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Rabu, 12 September 2012

[Exclusive] Interview & Shout Out from 1TYM’s Danny, a.k.a. Taebin

[Exclusive] Interview & Shout Out from 1TYM’s Danny, a.k.a. Taebin
I was reading through a press release about a bunch of new shows coming this fall on Mnet, when one in particular caught my eye: Danny From LA, starring Danny Im, a.k.a. Taebin, from one of YG Entertainment’s early projects, 1TYM. It made me wonder where Danny had been all these years, since 1TYM has been on hiatus since 2006. We hear about fellow member Teddy all the time, as one of YG’s composer/producer extraordinaires, but what ever happened to the lead singer and rapper with the sweet face? In case you need a reminder, here’s 1TYM’s video for their song “One Love” off their 2nd album (2000).

I’ve been working on Soompi for over 14 years now, and I’d never felt the urge to do an interview myself, yet I found my nervous self on the phone with Danny. Both Soompi and 1TYM debuted in 1998, and I felt a certain affinity towards the fellow Korean American that was part of the era of K-Pop that I originally fell in love with.

Naturally, I was worried that he wouldn’t be very responsive to my questions, or just answer them on a surface level, but lucky for me, he exceeded my expectations in every way. We had a very thoughtful discussion on his long relationship with YG Entertainment, the K-Pop industry then and now, as well as what’s next for him.

So, what have you been doing all these years? It’s been nearly 7 years since 1TYM has released an album. 

I’ve been at the office (YG Entertainment) working behind-the-scenes in the talent development department. I was involved with the YG auditions we held in Thailand, and have been mentoring the up-and-comers. The kids today have it way better than we did – back then, they didn’t have a good system in place, since 1TYM was only YG’s 2nd group (after Jinusean).

How did you get manage to get discovered? It’s not like they had the aggressive international audition system they have today.

Basically, we got lucky. Teddy and I happened to get introduced to YG (Yang Hyun Suk) while he was visiting LA. We were just a couple of kids at Diamond Bar High School that naturally got into K-Pop since there were so many Asians in the area. It’s not like it was our life-long goal to become K-Pop stars, but the opportunity presented itself, and the entire process happened within a few short months.

What did your parents think of your sudden aspiration to move to Korea as a 17-year-old to become a singer?

They were actually very supportive. In fact, it had been a recurring threat to move the family to Korea, where they would “set me straight.” <laughs> [note: Korea has a notoriously strict and competitive school system, especially high school.]

Do you still keep in touch with your fellow 1TYM members?

YG has been involved with us for (literally) half our lives. We’re like family – even if we haven’t talked for weeks or months, when we get together, it’s as if we talked the day before. In fact, I just talked to Baekyung last week.

Does that mean we might see a 1TYM reunion sometime in the future?

It’s not something we are planning, but since the group never actually broke-up, it’s not out of the question. [Yes!]

Tell me about your experience as one of the early Korean American idols. I like to imagine some sort of secret club with your fellow Korean Americans, like Eric and Andy from Shinhwa, Yoo Seung Jun, H.O.T’s Tony An, Mickey and Eun Ji Won from Sechs Kies, Mikey from Turbo, etc.

Teddy and I were actually not very social. One of the barriers was that neither of us drink, and you know how in Korea, everyone gets to know each other over alcohol. The other thing was that whenever we were not actively performing, we went back to the States to be with our families. [So much for my fantasy secret club *sadface*]

Back then, was there as much pressure to do the variety show circuit like there is today?

One of the reasons we didn’t really blow up as much as the other groups is that we didn’t do the whole variety show thing. Sure, when we first debuted, we had no choice, but as we got more established and had more control, we chose not to. The good thing was that since people didn’t know our faces as well, we were free to walk around the streets without getting noticed. Of course the downside is that we felt like we were starting over every time we came out with a new album, especially since there was always a year or two between them. This drove us to work hard and stay focused – sometimes it’s good not to get too comfortable.

Let’s talk about some of the hot issues in K-Pop today. What do you think about the K-Pop artists that have been trying to break into the American market, most recently the Wonder Girls and Girls’ Generation?

Here’s the thing – to become a relevant artist in the US, you have to know the American pulse, the culture. Talent-wise, they’ve got what it takes, but they are not able to really grab the audience because they don’t understand what makes them tick. Another thing is that they are trying to do “American” music, which at the end of the day just makes them foreigners trying to emulate their music. In the case of Girls’ Generation, their sheer numbers are overwhelming. Let’s face it, to most Americans, they are 9 girls that look the same, so their individual talents get lost in the wash.

What do you think about the whole Gangnam Style phenomena?

What people don’t know about (fellow YG artist) Psy is that behind that goofy facade is a multi-talented man who puts a lot of thought, time, and energy into his music. He has the Korean pulse – he relates to people and people relate to him. That’s the reason the reality and variety shows are so popular – it makes people feel like the stars are like them. Psy’s explosion outside of Korea can in part be attributed to the fact that he is giving the world a taste of something fresh and different, something that is unabashedly Korean.

Your thoughts on the T-ara bullying controversy?

Even with four members, we (1TYM) bumped heads a lot. Bigger groups must have a much harder time trying to get along all the time. You’re with the same group of people 24/7, often in high stress situations with little sleep – some conflict is inevitable. The same thing happens with siblings and husbands and wives. The fact is none of us will ever know the true details of what happened, outside of those directly involved.

You have a new show coming out on Mnet America, Danny From LA – how did that come together?

I recently moved back to the US with the intention of staying here for a while, to be around family and have a regular life again, outside of YG. I talked to the producer of 2NE1TV, who’s now out here in LA, and we decided to do a show together. We’ll be covering the best in Asian pop culture and entertainment, from the perspective of someone in the industry. The show premieres this Thursday, September 13, at 7pm on Mnet.
So there you have it – I hope you enjoyed my first (last?) interview. I’ll admit that the highlight was when I was talking about how 1TYM came out the same year I started Soompi, and he was like, “Wait, you’re the one that actually started Soompi? I thought you would have had one of your people do the interview!” <teeheehee> Be sure to follow the show on Facebook for the latest updates, and let’s revive Danny’s thread in the forum.
There’s a bunch of cool new shows on Mnet that you should definitely check out if you are lucky enough to get the channel (click on the “Find Mnet” link):
  • Superstar K4: The singing competition that discovered Seo In Guk (Answer Me 1997), Huh Gak, and Ulala Session, live streaming online and on air!
  • Jjang: “From interviews with the hottest idols to the juiciest K-Pop gossip”
  • Kollaboration: Follows the nationwide talent show through 15 cities

First Reactions for “Nice Guy”: Too Fast vs. Very Captivating (Spoiler Alert)

First Reactions for “Nice Guy”: Too Fast vs. Very Captivating (Spoiler Alert)
The first episode of “Nice Guy” has aired on September 12 and drew in a mixed reaction from the viewers.
[Warning: spoilers ahead]

During the first episode, Kang Maru (played by Song Joong Ki) was sentenced to murder, which was actually committed by his lover Han Jae Hee (played by Park Si Yeon). He was sentenced to five years in jail. Six years passed and Seo Eun Ki (played by Moon Chae Won) had coincidentally entered into Maru’s life. The first episode ends with Maru and Jae Hee reuniting for the first time in six years.
Viewers have given mixed reactions after the episode. Some viewers commented, “The plot is developing so fast so it made me really focus,” “All throughout the episode, things were so interesting that I couldn’t take my eyes off the screen,” and “The more the episode progressed, the more I was focused.” Many seemed to like the speedy development.
On the other hand, some viewers said, “It’s too fast – I feel like I’m going through indigestion,” “I hope they will slow things down a bit,” and “The six years went by too fast. It feels like the content is being cut down too quickly.” Some felt that the development was way too fast and burdensome.
“Nice Guy” is about a man who gets betrayed by the woman he loves and plans on revenge.

Super Junior’s Leeteuk Talks about the Hardships of Being a Leader

Super Junior’s Leeteuk Talks about the Hardships of Being a Leader
Leeteuk spoke about his distress of being the leader of Super Junior.
On September 12, Super Junior members Leeteuk, Eunhyuk, Shindong and Siwon appeared for the continuing episode of “Radio Star” that started last week. During the episode, Leeteuk honestly spoke about his leadership role and started off by saying, “Sometimes, I want to be comforted.”
The MCs asked, “What are the hardships of being a leader?” Leeteuk replied, “I love being the leader. But the hardest part these days is the fact that sometimes, I want to be comforted.”
He continued, “Because I’m the leader, I can’t easily say that things are hard. Since my manager knows me so well, whenever I’m struggling or having a hard time, he immediately asks, ‘What’s wrong? If you get tired, then the other members will get tired too.’ In the past, those words gave me determination but these days, I just want to hear warm words like ‘It’s hard, right? Cheer up.’ Sometimes, I need that kind of comfort.”

Leeteuk then continued to share how he vents his frustration and struggles through his Twitter account. He said, “Sometimes, there are times when I get mentally exhausted.”
He continued, “I could have complained to my manager but I couldn’t. If I did, then my manager would have a hard time. I couldn’t express my frustration to any of the other staff because I don’t really know them well.”
That is how he got to vent through his Twitter. Then Shindong suggested that Leeteuk just talk it out with the other members. Leeteuk replied, “If it was about a group schedule then I would do that but this is about my personal schedule.”
“If I talk about my work to other members who don’t have work, it might seem like I’m showing off,” he said. Leeteuk then showed tears and said he just wanted to hear, “It must be hard for Leeteuk.”
Then the rest of the members cheered Leeteuk on by saying, “I hope you will stay as our leader forever,” “I want to tell you that I love you,” “In my heart, only Leeteuk is the true leader.”

KCON 2012 in California to Feature NU’EST, G.NA, EXO-M, B.A.P, 4Minute and VIXX

KCON 2012 in California to Feature NU’EST, G.NA, EXO-M, B.A.P, 4Minute and VIXX
Rookie boy group NU’EST has now been announced as the last idol group to appear at KCON 2012 in California.
With today’s addition, the complete idol lineup now features NU’EST, G.NA, EXO-M, B.A.P, 4Minute and VIXX. G.NA, along with Danny of 1TYM will be hosting the concert. Simon and Martina of Eat Your Kimchi will also be making an appearance as special guests.
The event is the first large scale K-Pop convention in the U.S, and will be held Saturday, October 13, at the Verizon Amphitheater in Irvine, CA.
For NU’EST, this will be their first time performing overseas. Like all the other boy groups appearing at the event, they are still a rookie group, having made their debut earlier this year. Their agency Pledis Entertainment will also be taking applications for their global auditions, which will take place the next day.
A new teaser video for the event was revealed a few days ago.
Produced by Mnet America, this full day event will feature autograph signing sessions, celebrity panels, contests and workshops geared towards fans of K-Pop and K-dramas. The event will conclude with a star-studded K-Pop concert.
Tickets for the entire are currently on sale for $40. VIP packages for $100 are also available. All tickets include admission to the concert and the entire convention programming slate. Visit their official website to purchase. Also check out their Facebook for more information.
Website: http://www.kconusa.com/
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/kconusa
Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/kconusa

f(x) Showers Sulli With Love At Filming Site

f(x) Showers Sulli With Love At Filming Site
Girl group f(x) visited the set of SBS drama “To the Beautiful You” to support their fellow member Sulli.
On September 12, Sulli posted a picture with her members on me2day. She included the caption, “My members came way out here at the filming site to show their love. I only had 2 hours of sleep.. They really gave me strength. Thank you so much. This is my happiness. Muah.”
In the picture, Sulli and the rest of the members are standing side by side in front of the camera. They all show their individual charms with different poses.
Because Sulli is in the midst of filming, it’s natural that she isn’t wearing any colorful make up like blush and eyeshadow. But the rest of the members also came with very minimal make up and casual outfits.
Netizens who saw the picture praised the group with comments like “It’s great to see their friendship,” “They’re really pretty even if they don’t do make up,” “They look fresh,” “Sulli must have regained strength.”
Sulli is currently acting in “To the Beautiful You” as Goo Jae Hee, which airs on Wednesdays and Thursdays. Here’s the preview of tonight’s episode.

Girls’ Generation’s YoonA Dubbed “Goddess of Dongguk” in Latest Paparazzi Shots

Girls’ Generation’s YoonA Dubbed “Goddess of Dongguk” in Latest Paparazzi Shots
Two paparazzi shots of Girls’ Generation’s YoonA surfaced online recently, under the title, “Goddess of Dongguk University, YoonA.”
The photos were taken at the school cafeteria of Dongguk University, where YoonA is majoring in Theater. In the photos, YoonA is seen walking around the cafeteria with her friend, and waiting for a meal with a big smile on her face. Netizens have taken notice of her slender legs, small face, and fresh skin, quickly naming her the “goddess” of the school.
Netizens commented, “I never knew I would see a true goddess in real life,” “She’s an angel…I wish to see her in my dreams,” and “I’m transferring to Dongguk University next year for sure!”
YoonA was accepted to Dongguk University’s Theater major in 2009, and has been spotted at school several times in the past.

Taeyang Will Be Joining G-Dragon on His Comeback Stage on SBS’s “Inkigayo” on September 16

Taeyang Will Be Joining G-Dragon on His Comeback Stage on SBS’s “Inkigayo” on September 16
Big Bang member Taeyang will be joining G-Dragon on his comeback stage as a solo artist on SBS music program “Inkigayo” on September 16.  G-Dragon will be performing “Crayon” and “One of a Kind” which are tracks from his mini album “One of a Kind” which will be released online on September 15 and in stores on September 18.
Taeyang will be come on stage during G-Dragon’s performance of “One of a Kind.”  Taeyang also appeared in the music video for “One of a Kind” which was released on August 24 as part of his promotions for his yet-to-be released album.   
Taeyang and G-Dragon are famously close friends having attended the same high school and spent their trainee years at YG Entertainment together before debuting as members of Big Bang in 2006.  Also, as young YGE trainees, Taeyang and G-Dragon both appeared in Jinusean’s “A-YO” music video and “Phone Number” music video.

MBLAQ Lee Joon’s College Entrance Gift from Mom: Box of Condoms

MBLAQ Lee Joon’s College Entrance Gift from Mom: Box of Condoms
MBLAQ’s Lee Joon revealed that he was gifted a box of condoms from his very own mom as a college entrance present.
On September 11, Lee Joon made a guest appearance on SBS “Strong Heart” and said, “I had a shocking incident. After I got into college, my mom gifted me a box of condoms.”
“As she gave me the condoms, she said, ‘Make sure you don’t do anything irresponsible. Because my mom gave me so much trust, I couldn’t do anything wrong during college,” he continued.
After his comment, Leeteuk followed up and asked, “So did you use those?” which brought the whole studio into laughter. The show’s MC Shin Dong Yup also said, “Try to control your mind whenever you’re tempted by looking at your mom’s gift.”
Shin Dong Yup then asked, “So do you have it or not?” Lee Joon quickly said, “It’s in my room…,” putting an end to the awkward conversation.

Go Hyun Jung Gifts Tablo With Book He Now Always Carries Around

Go Hyun Jung Gifts Tablo With Book He Now Always Carries Around
Tablo revealed that he has received a book as a gift from actress Go Hyun Jung.
On September 12, Tablo revealed on his twitter a picture of the gift with the caption “Go Hyun Jung gifted me with this book and it’s always in my bag. I read it too. Recommend the book.”
The title of the book is “Your Hurt Cannot Make A Leaf Green.” His revelation about always having it with him is causing attention from the public, most of whom are aware of his English degree from Stanford.
Netizens who saw his post showed positive responses with comments like “Oh, just reading the title leaves a strong impression,” “I’m a bit moved by Go Hyun Jung’s actions,“ “Tablo fighting.”
She previously bought a baby chair for Tablo’s newest addition back in February of this year.
In related news, the TaJinYo (We Want the Truth from Tablo) case has been reopened in Seoul Central District Court on September 12 as the first trial of the appeal. You can read more about the controversy here.

“Five Fingers” Actor Ji Chang Wook Doesn’t Have a Physical Type, Likes Interesting Women

“Five Fingers” Actor Ji Chang Wook Doesn’t Have a Physical Type, Likes Interesting Women
Earlier this month, on September 5, on SBS show “TV Entertainment News at Night,” actor Ji Chang Wook who is currently starring in SBS drama “Five Fingers” along with Joo Ji Hoon and Jin Se Yeon appeared as a guest on the show.
During the show, actor Ji Chang Wook said: “In my last year of high school (in Korea, the third year is the last year), that was the first time I had a girlfriend.  Up to now, I have dated five people.  Right now, I don’t have a girlfriend.”
Ji Chang Wook also said: “I don’t have a specific physical type.  Maybe I don’t have a specific standard, but it’s not that I don’t ever look at a woman’s physical appearance….I like a woman who is comfortable, can communicate well, and is interesting.”
In SBS drama “Five Fingers,” actor Ji Chang Wook plays the role of Yoo In Ha who grew up a spoiled only child of his parents until his father brings in another child who was born before his parents’ marriage.  Yoo In Ha is traumatized by suddenly having another older brother who is a child prodigy at the piano, effortlessly better than he is at the one thing he cherishes, and suffers an injury to one of his hands in a tragic childhood accident.


Gang Min Hyuk from CN BLUE Official Photos in Drama


You are my Handsome Minhyuk ♥♥
Click for some more pics~!
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