On November 25, 2019, police concluded their investigation into singer and actress Goo Hara’s passing. During the press conference, police provided some more details regarding the 28-year-old’s passing and concluded there was no foul play.
Speaking to the media, Commissioner Lee Yong Pyo of the Seoul Metropolitan Police Agency said, “Yesterday [Sunday November 24, 2019] around 6 pm, Goo Hara’s housekeeper discovered her. Based on an on-site inspection and testimony from her family, there are no suspicions of a crime.”
Later, Commissioner Lee added, “The housekeeper had maintained a close relationship with Goo Hara for a long time. She went to her home after she attempted to contact Goo Hara and received no response.”
During the press conference, police elaborated on what they found on CCTV footage, stating that Hara returned to her residence at approximately 12:35am local time on November 24, 2019. They shared that no one came to the residence after Hara returned home, and that her time of death may have occurred close to when she arrived home.
Earlier, it was reported that the police were unsure if an autopsy would occur. Commissioner Lee confirmed that the possibility is still unknown.
“We will decide after consulting with the prosecution while considering her family’s opinion and the results of the on-site inspection. Nothing has been decided as of now,” Commissioner Lee said.
Regarding the note found at Hara’s residence, the commissioner did confirm the message was in Hara’s handwriting.
“There was a hand-written note found on a table in her living room,” Commissioner Lee said.
Another police representative added, “There is nothing we can reveal about the contents of the note.” However, the representative added that the message was “pessimistic.”
Earlier, it was revealed that Hara’s funeral would be private. However, a public memorial has been set up at St. Mary’s Funeral Hall in the Gangnam District beginning at 3pm local time November 25, 2019 to midnight on November 27, 2019.
We send our condolences to Hara’s family, friends, and loved ones during this time.
If you or someone you love is struggling with depression, there is help.
United States
American Foundation for Suicide Prevention: Call 1-800-273-TALK (8255)
Crisis Text Line: A 24/7 nationwide text-messaging hotline. Text 741741 to talk to a trained counselor.
National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: Call 1-800-273-8255- Available 24 hours every day.
The Trevor Project: Call 1-866-488-7386. Crisis and suicide prevention services available to the LGBTQ+ community.
Trans Lifeline: Call (877) 565-8860. Crisis and suicide prevention services for trans and non-binary individuals.
Veterans Crisis Line: Call 1-800-273-8255 and press 1 for help. Text 838255 for text-based services. This service aids veterans.
Canada
Kids Help Phone: Call 1-800-668-6868. A 24-hour service for youths 20 and under.
The Canadian Association for Suicide Prevention: Assistance is available in French and English. However, they are not a crisis center, but they do have links to crisis centers in each Canadian province.
Trans Lifeline: Call (877) 330-6366
Youthspace: This service helps people aged 30 and under. Text them at 778-783-0177. The service is available from 6pm to midnight PST.
For a complete list of suicide and crisis lifelines available in many countries, please visit Wikipedia’s list of resources.
Related: Billboard – “Goo Hara was a K-Pop Royal Who Deserved a Better World”; Kpopmap – “Netizens Revisit Goo Hara’s Classic Story Of Becoming A Superstar Amidst Assault Case”
—-Olivia Murray
We’re bringing you an interview from Korean fashion designer, Han Chul Lee, who creates fantastic fashion for men. We’d like to take this opportunity to thank Mr. Han for offering his precious time for this great interview.
*Thank you very much for your time. Please introduce yourself and your brand Han Chul Lee.
Hello, I majored in Art at Hongik University then went onto SADI (Samsun Art & Design Institute) to study fashion design. I then worked as a women’s wear designer for the brand Time, then from 2011, studied for a degree in menswear at the Royal College of Art in London. My winning the ITS (International Talent Support) competition in Italy led to the launching of my own brand, Han CHUL LEE.
*Have you always wanted to become a fashion designer?
I’ve always been interested in clothes, though I never thought of a career in fashion. At university, I gradually came to dream of becoming a designer, and ended up going to SADI.
*How did you come to decide your brand name?
Well, as my own name, Han Chul Lee is probably the most frank and open choice of name for me.
*Is there an interesting episode or a source of inspiration from this year’s collection?
I personally enjoy watching old Korean TV dramas, and recently while watching a popular series from the 90s, I realized that the style back then in Seoul was quite similar to what fashion is like today. I tried to express that Seoul of “today”, in other words a reinterpretation of a 90s drama series set in Cheongdamdong with Jazz music and all, by eliminating excessive decorations and forms and going for a naturalistic and sophisticated style.
*Who is the designer you respect the most?
It’s got to be Martin Margiela.
*If you were to collaborate with another designer, who would it be?
As for a designer that would be Minju Kim, my close colleague and friend, and as for a brand, I would say Stone Island.
*Who is the model you would like to work with in the future?
Han Ji-woong.
*Who is your mentor?
I learn from all designers.
*What part of your working process do you feel the most contentment?
I’m at my happiest when I meet people who love clothes.
*What’s your working environment like?
I like to work alone at my office, with some movie or YouTube video running.
*What music do you listen to, during work or rest?
I mostly listen to city pop from the 90s, or Jazz.
*If you were to give advice for young designers of the future?
I think you need good sensitivity before good design can come about. Meet lots of people and have a good time.
*What would you be doing in 10 years from now? What are your plans and hopes?
I’m looking to enter Seoul’s fashion market, shifting my former focus on overseas sales. In 10 years, I wish my brand would be one of the foremost brands representative of Seoul.
–J. Chung.
We’re happy to release another fashion-related interview with a very artisic fashion designer in Korea. We would like to thank Mr. Choi Chung-hoon for offering his precious time for this interview and we wish him all the best in all his endeavors.
Please introduce yourself and your brand to our readers.
DOUCAN is a reinterpretation of the beauty of nature, light, various objects in an oriental fantasy-like way by myself, fashion designer Choi Chung-hoon.
I graduated from Studio Bercot in France and has worked for fashion brands like Kenzo, Chanel, Givenchy and many others. DOUCAN was launched in Korea in 2011.
How did you decide to become a fashion designer? Was it something you wanted to do growing up?
Ever since I was young, I was a boy who loved clothing. As I grew older, I wanted to go beyond just liking clothes and dreamt of becoming a fashion designer. That is why I went to France to study fashion and became a fashion designer.
How did the name DOUCAN come about?
While I was getting prepared to launch my brand, I visited Paris where I had studied fashion years prior. I met with my friend Stefan Doukhan who used to be my good friend and when we met again, he was still my best friend. He was someone that I spent time in Paris, while studied fashion so passionately. Korea is physically very far from France, but I got to realize how precious our friendship is, so I decided to name my brand after his name.
By doing so, I can remember my friend and tell myself that I would develop the brand to make him proud. My friend is looking on and rooting for me from far away, in Paris.
How did you find inspiration for this collection?
I love nature. I love watching TV documentaries on nature the most. I don’t think there is nothing more beautiful than nature. I wanted to show the beauty of nature in my collection, and that is why I made my own secret garden.
Which fashion designer do you respect the most?
I respect fashion designer Azzedine Alaia. His collection really expresses the female body in a beautiful way. From his work, I’m convinced that he was a genius. I’m awed every time.
When are you the most content?
Each season, the process of the artwork is the most difficult. Since a brand-new artwork has to be showcased and it all has to match the clothes. I’m happy when the new artwork and the clothes fit well.
What kind of environment do you normally work in?
Most of the work is done in the office. I play music that I like, and I prefer working quietly through the night, after the day’s work is over. I also like to work during weekends while everyone else is taking the days off, because I can concentrate on the work when there are no phones ringing from the suppliers or whatever.
What kind of music do you listen to while working?
I listen to diverse music, everything from classical, pop to Korean pop.
What would you advise to your juniors?
It’s crucial to have your identity when it comes to designing. If you don’t have your own identity, it wouldn’t be easy to continue operating your own brand.
What do you think you’ll be doing 10 years from now? Share with us your plans and dreams for the future.
I think I would still be doing artwork and making new clothes. It would be great if I was showcasing my clothes to overseas and selling them as well. I want this brand to evolve into something beautiful that everyone would want to wear and become happy in. Thank you.
—J. Chung.
Following the shocking news that singer and actress Goo Hara, 28, passed away November 24, 2019, her Japanese agency*, Production Ogi, and her family have opted to hold a private funeral and memorial service. Both parties have also decided that a fans and media memorial will be set up in Hara’s honor.
“Fans and members of the press will be able to pay their respects to [Hara] in Hall 1 at St. Mary’s Funeral Hall in the Gangnam District starting from 3 p.m. today to midnight on November 27,” Production Ogi stated.
The company added, “In accordance with the wishes of the family, who hoped to hold a quiet funeral, we have arranged for a separate location [for fans] to pay their respects. We are overwhelmed with sorrow at having to relay the news of [Hara’s] passing to so many people.”
The company stated that the family will hold a private memorial for Hara at Yonsei Severance Hospital Funeral Hall beginning at 8am today (November 25, 2019).
“To allow the deceased to make a peaceful departure, we urge you to refrain from visiting the Yonsei Severance Hospital Funeral Hall, where the family will be holding their private funeral,” Production Ogi said. “Once again, we express our deepest feelings of grief.”
Meanwhile, police continue to investigate Hara’s cause of death. During their investigation, Gangnam Police revealed they may have found a possible message from Hara, but they did not elaborate on what the message says or what it pertains to or even if it’s related to Hara’s passing.
Police also haven’t decided if an autopsy will be performed.
Production Ogi has asked the media and fans to not speculate on the star’s cause of death.
If you or someone you love is struggling with depression, there is help.
United States
American Foundation for Suicide Prevention: Call 1-800-273-TALK (8255)
Crisis Text Line: A 24/7 nationwide text-messaging hotline. Text 741741 to talk to a trained counselor.
National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: Call 1-800-273-8255- Available 24 hours every day.
The Trevor Project: Call 1-866-488-7386. Crisis and suicide prevention services available to the LGBTQ+ community.
Trans Lifeline: Call (877) 565-8860. Crisis and suicide prevention services for trans and non-binary individuals.
Veterans Crisis Line: Call 1-800-273-8255 and press 1 for help. Text 838255 for text-based services. This service aids veterans.
Canada
Kids Help Phone: Call 1-800-668-6868. A 24-hour service for youths 20 and under.
The Canadian Association for Suicide Prevention: Assistance is available in French and English. However, they are not a crisis center, but they do have links to crisis centers in each Canadian province.
Trans Lifeline: Call (877) 330-6366
Youthspace: This service helps people aged 30 and under. Text them at 778-783-0177. The service is available from 6pm to midnight PST.
For a complete list of suicide and crisis lifelines available in many countries, please visit Wikipedia’s list of resources.
*Goo Hara was not signed to a Korean agency at the time of her passing. Production Ogi is the agency behind her Japanese promotions and has been handling the press in both Korea and Japan at this time.
—-Olivia Murray
The K-Pop and J-Pop world lost another star as Goo Hara (KARA) was found dead this evening in her home.
Hara was found unconscious at her private residence at 6pm KST Sunday November 24, 2019 according to the Gangnam Police Department. Production Ogi, Hara’s Japanese agency, released a statement confirming the news following the discovery.
Hello.
We are here to deliver tragic and unfortunate news.
Family members and friends of Goo Hara are deeply shocked and anxious at the moment.
Therefore, we earnestly request that you refrain from writing speculative articles and spreading rumors. In addition, we ask the media and fans to refrain from making condolence calls.
We apologize for conveying this sudden news, and we are sorry once again for requesting that [the media and fans] refrain from making condolence calls.
Currently, Hara’s cause of death is under investigation, so any news regarding manner of death is speculation at this point. Unlike in May, Hara did not post a goodbye message on Instagram, but her last update was a selfie that simply said “goodnight.”
Hara, 28, was rescued from a suicide attempt in May of this year. She has been struggling with depression.
Since September 2018, Hara’s private life has been the subject of the media following a lawsuit she filed against her ex-boyfriend, Choi Jong-Bum, following abuse and allegations that he was going to release sexually exploitive videos of the idol. Choi, in-turn, alleged abuse happened against him as well. Hara and her legal team presented evidence showing Hara’s side and explained that his marks were due to her fighting back in self-defense. In August 2019, Choi received a suspended jail sentence for property damage, physical assault, unnecessary force, and blackmail after three trials. He was not found guilty of sexual assault regarding illegal video footage as the court ruled Hara was aware of the footage but did not ask for it to be deleted.
In September, Choi and his legal team filed an appeal of the judge’s ruling and asked for a lighter sentence. Prosecutors, in turn, wanted more sexual assault charges on the table. Because of the appeal, the court cases between Hara and Choi were still ongoing.
Since Hara’s passing on November 24, fans have trended #최종범_처벌 (punish Choi Jong-Bum) on social media.
Korean women find it more and more difficult to report crimes as victims because they see female artists facing even greater backlashes & trauma because how the public, police and the justice system respond to sexual assault, and that sends a clear message to all women in Korea.
— Jihye Lee 이지혜 (@TheJihyeLee) November 24, 2019
Hara, who was an actress and singer in both South Korea and Japan, made her debut in 2008 as a member of the Korean girl group KARA after Sunghee departed. In 2009, she joined the cast of Invisible Youth, and debuted as an actress in 2011 when she starred as Da-hye in City Hunter. In 2015, Hara debuted as a solo artist with Alohara (Can You Feel It?) and the single “Choco Chip Cookies,” which was a collaboration with rapper Giriboy.
In June 2019, Hara signed an exclusive contract with Production Ogi and recently made her Japanese comeback with “Midnight Queen.”
In light of Hara’s passing, several celebrities canceled appearances, teasers, and other schedules out of respect. Many have shared words of sorrow, disbelief, and remembrance.
Currently, Production Ogi is considering holding a private funeral for the fallen star.
“There is currently nothing that we can say right now, but we have plans to hold her funeral privately,” a representative said. “However, we must also consult Goo Hara’s parents and the bereaved family.”
We send out condolences to Hara’s friends, family, and labelmates during this difficult time.
An investigation into her death is still ongoing.
—-Olivia Murray
Another B.A.P member has found a new home!
Jongup, B.A.P’s dancer and vocalist, has signed an exclusive contract with The Groove Company. Jongup and The Groove Company announced the relationship November 21, 2019.
“Jongup has unlimited potential when it comes to dancing, singing, producing, and many other areas, so we’re happy to be signing an exclusive contact with him. Please give Jongup your love and anticipation as he grows as a solo artist,” the company said in a statement.
In his statement, Jongup said, “I am greeting you as solo artist Jongup. I hope to greet you in the future in a variety of ways through music, performances, and acting. I want to thank the fans who have always believed in me and waited for me.”
Back in September, Jongup appeared in the AOMG survival program, Signhere. While he didn’t make it past the second round, his audition did receive praise from the panel; Jay Park was the most critical of the performance.
Jongup is currently working on a solo album. His projected comeback date is March 2020.
—-Olivia Murray
On December 2, 2019, Starlight will bid adieu to a second VIXX member as Leo is set to enlist as a public service worker.
Jellyfish Entertainment announced the news in a statement.
Hello, this is Jellyfish Entertainment.
We would like to inform you about VIXX Leo’s military enlistment.
VIXX Leo will begin serving in public service on December 2. Leo has been suffering from panic disorder and depression since 2013, and has tried to overcome it through medication, but inevitably, he was declared to serve as a public service worker.
Other details about this are private, and we will not confirm them, please understand.
We are sorry that we were unable to show a healthy side of Leo. Please continue to send him your support.
Thank you.
Leo, who just celebrated his birthday November 10, confirmed his enlistment date on the official fan café. While making the announcement, Leo thanked fans and opened up about his panic disorder and depression. He wrote:
Hello, Starlight. I am going to write today about something that you’ve all been curious about.
As you know, I was born in 1990. I will be enlisting in the military on December 2, which is a little late. I am not enlisting as an active duty soldier but as a public service worker.
I’m also going to talk about something that fans may already know about me. Ever since November 2013, when I went on the fan meeting world tour with VIXX, I have suffered from severe panic disorder and depression. I’ve been taking medicine regularly and am receiving treatment to ensure it doesn’t get worse.
For a long time, I have always thought that I should show a healthy side of myself when enlisting in the army. My heart is heavy because I was not able to do that, even though my enlistment was delayed. First of all, I want to say sorry to the people who will be worried about me because of my health, and also to those who are disappointed in me.
I am well aware fans have worried about me and been anxious about me without being able to tell me directly. The reason that I have been able to walk a straight path for the past seven to eight years as VIXX, despite going through hard times that made me want to give up, was because of Starlight, our muses. Because you were here, I am here also.
I want to say this again to those who have supported me and loved VIXX for eight years. Because of you, I and VIXX are who we are today. I will never forget this gratitude I feel toward you, and I will do my best to become a Jung Taekwoon that can comfort you with music and become your muse.
I have received so much from everyone that I feel sorry instead of grateful, but I will work hard to complete my military service, become healthy, and repay [what I have received].
I bow my head in gratitude to those who love me more than I love myself, who support me and are the source of my strength. To the Starlights who have always been the center of our gravity… I’m sorry for worrying you. I love you. I, Taekwoon, am entrusting my younger VIXX members to you now.
From Taekwoon. I will do better so that I can keep going for a long time.
While the news is sad for fans, it is not unexpected as Leo needed to enlist this year. However, his admission regarding his mental health may come as a surprise, but it’s welcome news in a time when fans hope celebrities receive the mental health treatment they may need during a time when mental health awareness and visibility are earning more recognition.
Since renewing his contract with Jellyfish, VIXX’s leader has been active in musical theatre. Most recently, he’s been one of the stars of Marie Antoinette. On November 10, he also released the single “All of Me.”
On December 1, 2019, Leo will also hold his first “All of Me” fanmeet at Muv Hall. The fanmeet will also be his last time meeting with fans prior to enlisting. The event will be at 3pm and 7pm KST. If you’re in Korea and wish to attend, more information is available on the fan café and Melon.
We wish Leo a safe service and that he returns healthy.
—-Olivia Murray
TS Entertainment finally released a statement regarding Taeseon and Wooyeop’s abuse claims. Instead of directly addressing the allegations, TS Entertainment opted to blame Wooyeop and his brief relationship with a TS Entertainment employee for why TRCNG have struggled to have comebacks.
In addition to their own denials, TS Entertainment also recruited the parents of the eight remaining TRCNG members to speak out against Taeseon and Wooyeop.
On November 20, 2019, the Korean news site Sports World published information TS Entertainment shared regarding Wooyeop’s private life. In their claims, TS Entertainment revealed some details regarding Wooyeop’s dating life and stated that his “woman problems” are the reasons behind TRCNG’s hardships and delayed comebacks.
“Everything that the two members are claiming is a lie. The remaining eight members are currently active in Japan without the two of them. There is a reason for all of that,” TS Entertainment said. “It’s because Wooyeop was dating the agency’s female stylist ‘B’ which made activities difficult. After Wooyeop and ‘B’ were in a relationship, he would always miss choreography practice and go out at night to have fun, so the comeback had to be postponed.”
TS Entertainment also state Taeseon and Wooyeop left TRCNG without permission, thus leaving the other members and their parents feeling betrayed.
On November 21, 2019, TS Entertainment also produced a handwritten note that is allegedly from the parents of the eight remaining TRCNG members.
Official statement from TRCNG parents.
Hello, we are the parents of TRCNG. Firstly, we wish to apologize to the fans who love TRCNG and express our gratitude for your constant support.
We, the parents of the eight members, have stayed in continued communication with the agency, and we have come to the agreement to trust and rely on each other in relation to the members’ activities and work hard for TRCNG’s successful activities. Also, we plan to take active legal action against untrue information and false claims that have been previously made. It is unfortunate that rumors that are different from the truth are being spoken about.
We will work even harder with the agency for TRCNG’s successful activities. Please give your continued support.
Thank you.
TRCNG parents
Meanwhile, Wooyeop’s mother has stood beside Taeseon and her son and claims she has evidence to prove their allegations factual.
“It’s true that Wooyeop dated ‘B’ for about two weeks,” Wooyeop’s mother said about TS’ dating claims. “However, it is immensely incorrect to put all of the responsibility for this situation on Wooyeop’s issue with a woman. The reason for the delay of TRCNG’s comeback was TS’s financial difficulties, as you can see through the previous issues with Sleepy’s power and water being cut off.”
“It’s a clear fact that Wooyeop was assaulted by choreography director Yoon,” Wooyeop’s mother said. “However, he has never once received an apology about it.”
Regarding the message from the TRCNG parents, Wooyeop’s mother said, “The members’ parents have all agreed that they should leave the agency, and we sent a notice [to TS] on October 19. We have a collection of signatures of all the parents showing that we agree they should leave the company.”
Wooyeop’s mother also pointed out that her son has been receiving psychiatric help. She also discussed how representatives from TS Entertainment even questioned medical staff regarding the chair incident while her son was in the hospital. She claims staff kept asking if Wooyeop’s injuries were really from a chair.
On November 20, 2019, Dispatch printed photos from TRCNG’s dorm showing damages and issues within the building. Conversations between Taeseon and Wooyeop, the TRCNG parents, and TS staff have also been shared. Koreaboo translated the messages on their site.
—-Olivia Murray
We always make it our mission to bring you interesting interviews from people who have unique stories to tell. We interviewed the talented Park Yeram, who goes by the name Mareykrap. Here, you can find about how she attained the unique pseudonym, how and why she became an artist and so much more.
We’d like to wish Ms. Park a very big thank you for the great interview, and hope our readers will love reading and getting to know more about the amazing artist.
Thank you for taking the time out for a KCrush interview. Please introduce yourself to our readers.
Hello, nice to meet you all. I am Park Yeram, and I use the pseudonym “Mareykrap” for my work. I am an artist who produces moving illustrations and animation.
How did you come to call yourself by the name Mareykrap?
“Mareykrap” actually derived from my name, Park Yeram. I did not really wish to use my legal name for work but I didn’t want to select a word that had nothing to do with my real name either. Since high school, I’ve been using an id which is the spelling of my name, backwards. It’s still my name but has an unfamiliar feel and uniqueness to it, so that’s how I began using it.
Tell us about your work? Was it your dream to become an artist from an early age?
I wanted to become a fashion designer since I was in high school, so I enrolled into fashion design department at university. However, in time, I felt that I was doing something that wasn’t really suited to me. So, after struggling for some time, I came up with the conclusion that I wanted to tell my story, instead of being swayed by trend or what other people think.
That’s how I began drawing, which was something that I loved to do since I was very young. When I began doing things my way, I eventually came to be doing what I am presently doing.
How were you inspired to create My Name is Red-Haired Anne – I’M JUST ME music video?
For the exhibition currently held at Galleria Foret, I was given the task of working on Chapter 1. A Poor Orphan Girl and Chapter 8. Independent Women. And, Chapter 8 was the area where “I’m Just Me” music video was displayed.
The producer-in-charge suggested that the “Independent Anne” should be of a music video that I interpreted, so I imagined what Ann in the novel would be like if she was living in the year 2019. I was inspired by Anne’s behavior and what she said in the book, and in the story, Marilla scolds her for being too concerned about her looks. But the Anne living in 2019, overcomes her complex and becomes an actress who gets to walk on a red carpet.
In the novel, Anne was living in a society where girls didn’t have to be educate, they only had to be married off well, or women cannot become ministers or lecture in public. But actually, Anne studied hard, with Gilbert as her rival, and had her own dreams. Since she always voiced her opinions, so even if she was living in the present, I imagined that she could’ve even become a president or a politician. I wanted to express Anne as someone who overcame her inferior complex, and fulfilled her dreams in whatever circumstances she was put through, in a defiant and independent way. Because Anne’s personality was like that originally in the book, it was a great feeling to imagine what she would have been like in our modern society.
Did you normally feel a special connection to Anne Shirley?
I think I had a lot of connection to Anne since I was in elementary school. Not just from the TV animation, but I recall my parents gifting me the whole Anne of Green Gables sequels collection by Lucy Maud Montgomery. I had so many other books that I had thrown away whenever we moved to another house or if I grew out of them – but strangely, I always kept the Anne books. I would read the books secretly during class because they were so entertaining, so I think I was influenced by the character “Anne” as a result.
I was lucky to have grown up with a character like Anne, who would always express herself defiantly and able to grow up holding onto her emotions fully. She wouldn’t run away from her troubles but faced them passionately and endured through it all. So, when I was offered to participate in the My name is Red-haired Anne exhibition, I had zero reason not to take part in it.
When do you feel the most rewarded? Tell us about some of your most memorable work.
I guess, I feel the happiest and rewarded when I come up with a piece of work that I am satisfied with, although this doesn’t happen often. If something that I had been working on gets revealed to the world, and even if one single person gets a positive vibe or gets stimulated by it, I think I feel rewarded. And the same goes when I find more people that I want to work with. Because I haven’t been working for long, all my past works are memorable but my most recent Billboard animation work at Hong Kong’s Sogo department store, My name is Red-haired Anne exhibition, and Punchnello – Blue Howaii music video stay in my memory the most.
Who do you have the most respect or admiration for?
I respect Vincent Van Gogh and his younger brother Theo Gogh the most.
I admire the fact that Vincent Van Gogh fought so hard with loneliness when no one realized his potential, while Theo believed in his older brother until the end. Not everyone gets to win the battle over oneself – I often read the letters the Van Gogh brothers wrote to each other when I am so tired during work, and get condolence out of it, it helps to overcome things that I’m going through.
Do you have a preference to a certain color or shade for your work?
Before I began working as an artist, I had definite colors that I liked and disliked. But strangely, there’s no longer colors that I dislike anymore and I felt that all colors hold their own advantages. The important thing is that I don’t regard a color, just one color but something that consists of many other colors.
An example would be that a certain color might look frightful when it’s next to color A but it could be the best when it’s next to color B. Since every color has its pros and cons.
What do you like to do for leisure or hobby?
I love films. I binge on films that I’ve wanted to watch on my days off. I can learn a lot through watching films, I think. I want to write a script/story, and make it into an animation or a film. I also have an interest in clothes and beauty as well, so I love glamming up my friends. I am always happy when I am creating things with my hands.
Where do you think is the best place for tourism in Korea?
I love Seoul the best and also places like Busan, Jeju Island, Geojae Island and Gangwondo stays in my mind too. I think foreigners would love Seoul the most, because the most Korean-like things all exist intensively here, in my opinion.
Could you lend a word of advice for people who wish to become artists?
I think, the most important thing is to trust and back yourself up. Because in truth, this is the loneliest kind of job in a way.
At certain times like this, you need to talk to yourself the most and trust in your instincts. All the answers to your issues usually lie within yourself. I hope that you don’t neglect yourself because you’re worried about what other people think.
Please let us know about your future hopes and plans.
What I really want to do in the future, is to tell my story in my own way, whether it be through pictures, animation, videos or films. It’s a great thing to collaborate with other people too but it’s my ultimate dream to create something of my own as a whole. But there’s so much to learn through doing collaborations too, so I want to get involved to experience diverse works with others in the near future, as well as doing stuff on my own.
–J. Chung.
TS Entertainment faces more allegations of wrongdoing now that TRCNG’s Taeseon and Wooyeop have announced they’ve filed a lawsuit against the company for abuse.
On November 18, 2019, Taeseon and Wooyeop, through their lawyer, Jung Ji Suk, announced their lawsuit plans along with the allegations against TS Entertainment. Jung, who is part of the Namkang Law & IP Firm, said in a statement:
TS Entertainment boy group TRCNG’s members Jo Wooyeop and Yang Taeseon sent a certification of contents to the agency on November 4, 2019 to notify the termination of their exclusive contracts, and they filed criminal complaints to the Seoul Metropolitan Police Agency against two individuals including Director Park Sang Hyun for charges including habitual child abuse and injury resulting from violence on November 12, 2019.
The reasons for the termination of their contracts include (1) Long-time absence of a CEO and the agency’s loss of management abilities due to legal disputes with its celebrities and (2) Director Park Sang Hyun’s habitual child abuse to the members who are minors and choreography director Yoon causing injury due to violence to Jo Wooyeop.
Among the complaints, Wooyeop and Taeseon cite that a lack of CEO since the April 2018 passing of CEO Kim Tae Song has been a standing issue with the company. They also state there are long-standing issues with lacking power and water in their dorms. Their claims align with former TS Entertainment rapper Sleepy’s allegations brought up in his lawsuit earlier this year. The lawsuit also lodges a complaint regarding the length of time between single and album releases.
However, these complaints are minor compared to the child abuse allegations both parties state occurred while working with director Park Sang Hyun and choreography director Yoon.
According to Taeseon and Wooyeop, director Park forced TRCNG members to practice from 5pm to 5am daily, then they were expected to report to the company at 10am for vocal training and personal practice every day as well. Because of the schedules, the pair could not attend their respective schools, and even when they transferred schools to be closer to TS Entertainment, the pair fell behind in their educations and allege they are now two years behind their peers.
Both parties allege that director Park assaulted them under the guise of playing a game. According to Taeseon and Wooyeop, choreography director Yoon assaulted Wooyeop with a metal chair back in June. The now-former TRCNG members state that TS Entertainment did nothing to alleviate the situation including allowing Wooyeop to seek medical assistance, so he sought medical help on his own for the incident and took two weeks to recover. Purportedly, TS Entertainment tried to cover the incident by saying Wooyeop got sick drinking and hanging out with multiple women.
In another incident, Taeseon and Wooyeop state they had to seek medical assistance themselves after injuring themselves B-boying. They state the company did not help them.
Wooyeop also states TS Entertainment also extorted money from him.
In his case, Taeseon states that since he was a trainee, he has been scolded and hit often because he was the group’s leader. He states that his catalyst for leaving the company was watching the abuse Wooyeop went through.
In their own statement, TS Entertainment denied the claims and announced they would sue Wooyeop and Taeseon for defamation. TS also removed the duo from TRCNG.
Hello. This is TS Entertainment.
This is an official statement regarding TRCNG.
We clearly state that what was claimed by TRCNG members Taeseon and Wooyeop through the news reports today is not true.
What they are claiming is only one-sided from Taeseon and Wooyeop, and the TRCNG members do not all agree with this.
In addition, Taeseon and Wooyeop’s actions are causing harm to TRCNG’s group activities, and we plan on taking legal action for the damage caused to our agency including defamation.
We thank everyone who shows interest for our agency and gives love and attention to our artists.
Thank you.
However, on November 19, 2019, Dispatch released evidence that refute TS Entertainment’s claims. Photos Dispatch shared* show some of TRCNG’s living conditions at their dorm including non-working toilets and floors with water damage. Dispatch also revealed the TRCNG members and members of their dance crew were tasked with selling Nike shoes online. The tabloid also has chat logs between the mothers of TRCNG members discussing the living conditions in the dorms.
TS Entertainment has yet to respond to Dispatch’s report as of this writing.
With Taeseon and Wooyeop’s lawsuit, TS Entertainment has been sued by almost all of their artists and even their own employees since 2014. This year, Untouchable’s Sleepy and Sonamoo’s Sumin and Nahyun filed suits against the company. SECRET’s Jieun and Hyoseong had separate suits in 2018 and 2019. In 2014, all six B.A.P members also filed a lawsuit.
With so many lawsuits, it’s a wonder TS Entertainment stays afloat. The cases involving Taeseon and Wooyeop are stilling developing, so more details are expected to emerge.
*Images not shared due to copyright.
—-Olivia Murray
Kcrush K-Pop Top 30: October 2019
WOW! Y’all really voted well this month. While the #1 song won by ten votes within the last two days of the voting period, the top three flip-flopped A LOT. It was close with only two votes separating numbers two and three. From there, only one vote separated them from spots four and five. With that said, the top five actually toppled the other 25 by a landslide, so it’s clear voters knew what they wanted! We hope November is just as exciting! We also hope the voting for the K-Pop Awards will also be as exciting. Y’all rock!
#Nell #LadiesCode #Hashtag #MonstaX #Zelo #Youngjae #Daehyun #CallLee #Limesoda #Day6 #Winner #AleXa #Wengie #Minnie #GIdle #Nuest #EricNam #SunnyHill #MCMong #ParkBom #Zico #Bumkey #Chancellor #WonderWoman #BrownEyedGirls #GreatGuys #Jenyer #Soloists #Kpop #Beenzino #Yoonmirae #Yubin #SuperM #GirlPower #Ateez #Drag #DragQueens #LimKim
*All clips are well under 20 seconds and applicable under Fair Use. Kcrush does not profit off these videos.
As many of you know, one of our goals is to reach out and interview people who have unique and inspiring stories to tell.
Camilla is the only Danish person that I’ve ever come across, so I was personally very intrigued to hear about how she first became interested in Asian culture, her work exchange in Korea, her interests and so on.
We’d like to thank Camilla for this great interview and wish her all the luck for her future.
Would you please briefly introduce yourself to our readers?
My name’s Camilla, I’m a 24-year-old, freelance artist, part-time traveler, taekwondo enthusiast and pureblooded Dane.
How did you initially get interested in Asian culture?
I think like many other young people in the west, I was in my teens influenced by Asian culture and media, in particular Japanese, in the form of tv shows and books; Anime and Manga particularly. I recall shows such as DragonBall Z and Naruto, which in particular was huge. And as an artist, I was fascinated with this, to me, a new way of drawing. Even though those influences and experiences are from years ago, that was really the catalyst for me, and what I think was the jumping board for me to later travel to Asia.
I find things in my life often come around, so it wasn’t that huge of a surprise, when I approximately 4 years ago started listening to K-pop music, and watch K-dramas. That set off a new exciting journey for me in terms of learning the Korean culture and language better, and planted a seed, that South Korea had to be a new travel destination of mine.
Tell us about your recent work exchange in Korea.
After a month’s stay in Korea, I decided I wasn’t quite ready to leave yet.
In fact, I would love to stay as long as possible – but the money was getting short. So, I had to find some way in which I could stay for longer, but without having to pay rent, like I previously had done. Work-exchange! I had heard of some foreign friends doing work-exchange at a hostel in Korea (and I knew this to be an option, as I had done it myself in Australia) so I thought I might as well give this a go in Korea as well. Luckily enough, just as I was searching, a hotel/hostel, happened to be looking for new staff. Hostels seem to always be busy, so they were quick to accept me.
The experience of working there in general was pretty much as expected: work in exchange for a place to stay, and free breakfast. Nothing fancy, but personally I’m not one in need of much. Everyone there, including the boss, was super nice and accommodating. If you wish to practice a foreign language, do work-exchange at a hostel where primarily Chinese and Korean people work and stay, and you’ll quickly try to divert to the little Korean you know.
The work in itself is pretty simple housekeeping work, and it’s usually around 3.5 hours a day, 6 days a week. I did find myself working overtime every now and then, which I’d heard was pretty common, so that’s something to take into account. But for me it was worth it anyway, if it meant I got to stay in the city I love for a little longer, at no expense accommodation-wise.
What would you recommend other people about Korea?
My two and a half months stay in South Korea, was spent in Seoul, so unfortunately, I didn’t get to travel outside it. But Busan and Gyeongju is somewhere I was recommended several times! In regards to in Seoul, I feel like there’s so much you can go see, depending on what your interests are!
There of course are all the palaces; Gyeongbokgung in particular being one I’d recommend, and the Secret Garden at Changdeokgung. Bukhansan National Park is great if you like a good hike! Hanggang Park is lovely as well, and of course the more touristy-shopping areas, such as: Myeongdong, Hongdae and Insadong.
It’s probably been mentioned over and over, but in terms of other recommendations I would just say: the food. Korea really seem to take pride in its cuisine, and it’s easy to understand why; it really is delicious.
Did you have any kind of culture shock when you arrived in Korea?
I think for me, I was fairly well-prepared because I was already interested in the culture before I came, so I somewhat knew what to expect. But I can imagine if you don’t, you’ll be quite surprised. I guess what shocked me the most was the confirmation of all the things I’d heard/read about. And In particular just how nice everyone is.
A good example, was my very first day in Seoul: I found myself sitting on a curb in the 35 degrees heat with my suitcase at hand, just waiting for my Airbnb to be available. That’s until an elderly Korean man approached me and asked for me to follow. He ended up bringing me along to a small café’ where he and several other people were eating. I hardly had time to register anything before I was served up with several dishes, and told to eat and drink. They were all so incredibly accommodating and lovely, that I was so overwhelmed with thankfulness. I had never experienced such before. You would definitely never experience that in Denmark. So that, was a bit of an overwhelming feeling for me; just how nice and welcoming everyone were.
Of course, it always takes a moment to adjust to different cultural customs, regardless of how well-prepared you are. But nothing shocked me to the point not having heard of if beforehand. Maybe a minor surprise, was how little English the young people spoke. I knew that not everyone was fluent or the likes, but I was a bit surprised to how little they actually know, or rather, how uncomfortable they seem talking in English.
How does the Korean and Japanese culture differ in your opinion?
As I only spent 6 full days in Tokyo, I didn’t’ get to fully dive into the underlying deep cultural difference, like I would’ve liked to. So, the first surface level differences I noticed, were things like: Fashion, makeup and the underground layout. The fashion in Tokyo didn’t seem as seamless (no pun intended) as in Seoul. In Seoul you quickly get the sense that people are following the same and newest style/trend, and I personally just didn’t get that feeling in Tokyo. Which perhaps could make people seem a little bit more laid back in that aspect.
I did however notice one too many ambulances outside Tokyo station, told by my friend that that’s a common sight, as people, perhaps older, easily get exhausted and accidentally trip/get bumped into by the many people in the underground and injure themselves. That brought up the aspect of overworking oneself, something I didn’t experience to quite that extent in Seoul.
I have a hard time expressing whether I for example find one culture more polite or welcoming than the other, because they in my opinion are both, but perhaps in different aspects.
Do you think it’s difficult to be a Vegan in Asia? Let us know your thoughts.
I’m in the belief that things are only as difficult as you make them. However, I would be lying if I said being a vegan in Asian countries isn’t a test for sure. On one hand there’s lots of great vegetable side dishes, and rice of course, but on the other it’s a huge meat culture – and when you can’t read hangul on the packaging of things it doesn’t make it easier to guess what ingredients are in it.
I honestly did have quite a tough time, and when you’re on a budget it doesn’t make it less painful, because I found certain vegetables to be quite expensive. I’m sure there’ll come a day when it’s a lot more convenient and you’ll see soy milk and vegan cheese in the marts too – just not quite yet. At least, the tofu is cheap!
I would however say that despite it not being a common thing, I found Koreans to be super welcoming to my dietary needs! (may I refer back to my first day experience, where they started to cook up new dishes for me, without meat – so nice!) No-one really looked at me funny, and even if they thought it was weird, they acted very polite about it.
Which country or continent do you wish to visit in the future?
There are so many places I wish to see, but I think Canada, Norway and Austria is the highest on my list right now. I would love to experience the nature and the mountains. And I would love to go back and experience more of Japan, and South Korea, as well.
*Which region of the world would you recommend for a perfect holiday?
It depends on what kind of holiday you’re looking for really. But if it’s what I assume to be a bit more of a family one, with sightseeing and relaxing, I would probably say Europe.
Especially Italy or France, I just think it’s the perfect combination of a diverse and different cultural experience, but nothing that’ll sweep you off of your feet and leave you drained for days. It’s chill and accommodating, with such a great warm ambience and nice people. It’s great for the family who wants to experience culture together, yet put their feet up and relax.
Thank you very much for your precious time. Last question, what would you advise to anyone who wishes to spend a working holiday in Asia?
Do yourself the favor and learn a few words or even phrases, and common cultural gestures of your country of destination. You’ll thank yourself later, and the locals will be impressed – even a little goes a long way. Be polite and welcoming to everyone you meet, and they’ll likely be the same to you. Stay positive, put on your best attitude and go have a great time – that’s what we’re here for after all, isn’t it?
––J. Chung.
The singer Kang Sung Hoon from the first-generation K-pop idol group Sechs Kies is holding a free fan meeting at the end of the month. On November 2nd, he announced a fan meeting event to be held on November 30th. Fans have been able to apply for seats from the day after the announcement. The event is the first in a long while, mainly because the singer has been involved in several legal issues.
Kang made his debut in 1997 as the main vocal of Sechs Kies, an all-male dance music band whose popularity was second only to H.O.T. After the disbanding of the group, Kang released solo albums but never reached the fame and success level of Sechs Kies.
Sechs Kies announced its reform in 2016, and had considerable success for the second time under the management of YG, one of the biggest entertainment companies in Korea.
Before this occurred, Kang had been sued a couple of times for failing to pay his debtors back large sums of money to debtors, and was even held in custody for months for fraud; he was released on probation. Kang was therefore banned by the broadcasting companies from appearing on television for potential bad influence. It seemed that he was driven out of the entertainment industry altogether.
Things took a turn for the better for Kang, when he was welcomed back on the air as a member of Sechs Kies in 2016. This was literally a second chance to rebuild his life as a K-pop singer. This came to an end, however, when he was sued for fraud by his fans. He had failed to keep his promise to donate the profits of a film showing he held. The film consisted of footages of the group Sechs Kies, and Kang’s claim to profit from the showing had been based on his promise of donation for good cause in the group’s name.
In addition, he was dropped by YG because his contract for a concert in Taiwan had not been approved by the management company, though Kang had implied that it was. After being kicked out from Sechs Kies, Kang’s embarrassing behavior could only be seen through social media. Ever since, he became the center of attention for several videos, including his making threats to his former manager and his disparagement of younger singers’ looks.
In July this year, Kang donated the profits from the 2017 film showing, and was not charged. The prosecutor over his case decided that fans had paid for tickets, rather than meaning to donate money for a good cause, although donation in the name of Sechs Kies had been promised by Kang.
Kang Sung Hoon’s free fan meeting is, then, an attempt to gather his fans who have not yet been turned into anti-fans. It may be interesting to see what may come out of the event and the singer’s career for the future.
— J. Chung.
GreatGuys (멋진녀석들) consists of 9 members: Jae I, Horyeong, Haneul, Daun, Donghwi, Dongin, Hwalchan, Uiyeon, Baekgyeol. Great Guys debuted on August 25, 2017, under DNA Entertainment.
Thank you for taking the time out for a KCrush interview. Would you please introduce yourselves to our readers?
Jae I (Charming Guy): My name is Jae I, and I am the team’s leader and main dancer.
Horyeong (Reliable Guy): Hello, I am Horyeong, the vocalist and the second oldest one of GreatGuys.
Haneul (Nice Guy): Hello, I am Haneul, and I am the sub-vocalist.
Daun (Lucky Guy): Hi, I am the team’s main vocalist, Daun.
Donghwi (Pretty Guy): Hello, I am Donghwi, the main vocalist of the team.
Dongin (Tough Guy): Hi, this Dongin and I am the main rapper.
Hwalchan (Energetic Guy): Hello, I’m Hwalchan and I am in charge of the bulk of the vocals in the group.
Uiyeon (Loyal Guy): Hello, this is Uiyeon and I am the rapper and visual of the team.
Baekgyeol (Innocent Guy): This is the group’s cutie maknae, Baekgyeol.
Please let our readers know how you formed as a band.
Jae I: I got in after passing an audition.
Horyeong: I joined after having an audition and was made to train for a while before becoming a part of Great guys.
Haneul: I starting taking interest in dancing since high school and began having dancing lessons at an academy. Then when I got in uni, I got into a dance team and got to take an audition to join GreatGuys.
Daun: I became the last person to join Great Guys after getting through to the audition.
Donghwi: Through an audition.
Dongin: I got to train at the company after taking an audition, then I got to join the band.
Hwalchan: I became a Great Guys member after passing an audition here.
Uiyeon: Through an audition.
Baekgyeol: I got in the group after an audition.
What has changed the most for you after you made your debut?
Jae I: I think my personality has changed much after spending time with the rest of the members.
Horyeong: I think I now feel prouder of myself after accumulating a lot of experiences like broadcasting here and there.
Haneul: I guess, my outward appearance has changed due to taking care of myself.
Daun: My personality and the way I manage and take care of myself has changed too.
Donghwi: My personality has changed a lot.
Dongin: My mindset has been more firmly set thanks to gaining more responsibility after debuting.
Hwalchan: Like the rest of the group, my personality and preferences in things have changed for me.
Uiyeon: Like Jae I, I think my personality has changed much and my weight has been altered as well.
Baekgyeol: I lost a lot of weight and the overall mindset on how I manage myself has changed.
Which one of your songs are you the most attached to, and why?
Jae I: I think, Black & White is a great song. The vibe from the beat and the melody is very like western pop, which I like.
Horyeong: I’m the most attached to Butterflies – 가슴이 떨려 널 생각하면 because they lyrics have what we wanted to convey to our fan base, Grace.
Haneul: Personally, I like GANDA which is our second digital single. It showcases our member’s personality and traits well, I think.
Daun: Butterflies is one of our songs that I am the most attached to because when I shot my first video, I use the instrumentals for this song, and the vibe fit so perfectly, so I have a lot of memories connected to the song.
Donghwi: Stay, because I love ballads and the lyrics are also quite heart-wrenching.
Dongin: It’s GANDA for me. The reason is because it was the first time for me as a rapper to have credits to the rap making, I really learned a lot from the process and that’s why I am the most attached to that song.
Hwalchan: Black & White from our mini album. I love its style of beat and melody.
Uiyeon: I like STAY the best. I think I’m attached to it because it’s a ballad, which I love.
Baekgyeol: R.O.M.L – the song fits my voice well and I would like to recommend it since the melody is great.
Which artist/musician do you respect the most?
Jae I: I respect BTS subaenims a lot.
Horyeong: I personally respect and like EXO’s Kai the most.
Haneul: Mark sunbaenim from NCT.
Donghwi: A male solo singer called Im Hanbyul.
Dongin: Zico sunbaenim and Kendrick Lamar.
Hwalchan: I like and respect Taemin sunbaenim.
Uiyeon: I respect Mad Clown sunbaenim.
Baekgyeol: I like Crush sunbaenim and I listen to his music a lot.
What kind of hobbies do you have? Do you have your own specialty in something?
Jae I: I enjoy doing freestyle dancing to all kinds of genres of music.
Horyeong: I love listening to music. I love pranking and having fun, so my specialty is in living up the mood.
Haneul: My hobbies are going to well-known cafes to taste different types of coffee and going to the Han River to skateboard. My specialty is doing dance covers of girl groups.
Daun: My hobbies are taking videos and editing. My specialty is in singing ballads.
Donghwi: My hobby is singing cover songs with my guitar and my specialty is in singing in high tones.
Dongin: My hobby is beat making and my specialty is rap making.
Hwalchan: My hobbies are gaming and sports. I’m capable of covering all kinds of sports.
Uiyeon: I love going to the movies. I can move my ears and eat a choco pie in one mouthful.
Baekgyeol: I like to search for nice restaurants or watch moving videos on YouTube. My vocal ability is my specialty.
What is the first thing that you normally do when you get up in the morning?
Jae I: I wash and prepare to leave for the studio.
Horyeong: Head to the gym to work out to fight off sleep as much as possible.
Haneul: I massage my face with an ice pack and drop by at the coffee shop and get myself a coffee and go to the gym.
Daun: The first thing that I do it head to the gym.
Donghwi: I go to the gym to work out before going to practice.
Dongin: To the gym.
Hwalchan: I work out or get prepared to go practice.
Uiyeon: I head to practice or whatever is scheduled.
Baekgyeol: I drink a lot of water because I get dry in the throat overnight.
Name one thing that is the most precious to you?
Jae I: I regard my old training shoes the most precious.
Horyeong: I consider my family photographs that I keep in my wallet the most precious to me.
Haneul: Photos of my acquaintances and letters that my fans gifted me.
Daun: I have a 50 thousand Korean bill covered in gold that one of my friends gave me, which I cherish.
Donghwi: My guitar.
Dongin: I do all my work via a MacBook, so I guess, my MacBook.
Hwalchan: My phone and the photos in my wallet.
Uiyeon: Photos that I took with other people and my shoes.
Baekgyeol: My mobile.
What kind of person is your ideal type?
Jae I: I don’t have a set type but I think someone who I can connect with well, would be great.
Horyeong: My ideal is someone who pays attention to what I have to say and has a beautiful smile.
Haneul: My ideal is someone who works hard and has pride in what they do, by spending each day happily.
Daun: My ideal type is someone who is humorous and can communicate with me well.
Donghwi: Someone with pretty eyes.
Dongin: Regardless of their age, nationality, my ideal is someone who is considerate and who has a nice smile.
Hwalchan: Someone who has pretty shoulders and feet whom I can communicate with.
Uiyeon: A person with a nice smile with nice hands, overall, someone who can connect me well.
Baekgyeol: I like someone who can get along well with my personality and has a pretty way of talking.
Let us know what kind of song or album you listen to a lot.
Jae I: I enjoy listening to a lot of Pop and R&B Soul.
Horyeong: Depending on my mood of the day, I think I listen to ballads and rap music. Lately I’ve been listening to a lot of Jukjae – Let’s go see the Stars, the lyrics are really fantastic.
Haneul: I like to listen Jazz and pop music, and recently I’ve been listening to Ariana Grande’s Jason’s Song frequently. It’s a song that showcases Ariana Grande’s cool vocal tone – the track was featured on limited deluxe edition as a bonus of her album in Japan.
Daun: I don’t normally listen to pop music much on a regular basis but I listen to it while working out. Oh My Girl – Destiny is the song that I listen to a lot.
Donghwi: When it comes to songs, I like acoustic music. There’s a singer called Beom June Jang (of Busker Busker) and I love his second album’s lyrics and melody so much, you should all listen to it. J
Dongin: Zico sunbaenim recently released an album called, THINKING and there is a song with a great melody with the title HUMAN, its lyrics say “When I saw my grown self when I was younger, I was definitely smiling but…” and I could really relate to that. So, that’s a song that I’d recommend to you guys, And I listen to Kendrick Lamar – DNA and Humble a lot.
Hwalchan: I like Hip Hop a lot and I listen to pop music often too. These days, I listen to Song Minho sunbaenim’s Lonely – 위로 해줄래 frequently.
Uiyeon: Back Number – Happy end. It’s a soundtrack to a movie that left a big expression on me, so I love the song all the more.
Baekgyeol: I often listen to Two Melodies by Zion T. & Crush. I used to listen to it all the time in high school.
Share with us any movies, books or musicals that you’ve enjoyed recently.
Jae I: I love Avengers: Endgame.
Horyeong: I really enjoyed Avengers: Endgame.
Haneul: I watched the Joker movie recently and Joaquin Pheonix’s acting was so on point, and the fact that he even lost 30kg to play the Joker part, was admirable. I also read the late Jonghyun sunbaenim’s novel Skeleton Flower: Things That Have Been Released and Set Free, so I read the book while listening to the songs mentioned in the book.
Daun: La La Land is the movie that left a big impression on me.
Donghwi: This isn’t something that I watched recently but my favorite film is About Time. It’s about a man who can time travel and the movie is about the importance of being in the present time.
Dongin: The Japanese movie called, My Tomorrow, Your Yesterday.
Hwalchan: I haven’t watched a movie recently that left a big impression on me but my fav movies are La La Land and The Notebook. I like romance movies.
Uiyeon: Avengers: Endgame and Joker.
Baekgyeol: I recently read a book called The Temperature of Language. I like the fact that one word can be expressed differently depending on the emotion and the feeling.
Where do you think is the best place to visit or tour in Korea?
Jae I: Amusement parks! You’ll get rid of all your stress if you take a ride.
Horyeong: The beach at Namhae, Gyeongnam is really great. It’s the beach that I used to go often as a kid, so I have good memories of the place.
Haneul: I want to recommend Jeonju Hanok Village to you. You can taste traditional Korean food and it’s an area where a lot of tourists from abroad visit.
Daun: In Suwon, there is Gwanggyo Lake Park that has a really cool night scenery. It’s where I go frequently during the summer nights.
Donghwi: Gwangalli (Millak) Waterside Park in Busan. The night scenery of the Gwangan Bridge is incredible! You should all visit.
Dongin: Busan is the best place to visit, in my opinion. In the summer, it’s the most healing place to go because there’s the Haeundae Beach and Gwangalli Beach to hang around at, and because the night scenery in Gwangalli Beach is so fantastic, I am certain that it would make a great trip if you go there with someone special!!
Hwalchan: Daegwanryeong, in Gangwondo. It’s chilly there, but the scenery and the wildlife are great, very relaxing.
Uiyeon: You could get the best of the past and future at Gyeongbok Palace and Lotte World Tower, respectively.
Baekgyeol: Dolsan Park in Yeosu, because the sea view at night is fabulous.
Let us know what your hopes and plans are for the future. Add something memorable for the fans as well. Thank you!
Jae I: We want to see k-pop music trending around the world, hopefully through us too. We’ve got nothing but thanks for our fan club, Grace! We’ll strive to be better guys for you. Love you all!
Horyeong: Hopefully, the plan is to become better known by performing and appearing on broadcasts in Korea and overseas. We’re always thankful for our fan club Grace, and I just want to say how much we love them.
Haneul: We’re still growing and improving- hope to let the whole world see our progress. We’ll never forget where we’ve come from, and will keep working to make our fan club Grace really proud. Love you a lot.
Daun: Our goal is to be more active here and abroad and be known more. We thank you so much, our Grace, for supporting us. We’ll keep up our hard work, hoping you will keep up your love and interest in us.
Donghwi: We hope to be in more activity here, and also overseas concerts. Thanks for all your love, and we’ll do our best to return it. We love you!
Dongin: We’ll do all that we can in everything we do, to reach more and more people. For Grace, I’d like to say thanks for being Grace, and we’ll return your great love with good music. We won’t forget you’re with us and we hope to impress you with our music. We love you, Grace!
Hwalchan: Hope to show you our progress with the mini album, and we’ll keep growing. Thanks, Grace.
Uiyeon: Like always, we will never forget how we started out. Grace, love you all!
Baekgyeol: We plan to focus on activities both domestically and abroad. Thank you, Grace for sticking with us through thick and thin, we’ll continue to make you smile for always ~
—J. Chung.
Fashion Designer Park Younhee’s first brand Greedilous was launched in 2009; it is a global fusion of futuristic and geometric graphics and fashion. With her training in fashion and industrial design, Park came to be called the Queen of Prints: Her collections are based on changing patterns and their sensitivity, and completed by strong visual silhouettes.
Greedilous has grown into a global brand beloved by national and international celebrities, and after its launch, has taken part in different exhibitions around the world, and has buyers in the U.S., Hong Kong, China, Kuwait, Saudi Arabia, Mexico, France…
We would like to thank Ms. Park for her precious time in taking this great interview and wish her all the best in all her future endeavors!
*Where did the name of the brand Greedilous come from?
Greedilous is a name for a goddess of beauty, who is both “greedy” and “fabulous”. My father, who is a doctor in English Literature, helped me with the naming. I’m also very greedy, especially when it comes to work. The identity of the company suits my own very well.
*Do you have an episode from this collection? And where did you get the inspiration for it?
The 2020 S/S Greedilous collection was inspired by Cleopatra, the queen of ancient Egypt. Her luxury was symbolized by a chandelier. Within its beauty, I reinterpreted the geometric print, with its balance particular to fashion, with a retro feeling to give birth to the atmosphere of Greedilous.
I think a woman completes her own fashion with her own values and stories. Her beauty receives the finishing touch from the balance of her own circumstances and identity. I think most of the women living today wish to become symbols in any given situation, because of their strong identities. I call this the chandelier power effect, with the chandelier as a totem that reminds us of Cleopatra as she appears in our thoughts. As crystals gather into a luxurious and magnificent chandelier, the geometric shapes and moods make up a silhouette, and the luxurious attitude to go with it was shown casually.
What is your advice for upcoming designers?
I’ve been sleeplessly busy in New York, Paris, Hong Kong, Shanghai and Seoul, but very happy doing what I love. Rather than pursuing money, the pursuit of dreams will naturally string the money along. The question is to find what makes you happy, what you really want to do, and keep at it and work hard.
For young designers, I’d like to advise them to be positive, even when parents and teachers may say things that don’t sound very nice. Respect for other people, and knowing that you can never live alone, helps you with your dreams. Nobody is perfect. If you treat others with this in mind, your view of the world will change.
*Where would you be in 10 years from now? What are your plans and hopes?
Personally, I should be married, and as a designer I dream of creating a house brand with its own history, here in Korea, like Chanel or Dior. I have hopes of making Greedilous into a global brand for women’s wear to represent Korea.
—J. Chung.
*India is the second most populous country in the world.
*India is also the largest democracy and the seventh largest country in the world.
*The word ‘India’ is derived from the river Indus, which is a valley that people settled in thousands of years ago.
*There is only one time zone in India.
*The British Raj, or British rule, lasted from 1858 to 1947, while India has never attacked any country.
*Calculus, Trigonometry, Algebra and Yoga originated from India.
*The first mining of diamonds started in India.
*Chess was invented in India before the 6th century AD.
*Indian Lotus is its national flower.
*Taj Mahal is one of the Seven Wonders of the World.
*India is the largest buyer of gold in the world.
*Bollywood is the largest movie industry in terms of output, followed by Nollywood – Nollywood is a sobriquet that originally referred to the Nigerian film industry.
*Tea is the most popular beverage in India and its largest producer in the world.
*Mango is India’s national fruit, while the Peacock is its national bird.
*It is illegal to carry Indian currency, Rupee, outside of India.
*Indian railway employs more than a million workers – the largest employers in the world.
*’The highest bridge in the world’ – the Baily Bridge, was built in 1982.
*Cows are believed to be holy in Hinduism, and the Constitution prevents the sale and slaughter of cows.
*Around 29~40% of the people are vegetarians, due to the practice of Hinduism.
*KFC had to introduce a “vegetarian” menu, exclusively for India.
*The Karni Mata Temple in Rajasthan is home to thousands of rats whom pilgrims consider to be their ancestors and worship.
*The Lifeline Express is the world’s first hospital train taking its services to remote villages.
*1.2 million tons of mangos grow in India every year.
*Shampoo is an invention of India. Also, plastic surgery had its roots more than 4000 years old in India.
*World’s 70% of spices are produced in India.
–J. Chung.
The energy of Fashion Week has finally died down worldwide but the buzz over two shows from Seoul Fashion Week lives on. On October 19, 2019 the 2020 Spring/Summer collections proved that retro fashion is still in and making a statement on the runway is just as important as one’s comfort in their clothing. Here, we revisit the final day and highlight the artistry of GREEDILOUS and Graphiste Man.G.
Like any other Fashion Week experience, everyone wants to be seen. You’ve got bonafide celebrities and runway faces everywhere, like Hong Seok-Cheon (who had as many outfit changes as the models themselves… I’m not even mad about it.) and Somali-American Muslim beauty Ridwan (the beauty who Rihanna glammed up during her Fenty Beauty debut in Korea!). Sprinkled around are established, up-and-coming, and aspiring designers; buyers and fashionistas from all corners of the globe, and media attendees trying to capture all the magic. Language barriers are immediately broken with every camera click and new friends are added on social media followings.
I mean that genuinely — it’s serious magic. Where else could a jeans-and-tee girl like me be graced with the presence of Min Jee (Young), Director of Ari Arts Company, draped in head to toe vintage Chanel?!
On Show: GREEDILOUS
Seoul Collection exhibitions take place in the legendary Art Hall 2 within Dongdaemun Design Plaza and placing Park Youn Hee’s show in the middle of schedules was perfection because of how lively it was. GREEDILOUS was once defined by emerging Asian designer collective Porte Mode as carrying it’s designer’s personality and that, “Their bold prints, sleek silhouettes, and surprising details all capture Youn Hee’s youthful and rebellious spirit.” All facts.
Black, white, and muted pastels were the colors of this collection as Moon Gabi opened the show. The silhouettes played between beach-to-street and country club to club VIP. Nothing was too tight yet the fit was loose on each model. It’s hard to imagine and explain, but it worked! Shoulder pads — something we’ve watched become edgier and more pronounced since 2017’s shows — were curved and welcoming to the mid-90s aesthetic. Denim played very little into the designs and I’m still unsure if Lycra was used or not in several outfits. Whatever the textile is or was, many outfits could fit with “Clueless” but without the loudness of some of that era’s patterns. Ms. Park kept things light yet eye-catching with her unique patterns. Almost every person seated in the VIP front row was in a piece from the designer’s various collections, too. Talk about brand loyalty and support!
On Show: Graphiste Man.G
I liked the first show — the pieces whispered, “Look at me but don’t look at me… now look at me!” — but my goodness I. LOVED. THIS. SHOW. Designer Man. G went with the concept “Drag. Drug. Man.g.” and delivered on a show that has to be historic in most South Korean social circles, if not controversial. The brand’s edgy, unisex and animated. Actually, the animated aspect came as little shock once I realized that he studied animation art during his university days. It was sickening and I mean that with all the love I can muster up. The show was unapologetic in its representation and gender-neutrality. The audience was one of the most ambiguous witnessed in all the years we’ve attended Seoul Fashion Week. I wondered about the ages of those in attendance, those secure in their own vibe, and I felt… too “normally” dressed! There were the overtly beautiful, the plain janes, and the flamboyantly unbothered all amongst one another and Man. G’s line fully supported such diversity.
From the moment a hit from pop icon Madonna’s catalog began, the 80s/90s scene exploded onto the runway. Models stomped the plasma out of the runway with various mantras scrolled across the fashions. Everything was a cut that is on trend. Man. G promoted fashion for anyone, period. Just ask the drag queen who kicked the show off.
Ashley Charlton Griffin is a diverse content creator, writer, and YouTube Personality. She specializes in Hallyu Wave entertainment, with an emphasis on K-pop. Learn more about her at www.multifacetedacg.com.
Wings of the ISANG is a 4-member Post-rock band from Seoul, South Korea. The band was featured on the KBS’ Top Band Season 2.
For this interview, we wanted to focus on learning their music, how the band’s name was created and what their hope and wishes are and so on. And, if you haven’t already, we very much recommend you to check out the band’s distinctive and quirky rock music and get to enjoy their sound as much as we do. We’d like to thank the four members of Wings of the ISANG for offering their precious time for this great interview and wish them all the very best in all their endeavors. We also hope our readers will enjoy this interview!
Hello, please introduce yourselves briefly. Did you always want to become musicians since childhood?
Tae-bong: Hello, I’m Kim Tae-bong, the guitarist in the group Wings of the ISANG. Well, maybe not since I was a child, but from the time I entered college and joined a band, I got interested in activities as a musician.
Choong-hoon: Hi, my name is Choong-hoon and I play the drum for Wings of the ISANG. I hadn’t realized what I wanted to do when I was younger but somehow, I
found myself on this road!
Min-Kyu: Hi! I play the bass guitar in Wings of the ISANG. I’m Min-Kyu. I actively play all genres of music, in all kinds of music scenes.
I began playing bass in the last year of middle school, and I thought then that I’d have become a rock star like Metallica by the time I’m…well, the age I’m at now.
Obviously, that was far from easy.
Jung-min: Hello…I’m Moon Jung-min from Wings of the ISANG. I loved music since I was a little kid but never imagined I’d be living the life of a musician.
It had always been a hobby but it was after my military service that I began to look at it as work.
How did Wings of the ISANG become a group?
Jung-min: I was in a band with Tae-bong, our guitarist, since we were 20 years of age. We played thrash metal then, went to the army, finished school and applied for jobs, and took time off our band life. We met sometimes for little projects, and ended up releasing a digital single, containing four songs, in 2006 under the team name of Detuned Radio. We began producing a new album around 2010 and that was when we changed our group’s name. In the year after that, we released an EP and became a proper band.
How did you come to name your group Wings of the ISANG?
Jung-min: Our former team name, Detuned Radio, wasn’t exactly memorable or easy to pronounce for the Korean public. We personally wanted a more Korean name too, unlike many other bands with names in English. We also wanted to make music that was free, like flying in the sky, and we came up with the idea of Wings.
Tae-bong agreed at the time, but then, everyone around us, when they heard Wings, kept asking us, “What? Wings by Isang?” Yi Sang is also a renowned Korean fiction writer, known for his short story The Wings.
That gave us an idea, because it seemed different as a band name, and we liked the plural meanings of the word Isang (which also means an “ideal” in Korean). In Korean, we write our name as 이상의날개, without any spaces. And we’d like to repeat here, that Isang in our name doesn’t refer to the writer, nor an ideal, dream or hope. We wouldn’t have chosen this name if we wanted a single, official meaning. We’d like it to be interpreted by each person and that is why we chose it.
Who influenced you most in your music?
Tae-bong: Personally, I like the feel of bands like Underwears Band and No respect for Beauty, so you could say our sound was somewhat influenced.
Jung-min: Well, I’m not too sure. If we’re talking about the overall sound rather than particular tracks, there’s probably no band that influenced that much. One thing I could say is that I’ve thought hard about making sounds different, and free from typical rock music’s dry, raw and meticulously full drive, and other stereotypes. Soundscape-wise, I wanted to express sceneries and images in my mind or head.
Which song are you the most attached to out of all your tracks?
Tae-bong: The track The End from our EP Lost. It sounds a little dated now but I love the sentiment from that time.
Choong-hoon: Singles from about two years ago, No Longer Human or Lost from our first album, or Forgotten.
Jung-min: I actually mentioned in our old interviews, that I’m very much attached to Crimson Sky. When I listen to it, I remember the sunset in the Western part of the sky on the day I first had the idea for that song. Looking at the sunset makes me think of life like a panorama, with the hopes for the future and despair crossing each other, and that’s exactly like me, on the verge of hope and despair. I wanted to express the feeling of the last flight, taking off from the cliff unto the sunset. Nobody knows the end to that scene. Did the flight reach the unreachable place? Nobody knows.
Who do you look up to the most?
Jung-min: My father and mother, from the moment of my birth and forever.
Min-Kyu: Me, myself.
What are your special skills or hobbies?
Tae-bong: I prefer short trips and fishing, something to change the mood.
Min-Kyu: My skill is the bass, and my hobbies are travelling, watching movies and taking walks.
Jung-min: I’m skilled in remembering people’s faces and names really well. I find this skill very useful in life. As for hobbies, I haven’t been able to continue sports, but I manage to take a rest in unpopulated locations on my travels or camping. At home, I enjoy a lot of computer games and movies.
What are your best and worst food or beverage?
Tae-bong: My favorite beverage is coffee. My worst is sugary drinks.
Min-Kyu: I like beer and soju, and maggeolli. I’m not too keen on hot spicy foods.
Jung-min: I love seafood, maybe because I was born by the seaside. I always prefer it to meat. There’s no worst food or drink for me. I’m not particular.
Where would you recommend a foreigner to travel, in Korea?
Tae-bong: It would have to be Seoul, or Jeju?
Min-Kyu: Jonglo, where the past and present coexist!
Choong-hoon: I recommend the live concert halls at Hongdae!
Jung-min: I personally like Sokcho. I have many memories there as a child. And I always recommend the Mount Seol-ak, where you have the tremendous mountain and the East sea, to everyone.
Where would you like to play music in the future, thinking globally?
Tae-bong: Anywhere our fans wish to see our performance, regardless of country or location..
Min-Kyu: I want to tour Europe!
Choong-hoon: We’ll go anywhere that wants us. Personally I want to play in Northern Europe.
Jung-min: We love and feel thankful wherever we are wanted. We can play anywhere with passion, when there are people to listen to us and feel with us.
Thank you for your precious time! Please share your plans for the future and add a nice message for your fans.
Tae-bong: We thank you so much for listening to Wings of the ISANG, in Korea or abroad. We wish to be able to play live on stage, face to face with you guys, in the near future.
Min-Kyu: I’m so thankful that many people like our music. I’ll keep working hard to make good music, enjoying myself with the other members. Please keep an eye on us. Thanks!
Choong-hoon: We are working on our official second album, and the little delay is due to our wishes to make better music. We’re working hard on it!
Jung-min: It has been enjoyable, doing an interview in a long while. It’s been three years since our official first album and we’re working on the next one. We’re taking so much care that it’s a little late. I’d say we’ve done about 70~80% of the tracks, and hope to see it done by next year! I’m hoping to see you all at concerts someday. Thank you!
–J. Chung.
Following their October 28, 2019 comeback, Monsta X will now continue as a six-piece after Wonho announced his departure from the group.
On October 31, 2019, Wonho and Starship Entertainment announced that the singer/songwriter will leave the group “amicably” following “malicious and distorted claims” being made about the now-departed member. Starship posted the announcement in Korean and English in a Twitter post.
안녕하세요.
스타쉽 엔터테인먼트입니다. pic.twitter.com/2MSbpudbvf— STARSHIP Ent. (@STARSHIPent) October 31, 2019
Wonho’s decision to depart from the group is based in his wishes to avoid causing the band trouble.
This past week, Wonho has been accused of theft, smoking marijuana, and mocking the #MeToo movement. With the latter, he and fellow member Minhyuk apologized for their actions that came across as insensitive.
Prior to Monsta X’s comeback, an alleged “friend” of Wonho’s, Jung Da Eun, announced that Wonho borrowed more than $35 thousand USD and never paid her back. Wonho and Jung appeared on Comedy TV’s Ulzzang Shidae prior to Wonho’s Monsta X debut. Jung posted on Instagram an image of Wonho on TV with the caption “Ho Seok, when are you going to pay me back?”
Embattled former K-Pop trainee, Han Seo Hee— who seems to be involved in every K-Pop scandal the past few years— also chirped in with “Give Da Eun her 30 million won.”
Jung also accused Wonho of also being in juvenile detention due to aggravated theft back in 2008.
“I know exactly what you did in 2008 — that aggravated theft charge at Suwon Detention Center,” Jung said in her tweet.
Dispatch uncovered information regarding the theft claims Jung mentioned. In their report, Dispatch states Wonho received probation while an accomplice received punishment.
Later, Jung also shared chats between herself and someone claiming to be Wonho’s lawyer where she claims to also be a victim of theft.
Lawyer: “I’m MONSTA X Wonho’s lawyer. We’re currently checking whether a post you recently made is true. Please give me a detailed explanation of what you meant by ‘Hoseok, when are you going to pay me back?’”
Jung: “Tell Shin Hoseok to contact me himself.”
Lawyer: “Can we meet in person? I’ll relay your message as well.”
Jung: “Come to Songdo. Meet me in front of XXXX XXXX in Songdo.”
Lawyer: “Can you come to our office instead? It’s in Gwanghwamun.”
Jung: “I don’t think I have a reason to go all the way there. Since I’m the victim, it’s not right for me to go all the way there.”
Lawyer: “In what way were you victimized? Wonho doesn’t think he owes you any money, so we’re very curious. If you tell me how you were harmed, I’ll relay the message in detail, and we’ll make sure you won’t become a victim.”
Jung: “He thinks paying me back 2 million won (~$1700 USD) settles it? I’m speechless. We lived in Yeoksam-dong together before, and we were supposed to split the rent 50/50, but Shin Hoseok didn’t pay his part, so my 10 million won (~$8500 USD) got taken. He also stole all my stuff and sold them online, and he borrowed 3 million won (~$2500 USD) and 5 million won (~$4200 USD) at a time and promised to pay me back. And until 2016, he used the excuse of his balance not being settled at his agency, and when I asked him to pay me back in late 2016, he said his daily spending limit was 1 million won (~$855 USD) so he just sent me that amount for two days.
Lawyer: “I will confirm this with my client. Please give me a more detailed list of the items and amount.”
Jung: “Talk to my lawyer at XXX-XXX-XXXX.”
Dispatch released the list of items Wonho allegedly stole from Jung. Those items include Balmain jeans, a Canon camera, and an iPod. An acquaintance of both Jung and Wonho claim the items were listed on a second-hand sales website, and this acquaintance claims he traced the phone number back to Wonho.
Starship Entertainment has said the claims are not true in a statement.
“We plan on submitting a legal complaint via our legal representative. We will release an official statement as quickly as possible,” the company said October 31.
Also on October 31, Wonho released a letter to fans on Monsta X’s fan café announcing his leave.
This is Wonho.
First, I would like to apologize for not being able to keep the promise that I would only provide good memories to our fans and for causing them pain. Furthermore, I apologize for causing concern to many people due to my personal issues.
I have received undeserving blessings and love while promoting as a MONSTA X member. I sincerely thank you for making precious memories for me. To the members who worked hard with me and stayed with me, I would like to tell them that I’m thankful and that I love them. [I would also like to show them] my apologetic heart.
There was a time when I was immature and have made big and small mistakes, but after becoming a trainee and making my debut, I stayed on track and worked hard to avoid being ashamed of myself.
I am announcing that I am leaving MONSTA X today.
I am apologetic for causing harm to the members due to the unfortunate issues related to me. More than anything, I am sorry for disappointing my fans who believed in me. I have reached this decision after seeing many people having a hard time because of me.
In addition to our members, I once again sincerely bow my head in apology to the fans who have believed in me and supported me.
Please give strength to MONSTA X.
The members have nothing to do with me.
I carefully ask that you at least give support and encouragement to the members.
They are people who are too good to stop and get hurt like this because of someone like me.
I am so thankful and apologetic to the staff, members, and lastly our fans who have allowed me to enjoy such happiness until this point.
On November 1, 2019, Dispatch released reports that Jung and Wonho used marijuana together in 2013 and were allegedly caught by Burning Sun director “Jo.”
Jo, who is currently held at the Seoul Detention Center on allegations of marijuana, methamphetamine, ecstasy, and ketamine usage, alleged Jung and Wonho smoked marijuana at Jung’s residence in October 2013. Jo stated he was at the house unbeknownst to Wonho and Jung even though Jung gave Jo the house code so he could enter the house to borrow a Balmain belt. Jo claims that Wonho and Jung discussed smoking marijuana while he lurked in the house, then he claims he smelled them smoke it. Wonho then took a phone call outside, and that’s when Jo claims he confronted Jung before leaving. He said Jung asked him to ignore the issue, and that he left before Wonho knew Jo was there.
Following the marijuana story, Starship Entertainment terminated Wonho’s contract.
Hello, this is Starship Entertainment.
Regarding the report released on [November] 1, Wonho did get his luggage and body examined at the airport after returning from the concert in Germany in September 2019, but it was a simple process, and we were informed that it is part of the customs inspection. We were not notified separately of an investigation, and we were not aware at all of Wonho being under investigation, of the suspicions of marijuana use in 2013, and that an investigation is undergoing.
In relation with this case, the judgment has been made that we can no longer maintain our contract with Wonho and terminated our contract with Wonho as of November 1, 2019.
We feel heavy responsibility for causing trouble to many people due to the current situation, and we will work to fulfill our responsibility until the end so that he can diligently participate in the investigation.
We once again apologize to the fans who sincerely cherish MONSTA X. We apologize.
Meanwhile, monbebe (Monsta X’s fandom) have been petitioning Starship Entertainment to re-instate Wonho. The fans have mentioned that Wonho’s marijuana scandal isn’t new as he has admitted in the past that he made poor choices and promised to learn from them. Fans have also pointed out the Han Seo Hee’s involvement is enough to cast doubt on the entire story.
Starship, however, has removed the Wonho-supportive messages.
More information is expected to come with the allegations, so this is a developing story. However, all parties are innocent until proven guilty.
—-Olivia Murray
On October 11th, Korea’s Supreme Court has reversed and remanded the case of the Korean-American singer, Yoo Seung-jun (Steve Yoo), whose entry into the Republic of Korea has been banned by the Military Manpower Administration of the country since 2002.
The reversal and remand of his case means that the Supreme Court finds fault with the legal procedure, evidence or interpretation of law in the lower courts. This spells possible return for the singer, aged 43.
The lawsuit is pursued by Yoo himself, to ask the courts to cancel the decision of the Military Manpower Administration all those years ago. The first and second rulings before the Supreme Court’s decision had been that it was legally sound for the singer to be banned from entering Korea.
Yoo was a big success in the Korean pop music scene back in late ‘90s to early 2000s. He was undoubtedly the most successful male solo singer who mainly released dance music. His persona on television was always the “good” guy. He was viewed as a good singer, dancer, and rapper, who had more global style of music to offer as someone who lived in the United States since early teen years.
In 2002, his sudden choice of nationality as an American was widely condemned by the Korean public and the press, because this came about just before he was supposed to enter the mandatory military service, a duty imposed on every young Korean man. On top of it all, the authorities did something unheard of, either before or after: they banned Yoo from returning to the country. It didn’t’ help that Yoo had been viewed as a very straight type who would not shrink from his duty. He was stopped at the Incheon airport and was not allowed to enter Korea, and that moment was reported live.
After being stopped from entering Korea, Yoo had musical success in China. He returned to Korea briefly to mourn the death of his fiancé’s father, and talked about the state of affairs regarding Korea in an interview in China, but the Korean public remained critical and cold towards him. He had other numerous attempts to persuade, apologize and explain his actions, and released music in Korea. None of these actions have been particularly successful.
In 2015, Yoo applied for the F-4 visa at the Los Angeles consulate general, but was denied. It was then he began to pursue an annulment of the ban itself. The F-4 visa is issued to people of Korean descent who now have different nationalities. This means that Yoo has not been able to enter Korea on any type of visa.
Now, with the recent decision of the Supreme Court to send back his case to the Seoul High Court, Yoo may be entering Korea quite soon. According to the current Immigration Control Act, anyone who gave up their Korean nationality to evade military duty should not be restricted from receiving a visa to stay in the country when they reach the age of 41. Therefore, it could be easily argued that Yoo’s case had been more or less made an example for others, rather than based on regular legalities.
Yoo’s critics point out that the singer had never attempted seriously to return to Korea before he had turned 36, which is when he would be exempted from military service even if he gave up his US citizenship. This follows Yoo’s appeal that he would give it up to carry out his duty in the army, if given the chance. Yoo’s critics believe that he had known this was not possible, but used the argument anyway, to get what he wanted the most: to sell music in Korea again.
On the other hand, are also a lot of people who feel that what happened to him was harsh. Yoo maintains that all he wants to do is return to his motherland.
Amidst the recently-kindled hopes, Yoo has begun active communication with the Korean public through his YouTube channel. The singer has appealed to his viewers that his sons have never been able to visit Korea through no fault of their own. He has also thanked critical commenters for taking an interest in him.
It seems clear that he wants to stay relevant and in the limelight regarding the Korean public. This time round, he has a better chance of returning to the country than he has ever had in the last 17 years.
— J. Chung.
AleXa (previously as Alex Christine) is an American singer and dancer, born and raised in Tulsa, Oklahoma, United States to a Korean mother and American-Russian descent father.
In 2016, she participated in audition competition program Rising Legends and won under the dancer’s category. The following year, she participated in Rising Legends: Season 2, and won the grand prize winner which gave her the chance to take a trip to Seoul, in order to fulfill her dreams.
In May 2018, AleXa participated in Produce 48, representing ZB Label, and she made her solo debut with Bomb on October 21, 2019.
We’d like to thank AleXa and her team for this great interview and wish them all the best in all their future endeavors!
Would you briefly introduce yourself to our readers please?
Hello, my name is AleXa. I was born in Tulsa, Oklahoma and raised there my entire life. My father is Russian/American and my mother is a Korean-American adoptee. I fell in love with K-pop in 2008, and that has led me on my journey thus far. I’m signed under ZanyBros’s music label, ZB Label, and participated on Produce 48.
Could we ask what your daily schedule is like these days?
To be perfectly honest, every day is different. However, I can give you a breakdown: wake up, run, practice, eat, more practice, go to the office, practice.
What do you like most about performing and being in front of the camera?
As AleXa, being in front of the camera means that I get to be somebody else for a moment. It’s nice to drop being Alex Christine and step into AleXa’s shoes.
What do you think has changed the most for you since debut?
My passion had grown stronger. This whole process has been like a light under a fire, and now the bomb (pun intended) has gone off!!
How would you describe your music and sound?
“Bomb” itself is a mix of electro beats and Brazilian funk. During my training, I trained in Afrobeats and Dancehall, which utilizes Brazilian funk. In the future, I want to make music with a very globally incorporative sound.
Who do you admire the most in the world? And, please name some artists that you admire in the music industry.
My mother is the number one person that I look up to in this world. She’s been through so much, and persevered through it all. She is such a strong woman, and I aspire to be like her. The artists that I really look up to are Taemin of SHINee, Hyuna, and Um Junghwa.
What is your favorite song/album that you listen to the most often?
I am an avid fan of the Gorillaz, so I listen to a lot of their discography. Also, I enjoy several rock and metal bands. To pinpoint one exact group or song is difficult.
What is your fav food? And why…
My favorite food is probably my mother’s kimchi stew. She cooked it a lot at home, and I very much so miss the taste of it.
What are your hobbies or interests?
My hobbies are writing song lyrics, photography, and make up.
Where do you want to perform in the future? Any venues or countries that you have in mind?
It would be a dream come true to have a concert in my hometown at the BOK Center. That is one of the largest venues in my hometown, and to fill that stadium for a concert would be incredible. I would love to tour South America and Europe next year.
What kind of person is your ideal type to date?
My ideal type is simply someone that I can be honest with. If they can respect me as a human, then they have my respect. In addition, a similar sense of humor and good conversational skills are lovely traits to possess, in my eyes.
Where do you want to go on a vacation the most?
Seeing as that my manager is from Sweden, I have heard so many lovely things about Sweden. I would absolutely love to go to Sweden, when given the chance.
Could you say something nice to the fans, and let them know your plans and wishes for the future?
To my fans, whether you have been with me for years or a few days, thank you for the support. It is an absolute honor to have all of you behind me to lift me up, so I will work harder to be worthy of your love and support. I hope to someday hold concerts in your hometowns to meet all of you and thank you in person. Thank you so much for everything.
–J. Chung.