[Interview] Yoon Si-yoon, "I am responsible for what I am…".

[Interview] Yoon Si-yoon, "I am responsible for what I am…".
Cr. - hancinema

Yoon Si-yoon is different.

Yoon Si-yoon attempted at a trendy character in the recent tvN drama, "The Pretty Boy Next Door", unlike the sincere characters he's been in such as MBC drama, "Me Too, Flower!" or KBS "Bread, Love and Dreams". He played the role of a genius creative director Enrique Geum from Spain who is fidgety and whiny like a little child. He also created a fantasy image which makes one imagine if there really is a guy like Enrique out there.

"They say the viewers know right away when an actor enjoys what he's doing. I tried to enjoy Enrique. I've always been pressured by acting but I thought differently this time. I thought to myself, "Let's do it my way" and I was sure I had a silly side to me".

Other than Enrique were Ko Dok-mi (Park Sin-hye), Oh Jin-rak (Kim Ji-hoon-I) and fashion star, Cha Do-hwi (Park Soo-jin). The atmosphere of the drama was very much like the actual site and it's been rumored that they all offered to treat everyone to a meal often, so they even had to adjust shooting schedules.




"I don't believe it's over. It's hard to explain when the project I've picked and made creates the kind of atmosphere where everyone is so close and comfortable with each other -- we are practically family. We talk a lot when we get to the site and when we finish early, we would go out for drinks. I like to meet people because I like them".

Yoon appeared like a comet through "High Kick!" and starred in "Bread, Love and Dreams" right after. He was always in the lead and he showed that he was worth it. However, "I've received too much compared to what I have shown you".

"I'm sure many wonder why I ended up in the lead role. I wonder about it myself. I try to perform in away other actors and actresses can understand me and I care about every NG I make".

Yoon Si-yoon thinks a lot. He thinks about his popularity and acting as well as his image. He's still thinking hard to find answers to his problems. In the end, it's all about responsibility.

"Many people like the image that I have. If that's me, I think I should be able to take responsibility for that. I always try to live healthly and I want to show that this guy is a young and healthy one".

Enrique ended up in love with Ko Dok-mi in "The Pretty Boy Next Door". It's time for Yoon Si-yoon to snap out of his character now.

"I want to say goodbye to Enrique. I have a habit of writing down everything. I am going to arrange my notes about the things we could've done better about the drama and have a meeting with my managers. I want to be prepared before doing something again. I try to be a good actor".

[News] Kwak Jung Wook from ‘School 2013′ was originally a member of INFINITE?

[News] Kwak Jung Wook from ‘School 2013′ was originally a member of INFINITE?
Cr. - allkpop

INFINITE surprised their fans with a sudden comeback news and teaser video. That wasn’t it as there is yet another surprising news about INFINITE.

The boys held their 2nd fanmeeting on March 1, and the MC for the fanmeeting was actor Kwak Jung Wook, who gained a lot of love for his problem-student role in ‘School 2013‘. When he first stood on stage, he smiled and said, “Hello, I’m Kwak Jung Wook, the MC for INFINITE’s fanmeeting today. There are a lot of fans gathered here today, more than what I expected. Did some of my fans come, too?“.

In reply, the fans cheered passionately, and Woohyun spoke up in surprise. He teased his labelmate by saying, “What’s going on? This is no joke. Anyway, Kwak Jung Wook, why are you here? I guess you weren’t busy today“, rousing laughter from the crowd. Woohyun continued, “Today is Kwak Jung Wook’s first time on stage. It’s his official debut as an MC.”

Kwak Jung Woo didn’t want the verbal sparring to end there as he responded, “There were articles saying that I was going to be an MC for the fanmeeting. The titles were ‘The warm friendship between labelmates’, but that’s wrong. Our CEO forced me to do this. This is strictly business,” which caused even louder laughs.

Hoya had a surprise for everyone, and he said, “To be honest, Kwak Jung Wook was originally a member of INFINITE. Not many people know this, but we were dance rivals when we were both trainees.”

Kwak Jung Wook admitted, “I did practice dance with the INFINITE members. I already saw their next stage for their comeback, so I’m looking really forward to it.”

[News] Hyun Bin admits he texted ‘Secret Garden’ co-star Ha Ji Won after he was discharged.

[News] Hyun Bin admits he texted ‘Secret Garden’ co-star Ha Ji Won after he was discharged.
Cr. - allkpop

Hyun Bin confessed that he had kept in contact with ‘Secret Garden‘ co-star Ha Ji Won after he was discharged from the army.

As you may remember, ‘Secret Garden’ was one of the biggest dramas of 2010, with various parodies popping up everywhere. When Hyun Bin announced that he had broken up with Song Hye Kyo not too long after the drama wrapped up, fans couldn’t help but hope that the ‘Secret Garden’ actors come together again.

MBC‘s ‘Section TV‘ covered Hyun Bin’s first official outing since he came back from his enlistment. During the short interview, he admitted, “I texted Ha Ji Won after I was discharged from the army.” He also added, “I want to meet everyone again soon. I can’t say when that’ll happen yet.“

 

[News] Hirosue Ryoko & Eikura Nana to make guest appearance on upcoming ‘Legal High’ special drama.

[News] Hirosue Ryoko & Eikura Nana to make guest appearance on upcoming ‘Legal High’ special drama.
Cr. - tokyohive

On February 28, it was revealed that actresses Eikura Nana (25) and Hirosue Ryoko (32) will make a guest appearance on Fuji TV’s special episode of “Legal High,” which will be broadcast on April 13.

Broadcast as a serial drama last April, this special episode of the comedic law drama will reunite actor Sakai Masato, who plays the role of a genius lawyer protagonist, and Aragaki Yui (24), who plays the hot-blooded and stubborn rookie lawyer heroine.
The theme of the special episode will be bullying in middle school.

 It will focus on the proceedings between the protagonist, who will represent a bullied student, and the school’s lawyer (played by Kitaouji Kinya), who will try to protect the school’s reputation.  Eikura will play the hot-blooded teacher who holds the important key to the bullying problem, while Hirosue will play the cool presiding judge who hands down the verdict during the climax of the episode.

Both are fans of the series and Eikura expressed her gratefulness towards being chosen to appear in the episode with, “Sakai and Aragaki welcomed me warmly, which relieved me of the pain I had in my stomach until yesterday due to nervousness.”

Hirosue, who is playing a judge for the first time ever, appealed for team work with, “Sakai is perfect as Komikado.  Aragaki always does her best and is cute!”  Sakai, who faces the two beautiful ladies in the drama, added, “The special would not be complete without these two magnificent actresses.”

[News] Song Jong Ho casting in a new historical drama.

[News] Song Jong Ho casting in a new historical drama.
Cr. - sg.entertainment.yahoo

Song Jong Ho is casting in 'Destined'.

New KBS 2TV drama 'Destined' will premiere in April, and actor Song Jong Ho recently decided to make a cast.

'Destined' is a historical drama about a royal doctor who became a runaway after getting involved in an assassination plot, and Lee Dong Wook and Song Ji Hyo will be casting in the drama. Furthermore, it is drawing many drama fans' attention because PD Lee Jin Seo and writer Choi Min Ki will be making a collaboration.

In the drama, Song Jong Ho will be casting investigator Lee Jung Hwan. Lee Jung Hwan is an elite who has both intelligence and great martial arts skills.

This will be second historical drama for Song, and he said, "I'm very glad to cast in such a great piece of work, and I will do my best to show a great job. I'm going though a lot of preparation to cast as Lee Jung Hwan, so please give me a lot of support."

On the other hand, 'Destined' will air as the sequel of 'IRIS II'.

[News] Heroins of 'School 2013' reunited.

[News] Heroins of 'School 2013' reunited.
Cr. - sg.entertainment.yahoo

Actors of 'School 2013' reunited.

On February 27th, actor Lee Yi Kyung uploaded a photo on his Twitter and wrote "'School 2013' team reunited at the KBS Hall.

In the photo, Lee Yi Kyung, Han young Woo, Lee Jung Gwi, Lee Ji Hoon, and Kim Young Chun, who casted in KBS 2TV drama 'School 2013' together, are posing for a photo together.

Even thought it's been over a month since the drama finished, the actors are still closely keeping in touch with each other, and many fans are showing great interests in their friendship.

On the other hand, netizens who viewed the photo made comments, such as "Long time no see", "Great to see them", "They still look like the best friends", and "Where are Nam Soon and Hong Soo?"

[News] Lee Young-ae's New Role Is All About Kids.

[News] Lee Young-ae's New Role Is All About Kids.
Cr. - Chosun Ilbo

Actress Lee Young-ae, who disappeared from the limelight after surprising fans by suddenly getting hitched in 2009, recently moved to a countryside home in Yangpyeong, just east of Seoul, built to raise her twins in a clean, natural environment, and started a business specializing in infant-care products.

Lee said she and her husband are enjoying their life in the countryside. Her spouse is particularly fond of the rural surroundings as it reminds him of the neighborhood on the outskirts of Chicago where he grew up.

"I'll resume acting if I see a script I really like," said Lee, who gave birth to a boy and girl in 2011. However, she said her children are currently the main focus of her life.

"As an actress, I used to think it was important to have a wide-ranging spectrum of experiences," she said, adding that she is now more selective and socially responsible. "Now my desire to help create a better world for children to live in has become my main criteria for choosing a script."

"In the past, I focused only on the character I was set to play, but nowadays I'm very concerned about the impact the film will have on my children and on society."

Lee said her fans should not expect to see her starring in violent movies or playing villainous characters anytime soon. She said she discussed with her husband what she could do to create a better world for children, drawing on her popularity from starring in the Chosun dynasty court cook story "Jewel in the Palace," and decided to open a business dedicated to organic products for infants.

As well as promoting environmentally friendly products for young toddlers, she hopes to share her child-rearing experiences with other moms.

[News] Vanness Wu wants kids.

[News] Vanness Wu wants kids.
Cr. - Groove Asia

28 Feb Taiwanese singer Vanness Wu is happy to be in a stable relationship with heiress girlfriend, Arissa Cheo, but also longs to become a father of six.

Groove Asia website reported that at a charity event held in Taipei on 23 February, the singer revealed his dream to become a father, and expressed, "I want to have six kids, but I am worried that I will be too old and have no energy to play with them by that time."

The 34 year-old singer added that his girlfriend also likes children, but expressed that they are not planning to get married in the near future.

The F4 member stated, "In my early 20s, I planned to get married by 25. But then I was 28, and it still didn't happen. So now, I don't set a time limit anymore."

However, marriage plans aside, Vanness assures that he and Arissa, daughter of a wealthy Singapore businessman, intend to marry. Just not anytime soon.

[News] Kim Min Hee shows a beautiful look at press conference of 'Temperature of Love'.

[News] Kim Min Hee shows a beautiful look at press conference of 'Temperature of Love'.
Cr. - http://sg.entertainment.yahoo.com/


Kim Min Hee showed a beautiful look at a press conference.

On February 28th, press conference of film 'Temperature of Love' was held at Lotte Cinema Kunkook University branch, and Kim Min Hee, Lee Min Ki, and director Roh Duk attended.

During the conference, Kim Min Hee appeared in a white sleeveless one-piece dress and white shoes. Especially, her slim body shape and simple but stylish outfit matches made her look even more beautiful.

Netizens who viewed her photo made comments, such as "She still looks amazingly beautiful", "She doesn't need much showy outfits", "Not that many people can look great in a white one-piece", and "Looking great."


On the other hand, movie 'Temperature of Love' will be released on March 21st.

[News] Park Shi Hoo Update: Text Messages Between “K” and “A” Revealed, Sheds New Light on Case.

[News] Park Shi Hoo Update: Text Messages Between “K” and “A” Revealed, Sheds New Light on Case. 
Cr. - soompi

We have another shocking update on the Park Shi Hoo case. The text messages exchanged between rookie actor “K” and victim “A” were finally revealed to the public, which sheds a new light.

The text messages (exchanged through the instant messaging application, KakaoTalk) were aired on Y-Star’s “Live Star News.” The conversation goes as follow:

A: I’m home
K: Are you feeling okay?
A: I can’t sober up…
K: Well you didn’t make any mistakes
A: Whatever, as long as I had fun, it’s fine
K: Let’s go clubbing later
A: Sigh kk you said you’re going to Club Ellui, right?

Sources from actor “K” spoke in an interview, “He doesn’t know what to do since this is such a shocking thing to happen so it came to this,” and “On the night of the incident, he received a text from another woman. The texts show that she and ‘K’ are very close.”

They continued, “Since ‘K’ lives on the outskirts of Seoul, his home from Cheongdamdong is pretty far. Since he didn’t have a car and public transportation was cut off, he just crashed at Park Shi Hoo’s home. So he’s so bewildered that this sort of thing happened. We will be handing over the full conversation between ‘K’ and ‘A’ to the police.”

KakaoTalk status messages for both “K” and “A” were revealed as well. For his status message, “K” posted, “Fine, let’s go till the end and see.” On the other hand, “A” posted, “A wise one knows how to be humble when the enemy strikes. An eye for an eye may be the right way but it will make others think of me as the same level as the enemy and it will not earn the hearts of those around me.”

Meanwhile, Park Shi Hoo is set to show up to the police station on March 1.

[News] Han Hyo Joo Participates in “InStyle” 10th Anniversary Charity Pictorial.

[News] Han Hyo Joo Participates in “InStyle” 10th Anniversary Charity Pictorial. 
Cr. - soompi

Actress Han Hyo Joo was among the beautiful celebrities featured on “InStyle Magazine” for its 10th year anniversary edition. In celebration of the magazine’s milestone decade, the people behind “InStyle” chose to launch a charity project and enlisted the help of people to work on the magazine pro-bono.

Celebrities, such as Han Hyo Joo, took on the suggestion to donate their talents and promote the different causes.

Han Hyo Joo’s shoot included an interview with her. Her participation in the “InStyle” project goes towards helping elderly people, and as such, she has gamely posed for the cameras.

In one of the photos, she is captured in a bright and cheerful mood, leaping in front of the camera for a graceful jump shot.

Staff from “InStyle” were quoted as saying, “Han Hyo Joo showed an innocent and sunny look on set. More than that, she showed a heart of good care for the society, as evidenced by her making time for this shoot despite her busy schedule.”

The charity issue of “InStyle” featuring Han Hyo Joo doubles as its March release, with a book on the theme, “Love Actually.”

[News] An alleged text message history between Park Si Hoo’s hoobae and trainee ‘A’ obtained.

[News] An alleged text message history between Park Si Hoo’s hoobae and trainee ‘A’ obtained.
Cr. - allkpop

In the midst of all the rumors and random issues that media and netizens are discovering about Park Si Hoo, the actor and his legal team have kept relatively silent, determined that the truth will be revealed in the end. While they’ve been keeping quiet, it has been revealed that a text message history has been obtained betweeen Park Si Hoo’s hoobae and the trainee ‘A’.

According to legal representatives as well as those from the entertainment industry, text messages obtained may help prove that what happened that one night was consensual, and not forced.

The text message history allegedly contains conversations between Park Si Hoo’s hoobae, Mr. Kim, and the trainee ‘A’, and their acquaintances. The messages between Mr. Kim and ‘A’ apparently show that they had friendly, everyday type of conversations, which goes against what ‘A’ had said as she said she barely knew Mr. Kim. The messages have not only been obtained by Park Si Hoo’s legal team, but by the court as well.

One source commented, “‘From what I know, messages between ‘A’ and Mr. Kim as well as those with their acquaintances over the course of several days ahead of the night of the incident have been obtained. In the messages between ‘A’ and her friend, there was even content about how she’ll be able to receive a lot of settlement money if she sues Park Si Hoo and Mr. Kim… Even after the incident, ‘A’ even showed interest in Mr. Kim by sending him a message that said things like, ‘I should have been with you yesterday.’”

Allegedly, a day after the incident (on the 15th at 15:41), ‘A’ texted Mr. Kim “I’m home now” (in an aegyo style of writing), and Mr. Kim wrote back, “Are your insides okay?” (a phrase often asked to those who just drank a lot). During the conversation, it was even mentioned, “Let’s go to the club later.”

As the alleged text message history shows that there is no sign of Park Si Hoo and Mr. Kim forcing ‘A’ to do anything, it is currently seen as an important piece of evidence that will support Park Si Hoo’s claims. It is also quite different from what ‘A’ had claimed previously as she said she had talked to her friends asking things like, “What am I supposed to do now?”

It’s said if ‘A’ is unable to provide evidence that can clearly counter this text message history, the case will slide towards the favor of Park Si Hoo.
Meanwhile, Park Si Hoo is on his way to attend his portion of the investigation after much delay today (March 1st).

[News] Takei Emi & Okura Tadayoshi to co-star in TV Asahi’s upcoming late-night drama.

[News] Takei Emi & Okura Tadayoshi to co-star in TV Asahi’s upcoming late-night drama.
Cr. - tokyohive

It was announced that Takei Emi will star in TV Asahi’s upcoming late-night mystery drama “Otenki Oneesan” that will begin airing in April.
In the drama, Takei will play as a weather woman named “Abe Haruko.”

Abe Haruko is somewhat of a weather prodigy as she acquires her qualification to become a certified weather forecaster at the young age of 11. She serves as a weather woman in a morning TV show and is nicknamed as ‘bomb cyclone woman’ because of her gruff personality, provoking negative feelings everyday from the staff members and other news casters of the show. On the other hand, Haruko also uses her vast weather knowledge to solve difficult criminal cases from different a point of view for the police. She teams up with a rookie detective Aoki Gota, and hunts down criminals.

The rookie detective “Aoki Gota” will be played by Kanjnai 8 member Okura Tadayoshi. Medical examiner named “Mikumo Sanpei” who is an enthusiastic fan of Haruko, will be played by Sasaki Kuranosuke. The script will be written by Oishi Shizuka who is known for her works like “Futarikko” and “Second Virgin.”

This will mark the first time for Takei and Okura to co-star with each other. Regarding the co-starring with Okura, Takei said, “When I was in junior high school, Okura-san was my favorite member from Kanjani 8, so I’m happy to co-star with him honestly.”
Okura also commented, “I had a scary image toward Haruko as she would have no face expression and act recklessly, but the real Takei-san was a bright woman, so I’m looking forward for the filming to start. I’m glad she usually is not a scary person.” About his role, he said, “I hope ‘Gota’ will be a comfortable character for the viewers during the process of solving cases.”
According to Takei, she got a flowery and bright image toward the drama from the title, however, “I was excited to be able to play such a role, but I was told ‘No, if anything, your role is expressionless who hardly smiles.’ So I was like…’I am playing another quirky role…!’ I hope I can create mysterious atmosphere. Please look forward to seeing unbalanced conversation between Haruko and Gota as well.”
“Otenki Oneesan” will air on the “Friday Night Drama” time slot for TV Asahi (every Friday at 11:15 pm).

[News] “The Hippocratic Crush 2″ Blessing Ceremony.

[News] “The Hippocratic Crush 2″ Blessing Ceremony.
Cr. - jaynestars

The sequel to last year’s highly successful, The Hippocratic Crush , started filming earlier. The sequel reunites the original cast and continues the love arcs of the doctors, while adding Lawrence Ng (吳啟華), Tracy Chu (朱千雪), and Eliza Sam (岑麗香) to the drama. Kenneth Ma (馬國明), Him Law (羅仲謙), Tavia Yeung (楊怡), and the cast were at the blessing ceremony for The Hippocratic Crush 2 on February 28.

Kenneth was teased for his appealing bachelor image, in which female costars have been reported to fall under his mesmerizing spell. The role of “Dr. Cheung Yat Kin” has made Kenneth Ma into a highly desirable Diamond Bachelor on the market. Last year’s Miss Hong Kong, Carat Cheung (張名雅), openly admitted that she idolized Kenneth.

Tavia Yeung Only Has Eyes for Him Law

There is no chance that Tavia will fall for Kenneth, since boyfriend, Him Law will be there to monitor her on the set of The Hippocratic Crush 2. Tavia said, “Then I will have less chance to be part of the promotional news.”

Asked whether Kenneth or Him was a better catch, Tavia said, “It doesn’t matter. Both of them are very handsome. They have many points in common.” She said that she will not easily give in to temptation while in a relationship. Asked if she was afraid Him would cheat, Tavia said, “It doesn’t matter!”

Kenneth Ma is Not Interested in Natalie Tong

Recent Hong Kong tabloids also blazed headlines that Kenneth has now become a double-timing player, by dating Natalie Tong (崔建邦) and Eliza Sam at the same time. Although Kenneth had attended a group barbecue, in which Eliza was also present, he may face stiff competition against Eliza’s numerous male admirers. Not taking the recent news seriously, Kenneth just laughed over speculations of his love life.

Kenneth and Natalie’s friendship date back to 2010′s A Fistful of Stances <鐵馬尋橋>, when they grew close on set. Their relationship rumors grew when Kenneth celebrated his 39th birthday with Natalie and their friends. Although Kenneth claimed that he regarded Natalie as only a younger sister, their romantic rumors failed to stop.

Finally, Kenneth said, “I’m friends with Amigo Chui (崔建邦). I will not pursue my friend’s girlfriend; otherwise it’ll be very awkward.”

Lawrence Ng Praises Tracy Chu

Lawrence Ng and Tracy Chu portray a romantic couple in The Hippocratic Crush 2. Lawrence praised the newcomer for her performance while Tracy thanked Lawrence for helping her prepare for filming.

Tracy also denied reports of a rivalry with Jacqueline Wong (黃心穎) due to Tracy being more promoted after last year’s Miss Hong Kong pageant.

[News] “Hua Xu Yin” Director Defends Casting Kevin Cheng.

[News] “Hua Xu Yin” Director Defends Casting Kevin Cheng.
Cr. - jaynestars

The television adaptation of mainland China’s national best-selling novel, Hua Xu Yin <华胥引>, is currently shooting in Zhejiang’s Xiangshan County. Starring Kevin Cheng (鄭嘉穎), Yuan Hong (袁弘), and Jiang Xin (蒋欣), Hua Xu Yin is a tragic fantasy drama that tells the story of a fallen princess who creates beautiful dreams for people in exchange for their lives.

Lee Tat Chiu (李達超), the award-winning action choreographer for Bodyguards and Assassins <十月圍城>, has recently been announced to direct Hua Xu Yin, his directorial debut. Some of Lee’s best known works include the 2003 Hong Kong film Colour of the Truth <黑白森林>, which won Lee a nomination at the 40th Golden Horse Awards for best action choreography. Lee’s work in 2009’s Bodyguards and Assassins won him an award for best action choreography at the 29th Hong Kong Film Award, a win that was shared with Stephen Tung (董瑋). Along with Yuen Woo Ping (袁和平), Lee also worked on Hollywood’s The Matrix film franchise.

Lee is very happy to be able to have a chance to direct Hua Xu Yin as his debut. He gushed at the crew’s professionalism, and expressed that he is impressed at the crew’s dedication and love for their craft.

In regards to fans’ disappointment that the 40-year-old Kevin Cheng was cast as the young Mo Yan, a character in his early twenties, Lee explained, “Television dramas and novels are always different from each other. Take Legend of Concubine Zhen Huan <甄嬛傳> for example. In the novel, the male lead was in his twenties, while in the television adaptation, he was in his forties. Only a mature and composed male lead would be able to control the intrigue and struggles of his everyday life, and can be heedful about the cunning officials and concubines that live with him. In such a setting, I don’t think a young man in his early twenties will able to handle it!”

Lee added, “Similarly, Hua Xu Yin’s Mo Yan is not just a gentle and romantic man. He is also a talented leader, and someone who is able to stand up as a leading figure amidst a world of chaos and power struggle. Again, I don’t think this is something that a 20-year-old boy would be able to do. Kevin Cheng is an excellent actor who can use his eyes to express one’s conflicted inner turmoil, and I believe he will do the role justice!”

Hua Xu Yin is an adaptation of the best-selling novel of the same name by Tang Qi Gong Zi (唐七公子), which was published in January 2011. The adaptation is a joint production of Ciwen Media, Tianjin Beifang Film Group, and Tianjin Coastal International Industry.

 

[News] “Alice in Cheongdamdong” Overseas Buyers Drop Negotiation Due to Park Shi Hoo Case.

[News] “Alice in Cheongdamdong” Overseas Buyers Drop Negotiation Due to Park Shi Hoo Case.
Cr. - soompi

Park Shi Hoo‘s alleged rape is affecting the overseas sales of SBS “Alice in Cheongdamdong.” “Alice in Cheongdamdong” is SBS’s original series and SBS originally planned to negotiate the sales of the drama’s publication rights with various international buyers at the end of February through SBS Contents Hub. However the news about Park Shi Hoo’s alleged rape broke out on February 18, the biggest Hallyu markets in Japan and other Asian countries dropped the negotiation all together.

A representative from SBS confirmed “Regarding the drama’s international publication rights, Japan and most Chinese-speaking countries have pulled out of the negotiation process. And all the future meetings with other overseas buyers have been stalled as well. The result of this case affects ‘Cheongdamdong Alice‘s sales. Right now, it’s only an allegation, but if Park Shi Hoo really gets convicted, these buyers won’t be able to air the show in their countries. In the worse cast, we might not be able to sell this internationally at all.”

According to this representative, SBS Contents Hub originally planned to sell “Alice in Cheongdamdong” for $200,000 per episode. This tentative price was set considering that Park Shi Hoo is widely popular in Japan. However, Park Shi Hoo’s alleged rape hindered sales of “Alice in Cheongdamdong” all together and SBS Contents Hub is looking at maximum of 4 billion Korean won.

Meanwhile, Park Shi Hoo was charged for raping an aspiring actress “A” on February 18. Park Shi Hoo released an official statement shortly after the initial charge claiming, “I did not force her to do anything. We were drawn together as a man and a woman and spent the night together with mutual consent.”

Currently, Park Shi Hoo requested the case to be transferred to Seoul Metropolitan Police Agency’s Seobu branch to Gangnam branch and have been refusing to come to the police station for the investigation. Seoul Seobu Police Station have denied the request and announced that Park Shi Hoo will be arrested if he does not respond to the summoning request on March 1.

[News] Shinohara Ryoko to star in a new drama with Fujiki Naohito & Miura Haruma.

[News] Shinohara Ryoko to star in a new drama with Fujiki Naohito & Miura Haruma.
Cr. - tokyohive

Shinohara Ryoko is starring in a new drama series (currently untitled) on Fuji TV that will start airing in April.

It is said that 60% of unmarried women between the ages of 25 ~ 35 find themselves becoming more masculine. The drama will feature “Oyaji Joshi (lit. old-guy woman, a woman who acts like she is an old man )” who devotes herself to work.

“Sakura” (Shinohara) is a 39-year-old woman who has not had a boyfriend in 10 years. Though she works as a vice store manager at a beauty parlor, she is careless about her style. She has a tender heart and a strong sense of justice, but she can be cowardly in terms of love. Recently, she is flustered that a couple of beard hairs start growing on her chin, which she thinks is due to overworking and a hormonal imbalance.

The two guys who will be involved in the protagonist’s love story will be played by Miura Haruma and Fujiki Naohito. Miura’s role is a pro BMX rider named “Hiroto” who is very popular with girls, and Fujiki will play “Rintaro”, the manager at the beauty parlor where Sakura works. Though Rintaro looks cool at first sight, he has a wicked tongue and loves dirty jokes.

Other female cast members have also been announced. Otsuka Nene and Iijima Naoko will appear as Sakura’s friends. Otsuka will play “Miki”, a housewife who is distressed by her relationship with her mother-in-law and her sexless marriage. Iijima’s role will be “Shima”, who is loaded with sex appeal and aggressive towards men. Additionally, Nanao will be making an appearance as “Chiyoko”, a daughter of a rich family who falls in love with Rintaro (Fujiki).

As this will mark Shinohara’s first serial drama after giving birth to her second child back in February of last year, Shinohara commented, “Though I feel pressured, I would be happy if the viewers can laugh, cry, and that their hearts will flutter at the ‘Oyaji Joshi’ struggling in love. I hope it will be the kind of drama that can make the viewers think, ‘I want to fall in love!’ in the end.”

[News] Roy Chiu Confirms Breakup with Tiffany Tang.

[News] Roy Chiu Confirms Breakup with Tiffany Tang.
Cr. - jaynestars

Above: Roy Chiu and Tiffany Tang acted as onscreen lovers in “Waking Up Love”.

After collaborating in three idol dramas in 2011, Taiwanese actor Roy Chiu (邱澤) and mainland Chinese actress Tiffany Tang (唐嫣) set off speculations that they had become an item. The rumor gained momentum when Roy taped a picture of Tiffany in his race car in March 2012, calling her his good luck charm. However, Roy recently announced that he was single and had not seen Tiffany in seven months. In response, an outraged netizen claiming to be Tiffany’s assistant posted a private photograph of the two and scolded Roy for spreading lies, causing both Roy and his manager to publicly confirm that the relationship had come to an end.

Last year, rumors of a breakup arose when it was reported that Tiffany’s mother was unsatisfied with Roy’s inferior educational background and that Tiffany had transferred her affections to her costar Luo Jin (羅晉). Although Tiffany scoffed at these claims, reporters showed no signs of relenting. Earlier this month, Taiwanese actress/model Tia Li (李毓芬) was spotted visiting Roy on the set of his upcoming drama Wine Beauty <紅酒俏佳人>, leading many to believe that the two are now in a relationship. At a recent promotional event in Taiwan, Roy denied this allegation but did confirm that he was single and added that he and Tiffany had not seen each other in seven months.

Private Photo Exposed

Displeased by this statement, a netizen claiming to be Tiffany’s assistant lashed out at Roy on Sina Weibo. Spitting profanities and criticisms, this netizen even went so far as to tell Roy that he “was not a man” because Tiffany had endured much slandering on his behalf, yet Roy insisted on keeping the relationship quiet, out of fear of losing fans. The netizen challenged that the relationship had not ended seven months ago, as Tiffany had celebrated Roy’s birthday in October.

The netizen appended this vitriolic outburst with a private photograph of Roy and Tiffany. In the picture, Tiffany was not wearing makeup, and her bangs were clipped back. She also appeared to be wearing a men’s shirt, causing some netizens to ask if the photograph was taken at Roy’s house.

Roy’s Response

The Weibo post was taken down soon afterward, but not before arousing a great deal of discussion. In the end, Roy also took to Weibo to respond: “To me, love is not a performance. Forgive me for not being able to make it public. Even if you no longer have any feelings toward those beautiful memories, I will still choose to believe that they existed. As for love, I have not let anyone down. I will humbly accept all derision and criticism. Thank you for your attention and blessings, thank you.”

In an interview, Roy’s manager Liao Tianjun (廖天駿) confirmed that Roy and Tiffany had ended their relationship three months ago, adding that the breakup was due to their inability to maintain a long-distance relationship. Liao found the Weibo post suspicious: “In the entire world, only one person should have access to this photo. How could an assistant have posted it on Weibo?”

[News] “Saving General Yang:” Ekin Cheng Survived Near Death Situation.

[News] “Saving General Yang:” Ekin Cheng Survived Near Death Situation.
Cr. - jaynestars

Above: “Saving General Yang” cast at fan autograph session in Taipei.

The cast of Saving General Yang <忠烈楊家將> is currently on a whirlwind promotional tour in Taiwan. After appearing at a formal press conference in Taipei, Adam Cheng (鄭少秋), Ekin Cheng (鄭伊健), Vic Chou (周渝民), Wu Chun (吳尊), and Yu Bo (于波) and director Ronny Yu (于仁泰) were guests on Dee Hsu’s (徐熙娣) Kangxi Lai Le <康熙來了>. Ekin’s private life was drilled relentlessly on the variety program.

Ekin revealed that in one scene in Saving General Yang, he was riding a horse with 300 other horses following fiercely behind. Momentarily, he accidentally fell off his horse and was hanging in mid-air. Ekin feared that he would be trampled to death by the horses should he fall down. It was then that a mystical force gave him strength to pull himself up again. Ekin attributed his safety due to Ronny Yu, who had prayed to the flag of the Yang family that was hung at Kaifeng, Henan province where filming was done.

Ekin’s Private Life Drilled

Newly married Ekin was not spared of Dee Hsu’s sharp questions about his personal life. When asked if Ekin was forced into marriage by Yoyo Mung (蒙嘉慧), Ekin said, “I’m a rebel. When others insist I do [something], I don’t. When people don’t ask me to do it, then I’ll do it,” indicating that he is willing party in their marriage union.

Dee did not let down and pressed on with more embarrassing questions. At one time, she asked Ekin if he still likes to look at other women now that he is tied down. Without missing a beat, Ekin replied, “Of course! I am looking at one right now!” After complimenting Dee on her beauty, Ekin then added, “You look older now.”

Dee pointed to rumors that the couple will quit the entertainment industry and go into the toy making business. To that, Ekin denied, “I love to buy toys, but I have never thought of going into business, neither have I thought of quitting acting.”

Ronny Yu Will Not Direct “Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon 2″

Ronny Yu also clarified that he will not be directing the sequel of Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon <臥虎藏龍2>, which will star Michelle Yeoh (楊紫瓊). Ronny said, “They did ask me but I will definitely not accept. Ang Lee (李安)’s film is a classic and I respect him too much to continue his work.”

Fan Autograph Session

Meanwhile, the cast and crew continues to promote Saving General Yang in Taiwan, in which a fan signing session was held today. Fans lined up to have Ekin, Vic, Wu Chun, and Yu Bo sign photo books. Excited fans will likely eagerly snap up movie ticket sales when the film opens on April 4.

[News] Kim Ah-joong to volunteer in Africa.

[News] Kim Ah-joong to volunteer in Africa.
Cr. - Joongang Ilbo

Actress Kim Ah-joong will take some time off to head to Africa and help the needy before she decides on her next project.

Kim will leave for Liberia on March 11 accompanied by SBS’s “Hope TV” on a joint project with the organization Save The Children.

She will spend 10 days in the African nation along with other celebrities like Yoon Si-yoon.

At home, Kim has always been a do-gooder. Not long ago, she joined her fan club members in paying a visit to a facility that cares for single moms.

Since her last rom-com “My PS Partner,” Kim hasn’t taken on any new projects.