Chie Izuno works full time at an office Branch. Though she’s 30, she’s very young at heart and kind of innocent. She tries hard to go into the dating field but finds herself struggling due to her weight and self-esteem issues. She meets up with one of the company’s investors, Jin Harada, a super sucessful and young business man. However Jin has a severe lack of social skills. Chie strives to make a deal with Jin in order to aide her in her goal to lose weight and gain confidence, she tells Jin she can help him with his own flaws. Where will this agreement lead them to, and can two total opposites and flawed individuals overcome their personal demons?
In news that isn’t surprising, Kangin announced his departure from Super Junior.
Kangin has been plagued with a bevy of scandals involving alcohol including drinking and driving and an alleged bar brawl. E.L.F have started petitions and called for his departure.
Kangin officially announced his leave in a statement shared on Instagram.
Hello. This is Kangin. I am greeting you for the first time in a long time.
My heart feels heavy as it is not positive news, but I am posting after much consideration.
I am now letting go of the name “Super Junior” that has been with me for a long time.
I always felt just apologetic to the members.
I always thought that it would be right for me to make the decision earlier rather than later, but the thought of the people who support me unconditionally and our agency family troubled my heart, so I could not gather the courage easily.
I thought that I could not make any decision alone.
However, while watching the members who experience what they shouldn’t have to due to my problems, I made the judgment that I cannot delay this further.
More than anything, I feel most apologetic to the E.L.F. who have always given overwhelming love for 14 years.
I am very late, but I will let go of the name Super Junior, and I will have sorry feelings and gratitude engraved in my heart as I continue on my own road.
I want to really express gratitude to the members and agency family who were considerate towards me until the end.
I will also be cheering on the success of Super Junior.
Thank you.
We hope Kangin heads down a healthy, happy road for his future.
—-Olivia Murray
If you are visiting South Korea from July to August, these fabulous festivals will provide a lot of fun and entertainment that you can share with your family members and loved ones. Here’s the list of festivals you can attend.
Bucheon International Fantastic Film Festival
Bucheon International Film Festival screens independent movies from all around the world and offers a chance to engage in free-style conversations with the film directors. The festival showcases movies of numerous genres like horror, mystery, thriller, sci-fi and many more.
Period: June 27th ~ July 7th 2019
Venues: Bucheon City Hall, Bucheon Gymnasium, Korea Comics Museum, Bucheon Art Bunker B39.
Buyeo Seodong Lotus Festival
The Buyeo Seodong Lotus Festival is held at Gungnamji – the first man-made pond in the nation. Visitors can expect to see red and white lotuses as well as water lilies.
During the night, the pond is illuminated with LED lights and sculptures. The most popular event at the festival is the performance showcasing the love story between Prince Seodong and Princess Seonhwa. Other programs include trying foods made with lotus and taking part in a lotus leaf tea ceremony demonstration.
Period: July 5th ~ 7th of 2019
Venue: Area of Seodong Park and Gungnamji Pond in Buyeo-gun, Chungcheongnam-do
Boryeong Mud Festival
Boryeong Mud Festival is an annual festival in Boryeong, which is a town around 200 km south of Seoul, Korea.
The first Mud Festival was launched in 1998 and has since attracted millions of visitors. Boryeong mud is well-known for its excellent quality and efficacy, so it’s rolling around in it is safe, and does benefit your skin. This action-packed festival is popular among both locals and international visitors because it offers various programs such as the mud massage pack, colored-mud body painting and mud soap-making.
Period: July 19th ~ 28th of 2019
Venue: Daecheon Beach Mud Square in Boryeong-si, Chungcheongnam-do
Jisan Valley Rock Festival
Jisan Valley Rock Festival features performances of top international rock artists, including King Gizzard & The Lizard Wizard, Adoy, and Guckkasten.
The music is to be enjoyed in the beautiful, natural surroundings by camping out at the Jisan Resort campground.
Period: July 26th ~ 28th of 2019
Venue: Jisan Resort, 267, Jisan-ro, Icheon-si, Gyeonggi-do
Bonghwa Eun-uh (Sweet fish) Festival
Bonghwa Eun-uh Festival is held at the pure waters of Naeseongcheon Stream in Bonghwa-gun. The main programs are catching sweet fish with a net or with bare hands, and various sweet fish-related exhibitions.
Period: July 27th ~ August 4th of 2019
Venues: Areas of Naeseongcheon Stream and Sports Park in Bonghwa-eup, Bonghwa-gun, Gyeongsangbuk-do
Busan Sea Festival
The Busan Sea Festival is a huge event that is packed with a rock music festival, a beach dance festival and a number of water sports. Concerts on the beach are a highlight of the festival, along with the night pool party, water carnival, and Gwangalli dance party.
Period: August 2nd ~ 6th of 2019
Venues: Haeundae Beach, Gwangalli Beach, Busan Songdo Beach, Songjeong Beach and Dadaepo Beach
Jecheon International Music & Film Festival
The Jecheon International Music & Film Festival showcases movies, documentaries, and animation that focus on the music used in the film industry.
Over 100 films are screened while musicians perform all throughout the city.
Period: August 8th ~13th of 2019
Venues: Areas of Megabox, Cheongpunghoban Lakeside Stage, Cultural Hall, and Uirimji Reservoir in Jecheon-si, Chungcheongbuk-do
Incheon Pentaport Rock Festival
If you’re a rock fanatic, Incheon Pentaport Rock Festival is recommended for you. Rock artists from both Korea and overseas to come to perform at this annual festival, and perform at the large outdoor stage. Two Door Cinema Club, Sevdaliza, and YB are some of the bands are headlining the festival this year.
Period: August 9th~11th of 2019
Venue: Songdo Dalbit Festival Park in Incheon
Tongyeong Great Battle of Hansan Festival
Tongyeong Great Battle of Hansan Festival is held to commemorate Admiral Yi Sun-sin (1545-1598) who led his people to victory during the Imjin War (1592-1598).
The festival features parades and recreation of the Great Battle, ocean sports and fun activities that you can participate in, such as making models of Geobukseon (iron-clad turtle ship built by Admiral Yi during the Imjin War) and arrows.
Period: August 10th ~ 14th of 2019
Venues: Areas of Cultural Plaza, Tongjeyeong and Yi Sun-sin Park in Tongyeong-si, Gyeongsangnam-do
—-J. Chung
South Korean actor Kang Ji-Hwan (Jo Tae-Gyu) was arrested July 9, 2019 on suspicions of sexual assault according to reports.
The 42-year-old actor, who is known for his roles in Be Strong, Geum-Soon!, Monster, Coffee House, and Incarnation of Money, was apprehended by police at his home in Gwangju. He was questioned by police following the arrest, but the police report that he was still intoxicated and did not recall anything. They plan on questioning him again later.
“We have yet to fully investigate the matter, so other than that Kang Ji Hwan has been arrested for sexual assault, we cannot reveal anything,” a police spokesperson said.
According to reports, Kang and two female “outsourced staff members” from his agency attended a company dinner together before going out for more drinks. The women then state they went to Kang’s house to sleep when he came into the room where they were staying and assaulted one woman before committing “indecent assault” on the other. While the alleged assault occurred, one of the women texted a friend stating ““I had some drinks at actor Kang Ji Hwan’s house, and now we’re trapped.” Police arrived and arrested the actor.
“I remember having drinks, but I don’t remember anything after that. When I opened my eyes, I was in the room where [one of the women] was sleeping,” Kang told police during questioning.
On July 10, one of the two women told police she witnessed the attack on the second woman. She also told police she noticed her clothes were in disarray, so she was worried she was assaulted as well. When she noticed Kang on the other woman, she yelled.
The police state the second witness’ statement aligns with the first witness’ statement when she was questioned.
The police also stated both of the alleged victims visited the Seoul Sunflower Center to get a rape kit done. Results may be available in a week.
In light of the allegations, TV Chosun canceled this week’s showing of Joseon Survival, a show Kang is currently in, and all reruns have been canceled as well.
A TV Chosun source said, “This week’s episode of ‘Joseon Survival’ will not air. Reruns will also not be broadcasted. We need to have discussions with the production company. Things will be undecided until the production company’s stance is revealed. There were plans for an event related to Joseon Survival next week, but an internal decision was made to cancel the event.”
Kang’s currently placed in holding until the investigation is complete.
—-Olivia Murray
(Left to right: JungA, Nina, E.You, YeHana, EunA and Ellie)
We Girls (stylized WeGirls) are Korean girl group formed by Aftermoon Entertainment. WeGirls made their debut on August 31, 2018 with On Air and a mini-album with three tracks, produced by House Rulez. The members were announced through a Global Hallyu crowdfunding website Makestar on October 31, 2017. Through Makestar, participants voted which girls would make it to the group.
WeGirls went through several member changes; the group is now set with 6 members, E.You, YeHana, JungA, EunA, Ellie and Nina. We would like to express “a big thank you” to the girls for a great interview, and wish them the very best in their future endeavors.
Hello, thank you very much for taking a time out for a KCrush Interview. Please introduce yourselves to our readers.
E.You: Hello ~!! This is E.You, the pure and innocent leader of WeGirls! ^^
YeHana: Hello, I’m YeHana, the main vocalist of WeGirls.
JungA: Ready, action! ~ Hello, this is JungA of WeGirls. I am the team’s dancer, and the one with the pretty and healthy physique.
EunA: Hello, this is EunA, who is the main dancer of WeGirls.
Ellie: Hello! I’m fairy Ellie from WeGirls. nice to meet you.
Nina: Hello, I’m the cutie maknae of WeGirls and in charge of the dancing.
Tell us how you got into the group. Was it always a dream to become entertainers?
E.You: I was trying to get my name out there by distributing my C.V around, not just for singing but I was looking into acting and commercial modelling gigs. YeHana, was a friend that I’ve known since we were young, and she introduced me to WeGirls. That is how I got the join this group. When I was younger, I wanted to be a teacher. That is to say, I spent a very ordinary childhood, so my friends all find it unbelieve that I’m now in a girl group.
YeHana: Ever since I was a child, I loved music – especially singing – so I got into college of music and that naturally paved the way for me to become a singer. I dreamt of becoming a singer or a teacher since childhood. 🙂
JungA: I was a trainee for a time, then was contacted by the composer of Aftermoon Entertainment (our current company) to join WeGirls. Since I was in elementary and middle school, I would cover choreography and got to major in dance when I was admitted to high school. Because I loved to dance and sing so much, it was a dream of mine to be a singer.
EunA: I was made a member of WeGirls, through an audition. And of course, I wanted to become a singer a since I was a child.
Ellie: Our CEO was looking for a rapper for WeGirls. One day, he discovered my solo work and liked it, so he asked me to join the group. And guess what? Ta-da ~ now I’m here as a member of WeGirls! And now, I’ve fulfilled my dream of childhood was a singer. (Surprise, ha ha)
Nina: I always wanted to be a singer. I was contacted by the company, after they saw a video of me dancing at a dance contest and was able to join the group.
What has changed the most for you after making your debut as a group?
E.You: Not much has dramatically changes yet, but I feel my parents are less worried now since I got to debut. ~!!
YeHana: We now have fans who support us! Our fan club’s called WINGS, we’re always so grateful to them!! Thank you!
JungA: I don’t think things have changed much as of yet, but I do feel that we need to work harder, be better at our craft and become more responsible.
EunA: I didn’t particularly liked being photographed before, but now I enjoy getting photographed and being on camera.
Ellie: Actually, lots of things have changed. But the biggest thing is the way I think and behave. I felt it carries weighty responsibility than before. (Maybe I’m growing up too slow, haha.)
Nina: I have people who support me now, and I feel more responsibility when performing on stage.
Tell us which WeGirls song that you’re the most attached to.
E.You: On Air!! The song was our debut and also our first live performance on TV. And most of all, the lyrics really refer to our story of wanting to fulfil our dreams, so for that reason, I think it’d be the song I am the most attached to now, and for the days to come.
YeHana: Our debut song ~ On Air, definitely!
JungA: Since we worked hard on it, On Air is probably the song I’m most attached to, and because it’s our first single, we would have to sing it the most frequently from now onwards. The fact that it’s a sampling of a nursery rhyme/song is so cute too!
EunA: I’m the most attached to On Air the most, probably due to the fact that it’s WeGirl’s debut single.
Ellie: There are only three songs yet. So, For Now (don’t get me wrong. it’s just because I know there are tons of more good songs that we are working on now. I can’t wait for you to listen to them! My favorite is ‘We go’ cuz it always makes me feel like it’s start of something new.
Nina: On Air. The moment I heard it for the first time, it felt like it was telling my story.
*Tell us more about your hobbies or interests?
E.You: My hobbies are swimming, sign language, and reading books at coffee shops. I’ve also worked as a Pilates instructor in the past.
YeHana: My hobbies are reading, going to art galleries, composing and writing lyrics, studying about various fields of things, working to improve myself, listening to sermons by ministers, discussing with my friends on topics, travelling (into nature), watching movies, cooking, going to kids’ cafes to play with the kids, journaling, swimming, cleaning my room, doing minor labor and etc. My specialty is writing, making melodies, singing, teaching someone else to rap lol… looking after babies and story-telling.
JungA: I love sports, so I’m in a bowling team – I’m quite good at it. I am responsible for the dancing and choreography in the group too. I majored in traditional Korean dance, so I am good at creating new dance moves. I play games a lot, as a hobby too.
EunA: My interest is cooking. I’ve been taught by my grandmother how to prepare various side dishes, stew, soups and other kinds of cuisine, so whenever I’m at home and have spare time, I cook. And dancing is my specialty.
Ellie: I read books. I’m such a lazy person so I don’t do active things when I have time for myself, lol.
Nina: My hobbies are going out in search for great eateries and doing choreography.
Which artists do you respect the most? Also, tell us what kind of music you listen on a daily basis?
E.You: I just have too many musicians to name ~ Autumn Vacation, Bolbbalgan4, IU, Rumble Fish, Gummy sunbaenims ~ The songs that I enjoy listening to is Sometimes I want to hug you like crazy by Autumn Vacation, My love, next to me by Rumble Fish ~ !!
YeHana: House Rulez – Soro Sori, House Rulez – The Planet (Feat. YeHana) ^^ If you listen to the albums while driving, it’s great because it feels like you’re on the rollercoaster on the way to a utopic planet. The song that I listen to a lot is Moment by YeHana. Hahaha.
JungA: Personally, I respect Park Hyoshin sunbaenim. I really love Hip Hop, but also love R & B music, so I listen to a lot of Park Hyoshin songs in order to soothe my mind. I listen to Gift and Breath the most.
EunA: I don’t have one artist that I respect, because there are so many of them out there who are so talented whom I can learn from. I have a respect for all artists. I usually listen to the top 100 on the music chart.
Ellie: Queen Bey forever! The song that I listen to a lot is Juice by Lizzo.
Nina: BoA is someone who has influenced me to dream about being a singer, ever since I was a kid. I listen to Billie Eilish – Bad Guy a lot, these days.
How would you describe your personality and traits in a few words?
E.You: #구수함. “Deep.”
YeHana: Saint Peter.
JungA: Like a sponge! I often hear that I’m capable of getting along with and absorb people with all sorts of personalities. I love hearing comments like that!
EunA: Cheerful and silly EunA.
Ellie: Tinker Bell??♀️
Nina: Carbonated Water ~ since it can be turned into tasty fruit drinks, I also have the tendency to always act positive and energetic like carbonated water.
Tell us about how you normally like to dress and which colors do you like?
E.You: I like white, and my usual fashion style that I enjoy is casual. I’d wear a basic t-shirt that’s kind of see-through, and pants that aren’t completely skinny-fit or of velvet material and etc.
YeHana: Yellow, orange, pink and black are the colors I like. My style of clothes is usually in black ~ and I wear clothes depending on my mood. So, I dress like totally different people, each time.
JungA: I love white and because I suit brighter colors, I like clean white clothing. I wear pants over skirts. I like to dress in a way that seem styled, but not too much.
EunA: I love white and pink the most, and my dress code is usually casual.
Ellie: Hmm… too hard to pick one color. Today it could be pink, tomorrow it could be purple. I mean, it depends on how I feel today. I dress comfy but cute. (UWU)
Nina: I love black and white – and street fashion.
Which foods do you like or dislike the most, and why?
E.You: I love meat the most, and raw chili peppers the least.
YeHana: It’s so hard to pick one ~ but sushi is my fav. I really hate skate!!! I can eat it but I would never pay to eat it. I really detest the smell of it. ㅠㅠ
JungA: I absolutely have no food that I don’t/cannot eat, and I’ve been eating kimchi, rice and fermented bean soup since the age of 1, so I love Korean food! But I can’t eat cow’s liver. I heard that the first time that you eat something matters a lot, so I think I didn’t have a good experience with cow’s liver from the start.
EunA: I like and am capable of eating almost anything. If I had to choose something that I can’t eat… maybe frogs. I could never eat that.
Ellie: Baked ziti!!! Come on. Who doesn’t like it?
Nina: I love meat. I don’t like spaghetti in tomato sauce, I’m just not into cooked tomato cuisine.
What kind of person is your ideal?
E.You: A studious person, who has a personality that can blend well with mine.
YeHana: Someone like Jesus.
JungA: The kind of person that I can learn a lot from and has a good humor. I consider courtesy very important, and I seem to be drawn to people who have a great personality, rather than their outer appearance.
EunA: A guy who has a pretty smile.
Ellie: Someone who loves me, is considerate and shows affection for me. (No cheaters!)
Nina: Someone who has a similar humor as myself, whom I can be comfortable with.
How do you usually release stress or tension?
E.You: I sleep and write on my diary.
YeHana: I pray if I get stressed. I talk to God about the things that make me stressed out. I also watch movies, go on youtube or read books that I can focus on, then I get some sleep lol.
JungA: I don’t like being alone in the house, and like to release all the stress by meeting with people, going bowling, and sharing my issues over drinks.
EunA: I take a nap.
Ellie: I drive away from the city to find calm and quiet.
Nina: I usually eat spicy foods to get rid of any stress.
Where would you most like to perform abroad?
E.You: Every country in the world.
YeHana: Japan! I went there last year and want to revisit. Would love to meet Wings in Japan!
JungA: There are a few countries that we’ve performed at so far, but it’d be so cool to go to the States to perform. My dream is for us go there and do well!!
EunA: Would love to perform in L.A, for overseas!!!
Ellie: Everywhere! Starting from my country, then all around the world!
Nina: U.S.A.
Let us know your goals, wishes and dreams for the future. And please leave a comment for the fans.
E.You: First, we’re working very hard for our second album ~!! In the future, I’d love for us to be recognized and acknowledged as a great girl group ~ and star in commercials too lol. We are so moved by how our fan base WINGS are always so caring for each of our members. We’ll never forget, and will always stay connected and communicate with you all. ❤️
YeHana: We’re coming back with a new album soon, so please be a little more patient! We miss you a lot. ㅠ0ㅠ♡♡
JungA: We’re currently at the stage of prepping our second album. We’ve been away for so long; we’ll make sure to be back with more great music and performances! Hope you’re all anticipating our return. I’ll do my very best and really want to thank WINGS so much. I can’t express into words how much we appreciate you all. Love you, WINGS. ♡
EunA: Our future goal is to reach the top 10 in the music charts in Korea, and do a lot of performances all around the world. Our second album is due out soon, so I want to tell the fans that we’re so grateful that they exist. Will be back to showcase better performances. Thank you!
Ellie: We are working on a next album and I can’t wait to meet you all. Hope I can meet more and more WINGS, day by day! Look forward to it please, and give us lots of love❤️ Thank you. Muah! (Peace✌?)
Nina: We’d love to get to tour the world with our CEO. Because we have WINGS with us to support everything we do, I’m sure we could fly high for a long time. Thank you for staying the same and waiting for us. Let’s meet again soon, I love you.
J.Chung.
As we all know each Kpop group has fandom names for the fans like Monbebe (Monsta X), Shawols (SHINee) Blinks (Blackpink) and ARMY (BTS). Now I don’t mean EVERYONE from these fandoms just certain types of people. Fandoms can help support the artist by buying products, streaming music and views on V live (V live is a live streaming app that you can watch a K-pop idol basically Instagram Live.) Though some fandoms help, they can also damage the name of some K-pop idols. Many people proclaim they don’t get into kpop due to the crazy fanbase.
There have been several instances demonstrating the crazy fanbase in the past year, especially with the growing popularity of BTS and Blackpink in the U.S. Most people say “I like kpop but don’t like the fandom” or “I wanna get into kpop but the fans are kinda intense”.
My opinion is that if you are truly interested, you should look into the group yourself, as there are good and bad sides to fandoms of many K-pop groups. Some fandoms go head-to-head with certain topics including “best dancer,” best makane,” ”best vocals” and so much more. In the past most fandoms like “Exo-L” and “ARMYS” have gone head-to-head also “BLINKS” and “ONCE” (TWICE) had a bit of a clash with live performances, MV’s and publicity of the groups. Many BLACK JACKS (2NE1 Fans) were very upset with the disbanding of 2NE1 and Blackpink’s debut and they spread hate about the group and members.
Even though there are many negative things I could say, many fan bases are known for their overwhelming positivity. Some fanbases have made donations to charities, helping other fans try to learn fan chants or translating episodes (subtitles) where the idols make an appearance, dance covers, light sticks and photocards. Fans have, also made video edits about their groups bias, MV reactions and videos spreading awareness about the groups, idol or current news in the K-pop industry. Now due to the instant rise of K-pop for the west more groups are having American tours, more products in stores and even music played in shopping centers.
Being a K-pop fan myself for many years now I have seen and heard multiple things about fandoms and K-pop groups, not everything about fandoms are negative. Fandoms provide a social gathering for people with the same interest to express their love and support for these idols who work hard every day to give us the content we love. With more groups coming to surprise us with new talents and current groups making our hearts grow, fandoms are here to help idols along the way to achieve their dreams.
—- By AliZNation
Shinhwa’s Lee Minwoo has been accused of sexual harassment following a June 29, 2019 bar incident.
Lee was at a Gangnam-bar with other celebrity friends according to reports. While there, Lee and his party approached two women in their twenties sitting at another table. According to the alleged victims, Lee grabbed them by their faces and forcibly kissed and groped them without consent.
The women filed a claim with the police the next morning.
“I went to a drinking party and was severely sexually harassed.” One of the women stated. “Lee grabbed on to both my cheeks and kissed me by force. He also touched certain parts of my body.”
Following the media reports, Liveworks Company, the agency behind Lee’s solo activities, released a statement.
Hello. This is Liveworks Company.
First, we’d like to bow our heads in apology to all those that must have been disappointed and shocked at the news about our agency artist [Minwoo] today.
We spoke to [Minwoo] in order to find out what happened, and it was an incident that occurred out of a small misunderstanding at a gathering with acquaintances at a pojangmacha (tent bar). The involved parties have talked to each other and cleared up all misunderstandings. On reporting sexual harassment to the police when there was no sexual harassment, the other party will be withdrawing their complaint.
However, regardless of the truth of the matter, Lee Min Woo is ashamed that this has happened at all. He is sincerely apologetic, and he is reflecting.
As the involved parties have cleared up all misunderstandings, we earnestly request that everyone refrain from speculative reports.
Once again, we apologize for causing concern.
Seoul Gangnam Police confirmed the complaint was withdrawn. However, the police still plan to investigate the incident.
“It is true that the official complaints about Minwoo’s sexual harassment were withdrawn. However, based on the Act on Special Cases Concerning the Punishment, etc. of Sexual Crimes, we will continue investigating the case. All details including the date of questioning are undecided, and we are currently working out the schedule,” a police representative told OSEN.
Meanwhile, fellow Shinhwa member, Jun Jin, asked fans to be patient and not to spread rumors while discussing Lee during a V-Live.
“I have something to say,” Jun Jin said. “There are all sorts of articles about Minwoo, but I hope you will trust him until the end. Many things can happen when celebrities attend various gatherings. I hope you will believe in him until the end, and please support him and pray for him.” He added, “I’m sure all of you trust us, and I hope you won’t be too upset. I think that as long as you believe in him, the misunderstanding will be cleared up.”
As of this writing, Lee has yet to be questioned by police.
—-Olivia Murray
Former TVXQ and JYJ member Park Yoochun received his sentence for buying and taking drugs.
On July 2, 2019, Park received a sentence of two years of probation and fined 1.4 million KRW (around $1200 USD) at the conclusion of his trial for buying and taking Philopon, a Japanese methamphetamine. If Park violates any of the terms of his probation, he will have to serve 10 months in prison.
The judge provided probation to Park due to this being his first offense and his cooperation during the investigation.
The 33-year-old former idol was charged with buying and using Philopon with his socialite ex fiancé, Hwang Hana, earlier this year. Initially, Park denied the charges but finally confessed after 19 days of denials. He has been detained since April 26, 2019. Upon his sentences, Park no longer needs to be detained.
“I would like to apologize once again for causing concern to many people. I will give back to the society and virtuously work hard. I promise to do so. I apologize,” Park told reporters outside the Gyeonggi District Court Office. “I’m sorry… I am just very sorry and sorry to my fans. I’m sorry. I will live a proper, honest life.”
Park is not expected to appeal his sentencing.
We hope Park gets his life back on track and gets any help he may need to stay sober.
—-Olivia Murray
Following their investigation, Jeonbuk Police confirmed that Jeon Mi-Seon, 48, committed suicide in her hotel room June 29, 2019. The police provided a statement regarding their findings following initial reports that the award-winning actress took her own life.
“Jeon Mi-Seon checked into the hotel at 1AM in the morning, where she stayed by herself,” the police said. “After checking the CCTV, Jeon Mi-Seon went into the room alone, and no one else came in after her. There was no evidence of homicide or invasion, and no final letter was discovered.”
The police continued, “A family member [of Jeon’s] recently passed away, and with her mother ill, it seems Jeon Mi-Seon was experiencing depression. She called her father at 1:40AM in the morning, and it’s estimated she died two hours later. We estimate that time because many people tried to call Jeon Mi-Seon. The bereaved have yet to arrive in Jeonju, so the details of her funeral have not been decided.”
Her agency, Boas Entertainment, also released a statement:
Hello, this is Jeon Mi Sun’s agency Boas Entertainment.
We come with unfortunate news. Actress Jeon Mi Sun has passed away at the age of 50 (Korean age).
She has been receiving treatment for depression. However, we are here with sad news today. We ask for your condolences, and we ask the media to refrain from reporting on unconfirmed rumors and speculations out of respect for her family, who are in shock and grief-stricken.
We will share more information once plans for her funeral parlor are set.
The actress, who was born December 7, 1970, was in Jeonbuk to perform in 2 Nights and 3 Days with Mother at Chobuk University.
We offer our condolences to Jeon’s family and friends.
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.
—-Olivia Murray
On June 29, 2019, actress Jeon Mi-Seon was found dead in a hotel room located in Jeonju, South Korea. According to police, the 48-year-old actress allegedly committed suicide by hanging.
There are conflicting reports regarding how her death was discovered. The award-winning actress—famous for her roles in the film Hide and Seek and the dramas The Return of Hwang Geun-Bok and Moon Embracing the Sun— was reportedly found by an acquaintance. However, The Korean Herald reports that her manager called police stating the actress was missing, but it’s not clear if police found Jeon or if the reported acquaintance did.
“It was around 11:43 a.m. KST when we received the call and were dispatched. She was not breathing, unconscious, had no pulse, and her heart was not beating when we arrived. The ECG (electrocardiogram) showed a state of asystole. She was not moved to the hospital and we have handed the case over to the police,” a spokesperson from the North Jeolla fire department said.
Her agency, Boas Entertainment, plans to make a statement later in the day.
Jeon, who was married, was in Jeonju for her play 2 Nights and 3 Days with Mother. The play was scheduled to be performed at 2pm at Chonbuk University. That performance has been canceled, but the 6pm performance will go on with Jeon’s understudy taking her place.
The late actress was recently in the drama He is Psychometric. In July, her film The King’s Letters is set to be released.
Police are currently investigating the circumstances surrounding her death.
We send our condolences to Jeon’s family and friends.
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.
—-Olivia Murray
We are happy to announce that fans of Korean band W24 can expect to cool off the heat this season with their addictive new single ‘Solfamiredo’ – and a Latin America tour is also on the horizon for the band this September.
W24 is due to make their comeback July 1st of 2019, with the official release of a brand-new digital single, ‘Solfamiredo’.
Since the band’s official debut in March of 2018, W24 has appeared in various music programs, TV shows, and festivals – and worked hard to garner worldwide popularity in many countries around the globe, in particularly the Latin part of the world.
Their new song ‘Solfamiredo – as in, So, fa, mi, re, do’ packages tingly and complicated feelings of love/romance through an upbeat, funky disco melody. The song is elaborated with a contagious chorus that we are sure to get everyone rocking to its beat in no time. ‘Solfamiredo’ is just a perfect tune to cool off the heat this summer, to put it simply.
However, ‘Solfamiredo’ is only a little taster of what is available for W24’s coming 2nd mini-album. With fans anxiously waiting for its release, levels of excitement are rising with news that W24 has included “two extra songs in Spanish” to their track list especially for their devoted Spanish-speaking fans.
For those who haven’t yet checkout our recent interview with W24, please take time to check it out via the link below.
https://www.kcrush.com/kcrush-interview-with-w24
— J.Chung.
On June 21, 2019, Monsta X released “Who Do U Love?” The track features French Montana, making Monsta X next in a line of K-Pop artists to collaborate with Westerners.
“Who Do U Love?” is a solid track. Monsta X’s English is clear and nearly flawless. There are a few places where some words feel a little muddled, but it’s hardly noticeable after a few listens. The lyrics Monsta X sing are simple, but the theming is relatable for many audiences, making the track a shoo-in for Western radio play.
What’s special about “Who Do U Love?” is that is shows Monsta X’s versatility. The song is simplistic, so looking at the lyrics without the track makes the song seem weak. Vocally, “Who Do U Love?” is one of Monsta X’s strongest. The harmonies on the track are robust and well-blended during the chorus. The song’s solid hook draws an audience in, so it’s a track that asks to be listened to on repeat. The song expertly shows off Monsta X’s singing abilities with good low notes, but the shiver-inducing falsettos are what make the song good.
The track’s beat and arrangement also help the song stand out. As an older K-Pop fan, the instrumentals sound like late-1990s, early-2000s Western pop with hints of R&B, so this blend and subtle nod to the past makes the song cheer-worthy. The pacing of the track, too, provides an easy-listening vibe that fits any mood. The fact this track does dabble in different genres while still having a K-Pop feel makes it special because sometimes it’s a formula that doesn’t always work.
Sadly, praise begins and ends with Monsta X. “Who Do U Love?” could have been the perfect track if it wasn’t for French Montana’s inclusion. His verse is a vibe-killer and doesn’t fit the song at all. While Monsta X is asking a lover to choose between them and another party, French Montana comes into the song like an overly drunk person crashing a conversation at a party!
In the middle of the nonsense, unnecessary French Montana verse, there are hints that he’s rapping about two women fighting over one man, which is a reversal from how the song begins with what we assume is a man asking his partner to choose between him and another. French Montana’s content makes the song confusing: What point-of-view is this song?
Additionally, French Montana’s verse makes a lot of references to past Western celebrities which some Monsta X audiences may not understand due to the fanbase being younger than the people French Montana reference. For example, “Brandy and Monica” refer to actress and singer Brandy Norwood (Moesha, “Have You Ever”) and R&B singer Monica (“Angel of Mine,” “The Boy is Mine” which is performed with Brandy), while “Tity Boi, 2Chainz” refers to 1990s and early 2000s rapper, 2 Chainz. The references make zero sense given the song’s theme and context, so it just feels like name-dropping for the sake of name-dropping. French Montana’s verse is useless and should have been left off. A better collaboration had to be available somewhere because this one just didn’t work.
If the song was just Monsta X, it would have earned a solid 4.5/5. However, French Montana’s verse ruined the whole vibe, dropping the rating down to 2/5. It’s a shame a good song got wrecked by poor collaboration choices.
—-Olivia Murray
Some tales don’t always end in happily ever after…
The celebrated and much-loved “Song-Song Couple,” Song Hye-Kyo and Song Joong-Ki, are headed toward divorce after two years of marriage.
The pair, who held leading roles in the nationally and internationally loved drama Descendants of the Sun, won audiences over due to their on-screen chemistry. At the time, the chemistry for the 32-year-old actor and 37-year-old actress carried on off-screen as well, leading to their feted October 31, 2017 wedding.
Song Joong-Ki filed the motion for divorce at the Seoul Family Court on Wednesday June 26, 2019.
In a statement, Song Joong-Ki acknowledged the filing.
Hello. This is Song Joong-Ki. First, I’d like to apologize for delivering this unfortunate news to the many fans who love and care for me.
I have begun the process of filing for divorce from Song Hye-Kyo. Rather than denouncing one another and arguing over who is to blame, I hope that the divorce process can be wrapped up amicably.
I ask for your understanding regarding the fact that it is difficult to discuss the details of my personal life, and I will recover from my current wounds and do my utmost as an actor to repay you through great productions in the future. Thank you.
United Artists Agency, Song Kye-Hyo’s agency, released a statement on the actress’ behalf.
We find it unfortunate that we are greeting you with unhappy news. After careful consideration, actress Song Hye-Kyo and her husband are taking the first steps toward a divorce.
The reason for the divorce is differences in personality, and because the two were unable to overcome their differences, they were forced to come to this decision.
We respectfully ask for your understanding regarding the fact that we cannot confirm any further details out of respect for the two actors’ personal lives. Additionally, we urge you to refrain from making scandalous posts and speculative comments.
Hopefully, the divorce will end amicably for both parties.
—-Olivia Murray
On June 24, 2019, Yonhap News reported that the Seoul Central District Prosecutors’ Office indicted B.A.P’s Kim Himchan on sexual assault charges that stemmed from a July 24, 2018 incident. The news of the incident initially broke in September 2018. His indictment, which does not have a detention order, occurred April 2019.
The indictment comes after witness testimonies that caused police to state there was enough evidence for indictment.
Last year, Kim, his accuser, and two other males, and two other females vacationed in Namyang-ju. During the trip, both Kim and his accuser were allegedly drinking. The alleged victim stated Kim sexually harassed her while Kim said the actions that night were “consensual.”
Following the incident, TS Entertainment, Kim’s former agency, stated the incident was due to a misunderstanding.
According to Yonhap News, Kim’s court hearings begin July 12, 2019.
All parties are innocent until proven guilty in the court of law.
—-Olivia Murray
Being selected in the first round of any sports draft is a big deal but being selected in the top ten of any sports draft is an even bigger deal. For Gonzaga University student and basketball small-forward and power-forward Rui Hachimura, being the first Japanese-born player to be selected in the first round and in the top ten of the 2019 NBA draft is an even bigger deal.
“For Japan to qualify for the world championships, [Hachimura’s] the focal point. And when the (Tokyo) Olympics come in 2020, he’s going to be the focal point of that country on that basketball team,” Wizards interim general manager Tommy Sheppard said when asked about why he selected Hachimura. “To be able to shoulder that load at his age — the maturity he has — I think that’s going to bode well for him in the NBA.”
Born to a Japanese mother and Beninese father, Hachimura, 21, made history when the Washington Wizards selected him ninth overall during the NBA draft. It is the first time a Japanese player was selected in the first round in the draft. He is only the second Japanese player drafted in the NBA’s history, following in Yasutaka Okayama’s footsteps. Okayama was selected by the Golden State Warriors in the eighth round (171st overall) of the 1981 NBA draft.
While Okayama—who was the tallest player ever drafted in NBA history at 7’8”—didn’t sign a contract with the Warriors, Hachimura does intend to play for the NBA, which would make him the first drafted Japanese-born player to play in the NBA, and only the third player of Japanese descent to play in the regular season (Yuta Tabuse for the Phoenix Suns in 2004-2005, and Yuta Watanabe for the Memphis Grizzlies in 2018-2019).
“I was drafted in the eighth round, he’s a first-rounder,” the 64-year-old Okayama said of Hachimura’s selection. “He’s genuinely the first Japanese.”
“First of all, I want to play in the playoffs. Of course, I want to help the team. I want a championship,” Hachimura said. “I think that’s the one thing I want to accomplish here.”
Hachimura has a bright career in front of him. The 2019 West Coast Conference Player of the Year and 2019 Julius Erving Award winner has several accolades to his name, and he is a current member of the Japanese national team. When he joined the Gonzaga University Bulldogs team in 2016, he became the fifth Japanese-born player NCAA Division I player and the first Japanese national in 2017 to play in the NCAA Division I men’s tournament. He was named a finalist for the Naismith Player of the Year.
For his 2018-2019 college basketball season, Hachimura put up career numbers including averaging 19.7 points per game. For the Wizards, he’s expected to be able to play multiple positions as needed.
“With the way the league is going, you can just put him out there. It’s such a `position-less’ (league). I know that’s the cool thing to say, but it’s true. You have to be able to have playmakers on the floor,” Wizards coach Scott Brooks said.
The new NBA season begins October 2019. Keep your eye on the court: Hachimura may be out there!
Photo Credits: NBA.com, Mainichi
—-Olivia Murray
Since the beginning of the year, the K-Pop World has experienced controversy after controversy starting with the Burning Sun scandal that rocked the entertainment world. Stemming from Burning Sun came the KakaoTalk controversy surrounding Jung Joon Young and several other celebrities, which lead back to Seungri and multiple allegations for prostitution, embezzlement, and gambling. Most recently, Yang Hyun Seuk, the founder of YG Entertainment has been dragged into a drug controversy along with now-former iKON member B.I. With these controversies dominating Korean entertainment news, at what point does controversy become too much controversy, especially when the media goes out of its way to form more drama?
Every time you turn around, there’s another story regarding any one of these cases. Often, the stories released—and they are released often—just provide speculation or rehash information that was already “out there,” so it isn’t like there’s fresh information published every hour.
The truth is, people love controversy. Reading about scandals equals clickbait for news agencies, and that, in turn, generates revenue. News outlets see clicks, and those clicks equal views, and those views generate ad revenue. The allure of online and TV traffic turns news agencies into insatiable monsters hungry for more attention that it often comes at a cost: The risk of over-saturation and a need to sensualize to stay relevant.
With the recent controversies, over-saturation has certainly happened. Every day, it’s another article about Burning Sun, Seungri, Yang Hyun Seuk, or anyone else recently tied-up in a problem of their own doing. However, how many of these articles provide facts? How many stories have speculation? This isn’t clear, but it seems the media latches onto these stories and cannot see past the potential revenue and views that they just publish stories without having all the facts, appropriate research, and investigations to truly have a story. The media is not doing themselves any favors with the excessive coverage.
At this point, the stories have grown stale. They’re repetitive. They’ve lost their impact, and some entertainment news consumers have admitted on social media that they now scroll past the stories and no longer care. Meanwhile, other consumers have stated they are now on the sides of the accused due to the media saturating and sensationalizing the news world with the scandal stories. When members of the general public start rooting for the people that the media wants consumers to root against, it’s safe to say that coverage has gone too far.
That’s not to say that the stories shouldn’t be reported. They should be because they are big stories deserving of coverage. However, there is a fine line Korean media—and in turn, sources that translate Korean media—need to walk. When stories are just breaking, cover them… but make sure not to embellish or pass information off as fact when it may not be fact.
This is a major issue with many of the stories breaking this year: It’s hard to delineate fact from fiction, especially since Korean media, translators of Korean media, and even every day fans writing as if they are part of the media (which is another issue entirely) tend to add opinion and dramatic flair which then adds oil to the already sullied waters of K-entertainment reporting. For impressionable minds or those who read without critically analyzing content and researching information further (as the saying goes, “there are three sides to a story: Yours, mine, and the truth”), those who share opinions or stretch information to fulfill a certain narrative are not doing a service for anyone consuming the news: They’re doing more harm than good. This is why it’s important to navigate the minefield of information and only report what has been proven or relayed from the appropriate authorities. However, this doesn’t seem to be the case when massive stories break and given the months of information and misinformation regarding Burning Sun, KakaoTalks, and YG scandals, it’s hard to tell what is truth and what isn’t truth anymore. The media, in turn, creates controversies of their own while damaging credibility.
There was a time when the media had credibility and a Code of Ethics, but the latter seems to be a thing of past given how the media acts like a bunch of gossipy children with not only Burning Sun and the fallout, but in other topics including politics and world affairs. We also live in a time where, in order to get people to watch the news, silly antics sell more than an accurate story. The days of serious, legitimate, truthful, actionable news seems to be lost in a circus-like atmosphere of bashing and hurling insults while trying to be first with a juicy story that may not be verified 100 percent.
With all of this taken into consideration, it’s easy to see why people are tired of hearing about Burning Sun, sexual assault cases tied to KakaoTalks, alleged prostitution, and purported drug-use allegations at a major company. It’s not that the stories don’t matter, it’s that the reporting has become a carnival ride of information abuse.
The stories need to be reported, but they need to be reported responsibly and without sensationalism. These are stories that involve crime and victims, so being sensitive and accurate should take precedence over being first and hyping information for views and drama. Why create more controversy over already steamy issues, and why push your audiences away at the same time?
—-Olivia Murray
Starting in October 2019, Tiffany Young (SNSD) will embark on her multi-city North American tour!
Young’s Magnetic Moon tour will bring her to 18 cities across the United States and Canada. Concert goers that register on the Tunespeak website have a chance to get tickets during a presale period, and they will be entered to win two tickets, soundcheck access, and autographed tour merchandise. The sweepstakes period is June 21, 2019 to June 25, 2019. Sweepstakes rules vary per city but offer multiple chances to win the grand prize.
Check out the tour dates, cities, and sweepstakes rules below! Will you attend one of the shows to see Tiffany Young live?
| October 25, 2019 | San Francisco, CA | The Regency Ballroom | Registration & Sweepstakes |
| October 27, 2019 | Vancouver, BC | Vogue Theatre | Registration & Sweepstakes |
| October 28, 2019 | Portland, OR | Wonder Ballroom | Registration & Sweepstakes |
| October 29, 2019 | Seattle, WA | Showbox at the Market | Registration & Sweepstakes |
| November 1, 2019 | Minneapolis, MN | First Avenue | Registration & Sweepstakes |
| November 2, 2019 | Chicago, IL | Vic Theatre | Registration & Sweepstakes |
| November 4, 2019 | Toronto, ON | The Danforth Music Hall | Registration & Sweepstakes |
| November 6, 2019 | Philadelphia, PA | Union Transfer | Registration & Sweepstakes |
| November 8, 2019 | Boston, MA | Paradise Rock Club | Registration & Sweepstakes |
| November 9, 2019 | Washington, DC | U Street Music Hall | Registration & Sweepstakes |
| November 10, 2019 | Brooklyn, NY | Brooklyn Steel | Registration & Sweepstakes |
| November 12, 2019 | Raleigh, NC | Lincoln Theatre | Registration & Sweepstakes |
| November 13, 2019 | Atlanta, GA | Buckhead Theatre | Registration & Sweepstakes |
| November 15, 2019 | Houston, TX | White Oak Music Hall | Registration & Sweepstakes |
| November 16, 2019 | Dallas, TX | Trees | Registration & Sweepstakes |
| November 18, 2019 | Denver, CO | Bluebird Theater | Registration & Sweepstakes |
| November 20, 2019 | Phoenix, AZ | Crescent Ballroom | Registration & Sweepstakes |
| November 21, 2019 | Los Angeles, CA | The Fonda Theatre | Registration & Sweepstakes |
—-Olivia Murray
Kan Sano is an inventive Japanese keyboardist and trackmaker, who studied jazz at Berkley Music College, and performed at the Monterey Jazz Festival with his band while he was enrolled there. He infuses jazz and classical into an original sound which can be enjoyed by any audience: from concert halls to underground night clubs.
Kan Sano’s work include a ton of collaborations, both in Japan and overseas and has worked with various artists including Madlib, Shing02, Eric Lau, Monday Michiru, Chara, Ohashi Trio, Twigy, Ryhmester… Kan states that he thinks about music all the time, and constantly adding music to his SoundCloud – his tracks have been played over 400,000 times. In 2011, he released his debut album Fantastic Farewell in 2011. The following year, under the name of Bennetrhodes, he released the album Sun Ya on the Wax Poetics Japan label which was a huge hit in the club scene.
On May 22 of 2019, Kan Sano released a new album – Ghost Notes – all the keyboard, drum, bass, guitar, trumpet, vocals, songwriting and mixing were all done by the artist. The album is currently available in limited edition and a regular edition; the limited edition contains a bonus CD featuring overs of music by Marvin Gaye and D’Angelo.
KCrush America would like to express “a massive thank you” to Kan Sano and his great team in Japan for this great interview. We very much hope that our readers will be able to learn more about the talented artist and musician through this interview.
*Please introduce yourself to our readers.
My name is Kan Sano. I was born in Kanazawa city, Ishikawa. It has been 10 years since I began my music career in Tokyo.
I am a keyboardist and producer for many artists like Chara, Ua, Tavito Nanao, Asako Toki and more. I’m also a solo artist.
And I most recently released my album “Ghosts Notes” on 23th May.
*Share with us how you decided to become a musician.
I started listening to The Beatles when I was 12 years old, then I got interested in music. I wanted to sing with guitar and piano like them, so I started trying to record my original songs to my boombox. I wrote “My dream is to be a musician” on the year book (graduation album) of elementary school.
*How would you express your music and sound? Tell us about your most recent work/album.
For me, it’s hard to explain about my music. Sometimes, too much self-analysis hampers my creation. The music that I listened in my teenage years has influenced me.
Jazz, Soul, Neo Soul, Contemporary music, HIP HOP, J POP…
My latest album “Ghost Notes” is inspired by Soul music and Neo Soul. Recently, I make remix of Asako Toki, THREE1989, M-Flo, Mime, Sing Like Talking and I produced iri, Ayaka, MGF and more…
*Which artists or people inspired you musically?
The Beatles, Miles Davis, Keith Jarrett, Herbie Hancock, D’Angelo, Jazzanova, monolog, Gilles Peterson, Chara, Toru Takemitsu, Glenn Gould and more…
*What do you like to do in your free time?
To watch TV (comedy shows), movies and read comics. Also, I like to watch Japanese rice fish (Medaka) in my yard.
Sometimes, I go to a cafe which is a renovated old house.
*What is your favorite food or beverage? Please state the reasons as well…
- Casserole. Because It’s simple and good for health.
- Japanese Ramen (Noodle). Hakata Pork Ramenis No.1 in Japan!
- Udon(Noodle) in Kagawa.
- Soba(Noodle) in Nagano.
- Sushi in Kanazawa.
Drink
- Homemade Ginger Ale.
- Soda without sugar.
- Decafe.
*Can you recommend us any songs or albums that you like nowadays?
- Billie Eilishis awesome!
- Roberta Flack– Do What You Gotta Do. I like to listen it on my record player, because I can find many things when I listen that way.
- Nao Kodama– In Your Box. It’s awesome! Someday, I want to cover “Toki no origami” which is included in that album.
*What would you advise to anyone who wants to become a professional musician?
If you want to be a pianist, you must practice piano every day with a high ideal. When you are young, it is better to be overwhelmed by the reality.
If you feel “reality bites” – then it’s your start line. Then you’ll be a professional someday.
One more thing, you must get in touch with all the first-class art and entertainment. Film, cartoon, theater, painting, pottery… All roots of art are the same.
*Are you a workaholic? What do you do to deal with stress?
I’m thinking about music 24-7. I don’t consider creating music is work.
But I fear meeting deadlines and that causes stress for me… when I watch a comedy show, then stress is gone!
*Which American artist/musician would you want to work with in the future?
Meshell Ndegeocello! She is the no.1 bassist in the world.
*Which country would you like to travel the most?
U.K and France. I’m a member of Toshio Matsuura presents HEX. It was so fun when I went on tour to those countries. So, I really want to go there again.
*What are your hopes and goals in life? What do you like to tell your fans?
I want to keep on releasing albums until I’m 80 years old. (Like Hermeto Pascoal!) I could then release 40-50 albums if I will release albums every year.
I try to do everything that has no genre. Please listen to my music even if you got older!
— J.Chung.
Kcrush America K-Pop Top 30: May 2019
*Singapore is among the 20 of the smallest countries in the world, with a total land area of only 682.7 square kilometers. (The U.S is about 15,000 times bigger.)
*Singapore includes 63 additional islands, most of which are uninhabited.
*Sang Nila Utama, a prince from Palembang, saw a creature he thought was a lion and named the island “Singapura” which means “Lion City” in Sanskrit.
*Singapore’s Independence from Malaysia, in 1965 – was not through a war or military dispute – Malaysia democratically voted to throw Singapore out.
*Lee Kuan Yew was the first prime minister of Singapore who held the office for three decades. A deeply revered heartthrob of Singapore and an inspiration for the world, he turned Singapore into a first world country, in a single generation.
*Singapore became the 117th member of the U.N., on 21 September of 1965.
*The red of Singapore’s flag represents equality of man, while the white symbolizes purity and virtue. The crescent moon stands for a youthful nation on the rise, the five stars each signify democracy, peace, progress, justice and equality.
*Singapore’s national icon is the Merlion, which is of half fish and half lion.
*In 1819, Singapore was founded as a British trading colony.
*Singapore does not have a capital. It is one of three existing city-states in the world.
*The national language of Singapore is Malay. The four official languages of the country are English, Chinese, Tamil, and Malay. Singlish, which is an internationally known blend of English and elements of Chinese and Malay, is widely used too.
*In Singapore, chewing gum is banned except without medical prescription. You can get into serious trouble if a policeman sees you chewing a gum.
*Caning is still a legal form of punishment in Singapore. If you vandalize any property in Singapore, you’ll probably end up being caned.
*World Toilet day, November 19th, was created after the Singapore government scheduled a UN resolution to designate the day. On November 19th, the World Toilet Organization formed in Singapore.
*Elevators in Singapore have a urine detector, so if it detects the smell of kidney filtered water, it locks the doors until the police arrive. Singapore has passed a law which prohibits urinating in the elevators. It’s a crime to not flush the public toilet after use in Singapore.
*Singapore has two days dedicated to its children. While 1st October is celebrated for children below 12 years, the Youth Day is celebrated on the first Sunday of every July, for teenagers.
*It is mandatory for Singaporean men to join the army for 1 to 2 years once they reach the age of 18.
*Singapore prints the entire lyrics of its national anthem on 1000 Singapore dollar notes.
*The largest fountain in the world exists in Singapore at the center of Suntec City. It cost around US$6 million to build in 1997.
*At Rio 2016 Summer Olympics, 21-year-old Joseph Schooling won the gold medal in the 100m butterfly – this was the first Olympic gold medal won by Singapore. In the same year, Paralympic swimmer Yip Pin Xiu earned another gold medal, setting a new world record.
*According to a research by the British Council, Singaporeans have the fastest walking speed – on average, they walk a distance of 18m per 10.55 seconds.
*The Singaporean government seriously discourages it citizens from owning cars to reduce air pollution. If you want to own a car you have to additionally pay 1.5 times the car price to get the vehicle certified.
*Singapore contributes to 25% of the world market as the biggest exporter of ornamental fish.
*Dealing with drugs in Singapore can mostly likely lead to a death sentence.
*Singapore’s citizens do not need a VISA to go to the United States, China, South Korea, or North Korea.
— J. Chung.
Highschool is a 4-member Korean girl group, signed under Richworld Entertainment. The CEO is a singer who was also a member of the 90’s boy group, Eagle Five.
Highschool made their debut on April 30th, 2019, the original date was postponed due to minor member changes. For now, Highschool’s present concept involves the members to cover most of their faces by wearing masks – this was because their CEO wanted the audience to focus on the members’ music and talent, rather than their appearance – and the whole masked look has garnered much attention. The group’s ages, birth places, educational backgrounds and other personal information are not currently revealed to the public either. The group released two pre-release singles: High Class on March 20, 2019 and Baby You’re Mine on April 30.
We’d like to thank Highschool and their staff for this great interview, as we wish them all the best in their future endeavors.
*Would you briefly describe yourselves please?
Yebin: Hi~, I’m Yebin ~ I am the youngest in Highschool.
Haebin: Hi~, I’m Haebin, I’m the rapper and the leader of the Highschool.
J: Hi, I’m J, and I’m the vocalist in this group.
Soeun: Hi. I’m Soeun.
*How did you join the group? Tell us what you wanted to be when you were growing up.
Yebin: I always wanted to be a singer since elementary and was able to join the team via an audition.
Haebin: My dream was to become a flight attendant. I had an opportunity to become a trainee, and fell in love with music and dancing! I worked so hard and was lucky to join the team.
J: I loved singing and dancing since I was very young. I wanted to experience working as a team instead of being a solo artist, so I joined the Highschool.
Soeun: I wanted to become a chef when I was younger. I’m not great cook, but always liked cooking and coming up with new things. By chance, I got to listen to K-pop and was very moved, and wanted to become a singer ~ that’s how I became a member of Highschool.
*How did the name of this group come about? Could you briefly explain the group’s image and concept?
Haebin: Our name, Highschool was born in memory of our High school years as innocent kids, sometimes reckless but uncompromising and enthusiastic. Our image represents unwearyingly infinite energy with powerful and individualistic characteristics (mysterious at times) to build our style and image. We tend to display a charming impression and charismatic on stage, but when we meet with our fans, we’re just unique and attractive High school girls. ^^
*Which musical artists do you respect the most and why?
Yebin: I respect Girl’s Generation, because they’re still remembered by the public for so long, and I love the fact that each singer strives to do the best in their own fields.
Haebin: I mention this person frequently when I do interviews ~ the artist that I respect the most is Lauryn Hill. She performs and maintains her professionalism as an awesome singer, songwriter and rapper. I really admire her.
J: I respect all kinds of musicians and artists, but recently I listen to Billie Eilish’s song a lot. Every time I listened to her unique style of the song trigger something different each time. I like it and listen to it a lot.
Soeun: My favorite musical artist is Hyori Lee. She was the most famous iconic singer of her generation, and even after her marriage she continues to make music until now. I really respect that.
*What is the first thing that you normally do when you get up in the morning?
Yebin: I check my phone for the time, turn off the alarm then head straight to wash.
Haebin: The first thing that I do in the morning is make coffee. I love coffee so much that my family or friends give me coffee-related presents on my birthdays or for travel souvenirs. I like to taste various types of coffee beans and look for new types of coffee as well.
J: I stretch myself~ then go straight to shower
Soeun: I take some vitamin supplements. My mom always gave me supplements the first thing in the morning since I was young, so taking vitamin supplements every morning with water has become a habit.
*Please recommend us a song/album that you enjoy listening to these days.
Yebin: I listened to N.Flying’s “Spring Memories” often
Haebin: Looks like I’ve been listening to lots of songs on the music chart site and currently Ella Mai’s Trip is number one. I like all the tracks from the Ella Mai’s album
J: Like I menationed earlier, I listened to Billie Eilish songs a lot, especially “Bad guy” and “Bury a friend.”
Soeun: I like Kriz and listened to Bad frequently. I’d like to recommend that song.
*Does your CEO affect the group in terms of the music? If so, how?
Yebin: Yes, he always gives us lots of information and support.
Haebin: We are always influenced by him because he takes care of us like a father. He guides us into right direction and helps us with our identities so that we won’t lose our color and be able to enhance musically.
J: Well, since he’s our boss and at the same time, our senior, he gives us lot of advice and suggestions. So, I think we are very influenced by him in that way.
Soeun: Because our CEO is a singer himself, naturally he lends us a lot of help musically.
*Which color best describes your personality and musical sound?
Yebin: My personality is usually very bright and cheerful, but sometimes curt, so I’d say “dark yellow.” But when it comes to music, I have a straight up and wide vocal range which is somewhat similar to “white” I think.
Haebin: Purple matches my character and musical sound. My mysterious, yet husky voice and high tone voice, along with my bright personality can all be expressed as purple. It’s my favorite color too, so I believe purple describes my personality very well.
J: I think “Cobalt Blue” describes my perky personality and character. Musically, calm and peaceful beige or ivory tones come in mind
Soeun: I think my positive character and slightly husky voice matches well with orange!
*Do you have any habits that you want to get rid of?
Yebin: I bite my lips time to time ~ and I really want to fix that.
Haebin: I have the tendency to become deeply immersed in things and find it hard to kick the habit. Once, I was really obsessed with Korean food Japchae, so I had the same food for a month. I really want to fix this kind of habit of getting too absorbed in things.
J: I have trouble memorizing things, and am very forgetful. I want to fix that habit fast.
Soeun: Zoning out often and at times, I think up words in my head, and then later think I said it out loud but in reality, I didn’t.
*Tell us about any movie, novel or musical that you’ve enjoyed recently.
Yebin: It’s not a very recent movie but I like the movie Maze Runner.
Haebin: I liked reading the Winnie-the-Pooh Essay, and enjoyed reading its quotes. All the meaningful and helpful quotes put into a book, which I really enjoyed.
J: I’m a big fan of the Marvel series, and Avengers: Endgame was my favorite. For those of you who like Marvel movies, you must watch! You won’t regret it.
Soeun: I recently watched Avengers: Endgame and it was fun. Thanks to the movie, I’ve been catching up with old Avengers series
*Which location is the best place to tour or travel in Korea in your opinion?
Yebin: I went to Gapyeong with my family when I was young. The place was pretty and I remember it being really fun.
Haebin: I want to recommend DMZ. They have DMZ tour where you can see North Korea from far away and enter into the 3rd Underground Tunnel. You can see restricted Unification Bridge if go by tour, so I think the tour will be meaningful.
J: I know many foreigners visit Seoul when they come to Korea, but if you’re really looking for traditional Korea, go to Jeonju (Korean-Style House) Hanok village. You can try Korean traditional clothes and taste various types of traditional food.
Soeun: I would like to recommend the five palaces of Seoul. I think it’s beautiful to preserve the tradition in current modern culture.
*What are your hobbies or interests outside of music?
Yebin: I like to repeatedly read “webtoons” or watch entertainment programs on TV.
Haebin: Other than music, I’d say traveling. I’ve been to almost all famous tourist attractions and small cities in Korea, and have done a bit of traveling abroad. If I’m given free time, I would probably be traveling. And of course, I’m always into coffee. ^^ I drink more than three cups per day and want to try more diverse types of coffee.
J: Other than music, my interest is knitting, coffee and dessert. I’m not necessarily interested in making dessert, but in eating them. LOL
Soeun: A few days ago, I purchased a Nanoblock and it was so fun ~ it’s become my hobby since.
*Which country in the world would you like to perform at?
Yebin: Since our fans from so many different counties want us to visit them, I would like to perform in all the countries where our fans are.
Haebin: All around the world ~ the question itself is making me happy. I think that our stage is wherever are fans. I want to go all the places, where we can connect with our fans and not miss out any places.
J: I want to travel to any countries where our fans want us to meet
Soeun: I would like to perform anywhere where our fans who like us want us to be. But if I have to choose one country, I would like to go to U.S.
*Let us know of your future plans and hopes, and add something nice to the fans too!
Yebin: I appreciate all the warm, thoughtful cheers and praise. I’ll strive to do my best to perform on the stage in appreciation. Love ya!
Haebin: I’m very grateful for all your love and interest from the beginning of the Highschool, and happy to push myself to improve. I’ll do my best to become better and return all the love. I love you all ~
J: Thank you for being there for us. As much as you like and cheer for us, we’ll also work harder to show you guys a better and more wholesome performances, so please continue to love us. Thank you always.
Soeun: We’ll do my best and work hard to meet with all the fans in the world. Thank you so much for waiting and loving us from the beginning! Until we meet you again, please be patient. Thank you.
— J.Chung.