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K-Pop Quick News 09/03/14-09/05/14

September 5, 2014/in Entertainment, Quick News /by Alexis Hodoyan-Gastelum

The newest edition of K-Pop Quick News comes once more this week after the outflow of comebacks, stories, tragedy and scandal developments, among others.

With every edition, we gather the latest news in the industry and compile them in this list so you don’t have to hunt for the top stories. But don’t dismiss the list if you’re a regular K-Pop news reader, you might have missed something…

September 3^rd

RiSe’s Surgery Delayed Because of Low Blood Pressure
Polaris Entertainment revealed that RiSe’s scheduled surgery was delayed due to low blood pressure. [Allkpop]

Ladies’ Code’s ‘I’m Fine Thank You’ Ranks #1 on Several Music Charts
Fans have come together to get Ladies’ Code’s I’m Fine Thank You to top Korea’s real-time music charts, such as Melon. [Billboard]

Lee Byung Hun Warns He’ll Take Legal Action Against Those Spreading Malicious Speculative Comments
Amidst his blackmailing scandal, Lee Byung Hun expressed he intends on taking legal action against people spreading malicious and speculative comments online regarding the case. [Allkpop]

Eru Lectures Entertainment Industry on Safety Following Ladies’ Code Accident
While many celebrities took the time to tweet their condolences, Eru took a different path by voicing out his opinion on what lead to Ladies’ Code’s car accident. [KpopStarz]

‘Tazza 2’ Slays Box Office on Opening Day
Tazza 2 became an instant blockbuster by topping the box office on its opening day. The film starring T.O.P, Shin Se Kyung, and Honey Lee premiered on September 3^rd, raking up 201,044 viewers. [Allkpop]

MBLAQ’s Thunder Confirms his Solo Project ‘Monster’
After much speculation, J.Tune Camp confirmed that MBLAQ’s Thunder will release his newestt solo project Monster on September 5^th. [Soompi]

GLAM’s Dahee & Model Head for Questioning + Alleged Video Used for Blackmail Leaked
GLAM’s Dahee and her model friend went in for investigation at the Seoul Central District Court on September 3^rd. In addition, Channel A leaked the alleged video used for blackmailing, which Lee Byung Hun’s reps said they were released without the proper police investigation. In the recordings, a male asks sexual related questions. [Allkpop]

Park Shin Hye Confirmed for New Drama ‘Pinocchio’
Park Shin Hye will star in SBS’s new Wednesday-Thursday drama Pinocchio. The drama starts in November. [DramaBeans]

Juniel is Having a Comeback
FNC Entertainment’s CEO announced that Juniel will be having a comeback on her birthday. [Allkpop]

September 4^th

Ladies’ Code EunB’s Funeral Arrangements Made Public
Polaris Entertainment revealed that EunB’s remains are at the Korea University Anam Hospital in Seoul. Her funeral will be held on September 5. [KpopStarz]

Ashley & Zuny Send EunB Off + Polaris Updates on RiSe & Sojung’s Conditions
Ladies’ Code’s Ashley and Zuny attended EunB’s funeral procession today, as well as family, friends, and agency employees. Despite their injuries, the members went to pay their respects and couldn’t hold back their tears. Moreover, Polaris Entertainment updated the public on Rise and Sojung’s conditions, saying that the first remains unconscious and the second just received surgery for her upper jawbone and is currently recovering. She will have a follow-up surgery depending on her recovery progress. [Allkpop]

Super Junior’s ‘MAMACITA’ Tops Billboard’s World Albums Charts
Super Junior topped Billboard’s World Albums chart with their seventh album Mamacita. [Billboard]

GLAM’s Dahee Planned To Flee Korea After Blackmailing Lee Byung Hun

Dahee and her model friend had planned on leaving South Korea as soon as they received the money from blackmailing Lee Byung Hun. [KpopStarz]

TaeTiSeo Comeback Rumors Grow
According to Newsen, TaeTiSeo are in the last stages of completing their comeback material that will be ready for release after Chuseok. SM Entertainment confirmed the Girls’ Generation sub unit is preparing for a comeback, but wouldn’t specify a date. [Allkpop]

September 5^th

SISTAR’s ‘I Swear’ Plagiarism Controversy Grows
The plagiarism controversy surrounding the music video for SISTAR’s I Swear continues to grow as netizens point out the striking resemblances to Tiesto’s Red Lights music video. [Allkpop]

SPEED’s Taewoon Receives Backlash Over Ladies’ Code Tweets
After criticizing fan’s efforts to get Ladies’ Code’s I’m Fine Thank You to number one only after EunB’s death through Twitter, SPEED’s Taewoon angered fans and the general public. He has since deleted the tweet and apologized. [AskKpop]

Kiss&Cry’s Haena Reveals Group’s Disbandment + Auditions for ‘Superstar K6’ Along with former Teen Top Trainee
Kiss&Cry member Haena announces group to be defunct while auditioning for Superstar K6. She said that despite the group debutting only this year, they weren’t met with great response, leading to the disbandment. Furthermore, Teen Top’s former seventh member also auditioned for the singing show. [Allkpop]

Lee Byung Hun Apologizes to Fans for Blackmailing Incident through Hand Written Letter
Actor Lee Byung Hun apologized to fans through a letter posted on BH Entertainment’s Facebook page. In the letter, he expressed the way he felt after his blackmail incident and apologized for his actions that led to the scandal. [KDramaStarz]

Agencies Deny Suzy & Lee Jong Suk’s Dating Rumors
After rumors swept Lee Jong Suk and miss A’s Suzy in dating rumors, both JYP Entertainment and Wellmade Ent denied the allegations. Lee Jong Suk’s agency said the actor doesn’t even know Suzy personally, and JYP called the rumors “thoughtless.” [Allkpop]

GLAM’s Dahee & Model Lee Jiyeon Possibly Facing Life Imprisonment Under Special Law
After finding out that GLAM’s Dahee and model Lee Jiyeon planned on escaping for Europe while blackmailing Lee Byung Hun, BH Entertainment raised the issue of both women possibly facing life terms in prison. [Koreaboo]

EXO Sasaeng Fan Arrested for Fraud & Embezzlement
Gyeonggi Police arrested a 21-year-old EXO sasaeng fan identified as Ms. Nam for committing fraud and embezzlement in order to pay her expenses while chasing after the group on September 5^th. Ms. Nam is charged with making fraudulent deals online, including never returning rental camera equipment and selling photography equipment at a discount price without actually delivering the products to the customer. The sasaeng used this method 9 times, earning 470,000 won (around $458). [Allkpop]

Kiss&Cry’s Official Fan Cafe Uploads Notice Revealing Group’s Status
After member Haena appeared auditioning and revealing Kiss&Cry’s disbandment during her Superstar K6 audition, their agency revealed on their fan cafe that the group is temporarily on hiatus due to internal company problems but denied the disbandment. [Allkpop]

What did you think of the stories? Be sure to share your thoughts and follow us on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Tumblr, and Bloglovin’ so you can keep up with all our posts.

KARA’s ‘Mamma Mia’ Music Video & Song Review

September 4, 2014/in Entertainment, MUSIC VIDEOS /by Tamar Herman

KARA made its latest comeback with Mamma Mia in the middle of August. The girl group saw a member line-up changed, with Nicole and Jiyoung departing the group to pursue solo careers, and the addition of Youngji. I honestly doubted this move, and wondered why the three remaining members didn’t just continue as KARA, but that all changed when Mamma Mia made me think, “Oh, KARA’s back.”

Music Video

Concepts

The music video is, for one thing, very busy. The sets were great –a beautiful lobby, lovely bedrooms that I wish I could call my own, and a party with fireworks that I wanted to be a part of. But every few seconds, the camera changed to a different set, and I honestly felt a bit dizzy when I first watched Mamma Mia.

There’s really no point for the multiple sets, except to show off different outfits and moods. This seems a bit silly for a song about going out and partying. The concept didn’t really match the lyrics, but it did get to show off KARA’s members at their best, in multiple settings.

Fashion

Do I love the dance outfits? They’re really sleek and sexy, but they kind of look like something Catwoman would wear. KARA’s fierce one moment, and then wears beautiful, lace, and tulle dresses that are completely different, which are supposed to make the members seem… more innocent or something? Again, the busy-ness is apparent.

Mamma Mia has a lot of really nice sets and clothing, but there’s no plot and it doesn’t seem to really make sense –especially fashion wise. One minute, the four are in leggings, tanks, and combat boots with heels and the next they’re in haute couture dresses.

However, my favorite concept is the one from the party, which, even if it’s a bit cheesy with the palm-tree patterns, looks very modern and reminds me a bit of what 4Minute wore in Whatcha Doin’ Today. I particularly like the streaks of hair dye, primarily because it helps me differentiate the members (throughout the entire video, I was confused between Youngji and Seungyeon, despite being a fan of KARA for several years now). For some reason, I felt that Youngji and Seungyeon’s features are too similar.

Choreography

If the visual aspects weren’t enough, the dance for Mamma Mia is captivating, and a very “KARA” dance. The group that became famous because of it’s “butt dance” continues it’s addictive dances in Mamma Mia. The dance has several notable dance moves, but two are the most prominent- the brushing-off move and the rowing-the-boat move. The arm dance at the beginning reminded me of Hindu deities (and also EXO’s tree of life, for that matter).

Song

A dance song with a slightly techno feel to it, Mamma Mia’s introcould almost be out of an 80’s aerobic video. As the song progresses, it keeps the original old-school feel, but KARA makes it their own with the catchy, repetitive line “mamma mia,” as well as the member’s powerful vocals. Many lines seem to be given to Hara rather than the other three, which I thought was a bit disappointing.

I think the song is really powerful, and the idea behind it, of going out into the world (or party) and showing everyone who you truly are inside is great. However, It would have been more interesting if the video portrayed the meaning in some way, such as having the members appear acting certain ways before going to the party and showing up with completely different personas.

“No one can predict it

I’ll surprise everyone with my hidden image

To captivate you on this hot night, burn it up!

Hit the lights let’s go

Everyone’s party, party, party, mamma mia”

Even though the line distribution was a bit uneven, I think that Youngji was able to hold her own when performing alongside such experienced idols.

Overall ratings

– MV: 6/10, pretty but too busy

– Song: 8.5/10

– Both: 7/10

6 Reasons To Watch “High School – Love On”

September 3, 2014/in Entertainment /by Tamar Herman

It may be known only for being an “idol” drama, but High School – Love On is one of the cutest, simplest dramas on air today. It has everything anyone can ask for – romances, complex family issues, fights, magic, and chaebols with too much money and daddy issues. The drama is mostly about high school, making it one of the first dramas this year to focus on student life.

High School – Love On isn’t going to become the next The Heirs, gaining international love, because it’s just too low-key. The characters are realistic (with the exception of the angel,) it’s as if the audience can actually imagine the kids in their high school class are in the drama- bullies, princesses, low-key hard workers, nerds, dorks, etc. There’s something for everyone.

Contains slight spoilers.

1. It’s Like Death Note, With Rainbows

Instead of writing down names of people to die, the angels in High School-Love On escort the dead to the afterlife after the humans’ names appear in their death books. Lee Seulbi escorted human souls to the afterlife, watching humans (and their dramas) as she did so, but never interacting with them. By chance, Lee Seulbi becomes human after losing her death note, and a whole whirlwind of romance, adventure, magic, and love. It’s a cool twist on the angel of death, and brings a darker, more mysterious side to a drama that could have been very typical.

2. And What School 2013 Would Have Been If There Were Love-lines & Magic

Following that same train of thought… School 2013 was one of 2013’s great dramas, because it depicted modern day classrooms in Korea, with a particular emphasis on bullying in Korean schools. Bullying occurs in many high school-related dramas, but usually because of wealth or issues pertaining to romance. In High School – Love On, there is bullying throughout the show, and other numerous issues. There are constant references to parents’ harsh standards for their children in school.

The very first episode depicts a student attempting suicide because the pressures are too high. There is levity and romance, but High School- Love On is very much about the relationship of high school students to their peers, their educators, and their parents.

3.Compelling Family Issues

And, speaking of parents, if you want two brother’s (by Korean standards) going to school and not knowing that they’re siblings, they’re here for you. There’s also an elderly grandmother who had to raise one of those said boys on her own because his mother abandoned him and his father is living in the US. It doesn’t hurt that these two dramatically related characters are also both in love with an angel.

Oh, and let’s not forget the chaebol’s son who may not actually be a son of that chaebol.

4. Kim Sae Ron

Usually the male leads make these lists, but the main actress is definitely the most stand out actor in High School – Love On. She’s only fourteen but doing a great job at playing an innocent high school-aged angel who is confused with what life has to offer her. While the age difference is a little bit disturbing (considering that the male leads are both over 23 years old,) she keeps up with the older actors and it’s a real show of her talent that she is able to take control of the scenes despite her age.

5. INFINITE’s Sungyeol and Woohyun

Have I mentioned that the main male leads, the boys who are connected, are INFINITE’s Woohyun and Sungyeol? Even if you’re not a fan of the idol group, the two are great in their roles as rival-friends. The two retain their first names, as a nod to their role as idols, but that’s where the relationship stops. Woohyun and Sungyeol have both acted in dramas before, but this is a real turning point. Woohyun’s acting in the first few episodes are amazing, and Sungyeol plays the brooding second lead who knows he won’t end up with the girl but still helps her with all of her problems.

6. Cute “What Would Happen In A Drama?” Moments

Before she even has a name, Seulbi is seen living vicariously through dramas. As an angel, she obsesses over them, wondering why humans in dramas do certain things. As the drama progresses, the character asks herself “if I were the female lead in a drama, what would I do?” multiple times. The other characters end up doing it a few times, too.

Are you watching High School – Love On? How are you liking it? Make sure to follow us on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Tumblr, and Bloglovin’ so you can keep up with all our posts.

K-Pop Quick News 08/28/14-09/02/14

September 2, 2014/in Entertainment, Quick News /by Alexis Hodoyan-Gastelum

This rendition of K-Pop Quick News is a bit extent, for a lot of important things happened in the last six days in the industry. From scandals, to tragic accidents, to concerts abroad, KPOPme has you covered with this list compiling and summarizing the latest happenings in K-Pop.

August 28^th

YG Family Heading to Beijing in October
YG Family concert will be held in Beijing on October 19^th. [Allkpop]

Kim Hyun Joon Might Enlist Next Year if Delay Request is Approved

Key East Entertainment confirmed Kim Hyun Joong plans to enlist into mandatory military service next year after requesting a postponement on his enlistment date. They also stated that this came before the assault case came into light. If the delay is accepted, his October 7^th enlistment date will be pushed to next year. [Soompi]

August 29^th

MBLAQ Possibly Gearing Up for a Comeback
J.Tune Camp tweeted a picture with the message, I’m not a monster. Coming soon 2014.9., making fans think the agency is teasing an MBLAQ comeback. [Allkpop]

2PM’s Nichkun Will Play a Lawyer in Chinese Drama
2PM’s Nichkun is filming the Chinese drama Looking for Aurora, and his still cuts are out. The idols plays the character Wang Yi Lin, a promising lawyer who has a warm personality. The drama is about the love of a couple and family who try to find the meaning of life. [Allkpop]

August 30^th

[No interesting news this day, boo!]

August 31^st

SPICA Will Debut Subunit ‘SPICA.S’
SPICA will debut SPICA.S, a subunit conformed of all members except Boa on September 12^th. [DaebakKpop]

Shin Sung Woo Will Leave ‘Roommate’
Following Bom, Lee Sora, and Ga Yeon, the next cast member to leave Rommate is “Mama Shin,” Shin Sung Woo. In broken English and then in Korean, the singer revealed through his Twitter the reason behind his departure, being that he feels it’s his time to go since lots of cast members have left and he feels it would be difficult to become close with the new additions. [Kpopstarz]

g.o.d’s Son Ho Young Rumored to be Dating Rookie Singer Ami
According to TVReport, industry insiders revealed that Son Ho Young and Ami started dating four month ago. Both singers used to be under the same label (Ami left). He is nine years her senior. Son Ho Young’s denied the reports saying their relationship is hoobae-sunbae. [Soompi]

September 1^st

Lee Byung Hun Reports 2 Women Blackmailing Him, Police Investigation Ensues
Actor Lee Byung Hun reported two women in their 20s to the Gangnam Station police for blackmailing him for 5 billion won ($5 million). According to the police, the women filmed a cellphone video which features the actor with them drinking and telling obscene stories. The women have owned up to the crime and have been arrested, with one of the culprits being an idol. [Allkpop]

TVXQ Will Hold a 5 Dome Tour in Japan to Celebrate 10th Japanese Debut Anniversary
In order to celebrate 10 years since their Japanese debut, TVXQ will hold a five dome tour in Japan, starting in Fukuoka on February 7^th, and then moving onto Tokyo, Sapporo, Nagoya, and Osaka. They will have a total of 12 performances there. [Soompi]

BESTie Reveals to Have Been In Car Accident
After pre-recording Inkigayo, girl group BESTie suffered a minor car accident on August 31^st. While the car was significantly damaged, the members weren’t badly hurt. Luckily, they were rushed to the hospital following the crash. No doubt their Label will find the best car accident lawyers to get compensation for the damage done to the members and their car. Not many details regarding the incident have come to light. In the meantime, BESTie’s fans are wishing them a good recovery. [DaebakKpop]

September 2^nd

Ladies’ Code’s EunB Passes Away in Car Accident, 2 Members in Critical Condition
YTN News revealed Ladies’ Code member EunB passed away while Sojung and RiSe are in critical condition after their van slipped driving down a rainy road. At around 1:20 a.m. in South Korea, the can ran into a protective wall on the Yeongdong Expressway in the direction of Incheon. Six passengers were injured and were rushed to the hospital. The remaining two members and two stylists sustained minor injuries. Police are currently investigating for more details. [Allkpop]

GLAM’s Dahee Acknowledges Blackmailing Lee Byung Hun & Apologizes
Big Hit Entertainment released a new statement about GLAM’s Dahee involvement in blackmailing actor Lee Byung Hun owning up to the crime, saying the idol apologized for her actions and that they would be observing the results from the issued arrest warrant against her. [Allkpop]

Kim Hyun Joong Makes First Media Appearance Since Assault Case Scandal Broke
Kim Hyun Joong made his first appearance before the media following the news of his assault case while heading to the police station for investigation. The idol silently walked through the crowd and made no comment when asked about the charges and case by reporters. His lawyer and manager refused to comment too. [Allkpop]

MBC Reveals Pictures of Ladies’ Code Car Accident
MBC released further details on Ladies’ Code fatal car crash and pictures from the accident. [Koreaboo]

GLAM’s Dahee Named as 1 of Lee Byung Hun’s Blackmailers, Arrest Warrant Issued
After news broke about actor Lee Byung Hun reporting two women to the Gangnam Station police for blackmailing him, one of the names of the blackmailers was revealed being Dahee from GLAM. The idol and the other women, a model friend, were summoned for investigation. [Allkpop]

Kim Hyun Joong Admits to 1 Count of Physical Abuse, Denies it Being Habitual
Kim Hyun Joong admitted to one out of the four assault charges against him by his ex-girlfriend. He recognized that they had a fight while breaking up that turned physical, but denied the violence being habitual and said he wasn’t aware of the fractured rib. [Koreaboo]

Ladies’ Code Agency Reveals Sojung & RiSe are in Surgery
Polaris Entertainment spoke to TV Report about Ladies’ Code car accident, and confirmed EunB’s death along with the news that members Sojung and RiSe are in critical condition undergoing surgery. [Allkpop]

2PM Announces World Tour
Following the news of their upcoming comeback and teaser pictures, 2PM revealed details of their upcoming world tour which will start in Seoul and include stops in China, Thailand, Indonesia, the U.S., and more. [Allkpop]

YG Announces New Boy Group, 3 Team B Members Included
YG Entertainment’s CEO Yang Hyun Suk announced he will debut a new boy group called iKon that will include Team B’s B.I, Bobby, and Kim Jin Hwan. The rest of the members will be selected on another competition show, Mix & Match, where six more will battle it out to form part of the group. Only four will make it onto iKon with the other selected members. The pool of possible members include three new trainees as well as Team B’s Song Yoon Hyung, Kim Dong Hyuk, and Goo Joon Hee. Mix & Match starts on September 11^th. [Soompi]

SPICA.S Teams Up with Brave Brothers for Debut
SPICA’s subunit SPICA.S teamed up with Brave Brothers for their upcoming debut with Don’t Want to Give You Up. The music video drops on September 5^th. [Allkpop]

YG Entertainment Launches New Youtube Channel
YG Entertainment launched YG Music, their new Youtube channel. The new channel includes previews of songs by the company’s acts, such as Taeyang and WINNER. [Koreaboo]

What did you think of the stories? Be sure to share your thoughts and follow us on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Tumblr, and Bloglovin’ so you can keep up with all our posts.

Best K-Pop Music Video Fashion: August Releases

September 1, 2014/in Fashion /by Alejandro Abarca

August saw the beginning of long awaited debuts and comebacks in K-Pop. There weren’t that many releases this month, but the few ones that came out were enough. Rookies and veterans delivered not only good music, but also great fashion in their music videos. Let’s take a look at the best fashion in K-Pop’s August releases.

8. Sunny Hill – Monday Blues

In order for a music video to be considered to have great fashion, it doesn’t necessarily need to be over the top or extravagant. The ladies of Sunny Hill gave us a different style than the ones we are used to in K-Pop music videos: powerful business woman fashion. Pencil skirts, a blouse, and great accessories are really all you need for a great business outfit. Not only do they look powerful, but they also look very sexy. At the end of the video, they change their clothes after a long day of work. The girls are ready to go party!

7. KARA – Mamma Mia

KARA finally had a comeback with a very fun dance song Mamma Mia. The styling in the first part of the video is not an immediate attention grabber. But then they showed the girls in all white outfits, with Hara’s awesome puffy pigtails. Now that’s a cool statement!

Despite their all-white outfits being simple, their hairstyles and makeup are the main protagonists. Their ensembles are variations of the same design, but they are very well coordinated. Later on the video, Kara is coordinated in very trendy outfits with tropical prints which go really well with the song’s fun vibe.

6. Taemin – Danger

SHINee’s Taemin released his first solo mini-album ACE, and the music video for his debut single, Danger, is fantastic. The song and video are not only homages to Michael Jackson, but the fashion in the video really reminisce the late King Of Pop. Sequence, funky suits, and crazy accessories enhance Taemin’s personality. Every single outfit makes him look very sexy (especially when he is dancing in jeans, a ponytail, and a leather motorcycle jacket with no shirt on). Taemin has surely left his cute maknae image behind in order to become an avant-garde fashionisto bad boy.

5. BTS – Danger

BTS has always had amazing styling since their debut. They recently came back with their newest release, Danger, and their fashion didn’t disappoint. Even if we are used to seeing this type of styling in K-Pop boy bands, their personalities really make the outfits stand out. The mix of grunge and ‘90s hip-hop fashion has become BTS’ style staple. They are decked out in Versace shirts and all those accessories are to die for (especially the hats and necklaces). They are not afraid of taking risks in their fashion; J-Hope even wears a skirt over leggings, further probing their fashion forward status.

4. Orange Caramel – My Copycat

Orange Caramel has always been known for their quirkiness, and their fashion has always been very interesting. Their newest music video, My Copycat, makes you engage and interact throughout the video by spotting differences and finding the girls à la Where’s Waldo?

In the music video, the girls wear really cool dresses, full of iconic cartoon characters like Mickey Mouse and some cute hearts. The styling makes Orange Caramel look really cute, quirky, and cool at the same time. Their styles will also make for awesome fan cosplay in the near future, especially Las Vegas showgirls one.

3. Red Velvet – Happiness

SM Entertainment debuted their newest girl group and it didn’t disappoint. The bubbly song was paired with a fun and colorful music video that went hand-in-hand with amazing fashion. First off, the custom made cheerleader outfits were extremely cute. The stylist made it look a little bit edgier and modern by pairing them with creepers and platform shoes. Red Velvet had different looks throughout the video, but the one that stood out the most only made it into a few shots. They wore a mixture of white, silver, and pink. Unicorns and the mixture of textures in these outfits really made these outfits stand out. They took viewers back to 1996 with this awesome look.

2. Super Junior – Mamacita

There’s really not that much to say about Super Junior that hasn’t been said already. They are one of the most talented and respected boy bands in K-Pop and they just had a long awaited epic comeback. Super Junior came back with Mamacita this week; a really catchy and fun song that showcases their well-known quirkiness, while also conveying a very manly and sexy image.

The styling for the boys in this music video is excellent. Each member has a different character, and they couldn’t have styled them any better. Who could say no to ten handsome and talented men in red suits? They look super sexy despite their looks being costumes!

1. Winner – Empty

YG Entertainment finally debuted their newest, long-awaited boyband WINNER this month. YG’s attempt to introduce a new type of idol has really made them true winners (they keep winning every music show since their debut). WINNER’s debut song Empty shows the boys with a more mature image. Their whole album had the concept of a fashion show, and the looks didn’t disappoint. The styling is very simple and full of classic pieces like blazers, motorcycle jackets, and jeans, which makes them very relatable to every-day-men (or at least how we would like every-day-men to dress). The styling chosen also make it easier to try to emulate their looks, thus making them more relatable. With their debut, they definitely left their trainee image and became fashionistos.

Bonus: Song Mino (WINNER) – I’m Him

WINNER’s debut album also includes a solo song by one of their rappers, Song Minho. The song I’m Him is very powerful, and the styling in the video was very nostalgic, because he and the rest of the WINNER members (who make a cameo in the video) are styled like in their trainee days. The styling takes us back to when we were watching WIN: WHO IS NEXT? and we’re barely getting to know them.

What’s your favorite August release fashion? Be sure to share it with us and follow us on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Tumblr, and Bloglovin’ so you can keep up with all our posts.

K-Pop Release Cheat Sheet 08/24/14-08/30/13

August 31, 2014/in Cheat Sheet /by KultScene

Each week, KPOPme compiles a list of K-Pop and overall Korean releases so that you don’t have to look far to find new music. This past week saw comebacks by top groups like Super Junior and SISTAR, as well comebacks from rookie groups like 100% and JJCC.

Several solo artists made comebacks, and there was a large amount of releases from Show Me the Money 3.

[MUSIC VIDEO]

Super Junior – Mamacita (Yayaya)

SISTAR – I Swear

JJCC- BingBingBing (Oneway)

SR14B – Super Moon (SM Entertainment Rookies)

100% – Summer Hero

TOPPDOGG- Peakaboo

Beat Win – Illusion

Shin Hye Sung & Im Chang Jung – Doll

Banhana – The Woman

SKULL –Ooh Baby

WAX – How I Wish It Could Be That Way

Wheesung & Bumkey – How Much Is Your Love

Tasty – You Know Me Chinese Version

4TEN – Tornado

WAX – Half Love, Left Hidden

HOLLO – Going Crazy Feat. Kang Sori

ZZAPA- Free Your Heart

HIGH4 – Headache

Hyungdon & Daejune –Real Bad Girl

ROO – Baby I Love You feat. Double K

WAX – Just Leave

Don Mills – Gangbaekho

WAX – The End Of Autumn

Touch – Nan

InTheGirls – Just Play

Ja Mezz – Wanna Get (Oasis Pt 2.)

BaeYeongGyeong – Yesterday’s Song

LIPSERVICE – Too Fancy

BIGFLO – Fly

Yoon Jung Shin – Men Without Women

Carry – Pretty feat. Suda

BTS – Man In Love (LA Version)

Yu Seung Woo – Everyone Else But Me

LABOUM – Pit-A-Pat

Jang Beom June – No Words Can Describe My Love For You

XXXV Jang Woo Hyuk – Time To Rock

J-Dogg – Nothing feat. Peejay

Baechigi- Boy Jump feat. Hwasa of Mamamoo with Ailee, Shorry J, Lucky J

Kisum – Like It feat. Risso

J-Block – Baby Baby

[SONG]

Roy Kim – Let It Be Me (Everly Brothers Cover)

C Jamm – Good Day feat. Swings (Show Me The Money)

Bobby- YGGR#Hip Hop (Show Me the Money)

Wootan & Buggy – X.O feat. Odee and Psycoban

Yoon Mi Rae – I Love You (It’s Okay, That’s Love OST)

Kisum- Que Sera Sera feat. Angli

What was your favorite song released this week? If you think we’re missing a song or music video, please let us know in the comments! Be sure to share your thoughts and follow us on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Tumblr, and Bloglovin’ so you can keep up with all our posts.

Playlist Sunday: Super Junior Edition

August 31, 2014/in Fans, Playlist Sunday /by KultScene

With the long-awaited release of Super Junior’s Mamacita, there was unanimous agreement that this week’s KPOPme Playlist Sunday would be dedicated to the super group. With seven studio albums since debuting in 2005, Super Junior has something for everyone, and KPOPme’s staff members each have our own favorite song.

Super Junior was and remains my favorite Korean group ever since 2009 when I listened to It’s You. This song was the follow up track to Super Junior’s hugely successful track Sorry Sorry, which I thought was extremely catchy, but wasn’t what did it. It’s You‘s sound, mixing a dance track with a melodious, heartfelt melody, is one of Super Junior’s most underrated songs. Each member of the group has his own time to shine, with clear, distinct vocals that blend into the chorus of the song when they all come together to create a beautiful sound.

This song is also dear to my heart since it’s the last music video that features Super Junior’s 13 primary members (Sorry Sorry Answer was released afterwards, but filmed prior to It’s You). Kim Kibum appears as an actor, and this is the last song that Han Geng (known then as Hankyung) promoted with Super Junior. The song’s poignant, yet dramatic, sound perfectly suited the end of an era for Super Junior.

–Tamar

In all honesty I do not know a lot of SuJu songs, but I do enjoy their sound. I chose Superman for this week’s playlist for a number of reasons. To begin with, that intro… whoa, so strong and great. It immediately draws you into the song. The beat throughout it is constant and fits perfectly with the guys’ deep voices.

Superman keeps it simple musically so we can fully appreciate the array of vocals throughout the group. Every time I listen to this song I turn up the volume and bob my head to the beat. It may not be their best song vocally or production-wise, but it is definitely worth a listen or two.

—Tara

The first time I roamed through Youtube watching K-Pop videos, all it took for me to become a hardcore fan was one Super Junior music video. I mean, 10+ guys dancing and wearing awesome clothes? Yes please! This groups is definitely my favorite in the genre, and while it’s hard for me to pick favorites, I just have to go with Bittersweet from their previous album Sexy, Free, & Single.

All it took for me to get hooked on this song were Kyuhyun’s breaths at the beginning. Oh my god, my feels! This song is KRY at its best, complemented by Sungmin, of course. Yesung, Ryeowook, and Kyuhyun are some of the best vocalists in all of K-Pop, and deliver a powerful, heartsick ballad with Bittersweet. Even if you don’t understand Korean (or have read the lyrics’ translation, for that matter), you can feel the heartache conveyed in the song. And that’s what singing is all about!

–Alexis

Super Junior has a very special place in my heart. Even if they are not my favorite boy band out there, I truly love what they do. In their recent comeback album MAMACITA, there’s a song that really captured my attention, Evanesce. The song is an uptempo ballad that got me right away.

The start with Kyhyun’s beautiful voice gives me chills, and the chourus comes into the song very smoothly. You can hear in their vocals their suffering when they sing, “tell me why, don’t know why!” The instrumental for the song is amazing –very ‘90s R&B. And that synthesizer really gives me life, which is why I love this song so much.

–Alejandro

What’s your favorite Super Junior song? Be sure to share it with us and follow us on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Tumblr, and Bloglovin’ so you can keep up with all our posts.

8 K-Pop Girl Power Anthems Pt. 2

August 30, 2014/in Entertainment /by Alexis Hodoyan-Gastelum

Despite them being scarce, K-Pop girl power anthems do exist. Their messages are often hidden between break-up or self-empowerment lyrics. However, there are a few that convey the message a little more explicitly.

As previously said in the first installment of K-Pop girl power anthems, some female groups have songs about being confident, loving yourself, and friendship. Here are another eight songs talking about just that:

1. miss A – I Don’t Need a Man
miss A took the Destiny’s Child Independent Women pt. II path (even named their album that) by delivering an anthem that states that women are perfectly capable of taking care and responsibility of themselves because they don’t need a guy for that.

Moreover, the girls call out the boy for saying he’ll take care of and cherish them. Ha! These strong, confident women don’t need anyone’s protection or money because they can hold their own. The song “overflows with confidence,” and has a positive message that tells women to be self-sufficient and proud of it.

2. Lee Hyori – U-Go-Girl
This fun song by the queen of sexy K-Pop is all about celebrating and encouraging being yourself. It tells girls not to be burdened with society’s expectations of women, to just enjoy the moment, and be themselves. What to wear? How should you style your hair? Does the guy like you? Lee Hyori says not to worry about all that, let go, and have fun.

3. SPICA – I Did It
Despite this song being in English for SPICA’s American debut, it’s undisputably K-Pop. Furthermore, it has to be the girl power anthem ever in the genre. Seriously, what other song says they’re going to get turned up all night without any other guys and just kicking it with their girlfriends just because that’s how they like it? Definitely not one from A Pink… The best part of the song is the title and the chorus’ ending:

I did it, yes I did it. I did it for me.

Not for a guy, not for their parents, but they “set [themselves’] free” only for themselves. If that’s not girl power, I don’t know what it is.

4. 4minute – Whatcha Doin’ Today?
This track is all about friendship, asking their girlfriends what they’re doing later so they can meet up. The lyrics talk about being free and doing whatever you want since every day life can be boring sometimes. The girls also suggest to “stop prettying yourself and enjoy life;” you can go out, meet boys, watch a movie, gossip, party or whatever. The point is to have fun and be together.

5. Lim Kim – All Right
Not all breakup songs are about heartache and despair. Truth is, the best breakup songs are the ones that acknowledge pain, but also the fact that they’ll be All Right. Lim Kim does exactly that with this song, saying that despite her ex being gone, being alone, and thinking about him at night, she’s ok.

6. 2NE1 – I’m Busy
I’m Busy could be interpreted as 2NE1 being mean towards a guy, but if you really look into the lyrics, you’ll see this is clearly a guy who won’t take no for an answer, and that’s harassment. The girls repeatedly tell the boy to leave them alone because they’re not interested. It takes guts to say that to a guy instead of making up excuses like “I have a boyfriend.”

Since the 2NE1 ladies are strong and fierce, they deliver an equally strong and fierce song that’s misinterpreted as cocky, but it really is just girls taking matters into their own hands.

7. Sistar – Touch My Body
While the song’s verses contain cute, romantic scenarios with, let’s assume, their boyfriend, make no mistake; Touch My Body is a sexual song. Touching hands won’t “feel like paradise.” Besides, what should you go faster, little by little, for? Yep, Sistar went there.

A strong, empowered woman is in control of her sexuality, and won’t think twice to say what she wants and how she wants it, and that’s what Touch My Body is all about. Moreover, the girls all look great in their outfits and dancing that sexy choreography, proving their comfortable in their own skin.

8. Ga In – Truth or Dare
Speaking of sexy, Ga In delivers a song about not being fazed with rumors her ex is spreading about her. She’s confident and doesn’t let what others say get to her, because she’s perfectly aware of her worth. Enough said!

What’s your favorite girl power anthem? Be sure to share it with us and follow us on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Tumblr, and Bloglovin’ so you can keep up with all our posts.

Let’s Discover: EXID

August 29, 2014/in Entertainment, Let's Discover /by Tara

The five-member female group EXID recently made a comeback with Up & Down. And with their new single out, it seems like these girls should be receiving a lot more love, and this article will hopefully help build upon that.

Although EXID started out as a six-member group, they are now a five-member group with three original members. For this article’s sake, the focus will be on the current five-member group and their music collection starting from their debut as the reformed EXID.

I Feel Good. Everyone loves to say those words because it says exactly what you feel. And who doesn’t love to feel good? EXID chose to promote I Feel Good as their debut single in the summer of 2012.

The song itself is an upbeat club track that showcases the talents of each of the ladies of the group. The music video shows EXID enjoying their day and night after a few hiccups, but nothing too serious. Throw this song on at a party of the club and everyone will soon be singing the chorus.

After I Feel Good, EXID released their single Every Night, which was a completely different feel from the debut single. Every Night is a slower track that utilizes elements of R&B and pop music. It again perfectly showcases the vocal abilities of each individual member.

This quintet offers something that a lot of other girl groups do not. They have amazing vocalists (all of them) and rapper in the group. Not that other girl groups do not boast superb vocalists or rappers, but the quality of the EXID members’ abilities is above many other groups.

Let’s take a look at sub-unit Dasoni, made up of Solji and Hani. They released their debut music video in the winter of 2013, and although they did not promote the song or the sub-unit for that matter, one cannot overlook the amount of talent Dasoni has. They perfectly showcase their strong and controlling vocals with Goodbye.

As mentioned above, the vocal abilities and talents are not the only thing that makes EXID impressive. Their resident rapper LE always flawlessly showcases her rapping abilities on each of their tracks. That should be expected of someone who was member of an underground rap group.

In every EXID song, LE’s rapping is phenomenal. After she collaborated with BEAST’s Junhyung and Bigstar’s FeelDog on You Got Some Nerve, it became much clearer that LE can clearly roll with other rappers as well as with male ones. She showcases her unique sound in You Got Some Nerve and she more than holds her own on the track in the music video with Junhyung and FeelDog.

Aside from the talent of EXID, they’re just like the rest of us. They have an online series titled BUTBUT TV that shows the group members’ personalities and what they do during their time off.

EXID’s song Up & Down (release date August 26^th, 2014) begins with a peppy saxophone that brings to mind Jason Derulo’s Talk Dirty. The music video is reminiscent of an Orange Caramel-style video and the dance features hip thrusting as the ladies’ wear skin tight pants and crop tops.

Up & Down is an appealing and fun song with a strong beat that is perfect to listen to at a party or when you just want to have a good time.

EXID only debuted two years ago and they do not have an extensive music collection, but with their latest comeback and the singles they do have, it is clear that their talent is deep and it is only a matter of time before they gain more popularity.

Are you guys fans of EXID or are you new to them? What is your favorite EXID song? Leave your thoughts in the comment section below, and be sure to subscribe to the site and follow us on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Tumblr, and Bloglovin’ so you can keep up with all our posts.

Super Junior Makes Epic Comeback

August 28, 2014/in Fans /by Alexis Hodoyan-Gastelum

Super Junior finally made its long awaited comeback with Mamacita today, making fans worldwide sigh in relief for it being a really good song. Cheesy, of course, but good. Because, even though SM Entertainment released numerous good songs one after another as of late with artists like SHINee, f(x), and EXO, Super Junior seemed to be pushed to the back burner since leader Leeteuk left for the army two years ago. But with Mamacita, SM finally threw SuJu a bone. And, boy it is epic.

The ~~arguably~~ kings of Hallyu went into a semi, not really, but yes really, hiatus following Leeteuk going into the army. Sure, the subgroups still released projects, but Super Junior as a whole waited for their leader to come back, and instead released new material via the subgroups and abroad. They promoted as a whole in Japan and had releases from Super Junior-M, Donghae and Eunhyuk, and even debuted Henry as a soloist. Business, obviously, continued as usual with other SM artists.

Since 2012, SM has definitely raised the standard in terms of the production behind the music that its groups have put out. EXO’s Growl was so popular and its style is still unmatched in the genre, while Girls’ Generation’s I Got a Boy gave us about three songs in one while exploring different styles, and TVXQ brought big band back with Spellbound, just to name a few. Needless to say, SM has been cooking some good stuff.

On the other hand, Super Junior’s subunit releases during Leeteuk’s absence weren’t on the same level as, say, f(x)’s Rum Pum Pum Pum or even Electric Shock. Super Junior-M’s Break Down was a dubstep mess (in contrast, TVXQ’s Catch Me was better executed), and what was up with the Japanese releases Hero and Blue World? Just, agh! And this is coming from an ELF…

Sure, Henry’s releases were, indeed, good. Fantastic is, well, fantastic, and Trap is just as interesting for their incorporation of different instruments and not relying solely on electronic beats. Super Junior KRY’s releases were flawless, but they are after all a vocal subunit.

Furthermore, the Eunhyuk & Donghae Japanese project relied on the dancing and visuals more than their vocal capabilities (however limited they are, let’s be real here). Motorcycle is great, but those honking sounds and the hook pretty much ruin the flow of the song. Not to mention that they looked like G-Dragon and Taeyang at times during the music video… Similarly, Skeleton is a pretty cool song, but the chorus is, for a lack of a better word, lame.

So fast forward a few months after Swing (which was also not that great) and Fantastic (is Henry still promoting?), we now have Mamacita, and it’s better than anything we could’ve hoped for.

Super Junior’s staple is cheesiness; we all know that and love them because of and in spite of that. Mr. Simple, Spy, Opera, No Other, all cheesy, all great! But it’s inevitable to see how Super Junior’s quality went down after Leeteuk’s leave of absence, and how it picked up with his return. Is there a direct relationship? Probably not, but maybe a correlation; it’s great that they’re back and doing what they do best.

Mamacita is the group’s revindication and product of SM finally sharing the good ish with them, and not giving the “goods” to all to the rest of its acts. The music video? Fun, and surprisingly with a plot (a drama version will be released too!). The sound? A revival of swing mixed with a piano melody and prominent percussion. Cheesy? Of course! But in a good way. Super Junior’s members are all past 25-years-old; they need to follow through with being their adorable dork selves to stay relevant in the business.

According to the Korea Times, Leeteuk explained during a press conference for the track:

Our goal with this new album is to have a good time.

… Which is obviously apparent with Siwon playing sherif, going around town looking for Leeteuk the bandit, with Heechul as the bartender being the real crook, etc.

They also claim that they wish to promote a manlier side to them with this comeback, which is entirely true. There probably isn’t a music video out there where the entire group has looked as attractive and sexy as in Mamacita. Their stylists hit a home run with the looks chosen for each member: Eunhyuk is back to blonde, Kyuhyun has darker hair, Sungmin has that Cruella De Ville hair which weirdly suits him, and Siwon got rid of the moustache… Just kidding, he’s just as hot with it.

All in all, let me just say (in a SHINee opening type of way,) Super Junior’s back! Their album comes out September 1^st and their comeback stage will be held on Music Bank on the same day.

What did you think of Mamacita compared to Super Junior’s previous releases? Be sure to share your thoughts and follow us on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Tumblr, and Bloglovin’ so you can keep up with all our posts.

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