Singer/actress Eugene talks about her views regard the discord between SM Entertainment and Dong Bang Shin Ki. She said in a recent interview, “Even though I don’t know the details, I hope both sides can settle this amiably.”
Eugene was from S.E.S under SM Entertainment debuting in 1997. S.E.S was one of the first girlgroups and had the concept of fairies and had made issues with their songs and costumes. After which, there were the other girlgroups like Fin.K.L, Baby VOX, Chakra. And then recently we have WonderGirls and So Nyeo Shi Dae etc.
Eugene said, “It is true that SM have a good training system for a big company. With that, there are many youths who wants to debut under these big companies and there are many cases of them signing long term exclusive contracts with the company. When the singers grow and develop, the contract should also change if not there will be piled-up unhappiness. It is a shame that companies take advantages of the weaknesses of these new singers.”
She added, “Recently when I look at the juniors, it seems that their schedule is so tight they can hardly breathe. It would be great if they are able to find happiness and influence through their entertainer activitise and at the same time are able to improve on things like profits etc.”
The top pop groups of Korea and Japan - DBSK (or TVXQ) and SMAP - have met on a Japanese program.
DBSK on Jan. 29 joined the recording of the popular show "SMAP×SMAP" on Fuji TV, hosted by SMAP. In a friendly atmosphere, the two groups talked and sang together. The program airs next month.
Previously, top Korean stars such as Jang Dong-gun, Song Seung-heon, Lee Young-ae, Choi Ji-woo, Ryo Si-won, kwon Sang-woo and Sin Hye-seong appeared in the program's "Bistro SMAP" segment. Sin notably sang a live duet with SMAP member Kusanagi Tsuyoshi.
The two top groups had already met Dec. 31 during an NHK year-end pop festival, the most prestigious of its kind in Japan. The two groups briefly met during rehearsals and DBSK later went to SMAP's room for a formal greeting.
SMAP member Takuya Kimura talked about that first encounter on a radio show last month. He laughingly said, "The room was small for ten healthy men. It was suffocating. Kusanagi Tsuyoshi's supposed Korean skills didn't really come out".
The Korean group's appearance on "SMAP×SMAP" is as significant as their first meeting last month.
Japan's Johnny's Entertainment manages not only SMAP but many other top notch idol groups including KinKi Kids. It maintains their popularity by having group members host shows on all private broadcasts.
DBSK is also scheduled to appear soon on a Fuji TV show hosted by the KinKi Kids (Domoto Koichi, Domoto Tsuyoshi). The "honeymoon affair" between DBSK and Johnny's is expected to continue for quite some time.
Source : english.kbs.co.kr
On January 29 in Japan, THSK recorded 'SUMA SUMA'(SMAPXSMAP) on Fuji TV with SMAP members, THSK appeared on talk show and with a friendly atmosphere they sang a song together. This sneak peek will be broadcasted next month.
Until now, 'SUMA SUMA', already had a Korean star as their guests such as Jang Dong-gun, Song Seung Heon, Lee Young-ae, Choi Ji Woo, ryusiwon, Kwon Sang-Woo, Shin Hye Sung on SMAP BISTRO corner, and Shin Hye Sung has a duet with Kusanagi Tsuyoshi singing "sky~ eternal love" live.
THSK and SMAP met for the first time on December 31 at the most prestigious show "NHK 59th KOUHAKU Utagassen". On the rehearsal the day before the show, THSK had a light greetings with SMAP at SMAP's waiting room.
Takuya Kimura on a radio show explainned about this, "10 people were filling that small room made a frustating situation" then he described, "even Kusanagi's korean didnt help much." telling a disclosed episode that hapenned that time.
THSK signed a contract for their appereance on NHK's programme with SMAP.
SMAP, ARASHI, KATTUN, NEWS, Kinki Kids, known as Japanese Idol groups from a popular management, Johnny, who had many kind of popular shows.
After their appereance in SUMASUMA, THSK soon will be appeared with popular duo, Tsuyoshi Domoto and Koichi Domoto from Kinki Kids, "Domoto Brothers". THSK also schedulled to appear in other Johnny's shows with a friendly atmosphere in the future.
Credits: DNBN + L4uRa@soompi (translation)
TVXQ had previously guested in Utaban, which SMAP leader Nakai is the host for. It was that show where the DBSK guested with Koda Kumi last year.
See him with his mouth hanging open after hearing them sing acapella (thanks to Xiao_Miss@soompi):
A few weeks ago, Seungri from rival idol group Big Bang ahd confessed in an interview that was a huge fan of Xiah Junsu (even before his debut) and wanted to get closer to him. Junsu called in (recorded) to give him a message!
I decided to make a post on some recent piano covers I have heard...you find alot of them on the internet for DBSK (especially thanks to Lina, our buddy blogger, for transcribing so many for DA!)
These covers bring an added sentimental touch to these songs. I especially found Bolero cover to be even more breathtaking than the original song.
Do you guys have recent favourite you want to share?
Speaking of piano, an internationally acclaimed Korean pianist wanted to play a peice for DBSK! That would be quite an honor if it were to happen. You may have heard of him -- Yiruma. (Alot of Twilight fans might know who I am talking about, especially if you had heard the popular fan-suggested unofficial Bella's lullaby on Youtube which, combining other similar videos, had well over 3 million hits! River Flows In You is a song composed and played by Yiruma!)
Over at Dnbn, a TVXQ fan posted an article which featured Yiruma and in the article he stated:
"I want to give a music piece to an idol group like TVXQ."
Yiruma is a world famous Korean pianist / composer. He's 30 years old, born in Seoul but moved to London when he was a child. After his musical education, he moved back to Korea and started composing music for various venues (mostly dramas and movies). Although he had dual citizenship (Korean and British) he gave up his British citizenship so he could serve in the military for mandatory service (Navy back in 2006). He was discharged not too long ago and he married a former Miss Korea.
Yiruma stated that he wanted to make music for the idol group TVXQ / DBSK because he wanted to make music for a talented group. Yiruma makes some awesome piano pieces (some of the best in the world in my opinion). He made a nice one for K-flow (Kinetic Flow which you can listen to below). If he does make a piece for TVXQ, it's guaranteed to be a hit.
October 1, at 2 in the afternoon, Fahrenheit held a meeting to promote Taiwanese tourism at Seoul’s Grand Hyatt Hotel.
The 4 members of Fahrenheit, Yeom Ah Ryun (Yan Ya Lun) (Aaron Yan), Wang Dongsung (Wang Dong Cheng) (Jiro Wang), Jin Yuk Yoo (Chen Yi Ru) (Calvin Chen), Oh Zun(Wu Zun) have gained popularity in Korea from televised shows such as the Taiwanese Drama ’Hana Kimi’ and ’It started with a kiss’.
At this interview session, Fahrenheit introduced 따이루거 (Ddaee Ru Guh), 위런항구 (Weryun Hanggoo), 르위에탄 (Ruweehtan, 컨딩 (Keonding) then they suggested we try 지우펀위위엔 (Jiu Fun Wiwi An), 슈퍼망고빙수 (Super Mango Bingsoo - Shaved ice), 루웨이 (Ru way), and 뉘러우미엔 (Nooi Ruh umi ahn) as part of promotion of Taiwanese tourism.
Especially, Fahrenheit said ”This is the first time we’ve been to Korea but the convenient traffic and beautiful streets really drew us in.” In their interview, they skillfully threw and recieved and got attention by using Korean almost expertly such as ’진짜 (Jinja - Really)’, ‘맞아맞아 (Majuh Majuh - That’s right That’s right)’, ‘빨리와 (Bbal li wa - Come quickly)’.
When they were asked what Korean star they would like to have a chance to work with, they said “We were amazed how Dong Bang Shin Ki braved through the storm and did their best in performing even while they were getting hit by the hit. We heard that their new album is getting a good response so we would really like to try to work with them.” In addition they said, “At the Chinese Music State of Affairs Ceremony last April, we met Super Junior - M, we realized that they have experienced much more than us so we think there are many things that we can learn from them.” This recieved a lot of interest from Korean stars.
Together Fahrenheit, off the top of their head, showed how to make an Mango Bingsoo (Shaved Ice) and they even made their own bingsoo and had a fun time eating it. They ended the interview by saying “We would like it if Korea and Taiwan were able to become closer through each others culture. We will work hard promoting tourism for Taiwan and we hope that we can play a part in building the bridge to become one Asia.”
Fahrenheit will attend the Asia Song Festival on the 4th which will take place in Seoul’s Sang Ahm World Cup Competition Stadium.
Group TVXQ revealed they they will be rooting together for BoA’s advancement into the American market in an interview held on the 24th at Seoul Apgujong.
“What will the result be,” pondered the five members, but they were all in agreement that she “will come out of it successful” conveying what they thought of their fellow colleague.
“We are cheering for her,” said Xiah Junsu. And regarding her future he added, “I hope that it sends her status soaring.” Young Woong Jae Joong also stating, “I hope to find my way onto the same road that Sunbae (Senior) is taking.”
U-Know Yunho pointed out that, “BoA is a very hardworking singer, didn’t she overcome her difficulties and win over Japan,” and that it will be a good influence for BoA when she enters America.
Choi Kang Chang Min, “We may not know the American Music Market that well but with BoA’s hard work she can do it.”
Although, the group had reservations themselves when asked, “Doesn’t Dong Bang Shin Gi also wish to advance to America?” With a flat out denial, Xiah Junsu said, “We’re not thinking of something like that right now,” as well as U-Know Yunho, “I’ve missed Korea very much and because of that wish to stay active here.”
Big Bang's Taeyang, who has released his own solo single "Hot," has expressed respect for TVXQ. Big Bang's Taeyang, who has released his own solo single "Hot," has expressed respect for TVXQ.During his interview with JOYNEWS24, Taeyang said, "TVXQ's comeback in the later half of the year, coincides with Big Bang's activitiy period, and so our activities will overlap."Taeyang also stated that TVXQ and Big Bang have different music styles, but TVXQ is still a group with tremendous talent. "After watching TVXQ's performances and hearing their songs, I was very touched."
"Just like we are beginning in Japan now, TVXQ had the same determination when they began to venture into Japan. Seeing their activities in Japan makes me believe that they have real talent." All of Big Bang's members really like TVXQ, and Taeyang also said, "This time, our activities and promotions will give us Big Bang and TVXQ a chance to get close with each other."
Translation: omE! @ Shinki! Forums (http://iscreamshinki.net) Source: Uknow Baidu Bar + Mr. TVXQ
It's great to see the two budding together and Jaejoong lossening up to fellow Japanese company mates (note: they are under both under Avex), and its totally nice of Urata to post about how cool Jaejoong is ^^ Thats really what all us fangirls want to hear.
There was previously a female model who blogged about Changmin and Yoochun. Hope I can find it to post it up here for those who missed it. Found. See post below!
[PAST NEWS - June, 2007] Japanese model Yanno Mikiko's blog entry about Tohoshinki's Yoochun & Changmin:
7/7(月) 『steady.』※チャンミンとユチョンがモデル として登場!! new
At today's 『steady.』 photoshoot, I was able to meet Tohoshinki's Changmin and Yoochun! *sparkles*
The two were very kind and sweet and wonderful people, kya~! XD As I don't speak any Korean, I was very relieved since they are also very good at speaking Japanese. :pp
During the shoot, the two of them wore suits, but I was very surprised to see the change when they put on regular clothes!! They were very stylish *love for them increases!*
This will be released in 『steady.』's August issue! Everyone, please check it out~ <333>
An old piece of news perhaps.. Credits to spiderliliez
SUNG JIROO ~ "XIAH JUNSU, I LOVE YOU!" SURPRISING CONFESSION NEWSEN Translation: lovekr
Sung Jiroo has recently confessed his love for Dong Bang Shin Ki’s Xiah Junsu through a video message.
On KBS’s Sang Sang Plus Season 2 due to air on the 8th, Sung Jiroo said he would like to act with Xiah Junsu. Recently Sung Jiroo reached number one on internet seach engines. Something only extremely popular stars are able to accomplish, the reason for Sung Jiroo’s number one search was all thanks to Xiah Junsu.
Xiah Junsu claimed, “If I were to act I would like to be like Sung Jiroo” in an interview that had surfaced online, which immediately made Sung Jiroo the number one searched subject on the internet.
Sung Jiroo said, “One day, all of sudden, my friends kept texting me congratulations. I was wondering what happened, so I stopped to check at a nearby internet cafe, and upon seeing ‘Xiah Junsu-Sung Jiroo’ searched I was even shocked.”
Originally not familiar with the group Dong Bang Shin Ki, he looked them up and now he says he is a fan. On the episode of Sang Sang Plus Season 2, he left a video message for Xiah Junsu saying “If there is a chance, I would like to act with you.” He ended his video message with cute “I love you!”
Sung Jiroo’s video message will be shown on Tuesday the 8th, 11:05PM on KBS’s Sang Sang Plus Season 2.
Hehe, obviously obsessive fangirls were worried who Jiroo was, no wonder he's name is the most searched today. A lot of them (girls) might have gotten a heart attack just hearing and reading the "I Love You" part coming from him. Now I don't know if they are relieved to know that Sung Jiroo is an ajusshi (older man). I even hear of extreme fangirls who would even question other TVXQ members when their favorite member gets too close to other members. It's scary.
Anyway, this article is really cute. I'm happy TVXQ members are being accepted by older people in the entertainment business. They shouldn't just cater to young audiences, but to the older generations as well.
SM Entertainment's hitmaker Yoo Young Jin (38) praised BoA and TVXQ in an interview with Yonhap News and said that the former has surpassed his expectations and how hard-working TVXQ is.
"BoA's special ever since I gave her her debut song 'ID:Peace B.' I made that song and although I let her listen to the demo track, I hadn't arranged how it was going to be interpreted. We recorded the song 3 days later and the result was beyond what I had envisioned. BoA's ability to interpret a song is excellent. BoA is still evolving," Yoo Young Jin said.
"TVXQ's been flying back and forth between Korea and Japan and in a year, they get to rest for only a week. The group's vocal abilities have improved quickly considering how tired the members are," Yoo Young Jin evaluated.
He also shared during the interview that he occasionally teaches TVXQ members on writing songs and advises them that writing songs is not about wanting it to be the title song of an album.