Korean Drama

[bag.lover]

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Song Hye-Gyo Comes Back as ‘Hwang Jiny’



Her eloquent speaking manners and unmatched beauty were the same, but she looks slightly thinner in her new movie, “Hwang Jiny”, returning with an impression of a more matured feel. “Hwang Jiny” is her first attempt at a historical drama in her 11-year acting career.

Song Hye-Gyo began worrying at the sight of the first casting proposal. “I was caught off-guard as I was given such a significant role so quickly, but I felt that this was too valuable of an opportunity for me to miss, and decided to make an attempt, whether I be criticized or commended for my performance.” Although it was expected, “Hwang Jiny” was no easy movie production to say the least. First off, the classical language style was awkward. Song Hye-Gyo expressed her feelings in all frankness as “strange”, when she recited her lines for the first time.

Secondly, there were problems with the physical styles as well, including clothing and body conduct. Acting with a 5kg(11lbs.) Gachae(traditional Korean hair wig) on your head was like torture to the actress. Her neck was stiffened and head was at a daze after only 1 hour of filming. A whole day of filming would even incur symptoms of hair falling out on the crown of her head. The pressure from the Hanbok(traditional Korean clothing) was excruciating in itselft.

Although there weren’t any heavy dancing scenes, in order to fit the role of a successful gisaeng(a singing and dancing girl) she also had to learn how to dance. For three months, she underwent dance training, familiarized herself with the traditional Korean-like personal appearance, and learned the very meticulous posture for bowing. It took Song Hye-Gyo more than a year to become the Hwang Jiny she is today. Song Hye-Gyo stated without hesitation, “I’m glad that I did this regardless of the results”.

If this is so, what is different about Song Hye-Gyo’s take on Hwang Jiny? She responded, “I tried to present Hwang Jiny as a ‘human being’, not some ‘fancy entertainer’”. Therefore, she was actually relieved when she watched the drama series “Hwang Jiny” that was televised last year. “The concept was absolutely different. You will be able to see a ‘Hwang Jiny’ completely unique from what you have seen so far. There probably won’t be as much revealing exposures as anticipated(?), but it will definitely be entertaining.”

Song Hye-Gyo concluded the interview by expressing, “I hope that ‘Hwang Jiny’ will be an important turning point in my acting career.” The vale around ‘Hwang Jiny’ is slowly unraveling, and the audience’s evaluation of the transformed Song Hye-Gyo is already being anticipated.

- Copyrights ⓒ 2007 The Chosun Ilbo& Digital Chosun Ilbo
All rights reserved –
http://english.chosun.com

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Song Hye-kyo in 'Dream Team' Shoot for Vogue Cover



The star of the movie "Hwangjini" Song Hye-kyo, was selected as the cover model of fashion magazine Vogue Korea, the first Korean actress to achieve the distinction.

Song is in a Korean traditional outfit designed by Jung Ku-ho, who was in charge of the wardrobe for the movie “Hwangjini.” The shoot was in Paris with the Italian photographer Paolo Roversi. Leading hair stylist Julien d’Ys and makeup artist Stephane Marais did Song's hair and makeup. A Vogue Korea staffer who helped prepare the shoot for over six months said, "The work was done by a dream team that has great influence on fashion in the world, and not even Vogue France would have been able to gather them. It has great significance that the dream team gathered for the Korean actress Song Hye-kyo, and the photos show her in hanbok."

During a concept meeting, Song was asked about “Hwangjini” and told Roversi and other staff about the famous gisaeng or female entertainer the movie focuses on. They had understood the gisaeng to be similar to Japanese geisha. After the shoot, Roversi said Hwangjini must have been “a woman like Camille Claudel or Virginia Woolf.” Responding to praise in the French press, Song said, "It may be because a Korean actress wore Korean traditional outfits instead of a dress. That's why I felt more responsible and was nervous during the whole shoot."

The pictures can be seen on 18 pages of Vogue Korea published on Sunday. A video diary of the shoot will be broadcast on the Olive Channel. Meanwhile, “Hwangjini” goes on release on June 6.

- Copyrights ⓒ 2007 The Chosun Ilbo& Digital Chosun Ilbo
All rights reserved –
http://english.chosun.com

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[bag.lover]

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(source: BROasia)
Song Hye Gyo, "Hwangjini only held one man in her heart."



Song Hye Gyo's Hwangjini was majestic. During a time where social rank determined all, she ridiculed society amidst falling from the top to lowest of classes, delightfully stripped off the falsehood of intellect, and held only one man in her heart.

The movie 'Hwangjini' meets audiences on the 6th. With a total production budget of 10 billion KRW, Director Jang Yoon Heon of the movies 'Contact' and 'Tell Me Something' holding the megaphone, and renown staff within the film industry, and especially Song Hye Gyo who plays the role of 'Hwangjini' provide plenty of reason to look forward to the opening.

Despite the frequent questioning of the similarities in character with the drama version, 'Hwangjiny' starring Ha Ji Won, she most likely felt that she was being asked less of them once the movie was premiered. Seeing the movie clearly shows the differences from the drama series.

"Hwangjiny's character is one I always wanted to take a challenge at, but I worry that the opportunity has come too soon. I hesitated as this is only my second film wondering if I would be able to perform well. But thinking about it, I turned 27 this year. I felt I would never be able to do it again if I let this opportunity pass. So telling myself I can do it if I give it my best, I decided to take the role."

Song Hye Gyo says she did not think of other things as the burden of the character Hwangjiny itself was so great.

There are many close-up scenes throughout the movie. The entire screen is full of Song Hye Gyo's expression. Even in the rather intimate scene with a district magistrate, she had to express everything through her facial expressions so perhaps it could have been burdensome

"I realized there were many close-up shots after the movie was finished. Since various cuts are filmed on set, I was not aware of which scene would be used. Burdensome? No. I had the script with me at all times as soon as I decided to take the role. After living six months as Hwangjiny and speaking with the director, I feel as if I have become Hwangjiny herself. And thankfully I was able to focus each moment on becoming her."

Until now, her image has been pure, innocent, and cute. There was concern that a person with such character would not e able to express the heart of a matured lady. But she was able to rid of those concerns completely through the character that only holds one man in her heart.

"I wasn't aware, but people said my eyes have changed because of Hwangjiny while I was filming. I guess there was something. It feels good to hear that I look more matured."

The movie Hwangjiny calmly depicts the ups and downs of Hwangjiny's life. There is confidence in being of noble class, and the anger in become demoted to the servant rank. And there is love.

"If Hwangjiny, as a 'kisaeng,' fell into the arms of many men easily, would we remember her? Though she was a 'kisaeng,' she was able to be confident as she only held the love for one man in her heart. Hwangjiny is a truly blessed person as she was able to find the love to hold her entire life."

Song Hye Gyo, in regards to her acting, also commented, "I feel I have started to realize the true meaning of acting slightly and now the greed for acting is growing more." She says she wishes to continuously choose new roles and act.

"I want to attempt acting I have never tried before. It doesn't matter if it is a movie of drama series. I want to appear in drama series as well. But I do want to do well enough in films to be able to proudly be referred to as the 'Movie Actress Song Hye Gyo,' at least for now."

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[bag.lover]

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(source: Associated Press)
Korean Drama Craze Reaches United States

March 25, 2006
By JAYMES SONG, Associated Press Writer

HONOLULU - It's become a daily ritual for Gayle Stephens. She often laughs and cries while getting her daily fix. She's even tried to get her family hooked.

Stephens loves Korean dramas.

She is among a growing number of Americans with no connection to Korean culture who say the shows are a more compelling and wholesome alternative to the usual daytime programming on American TV. And retail giants are also starting to tune in.

"I like the fact that they're cleaner, they're not as smutty as the American dramas," said Stephens, a 32-year-old black woman who grew up in Durham, N.C.

"I didn't think I would enjoy watching, but I really got caught up in it. It's very engaging," she said.

TV dramas have become South Korea's hottest export since cell phones, female golfers and kimchi. The Korean craze, which also includes music and film, has swept through Japan, China, the Philippines, Singapore and most of Asia and is now making its way across the United States.

"It's just a small peninsula nestled between Japan and China, but they've just hit it right," said Tom Larsen, general manager of YA Entertainment LLC, a major North American distributor of Korean dramas. "They know how to put together a good drama that their neighbors in Asia are eating up."

Now, more Americans are saying hello to "hallyu," or the "Korean wave."

Larsen said the dramas are the driver behind the wave, but it is really "all things Korea."

"It stopped in Hawaii, built up some momentum and reached California shortly after and is continuing to spread across the states," he said. "The mainland is three, four, five years, behind Hawaii."

Korean soap operas used to be only offered in select Asian video stores, but now they are going mainstream with English subtitles.

In Hawaii, retailers such as Wal-Mart, Costco, Borders, Blockbuster and Tower Records are capitalizing on the craze and in the past few months began selling Korean drama box DVD sets for $60 to $120.

The DVDs are also sold in music and book stores in cities with large Asian communities such as Los Angeles, San Francisco, Seattle, Chicago and New York, as well as online at Amazon.com.

Since opening in 2003, San Bruno, Calif.-based YA has seen revenue triple in each of the past two years behind strong sales of its top sellers: the tearful love story "Stairway to Heaven," and historic drama "Dae Jang Geum." YA plans to release 22 titles this year.

Fans say the Korean shows, centered around relationships and family, focus more on story lines than special effects and are a refreshing change from American programming they see as too violent and too racy.

Annette Marten, a 69-year-old nurse from Kailua, said Korean soaps depict love in a more romantic and artistic way, without steamy, bedroom scenes.

"I'm not prudish in any way, but it's so lovely how they express themselves," she said. "I get all excited if they get a hug. It has so much more meaning."

Many Korean dramas feature elements also found in American soap operas ?love triangles, forbidden love, evil mothers-in-law and corrupt business partners. But a key difference is that Korean story lines end usually after 16 to 20 hour-long episodes, no matter how popular they become.

CBS' "Guiding Light," on the other hand, has been on the air since 1952.

"They go from one bed to the next and everybody ends up with someone else's husband and it never ends," said former daytime TV fan Yolanda Kala, 48, of Waianae. "It's like 20 years and they still have the same problems. At least with the Korean stuff, you start and you end."

KBFD-TV in Honolulu, the nation's first FCC-licensed station dedicated to Korean programming, had primarily Korean viewers when it first aired in 1986.

Today, less than 10 percent of viewers are Korean and ratings are higher than ever, said Jeff Chung, the station's general manager.

In just a few years, the station has helped Korean dramas become part of Hawaii's entertainment landscape.

Travel agents here are selling tours to Korea to visit filming locations. There are blogs and chat rooms. Hawaii's largest daily newspaper carries a weekly column. Korean restaurants, shops and language classes are now filled with curious non-Koreans.

There're even fan clubs devoted to the dramas.

Gerrie Nakamura and Nora Muramoto, who are of Japanese ancestry, are truly Korean drama queens.

They founded the Hawaii K-Drama Fan Club in 2002 with about 20 people, but the group has grown to 400 members, mostly middle-aged women of all races. Only about 5 percent of its members are of Korean heritage.

Muramoto, 59, said her love of the dramas has inspired her to take Korean cooking and language classes. Nakamura, a high school teacher, said she sometimes recommends the dramas to her students to learn about family values and respect for elders.

"We grew up with 'Leave it to Beaver' and 'The Waltons,' but today's kids don't have that," she said. "They see extreme whatever ?reality TV and naked girls on MTV."

More than 200 members attended the latest club gathering and got a visit by journeyman actor Lee Jeong-gil, who often plays the role of a father or businessman.

"I was blown away by the welcome," Lee said. "I never expected anything like this."

There are other fan clubs devoted to specific Korean stars, such as Bae Yong-joon, the soft-smiling star of "Winter Sonata."

The 2002 love story turned Bae into a huge star in Asia, especially in Japan, where his scarf-wearing image is featured on everything from teddy bears to key chains. Hawaii's Bae fan club boasts more than 100 members and may expand into a national group.

"`Winter Sonata' is showing on the mainland and there's pockets of underground fandom all over the U.S.," said Michelle Smith, the club's president.

While obsessed with the star, Smith said she isn't the typical fan.

"Your typical Bae Yong-Joon fan is in her 40s, has a family and listens to K-pop," she said, a reference to Korean pop music. "I ride a Harley, play electric guitar and listen to Green Day, AC-DC and Ozzy."

Music, from ballads to instrumentals, plays a prominent role in Korean dramas. There's also a lot of crossover in acting and singing, such as pop stars Jung Ji-hoon and Eric Mun.

Jung, of the hit romantic-comedy series "Full House," is better known as the singer "Rain." He sold out New York's Madison Square Garden twice last month and in October performed in front of 40,000 fans at Beijing Workers Stadium.

Retiree 62-year-old Margie Okuhara said she feels like a teenager again when the Hawaii drama club meets to swoon over the stars.

"My kids call me a groupie," she said. "I say, `That's OK, when you get to be my age, you can do whatever you want.'"

___
On the Net:
Hawaii K-Drama Fan Club: http://www.hawaiikdrama.com/
Korean drama info site: http://www.koreanwiz.org/
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[bag.lover]

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(source: JoongAng Daily)
Korean Wave 101

Test your knowledge of Korean popular culture
March 11, 2005

As few who live in Korea could have avoided hearing during the past year or so, there's a "Korean wave" out there. Korea's popular culture, from movies to pop music to fashion, has become fashionable in many Asian countries -- particularly Japan, where Korean actor Bae Yong-joon, affectionately known there as "Yonsama," was last year's hottest celebrity.

The hanryu ("Korean wave") phenomenon has even become a field of academic study. This fall, Chung-Ang University plans to launch a graduate program in hanryu studies, examining Korean culture in the context of other cultures in East Asia. The program will cover both popular culture and the serious arts, including music, theater, food, fashion and film.

If hanryu is now an academic discipline, then educated, socially aware residents of Korea (such as the Joong-Ang Daily's readers) will want to make sure they're familiar with the basics. To that end, here's a quiz to test your knowledge of Korean pop culture. If you don't do well, you might want to at least consider a correspondence course. Answers are on Page W7.

1. The common term for Korean teen-pop music is:
a) K-pop
b) Hanpop
c) Hanbeat
d) Joseon Motion

2. The number of Japanese tourists visiting Korea soared last year because of:
a) Discount golf packages on Jeju island
b) The popularity of the TV drama "Winter Sonata"
c) The popularity of singer BoA
d) Japanese right-wingers in speedboats trying to claim Tokto

3. Which Korean movie did not win an award at a major European film festival in 2004?
a) Park Chan-wook's "Old Boy"
b) Kim Dong-wan's "Repatriation"
c) Kim Ki-duk's "3-Iron"
d) Kim Ki-duk's "Samaria"

4. Which of these is not a Korean boy band?
a) Fly to the Sky
b) SMAP
c) Shinhwa
d) Dongbangshingi

5. What was in the so-called "X-File" that made Korean headlines earlier this year?
a) Before-and-after photos documenting singer Ha Ri-su's transgender surgery
b) Before-and-after photos documenting President Roh's eye surgery
c) Gossip about dozens of Korean celebrities, compiled by a Seoul ad agency
d) Proof that Kim Jong-il is an alien

6. Which of these was a major theme in the hit TV drama "Daejanggeum?"
a) Kung fu
b) Korean royal cuisine
c) Calligraphy
d) Eating disorders

7. Which movie made actress Jeon Ji-hyun an Asian star?
a) "Virgin Stripped Bare By Her Bachelors"
b) "Shiri"
c) "My Sassy Girl"
d) "Taegukgi"

8. Which of these is not one of the Korean actors known in Japan as the "Four Kings"?
a) Jang Dong-gun
b) Won Bin
c) Cha In-pyo
d) Lee Byung-heon

9. Which Western star performed with BoA in 2003?
a) Avril Lavigne
b) Britney Spears
c) Marilyn Manson
d) Justin Timberlake

10. In "Winter Sonata," where did Jun-sang (Bae Yong-joon) and Yu-jin (Choi Ji-woo) share their first kiss?
a) Hongdae
b) Chuncheon
c) Nami island
d) Jongno

11. What's the English meaning of singer Be's stage name?
a) Love
b) Sunshine
c) Rain
d) Two

12. TV producer Yoon Seok-ho (of "Winter Sonata") plans to start filming the last of his "seasonal" TV dramas this year. What's the planned title?
a) "Summer's Fragrance"
b) "Spring's Waltz"
c) "Autumn Leaves"
d) "Monsoon Season"

13. Director Kim Ki-duk's film "Seom" (The Isle) is notorious for a scene in which a character:
a) Swallows a mouthful of fish hooks
b) Eats a live octopus
c) Seduces the high-school student next door
d) Refers to Tokto as "Takeshima"

14. In China, what's the slang term for the teenage fad of imitating Korean fashion?
a) "Ha han"
b) "Hanryu ai"
c) "Yonsama wei"
d) "Boa shi"

15. Which of these was not the premise of a Korean reality TV show?
a) A bachelor gets fashion tips from stylish young women
b) An ordinary woman has a date with a celebrity
c) A woman undergoes plastic surgery
d) A rich girl experiences country life

16. Which American movie star said he'd like to star in a remake of "Old Boy"?
a) Wesley Snipes
b) Nicolas Cage
c) Keanu Reeves
d) Michael Douglas

17. The name of the all-girl band Fin.K.L is an abbreviation of:
a) Finger Killing Lover
b) Fine Killing Liberty
c) Find Korea's Liberty
d) Finland-Korea Linkage

18. Who won the Favorite Korean Artist award at last month's MTV Asia Awards?
a) BoA
b) Be
c) Se7en
d) Shin Seung-hun

19. Which of these Korean celebrities speaks four languages?
a) Se7en
b) Kangta
c) Lee Hyo-lee
d) BoA

20. In the TV drama "Stairway to Heaven," what song is heard every time Kwon Sang-woo chases Choi Ji-woo?
a) "Stairway to Heaven"
b) "Ave Maria"
c) "When a Man Loves a Woman"
d) "Uptown Girl"

21. The pioneering Korean underground band Crying Nut recently reunited after a hiatus of more than two years. They spent that time:
a) Playing Starcraft
b) In college
c) In the army
d) Recording solo albums

22. The box-office-record-breaking war movie "Taegukgi" actually uses an incorrect romanization for its title, which is the name of the South Korean flag. What is the correct spelling, according to official romanization standards?
a) Taegukki
b) Taekukgi
c) Taegeukgi
d) Taegeukki

23. What's the name of the Korean girl band with one Japanese member that's starting to become big in Japan?
a) Sugar
b) Salt
c) Salt-and-Pepa
d) Jjajangmyeon

24. In which of these TV dramas is a character not diagnosed with leukemia?
a) "Autumn's Tale"
b) "Beautiful Days"
c) "Winter Sonata"
d) "Goodbye, My Love"

25. In which of these TV dramas does a character not suffer from amnesia?
a) "I'm Sorry, I Love You"
b) "Winter Sonata"
c) "Save the Last Dance for Me"
d) "Stairway to Heaven"

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ANSWER
1. a)
2. b)
3. b) "Repatriation" won an award at last year's Sundance Film Festival, but that was in Colorado.
4. b) SMAP is a boy band, but they're Japanese. (They're also in their 30s.)
5. c)
6. b)
7. c)
8. c) The fourth "king" is Bae Yong-joon ("Yonsama").
9. b)
10. c)
11. c) Actually, the correct romanization of the word is "Bi."
12. b)
13. a)
14. a)
15. d)
16. b)
17. b)
18. b)
19. d)
20. b)
21. c)
22. c)
23. a)
24. c)
25. a)

by J-Weekend <eweek@joongang.co.kr>
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[bag.lover]

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(source: BROasia)
Lee Byung Hun to Make Special Appearance in Kimura Takuya Movie



Top star Lee Byung Hun will meet Japan’s most popular star, Kimura Takuya in a film.

Lee Byung Hun’s agency, BH Entertainment revealed on the 17th that “Lee Byung Hun will make a pro bono appearance in ‘Hero,’ a movie starring Kimura Takuya.”

“Hero,” a popular drama which debuted in 2001 on Fuji TV starred Kimura Takuya and Matsu Takako, and had over 30% of viewer ratings at the time. Even in Korea, it was broadcasted on cable and satellite TV.

This time, the drama “Hero,” which will be turned into a movie, will feature the same main characters, and Lee Byung Hun will make a pro bono appearance opposite Kimura Takuya as a Korean police investigator. He will support Kimura Takuya, who plays a Japanese investigator who came to Korea to investigate a case.

About acting together in a film with Lee Byung Hun, Kimura Takuya expressed his expectations: “I think of it as an honor to work together in this world of movies. Even if the language is different, I want to enjoy the filming as we work for the same goal.”

The “Hero” filming crew will be in Pusan this month to film on location. Presently, Lee Byung Hun, who is in the middle of filming the movie “Good Guy, Bad Guy, and Strange Guy” by director Kim Ji Woon, plans to have two days available to shoot “Hero.”

This movie will also have a new actor Baek Do Bin, who is son of a movie actor Baek Yoon Shik, and will play the role of a Korean assistant who helps the Japanese police’s investigation, and Ahn Gil Gang will play a Korean crime syndicate boss.

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[bag.lover]

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(source: JoongAng Daily 5/2/07)
Japanese wave


Takuya Kimura, Lee Byung-hun

The sight of hundreds of thousands of Japanese fans waiting in line to get a glimpse of Bae Yong-joon in 2004 was a signal that the Korean Wave had swamped Japan. Last Thursday, however, hundreds of Korean fans, mostly women, showed up at Gimhae airport near Busan, waiting for hours to catch a glimpse of Japanese star, Takuya Kimura, top. “I have observed many Korean stars getting a warm welcome in Japan,” Kimura said. “But today, I’m the one receiving the hearty welcome.”

Kimura, 35, a member of the group SMAP, is one of the most beloved celebrities in Japan. He arrived in Busan for a six-day visit to film “Hero,” based on a popular TV series, in which he stars as a prosecutor. Shortly after he arrived he held a press conference, which attracted even more attention because he was accompanied by the popular Korean actor, Lee Byung-hun, bottom. Lee, who is also popular in Japan, although not as phenomenally so as Bae Yong-joon, makes a brief appearance in “Hero” as a Korean prosecutor who helps Kimura’s investigation.

Kimura opened the press conference with greetings in Korean, and praised Lee, saying, “Japanese fans call Lee the ‘prince of smiles,’ and he makes a warm impression on me as well.” Lee responded with a smile and said, “I hope my brief appearance in the film was helpful.” “Hero” is scheduled to open in Japan in September.

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(source: BROasia)
Interview With Lee Byung Hun and Kimura Takuya About "Hero"



"We met for the first time today, but it felt like we were really close. I look forward to working together with him."

The Japanese drama, "Hero," which had a record high of viewer ratings, had Kimura Takuya come to Pusan to film on location on the 26th. He met with Lee Byung Hun, who is making a pro bono appearance, at the Pusan Paradise hotel in the afternoon for a press conference and said that he is glad to be appearing in this project.

After seeing the enthusiastic reception when Kimura Takuya came to the Korean airport, he expressed his thanks, saying "To behold a sight just like when a Korean star comes to Narita airport had really surprised me, and made me very happy."

Lee Byung Hun said, "When I first received the proposal for a cameo role, I worried a lot that I might disrupt the flow of the work with the slightest provocation. I hope that I will not ruin the movie."

The 2001 drama "Hero" that was broadcasted on Fuji TV featured Kimura Takuya and Matsu Takako, and had a record of over 30% in viewer ratings. Lee Byung Hun will appear in the movie version of "Hero," and will play opposite role of a Korean investigator who helps Kimura Takuya with his investigation in Korea.

Next is the two actor's Q&A:

--First impression about each other

～(Kimura Takuya) I have seen Lee Byung Hun in TV commercials or the movie "Everybody Has Secrets," which he starred with Choi Ji Woo, and I think of him as an actor with a great influence. In Japan, he is called the "Prince of Smiles," which I think is a fitting nickname.

Before the interview, I had a brief chat with him, but it felt so comfortable as if you would think that we knew each other before. I expect that the filming will be enjoyable.

Since Lee Byung Hun is appearing in this movie, I hope that this movie will also gain popularity in Korea.

(Lee Byung Hun) During the time when I did not know anything about the film culture, there was a time when I visited Japan. Wherever I go, there was a picture of some man in an advertisement, who I later found out was said to be Kimura Takuya, a very famous actor. I am glad to be working with an actor who left a deep impression at that time. I, as well as my close friends Song Seung Hun and Choi Ji Woo, have appeared on the show that his group Smap hosts, "SMAP X SMAP, so I was more acquainted with him."


-- What is the attractive quality of the hit drama "Hero?"

～(Kimura Takuya) The main character Kuryuu Kouhei is person with great tenacity who clings onto his beliefs no matter what. I heard that this aired in Korea through cable TV and did not gain popularity, but with that aside, filming this movie itself was enjoyable. I want the finish the filming well and show the Korean fans a good film.

(Lee Byung Hun) I wanted to know what kind of drama it was, so I watched the special 2-hour version of "Hero." I can＊t say that I learned everything from watch just that, but the best thing about this film is that the serious nature of making the slightest mistakes for an investigator while handling a crime could be portrayed lightly and comically.


-- If you could say one thing to the fans in the other country.

～ (Lee Byung Hun) Unfortunately, my role does not make a long appearance. The goal is to have the movie unfold naturally, as if to wonder if Lee Byung Hun ever appeared at all. I hope that the fans will wait along with me to see how the movie will be completed.

(Kimura Takuya) Today is my third time visiting Korea, and I hope that I could meet my Korean fans again in the future for more movies, dramas, and by various other means.

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[bag.lover]

*** Top 10 dramas by viewer rating average (1/1/2000 to 2/26/2007) ***

1. Dae Jang Geum / Jewel in the Palace (MBC) - 41.6%
- BROADCAST PERIOD: 9/15/03-3/30/04 (54 episodes)
- AIR TIME: Mon/Tues 9:55pm
- CAST: Lee Young Ae, Ji Jin Hee, Hong Ri Na, Im Ho
- WRITER: Kim Young Hyun
- PRODUCER: Lee Byung Hoon

2. Lovers in Paris (SBS) - 41.5%
- BROADCAST PERIOD: 6/12/04-8/15-04 (20 episodes)
- AIR TIME: Sat/Sun 9:55pm
- CAST: Park Shin Yang, Kim Jung Eun, Lee Dong Gun
- WRITER: Kim Eun Sook, Kang Eun Jung
- PRODUCER: Kim Yang
- DIRECTOR: Shin Woo Chul

3. Jumong (MBC) - 40.6%
- BROADCAST PERIOD: 5/15/06-3/6/07 (81 episodes)
- AIR TIME: Mon/Tue 9:55pm
- CAST: Song Il Gook, Han Hye Jin
- WRITER: Jung Hyung Soo and Choi Wan Kyu
- DIRECTOR: Lee Joo Hwan

4. My Lovely Sam-Soon (MBC) - 37.7%
- BROADCAST PERIOD: 6/1/05-7/21/05 (16 episodes)
- AIR TIME: Wed/Thurs 9:55pm
- CAST: Kim Sun Ah, Hyun Bin, Jung Ryu Won, Daniel Henney
- WRITER: Kim Do Woo
- DIRECTOR: Kim Yoon Chul
- PRODUCER: Kim Sa Hyun

5. Tae Jo Wang Geon / Emperor Wang Gun (KBS) - 37.3%
- BROADCAST PERIOD: 4/1/2000-2/24/2002 (200 episodes)
- AIR TIME: Sat/Sun 9:45pm
- CAST: Choi Su Jong, Kim Young Chul, Kim Hyeo Ri, Suh In Suk
- WRITER: Lee Wan Kyung
- PRODUCER: Kim Jong Sun

6. Jinshil / Truth (MBC) - 36.9%
- BROADCAST PERIOD: 1/5/2000-2/24/2000 (16 episodes)
- AIR TIME: Wed/Thurs 9:55pm
- CAST: Choi Ji Woo, Ryu Shi Won, Park Sun Young, Son Ji Chang
- WRITER: Kim In Young
- PRODUCER: Jang Do Ik

7. My Rosy Life (SBS) - 34.2%
- BROADCAST PERIOD: 8/24/05-11/10/05 (24 episodes)
- AIR TIME: Wed/Thurs 9:55pm
- CAST: Choi Jin Shil, Son Hyun Joo
- WRITER: Moon Young Nam
- DIRECTOR: Kim Jong Chang
- CHIEF PRODUCER: Lee Duk Gun
- PRODUCER: Bae Kyung Soo

8. Stairway to Heaven (SBS) - 33.9%
- BROADCAST PERIOD: 12/3/03-2/5/04 (20 episodes)
- AIR TIME: Wed/Thurs 9:55pm
- CAST: Kwong Sang Woo, Choi Ji Woo, Shin Hyun Joon
- WRITER: Park Hye Kyung
- DIRECTOR: Lee Jang Soo

9. All In (SBS) - 33.7%
- BROADCAST PERIOD: 1/15/03-4/3/03 (24 episodes)
- AIR TIME: Wed/Thu 9:55pm
- CAST: Lee Byung Hun, Song Hye Gyo, Ji Sung, Park Sol Mi
- WRITER: Choi Wan Kyu
- DIRECTOR: Yoo Chul Yong

9. Successful Story of a Bright Girl (SBS) - 33.7%
- BROADCAST PERIOD: 3/13/02-4/2/02 (16 episodes)
- AIR TIME: Wed/Thu 9:55pm
- CAST: Jang Nara, Jang Hyuk
- PRODUCER: Jang Ki Hong
- WRITER: Lee Hee Myung

===========================================
Top 10 dramas by viewer rating since 2000?

What 'hit dramas' were born in the new millennium?

In a research conducted based on data from January 1st of the year 2000 to the 26th of this month, TNS Media Korea ranked MBC's 'Dae Jang Geum' to be at the top with a 41.6% viewer rating average. Following in second was 'Lovers in Paris' of SBS which aired in the summer of 2004 at 41.5%. MBC's 'Jumong' which will end soon after breaking the 50% viewer rating line ranked third with a 40.6% average viewer rating.

MBC's 'My Lovely Sam-Soon' which brought about the 'Sam-Soon' craze in the summer of 2005 ranked fourth at 37.7% while 'Tae Jo Wang Geon' of KBS, despite airing over a period of a year and eleven months, ranked fifth with a 37.3% average viewer rating.

'Jinshil' that starred Choi Ji Woo and Ryu Shi Won back in 2000 ranked 6th with a 36.9% average viewer rating while 'My Rosy Life' starring Choi Jin Shil ranked 7th with 34.2%, followed by 'Stairway to Heaven' of SBS with 33.9%.

'All In' (2003) and 'Successful Story of a Bright Girl' (2002) both aired on SBS ranked within the top ten with an average 33.7% viewer rating.

If the highest viewer rating surpasses 50%, the series is generally called a 'national drama,' yet observing the average viewer rating allows comparisons of which drama series had a constant level of popularity.

In the case of 'Tae Jo Wang Geon,' it is notable in that it ranked 5th among series that usually end in two to three months. 'Dae Jang Geum' and 'Jumong' both also aired and have been aired for more than six and nine months respectively but still managed to rank among the top ten.

While 'Jumong' is a special case in that it is still being aired, there are only two episodes remaining with high expectations for the conclusion. It is projected to retain its position as third even after the last episode has aired.

Director Chae Jae Woong of TNS Media Korea commented, "While the highest viewer rating is only instantaneous, the average viewer rating truly shows the popularity of the series and therefore ones with high average viewer ratings can be considered a 'hit drama.' It is especially difficult for regular drama series whose lengths exceed miniseries by more than several times to maintain a high average viewer rating."

(source: BROasia)
===========================================

[paula24]

I really love korean movie. but sometime make u cry a lot.
princess hour good and funny too

[bag.lover]

==============================
(source: www.koreatimes.co.kr 3/20/07)
Jeon Goes to Hollywood

By Cathy Rose A. Garcia
Staff Reporter

Korea, say goodbye for now to Jeon Ji-hyeon. Hollywood, say hello to Gianna Jeon.

Jeon, one of the top Hallyu stars, is undergoing a name change as she makes her debut in Hollywood.

Her management agency SidusHQ recently announced Jeon has been cast in the role of a vampire hunter named Saya in the film "Blood: The Last Vampire". The film is a remake of a Japanese anime film by Oshii Mamoru.

For her first Hollywood role, Jeon has decided to change her name to Gianna Jeon. This move has drawn mixed reactions from her fans.

Her agency said Jeon will use the Italian-sounding name Gianna for her roles in the United States and other English-speaking countries. Jeon will still use her Korean name in Asia, where she is already well known. .

Jeon's name change is in contrast to actress Kim Yun-jin, who retained her name when she moved to Hollywood. Kim stars in the hit TV series "Lost".

Although "Blood: The Last Vampire" is still in production and will be released in 2008, Jeon's involvement in the film has attracted a lot of attention. The action-packed film will be shot entirely in English. Jeon has reportedly been studying hard to learn English for the past few months.

The film will also star Allison Miller, who has appeared in guest roles in "Desperate Housewives", "CSI" and "Cold Case".

Jeon's move to Hollywood has drawn comparisons to Chinese actress Ziyi Zhang, who attracted Hollywood's attention with her role in the successful film "Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon". Zhang is known for her marital arts roles in films like "Hero" and "House of Flying Daggers", but has moved on to roles in English films such as "Memoirs of a Geisha". She is now considered one of the most well known Asian stars in Hollywood.

Jeon started her career as a model and debuted as an actress in "White Valentine" in 1999. However, it was her role in "My Sassy Girl" (2001) that undoubtedly made Jeon a star.

Since then she has not had a hit film. Her films "The Uninvited" (2003), "Windstruck" (2004) and "Daisy" (2006) performed dismally at the Korean box office.

Despite this, Jeon is still considered one of the top stars when it comes to advertising. She continues to appear in dozens of commercials for cosmetics, beverages and cell phones.

Jeon may be hoping to leave behind her losing streak at the Korean box office when she goes to Hollywood.

Hollywood is already familiar with Jeon's works, such as "Il Mare", which was remade as "Lake House" starring Keanu Reeves and Sandra Bullock.

The Hollywood remake of "My Sassy Girl" is currently in production. Elisha Cuthbert, who is known for her role as Kimberly Bauer in the TV series "24", will play Jeon's role. Also starring in the movie is Jesse Bradford, who starred in "Flags of Our Fathers" and "Bring it On". The film is scheduled to be released later this year.

==============================

[bag.lover]

=================================
(source: JoongAng Daily)
[Talk of the town]Soap star king

June 06, 2007

Bae Yong-joon, the sweetheart of the Korean Wave, is coming back as the king of an ancient kingdom, following a four-year break.

This is Bae’s first TV drama since the “Winter Sonata,” which was a mega hit in Japan in 2002. The show turned Bae into a living legend, especially in Japan.

Bae’s new TV drama, “Taewang Sashingi” (or “Legend”) was written by Song Ji-na and directed by Kim Jong-hak. Song and Kim have previously produced hits like “Morae Sigye” (Hourglass). Bae plays Damdeok, the great king of the Goguryeo dynasty. The cast includes other big names such as Moon So-ri and macho actor Choi Min-soo.

According to Kim Jong-hak Production, the company behind “Legend,” a total of 24 episodes have been shot over the last two years, in advance of first airing, which is a rarity in Korea. Many Korean TV dramas are still in the course of shooting when they first air. Forty-two billion won ($45.3 million) has been invested in the drama, a record for Korean TV.

“Legend” will debut on the 25th of this month on MBC, and will be aired on NHK in Japan as well.

=================================
(source: BROasia 9/11/06)
"This is 'Tae Wang Sa Shin Gi (Legend)'", Bae Yong Joon and Moon Sori revealed in costume


Bae Yong Joon of 'Tae Wang Sa Shin Gi (Legend)' finally revealed himself.

TSG Company that is producing 'Tae Wang Sa Shin Gi (Legend)' (Directed by Kim Jong Hak, Script by Song Ji Na) revealed photos of the main character Bae Yong Joon as Dahm Deok and his first love Seo Gi Ha played by Moon So Ri on the 11th.

The photo released that day is the figure of Dahm Deok before he becomes a king. Bae yong Joon displayed a calm yet charismatic appearance wearing armor with fantastical patterns, while Moon So Ri displayed grace and beauty in a traditional costume, rather different from her features in movies.

Along with the main characters, TSG released the drama logo and title, slowly revealing the drama that is now filming.

With 30 billion won (approximately $30 million) invested in the drama along with 13 billion won (approximately $13 million) in building the set, 'Tae Wang Sa Shin Gi (Legend)' has gathered attention in regards to its plot and scale. With a spectacular global line of personnel involved from the main cast to the writer, producer, and director, along with the music director Hisaishi Jo, the production has gathered attention as it is not lacking to be labeled a 'dream team.'

'Tae Wang Sa Shin Gi (Legend)' began filming in March after the Gosa (traditional ceremony). The main character Bae Yong Joon playing Dahm Deok began filming the special effect scenes in August and started filming on set on Jeju Island earlier this month.



Bae Yong Joon had begun preparing for the role by a special diet and exercise, while also training in horseback riding, archery, and traditional military arts in preparation for the action scenes.

Bae Yong Joon has only been in contact with his agency for necessary calls focusing entirely on the drama itself.

Meanwhile, the 'Tae Wang Sa Shin Gi (Legend)' logo and English title 'Legend' holds the ambitious plan of targeting the series to 90 countries worldwide.

Photos of the first scenes of Bae Yong Joon on set were presented along with the main symbol and logo as the drama is aiming for distribution in all 90 countries including Japan.

'Tae Wang Sa Shin Gi (Legend)' which stars Bae Yong Joon and Moon So Ri, along with a cast that includes Choi Min Soo, Jeong Jin Yeong, Park Sang Won, Yoon Tae Yeong, Lee Da Hee, and others will be aired early next year.

[Copyright © 2006 Goodday News/Goodday E&I Inc. All rights reserved.]
=================================

[bag.lover]

*** ALL-TIME HIGHEST RATED TV SERIES ***

1) First Love (KBS2, 4/20/1997) - 65.8%
CAST: Bae Yong Joon, Lee Seung Yeon, Choi Su Jong, Song Chae Hwan, Park Sang Won, Choi Ji Woo, ..
WRITER: Jo So Hye
PRODUCER: Lee Eung Jin
BROADCAST DATE: 9/7/1996-4/20/1997 (66 episodes)



2) What is Love? (MBC, 5/24/1992) - 64.9%
CAST: Ha Hee Ra, Choi Min Soo, Shin Ae Ra
WRITER: Kim Soo Hyun


3) Sandglass (SBS, 2/6/1995) - 64.5%
- CAST: Choi Min Soo, Park Sang Won, Ko Hyun Jung, Lee Jung Jae
- WRITER: Song Ji Na
- DIRECTOR: Kim Jong Hak
- BROADCAST DATE: 1/10/1995-2/16/1995 (24 episodes)


4) Huh Joon (MBC, 6/27/2000) - 64.4%
CAST: Jun Kwang Ryul, Lee Soon Jae, Kim Bong Se
WRITER: Choi Wan Kyu
DIRECTOR: Lee Byung Hoon
BROADCAST DATE: 11/29/1999-6/27/2000 (64 episodes)


5) A Sunny Place of the Young (KBS2, 11/12/1995) - 62.7%
CAST: Lee Jong Won, Bae Yong Joon, Ha Hee Ra, Jeon Du Yeon
WRITER: Jo So Hye
DIRECTOR: Jun San
BROADCAST DATE: 5/6/1995-11/12/1995 (56 episodes)


6) You and I (MBC, 4/12/1998) - 62.4%
CAST: Choi Jin Sil, Cha In Pyo, Park Sang Won, Song Seung Heon
WRITER: Kim Jung Soo
BROADCAST DATE: (58 episodes)


7) Sons and Daughters (MBC, 3/21/1993) - 61.1%
CAST: Choi Soo Jong, Kim Hee Ae, Chae Si Ra


8) Emperor Wang Gun (KBS1, 5/20/2001) -- 60.2%
- CAST: Choi Su Jong, Kim Young Chul, Kim Hyeo Ri, Suh In Suk
- WRITER: Lee Wan Kyung
- PRODUCER: Kim Jong Sun
- BROADCAST PERIOD: 4/1/2000-2/24/2002 (200 episodes)


9) Eyes of Dawn (MBC, 2/6/1992) -- 58.4%
CAST: Choi Jae Sung, Chae Si Ra, Park Sang Won
WRITER: Song Ji Na
PRODUCER: Kim Jong Hak
BROADCAST DATE: 10/7/1991-2/26/1992 (36 episodes)


10) Dae Jang Geum / Jewel in the Palace (MBC, 3/23/2004) -- 57.8%
- CAST: Lee Young Ae, Ji Jin Hee, Hong Li Na, Im Ho
- DIRECTOR: Lee Byung Hun
- WRITER: Kim Young Hyun
- BROADCAST PERIOD: 9/15/2003-3/23/2004 (54 episodes)


11) Lovers in Paris (SBS, 8/15/2004) - 57.6%
- CAST: Park Shin Yang, Kim Jung Eun, Lee Dong Gun
- WRITER: Kim Eun Sook, Kang Eun Jung
- PRODUCER: Kim Yang
- DIRECTOR: Shin Woo Chul
- BROADCAST PERIOD: 6/12/2004-8/15-2004 (20 episodes)


12) Can't Take My Eyes off You (MBC, 10/12/1998) -- 57.3%
- CAST: Kim Ji Soo, Yoon Hae Yong, Park Yong Ha


13) Jinshil / Truth (MBC, 2/24/2000) -- 56.5%
- CAST: Choi Ji Woo, Ryu Shi Won, Park Sun Young, Son Ji Chang
- WRITER: Kim In Young
- PRODUCER: Jang Do Ik
- BROADCAST PERIOD: 1/5/2000-2/24/2000 (16 episodes)


14) Jealousy (MBC, 7/21/1992) -- 56.1%
- CAST: Choi Jin Sil, Choi Su Jong, Lee Eung Kyung


15) Blowing of the Wind (KBS1, 2/26/1996) -- 55.8%
- CAST: Choi Soo Jong, Yoon Sohn Ha


16) Faraway Country Sauna Guys (KBS2, 8/25/1996) - 53.4%
- CAST: Lee Soon Jae, Go Doo Shim, Kim Hee Seon, Bae Jong Ok


17) Kukhee (MBC, 11/16/1999) - 53.2%
- CAST: Kim Hye Soo, Park Young Gyu


18) Trap of Youth (SBS, 4/15/1999) - 53.1%
- CAST: Shim Eun Ha, Lee Jong Won, Yoo Ho Jung, Jun Kwang Ryul
- WRITER: Kim Soo Hyun
- DIRECTOR: Jung Se Ho
- BROADCAST PERIOD: 1/27/1999-4/15/1999 (24 episodes)


19) Tomato (SBS, 6/3/1999) - 52.7%
- CAST: Kim Hee Seon, Kim Suk Hoon, Kim Ji Young
- WRITER: Lee Hee Myung
- PRODUCER: Jang Ki Hong
- BROADCAST PERIOD: 4/21/1999-6/10/1999 (16 episodes)


19) Jumong (MBC, 3/6/2007) - 52.7%
- CAST: Song Il Kuk, Han Hye Jin
- DIRECTORS: Lee Jun Hwan, Kim Gun Hong
- WRITERS: Choi Wan Kyu, Jung Hyung Soo
- BROADCAST PERIOD: 5/15/2006-3/6/2007 (81 episodes)


21) M (MBC, 8/30/1994) - 52.2%
- CAST: Shim Eun Ha, Lee Chang Hoon, Kim Ji Soo
- DIRECTOR: Jeong Se Ho

[bag.lover]

copied/pasted from BYJ's Quilt

=================================

Photo/offered by Nemodyme

The 'Tae Wang Sa Shin Gi' is a fantasy history drama depicting love and biography of The Great King Kwang-gae-to and is 24-episodes blockbuster drama with 2 years of production time and invested with the highest production expenses in history of domestic dramas.

It became topic of talks from the making process due to super-luxurious casting of Hallyu star Bae Yongjoon, new actress Lee Jia, film actress Moon Sori, Oh Kwangrok, Choi Minsoo, Park Sangwon, and Yoon Taeyoung, etc., production by Kim Jonghak PD and writer Song Jina of the 'Sandglass', and the fact that staff, who participated in the production of the film 'Lord of the Rings', are in charge of VFX (Visual Effect).
.....
Reported by Park Sunyeon,sunyeon@epg.co.kr
Copyright ⓔEPG(www.epg.co.kr)

=================================

[The broadcasting of ‘TWSSG’ will be backed up again to the later years (?)]

Now, filmed up to 13th episode, the incompletion of computer graphic work is the reason for the delayed broadcasting.

[2007-06-05 12:35:33 pm]

The fantasy historical masterpiece drama, ‘TWSSG’ (scenario by Song Ji Na, directed by Kim Jong Hak) was originally planned to be aired June 25th and the possibility of its delayed broadcasting until September is raised.

‘TWSSG’ was planned to complete the filming before the broadcasting and was considered to adventure to markets overseas through Hallyu dramas. It took more than two years for preparation and finally the dates of broadcasting had been announced the early part of this year. It was changed and finally had been agreed to start broadcasting this upcoming June 25th. But the situation is changing again.

An official from the side of Director Kim Jong Hak, who prepares the broadcasting of ‘TWSSG,’ said that “Now, the filming is done up to 13th episode, but like the computer graphic work and etc., which are the most crucial to the scenes, are still imperfect. And these are troublesome.” The amounts of CG work are tremendous because it is a fantasy, mythical drama.

An official continued to say that “It is not the stage to say something but we bear in mind that there is a possibility to be delayed” and “It is delayed due to the overall percentage of completion and there are no other problems. And he also said that the plan of simultaneous broadcasting in Korea and Japan might be delayed together. He said that “it is not a big problem because it is an issue which was permitted before.” He added that this week is the critical time. Director Kim Jong Hak went to MBC recently, explained the difficulties of filming and requested the delay of broadcasting.

On the other hand, an executive of MBC Drama Department said that “we will try to end the delay for about one week and urge for quick broadcasting.” and “But, if it doesn’t work, we are open to various possibilities.” The atmosphere of the drama and programming departments do not eliminate the possibility of delay until September again and review the production of a replacement drama. ‘New Good Housewife’, which already is broadcasting roughly and quickly due to the delay of the ‘TWSSG’ broadcasting, is extended to a 10-episode drama from an 8-episode drama. But to prepare for the broadcasting of ‘TWSSG’ being pushed again, there is enough space to put in one more mini series.

Thus, the damages of tug of war between ‘TWSSG’ and MBC for programming all go to the viewers. Because the interests are being lost due to the progress of ‘TWSSG’ like the boy who cares for sheep, the replacement dramas are emerging and the possibilities of turning away from the viewers are raised. The progress of the mini series, which are usually prepared for 16 to 20 episodes, not 8 to 10 episodes, shows the problems already.

There is no guarantee for good viewer ratings even with a careful pre-production plan. The dramas produced roughly and quickly due to the delay of ‘TWSSG’ might weaken the competition power of MBC drama more.

Inside of MBC, they are already reluctant to see the situations driven by the delays of the broadcasting for ‘TWSSG’. And even viewers are turning away from MBC Dramas. The atmosphere of ‘Jumong’ carnival already disappeared.

Nocut News, Entertainment Broadcasting Team, Reporter Namgoong Sungwusocio94@cbs.co.kr

=================================

[bag.lover]

=================================
(source: Chosun 6/8/07)
U.S. Band Rain Thwart's Korean Star's American Tour

The Korean singer Rain’s concerts in the U.S. as part of his world tour have been postponed due to controversy over his stage name. His Korean name “Bi” means “rain” in English, but the singer faces legal action filed by U.S. recording firm Rain Corporation with the District Court-District of Nevada in February. The company, which works with an American band also called Rain, demanded the entertainer drop the English name in the U.S.

Star M Entertainment, the organizer of the singer’s world tour, said it did its utmost to reach agreement with the U.S. company, but the concert schedule had to be changed since the court will make a ruling on June 14, when the Korean singer was scheduled to perform in Hawaii, the first leg of his U.S. concerts. A Star M Entertainment spokesman said the singer will stage concerts in the U.S. after August, because he will be shooting the movie “Speed Racer” from July. The singer had scheduled concerts in Hawaii, Atlanta, New York, San Francisco and Los Angeles from June 15 to 30.

(englishnews@chosun.com )
=================================

[bag.lover]

=================================
(source: Korea Times 5/27/07)
Rain Becomes First K-Pop Star to Perform at Tokyo Dome

By Cathy Rose A. Garcia
Staff Reporter


Korean pop idol Rain performs on stage for his sold-out concert in Tokyo as part of his world tour, Friday. / AP-Yonhap


Korean pop star Rain wowed nearly 40,000 fans at a concert at the Tokyo Dome on Friday evening, becoming the first Korean singer to hold a solo concert at the stadium.

Rain performed 21 songs during the concert, including his Japanese language single "Free Way." He also spoke some Japanese, delighting his mostly female fans.

As the first K-pop star to perform at the Tokyo Dome, Rain admitted he was nervous at first. The Tokyo Dome is the biggest concert hall in Japan, where only a few foreign artists such as Madonna, Mariah Carey, Rolling Stones, and Japanese superstars like Ayumi Hamasaki, SMAP and Arashi can perform.

"When Japanese producers suggested a concert at the Tokyo Dome, I doubted if I could do it. But I am glad that tickets have sold well," Rain said, in a press conference before the concert.

His Tokyo Dome concert proved Rain's immense popularity in Japan. Japanese celebrities such as members of the popular male group SMAP, namely Masahiro Nakai, Tsuyoshi Kusanagi and Shingo Katori were seen at the concert. Korean celebrities such as Ha Ji-won and SS501 were also there.

The concert is part of his ongoing world tour, which brought him to Hong Kong, Singapore, Malaysia, Vietnam, China, Australia and ends in the United States next month. Rain said the world tour was a good opportunity for him to challenge himself before making his U.S. debut.

Rain is also preparing for his supporting role in the Hollywood movie "Speed Racer," a live action adaptation of the iconic Japanese animated car racing series. He will attend the film's press conference on May 31 in Berlin, Germany. Rain will play the role of a rookie car racer in the movie, which will be written and directed by Andy and Larry Wachowski, creators of the "Matrix" movie series.

cathy@koreatimes.co.kr
=================================

[bag.lover]

=================================
(source: Koreatimes 6/4/07)
Korean Film ‘D-War’ to Debut in US

Jung Joo-yang
Korea Times Intern

The Korean science fiction film "D-War" by Shim Hyung-rae is to debut on 1,500 screens in the United States in late August according to Showbox Mediaplex, the movie’s local distributor. "D-War" opens in Korea on Aug.2. American distributor Freestyle is responsible for the U.S. premiere and advertising expenses. According to Showbox, Freestyle was in charge of distributing the popular film "The Illusionist" in the U.S. on 1,432 screens for six weeks. The film was among the top 10 box office hits.

This is the first time a Korean movie will have a wide release at this level, considering that director Bong Joon-ho’s "The Host" only opened on 100 screens in the U.S. Late August is prime time for "D-War" to open as students are on their summer breaks and the Labor Day weekend occurs.

Shim, who directed the film featuring a monster snake-like dragon gone awry, has worked with Hollywood staff and actors for six years to complete this project, with a budget of around $70 million. Showbox has stated that thanks to its thorough preparations it expects the debut of "D-War" to be a success. It hopes the film will show the global movie market the potential of Korean cinema.


=================================