Lee Byung Hun 이병헌 Byunghun Lee

rubie · June 10, 2015

June 10, 2015

Hollywood blockbusters sweep theaters

The Korean film industry has demonstrated on numerous occasions that it's able to attract significantly large numbers into theaters. "Roaring Currents," for example, smashed records last year to become the most successful film in box office history attracting a whopping 17 million viewers. There's also a long list of local films that have taken the box office by storm. Indeed, for the past three years, admissions for Korean films have surpassed 100 million.

But foreign films, especially Hollywood features are having an increasingly palpable presence having surpassed 100 million admissions for the first time last year. According to the Korean Film Council (KOFIC) in 2011 there were 289 non-Korean films released, yet this number increased threefold in just three years. Last year, 885 foreign films hit screens. This includes a number of independent, arthouse titles that generally receive limited releases, but benefit from further exposure ahead of a video-on-demand (VOD) release, which continues to grow ― in fact, Internet Protocol television (IPTV) in Korea tripled in size in just four years with subscribers surpassing 10 million in August 2014.

However, in theaters, there's no denying the ever-burgeoning popularity of Hollywood films, in particular. Last year, Disney animation "Frozen" that was popular with families and children surpassed 10 million admissions as did Christopher Nolan's "Interstellar." The latter amassed more revenue in Korea that it did in Nolan's birthplace, the U.K., with $73 million in box office receipts. In terms of box office sales only China and North America outperformed Korea. The film's strong visuals, intelligent storytelling involving scientific elements seemed to resonate well with Korean audiences.

Also this year, "Avengers: Age of Ultron" became the first foreign film to enter the so-called coveted 10 million ticket club in 2015 following unprecedented interest ahead of the film's release due to the scenes shot in Seoul – a decision that indicates Hollywood is taking note.

"Mad Max: Fury Road" has also enjoyed tremendous success in Korea having surpassed 3.4 million admissions ($26.8m) to date accumulating more revenue than any other territory outside North America following strong word-of-mouth. Disaster epic "San Andreas" pulled in over 700,000 viewers last weekend despite ongoing fears of the MERS virus.

Looking ahead, franchises are to set further entice audiences into the multiplexes. Today (June 11), "Jurassic World" hits local screens. Directed by Colin Trevorrow, "Jurassic World" stars Chris Pratt ("Guardians of the Galaxy") it takes place twenty-two years after the events of "Jurassic Park" when a new attraction to lure visitors backfires. The film is currently topping the local reservation charts with more than a 70% share and while the third installment was a disappointment, nostalgia and the growing market for films suitable for families could result in strong box office returns.

In July, two bankable stars will grace screens. On July 2, "Terminator Genisys" starring Lee Byeong-hun in a supporting role as T-1000 will be released. Whether problems in his personal life will affect its box office performance remains to be seen, this is, however, a proven franchise. "Terminator Salvation sold over 4.5 million tickets in Korea in 2009. With James Cameron giving it his endorsement in a recent interview, and Arnold Schwarzenegger returning to his iconic role as The Terminator, as he tries to stop "Judgement Day," it's poised to do strong business at the box office.

Then on July 30 Tom Cruise returns to his role as Ethan Hunt in "Mission: Impossible - Rogue Nation" directed by Christopher McQuarrie ― their fourth collaboration ("Jack Reacher"). Hunt's latest mission is to eliminate ― with the help of his team ― an international rogue organization set on destroying the IMF. Cruise's latest stunts include hanging onto a military transport aircraft as it takes off without the use of a stunt double.

Films featuring Cruise tend to perform well in Korea, especially the Mission Impossible series. Brad Bird's "Mission: Impossible - Ghost Protocol" attracted over 7.5 million viewers in 2011-12.

With its combination of stars and franchises that appeal to a wide demographic, including families, Hollywood films have found a solid fan base in Korea, while certain independent films have also attracted significant numbers. But as seen with films such as "Interstellar" and "Kingsman," even features that take bigger creative risks can result in substantial financial returns in Korea where strong word-of-mouth can drive a film's success through social networking and portal sites to such an extent, Hollywood is fast taking notice.

rubie · June 10, 2015

June 10, 2015

Drifting Lee Byung Hun’s movie… ‘a wait-and-see policy’ for the release date

Source: Innolife.com

The movies are considering release dates, that an actor Lee Byung-Hun appeared in, who was caught into ‘5 billion threat scandal.

As the news was spread, that the movie ‘Memories of the Sword’ moved up the release date on August, the distributor Lotte noticed that it is the candidate waiting the time to release.”

‘Memories of the Sword’ the martial arts movie that Lee Byung-Hun shot with Jeon Do-Yeon, Kim Go-Eun, and Junho, finished all shooting in 2013. First they planned to release the movie in winter, but after the ‘accident of Lee Byung-Hun’ it delayed the date indefinitely.

‘The Insiders(Director Woo Min-Ho) based on the webtoon of Yoon Tae-Ho, also had a crank up on July last year, but it could not have the release. On June there was a rumor of release for ‘The Insiders’, the distributor Showbox saved the word, “We are discussing proper date of release.”

What Lee Byung-Hun will show for the first time after the scandal, is a foreign movie not a Korean movie but ‘Terminator Genisys’ which will be opened on July 2nd, Lee Byung-Hun performed the role of T-1000 the liquid metal Terminator. [Photo=movie ‘The Insiders’]

rubie · June 11, 2015

#LeeMinjung posting photos at her IG again

Source: 216jung

rubie · June 11, 2015

June 11, 2015

Lee Min Jung posts selfie for the first time after she delivered baby boy

Source: StarNews via Hancinema.net

Actress Lee Min Jung shared a glimpse of her life.

On June 11, Lee Min Jung posted two photos on her personal Instagram.

In the shared photo, Lee Min Jung still looks innocent and beautiful.

This is the first time Lee Min Jung shared her photo after delivering her baby boy.

Lee Min Jung delivered her first child on March 31st. Lee Byung Hun and Lee Min Jung moved to Samseong-dong, Seoul from Gwangju, Gyeonggi-do after the baby boy was born.

rubie · June 11, 2015

June 11, 2015

Lee Min-jung updates Instagram after months-long silence

Korean actress Lee Min-jung, wife of actor Lee Byung-hun, has updated her Instagram webpage for the first time in weeks.

Lee has mostly been absent on Instagram since last September, around the time her husband was first embroiled in a cheating and blackmail scandal involving two women.

Since September 2014, she had only shared one photo -- of Polaroids with her friends -- in March.

Lee and her husband have since reunited and reaffirmed their two-year marriage, welcoming their first child, a son, in March. Lee, 33, shared photos of natural scenery, a night skyline and several photos of herself, including at least one selfie.

Lee is a celebrated actress in her own right, though she has acted in fewer projects since getting married in 2013.

By Yoon Sarah (sarah356@heraldcorp.com)

rubie · June 11, 2015

June 11, 2015

Actress Rhee Min-jung resumes her moves online

By Ko Dong-hwan The Korea Times

Rhee Min-jung / Courtesy of Instagram

Actress Rhee Min-jung has resurfaced online after she gave birth to her first son in March.

Rhee, 33, posted three photos of herself on her Instagram account on Wednesday.

The photos show the actress looking into the camera with a smile or with a placid composure. Netizens commented on the photos, praising her beauty and asking how she has been.

It has been 14 weeks since Rhee posted new photos on her SNS webpage.

Debuting in 2004 with comedy-romance movie, "Woman I Know," she has been active on TV and in movies. She made headlines in August 2013 when she married actor Lee Byung-hun.

rubie · June 12, 2015

June 12, 2015

Will Lee Byung-hun promote 'Terminator 5' or shun the limelight?

Hollywood’s fifth “Terminator” film is set for release in Korea this July and local media is wondering whether Korean actor Lee Byung-hun, who plays a supporting role, will actively promote the film or stay out of the public limelight.

Lee received heightened publicity last April for being cast in the action sequel “Terminator Genisys,” which he concluded shooting four months later in August.

Shortly afterwards, the married actor was embroiled in a cheating and blackmail scandal involving two women, who threatened to release a clip of the three of them drinking and making sexual jokes.

The women demanded he pay them 5 billion won ($4.5 million) in exchange for not publicizing the damaging clip. Lee filed a lawsuit against the two women, a singer and a model both in their 20s, in response. The women were given jail sentences in March of between a year and a year and two months, suspended for two years.

Lee has publicly apologized to his family and maintained a low profile, while shooting other Hollywood films such as “Rush Hour 4” and “The Magnificent Seven.”

He has said that he will remain by his family’s side, having welcomed his first child -- a son -- with actress wife Lee Min-jung in March.

“Nothing has been decided (about Lee’s promotions for the film). As we understand it, Lee Byung-hun is currently abroad for a filming project, which is why we have not decided specific promotional plans,” said distributor Lotte Entertainment, cited by local media.

Both Lee and Lotte appear to be taking a cautious stance regarding the film’s publicity in Korea.

Local media has said that while Lee may be able to fly under the radar this time, as he plays only a supporting role in the film, he will be forced to step out into the limelight and be made subject to public scrutiny later this year.

Two Korean films “Memories of the Sword” and “The Insiders” are scheduled for release later this year and will heavily depend on Lee, who plays the main character in both films, for their promotions.

The fifth installment of the “Terminator” franchise, starring Arnold Schwarzenegger, Jason Clarke and Emilia Clarke hits Korean theaters on July 2.

By Yoon Sarah (sarah356@heraldcorp.com)

rubie · June 12, 2015

‪#‎Anniversary‬ ‪#‎GiveAway‬ ‪#‎LBHsoompi‬ ‪#‎EverythingLBH‬ ‪#‎Fans‬

Anniversary GiveAway, accepting requests from June 12 - June 21, 2015.

In conjunction with LBH soompi's 10th and EverythingLBH.com's 5th Anniversary this year, we are giving out giveaways for fans, particularly members of this FB community.

These are not latest items but mainly previous calendars and magazines feat. LBH. Though dated, the items have never been used and in quite good condition. The past years' calendars have expired but the photos would be something nice to keep.

We are giving this items free of charge to anyone interested. There will be no mailing charges as well, all handled by us, for you. Refer items in the gallery, link provided below.

To participate in this giveaway, please PM (private message) your request by listing 2 items (note the number on the image) that you like. Fans will receive one item of their choice, whichever applicable on FIRST COME FIRST SERVED basis.

The request period starts from June 12 until June 21. Please submit your request within this time limit so that we can send the items accordingly.

Please note that we do not collect personal details, we will only ask a delivery address later for mailing purposes.

Please use PM for the request or any inquires.

Thank you for the support to continue sharing.

GiveAway Gallery

rubie · June 13, 2015

June 10, 2015

Paramount, South Korea's Lotte in Distribution Deal

by Lee Hyo-won THR

Viacom's Paramount Pictures on Wednesday unveiled a long-term distribution agreement with South Korean distributor and exhibition company Lotte Entertainment in a move designed to boost the presence of films from the Hollywood studio in the Asian country.

The first batch of Paramount films to be handled by Lotte will hit local theaters in July.

Lotte Entertainment is part of Lotte Group, which also owns the country's second-largest multiplex theater group, Lotte Cinema. Lotte Cinema operates 738 screens nationwide, including the world's largest and Guinness Book of Records-breaking one at the Super Plex G complex. It is housed in the World Tower in Seoul and is also Asia's largest cinema. The record-breaking screen is 34 meters wide and 13.8 meters high and is in an auditorium with 622 seats.

Lotte will distribute upcoming Paramount titles, including Terminator Genisys on July 2 and Mission: Impossible 5 on July 30. Terminator Genisys has made headlines in Korea for starring one of its own, Asian superstar Lee Byung-hun, opposite Arnold Schwarzenegger, while Tom Cruise has long been a favorite of Korean movie fans. He was even made an honorary citizen of the Korean city of Busan.

"We very much look forward to beginning this long-term arrangement with Lotte and know that they will bring a tremendous amount of enthusiasm, along with their expert marketing and distribution capabilities, to every one of our upcoming films set for release in Korea," said Mark Viane, Paramount’s co-president of international theatrical marketing & distribution.

Cha Won Chun, CEO of Lotte Entertainment, said: "We are delighted to partner with Paramount Pictures for the continued growth of its compelling franchise in Korea. I believe that together we will be in the best position to introduce more of Paramount's exciting slate to local audiences."

Financial terms of the deal weren't disclosed.

rubie · June 13, 2015

June 12, 2015

Lee Byung Hun promotional activities for “Terminator 5″ still unknown

Koreaboo

Actor Lee Byung Hun has emerged from his private life and into the public’s eyes once again since returning from America with his wife Lee Min Jung in February as he prepares to return to his activities.

The fifth film in the Terminator franchise, Terminator Genisys, is set to be released next month in July and many are looking forward to the promotional activities all the lead actors will be undergoing, including Lee Byung Hun.

According to foreign media reports, the film has expanded their promotional activities to reach Japan and China where the cast will arrive in early July. However, Lee Byung Hun will be absent.

A PR from the film tells TV Report that they are currently in the process of deciding whether film stars Arnold Schwarzenegger and Jason Clark will be visiting South Korea as part of the promotions.

BH Entertainment states that Lee Byung Hun is currently in America filming for The Magnificent 7 and discussion is still ongoing as to whether he will be attending Terminator Genisys promotions.

Lee Byung Hun was embroiled in a controversy that soon led to a publicized lawsuit after he was blackmailed for 5 billion won, or $4.5 million dollars, in August 2014 through January 2015 by a female singer and female model.

Source: TV Report

rubie · June 16, 2015

June 16, 2015

Arnold Schwarzenegger to visit S. Korea for new 'Terminator'

SEOUL, June 16 (Yonhap) -- Arnold Schwarzenegger will visit South Korea to promote the fifth installment in the "Terminator" series, the movie's importer-distributor said Tuesday.

Schwarzenegger will arrive in Seoul on June 30 for a three-day visit during which he will attend various events including a news conference to promote "Terminator Genisys," Lotte Entertainment said.

Emilia Clarke, who plays Sarah Connor, mother to Resistance leader John Connor, will also come to South Korea on July 1-2 to join promotional activities with Schwarzenegger.

Directed by Alan Taylor, "Terminator Genisys" will serve as a prequel, sequel and reboot to the first four Terminator movies.

In the new film scheduled to open in South Korea on July 2, Schwarzenegger reprises his role as the eponymous character, along with newcomers Jason Clarke, Emilia Clarke, Jai Courtney and South Korean actor Lee Byung-hun.

Schwarzenegger cemented his standing as a major Hollywood star with the first "Terminator" released in 1984. He later appeared in two "Terminator" sequels in 1991 ("Terminator: Judgment Day") and 2003 ("Terminator 3: Rise of the Machines"), but was not in 2009's "Terminator Salvation," which starred Christian Bale and Sam Worthington.

The Terminator star last visited South Korea in 2013 for "The Last Stand," the Hollywood debut film by South Korean director Kim Jee-woon, where he played a grumpy small town sheriff who takes on a fugitive drug baron.

Actor Arnold Schwarzenegger gestures to photographers on his arrival at a preview of his new film "Terminator Genisys" in Sydney on June 4, 2015. The film will be released in South Korea on July 2. (AP-Yonhap)

sshim@yna.co.kr

rubie · June 16, 2015

Source: Xportsnews

Similar to the international poster and the Japanese version, the Korean poster for Terminator: Genisys does not feature the T-1000 either.

#PotCallingTheKettleBlack

rubie · June 16, 2015

June 16, 2015

Arnold Schwarzenegger to visit Seoul for 'Terminator 5'

Arnold Schwarzenegger is coming to South Korea in late June to promote the fifth “Terminator” film, which will be released in Korea on July 2.

The Hollywood actor is scheduled to arrive in Seoul on June 30 for a three-day promotional trip and press calls, according to local distributor Lotte Entertainment, Tuesday.

Emilia Clarke will also visit Seoul between July 1-2 to join promotional activities with Schwarzenegger.

Schwarzenegger has starred as the titular Terminator in four of the five “Terminator” sci-fi action movies, including the 1984 original.

After starring in “Terminator 2” (1991) and “Terminator 3” (2003), he declined to act in the fourth installment in 2009 due to his political career at the time, when he was serving as Governor of California.

Clarke, known for acting in TV series “Games of Thrones,” makes an appearance as a female fighter and John Conner’s mother.

Korean actor Lee Byung-hun plays a supporting role as villainous robot assassin T-1000.

Set in 2017, “Terminator Genisys” relates three battles in the past, present and future. The sci-fi movie deals with a future battle in 2029 between human resistance fighters and enemy robots Skynet, a past battle in 1984 to save John Conner’s mother and a present-day battle in 2017.

Schwarzenegger last visited South Korea two years ago for “The Last Stand,” an American action comedy film directed by a South Korean film director Kim Jee-won.

By Yoon Sarah (sarah356@heraldcorp.com)

rubie · June 16, 2015

Thanks to Angel 70 for the photos highlight from various sources

#CaliforniaDreamDrive #TourismAmbassador #LeeByungHun

rubie · June 16, 2015

rubie · June 16, 2015

Complete compilation of photos & clips at EverythingLBH

rubie · June 16, 2015

Photo credit: ktldn

rubie · June 17, 2015

June 17, 2015

Schwarzenegger to Visit Korea to Promote New 'Terminator' Series

Source: The Chosun Ilbo

Arnold Schwarzenegger will visit Korea ahead of the release of "Terminator Genisys" on July 2. He will arrive in Seoul on June 30 and stay for three days to promote the film.

The actor was last here two years ago when director Kim Ji-woon's film "The Last Stand" made its Hollywood debut.

Schwarzenegger reportedly got back in shape through rigorous exercise to revive the character from the original "Terminator" filmed 30 years ago.

He will be accompanied by co-star Emilia Clarke, known for her role as Daenerys Targaryen in the HBO series "Game of Throne."

rubie · June 17, 2015

June 2015

‪#‎Anniversary‬ ‪#‎GiveAway‬ ‪#‎LBHsoompi‬ ‪#‎EverythingLBH‬ ‪#‎Fans‬ #Thankyou

EverythingLBH.com Anniversary GiveAway 2015

Anniversary GiveAway featuring LBH-related items for fans FREE with free mailing.

Please send in your requests by June 23, 2015.

In conjunction with LBH soompi's 10th and EverythingLBH.com's Anniversary this year, we are giving out giveaways for fans, particularly members of the LBH-related forums, twitter and facebook community.

These are not latest items but mainly previous calendars and magazines feat. LBH. Though dated, the items have never been used and in quite good condition. The past years' calendars have expired but the photos would be something nice to keep.

We are giving this items free of charge to anyone interested. To participate in this giveaway, please PM (private message) your request by listing 2 items (note the number on the image) that you like. Fans will receive one item of their choice, whichever applicable on FIRST COME FIRST SERVED basis.

The request period starts from June 12 until June 23. Please submit your request within this time limit so that we can send the items quickly and accordingly.

Please note that we do not collect personal details, we will only ask a delivery address later for mailing purposes. Please use PM for the request or any inquires.

Thank you for the support to continue sharing.