invitation and will present the 'Programme Marketing Award' and 'Educational and Cultural Programme Award' alongside with Su Yi Hong.

Ariel Lin Yi Chen was nominated

Ariel Lin Yi Chen was nominated for the 'Best Actress Award' at this year's 'Golden Bell Awards' after starring in 'They Kiss Again'. On the 26th, in order to take the walk of fame, she chose 2 small dresses designed by Huang Shu Qi, in which there was 1 very low cut black dress. It was too revealing and that led her to feel uneasy, she said "I only wish to reveal my fingernails, teeth and ankle".

'They Kiss Again' was only shortlisted for one category - 'Best Female Actress Award'. Ariel Lin said that she wants to represent the whole crew, to ensure that this good drama will not be forgotten by everyone.

Faced with rivals like Joe Chen Qiao En and Rainie Yang Cheng Lin, everyone consoled her saying that in the event that she does not win the award, she can go downstage and kiss Joe Cheng. It will not only capture the attention of everyone, but at the same time she can promtote 'Love or Bread'. Ariel laughed and said "Won't it become 'My Desired Bread' then!".

10th MKMF Music Video Awards

Seems like the grand come back surprises for TVXQ is not yet over as they have the highest online votes so far for the 10th MKMF Music Video Awards which will be held at 7 PM on November 15, 2008 at Jamsil Indoor Stadium in Seoul.

Super Junior Happy is at second place having 1,476 votes (0.98%) against 164,977 votes (97%) for TVXQ while the other nominees have less than a thousand votes.

It has been a year since Super Junior launched "A Man In Love" on their MKMF 2007 performance and it was Kyu Hyun's first big come back after his accident recovery.

The said event will be aired four hours to live and will be on different channels like Arirang TV with different airing times for cable subscribers, Mnet, KM, tvN, and O'Live in Korea. It will also be on a live streaming thru mnet.com and gomtv.net, and a live broadcast via satellite DMB My tvN channel.

The online voting will close on November 14, 2008 at 6 PM. Visit arirang.co.kr to be able to vote for your favorite KPop star.

The Candidates of The 2008 MKMF are:

1. Big Bang - Day By Day
2. Epik High - One
3. Girls' Generation - Kissing You
4. Lee Hyo Ri - U Go Girl
5. MC Mong - Circus
6. SG Wannabe - LaLaLa
7. SS501 - A Song Calling For You
8. Super Junior Happy - Cooking? Cooking!
9. TVXQ - Mirotic
10. Wonder Girls - So Hot

source: ELF Philippines Korean Cyworld (cyworld.com/elfphilippines)

Friday, October 24, 2008

Bernice and Charmaine attend two events

Also, Bernice recently has attended two events with Charmaine, is Charmaine's rumors stealing Bernice's spotlight? Bernice does not feel that she's neglected, she's just focused on her work. As to the news about breaking up with Moses Chan, they can't be a "couple team" earning money anymore. Bernice expressed that earlier it was arranged by her company, asked her if she has a chance to find someone to be a couple team again? She frankly said that recently there are many people who are returning to TVB, like Gallen Lo and Ray Lui. For the younger generation, theres Raymond Lam, Kevin Cheng and etc. She wants to collaborate with all of them.

Charmaine Sheh and Bernice Liu at fashion store

Charmaine Sheh and Bernice Liu were the guests ribbon cutters for a fashion store opening M. Missoni. During the event, the two gave the own blow kisses. As for the models Lisa S. and Mandy Lieu, they had to walk the sky bridge modelling the fashion. Recently it has been said that Charmaine is Kevin and Niki's 3rd party, and Niki Chow's boss Leung Ji San yesterday showed her support for Niki on her blog. Towards this incident, Charmaine expressed that she does not want to respond because the content of the blog entry did not directly point towards anyone in particular. Also Leung Ji San is Niki's boss, of course she'll be helping her. Charmaine stressed: "I definitely will not be a 3rd party, I will not be that stupid and be decieved like that. (Are you currently dating now?) Do you have any one nice to introduce me to? (Kevin didn't chase you?) When he does, then I'll worry! Theres no action. (Will date someone in the industry?) Will have to look at fate, it's not under my control, if I find someone that I really like, then I can't help it." Speaking of Bosco Wong yesterday implying that Charmaine is Kevin's, she immediately asked what he said and expressed that she does not mind being the female lead of his MV.

" My So-Called Love " movie trailer on October 24

"My So-Called Love", starring Taiwanese actress and singer Barbie Hsu will screen its movie trailer on October 24, Xinhua news agency reports.

Producer Hsu Li Kong, who partnered with famous director Ang Lee in "Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon" (2000) and "The Wedding Banquet"(1993), returns to the limelight this year with his new work, "My So-Called Love".

This time, he teamed up with rising Taiwanese director Leading Lee, for the movie based on a true story.

Taiwanese pop singer Mavis Fan (Fan Xiaoxuan) composed the melody for the title song, for which Barbie Xu wrote the lyrics.

The storyline is about the protagonist, Kitty (played by Barbie Hsu), and her bumpy ten-year journey to find her true love.

Barbie Hsu, who first gained fame for her role in the TV series "Meteor Garden," has become very active on-screen in recent years.

She also starred in Benny Chan's "Connected", which has topped the Hong Kong box office since its premiere last month. Hsu played a resourceful kidnapping victim in the movie, and her acting skill in the role has been widely praised.

The actress seems very confident in this new movie, though the role is complex adn requires the actress to appear in some steamy scenes.

Daniel Henney filming new movie "Wolverine"

Actor Daniel Henney has been filming he new movie "Wolverine" in Holleywood!

Daniel is the the agent from a company that is specialized in taking care of requests to kill. He is costarring with Hugh Jackman.

He has been popular through "My Name is Kim Sam-soon" as the sweet gentleman and in the movie "My Father" with the tragic lifestory revealing humanism.

Fans are anticipating how he is changed in the movie showing strong action scenes.

Bosco Wong join East Asia music record company

Bosco Wong will be joining the East Asia music record company, his EP will debut this December. Yesterday Bosco attended the "Everyone is falling in love with Bosco Wong Press Conference" 「全角度愛上黃宗澤記者會」. Besides the executives of East Asia Records and TVB, other medias were invited. Bosco also invited his good mentor Michael Miu (3rd brother) to support him, but Michael ended up making fun of Bosco signing for the company. Michael joked that East Asia was still willing to sign Bosco up even though the financial crisis and also said that being a Superstar you need to have the singing talent and taste. But Bosco has the taste, then why would Myolie Wu like him, he also wanted Bosco to dance live at the scene. This was to test his talents and courage. In order to wish Bosco a successful singing career, East Asia gave him a golden microphone and a golden CD.

Kim Jong Kook 5th album

Kim Jong Kook who has just released his 5th album explained his participation in SBS Family Outing which has attracted a lot of attention in the past week.

Kim Jong Kook participated in the taping of Family Outing on the 13th and 14th in Choongnam Yesan, and also on the 20th and 21st in Choongnam Yeosoo Soyool village. He will thus appear for 4 times on Family Outing.

PD Jang Hyeok Jae said, “Kim Jong Kook came to Family Outing because he already knew Yoo Jae Suk from Xman and thus adapted easily. He also became close with the other members”, as he reminisced about the filming.

Following that, the PD said, “In the meantime, he will join the recording of the show (Family Outing) for a month. We will have to wait and see if he becomes a permanent member. Wasn’t there a lot of talk about Kim Jong Kook becoming a permanent member of Infinity Challenge upon his release when Haha left for the military?”, as he talked about the permanent member situation.

A representative of Kim Jong Kook said, “It’s not his (Kim Jong Kook) intention to be a permanent member on Family Outing. It’s just something that he promised the PD, who was the Xman PD, that he would appear.”

The representative added “Once he has finished with his singing activities, he will consider being a permanent member of a variety show.”

Kim Jong Kook’s manager also said, “He still ain’t sure whether he’ll be a permanent member. The production team hasn’t spoken about this. Right now, the first step is to move forward with his 5th album. He will concentrate on his singing activities from now until December. Exact time is unconfirmed.”

After his military release in May, Kim Jong Kook released his album on the 22nd. His comeback stage will be on the 24th via KBS2 TV Yoon Do Hyun’s Love Letter. His Family Outing episodes will be broadcasted on the 26th and continue for 4 weeks. He will then make his comeback on music shows.

Full House 2 is in the works

Yes, it does sound like a Full House 2 is in the works. But as with all things this early in the process, it’s best to retain a little bit of skepticism so as not to be disappointed later.

Just a word of warning.

Production as an Asian drama: Producers say, “We will cast at least one out of either Song Hye-gyo or Rain”

The KBS drama Full House, which aired in 2004 and earned much love not only in Korea but throughout Asia, will be producing a season 2 as a pan-Asian drama with participation from Korea, China, Japan and other countries. Full House is the drama that shot Rain to fame throughout Asia as a skilled dancer and singer.

Director Park Chang-shik of Kim Jong-hak Productions told Herald Biz on the 24th, “In preparation for making Full House Season 2, writer Jo Jung-hwa has worked for two years. Currently, the scripts for the first four episodes have been completed. Since Korean, Chinese, and Japanese actors will be participating, the drama will be filmed in those countries.”

Because this will be produced as an “Asian drama,” plans are to keep the atmosphere lighter than the first series, and to not come off overly extravagant. The drama will span 20 episodes and is looking for an airdate sometime around August of next year.

Director Park said, “Things are looking good. Already a Thai corporation has shown interest in investing in Season 2, and one broadcast station in Hunan, China, has said that they would produce Season 2.”

Full House was originally a soonjung manhwa [shojo manga] by Won Soo-yeon that depicted a love story about young modern people, and earned its actors Rain (playing Young-jae) and Song Hye-gyo (as Ji-eun) recognition as a very appealing couple.

Recently, Rain was asked on an episode of MBC’s Goldfish [무릎팍도사], “When did you start thinking of expanding into the Asian market?” by MC Kang Ho-dong. His answer reflected Full House’s high Asian popularity, saying, “It wasn’t because of music, but happened to be because of a drama I’d done [Full House],” which showed the bright possibility of a pan-Asian Season 2.

Accordingly, if Full House Season 2 is made and broadcast, the actors will naturally attract much recognition in Asia, and will also have tremendous value as a Hallyu drama.

Therefore, the production company is determined to cast at least one out of the two stars, Rain and Song Hye-gyo, who enjoy high popularity throughout China as well as Southeast Asia. They plan to cast actors from China and Taiwan as well, but have set aside the initial intention of casting one of the F4 members. The director has not yet been decided, and the production is currently in the process of finding a film or drama PD who will be able to bring to life Full House’s visual appeal.

KBS2TV Fashion King

Han Chae Young has put off her comeback in Korea after deciding to focus on her participation in a joint Korea-New Zealand movie production.

According to BH Entertainment, Han Chae Young will leave the production of KBS2TV Fashion King where she was originally set to collaborate with Cha Seung Won and Nam Gyuri. She will instead focus on preparing herself for the movie Soulmates which will be filmed in New Zealand in January 2009.

The original plan was for Han Chae Young to film Fashion King first and then starting work on Soulmates after the earlier has ended. But with KBS delaying the filming many times, it has led to a conflict in filming schedule with Soulmates. After analysing the situation, Han Chae Young decided to delay her comeback in Korea and cancel her participation in Fashion King.

Soulmates will be the first-ever joint Korea-New Zealand movie production and will be directed by Scott Reynolds from New Zealand. Han Chae Young got the leading female role thanks to her outstanding acting ability and english speaking skills. The movie could be a stepping stone into Hollywood for Han Chae Young as it will be shown in New Zealand, America, Canada, etc.

Eat You Up third rank

BoA made her US debut with the digital single "Eat You Up," garnering a positive response from the online community.

At 3 a.m. on October 22nd, "Eat You Up" ranked third on the iTunes chart for "Top Dance Songs," tenth on Amazon's "Hot New Release in MP3 Downloads" and 21st on their "Today's Top MP3 Songs" chart. Consumers gave "Eat You Up" a five-star review on the Amazon website.

According to BoA's agents at SM Entertainment, US netizens commented that her song was addictive and makes people want to dance.

Even Variety, a US entertainment magazine, wrote an article about BoA and her debut, referring to her as "one of the best female artists in Asia."

"Eat You Up" was released online in Korea and Japan on October 22nd. SM Entertainment is planning on releasing the digital single to approximately 30 countries through 300 online sites.

BoA's debut single album will be available in November.

Boys Before Flowers

Boys Before Flowers will see Goo Hye Sun playing a leading role. She expressed, “It would be a lie if I said I was not feeling the burden.”

The Korean version sees Goo Hye Sun playing Yeon Woo who is an average girl and whose family owns dry-cleaning shop that is located near the luxurious and well-known Shin Hwa College. Yeon Woo meets the four richest spoilt boys when she delivers laundry to the school one day. The boys are known as F4 and causes trouble to those who dares to oppose them. More surprises are in store for F4 when Yeon Woo surprisingly enters the college for studies.

Goo Hye Sun have participated in two period dramas in King and I and Strongest Chil-Woo in the earlier part of 2008. Both saw her acting in roles that were more mature than her actual age. However, for Boys Before Flowers, she will be wearing school uniforms and play a high-school girl.

Goo Hye Sun expressed, “It would be a lie if I said I was not feeling the burden. But I feel that I can assimilate myself into the role as time goes by. I have never been more happy just preparing myself for the role. I hope that this drama will meet everyone’s expectations and I will give it my best effort.”

In other casting news that’s confirmed, Han Go Eun will play Goo Joon Pyo’s (Lee Min Ho) sister while Han Chae Young has been confirmed in a cameo role as Yoon Ji Hoo’s (Kim Hyun Joong) first love. The 24 episodes Boy Before Flowers is likely to air just before 2008 ends in December on KBS2TV.

Wednesday, October 22, 2008

Upcoming drama “ Heaven’s Postman “

Actress Han Hyo Joo is slated to play in the upcoming drama “Heaven’s Postman“, which is a joint collaboration between Korea and Japan and will be working with Hero JaeJoong of Dong Bang Shin Ki. The scriptwriting of “Heaven’s Postman” will be undertaken by Japanese screenwriter Eriko Kitagawa, who also wrote “Long Vacation” and “Beautiful Life”. The director will be Lee Hyeong Min, who directed “Sorry I Love You” and “Snow Queen”.

This is the first time the two renowned writer and director will be collaborating together. As the male lead Hero JaeJoong enjoys a very high popularity in both South Korea and Japan, the drama has already attracted much attention since its preparatory stage. With the addition of Han Hyo Joo, who the Japanese viewers got to know from the drama “Spring Waltz”, the Japanese viewers are already eagerly waiting for the drama to air.

Hero JaeJoong plays as a postman who delivers letters for those who had passed away while Han Hyo Joo plays as his lover.

“Heaven’s Postman” is scheduled to begin filming in early November and both Hero JaeJoong and Han Hyo Joo are currently familiarizing with the script.

BoA’s “Eat You Up”

On October 22 (Korea local time), BoA’s “Eat You Up” was released on the USA’s largest online music service iTunes, and had an average rating of 4.5 stars out of 5 from buyers. Since today, there are 90 reviews from Internet users.

Buyers reviewed such as, “The music’s beat and chorus captured my heart. Strongly recommended,” “It’s a great and lovely dance track. Wonderful,” “It has an attractive melody and simple lyrics, with a danceable beat and BoA’s good voice is impressive. Bloody and Avant have created another magnificent piece of work,” and “It’s addictive.”

But some fans said, “The beat is too simple and repetitive.”

This day marks BoA’s first step into the worldwide music market, with “Eat You Up” being available in the United States, Europe, and more than 30 countries on online music sites.

BoA’s SM Entertainment agent is looking to U.S. plans in the future, “We are in progress of promotion on radio broadcasts,” and “After November broadcasting [promotions] and such, we will start official U.S. activities.”

“Eat You Up” offline single will be released in the United States in November.

China Tian Rong F1 Motorboat racing

Jimmy Lin has officially joined the China Tian Rong F1 Motorboat racing Zhao Shang Bank Team. The announcement was made on Oct 22, 2008 at the ShenChen Zhao Shang Bank Headquarter Press Room. Upper management of the ShenChen Tian Rong Investment Company, team captain of the China Tian Rong F1 Motorboat Racing team, representatives from Zhao Shang Bank, 2008 F1 Motorboat Racing Association were present at the news conference.

As a singer, actor, car racer, and businessman, it is the ultimate challenge for Jimmy to join the China F1 Motorboat Racing team. This is due to his love of speed. As we all know, he is an outstanding car racer who has been racing since 1997 and has won 17 1st place winner’s cups.

F1 Motorboat racing is a premium international racing event. It’s the highest level of the motorboat sports. There are only 42 people in the world who have “Super F1 Motorboat operator’s license”. China Tian Rong F1 Motorboat Racing Team was formed on 5/22/2006 with permissions from The National Sports Commission, International Motorboat Association, and Shenzhen Tian Rong Investment Company. The historic event broke the record of no International F1 China team in history. In 2007, the French racer 菲利普•丹瑟提尼 and his mechanics joined the China Tian Rong F1 Motorboat Racing team as a racer and coach. In the same year, Zhao Shang Bank also put its name on the team.

As the only China F1 racing team in the world, the China Tian Rong Motorboat Racing team has performed well and attracted international media attention. Zhao Shang Bank also got favorable ratings from the WTO. The China Tian Rong F1 team got 5th place in the 2008 season. With Jimmy Lin joining the team the China F1 team will have its Chinese racer and also a super star racer. It will have more confidence, technology and skills to participate in the World Championship.

Since his debut on 2/28/1992 Jimmy Lin has conquered its fans with his youthful singing and dancing and a brilliant smile. He became famous throughout the Chinese speaking world and conquered Asia as the “Asian Little Whirlwind”. He held his 1st world tour after 1 yr. it was a miracle in showbiz and he still holds the record as the youngest artist to perform in Hong Kong HungHum Coliseum.

By joining the China F1 Motorboat Racing team will Jimmy Lin extend the whirlwind in showbiz and the race car speedway to F1 motorboat racing fans and win a 1st place winner’s cup for the China team? This will be on the mind of all water sports lovers.

The signing ceremony will be held on 10/26/2007 after the race in Shenzhen. In 2009, Jimmy as the backup racer will compete in all F1 International races. We believe that his joining the China Tian Rong F1 Motorboat racing Zhao Shang Bank team will make it more exciting and spectacular.

Clazziquai Project Metrotronics released online on 24th October

Horan and Alex will be coming back together again as Clazziquai after 1 year.

A teaser video for their new album Clazziquai Project Metrotronics title song ‘Flea’ was released on 22nd October ahead the album release, which receive heat responses from netizens who watched it.

The group’s company said that the new album to be released this time will be the usual electronica genre but this time something more powerful and hard.

The album will be released online on 24th October and offline on 6th November.

Happy Camp [Kuai Le Da Ben Ying]

Taiwan idol drama queen Joe Chen who usually give people the impression of being sweet and cute guested in "Happy Camp [Kuai Le Da Ben Ying]" and showed her comical and shrewish side. Happy Camp group digs out the side of Joe that you do not know.

TV-version of the movie The Last Night of Madam Chin

The TV-version of the movie "The Last Night of Madam Chin" picked Zai Zai (Vic Zhou) to play as a boyfriend of Chin. Fan bing bing, the first time producer, will take the leading role as Chin. It starts the production next month. Zai Zai is actively involved in the project Black&White after his success of Japan F4 concert tours. He said that there were four TV/Movies waiting for his decision. After reading the script of the adpated screen writer Xia Mei Hwa, he thinks that this character presents a challenge. There will be some changes made in the TV version. Fan BingBing added another character played by Eric Huang. Both Zai Zai and Eric developed love relationship with "Chin" in the drama.

H-Eugene will finally perform title track Baby I Love You

H-Eugene will finally perform on stage with his original featured singer Ye Eun for his title track Baby I Love You this week on music shows.

Ye Eun had featured in H-Eugene’s title song Baby I Love You from his latest album. But because of the Wonder Girls and her own hectic schedule, she could not appear on the music shows to perform with him. In her absence, Kim Ji Hye of Cats has been performing the song with H-Eugene on music shows.

But after many calls from fans to see them perform together, they have managed to work something out. Ye Eun will appear and perform together with H-Eugene starting with Music Bank on Friday, Music Core on Saturday and ending with Inkigayo on Sunday. I still have fond memories of her 1-time only Bad Girl performance with One-Two. Anticipating her performance.

2nd Seoul International Family Film Festival

Ahn So Hee and Kim Hye Sung were appointed joint ambassadors of the 2nd Seoul International Family Film Festival a month ago. Well, they finally fulfilled their duties today, appearing at the opening of the festival.

Tablo tears when watching Spider Man 3

During Mnet’s “Madam B’s Salon” the Epik High members jokingly called Tablo a woman and the man explained why he acquired such a nickname.

Apparently Tablo tears when he sees leaves falling off the tree and even cried after watching Spider Man 3. Tablo also reasoned that his excessive estrogen levels enable him to write lyrics that appeal to his female audience.

Vivian Hsu visited Changsha

Taiwan actress and singer Vivian Hsu visited Changsha, capital city of central Hunan Province, to promote her latest TV drama "Love's Art of War" (lian ai bing fa) on Monday, Changsha-based rednet.com reported.

The plot of this drama utilizes the 36 stratagems of Sun Tze's book 'The Art of War' as advice for couples in love.
The play's protagonist Kim Jeong Ho, played by Korean actor Kim Jeong Hoon, has made full use of the war strategies to win Hsu's heart. Off screen, Hsu half-jokingly said the "leave somebody at large in order to apprehend him afterwards" strategy was her favourite and the most accurate for her in reality.

"When in love, you need to trust him first and then keep your distance," Hsu shared with fans from her own experience, "leave more space for him to love you back."

During an interview, Vivian Hsu disclosed for the first time the reason she broke up with ex-boyfriend Japanese musician Sugizo.

Hsu revealed that she was inclined to marry Sugizo once she got to know him. However, she found it difficult to deal with the fact that Sugizo has a child and Hsu always had the feeling that she had to share his love.

Hsu was photographed with Hong Kong actor and director Stephen Fung and thus rumours began. When asked whether she was the "other woman" that caused Stephan and Hong Kong actress-singer Karen Mok to end their nine year relationship, Hsu frankly expressed that they are just friends and need time to see how everything goes. However, Hsu added "anything is possible".

TVB aired Gem of Life

On Monday, TVB aired a two hour special of ‘Gem of Life’, the series started with high ratings, with average ratings of 32 pts and peaking at 37 pts.

Sexy diva aka Lee Hyori

The three decade old sexy diva aka Lee Hyori stated that if she didn’t build her career as a singer, she would’ve been a comedian during her interview with Elle.

Why does she think this way? Well, it’s because of her stellar performance in variety shows “Family Outing” and “Happy Sunday.” She went on to say that none of her jokes or behaviors are fabricated and she is representing her true self.

Lee Hyori is the cover girl for ELLE Magazine's November Issue.

Tuesday, October 21, 2008

Louis Koo Birthday (:

Last night (10/19), Louis’ family and friends along with many fans took part in the Koo’s Party '08 to celebrate Louis’ Birthday. This private party was held at Tolo Paradise in Hong Kong and sponsored by Pepsi.

Louis had lots of fun with his fans in this BBQ party. They had many entertaining games; one of them was the karaoke singing contest in which Louis was the judge. Two lucky fans from each of three different groups ‘Hong Kong’, ‘China’ and ‘Oversea’ competed for the award. At time, giving in to fans’ requests, Louis sung two of his songs and these enthusiastic fans happily sang along. Louis got many gifts from his fans and cut a beautiful birthday cake. The atmosphere at the scene was very warm and friendly.

It’s Quiet Now lyrics are composed by Selina

S.H.E’s new song “It’s Quiet Now” lyrics are composed by Selina, hence she was to be the female lead in the MV. Management company asked Ethan Ruan from popular idol drama “Fated to Love You” to star in the MV, and they even organised to have a kiss scene between them. Selina revealed that she was very nervous before filming the kiss scene, and her heart kept beating rapidly. However, Ella and Hebe suggested to her to “just bravely go and kiss him, otherwise it won’t look natural.”

Sure enough, in the MV, Selina’s legs are wrapped around Ethan, and the 2 kiss like they have forgotten everything, and they didn’t even notice when Selina’s double eyelid tape fell. Last year, S.H.E’s new song “Mayday” invited Taiwanese band Mayday’s lead singer Ashin to star in the MV, and he also had a kiss scene with Selina, and even resulted in criticism from both parties’ fans.

The night before yesterday, S.H.E held a press conference for their new album. At the celebration party afterwards, during their performance, Ella’s earphones and microphones kept having problems, and she blamed herself for her poor performance and broke down into tears. Selina admitted that because she forgot the lyrics, and hence danced the wrong steps, she was mocked by her university classmates.

The best hit song of 2008

Big Bang’s ‘Haru Haru’ has been enthroned the best hit song of 2008.

Big Bang released the hit song ‘Haru Haru’ in August and the song made its way up to the #1 positions on various charts fast, proving to be a popular hit. Even though it is 2 months after promotional activities for the song has ended, the song continues to receive lots of love from fans. The song was #9 on Cyworld ‘Hall of Fame’ on 20th October, surpassing Kim Dong Ryul’s ‘Like a child’ and MC Mong ‘Circus’ which was released much earlier this year, and is announced to be the highest ranking hit song of 2008.

This is their second year in making into the top 10 positions on the chart after the song ‘Lies’ in 2007. But ‘Lies’ took 3 months to get into the top 10 on the chart while ‘Haru Haru’ only took Big Bang 2 months, definitely a breakthrough in their previous record.

Meanwhile, Big Bang will be having their Japan ‘Stand Up Tour’ concert tour on 28th Oct, 29th Oct and 1st Nov, and will start their activities for their 2nd official album set to release beginning of November.

MBC's Cheerful Hero aired on the 18th

On an episode of MBC's Cheerful Hero (명랑히어로) which aired on the 18th, the Wonder Girls made one of Korea's greatest musicians (Kim Gun Mo), extremely sad.

The girls were presented with the question, "Who do you think is more of a musical genius, Park Jin Young or Kim Gun Mo?" After a little bit of hesitation, the girls answered "Park Jin Young."

Kim Gun Mo quickly retaliated by stating, "I like Girls' Generation better," filling the studio with laughter.

Yoon Eun Hye @ Eye2o Advertisement

Eye2o has chosen to stalk actress Yoon Eun Hye in a new CF for their eye drop product.

Yoon Eun Hye is watched like a hawk from the time she wakes up in bed, to the streets where she carries on her everyday life. This commercial displays Yoon Eun Hye as if she wasn't a celebrity, but just a normal person on the streets. This CF is intended to show just how pure Yoon Eun Hye is in real life, a metaphoric representation of the pure Eye2o eye drops.

Personal Preference drama has been cancelled

It has been revealed that the MBC drama "Personal Preference" has been cancelled. This drama became a hot topic when the possible casting of actress Yoon Eun Hye as the main lead actress was released.

Today on the 14th, PP's Kim SangHo PD revealed that the production of PP was cancelled. Saying, "We decided to abort it during the planning process" and that, "there were a number of reasons but we went through rough casting negotiations due to the excessive media coverage of the cast news which were released before official casting confirmation was done."

Kim PD also added that YEH was the one whom they most desired as their lead actress, but unfortunately they were in a situation where they were unable to proceed with the casting once they received rejection from YEH's side.

PP is a drama based off the romance novel of the same name, written by author Lee Saein. This drama was to be plotted around the life and instances of a frivolous lady who's after a gay room mate and the happenings between the two characters.

In addition, the actor to play alongside YEH was speculated to be YEH's partner from "Goong" Joo Ji Hoon, however Kim PD confirmed that, "I have neither met nor contacted Joo Ji H'oon's reps [regarding this]

The drama "Personal Preference" was meant to have been taken up by Kim Sangho of "Fantasy Couple" and acted out by lead actress of "Coffee Prince" Yoon Eun Hye, which had brought about hot attention.

Jo Sung-kyung at Seoul’s Fashion Week

The runway show for designer Jo Sung-kyung at Seoul’s Fashion Week featured two actors leading the pack of fashion moddles, East of Eden’s Lee Yeon-hee and Women In the Sun’s Jung Kyeo-woon (also of La Dolce Vita).

The show took place on the afternoon of October 21 at the Seoul Trade Exhibition & Convention center (SETEC) under the name “Il de Dokdo,” aka “trip to Dokdo” (I’ve previously mentioned the contentious land dispute surrounding the island).

WonderGirls is at Youtube Again

WonderGirls has yet again received much interests from fans on Youtube.com with their latest hit ‘Nobody’.

In terms of the song’s music video, MV making, performances on music programs and trailer video etc, they were all ranked high on the ‘most views’ rankings on Youtube. Especially for this month, 6 ranks out of the top 8 ranks on ‘most views’ ranking chart on Youtube is occupied by WonderGirls.

1st and 2nd both goes to ‘Nobody’ MV, with more than 1 million views. Not only is the song and its related video popular in Korea itself, it has also attracted a lot of interests and love from music fans all over the globe.

A JYP representative said, “WonderGirls is seen as a trendy and yet hardworking group who continues to give us hits after hits, as from both Korean fans and also people from all over the globe. After So Hot, WonderGirls comes back with a new and interesting concept with ‘Nobody’ which has also a very addiction rhythm enjoyed by many music fans.”

Meanwhile, ‘Nobody’ continues to stay strong at #1 positions on various online music charts.

Drama Listing

TVB's (Last One Standing) has broadcasted its final 2 episodes during last Saturday. The finale has hit an average rating point of 31 (1.95 million audiences) , and the rating points reached 34 at the peak (2.14 million audiences). During its final week of broadcast during the weekdays,the rating points were also 31,a 3 point rise compared to the past weeks. These good results however,was inperfect as the Hong Kong Broadcasting Authority has received 20 complaints regarding this show. The main complaints are about the excessive violence and blood in this drama.

Tong Lap Yin (Roger Kwok) is still revengeful

During the last few minutes,there was a scene of Roger Kwok sleeping in his bed at prison but suddenly awakes with revengeful feelings. This scene had made audience feel that the storyline hasnt ended and has been discussing if there is a continuation of the drama next year.

Response from TVB

The Producer for this series,Wong Sum Wai has responded that the ending of a revengeful Tong Lap Yin is to tell the audience that his attititude has not changed,even he was in jail. He was evil from the beginning to the end. In the last moments of the show,Tong Lap Yin misunderstood his ex girlfriend Carmen (Yoyo Meng) has been dating Cheung Seng Hei (Kevin Cheng),thus he became revengeful and was very angry that he awaked suddenly while he was sleeping.

Last One Standing II?!

Asked if there is a continuation of the drama,the producer replied that although a continuation of "Last One Standing II" has not been planned,there will also be a possibility that there is a continuation as the storyline still has spaces of development.

Male Leads Praised

Wong Sun Wai (the producer) has claimed that she has expected such rating points. Some audiences liked the show, but some do not as they claimed it was too gore. Despite this,Wong has praised the 2 male leads,Kevin Cheng's acting skills,and Roger Kwok's ability to act evil roles. Asked if Kevin Cheng has a chance of using his role in this series to win the "TV King" award? Wong daren't answer,just saying that his results are satisfactory and he has a breakthrough in his acting.

Roger Kwok does not mind there is no Gold in this year's trophy

This year, 3D GOLD whom has always sponsered TVB's trophy has withdrawn due to its bankruptcy. The GOLD trophy that 3D GOLD sponsered will be replaced by other materials. Asked if Roger Kwok would mind,he said "Every year,the Trophy costs more than $10,000. It has the meaning of prestige and sublime. This year,the trophy might be made of other materials,i hope the colleagues won't mind. I won't mind too,because i think the trophy would be very creative and special as its made of other materials."

Rain’s dance tune Rainism

Rain’s dance tune Rainism from his new 5th album of the same title has come under fire for it’s rather explicit lyrics and it has gotten so serious that Rain’s company had to defend him through the media, “The lyrics and song content are definitely not referring to sexual acts between a guy and a woman.”

In a phone interview with J. Tunes Entertainment by SPN Daily, “The lyrics in Rainism are describing the dance movements performed by Rain. We considered using magic stick, body shake to describe the long cane stick dance that Rain had incorporated for the Rainism performance. We never thought that this would become a dispute over whether it was inferring to explicit sexual acts. We never wanted to present that but just the dance only.”

Netizens pointed out that the line “Inside your shaking body, there spins my magic stick” was referring to the male sexual organ, while the line “I’ve felt the unbreakable limit of body shake…” was referring to a sexual act between a man and woman, and questioned the explicit lyrics used, causing Rain to become the brunt of attack. But some showed their support saying that the negativity was too harsh since the album had already passed checks.

example of the "sexual" lyrics:
떨리는 니 몸 안을 돌고 있는 나의 MAGIC STICK/ 더 이상 넘어갈 수 없는 한곌 느낀 BODY SHAKE/ MAKE IT RANISM THE RANISM 내 몸을 느껴 버렸어

translations:
My magic stick is spinning in your shivering body. You can’t go beyond my body shake. Make it Rainism The Rainism. Feel my body.”

Frozen Flower casting Jo In Sung, Joo Jin Mo and Song Ji Hyo

Following Son Ye Jin and Kim Min Sun, actor Jo In Sung has also gone naked in his new movie “Frozen Flower”. Both Son Ye Jin’s “My Wife Got Married” and Kim Min Sun’s “Land of Beauty” had previously sparked discussions among netizens as they contained naked scenes. Now that Jo In Sung is “stripping”, the attention garnered will not be any less than the female stars mentioned above.

The movie “Frozen Flower” casting Jo In Sung, Joo Jin Mo and Song Ji Hyo has just recently finished its filming with its director also the one who directed Jo In Sung’s previous movie “A Dirty Carnival”.

The backdrop of “Frozen Flower” is set in the Chosun era and revolves around the love and betrayal between the prince, the princess and the prince’s trusted aide.

During the post-production, much news about Jo in Sung was released, of which includes news of his “bed scene” with Song Ji Hyo. Jo In Sung bared his back for the bed scene and because of this particular scene, he even went to train up his body in order to appear muscular on screen.

“Frozen Flower” is expected to hit the theatres in December this year.

Will fans of Jo In Sung go crazy over this?

Monday, October 20, 2008

BoA releasing her first single ‘Eat You Up’

With her American debut in just less than a day’s time, BoA has been even more the attention of the local media.

BoA will be releasing her first single ‘Eat You Up’ on 21st October. And she has been reported in a famous entertainment magazine Variety.

It was reported in Variety, BoA was introduced as ‘one of Asia’s biggest female singers’, gave details about her American debut.

Yoon Kye-sang will publish a travel book

Sidus HQ says singer and actor Yoon Kye-sang will publish a travel book with photos of his upcoming trip to Turkey at the end of the month. To prepare for the book's release, Yoon began studying photography six months ago from a professional photographer. During his upcoming travels in Turkey, Yoon plans to visit renowned destinations including Capadoccia and Antalya. The theme of his book will be "adventures in the city's back alleys" and "relaxation in nature".

Yoon plans to invite one other person to join him on his trip. Interested persons can apply to be the lucky winner of a random draw at Open the link. The winner will receive round trip tickets to Turkey with free accommodations, as well as a camera.

Meanwhile, Yoon was recently cast in a new MBC drama series entitled "Triple" as an advertisement director. The drama will be directed by MBC program director Lee Yoon-jeong, who also directed the 2007 hit drama series "Coffee Prince". "Triple" will begin airing in May.

Third annual celebration of Super Junior's

On November 06, 2008 is the third annual celebration of Super Junior's debut as a Korean Pop group in 2005 under SM Entertainment.

Super Junior Day has been moved on the weekend which will be on November 08, 2008 at the Hwa Jeong Gymnasium of Korea University in Seoul, South Korea.

ELFs will be at the venue in the morning for a bazaar, picture takings, and some more preparations for the party.

New drama The World They Live In

The anticipated new drama The World They Live In is set to take over the Monday-Tuesday prime-time slot for KBS. On October 20, the series starring Song Hye-gyo and Hyun Bin in their drama comebacks held its production press conference.

Not only does this drama boast Song’s return to television after four years (Full House was her last) and Hyun Bin’s after two (since Snow Queen), it has also attracted much notice for the teaming of its director, Pyo Min-su (Full House), with much-lauded scriptwriter Noh Hee-kyung (Goodbye Solo, More Beautiful Than a Flower).

The 16-episode drama takes the time slot vacated by Love & Marriage, which ends today. That means it’ll soon be doing its best to challenge the current ratings leader, East of Eden (and the slightly less-watched Tazza).

In the drama, which is set at a broadcast station, both Song Hye-gyo and Hyun Bin play drama PDs who work together and fall in love. Song recently cut off her long hair to play the role of a professional whose appeal is described as more “asexual” (their word) than overt.

Song said of taking on the role, “When I first received the synopsis, I thought it was so interesting. Also, there was no reason for me not to do this with a director and writer I respect so much.” As for starring opposite Hyun Bin, she said, “I almost worked with him in the past, but that didn’t happen and now I finally get be paired with him in this project. Because I work well with Hyun Bin, who’s a mature and warm person, I’m receiving a lot of help from him.”

Hyun Bin also explained that while he appreciated being able to take on new experiences, “I felt a little embarrassed to be acting as a PD in front of a real PD.”

The World They Live In premieres next Monday, on October 27, but there will be a “special” broadcast tomorrow, on the 21st. The program shows brief interviews from the cast’s overseas shoots in Singapore.

Jay Chou's magic teacher Chen Guan Lin

Patty Hou likes magic - on her new show with Jacky Wu, 'Wang Pai Da Ming Xing' (王牌大明星), Jay Chou's magic teacher Chen Guan Lin came to perform some magic. Chen revealed that Jay likes to learn tarot card and coin magic. Jacky then loudly teased Patty, saying 'He using all these to attract girls, the blur female host beside me was one of his victims.'

Jacky's words caused Patty to smile and nod shyly, she expressed that ever since young, she loves to watch magic, her favourite magician is 戴维考柏菲尔 (Translator's note: who is he?)

In the 4 magicians present, the one who let Patty exclaim the loudest was Jay's teacher. When she didn't understand how the tarot card could magically move by itself, Patty could only exclaim loudly, which led Jacky Wu to say, 'Now i know why you and Jielun(Jay) broke up, because everytime he performs magic, you always overreact.'

The odd thing was, every tarot card that Patty picked were red hearts, signifying that love was coming soon, letting her be very happy.

Gillian Chung performed Saturday night Third Annual Meeting

Hong Kong singer-actress Gillian Chung performed Saturday night at an evening party of the Third Annual Meeting of Chinese Business Leaders in the eastern Chinese city of Nanchang, triggering another flutter of speculation about her comeback.

Chung came with her boss, Albert Yeung, chairman of Emperor Entertainment Group (EEG) and VIP of the meeting. The singer uttered a few words in greeting and sang two songs, Southern Metropolis Daily reported.

The Twins member's showbiz career nearly evaporated after a nude photo scandal involving her and actor Edison Chen stirred up the whole Chinese-speaking world at the beginning of this year. Her public performances were met with protests, ads were withdrawn from media, and her scenes in the movie "Mei Lan Fang" were rumored to have been cut.

The latest TV drama of the 27-year-old star, Huanhua Xijian Lu, which was shot last year, started broadcasting on BTV on October 1. The broadcast was seen as her return to the stage.

Chung's comeback is "only a matter of time," an EEG official was quoted as saying.

Nicholas Tse and Gigi Leung returned to Hong Kong

Nicholas Tse and Gigi Leung returned to Hong Kong from Ji Nan yesterday and when asked about his relationship with wife Cecilia Zhang, Nicholas described is "Very good" and regarding the reports of his mother Deborah Dik having intentions of sending Lucas for training and letting him become a child star, Nicholas answered "I'm not inclined. Earlier on, some advertisers already tried to get Lucas to film their ads, but I didn't accept them. (What do you want Lucas to do?) The most important thing is to be a useful and successful person. Each field has their own successful people, where he works does not matter, most importantly is to have contributions to the society"

As for Gigi, she received presents from the fans that went to the airport to welcome her. She smiled and said that going on stage in Ji Nan was a very successful and happy event and then left hurriedly in the company's car.

Sunday, October 19, 2008

Mandopop band F4

Singer-actress Josie Ho and Taiwan singer-actor Van Ness Wu are to star as voice actors in "LaMB," the first original high-definition animation production for Sony's Animax Asia.

"LaMB" is a future-set actioner in a prison camp where high-tech suits keep prisoners restrained but productive.

In production at Singapore animation studio Peach Blossom Media and concept arthouse Imaginary Friends Studios, "LaMB" is directed by Ryosuke Tei, with storyboards by Yasufumi Soejima. It will be released in 2009 on TV, online and mobile platforms.

Wu, part of the hit Mandopop band F4, previously starred in "Meteor Garden," the live-action TV series adaptation of bestselling female-skewed manga comic "Boys Over Flowers."

He will provide English and Mandarin dubs for the lead male protagonist, while Ho ("Exiled"), voices a villain in English and Cantonese. She previously provided Cantonese voices for "The Simpsons Movie" and "Kung Fu Panda."

Ryu Soo-young (18 vs. 29, Bad Couple)

Ryu Soo-young (18 vs. 29, Bad Couple) is a star who hadn’t been on my radar for upcoming army enlistment, but he’s getting ready to report for duty. His physical exam results indicated he was fit for active duty, so he’ll begin training on October 27 and serve for 24 months.

Ryu will give one last fanmeeting before heading off, which will take place on the 25th. His role in last year’s Bad Couple was a particular hit in Japan, and a contingent of Japanese fans are expected to attend.

He joins a number of celebs who have gone off for duty already this year, including Shinhwa’s Eric (Que Sera Sera), Jo Hyun-jae (Three Dads One Mom), Jae Hee (Witch Amusement), and singer-actor Yang Dong-geun (I Am Sam).

Lee Hana (Women in the Sun) is a music lover

It’s well-known that actress Lee Hana (Women in the Sun) is a music lover who enjoys singing. She’s the daughter of a songwriter and had early aspirations to become a singer before switching to acting.

She showed off her voice again on October 18, taking the stage in front of a thousand fans at the Grand Mint Festival 2008, an outdoor music festival showcasing a diverse mix of indie and rock bands, with a dash of club rock, bossa nova, and indietronica.

In her (first-ever) onstage musical performance, Lee Hana sang eight songs total, including a number of classic hits like “September” by Earth Wind and Fire, “Close to You” by the Carpenters, “Basia” by Astrud Gilberto, and “Fields of Gold” by Sting. I’ve noticed she has a taste for old-school folk and rock, so perhaps it’s a good thing she didn’t try her hand at debuting in the world of overprocessed kpop.

Three lasses from their respective girl

These three lasses from their respective girl groups came together to sing three songs for a digital single. Kang Min Kyung (Davichi), Kim Eun Jung (Jewelry) and Narcia (Brown Eyed Girls) attempt to combine their star power to stand out from current acts and uprising ones, with the titled album “Go to the Hospital” (or “병원에 가다”).

The three of them all sang at the same time so the song could be split into 3 different parts.

Narcia’s version of 병원에 가다 (그리움..):


Kim Eun Jung’s version of 병원에 가다 (사랑..):

Kang Min Kyung’s version of 병원에 가다 (이별..):

Newlywed and loyal endorser of Furla Eyewear

Newlywed and loyal endorser of Furla Eyewear , Son Tae Young, couldn’t wait till she was all settled down as Mrs Kwon before stepping up to model their newest creations for the season.

With a new name and many more new beginnings with hubby Kwon Sang Woo, she’s back with a cropped hairstyle and the latest styles of Furla Eyewear in a mod setting.

Everyone’s hoping they stay that way for a long time to come. Let’s hope their hectic workloads won’t be a cause for trouble.

Kim Bum fanmeets in Japan

Kim Bum’s star is definitely on the rise, but I’m a little surprised he’s already holding fanmeets in Japan, which he did on October 18 to a crowd of 800.

This event took place in Tokyo’s Harajuku Quest Hall, where he sang a few songs for fans: Hirai Ken’s “Hitomi wo tojite” and Anzen Chitai’s “Friends,” as well as a piano performance for the song “Snowflake” [눈의꽃] (remade by Park Hyo-shin from the Nakashima Mika song “Yuki no hana”), which was featured in the drama I’m Sorry, I Love You (song posted below). He followed that with a card-trick and magic show.

Kim Bum plans to stay in Japan till October 22. Just think: If he’s this popular now, just imagine what it’ll be like once he takes on the Soujiro role in Korea’s Hana Yori Dango remake, Boys Before Flowers.

Colorful Sensibility Part 2

FT Island has a new track for their upcomig “Colorful Sensibility Part 2″.

This fresh track which was unveiled with the album on the 17th, sounds a little different from F.T Island’s usual sound.

“내 오랜 그녀와 해야 할 일” is set to be the dark horse to hits off their latest album with it’s retro vibes.

Saturday, October 18, 2008

Wonder Girls won No.1 at Music Bank

The Wonder Girls made it 3 in a row as they won No.1 at Music Bank today. They were up against Brown Eyed Girls (again) and Epik High who took over from Big Bang in the K-Chart.

Bae Yong Joon Learn Korean game

Korea’s resident Bae Yong Joon hooked up with Nintendo to create a “Learn Korean” game for the Japanese population,

The details of its release are not known, but I’m utterly disappointed in Nintendo for choosing Bae Yong Joon for this new game/software.

2008 Chow Tai Fok Mega Sale

Myolie and Kate attended "2008 Chow Tai Fok Mega Sale" promotion activities yesterday. The two of them were dressed in low cut sexy black with expensive jewelries. Myolie had a 54 carats diamond set worth $3 million and Kate also had 33 carats costing $2 million. Myolie was worried she might be exposed too much that she kept putting her hand over her top when she had her pictures taken.

She told reporters she is still looking for a nice evening gown for the TVB anniversary celebration. She wanted it be be nice and simple. Asked if she is not expected to win, Myolie replied "I leave it to the mature artists. We have 4 beautiful women, Louis Lee, Lee Heung Kam, Susannah Kwan and Michelle Yim." Myolie revealed that she has bought herself some jewelries and her mom also saved up a few for her future wedding. But she doesn't know when she will fulfill her mom's wishes. Asked if she had received any diamond jewelry from male friends, Myolie said "Yes, but I did not accept it because it was too expensive (Did Bosco give you any ?) no."

Myolie appeared at " Jade Solid Gold" the other night. She sang "Unwittingly fall in love with you" with Hacken Lee. It was her first time to sing with Hacken and she was very nervous. She felt there was a lot of pressure on her because Hacken is such a great singer. She was worried she might forget the lyric too. Myolie's new album will be released in November. Asked if she was hoping to win a prize, she replied "I am not even thinking about it. I assume I don't get anything that way I would feel better."

Wu Chun and Charlene Brunei to promote their movie "Butterfly Lovers"

Wu Chun and Charlene (Ah Sa) returned to his hometown Brunei to promote their movie"Butterfly Lovers", this became Brunei's grand occasion, their attraction cause the Hong Kong media and the local media to struggle for an interview. Chun carefully returned to Brunei ahead of time, hours later he personally met ah Sa at the airport. To make things more grand, small gifts were delievered to the distinguish guests. The appearence of this pair of young boy and girl cause a frenzy at the airport, then they rushed to the theater and meet with fans.

 Ah Sa thought originally that their would be no fans since it was her first time in Brunei, but as soon as she arrived singer fans lifted up hugh Twins sign making ah Sa very happy. The movie company gave Chun two sets of costumes Chun immediately puts it on, and the careful ah Sa immediately help Chun reorganizes the clothes really much sweet. Local fans at the event also specially delivered a huge cake and sang the birthday song to make up for Chun's birthday, making Chun very moved.

 Wu Chun and ah Sa's traveling schedule is very tight, after leaving the theater they had to rush to another charitable activity, the scene also has 500 fans to wait for that two people to appear, the Brunei movie distributer will donate all the admission ticket's income to the local philanthropic institution to help the zi4bi4 syndrome child. Ah Sa and Chun hope that the movie will bring more children laughs and happiness!

 ah Sa would only be in Brunei for a day and was not able to view tourist spot, ah Sa said: “looking down from the airplane to the ground, I thought here (Brunei) is really rich! Each household are spread out and big, [if I] have time [I must] come again, and I hope I can immigrate to Brunei!”
Ah Sa said if she has the opportunity to come to Brunei again, will invite also Wu Chun to be her tour guide, and take her sightseeing.

Cute Princess Rainie

Cute Princess Rainie is going to grow up, her hairstyle changes to centre parting bangs with the venus forehead showing her maturity. She changes into spaghetti stripes dress, showing a little of her cleaveage and beautiful legs, breaking through her past sexy limits. Rainie who is 24 years old shouts [Semimatured Declaration], changing from a girl to a woman.

After a year, Cute Princess Rainie Yang will be releasing her 4th Latest Album [Semimaturity Declaration]. Using [Semimaturity] as her new album's idea, the most important point is to let her fans hear Cute Princess is not only Cute. 24-year-old Rainie wants to transform to a little woman from a little girl, showing her sexy and tender side to everyone. Her new album starts from [Semimaturity], towards [Semimaturity]. Rainie has her own thinking, she says from 24 to 25, this is the stage of becoming matured, but she still wishes to keep the innocence of a child deep inside. The feeling is contradicting and ironic, so it is called [Semimaturity]! Rainie laughs 'my [Semimaturity Declaration] is to become an adult!'

Rainie's 2008 new style look is exposed, it has a little woman sexy style. 'Venus' hairsyle is going to bring in other new trend! From Ambiguous' bangs dolly hair, to Meeting Love's hairband girl, FreeGate's jellyfish hair, and even recent BLXH's boom hair, Rainie's new look always bring new trend and fashion. She sings [Semimaturity Declaration] in her new album. In the past, Rainie gives us a feeling of girl-next-door sweety. In order to show her sexy side, she changed her original bangs which covers her forehead, to centre partings which reveals her forehead. It shows her confidence in being sexy, thus, it is named Venus Hair! This new hairstyle which has the sexy feeling of the goddess Venus from ancient Greece satisfies Rainie very much. She says it got a [Semimaturity] feeling. It is worth mentioning, because her hairstyle leads a fashion trends among the girls, many fashion magazines trust her. For Rainie's new album, it is said that 12 magazines already invited her to be the cover. Rainie's semimatured style is going to capture all the covers of the magazines in the convenience stores (711)!

Breaking through her past limits, Rainie wears spaghetti striped short dress to show her semimaturity. She heartily drinks during her photoshoot in order to make herself a little tipsy for better pictures! To show her semimaturity style, the stylist specially exceeded Rainie's past limits, making her wear the super short dress which she has never dared to try. When she saw the clothes that the stylist matched for her, she screams "this is too much"! Rainie who seemed to be very extrovert and open is actually very reserved. Whether taking pictures or offscreen, she only dares to wear long skirts, viewing skirts above her knees as 'insulators'. She feels that her legs aren't beautiful enough. Even though the crew praises that her legs are very pretty, Rainie still doesn't have any confidence. To match the semimaturity's little woman feel this time, Rainie described it as a feeling of 'going all out' to try. When she wore the sexy dress, she kept saying that 'this is too revealing!' In order to look comfortable in front of the camera, she even got her mother to prepare some soju chicken. Rainie who doesn't drink often because of a poor drinking limit, tried to use wine to boost her courage to let herself pose for beautiful pictures. Unexpectedly, Rainie who drank a little wine was successful in boosting her courage. Her poses are very sexy and attractive. Rainie laughs 'soju chicken can also make people drunk, perhaps there isn't any!'

Second episode of the show Factory Girl

On the second episode of the show “Factory Girl,” in which the SNSD members take on the job of becoming intern fashion editors, Tiffany was scolded by other SNSD members, as she fell behind whenever the members went uphill, downhill, etc.

When the other members would simultaneously ask, “why’d you wear high heels and give yourself a hard time?” Tiffany responded that she “won’t give up on her high heels,” revealing her unique love for high heels.

For her unique desire for high heels is her own way of compensating the height difference between her and the other members, she added at the end in a distressed tone saying, “You guys are tall…”

Eventually later in the day, her sunbae editor advised her to “wear comfortable shoes because it will get uncomfortable and [her] feet will hurt if working in high heels.”

Wentworth Miller starring in "Prison Break"

Wentworth Miller who became popular after starring in "Prison Break" arrived at the Pu Dong airport at 5.30 pm today and due to american serial "Prison Break" becoming a success, his arrival in China for the very first time gained the notice of many people. Wang LeeHom who happened to be going to Shanghai to start a concert arrived first and was surrounded by a few photographers. This caused LeeHom to be shocked but after realising that the media came for Miller, it made him felt a bit "awkward".

Wang LeeHom showed up carrying his guitar and his fans gave him some small items and followed him throughout the airport. Although the organising committee had arranged for 6 security guards beforehand, the whole scene was still very chaotic and LeeHom was finally successfully escorted out of the place by the guards. He left in a lengthened Lincoln brand car.

SE7EN’s English songs called “Your Number"

SE7EN’s English songs called “Your Number,” also by Darkchild. No word from SE7EN’s official team or Myspace if it’ll be on his debut album, but give it a listen below.

Thursday, October 16, 2008

TVB sales Presentation

Charmaine Sheh, Susanna Kwan, Michelle Yim, Fala Chen and Moses Chan etc were filming for the TVB sales Presentation for new Ancient series "Third Sister Liu". Despite it was the Autumn season the weather was still hot and sunny. When Charmaine Sheh didn't need to film scenes she immediately used a umbrella to block the sun. It was also reported that Charmaine Sheh's rumoured boyfriend Kevin Cheng will also participate in the series. But Kevin did not appear yesterday, sources revealed he only filmed in the studio today.

The TVB Sales Presentations is mainly filmed for Advertising companies so that they can book advertising slots. But in the end many of the presentation series filmed might not be made. However, Charmaine Sheh, Tavia Yeung, Michelle Yim and Susanna Kwan all hope that this series will be successfully filmed in the future. Especially Susanna as she has never filmed an ancient series before. She felt it was very fresh and the ancient costume was very beautiful. In addition many of the cast were from (Moonlight Resonance). If the series is officially filmed it will take place at the end of next year. Michelle Yim will once again play the villain.

(Third Sister Liu) is mainly based on a topic about women. The storyline talks about fighting for powers in the palace. Moses Chan plays the role of the Emperor, Charmaine Sheh as Third Sister Liu and will start off as a palace servant and become the Chief of the Royal kitchen. Charmaine indicated she hopes the series will be successfully filmed. The best thing would be to use the same cast as yesterday because she wans to work with Michelle Yim and Susanna Kwan. She believes it will be fresh and create new sparks. The reporter asked if Kevin Cheng will partcipate in the filming? She laughed and said she thinks so, but yesterday he wasn’t included in the filming. She also said she didn’t mind working with Kevin because she doesn’t care and cannot control it. They are both in the same company and they will work together sooner or later. The reporter suggested she could request not to work with Kevin. She laughed and said personally she didn’t have such power. The reporter asked if she was arranged to officially work with him in this series how would she feel? She replied saying she would listen to whatever arrangements the company has made for her.

Big Bang for the rest of 2008

YG Entertainment president Yang Hyun Seok revealed the plans for idol group Big Bang for the rest of 2008.

He said on 14th October, “In October itself, Big Bang will be active in Japan. And then they will go back to Korea for their fans in November.”

Yang Hyun Seok, who used to be part of the famous group in the 90s Seo Taiji and Boys, also said,”Big Bang’s new album will include more than 10 songs. They will be back with their 2nd official album in November.”

He added, “We have already confirmed the title song to the new album which we see will be liked by music lovers from the teens to the 40s. Even though we still cannot reveal more about the album to the public, but it will be a song that will give hope to everyone who has been troubled by the various problems lately like economy-related etc. “

Meanwhile, Big Bang will be having their 3-cities concert tour in Japan Nagoya, Osaka and Tokyo from 28th October to 1st November.

Rainie's new album

To celebrate her Golden Bell nomination and the recording completion of her new album, Rainie Yang ChengLin's record company gave her seven red undergarments for good luck. They hadn't expected Rainie to say that, in addition to never having worn a thong before, she was afraid that wearing them for seven days straight would inflame her skin and make it red and swollen. She laughed and said, "I still prefer to wear my granny panties! Am I disillusioning my fans?"

Rainie said that, she had had two pairs of sexy underwear in the past. She said, "It had little polka dots on it, and it had ties on both sides. It was the type where, if you pulled the string, it would "open." But I never wore them, and, when I moved, I actually threw them out." She said that, even when it came to pajamas, she prefers the one-piece type. Additionally, she won't wear "invisible" underwear, even under her clothes. "It's very dangerous! If you start to swear, even a little, it will start sliding down!" When it comes to choosing her underwear-- bras and panties alike-- she prefers to remain conservative.
* Translator's Note: By "invisible" underwear, she probably means the type you tape to your body.

Rainie's new album, 半熟宣言/Ban Shou Xuan Yan, is scheduled to be released on the 7th of November. 帶我走 [Dai Wo Zou] [Take Me Away], the ending theme for Rainie's 不良笑花 [Bu Liang Xiao Hua] [Miss No Good (The Bad Campus Belle)], will be included. It was written by 蘇打綠 Sodagreen's 青峰 Qing Feng; she even specially went to Qing Feng's blog to leave him a message of thanks.

Knowing full well that her immune system has become weaker, Rainie has recently begun seeing a nutritionist. "The doctor said that my blood is "hot," as though there are three fires burning within me." The nutritionist told her to be careful with her diet; the hardest habit she'll have to break is eating beef.
Translator's Note: "Hot blood" is a Chinese medicinal concept. It's extremely hard to explain >_<

Asked about her hopes for taking home the Golden Bell Award for Best Female Actress, Rainie replied, "Everyone has a chance, but it won't be me." She is "betting" on either 柯素雲 Ke SuYun or Ariel Lin YiChen. She clarified again that there is no "argument" between her and Ariel: "Ever since I was little, I've liked to wear the same clothes as my friend. I would definitely not care about someone's 'bangs being the same' as mine!" Her record company also gave her a replica of the Golden Melody Award trophy. She joked, "It's possible that I won't be nominated for another five years!"

Rainie Yang ChengLin the Priestess of Cute

Rainie Yang ChengLin, the Priestess of Cute, has been "missing" for a year; her new album, 半熟宣言/Ban Shou Xuan Yan will be released on the 7th of November. Yesterday (October 14, 2008), her record company specially organized a "recording is finished" press conference for her at the recording studio. They celebrated the end of the "producing" segment of her new album.

At the press conference, Rainie first performed her new song 帶我走 [Dai Wo Zou] [Take Me Away], which serves as the ending theme for her drama 不良笑花 [Bu Liang Xiao Hua] [Miss No Good (The Bad Campus Belle)]. 蘇打綠 Sodagreen's 青峰 Qing Feng wrote the song specially for Rainie; she said that, the first time she heard the song, she felt really touched and that she tried very hard to interpret the song and express all the feelings and emotions it was meant to invoke. Thus, Rainie, who has just finished recording her new album, wished to thank Qing Feng especially for writing this song for her.

Because she doesn't know Qing Feng very well, Rainie signed on-line and visited Qing Feng's blog. Using her own account, she left a message of thanks for him. She was afraid that he wouldn't respond to her message because he wouldn't recognize her username; however, Qing Feng actually left a message for Rainie a week later! He said that he was looking forward to hearing her sing the song. His message made Rainie feel very happy!

Rainie was recently nominated for a Golden Bell Award (for Best Female Actress). Her record company came up with the very original and special idea of giving seven sexy red underpants-- to symbolize "good luck"-- to Rainie. They wanted Rainie to wear the underwear for the seven days directly before the Golden Bell Awards; this would bring her luck enable her to take home the big prize!

Included in the seven red undergarments were a lace thong and an adorable sports-type panty. Upon seeing them, Rainie's face turned red and her heart sped up. She laughed loudly and said that seeing the underwear made her eyes swim! She also said that she has never worn a thong before; she is afraid that they wouldn't be very comfortable. She revealed that she has received sexy underwear from both her fans and the crews of her various dramas before, but that she still hasn't worked up the courage to wear them yet. She is much more used to wearing her one-piece pajamas to bed; it's more comfortable. Rainie joked that, if she really wore thongs every day (for seven days) before the Golden Bell Awards, she would be afraid that her skin would become inflamed. If that were to happen, her walk on the red carpet would then be very strange!

Rainie's 小茉莉 [Xiao Mo Li] [Little Jasmine] (for the movie 刺青/Spider Lilies) was nominated for the Golden Horse Awards; this time, her performance in 換換愛 [Huan Huan Ai] [Why Why Love (Exchange Love)] earned her a Golden Bell nomination. Thus, the only "Golden" nomination Rainie is still missing is one for the Golden Melody Awards. Her record company specially made a replica of a Golden Melody Award trophy and presented it to her at the press conference. They hoped that her new album would be nominated in all sorts of categories at this year's Golden Melody Awards... including the biggest honor of all, Best Female Singer of the Year!

Rainie expressed that, actually, when it came to being nominated or winning the big award, she tried to keep very calm. That she was nominated this year made her really happy, but she doesn't think that she'll win the award. Furthermore, she thinks the chances of either 柯素雲 Ke SunYun or her own good friend Ariel Lin YiChen winning are quite good. As for the Golden Melody Awards, she laughed and said that being able to take pictures with a Golden Melody Award "trophy" right after wrapping up her recording made her very happy. Of course, she hopes that she will be nominated this year, but she is trying to keep up a calm composure regarding that as well. She said that it was possible that she wouldn't be nominated for another five years-- maybe!