Mnet Announces 2012 Prime Time Music Programming Slate, Solidifying Network as America’s #1 TV Destination for Fans of K-pop Music

Network to Begin Live Broadcasts and Live Stream of

World’s #1 K-Pop Chart Show, M! Countdown,

for the First Time in the U.S. April 25

New Series Jjang!, the First English-language Daily K-Pop Entertainment News Show, to Air Exclusively on Mnet this Summer

AUSTIN, TX – March 16, 2012 – Mnet, the #1 English-language television network in the U.S. targeting Asian Americans and fans of Asian pop culture, today announces  plans to ride the Korean wave into the spring and summer with their new music programming line-up.  This includes, for the first time, live broadcasts and live streams of M! Countdown, the world’s #1 K-pop chart show broadcasted to 11 countries, beginning April 25.

Mnet also announced the new original series, Jjang!, the first English-language daily K-pop entertainment news show in North America to focus on K Wave and K-pop culture, will join the line-up this summer.  The series, to air exclusively on Mnet, is a one stop shop for K-pop news, celebrity gossip and trends, and will include a weekly K-pop chart based solely on viewer votes.  In addition, the network will once again air the Mnet Asian Music Awards (MAMA)later this year and will continue to air exclusive coverage from the concert series “M Live by CJ,” bringing the best K-pop artists to venues across America. 

"K-pop is a global phenomenon and is breaking into American mainstream pop culture in a big way, with the genre’s biggest artists appearing on U.S. late night television, sharing the stage with Snoop Dogg and collaborating in the studio with will.i.am,” said Sang Cho, Mnet’s COO, in advance of a panel he is moderating at SXSW about the rise of K-pop in America.  “At Mnet, our goal is to help ignite this K-pop explosion by introducing fans to the hottest recording acts, and the most cutting edge K-pop inspired trends, fashion and lifestyle through our TV Everywhere platform.”

Mnet – K-pop Programming with Show Descriptions:

M! COUNTDOWN – The number one rated music TV series in Korea, and syndicated throughout Asia, counts down the hottest K-pop hits and features live performances by artists from the U.S. and throughout Asia.  In 2012, the series will expand to offer four global specials, airing live throughout the world, that capture K-pop festivals being held in major cities of Asia.  The first special, on April 25, will be streamed live from Japan on www.mnetamerica.com, in addition to airing live on the network.  M! Countdown regularly airs on Mnet Thursdays at 9 p.m. ET/PT.

JJANG! – The new series Jjang! will be America’s number one source for everything Korean entertainment featuring the who’s who in hallyu gossip and news as well as everything needed to stay up to date on Korean lifestyle and culture.  The show will feature a brief rundown of the hottest news in Korean entertainment, profiles of rising K-pop stars, a celebrity gossip segment chronicling the rise and fall in popularity of Korean celebrities based on the news stories of the week, recaps of entertaining moments from Korean dramas, movies, television shows and reality series and comedic viral video clips.  The series will also showcase the top songs from the K-pop and American charts from Korea and Billboard.

HELLO POP! – Hello Pop!, airing weekdays at 7 p.m. ET/PT, is the place for American K-Pop fans to meet and engage.   Hosted by VJ Chrissa Villanueva, the series uses music videos as a platform to build a global community and encourages viewer participation through signature segments, such as M University, and social media sites, including Facebook and Twitter.  This season offers a new set and new segments such Eat My Kimche, hosted by married couple Simon and Martina Stawski, who provide zany analysis of popular K-pop music videos on the basis of dance, song, storyline and use of English in the video, and Project K-Pop, which pairs two rhythmically challenged K-pop fans with coaches to battle it out to become the ultimate K-Pop dancer. Fans are encouraged to submit videos showing off their love for all things K-pop to HelloPop@mnetamerica.com in consideration for segments including M University, #1 Fan, Planet K-pop and Project K-pop.

Beats Per Mnet Music – Mnet curates the latest chart topping music videos from the biggest K-pop acts and U.S. pop stars for this music video series.  Beginning in April, Beats Per Mnet Music will air daily from 6 a.m. – 6 p.m. ET/PT, giving viewers the chance to catch up on one of the most integral parts of K-pop music, the music video, and offering the best visual option to catch up on the latest pop music.

MNET ASIAN MUSIC AWARDS (MAMA) – Truly a global event, the Mnet Asian Music Awards (MAMA) features the most popular artists from around the world.  The 2011 award show was broadcast to more than 10 Asian countries and 45 countries around the globe including the U.S. and Europe.  1.9 billion viewers watched 15 live performances by some of today’s hottest acts, from the Black Eyed Peas’ will.i.am and apl.de.ap’s exclusive duet with 2NE1’s CL to Snoop Dogg’s performance with Dr. Dre to the hottest Korean K-pop stars including Girls Generation and Super Junior. 

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[Video] 2AM made their long-awaited comeback on Music Core!

Enjoy 2AM's comeback stage on Music Core!

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[Video] IU unveiled new Bulgaris CF!

Check out IU's new Bulgaris CF.

She is such a cute girl in the clip below!

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[Video] B1A4 said "Baby,I'm Sorry" on Music Core!

Check out B1A4's comeback performance on Music Core,the boys performed their latest hit song Baby I'm Sorry on the show!

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[Videos] NU'EST made their debut on Music Core!

Check out NU'EST debut performance on Music Core.

The boys performed I'm Sorry and Face on the show!

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[Video] SHINee's comeback teaser on Music Core!

SHINee will make their comeback on Music Core next week,check out the teaser below!

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[Video] SPICA sings Halo on Sketchbook!

Check out SPICA's impressive singing ability on Sketchbook!

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[News] SHINee Unveils Their New Album Sherlock

The title song ‘Sherlock,’ a hybrid remix, has a unique and distinctive style, and its point is SHINee’s splendid performance of a dance routine choreographed by the world-renowned choreographer Tony Testa.

Especially, ‘Always There’ is special for its lyrics, written by Jonghyun, that express SHINee’s thankful hearts to fans who have stayed by their side with unchanging love until now.

The album also includes ‘Clue’ and ‘Note,’ the two songs out of which ‘Sherlock’ was born, ‘The Reason,’ a song impressive for its splendid guitar solo and string session, and ‘Alarm Clock,’ a song for which Jonghyun wrote sensuous lyrics about a man’s wish to wake up from his bad dream of a past break-up moment and Minho participated in rap making.

The album consists of a total of 7 songs in a variety of music colors, including ‘Stranger,’ the main theme song for Strangers6, a Korea-China-Japan joint drama scheduled to be aired in Korea, with thrilling sound and melody composed by Kenzie.

The songs are: Clue, Note, Sherlock, Alarm Clock, The Reason, Stranger, Always There.

source: EToday

Trans by : jujugal

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Sammul Chan invited to CTI, does not admit he's a traitor

In the recent year, Sammul Chan has been focused on developing in Mainland and rarely sees his HK fans. Earlier he came back to HK to rest for half a month, and conveniently set up a fans gathering. Wonder if its been too long since Sammul's been in HK, but many fans didn't even have dinner yet, and already wanted pictures with their idol. Sammul fulfilled all requests.

Earlier, Ricky Wong established new television station CTI, Sammul was asked if he invited him over? He said: "Actually I have a pretty good relationship with Mr. Wong. Earlier he flew all the way to Taiwan, where I was working at the time, to talk to me!" It was understood Ricky has intentions to use he and Maggie Cheung, two former TVB artists, in a new series to fight TVB. He said: "Nothing has been confirmed yet, I don't know anything!" Sammul also stressed he completely enjoys working in Mainland because of the high salary and good benefits. When asked if he's afraid TVB would label him as a traitor? He said: "Nope, there are many people in this society that changes jobs. So are they all traitors too? TVB treats me OK too, just there are some people I don't like."

Source: Oriental Daily
Translated by: aZnangel @ AsianEU Forum

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Candy Chang & Kyle Tse getting up top through their doctor roles

2010 Miss Chinese International Second Runner-up Candy Chang dropped out of school just because she wanted to enter the entertainment circle and start a career there. She bravely advanced in her career as she reveals outstanding talent in the recent TVB series The Hippocratic Crush. In the series, she plays Kan Jing Jing, a medical intern, along with Kyle Tse (Dik Dik Jai). Candy said this is her first series, so she was very nervous, but she claimed the doctor role really suits her. She said: "I used to be a lifeguard, so I understand the mentality and procedures of rescuing people. This time, I am very lucky to be able to play a doctor."

Kyle plays Law Lan's grandson in the series and had several crying scenes. When speaking of his scenes opposite of Law Lan, he said: "Law Lan Jeh really has outstanding acting skills! She brought me into character, especially the crying scenes. I naturally started to cry because of her!" He also expressed sometimes he'll drive Law Lan home after work and that made his real grandmother jealous!

Source: Oriental Daily
Translated by: aZnangel @ AsianEU Forum

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Fala Chen defeats Sharon Chan on lateness to event

Roger Kwok, Fala Chen, Sharon Chan, Koni Lui and Gigi Ho took part in TVB series Queens of Diamonds and Hearts promotional event, where the cast watched the series in Tsim Sha Tsui. Recently, it was rumored that lead actresses Fala and Sharon have been on bad terms and were in a big competition during filming. They competed on lateness, who changes the schedule and take time off the most. Coincidentally, they were both late to the event last night. Sharon was half and hour late, while Fala defeated her by being 40 minutes late. Soon after, Sharon embraced Fala for pictures, Sharon joked: "Let us take a 'bad terms' picture first." Fala then gave Sharon a gift too.

During an interview, Roger was asked about Fala and Sharon's bad terms rumor? He laughed: "They are always on bad terms. I must defend Beauty (Sharon Chan), Fala is the one at fault. In fact, I modify the schedule the most, I'm the most popular." Later, Sharon joined Roger in the interview, she denied that she's on bad terms with Fala: "We all modified the schedule before, but we did all our communication beforehand. Sometimes, we know we won't get any sleep for the next few days on the schedule, so we accommodate each other. We had a pleasant collaboration, and are good friends, not on bad terms." Sharon also said Netizens have been madly criticizing her role Ha Ying Chun, she said: "Many people want to follow me just so they could yell at me, what did I do wrong?"

As for Fala, she was asked if she's trying to compete with Sharon on lateness? She said: "No, we had to work before and have matched the times first. We are very good friends in private, and have not been affected by the reports. Also, we both have straightforward personalities. If we really are on bad terms, it is impossible that we can pretend to be friends in front of you guys." Recently, Fala has been busy recording new songs for her debut album and has been jogging to train. Asked if she's worried she'll get followed by the media while she's jogging? She laughed: "I am undercover dog Fala. I have eyes on my back. In fact, I'm just exercising, it's really nothing." Fala said she won't ask her boyfriend to jog with her because it will attract more of the paparazzi.

Source: Oriental Daily
Translated by: aZnangel @ AsianEU Forum

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Joey Yung willing refer Kay Tse to join EEG

The other night, Joey Yung attended the Porsche 911 car show and party and performed three songs. Joey currently owns three cars, which is enough to fulfill her everyday needs. When speaking of her driving skills, Joey said: "Driving is a pleasure to me, I'm pretty ok at driving. Because I'm often sitting in my company's car for work, so I require myself to do some driving from time to time to avoid getting rusty at it. (Have you done speeding before?) I'm very safe. If I drank or went to a party, I won't drive. (Have you been provoked by the car next to you before?) Yes because they recognize me. I would drive slowly to piss them off. I don't like that kind of provoking. I don't have tinted windows, so people can easily see me." She also expressed she had never received a car as a gift from anyone, just got a license plate from her boss Albert Yeung.

It was reported that Kay Tse terminated the contract with her record label (Universal) for HK$4 million. Will Joey refer Kay to EEG? She generously said: "Sure, if EEG has interest to sign with a person that can sing. (Not afraid she'll be a threat to you?) Of course I'm not afraid if I'm going to refer her. I really admire those who can sing. When she debuted, I already thought she had a beautiful voice. If she really does join my company, I can help her make the connection. (Will you take initiative?) I won't get in between unless there is interest from either party. I don't know where she's going, but I will send my blessings for her."

Towards Joey's sincerity, Kay expressed over the phone: "As a singer, I do hope to be given more space to make good music. Of course I do hope one day, there will be freedom and no boundary collaborations."

Source: Oriental Daily
Translated by: aZnangel @ AsianEU Forum

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A Simple Life celebration in Beijing

Directed by Ann Hui, A Simple Life had caught the attention of audience since it opened in the cinemas on 8 March as its box office taking kept breaking records. On the afternoon of 15 March, the film held a celebration in Beijing, in attendance were the film’s company Bona Film boss Yu Dong, main casts Andy Lau, Deanie Ip and Qin Hailu, they thanks the support from the media, cinemas and audience.

According to Bona Films, the box taking for A Simple Life had already exceeded RMB$13 million on its opening day on 8 March, breaking the box office taking of films that opened on 8 March, it also broke director Ann Hui’s overall box office takings for her films in Mainland China. After four days of screening in Mainland China, it managed to break the RMB$36 million mark which defeat Hollywood film War Horse which opened during the same period. The film company expressed that it is expected to break RMB$50 million by 15 March’s night.

In addition, A Simple Life is the highest grossing art film for Bona Film after one week of screening, it’s also the highest grossing Hong Kong art film.

In Hong Kong and Macao areas, A Simple Life managed to collect HK$9 million which did better than Hollywood film John Carter, it did Chinese film proud. The film managed to take in NT$7.8 million in its first week, a total of NT$16 million throughout Taiwan as the box office champion.

At the celebration, investor and male lead Andy was very excited as he expressed that he always has confidence in A Simple Life, the audience is the same as ‘Tao Jie’ as they kept supporting him for so many years, he’s very touched. An agitated Andy said: “What I did in my previous life, everybody treat me so well? I’m so touched by all of you, hope I can treat them like what Roger had did.”

Andy revealed that the audience commented that all the actors did very well, but there are divided remarks for him, some think he acted well, but some think that he still looked handsome in the film, he’s still so Andy Lau.

When Andy decided to invest in this film, many people doubted him as will this film earn money? Andy said that at that time he wanted to say that he believed that A Simple Life will have a good box office taking, but he’s also worried that he had to eat his own words. Now Andy can say out what he initially don’t dare to say.

When the compere asked if they would continue the Best Actor and Actress teamwork, Andy and Deanie showed their enthusiasm. Andy expressed that himself and Deanie are still enjoying the results of A Simple Life, he hope to collaborate with Qin Hailu and Deanie again.

When talked about the box office, a modest Deanie said that box office is the expertise of Andy and her expertise is acting. Andy immediately added: “Many pf my films don’t sell.”

Andy and Deanie always showed off their close relationship, as during the champagne toasting, Deanie hinted to him to drink less as she said that one sip is enough. Andy then revealed that he loved to eat peanuts but Deanie don’t allow as it will make one grow fat. During interview, Deanie expressed that Andy is very obedient since young and always self improve himself, so she loved him so much.

Source: ent.sina.com, ent.QQ.com
Translated by: AndyLauSounds

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Twins opens second-hand clothing store, proceeds donated to food bank

Yesterday it was the grand opening of Twins' second-hand clothing store. The store was full of Twins' high heels, clothing and accessories. At the location, many customers purchased items from them. Twins expressed they opened this second-hand clothing store for charity: "We picked out over 10,000 clothing for the charity sale. The proceeds will help with the rent and pay for the staff. The remaining proceeds will be donated to the food bank. Let's see how much we can sell, but we will donate at least HK$200K and if it exceeds HK$200K, then all of it will be donated."

The second-hand store will temporarily be opened for two weeks and new clothing will continuously be added in. Asked why they decided to donate to the food bank? Charlene Choi (Ah Sa) expressed they collaborated with the food bank before and knows the purpose is to distribute food items to people in need. It can really help families in poverty. As for Gillian Chung (Ah Gil), she said because there are many people out there that need food.

The store is nearly 1,000 square feet, Twins expressed the shopping center gave them a friendly rental price. Their mothers and friends will be helping out in the store, and will only get a small pay. In order to open this second-hand clothing store, Twins spent several days preparing, Ah Sa said: "I was really exhausted from picking out the clothes, just getting the T-shirts took me 2-3 days." Ah Gil expressed she especially went to the warehouse to put the clothing in order.

Aside from all that, Twins also did the price tagging themselves. The duo expressed it took them all night and into the morning to mark the prices. Also, a lot of their clothing/shoes/accessories are still very new, Ah Gil said: "Many of the shoes still have the price tag on them, purchased it for HK$5,000, but now we're selling it for a discount." While picking out clothing, Twins realized something: "After doing this, we believed we shouldn't be selling so many things. We learned to only sell the things that are needed, but now it's doing better than before.

Source: Oriental Daily
Translated by: aZnangel @ AsianEU Forum

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Kelvin Kwan promotes ATV's new sitcom by giving out condoms

Kelvin Kwan, Wylie Chiu and Zac Koo attended the promotional event for ATV new sitcom Heart's Beat For Love in Central. Since it's White Day (3.14), the cast cooked up romantic dishes and gave out the sitcom's souvenirs - condoms - to the pedestrians on the streets. When asked if Kelvin feels embarrassed? He said surprised: "Huh? Really? I really didn't know I had to pass them out. I think I've done it before, not embarrassed." He expressed he'll be starting CTI's new suspense drama in July and will be collaborating with Felix Wong.

Dressed conservatively, Wylie reveals she had a fever a few days ago and still has not recovered. Although she wasn't embarrassed to pass out condoms, but she was worried she may get sicker from standing outside with the wind.

Source: Oriental Daily
Translated by: aZnangel @ AsianEU Forum

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Marrying Mr. Perfect premieres

Gigi Leung Wing Kei two nights ago along with Ronald Cheng Chung Kei, Chapman To Man Jat and Mainland actors Hu Ran and Wen Chao attended the MARRYING MR. PERFECT (GA GOR 100 FUN NAM YUN) premiere. Gigi was asked whether her 100 point man has arrived. She sweetly smiled and said, "We have so many people, and I need space to work." She also said that she had a lot of fun on this shoot because Ronald and Ah Jat often "sang a duet" in front of her so she happily made her salary; she also said that both were good men, one has become a father and loved his daughter very much while the other was known for loving his wife. Although they were not known for their looks, they had perfect scores inside. She still was in the newlywed stage and still learning. Has she asked Ronald for parenthood advice? She said that she would wait until she would have a baby, but she felt that family truly changed a person a lot. For example after marriage she has become more considerate, kept her other half in mind when she acted and felt more responsible. Gigi admitted that she would cook whenever she was free, but her husband cooked better than her. She sometimes would only buy some frozen wonton and dumpling to cook for her, which he did not appreciate very much.

Ronald meanwhile claimed to be Mr. Perfect. "I try to get 100 points first, then slowly deduct from them!" Gigi revealed that he constantly mentioned his daughter on the set. He immediately explained, "Because after my daughter was born I had to keep working right away, I missed her very much. All day along I would be on whatsapp and send photos. (When will your official banquet be?) When my daughter learns to walk." He said that his daughter was already eight months old, still did not know how to say Papa yet but made sounds like Mama. He was not envious though. Has he discovered his daughter's acting genes? He said, "No, musically she does though. When she acts up she would quiet down as long as we play songs."

Source: Takungpao, Mingpao, Singtao, on.cc
Translated by: hktopten

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Shu Qi "fights herself"

Shu Qi in the film THE SECOND WOMAN (CHING MAI) played twins siters who ended up at odds. In one scene she had to "fight herself" in a struggle on a boat at sea. To play this scene she was in the freezing cold water for almost 10 hours and even because she was too in character that she scared people away.

Shu Qi played twin sisters who had relationships with Shawn Yue Man Lok. After the younger sister learned about her older sister's relationship with Yue Man Lok, they rowed to sea. The younger sister was relentless, during the struggle she fell into the sea. The older sister extended her hand to save her, but then she used an oar to splash the water with a murderous look on her face; later, the younger sister raised her hand from the water to try to pull her sister in. When the sea calmed down again, only one person returned to shore.

Shu Qi was very in character when she made the "sister struggle" and scared away the director and the crew. Director Carol Lai Miu Shuet remembered at the time the crew on the set was unusually silent. No one dared to be near Shu Qi. Shu Qi had to change costumes over a dozen times and finally she truly collapsed. She said, "Acting with myself is very tough already, I also had to fight myself. I actually was a super masochist."

Source: Mingpao
Translated by: hktopten

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[News] Shinhwa's Jun Jin recalls how he almost lost his life in an accident

Shinhwa member Jun Jin recalled how he almost lost his life in a scary accident.

On the March 13th installment of KBS2 "Win Win", all six members of Shinhwa were guest-featured and Jun Jin talked about his tumbling accident on a variety program during Shinhwa's early days.

Jun Jin revealed, "On a variety program in the past, I fell on my head on a cement floor so badly that I lost consciousness for a while."

He failed at pulling off a full acrobatic tumbling, and fell to the ground foaming at the mouth. "Though I do remember falling at the time, my mouth went haywire and my arm wouldn’t move. I tried hard to get up, but I can’t remember what happened after that," Jun Jin continued.

Shin Hye Sung then added, "We went to the hospital and the doctor said he might not survive the night because he had gotten a cephalhematoma. Everyone cried a lot after hearing that."

Eric revealed the group’s famous close bond adding, "I think that was the first day I cried because of a member."

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[NEWS] Big Bang and Girls Generation donate items for charity auction

Hallyu stars have stepped forward to lend a helping hand to victims of the Great East Japan Earthquake. Sankei Sports reported on March 14 that the Korean Cultural Center of the Korean Embassy in Tokyo would be holding an exhibition of items donated by hallyu stars from March 13-25.

The exhibition will have Girls’ Generation’s tote bags, a guitar that Big Bang actually used onstage and a range of 50 other items including costumes, signed CDs and umbrellas. Most of the items will be auctioned off for a fund which will be donated to victims of the earthquake. Meanwhile, Girls’ Generation revealed the music video for its first Japanese ballad piece Time Machine on March 13, and Big Bang will be returning to Japan with a new album on March 28.

Source: Mnet Global

c:bigbangupdates

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[NEWS] Billboard Korea: Big Bang is unstoppable

Debuting at No. 1 last week, with their lead single "Blue," BIGBANG -- as predicted -- has gone on to dominate the top of the chart taking no less than half of the spots of the Top 10 on this week's K-Pop Hot 100 chart.

The excitement around the new EP "Alive" has translated elsewhere from just digital downloads as the music video for "Blue" racking up over 14 million views so far. Capitalizing on these successes, the boys just kicked off their world tour, titled "ALIVE TOUR 2012," in Seoul which drew more than 30,000 fans to the three-day event. BIGBANG will hit 16 different nations and 25 cities in Asia, North and South America, and Europe.

While every track from the EP charted with "Bang," a track featuring only member Daesung, missing the Top 10 at No. 13 and the EP's "Intro (Alive") at No. 19, we look into three singles from the album that landed at the top of the chart.

While "Blue" spends its second week at the top, "Love Dust" shot up to the No. 2 spot, pushing miss A's, "Touch" down to No. 4. "Love Dust" is a collaboration between producer Teddy and BIGBANG member G-Dragon. In this song, they put a rock twist, over the electro-pop, sample-heavy beat to compliment the soothing vocals and rap.

Looking down one spot on the chart one finds "Bad Boy," debuting at No. 3, is a concoction of R&B melodies, hip-hop beats and little bit of jazz piano. The track was produced by G-Dragon and Choice 37, an in-house YG Entertainment producer. In the accompanying video, the boys stride down the streets of Brooklyn while adding in some free-flowing raps and sensual vocals. The members each get their own turn in the spotlight with G-Dragon and TOP's singing/rapping combinations, Taeyang's charismatic tone, and Daesung and Seungri's melting voices all flow well together.

Unlike, "Blue" or "Bad Boy," the next highest charting single, "Fantastic Baby," is a big-time head-banger, with its catchy beats and infectious chorus verse, that is sure to make all types of pop fans happy. With a breakdown that sounds similar to the will.i.am/ Jennifer Lopez/ Mick Jagger collaboration " T.H.E. (The Hardest Ever)" and a catchy chorus ("I wanna dan- dan- dan- dan- dance") the song is perhaps the most accessible to American audiences. In the music video, the boys flaunt their over-the-top personalities that made them famous in Korea with some eye-popping outfits, props, and hairpieces.

BIGBANG's big splash on the charts this week is obviously creating waves and a big shake-up in the rankings. Ailee (No. 5 - No. 6), K. Will (4 - 9), John Park (6 - 11), all slipped down the chart. An interesting note does come for the four-week chart topper Lyn, however, who debuts at No. 20 with her new single, "Let it Rain." But for now, BIGBANG rules.

Source: Billboard.com
Thanks for Zura Dzukhie for the tip!

c:bigbangupdates

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[News] Yoo In Na cast in her first lead role with "Queen Inhyun’s Man"

Actress Yoo In Na has been confirmed for the female lead in tvN’s new Wednesday-Thursday drama "Queen Inhyun’s Man."

Yoo In Na will play the role of Choi Hee Jin, who finds love through a man that transcends space and time. Choi Hee Jin is a struggling actress who hasn’t been able to obtain a serious role since her debut 5 years ago. She than meets and falls in love with scholar named Kim Boong Do, who time traveled from the Chosun era to the present.

Kim Boong Do will be played by actor Ji Hyun Woo. Yoo In Na and Ji Hyun Woo will start filming next week, while the drama will premiere sometime in April.

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[Video] B.A.P sends White Day message for fans

Rookie group B.A.P released a special White Day video message for BABY (official fanclub name of B.A.P). Each members including Bang Yong Guk, Zelo, Himchan, Yong Jae, DaeHyun and Jong Up sent out their individual messages.

White Day is a day that is marked in South Korea on March 14th, one month after Valentine's Day. It is the day when the men pay back women who have given them chocolate on Valentine's Day with usually candy instead of chocolate.

Meanwhile, after 6 long weeks of activities following the release of their debut single "Warrior", B.A.P wrapped up their debut promotions. The group is now currently preparing for their comeback slated for April.

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'The Hippocratic Crush' basketball game promotion, lost badly to Students

Kenneth Ma, Tavia Yeung, Him Law and Mandy Wong took part in a basketball competition promotional event for The Hippocratic Crush. Yesterday the cast arrived at the high school to play a basketball game against the students. In a pair of leather shoes, Kenneth carelessly tripped his opponent during the game, frightening him so much he put his hands up in surrender. Him also tripped and fell during the confusion. The final score was 18 to 7, the Students crushed the Artists defeating them by 11 points.

Tavia didn't participate in the game, but she did serve as the cheerleader for her team. She exposed: "In the series, Kenneth is suppose to be good at basketball, but in reality he's really bad at it. He NGed countless times before he was able to get 1 shot in." It turns out Kenneth doesn't know how to play basketball at all, he laughed and said audience only saw the edited version.

When speaking of ex-girlfriend Nancy Wu's 6 second cameo appearance, Kenneth said: "She wasn't visiting me on the set, nothing to do with me. It's because the studio turned into a surgery room, so it was like TVB's holy land, everyone wanted to go in and see, including other producers and directors. (Nancy said let nature take its course when getting back together with you?) Well then, let nature take its course!" He said he's currently comfortable being friends with Nancy.

Asked if there is a possibility that they may get back together? Kenneth said: "I don't know the future. Never know, maybe they'll (media) will say I'm back together with Margie Tsang! It's all written and rumored by you guys! (You two didn't admit to have dated?) Any rumored friend can be said to have reconciled with me!"

No Fear Debate will affect Finale Ratings

The Hong Kong Chief Executive Election Debate will be televised on that Friday night when The Hippocratic Crush finale airs, and thus the finale will be pushed back 30 minutes. The cast believed this won't affect the ratings. Tavia believes it won't be too much of a problem: "Everyone in Hong Kong is following the election and it has been a concern in HK for a long time. It will be perfect for audience to watch the series finale right after the debate!" Him also believes its a small affect on the ratings and both programmes are important in HK. He hopes the finale will reach 40 points.

As for Him, he was asked if he'll carry rumored girlfriend Tavia into the basketball court? He smiled: "I have to get the ball, I don't have that many hands to carry her too!" He also expressed his injury from the fall isn't too serious and won't need to tell Tavia about it. Asked if he's going to pursue her? He said: "No such thing. (She's pursuing you?) No, good friends, normal friends. (Had rumors with female stars previously, still dare to date?) Time will past. I will do less joking now, but I'm not afraid to pursue female stars."

Source: Oriental Daily, Mingpao
Translated by: aZnangel @ AsianEU Forum

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Steven Ma plays badminton to kill time, stays away from nightlife

When artists are shooting in Hengdian, do they go to the night clubs, karaoke bars or any of the nightlife places to kill time? Does their lives get more and more splendid?

Steven Ma arrives in this location for the first time to shoot a series, after a 4 month long stay in Hengdian, he already turned into an 'old horse knows the way home'. From the very beginning Steven didn't know if he would fit in with the Mainland artists, but it turns out just one badminton racket did the trick. When Steven got to Hengdian, he looked for entertainment and eventually a group of 4 teamed up to play badminton and exercise. They were practically playing badminton every night after work. Now leaving Hengdian, Steven's mood is: "When can I come back to Hengdian and play badminton with my brothers and sisters again?"

In the past, Steven did go out for a 'few drinks' after work with friends to reduce stress. However because of his one experience of getting out of hand after drinking, he now deeply understands its wrong to affect other people while intoxicated. So, he started looking for new ways to reduce stress, which is to play badminton. Badminton can also help him exercise. Since then, Steven has given up drinking and didn't touch alcohol at all during his time in Hengdian. He killed time in a healthy way.

Source: Mingpao
Translated by: aZnangel @ AsianEU Forum

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A Simple Life: box office champion

Directed by Ann Hui and starring Andy Lau and Deanie Ip, A Simple Life made its name before being screened in the cinemas as it had won numerous awards in international film festival and film awards ceremonies. Deanie won four Best Actress awards at Venice Film Festival, Golden Horse Film Award, Tallinn Black Nights Film Festival, Hong Kong Film Critics Society and Asian Film Awards; Andy won the Best Actor award at the Golden Horse Film Awards. The film opened in cinema in Mainland China on 8 March and 9 March in Hong Kong and Taiwan, it became the box office champion.

On its opening day in Hong Kong cinemas on 9 March, it had already recorded close to HK$2,000,000 which excel other films screened at the same period. With 10 and 11 March being weekends, the box office takings kept raising. On Saturday, A Simple Life managed to collect $3,109,081 for the day and $1,048,375 by afternoon on Sunday. In other words, in its two days of screening, the film had already collected close to HK$6,200,000. After three days of screening (11 March), it managed to collect $8,325,671, with a daily collection of $3,030,000, obtaining such a figure in a normal screening period is no easy feat.

Meanwhile in Taiwan, its first week box office had already exceeded NT$7,800,000 in Taipei, breaking NT$18000000 to become the cinemas’ box office champion.

In Mainland China, since collected $13000,000 on its opening day on 8 March, it continued to draw audience to the cinemas over the weekend as it had collected $36000,000 after 4 days of screening.

With regards to the box office results, director Ann said that she was delighted by the audience support for the film, when she start shooting the film, she told media that “she’s dead”, unexpectedly the box office of A Simple Life gave her a surprise! She said: “I’ll continue to shoot films, until I couldn’t shoot any more films.”

Andy expressed: “A Simple Life managed to do well in China, Taiwan and Hong Kong, there also good news from Malaysia and Singapore, it can be said wherever there is Chinese, there will be ‘Tao Jie’, hope that the screening will continue and more people will go watch and love the film.”

With such encouraging results, film company Bona Films announced that Andy and Deanie would jet to Beijing for celebration and to thank the audience.

Source: ent.QQ.com, Apple Daily News, Ming Pao, Liberty Times
Translated by: AndyLauSounds

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Alleged that Andy to apply for PR of Malaysia

Andy Lau is always concern on his privacy, it was alleged that to prevent his little dragon girl to be disturbed by the media, he planned to make his daughter a Malaysian permanent resident as she could grow up in a quiet environment. Although the Malaysia government expressed that they had yet received Andy’s application but they welcome him due to his popularity, his migration to Malaysia will boost the international image of the country.

It’s reported that Andy’s wife is expected to give birth in May, Carol Zhu Liqian had caught the attention of reporters, since news of her pregnancy, it makes Andy worried that his daughter would suffer the same fate. Being the adoring father and ‘Malaysia’s son-in-law’, it’s alleged that he had checked with friends in Malaysia on how to apply for permanent residency in Malaysia, there’s a possibility that his daughter will grow up and stay in Malaysia which is a more safe and private environment, it would also ease him traveling between Hong Kong and Malaysia.

When rectify the matter with Andy, it has no reply from him. When rectify with the Malaysia government, Home Ministry secretary-general Tan Sri Mahmood Adam expressed that Andy is a celebrity, migrating to the country would enhance the country’s international image. However, he stressed that currently he did not receive his application, if he is to apply for PR, he would have to follow other in the normal application procedures. He added, other than applying for PR with marriage, with Andy’s special identity, he could renew his Resident Pass every 5 years.

Source: Ming Pao, Apple Daily News
Translated by: AndyLauSounds

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Chapman To tells Hiro Hayama to keep his clothes on

Chapman To Man Jat, Dada Chen Jing, and Hiro Hayama (Yip San Ho) starred film VULGARIA (DAI JOOK HEI KET) has become one of the Hong Kong International Film Festival film premieres. Yesterday they attended the film festival poster unveiling ceremony.

As a comedy actor, Ah Jat did not mind his work being called vulgar. He even pointed out that this time VULGARIA is a local category III film that is tailored for the Hong Kong market. Ah Jat revealed that years ago when a film was sent for Mainland inspection, it received as a comment that it was vulgar. Thus he and director Pang Ho Cheung decided to make a vulgar comedy.

In this film, Ah Jat played a film producer. Chen Jing played an ambitious actress who risked being with the boss for performance opportunities. Dada admitted that she not only was alternatively sexy but also had a "car rocking" scene with Ah Jat. Hiro Hayama played himself, a category III star. Did he have any nude scene? He said, "I only took it because I didn't have any." Ah Jat joked, "Hiro Hayama has shown enough, let me!"

Two days ago was the 1 year anniversary of the Japan March 11 earthquake and tsunami. As a Japanese Hiro Hayama recently raised donations for his compatriots and also made a donation of his own to mainly purchase medicine to fight radiation. Later he will return to Japan to visit his wife and child.

Source: Takungpao, Mingpao
Translated by: hktopten

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[News] Jang Geun Suk's Team H to open cafe event in Japan

Following their free concert in Tokyo, which gathered 4,000 fans at the Zepp in Tokyo, Jang Geun Suk and Big Brother of the duo unit Team H will be opening a cafe event to commemorate their Japanese debut.

In collaboration with Tower Records, Team H will launch their cafe event at the Cafe Manduka in Shibuya between March 19 and 25. The cafe will be decorated with photos of Team H and will play videos and music during business hours. It will also provide various benefits for the fans who visit the store during promotion period.

Jang Geun Suk and music producer Big Brother will make their advancement, and plan to release their album titled "Lounge H the First Impression" in Japan on March 21st.

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[INFO] AA Top 2 fanclub names!

1. W(???)
2. LoveLei(????)


cafe.daum.net/2011AA

c:amazingstars

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[INFO] Fanclub names chosen by AA

1.???? (TercerA)
2.FF (????)
3.???? (Love Lei)
4.??? (Doubling)
5.W (???)

CREDITS TO:

USof_DOUBLEA @ twitter
cafe.daum.net/2011AA

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[TRANS/INTERVIEW] TEMPEST Interview in Pledis Boy Magazine Part 2

QUESTIONS

1. When you first accepted as Pledis Boys, How was your life changed ?
2. Your dream as Pledis Boys?
3. Korean Idol star you like?
4. Artist you want to meet the most?
5. Things you hate to do in the Dorm?
6. Your feeling now, that you became Pledis Boys member?
7. Most pleasant things happened recently?
8. Blood type. Your personality
9. Hobbies except dancing and singing
10. The person you want to meet the most right now
11. Thing you want to have the most right now
12. Place you want to go to the most right now
13. Favourite food
14. Your dream and plan for the future as a Man

TEMPEST
—————————
DOYOON
1. From Busan to Seoul, step by step closer to fulfilling my goal
2. My dream since i was young is to be an actor
3. If it’s singer, Lee Seunggi. If it’s actor, Lee Beom Soo sonsaengnim. He was one of the judges on
4. When i was on elementary school, i watched the film , and i’m really moved. I want to meet Cho Seung Woo sunbaenim.
5. Cleaning or doing laundry
6. I can’t believe it, It’s exciting, and i feel happy
7. Because of the program i have this opportunity now. I feel so thankful.
8. Blood type O. Seems like my personality is good
9. Tenis. I’m learning to play guitar since a month ago, it’s also interesting.
10. Rather than the person i want to meet right now, i want them to be close with me. it’s my parents.
11. I am appeared in a drama or DVD
12. I want to have a trip to Europe. The old building is really attractive
13. I’m kinda picky. I don’t really eat vegetables, I like meat and pasta
14. Since i was young, my dream is only one; to be an actor. Of course, now i have a dream to be a singer too
——————-
Seungcheol

1. I basically like to spend my time to practicing sing and dance. But, it’s a pity that i can’t spend much time to play or study with friends.
2. I lack of tenacity, so my parents are worried if i quit. So i’m working harder. My dream is to be an actor
3. If it’s singer, Taeyang sunbaenim, If it’s actor, Seol Kyeong Goo Sonsaengnim.
4. Taeyang. I like his urbanstyle dance
5, Doing a laundry
6. Eventhough i am not yet an official member, I’m really happy that i’ve became a trainee
8. Blood type AB. I don’t really shy with people i just know. I really like all people so i can be very close with people quickly
9. Black belt in Taekwondo. I learned it for 7 years.
10. Friends
11. Accessories that i like
12. Australia, I really like well-preserved nature place
13. I eat well eventhough it’s only rice and kimchi
14. I really want to be a man that just like my father
——————-
Jihoon

1. I can’t believe it when i passed the ‘Pledis Audition’. Time flies, and i gradually believe it. My home is in Busan, but i need to move to school in Seoul. I’m still a student so i need to attend classes, when school ended, i practice until night. Lack of sleep.
2. Singer that can make people moved
3. Not a certain group. If the song is nice, i will like that group.
4. Justin Bieber
5. Disposing a trash
6. I’m not yet an official member, but i feel thankful that i’ve became a trainee
7. When i passed the pledis auditiom
8. Blood type A. I only talk to people i know. I can’t start conversation with the person i just meet
9. i play guitar everyday
10. Parents
11. I don’t have
12. home
13. I don’t really have a foods that i like and dislike
14. Accepted as great singer

Source: TVreport
Translation Credits: @Thenuest
Shared: Iceprinceafterschool @ Elite-Rebels

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[NEWS] INKIGAYO reveals Debut Stage Teaser for NU'EST

on the INKIGAYO they revealed a teaser for the debut of Rookie boy group NU'EST.

The group, composed of leader JR, Aron, Baekho, Minhyun and maknae Ren, According to Pledis Entertainment, NU'EST's debut single, "Face," will have an urban and electronic sound and will symbolize the youth's views towards society.

check the teaser below!


INKIGAYO revealed this as a comeback stage teaser for their next week episode of the show,

meanwhile NU'EST will reveal their last member teaser in the coming days, and the group will be finally having their debut stage on March 15th at M! Countdown. Their debut single, "Face", will be released on the same day.


Editorial: Iceprinceafterschool @ Elite-Rebels

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[TRANS] Pledis Boys Magazine : 4 Days 3 Night Trip to Sapporo!

DAY 1 // [BAEKHO]

Finally, i have an opportunity to trip to another country. My heart is beating hard when i know i’m going to have a trip to another country. And, i’m going to Sapporo! I saw on TV before, the snow covered some place on Sapporo. It was so beautiful. Now, not much time left until me, and other friends going to step on that place, in real life.

Even when i sleep, i feel so happy, that my eyes slant upwards. Time flies so fast, and it’s already the day to leave for a vacation. It was really nice. As soon as we get on the plane, we nearly falling asleep. After we seated side by side, we are looking at the small korea through window and then sleep. We were sleeping for 2 hours and we finally arrived in Tokyo! We are looking around at the shops on the airport. We have 3 hours until we get on the transit plane to Sapporo. The shops in airport were so complete start from clothes, character stuffs, until foods.


Manager gave us a box. Inside the box was bread that shapped like a banana. It looks like a normal bread, but it has a soft banana cream inside. It was really delicious. We ate it one by one until the box empty. With a dissapointed heart, we took a photo. And then, 3 hours passed. We get on the airplane and we feel sleepy again. Seems like someone put a sleeping pill in the plane. And then we sleep again. Then we arrived in Chitose Airport after 7 hours!

After getting off from airplane, we open the window, and everything were blanketed in snow. At that time, i immediately think ‘Ah! I finally arrived in Japan’. Then I’m smiled. Finally, i get the first stamp on my passport. It was so amazing,
that we keep opening the stemped passport. So proud. Seems like people going to trip because of this feel. In front of Airport, Ajusshi from the dorm picked us up. But, because we have too much baggages, we need to split; 3 people ride a car, and 3 other people ride subway to the dorm. Among 3 of us, our manager not really tired so he ride a subway. Even i’m tired too, seems like JR and Ren tired more than me. So Ren and JR leave riding a car, while me and manager go to subway station. When i’m walking, i slightly dissapointed. I’m hungry and sleepy..I remember the other two that reading the car..so sad..


When i’m riding the subway, i just realized. Nothing written in Hiragana, and here is Katakana and Kanji heaven. I’m really at loss. I’m so sad that i can’t read anything. Note to myself; I need to study Katakana and Kanji in the future. The japanese subway and korean subway is different. so exciting. And, i saw Hokkaido that covered with snow through the window. And finally, we arrived. Another Ajusshi was waiting for us in front of the subway station. So, we comfortably went to dorm with car. After unpack the baggage on hotel, Strangely i feel hungry. So, Manager bought us a Chobab . The Chobab we ate at korea and Chobab here are different.


On way back to dorm, i saw a big snowman. I took a photo in front of the snowman,But because it’s night, the photo didn’t came out well. It was the first day, we didn’t do anything, and it’s a pity if we just return to hotel so we went to a shopping mall. In the building, There’re Puppies, Kittens and hedgehogs in the arcade. JR and Ren play on the arcade while i’m looking at the animals. And, there’s a vending machine so we bought a beverages. The taste of beverages we drink in Japan and Korea are different. We went to supermarket and bought an Ice cream, cup ramyun, biscuit and onigiri. After we arrived on dorm, before we going to wash and sleep, we ate the things we bought on supermarket. Cup ramyun didnt taste that well. Seems like the foods i bought not my taste. So i
ate Haetban and Chamchi i brought from korea. It’s really delicious. It seems like korean should just eat korean food. After eat a lot of things, we turn off the lamp and lying on bed, then share some stories. I don’t remember that i slept. It was a long day. Japan Trip First Day.

———————————————

2ND DAY

JR and Ren waked me up. I hate waking up. I need to wake up, but my body won’t move. my eyes won’t open. My eyes opened for a while but i’m still sleepy. I came after wash up and breakfast are prepared on the table. The sidedish is still same with last night, a Tuna. It was really delicious. And there’s also a ramyun that i brought from Korea, As expected, It’s so delicious. We ate breakfast, and then getting ready to go out.
There’s no footprint in the snowy road! It seems like i came out the quickest so i feel good.

I really like the sounds of stepping on snow. Today i use boots so it’s okay if i step on snow as i want. Really nice. We’re going to chocolate factory so we need to go to Shiroisi Station. But we didn’t know the road. There’s only one way. Asking to the people! I then immediately think ‘I finally going to use japanese phrase that i learned’.

‘Sumimasen. Shiroisi Ekiwa Dokodesuka?’
’!@#$@%%^@$~’


Hul. I don’t know what does he/she said. If that person didn’t explain to us using body language, we won’t know how to go to the station. On the road, we had a snowfight and finally we arrived at Shiroisi Station. We ride a subway and get off on the station near the chocolate factory. We can eat and make a chocolate here, and then we’re looking at old toys. we can’t stop taking pictures with the pretty characters.

And, we arrived at the famous place where the movie taken at. We ride on subway and we saw the cool sea through windows. At the moment, i remembered my home. Are my parents doing well?. At the Chocolate factory We took a photo and then had a snowfight, then had a lunch. We arrived in a restaurant, and the snow is crazily falling. I didn’t know hitted by snow can be as fun like this. I barely feel cold. As we get hitted by snow, we walk on snowy road and spend time by taking pictures. As we’re going back to dorm, Ren mistaken japanese people as our stylist noona at the station and said “May i dust off (the snow)?” and then he just dust it of.
But then ‘Ah! A Japanese!’ That person and us just smilling, and Ren, because he’s embarassed he doesn’t know what to do..indeed Ren. In front of dorm, we made a snowman and then played with firecrackers. But then we received a mission. Searching hotel our manager staying tomorrow, until 7:30AM! With a sad heart, i went to sleep.

———————————————

DAY 3

We woke up at 5AM and going out at 5:30AM then going to Shiroisi Station. What should we ride to go to the hotel?
I was about to asked Ajusshi at the Station. But I don’t know what to say to him. What will happen to us. We asked to the people again, and she/he said we can ride Nanbokuson at Sapporo station. So, we went to Sapporo station, but because we don’t know where’s Nanbokuson so we asked a girl. That girl take us to the subway. We met an angel at Japan! Thanks to her, we arrived at the hotel on 7AM. Mission accomplished!

We ate breakfast at the hotel, and then going to Hokkaido University. There’s a monument of William Clark on Hokkaido University. We are going to stand in front of the monument and swear that we will study hard and practice hard. Then we took a photo on the monument, then going to K-POP Festival Concert to meet Orange Caramel Noonas. When we arrived it’s already ended. After the Concert ended, it’s kinda pity but i’m happy that we meet Orange Caramel noonas.

We’re looking around Sapporo and found music store. When we’re looking at the albums, i found Exile’s CD. In that CD there’s a song “Chu Chu Train”. Ah
It’s really nice to meet this song. I’m looking around again, then finally found korean singers CD. I really want to be famous soon, so my CD will be in this store too. After that, we went to take a dinner, because we found the sushi restaurant so we order the sushi. But then the manager asked “Do you want to sleep in hotel?”. And then, we shouted “Yes!”. We return to the dorm, packing and then go to the hotel. At hotel, we bathe in the hot spring. And then we played a game. We did rock-paper-scissor, the person who lose, should lie on snow for 30 seconds. Ren lose. He lose in first try. 10 seconds cold. 20 seconds hurts. 30 seconds can’t explain it with words. After playing, we went to eat japanese ramyun. Then we happily sleep at the hotel.

———————————————

Bye Sapporo..

Finally, the day to return to Korea. We ate Milk Ice Cream at the airport. It was delicious. We received presents from manager. JR accepted Green zip-up hoodie . Ren accepted T-shirt, And i received Red zip-up hoodie just like JR. Am i a couple with JR?! We bought souvenirs, and took a photos and then
the fun Sapporo trip finally, ended.

Source: pledisboys magazine
Translation Credits: @Thenuest
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