Korean Drama

[bag.lover]

Louis Vuitton Party In Seoul
July 5, 2007 - Seoul
Seoul, South Korea
http://www.wireimage.com/GalleryList...=281778&nbc1=1

(source: chosun Online)
Song Yoon Ah



Shin Min Ah (Devil, A Love to Kill, Beautiful Days; Sad Movie, Beast & the Beauty, A
Bittersweet Life, ..)

[Kishmee]

goodness! Has anyone seen 100 days with Mr. Arrogant?
It's so funny and cute hehe

[bag.lover]

Son Ye Jin won Best Acting Award (female) for "Alone in Love" at 2006 SBS Drama Awards on 12/31/2006.




Press conference of animated movie "Yobi, The Five Tailed Fox" (voice of Yobi by SYJ) on 12/21/2006





(source: chosun Online)

[bag.lover]

Kim Ah Jung
Birthdate: October 16, 1982
Height: 170cm (5'7")
Weight: 48kg (106lbs)
Movies: 200 Pounds Beauty (2006), When Romance Meets Destiny (2005), ..
Dramas: The Bizarre Bunch (KBS1, 2005), Our Attitude to Prepare Parting (MBC, 2005), Sea God (KBS2, 2004)




(pictures from chosun Online)

[bag.lover]

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(source: The Korea Times 07-06-2007)
Kim Yun-jin Unveils Hollywood Life


Actress Kim Yun-jin in front of a crashed Boeing 747, at the production site of ABC hit series "Lost" in Hawaii. "I starred in Korea's first blockbuster film, 'Shiri' -- but I was completely overwhelmed by the making of a pilot clip for an American TV series!"

By Lee Hyo-won
Staff Reporter

The first Korean to successfully break ground in the United States as a star of hit TV series "Lost," actress Kim Yun-jin offers an intimate glimpse of her passionate "love affair" with Hollywood through her diary-like book.

"Kim Yun-jin's Hollywood Story" takes readers on an intriguing, amusing and above all, truly inspiring adventure as she "treat(s) Hollywood like you would treat your boyfriend," as advised by her management agent.

The book is thoroughly enjoyable as the 33-year-old pours out her fears and frustrations, and courage and determination in an honest voice, spiced with occasional humor.

The story unfolds from the climactic moment at the 2002 Daejong (Grand Bell) Awards, the Korean equivalent of the American Academy Awards. Crowned Best Actress for her performance in "Ardor" (2002), Kim is at the height of her career.

Turning down a string of lucrative offers, the heroine in 1999's "Shiri," Korea's first blockbuster film, decided to do the unthinkable.

"It's like diving headfirst toward the ground," her own manager said when she announced her plans to leave the country to pursue acting in Hollywood. But what appears to be a sudden move stems back to a long-standing determination. One night, Kim comes across a long-forgotten item.

"Three years, the top, money. 2:39 a.m., November 3, 1999" read the message inside the small pendant. And indeed, exactly three years later, Kim had realized all three wishes.

It was now time to live out her childhood dream while growing up in the United States -- to succeed as an actress there. "Hollywood top, marriage, happiness," she updates the note inside the pendant.





"Hollywood Story" reveals the excruciating work behind the glamour and glitz of the entertainment business, even for a well-established actress like Kim (or perhaps because she is one).

From preparing her show reel to nerve-wrecking auditions, Kim ventures off on a tough yet exhilarating journey. Although reading lines for Steven Bochco (creator of hits such as "NYPD Blues") may seem far away, anyone who has ever prepared for a job interview will be able to relate.

There are the initial pains of having to step down from being the leading lady to a novice. Even after being cast as Sun in "Lost," a role that J. J. Abrams specially created for her, she had to overcome frustrations of being out of the spotlight.

"Remember: there are no small parts, only small actors," she repeats Konstantin Stanislavsky's immortal words.

Yet, there are other concerns. With large almond-shaped eyes, Kim feels that her looks do not conform to what seems to be the "Western standard" of Asian beauty, notably slanted eyes and strongly defined cheekbones. But this does not let her down.

Just when all begins to go well, however, the actress is struck with a viral infection that paralyzes one side of her face. The book testifies Kim's amazing sense of determination as she overcomes the disease.

It is also heartwarming to see Kim as an individual possessing great integrity. The Korean-American chooses to retain her Korean name even though adopting an English one would spare the trouble of "Yun-jin" being butchered.

"Arnold Schwarzenegger, Uma Thurman and Oprah Winfrey became stars despite their difficult names," she quotes her high school teacher as telling her. "Fine acting will have people seeking you, after practicing your name hundreds of times. So concentrate on acting."

A passionate and diligent student, Kim spent four hours everyday on the road to study at the High School of Performing Arts in New York.

Having lived near the studio of "The Late Show with David Letterman," the Boston University graduate fantasized about appearing as a guest and signing autographs for fans.

In December 2006, the star finally did -- and did not forget to take the time to sign autographs for those who waited with "Shiri" posters and DVDs.

One of the most valuable insights the book has to offer is her firsthand account of how the American production business compares to that of Korea. Also impressive are Kim's conscious efforts to positively represent the Korean community and to correctly present Korean culture.

As much as "Hollywood Story" intrigues readers with encounters with iconic filmmakers and stars, it shines upon Kim -- how she constantly makes an effort toward self-improvement, and how she spreads inspiration like a virus.

Toward the end, Kim is exhilarated to be able to work with her "longtime idol" Margaret Cho, one of the first Asian faces to appear on U.S. national television. But Kim herself is now such an idol to many.

"I'm going to win the award for Best Actress at the Academy Awards!" she exclaims, and so her challenging journey continues.

"Hollywood Story" includes colorful pictures that invite readers into the actress' world -- from photos that capture her ordinary side, like hanging out around Hollywood Boulevard in jeans and a T-shirt, to exciting peeks into the production set of ``Lost'' and glamorous red carpet portraits and magazine covers.

Visit www.yunjinkim.com (in English and Korean) to learn more about Kim.

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[bag.lover]

MBC TV Drama "The Time of the Dog and Wolf" Previews in Seoul
Seoul
5 Jul 2007
http://www.wireimage.com/GalleryList...=281779&nbc1=1





Title: Time Of Dog And Wolf
Genre: Action, Romance
Broadcast period: July 18, 2007~ (22 episodes)
Air time: Wednesday/Thursday 9:55pm on MBC
Cast: Lee Jun Ki, Nam Sang Mi, Jung Kyung Ho
http://www.imbc.com/broad/tv/drama/dog


(source: chosun Online)

[bag.lover]

Title: The 1st Shop of Coffee Prince
Broadcast period: July 2, 2007~ (16 episodes)
Air time: Monday/Tuesday 9:55pm on MBC
Cast: Gong Yoo, Yoon Eun Hye, Lee Seon Gyeon, Chae Jung Ahn



(source: innolife)

[bag.lover]

(source: tour2korea)



[About the Drama]
Title: Goong / Princess Hours / Palace
Producer: Hwang In-roi
Cast: Yoon Eun-hye, Ju Ji-hun, Kim Jeong-hoon, Song Ji-hyo
Broadcast network: MBC
Broadcasting dates: January 11 – March 30, 2006 on Monday & Tuesday nights

[About the Characters]
Yoon Eun-hye as Shin Chae-gyung, Ju Ji-hun as Lee Shin

Song Ji-hyo as Min Hyo-rin, Kim Jeong-hoon as Lee Yul


[Synopsis]
Chae-gyeong is an ordinary art high school student. One day, she hears totally unexpected news that, based on her grandfather’s will, she must marry the unemotional Crown Prince Lee Shin who attends the same high school. Free-spirited Chae-gyeong resists the proposal, but reluctantly marries him to help her debt-ridden family. As she struggles to adapt herself to the proper manners and royal duties of palace life and to her disagreeable husband, Lee Shin’s sentimental cousin and second-in-line to the throne Yul steps into her life. She feels like she can rely on Yul to help her, but can’t help worrying about her haughty, cold-hearted husband.

To help bridge this gap, the senior members of the royal family take some special measures to get them to spend the night together. Along the way, you will encounter numerous delightful episodes among the cute and lively Chae-gyeong, the cold heartthrob Lee Shin, the handsome, down-to-earth Yul, the perfect ballerina Hyo- rin who just can’t get over Lee Shin, and all the other members of the royal family. Will the Crowned Princess, Chae-gyeong be up to the challenges of royal life? Come and join us as these wonderful tales of the crown princess unfold.

[bag.lover]

(source: chosunOnline, innolife)

Yoon Eun Hye & Joo Ji Hoon

[bag.lover]

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(source: BROasia 2007-07-07)
Sohn Tae Young to co-star Yang Dong Geun in 'I Am Sam'



Actress Sohn Tae young will appear in a drama as the object Yang Dong Geun's crush.

Sohn Tae Young will be playing the art teacher Shin So Yi in the upcoming drama series 'I Am Sam' to be aired on KBS.

Shin So Yi is a character who is as beautiful as a celebrity and has the heart of an angel that becomes a stream of light in the school life of Korean teacher Jang Yi San to be played by Yang Dong Geun. She slowly opens up to Yi San, but a love triangle is formed when a student named Eun Byul (played by Park Min Young) gets in the way.

Sohn Tae Young who recently changed agencies hopes to display a different image from before.

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[bag.lover]

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(source: BROasia 2007-07-05)
Fans gather to see Bae Yong Joon's photography



Fans have been gathering to see photos taken by Hallyu Star Bae Yong Joon, who is known to enjoy photography in his free time.

In the first floor gallery 'PHOTO IS' of Fujifilm Square, located in Roppongi of Tokyo, is hosting '60 Celebrities – One Photo Taken by Me' from the 29th of last month until July 25th. Various photos taken by celebrities who enjoy photography are being displayed gathering the attention of photography lovers and fans including those of Bae Yong Joon.

Fujifilm Square personnel commented, "You can enjoy unique photos taken by celebrities and famous people from the TV, publishing, and other industries, from various perspectives and thoughts of celebrities, and different from professionals."

Bae Yong Joon's profile photo taken by Leslie Kee is complemented by a description of his job as an actor, notable appearances, that he is famous among Asian women, and is involved with a lot of charity work.

The photo on display was taken from an airplane on his way to China to promote 'April Snow' and features the land, sky, and clouds included in 'Scenery from the Plane' (November 2005) series.

With news about Bae Yong Joon's photo being displayed, fans have continuously visited the event.

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[bag.lover]

(source: tour2korea, MBC Global Media)



[About the Drama]
Title: Fantasy Couple / Couple of Trouble / Couple or Trouble
Drama Air Time: Sat/Sun 9:55pm (October 14, 2006 ~ December 3, 2006) / 16 Episodes
Network: MBC
Director: Kim Sang-Ho
Writers: Hong Jung-Eun, Hong Mi-Ran
Cast: Oh Ji-Ho, Han Ye-Seul, Kim Sung-Min, Park Han-Byul
Homepage:
http://content.mbc.co.kr/e_mbc/drama.asp?idx=273
http://english.tour2korea.com/02Cult...2707&strPage=1
http://www.imbc.com/broad/tv/drama/couple

In the fall and winter of 2006, Koreans were saying “Ggo ra ji ha go neun! (Look at you)” just about everywhere you went, repeating the words from the drama “Couple of Trouble’s” female leading actress.

This drama is a remake of 1987 Kurt Russell and Goldie Hawn’s “Overboard,” where a rich, arrogant woman meets a poor construction contractor and falls in love, in the midst of all their quarreling.

The fast-paced yet comical drama became quite popular, consequently turning its film locations of Namhae Island into famous tourist sites.

[Cast]
Oh Zio as Jang Cheol-Su, Han Ye-Seul as Jo Anna

Kim Sung-Min as Park Billy, Park Han-Byul as Oh Yu-Gyeong


[Synopsis]
Jo Anna is a successor of a tremendous amount of inheritance and has no peers above her here on earth or even in the heavens. Her husband is not even a person worthy of her respect. Her husband, Park Billy, is a subservient fellow who always has to be aware of Jo Anna’s moods, while a man named Jang Cheol-Su is a man with no money, no education, and on top of that, has three kids to look after.

This is a laugh-your-heart-out comical drama centered on these three characters in “Couple of Trouble.” As Jo Anna loses her memory due to a boat accident, Jang Cheol-Su takes the amnesia patient in, even though she is a woman without discretion and a woman who doesn’t know how to do anything.

[bag.lover]

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(source: The Korea Times 07-08-2007)
Super Junior Hits Big Screen


A scene from "Attack on the Pin-Up Boys"


By Cathy Rose A. Garcia
Staff Reporter

Super Junior, one of the most popular boy bands in K-pop, is making their big screen debut with the film "Attack on the Pin-up Boys" this month.

At first glance, the film may seem like another "idol movie" meant to show off the charms of Super Junior's good-looking members, rather than their acting ability.

However, Park Jung-su, the group's leader who is also known as Lee Teuk, said he hopes people would not judge the film as just an "idol movie." "Since we debuted (as a group), we announced we will work not just as singers, but also as MCs and actors. I hope people will get rid of their prejudices a little, and watch us as new actors, not as singers," he said, during the film's press conference at Imperial Palace Hotel in Apgujeong, Thursday.

Since Super Junior is one of most popular groups today, there are a lot of high expectations for the film. The film, with a budget of 850 million won, is the first to be produced by S.M. Entertainment's subsidiary S.M. Pictures.

S.M. Entertainment head Lee Soo-man said the planning for the film took almost three years. "After hearing that Super Junior is starring, a lot of people seem to think that this is an idol movie but this a summer movie for kids. But elementary school students will be able to see some of the middle and high school students' thoughts and for those whose schooldays are past, they will be able to relive it. Despite the title, this is a heartwarming movie," he said.

Twelve out of the 13 Super Junior members were cast in the movie, except for Cho Kyu-hyun who is still recuperating from a car accident last April.

Lee Kwon, who directed the film, admitted he was initially worried about working with idol stars. "I felt like a soccer coach as I tried to memorize all of the members' names. At first, I had a lot of worries but it turned out to be like working with my next-door neighbors and a fun experience filming," he said.

Inevitably, the film draws comparisons to past Korean idol films starring H.O.T. and Sechs Kies. Despite their popularity in the late 1990's, H.O.T.'s "Age of Peace" and Sechs Kies' "Seventeen" failed at the box office.

"If the standard idol movies are seen with the view of an adult, this movie is focused on showing their sensibilities as it is. The members are not acting as other characters but bringing out their natural personalities," director Lee said.

Described as a high school comedy-mystery, the film is about three good-looking high school boys played by Choi Si-won, Kim Hee-chul and Kim Young-woon (also known as Kang In), who become the target of attacks.

Kim Ki-beom plays the narrator who sees a pattern of attacks against pretty boys, while Lee Dong-hae helps him investigate. The rest of the Super Junior members play supporting roles.

Some Super Junior members have had acting experience, such as Choi Si-won who appeared in the film "Battle of Wits;" Kim Ki-beom who starred in the TV drama "Snow Flower," and Kim Hee-chul who appeared in "Bad Family."



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[bag.lover]

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(source: JoongAng Daily July 09, 2007)
[DVD Review]Vagueness fills DVD on having affairs


A Good Day to Have an Affair


Even with some thought, it’s not easy to figure out whether Jang Mun-il’s “A Good Day to Have an Affair” is a movie for a girl or a guy.

The film dresses up as a girl’s movie at first, starring two female heroines as married women delving into their search for lost identity and sexual desire. Yet it’s unclear whether their escapes lead them to find something meaningful in life or surrender to the system.

“Tweedy” (played by Yun Ji-seo) meets “Two Foxes” on an Internet chat line as a refuge from her meaningless marriage to her husband, who “stopped talking as soon as he entered the wedding chapel.” She finds freedom in Two Foxes, an immature womanizing banker who is always too busy fondling her chest in love motels and making up cheap, dirty stories about his sexual fantasies.

“Dew” (Kim Hye-su) has a light affair with a young boy she also meets on a chat line, “the college student,” but she’s constantly chased around by a private investigator hired by her husband.

The film triggers an uncomfortable tension, mainly because it tries to inject humor in an effort to lighten moments that are just too painful to watch. Despite the casual character established by Dew and her jolly relationship with a naive college boy, the desperation fumes when she hysterically hides in a balcony of her girlfriend’s house when she finds that her husband has come to take her. She approaches him only when he tells her, “I promise I won’t hit you.”

But even without such drama, trivial details of their short-lived romance ― giggling at silly humor, running away on highways and making out in daylight motel rooms ― are sad images of loneliness and fading love.

The film’s stance on Dew is unclear toward the end.

On one hand it seems as if she purely aims for freedom without the fear of moral judgment. Yet later we learn that the whole point of her affair started out as a revenge against her husband, who was in love with another woman for three years.

To spoil your expectation about the film’s title, there is not a real good day to have an affair.

Instead of an answer, the film plays with the pun of “wind,” which also means “an affair” in Korean.

Are these affairs like the wind in how they can come and go? Or like the song “May the Wind Stop Blowing,” which is played near the end. Was the affair for these women simply a means of sentimentalism to escape their life of boredom?

The film mimics the shape of a road movie.

Near the end, the three characters ― Dew, Tweedy and College Student ― leave on an adventurous joyride with a wrecked car.

If it had been a girl’s movie, the film would have ended there. But in “A Good Day to Have an Affair,” the car blows up, and the women end up in a hospital.

Then the sequence changes and the women are back to their married life, strolling around a gallery and dozing off during a concert.

In the next scene, they appear on stage in a chorus and sing “May the Wind Stop Blowing,” a nostalgic Korean song from the 1980s sung by a female teenage pop star.

It’s understandable why the director selected such a vague ending. Nevertheless, the idea seems like an abrupt compromise, though in the end that’s probably an ending that pleases most men and women.

We complain about reality, but few have the courage to subvert it. As an option we seek pleasure in our everyday life. Case in point, an afternoon memory of Dew, in which she strips chicken meat off the bones for her young boyfriend in a restaurant.

Title: A Good Day to Have an Affair
Directed by: Jang Mun-il
Starring: Kim Hye-su, Yun Jin-seo
Running Time: 103 minutes
Subtitles: English
Genre: Drama
By Park Soo-mee Staff Writer

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[bag.lover]

(source: chosun, innolife)

Actress Yang Mi Gyeong (Lady Han in MBC drama "Jewel in the Palace") will return in SBS's period drama "The King and I" (50 episodes; premiering on August 20th) starring Oh Man Suk (The Vineyard Man).



Actress Seo Young Hee returns to weekend dramas with KBS2's "Golden Era of Daughter in Law" which started filming on the 3rd; her last KBS2's weekend drama was "Goodbye to Sadness" in 2005. She also appeared in "Mermaid Story" (cable channel tvN) and "Dalja's Spring" (KBS's Wednesday/Thursday series) this year.