[VOD / Photo & News] Winners from the ’2011 MBC Drama Awards’.

[VOD / Photo & News] Winners from the ’2011 MBC Drama Awards’.
Cr. - allkpop

The top stars gathered for the 2011 MBC Drama Awards, but the greatest honor went to none other than actor Cha Seung Won and actress Gong Hyo Jin for their roles in ‘The Greatest Love‘.

Actor Cha Seung Won who was awarded as the Best Mini-Series Male Actor remarked, “I would like to thank my my wife, my son, and my daughter. I would also like to thank actress Gong Hyo Jin and Yoon Kye Sang.” Meanwhile, his co-star Gong Hyo Jin was also awarded as the Best Mini-Series Female Actor stated, “I always felt that moments like these are really embarrassing and now that it’s here, I feel a bit awkward. I want to thank my director who I complained to a lot, and I want to tell him that I am sorry. I had some good luck this year, so I thought that I would perhaps win this award.”

Additionally, JYJ’s Park Yoochun, B2ST’s Kikwang, and T-ara’s Hyomin were awarded with the Rookie awards! Check out the list of winners below!




List of Winners ’2011 MBC Drama Awards’ :

Top Drama (Daesang): The Greatest Love
Mini-Series Best Female Actress: Gong Hyo Jin




Mini-Series Best Male Actor: Cha Seung Won




Drama Best Male/Female Award: Kim Suk Hoon, Kim Hyun Joo, Shin Aera




Mini-Series Excellence Award: Kim Jae Won, Hwang Jung Eum, Lee Bo Young



Drama Excellence Award: Lee Yuri, Ji Hyun Woo



Golden Popularity Award: Bae Jong Ock, Jung Bo Suk



Rookie Award / Best Newcomers (Mini-Series): Park Yoochun, Lee Kikwang, Seo Hyun Jin, Hyomin



Rookie Award / Best Newcomers (Drama): Lee Ha Ni, Park Yoon Jae



Child Actor Award: Yang Han Yul, Kim Yubin



PD Award: Kim Jung Tae, Song Ji Hyo, Choi Jong Hwan
Best Writer Award: Hong Jung Eun, Hong Mi Ran, Bae Yoomi (‘Shiny Shiny Shining’)
Achievement Award: Kang Bu Ja
Special Award: Kim Yong Ae, Yoon Tae Young



Popularity Award: Kim Jae Won, Gong Hyo Jin



Best Couple Award: Cha Seung Won & Gong Hyo Jin (‘The Greatest Love’)

[News] Blue predicts the winners of the 2011 MBC & SBS Drama Awards.

[News] Blue predicts the winners of the 2011 MBC & SBS Drama Awards.
Cr. - http://belectricground.com/

The 2010 FIFA World Cup had Paul the Octopus. (May he rest in peace). Well, there’s no need to be jealous because Korean drama fans have Blue… umm, the Human… ready to predict the winners of the upcoming 2011 MBC Drama Awards and 2011 SBS Drama Awards. (For the predicted winners of the KBS Drama Awards, go here.)

And I will one up the octopus by selecting the winners even before the official nominees are made public! Of course, this is personally not my preference, but after checking the news daily to see whether the nominees have been announced, I finally gave up on the wait, especially with the MBC Awards to be held tomorrow and the SBS Awards the day after.

But first, some changes.

Although all three networks’ awards are often translated as Drama Awards both on this blog and many others, in fact, the actual Korean titles for them have always been Acting Awards (연기대상). Which makes sense since the awards are given out to the actors and actresses. Well, that is, until now. MBC has announced a name change and its awards ceremony will no longer be called MBC Acting Awards. Starting this year, it will be officially called MBC Drama Awards.

What does this mean? In the past, the Daesang (also known as the Grand Prize) was awarded to an individual actor. That will no longer be the case. Instead, the Daesang will be awarded to any one of the MBC dramas that aired during the calendar year. (Sorry, Mr. Cha Seung Won!) All other awards, including the Excellence Awards and the Newcomer Awards, will be given to the individual actors and actresses. (Source: Star News)

Okay, now with that out of the way, here are my predictions. (Remember, these are only my guesses… although I must say, I think they’re pretty good!)



MBC Drama Awards :

MBC has a history of having multiple winners. I’m going to assume that won’t change this year.

Daesang/Grand Prize: Hmm, not too different from last year, MBC did not have a very successful 2011. I think the serious contenders for the Daesang will be Best Love, Can You Hear My Heart, Indomitable Daughters-in-Law, Royal Family, and Twinkle Twinkle. And, I predict that Best Love will take the Grand Prize.

Top Excellence Award, Actor: Cha Seung Won (Best Love) – Until MBC changed its system this year, Cha Seung Won was the indisputable favorite to win the Daesang. Mr. Cha must probably feel some bitterness (and rightfully so, because he’s been robbed), and for that, I think he should be the sole winner of the Top Excellence Award. If MBC decides to have a second winner, though, it will be Kim Suk Hoon (Twinkle Twinkle).

Top Excellence Award, Actress: I’m so positive about this it’s not even funny. Yeom Jung Ah (Royal Family) and Kim Hyun Joo (Twinkle Twinkle) will both win. Mark my words!

Newcomer Award, Actor: Park Yoon Jae (Indomitable Daughters-in-Law) – Thanks to the pretty high TV ratings of his drama, I’m pretty sure he’s locked to get this award. If there’s a second winner, it will be Micky Yoochun (Miss Ripley).
Newcomer Award, Actress: Hmm, who are the relatively newish actresses this year? Maybe Yoo In Na (Best Love) and Hwang Jung Eum (Can You Hear My Heart).

Child Actor Award: Yang Han Yeol (Best Love) and Kim Yoo Bin (Hooray for Love)

Popularity Award: Cha Seung Won (Best Love) and Gong Hyo Jin (Best Love)

Best Couple Award: Cha Seung Won and Gong Hyo Jin (Best Love)

Okay, here are the remaining categories:

Excellence Awards
Golden Acting Award (Veteran Actor)
Golden Acting Award (Supporting Role)
Golden Acting Award (Serial Drama)
PD Award

I’m not sure how MBC will decide to distribute the awards, but here are my other predicted winners:

Lee Yuri (Twinkle Twinkle)
Go Doo Shim (Twinkle Twinkle)
Shin Ae Ra (Indomitable Daughters-in-Law)
Kim Young Ae (Royal Family)
Hwang Jung Eum (Can You Hear My Heart)
Kim Jae Won (Can You Hear My Heart)
Yoon Kye Sang (Best Love)



SBS Drama Awards :

Unlike MBC, SBS had a very successful year. SBS has a tendency to come up with many categories in order to max out its awards to as many people as possible. But even for the “ever-so-generous” SBS, this year will be particularly tough.

Daesang/Grand Prize: Han Suk Kyu (Tree With Deep Roots)

Top Excellence Awards:
Drama Special, Actor: Park Shin Yang (Sign) & Jang Hyuk (Tree With Deep Roots)
Drama Special, Actress: Lee Yo Won (49 Days)
Special Production, Actor: Kim Rae Won (Thousand Day Promise)
Special Production, Actress: Soo Ae (Thousand Day Promise)
Weekend/Daily Drama, Actor: Lee Dong Wook (Scent of a Woman)
Weekend/Daily Drama, Actress: Kim Sun Ah (Scent of a Woman)

Excellence Awards:
Drama Special, Actor: Lee Min Ho (City Hunter)… and maybe Ji Sung (Protect the Boss). But SBS may opt to give either one of them the Producers Award instead.
Drama Special, Actress: Choi Kang Hee (Protect the Boss)
Special Production, Actor: Choi Min Soo and/or Jeon Gwang Ryul (Warrior Baek Dong-soo)
Special Production, Actress: Kim Hee Ae and/or Lee Min Jung (Midas)
Weekend/Daily Drama, Actor: Some cast member from Live in Style… either Son Hyun Joo or Oh Dae Gyu
Weekend/Daily Drama, Actress: Lee So Yeon (My Love By My Side)

Supporting Roles:
Drama Special, Supporting Actor: Yoon Jae Moon (Tree With Deep Roots)
Drama Special, Supporting Actress: Hmm, not many serious contenders here. Maybe Eom Ji Won (Sign)?
Special Production, Supporting Actor: Choi Min Soo and/or Jeon Gwang Ryul (Warrior Baek Dong-soo). But if they win the Excellence Award instead (above), then my vote goes to Kim Min Jong for his role in Athena: Goddess of War.
Special Production, Supporting Actress: Lee Mi Sook (Thousand Day Promise)
Weekend/Daily Drama, Supporting Actor: ?
Weekend/Daily Drama, Supporting Actress: Lee Hwi Hyang (My Love By My Side)

Netizen Popularity Award: Lee Min Ho (City Hunter) & Soo Ae (Thousand Day Promise)
Best Couple: Lee Min Ho & Park Min Young (City Hunter), Lee Dong Wook & Kim Sun Ah (Scent of a Woman)
Producers Award: Between Lee Min Ho and Ji Sung, whoever didn’t win the Excellence Award (above). Less likely, but possibly Jo Hyun Jae (49 Days). Kim Ah Joong (Sign) will likely bag it in the actress category.

Top 10 Stars: Lee Yo Won (49 Days), Lee Min Ho (City Hunter), Kim Sun Ah (Scent of a Woman), Lee Dong Wook (Scent of a Woman), Park Shin Yang (Sign), Kim Rae Won (Thousand Day Promise), Soo Ae (Thousand Day Promise), Han Suk Kyu (Tree With Deep Roots), Jang Hyuk (Midas/Tree With Deep Roots) + one more (possibly Choi Kang Hee)

New Star Awards: Han Hye Rin (New Gisaeng Story), Im Soo Hyang (New Gisaeng Story), Jaejoong (Protect the Boss), Ji Chang Wook (Warrior Baek Dong-soo), Lee Jae Yoon (My Love By My Side), Shin Se Kyung (Tree With Deep Roots), Sung Hoon (New Gisaeng Story), Yoo Seung Ho (Warrior Baek Dong-soo)
Final Thoughts

Do you agree? Disagree?

These awards shows are often criticized for merely being a popularity contest. One thing is for sure. They’re definitely not based on acting talents alone. But honestly, if they were, the same people would win the awards year after year. Is there any doubt that the older veteran actors like Go Doo Shim, Kim Hae Sook, and Kim Young Ae would crush their younger peers, even those who are often lauded for being pretty decent actors?

There are definitely those who may “deserve” the awards more, but are constantly snubbed because of lack of star power or lower drama ratings. An actor needs some combination of all three (at least some degree of acting displayed… enough not to be too criticized, certain degree of star power, and decently successful drama) to bag the Daesang. Ideally, the winner would have all three qualities, whether or not the drama itself was critically acclaimed. It’s easier said than done.

But if the winners get played out as I predict, I must say this wouldn’t be a bad awards year at all.

The MBC Drama Awards will be held on Friday, December 30 at 9:55 P.M., hosted by Jung Joon Ho (Queen of Reversals) and Lee Honey (Indomitable Daughters-in-Law). The SBS Drama Awards will be held the day after on New Year’s Eve, hosted by Protect the Boss’s two leads, Ji Sung and Choi Kang Hee.

[VOD & News] Son Ye Jin's New Year's Greeting for 2012.

[VOD & News] Son Ye Jin's New Year's Greeting for 2012.
Cr. - soompi

Son Ye Jin recorded a special New Year’s message for fans.

Son Ye Jin had posted her new year’s greeting video clip through her Me2Day account. In the video she greeted her fans saying, “Hello. This is Son Ye Jin. There is not much left of the year, so be sure to make lots of memories.”

Son Ye Jin’s beauty is refreshing and pure as her eyes brightly smile while she speaks during the video. Her hair has an added romantic flair to it in the way she wears it.

Netizens couldn’t help but positively comment saying: “You have the most natural smiling eyes, you are the best in the world. Love you!” “Unnie, I wish you much luck in the new year,” and “You are a sweet goddess.”

Feel free to watch and listen to Son Ye Jin’s New Year’s message below.

[News] Kim Bum Charms "Padam Padam" Viewers.

[News] Kim Bum Charms "Padam Padam" Viewers.
Cr. - soompi

Kim Bum is receiving a lot of love for his portrayal of a guardian angel in “Padam Padam.” The young actor, who rose to fame after playing one of the Korean F4 in “Boys Over Flowers” is earning attention and praise for endowing a supernatural character with endearing humanity.

In “Padam Padam,” Kim Bum plays Lee Kook Soo, the guardian angel of Yang Kang Chil (Jung Woo Sung), who has had a hard life after being unjustly imprisoned for a crime he did not commit. As Kang Chil’s guardian angel, Kook Soo is charged with the responsibility to keep him in line towards the fulfillment of his fate.

Kim Bum as Kook Soo cries, but at times appears cute and wacky, with a four-dimensional character. This showcases Kim Bum’s natural charms and his acting ability.

“I fell in love with Kook Soo’s unique character and it is because of Kim Bum’s stand-out natural acting,” “Kook Soo is an indispensable presence to ‘Padam Padam,’ making it fun to watch,” “I’ve discovered a new side to Kim Bum” are among the comments from the drama’s viewers.

Along with Kim Bum and Jung Woo Sung, “Padam Padam” stars Han Ji Min as the love interest of Kang Chil, the veterinarian Jina.

“Padam Padam” airs on jTBC, Monday and Tuesday evenings.

[News] Park Min Young and Her Thoughts About Ending "Glorious Jane".

[News] Park Min Young and Her Thoughts About Ending "Glorious Jane".
Cr. - soompi

On December 29, KBS 2TV's "Glorious Jane" came to an end with the highest viewer ratings ever recorded in its run. Actress Park Min Young celebrated the drama's end by saying farewell to her character, Yoon Jae In, in a recent interview.

"I'm glad that we were able to complete filming on a safe note. To act out Jae In's character, I concentrated on a lot of the physical aspects of what made her so unique. As she slowly began to discover her identity as an heiress, she had to attend more and more public events. My most memorable scene is of her transformation wearing a beautiful dress," Park Min Young began.

She continued, "What I earned from this drama is a new family. I was able to film for the drama in a family-like environment with my seniors. Grandma Jung Hye Seon, mother Choi Myung Gil, and teacher Son Chang Min all loved me and treated me like their own family. I was able to learn a lot from their acting, so it was a great opportunity."

Park Min Young also made sure to thank her staff members, saying, "Not only me, but everyone, including the director, the writer, and the staff all worked so hard. Maybe it's because the drama ended right at the end of the year, but I feel like everything's finally over now. Thank you so much for loving 'Glorious Jane' all this while."

As a concluding message, she said, "After saying farewell to Jae In, I plan to replenish my energy with some winter hibernation. I'll be coming back with a better image next year so please don't forget me until then."

[News] After School Uee's "Ojakgyo Brothers" Is Extended for Eight Episodes.

[News] After School Uee's "Ojakgyo Brothers" Is Extended for Eight Episodes.
Cr. - soompi

After School Uee’s drama “Ojakgyo Brothers” has just announced an extension. Reports say the top-rating weekend drama has added eight more episodes to wrap and resolve the storylines. Its 30% audience share ratings is also cited as a factor in its extension.



“Ojakgyo Brothers” is the story of four sons who live together on a farm. Uee plays Baek Ja Eun, a haughty, vain and ill-tempered woman, on whom the third son, Hwang Tae Hee (Joo Won) falls in love with. The drama has started airing on KBS2 in August and was originally planned for 50 episodes. Throughout its run, it has steadily increased viewership, leading to a strong showing in the ratings against its counterparts on the Saturday-Sunday timeslot.

The extension was at first planned for six episodes, but upon the agreement of cast and crew, is finally decided at eight episodes. This will bring the series finale to air on February 19.

[News] Kim Jae Won's First Public Appearance Will Be the 2011 MBC Drama Awards.

[News] Kim Jae Won's First Public Appearance Will Be the 2011 MBC Drama Awards.
Cr. - soompi

Fans of Kim Jae Won may be able to see the actor again very soon. Reports say he is hoping to attend the 2011 MBC Drama Awards on the evening of December 30. It is his first public appearance since a dislocated shoulder in October forced him to take time off for recovery.

Kim Jae Won dislocated his shoulder on the first day of shooting for the drama “Me Too, Flower.” His injury required surgery and complete rest, which prompted him to withdraw from the production. He had focused his energies on recovery all this time. Reports were out that his rehabilitation is going well, thanks to the support of his family, friends and fans.

Although he is well enough to attend public functions like weddings and movie premieres of his close associates, the 2011 MBC Drama Awards will be his first public outing.

“Kim Jae Won wants to show his appreciation for the support to ‘Me Too, Flower’ although he wasn’t able to continue working in it,” his management said in a statement. “He is not yet fully recovered but he is very positive, thanks to the support of fans.”

[News] Song Joong Ki & Son Ye Jin picked as the #1 celebrities to watch a New Year’s sunrise with...

[News] Song Joong Ki & Son Ye Jin picked as the #1 celebrities to watch a New Year’s sunrise with...
Cr. - allkpop

Recently, Eduwill conducted a survey for their cultural performance event. 806 participants answered the following question, “Which celebrity do you want to watch the New Year’s sunrise with?”

The top winners in the male and female category were actor Song Joong Ki and actress Son Ye Jin.

According to Eduwill, Song Joong Ki received 33.4%(269 votes) of the total votes while second place went to So Ji Sub who received 21.3%(172 votes). Hyun Bin(20.2%), Gong Yoo(16.7%), and Yoo Ah In(8.4%) grabbed 3rd, 4th, and 5th respectively.

Meanwhile under the female category, Son Ye Jin took first place with 32.2%(259 votes). Second place went to Kim Tae Hee(23.8%), 3rd to Shin Min Ah(20.2%), 4th to Shin Se Kyung(19%), and finally Han Ye Seul grabbed the 5th spot with 4.8%.

On the other hand, ‘Jeong Dong Jin’ beach was chosen as the hottest spot to watch the sun rise on New Year’s Day.

[News] Lee Min Ho to Make Chinese Debut Soon?

[News] Lee Min Ho to Make Chinese Debut Soon?
Cr. - soompi

Lee Min Ho’s recent meeting with Andy Lau, a popular singer, actor, and film producer in Hong Kong, is garnering a lot of attention from both the press and netizens. Through dramas like “Boys Over Flowers” and “City Hunter,” Lee Min Ho has become a household name in China and elsewhere. Recently, he met with thousands of his Chinese fans during his “2011 Asia Tour Fan Meeting” in Shanghai and Beijing. Therefore, it doesn’t come as a surprise to hear that Lee Min Ho has been receiving several love calls from Chinese producers. Out of the several projects he’s been offered, one stands out because it stars the legendary Andy Lau.

A source stated, “One of the projects sent to Lee Min Ho for consideration stars Andy Lau. If Lee Min Ho accepts, this will be a global project, something that will go beyond Asia.” He added, “Lee Min Ho’s popularity in China is unimaginable. His fan base is almost as large as some of the most popular idol stars. As a result, the competition to cast Lee Min Ho in their projects is extremely fierce.

A representative of StarHaus Entertainment stated, “It’s true that we've been receiving countless offers from China. However, we have not made a final decision on any project. We will make our decision after carefully considering each offer.”

Lee Min Ho has received various offers from Chinese producers – ranging from fantasy martial arts to investigative action-filled projects. Some of these works include other famous Chinese actors, besides Andy Lau, as well. Back in July, Hong Kong/American film producer Terence Chang personally visited the set of “City Hunter” to meet with Lee Min Ho. Almost half a year has passed since “City Hunter” ended, but Lee Min Ho’s popularity and recognition only continues to soar.

[News] Jang Keun Suk Has Donated $30,000 in a Month, "Giving Back".

[News] Jang Keun Suk Has Donated $30,000 in a Month, "Giving Back".
Cr. - soompi

Jang Keun Suk seems to have a heart as big as his popularity, as he just keeps giving and giving!

The star's been in the media quite often lately for his charitable deeds. Recently, he donated $1.2 million to his alma mater, Hanyang University, and still felt that he had more to give, as he has just been reported to have donated another $30,000!

Officials of his agency disclosed on December 29, "What we know is that he donated $10,000 to an orphanage in Kangnam, $10,000 to world vision, and $10,000 to an event that gives out heating briquettes. In total, he donated $30,000 to spread his love."

The officials continued, "Jang Keun Suk is always thankful for his fans' love. He tries to give back as much as he receives, and that's why he started donating as a medium for that. He's been donating and volunteering for quite a while before this. For obvious reasons, he doesn't like his deeds being shared with the media and tries very hard to keep it hidden."

"These donations won't stop with the year-end. He'll be continuing his efforts like he has been for the past several years," they concluded.

[Interview] Jang Keun Suk interview with 'MORE' Magazine Febuary 2012.

[Interview] Jang Keun Suk interview with 'MORE' Magazine Febuary 2012.
English translation - tenshi_akuma


If I have a girlfriend, I will tell her, “I love you” everyday. I don’t want to waste a single minute of our precious time.

“When I first read the script of ‘You’re My Pet (YMP)’, I realized In Ho and I are so alike. Both are cheerful and mischievous. We have own dream. I didn’t find any difficulties while acting him,” JKS said. JKS played Kang In Ho, a young prospective dancer, came to a career woman (a career woman, Ji Eun)’s house and became her pet “Momo” afterward. He enjoyed behaving like a pet by taking advantage of the position. For example, Momo asked her to shampoo him as his master’s obligation. Momo flung his arms around her because he was hungry.

JKS also shows us his innocent and cute behaviors. For example, he suddenly began to sing songs (such as ‘Anatani-Aitakute (Missing You)’ by Seiko Matsuda and ‘Bye Bye Bye’ by JKS) and dance. During the break of shooting, he was eating an orange and then when he caught the eye of our staff, he smiled and gave him half of the orange, saying “Do you wanna eat it?” His such mischievous nature breaks the ice and he naturally makes us smile. It is really like In ho.

“Needless to say, it is necessary for men to grow up and be mature. But still I wish to remain with an innocent heart as a child throughout my life. I just want to live my life happily, not to live such as telling lies to myself because of worrying too much about what others think of me. I don’t make myself too busy working to enjoy my own life. If it came real, life would suck… I want to say what I want to say. I want to do what I want to do. If so, I’m sure I will be satisfied with my life fully and I live my life with smile every moment. I really want to enjoy my life from the bottom of my heart.”



What is his view on love?

“Ah, I can’t answer this question because I’ve never had a girlfriend before… Do you think I’m telling a lie…? Lol. Anyway, I wonder if there are any couples who play fighting like In ho and Ji Eun. Lol. But I feel it must be interesting whatever I do with my loved one. As for me, I don’t care how older or younger she is when I love her. The most important thing is sincerity to her. And my taste is a gentle and feminine woman whom I get the urge to protect without thinking. I like a stylish woman, too. As I was reading your magazine, I found that MORE’s fashion is my taste. If I’m in love, I will first tell her my love. Because I am a man.”

In this way he declared his view on love. When we asked him what his favorite word is, he replied plainly, “…’I love you’ is my favorite words. If I have a girlfriend, I will tell her, ‘I love you’ everyday. I don’t want to waste a single minute of our precious time.”


Behind the scene of YMP, we still remain our relationship as the master and the pet.

Kim Ha-neul has a dignified elegance with impressive eyes. She is also exactly Ji Eun, a career woman who has both beauty and intelligence. “I think we are alike. We have some similarities such as we are in 30s, have a job, single and no boyfriend. We both look strong but, in fact, we are not so strong, rather sensitive. That’s why I really understand why Ji Eun needs Momo. I’d be happy if I have someone who play with me like a little child and understand me without words.” She added that she had enjoyed shooting every day while looking back on those days.

“We called each other ‘the master’ and ‘Momo’ even behind the shooting place. JKS is real Momo. He is mischievous and everyone around him smiles. One day when I was sick, he bought a goody to encourage me and said, ‘Dear master!’ Afterward, I recovered soon. Lol. Even now Momo sometimes calls me, ‘What are you doing, my master?’ He is cute, isn’t he? On the other hand, his attitude to work is so adorable as a man, an actor. He lives his life with clear vision. I respect him even if he is younger than I.”

[News] Park Gun-il upcoming in KBS’s Drama Special 'Amore Mio' on New Year.

[News] Park Gun-il upcoming in KBS’s Drama Special 'Amore Mio' on New Year.
Cr. - dramabeans

KBS’s Drama Special anthology series, called Amore Mio and starring Park Gun-il. He’s an idol — member of the boy band Supernova — but I’m more familiar with him as the mysteriously creepy high school student he played in Hon. He’s also got a few other dramas to his credit, including this year’s sageuk King Geunchogo.

In the drama, Park Gun-il plays the selfish and timid fiancee to Mirae, played by CSJH’s Dana, whose father will be played by Jung Woong-in (Coffee House, SNL Korea). With her wedding approaching, Mirae stumbles across a clue pointing to father’s unbelievable hidden past, and she begins to pursue the lead in search of answers to the mystery.



Although the series is more about the heroine than Gun-il’s character, apparently his involvement in the drama has led to rather massive interest from his Japanese fanbase in particular. A source from KBS Media explained being surprised at the number of inquiries and requests from Japan regarding overseas licensing, considering that Drama Specials tend to be small affairs. Never underestimate the power of idol love.

Expect Amore Mio to have a strong melo bent; its writer, Lee Sun-hee, has churned out some real tearjerkers like Thorn Birds and Father’s House. In Father’s House (another Drama Special mini-drama), she explored the relationship between a father (Choi Min-soo) and his son (Kim Soo-hyun) when Dad gets out of prison to find that a one-night stand has saddled his family with their baby, and the two develop a tight bond as the son grows up. In Amore Mio, she’ll be depicting father-daughter love as Mirae finds out more about her father’s past and why she’s never had a mother. Ack, daddy-daughter stories never fail to reduce me to a sobbing mess. Prepare the tissues.

Directing is PD Kim Young-jo of King Geunchogo and Cinderella’s Sister. Amore Mio airs its first episode on 1st January 2012.

[Photo & News] 'Moon That Embraces the Sun' posters released.

[Photo & News] 'Moon That Embraces the Sun' posters released.
Cr. - dramabeans

Upcoming fantasy-romance sageuk ,Moon That Embraces the Sun,, or better known around here as MoonSun-Snowflake-PixieDust, has just released its official posters, less than a week out from the premiere.

They feature the four leads: Kim Soo-hyun, the fictional Joseon King, Han Ga-in, the shaman who falls in love with him, Jung Il-woo, the king’s playboy hyung, and Kim Min-seo, the femme fatale. The posters all carry the tagline: “Don’t come close! But don’t go far…” which I’m assuming comes from the king. Well THAT’s not a mixed message to a girl or anything.

They’re not especially original as far as drama posters. There is a thematic touch with the sun and moon sharing the same sky, evoking the mystical cannot-be-ness of their love.

Moon That Embraces the Sun premieres next Wednesday, January 4, on MBC.

[News] Actor Park Sang-min’s divorce finalized by the Seoul Family Court.

[News] Actor Park Sang-min’s divorce finalized by the Seoul Family Court.
Cr. - http://koreajoongangdaily.joinsmsn.com/

On Dec. 29, Seoul Family Court granted the divorce of actor Park Sang-min from his wife Han Na-rae. The judge presiding over the trial said, “During the marriage, Park had verbally abused his spouse Han and therefore is part responsible for the divorce.” The court ordered Park to pay his former wife alimony of 30 million won ($26,000) as well as split Park’s income into an 85 percent and 15 percent ratio, awarding Han with the latter amount.

The couple dated for one year before getting married in 2007. In March 2010, the husband and wife filed for divorce, citing irreconcilable differences in the marriage. During the legal battle, the 41-year-old star was indicted for hitting his wife, while Han was charged with defamation for talking about her celebrity husband. During the progression of the divorce, Han told media that her husband was a poor provider, making it difficult for her to make ends meet.

Park made his entry into acting through the movie “The General’s Son” in 1990. Since then, the entertainer has featured in various film and television roles from “Tube” (2003) to “City Hunter” (2011). Meanwhile, Han is famous for having hosted an English-language educational program on the EBS channel and is also a professor at Hankuk University of Foreign Studies.

[2011 Top 10 stories] Disabled are silent no more.

[2011 Top 10 stories] Disabled are silent no more.
Cr. - http://koreajoongangdaily.joinsmsn.com/

A film called "Dogani" ("The Crucible"), based on a novel by Gong Ji-young, stirred up enormous outrage among Koreans this year. The film tells the true story of sexual abuse at a school in Gwangju.

Teachers at Inhwa School allegedly raped hearing-impaired students. Over 4.5 million viewers saw the film, and even though the original case closed in 2006 with little media attention, public outcry both on and offline led to a new police investigation. Early in November, many of the young victims were also brought to Gangnam Severance Hospital in southern Seoul to get psychological treatment.

After some tests, six of the victims were diagnosed with serious post-traumatic disorders, according to the police.

Following the film, the central government raised the maximum jail sentence for criminals convicted of sexually assaulting disabled children from three years to five. The government also announced that criminals found to have sexually attacked any disabled people will wear electronic anklet monitors at all times.

[News] Jun Ji-hyun in talks of marriage with the son of a Korean designer.

[News] Jun Ji-hyun in talks of marriage with the son of a Korean designer.
Cr. - http://koreajoongangdaily.joinsmsn.com/

Hallyu star Jun Ji-hyun’s agency confirmed that the actress is currently in a serious relationship with the grandson of famed fashion designer Lee Young-hee. Lee is renowned for designing hanbok (traditional Korean attire).
“The two have known one another since childhood and were always good friends. When they developed romantic feelings for each other they decided to seriously date,” said a representative from the entertainer’s agency.

Jun’s agency claimed that the couple has been dating for over one year and is well acquainted with each other’s families, but no date for a wedding has been set. The starlet’s beau is the second son of the acclaimed fashion designer’s daughter who is also in the fashion industry.
According to local media, Jun’s potential mother-in-law had often referred to the Hallyu star as her “daughter-in-law” to friends.
The agency described the current boyfriend of the star as handsome and working in finance for an American bank.

The finance worker’s family is well known and respected for their efforts in creating awareness of the traditional Korean costume in the worldwide fashion market. The family opened a Lee Young Hee Korea Museum in New York in order to promote Korean culture.

Jun made her debut in the entertainment scene as a model in a fashion magazine in 1997. Since then she’s featured in the hit drama “Happy Together” and the movie “My Sassy Girl.”

[News] Ethan Ruan lashes out at media.

[News] Ethan Ruan lashes out at media.
Cr. - http://entertainment.xin.msn.com/

The Taiwanese actor was photographed while on a date with girlfriend Tiffany Hsu.

Taiwanese actor Ethan Ruan is spending every free moment he has now with girlfriend Tiffany Hsu, before his military enlistment next February.

Previously, it was said that the couple is living separate lives, after Tiffany did not accept Ethan's marriage proposal, sparking off a series of breakup rumours.

However, on Christmas Eve, the pair was spotted at Taiwan's North-east Coast. On Dec 27, Ethan and Tiffany were photographed when they were having dinner together.

At dinner, the couple was seen taking photos with Tiffany's phone. After their meal, the actor, wearing a black woolen hat, carried his girlfriend's jacket.

However, he immediately turned gloomy when the media approached him.

When reporters probed on his time spend with Tiffany, Ethan replied unhappily, "Enough, please. That's it! Enough, okay?"

He continued to lash out at the media, "How would you feel if your family's being photographed, followed and scrutinised? Have you photographed enough? Can you please leave?"

Tiffany quickly stepped in to intervene on the growing situation.

"He's not angry. He's just surprised and only sounds serious, she explained.

Speaking on the supposedly "failed marriage proposal", Tiffany said, "He was rejected? Please, I think I was the one who was rejected."

The pair was later seen holding hands with each other, putting an end to break-up rumours.

[News] Lee Jang Woo and Uee Named New MCs for "Music Bank".

[News] Lee Jang Woo and Uee Named New MCs for "Music Bank".
Cr. - soompi

It's about time for KBS' "Music Bank" to name the main MCs for their popular music program. The two new MCs for the show have been revealed to be After School's Uee and actor Lee Jang Woo.

On December 29, officials of "Music Bank" disclosed that the two will be working together starting January 6, 2012. Lee Jang Woo has certainly been on a roll this year, as not only is his acting career flourishing, but he's also gotten a taste of the variety world through "We Got Married" with T-ara's Eunjung.

This will be his first hosting gig since his debut, but Uee has experience as a one-day MC when former MC Kim Min Ji departed the show.

Both Lee Jang Woo and Uee are coming from acting projects. Uee recently wrapped KBS' "Ojakgyo Brothers," which ended on a happy note on the 28th. Lee Jang Woo is in "Man of Honor.

[News] Jo In Sung to Make Comeback on the Big Screen?

[News] Jo In Sung to Make Comeback on the Big Screen?
Cr. - soompi

Top star Jo In Sung may be returning to the big screen.

Currently, he is debating whether or not to take the role in director Kim Sung Soo's newest movie "Cold". After looking over the scenario, he is hesitating on his final decision. "Cold" is director Kim Sung Soo's first movie in nine years, after "There Is No Sun", "Beat", and "Samurai", which created a new course of direction for Korean movies.

Kim Sung Soo expanded his movie making experience to China, where he prepared the Hong Kong collaberation "One Armed Samurai". His new movie "Cold" will be produced ambitiously by Jo In Sung's own agency, Sidus HQ. "Cold" is the story of a lethal cold virus that spreads all over. It focuses on the events that occur as a man and woman try to find the virus host. CJ Entertainment and Media will be managing the work.

When Jo In Sung retired from the military last May, he was set to act in the movie "The Art of Fistfighting", but as the production was pushed back, the movie began to be scrutinized. As the movie was re-examined, requests for TV dramas and other productions flowed in from everywhere, because it is very difficult to score an actor as famous as Jo In Sung.

As for the movie "Cold", Jo In Sung is very much considering taking the role, not just because of the scenario, but also for the trust he has in the director, as well as other factors. Currently, he is looking at things in a positive way.

If, in fact he does decide to take the role, Korea will await the birth of a new blockbuster sometime next year.

Will we be seeing Jo In Sung on the big screen next year? Stay tuned for more updates!

[VOD & News] Kim Hyun Joong nearly kisses Nana & Kahi at SBS Gayo Daejun.

[VOD & News] Kim Hyun Joong nearly kisses Nana & Kahi at SBS Gayo Daejun.
Cr. - allkpop

Kim Hyun Joong‘s provocative performance with the girls of After School is causing quite the stir among netizens.

Singer Kim Hyun Joong put on a special performance at the 2011 SBS Gayo Daejun that took place at the KINTEX in Ilsan on December 29th.

Everyone held their breath as Kim Hyun Joong caressed After School leader Kahi‘s long legs and pulled her in for what seemed would be a kiss.

He then immediately turned to his right and wrapped his arms around Nana‘s waist and leaned his face in towards hers, which drove the fans wild.

The event was hosted by Lee Seung Gi, Song Ji Hyo, along with Girls’ Generation member Yoona, and artists such as B2ST, 2PM, Wonder Girls, KARA, Super Junior, Girls’ Generation, TVXQ, and more put on various never-before seen performances.

Audience members could not look away for even a moment, as the 2011 SBS Gayo Dajun was chock-full of performances including ballad stages, a sexy performance of the top idol divas, and a fierce dance battle between the idol boys.

[News] Inoue Mao opens a new blog on Ameba.

[News] Inoue Mao opens a new blog on Ameba.
Cr. - http://www.tokyohive.com/

It’s been learned that on December 27th that actress Inoue Mao has started an official blog on popular blog service Ameba.

Ameba is happy to be able to provide Mao with hosting the actress’s blog as they were asked by her agency. The blog will be overseen by Manager K.

Fans of Mao are very excited about her opening a new blog. They are also happy that she will be interacting with fans, and some have wished a good luck on hosting this years Kouhaku Utagassen.

[News] JYJ’s Junsu builds a school in Cambodia.

[News] JYJ’s Junsu builds a school in Cambodia.
Cr. - allkpop

Through the generous help of JYJ‘s Junsu, a small village in Cambodia was able to construct a school for its students.

On December 28th, ‘Adra Korea‘ announced the establishment of a ‘Kim Junsu School’ that took five months to build. The school includes six classrooms, a bathroom, and a clean water supply system.

The remote outback town is a part of the Pusat province and has a population of 1,500. It takes approximately three hours by car to travel to the capital. In a country that carries a suffering economy and health system, the town is considered one of the most impoverished within the country.

Junsu’s mother, Yoon Young Mi, visited the area through the aid of a volunteer organization and asked locals what they needed the most. Without hesitation, they had said that they needed a school for their children. After hearing about their needs, Junsu set out to construct a school to aid in the education of impoverished children and to help them find a future and a goal. Touched, the locals shared and donated everything they had to make it a possibility.

The opening ceremony was attended by 500 students and their parents, along with the town officials. The new elementary students put on an adorable show to express their gratitude. Junsu’s mother returned the favor by expressing, “I hope to name this school the ‘Xiah Junsu Evergreen School’ so that the students can preserve dreams as fresh and green as the trees and grow their own futures. I hope that everyone will grow up to become an important leader of our future.”

Junsu wasn’t able to attend due to his musical, ‘Elizabeth‘, but made sure to leave a message stating, “I’d love to visit everyone the next time I get an opportunity and sing and dance with you all.”

The town also set up a gate with the message ‘Kim Junsu Support Town’ to express their gratitude for all he’s done.

[Photo & News] ‘24th Nikkan Sports Movie Grand Prix’ holds award ceremony, reveals fan awards.

[Photo & News] ‘24th Nikkan Sports Movie Grand Prix’ holds award ceremony, reveals fan awards.
Cr. - http://www.tokyohive.com/

As announced on December 7th, the winners of the ‘24th Nikkan Sports Movie Grand Prix / Ishihara Yuujirou Award’ finally received their respective awards at the award ceremony that was held in Tokyo today. Further it was revealed that the movie “Space Battleship Yamato” received most of the votes by fans and therefore received the Fan Award.

Ninety-nine-year-old director Shindo Kaneto received ‘Best Picture’ and ‘Best Director’ for his movie “Ichimai no Hagaki“. He didn’t show any emotion, when fellow director Lee Sang-il (“Akunin”) presented the award, but he eventually flashed a faint smile, when actor Tsugawa Masahiko bowed to him and gave him a bouquet of flowers.

Shindo commented, “This is my last work. I think that I have grown quite old and reached my limit.” Then he suddenly added, “However, if the circumstances allow it, I still would like to tackle one more movie when I’m 100 years old.” He received a lot of applause for his determination.



Actress Miyazaki Aoi received ‘Best Actress’ for her performances in “Tsure ga Utsu ni Narimashite.” and “Kamisama no Karute“. Actor Sakai Masato, who played her husband in the former, presented the bunch of flowers, while last year’s winner, Fukatsu Eri, presented the award.

She said, “I really enjoyed the time we’ve filmed the movie. When I arrived at the set, I felt quite powerless, but I was still able to deliver my performance thanks to the support of various people. It’s thanks to them that we managed to create this movie. Thank you very much.”

Miyazaki’s divorce was only made official after the award ceremony, during which she received special attention from the media and fans. The host of the award ceremony, free announcer Tsuyuki Shigeru, noticed those people and commented, “It seems like everyone is only interested in Miyazaki’s ring finger… And I have to do a monologue here.”



Actor Matsuyama Kenichi won ‘Best Actor’ for his roles in “My Back Page”, “GANTZ”, “Usagi Drop”, and “Norwegian Wood”. He received the award and the flowers from Tsumabuki Satoshi and Ishibashi Anna respectively.

He said, “I’m really happy that I can end this year with such a proud feeling.” Matsuyama also mentioned that the filming for his upcoming taiga drama, ‘Taira no Kiyomori‘, is progressing smoothly.

About his marriage with actress Koyuki, who nine-months pregnant with their first child, he commented with a big smile, “Our child will be born soon and our marriage couldn’t be in a better state“.



The ‘Best New Actor/Actress’ award went to Inoue Mao for her performances in “Oba: The Last Samurai” and “Youkame no Semi”.

She was really happy about the award and said, “I’m turning 25 very soon and was already about to give up receiving a ‘Best New Actress’ award anytime in my career. I’m really happy that it actually happened. I still have a long way to go as an actress, but I’d like to devote myself to my work in oder to be able to stand up here again someday.”

Naka Riisa presented the award as last year’s winner and joked, “I’ve been a big fan of you since childhood!” The flowers were presented by Moriguchi Yoko.

You can check out the list of all the winners below!

Best Picture:
“Ichimai no Hagaki”
(Shindo Kaneto)

Best Director:
Shindo Kaneto
(“Ichimai no Hagaki”)

Best Actor:
Matsuyama Kenichi
(“My Back Page” / “GANTZ” / “Usagi Drop” / “Norwegian Woord”)

Best Actress:
Miyazaki Aoi
(“Tsure ga Utsu ni Narimashite.” / “Kamisama no Karute”)

Best Supporting Actor:
Nishida Toshiyuki
(“Tantei wa BAR ni Iru” / “HAYABUSA” / “Suteki na Kanashibari”)

Best Supporting Actress:
Kaga Mariko
(“Yougashiten Koandoru” / “Kamisama no Karute”)

Best New Actor/Actress:
Inoue Mao
(“Oba: The Last Samurai” / “Youkame no Semi”)

Best Foreign Picture:
“The King’s Speech”
(Tom Hooper)

Ishihara Yujiro Award:
“Tantei wa BAR ni Iru”
(Hashimoto Hajime)

Ishihara Yujiro Best New Artist Award:
None

Fan Award:
“Space Battleship Yamato”
(Yamazaki Takashi)