For Sale: A Hyun Bin Photobook, Army Edition

Or should I say Kim Tae Pyung's? Looks like the army wants a piece of Binnie pie as well. 

The thing that is controversial about this is not the fact that the Military is producing promotional books (Korea's practically The Land of Photobooks), but the fact that they are SELLING what used to be given out FOR FREE. 


The SBS television news program 8:00 News on the 11th of May has reported that the Marines Corps will be producing Hyun Bin's photobook on his life at the military, capturing his training and life in the barracks. It is expected to be produced at the end of this year; a professional photographer and writer has already been secured for this purpose.


The Marine Corps has given the production rights to a certain publishing house, with the condition that they share part of the profits. When questioned on the subject of sales, the Marine Corps remain noncommittal. Their stand on it: "The photobook's purpose is to promote the Marines, not Hyun Bin." Yeah riiight. People will be parting with their hard earned cash to see how's life like in the Marines, not Binnie. It has nothing to do with the Binnie factor. Nope. Nada.


No $$$ for Binnie either. He gets nothing out of this because in accordance to the South Korean law, a civil servant who performs official duties bearing a uniform does not get to enjoy portrait rights (i.e cannot profit from the sales). Hyun Bin has already agreed to take the pictorial for free. 


He was enlisted into the Marine Corps earlier this March, and after 7 weeks of recruit training he was sent to Byeongyeong Island for service.


Chloe Says: Personally though, I cannot understand the appeal of photobooks. I rather spend my cash on other collectables like DVDs, manhwas, or even the occasional kdrama calendar or two. Photobooks? Me don't get.


Via Sports Chosun, Chosun Ilbo

Ryu Shi Won & Go So Young Share A Very Special Fate

If I didn't know any better, I could've sworn that this story was taken straight out of a melodrama. Two babies born on the same day, same time, at the same hospital?! Luckily our story stops before "switched at birth".


Yup, that's the bond that these two veteran hallyu stars share. Ryu Shi Won revealed this during a recording of MBC's late night variety show recently. He said: "Go So Young and I were not only born on the same day, but also at the same hospital. And since we were born around the same time, we might have even shared a nursery." Both of them were born on October 6, 1972.


Upon hearing his story, the guests on the show expressed their surprise, exclaiming: "What a miracle!"


This unbelievable tale of fate and circumstances will be aired in an episode of MBC's Night For Starry Memories on the 12th. 


Via Sina, Sports Chosun

Jo In Sung gets discharged from military service, asked to comment on Hyun Bin?

May is Military Mania: My crush since forever has been discharged from the military yesterday! Although I'm sure y'all kdramafans know that already ;) He was greeted by a whole lotta people yesterday at as early as 10 AM at Osan Air Force Operations Command in Pyeongtaek City, Gyeonggi-do and stood smiling, looking happy and healthy as he salutes in front of reporters. 

Okay, now I'm worried. Why does he looks so good while Binnie practically looks like an egg on a stick? ☠

When asked by the throngs of reporters on what advice he could give to popular k-actor Hyun Bin who's currently serving the military, he tactfully replies: "At this point, there's nothing much I can say that will help." He went on to say: "In the army, my successor's name is Yoon Hyun Bin. Today he replaced me. Sorry I am old, sorry I couldn't take better care of him, I feel so apologetic towards him." (lol, smart. He goes on to talk about another Hyun Bin)

In the military Jo In Sung is highly valued for completing his tasks diligently and contributing towards the overall improvement of the Air Force's image. Earlier on the 2nd he was personally awarded a certificate of recognition by the Air Force Chief of Staff for his contributions; then later in the morning he was awarded a recognition plaque by National Defense Committee, thus drawing a satisfactory conclusion to his army life. 

Because he still has to attend a brief farewell meeting held for the discharging soldiers and their successors later that day, after half an hour of the press conference and greeting to fans who came to see him, he left to attend the farewell meeting. 


Jo In Sung has been chosen as the "Most Anticipated Actor Comebacks"; he has already chosen his upcoming project, an action-fantasy film Kwon Bob. He will proceed to film after a period of well deserved rest.

Via cqnews.net and respective media outlets for the images.

Hyun Bin Completes Rigorous Military Training

...and he says he misses his parents the most. Aww. 

Recently his military life has been documented and it has already been unveiled to the public. May 1st's broadcast of KBS's documentary program "3 Days Documentary" featured Hyun Bin as a ROK Marine Corps 1137 in his 5th week of going through hellish training scenarios for new recruits. 

Binnie is one of the 720 soldiers in training, where he's no longer known by his stage name but his birth name, Kim Tae Pyung. Upon completion of the hell-style training, an award ceremony was held, presenting "red medals" to signify that they are no longer recruits. 

Hyun Bin recalls the training process and said: "Because it's something I obtained (i.e the red medal) after such tough training, I feel very proud. The period where you rely on your strength and obtaining the results with your fellow mates, it also deepens your understanding towards yourself."


He showed great excitement upon getting the red medal, and says: "(I) first thought of my parents. Right now at this moment my heart is filled with passion, and (I'm) overbrimming with confidence." Hyun Bin's face is tanned, as all military men are, and he's also looking very healthy and confident.


After 6 weeks of training, Hyun Bin gets 5 days of rest. He is currently doing his service at Byeongyeong Island under the Marine Corps 6th Brigade. 


Via Chosun Ilbo

Long Live SG: Two And A Half Updates

Well, can't really say all these is SG related but it is related to the SG family, so read up, folks!


One: Binnie Goes To Berlin

...for BIFF (Berlin International Film Festival) for Come Rain, Come Shine. Well, no surprise there but first he has to obtain special permit to do so since these are overseas activities. In this regard, the ROK Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism will be submitting a letter of recommendation to the MMA (Military Manpower Administration) justifying the reasons for him to go abroad from the 15 to the 23rd of March.


So if all goes well he'll be flying to Berlin on the 15th and attend the festival's official events, media interviews etc. on the 17th. He'll be entering the military on March 7 to undergo 5 weeks of basic training in Pohang-si, Gyeongsangbuk-do before a specific assignment is to be assigned. 


Two: Lee Jong Suk Gets Accepted Into Honkuk University 

Lee Jong Suk (23) will be enrolling in the university's Film Department as a [Year] 2011 student. He participated in the entrance exam last November and it is reported that the university's targeted enrollment was 2220 students out of 21 268 people who took part in the exam.


And a Half: Not a ground breaking news...except there will be OSKA socks!!! 
Nevermind the Oska is spelled differently. If I have this I don't think I would want to wear shoes, 'cause I'll be busy showing off me socks!

Via Baidu's Secret Garden

Wouldn't You Like To Know: Some Anecdotes On Their High School Days

By "their", I'm mish-mashing 2 tid bits I read about Ha Ji Won and Kim Tae Hee during their high school years - boy, they must had it good. Unlike mine... 


Ha Ji Won's Report Card Exposed!

First of all, isn't there a law against this? Something about student-teacher confidentiality, no? Hmm...

Recently, screenshots of Ha Ji Won's Year 1 to 6 Report Card has been put up on a website via a television program that featured it; it became one of the most viewed posts of all time. 


It is reported that from the 2nd grade up till the 3rd year of high school, she has been the class leader or assistant class leader for 8 consecutively years. The reviews from teachers has also been positive; HJW was also the choir conductor in the group; to sum it up: an all-around good student. 


A Princess Trick: How Kim Tae Hee Got Her School Fees Waived
Hah! But this "trick" only works for the pretty. 

Kim Tae Hee has always been known for both her beauty and brains. She attended Ulsan High School, one of the leading high schools in the country. For three years her scores were among the best, needless to say she became one of the most sought after girl in school (that means: many, many pursuers). 


It is said that because of her beauty, the tuition she attended - no matter which class, attracted lots of male students. As a result of this, the tuition school decided to waive three years of her tuition fees. 


Via Baidu's My Princess and Secret Garden

You Don't Know Woman's Kim Ji Ho Reveals Britain Vacation Photos

Actress Kim Ji Ho has recently reveal photos taken during her 15 day trip to Britain through a Sports Korea exclusive. 

The photos are not taken professionally, but by her brother and a friend who went along with her. She bears no makeup in the photos and her hair isn't styled. Hard to believe she's a mother of a 7 year old kid, huh?

Via Chosun Ilbo

2PM's Taecyeon's Shy Confession: Ha Ji Won's My Ideal Woman

Whatever boy, no need to play coy, I hardly think you're the shy type. And you'll have competition too. Didn't Jang Geun Seuk said something about his noona love? 

For dramas, it's always a slow news day on the day of the broadcast itself. So I'll just indulge myself in nice-to-know *juicy* infos like these. Read on:


In today's filming for a SBS's new variety show, Taecyeon confessed, "My ideal woman has not changed, it has always been Ha Ji Won." 


Previously, he has worked with SNSD's Yoona, Baek Ji Young and Moon Geun Young; he's had a perfect partnership with each of them, even causing rumors. But his ideal woman happens to be in SBS's latest drama "Secret Garden", starring as Ra Im. He said in a variety show last year that his ideal woman is Ha Ji Won and it still stands true today, sticking to his pure love image.


Via China Daily

Ji Jin Hee Reveals His Artistic Side

Yesterday (3/12/2010), Ji Jin Hee shows off his pottery works of art at a conference house in Jeong-dong, Seoul. Ji displayed 30 pieces of his works, and all sales proceeds will be donated to charity. 

Adhering to the "Progressive Development" concept, the artwork reflects people's lifestyle. It is hoping that through this exhibition, ceramics will gain mainstream popularity and encourage the public to return to a healthy organic lifestyle.

A press release by his agency said, "Mr. Ji Jin Hee worked hard at his ceramics after Dong Yi wrapped up in October for this exhibition. He has always shown interest and talent in ceramics and various other handicrafts." Not only that, he just participated in a photography exhibition last month and his works has received favorable critical attention.

Ceramics Arts & Crafts Fair will be held from 1-4 Dec in Jeong-dong, Seoul.

Chloe Says: Blimey. Must everyone be so freakin' talented in everything in Korea? Makes the rest of us look bad. Although I can't really appreciated the ceramic stuff, how exactly is it different from the generic mass produced ceramics? 

Via Epoch Times

Park Si Yeon Launches New Fashion Label

Oh really. The reason why I'm posting this is not because I'm a fashionista, but 'cause I spotted a co-star from Coffee House that attended this ceremony to lend his support. Gawd I miss the show. It was fun watching loony Kang Ji Hwan. 

The show made me a Park Si Yeon fan, and I lurrve her style she portrayed in the drama. I even had my nails painted that dark hue of blue she sported in CH.


On the 2nd of November, k-actress Park Si Yeon launched the new fashion label "Sweet TOUCH" at a hotel in Seoul. Many stars attended the ceremony to lend their support. Namely:


Porcelain doll Nam Gyu-ri (from Life Is Beautiful)

Hahah. I loved him in Coffee House, the manager with the good ol' country accent.

Who is this hottie? Someone please tell me his name.

Ah. Long time no see, kiddo. Miss you.

Via Chosun Ilbo

2AM's Jo Kwon Tells All In A Book

There's nothing better to warm the cockles of your heart than reading a story about filial piety...

Kpop group 2AM's leader, Jo Kwon *ahem* (please excuse the ninja hair)

In a MBC variety show, idol member Jo Kwon has revealed a book that he co-authored with the group, titled "Stories Of His Family". In the book he frankly disclosed his family's non-wealthy conditions before his debut.

He stated that his family went through a lot of hardship during his pre-debut days. And ever since he received his pay for his CF debut, he's been saving away to buy a house for his parents who lives in the basement. He finally did it this year in September, and bought a house using his appearances fees and from various other income sources.

In the book, he mentioned: "I told my manager not to arrange anything for the afternoon on the 4th of September. After I finished all the activities I had in the morning, I rushed to Suwon-si** to help with the move. The lighting in the new home is good, and it has three rooms too."

The book also includes his experience during his 2567 days as a trainee. That makes him the longest-serving male trainee for JYP Entertainment, ever. 7 years, dude. Sometimes I think Park Jin-young's a sadistic torturer.

Chloe Says: Now, did that inspire you to be a better child or what? And in case you were wondering what Suwon-si is (don't worry it's not his gf), it's not a person, but a place. It is the provincial capital of Gyeonggi-do, South Korea. 

And a shoutout to SG fans: famous k-actress Ha Ji Won came from there too! And that means evil glare dude (a.k.a. Ha Ji Won's brother) is also from Suwon-si. Coincidentally, the city is traditionally known as "The City Of Fillial Piety".


Via 8gul

2AM's 3D Movie Concert Premiers

Err...Usually I don't do kpop news, but I'm trying my best to get educated on the topic (it will sure come in handy, with so many idols crossing into dramas nowadays). 

Gee, it must be weird to see yourself in 3D

Nevertheless, I find the idea of filming a concert AND turning it into a 3D movie very intriguing, I wonder if it's a novel idea or a common thing in Korea? I myself have not heard of such a thing before. 

From the fans' perspective, I guess it must be nice to see their idols up close. Like real close. The so-close-you-can-touch-'em experience. Imagine: Sweaty idols right in front of your eyes. 
Must be an orgasmic experience for them.

Oh! I recognize that dude (far right)! Wasn't he in Personal Taste?

The premier was held at 8 o'clock on the 23rd of November. 

"2AM SHOW" is directed by Jung Seongbok and produced by 

SK Telecom. The movie is due to be released in cinemas on the 

9th of December.

Via Chosun IIbo

SuJu's Choi Siwon and Big Bang's Taeyang Gets Recognized For Their Contribution in Arts And Culture

Whew! That just may be my longest title for a post, ever. With the shortest content of a post. The title's pretty much self explanatory.

Korea's idol groups, Super Junior's Choi Siwon and Big Bang's Taeyang were the first recipients of the newly established award. The award presentation ceremony was held yesterday (23/11/2010) in Seoul, South Korea.

Via cri

My Princess Starts Filming! And...

I know, it still feels surreal, doesn't it? But it's true, I tell you! I'm not crying wolf. The official starting date for production and rehearsals was on the 22nd November (which was 2 days ago). 
And this is the black and white evidence, y'all...

So scripts do have a standard look! Doesn't it remind you of the "Wonderful Life" script Mary saw at Jung In's office? Now I'm all hyped up for the drama! Dear Drama Gods, please let this be good, please let this be good...

My Princess is currently aiming for a January 5th 2011 broadcast. Meanwhile, let's have a look at our co-stars of MP. Today is Korea's VIP premier for Song Seung Hun's Ghost: Invisible Love movie, and Kim Tae Hee has also attended to lend her support.

SSH and his Ghost co-star Matsushima Nanako.

The man himself...

Kim Tae Hee looking good in black!

Stars are...stars after all.

I'm convinced. Stars are NOT of the same species as us. Seeing them in dramas, I've been misguided, thinking they're just one of us. Then this kind of article comes along and BAM! I'm is starstruck by these heavenly creatures. Are they FOR REAL? 

Watch me as I squeal over these familiar faces in dramas (some of them which I missed so badly!). G.L.A.M.O.R.O.U.S is the common denominator for everyone who attended "Love Your W" charity fundraiser for breast cancer. EVERYONE.

Park Jin-hee, the Woman Who Got Away With Kim Bum.

*Pfft* Who are we trying to kid. Yoo In Na does not look like she's living in a National Geographic hut with flies. Far from it.

Faces whom I recognize but can't put a name to it. Wished they did more rom coms.

Whoa. Had to take a second look there. Is she the Lee Yeon-hee I know? Chincha??

This actress is so popular you can tell who she is at a glance despite the teeny pic.

I don't think Han Eun Jung has appeared in a rom com since Full House, no? 

Revenge of the Gumiho was good, nonetheless.

This is my favorite pic among them all. What has Han Ji Min been doing since Capital Scandal? CFs?

Via Korea W