[News] KBS's Dream High Nominated for Rose d'Or - Global Entertainment TV Festival.

[News] KBS's Dream High Nominated for Rose d'Or - Global Entertainment TV Festival.
Cr. - soompi

Korea has received a nomination for the upcoming Rose d’Or Festival, which is a global entertainment festival.

KBS' drama Dream High received a nomination under the Youth category and will be going up against United Kingdom's Leonardo. Wing and a Prayer and Germany's You're Not a Werewolf.

Being one of the world’s most celebrated entertainment TV festivals, the Rose d’Or Festival held its Nominees Night 2012 in Kuala Lumpur on February 28. It’s the first time in the festival’s 50-year history that the event was held in an Asian venue.

The Rose d’Or Festival was founded in 1961 in Montreux, Switzerland. The annual event sees the participation of TV professionals, producers, managers of private and public TV stations and production company heads from 40 countries. Since its beginning, it has been an important networking platform for ideas.

The event revealed the three nominees in each of the 12 categories for the 51st Rose d’Or Global Entertainment TV Festival. These were chosen from hundreds of entries by a 50-member jury made up of TV industry leaders worldwide.

Winners of the various categories will be revealed during the 51st Rose d’Or Global Entertainment TV Festival, which will run from May 6-10 in Lucerne, Switzerland.

[Photo & News] Won Bin's commercial site.

[Photo & News] Won Bin's commercial site.
Cr. - hancinema

Pictures of Won Bin's New Zealand TV commercial were revealed.

Currently a contract model for out door brand K2, Won Bin showed off his manly appeal in stills that recalled his role in the film "The Man From Nowhere".

The mountain that the shoot took place on is called Mountain Cook, which also is known as the 'mountain that goes through the clouds' and is the tallest mountain in New Zealand. Won Bin jumped, fell and rolled on the mountain despite the height and displayed the high quality functions of the outdoor brand.

A K2 brand marketing agent said, "Won Bin's manly and tough image is just right for the outdoor sporting concept. This commercial should show the difference of K2 from other brands".

Won Bin's commercial will air starting in March.

[News] 2AM's Jinwoon "Showing my body on camera was okay, thanks to the lighting".

[News] 2AM's Jinwoon "Showing my body on camera was okay, thanks to the lighting".
Cr. - hancinema

2AM member Jinwoon (Jeong Jin-woon) spoke about his body-revealing drama scene.

Jeong Jin-woon talked about the risque scene he filmed for the drama "Dream High 2" in an interview with OSEN on February 27th.

He is currently taking on the role of Jin Yoo-jin on the KBS 2TV drama "Dream High 2". He took his top off in the drama recently and showed a very lean body.

He said, "Thank God I had been working out. I also think the light was good on me".

Jeong Jin-woon worried fans with some very obvious weight loss since his appearance on the New Year Special "Infinity Challenge" last year.

He said, "I lost a lot of weight doing this drama. About 4~5kg? Also the cold atmosphere makes me look much thinner".

Meanwhile, "Dream High 2" is revealing a love connection between Sin Hae-seong (Kang So-ra), Jin Yoo-jin, JB and Rian (Jiyeon).

[News] G.I. Joe 2's Asian Success Rests on Lee Byung Hun's Shoulders.

[News] G.I. Joe 2's Asian Success Rests on Lee Byung Hun's Shoulders.
Cr. - soompi

“G.I. Joe 2” (“G.I. Joe: Retaliation”) will release in theaters worldwide on June 21, 2012. Currently, G.I. Joe 2 is having major promotion tours in South Korea and Japan that involves its cast Lee Byung Hun, Channing Tatum, Bruce Willis, and Dwane Johnson (The Rock). The reason is that Lee Byung Hun’s ticket power in South Korea and Japan was shown through the previous film “G.I. Joe: The Rise of Cobra.”

When “G.I. Joe: The Rise of Cobra” was released in 2009, South Korea and Japan were the two countries with the most revenue excluding the U.S. Paramount Pictures believe that the reason of the film’s popularity in these two countries is Lee Byung Hun.

Spoiler Alert of from “G.I. Joe: The Rise of Cobra”

In the first G.I. Joe film, Lee Byung Hun’s character Storm Shadow was portrayed as being dead. However, the character has been somewhat resurrected and Lee Byung Hun will also have increased screen time.

A film representative stated, “Paramount learned about the loyal fans of Hallyu. That is why they have increased the screen time of Lee Byung Hun in the sequel and anticipates its success in Asian markets.”

[News] Ha Ji-won loses 4kg and transforms into a female sergeant.

[News] Ha Ji-won loses 4kg and transforms into a female sergeant.
Cr. - hancinema

Perfect female sergeant! Reporting for duty!

Actress Ha Ji-won looks splendid in uniform.

Ha Ji-won displayed a purple North Korean officer uniform for the poster shoot of new MBC drama "The King 2 Hearts" on February 29th. The distinctive feature of the uniform is the way it fits the body tightly. Ha Ji-won appears to have succeeded in losing 4kg with regular exercise.

Kim Jong Hak Productions said, "Ha Ji-won is practicing the North Korean dialect and the disciplinary actions of a soldier to pull off the role of Kim Hang-ah".

"The King 2 Hearts" is a love story between North Korean Special Forces female sergeant Kim Hang-ah and South Korean prince Lee Jae-ha (Lee Seung-gi), set under the fictional premise of a constitutional monarchy.

[News] The Film “Nameless Gangster" Reaches 4 Million Viewers.

[News] The Film “Nameless Gangster" Reaches 4 Million Viewers.
Cr. - soompi

Choi Min Sik and Ha Jung Woo’s “Nameless Gangster” reached 4 million viewers. On February 28 KOFIC announced that on February 27 “Nameless Gangster” had 47,559 viewers. That puts the total viewers of “Nameless Gangster” at 4,035,230.

“Nameless Gangster” was released on February 2, and within 25 days it has surpassed 4 million viewers. Within 2012 it is the film that has made 4 million viewers within the shortest amount of time.

Here is a basic synopsis of the storyline: In the 1980s of Busan, South Korea a customs official (Portrayed by Choi Min Sik) loses his job. Through a chain of events he ends up joining a young and strong mafia boss. The story follows Choi Min Sik’s character up to President Roh Tae Woo’s “War Against Organized Crime” in 1990.

Check Out the Trailer Below:

[News] The Film Set of "The Moon that Embraces the Sun" Is Now Off Limits, Why?

[News] The Film Set of "The Moon that Embraces the Sun" Is Now Off Limits, Why?
Cr. - soompi

The film set for the drama “The Moon that Embraces the Sun” is now “off limits” to the public and also entertainment agency employees. Even actors/actresses are being restricted on entering the filming set.

Currently, “The Moon that Embraces the Sun” only has 4 episodes left. Usually, a popular drama of this sort will make the filming set “off limits” in order to stop leaks about the storyline and ending. However, the storyline for “The Moon that Embraces the Sun” is based on a novel and can be accessed easily. Then what is the reason for the restricted access on the filming set?

The reason is to increase the focus of actors and actresses. Currently, “The Moon that Embraces the Sun” has a type of “Live Broadcast System” where filming will take place on the same day of broadcast. The script is also only released on a per-episode basis.

Finally, a representative stated, “There isn’t enough time for memorizing all the lines because it is a ‘Live Broadcast System.’ It is difficult for the actors and actresses to focus if the environment is distracting. Restricting access to the film set is a solution created by the production team.”

[VOD] Rooftop Prince Teaser & BTS.

[Photo & News] Rooftop Prince in a box.

[Photo & News] Rooftop Prince in a box.
Cr. - dramabeans

Oh man, these posters for Rooftop Prince crack me up, especially this first one above where our time-traveling Joseon aristocrats (and prince) find themselves stuck in a box (literally) wondering, “Is this real life or the afterlife?” I know, the 21st century’s a bitch, isn’t it?

I’m pretty sure my favorite thing about prince Yoochun is the utter dignity with which he wears his royal hat and tracksuit. It’s like Lee Jung’s ridiculous cape in Vampire Idol — meant to convey prestige and rank but really just making him look like a Conehead. I’m particularly partial to (unintentional?) irony of Yoochun wearing the uniform of civil service exam-takers the nation over (aka the sloppy tracksuit), which makes him look like an aspiring government employee. (Imagine a future king taking a civil service exam; is the world ready for such a revolutionary concept?)

There also seems to be a curious fixation with the box motif, which I’m not quite sure I’m getting. (If there’s something to get.) Is it to emphasize how tiny and cramped our prince will find living in a rooftop room? Or is that the device by which he speeds forward 300 years, Calvin and Hobbes style?

All I know for sure is, this show is already cracking me up and it hasn’t even begun yet. Fingers crossed, people!

Rooftop Prince premieres on March 14 on SBS.

[Photo & News] "Dream High 2" Jiyeon wears eyeliner even while sick in bed.

[Photo & News] "Dream High 2" Jiyeon wears eyeliner even while sick in bed.
Cr. - hancinema

"Dream High 2" Rian (T-ara's Jiyeon) wears eyeliner even while sick in bed.

On the ninth episode of the KBS 2TV drama "Dream High 2", aired on February 27th, Rian was taken to the hospital after being hit in the head with a soccer ball.

Jin Yoo-jin (Jinwoon) carried her to the hospital right away. JB took them in his car. Rian was told to take some rest in the hospital when she woke up.

After a long time, Rian woke up and worried if she looked sick when she heard that her mother was coming. Yoo-jin said, "What are you getting so worked up for, it's your mom" to which Rian replied, "I'm not getting worked up, my mom is the best at nagging".

The scene where she wakes up after a long time of sleeping should make her seem thin and worn but her strong eye make-up was still there.

After the broadcast, netizens said, "Jiyeon would look pretty without the eyeliner but she always wears it so thick. Her make up should change to fit the scene", "I know she's an idol but that's too much make up for a high school student" and more.

[News] 2PM’s Taecyeon and Blue Bears collaboration album released!

[News] 2PM’s Taecyeon and Blue Bears collaboration album released!
Cr. - allkpop

2PM‘s Taecyeon teamed up with his fellow Dangook University alumni students to produce a digital album.

The Business Administration major who is currently in his fourth year at Dangook University participated in producing the ‘Talent Donation’ project album, ‘Blue Bears With Taecyeon‘. Their title song “Wings” was written and composed by Life Music and the Dangook University students, and Taecyeon personally penned the rap lyrics. A re-make of the 90′s classic hit “A Night Like Tonight” was also included in the album, complete with an original rap written by Taecyeon himself. The singer also features in the MV for “Wings”, an original project produced by the students.

Taecyeon along with Yang Ji Hoon & Song Jae Young of Life Music 3, as well as Lee Bong Jin who oversaw the planning and production of the album have plans to donate the profits from this new album to the university.

Taecyeon will be performing the songs for the first time at the matriculation ceremony to take place on February 23rd. Singing live, he will be congratulating his juniors who are starting college for the very first time.

The school will continue to develop the skills and talents of the students, alumni, and the professors in order to put on performances and put together more talent donation projects in the future.

Listen to the tracks below!

[News] Ethan Ruan aims to be role model in military camp.

[News] Ethan Ruan aims to be role model in military camp.
Cr. - http://entertainment.xin.msn.com/

The actor's comrade in the same military unit revealed that he is working hard at 'being a role model'. The buzz surrounding Taiwanese actor Ethan Ruan's military enlistment is still going strong.

A few days ago, the actor's comrade in the same military unit revealed that their camp had turned into a venue for autographs, after Ethan was enlisted.

"Everybody wants to meet him and talk to him," he said, adding that one person even requested Ethan to sign on every page of a new notebook, and the actor politely complied.

Ethan's popularity was also evident when an all-girl school held a barbeque near the camp site. "Ethan wore a mask, but many girls still noticed him. They shouted and took pictures," the comrade said.

Although Ethan's mates from camp were told not to take pictures with him, the actor still took a group picture with everyone.

The insider also shared that Ethan completed the 3km run in 12 minutes and 5 seconds. The average time others took to complete was about 16 to 17 minutes. The actor also received high marks for his baton-handling test.
The comrade then said that their superior had everyone write a two-page essay every night. While most of the recruits wrote only half a page or one page, Ethan would fill the two pages up.

The actor was said to be very serious in whatever he does, and was never seen dozing off during classes.

Ethan also volunteered to be part of the cleaning committee, in which he was "in charge of collecting their undergarments nightly".

[News] Ariel Lin returns to TV.

[News] Ariel Lin returns to TV.
Cr. - http://asianfanatics.net/

Barely half a year since her announcement on a drama hiatus, the Taiwanese actress returns to the google box. Last September, Taiwanese starlet Ariel Lin announced that she would be making a "temporary exit from showbiz".

However, the actress was recently in Japan to shoot an eight-minute video that was commissioned by the Japanese Tourism Board.

During the filming of a scene where Ariel had to have her relationship fortune told, the actress tore a fortune-telling card by accident, which caused much worry for Ariel who was afraid that the action would offend the gods.

When asked if she would want like to find out who her Mr Right was through fortune-telling, the actress declined, "I think that I might have offended the gods when I tore the card. I'm also afraid of the results from the prediction."
Before she broke up with her boyfriend last November, Ariel had allegedly tried to hide her relationship by announcing a "temporary exit from doing dramas", citing health reasons for the move.

Instead, Ariel announced that she would be shifting her career focus on movies.
However, just yesterday, the actress revealed that she is in discussion for a new drama series, adding that the contract that was offered to her allowed for ample time to rest, with only a maximum of a 16 hours filming period per day.

The news of her impending "comeback" to television dramas drew criticism from netizens who called Ariel a "hypocrite". It is said that the drama in question was one that actress Kwai Lun-mei and actor Chen Bolin had previously rejected.

However, Ariel's manager has since refuted claims of any confirmed drama projects.

[News] Kim Rae Won Denies Involvement in Drunk Disorderly Conduct.

[News] Kim Rae Won Denies Involvement in Drunk Disorderly Conduct.
Cr. - soompi

After news caught wind of a Mr. Kim, an actor in his 30s, engaging in disorderly conduct while in an extremely drunken state, netizens began suspecting and pointing fingers at actor Kim Rae Won. To say the least, Kim Rae Won is unable to conceal his shock at such accusations.

An official at his agency announced to Star News on February 27, "I am also curious as to who that actor is. I am very upset that such a terrible rumor has been spreading as if it was true. We have even considered suing those who have been spreading such unfounded rumors."

After successfully finishing SBS drama "A Thousand Days' Promise" at the end of last year, Kim Rae Won has been preparing to start filming for a new movie next month. Now, he has no intent to do so.

On the 27th, Seoul Central District Prosecutor's Office Senior Prosecutor Park Yoon Hae announced that last October, on an unnamed road in Seoul's Yeoksam-dong area, a drunk actor Mr. Kim aged 32 got into a dispute that started over some insults. He was charged without physical detainment.

According to the prosecutors, Mr. Kim was intoxicated while walking down the street last October. He hurled an insult at a passing vehicle and from there, a fight quickly broke out. Mr. A, who was sitting in the back seat of the car at the time, accuses Mr. Kim of starting the whole dispute.

Additionally, Mr. Kim was arrested on charges of assaulting the police who were responding to the call. Adding charges of injury and obstruction of justice to the one of drunken disorderly conduct, things aren't looking good for this Mr. Kim, whoever he really is.

[News] JYJ Kim Jaejoong nominated as most popular celeb at Shorty Awards.

[News] JYJ Kim Jaejoong nominated as most popular celeb at Shorty Awards.
Cr. - 10asia

Boy group JYJ member Kim Jaejoong was voted as the most popular celebrity at the Shorty Awards, according to the star’s agency C-JeS Entertainment on Tuesday.

The statement said that Kim won the No. 1 spot under the 'celebrity' category for the fourth annual Shorty Awards for the second year in a row after competing against top Hollywood stars Justin Bieber and Selena Gomez.

This year, the nominees, including Kim, were chosen based on the polls from Shorty's official website and evaluations of a panel of judges called The Real-Time Academy of Short Form Arts & Sciences.

With winning of the award, Kim will be heading to New York to attend the award ceremony next month along with the other winners.

The Shorty Awards was established by two tech entrepreneurs in 2008 and is held every year to nominate the most popular Twitter account holders in various categories including humor, advertising, news, food and celebrity.

[News] "My Way" to premiere in North American region in April.

[News] "My Way" to premiere in North American region in April.
Cr. - 10asia

Korean war flick "My Way," starring Jang Dong-gun and Odagiri Joe, is slated to make its premiere in North American region in April, according to the film's promoter CJ Entertainment.

A rep with CJ told 10Asia over the phone on Monday that "My Way" will first make its way into theaters in Los Angeles, California on April 20.

"Just like the other CJ movies we have plans to open 'My Way' in several other states throughout North America as well as Canada though we are still in discussions on its premiere dates," the official explained.

"My Way" which tells the story of an Asian soldier (played by Jang) who was captured by the Japanese army and later turned over to the German Nazis during World War II, was presented to foreign buyers during the 64th annual Festival de Cannes in May of last year.

The pic, which is also famed Korean director Kang Je-gyu's Hollywood debut work, fared well after opening in local theaters on December 21 of last year and was recently screened at the 62nd Berlin International Film Festival.

[Photo & News] What Happened to Lee Min Ho and Girls’ Generation YoonA?

[Photo & News] What Happened to Lee Min Ho and Girls’ Generation YoonA?
Cr. - soompi

Earlier today, outdoor brand Eider unveiled teaser stills of its endorsement models Lee Min Ho and Girls’ Generation’s YoonA. In the teaser cuts, Lee Min Ho and YoonA passionately embrace each other in the rain.

Even in the rain, Lee Min Ho clings to YoonA, with a sad, longing look in his eyes. At the same time, he appears terrified, as if he almost lost something (or someone in this case) dear to him. YoonA hugs Lee Min Ho back, in a gentle embrace as if trying to reassure him.

The entire CF will hit airwaves in March, so stay tuned to see what unfolds in the upcoming CF for Eider.

[News] Lee Min Jung Is a Strong Candidate for Hong Sisters' Upcoming Drama.

[News] Lee Min Jung Is a Strong Candidate for Hong Sisters' Upcoming Drama.
Cr. - soompi

It’s been announced that Lee Min Jung is a strong candidate to play the heroine in the Hong Sisters’ next drama “Big” (title subject to change). According to a source from KBS, Lee Min Jung received the synopsis and is currently deciding between a movie and drama as her next project.

“Big” will be directed by Ji Byung Hyun, who produced popular series “Delightful Girl Chunhyang” in 2005, and is written by famous sisters Hong Jung Eun and Hong Mi Ran. The sister are the masterminds behind popular trendy dramas like “The Greatest Love,” “My Girlfriend is a Gumiho,” “You’re Beautiful,” “My Girl,” “Delightful Girl Chunhyang,” and more. The upcoming drama will be a Korean version of the fantasy, romance movie “Big,” starring Tom Hanks.

The Hong Sisters’ “Big” aims to air sometime in June on KBS once Jang Geun Suk and Girls’ Generation’s YoonA’s “Love Rain” ends.

[News] Kim Soo Hyun Embraces IU and miss A Suzy at the Same Time.

[News] Kim Soo Hyun Embraces IU and miss A Suzy at the Same Time.
Cr. - soompi

On February 27, a screen capture titled “Kim Soo Hyun Has Everything in the World” made its way to several online communities, causing a buzz. In the photo, “The Moon that Embraces the Sun’s” Kim Soo Hyun embraces IU and miss A’s Suzy at the same time at one of the year-end award ceremonies.

Both known and loved as the “nation’s little sister,” IU and Suzy are former co-stars of Kim Soo Hyun. The three had starred in popular drama KBS’s “Dream High” in 2011. While he has thrown much of the Korean female population into a “Kim Soo Hyun syndrome,” hugging two of the nation’s little sisters did not earn him any points from IU and Suzy's male fans.

Netizens commented, “I’m not jealous of Kim Soo Hyun…I’m jealous of Suzy and IU,” “Hugging both of them at the same time? Quite greedy haha,” and more.

Currently, Kim Soo Hyun stars in the popular series “The Moon that Embraces the Sun” with Han Ga In and Jung Il Woo.

[News] "Fashion King" Reveals Beauty Showdown Between Shin Se Kyung & Girls' Generation Yuri.

[News] "Fashion King" Reveals Beauty Showdown Between Shin Se Kyung & Girls' Generation Yuri.
Cr. - soompi

Shin Se Kyung and Girls' Generation Yuri had men hearts flutter with their beauty.

On February 27, newly released pictures of SBS upcoming drama "Fashion King" were posted on an online community under the title "In The Midst of Shooting The Teaser."

In the shared pictures which are screenshots of a video Shin Se Kyung and Yuri's beauty and charms radiate next to their male counterparts.

Girls' Generation Yuri is posing next to actor Lee Je Hoon with both hands on his shoulder. They both are looking in different directions, symbolizing their dreams in this drama about the aspirations of fashion designers.

Actress Shin Se Kyung is shown posing close to actor Yoo In Ah, with a revealing camel leather dress showing off her voluptuous figure.

Both couples will be battling it up in the drama.

Netizens who saw the pictures commented, "I'm looking forward to Yuri who is taking on the challenge of acting," "I like what I see," "Do I even need to say it?" and "Who can win this better than Shin Se Kyung?"

Who do you think won this round?

[News] Still Cuts of Lee Byung Hun in "King of Joseon".

[News] Still Cuts of Lee Byung Hun in "King of Joseon".
Cr. - soompi

The still cut for Lee Byung Hun’s first try at a historical drama “King of Joseon” was revealed for the first time. The story is about “King Kwang Hae” who was the most dramatic king during the Joseon Dynasty. A peasant named “Ha Sun” impersonates the king, in “The Prince and the Pauper” fashion.

The script is written by the writer for “Old Boy.”

Lee Byung Hun will play both the real “King Kwang Hae” and his imposter “Ha Sun.” The drama will have a stellar cast with interesting characters. The mysterious character “Huh Gyun” that puts the imposter on the throne is portrayed by Ryu Seung Ryong, the heroine “Joong Jun” who knows about the secret of the real and fake king will be portrayed by Han Hyo Joo.

This drama should be on your much watch list for 2012!

[News] YoonA and Jang Keun Suk’s “Love Rain” Unveils More Photos.

[News] YoonA and Jang Keun Suk’s “Love Rain” Unveils More Photos.
Cr. - soompi

KBS’s upcoming Monday-Tuesday drama “Love Rain,” starring Jang Keun Suk and Girls’ Generation’s YoonA, unveiled photos from its script reading. Earlier this year, the cast and crew completed filming its 1970s scenes. Jang Keun Suk, YoonA, Kim Si Hoo, and other central characters will officially kick off filming the 2012 scenes in March in Hokaido, Japan.

Jang Keun Suk, YoonA, and others gathered at the KBS Star Hall last Thursday for a dry run. The reading session focused on the drama’s contemporary scenes – where Seo Joon (Jang Keun Suk) and Lee Hana (YoonA) meet for the first time in Japan.

The drama has received a lot of attention both at home and overseas for its stellar lineup, famous director, and popular screen writer. “Love Rain” stars hallyu star Jang Keun Suk and YoonA as its main leads and also includes “Super Star K’s” Seo In Gook, “Rival's” Kim Si Hoo, “Spy Myung Wol’s” Son Eun Seo, and “Smile Mom’s” Hwang Bo Ra.

“Love Rain” is a melo-love story set in two different periods – the 1970s and 2012. Jang Keun Suk and YoonA play Seo In Ha and Kim Yoon Hee, two college students who fall in love with each other in the 1970s; unfortunately, these two do not get their happily ever after. Fast forward to the present, Seo Joon, In Ha’s son (also played by Jang Keun Suk) meets and falls in love with Ha Na, Yoon Hee’s daughter (also played by YoonA). Jang Keun Suk’s 1970s Seo In Ha is a romantic arts student who is willing to lay down his life for the love of his life. His son Seo Joon, on the other hand, is a carefree photographer who enjoys a freewheeling lifestyle. YoonA’s 1970s Kim Yoon Hee is a pure, elegant “campus goddess,” while her daughter Ha Na is a bright and lovable character.

Director Yoon Suk Ho and writer Oh Soo Yeon, the masterminds behind the sensational melodramas “Winter Sonata” and “Autumn in my Heart” have teamed up once again to produce “Love Rain.” With the combination of Jang Keun Suk, YoonA, director Yoon Suk Ho, and writer Oh Soo Yun, it doesn't come as a surprise that “Love Rain” has already secured a Japanese broadcaster.

“Love Rain” will premiere on KBS on March 26 at 9:55PM KST.

[Photo & News] Lee Seung Gi and Ha Ji Won’s “King 2hearts” Reveals Teaser Stills.

[Photo & News] Lee Seung Gi and Ha Ji Won’s “King 2hearts” Reveals Teaser Stills.
Cr. - soompi

MBC’s upcoming Wednesday-Thursday drama “King 2hearts,” starring Lee Seung Gi and Ha Ji Won, unveiled teaser stills of its main leads. The series takes place in a fictional contemporary South Korea, which is still ruled by monarchy. Lee Seung Gi play Lee Jae Ha, the scatterbrained Crown Prince of South Korea, while Ha Ji Won plays Kim Hang Ah, a North Korean Special Forces female operative.

The teaser stills are from the first episode of “King 2hearts,” where Lee Jae Ha and Kim Hang Ah meet for the first tine. The scene was shot on February 7, and the two leads are dressed in their respective country’s military uniform. According to producers, Ha Ji Won has delved 100% into her character, talking and acting like a true North Korean operative.

A representative of Kim Jong Hak Productions stated, “While it was their [Lee Seung Gi and Ha Ji Won] first shoot together, they had great chemistry with each other, earning praises from director Lee Jae Gyu and the rest of the crew.

“King 2hearts” is about an arranged marriage between North Korean Special Forces female operative Kim Hang Ah and South Korea’s Crown Prince Lee Jae Ha. Initially, the two are blinded by their pride and prejudice against each other, but they manage to get past their differences and fall in love.

“King 2hearts” will premiere on MBC on March 14 at 9:55PM KST.

[News] Gong Hyo-jin Flashes Her Unique Charms in New Movie.

[News] Gong Hyo-jin Flashes Her Unique Charms in New Movie.
Cr. - http://english.chosun.com/

Actress Gong Hyo-jin plays the role of a woman who does not care much for social conventions, but is nonetheless a charming, laid-back and unpredictable character in the romantic comedy "Love Fiction," which will be released next week.

This marks a continuation from her previous acting choices in movies like "Family Ties" and "Crush and Blush," which also saw her take on unconventional roles and turn unpleasant characters into lovable ones.

"I don't want to just play a pretty girl who is so irresistible to men that they risk their lives to win her love. I'm not that interested in such stereotypical characters," she said.

"Those roles simply don't challenge me. I prefer to portray women who stand on their own two feet, or who have various sides to her personalities. There are many kinds of women, and I want to show how each of them has their own respective charms. I think that's why I'm more popular with women, who see me as a role model," she said.

Gong, who has been in the limelight for over a decade, added: "When I first appeared in 'Memento Mori' as a supporting actress, I didn't take my acting career so seriously. I felt sorry for the leading actors, who stayed up all night on the set, and I felt depressed when I saw my movie at the theater, because the other girls were so pretty, but I just looked like a girl next door.

"But as more people showed interest in me, and praised, me, I felt great, and their encouragement inspired me to do better and improve my acting skills."

Asked about what future roles she would be seeking, Gong said, "I would like to play a more tomboyish kind of role. I want to show what I can do and become a top actress," she said. "That's why I study other top actresses by watching their movies and learning from them."

[News] Kim Soo Hyun and Huh Gak display their close relationship.

[News] Kim Soo Hyun and Huh Gak display their close relationship.
Cr. - allkpop

A friendly photo of actor Kim Soo Hyun and singer Huh Gak has been receiving attention.

The photo recently appeared on an online Korean community. Both stars are seen wearing well tailored suits looking sharp and handsome.

The netizens were mostly amazed at the similar sizes of Kim Soo Hyun, who is known for his extremely small head, and Huh Gak’s head. They commented with, “How do they know each other?” and “I knew Huh Gak’s head was small but I didn’t know it was to this extreme.”

[News] Joo Won wraps up his first day of filming for ’1N2D’.

[News] Joo Won wraps up his first day of filming for ’1N2D’.
Cr. - allkpop

As you all know by now, the new season of the nation’s most beloved show, ’1N2D’ (One night two days), will be kicking off with a new cast in March! One of the new cast members is actor Joo Won, who has just completed the first day of filming for the show.

On February 25th, Joo Won posted on Twitter, “I’ve successfully concluded the first filming of ’1N2D’. I worked hard. Our kind staff and our warm-hearted brothers! I will do my best in my role as the maknae [of the group] ~ I’m so happy. Good night.”

Netizens commented, “I’m really looking forward to season 2,” “Please become a maknae loved by everyone,” and “Joo Won, fighting!”

We can’t wait to see what’s in store! Catch the first episode of the next season with Lee Soo Geun, Kim Jong Min, Uhm Tae Woong, Kim Seung Woo, Joo Won, Sung Shi Kyung, and Cha Tae Hyun on March 4th!

[Article] Japanese Netizens: Anti-Hallyu or Not?

[Article] Japanese Netizens: Anti-Hallyu or Not?
Cr. - soompi

I came across an article on a Korean news site that talked about how anti-Hallyu sentiments in Japan are affecting Korean stars like Kim Tae Hee and Girls' Generation. The writer started out by writing about how Kim Tae Hee was the victim of anti-Hallyu Japanese Internet users. These users protested her recent appearance in a Japanese cosmetics commercial and their complaints cancelled the press conference for the commercial. The anti-Hallyu Japanese netizens also sprang up when Kim Tae Hee was set to star in her Fuji TV drama, "Boku to Star no 99nichi." The reason behind the protests was a statement Kim Tae Hee made in 2005, proclaiming Dokdo as a part of Korea.

If you are not familiar with it, the islands known as "Dokdo" in Korea, "Takeshima" in Japan and "Liancourt Rocks" in the English world, are the source of a long, on-going territorial dispute between Korea and Japan. Both countries are claiming that the islands belong to them. Kim Tae Hee's assertion that the islands belong to Korea got her labeled as "Anti-Japan Actress" by some Japanese netizens.



The writer continued to back up his claims of "anti-Korean" Japanese netizens by pointing to protests against Girls' Generation being chosen to represent e-ma throat candies. The writer noted that while some netizens praised Girls' Generation for being chosen, others wrote, "Why couldn't they choose a Japanese actor for this role?" Finally, the writer took to the recent Jang Keun Suk issue, where it was claimed that he made inappropriate remarks about a Japanese AV actress. Something that he never said. The writer seemed to paint these sentiments as "typical" in Japan.

However, I would argue that they are "typical" for certain Internet forums, but probably don't represent the vast majority of people. I will admit that I've been quite busy this month and haven't watched as much Japanese news as I normally do, but I haven't seen or heard anything in the Japanese mainstream media regarding the previous issues. I've heard nothing about Kim Tae Hee, I've heard nothing about protests against Girls' Generation and I certainly haven't heard anything about Jang Geun Suk.

While this doesn't mean that people aren't talking about these things, I would suspect that most people really don't care that much. The problem that a lot of Korean media outlets are faced with is that Japanese people don't use the internet in the same way as Korean people. Most people in Japan don't post online. In fact, a lot of people don't know how to post online. Many people will only write something if they are assured that their comments will be anonymous, and even then they will leave non-controversial comments.

Unfortunately, there are only a few large online communities that are open to viewers. This means that Korean news outlets are limited to the same community that happens to attract a number of anti-Hallyu people. So, please keep that in mind when you guys read reports of Anti-Hallyu sentiment from "Japanese netizens." Because in most cases, it's probably the same group of people.

[News] "The Moon Embracing the Sun" blows away competition, ratings hit 40 percent mark.

[News] "The Moon Embracing the Sun" blows away competition, ratings hit 40 percent mark.
Cr. - 10asia

Ratings for MBC's historical series "The Moon Embracing the Sun" has hit the 40 percent mark, blowing away its primetime competition for its eighth straight win.

According to the numbers by TNmS (Total National Multimedia Statistics) on Friday, "Moon," starring Kim Soo-hyun, Han Ga-in and Jung Il-woo, had 37.7 percent of the audience tune in on February 22 and saw its score rise by 2.1 percent the following day.

Additionally, the drama recorded higher marks on AGB Nielsen Media Research's chart with ratings of 39.1 percent on Wednesday night and hit the 40 percent mark the next day with a score of 41.3 percent.

This week's episode focused on how Lee Hwon (Kim) breaks down in tears after finding out that Wol (Han) is actually his long-lost love Yeon-woo.

SBS landed in second on both charts with its Wednesday and Thursday series "Take Care of Us Captain" with ratings in the mid-five percentile range and KBS' "Wild Romance" followed behind in third place with ratings in the four to five percentile range.

[News] New “1 Night, 2 Days” Begins Filming.

[News] New “1 Night, 2 Days” Begins Filming.
Cr. - soompi

It is a sad and nervous time for fans of the popular KBS variety show, “1 Night, 2 Days.”

The first “season” of 1 Night, 2 Days” with cast members Lee Soo Geun, Uhm Tae Woong, Kim Jong Min, Lee Seung Gi, and Eun Ji Won is coming to end. The first part of the final trip with the five members aired this past Sunday, bringing tears to viewers’ eyes. During the episode, a montage of past episodes was shown, marking the end of an era of hilarity, teamwork, and fun games.

Lee Seung Gi spent half of his twenties as a member, growing up in front of viewers’ eyes, and Eun Ji Won went from idol singer to a married man within the five years. These two are leaving the show with heavy hearts but optimistic attitudes as they leave to pursue different projects and goals.

While some of the team members will change, the show will go on, in the same format. Lee Soo Geun, Uhm Tae Woong, and Kim Jong Min remain on the show with four new members joining them- Kim Seung Woo, Sung Si Kyung, Cha Tae Hyun, and Joo Won.

With seven members ranging from a veteran actor in his 40s, a ballad singer in his 30s, and a young actor in his 20s, viewers are looking forward to the dynamics, chemistry, and teamwork between the new cast, as well as fresh energy to the five-year-old show.

The new cast began filming their first episode on February 24 in secret, although it is reported that their first trip is to Baek Ah Island and that the filming is going very well.

The first episode of the new “1 Night, 2 Days” will air March 4, while the final episode of the original five members will air this weekend on February 26.

What are your thoughts and anticipations for the new members?

[Photo & News] Kim So-yeon and Joo Jin-mo for Vogue.

[Photo & News] Kim So-yeon and Joo Jin-mo for Vogue.
Cr. - dramabeans

Kim So-yeon and Joo Jin-mo take to the pages of Vogue next month for a Coffee-themed shoot that I love: it’s full of intrigue and beautiful period-costume-inspired looks. I’m ridiculously excited for their movie to be out, a fusion historical action thriller about a set of spies who carry out a mission to assassinate a late-Joseon emperor via his coffee. Talk about a habit that’ll kill ya.

Kim So-yeon and Joo Jin-mo play a pair of international spies who team up for the job across enemy lines, and then happen to put everything at risk with their mutual attraction. The film takes place in the Russian embassy, where Emperor Gojong took refuge in 1896. The characters go by Russian names, which maybe makes them Russian nationals, though Joo Jin-mo is a double spy who has alliances elsewhere. The trailer and posters are head-turners, with their stylish modern take on a period thriller, so I sincerely hope the movie holds up to my expectations.

Coffee, directed by PD Jang Yoon-hyun of The King and the Clown, premieres in theaters March 15.