[NEWS] ‘K-pop Star’ Kim Na Yoon officially signs with Starship Entertainment








“K-pop Star” contestant Kim Na Yoon has been recruited by Starship Entertainment, the agency behind big names like Sistar, Boyfriend and K.Will.

The agency announced yesterday that an exclusive contract has been signed by the star and that Kim has been recruited as a trainee. The agency used its Facebook to introduce its latest talent and called her a “new family member.”

“She’s still young but has a lot of energy and passion for her craft. It will be sometime until she is ready,” Starship Entertainment said. No debut date has been announced yet, though the agency did ask fans to show their “continuous love and support” for Kim.

Kim, 19, is from California and is an excellent keyboard player. She has been dubbed “genius girl” for her talents in music.

On the singing audition show, which ran from December until April, she placed ninth. The winner of the show was 16-year-old Park Ji Min, who impressed with her soulful rendition of Adele’s “Rolling in the Deep.”


Source:
JoongAng Daily




Source : dkpopnews[dot]net

[PICTURE] f(x)'s Amber joins Twitter!







f(x)'s cool rapper Amber joins Twitter officially!

She has been active since joining Twitter yesterday,chatting with her best friends Fei,Jia,Rania's members and etc.

She uploaded a photo of herself an her pet dog Eng Du as shown in the photo above.

What are you waiting for?Follow her on Twitter now!










Source : dkpopnews[dot]net

[NEWS] SISTAR’s meal expense limit increases after the success of ‘Alone’








SISTAR members revealed how much things have changed since their debut.

On July 6, SISTAR appeared on SBS Power FM’s “Boom’s Young Street.” During the program, Boom asked SISTAR, “Does your agency do anything different for you now since the mega-success of Alone?” SISTAR answered, “Our meal payments have changed.”

SISTAR member Hyorin explained, “Shortly after our debut, our agency bought us meals that were worth about 6,000 KRW. Now, each member can eat menu items as much as 13,000 KRW. We eat anything we want.”

The members added, “When we first debuted, we had to eat chicken breast and vegetables to keep up with our diet. But these days we can eat what we want. We even had a time where the four of us ate 200,000 won worth of food in one sitting. After that incident, our agency asked us to refrain from spending so much.”




Source : dkpopnews[dot]net

[NEWS] miss A’s Suzy to sing OST for ‘Big’








miss A’s Suzy, who is widely loved by his role Jang Mari in the popular KBS TV drama ‘Big’, will lend her voice for the OST of the series.

According to drama production staff on July 11th, Suzy will be participating in the OST for ‘Big’ following the releases by Huh Gak, B2ST, Davichi and Noel. Suzy’s addition is expected to gather a lot of attention.

Suzy’s OST track will be inserted in the series to describe her character Jang Mari’s emotion. As the series is almost over, the miss A member will sing a ballad rather than a dance song.

The release date of the soundtrack will be announced later.


Source:
Star News




Source : dkpopnews[dot]net

[VIDEO] B2ST holds ‘Hang Out Live On Air’ event








On July 11th at 12AM KST, B2ST held an online live chat event on their official Google+ page titled, ‘Hang Out Live On Air’. The special event was set to commemorate B2ST’s 1000th day since their debut.

During the session, the group announced the details about their upcoming comeback. Returning after 1 year and 2 months of hiatus, B2ST revealed July 22 as the day the new album will be released. Titled as ‘Midnight Sun’, the upcoming mini album will feature six tracks.

Earlier today, Cube Entertainment also released B2ST’s
first teaser image for new album ‘Midnight Sun’.

If you missed B2ST’s live video chat, check it out below!









Source : dkpopnews[dot]net

[AUDIO] NU’EST releases 1st mini album “Action”








In addition to the release of the
full music video for their latest title track, NU’EST released the full tracks of their comeback first mini album “Action” on July 11th.

The mini album “Action”, which highlights the group’s maturity, contains mainly dance songs similar to NU’EST’s debut track “Face” and go well with the summer season.

Check out the tracks below!
























Source : dkpopnews[dot]net

[VIDEO] Big Star drops MV teaser for ”Hot Boy”








With their upcoming debut inching closer, Brave Brother’s latest group, Big Star, has unveiled the first music video teaser for their debut track, “Hot Boy” on their official YouTube channel.

Big Star is comprised by members FeelDog, BaRam, RaeHwan, SungHak and Jude, with ages between 18 to 22. The group’s first single album ‘Big Start’ will be released on July 12. The group will make its stage debut on Mnet’s M Countdown on the same day.









Source : dkpopnews[dot]net

[VIDEO] Preview for SECRET’s Japanese “Love is Move” released








Girl group SECRET, who has been taking Japan by storm with several single releases, will be releasing their very
first full-length album ‘Welcome to SECRET Time’ in the country this coming August.

Ahead of the release, SECRET provided a sneak peek with a PV teaser for their upcoming title track, Japanese version of “Love is Move”.

‘Welcome to SECRET Time’ which is slated for release on August 22, will include their Korean releases as well as Japanese original singles.









Source : dkpopnews[dot]net

[PICTURE] B2ST reveals teaser for comeback album, ‘Midnight Sun’








Six-member group, B2ST is signaling its highly-anticipated return to the K-Pop music scene with a teaser image for comeback album, ‘Midnight Sun’.

Cube Entertainment has just posted on its official Twitter, “120722 Midnight Sun”, along with a teaser photo for B2ST upcoming 5th mini album, ‘Midnight Sun’. The teaser also announced the official release date, poised on July 22nd.

Are you excited for B2ST’s return?




Source : dkpopnews[dot]net

[VIDEO] IU releases full PV for Japanese “You & I”








After releasing the
album cover photos and
short PV, singer IU has just unveiled the full PV for her upcoming next Japanese single, “You & I”!

“You and I” will be available in three different editions; regular CD-only version, Limited Edition Type A and Limited Edition Type B. The single is set to be released on July 18th.

Check out the PV below!









Source : dkpopnews[dot]net

[NEWS] Secret's Hyosung is ecstatic with Secret's 1000th day celebration








Girl Group Secret celebrates their 1000th day since their debut and Hyosung can't help but feel ecstatic with this commemoration. On the 10th of July, she updated her twitter account and shared, "It is Secret's 1000th day since debut! Were going to make it to 10,000 days right? We'll be back in Korea soon, please wait a little bit more~ Thank you!" and shared a photo.

Hyosung shared a lovely selca with a big bright smile showing off her slimmer face. Also she shared a flower wreath celebrating Secret's 1000th day since debut. Netizens commented, "Has it been 1000 days already? Time flies so fast", "She is getting prettier by the day", "She looks so beautiful, I wonder when they are going to make a comeback in Korea".

Source:
Nate
Written by: blueprincess824 @ dkpopnews.net




Source : dkpopnews[dot]net

[VIDEO] Teen Top recorded a video message to thank Angel!







Teen Top recorded a video message during the filming of Idols Olympics.

It has been 2 years already since they made their debut,they expressed their appreciation towards their official fanclub Angel for their continuous support,check out the video clip below!







Source : dkpopnews[dot]net

[INTERVIEW] Taeyang's Interview on S Cawaii Magazine!




Q1:What if you have to describe your own personality? 
Sol:I am more of a person who is cautious.I am serious in finishing
 work related stuff. Recently, I have the kind of mindset that no matter what kinds of jobs, I have to have a try.
Q2: A trick that you played on others when u were small?


Sol:When I was on the bus, there were no people who wanted to hop off from the bus but I would press the button to notify the driver so.The driver remembered my face and he scolded me. Even so, when the bus was approaching to the stops, I would still wanna press the button.



Q3: Do you still remember the first time that you stood on the stage?



Sol: Of course. I cried because of being too excited when I was performing in YG 10 anniversary concert. The life of being a trainee for 6 years just run acrss my mind but because I was not satisfied with my performance so I cried again.



Q4: Can you tell us something which Big Bang is proud of ?



Sol: One and only BIGBANG!



Q5:Do you collect things?



Sol:There are many, including items of Chrome heart and the pictures of ‘One Piece’. I always get my fashion sense from them and am inspired from them, too.
Q6:Do you have any shortcomings?


Sol: There are many. The biggest of them is I want to win so much. I think it is good to have ambition but not good to have too much.


Q7: What food can make you happy?

Sol: Recently is Japanese style breakfast. I can work happily for a whole day if I have this kind of breakfast.(with rice and tegomass in the breakfast set)

Q8: What do you immediately do after you wake up?

Sol: In Japan, I will eat Japanese styled breakfast.)laugh). Generally, I dun do anything.

Q9:What do you do in order to make you more confident?

Sol: I will identify myself.I cannot think like ‘it is not okay’ but I have to look at myself honestly.

Q10: Your body shape is really good, how do you train it up? 

Sol:Although I exercise but I always dance to train up myself. The most frequently used exercise is handstands, this is an exercise for the whole body. Besides doing handstands, I also do push ups.



Q11: Do you have any mottos or words that you like?


Sol: Passion.



Q12: Which period of time can you relax during the busy days?

Sol: After the concerts, I can feel more blessed.

Q13: How is your room look like?

Sol:After you have entered it, there are pictures on the left. On the right, there are CD shelves, in the middle, there is a really big bed. In front of it, there is a computer.I put it there because I watch films there.

Q14: What do you wanna try if you have a chance?

Sol:Parachuting. 

Q15: The song that you have been humming is?

Sol: Christoper Brown’s ‘She ain’t you’. This is a song which has used my most favourite singer Micheal Jackson’s song, ‘Human Nature’ (a part). It is remade into a song of Hip Hop style.
Q16: Do you have hobbies or things that you are good at doing that others find strange?


Sol: There are few things like this, my hobby is cycling. I have been cycling when I am in Korea. My mood would be lifted up when I listen to music when cycling.


Q17: What things that girls do would make you feel they are cute?

Sol:Perhaps when they dun answer what they r supposed to answer.But I think that girls’ existence itself is really cute.(laugh).They are even cuter if they are full of love towards others. 

Q18:What will you do if someone you like appear? will you confess first?

Sol: I think i will become awkward and I dun really like that side of myself. (laugh)

Q19: Do you have thoughts that you want to get married?

Sol:I do have such thoughts recently. Artists get love from a lot of fans and I reply them with music. The more love that I get, the less able that I can imagine my life of marriage.

Q20: If you were granted to have a wish, what wish would you make?

Sol: Because I think that I have already gotten a lot of love, I hope that before I go into heaven, I can utilize my inspiration and passion.
Source: bigbangfamily.com via godlovesrice@tumblr
Source : dkpopnews[dot]net

[INFO] Orange Caramel’s First Japanese Single “My Sweet Devil”!












Release Date: 5th September 2012


It is a cover of the 1977 song by Candies (Listen here) and it’ll also include the Japanese ver. of Magic Girl!





There are 4 versions, all of them come with 1 photocard out of 4 designs (3 solo 1 group):





CD+DVD


CD:


01. やさしい悪魔 (My Sweet Devil)


02. 魔法少女 (Magic Girl) (Japan Ver.)





DVD:


01. やさしい悪魔 (My Sweet Devil) PV


02. やさしい悪魔 (My Sweet Devil) Making Movie


03. やさしい悪魔 (My Sweet Devil) Member’s Choreography Lesson





CD+DVD (Live Ver.)


CD:


01. やさしい悪魔 (My Sweet Devil)


02. 魔法少女 (Magic Girl) (Japan Ver.)





DVD:


01. アイン (A~ing)


02. 魔法少女 (Magic Girl)


03. 上海ロマンス (Shanghai Romance) (Japan Ver.) [Live at Namba Hatch]





CD+Photobook


CD:


01. やさしい悪魔 (My Sweet Devil)


02. 魔法少女 (Magic Girl) (Japan Ver.)





Photobook (32 pages)





CD Only


CD:


01. やさしい悪魔 (My Sweet Devil)


02. 魔法少女 (Magic Girl) (Japan Ver.)








Credit: Amazon Japan via  FY afterschool





Source : dkpopnews[dot]net

[INFO] Discussion on the true nature of the Musical Hallyu in 2012: “Before Kim Junsu, After Kim Junsu”!












(Takahara Yoko is curently an active Korean-Japanese performance coordinator.)





Reporter: Which actor has set the beginning of the Korean musicals trend?


Yoko: It can be seen as ‘Before Kim Junsu, After Kim Junsu’. Since ‘Mozart’ created a big impact in 2010, there was a big change in the industry.





Reporter: Then which musical do Japanese audience want to see the most at the moment?


Yoko: The most anticipating musicals are musicals produced by EMK. ‘Mozart’ and ‘Elisabeth’ were already performed in Japan so the audience knew what these musicals are about. Above all, they are interested in whether Kim Junsu would participate in the performance or not. I think starting of like that, they gradually take interest in Korean musicals more and more. Now they even planned to go to Dae-hak street just to watch the musical ‘Washing’.








Source: Play DB


Translated By: @SweetieXiah





Source : dkpopnews[dot]net

[NEWS] 2NE1′s activities to go on as planned – “Promise to fans”!













“No. 1 master of Korean folk dance” Mdm Gong Ok Jin (81) passed away due to a stroke on the morning of 9 July, however girl group’s 2NE1 promotion schedules will go on as planned.





Just 5 days ago, 2NE1 has resumed activities with the release of their new single “I LOVE YOU”, yet merely 4 days later, unfortunate news came. Mdm Gong Ok Jin is the great-aunt of 2NE1 member, Gong Minji. The photo above was taken during the time in which Mdm Gong was battling her illness and was released to the public through Gong Minji’s me2day.





However, 2NE1 plans to proceed with the promised schedules as planned. An official from 2NE1′s agency, YG Entertainment, told enews through the phone this morning: “The funeral procession will proceed calmly. Gong Minji is currently with her family and the funeral procession has been prepared to set off from Jeonnam province (where the city of Gwangju is located). The schedule (for 2NE1) that has been planned is expected to proceed according to plan.





The funeral for the deceased is scheduled to be held for 3 days, but the planned broadcast schedule will not be changed as it is a promise to fans.2NE1 is scheduled to perform on 12 and 15 July at Mnet Mcountdown and SBS Inkigayo respectively.









Source: enews24 via Nate



Translated by nyldeabcd@YGLadies.com





Source : dkpopnews[dot]net

[NEWS] Junjin, “The member most likely to get married first is Dongwan”!












At the 6th July press conference for the Beijing concert, Shinhwa member Junjin picked fellow member Kim Dongwan as the one most likely to get married first.





To this, Lee Minwoo said,
“The members often talk who’s going to get married first. Marriage is also an important issue to us. But there are still many things for us as Shinhwa to do so it’s not really the right circumstances to get married yet.”





Andy then added,
“I think I was the first among the members to get married”, referring to his appearance on MBC variety show ‘We Got Married’ as a virtual couple with Solbi. Junjin continued,
“I appeared on the show too… But let’s not talk about that”, drawing laughter from the audience with his remarks.





Leader Eric said,
“Some of the fans have gotten married and now have children, so we feel a little upset when they tell us not to get married. But as an example, when an actor who only shows his comedic side, decides to show his serious side in a movie, the audience may not be able to fully accept it. So as professionals we will observe the basic courtesy to the fans who like us, and inform everyone once we’ve decided on marriage."








Credits: Mydaily + Absolut Shinhwa





Source : dkpopnews[dot]net

[NEWS] SHINee ranks high as a role model for cover dances worldwide, the only group placing in every region's top five favorites!












Dance groups from a total of fifty countries and six continents participated in this year's worldwide '2012 K-POP Cover Dance Festival,' hosted by the Visit Korea Committee and supported by a number of notable stars."The contestants are evaluated through not only their song and choreography choice but also though their costumes, makeup, and style. The contestants who win the national championships will compete in Korea for the final round of competition, and have chances to meet select K-POP stars."Out of 1350 dance groups, a total of 98 teams backed SHINee, placing SHINee in the coveted second place for the "role model of cover dances" title. They were only preceded by SNSD, with a total of 155 teams behind them. (An updated set of rankings on the competition's website shows SHINee with a total of 99 teams and SNSD with a total of 156.)SHINee also ranked in the #1 spot in a chart of artists by country (seen below), placing first within the regions of North and South America, as well as second in Africa.









A more detailed set of regional rankings shown on the website further proves SHINee's global popularity, with SHINee being the sole artist to achieve a place on every top five list per region worldwide. Our boys sure do fit the title of global stars!








Source: AsiaTodayCover Dance FestivalCR: joAnnwashere @ shineee.net





Source : dkpopnews[dot]net

[NEWS] Super Junior’s 6th album dominates in weekly music charts








Top Hallyu group Super Junior has solidified their ‘Hallyu Leader’ status by dominating various weekly music charts with their comeback 6th album.

On July 4th, Super Junior released their 6th album ‘Sexy, Free & Single’, and it topped in the Hanteo Chart, Hot Tracks and various weekly music charts, dominating over others by a huge gap.

Furthermore, approximately 5 million people viewed the new music video of ‘Sexy, Free & Single’, further indicating the group’s amazing popularity all over the world.

Super Junior also appeared on music programs and performed ‘Sexy, Free & Single’, which impressed the fans once again with their amazing and charismatic performance.


Source: StarN News




Source : dkpopnews[dot]net

[PICTURE] 2PM’s Nichkhun graces the cover of Thai magazine ‘Praew’








2PM’s Nichkhun recently displayed his good-looks for famous Thai Magazine, ‘Praew’!

Donning a classy suit, Nichkhun makes every heart flutters with homme fatal glance. He also presents his manly charm with his partner actress from the Thai movie project.

Nichkhun
will be starring in the 7th anniversary film for GTH titled ‘Seven Something’, a Thai film in an omnibus format and will feature three love stories. The 2PM member is set to appear in one of the episodes.




Source : dkpopnews[dot]net

[VIDEO] N-Train releases video teaser for ‘I’ll Forget You’








After making their debut with “
One Last Cry” on May of last year, idol group N-Train will be breaking its hiatus and will make a comeback with ‘I’ll Forget You’!

On July 9th, N-Train released a video teaser for ‘I’ll Forget You’, their comeback single which is slated for release on July 12th.

Check out the video below!









Source : dkpopnews[dot]net

[VIDEO] Super Junior is “Sexy, Free & Single” on Show Champion








The boys are back! Super Junior finally kicked off their highly anticipated comeback stage for “Sexy, Free & Single” on this week’s episode of Show Champion.

With their charismatic presence and awesome Devin Jamieson-assisted choreography, Super Junior, with the return of Kangin, has once again stunned the crowd with a jaw-dropping performance.

“Sexy, Free & Single” is a soulful house genre music and features easy and addictive chorus with lyrics about the successful life of sexy and free single men.

Check out their performance below!









Source : dkpopnews[dot]net

[PICTURE] Secret celebrates 1,000th day into debut!







 Secret celebrated their 1,000th day since debut!

Member Song Ji Eun updated her Twitter with 2 new photos,she thanked fans for celebrating this meaningful day with them,they even created "1,000" with their hand gestures,cute enough right?











Source : dkpopnews[dot]net

[VIDEO] T-ara's Eunjung,Hyomin and Ah Reum demonstrate the "Day By Day" dance on KBS Hello!








T-ara's trio Eunjung,Hyomin and Ah Reum performed "Day By Day" on KBS talk show Hello,check out the video below.

The guests laugh at the choreography of their new song,is it funny?






Source : dkpopnews[dot]net

[VIDEO] AA’s Kimchi covers Adele’s “Rolling in the Deep”








Wellmade STAR M’s rookie group AA (Double A) is
gearing up for their comeback, the boys treated the fans with special teaser videos.

On AA’s official Youtube page, AA member Kimchi posted videos of his cover performance of Adele’s “Rolling in the Deep” as well as a piano cover Jay Sean‘s “Down”.

Check out his peformances below!














Source : dkpopnews[dot]net

[NEWS] Wonder Girls Launch World Tour








The Wonder Girls launched the first leg of their Wonder World Tour 2012 on July 5th in Seoul, in the midst of five thousand fans. The Seoul concert was held at Jamsil Gymnasium, with the girls performing many of their hit songs like “Be My Baby”, “Tell Me”, “Nobody” and their latest “Like This”.

The Wonder Girls were the first girl group to hold a solo concert in 2009, and were keen on showing how much they had matured at the latest concert. Rather than focusing on the visual elements and special effects, the girls showed off their voice through their live performances.

Some of the songs they performed like “This Fool”, “2 Different Tears” and “So Hot” had different accompaniments, providing a unique experience for their fans. Also, there was a short video message by Akon who was featured on their upcoming digital single “Like Money” and clips of the girls practicing their dance for the new song which heightened the anticipation for the girls’ U.S. tour.

An American spectator named John Jackson said, “I thought the Wonder Girls were just cute, but I found So-hee and Sun-ye to be quite sexy. I hope to see more of them in the U.S.”

The Wonder World Tour 2012 will continue to other Asian regions but the exact schedule has not been confirmed as of yet. Before continuing on their tour, the girls will perform with other members of their management agency, JYP, for a joint concert titled JYP Nation at Olympic Park Gymnastic Stadium and Japan’s National Yoyogi Stadium.

Meanwhile, Sun-mi, a former member of the Wonder Girls, and other JYP affiliated singers like Park Jin-young, 2PM, MissA and JJ Project were at the Seoul concert to show their support while other stars like Yoon Mi-rae and Tiger JK, Girls Generation, Leessang, Min Hyo-rin etc. were among the audience.


Source:
KBS World




Source : dkpopnews[dot]net

[NEWS] 2PM’s Wooyoung holds successful solo showcase








2PM’s Jang Wooyoung has officially started his solo performance by showing his stage in front of the fans.

Jang Wooyoung has presented the title song “Sexy Lady” and other tracked songs to his fans at Ilji Arthall at Apgujeong on July 9th.

To Wooyoung’s dandy transformation which showed his manliness, a lot of fans screamed with excitement. He also granted fans their wish by doing a lucky draw at a fan-talk. Further, at a subtalk where fans were to watch his sincerity by using the lie-detector a lot of fans were touched because they could confirm his true heartedness for the HOTTEST fans.

It is also said that the showcase was viewed with sensational reaction via online on YouTube live.

The stage was where the solo artist Jang Wooyoung, not of a member of 2PM, could give out confirmation of his skills and capability where he presented various stages of his songs ‘Be with you’, ‘2Nite’, ‘Sexy Lady’, ‘Only Girl’; not to mention that his charismatic figure could be felt which captured the whole stage.

Jang Wooyoung delivered his thanks by saying: “I have prepared the stage to my best for my fans who came to the showcase. With a lot of cheer and support from the crowd I have gained more confidence about my solo performance. Thank you”

Jang Wooyoung officially starts his performance through Mnet M Countdown on July 12th.


Source: JYP Entertainment




Source : dkpopnews[dot]net

[NEWS] Girl's Generation Signed as Face of Baby-G Advertising Campaign








Casio Computer Co., Ltd. announced today that it has signed Girl's Generation, the girl pop group that has taken Asia by storm, as the face of a Baby-G advertising campaign that begins in July 2012. Girl's Generation embodies the “tough, cute, cool” concept of Baby-G, Casio's shock resistant watches for women.

Launched in 1994, Baby-G is Casio's watch brand for women which inherits the toughness of its shock-resistant G-SHOCK watches. Since then, the basic shock resistance and superior waterproof performance of Baby-G has evolved with additional features and higher performance, including solar-powered systems and neon illuminators. The Baby-G brand is extremely popular with young women, who appreciate how its design not only taps the latest trends but also allows individual expression, as well as the rich spectrum of colors that make Baby-G watches the perfect fashion accessory.

Girl's Generation is a highly versatile girl pop group whose members not only sing, but also appear as models and actresses on TV, in commercials, and in films. Girl's Generation is the ideal match for the Baby-G brand, with the group's adaptable yet tough, active image and sporty, healthy beauty, topped by the individuality of each of the nine member's fashionable lifestyles. Girl's Generation will represent the face of the brand in South Korea, China, Hong Kong, Macao, Taiwan, Vietnam, Thailand, Indonesia, the Philippines, Malaysia, Singapore, and Australia.

By appearing in product catalogs and advertisements, Girl's Generation will promote the Baby-G worldview to young women, the brand's target demographic.


Source:
Casio International




Source : dkpopnews[dot]net

[INTERVIEW] The Fresh & Lively, The 7 Beauties of A PINK!













The cute fairies of A-Pink has made a comeback with their first studio album.





Their title song “Hush” boasts an addictive and strong melody, topped with fresh, swing-style vocals. The song is an honest one, about a shy, young girl that is hesitating in making her profession of love.




Get to know the girls of A-Pink in this week’s , and see for yourself their charm that makes them worthy successors of previous fresh and lively girl groups like SES, FINKL, and Girls Generation.








Q: First, congratulations on your 1 year anniversary since your debut. What was the most memorable experience for you during the past year? (question from Dominique Conan (French broadcast))


We received a few New Artist awards, and as newbie artists, that's the biggest award you can receive. That's most memorable for us.




A: You’ve released your new studio album , could you tell us about it?




means “1st Anniversary” in French, and there are 9 tracks on the album. Each song has its own charm, so we think you’ll enjoy listening to the album.







Q: Is there a special reason you decided to title it in French?




A: It was our agency CEO's idea. He wanted something unique, and so a lot of ideas were thrown out, but because we have fans from other countries as well, we decided to go with French for this album.





Q: Your title song “Hush” is very popular, could you introduce the song for us? Also, could you sing us a verse?




A: “Hush” is slightly retro-style and once you hear it, you’ll never forget the melody. It’s a different side of A-Pink from what you may know now. It’s an incredibly great song because it has both a haughtiness and cuteness to it.





Q: There are 7 members and 7 different charms to A-Pink. What would you say each of your separate charms are?




A: I'm Bomi. My charm is I'm boisterous.




I'm Cho-rong. My charm is I'm inarticulate.




I'm Na-eun. My charm is I'm not quite all there.




I'm Yoo-kyung. My charm is I'm calm.



I'm Nam-ju. My charm is my expressions.


I'm Eun-ji. My charm is my regional dialect.


I'm Ha-young. My charm is my maturity.








Q: Our Vietnamese broadcast listener Sammie Ngyuen sent in that they enjoy the song “Cat” on your album. As Sammie listens to it, Bomi comes to mind. Who do you think looks most like a cat in A-Pink?




A: Almost all of our members look more like puppies. If we had to pick one, Na-eun and Ha-young are the closest to looking like cats.





Q: A-Pink is often called “fairy idols”. Is there another name or description that you wish you could be called?




A: We want to most hear “That’s very A-Pink-esque”. In this album, we come off innocent, cute, with a bit more of a haughty-attitude all at the same time so A-Pink is A-Pink, and will forever be A-Pink.





Q: A-Pink is well-known to be the younger ones out of other girl groups. Everyone was born in the 90’s. Who do you consider your mentors or role models in the industry?




A: Our most representative role models are FINKL and SES. It's because they were the top groups in the 90's, representing young girls and innocence, and they've maintained long-lasting careers into the present.





Q: Could you tell us briefly about your future plans?




A: First, we'll continue to diligently promote our song “Hush” in Korea. We heard that our international fans have been waiting for us, so when we get a chance, we hope to try and spread A-Pink’s music all over the world. Thank you!








Source: KBS World





Source : dkpopnews[dot]net

[INFO] Yoo Joon Sang Mentions Sungmin & Kyuhyun!













This year, FT Island's Song Seunghyun joined the cast.  How's the chemistry with the other actors?



"I rarely get to meet Seunghyun.  I practice a lot with Sungmin.  There is a trust between me and the rest of the actors incuding Kijoon and Jaewook that we can perform while walking on the street.  Sungmin also works really hard.  He's not an idol for no reason.  Actually, I have no preconceived notions about actors who were formally idols.  It's because I know how hard it is to become idols.  They can't survive if they don't do that.  Sungmin proved that to me.  Kyuhyun did too." 






Source: Playdb


Translated by Minnie @ SUJUISM.BLOGSPOT.COM









Source : dkpopnews[dot]net

[INTERVIEW] Nanfang Sheng Ping Newspaper Issue #1209 - Taecyeon interview!












2PM in the eyes of Ok Taecyeon. Beasts also have times when they get injured.When it comes to Korean bands, I believe that many K-pop fans have their own favourite idol groups. With the raging Korean trend in Asia in recent years, the name 2PM has attracted a vast majority of people to scream and cheer. Since their debut in 2008, their ‘beastly idol’ style has swiftly abducted the hearts of fans. Step by step, they became Korea’s number 1 male group, and it isn’t even an exaggeration to call them Korea’s number 1 band. However “Number 1 male group” and even the impression as the “best idol group”, wasn’t something 2PM owned from the very beginning. These beasts’ progression since debut and all of their efforts from behind the scenes cannot be easily acknowledged based only on a few activities and news articles. For example, Ok Taecyeon who is most representative out of 2PM as a ‘beastly idol’ also has moments of injury. Someone asked, “Beasts get injured too?” That’s right. Beasts should be fierce and majestic, however if a beast can also get injured, then you should understand how hard-working they are to have come so far up to today. 2PM – exactly 2pm in the afternoon, is the hottest time of the day and similarly, the group 2PM brings excitement and enthusiasm to their fans and are also the most radiant group. They are a beastly idol group, however, apart from having beast-like muscles and body structures, the six members also have different prerequisites of an idol. Instead of saying the group 2PM have overthrown the traditional concept of idols; I would rather say that they infiltrated this concept with a beastly style. Nichkhun, the half-Thai and half-Chinese who possesses the perfect appearance; Kim Junsu, the humorous and talented Daegu brother; Jang Wooyoung, who has amazing dancing skills, yet is extremely naïve; Lee Junho, the handsome and passionate “smiley eyes”; Hwang Chansung, the innocent, kind-hearted and silly yet cute maknae; and of course the main character of this interview – the smart, serious and lively beastly idol, Ok Taecyeon. These six lively guys with idol qualities came together and formed 2PM. In their eyes, in terms of a team, what is 2PM to them? As Taecyeon has served as a spokesperson for Korean Tourism Organisation’s “Touch Korea Tour”, we took this opportunity to get a good understanding from him during the following interview.His sincerityIn South Korea, where there is fierce competition between many idol groups, what did Taecyeon contribute behind the scenes as a member of one of the most popular idol groups? Other than endless schedules and practices, in this industry with the spotlight shining on him, Taecyeon has always been capable of using his wits to deal with unexpected situations. This includes his attitude in interviews; he is diplomatic yet sincere with his answers. Anyone would know the official answers to the questions asked, but to enable others to see one's sincerity, how much experience is needed before being able to strike a balance between being diplomatic and sincere? Having 3 schedules in a day, Taecyeon does them energetically without a break. With his cute and innocent pair of eyes, Taecyeon continued his schedules with a smile always hanging on his face, while maintaining his glow and keeping his mood up. He also has to keep himself alert to avoid falling into traps set by interview questions. Upon seeing this, it is indeed very tiring, but Taecyeon often gives others the feeling – He is smart. After watching Taecyeon go through the interviews, I think he is very smart. Many reporters feel that Taecyeon knows how to avoid questions. When faced with a difficult question, he is always able to manoeuvre around it with a look of sincerity, hence the reporters are unable to blame him for not answering it.(R = Reporter, T = Taecyeon) R: Upon following you around for 3 schedules today, I saw you doing interviews. I feel that you are a smart person, so I shall just prompt you with questions directly. T: (With a look of sincerity) Alright, please ask... R: Which Chinese artist would you like to work with the most? T: I've done music performances and also participated in some filming. Among my memories, China's Jackie Chan and Jet Li have always been the people I look forward to. I would love to have a chance to work with these action stars. R: Have you thought of working with any Chinese female artist? T: Due to work, I've always been in South Korea, so I’m not familiar with any Chinese female artist. If I’m given a chance to go to China, I would love to work with a female artist who likes me. (Hahaha....) I believe that other than Taecyeon, many other artists have their own ways to deal with reporters. Despite knowing some of the questions are sensitive, some artists would pluck up their courage and face them, even if it concerns rumours, they try their best to let others hears their own thoughts and opinions. Although many questions have been flagged during the interview, Taecyeon emits the feeling of a young and brave man. You can’t help but sense his sincerity as a person. R: I saw on the internet reports of you attending a school exam yet the professor said that you wasn't in school for a semester and even made you to stand in front of the blackboard for others to take pictures. Is this true? T: Actually this is just a rumour on the net. In fact, I'm very good friends with the professor. He wasn't punishing me, he just asked me to take photos with the classmates... By the time this question was being raised, many questions had been flagged by the manager. However Taecyeon insisted on answering, giving those who paid close attention to this issue a rightful answer. "I must answer this question", this was the firm stand Taecyeon took. Taecyeon is just a 24 year old young man, but his determined stand and imposing manner was enough to show that he is indeed a man who assumes great responsibility. About the beast’s injury In May 2012, after finishing 2PM's schedule in Japan, news of Taecyeon fracturing his left arm broke out. Our beast is injured..... Initially everyone thought his injury was due to dance practices or difficult technical movements, but the truth led to the pain of his fans, and they could not help but worry. Taecyeon's injury had nothing to do with his dance practices. 2PM members were using their break time after their performance in Japan to arm wrestle and Taecyeon accidentally fractured his arm during the game. This injury caused fans to feel pain as they felt that it was not worth getting injured because of a game. Taecyeon had the bandage on for over a month, and the day of the interview was the first time he took it off. Before the reporter even asked about his injury, Taecyeon had already brought up the issue of the bandage with complacency. T: Today is the first day I took off my bandage.... R: After the recent performance, you were injured. Is it better now? T: Thank you, it is getting better now. Today is the first day I took off my bandage. Taecyeon laughed and ridiculed at himself, but to others, the reason he did so was not to let others see him in pain. Although getting injured due to a game indeed makes one speechless, however this also serves as a message to others that no matter how strong beasts appear to be, there are also times when they will be injured. What’s more, they are just a group of playful young men? 2PM's muscular body is the result of the hard work and effort they put in daily, otherwise how could fans drool over their perfect body lines? Besides the ridiculous injury, even though these beasts have strong bodies, it doesn't mean that they won't suffer from injuries. However Taecyeon did not seem to take his injury seriously, even joking about it, trying to minimise the impact bought by his injury to others. Instead, he uses a positive attitude to prove to others that his injury is not as serious, trying not to let others worry about him. But, this action only makes people feel even more pain. "Ok Cat" among the beasts Taecyeon is the best representative as a beastly idol in 2PM. His muscular body, raw voice and charisma, has earned himself a label as a beastly idol. However, at the same time, Taecyeon is a cute beast, his fans call him "Ok Cat", and he even adds a personalised drawn cat to his signature. We can see that he's a mischievous big boy, who portrays the image of a beast but goes around being adorable and cute! R: You have so many nicknames, and you have a beastly image in stage. Are you like this in real life? T: This is mainly because of the group's image and because of that, I try to be the same in real life. Heehee. Although Taecyeon the beastly idol is adorable and cute, this side is only limited to him off-stage. Once he gets on stage, Taecyeon transforms into a charismatic beastly idol, portraying the charisma of 2PM to its best. While people fall in love with their charismatic beastly image, Taecyeon also receives lots of love for his adorable side off-stage. This adorable side gives others a warm and approachable feeling. While working, Taecyeon is a beast that belongd to the stage, but off-stage, he transforms into the adorable "Ok Cat" whom everyone loves. Taecyeon, who possesses two different types of charisma, is indeed someone whom everyone loves. Significance of a team and teammates Since debut, 2PM's path to success was not smooth. There were times of difficulties and rumours, every step was difficult and Taecyeon was there with his teammates throughout all these. If we were to ask Taecyeon what is 2PM’s presence to him, I think he won’t be able to give us an answer. In his heart, 2PM is not just a mere presence; it has merged with him as one. Taecyeon believes just one person is unable to achieve much, it is the unity of the 6 members that is the core of 2PM. Practicing together, working hard together, going through ups and downs together, this leads to the creation of the inseparable team. Their friendship is not something that can be merely described by words. R: Why do Korean artistes normally debut as groups instead of individuals? T: One only has 24 hours per day, 6 of us together have more than 100 hours per day. Only with each other's support, we are then able to make up for our shortcomings and show our merits as well as having the strength to be on stage. R: Just you alone won't be able to do it? T: As a soloist, you need a strong aura. R: What do you think is the difference between 2PM and the other groups? T: I think there are 2 differences. One is our teamwork and the other is our performing abilities. In many of our performances, we need to have trust in each other, even entrusting our bodies to each another so as to perform the different movements. This requires a certain extent of trust. Entrusting your body to each other, this is an action that has passed the perimeter of trust. It has become an absolute dependence where you view the other party as the second you. 2PM is an entity. Putting all 6 members together, as time passes, they slowly integrate as one. As Taecyeon mentioned, there are many movements that cannot be completed alone. If there isn't enough trust, who would be willing to entrust their body to others and allow them to take control in such dangerous situations? I believe those who have seen 2PM's dance would think that this is not a group dance, instead it looks more like a group performing acrobatics. Indeed, 2PM's dance movements are known for its high level of difficulty. Taecyeon is mainly in charge of movements with the highest difficulty level, hence flying mid-air or any other movements no longer pose as a difficulty for him. Most importantly, while performing the movements, he is 100% aware that he has reliable teammates, and that his teammates will go all out to protect his safety. This chemistry and trust is not something that can be achieved with just years of friendship. It requires tons of practice, unlimited trust in each other, before building such strong rapport with one another. It is impossible to have completely no conflicts in a group, there are bound to be times of disagreement. As there is no leader in 2PM, when the team encounters conflicts, no one has the responsibility to solve the problem. However, it is this situation that allows them to pay more attention to teamwork. Since there is no one specifically as the mediator, 2PM takes up the responsibility as a whole. R: When problems arise, are you the middleman? How do all of you solve the problem? T: When a problem arises, we would not express it on the spot, instead we would find a time whereby everyone gathers and solve the problem together. It is not just one of us solving problems. 2PM’s style is not about whom is leading the team, but a team as a whole. Needless to say, teamwork is the most important to 2PM. To be known as Korea’s number 1 male group, this is also the result of their team spirit. As a group who went from 7 to 6 members, they suffered from pain and rumours, experienced stress and accusations, and raising from rock bottom, without the strong team spirit, this cannot be done. While talking about the other members of 2PM, Taecyeon often thinks through seriously before giving an answer. It is not to prove Taecyeon's discretion, but because the members are so important to him, it is difficult to express them in words. Therefore, at any point in time, 2PM members are a compulsory and important existence to Taecyeon. These existences may not be linked to the individual. They have already merged into one as 2PM! R: Can you talk about your teammate Nichkhun? T: Nichkhun is my teammate as well as my good friend. 2PM has gained much popularity due to Nichkhun. This is also what 2PM hopes to see..... R: Are there any recent plans? T: We are in the midst of preparing our next album. Hope everyone can keep a lookout for us. Taecyeon always unknowingly links back to 2PM while talking about the members. In his heart, every member equals to 2PM and 2PM equals to every member, there is no clear boundary. They are no longer individuals but have merged into 2PM as one. I believe that in the coming future, 2PM will continue bringing us the energy and passion they now possess, continuing their journey as beastly idols, enabling their fans not to only see 6 charismatic idols but also 2PM's charisma as a group.








Source:  2PM Baidu Bar






Source : dkpopnews[dot]net