Chie Izuno works full time at an office Branch. Though she’s 30, she’s very young at heart and kind of innocent. She tries hard to go into the dating field but finds herself struggling due to her weight and self-esteem issues. She meets up with one of the company’s investors, Jin Harada, a super sucessful and young business man. However Jin has a severe lack of social skills. Chie strives to make a deal with Jin in order to aide her in her goal to lose weight and gain confidence, she tells Jin she can help him with his own flaws. Where will this agreement lead them to, and can two total opposites and flawed individuals overcome their personal demons?
Popular veteran singer, Kim Gun-Mo, 51, has been accused of sexual assault.
As shared on the YouTube channel Garo Sero Institute, lawyer Kang Yong Suk and former reporter Kim Yong Ho stated that an anonymous woman came forward with allegations that Kim Gun-Mo assaulted her and forced her to perform oral sex at a Seoul-area entertainment bar.
There are conflicting reports regarding if the bar is owned by Kim Gun-Mo or if it is an establishment not related to him.
“Kim Gun Mo arrived alone at 1AM in a Batman t-shirt. He didn’t drink liquor but ordered soju to drink. The victim drew a plan of the bar’s interior and said Kim Gun Mo was in room 9,” Kang and Kim said in their report. “The victim was the 8th woman to enter the room Kim Gun Mo was in, but he told all the other women to leave and told the waiter not to let anyone else in. He then requested the victim come into the bathroom, which was attached to the room in a separate area. He then forced her to commit oral sex. He then put her on the sofa and started sexually assaulting her.”
Following the report, Kim Gun-Mo stated the allegations are false and plans to file a lawsuit against Garo Sero Institute for spreading false information.
“It’s not true,” Media Line Entertainment said. “We plan to take strong legal action for spreading false information and defamation.”
“I’m sorry for causing concerns,” Kim Gun-Mo said on Saturday during an Incheon concert, his first public reaction to the scandal. “I will settle the issue wisely.”
Kang and Kim stated they have evidence showing the anonymous woman’s side of the story.
Kang and Kim added, “We asked her why she didn’t scream for help, and she said there were 17 rooms, and no one would hear her. It was important for us to verify the truth, so we secured a lot of evidence. It’s obvious what Kim Gun Mo’s side will respond, so we can’t reveal evidence on broadcast.”
Kang and Kim stated that on December 9, 2019, they will file a former complaint against Kim Gun-Mo.
Meanwhile, Kim Gun-Mo’s appearance on My Ugly Duckling will air as planned on December 8 despite the allegations. The show is expected to show Kim Gun-Mo’s proposal to his now-fiancee, pianist Jang Ji-Yeon. The pair were initially scheduled to be wed January 2020 but have pushed their nuptials back to May 2020 to allow time to find a larger venue. Jang is 13-years Kim Gun-Mo’s junior.
—-Olivia Murray
Sportsmanship was on full display during the 2019 Southeast Asian Games (SEA Games)!
During the surfing competition December 6, 2019, the men’s longboard surfing semifinals took place at Monaliza Point, La Union in northern Philippines. While the competition took place, Typhoon Kammuri (Tisoy) made seas choppy, adding an extra layer of difficulty to the competition.
During a one-on-one race with Indonesian surfer Arip Nurhidayat, fellow surfer Roger Casugay—who represents the Philippines—put personal glory aside to help his competition when Nurhidayat’s ankle leash broke, causing Nurhidayat to be swept into the waves. Casugay saw what happened, paddled back to Nurhidayat, and helped him back to shore.
On social media, Casugay, who is also a surfing instructor, is being hailed as hero.
“No, I’m not a hero,” Casugay said in a Rappler interview. “I didn’t really save him from drowning. He is a good swimmer. I just calmed him down.”
“We have a brotherhood in surfing,” Casugay told CNN. “If someone needs help, you go. I didn’t think about winning and just relieved that we were both safe. We were overjoyed when we reached the shore.”
On December 7, Casugay and Nurhidayat paired up in a rematch; Casugay won to advance to the finals. For the gold medal match, Casugay beat fellow Filipino surfer Rogelio Esquivel to score gold. With the win, Casugay became the first-ever Filipino to earn a gold medal in surfing.
Even with his surfing gold medal, the most important gold Casugay won was in sportsmanship and showing that, even in the heat of competition, helping our fellow man is more important.
Photo credit: Manila Bulletin Sports
—-Olivia Murray
Is there trouble brewing between Pentagon’s Chinese member Yan An and Cube Entertainment? Some Universe (Pentagon’s fandom name) seem worried.
Yan An, who is currently taking a break from activities due to unspecified health reasons, took to his Weibo account to express frustrations with Cube Entertainment and his desire to get back to work.
As translated by @tinyjojin on Twitter, the post reads:
I care very much about the unis who have always supported me and my team. Having your company has always been my motivation. You bring me happiness, so I also hope to return more happiness and joy back to you. Making uni people sad is my least favorite thing. Regarding work, I have already prepared to go back to work, but the company has not given me any news about returning to work. I have been asking the company, but so far there is no clear response and instructions. I am also very anxious. I also I hope to be able to get back work sooner. I am also sorry that you are saddened by all of this. I’m really sorry.
Yan An is ready to get back to work, but it appears Cube Entertainment has yet to schedule his return to the group. Some fans speculate that this is the second time Yan An has been on hiatus for health issues, it could just be that Cube Entertainment is giving the singer extra time to recover and will add him back to the Pentagon roster in the New Year.
Fans should take comfort in knowing Yan An is feeling well and is ready to return! However, fans shouldn’t speculate that there is bad blood between he and the company. Everything may work out in the end!
—-Olivia Murray
Fans of Kang Daniel expressed concern after the rookie star posted alarming messages on social media recently. Since then, Kang’s independent label, Konnect Entertainment, announced that the 22-year-old will be taking a break from activities to take care of his mental health.
On December 3, 2019, Kang, 22, posted messages on his fan café that caused worry among his fans. In them, he asked for someone to “please save” him while sharing that he, his family, and fans have been receiving hate and ridicule since his time in Wanna One. He continues by asking why it’s a crime for fans to like him.
Title: ‘Everything’
The photos of myself kneeling after the end of Wanna One’s concert and the emotions I was feeling at the time has become a weapon to make fun of me.
How they edit everything that I do to make it look bad
How the music and performances that I love are being treated like trash
How the fans that I treasured are being ridiculed
How my family is getting cursed out instead of me
How it’s suddenly become a crime to say that they like me
Just everything is really too difficult.
The fact that I am me is too difficult.
While possibly unrelated, the messages came days after he and his company were accused of sajaegi, or chart manipulation, following his win for “Touchin’” on The Show. Netizens claimed Kang should not have won over AOA, but Dispatch found no evidence sajaegi occurred.
Following the messages, Kang’s independent label, Konnect Entertainment—which was set up following Kang’s court battle with his former agency, LM Entertainment— released a statement stating Kang, who recently made his long-awaited comeback, will be taking a break from promotions.
Since earlier this year, Kang Daniel has been suffering from various health problems. His immune system has weakened which requires him to have frequent check-ups at the hospital. He also has anxiety problems, depression, and is currently not mentally stable. However, the actor is seeking medical help and has been given counseling treatments and medications.
Amidst the situation, the actor is doing his best to remain strong and to fight. His anxiety has worsened that’s why he needs to take a break from working to focus on resting and recuperation. Right now, his health, both mental and physical, is our utmost priority. As a result, we decided to cancel his recording schedules for “Show Champion.” Kang Daniel will also be unable to participate in future activities and promotions.
We also ask everyone to please not make speculations and spread malicious rumors. Let us all help Kang Daniel. Thank you.
Following the news, Kang’s fans trended #WeAreWithDaniel on social media to show support for the rookie star as he works toward recovery. Many have also praised Kang and Konnect Entertainment for putting the star’s health first, especially given the celebrity deaths this year.
We wish Kang Daniel well and hope he receives the care he needs regardless of how long it takes.
—-Olivia Murray
In 2020, the JYP Entertainment male group will embark on their first-ever world tour! Opportunities to see Stray Kids in concert are coming to U.S. cities near you!
The “District 9: Unlock” tour’s U.S. leg will kick off in January 2020 and will stop at eight cities.
|
January 29, 2020 |
New York, NY |
Hulu Theater |
Tickets TBA |
|
January 31, 2020 |
Atlanta, GA |
Fox Theatre |
Tickets TBA |
|
February 2, 2020 |
Dallas, TX |
The Theatre at Grand Prairie |
Tickets TBA |
|
February 5, 2020 |
Chicago, IL |
Rosemont Theatre |
Tickets TBA |
|
February 7, 2020 |
Miami, FL |
Watsco Center |
Tickets TBA |
|
February 9, 2020 |
Phoenix, AZ |
Comerica Theatre |
Tickets TBA |
|
February 13, 2020 |
San Jose, CA |
Provident Credit Union Event Center |
Tickets TBA |
|
February 16, 2020 |
Los Angeles, CA |
Microsoft Theater |
Tickets TBA |
This is the second time Stray Kids will visit the United States. In 2019, they toured the U.S as part of their sold out “Unveil: I Am” showcase tour.
Ticket sales for the tour have yet to be announced, so stay tuned to the group’s official Twitter as sales dates are expected to be announced then.
—-Olivia Murray
On December 2, 2019, former singers Jung Joon-Young and Choi Jonghun (FTIsland) received their sentences for gang rape and the distribution of molka. Since the announcement, both Jung and Choi, through their legal representatives, filed to have their sentences appealed.
On December 4, 2019, Choi submitted his appeal to the Seoul Central District Court. He was originally sentenced to five years in prison, 80 hours of sexual violence rehabilitation, and employment restrictions that prevent him from working with minors.
Then, on December 5, 2019, Jung also submitted his appeal. He originally received a six-year prison sentence and 80 hours of sexual violence rehabilitation.
The prosecutors for the cases, in turn, will seek longer prison sentences for both parties.
During the original trials, details of Jung and Choi’s crimes came out including multiple occurrences of gang rape, filming non-consensual sex and sex with inebriated women. Jung shared the videos in KakaoTalk messages.
Now with the appeals in play, more trials will take place, meaning that victims will have to provide more testimony. The courts will also need to go over evidence again in order to determine if both Choi and Jung should receive lighter or heavier sentences.
—-Olivia Murray
On December 4, 2019, news circulated that MYNAME disbanded after eight years together.
“We would like to sincerely thank the fans for showing their love and support for such a long time. We have ended activities as the group MYNAME, but we will continue to fully support the members as they strive to achieve greater growth in their respective fields,” H2 Media said.
The quintet, which is known for the tracks “Message” and “Baby, I’m Sorry” have been active in Korea and Japan, but it is in Japan where they’ve experienced the most success.
As they are still active in Japan and even have a fan meeting coming up later in December, the disbandment news shocked My Girl/My Boy (the group’s fandom), but the members later provided some relief as the H2 Media group created by Fly to the Sky’s Hwanee later clarified that the group did not officially disband.
“The exclusive contract between the agency and MYNAME expired recently, H2 Media told MyDaily. “It is only the expiration of their contracts, and not the group’s disbandment. [The group] has activities such as a Japanese year-end fan meeting scheduled.”
In an OSEN interview, Seyong said, “It’s not that we ended on bad terms with the agency and decided to leave the agency behind. We’re meeting with the CEO tomorrow, and we continue to stay in touch with [our agency senior] Hwan Hee hyung and are on good terms with him. It’s just that our contracts have ended, and we continue to help each other with work. MYNAME will continue as a group. Even if we end up in different agencies, we could get together again and release an album, and in December we have a fan meeting in Japan. I won’t be participating due to personal reasons, but the four remaining members will attend and meet with fans.”
Seyong, Insoo, and Chaejin each took to Twitter to clarify the group’s status.
자 공식얘기는 여기까지 ㅎ
많이놀랬어요 ? 걱정마세요 최근에도 얘기했죠! 혼자 팬미팅을 진행했을때! 계약이 끝났음에도 회사에도 도와주셨고! 그리고 한국에서도 얼른 다섯명 마이네임이 만날수있는 자리를 제가만들겠다고!! 글이라는 기사라는건 오해가 생길수도있겠다 라는 생각했지만 절대!— 세용 (@MYNAME_KYong) December 4, 2019
Seyong said, “Were you surprised? Don’t worry. As I said recently during my solo fan meeting! Though our contracts expired, the agency helped us, and [I said] that I would arrange a way for the five MYNAME members to unite in Korea!! I did think that articles could lead to misunderstandings, but we have definitely not disbanded, so don’t worry!”
마이네임 해채 아니구요.
회사 계약만 끝난거에요.— chae jin (@chae_jin1226) December 4, 2019
“MYNAME has not disbanded,” Chaejin said. “Only our contracts with the agency have ended.”
아침부터 놀라셨을 마이걸에게 죄송해요
회사와 계약이 끝난부분이 기사화 되었어야하는데 이상하게 해체내용처럼 나가버렸네요. 저희 마이네임은 계약기간이 만료되어 회사와 계약이 끝났을 뿐 팀은 해체가 아닙니다!— 인수 (@k10208888) December 4, 2019
Insoo added, “To our MYGIRL who were shocked from early in the morning, I’m sorry. What should have been reported is that our contracts with the agency have ended, but strangely it was reported as if we had disbanded. MYNAME’s contracts with the agency have expired, but we have not disbanded!”
For fans of the group, the news is positive as there is a future after all.
H2 Media said the members will be pursuing individual activities. The company said Gunwoo plans to continue in the music industry, while Seyong, JunQ, and Chaejin will be pursuing “other activities” including acting. Insoo will pursue a career in theatre and musicals.
We wish the members well in their individual activities, and we can’t wait to see what MYNAME’s future may bring!
—-Olivia Murray
Seoul, South Korea (December 4, 2019) – South Korea’s sensational boy band ATEEZ is ready to take the US by storm and meet their fans through their ATEEZ WORLD TOUR <The Fellowship>: Map The Treasure in the USA starting in Newark, New Jersey, on April 17, 2020.
Once again, ATEEZ’s stateside concerts were initiated by fans who created a viral movement on www.mymusictaste.com, an online service that brings together music fans to request their favorite artist’s concert.
KQ entertainment’s exceptional 8-members group set unprecedented records by selling out their first world tour The Expedition Tour and winning numerous local and international awards only 1 year into their debut.
The band’s well-crafted performances and producing skills received worldwide attention, both from the fans and the media by being featured on Billboard, MTV, The Grammy, DAZED and many more outlets around the world.
The boy band officially debuted as ATEEZ on October 24, 2018, with TREASURE EP.1: All to Zero, a perfect showcase of their built-up talent through KQ Fellaz. 2019 will then start off with their explosive second album, TREASURE EP.2: Zero To One, reaffirming their status as the new K-pop generation global phenomenon.
ATEEZ then followed up with their summery TREASURE EP.3: One To All, a special EP for both the boys and their fans since its main promotional song was voted and chosen by the fans through a week long voting project: ATEEZ x ATINY: Vote for ATEEZ’s Next Song
Keeping themselves busy and continually challenging their creative impulse, ATEEZ then released their first full album TREASURE EP.FIN : All To Action and its idiosyncratic and incredibly exciting title song “WONDERLAND” which culminates the Treasure saga with a perfect bang.
ATEEZ current line up consists of Hongjoong, Seonghwa, Yunho, Yeosang, San, Mingi, Woowoung, and Jongho.
Presale tickets with a 10% discount benefit, exclusive to MyMusicTaste users who requested ATEEZ in the cities below, will be available on December 16 at 11AM local time. General sales on tickets to the public will then begin on December 18 at 11AM local time.
Further information about the tour and tickets can be found on https://mmt.fans/IjM0/ and MyMusicTaste’s social media channels.
ATEEZ WORLD TOUR <The Fellowship>: Map The Treasure in the USA Schedule :
- April 17 – Newark @ Prudential Center
- April 19 – Chicago @ Wintrust Arena
- April 21 – Atlanta @ Infinite Energy Center
- April 23 – Dallas @ The Theatre at Grand Prairie
- April 26 – Los Angeles @ The Forum
About MyMusicTaste:
MyMusicTaste is a fan initiated live event making service that brings fans, artists and promoters from all over the world together in one place to create a valuable and meaningful concert experience for everyone involved. MyMusicTaste puts the power in the fans’ hands, allowing fans to request their favorite artist’s concert in their city. With the mission to connect and amplify the voices of fans all over the world, MyMusicTaste successfully promoted concerts of artists such as EXO, GOT7, MONSTA X, The xx, Machine Gun Kelly, and more in over 52 different cities. With the simple idea–empowering fans to bring their favorite artist’s concert in the city of their choice based on fan demand–MyMusicTaste is challenging the $27 billion concert market through cutting-edge technology and a sophisticated, user-friendly service. Currently www.mymusictaste.com supports more than 30 countries and offers 15 different languages.
About KQ Entertainment :
Home of Block B’s label Seven Seasons, KQ entertainment is a global music content company that flexibly responds to the rapidly changing domestic and overseas markets.
Based on a label-specific operating system that takes into account the characteristics of musicians, KQ Entertainment continues to discover and support high-potential labels and talented musicians, thereby enabling idol groups and artists to coexist and positively influence each other.
Seoul’s Suseo Police are concluding their investigation into Cha In-Ha’s death.
The 27-year-old rookie actor and Surprise U member was found dead in his home on December 3, 2019. His manager found Cha unresponsive. Fantagio confirmed the star’s passing in a statement.
On December 4, police stated an autopsy will not be performed on the late actor as requested by his family.
“We do not have any specific details to share regarding Cha In-Ha’s passing,” a police representative said. “We will not be performing an autopsy, per his family’s wishes. No will or final message was discovered at his home. We do not have any information to give regarding his cause of death.”
Fantagio reiterated that they hope fans will not speculate on Cha’s cause of death. They also hope Netizens will refrain from posting their speculations online as an act of respect for family and friends mourning his loss.
Cha, whose real name is Lee Jae-Ho, will be laid to rest in a private funeral as per his family’s wishes.
—-Olivia Murray
Following the news of Cha In-Ha’s (Lee Jae-Ho) passing, Fantagio released a statement confirming the actor and Surprise U member’s passing.
Hello,
This is Fantagio.
We feel devastated to deliver such heartbreaking and unfortunate news.
On December 3, actor Cha In-Ha left our sides.
We are truly heartbroken to deliver sad news to everyone who has sent lots of love and support to Cha In-Ha until now.
We are filled with grief at this news that is still hard to believe.
We earnestly ask for rumors to not be spread and for speculative reports to not be released in order for his family, who is experiencing greater sadness more than anyone due to the sudden sad news, to send him away peacefully.
As wished by his family, the funeral will be held privately.
We express deep mourning for his passing.
Police confirmed Cha, 27, passed away in his home. He was found unresponsive by his manager. Other details surrounding his death are still being investigated, although police stated a note or will were not found in the home.
Fantagio and the police have asked people to not speculate into the cause of death and to let police finish their investigation.
“We earnestly ask for rumors not to be spread, and for speculative reports not to be released in order for his family – who are experiencing great sadness due to the sudden news – to be able to send him away peacefully,” a spokesperson said.
As Fantagio pointed out in their statement, Cha’s family will hold a private funeral for the star.
Following the news of his death, his fans shared videos of his last interviews, including his “Ask in a Box” appearance.
May Cha rest in peace. We send our condolences to his family, friends, and co-workers.
—-Olivia Murray
On December 3, 2019, rookie actor Cha In Ha, who is also a member of the actor-idol group Surprise U, was found dead. His label, Fantagio, confirmed the police reports via a brief statement, but they did not offer much insight.
“We were notified and are currently checking on the matter,” the company stated.
Details surrounding the 27-year-old’s death have not been revealed yet, so cause of death, location, and time of death are currently unknown pending an investigation.
Cha was active in the current MBC drama Love with Flaws.
“We are trying to get an understanding of the situation right now” the show’s production team stated.
Cha debuted in 2017 with Surprise U when he appeared in the short film You, Deep Inside Me. He also performed in the group’s single “I Do.”
Since debuting, he’s held supporting roles in Temperature of Love, Are You Human, Too, Idol Fever, Wok of Love, Clean with Passion for Now, and The Banker.
Cha’s passing is the latest death in a shocking, controversial, and tragic year in the Korean entertainment industry. May he rest in peace.
Stay tuned for updates.
—-Olivia Murray
On November 8, 2019, former 2NE1 member and leader CL departed YG Entertainment following the end of her exclusive contract with the company. Many praised the move as CL has been kept in the basement for too long with only sporadic rumblings here and there on the American music scene.
However, CL will now be making her Korean comeback December 4, 2019 with her six-song project album In the Name of Love! According to Yonhap, two songs will be released from the album each week until the third week of December.
In the Name of Love will be her first release since 2015’s “Hello Bi+ches” and “Lifted.”
CL, who has not signed with another agency as of yet, decided to release the project album as an independent artist. In a message left on Instagram, CL acknowledges her decision to do so.
I started running before I even started walking. Without ever learning how to walk, how to rest, I accomplished a lot over the past 13 years, went through a lot of emotions, and learned a lot.
I was happy to live as the CL who was able to share a part of herself with you all and all the love that you gave me renewed me once more.
Like the 13-year-old Chaelin, like the words that my grandmother has given me, powerfully and confidently.
I am not going to wait for someone else to choose me and instead work on going back to being the CL that can tackle problems one by one. All the time and memories that I’ve experienced, and the emotions; I am excited and my heart flutters at the thought of sharing those with you.
For all the CLs in the world.
In the name of love,
CL
CL teased the album on her Instagram, and fellow former 2NE1 member Park Bom also helped share the news on her page as well.
Are you excited for CL’s return to the Korean music scene?
—-Olivia Murray
Trigger Warning: Article discusses sexual assault and rape.
Former singers Jung Joon-Young and Choi Jong-Hoon (FTISLAND) received their sentences for gang-rape and taking and distributing videos (molka) involving rape and other sexual acts.
On November 29, 2019, Jung received a six-year prison sentence while Choi received a five-year prison sentence for their crimes. Both men will also have to undergo 80 hours of sexual violence treatment courses and have been banned from working with children according to the BBC.
In Jung’s case, Judge Kang Seong-Soo, who presided the trials, stated that he raped women who were “drunk and unable to resist, filmed them nude and having sex, then spread it on a group chat. We can’t imagine the pain the victims might have felt who found out later.”
Jung told the courts he felt remorse for his acts. Meanwhile, Judge Kang stated that Choi “did not feel remorse after mass-raping drunken victims.”
The Seoul District Court also threw out the defendants’ claims that the sexual acts were consensual.
Details of Jung and Choi’s illicit acts leaked over a period of several months after conversations from Jung’s “golden phone” hit the media. During the hearings, more details emerged. In one instance, Jung and Choi took part in a recorded gang-rape of an inebriated woman back in 2016 while both men were in Daegu. They were also found guilty of a similar crime that occurred in 2016 in Gangwon-do.
Jung was charged in 11 counts of sharing illegal videos including an instance where he recorded a non-consensual encounter he later shared on KakaoTalk with messages stating “I drugged her and went back and forth from a to v then finished in her mouth.”
Many Netizens feel that the sentences are too light for both former stars. However, they are receiving heavier sentences than some accused of sexual crimes in the United States, where, in one instance, someone found guilty of rape only served nine months of a one-year sentence while another man received ten years of probation. Another well-known example is Brock Turner who received a six-month jail sentence for rape. He only served three months of his sentence.
What is clear is that sexual assault and rape are not taken as seriously as they should be in many instances.
—-Olivia Murray
If the Macy’s Thanksgiving Parade is an annual tradition in your home and you happen to be a K-Pop fan, you may have been surprised to see NCT-127 performing on the LEGO’s Brick-Changer float during the November 28, 2019 installment of the yearly event.
NCT-127’s appearance delighted NCTizens as “Cherry Bomb” blasted from the LEGO float. The group waved and blew kisses to fans as they appeared to be soaking up the moment.
i’m going to cry this is what they deserve yuta looks so freaking happy to be on that float and the way i can feel his eyes practically shinning it’s such a beautiful day #NCT127_MacysParade pic.twitter.com/2x1kOSsQoM
— xuxi’s right earring ✰ (@yukhelei) November 28, 2019
When it was their time to perform during the parade, NCT-127 performed “Highway to Heaven.” Although it was a shortened version, parade-goers and television viewers had an opportunity to catch some of the group’s dance skills and vocals. For some, this was their first listen of a K-Pop group.
Performing at the Macy’s Parade is an honor that many wish to hold. For NCT-127 to be invited to the event as the first K-Pop group to hold court is a special honor indeed!
SM Entertainment’s powerful male group, made up of Mark Lee, Taeil, Johnny, Taeyong, Doyoung, Yuta, Jaehyun, and Haechan, has been making the rounds in the United States this year with stops on several talk and morning shows including PeopleTV, Strahan and Sara, and the TODAY Show. Earlier this year, they were also the first K-Pop group to perform during the MTV European Music Awards, so making the rounds—and history—have definitely become part of NCT-127’s DNA!
If you missed an opportunity to catch NCT-127 in New York, there are still two more chances to see them in the US this month! On December 5, the group will perform at POPTOPIA 2019 in San Jose, California. They are part of a lineup that includes Lizzo, Halsey, Normani, Louis Tomlinson, Bazzi, and Ally Brooke. On December 7, they will perform as part of Chicago’s B96 Jingle Bash at Rosemont. Monsta X, Katy Perry, Camila Cabello, Marshmello, Normani, Lil Tecca, and AJ Mitchell will also perform. Hopefully you’ll get you’ll chance to see them live!
—-Olivia Murray
Former KARA member Kang Jiyoung will be making her return to the Korean acting scene soon!
On December 2, 2019, Jiyoung signed with Key East Entertainment to resume activities in South Korea. Since 2014, Jiyoung has been active as an actress and singer in Japan where she and KARA had immense popularity during their collective runs.
“After she moved from being a singer to being an actress in 2014, she has been stacking her filmography in Japan, starting from small roles all the way up to leading roles,” Key East Entertainment said. “We will be supporting her to the fullest so she can also act in Korea.”
Jiyoung joins a strong celebrity lineup by signing with Key East. Other Key East talents include Kim Soo-Hyun, Kim Dong-Wook, Joo Ji-Hoon, and Kim Hyun-Joong.
While she is returning to Korea, she is and still will be active in Japan. In 2019, she held three film roles in Tokyo Ghoul S, Dosukoi! Sukehira, and Soshite, Ikiru. She also has a role in the film Ohtsunahiki No Koi, which is scheduled for release in 2021.
We can’t wait to see what activities Jiyoung will engage in while returning to promotions in Korea.
—-Olivia Murray
Thank you very much for taking the time out for a KCrush interview. Please briefly introduce yourself to our readers.
Hello, I am a singer called Lee Laa Hee. It’s slightly embarrassing to say this myself, but since I cover so many different kinds of songs live, my fans call me the queen or goddess of live performances. However, I am just a singer who still has so much more to sing and have so many venues where I want to perform at.
Singing is not a job for me, but it is what motivates me to live. I’ve always considered music same as breathing, and I crave to becomes a songster who is able to touch people’s hearts.
I’ve performed over five thousand times so far, and I perform live via YouTube each week, on Wednesdays and Saturdays. It brings me so much happiness to sing and I love communicating with the fans. That is why I do my best to make more time and space to sing to more audience.
Have you always wanted to be a singer? How did you choose your career as a singer?
I’m told that I was into singing since I could talk, at age 3. I recall that I’ve always wanted to be a singer, and in life, I’ve always regarded being a singer my fate.
As I got into middle school and joined the church choir, I became more intimate with music. I naturally got to know how to vocalize and breathe, as I started learning songs more in depth. Around this time, I made up my mind firmly to take up singing as a career instead of just dreaming about being one.
I later competed in singing contests, after being advised by one of my seniors to enter, and I actually got to win. At age 20, I was given the opportunity to sing live in front of an audience and thus began my life as a professional singer. I can never forget the butterflies I got from my first performance.
You cover a lot of genres of music but which genre are you the most comfortable singing?
I sing what the fans request, so I cover many genres of music but what I initially wished to sing is rock ballad that has a lot of rock infused. I started singing since I was attracted by the pleading, rock sound. My husky voice match well with it too.
Which color would you compare your voice and musical sound to?
It would be hard to compare or express my sound to just one color. This might also indicate that my vocal characteristics are not that clearly defined, however, if I had to choose a color, it would be rainbow colors.
At times, my voice sound passionately red, and at times cloudy like it is on a cloudy day, while soft and yellowy like the shade of cheese. On days when emotions get strong, it seems like black – making its way through a dark tunnel.
What do you do to look after your voice?
I normally sing about 20 songs per performance. I don’t know if you’d believe me, but on some days, I sing up to 70 songs a performance.
Unless you’re breathing through your abs, you can’t sing for long due to straining your vocal cord. The most important thing to remember when protecting your voice is to breathe and vocalize properly. When the two are done properly, the more sound you make, the vocal cord will adjust to it, regardless of the state of your condition. So, rather than looking after my voice in a special way, I think that my vocal cord is protected through right way of breathing and vocalizing.
I also make the effort to have to keep my throat covered and warm, drink warm water and keep to other good habits in order to protect the neck area. I normally do a lot of performances while standing up, so I eat well and keep fit by doing yoga. I take regular walks with my pet dog and maintain a good mental health as well.
What are your hobbies and interests?
I really love to cook. I cook Korean cuisine, and currently learning Vietnamese and Chinese cooking as well. It’s such a nice feeling to give out traditional Korean dishes to the people around me and share delicious food with precious people. Whenever there’s a meeting where I meet up with my fans, I provide them with tteokguk or jjigae. At times, I prepare food enough for 100 people or more.
I also love going on trips when I have the time. At night, I leave the city to a remote rural countryside to sit and look at the stars. I reflect back on the life I’ve led so far or dream away about performing at a stadium, in front of multitudes of
What is your favorite food or beverage?
I love cuisines related to crabs the most. Crab-jjim, Soy Sauce Marinated Crab and other dishes with crabs in… In Korea, we eat seaweed soup on our birthday, but I have a crab soup instead, because I love crabs so much.
Instead of having manufactured drinks, I enjoy drinking juice made from the fruit in time of the season. Because it’s not that easy to find such quality juices, I make my own to consume. Recently, I’ve made citron fruit preserves by marinating the fruit in sugar. I also made bellflower preserves, which is supposed to be good for the throat, and I add it with water to drink. I also bought passion fruits and made it into an extract.
Which artist or musician do you respect the most?
I respect the now-deceased Whitney Houston the most. She was a whole package – from her vocalizing, mouthing, charisma that took over the whole stage… and everything besides. Her life was full of ups and downs, which has a lot of similarities to my life, so it made me more relatable to her. After losing her voice, Whitney unsuccessfully made a comeback and later lost her dear life. It saddens me each time I think of how she lived.
I didn’t lead a very smooth life either. I had a difficult family background, had to get two surgeries on my vocal cords, was extremely depressed due to certain people and all these things in my life play a part emotionally through my singing.
Out of Korean singers, I respect Patti Kim sunbaenim the most. Although she’s in her 80s, she manages to take care of herself/her voice so well, and emanates so much charisma on stage. She’s now retired but her energetic performances still stays clearly in my mind.
What kind of songs do you listen to the most frequently these days?
I don’t really listen to current music or albums, but mostly focus on listening to a lot of old pop songs because I love the old music for the sentimental vibes that they have. There are so many songs that I never knew before and so many of them that I want to sing.
So, I tend to look up older music than the contemporary, these days. I have a thousand Korean pop covers uploaded on my YouTube channel but not that many English pop songs, so I plan to upload more of these in the future.
What do you think you will be doing 15 years from now?
I have my own ambitions as a singer but most of all, my goal in life is to regard my music as a refuge and a way of enjoyment for myself. If it becomes a job or career, my life will then start to diminish, in my opinion. I believe that I need to be happy in order to deliver happiness to other people. With that in mind, I want to be around people who enjoy listening to my singing.
I also love stars, wind, flowers, music and puppies. I think, in 15 years-time, I would have settled down in a house in a rural area. As long as YouTube still exists, I will be uploading videos of my singing from the countryside, lol.
Share with us your future plans and hopes. Please add something for the fans too.
I am preparing to put together an album of songs that I’ve released in the past, and the songs that I have not yet released before. I’ve come to know that there are people out there who like to hear me sing but can’t make it to the venues where I perform, for various reasons.
My album will include tracks that I’ve written myself and the album is scheduled to be released next year, in March. After that, I plan to hold concerts and promote my own songs that I wrote, not just covers. If given the chance, I would also love to hold performances abroad as well.
If there’s even one person who is consoled or comforted through my music, I won’t stop so that my music can shine for them, like it did for me.
—J. Chung.
Jasmine with Hines Ward
Jasmine Cho is the Founder of Yummyholic, an online bakery specializing in edible art, and has been baking sweet treats for 20 years, receiving a number of awards including CREATOR of the Year, Small Business Community Champion, and the Women & Business Award along the way.
She is also a 2019 TEDxPittsburgh speaker, and currently pursuing research with hopes to pioneer the nation’s first research-based and trauma-informed bake therapy program.
We’d like to send out “a massive thank you” to Jasmine for this great interview and wish her all the best in her future endeavors.
Could you please introduce yourself to our readers please?
My name is Jasmine Cho, and I am the owner of an online bakery called Yummyholic where I specialize in small treats that taste as amazing as they look! More recently though, my work as a “cookie activist” has become more widely recognized throughout media (NPR, CBS This Morning, TED, HuffPost, etc.) – I create realistic portrait cookies that are hand-drawn with icing, food coloring, and edible art paint in order to elevate representation for Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders.
Share with us a little about your childhood.
I am a second-generation Korean-American born and raised in Los Angeles, CA. I grew up with my parents, paternal grandmother, and an older brother. I was very fortunate to grow up in a household where treats and desserts were never associated with guilt but always enjoyed as a means of celebration. Everyone in my family has a sweet tooth, so it really felt like only a matter of time before I would fall into baking!
Tell us how you initially got into baking.
I first learned how to bake during my sophomore year of high school. My best friend at the time was at our house for a sleepover, and she suggested that we try baking one of the recipes in my old cookbooks. Her mother had taught her how to bake, so she basically passed that gift onto me, teaching me how to properly measure flour and basics like preheating the oven. We ended up making pineapple coconut squares that turned out divine, and I was hooked on baking ever since.
What do you like the most about baking and cookies?
Giving it all away! I think the magic of baking exists in the way it encourages love and community. Unlike cooking food for sustenance, baked goods are really an extra measure of love, because it literally is treating someone with something that’s supposed to be enjoyed as an indulgence, not a necessity.
The process of baking is also vastly different from cooking; you can easily improvise and throw things together when you’re cooking, but baking takes precision and patience. I think the methodical nature of baking can be very therapeutic for certain people, while frustrating for others. If you find comfort in being able to exercise control and maintaining order (like me), then it’s likely you prefer baking over cooking.
What is the most difficult task when running a company, in your opinion?
Apart from the usual small business tasks like scaling, branding, marketing, etc., the most challenging aspect of entrepreneurship that I don’t think is talked about enough is the level of vulnerability it forces on you. Especially for artists and makers who have a personal hand in the creation of their products, you’re putting so much of yourself out into the world to be judged. Even in how you structure your pricing, it ultimately ends up as a reflection of your self-worth. It takes a remarkable amount of daily courage to keep putting yourself out there through your business.
“Asian squat” interpretation with 3D cookies | 2019
What is your favorite food or beverage?
This is so hard, because I am a huge foodie and love eating lol! Whenever I’m forced to choose only one food that I would have to eat for the rest of my life though, I tend to always choose salmon (and white rice)!
Who do you respect the most in the world?
I love and respect every member of my immediate family – my mother, my father, and my brother. We have certainly had our ups and downs, but what I feel most blessed about in regard to my family is how each of us have continued to grow and evolve together over the years. I admire each of them equally for being models of continual growth and humility for me; they remind me every day how important it is to keep moving and never remaining too stagnant or rigid to change.
When do you feel the most rewarded?
I feel incredibly rewarded whenever I receive a message of support and resonance from a random stranger who read about my work. I’m actually surprised and overwhelmed by the outpouring of love and support I have received over the past half year since my TEDx talk and subsequent media exposure happened. I predominantly hear from other people who identify as Asian American who resonate with me in terms of the feeling of invisibility and irrelevance they struggled with while growing up in this country, but I also hear from adoptive parents with children from Asian countries who write to me expressing how they want to make sure they can do what they can to help navigate those kind of ostracizing experiences with their children.
Have you been to your motherland? If so, did you experience any culture shock when you were over there?
The term “motherland” is so interesting to me, because the only country I’ve lived and grew in is the United States. I have been to South Korea several times throughout my childhood though, and like many other second-generation Koreans, we somehow stick out like a sore thumb and experience this mirrored experience of isolation even when we think we finally physically fit into the environment. I haven’t been back much at all as an adult and would love to return for an extended period of time to really experience it in a more meaningful way.
Which Asian culture(s) are you the most interested in?
It would definitely be Korean culture, since that is my heritage. I was lucky enough to have taken full advantage of Korean school while growing up and maintaining fluency in the language. Especially having firsthand experience of the impact of Japanese imperialism in our family, where I gleaned a ton of Japanese words from my grandmother thinking that they were Korean words, it means more to me to do what I can to preserve and learn as much about Korean culture as possible. I don’t take it for granted that our language and culture were almost erased.
Where do you like to visit the most in the world?
I regularly get to visit my family in Hawaii and California. As someone who now lives in cold Pittsburgh, I feel extremely blessed to be able to venture to warmer, paradise-like climates every year. I love to travel and would love to visit as many places around the globe as possible, but it doesn’t mean as much to me if I’m not able to share the experience with my loved ones. So being able to just see my parents in Honolulu every year and my brother in Laguna Beach, always lifts my spirits.
What are your plans and hopes for the future? What do you think you’ll be doing in 15 years-time?
I’m currently working hard to do what I can to pioneer a bake therapy program rooted in art therapy research. I hope that in 15 years-time, I would have lent a significant hand in legitimizing baking as a form of therapy that is accessible to the populations that can benefit most from the activity.
I also hope to continue writing more books and creating cookie art that helps lift everyone through education. Doing what I can to elevate representation for Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders not only lifts up our community, but it shines light on the disparity and biases in our education system as a whole that I hope can continue to improve over the years.
Jasmine’s social media: Instagram, Facebook, Twitter
—J. Chung.
Coming off their magnificent 2018 breakout year, Momoland have had a relatively quiet 2019, which has been a shock to fans given the group’s mega-popular hits “Bboom Bboom” and “Baam.” This year, they’ve only released “I’m So Hot” in Korea and “Pinky Love” in Japan.
However, since March 2019, there seems to be some issues within the group or between group members and Momoland’s company MLD Entertainment (formerly Dublekick Company) as members Daisy and Taeha have been noticeably absent from group promotions.
MLD Entertainment has stated Daisy and Taeha have been on leave for “health and personal reasons.” Fans speculated that Daisy was being punished by the company after news broke that she and iKON’s Yunhyeong were allegedly dating. MLD Entertainment said the two were seeing each other while YG Entertainment denied the news.
Then, in October 2019, Daisy’s mother took to social media and posted messages that left fans wondering what was really going on between the missing members, Momoland, and MLD Entertainment.
In her messages, Daisy’s mother discussed Daisy’s sadness and left a vague message stating “Someone like this is out there. Thank you very much. Six months have passed, and my heart is breaking. In a society like this, we should live right and stand up against small injustices. #itsunfair #imfurious #momoland,” and “they live calmly and shamelessly.” Who the “someone” and “they” are is unclear as they could refer to the company or Momoland. Many of the messages have since been deleted.
For Taeha, MLD Entertainment stated her health was an issue, but they did not elaborate.
Since Daisy and Taeha’s absences, fans have begged MLD Entertainment for an explanation for their extended hiatuses. Some fans have even gone as far as starting online petitions to get answers to no avail.
On November 29, 2019, MLD Entertainment finally announced that Taeha would be leaving Momoland, but instead of saying Daisy would be departing, fans were shocked to find out the Yeonwoo would be leaving as well. MLD announced the departures in a statement.
Hello, this is MLD Entertainment.
We would like to make a statement regarding our performers, MOMOLAND, who are reorganized as a six-member team.
Taeha and Yeonwoo, who have been with MOMOLAND as a part of the team, are about to make a new start by leaving the team today.
Both Taeha and Yeonwoo have thought deeply about their career path for a long time and upon having enough time for their thoughts, have had much conversation with the company.
First of all, following careful consideration and respecting her own opinion as a top priority, Taeha is going to make a new start at a new place with her exclusive contract terminated. Thus, the company will fully support and encourage her new start as much as possible.
While Yeonwoo has had deep affection for her MOMOLAND activities, she has decided that continuing together with her actress activities would be too much strain for both her team and herself, so to leave the team and concentrate on her career as our actress [under MLD Entertainment].
Finally, regarding Daisy, since we are still going through a mutual discussion, we will inform you as soon as we reach an agreement.
This decision was carefully made after much conversation and discussion between the performers and the company, so we would like to request you to restrain from making unnecessary speculations and causing misunderstandings.
We would like to ask you for warm encouragement and support for all the members who would go on their new path from now on.
From executives and staff members of MLD Entertainment.
Taeha has opted to leave the company, while MLD Entertainment essentially said Daisy left the group but is currently in contract talks. Yeonwoo will no longer be with Momoland, but she is still with the company as an actress.
Yeonwoo’s leave did shock many, but there have been rumors that she planned to leave Momoland earlier this year. Rumors of her departure started in June when she was absent from group activities, but MLD Entertainment shot those rumors down with a statement.
“Rumors of Yeonwoo leaving Momoland are absolutely not true,” the company said. “The reason she has been absent from Momoland’s recent schedules is due to the fact that she is attending her drama schedules. Back on June 28, Yeonwoo was unable to attend Momoland’s schedule in Chile due to her health, as we previously notified.”
Initially, Yeonwoo also denied the rumors when she addressed the situation on the group’s fan café.
Our Merrys, you were really suprised at the rumors, right? I was flustered, too, but I thought Merrys would be so shocked and hurt, so I decided to come write. You were concerned because after the article that said I was considering a drama, I disappeared, right?
I couldn’t talk about my schedules, so I was preparing to do my best. That time ran on for longer than I thought and created a misunderstanding for Merrys and the public.
The SNS updates that everyone wanted to know about were photos I took when I had time to attend plays and musicals that my friends are in and I was invited to. My friend’s birthday is when I wasn’t feeling very well, so I told the label, and went with my manager to just give them my present. No matter what the reason was, I’m sorry that I created situations that could be misunderstood.
I know our Merrys trust Momoland and me first and foremost, so I’m sorry that I made you sad. I asked my friends to be careful from now on, and more than anything, I’ll work hard to be more responsible!
Everyone, you must have been worried. I will continue to be forever a Momoland member! I’m staying healthy and working hard so I can go back, so please just wait a little bit.
Thank you for reading this. I’ll work hard for all the fans who have believed in me even though I wasn’t careful. I’m planning to be a great actress as well, so please look forward to it. I love you always and thank you.
Since MLD’s announcement, Daisy has yet to speak due to ongoing contract talks; Yeonwoo also has not made a statement. However, Taeha opened a personal Instagram account and talked about her departure shortly after her leave was announced.
In her message, Taeha said:
Hello, this is Taeha.
As a member of MOMOLAND, I have received so much love, and I have been so, so happy to have you with me.
Throughout my activities, I was able to feel and experience so many things I wouldn’t have otherwise, and I am so grateful! Thank you so much for being by my side and allowing me to shine.
I will not forget the gratitude I feel now, and I will greet you in the future even better than before with good music through my new start. Please wait for me a little and please continue to give me your support. Thank you.
While the overall news is a surprise, we hope Daisy, Taeha, and Yeonwoo all find success in their fresh starts. Meanwhile, we hope Momoland, also, experience growth as a group if they get to come back in the new year.
—-Olivia Murray
The 47th annual American Music Awards were held November 24, 2019 at the Microsoft Theater in Los Angeles, California. The awards show fêtes music artists and their contributions to the music scene during a given year.
For this year’s awards, global K-Pop sensation BTS were nominated for three awards: Favorite Duo or Group Pop/Rock, Favorite Social Artist, and Tour of the Year. BTS took home each award!
For Favorite Duo Group Pop/Rock, BTS beat out the Jonas Brothers and Panic! At the Disco. For this award, BTS became the first non-English speaking group to be nominated for and won the award.
“BTS has been a group for six and half years, and throughout those years, so many of our dreams somehow manifest into reality. And ARMY, you guys are the ones who make all of this possible,” RM said in a recorded message after winning the award. “We really couldn’t have done it without your love and support from all over the world. We will try our best to live up to [your love], to strive high and work hard.”
A special thank you message from @BTS_twt to the ARMY for winning Favorite Duo or Group – Pop/Rock! #AMAs pic.twitter.com/mkdFiMwmhI
— American Music Awards (@AMAs) November 25, 2019
For the second year in a row, the group took home the Favorite Social Artist award, beating out Billie Eilish, EXO, Ariana Grande, and Shawn Mendes. This is also the second year the award has been given, and so far, BTS is making it their own.
For Tour of the Year, BTS’ “Love Yourself World Tour” earned the honor over Elton John, P!nk, Ariana Grande, and Ed Sheeran.
BTS swept the categories for which they were nominated, which is a first for a Korean artist. Congratulations to BTS and A.R.M.Y for their winnings!
—–Olivia Murray
Fans of the Asian celebrity community suffered another loss November 27, 2019.
Taiwanese-Canadian actor and model Godfrey Gao (Gao Yixiang), 35, died Wednesday after collapsing during the filming of Chase Me, a popular Chinese reality TV show that involves celebrities competing against each other and regular people in a variety of athletic challenges.
Chase Me producers released a statement addressing the situation, stating Gao “suddenly fell down to the ground while running, medical staff treated him on the spot, he was then rushed to hospital for treatment.”
According to Jetstar Entertainment, Gao’s agency, Gao was rushed to the hospital following his collapse. The popular star passed away three hours later.
“In the early hours of November 27, our beloved Godfrey collapsed while filming on set,” Jetstar Entertainment said in a statement. “Following three hours of rescue efforts, he unfortunately left us. We are very shocked and saddened and even until now find it impossible to accept.”
The statement continued by mentioning how staff of the TV show were always around and assisted as they rushed Gao to the hospital. Jetstar also thanked fans and media who supported Gao and asked for privacy so his family could mourn his loss.
“We feel extremely distressed and extremely sad,” Chase Me producers added. “We are deeply regretful and sorry for the irreparable and serious consequences that this incident has caused and are willing to take up responsibility.”
While there are now more questions following the show following Gao’s passing, Chase Me has been the subject of scrutiny before. Director and actor Xu Sheng states producers must be held responsible. Sheng also points out that the show has poor working conditions as many contestants have been brought to the brink of exhaustion during filming.
Gao, who was born in Taiwan and moved to Vancouver, British Columbia in his youth, is the first ever Asian model for Louis Vuitton. He’s held roles in several Chinese dramas and movies over the years as well, and he’s held roles in American films including The Mortal Instruments (2013) opposite Lily Collins and Lena Headey. His final role was in Shanghai Fortress, which came out in August 2019.
We extend our condolences to Gao’s family and friends.
—-Olivia Murray