Teaser: Rain (bi) "30 Sexy"

Rain is my favorite Korean singer.

I am so excited that Rain is making his comeback! I haven't heard any new music from him for 2 years because of his military service. He was released back in July of this year. He has a new album coming out in January of 2014!

My Top 10 Korean Songs of 2013

Its time for my favorite Korean music list. These aren't in any particular order. I liked some of these for the video and others for the actual song. Bet you couldn't guess that I love boy bands! There is only one woman in my list.

1. Phantom "New Era" (Hip Hop)--I love this song!! This song has a great beat. Phantom is one of my favorite groups so I usually look forward to all of their new songs. The video is neat, but I think its made for the male viewing audience. Fun fact: The girl in the blonde wig is a man!




2. MIB "Nod Along" (Hip Hop)--This is the first song I had heard by this group and I really liked their sound. I'm a new fan.


.

3. Gaeko "Rhythm is Life" (Hip Hop)--Great beat and video.




 4. 2PM "A.D.T.O.Y." (Pop)--The song and the video are great. I also like the message of the song.




5. Ivy "I dance" (pop)--I like the song and the dancing in the video.




6. NTrain "Come Back to Me"(pop)--Great song. I love the music video and the dancing.




7. Lunafly "Fly to Love"(pop)--This was a cute music video. I also like a lot of their music. They release covers of English songs almost every week.




8. Vibe "Heaven" (R&B)-soft music, great lyrics and touching story line.




9. UKiss "Standing Still"(pop)--good song and music video




10. Eric Nam "Heaven's Door"(pop)--Cute music video and good song.




Bonus:

Psy "Gentleman"

Music Video: Vibe "Heaven" (English Subtitles)

debut: 2002
members: Yoon Min Soo,Ryu Jae Hyun
music style: R&B

Featuring Lee YoungHyun(이영현), Shin YongJae of 4men(신용재 of 포맨), Lim SeJun(임세준), Wonji of Bella4(원지 of 벨라포).

I really enjoyed this video. The message is great, the music has a soft sound and the singers have a lot of passion for the song. The scenes in the video are compelling also. I definitely recommend watching with the subtitles if you don't know Korean so you can get a feel for the song.

Music Video: Odebak & Fatdoo "노약자석"

2013's Biggest-Selling K-Pop Songs in America

http://www.billboard.com/articles/columns/k-town/5839716/2013s-biggest-selling-k-pop-songs-in-america-psy-girls-generation

According to Billboard.com the top K-pop songs in America for 2013 are:

1. "Gangnam Style" Psy

2. "Gentleman" Psy

3. "Fantastic Baby" Big Bang

4. "I Got a Boy" Girl's Generation

5. "Growl" Exo

6. "I am the Best" 2NE1

7. "The Baddest Female" CL

8. "Right Now" Psy

9. "Wolf" Exo

10. "Falling In Love" 2NE1


Psy, 2NE1, and Exo are dominating the list this year.

North Korea threatens to 'strike South Korea mercilessly'

Read the article here: http://www.cnn.com/2013/12/20/world/asia/north-korea-threats/index.html?sr=fb122013northkorea9a

North Korea sent a fax to South Korea saying that they will strike without notice after protests this week in Seoul. Protesters gathered in Seoul on the 2nd anniversary of Kim Jong Il's death.

South Korea says they will retaliate if N. Korea provokes them.

___________________________

So, what's new? N. Korea is still threatening S. Korea. Sounds like business as usual.

A fax? I read a friend's Facebook status saying that North Korea sent a fax to South Korea and I thought it had to be a joke. Then I saw the article on CNN.

What's next? A telegram? email?

Music Video: Freshboyz "Koala" (19+/NSFW)

Genre: Hip Hop/Rap
Debut: 2009
Members: Ceejay, President Kwon, Nolboo

I've never heard of this group before. I like the song. It would be a good song to dance to at a club. It has a good beat, but I don't know what it is about. They even threw in a little Spanish. The video doesn't really appeal to me, but I'm sure the men love it. The video features a woman dancing in tight pants or lingerie.

10 Things South Korea Does Better Than Anywhere Else

Read the Full Article Here: http://www.cnn.com/2013/11/27/travel/10-things-south-korea-does-best/index.html?sr=sharebar_facebook

1. Wired Culture

The internet is everywhere and a huge percentage of the population uses smartphones.

2. Whipping Out the Plastic

South Koreans have the highest usage of credit cards. Its really interesting that is technically illegal for a merchant to refuse to take credit cards.

3. Workaholics

Koreans are workaholics.

4. Business Boozing

Koreans also love to drink. Companies will take their employees out to eat and alcohol is always involved. Its actually considered rude to refuse to drink. (I always told them that I didn't drink and they would order coke for me).

5. Innovative Cosmetics

6. Female Golfers

4 of the top 10 female golfers are Korean. There are 38 Koreans in the top 100 golfers.

7. Starcraft

8. Flight Attendants

I will agree with this one. I've flown with Korean Air and Asiana and the service was great!!

9. Blind Dates

10. Plastic Surgery

Lots of people take "medical tours" to Korea for plastic surgery. The surgeons are skilled and the price isn't as high as other countries. A facelift in Korea can cost around $2.000-$3,000 compared with $10,000 in the USA.

Music Video: G.Na "Mornin'" Korean and English Version

This song is part of the Hitman project which is dedicated to David Foster. (David Foster is an American music producer who has worked with artists such as Michael Jackson, Celine Dion, and Whitney Houston).

I love the painting! The song features Phantom. I knew I recognized that voice!

The Korean version has English subtitles.

Korean Version:




English Version:

Music Video: CNBlue & Juniel "Love Falls"

Music video: M.I.B. "너부터 잘해"

(Feat.윤보미 of 에이핑크)

Rain will release an album early next year!

I've missed new music by Rain. I have been crazy about Rain ever since I discovered his music in 2009. He has been on hiatus since 2011 due to serving in the military for 2 years.

Rain is currently recording an album. The release date hasn't been announced, but it will come out early in 2014.

Rain is currently holding concerts in Japan through November 28. I hope one day that Rain will do a World tour and that I will be able to attend a concert.

Cnblue "Kfood song"

Cnblue released a song to promote Korean food globally. The song was released in September. Yonghwa composed and wrote the lyrics.

In the video they showcased the healthy Kfood. My favorites were not included. (Where's the meat?)

Music Video: 2NE1 "Missing You"

Music Video: Phantom "New Era" (English Subtitles)

I love this song! (I think the video would appeal more to the men)

Music Video: T.O.P. "Doom Dada"

haha. What is this video about?

Music Video: Taeyang "Ringa Linga"

Taeyang is a member of Big Bang. I don't even know what the song is about, but I like it. It has a nice beat.

Music Video: Fiestar "I Don't Know" (English Subs)

Korea to get 1st nude beach

Read it here: http://www.cnn.com/2013/10/24/travel/south-korea-nude-beach/

Korea will open the first nude beach by 2017. They are creating a nude beach hoping that it will boost tourism to the beaches on the east coast.

A nude beach has been proposed in the past, but the idea was struck down by the public.

The beach will be located in the Gangwon province.The exact location of the beach has not been chosen yet. They are also thinking about catering the beach to foreigners since they are more comfortable at a nude beach than Koreans would be. Koreans are scared that someone will find out.

Music Video: David Choi "Rollercoaster"

David Choi is a Korean American artist in the USA.

Gangnam Style Police in South Korea

Read the article here: http://travel.yahoo.com/blogs/compass/south-korean-police-protecting-tourists-gangnam-style-221717147.html

South Korea has 101 new police officers who wear outfits inspired by Psy's "Gangnam Style". The costumes for the police were designed by the same person who designed Psy's costumes.

They will be wearing berets, double breasted bright blue jackets, slim cut pants, and dark glasses.

The police will be there to assist tourists with translations in English, Chinese and Japanese. They will also help make sure tourists don't get ripped off.

They hope that the tourism police force will become a tourist attraction just like Gangnam.

Seoul Taxi fares increased on October 12

On October 12, 2013 the Seoul taxi fares were increased. The fares increased 10% for the regular taxi and 4.3% for the deluxe taxi.

The Regular Taxi went up from 2400 won (@$2.40 usd) up to 3000 won (@$3.00 usd). There will be a 100 won charge for every 142 meters after the initial fare. There is also a 100 won per 35 seconds to idle.

The Deluxe/Van went up from 4,500 won (@$4.50 usd) up to 5000 won (@$5.00 usd). The 200 won per 164 meters remains the same. There is also a 200 won per 39 seconds of idle.

**The conversion to USD is only a rough estimate. The amount fluctuates based on the exchange rates.

New Rules in South Korea for Mixed Marriages

Next year the South Korean government will be implementing new regulations for foreigners who want to marry Koreans. The foreign spouse will have to speak basic Korean. The Korean spouse will have to make at least $1,500 a month.

First Curved Smartphone released in South Korea

Read the article here: http://news.yahoo.com/worlds-first-curved-smartphone-hits-south-korea-market-111004975.html

Samsung released the first curved smartphone in South Korea this week. The Galaxy Round is a 5.7 inch smartphone that is curved to fit the curve of the user's hand.

The phone runs on the Android platform and costs around 1.08 million won (approximately $1,000).

The phone screen is made of plastic (instead of glass) which makes the phone lighter. The phone weighs 154 grams (0.33 pounds).

Samsung hasn't announced when the phone will be available in other countries.

Why is Spam a luxury food in South Korea?

Read it here: http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-asia-24140705

I'm not a big fan of Spam.When I think of Spam I don't see it as a luxury, but in South Korea its really popular.

When I lived in South Korea I always wondered why Spam was so popular. I never asked anyone. I just thought it was one of many odd differences between the US and Korea. Around the holidays stores sell Spam gift sets. Spam gift sets? Really. I don't think America would ever catch on to that trend.

Today I found an interesting article on BBC that explains Korea's love for spam.
------------------

South Korea is the biggest consumer of Spam outside of the USA.

A Spam gift set is a desirable gift in South Korea around the big holidays such as Chuseok and Lunar New Year. (Koreans are celebrating Chuseok now).

Spam became a luxury item in South Korea during the Korean war. Food was in short supply so Spam was smuggled from the army base. Koreans had to make meals out of whatever they could find.

South Korea's love for Spam has remained years later. Spam is one of the main ingredients in budae jiggae or army stew. Ho Gi-suk, a restaurant owner, says she invented army stew back in 1954 when someone smuggled some spam, sausages and bacon from the army base. She turned them into a soup. Now army soup is a popular dish in South Korea.

world’s first invisible skyscraper?

Read it here: http://travel.yahoo.com/blogs/compass/tower-infinity-world-first-invisible-skyscraper-222051298.html

The world's first invisible skyscraper will be built outside of Seoul, South Korea. It's not really invisible, but that is the concept of the building. 

"The building will be covered in a skin of LED mesh bars along with 18 weatherproofed cameras, which will capture surrounding views and project them back onto the building."

The Tower Infinity skyscraper will be 1476 feet high. The building will have the third-highest observation deck in the world. The building will include a 4D theater, restaurants, a water park and landscaped gardens.
----------------------------------------------

The building sounds cool. I read on another site that it will be completed in 2014. Maybe I can see it when I go to visit Korea.

First Public Gay Wedding in Korea

Read more here:
 http://english.yonhapnews.co.kr/national/2013/09/07/38/0302000000AEN20130907002600315F.html

**South Korea does not legally recognize same sex marriage.

A gay couple held a public wedding near Cheonggye Stream on September 7th, 2013. About 1,000 people attended the ceremony.

Music Video: G-Dragon "Coup D'etat"

Music Video: BTOB "When I Was Your Man"

They sound really good!

Music Video: K-Hunter "Marry Me" (English Subtitles)

This video is cute!

I can't find much information about K-Hunter on the internet, but he is a rookie k-pop artist. He's 18 years old and released his first mini album titled "Learn With Love".

Child suicide in South Korea

read the article here: http://www.asianewsnet.net/S-Koreas-suicide-scourge-weighs-on-youth-50594.html

South Korea has the highest suicide rate in the OECD (Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development).

I was shocked to find out that so many suicides happen among children. Last year a total of 139 children committed suicide. 88 of those were high school students. Its hard to believe that 51 children under the age of 15 committed suicide.

The rate has been declining since 2009. In 2009 there were 202 suicides among children. In 2011 the number dropped to 150 and 139 in 2012. South Korea still has the highest rate of suicide even though it is on the decline.

The most common reasons for suicide included family trouble, depression, study pressure, and relationship problems.

Music Video: Seungri "Gotta Talk to U"

(Seungri is a member of Big Bang) I like it. Good video, nice beat and sound.

Music Video: Phantom "I already know"

Phantom is one of my favorite groups!

Music Video: Suho "I'm Not Kidding" (English Subs)

Konglish:ATM

Today's Konglish word is: 캐시 코너

This word is used for an ATM.

캐시 코너= cash corner

Cash corner=ATM

Music Video: MBLAQ "No Love"

Konglish: Cheating

Today's Konglish word is: 커닝

This word is used for cheating.

커닝= cunning

If a student is cheating, they will say the student is cunning.

Music Video: Kim Hyun Joong "Your Story"

Konglish: Dress

Today's Konglish Word is: 원피스

This is the word for dress.

원 피스= one piece

A dress in Korea is referred to as a "one piece".

Music Video: Kim Hyun Joong "Unbreakable"

I like the video!

Music Video: XIA "Incredible"

I like it. Good beat and good dancing.

K-pop is becoming more popular on YouTube since "Gangnam Style"

K-pop has become more popular on YouTube since the debut of "Gangnam style". I think its great because I love K-pop!! A lot of views are originating from outside of Korea.

Check out this article from YouTube Trends about the rise of K-pop:

http://youtube-trends.blogspot.com/2013/07/a-year-since-gangnam-style-k-pop-keeps.html?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+youtube-trends+%28YouTube+Trends%29

YouTube also listed the top 10 K-pop hits since "Gangnam Style". These videos have received the most views in the past year after "Gangnam Style" debuted.

Top 10 K-Pop Hits Post-Gangnam Style

1. Psy "Gentleman"
2. Girls Generation "I Got a Boy"
3. Hyuna "Ice Cream"
4. G-Dragon "Crayon"
5. G-Dragon "One of a Kind"
6. G-Dragon "That XX"
7. Girls Generation "Oh"
8. Beast "Beautiful  Night"
9. Girls Generation "Flower Power"
10. Kara "Pandora"

Psy, Girls Generation and G-Dragon are dominating the K-pop sector on YouTube.

Watch the playlist here: http://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLjd9OT1rI6vQ3C79wh1m-vOBEBESouDZW

Konglish: Blind Date

Today's Konglish word is: 미팅

This is the word for blind date.

미팅= meeting

In Korea they use the word meeting for a blind date.

Basic Korean Lesson: The 5 W's and one H

Today I'll teach you how to say/write basic terms for finding out information. The 5 W's are who, what, when, where, and why. The one H is how.

Who=누구 (nu-gu)

What=뭐 (mwo) 

When=언제 (eon-je)

Where=어디 (oh-di)

Why=왜 (wae)

How=어떻게 (oh-teo-kay)

Psy: Sexiest Man in K-pop?

Read the original article: http://blogs.laweekly.com/westcoastsound/2013/07/sexiest_men_in_kpop_korea.php

Who are the sexiest men in K-pop? Ask 10 different people and you will receive 10 different answers. Everyone has their own criteria and preferences.

LA Weekly named Psy the sexiest man in K-pop. I like Psy, but I he wouldn't be on my list. They listed him as number one because he defies the stereotype of the majority of K-pop idols. They said:

 "Armed with an acerbic wit and a knack for infectious anthems, the veteran hip-hopper proves you don't need to be a hottie with a body to have real swagger."

Go Psy!!

Top 10 Sexiest Men in K-pop

1. Psy
2. T.O.P (Big Bang)
3. Choi Siwon (Super Junior)
4. Jay Park
5. Rain
6. Tablo (Epik High)
7. Hero Jaejoong (DBSK, JYJ)
8. Taeyang (Big Bang)
9. Choi Minho (SHINhee)
10. Se7en

My personal favorite is Rain. I think he should be number 1!!

Konglish: Underwear

Today's Konglish word is: 팬티

This is the word for underwear.

팬티=panty

Men's and women's underwear are called panties. Americans are familiar with the term panty for a woman, but I laugh when I hear a man saying that he wears panties.

Music Video: Teen Top "Clap Encore"

I like it. The song has a good beat.

Music Video: Jay Park "I Like 2 Party"

Rain released from military

Rain (bi) was released from his mandatory 2 year military service today.

He will be joining Cube Entertainment.

Rain is one of my favorite singers. I've missed hearing new music from him during the past 2 years. I'm ready to see what is next for Rain.

Music Video: 2NE1 "Falling in Love"

Basic Korean Lesson: Yes/No

This will be a short straightforward post.

Yes:

네 (ne)=I agree

No:

아니요 (ah-ni-yo)=I disagree

Konglish: Mechanical Pencil

Today's Konglish word is: 샤프

This is the word for a mechanical pencil.

샤프=sharp

Music Video: John Park "Baby" (English subs)

Click on cc for english subtitles

Basic Korean Lesson: Goodbye

There are a few ways that you can say goodbye.

The formal version is 안녕히 가세요 and 안녕히 계세요

The ending varies based on whether the other person is going or staying. The characters in bold are the syllables that change.

If you are staying and the other person is leaving you would say 안녕히 가세요. (ahn-young-he-ga-say-yo). You can use this one is both of you are leaving also.

안녕히 가세요=go in peace

If you are leaving and the other person is staying you would say 안녕히 계세요 (ahn-young-he-gye-say-yo)

안녕히 계세요=stay in peace

-----------------------------------

A less informal way would be 안녕 (ahn young). You should only use this with your friends or those who are younger than you.    This is also the informal way of saying hello.

Konglish: Vomit

Today's Konglish word is: 오바잇

This is the word for vomit.

오바잇= overeat

oh-ba-eat

One of my students taught me this word. I thought it was funny.

Music Video: 4Minute "Is It Poppin?"

Music Video: Sweet Sorrow "Just Get Away (You Deserve It)" English subs

click on cc for subtitles

Basic Korean Lesson: Thank You

There are a few ways to say thank you in Korean.

The most common is 감사합니다. (formal) This is the best and most polite way to say thank you.

감사 = Thankfulness
합니다= I am

Pronunciation: kam-sa-ham-ni-da (when you say it fast the h is almost silent)

--------------------------------

A casual way of saying thank you is 고마워. This comes from 고맙다 which means thankful.

Only use 고마워 in very informal conversations with your friends or someone younger than you.

pronunciation: go-ma-wo

Konglish: Window Shopping

Today's Konglish Phrase is: 아이 쇼핑

This is the Konglish phrase for 'window shopping'. 

아이=eye
쇼핑=shopping

eye shopping=window shopping

Music Video: Kye Bum Joo "The Ceiling" (English subtitles)

**Click on cc for English subs

I like this video. Kye Bum Joo was a contestant on Superstar K4.

Music Video: Lee Seung Chul "My Love"

This is a cute video.

Music Video: Lim Kim "All Right"

Music Video: Lee HyoRi "Going Crazy"

Basic Korean Lesson: Hello

I'm going to share some basic Korean words from time to time. These will be helpful if you are going to Korea and you want to try to communicate with Koreans.

Today's word is Hello.

Hello: 안녕하세요

Pronunciation: Ahn-young-ha-say-yo

Sample Conversation:

You: 안녕하세요

Korean: 안녕하세요

_____________________________

The literal meaning isn't hello, but this is how Koreans greet each other. 안녕하세요 literally means 'are you at peace?' You will respond using the same phrase.

안녕= peace
하세요=comes from the verb 하다  (ha da) meaning to do

안녕하세요 is the formal version of the word. Honorifics are used in Korea so knowing someone's age is very important. If you are speaking to someone older you would use the formal version. It is also a sign of respect if you bow to your elders when saying hello.

If you are speaking to someone the same age or younger you can use the informal language. You can also use informal language around your friends. I would suggest using the formal version unless you are 100% sure that the person is younger. For example, you are an adult speaking to a kid. (A lot of Koreans look younger than their real age!)

The informal version is 안녕. It is pronounced as Ahn-young.

Konglish: Cell Phone

Konglish is the use of English words in a Korean context.

Todays Konglish word is 핸드폰.

This is the Konglish word for cell phone.

핸드=Hand
폰=phone

These are not translations. These are just English words used in Korean.

Pronunciation: Hand-duh-pon

(pronounce the pon with the same vowel sound as bone)
___________________________________________________

It seems like almost everyone has a cell phone in Korea.The majority of my elementary students had one. Some of them were as young as 7 years old.

Korean cell phones use CMDA.

There are only 3 cell phone providers in Korea:

• KT (Korea Telecom)
• SKT (SK Telecom)
• LG U+

Music Video: IVY "I Dance"

featuring Yubin from Wonder Girls

Music Video: After School "First Love" (English Subtitles)

click on cc for English subtitles

Music Video: MBLAQ "Smoky Girl"

Music Video: 조용필(Choyongpil) 헬로 Hello

One of my Facebook friends in Korea posted this on their wall so I checked it out. I like it.

Cho Yong Pil is known as one of the most influential figures in Korean pop music. His newest album "Hello" debuted at number 1 on the Korean pop charts on April 25, 2013. "Hello" was his 19th album.

Music Video: Lee Hyori "Bad Girls"

Coming of Age Day (성년의날)

Coming of Age Day is held on the 3rd Monday of May. A ceremony is held for men and women who are turning 20 years old in the current year to celebrate their transition into adulthood.

In Korea adulthood begins at age 20. When you turn 20 you can drive, marry, vote, drink alcohol and smoke.

A few traditional ceremonies are held in South Korea on Coming of Age Day. Participants wear Hanbok (traditional Korean clothes). Men have their hair in a topknot and wear a hat called a "gat". Women put their hair in a bun and wear a ornamental hairpin known as "binyeo". Women also wear a hat known as a "jokduri".

Participants bow to the guests and take their first drink of alcohol.

Participants receive 3 gifts at the ceremony: flowers, perfume, and a kiss.

*Music Video: 2PM "A.D.T.O.Y" (English Subs)

(A)ll (D)ay I (T)hink of (O)nly (Y)o

2PM is one of my favorite groups. This is definitely my favorite 2PM video. The more I watch it the more I like it. I can't count how many times I watched it today! I wish someone felt this way about me (esp a handsome young guy like the members of 2PM!)

click on cc for subs.

Music Video: 2PM "Come Back When You Hear This Song"

2PM is one of my favorite groups! I like the song.

It's interesting how they referenced the 7 deadly sins in the video.

Music Video: Lee Hyori "Miss Korea"

Music Video: Ntrain "Come Back to Me"

I like this video! I like the dancing and the song. The guys are cute also esp the one with the long hair that wears it up in a pony tail. (yes I have a thing for kpop guys even though most of them are way younger than me!)

I'm not familiar with this group. Ntrain debuted in 2011. The members are Jung Jung Kyun, Jung Seung Hyun, Lee Jong Min, Song Yu Jin, and Kim Sang Woo. They are represented by MediaLine Entertainment and want to focus on R&B and Soul. (But this song sounds like typical K-pop...hmm)

Music Video: uBEAT "Should Have Treated You Better"

uBEAT is a subunit of UKISS. The members are Eli, Kevin and AJ. "Should Have Treated You Better" is from their 1st mini album Should Have Treated You Better.

Music Video: 4Minute "What's Your Name?"

Music Video: SHINee "Why So Serious?"

Music Video: Jay Park "Welcome"

A Guide to Understanding Psy's "Gentleman"

Psy's "Gentleman" has received over 171 Million views in one week.

In other news, the video has been banned by KBS because he kicked the 'no parking' cone in the beginning of the video. The station refuses to broadcast the video because it shows him abusing public property.

This video is episode 84 of KWOW (Korean Word of the Week) by http://www.youtube.com/user/sweetandtasty . <---I love her shows! You should definitely subscribe!! She puts a lot of effort into making nice videos about things pertaining to Korea. This week I enjoyed the video where she explains Psy's "Gentleman". She talks about:

• Filming locations
• The arrogant dance
• The meaning of "Wet Psy"
• People who appear in the video

Go check it out!!

Lunafly cover of "Impossible" by James Arthur

This is great. Teo (piano) has a great voice!! He's cute and has nice hair also!

South Korean Holidays: April 14-Black Day

Today is Black Day which is an unofficial holiday for singles. Its for the people who didn't participate in Valentine's day or White Day.

Single people get together and eat jajangmyeon (noodles with black bean sauce).

__________________

I love jajangmyeon!

Music Video: Psy "Gentleman"

I watched the Happening concert live on YouTube and it was awesome!! At one time there were over 160,000 people watching! The music video was shown at the concert near the end.

The world has been waiting to see if Psy can top "Gangnam Style". Can this video go viral and receive over one billion views?

I think its funny, but I still like "Gangnam Style" better.

He certainly isn't a gentleman in the video! What is up with those pants? I don't understand why 'harem pants' are so popular.



What do you think about the video/song? Do you like it better than "Gangnam Style"? About the same? worse?

Psy "Gentleman" Music Video to be released tonight.....

The MV will tonight be released at 9PM KST.

 I'm debating whether I want to stay up or just wait until I wake up. I live in the Eastern time zone so it will be 8AM. I think I will watch part or all of the concert at 6:30PM KST on YouTube.

 D-6 hours and 10 minutes

#Gentleman MusicVideo 9pm KST at @youtube twitter.com/psy_oppa/statu…
— PSY (@psy_oppa) April 13, 2013

Music Video: Zion T "Babay"

Featuring Gaeko

I like this video. He has a good sound and the video is very creative.

Debut: 2011
Genre: Korean Rap

Psy's new single "Gentleman" has been released....

Psy's new single "Gentleman" was released today on iTunes at midnight for each time zone.

I'm not sure what I think of it yet. In my opinion its not as catchy as "Gangnam Style". I think the music video could make or break the song so I'm ready to see that! They haven't announced a release date for the music video.

The "mother-father gentleman" part is a bit weird to me. I need to see the English translation to understand the rest of the song!

I think a lot of people will listen to see if it lives up to the hype of "Gangnam Style". There are already tons of illegal uploads to YouTube. The release of the new single is getting a lot of attention online. It seems like everyone is writing about it. I searched for it on Google and I went through 20+ pages of results. He is definitely getting attention.

Music Video: Pure "I Still Love You" (English Subtitles)

click on cc for subtitles

Pure is a rookie group in South Korea. The members of the group are: White Soohyuk, Pink Chanhwee, Black Jimin, Blue Jungbin, and Yelow Younghoo.

The group was made in hopes that TVXQ would reunite. (The original members of TVXQ split into 2 groups: JYJ and TVXQ). The members of Pure are fans of TVXQ.

I really like their sound!!

Music Video: "M.I.B. "Nod Along"

M.I.B.= Most Incredible Busters
Debut= October 2011
Genre=Korean Hip Hop/Rap
Members: 5Zic, Cream, SIMS, KangNam
Label: Jungle Entertainment

Their new album is titled "Money In the Building".

This is the first time I have heard of this group. I really like it! I'm a new MIB fan!

Music Video: Seo In Guk "I Smiled and Then I Cried"

Psy to release new single on April 12

Psy will release his new single, "Gentleman", on iTunes April 12 at 0am (midnight-your time).

The first public performance will be on Saturday April 13 at the "Happening" concert at Seoul World Cup Stadium. The concert starts at 6:30PM (Korea Time). The concert will be streamed live on YouTube.

Time Zone Converter: http://www.worldtimeserver.com/convert_time_in_KR.aspx

I currently live in the EST time zone so it will start streaming on Saturday at 5:30AM.

#Gentleman.jpg at April 12th 0am twitter.com/psy_oppa/statu…
— PSY (@psy_oppa) April 10, 2013

I'm ready to see what he comes up with after "Gangnam Style". Will "Gentleman" be a worldwide hit? Will it get as much attention as "Gangnam Style"? Can it live up to "Gangnam Style"? Was "Gangnam Style" a worldwide one hit wonder?

Music Video: Lunafly "Fly To Love" Korean and English

This is a cute video. This was the first time I had heard this group. I like their sound.

Lunafly is a boyband that debuted in September of 2012. They are under the Nega Network label. The 3 members are Sam, Teo, and Yun. Their first album is titled "Fly To Love".

I thought the keyboard player was a girl!


Click on cc for subtitles


English version (released April 22, 2013)

Music Video: MBLAQ "Mona Lisa" (Japanese)

MBLAQ released a Japanese version of "Mona Lisa". They decided to go with a new video concept instead of just singing Japanese with the old music video. I like the new video.It's neat to hear it in a different language.

I personally like the Korean version of the song and video better.

The Official video was released on April 7, 2013

Music Video: Eric Nam "Good-bye in Once Upon a Time"

I like Eric Nam's voice.

Music Video: Phantom "Come As You Are"

Featuring Verbal Jint

Phantom is one of my favorite groups! I just love their sound.

Music Video: Infinite "Man in Love"

This is a cute video. (Male version of aegyo? hehe) The guys all seem to be in love with objects! The first guy loves the kitten that was left by his door. One guy loves his cell phone. Another guy likes the piano although he isn't very good at it. Another guy is in love with baking. Another guy is in love with books.

Music Video: Bobby Kim "I'm Alive" Korean and English

Featuring Kingston Rudieska

Korean Version (Click on cc for subtitles)

This is a cute, upbeat song.


English Version

"Overexposure" Fine

Starting March 21, 2013 if you are "overexposed" you can be fined 50,000 won (about $50 USD).

Some K-pop women who are known for their revealing fashion criticized the new rule.  Lee Hyori posted this on Twitter: "Is it true about the overexposure fine? I'm dead." Kwak Hyun-hwa said "What am I going to do?"

The new President, Park Geun-hye, proposed the fine in her first cabinet meeting in March.

The new law isn't clear on what is too revealing. "Overexposure" is only defined as "showing too much skin while in public places or causing embarrassment or displeasure by revealing body parts that should be kept hidden."


Read more here: http://www.koreatimes.co.kr/www/news/nation/2013/03/116_132327.html

Music Video: Davichi "Just the Two of Us" (English Subtitles)

click on cc for subtitles

Music Video: EvoL "Get Up" (English Subtitles)

click on cc for subtitles

South Korean Holiday: March 14-White Day

Today is White Day in South Korea. It's an unofficial fun holiday that is the guy's version of Valentines Day. On Valentines Day the women give candy and gifts to the men. On White Day the men give candy and gifts to the women. The holiday is mostly celebrated by couples.

White day is celebrated in Japan, South Korea, Taiwan and China.

White day began in 1978 in Japan as an "answer day" to Valentines Day. Men should reciprocate after getting candy and gifts from women on Valentines Day.

Music Video: G.NA "oops"

This video features Ilhoon of BTOB. The song is from her new EP titled "Beautiful Kisses" (March 2013).

Music Video: Jinbo "Be My Friend"

Jinbo (The SuperFreak) is a Korean R&B artist. He won “Best Soul/R&B Album” for his debut album in 2010. He owns a record label named SuperFreak Records.

This song is off of the new album titled "Fantasy" which was released in March 2013.

Music Video: UKISS "Standing Still"

UKISS is one of my favorite K-pop groups.

Music Video: Eric Nam "Heaven's Door" (Korean and English Version)

Eric has a nice voice! Eric Nam is a Korean-American from Atlanta, Georgia. He was discovered on YouTube performing cover songs.

He released his first album, "Cloud 9" in January of 2013.

Korean Version (with English subtitles-click on cc)



English Version

South Korean Holiday: March 1 Movement

Today is the March 1st Movement which is a public holiday in South Korea. The Official name is the Samil movement (삼일 운동). It is also known as the Manse Demonstrations.

The day is named after an event which happened on March 1, 1919. Koreans wanted to be free from Japanese rule after hearing a speech by Woodrow Wilson.

33 people started the movement. They met at a restaurant in Seoul to prevent a riot. They read the Korean Declaration of Independence written by Choe Nam-Seon. They all signed the declaration and sent it to the Japanese Governer-General of Korea. They called the police to tell them of their actions and they were arrested.

Crowds gathered in Tapgol Park (Pagoda Park) to hear a student read the declaration. Protests broke out demanding freedom from the Japanese.

Japanese police used force to end the movement. They did horrible things to the Koreans. In one of the most famous incidents they took Koreans to a church where they locked it and set it on fire. Those who were arrested were taken to Seodaemun Prison where they were tortured or executed.

My Visit to Seodaemun Prison: http://valeriebethinsouthkorea.blogspot.com/2009/03/day-80-seodaemun-prison.html

Here is a video that describes the March 1st Movement:

Music Video: MFBTY "Sweet Dream"

They have a nice sound!!

MFBTY stands for My Fans Better Than Yours. The group consists of Tiger JK, T-Yoon Mi Rae and Bizzy. All 3 musicians are big names in the hip hop industry.

Music Video: Yong Junhyung, Feeldog, LE "어이없네"

I like this...

Clean version:



Dirty Version:

Music Video: Hyungdon & Daejun "Get Out" (English Subs)

This video is funny. I like it!

 (click on cc for English Subs)

Hyungdon is a comedian in South Korea. He has been singing rap/hip hop with Daejun since 2012.

Music Video: Shinee "Dream Girl"

They have some very interesting fashion choices for this video!

Music Video: Gaeko "Rhythm is Life" (English Subs)

click on cc for English subtitles

I know I've been posting a lot today, but it seems like all the good videos came out recently!

I like this video. It has a nice beat to it. I want to hear more of Gaeko's music!!

Gaeko is part of a hip hop group called Dynamic Duo. They debuted in 2004.

*Music Video: Kim Tae Woo "Cosmic Girl" (English Subs)

Click on the cc for English Subs

I like this video. I like Kim Tae Woo's voice.

Music Video: Speed "Pain the Love of Heart" (English Subs)

click on the cc button for English Subs

The title is awkward, but I like the song. I like the dancing also.

Members of Speed are Yoosung, Taewoon (Leader), Sungmin, Jongkook, Sejoon, Yoohwan, and Taeha . Speed is a sub-unit of the group Coed School. They officially debuted January 2013. Their album "Superior Speed" was released on January 14, 2013.

Music Video: Two X "Ring Ma Bell"

Two X stands for Top Win One and X (multiply). The members are Jiyou, Eun, Minjoo, Surin, and Eunyoung. They debuted August 2012. They are represented by J Tune Camp. "Ring Ma Bell" is their 2nd single.

Psy Superbowl commercial

Psy was in a commercial for pistachios during the Superbowl

Music Video: DMTN "Safety Zone" (English Subs)

DMTN stands for Desire Motivation Timing Now. The group used to be known as Dalmation. They changed their name when they moved to a new label. The members are Inati, Jeesu, Daniel, Donglim (previously known as Youngwon), and Simon. One of the members, Dari, is currently in the army. They are making their comeback on January 29 with the single "Safety Zone".

Music Video: Infinite H "Without U"

2013 Official Holiday Schedule

January 1--New Year's Day

Febuary 9-11--Seollal (Lunar New Year)

March 1--Independence Movement Day

May 5--Children's Day

May 17--Buddha's Birthday

June 6--Memorial Day

August 15--Liberation Day

September 18-20--Chuseok

October 3--National Foundation Day

October 9--Hanguel Day

December 25--Christmas

Music Video: Tiny-G "Minimanimo"

Tiny-G is a hip hop group that was formed in 2012. The members are Dohee, J Min, Mint, and Myung Ji. "Minimanimo" is their 2nd single.

 I think this video is a little too cutesy for me. I think its geared toward the teenage population or Koreans who love 'aegyo'! They look like they are about 13 years old. The girls in the group range from 15-18 years old.

Music Video: 1sagain "Love is Over" (English Subs)

1sagain is a Korean R&B artist who debuted in 2002.

Music Video: Phantom "Like Cho Yong Pil" (English Subtitles)

I really like Phantom. They have awesome voices!!

The song is named after a famous singer. The MV is based on their story.

Music Video: VIXX "On and On"

VIXX debuted last year and "On and On" is their 3rd single. They were contestants in a reality show called "My Idol". The members are N, Leo, Ken, Ravi, HongBin, Hyuk.

MV Teaser Phantom "Like Cho Yong Pil"

I will be watching out for this one! Phantom has become one of my favorite Korean groups. I think they have really great voices. Check out "Hole in Your Head" and "Burning Down"! (these videos are on my labels under Phantom)

The video will be released on January 17th (Thursday)!

Music Video: CNBLUE "I'm Sorry"

Music Video: Infinite H "Special Girl"

This song is from the mini album "Fly High" which will be released January 11, 2013. I think it's a cute video. I like the pink hair. haha. Both of the guys are cute. I feel like a cougar. I'm 31, but all these k-pop guys are in their early 20's!

Music Video: Super Junior M "Break Down"

This song is from Super Junior M's 2nd album "Break Down". Super Junior M is geared toward the Chinese music industry. The "M" stands for Mandarian. The members of the group are of Chinese and Korean descent. The members are Sungmin,Eunhyuk,Zhou Mi,Donghae,Siwon,Ryeowook,Kyuhyun, and Henry. (Zhou Mi and Henry are only part of Super Junior M and not a part of Super Junior that performs in South Korea).



Here's a highlight medley from the new album:

Music Video: Baek Ji Young "Hate" (English Subtitles)

press the cc button for English subtitles

Pop star Rain to be punished?

 Read about it here: Pop star Rain to be punished over meeting actress

I was on the yahoo homepage today and this article was on the trending list.

Rain is one of my favorite artists in South Korea. .
______________________

Earlier this week there were a lot of stories coming out saying that Rain and actress Kim Tae-hee were dating. No one really knows if this is fact or fiction. Rain's agency hasn't said anything, but Tae-hee's agency said they have been dating for a month. The paparazzi took pictures of them meeting with each other last year

Rain is currently serving in the military. He will be punished because he is prohibited from having private meetings with people while he is in the military. Other people think that he is getting special treatment because he was able to meet with the actress.

The punishment has not been mentioned yet.

Music Video: Girl's Generation "I Got a Boy"

Happy new year! My first post of 2013!