[News] Jang Keun Suk now has more than five million friends on Sina Weibo.

[News] Jang Keun Suk now has more than five million friends on Sina Weibo. 

Cr. en.korea 

Now more than five million people are following Jang Keun Suk on Weibo.

On July 30, actor Jang Keun Suk proved his high popularity in China by having accumulated over five million followers on Sina Weibo, a substitute for Twitter in China.

With the rapidly increasing number of followers, Jang now has the largest number of followers on Weibo as an overseas celebrity, beating Tom Cruise who has about 4.4 million followers.

The number of Jang’s followers has increased by a million every three months since he opened his account in August , 2011. In June, the number exceeded three million, and about a half million became Jang’s followers within four days after Jang appeared on one of the most popular TV shows in China.

Jang will hold concerts at the Taipei Arena in Taiwan on September 1 and 2 after finishing his concert in Shanghai, which will take place at the Mercedes-Benz Arena on August 11.

[News] Actress Ku Hye-sun to attend 8th JIMFF as director.

[News] Actress Ku Hye-sun to attend 8th JIMFF as director.
Cr. - 10asia

Actress and Director Ku Hye-sun will visit the 2012 Jecheon International Music and Film Festival with her two latest movies.

YG Entertainment officials announced on Friday that Ku’s full-length film “The Peach Tree” and short movie “Fragments of Sweet Memories” have been invited to the eighth JIMFF, which will kick off its seven-day run in Jecheon, North Chungcheong Province, on August 9.

“The Peach Tree,” starring actor Cho Seung-woo, Ryu Deok-hwan and actress Nam Sang-mi, portrays the story of Siamese twins, which refers to a person with one body but two faces.

Her other film, “Fragments of Sweet Memories” produced in a 3D format, captures and visualizes sensitive feelings of the male lead, Yoo Seung-ho, recollecting his past memories.

Ku made her debut as a director with short film “The Madonna” in 2009. Including “Magic”(2010) and “You”(2010), her movies have been invited and awarded in various film festivals in Japan, Taiwan and Korea.

The Jecheon International Film Festival is Asia’s first music and film festival. This year, the JIMFF invited 120 films from 26 countries and Ku’s two films will be premiered in the section titled “Korean Music Film Now.”

“The Peach Tree” is scheduled to hit local theaters in October, YG officials noted.

[News] Ju Ji-hoon says “I met director every single day to act out beggar and king”.

[News] Ju Ji-hoon says “I met director every single day to act out beggar and king”.
Cr. - 10asia

Actor Ju Ji-hoon said he had called director Jang Kyu-sung day after day for two months to figure out the best way to portray a double role in his new historical comedy "I am the King."

Ju’s remark, which was made at the film's press conference held in Seoul on July 30, was enough to show how hard the actor has tried to pull off his role as a king and a slave, or a beggar, in the upcoming pic.

“It was my first time to play a double role in a movie. So I met director Jang every single day to act out the king and the beggar perfectly before the movie cranked in.”

The actor, who has returned to the screen after his three-year hiatus, expressed high expectations on his latest effort and hoped it could live up to the high bar that many people have set.

"If we attract over three million moviegoers, I will walk around Daehakro area [a bustling downtown in Seoul famous for being a theater district] wearing a slave costume," Ju's co-star Im Won-hee said, explaining that Ju will be with him for the mission.

The 120-minute movie features the three months before the Grand Prince Chung-nyeong becomes the king of Joseon Dynasty. The prince, who strongly refuses to become a king, chooses to escape the palace to live happy and free.

Just when Chung-nyeong tries to climb over the palace wall, he runs into a drunken slave named Duk-chil, who perfectly resembles the prince himself.

The prince instantly grabs the chance to disguise himself as a slave and changes his wardrobe with Duk-chil's. In a terrible twist of fate, Chung-nyeong gets treated like slaves begins to open his eyes to the people living in extreme poverty.

The historical comedy movie will hit local theaters on August 9.

[News] Lee Min Ho Parody Photos at the Olympic Game

[News] Lee Min Ho Parody Photos at the Olympic Games.
Cr. - soompi

Actor Lee Min Ho makes a surprise appearance at the London Olympics?

A series of eye-catching photos of Lee Min Ho at the London Olympics surfaced online. The pictures were uploaded to the upcoming SBS drama series “Faith’s” official website. Of course the images were a parody but the photos appeared to be believable. They were posted to help promote Lee Min Ho’s latest drama “Faith.”

In the photoshopped pictures, Lee Min Ho participated in soccer, swimming, athletics, boxing, shooting, horseback riding, and archery. In total he competed in a whopping twelve events. There was even a photo of him in fencing attire similar to what he would be wearing in the drama “Faith.”

The funny part is that the photos shown aren’t the product of photo manipulation. An agency official explained, “The photos were actual pictures or screen captures taken of Lee Min Ho. The soccer image, reminiscent of Korean soccer star Ki Sung Yueng, is from ‘Boys Over Flowers’ and the other pictures are either from ‘City Hunter’ or ‘Mackerel Run.’”

It appeared that Lee Min Ho did well in most of the events except for canoeing due to his poor temper as Gu Jun Pyo in “Boys Over Flowers.”

Fans who saw the parody responded positively to the images, “I had no idea Lee Min Ho was in so many events,” “I thought he saw gold as stone, so what’s with the gold medal,” “He looks great as an athlete,” and “I couldn’t help but smile and laugh when I saw these.”

Lee Min Ho’s own “Olympics” will begin at the conclusion of the London Olympics on August 13. That is when he will make his appearance in the historical drama “Faith.” With this drama he hopes to bring his record up to four consecutive home runs.

“As a Korean I am extremely proud of our athletes at the London Olympics. As an actor I will work hard to earn a gold medal in viewership ratings,” Lee Min Ho said.

[News] Jang Keun Suk plays tennis in the sizzling heat.

[News] Jang Keun Suk plays tennis in the sizzling heat. 

Cr. en.korea 

Actor Jang Keun Suk uploaded a picture of himself exercising.

On the afternoon of July 30, Jang uploaded a picture on his Twitter with the caption, “I’m exhausted… It’s so hot.” In the picture, Jang is playing a game of tennis by holding a racket in his hand.

He attracted attention by wearing a blue collar shirt and short pants. He seemed to play tennis enthusiastically despite the hot weather. Netizens commented: “If you’re exhausted, you can stop!” “It looks like you’re really hot. You’re dying.” “Stop playing tennis and take a break.”

[VOD & News] “Arang and the Magistrate” Releases New Teaser Stills of Shin Min Ah.

[VOD & News] “Arang and the Magistrate” Releases New Teaser Stills of Shin Min Ah.
Cr. - soompi

Earlier today, MBC’s “Arang and the Magistrate” unveiled new teaser stills of its female lead Shin Min Ah running and running. Unlike traditional ghosts who brood and mope, Shin Min Ah’s Arang is a vivacious and feisty ghost. In the scenes, Arang is being chased by a ghost hunter named Mooyoung (Han Jung Soo), who captures spirits who linger on earth.

Based on a famous folklore, the fantasy drama takes place in the Joseon era. Shin Min Ah plays Arang, the daughter of the magistrate who is brutally murdered. She returns as a ghost with no recollection of her life and how she was murdered and goes around haunting every new magistrate who comes to town…that is until Eun Oh, played by Lee Jun Ki, shows up. The two eventually fall in love.

“Arang and the Magistrate” will premiere on MBC on August 15 at 9:55PM KST.

[VOD] Jang Keun Suk Sanma-no-manma........2012-07-07

[VOD] Jang Keun Suk Sanma-no-manma..2012-07-07

Cr. jkseelsbond  

[News] The approved songwriter, C.N Blue’s Jung Yong Hwa writes a song for a new girl group AOA.

[News] The approved songwriter, C.N Blue’s Jung Yong Hwa writes a song for a new girl group AOA. 

Cr. en.korea

C.N Blue’s Jung Yong Hwa is creating a stir by writing a song and giving it to the new girl group AOA as well after writing a song for Juniel.

Previously on July 27, Jung said, “I wrote a song for AOA after hearing that a girl group has been formed in our agency.

I am happy to hear that my own written song ‘Love Is Only You’ goes well with AOA’s image, and I am honored that this song is included in their first debut EP.”

 “Love Is Only You” is a song written by Jung with a R&B pop style that beautifully harmonizes the lyrics of a girl who fell in love and the trendy melodies.

Expectations are on the rise as AOA will be dancing with this song.

Previously, Jung was recognized with his song writing talent since he wrote a song “Idiot” for Juniel’s debut EP, My First June.

Eight-member girl group AOA will release their EP through their showcase on July 30, and start their activities.

[News] FT Island’s Lee Hong Ki is cast in the film Our Heaven.

[News] FT Island’s Lee Hong Ki is cast in the film Our Heaven. 

Cr. en.korea 

FT Island’s Lee Hong Ki will appear on the screen.

On July 30, the investor KJ-net reported that Lee was recently cast in the film Our Heaven (working title, directed by Nam Taek Soo).

Our Heaven is a film about a naughty celebrity who comes to a hospice, which is facing a shutdown, to do volunteer work after causing a scandal.

Through many patients at the hospice, he realizes the importance of his life and music. In the film, Lee plays the role of a top celebrity named Chung Ui.

Through his volunteer work, he gets healed by the patients who never stop challenging new things even if they’re facing death.

Having appeared in such drama series as SBS TV’s You’re Beautiful and KBS 2TV’s Noriko Goes to Seoul, Lee will appear on the screen for the first time through this film.

Lee says, “I wanted to be careful in choosing my first film.

I was very touched when I read the script of this film, so I chose this one.” Lee will begin filming in September, and the film will be released early in 2013.

[News] Park Shin Hye reveals her innocent beauty during her vacation.

[News] Park Shin Hye reveals her innocent beauty during her vacation. 

Cr. en.korea 

Actress Park Shin Hye uploaded a picture and revealed a day of her vacation.

On the afternoon of July 28, Park uploaded a picture on her Twitter with the caption, “Wiping myself with a towel after riding a wakeboard.

The person in the far back is Eun Young who is working even during the vacation…” Wrapping her hair with a towel, Park is looking at the camera.

Her innocent beauty that stands out even with her unpainted face attracts attention. Netizens commented: “Are you good at riding wakeboards?” “Where are you spending your vacation?” “You are beautiful even without makeup.”

 Park will play the lead on director Lee Hwan Kyung’s movie December 23 with actor Ryu Seung Ryong.

[News] Jang Keun Suk hangs out at the Jisan Valley Rock Festival.

[News] Jang Keun Suk hangs out at the Jisan Valley Rock Festival. 

Cr. en.korea 

Jang Keun Suk has drawn fans’ eyes by leaving a proofshot of his visit at the Jisan Valley Rock Festival. On July 27, the star tweeted several pictures with the comment “Certainly, I came to the Jisan Rock Festival again this year.

I’m driving with the youngest manager sitting in the passenger seat.” In the posting, Jang is wearing a floral-patterned white shirt matching with a bow tie and a fancy hat which reminds viewers of a cyc light. He looks as excited as a little kid.

Netizens that saw the posting commented: “I hope you enjoy my share there.” “You have a bow tie on.

Looks cute.” “Have fun.” “The blue light over your head looks amazing.” The Jisan Valley Rock Festival opened on the day he visited and will be continued till the 29th at the Jisan Forest Resort in Icheon-si, Gyeonggi-do.

[News] CNBLUE’s Jung Yong Hwa gives song to new girl group AOA.

[News] CNBLUE’s Jung Yong Hwa gives song to new girl group AOA. 

Cr. en.korea 

CNBLUE’s Jung Yong Hwa recently gave a song he wrote to new girl group AOA.

Jung was recognized as a singer-songwriter by giving Juniel the song “Fool.” He gave the song “Love in only You” to the new girl group AOA, who are from the same agency as CNBLUE.

The song is a pop song, with R & B overtones.

It portrays a girl who is in love and lovely lyrics with trendy melodies complement the song. AOA will perform a dance with the song and many people are eagerly anticipating their performance.

Jung created the lovely song for AOA and showed off his writing talents for lyrics and melodies by making various songs.

Jung, who is keeping busy as a singer, actor, and songwriter, says, “I’m thankful that I had the chance to give my song to AOA, the first girl group from the agency.

I’m happy to hear that the song works well with the group and I’m honored to be included in their first debut EP as a songwriter.” AOA’s first EP Angels’ Story will include four songs in total, including the title song “Elvis.”

[News] Jang Keun Suk shows his stylish mother to the public.

[News] Jang Keun Suk shows his stylish mother to the public. 

Cr. en.korea 


Actor Jang Keun Suk recently showed his mother to the public.

On July 27, Jang uploaded a picture of himself with this mother on his Twitter account with the comment, “I love you, mom.

I’m not saying this because of the money I spent in this month.” In the picture, Jang and his mother are sitting on both sides of a table.

Jang’s mother is attracting attention with her stylish look. Jang’s mother is showing off her stylish look in an orange dress and black canvas shoes.

Jang is also showing off his stylish look in a leopard-printed cardigan.

People responded: “They look so nice together.” “Jang Keun Suk’s mother looks so young.” “How much did you spend?” “I think Jang Keun Suk’s mother is pretty.”

[News] The Moon Embracing the Sun and Deep-rooted Tree compete for the Best Drama Series at SDA.

[News] The Moon Embracing the Sun and Deep-rooted Tree compete for the Best Drama Series at SDA. 

Cr. en.korea 

MBC TV’s The Moon Embracing the Sun, KBS 2TV’s The Princess’ Man, and SBS TV’s Deep-rooted Tree are competing for the Best Drama Series at the 2012 Seoul Drama Awards.

On July 26, the Seoul Drama Awards Committee announced 24 drama series nominated for the grand prize.

From a total of 201 series submitted from 45 countries, MBC TV’s 8.15 special drama series The Peak and The Moon Embracing the Sun, KBS 2TV’s The Princess’ Man, and SBS TV’s Deep-rooted Tree are nominated for the Best Drama Series.

For the Best Writer, Kim Soo Hyun from SBS TV’s A Thousand Days’ Promise and Kim Young Hyun and Park Sang Yeon from Deep-rooted Tree are nominated.

For the Best Actor, Shin Ha Gyun from KBS 2TV’s Brain, and for the Best Actress, Ha Ji Won from MBC TV’s The King 2 Hearts are nominated.

The winners will be unveiled at the awards, which will be held at the Seoul National Theater on August 30, and it will air live on KBS 2TV.

There are total seven judges, Pyo Jae Soon, a chair-professor from Hallyu Culture and Industry Graduate School in Bae Je University, Jang Mi Hee, a professor from the theater department of Myung Ji Community College, Yang Wenjun, one of the five most famous drama directors in China, Yoshiki Nishimura, an EP of the Drama Department of NHK, Cynthia Fenneman, a CEO of American Public Television, Norbert Sauer, a president of UFA Film & Productions in Germany, Trudi Tierney, the head of Drama Department of Moby Media Group in Australia.

[News] JYJ’s Park Yoo Chun draws a crowd!.

[News] JYJ’s Park Yoo Chun draws a crowd!. 

Cr. en.korea 

JYJ’s Park Yoo Chun will hold a signing event at Black Smith. Black Smith, the sister brand of Caffe Bene, asked Park to hold a signing event to celebrate the release of their new summer menus, ‘Beef Carpaccio Salad,’ ‘Sea Mustard Soup Pasta,’ and ‘Spicy Pork Rip and King Prawn.’

The signing event will be held for one hour on July 26 in Jamsil starting 3 o’clock in the afternoon.

They will also hold a travel event for their customers. The winner will receive a travel coupon, which allows the winner to go to the Maldives for six days and four nights by August 15.

Customers can order one of the new menus and use their receipts for the event.

Since this is Park’s first public appearance in a long time, since his appearance on SBS’s series Rooftop Prince, many people are expected to flock to see him.

[News] Many handsome boys are featured in the poster of To the Beautiful You.

 

 [News] Many handsome boys are featured in the poster of To the Beautiful You. 

Cr. en.korea 

The main poster of To the Beautiful You was recently released. On July 26, SBS TV’s To the Beautiful You, which is scheduled to start airing in August, released its main poster, in which 22 handsome boys are featured.

The poster shoot was conducted on July 9 at a studio in Gangnam.

The studio was crowded with the cast members – f(x)’s Sulli, SHINee’s Minho, Lee Hyun Woo, Kim Ji Won, Seo Jun Young, Kang Ha Neul, and ZE:A’s Kwang Hee – and lots of crew members.

 In the poster, Sulli especially attracts a lot of attention because she doesn’t look awkward with other handsome boys.

In a boy’s uniform and with short hair, she has completely changed into a handsome boy.

The main poster features 22 handsome boys, including Minho, Lee Hyun Woo, Seo Jun Young, Kang Ha Neul, and Kwang Hee.

All the boys are showing off their charms in harmony in the poster. On the set, the 22 cast members created a friendly mood with their polite manners.

They said hello to all crew members and had friendly conversation with each other.

The production company says, “Many people were at the studio, but they could finish the photo shoot in a friendly mood because their excitement for this new drama series created good teamwork.”

[News] 2PM’s Nichkhun will still appear on MBC Idol Olympics.

[News] 2PM’s Nichkhun will still appear on MBC Idol Olympics. 

Cr. en.korea 

MBC will air Idol Olympics in its entirety, without editing scenes where Nichkhun appeared, even though he was involved in a drunk driving accident.

On July 25, an MBC senior official said, “We will air the show, which is scheduled to air on July 25 and 26, without editing scenes in which Nichkhun appeared.” He added, “Since many idol stars appeared on the show and played games together, it is difficult to delete Nichkhun only.”

The show was created to celebrate the ’2012 London Olympics’ and top idol stars will appear and challenge each other to several matches, including, track and field, archery, fencing, and table tennis.

The first episode of the show will air on July 25 at 10 o’clock at night and the second episode will air on July 26 at the same time.

Both of the episodes will air on July 28 as an encore. Nichkhun was driving his own car on July 23 when he was involved in an accident with a motorcycle.

Motorcycle driver Park was injured and hospitalized in Seoul.

Nichkhun was driving with a blood alcohol level of 0.056 percent, which led to the revocation of his driver’s license.

The police will summon Nichkhun again to investigate the exact cause of the accident.

[News] Jang Keun Suk receives a lot of attention for Love Rain in Japan.

[News] Jang Keun Suk receives a lot of attention for Love Rain in Japan. 

Cr. en.korea 

Actor Jang Keun Suk received a lot of attention from several Japanese media sources in a promotional press interview for the drama series Love Rain.

On July 25, Tree J Company reported Jang received a lot of attention in a promotional press interview for Love Rain, which was held in Japan on July 24.

The interview was held before Love Rain starts airing on the Japanese private TV channel Fuji TV.

More than 130 Japanese reporters from 90 major news sources, such as Yomiuri and Mainichi, attended the interview, showing their interest in Jang and the series.

Jang was in a flood of flashlights and questions throughout the interview, and the police were even mobilized as lots of Jang’s fans brought traffic to a standstill by surrounding the place.

Jang and SNSD’s Yoona exchanged warm greetings when they saw each other in a green room.

They also gave witty answers to the reporters’ questions and brightened up the atmosphere of the interview.

Love Rain aired for the first time in Japan on the Japanese cable channel KNTV in May. The series, starring Jang and Yoona, will start airing on July 25 on Fuji TV.

[News] Jang Keun Suk reenacts Love Rain with SNSD’s Yoona.

[News] Jang Keun Suk reenacts Love Rain with SNSD’s Yoona. 

Cr. en.korea 

Recently, actor Jang Keun Suk posted a self-portrait taken with SNSD’s Yoona.

On July 24, the star tweeted a picture with the comment in Japanese, “I ask for your support and love in Japan!” In the picture, Jang and Yoona are staring at the camera in a friendly pose.

He is dressed in a neat brown suit showing off his sense of fashion with a leopard printed tie while Yoona looks like a princess in a red dress with a thin hair band.

Netizens who saw the posting commented: “They both look gorgeous.” “They make such a cute couple.” “Yoona looks very pretty.

She looks like a princess.” Jang and Yoona shot KBS 2’s drama series Love Rain together.

[Photos] JangKeun Suk & Yoona 'Love Rain Press Conference in japan''......2012-07-24.

[Photos] JangKeun Suk & Yoona 'Love Rain Press Conference in japan''......2012-07-24.

Cr. On Pics

[News] Jang Keun Suk is the most popular Korean celebrity in Taiwan.

[News] Jang Keun Suk is the most popular Korean celebrity in Taiwan. 

Cr. en.korea 

Actor Jang Keun Suk has become the most popular Korean celebrity in Taiwan.

On July 24, Jang’s agency reported that Jang ranked first on the top ten most Korean popular male celebrities of the first half of 2012 on Yahoo, the biggest portal site in Taiwan.

According to the agency, KBS 2TV’s Love Rain is currently airing in Taiwan and the leading actor Jang is popular among Taiwanese viewers because of his handsome face and his character’s carefree personality.

Besides Jang, Kim Hyun Joong ranked second and JYJ’s Yoo Chun ranked third. Jang recently finished his concert tour, the 2012 Jang Keun Suk Asian Tour – The Cri Show 2, in Seoul and Yokohama, Japan, and will continue in Taipei, Taiwan, on September 1 and 2.

[News] Jang Keun Suk’s agency says, “Please don’t be obsessed about Jang Keun Suk”.

[News] Jang Keun Suk’s agency says, “Please don’t be obsessed about Jang Keun Suk”. 

Cr. en.korea 

Jang Keun Suk’s agency recently said some of obsessed fans of Jang are acting too abnormal that they want them to stop.

On July 23, a spokesperson for Jang reported, “Some of obsessed fans are giving Jang Keun Suk a hard time. Please stop.” On July 22, Jang tweeted, “You follow me by taxi, setting up an antenna that is linked to a GPS.

The methods are becoming diversified. I’ve already said this several times but I don’t need obsessed fans, so please go away.” Jang is currently holding a concert tour titled 2012 Jang Keun Suk Asian Tour The Cri Show 2, so he tweeted the comment in Japan.

The spokesperson for Jang said, “Some of the obsessed fans followed Jang Keun Suk’s car by taxi, setting up an antenna that is linked to a GPS system.

Jang Keun Suk and we are all scared by the fact that he’s being watched every time.

We thank you so much for your love but I wish you don’t go too far.” The obsessed fans are trying to see Jang in various ways.

Because Jang always wants to see his fans in the best condition, he’s sad about the obsessed fans’ behaviors.

The first concert of the 2012 Jang Keun Suk Asian Tour The Cri Show 2 was already held in Seoul and will be continued in five cities in Japan (Yokohama, Osaka, Nagoya, Fukuoka, and Saitama) and Shanghai, Shenzhen, Taiwan, and Thailand.

[News] Jang Keun Suk holds a concert in Yokohama, Japan.

[News] Jang Keun Suk holds a concert in Yokohama, Japan. 

Cr. en.korea 

Actor Jang Keun Suk held the second concert of the 2012 Jang Keun Suk’s Asian Tour The Cri Show 2 on July 21 and 22 in Yokohama, Japan.
It was also the first overseas concert of his tour.

On July 23, Jang’s agency reported that the Yokohama concert attracted nearly 22,000 fans with all of its tickets sold out. Because it was a total sellout, many people inquired about additional tickets, and the agency had to allow some people to watch the concert standing.

The most popular Japanese visual rock band L’Arc-en-Ciel’s Hyde also attended the concert and attracted a lot of attention.

Jang personally knows him as his favorite artist. About 21 standing wreaths were sent to the concert hall from Hyde, soccer player Nakata, and some Japanese popular celebrities and TV programs. The official fan club of Jang, Cri J, held a photo event in celebration of the Yokohama concert.

From a 60-year-old fan who says she has a son of Jang’s age to a 10-year-old boy who is a member of Jang’s fan club with his moother, a male fan who attracted a lot of attention by shouting Jang’s name throughout the concert, and a 40-year-old woman who came to the concert on a wheelchair, several Japanese fans came to Jang’s first concert in Japan.

Hayama Reiko (60, female), who waited for the concert for four hours says, “I’m a member of Jang’s fan club but I bought the concert ticket by myself. I came here early to buy some goods.

I wonder how this concert will be different from the last year’s, which was like a musical. I’m so excited about the talk time with Jang and his live performance.

I was also wondering if there’s another concert like Lounge H. My friends are so envious of me because it’s not so easy to get excited in my age like me.

I’m just so happy to hear his voice.” Because the fans could see Jang’s first live performances for the songs from his first Japanese album, which topped the Oricon daily and weekly charts, many Japanese fans have been waiting for this concert.

A music video of “Stay,” a song of Jang’s first Japanese album, Just Crazy, was also released for the first time before the concert was started, getting the fans excited.

The first concert of the 2012 Jang Keun Suk’s Asian Tour The Cri Show 2 was already held in Seoul, the rest of the tour will be held in five cities in Japan (Yokohama, Osaka, Nagoya, Fukuoka, and Saitama), Shanghai, Shenzhen, Taiwan, and Thailand.

[News] Kim Hyun-joong signals roaring return with "City Conquest".

[News] Kim Hyun-joong signals roaring return with "City Conquest".
Cr. - 10asia

Singer and actor Kim Hyun-joong has hinted that there's more to watch than just a romance in his forthcoming TV series, "City Conquest."

On Friday, the drama’s promoter Feel Boy Entertainment unveiled still shots of Kim on a motorcycle, donned in black jacket and jeans.

The officials said special effect directors from 2009 KBS' blockbuster series "IRIS" were in charge of directing the extreme action scenes and they blew up two cars during the shooting.

“To differentiate 'City Conquest' from the original comic, we're keeping the scenes and storyline top secret. There are tons of surprises to be revealed from now on,” a rep from the producing company added.

Helmed by director Yang Yun-ho of "IRIS," Kim will play a strong independent character named Baek Mir who faces difficulties in life as an orphan.

Co-starring actress Jung Yu-mi and actor Nam Goong-min, the noir drama is set to be aired later this year and the broadcaster has yet to be set.

Kim made his debut as a member of K-pop group SS501 in 2005. He has been pursuing his career as an actor by starring in KBS' hit series "Boys over Flowers," (2009) and MBC's "Naughty Kiss" (2010).

Concurrently, he has cemented his career as a Hallyu solo artist in many Asian countries with a few solo albums under his belt.

[News] “Faith’s” Lee Min Ho Is Brilliant but Lazy?!

[News] “Faith’s” Lee Min Ho Is Brilliant but Lazy?!
Cr. - soompi

Earlier today, SBS’s upcoming drama “Faith” unveiled more teaser stills of its male lead, Lee Min Ho. According to producers, Lee Min Ho’s Choi Young is not only the best warrior in the Koryeo Dynasty, but also the epitome of laziness.

As the best soldier in the kingdom, it comes as no surprise that he’s the King’s escort. However, Choi Young only has one desire in life – to get as far away from the palace as possible and live in freedom. His hobby is sleeping, and his specialty is falling asleep wherever and whenever he can.

Lee Min Ho revealed, “I get the feeling that Choi Young is an old man. He’s also not very expressive, so it’s difficult to portray him. However, ‘Faith’s’ Choi Young is not only the historical figure, but also a character I have to create based on our story. I’m excited to show everyone the various sides of Choi Young.”

“Faith” is another time-warping, historical fusion drama where a plastic surgeon, played by Kim Hee Sun, mysteriously meets a strange man dressed as a warrior from the Goryeo Dynasty, played by Lee Min Ho, claiming that he’s here to take her “back.” The series marks Lee Min Ho’s first sageuk (historical drama) since his debut and Kim Hee Sun’s return to the small screen in six years. Check out trailer for the series here.

“Faith” will premiere on August 13 at 9:55PM KST on SBS.

[News] Kim Soo Hyun’s Recent Airport Fashion Gains Attention.

[News] Kim Soo Hyun’s Recent Airport Fashion Gains Attention.
Cr. - soompi

Though busy wrapping up his next movie “The Thieves,” Kim Soo Hyun turned heads at Incheon Airport with his fashion sense as he headed to New Zealand for a commercial shoot on July 18.

He was seen wearing a khaki colored t-shirt with an image of compass displayed on the front, a navy colored jacket, and denim pants. His colorful backpack complimented his casual yet trendy outfit, showing his excellent fashion style.

Kim Soo Hyun’s stylish fashion, small face, and proportionate body immediately grabbed the attention of many people.

Upon seeing Kim Soo Hyun’s airport fashion, people couldn’t help but comment, “Is he at the airport or the runway?” “Even his shoelaces and t-shirt are matching,” “Kim Soo Hyun has the best model pose,” and “Kim Soo Hyun is shooting a commercial in New Zealand, I can’t wait to see it!”

[News] Yoon Kye-sang scores 1st lead role in new family comedy pic.

[News] Yoon Kye-sang scores 1st lead role in new family comedy pic.
Cr. - 10asia

Actor Yoon Kye-sang will return to the big screen after a year-long hiatus.

On Thursday, Yoon’s agency A-List Entertainment said in a press release that he has confirmed to play the male lead in “Acting Class” (translated title) as a minor actor.

In the motion pic scheduled to crank in this September, Yoon will play a male extra named Sung-woo, who has to play a developmentally challenged man from a wealthy, conglomerate-owning family.

“The scenario was really fun when I read it for the first time. I appreciate being cast in such an amazing project. I'm a bit worried and burdened by pulling off the character well, but I will do my best,” the actor was quoted as saying in the statement.

Meanwhile, Yoon got a surgery to cure a troublesome back injury last month. An official of the agency told the magazine over the phone Thursday that he has been receiving treatment and it has no effects in his daily life.

After making his acting debut in film “Flying Boys” in 2004, the idol-turned-actor was recognized as one of the promising rokkie actors in the silver screen and on TV. His recent roles in the big screen include "Come, Closer" (2010) and "Poongsan" (2011).

[News] Park Shin-yang wraps up playing gangster slash shaman in new comedy pic.

[News] Park Shin-yang wraps up playing gangster slash shaman in new comedy pic.
Cr. - 10asia

The “Lovers in Paris” actor Park Shin-yang has finished shooting a new comedy film in which he plays a gangster slash shaman, Showbox announced in press release Thursday.

The film’s officials said that Park finished the four-month shooting of “A gangster shaman” (translated title) last Tuesday and the pic will open in local theaters in September.

Helmed by director Jo Jin-kyu of the mega-hit comic pic “The Wife is the Gang Leader” (2001), actress Jung Hye-young, Um Jee-won, and actor Kim Jeong-tae also play big roles in the comedy flick.

“A gangster shaman” tells the story of Gwang-ho (Park), a qualified gangster who has both loyalty and skills. While living the life of a gangster, he suddenly gets possessed with a spirit and becomes a shaman, entering into an extremely dangerous double life as a gangster slash shaman.

Park, who started his career in low-budget art films in the early 1990s, has become popular by playing a blunt-but-pure gangster in romantic pic “A Promise,” (1998) and a comedy film “Hi! Dharma!” (2001).

The actor has diversified his filmography by starring in a number of hit TV series, such as SBS’ drama “Lovers in Paris” (2004), " “War of Money” (2007) and “Sign” (2011).

“Lovers in Paris,” the actor’s most highlighted work, is one of the top 20 highest-rated drama of all-time in Korea. The project is also one of handful of dramas to reach the 50 percent mark in ratings.

[News] Chinese media blasts Jang Dong-gun.

[News] Chinese media blasts Jang Dong-gun.
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Jang Dong-gun was one of the most-searched keywords in China yesterday, following reports of the plummeting value of property the actor purchased last year.

Portal Web sites like Baidu featured keywords such as “Jang Dong-gun” and “real estate investment” side-by-side after news broke last week of Jang’s property decreasing in value.

On July 13, Korean conglomerate research firm Chaebol.com listed the value of properties owned by well-known public figures.

The Web site said the building Jang purchased in June 2011 for 12.6 billion won ($11 million) had depreciated to just 3.4 billion won.

Chinese media called Jang a “rookie” investor, telling readers that entertainers often make similar mistakes.

Meanwhile, Jang is in the spotlight in Korea because of his starring role in the hit drama “A Gentleman’s Dignity.”

Last year, the Hallyu actor starred in the blockbuster movie “My Way,” directed by Kang Je-gyu.

[News] Chinese Version of “Secret Garden” to Begin Filming in China.

[News] Chinese Version of “Secret Garden” to Begin Filming in China.
Cr. - soompi

Last year’s popular Korean drama, “Secret Garden,” will be made into a movie in China.

Earlier in the week, a press conference was held for the Chinese film version of “Secret Garden.” During the event the focus was on singer Kangta, who was in attendance, and who would be playing one of the lead roles.

Hyun Bin and Ha Ji Won were originally cast as the star-crossed lovers Kim Joo Won and Gil Ra Im. Wallace Chung and Tan Wei Wei will have big shoes to fill as they are to portray Joo Won and Ra Im in the movie version. It also was announced that Kangta will play the part of Oska, Joo Won’s famous pop-star cousin, in the film.

The Chinese version of “Secret Garden” is set to plunge forward with their full-fledged filming schedule beginning this month.

This version of the popular series has been making headlines both in China as well as in Korea. Fans are wondering if the film will be able to match the popularity of the original drama series. The leads said that the pressure may be great but they are willing to take on the challenge.

[News] Jang Keun Suk takes a goodbye picture.

[News] Jang Keun Suk takes a goodbye picture. 

Cr. en.korea 

Actor Jang Keun Suk recently took a self portrait as a way of saying goodbye.

On July 19, Jang tweeted a picture with the comment, “I’m leaving now.” In the picture, Jang is wearing big framed sunglasses and smiling.

His cute red bow tie received considerable attention from the public. People responded: “He is cute! Have a safe trip.”

“The red bow tie is cute.” “I love your sunglasses.” “I hope you have a safe trip.” On the same day, Jang announced to people that he is on his way to Japan by tweeting, “A gift is flying to Japan.”

[VOD & News] Lee Min Ho & Kim Hee Sun’s “Faith” Releases New Action-Filled Trailer.

[VOD & News] Lee Min Ho & Kim Hee Sun’s “Faith” Releases New Action-Filled Trailer.
Cr. - soompi

Following yesterday’s episode of “The Chaser,” SBS aired a new trailer of its upcoming blockbuster drama “Faith,” starring Lee Min Ho and Kim Hee Sun.

As shown in the trailer, the drama promises to be fast-paced and action-packed. The short clip shows its cast flying through the roofs, displaying martial arts, and yielding supernatural powers.

“Faith” is another time-traveling, historical fusion drama where a plastic surgeon, played by Kim Hee Sun, mysteriously meets a strange man dressed as a warrior from the Goryeo Dynasty, played by Lee Min Ho, claiming that he’s here to take her “back.” The series marks Lee Min Ho’s first sageuk (historical drama) since his debut and Kim Hee Sun’s return to the small screen in six years. “Faith” also stars Lee Philip, Shin Eun Jung, Ryu Duk Hwan, Yoo Oh Sung, and more.

“Faith” will premiere on August 13 at 9:55PM KST on SBS.

[News] FT Island’s Lee Hong Ki supports AOA.

[News] FT Island’s Lee Hong Ki supports AOA. 

Cr. en.korea 

AOA (Ace of Angels), the first girl group from FNC Entertainment, which represents FT Island, CNBLUE, and Juniel, released their second teaser for group member Choa.

On July 17, FNC Entertainment released a teaser for group member Choa on their official website and official group site.

Choa, who was born in 1990, is the main vocalist for the group. She has the angel name Choaya, and has a heavenly voice.

On July 16, member Seol Hyun, who has appeared in a music video for FT Island’s song “Severely,” was unveiled and drew a lot of attention.

Girl group AOA, who are composed of eight members, will unveil a new member everyday starting July 16 through 23 on their official website.

The third member will be unveiled on July 18.

[News] CN Blue’s Jung Yong Hwa and Park Shin Hye successfully hold a fan meeting in Japan.

[News] CN Blue’s Jung Yong Hwa and Park Shin Hye successfully hold a fan meeting in Japan. 

Cr. en.korea 

CN Blue’s Jung Yong Hwa and Park Shin Hye have become Hallyu stars of the next generation in Japan.

On July 16, Jung and Park held a promotional fan meeting for MBC TV’s drama series You’ve Fallen For Me at Tokyo International Forum Hall.

The meeting was held twice at 2 p.m. and 6 p.m. It’s the first time for leading actors of a Korean drama to hold a fan meeting in Japan.

The meeting started with Park playing a song with a Korean classical instrument. The Flower in the Wind, a Korean classical music performance team who appeared in the series, also attended the meeting.

Park played three songs, “Arirang,” “Are You Ready to Fight,” which is one of the soundtracks of the series, and “Yes, Smile.”

Jung played “Father and I” with a guitar and sang his own song “Because I Miss You.” Nearly 10,000 Japanese fans of Jung and Park attended the meeting, and they all together sang “You’ve Fallen For Me,” the lead soundtrack of the series, at the end of the meeting.

The company who sponsored this fan meeting says some of the profits from the fan meeting will be donated to Food for the Hungry International.

You’ve Fallen For Me started airing in Japan on July 9 on Fuji TV.

[News] So Ji-sub flavors to hit town.

[News] So Ji-sub flavors to hit town.
Cr. - http://koreajoongangdaily.joinsmsn.com/

To mark the one year anniversary of his café franchise, A Twosome Place, actor So Ji-sub developed and released two non-coffee beverages to be sold during summer at his 51K store in Apgujeong, southern Seoul.

Following the success of the drinks, CJ Foodville Corporation announced yesterday that the two drinks: Green Tea Lemonade and Citron Gingerade, will be sold across some 250 of Twosome outlets nation wide.

“Both the drinks were So Ji-sub’s idea; he just wanted to come up with new offerings to show thanks to the patrons,” said CJ Foodville.

The 34-year-old entertainer, who is currently starring in the TV drama “Ghost,” stumbled upon the idea of green tea lemonade while traveling abroad.
“He worked on the recipe development from spring and took part in all stages of taste testing to get it right.”

It was also the actor-turned-businessman’s idea to launch the lemonade in large-size cups “to cure the heat of summer.”

So has always been a big dessert and coffee enthusiast, and as well as being the official model for the coffee franchise, when he opened his own store he took the time to personally design the interior as well as take part in recipe developments.

[Photo & News] Kim Hyun-joong’s 2-for-1 special.

[Photo & News] Kim Hyun-joong’s 2-for-1 special.
Cr. - http://koreajoongangdaily.joinsmsn.com/

To celebrate the launch of his second Japanese single “Heat,” Kim Hyun-joong held not one, but two showcases on Sunday at the Saitama Super Arena in Tokyo.

More than 30,000 fans flocked to the event, which was delayed an hour due to Kim having to visit a local hospital; the Hallyu sensation felt pain in his throat during an earlier rehearsal but continued on with the day’s festivities.

With a sore throat unable to keep him down, Kim took to the stage to sing a total of 15 songs per show, including the hit song “Heat.”

He also showed a poetic side to his persona by using the example of stairs as an analogy to fame: “As a person climbs the stairs of life, they must be prepared at all times to come back down. However, I’m still young, so I’ll climb some 20 times more the distance I’ve come,” said Kim.

In the coming month, Kim will divide up his time between filming commitments and live performances.

As well as filming the drama “City Conquest,” Kim will also perform at the Jingu Gaien Fireworks Festival in Tokyo on Aug. 10.