[News] Drama, Movies, Actors & Actresses

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June 22, 2010

Lee Byung-hun's ex-girlfriend resumes lawsuit last minute

Reporter : Ko Kyoung-seok Editor : Jessica Kim

Lee Byung-hun [Asia Economic Daily]

Hallyu star Lee Byung-hun's former girlfriend has requested for a new date of pleading to be set last minute, resuming a half-year long legal battle against the actor which was thought to have been withdrawn.

"In the afternoon, we received a mail from her containing an application for a third trial regarding the compensation suit she filed against Lee," Judge Jung Hyun-myung at the Seoul Central Prosecutors' Office said late on Monday, adding a new date of hearing would be set the following day.

The court had decided earlier in the day to conclude that a civil suit that Lee's ex-girlfriend, a Canadian-American woman identified only by her last name Kwon, had been withdrawn with her not returning to Korea since leaving for Canada after suing the actor on December 8.

She had asked to be paid 100 million won in physical and psychological damages, claiming she was allured into having a sexual relationship with the actor on his false promises of marriage.

She missed two dates of pleading however, on April 22 and May 20, and had not requested for a new date thereafter, leading the court to close the case since she did not express any intention of taking further legal action. The court considers a case withdrawn if a request is not made within a month of a no-show.

Kwon's lawsuit against Lee will automatically be withdrawn if she does not turn up for the third date of pleading.

Lee, 39, has long been considered one of the most successful actors in Korea, appearing in numerous Korean dramas and films, including TV series "All In" and director Park Chan-wook's 2000 film "Joint Security Area".

He also debuted in Hollywood last year with a supporting role in "G.I. Joe: The Rise of Cobra" alongside Channing Tatum and Sienna Miller and starred in action thriller "I Come with the Rain" with Josh Hartnett and Takuya Kimura which also showed in theaters in 2009.

Reporter : Ko Kyoung-seok kave@ Editor : Jessica Kim jesskim@ <ⓒ10Asia All rights reserved> 10.asiae.co.kr

June 24, 2010

Lee Byung-hun's Trial Still On

A lawsuit between top star Lee Byung-hun and his ex-girlfriend identified as Kwon for breach of promise is to resume. According to the Seoul Central District Court, Kwon has now submitted documents due Monday; if she had not, the court was determined to drop her lawsuit.

Kwon sued Lee at the end of last year claiming she suffered mental and physical anguish when Lee lured her into a sexual relationship with a false promise of marriage, but she failed to report for two trial dates so far. In that event a plaintiff needs to apply for an extension by a certain date or the case is automatically dropped.

The next trial date is July 14.

Source: englishnews@chosun.com

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June 22, 2010

Lee Tae-ran to Star in Chinese Drama

Actress Lee Tae-ran has been cast in a Chinese TV drama. Lee's management agency Butterfly Entertainment announced on Monday that she was picked for the leading female role in the series "Allure of the Skies," being produced by Guangdong Southern Media Group.

The 25-episode series is a love story that goes beyond national boundaries. Tan Kai, a popular actor in the Chinese-speaking world who recently starred in the hit TV series "The Myth," will star alongside Lee. The director is Xingang Liu, who also helmed the drama "Five Star Hotel."

Lee said, "I think this opportunity will help me grow as an actress since it gives me a chance to introduce myself to the Chinese audience by collaborating with a great director. I'll do my best to impress the viewers."

Shooting on "Allure of the Skies" started in the beginning of this month in Zhuhai and Guangzhou.

Source: englishnews@chosun.com

Lee Tae-ran cast as female lead in Chinese drama

Reporter : Lucia Hong Editor : Jessica Kim

Korean actress Lee Tae-ran [butterfly Entertainment]

Korean actress Lee Tae-ran has been cast as the female lead in a Chinese drama, according to her agency Butterfly Entertainment on Tuesday.

Butterfly announced in a press release that Lee will be playing the lead female role in a 25-part Chinese drama tentatively titled "Allure of the Skies," about a love story that occurs at an airline company.

The series is helmed by famed Chinese director Xingang Lui and also stars Chinese actors Tan Kai and Jang Pak.

A producer from the show said, "Lee is well-known to bring high ratings to her shows and hopefully her name will bring a lot of interest to the show."

"It feels like I have been able to take a step into growing as an actress by being able to meet with my Chinese fans directly through this drama," Lee was quoted in saying. She added that she hopes to do her best in showing the audience the charms of a Korean lady.

Lee is a household name in the country as well as other Asian regions with her many appearances on the small screen such as "Soon Poong Clinic," "The Woman Who Still Wants to Marry" and "Famous Princesses."

Filming for "Allure of the Skies" began earlier this month in Zhuhai and Guangzhou.

Reporter : Lucia Hong luciahong@ Editor : Jessica Kim jesskim@ <ⓒ10Asia All rights reserved> 10.asiae.co.kr

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June 22, 2010

[PREVIEW] MBC TV series "Road No.1"

Photographer : Chae ki-won Editor : Lynn Kim

MBC TV series "Road No.1" - Love blooms amidst the gunfire

(From left) Actors So Ji-sub, Kim Ha-neul and Yoon Kye-sang pose for cameras

at the press conference for TV series "Road No.1" held at Sangmyung University

in Seoul, Korea on June 18, 2010. [photographed by Chae Ki-won/10Asia]

MBC "Road No.1"

- Written by Han Ji-hoon

- Directed by Lee Jang-soo, Kim Jin-min

- Starring: So Ji-sub (as Lee Jang-woo), Kim Ha-neul (Kim Soo-yeon), Yoon Kye-sang (Shin Tae-ho), Choi Min-soo (Yoon Sam-soo), Son Chang-min (Oh Jong-ki)

- In one sentence: A story that blooms like a wild flower after enduring the hurricane of Korean War

- Premiere date: June 23, 2010, 9:55 PM

Soo-yeon (played by Kim Ha-neul) has been dreaming of becoming a doctor while solely waiting for Jang-woo (played by So Ji-sub) to return alive. But she receives a letter -- one which informs her that Jang-woo has died in the war. Soo-yeon goes into denial and is tormented by the unbelievable news but as time passes, she gradually begins to accept Jang-woo's death as reality. As her last thread of hope of Jang-woo returning home wears thin, another man comes into Soo-yeon's life. Military school graduate and elite army officer Shin Tae-ho (played by Yoon Kye-sang) confesses his love for her and makes a marriage proposal. But then, Jang-woo, who had been presumed to be dead, miraculously returns home. Just when the two men are about to collide with each other, a gun battle breaks out on Youngchon Bridge and the country's history is changed forever as it reaches four a.m. on June 25...

Anticipation Quotient (1-10 points)

If "Charming So" and his small screen comeback make your eyes and nose watery - 9 points

Can the comradeship run thicker than love and survive till the end? - 6 points

MBC TV series "Road No.1" tells a love story that bloomed during the times of war. "Road No.1," which drew attention with the casting of So Ji-sub, Kim Ha-neul and Yoon Kye-sang, is a war melodrama that combines the grimness of war, as shown in MBC's drama "Eyes of Dawn" [MBC, 1991] and the melodramatic elements of SBS' "What Happened in Bali." Writer Han Ji-hoon, who penned war epics such as the film "Taegukgi" and "Road No.1," wrote about "the story of people who survived the war" under the main theme of love. Writer Han explained, "In the beginning, 'Taegukgi' was about a widower who could not find the remains for her dead beloved but it changed to a story about brothers. In this drama, I told the story of a widower with a long take."

It is a known fact that it took over three years to just plan and prepare to make "Road No.1," which has completed all of its filming before going on air with a 13 billion won production budget. The drama tells the story of three people who interact with each other over a long period, from the scene where a young Jang-woo, who is the son of a servant, has a secret crush on Kim Soo-yeon, the daughter of the master whose family was ruined to the major battles of Korean War and to their destiny sixty years later. Jang-woo, who was planning to marry Soo-yeon, and Tae-ho, who later falls in love with Soo-yeon, clash with each other over everything on the battlefield. But one is curious to see how convincingly "Road No.1" will deliver the complicated, intricate emotions of comradeship as the two battle through life and death experiences together. Kim Ha-neul expressed her anticipation for the series, saying "I could see how solid it was, to the extent that I wondered whether I would get to see such a script in the next 10 years." So Ji-sub, his face still glowing with excitement, said "I saw the first episode after it was edited and the quivering I felt watching it still hasn't faded away." Let us see how the love that bloomed out of the hurricane of the war and the comradeship will move our hearts when "Road No.1" premieres on MBC, at 9:55 p.m., on June 23.

Reporter : Won Sung-yoon Photographer : Chae ki-won ten@ Editor : Lynn Kim lynn2878@ <ⓒ10Asia All rights reserved> 10.asiae.co.kr

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June 22, 2010

Major entertainment business firm suffers embezzlement rumors

A major entertainment business company in Korea, affiliated with famous celebrities such as Kang Ho-dong and Yu Jae-suk, is embroiled in rumors that its management allegedly embezzled company money to produce a soap opera.

“Although the prosecution’s investigation including confiscation of our office is on-going, nothing has been confirmed regarding such charges,” the KOSDAQ-listed company said in a public disclosure.

The statement came after the Seobu Discrict Prosecutors' Office in Seoul seized and searched De Chocolate E&TF’s office in southern Seoul for embezzlement allegations.

The entertainment company reportedly has been going through a serious management crisis as it paid extra money to celebrities to get subcontract programs.

Prosecutors confiscated accounting data and hard disks from the office in an attempt to find evidence of the executives’ embezzlement with respect to producing the soap opera. “As of now, we just on the stage of collecting evidence,” Yonhap News quoted one of prosecutors involved in the case as saying.

“There was a report that a few KOSDAQ-listed companies including De Chocholate E&TF were forced to exit the market due to poor management.”

The official said the failed companies caused investors more than billions of won in losses.

Meanwhile, the Seoul Central Prosecutors’ Office has been expanding investigations on other KOSDAQ firms as well for accounting fraud and embezzlement.

Source: koreaherald.com

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June 22, 2010

Jang Keun-suk attracts thousands to Hong Kong fan meeting

Reporter : Lynn Kim Editor : Jessica Kim

Hallyu star Jang Keun-suk at the "2010 JANG KEUN SUK Asia Tour in Hong Kong" held in Hong Kong on June 20, 2010. [Tree J Company]

Korean actor Jang Keun-suk proved to be a major Hallyu force as he attracted thousands of fans to his Hong Kong fan meeting over the weekend, according to his agency Tree J. Company on Tuesday.

The actor, who has been visiting various Asian countries since March, met with some 2,000 fans at his fifth fan meeting titled "2010 JANG KEUN SUK Asia Tour in Hong Kong" on June 20, explained Tree J. in a press release.

News of Jang's arrival on June 17 brought out swarms of fans and reporters to the Hong Kong International Airport, prompting the local police to escort the Korean star out to the car.

The actor attended a press conference on Friday, answering questions in English and Chinese and performing the song "What Should I Do" at the request of reporters, and met with some 2,000 screaming fans at an autograph signing session the following day.

The two-hour fan meeting, held Sunday at Hi Tec Star Hall in Kowloon, Hong Kong, opened with a deejaying session and featured a Q&A time with fans as well as a True/False quiz show.

"This may be hard to believe but I am deeply moved every time I meet fans from far away through fan meetings," the actor was quoted as saying. "I was very surprised at the autograph signing because I didn't think that many people would show up to see me for just a short time. I am very sorry that I can't come more often, but I think I made fun memories during my Hong Kong visit."

Jang, 23, has appeared in several notable television dramas and films including "Beethoven Virus" (MBC, 2008) and "The Case of Itaewon Homicide" (2009).

He became a phenomenon in Korea and throughout Asia after starring in the hit TV series "Minamishineyo" (SBS, 2009), in which he portrayed an eccentric lead singer of idol group A.N.JELL.

Jang will be taking part in the club festival "South Africa in LOUNGE H," which he organized, at Seoul's Walkerhill Hotel Gayageum Hall later tonight. He will be cheering on the 2010 World Cup soccer match between South Korea and Nigeria, which airs in Korea early tomorrow morning.

Korean actor Jang Keun-suk at the "2010 JANG KEUN SUK Asia Tour in Hong Kong" held in Hong Kong on June 20, 2010. [Tree J Company]

Reporter: Lynn Kim lynn2878@ Editor: Jessica Kim jesskim@ <ⓒ10Asia All rights reserved> 10.asiae.co.kr

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June 22, 2010

Han Chae-young meets with Hollywood agencies

Reporter : Lynn Kim Editor : Jessica Kim

Korean actress Han Chae-young [10Asia]

Korean actress Han Chae-young appears to be eyeing for a Hollywood debut, recently meeting with several major Hollywood agencies including CAA (Creative Artists Agency) and William Morris, according to her agency BH Entertainment on Tuesday.

An executive at BH told 10Asia over the phone that the actress, who left for the U.S. earlier this month, had meetings with several agents and producers who had shown interest in the star.

The executive explained that the meetings were "not auditions," as reported by other media outlets, and that they are currently waiting for results from the meetings. Specific projects will be discussed if and after Han and one of the agencies decide to sign a contract.

Born Kim Ji-young, the 29-year-old actress grew up in the suburb of Chicago and speaks fluent English. She was reportedly discovered by a famed Korean comedian during her visit to Korea and put her college plans on hold when he suggested that she try acting.

She made her acting debut in 2000 through horror film "The Record" and shot to stardom throughout Asia with the success of TV series "Delightful Girl Choon-hyang" (KBS2, 2005). Last year, she made a special guest appearance in the smash hit drama "Boys Over Flowers" (KBS2, 2009) and starred in the film "Good Morning President" alongside top Korean actor Jang Dong-gun.

Han was planning to make her international debut with the film "Soulmate," which was to be co-produced by Korea and New Zealand production companies, until the shootings reportedly got cancelled.

An increasing number of Korean stars have attempted to break into to the U.S. entertainment market over the past few years including actors Lee Byung-hun and Rain who both starred in Hollywood films last year.

Female pop group Wonder Girls also started promoting themselves in the U.S. since last summer and even placed their debut single "Nobody" on the Billboard Hot100 chart. They are currently carrying out a 27-city tour across the country.

Reporter: Lynn Kim lynn2878@ Editor: Jessica Kim jesskim@ <ⓒ10Asia All rights reserved> 10.asiae.co.kr

Han Chae-Young to debut in Hollywood

TV actress Han Chae-young, 30, dubbed as "Korea's Barbie Doll," is preparing to debut in Hollywood.

After finishing filming the MBC drama, "A Man Called God," in which she stars, Han flew to the U.S. early this month. She met with bigwig entertainment agencies in Hollywood such as Creative Artists Agency (CAA) and William Morris Endeavor (WME) Entertainment, according to her management agency BH Entertainment..

A BH spokesman said that Hollywood filmmakers have been more interested in Asian actors and actresses. "A variety of agencies are showing greater interest in Han as she is not only proficient in English but has notable beauty and experiences as well," he said Tuesday.

The star has made efforts to advance to the overseas film stage. Earlier, Han was to star in horror film, "Soul Mate," a joint venture with a New Zealand filmmaker for her overseas debut. However, she has turned her eyes to the United States as the film was dropped due to internal problem.

Han, now staying with her family in Los Angeles, plans to go to several auditions and then to conclude an acting contract with a U.S. agency for full-scale entertainment activities there, he noted.

Source: koreatimes.co.kr

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June 22, 2010

Bae Doo-na to play lead in new weekend drama "Gloria"

Reporter : Lucia Hong Editor : Jessica Kim

Korean actress Bae Doo-na [barunson Entertainment]

Korean actress Bae Doo-na has been cast as the female lead in a new weekend drama, according to the series' producer MBC on Tuesday.

MBC announced in a press release that Bae will be playing the female lead role for an upcoming weekend drama titled "Gloria," based on the lives of people who work at a nightclub.

Bae is set to play the role of Na Jin-jin, who lost her parents at an early age and has been living with her older sister, who dreams of becoming a singer at the age of 30.

The new series will be helmed by Kim Min-sik, whose previous works include "Still, Marry Me," and written by scenarist Jung Ji-woo. It also stars Korean actors Lee Chun-hee, Seo Ji-suk, Lee Jung-won and actress So E-hyun.

Filming for "Gloria" will begin at the end of June and it will succeed current weekend drama "Dandelion Family" when it finishes its run in the latter half of the year.

Bae made her debut as a model in 1998 and has starred in numerous dramas and movies including the Korean blockbuster "The Host," "Sympathy for Mr. Vengeance" and "Air Doll."

She has also appeared on the small screen with her roles in "Someday," "The Perfect Neighbor" and "Master of Study."

Reporter : Lucia Hong luciahong@ Editor : Jessica Kim jesskim@ <ⓒ10Asia All rights reserved> 10.asiae.co.kr

June 23, 2010

Bae Doo-na returns to small screen

By Han Sang-hee

Staff reporter

Actress Bae Doo-na reads the script

for the upcoming drama "Gloria" at MBC,

Tuesday. / Courtesy of MBC

Model-turned actress Bae Doo-na is returning to the small screen through a new drama series "Gloria."

According to broadcaster MBC Tuesday, the 31-year-old actress will appear as the main character Na Jin-jin. Her last work on television was the popular "Master of Study" on KBS. This is the first time for her to appear in an MBC series in five years.

"Gloria" deals with the love lives and lifestyles of the people working at a nightclub. Na, played by Bae, is an aspiring singer at the age of 30 and starts her journey by singing at the club.

Na will be accompanied by her good friend Ha Dong-ah, played by actor Lee Cheon-hee. Filming for the drama will start later this month and start airing next month.

Bae, who made her debut in 1998 as a model, has starred in numerous drama series and films over the years. Her most famous role was in "The Host," directed by Bong Jun-ho in 2006. The 31-year-old won an award for her role in the Japanese film "Air Doll" at the prestigious Japan Academy Prize ceremony last year. Also a talented photographer, she has published several photo essays.

Source: sanghee@koreatimes.co.kr

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June 22, 2010

[iNTERVIEW] Actress Jung So-min

Reporter : Choi Ji-Eun Photographer : Chae ki-won Editor : Jang Kyung-Jin Editor : Lucia Hong

Korean actress Jung So-min [Chae Ki-won/10Asia]

My name is Jung So-min. My friends and I had a contest to pick out my stage name but I myself chose the name. I was born on March 16, 1989. I am a junior at the Korea National University of Arts majoring in acting but I'm currently taking a semester off.

My family consists of my mom, dad and my little brother who is a senior in high school. I get into fights with my brother but they don't last for more than five minutes. We hang out a lot because I really like him and I'm glad he doesn't think I'm annoying. (laugh)

I learned ballet from elementary school until middle school. I had to quit because my parents were against it and I started to learn Korean traditional dance when I was in high school. If I continued to dance I probably would have done work relating to visiting other countries to spread the Korean traditional dance.

When I was a senior in high school, my dad didn't know that when I took my college entrance exam I changed my major to acting. I told him after I was accepted and he was furious. I think my dad began to change his mind when he received the tuition bill for my college and saw that it was zero won because of my scholarship. (laugh) I think that was when he began to trust me.

However, my grades after entering school were...We have a saying in our school 'Don't think about graduating if you haven't been on academic probation at least twice.' It's because we are assigned a lot of work and the schedule is tight. It was hard to maintain my grades while working really hard and sleeping only three or four hours a day.

This year for the school play, I was cast to play the role of Hermia for Shakespeare's "A Midsummer Night's Dream" and it was quite sad because I had to take a semester off to shoot "Bad Boy." There aren't that many opportunities to be in a traditional play.

When I was still in school I really liked physical education. I remember that I won an award in the long run against other students at school and I'm also good at physical fighting.

I actually like to take part in sports rather than watch them. I was the only girl who took part in the soccer match during the "Bad Boy" rally. I'm better in baseball than other girls and actor Kim Jae-wook told that my pose is similar to that of a major league baseball player. (laugh)

I've only seen actor Kim Nam-gil on television and it was hard to approach him at first because he seemed so serious but after getting to know him, we joked around a lot. The yacht scene during the first half of "Bad Boy" was shot during March. So it was really cold and after the cameras went off I was shaking because I was wearing just a dress.

There are people who say I look younger than my age and others say that I'm very grown-up like. Veteran actress Kim Hae-ok, who plays my mom in "Bad Boy," said I'm like a high school student wearing regular clothes and kept saying "You're like a 15-year-old!" (laugh)

My first paid gig was a commercial for SK Telecom (a telecommunication company in Korea). I gave the entire paycheck to my mom but she accepted it without even blinking an eye. She said "Don't think that you can make things up to me with this. You don't know how much money I spent on you!" (laugh) Of course I still get an allowance.

When I get my allowance all I do is eat. (laugh) I also like to buy things for others. When I have the money I spend it and buy things thinking "So and so will like this!"

I try to watch a play at least once a week or every other week. My managers and I bawled after we watched the play "The Most Beautiful Goodbye" which was originally written by writer Noh Hee-kyung. Afterwards when I went home, I told my mom that I would do my best. (laugh)

I am also interested in musicals. I began to learn to sing after my college entrance exam but unfortunately I'm not gifted in it. I thought if I practiced I would get better but if I had to evaluate myself objectively? I don't see it happening. (laugh)

My favorite movie genre is thrillers and reasoning movies where you have to use your brain. I became interested in thrillers because of the movie "Identity." I also enjoyed watching "Our Town." I don't really like action movies but I like films that have action and create tension like "Taken."

The thing that I want to do the most is to get a florist license. I don't have any skills in art but I like flowers and matching them with different colors. When I act or dance my actions are shown directly but I really want to learn how to create a different feeling with these pieces. However, the tuition fee is a bit too expensive...

Reporter : Choi Ji-Eun five@ Photographer : Chae ki-won ten@ Editor : Jang Kyung-Jin three@, Lucia Hong luciahong@ <ⓒ10Asia All rights reserved> 10.asiae.co.kr

Actress Jung So-min, currently appearing in SBS TV series "Bad Boy," poses during an interview with 10Asia.

Photographer : Chae ki-won ten@ Editor : Jessica Kim jesskim@ <ⓒ10Asia All rights reserved> 10Asia 1 l 2

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June 23, 2010

Ha Jung-woo to Open 2nd Solo Art Exhibition

Actor Ha Jung-woo will have another solo exhibition of his paintings. The show will be held in the lobby of the DongA Ilbo Media Center in Gwanghwamun, downtown Seoul from Wednesday to July 25.

Proving a talented and passionate artist, Ha has shown his works in a number of exhibitions. He had his first solo show of his works in March, displaying some 40 paintings. In April, he took part in an exhibition of works by celebrities in the 2010 Seoul Open Art Fair.

Ha's paintings mostly reflect the psychological state of the characters he plays in his films. The works he will showcase in the upcoming exhibition continue in that theme, using contrasting colors, eye-catching patterns and unique compositions.

Ha is usually tied up with acting, but he enjoys working on paintings when he finds spare time. Ha has been praised for his work in films such as "The Chaser" and "Take Off."

Source: englishnews@chosun.com

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June 22, 2010

Actress Choi Ji-woo and the Power of Her Smile

Actress Choi Ji-woo will be introducing Korea to the rest of the world...all through the power of her smile. One of the officials from the "Visit Korea Year" campaign said on June 22, that Choi would be participating at the Korean Tourism Evening Event set to take place on the 23rd as an National Honorary Smile Representative.

The Hallyu star's agency reported to Money Today ?Star News that a lot of foreigners get a misconception of Korea and its people. Because Koreans aren't as facially expressive in comparison to their Western counterparts, many foreigners come away with the idea that Koreans are standoffish and stoic. This could be attributed to cultural differences. The "Visit Korea Year" campaign seeks to change that misconception to show the world Korea's beauty and warmth.

Choi Ji-woo is no stranger to the tourism industry scene. She was awarded with an award presented by the president no less, at a tourism event in 2009. She also volunteered for some charity work in Africa last March, receiving a thank you plaque from the international organization World Vision. These deeds have undoubtedly added to her popularity with not only Korean fans, but international fans.

The committee behind the "Visit Korea Year" campaign expressed that as Choi is considered one of the original Hallyu wave stars, it's fitting for her to represent Korea to the world. They feel she will play a great role in changing Korea's negative image and showing Korea's warmth and hospitable spirit through her reputation and smile.

Source: KBS Global

June 22, 2010

Choi Ji-woo Named Honorary Tourism Supporter

Choi Ji-woo

Actress Choi Ji-woo has been chosen as an honorary tourism promotion supporter by the Visit Korea Committee. She will be appointed at a Visit Korea event on Wednesday evening.

Tourism supporters work to help attract foreign tourists as part of the nation's 2010-2012 Visit Korea Years campaign. Some 200 supporters are leading a drive to encourage Korean people to greet foreign tourists with warm and friendly smiles.

"Korean people are often misunderstood by foreigners due to our reserved demeanor or because of cultural differences," Choi said. "I will try my best to show our warm hearts to foreigners and promote the country as a great travel destination worth revisiting."

The Visit Korea event kicks off at 8 p.m. at Changdeok Palace and features a variety of cultural programs. The committee is also to announce visions to nurture Korea as a travel hot spot. It will be attended by the 200 supporters, Visit Korea Committee chairman Shin Dong-bin, Culture Minister Yu In-chon and Korea Tourism Organization head Lee Cham.

Source: englishnews@chosun.com

Choi named Visit Korea Year smile envoy

Choi Ji-woo

Actress Choi Ji-woo (35), a Korean Wave star, has been appointed honorary supporter of a smile campaign by Visit Korea Committee.

Her appointment ceremony took place during “Inspring Night in Korea,” an event hosted by the Korea Tourism Organization at Changdeokgung Palace in Seoul on Wednesday.

The committee is conducting a campaign to welcome foreign tourists with a smile during Visit Korea Years from 2010 to 2012. Presently, about 200 supporters work for the campaign across the country.

“When I worked overseas, I saw some Koreans speak bluntly, though that’s not what they meant, and they were often misunderstood because of cultural differences,” Choi told reporters, “I will try to show Koreans’ warm hearts to foreigners and to make them want to visit Korea again.”

During Inspiring Night in Korea, officials presented their tourism vision and traditional culture events were held with some 200 smile campaign supporters attending.

Source: swchun@heraldm.com koreaherald.com

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June 23, 2010

Choi Si-won says "never dreamed of being a singer or actor"

Reporter : Lynn Kim Editor : Jessica Kim

Korean singer and actor Choi Si-won appears on celebrity talk show "Win Win" [KBS2]

Super Junior member Choi Si-won, who recently starred in TV series "Oh! My Lady," has confessed that he had never dreamed of becoming a singer or an actor.

"It was not my dream to be a singer," the singer said during an appearance on KBS2 TV's celebrity talk show "Win Win," which aired Tuesday evening. "I just had the dream that I wanted to make my name known quickly and becoming a celebrity was the fastest way to do that, so I went to an entertainment agency."

When asked by host Kim Seung-woo if he had any fears about becoming an actor without any preparation, Choi answered, "It is very scary but if you don't take on a challenge because you are scared, what can you achieve in life?"

Choi, 23, debuted in December 2005 as one of the 13 members of idol group Super Junior, which quickly became one of the most successful K-pop acts throughout Asia. He is also a member of sub-group Super Junior-M, which focuses its activities in the Chinese market.

He has also crossed over to acting, appearing in dramas "Eighteen, Twenty-Nine" (KBS2, 2005) and "Spring Waltz" (KBS2, 2006). He also had a supporting role in war epic "A Battle of Wits" (2006) alongside top Hong Kong star Andy Lau.

The pop idol recently won favorable reviews for his portrayal of fictional superstar Sung Min-woo in the SBS TV series "Oh! My Lady," which co-starred Hallyu star Chae-lim.

Reporter : Lynn Kim lynn2878@ Editor : Jessica Kim jesskim@ <ⓒ10Asia All rights reserved> 10.asiae.co.kr

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June 23, 2010

Chun Jung-myung hurrahs soccer player Park Ji-sung

Editor in Chief : Hwang Yong-hee Editor : Lucia Hong

Korean actor Chun Jung-myung [KBS]

Actor Chun Jung-myung shed tears of joy and hurrahed for soccer player Park Ji-sung during South Korea's final Group B game against Nigeria of the 2010 World Cup South Africa early on June 23 (Korea time).

"I knew that we could do it. I think I will forever be moved by what happened in South Africa," Chun said after watching the game which secured South Korea a position in the round of 16, the country's first time to make the advancement in a World Cup away game.

South Korea tied 2-2 against Nigeria, the first goal scored by Lee Jung-soo and the second by Park Chu-young.

In an interview with Asia Economic Daily on Tuesday, Chun had predicted that player Park Chu-young will score a goal which would makeup for an own goal he made during the team's match against Argentina last week.

Chun made his debut in the entertainment industry with his role in KBS' drama "School 2." He has appeared in other small screen roles such as "Fashion 70s" and most recently in "Sister of Cinderella."

He also starred in Korean films "The Aggressives," "Les Formidables" and "Hansel and Gretel."

Editor in Chief : Hwang Yong-hee hee21@ Editor : Lucia Hong luciahong@ <ⓒ10Asia All rights reserved> 10.asiae.co.kr

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June 23, 2010

Jang Keun-suk says "proud to be Korean" after soccer match

Editor in Chief : Hwang Yong-hee Editor : Lynn Kim

Hallyu star Jang Keun-suk at his Singapore fan meeting in April 2010. [Tree J Company]

Hallyu star and passionate soccer fan Jang Keun-suk has said that he is "very proud to be a citizen of Korea" after the country's soccer team made history by advancing to the Round 16 of the 2010 World Cup games for the first time on foreign soil.

The actor was beside himself with joy during a phone call with Asia Economic Daily on Wednesday morning, saying "Thank you so much, Taeguk Warriors [referring to players on Korea's national soccer team]. I am happy and again, I am happy."

"I knew Park Chu-young would do it," said Jang about Park's early goal in the second half which gave Korea a brief lead in the game. "I am very sad because he could have scored more goals, but I'm still glad."

Jang had watched Korea's match against Nigeria at Seoul's Walkerhill Hotel, cheering for the country's soccer team with some 2,000 fans who took part in the club festival "South Africa in LOUNGE H."

Jang, 23, has appeared in several notable television dramas and films including "Beethoven Virus" (MBC, 2008) and "The Case of Itaewon Homicide" (2009). He became a phenomenon in Korea and throughout Asia after starring in the hit TV series "Minamishineyo" (SBS, 2009), in which he portrayed an eccentric lead singer of idol group A.N.JELL.

Earlier this morning, South Korea's soccer team tied 2-2 with the Nigerians in the final Group B match of the first round, after defeating Greece 2-0 and losing to Argentina 1-4 in the first two games. Korea finished second behind soccer powerhouse Argentina in the group and the two teams will be advancing to the Round of 16, dubbed the "knockout stage."

Prior to this year's games in South Africa, the Korean team had made it past the groups stages overseas since their first World Cup appearance in 1954. Their most successful run in the World Cup was back in 2002, when they made it to the semi-finals on home soil as the co-host of the games with Japan.

Korea will be playing against Uruguay on Saturday evening (Korea time).

Editor in Chief : Hwang Yong-hee hee21@ Editor : Lynn Kim lynn2878@ <ⓒ10Asia All rights reserved> 10.asiae.co.kr

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June 23, 2010

Kwon Sang-woo "thirsty" for "Fire" success

Interview with actor Kwon Sang-woo - Part 1

Jessica Kim

Actor Kwon Sang-woo [Park Sung-ki/Asia Economic Daily]

Hallyu star Kwon Sang-woo has said he is "thirsty" to see the success of his new film "71 Into the Fire," hoping the war pic will outshine the reputation of his former big screen hits.

"The movies I've starred in for the past eight years had all done well up till two years ago so I am thirsty for the success of this one," Kwon said of his expectations for "Fire" during an interview with Asia Economic Daily. "In the end, it's up to the heavens but I do hope it breaks my previous record and that it becomes the highest grossing movie this year," the actor added.

Kwon had placed a succession of films atop the local box office during his ten-year career starting with smash hit "My Tutor Friend" which attracted 5.2 million moviegoers during its run in 2003, equivalent to over 10 million on today's box office, a feat which only a handful of local films have achieved in Korean film history.

His more recent works however, such as "Fate" and "More than Blue," flopped on the box office, and his small screen roles in "Bad Love" and "Cinderella Man" also failed to enhance the Asian-star status he had first gained from "Stairway to Heaven" co-starring actress Choi Ji-woo.

"That's why I had felt quite daunted recently but at the same time, was eagerly looking for an opportunity to work on a really good movie," admitted Kwon. That is when he came across the scenario for "Fire," about 71 student soldiers who fight in the Korean War.

Kwon Sang-woo [Park Sung-ki/Asia Economic Daily]

"I didn't hesitate to take it on -- it had a very well-executed scenario, it was refreshing in that it would be about student soldiers and it's not often that you're given a chance to work on a war pic given the circumstances the Korean film industry is in," Kwon explained excitedly.

Regarding his role as a juvenile delinquent who has opted to fight in the war as a fake student soldier instead of being sent to a reformatory, Kwon said, "I also thought that I would be playing a very important character in the film, one that would have a big impact. He undergoes a lot of emotional ups and downs so I was happy to be able to get to show various sides to his personality," "Plus, who knows whether this will be my last time wearing a school uniform?" joked the 33-year-old, also a father of a 17-month-old son.

Kwon has donned a school uniform for several big screen roles, with each becoming a hit, leading the actor himself as well as others to believe the school uniform is his lucky charm.

So it just may be that the lucky charm is working its magic or Kwon is better than ever at doing what he is considered to do best -- acting the role of a perverse student who has his school hat perched slantingly on his head -- but figures have indicated Kwon's wishes may come true.

The film has become the fastest grossing Korean film so far this year, breaching the one million admissions mark in just five days of its release on June 16 and is slowing no signs of slowing down.

The film, also starring top actors Cha Seung-won, Kwon Sang-woo and boy band Big Bang member TOP (Choi Seung-hyun), commemorates the 60th anniversary of the war this month.

Kwon Sang-woo eyeing acting roles in China

Interview with actor Kwon Sang-woo - Part 2

Kwon Sang-woo [Park Sung-ki/Asia Economic Daily]

Actor Kwon Sang-woo, one of the most successful stars in both Korea and Japan, has turned his eyes to China as he sets out to expand his acting career to a wider audience in Asia.

During an interview with Asia Economic Daily, the 33-year-old Hallyu star explained he is "looking into a film or drama role for next year in the Greater China region," and that "talks are currently in process."

He added that it is "quite natural" that he would be set on acting in Japan as well, where he has his largest Asian fanbase, although he will take his time in selecting a role.

In the meantime, he said he would hold fan meetings in Tokyo and Osaka around his birthday in August and in December where he plans to sing newly recorded songs.

Having sung ballads "Missing" and "Tears for Love" during his meet and greets in February in Japan, Kwon said he will continue to record new songs for each fan meeting and release an album when he has recorded about ten songs in total. "It doesn't mean I'll be making a debut as a singer however," he explained, adding it will rather just be a gift for his fans.

Kwon, who has appeared in several dramas and movies since his debut in 2001, is most well-known for his roles in the 2003 TV series "Stairway to Heaven" and Korean films "My Tutor Friend" and "Love, So Divine."

He has been promoting his latest box office topper "71 Into the Fire," about 71 student soldiers who battle against North Korean army soldiers during the Korean War, also starring some of Korea's most popular celebrities including Kim Seung-woo, Cha Seung-won and Big Bang member T.O.P.

He is married to Miss Korea-turned-actress Sohn Tae-young and has a 17-month-old boy named Rookie.

Jessica Kim jesskim@ <ⓒ10Asia All rights reserved> 10Asia 1 l 2

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June 23, 2010

Will new culinary program spice up TV?

By Han Sang-hee

Staff reporter

Cable channel KBS N Joy is airing a culinary competition based on Korea's favorite sauce: gochujang, or hot red pepper paste.

Titled "Cooking Olympic Gochujang," the show will offer a stage for contestants to show off their cooking skills and compete for the grand prize of 10 million won. There's only one catch: they must use the spicy paste in their recipes.

Local channels have been struggling to bring something new to the table with culinary shows over the years, for television can be a great way to advertise Korean food, or "hansik," if effective. There have been documentaries, contests, reality shows and dramas, but nothing has really captivated foreign taste buds.

One of the problems would be trying out too many things at once. Korean food is hard for those not acquainted with it to follow many different recipes at the same time, or in this case, the same show. KBS' documentary "Noodle Road" (2008) proved that food programs are not about the number and variety of recipes, but the quality and also the art of concentration. It drew attention by focusing on one specific menu _ noodles _ and eventually won a Peabody Award.

Instead of showing numerous main ingredients and overwhelming viewers, keep it simple and don't be greedy, a producer from the documentary once said. Focusing on gochujang, and that alone, will hopefully be a good experiment and eventually create a guideline in producing well-made and effective food shows.

"I'm happy and honored to host the show as the main MC but I wasn't so sure if people could come up with different recipes using gochujang. The filming of a few episodes proved me wrong and I'm looking forward to a more exciting ride," singer and actor Alex said during a press conference in Nonhyeon-dong, Monday.

The 32-year-old will work as a mentor with chef Yang Ji-hun, and help viewers learn and understand the various ways to cook with gochujang. The two will be joined by actor Seo Ji-seok and model Kim Jeong-min as co-hosts.

This is not the first time for Alex to appear on a show about food. He was previously on "Republic of Korea, Cook" and "Mr. Babsang," but he said that he will be meaner this time.

"The show is a survival game, so I'll have to say scarier things to contestants. Please understand because I might lose my usual soft image and turn into a mean and intense host," he said laughing.

The overall goal of the show is to discover various ways to incorporate the traditional spicy sauce in new dishes and present it to the public. The contestants will be evaluated on their overall performance: from choosing their ingredients to the cooking process and the final finishing touches.

"Cooking Olympic Gochujang" starts airing on July 2 at 9:40 a.m.

Source: sanghee@koreatimes.co.kr

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June 23, 2010

Lee Byunghun to appear on ABC "Good Morning America"

Reporter : Lucia Hong Editor : Jessica Kim

Korean actor Lee Byung-hun in a scene from the film "I Saw The Devil" [showbox]

Top Korean actor Lee Byung-hun will appear on ABC's "Good Morning America," one of the most popular programs broadcast on the American public network, according to the actor's agency BH Entertainment on Wednesday.

BH Entertainment announced in a press release that Lee will represent Korea as a cultural figure on the morning show featuring a special segment commemorating the 60-year anniversary of the Korean War titled "Long War," set to air at the end of this month.

The special will focus on the developments and changes that has occured in the country since the war as well as featuring interviews with leading figures in the country including Korean President Lee Myung-bak, C.E.O of Doosan Park Yong-mann and actor Lee Byung-hun.

ABC interviewed Lee Byung-hun on his success in Korea as well as his venture into Hollywood -- he made his debut in the U.S. film industry through action flick "G.I. Joe" last year. Considered one of the most successful actors in Korea, Lee has numerous dramas and films under his belt.

He recently finished shooting the upcoming thriller "I Saw The Devil" alongside Korean actor Choi Min-sik. "Devil" is about a secret agent (played by Lee) plotting revenge against a serial killer (Choi) who killed his fiancee. It is scheduled for release in Korea this summer.

Reporter: Lucia Hong luciahong@ Editor: Jessica Kim jesskim@ <ⓒ10Asia All rights reserved> 10.asiae.co.kr

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June 24, 2010

For this Big Bang member, it’s not so lonely at the T.O.P

A boy band member gone solo is now making his way to the top.

Choi Seung-hyun, more widely known as T.O.P of the group Big Bang, has hit No. 1 on various music sites such as MNet, Bugs and Naver for his song, “Turn it Up.” T.O.P’s first official single was an instant hit with the release of his teaser clip on June 15, and his success continued with the release of the full song on June 21.

His good fortune does not stop there. The rapper’s film debut in “71: Into the Fire,” recorded 1.2 million viewers the first week of its release, making it the movie that snatched up a million viewers in the shortest time this year.

According to YG Entertainment, T.O.P’s management company, the rapper will not be performing his new single solo on stage but will be joining the other four when the official album for Big Bang comes out later this year.

Source: joongangdaily.com

'71 Into the Fire' Tops Box Office

The big-budget movie "71 Into the Fire," a story about a group of boy soldiers during the Korean War, has become the biggest domestic movie of the year so far since its release on June 16.

Featuring a star-studded cast that includes Cha Seung-won, Kwon Sang-woo, Kim Seung-woo, and Choi Seung-hyun, better known as T.O.P. from boy group Big Bang, the W11.3 billion movie has drawn 1.4 million viewers in over 760 cinemas nationwide as of Wednesday, according to distributor Lotte Entertainment.

Released in time for the 60th anniversary of the outbreak of the Korean War, it is based on a true story of a poorly-armed outfit of 71 young volunteers who protected the city of Pohang, South Gyeongsang Province from invading North Korean forces while the Army was fighting on another front. The boys' compelling stories are interwoven with harrowing battle scenes.

"Considering the huge drop in moviegoers due to the World Cup, the strong box office results show just how popular the movie is," Lotte Entertainment said.

Source: englishnews@chosun.com

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June 24, 2010

With a star-studded season, let the fall TV tussle begin

If you haven’t been fighting over the remote with your family, the drama lineup for the latter half of this year will make you do so.

The start of this torrid TV tangle is the MBC drama “Road No. 1,” which commenced yesterday. The Korean War story line is portrayed by the former boy band leader Yoon Kye-sang, actor So Ji-seob and actress Kim Ha-neul.

Feeding the drama craze will be heartthrobs Lee Seung-gi and Shin Min-ah with the SBS drama “My Girlfriend is a Nine-Tailed Fox.” This drama, scheduled to run on Aug. 11, was written by Hong Jeong-eun and Hong Mi-ran, who are the producers of hit dramas “Couple or Trouble” and “You’re Beautiful.”

Next is the spin-off of the popular drama “IRIS,” titled “Athena: The Goddess of War.” Although Athena seems already guaranteed for success due to its predecessor, producers have brought in top actors such as Jung Woo-sung, Soo-ae and Cha Seung-won. Filming for the drama will start next week and is planned to air at the end of this year.

Ko Hyeon-jeong and Kwon Sang-woo will be appearing on the SBS drama “Big Fish,” which is scheduled to hit the airwaves in October.

The setting for this drama is derived from the works of cartoonist and painter Park In-kwon, and depicts a human rights lawyer with a gold digger who gets involved in politics.

By Hannah Kim, Contributing writer joongangdaily.com

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June 24, 2010

Actress Ku Hye-sun poses in front of her paintings at an opening ceremony of Gallery TLJ in Seoul on Wednesday.

Source: englishnews@chosun.com

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June 24, 2010

Daniel Henney To Make Comeback after Four Years with ‘Runaway’

Daniel Henney will make a comeback to the small screen after four years away with the spy action drama “Runaway,” in which Rain (real name Jung Ji Hoon) will also appear.

According to a statement released on June 21 by his agency, Henney will play a shipping magnate named Kai who loves Jin Yi (Lee Na Young) in the drama “Runaway.” He is making a comeback to a TV drama four years since he appeared in the KBS drama “Spring Waltz” in 2006. “Runaway” is about people who are chasing an astronomical amount of money, and notably writer Chun Sung Il and producing director Kwak Jung Hwan, who worked together in the KBS drama “The Slave Hunters,” have formed a production team again. Rain has been cast as the male lead named Ji Woo, who will be involved in a mysterious incident and Lee Na Young will play his counterpart, the female lead named Jin Yi.

Kai is a passionate character who goes through fire and water to recapture Jin Yi -- who had left him due to a sudden accident -- and he will be fated to confront Rain.

Writer Chun Sung Il said, “From the time when I first planned the drama and the character Kai, who hides impassioned charisma behind his lovely smile, I have had Daniel Henney in mind for Kai.”

Henney appeared in the Hollywood blockbuster “Wolverine” last year and his name was popularized as he appeared in the American TV drama “Three Rivers.”

“Runaway” will be broadcast at the end of September on KBS 2TV.

Source: KBS Global