New Albums And Singles Preview – 2013 August Week 5

Kara Vol. 4 – Full Bloom (Sept. 2)

01 Runaway
02 Damaged Lady
03 1+1
04 In the Game
05 Follow Me
06 Smoothie
07 2night
08 Runaway INST
09 Damaged Lady INST

Purchase This Album

Kara returns as mature ladies with their fourth full-length album, “Full Bloom.” Top composers along the likes of Han Jae Ho, Kim Seung Su, and Sweet tune took part in this album, allowing the girls to experiment with different types of genres. Fans will be able to see these transformed girls in this nine-track album.

Lyn Vol. 8 #2 – This Song Is Good (released)

01 This Song Is Good
02 Song For Love (Kor Ver)
03 High Heel (with Ju Young)
04 Song For Love (Eng Ver)

Lyn releases part two of her eighth album, “This Song Is Good,” four months since the first installation. If part one had heart wrenching songs, the second half consists of exhilarating love tracks. The title track is of the same name and is an acoustic pop number with a beautiful guitar and piano line. This love confession track is perfect for sharing with a loved one. There are a total of four tracks in this album.

Ladies’ Code – Pretty Pretty (Sept. 5)

01 Polaris Club
02 Pretty Pretty
03 Hate You
04 I’m Fine Thank You
05 Pretty Pretty INST

Ladies’ Code returns this month with their second mini-album, “Pretty Pretty.” The title track is of the same name and is an exciting number with funky guitar rhythms and brass sounds. The song holds lyrics about standing tall and shouting how beautiful they are. Other songs in the album include ballad number, “I’m Fine Thank You” and “Hate You.”

 

Sunmi (single) – 24 Hours Is Not Enough (released)

01 24 Hours Is Not Enough

Wonder Girls’ former member, Sunmi returns to the music scene with her solo single, “24 Hours Is Not Enough.” The singer transforms 180 degrees, moving away from her usual pure and bright image. “24 Hours Is Not Enough” is a dance number composed, penned, and arranged by JYP. It holds lyrics about a woman whose eyes are opened when she finds out what love is through a man.

Lim Kim (single) – Rain (released)

01 Rain

Lim Kim releases “Rain” in midst of her second mini-album release, “Her Voice.” It is a mellow number with piano and guitar sounds. The song holds lyrics about an ordinary twenty-year old girl and her story on a rainy day.

Spica (single) – Tonight (released)

01 Tonight
02 Tonight INST

Spica releases their third digital single, “Tonight.” It is a foreign number with rock beats. Lee Hyori and Spica member, Boa are responsible for penning the lyrics to the song. It is about forgetting the past and trying to fly once more.

December (single) – Your Lips, That Taste (released)

01 Your Lips, That Taste (feat. EB)
02 Your Lips, That Taste INST

Jo Young Soo joins hands with duo, December for his latest project single, “Your Lips, That Taste.” This R&B hip-hop number has soothing vocals accompanied by mellow guitar instrumentals.

Fiestar (single) – Whoo! (released)

01 Whoo! (With Eric Benet)

Fiestar collaborates with world star, Eric Benet for their latest single, “Whoo.” Composed by Eric Benet and penned by Kim Ina, this urban R&B number has a groovy melody and Latin sounds. Benet also lends his vocals and even has some Korean lines, making it all the more anticipated by Korean fans.

Wonder Girls’ Sunye Models For Maire Claire

7-months pregnant and still beautiful…

Her unfading beauty covers the spreads of Marie Claire’s September issue. Wonder Girls’ Sunye took close-up shots for the magazine, where her freshness and vibrant features brought out her natural beauty.

Even though she will be a mother soon, Sunye is still beautiful and youthful, especially when dressed in pink which brings out her chocolate hair color, and her flawless white skin. She looks like a true summer goddess!

SOURCE: Kpop Magazine Lovers

Troy Allan Hermoso Pedron, Sierra Nicole Blackwell, Hua Chie Xiong, Cathy Chen, Roxana Sumodobila, Hannah Kim liked this post

[Exclusive] Former American Idol Contestant HeeJun Talks About Upcoming Debut

HeeJun made his claim to fame as a popular American Idol finalist for season eleven. He won over the judges and the audience with his frank sense of humor and husky voice. After finishing ninth in the season and touring the United States with other contestants, Heejun signed on with Korean agency Polaris Entertainment. Now HeeJun is gearing up for his official solo debut with “Bring the Love Back,” a catchy electronic dance track featuring rapper Pusha T.

For this exclusive interview with Soompi, Heejun shared his candid thoughts on life after American Idol, his family at Polaris Entertainment, and what he likes to sing at noraebang.

CallMeN00NA: How has the transition been from American Idol contestant to solo artist?

HeeJun: It’s been hard. When you’re in American Idol, you’re like Beyonce. Wherever you go people recognize you, pull a seat for you, reserve a hotel for you, and everything is set to go. But once you’re out of the contest, you’re on your own. It’s really hard to survive because you’ve never been on your own. It’s a wild, wild industry, and you might feel like you’re lost. I think I was lucky enough to find a good company. I hustled my way out and you have to do that to make it through after American Idol.

C: You signed on to a Korean agency, Polaris Entertainment, but what made you decide to debut in the U.S. first?

H: Actually, only in the U.S. for now. It’s an international distribution so Korea might bite too, but for now we’re just focusing on the states.

C: “Bring the Love Back” will be your debut song, and it sounds very different from what we’re used to hearing from you. Can you introduce the song for us? 

H: I’m not a stubborn artist who only does what I want, music wise. I think my fans deserve what I want to say to the world. They have been waiting too long and too much so I can’t give them another r&b ballad and expect it to play on the radio. I had to come up with a realistic strategy. I’m going pop, but I have a great message and purpose. This is a gift for my fans.

C: How did you get Pusha-T involved in the project?

 H: I’ve been a big fan of him, and when we offered him a deal, I didn’t think he was going to bite. Not only was he actually willing to do it, he’s been supportive. We’re really happy about him.

C: What can we expect from the music video?

H: It’s a party in the U.S.A, like Miley Cyrus on steroids. It’s very energetic and powerful.

C: What are some things you learned about the music industry as you have been preparing for you debut?

H: I realized I should have studied hard and become a lawyer. It would have been so much easier [Laughs]. Breaking out as a new artist is a hard part of the industry, and I’m doing it as an Asian American. I guess I have to pull it through and see what comes out as a result.

C: Have you been able to meet with the other artists at Polaris?

H: We are pretty close and very family oriented. We go on a lot of retreats and dinners together. We also do a lot of activities together. When I was in Korea for three months last October, we had great fun. The boss and chairmen are great people. I had a blast.

 C: Did you get to work with Ladies’ Code?

H: They’re my girls! I saw them before they debuted and they were like little kids. When I saw them on TV I was so proud. I knew how hard they worked. I actually knew Ashley [one of the members] from when I was in New York. We were in the same event company. She was a backup dancer when she was sixteen, and I was MCing when I was 18. We shared the stage a couple of times and we happened to come to the same label, six years later. I hope everything works out for them. Even though they are rookies, I believe they have what it takes to be the next big group.

C: You recently participated in “Korea Day” with the LA Dodgers. Girls Generation was there too. Did you get to see them?

H: Yes, but I had no idea at first. Even though I’m Korean, I’m not too familiar with K-Pop. I speak fluent Korean. I speak better Korean than the guy who invented Korean. It’s not that I don’t like K-Pop, I just never had a chance to get attached. I’m an old guy, I listen to music from the 70s and 80s, old stuff. When they came to the stadium they brought twenty to thirty staff members so I couldn’t approach them. I believe three of them came. They sang the national anthem and did great. 

C: Do you listen to any Korean music?

H: I used to worship old K-Pop when I was in Korea. I came to the states when I was about twelve years old. Back then, H.O.T was pretty popular, so was g.o.d. I do have a few favorite groups these days. Ladies’ Code is number one, but I also like BTOB. I know Peniel, and he’s a lovely kid. I like the Wonder Girls. I’m good friends with Sun and Lim. They’re all great people so I love them.

C: What is your go-to song at noraebang/karaoke?

H: By the number? 

C: Do you have it memorized? How about both the number and the song title?

H: 8817, I think. It’s “I Miss You” by Kim Bum Soo. I love Bum Soo hyung.

C: Kim Bum Soo is in your label. Have you had a chance to hang out with him? 

H: Oh yeah. We hung out plenty of times. Not only is he a great singer, he’s a great person. He’s a lot of fun. I also sing “Sonata of Temptation” by Ivy.

C: [Laughs] Ivy is also on your label.

H: Yup.

C: Lastly, how familiar are you with Soompi?

H: Soompi is great! I go on it every day. Soompi has been around for a long time, right? You guys were one of the first sites for K-Pop out there. I love Soompi.

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The music video for “Bring the Love Back” will be released very soon. Until then, you can check out his YouTube channel and follow him on Twitter and Instagram. Stay tuned for another a video interview with HeeJun!

 

 

 

G-Dragon & Missy Elliot’s Epic KCON Performance

This is what happens when two musical icons collide.

The heavy influence of American hip hop on K-Pop is something that has been apparent since Seo Taiji and The Boys and 1TYM. However, attempts to actually merge the two genres have generally fallen flat. K-Pop fans worldwide cringed when the collaborations between Wonder Girls and Akon, or the ill fated JYJ featuring Kanye West single are mentioned. Whereas those attempts at fusion fell flat, there are several reasons why G-Dragon and Missy Elliot have accomplished what other K-Pop artists were unable to, with their magnificent performance of NILIRIA.

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As an artist on YG Entertainment, the label that introduced hip hop to Korean pop culture, G-Dragon spent many of his trainee years as a rapper. Originally, what is now known as BIGBANG was meant to be a hip hop group with G-Dragon and Taeyang as the primary members. At the M!Countdown performance, he appeared so flawless in both his rhyme flow and hip hop choreography; many audience members momentarily forgot they were attending a K-Pop concert.

If you did not know who Missy Elliot was prior to her collaboration with G-Dragon, then you should. Missy Elliot is a pioneer in American hip hop, and her eccentric style paved the way for artists like Nicki Minaj. For Missy Elliot, this was her reemergence into the music scene after an eight year absence. Missy Elliot is a five time Grammy Award winning female rapper, whose unique style and emphasis on complicated choreography is ideal for K-Pop. Her video for Get Your Freak On could seamlessly be remixed with a K-POP artist.

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Missy has always incorporated strong visual elements in her music videos and presented unique concepts in her album. As Dumbfoundead pointed out in his KCON panel, Asian Americans and Hip Hop, how could fans of K-Pop and G-Dragon not know who Missy Elliot is? The complimentary artistic energy between Missy Elliot and G-Dragon created a performance that was most certainly the most talked about collaboration of the night.

SOURCE:24-7 KPOP

[News] WG's Lim takes friendly photo with Xander

[News] WG's Lim takes friendly photo with Xander

Wonder Girl's Lim uploaded a photo with former U-Kiss member Xander on her instagram account on August 24.

The two close friends apparently attended a gathering together. The two are known to be close friends and often go out and bond together alongside SJ-M Zhou Mi and Miss A Jia.

[News] Former Wonder Girls Sunmi’s Sensational Solo Comeback Stage on ‘M Countdown’

[News] Former Wonder Girls Sunmi’s Sensational Solo Comeback Stage on ‘M Countdown’

Sunmi had her first solo comeback stage, returning to the music industry for the first time in 3 years and 7 months.

On August 22 Cable TV's "M Countdown" former Wonder Girls member Sunmi had a successful solo debut performance with her new song "24 Hours."

At the performance, Sunmi wore a minimalistic black and white striped shirt, and sported pinkish hair. She came out barefoot and captured the fans' attention with her exceptional choreography dancing with a male dancer. It was something unique and exciting, to be sure.

"24 Hours" is a dance song about a woman who opens her eyes to sensual love for the first time with her lover.

You can also see EXO, Crayon Pop, Seungri, Sunmi, Henry, Bumkey, Lim Jeong Hee, ZE:A, B.A.P, VIXX, Tasty, NU'EST, History, Big Star, Soul Dive, Swings, Honey G, K Hunter, and 5Dolls on this week's "M Countdown."

[News] 7-month pregnant Sunye graces Marie Claire

[News] 7-month pregnant Sunye graces Marie Claire

Sunye, who is 7-month pregnant, lends her unfading beauty for Marie Claire's September issue. Close-up shots of her reveal freshness and blooming soon-to-be-mom.

Check more of her photos below:

’2013 MBC Korean Music Wave in Singapore’ Line Up!

KPOP idols to perform in Singapore.Fans in Singapore will be able to see not just one, not two, not three but 13 KPOP artists as they will be going to the country to perform at '2013 MBC Korean Music Wave' which will happen on November 16th

KPOP idols to perform in Singapore.
Fans in Singapore will be able to see not just one, not two, not three but 13 KPOP artists as they will be going to the country to perform at ’2013 MBC Korean Music Wave’ which will happen on November 16th. SHINee, EXO, 2PM, 2AM, F.T. Island, B1A4, TeenTop, B.A.P, Kara, Sistar, Miss A, IU and 4Minute are confirmed to attend the event and perform two to three songs each group/singer.
Ticket prices are the following: $168 to $238 (Hills) $268 (Premiere) $368 (Platinum) $688 (Super VIP Experience Package)
For the Super VIP Experience Package: Best view, best atmosphere – Access to Super VIP mosh pit on event day. No queue – Flash pass and get escorted into venue by the event crew. Access to rehearsal session – First Dme in the history of concerts held in Singapore, Super VIP pass-holder is allowed to access the rehearsal session on 15th & 16th Nov 2013 (scheduled access at DME to be announced). Access to Press Conference – First 50 Super VIP pass-holders will get invitation to attend the official Press Conference of the event to be held on the 15th Nov 2013. (see your favorite artist upclose off-stage)
Concert details:  Title: MBC Korean Music Wave in Singapore 2013 Date: 16th November 2013, Saturday Time: 7PM Venue: Gardens by The Bay, Singapore Performing Lineup: SHINee, EXO, 2PM, 2AM, FT ISLAND, B1A4, Teen Top, B.A.P, Kara, SISTAR, miss A, IU and 4minute, with mystery MCs Seating plan:
The tickets selling will on the 1st of September from 9am-6pm at Playspace @ Scape.

Written by: angelclowie18@dkpopnews.net

2NE1’s Reggae to Big Bang Seungri’s House Music
2NE1, Seungri, Falling in Love, Gotta Talk to U 2NE1’s Reggae to Seungri’s House Music From YG Entertainment 2NE1's reggae to Seungri's house music, the agency is releasing new genres of song and bringing a freshness to the music industry. With his comeback on August 19 Seungri released his new song "Gotta Talk to U," which is an upbeat house genre song. As the title song of his second solo mini album Let's Talk About Love, the song quickly rose to the number 1 spot on 7 different music sites...

Sunmi, formerly of the Wonder Girls, releases the full music video of her solo debut single, 24 hours
On August 20, former Wonder Girls member Sunmi released the full music video of her solo debut single, “24 Hours,” on her official website. The song is a dance number about a woman’s feelings as she opens her eyes to a sensual love with a man. Because Sunmi is the second female solo artist from JYP after Park Ji Youn, she received full support from the main producer at JYP, who is the boss of her agency. The song “24 Hours” has an intense beat and impressive sound...

EXO continue to sweep music charts with ‘Growl’
The boys of EXO continued their victory on various major music charts.The group’s repackaged edition of first official album ‘XOXO(Kiss&Hug)’, which was released on August 5th, managed to rank top on Hanteo Chart, Yes24, Aladdin charts for two consecutive weeks.Over on the weekly music programs, EXO also claimed the top position with their repackaged album title track “Growl” this week on KBS‘ Music Bank’ and SBS ‘Inkigayo’, proving themselves as one of the most leading K-Pop idol groups...

Tags : 2AM, 2PM, 4Minute, B1A4, DK, Fans, FT Island, iStory, KARA, Korean, Miss A, official, SHINee, Singapore, Sistar, Teen Top, Tickets korean drama 2013 new korean drama 2013 i miss you korean drama korean movies korean movies 2012 korean movies 2013 korean drama werewolf boy korean movie eng sub korean celebrity couples innocent man korean drama

[News] Wonder Girls’ Yubin joins Instagram

[News] Wonder Girls’ Yubin joins Instagram

Wonder Girls rapper Yubin has become the next K-Pop idol to finally opened an Instagram account.

On July 22, Yubin announced on her Twitter, “Starting instagram”, and included a link to her first post in the world of Instagram.

She posted a picture of herself to kick things off. In the beautiful selca, Yubin looks lovely in a pair of sunglasses and red beanie while giving a heart-fluttering smile to the camera.

Follow Yubin here.

News bites: July 3, 2013

Won Bin, Lee Na-young

• Birth of a new star couple: News broke that Won Bin and Lee Na-young were spotted on a date together, and the stars have since confirmed that they're in the early stages of a relationship. They've been represented by the same agency since 2011, which is how they got to know each other, and also explains why the official announcement came with lightning efficiency. Pretty handy, that. [Star News]
• There must be something in the air. Congratulations to pop star Lee Hyori and songwriter-musician Lee Sang-soon (of Roller Coaster, Verandah Project), who are reportedly tying the knot in September. The couple has been dating for three years and seem pretty comfortable and well-matched; she recently described him as something akin to a soulmate and has been talking about the relationship in a number of variety show appearances. There was a wave of denials following the initial wave of news, but I'd say there's a good chance we'll get that wedding. [Mk.co.kr]
• I guess KBS's Drama Special series is just on a casting tear. They recently started a new season and have been casting various installments, and now Wonder Girl Sohee joins the mix in her first leading role for Happy! Rose Day. She plays a young twentysomething working at her mother's florist shop while dreaming of becoming an actress. Should be a treat for all her fans, who have had to wait out a pretty long Wonder Girls dry spell with all their overseas activities. I can't say I find her acting that compelling, but her starpower is nothing to sniff at. [E News 24]


Lee Na-young and Won Bin, undercover

• Jung Woo-sung and Lee Beom-soo have signed on to star in a new gambling movie called God's Play, about a baduk player who bets big and loses everything, and then goes on a desperate quest to get revenge. I don't know how they're going to make baduk exciting, but I suppose it's all in the execution. There are good movies about chess, right? Ahn Sung-ki (The Tower), Ahn Gil-kang (The Great Seer), and Kim In-kwon (Born to Sing) co-star. Shooting begins in August. [Star News]
• There's a bit of a shuffle going on at Master's Sun, the ghost-seeing rom-com starring Gong Hyo-jin and So Ji-sub, which is reportedly losing a supporting actor in idol Park Hyung-shik (of Ze:A). Some articles cite a source with his agency who say they pulled him from the show to focus on his idol activities, with Ze:A making its comeback in August. On the other hand, there are other articles saying that his management was surprised at the articles, that Park isn't necessarily quitting, and that they're awaiting decision from the producers. In any case, the show follows I Hear Your Voice on SBS. [Sports Seoul, Osen]

Last week a bunch of shows ended, which means this week we get a bunch of interviews with those shows' stars. It's a lot of the same canned stuff, but let's take a look at some of the comments:

• Lee Seung-gi, on Gu Family Book: "The ending was set from the start. Personally, I like it." Pause for dramatic effect… start booing now? Okay, it wasn't his fault the writer lost her mind. Things gained from this drama: "Good people." Things lost: "Good skin." [Sports DongA]
• Suzy, on her similarities with her drama character: "Yeo-wool's way of loving is similar to me. There was a lot of dialogue I identified with, which I understood emotionally." Differences: "I don't have as much aegyo with [Seung-gi] oppa as Yeo-wool does. I don't have a lot of aegyo to begin with, and I'm the boring type. Boring and empty can-like." [Chosun]


Ji Chang-wook

• Lee Jung-jin recently wrapped the makjangapalooza weekend drama Hundred Year Inheritance, which had its fair share of crazy. No wait, more than its fair share, in that crazy is not a quota I think a drama should be reaching for. "You could say that the criticism showed that there was a lot of interest. So I think criticism is popularity." Um. That's one way to look at it. [Herald Biz]
• Kim Tae-hee finished up her show Jang Ok-jung, Live By Love, and encountered the usual (for her) wave of criticism for her acting skills. (Maybe is just popular?) She admits it was difficult to tough it out, but she's the type to grit her teeth and work through it, and so she did. She said about acting, "To me, right now, acting is a drug I've had a small taste of." [SBS E]
• And Lee Dong-wook also wrapped a show, KBS's sageuk Mandate of Heaven, and drew some amount of criticism as well. (Deserved, I say. I like him in almost everything else he's done, but he was hammy with the dramatics in this one.) He admits feeling burdened by the middling ratings, but seems to have taken a glass-half-full approach with the critique: "Just hearing that there was acting criticism is meaningful. Because of Mandate of Heaven, I worked and deliberated a lot about my acting. In the end, what I got from that was that I have to do well. Working hard is a given, but now I have to really perform well." [Newsen]
• Here's a photo shoot of Ji Chang-wook with horses. Because why not? Since wrapping his last drama Five Fingers, he's been shooting a drama short called Secret Love with idol Park Gyuri, and is also preparing to star in musicals Jack the Ripper and The Brothers Were Brave. Busy, busy. [TV Report]

RELATED POSTS

• News bites: April 17, 2013
• News bites: April 8, 2013
• News bites: February 4, 2013
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Tags: Ji Chang-wook, Jung Woo-sung, Kim Tae-hee, Lee Beom-soo, Lee Dong-wook, Lee Jung-jin, Lee Na-young, Lee Seung-gi, news bites, Park Hyung-shik, Suzy, Won Bin

[News] SunYe-Kim Hye Soo Visit Jo Kwon's Musical! 'Popular Boy'

[News] SunYe-Kim Hye Soo Visit Jo Kwon's Musical! 'Popular Boy'

2AM's Jo Kwon was visited by Wonder Girls' Sunye and the cast of drama "God of Job" for his musical.

Yesterday, Jo Kwon posted on his Twitter, "My friend Sunye, Sunye who is still so pretty! Thank you! Jesus!!! My face came out big next to yours" along with a picture taken with Sunye. The two are posing for the camera together. JoKwon has bright makeup on for the stage, and Sunye is close to naked face with a casual outfit.

Afterwards, Jo Kwon again posted, "The cast of 'God of Job' that visited me. I am the king today. Hahahah!" along with a picture. In the picture were many cast members of the drama "God of Job" that ended last month.

Jo Kwon is currently playing the role of King Herod in the musical "Jesus Christ Superstar."

Photo Credit: JoKwon Twitter

M/s : kenvilthomas@kpopupdates.com

[News] Wonder Girls’ Yubin Told SPICA to Try This in Singapore

[News] Wonder Girls’ Yubin Told SPICA to Try This in Singapore

The successful K-pop Night Out (24/05) presented by KOCCA in Singapore as part of Music Matters Live 2013 brought in the hip and unique girl group SPICA. It initiates to introduce the variety of Korean music to the mass and celebrating the ones to watch in the K-pop scene is definitely the highlights of the night!

The press conference held the day before made SPICA dish on what were they looking forward to upon arriving to Singapore. Leader Bo-A shared: “We share the same salon with Wonder Girls Yubin-eonnie. She told us to try Jumbo Restaurant’s Chilli Crab.”

In pertaining to their concert showcase, it was noted how their musicality change from single after single. “We first debuted with ‘Russian Roulette’, which is a cool and powerful song. ‘Painkiller’ was next, and it was strong and emotional.

“Finally, we have a really, really, different song feeling compared to the previous tracks. This shows our happy, youthful and fresh voices, and also feminine as well. We’re happy about it! So please look forward to our showcase.”

And for those who have missed their live showcase at Clarke Quay’s Main Fountain Stage for the event, here is their snippet performance:

M/s : kenvilthomas@kpopupdates.com

[News] Sohee denies herself as Niel’s “Miss S” + Andy apologizes

Recently, Shinhwa’s Andy appeared as a guest on MBC’s ‘Radio Star’ and made the ambiguous remark, revealing that a girl group member is interested in dating Teen Top’s Niel. Though he did not reveal the girl’s identity, he did say that her name begins with the letter “S” and is affiliated with JYP Entertainment.

Many people started getting curious about who the “Miss S” is, and as Sohee’s name started getting talked about, she firmly refused it for herself. One of her fans asked on Twitter, “Are you the Miss S?” and Sohee firmly replied, “No.”

Andy also apologized for causing this controversy on his official homepage. He wrote, “I’m sincerely apologize for causing many people trouble. I’ll be more careful on broadcast from now on. I’m sorry.”

 M/s : kenvilthomas@kpopupdates.com

[News] Wonder Girls Sohee States, 'I am not the 'S' Girl'

With the TEEN TOP Niel and 'S' girl crisis, Wonder Girls member Sohee stated that it was not her.

With many fans asking her if she was the 'S' girl mentioned from the statement, Sohee announced that she was in fact not the girl that they were looking for.

Yesterday, Shinhwa member Andy, who is also the CEO of group TEEN TOP, stated that Niel was very popular amongst girl group members and that he had once received a confession from a girl group member from JYP Entertainment whose name starts with the letter 'S'.

After that show aired, many internet users began guessing who that 'S' girl could be.

M/s : kenvilthomas@kpopupdates.com

[News] Girls' Generation-Big Bang-miss A, '5 K-Pop Stars You Can Bring Home to Mom and Dad'

In high school I was a few votes from winning "Most Likely to Bring Home to Mom and Dad" in our end of the year high school senior yearbook. I was crushed when I found out I lost out to the goody two shoes in our class, and so in order to make up for the loss, I'm posting up a list of five Kpop stars you'd bring home to mama or dada.

Big Bang Taeyang may be a sex symbol in the industry, but his good boy reputation off-stage is what makes him a great guy to bring to the house. The Big Bang star is known for his strong Christian beliefs and shy persona. As long as he's wearing a shirt, I'm sure dad won't have any problem with his princess dating this celebrity.

Lastly, on our list is miss A's Suzy. One of the most popular and naturally beautiful idols and actresses in the industry, Suzy has managed to make a blooming career out of her scandal-free career. Pretty, successful, and loved by the public? What more would your parents want from a future potential in-law?

Girls' Generation Seohyun, the group's youngest member, always reminds me of a sweet, bright flower. There's an innocence about her which sets her apart from her 8 sexy counterparts making her an awesome gal your mom will adore.

Sun of the Wonder Girls is the quintessential classic good girl every Korean mother wishes their sons brought home. Her sweet manners, her morals and beliefs make her the perfect potential girlfriend/wifey to bring home and any mother would be crazy not to fall in love with this talented gem.

M/s : kenvilthomas@kpopupdates.com

[News] Kpop Girl Group Idol Leave To Go Back To School, Or Is It Just a Cover?

There seems to be a trend of young female idols leaving their groups to further their educations.

For the past couple weeks there has been a lot of talk about A Pink member Yookyung's decision to leave her group. The young singer said it was so that she could pursue an education at Joongang University and her agency A Cube Entertainment agreed and showed their support.

However, Yookyung's father has been very outspoken recently that his daughter was actually kicked out of the group. He has called on A Pink's label to issue a formal apology to Yookyung and suggested the decision was not his daughter's idea.

With the jury still out on the conflicting sides of the Yookyung saga, the situation has raised a lot of questions about other female singers who have left their groups supposedly to further their educations in university.

Before Yookyung, Girl's Day member Jihae left in order to go back to school. However, as it has been noted, she is currently promoting herself as an actress instead. The same can be said of After School's former member Soyoung. Soyoung retracted from the group citing health issues and the desire to return to school, but since then has also returned as an actress.

And there are plenty more examples as well. Girl group EXID debuted with six members in early 2012, but after only two months, three of the members left. Former leader Yuzi and Dami both claimed they would be going to university.

Yuzi has suggested she may return after completing her studies, but EXID has since moved on and has already added two new members to their lineup. The third member who left, Haeryung, was the only one who came out an said she left EXID to pursue an acting career instead.

Girl group RaNia also saw the removal of a member recently for university studies. Riko has decided to finish her schooling at Sookmyung Women's University for the time being. Although RaNia's agency DR Music claims Riko's absence is not permanent, RaNia will always seem to be a five-member group, as the return of vocalist, Jooyi, feels more like a gap-filler for Riko's absence, sparking more rumors about the true nature of her departure.

When Sunmi decided to leave JYP Entertainment's Wonder Girls a while back, there was also some disappointment among fans. But now it appears she has started a trend among her idol peers.

Many netizens have pointed out that Sunmi has all but dropped off the face of the earth - she has not even been spotted in her university department.

Whatever the reasons are for leaving a girl group, it seems that the agencies are all in favor of using education as an excuse. After all, who would fault a girl for wanting to go to school?

M/s : kenvilthomas@kpopupdates.com

Wonder Girls Yenny and 2AM Changmin, 'A Perfect Match'

Wonder Girls Yenny (Yeeun) and 2AM Changmin both have long established friendly relations due to their JYP Entertainment family connection. Yet, in their musical, "The Three Musketeers", they play lovers who fall for each other at first glance. In an interview, they showed the secret behind the undeniable chemistry between Korea's Lady Constance and D'Artagnan. Maintaining their vibrant lives is key, and this is revealed as they share how even with a lack of screentime through broadcasts, they continue to lead very active lives.

In their candid interview, Changmin remembers seeing Yenny for the first time as Wonder Girls debuted while he was still serving his military duties. They joke around about their first impressions, while Changmin lavishes admiration on Yenny. This encounter between them sparks interest as their familiarity around each other shows.

Yenny's starring as Constance in this musical marks the official entry of Wonder Girls into their solo activities, post Sunye's wedding. And with that, the Wonder Girl Yenny explains that she chose musical, instead of say drama or movies, as she was already exposed to filming for their Wonder Girls movie which was shown on Teen Nick last year. She also mentioned how that experience has made her even more interested in musical, where she gets to do both acting and singing. Further, Yenny felt very fortunate to star as Constance as she thought of it as a very well-scripted character -- someone who was active, positive and vibrant. She admits being enthusiastic about the character even at first glance. Yeeun feels Constance is a lovable character to play.

Changmin, on the other hand, felt D'Artagnan is very much like him. It is a fun and confident character. The 2AM crooner also mentioned the challenges in being in character for the role and the immersion required for it. He says it's all about the mindset one puts.

Apart from being entertaining, Yeeun and Changmin say that the musical imparts valuable lessons. What makes it even more rewarding is that teaching those lessons come in a form that is very fun and lighthearted.

In the same interview, Yenny reveals that she is working on the next album in which she will be writing some songs. She also mentions being open and being tapped to write songs for other singers in the future. With that, it sounds like Changmin will have even more reasons to admire Yenny's unending talent, on top of her beauty. With such a fun demeanor and a positive attitude towards the musical, it definitely looks like 2013's Three Musketeers production in Seoul has a perfect match for Constance and D'Artagnan.

"Three Musketeers" will open in Seoul on February 20th and will run through mid-April.

Source: Play DB Korea

M/s : kenvilthomas@kpopupdates.com

Wonder Girls’ Hyerim to host ‘Pops in Seoul’

Wonder Girls member Hyerim is to become the new host of Arirang TV’s K-pop program ‘Pops in Seoul’.Hyerim will be replacing the show’s current MC Peniel Shin of BTOB and will start as the official new host on August 26

Wonder Girls member Hyerim is to become the new host of Arirang TV’s K-pop program ‘Pops in Seoul’.

Hyerim will be replacing the show’s current MC Peniel Shin of BTOB and will start as the official new host on August 26. The show’s renewal will also include a new section called “Born to Rock the MIC” which will look back into the beginnings and history of K-pop artists.

With Hyerim as the new host, she will introduce K-pop songs chosen by herself and sing live with band, while girl group Skarf’s member Tasha will be in charge of introducing the Kpop choreography.

Kim Hyun Joong’s ‘Round 3’ tops Oricon’s imported album chart
Kim Hyun Joong’s new album scored another victory in Japan.According to Key East Entertainment, Kim Hyun Joong’s third mini album ‘Round 3’, which was released on July 22, topped the Oricon’s imported album chart for the 3rd week of August, beating out EXO, SHINee and f(x).The album also gained much attention in more countries around the world, ranking high in iTunes albums charts in South America and other parts of Asia including Philippines, Malaysia, Hong Kong, Taiwan and Thailand...

EXO, Better Sales than Super Junior, SHINee, and Girls’ Generation?
EXO, XOXO EXO, Better Sales than Super Junior, SHINee, and Girls’ Generation? Super rookie group EXO is doing better in sales than more experienced senior groups. EXO's first repackaged album XOXO was released on August 5, and is holding the number 1 spot on Hanteo Chart , YES24, and Aladdin Music Sales Charts for 2 weeks in a row now. The first album XOXO released in early June in both Korean and Chinese versions, and has made a whopping 500,000 sales, This repackaged album is no different...

Big Bang’s T.O.P in discussion for new film ‘Tazza 2’
Big Bang member T.O.P is positively looking into a new film.On August 21, a production representative revealed that T.O.P is currently in discussion to take on the lead role in the upcoming film ‘Tazza 2’, the sequel to the popular 2006 film ‘Tazza: The High Rollers’.T.O.P is reviewing the casting offer for the lead role of Hahm Dae Gil, the nephew of Goni who is the main character in the first installation and who also becomes a gambler in Seoul. The film will be directed by Kang Hyung Chul of ‘Scandal Makers’ and ‘Sunny’...

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Super Junior’s Kangin and Henry, Fall Photo Shoot ‘Charming Gentlemen’

kangin, henry, super junior kangin henry arena photo shoot kangin henry arena photo shoot Group Super Junior's members Kangin and Henry turned into charming gentlemen of fall

kangin, henry, super junior

kangin henry arena photo shoot kangin henry arena photo shoot

Group Super Junior’s members Kangin and Henry turned into charming gentlemen of fall.

For the September edition of the fashion magazine Arena Homme+, Kangin and Henry’s photo shoot and interview were revealed.

In the photo shoot, Kangin and Henry sat on a stool, portraying the image of a lonely gentleman in fall. This was a different image from what they showed on stage as Super Junior.

Kangin, who turned 30 this year, said, “I thought I would be an adult by the time I reached age 30 but I still feel like a young 20-year-old. But I do tend to speak and act a bit more carefully.”

Henry said, “When I first started working in Korea, I wasn’t good at Korean and I wasn’t used to the culture either so it was very hard. But I think the hardship that I face right now is nothing compared to others.”

Photo Credit: Arena

Kim Hyun Joong’s ‘Round 3’ tops Oricon’s imported album chart
Kim Hyun Joong’s new album scored another victory in Japan.According to Key East Entertainment, Kim Hyun Joong’s third mini album ‘Round 3’, which was released on July 22, topped the Oricon’s imported album chart for the 3rd week of August, beating out EXO, SHINee and f(x).The album also gained much attention in more countries around the world, ranking high in iTunes albums charts in South America and other parts of Asia including Philippines, Malaysia, Hong Kong, Taiwan and Thailand...

Wonder Girls’ Hyerim to host ‘Pops in Seoul’
Wonder Girls member Hyerim is to become the new host of Arirang TV’s K-pop program ‘Pops in Seoul’.Hyerim will be replacing the show’s current MC Peniel Shin of BTOB and will start as the official new host on August 26. The show’s renewal will also include a new section called “Born to Rock the MIC” which will look back into the beginnings and history of K-pop artists.With Hyerim as the new host, she will introduce K-pop songs chosen by herself and sing live with band, while girl group Skarf’s member Tasha will be in charge of introducing the Kpop choreography...

EXO, Better Sales than Super Junior, SHINee, and Girls’ Generation?
EXO, XOXO EXO, Better Sales than Super Junior, SHINee, and Girls’ Generation? Super rookie group EXO is doing better in sales than more experienced senior groups. EXO's first repackaged album XOXO was released on August 5, and is holding the number 1 spot on Hanteo Chart , YES24, and Aladdin Music Sales Charts for 2 weeks in a row now. The first album XOXO released in early June in both Korean and Chinese versions, and has made a whopping 500,000 sales, This repackaged album is no different...

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K-Pop Group History’s Comeback Concept, “Sexy and Cute”

History K-Pop Group History’s Comeback Concept “Sexy and Cute” Five-member group History is transforming from gentle to sexy and cute

History

K-Pop Group History’s Comeback Concept “Sexy and Cute”

Five-member group History is transforming from gentle to sexy and cute.

On August 19, K-pop group held their first debut mini album showcase for Just Now at the Lotte Card Art Center in Seoul, and have resumed their comeback activities.

Regarding their comeback, History said, “At our debut, we had the image of gentle song and dance, but this time we have transformed into sexy and cute men.” They even revealed that they want to follow in the footsteps of the cute girl group “Crayon Pop.”

History’s new title song “Tell Me Love” was co-composed by V.O.S member Cho Hyun Joon and Lim Kwang Wook, who helped produce SHINee and EXO’s albums. Hip hop group Eluphant’s Kebee also participated in the song lyric writing. “Tell Me Love” has an addicting melody, a chic and trendy sound, and sensuous song lyrics.

History revealed that their goal for this year is to receive the rookie of the year award, and also said, “We want to have our own solo concert, too. We want to become a group that has a long music career like Shinhwa.”

Besides “Tell Me Love,” the new mini album also features “Blind,” which is about the blindness that comes with deep love and “Why Not,” which is about the moment when you share your first kiss with the person you love, and features a total of 4 songs.

Just Now was released on August 20 via Melon, Mnet.com, Bugs, Soribada, and Ole Music online music sites.

Yang Hyun Suk reveals his expectations for upcoming male idol group
YG Entertainment CEO Yang Hyun Suk attended the showcase premiere for the new survival program, ‘WHO IS NEXT: WIN’ at the Conrad Hotel Grand Ballroom in Seoul on August 20 and talked about future plans regarding the debut of a new group.On his expectations for the new idol group, Yang Hyun Suk stated, “YG has changed a lot since Big Bang’s debut eight years ago. Now the new group who will debut will carry on the responsibility of YG Entertainment for the next 8 years.”Yang Hyun Suk also revealed that he dreams of even bigger things for Winner, as he mentioned that the survival program will air not only in Korea but in many other countries as well...

Kara's "Runaway" MV Gives Preview of the Group's Upcoming Drama "Secret Love"
It’s almost here! Girl group Kara will be returning to Korea’s music stage September 2 with their fourth full-length album, but today, they have unveiled a track from their upcoming album, titled “Runaway.” “Runaway” is composed by Shim Eun Ji, who works under JYP Entertainment. She has composed songs for Wonder Girls, 2AM, 2PM, and 15&, as well as non-JYP artists like f(x) and Infinite. Her specialty is in medium- tempo or ballad tracks, and she is bringing her expertise to Kara’s new album, allowing the girls to showcase their musical maturity...

YG Entertainment CEO Yang Hyun Suk Explains Why He Ditched His Original Idea Of Forming A Girl Group On 'WIN: Who Is Next'
YG Entertainment Team A of "WIN: Who Is Next." When the premiere episode of "WIN: Who Is Next," YG Entertainment founder and CEO Yang Hyun Suk's new reality show about forming a boy band, premieres on the South Korean music network Mnet on Friday, viewers may not know it almost had one very big difference. That boy band fans will be voting on was almost a girl group. At a media event at the Conrad Hotel Grand Ballroom in Seoul on Tuesday for "WIN: Who Is Next," Yang explained that despite his experience in making boy band Big Bang superstars, he initially wanted to do something different for the show...

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Sunmi writes handwritten letter for the fans

Sunmi wrote a heartfelt message for the fans who have waited for her music comeback.On August 21, the former Wonder Girls member uploaded a handwritten letter on Wonder Girls’ official website greeting, “Hello, this is Sunmi

Sunmi wrote a heartfelt message for the fans who have waited for her music comeback.

On August 21, the former Wonder Girls member uploaded a handwritten letter on Wonder Girls’ official website greeting, “Hello, this is Sunmi. Have you all been well? I wanted to say thanks to my fans who have been waiting for me for last 3 years and 7 months.”

She went on, “I’m sure you were surprised by the sudden news of my debut. Tomorrow is my first broadcast. My heart keeps bouncing. There are a lot of things I want to show and a lot of stories I want to share, but I will just take a slow start. I will prove that the past 3 years and 7 months have not gone to waste.”

Sunmi will be having her first solo debut performance on ‘M! Countdown’ on August 22.

Park Shi Hoo Writes Deep and Heartfelt Letter to Fans
On July 29, Park Shi Hoo wrote a heartfelt letter to his fans, revealing his deep thoughts and feelings about his overall situation. He posted this letter on his fan cafe with the title, “2AM In America…” The letter reads, “My pen feels heavy for trying to put all my complicated feelings for all this time into a single letter. It’s been over ten minutes since I have gripped this pen. How can I express this feeling of not being able to write a single word and hesitating?” “First, I want to sincerely apologize for causing you all to worry...

Kim Jong Hak's Suicide Note Tirade To Prosecutor In 'Faith' Lawsuit Revealed: 'Ghosts Lament Your Words...I Have Been Framed' Director Writes
Kim Jong Hak, Faith, suicide An official from South Korea's Bundang Police Agency confirmed Thursday that the four-page suicide note left behind by Kim Jong Hak contained an angry rant about the prosecutor in a lawsuit filed against the director. An official from South Korea's Bundang Police Agency confirmed Thursday that the four-page suicide note left behind by Kim Jong Hak before he ended his life earlier this week contained an angry rant about the prosecutor in a lawsuit filed against the director by the cast and crew of the TV show "Faith...

Kang Seung Yoon to Release Two More Title Songs, G-Dragon Writes Lyrics
Yang Hyun Suk (YG) has once again updated YG Entertainment‘s blog, yg-life.com, with updates and newsbites about their newest solo artist, Kang Seung Yoon. In his post, YG announces that Kang Seung Yoon will be performing “Wild and Young” on television, starting August 4 on SBS’ ”Inkigayo.” It is unsure, however, on what other t.v. apppearances Kang Seung Yoon will be able to make since he will be filming for YG Entertainment’s surivial program, “WIN...

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Henry Releases “1-4-3 (I Love You)” MV Featuring Amber of f(x)

After releasing his solo debut mini album in June and promoting “Trap,” Henry is set to begin promotions of his followup track “1-4-3 (I Love You)

After releasing his solo debut mini album in June and promoting “Trap,” Henry is set to begin promotions of his followup track “1-4-3 (I Love You).” Henry is releasing the song as a single.

While the song was previously released in his mini album, this new version will featuring f(x)‘s Amber.

“1-4-3 (I Love You)” is an electro-pop song that is produced by Henry and NoizeBank. The song is about a man with poor Korean skills confessing his feelings for a woman and the culture difference that is felt between the two.

The single will be released this week on August 23 on various music portals.

Henry releases MV for “1-4-3(I Love You)” ft. Amber
After unveiling an acoustic version of the song featuring EXO’s Chanyeol, Super Junior-M’s Henry has now unveiled the music video for his self-written track, “1-4-3(I Love You)”.“1-4-3(I Love You)” is included in Henry’s debut mini-album ‘Trap’, but will be released as a digital single on August 23. The song is an electronic pop number composed and written by Henry and his composer team NoizeBank, and features labelmate f(x)’s Amber.Check out the MV below:...

Sunmi, formerly of the Wonder Girls, releases the full music video of her solo debut single, 24 hours
On August 20, former Wonder Girls member Sunmi released the full music video of her solo debut single, “24 Hours,” on her official website. The song is a dance number about a woman’s feelings as she opens her eyes to a sensual love with a man. Because Sunmi is the second female solo artist from JYP after Park Ji Youn, she received full support from the main producer at JYP, who is the boss of her agency. The song “24 Hours” has an intense beat and impressive sound...

Medical Top Team releases still cuts of SHINees Minho
A handsome doctor has appeared! SHINee’s Minho shows his flaming charisma as a doctor in the still cuts for the upcoming drama Medical Top Team. Through the filming crew, Choi Minho expressed, “I was very nervous on the first day of filming, so it is regretful that I didn’t do as well as how I had prepared for it. But in future I will work harder as an actor. Together with seniors, the director and staff, I will do my best to make it a good production...

Tags : debut, F(x), Korean, Omancelebrities with bow legs, roy kim superstar k, watch two wives korean drama, what does gangnum style mean, love 911, super junior kangin scandal, snsd power flower, kim tae hee and song seung hun dating, b2st midnight sun, Park min young latest news 2012