23:45 | 
Posted by
srafi
The MCs from ‘Weekly Idol’ Jung Hyung Don and Defconn, who recently formed a duo, greet their senior singers, INFINITE, with respect!
On June 7th, Defconn tweeted, “A photo with INFINITE senior, whom we’ve met after a long while!! It turns out they’ve already listened to our songs! They said they really enjoyed them and encouraged us to work hard”, and attached the above photo.
In the photo, Hyungdon and Daejun are bowing 90 degrees to their music seniors INFINITE despite their young age. Seeing INFINITE looked on ‘proudly’ in front of them drew laughter from netizens.
Netizens commented, “How well-mannered the two are”, “This picture really got me laughing” “INFINITE seems to be caught in a bit of an awkward situation there” and more.
Labels:
The ‘necktie kiss” of Ji Hyun Woo and Yoo In Na is shaking female hearts.
On June 6th, 2012, in episode 15 of “Queen In-Hyun’s Man“, Kim Bung Do (Ji Hyun Woo) returns to modern times after resolving the misunderstanding bac kin Joseon Dynasty, and dates with Choi Hee Jin (Yoo In Na).
In the episode, Hee Jin and Bung Do talk on phone, and she rushes to his home, and says, “Fast enough for you? Even if I walk slowly also don’t need 5 minutes?” She revealed her endless affection for him.
Hee Jin also said, “You asked about the purpose of the necktie? Come over here. In the past, mainly is wife personally wears the tie for husband who is going to work. Like this, when fasten the tie, the vision will meet together, then the feel comes. Haha, this is kiss, kissing. This it the use of necktie.” The heart of viewers who saw the “necktie kiss” also fluttered.
In this regard, Kim Bung Do responded expressionless, “Listen to you I feel that the ultimate goal of existent of all things in this world is as if for ‘kissing.’ What an obscene world.” Hee Jin asked in reply, “Yeah really? You’re not satisfied?” Bung Do replied coldly with embarrassing tone, “All right obscene.”
Excited Hee Jin asked if he is curious about the use of stand, and grabs the tie that is hanging around his neck to guide him.
Audience said, “It is amazing,” “Look at the sweet romance of two people, the heart beats,” “So envy of Bung Do and Hee Jin,” “The kiss scene should be the last,” and so, revealing the excited mood.
“Queen In-Hyun’s Man” drew down its curtain on June 7th, 2012.
Source: dramahaven
After having its original date postponed due to audio issues, SM Entertainment’s documentary film ‘I AM’ has set a new premiere date.
On the morning of June 8th, film distributor CJ E&M confirmed that ‘I AM’ has been finally set to hit Korean theaters on June 21st.
Originally slated to premiere on May 10, ‘I AM’ has been postponed to a later date due to audio issues. Since the documentary contains variety of footage from artists’ New York performances, interviews and past footages, the production delayed the release to enhance the audio to a better quality.
‘I AM’ has already aired in other Asian countries ahead of its Korean release, starting with Indonesia on May 18th, Taiwan on the 25th, Singapore on the 31st, and Japan on June 2nd and 3rd.
Source: Naver
Boyfriend will be making their Korean comeback before releasing their debut album in Japan. Following the ‘flower boys’ teaser photo released earlier, Boyfriend unveiled their new album jacket photo.
Posted through their official Twitter, Boyfriend released the album jacket for comeback mini album ‘Love Style’. In the photo, the members are dressed in distinctive street clothes inspired of downtown hipsters, the mainstream of the current New York fashion.
Starship Entertainment stated, “Through this new album, Boyfriend will show their distinctive, trendy styles. They’ll be trying various different looks like colored and patterned suits along with street fashion.”
Source: TV Report
Hallyu star Jang Geun Suk will be releasing his very own cookbook in Japan!
On June 10, Jang Geun Suk will release a cookbook in Japan titled “Jang Geun Suk’s Love Recipe”.
Throughout his interviews, the actor has always expressed an interest and love for cooking. He’s finally ready to put his hidden skills on display by introducing his favorite recipes in his very own cook book.
The book includes twenty different recipes the actor wants to make for his families, friends and lovers as well as pictorials and essays that show Jang Geun Suk’s daily lifestyle. All the dishes featured in the book were created by Jang Geun Suk himself.
The book is also getting fans excited as it includes a DVD of Jang Geun Suk cooking and behind-the-scenes stories from the making of the book.
Source: TV Report
The Wonder Girls are finally putting their first comeback performance on KBS ‘Music Bank’ later today!
JYP Entertainment stated, “The Wonder Girls are set to make their first comeback performance for ‘Like This’ on ‘Music Bank’. We ask for your support on their unfolding promotional activities.”
Wonder Girls released their new album ‘Wonder Party’ on June 3. The album is composed of six tracks including the title track “Like This”. The tracks “R.E.A.L” and “Girlfriend” is written by member Yenny while “Hey Boy” is written by rapper Yubin.
Meawhile, the title track “Like This” recorded 3.3 million views on Youtube in just three days and ranked first on daily and combined charts on digital music charts like Daum Music and Soribada.
Musical actress Ok Joo Hyun has recently opened up about her personal life by sending a heartfelt thanks to her boyfriend of seven years.
The former Fin.K.L member was awarded the Best Female Lead award at the 6th The Musical Awards that took place on June 4th, for her role in the musical. She gave her acceptance speech tearfully saying, “I had told myself that if by chance I win, I better not cry. But the tears are just flowing. Thank you so much. Thank you for allowing me to take on such a great project.”
She continued on, “I want to share this honor with Jeff, a long-time friend of mine, who helped me to interpret the original script that I bought not too long ago.”
This mystery Jeff--Jeff Chang to be specific-- is described as a tall man with charming, gentleman-like looks and a social personality. Chang is currently working at the Korea Times and is the oldest son of the head of the Korea Times publication in the United States.
Ock Joo Hyun had first revealed that she was in a relationship with Chang in April of 2006.
Source: KBS World
Girl group Dal Shabet held a showcase on June 5 to mark the launch of its first album “Bang Bang.” The festivities got underway at CGV M Cube in Cheongdam-dong, southern Seoul.
While the girl group has released EPs in the past, this is the first time that the group has launched a regular studio album.
New member Woohee joined the band on stage while Viki, who announced her resignation in late May, was nowhere to be seen. Woohee was recruited just one day after Viki announced that she’d leave the group for a solo career. Member Serri was announced to be the leader, taking Viki’s place.
“New member Woohee is like Ah-young and Ji-yul [other members of the group]. She was born in 1991. She is currently on a leave of absence from the Dong-Ah Institute of Media and Arts,” a representative from the group’s agency said.
By Carla Sunwoo
Source: JoongAng Daily
1) The singing part in Rooftop Prince: “It’s very difficult to sing the part ‘tied tightly with a rope’”. A recorded version instead of live singing was used in ‘Miss Ripley’ so this is the first time that I have to sing while filming for a TV drama. I have to sing like Lee Gak but I have the habit of humming unconsciously. Therefore, in order not to sing like a singer, I have put much thought into it. Very interesting.” [T/N: Click here for the singing part ]
2) “The overwhelming sadness made me stay focused instead.”Park Yoochun experienced the sadness of losing his father before the official release of Roof Top Prince. Since Rooftop Prince is a romantic comedy, people were concerned about whether he has overcome his feelings.
But this makes Park Yoochun stronger. Park Yoochun explained, “It was just that at that time, I went through something that anyone would experience. And by thinking so, I felt comforted. Because I felt too miserable and my heart felt so much pain that that instant became a turning point at which I was able to keep myself away from confusion and stayed focused.”
“At the funeral with my brother, there were many people who came with their condolences. For our future days, I have the thought of making my family have more trust in me and can depend on me.”
“I haven’t had a fight with my mum for over ten years but we had a big fight recently. From my mum’s point of view, she felt sad for me and wanted me to bear fewer burdens. But I did not agree and there were conflicts between us. On the day after the fight, I had to leave home for the drama filming but I felt weighed down with sadness. So I called my mum and apologized and then I sent her and grandma to Jeju Island.”
Source: OBS NewsKorean to Chinese translation: 暖日呀呀 Weibo | Chinese to English translation: mandragore of JYJ3
Girl group f(x) will be making their comeback with new mini album ‘Electric Shock’. The album will become available online through iTunes and other music distribution websites on June 10 and in stores on June 13.
After releasing individual teaser photos of members Krystal, Sulli and Victoria, f(x) unveiled the album jacket for ‘Electric Shock’.
Girls’ Generation’s Sooyoung opened up on how she felt about fellow member Jessica’s embarassing baseball pitch.
On the June 6th broadcast of SBS‘s ‘One Night of TV Entertainment’, MCs Sooyoung and Yoon Do Hyun looked back on some of the most memorable celebrity ceremonial first pitches at baseball games.
Amidst the variety of first throws, Jessica’s throw also made it into the list. Jessica had a perfect pitching stance and a powerful throw, but the baseball ended up landing only a few feet away from her.
Regarding Jessica’s famous pitch, Sooyoung humorously commented, “Jessica made a pitch that won’t appear again for the next 10 years. I’m proud that we’re members of the same group.”
Source: Newsen
On June 6th, Yoon DoHyun and Sooyoung had successfully made their debut as MCs on SBS ‘Midnight TV Entertainment’.
The participation of Sooyoung and Yoon DoHyun as MCs for SBS ‘Midnight TV Entertainment’ was announced through a press conference held on June 1st. Yoon DoHyun said, “I made this decision very carefully. Since I will be talking about others, I think I will be very careful. When there is a happy event, I will also be happy, and when there is a bad event, I will be sad. I think it will be interesting.”
Despite being their first live broadcast, Sooyoung and Yoon DoHyun have impressed viewers through their sensible comments as well as their smooth and natural MC-ing skills, with no significant and obvious mistakes.
After completing the live broadcast successfully, Sooyoung commented “I’ve been always watching the show on TV in the living room, but now I am the one who introduce the topics. So, I felt it was different and fun. I will work hard and try my very best to convey accurate news”.
Credit: newsen.comTranslated by: Taengfan@fanwonder.com
“Nation’s first love” Suzy and handsome actor Lee Hyeon Jin are staging sweet yogurt kiss when shoting CF for a yogurt drink.
In the scene, Suzy and Lee Hyeon Jin are sitting on the bench under the cheery tree. They affectionately look at each other with fallen flowers scattering and flying around like snow flakes. Lee Hyeon Jin looks at the while yogurt left at the corner of the Suzy’s mouth, and slowly approaching her head on with smile. After a short exchange of vision, their lips gently touch.
In the published photo, their lips are as if touched but not touched, the image is fluttering the heart, yet beautiful and pure.
Such a beautiful picture makes male fans could not help but envy Lee Hyeon Jin who grabbed the heart of Suzy, and also gave female an lingering afterthoughts to “yogurt kiss.”
Once the CF scene was made public, various entertainment bulletin boards and SNS were bombarded with the messages of the fans, “The smile of brother Hyeon Jin captured my heart,” “First love knot, together with beautiful kiss scene, really envy Hyeon Jin!” and so on.
Currently, Suzy is busy filming KBS2′s “Big“, while Korean version of “Plump Revolution” movie starring Lee Hyeon Jin is going to premiere soon, where it’s current in post-production stage.
Source: dramahaven
Production company Egg Films which produced the movie “The Classic” submitted an application of injunction for the prohibition of broadcasting or disposing of the drama “Love Rain”, against production company Yoon’s Color, the Korea Broadcasting System and KBS Media Corporation on the 31st last month.
A legal representative of Egg Films revealed, “Not only did the drama ‘Love Rain’ infringement the copyright of the movie ‘The Classic’ in terms of detailed summary, development of the story and mutual relationship between the characters in the story, the scenes that play an important role in expressing the characters internal emotions and lead the synopsis have been used without notice. Therefore, we have requested for a seizure of the drama for infringement matters with proof to the production and broadcasting company.”
To the request of explanation for the action of infringement of copyright, the production’s legal representative pointed out, “The summary that the man has to part with his lover for his friendship with his friend and the woman who misses him overlaps with their children’s love in the future as they carry on the unfinished love of their parents first of all is similar to the movie. The overall spread out and structure of the drama as well as certain scenes have been repeated in this drama.”
The legal representative continued, “The similar storyline, structure and scenes have just been replaced with characters and situations which are also very much alike and this can’t be anything else but infringement of copyright.”
Meanwhile, “Love Rain” is about to be an issue even in Japan as it’s looking forward to airing in Japan as well.
Source: hancinema
1) The singing part in Rooftop Prince: “It’s very difficult to sing the part ‘tied tightly with a rope’”. A recorded version instead of live singing was used in ‘Miss Ripley’ so this is the first time that I have to sing while filming for a TV drama. I have to sing like Lee Gak but I have the habit of humming unconsciously. Therefore, in order not to sing like a singer, I have put much thought into it. Very interesting.” [T/N: Click here for the singing part ]
2) “The overwhelming sadness made me stay focused instead.”Park Yoochun experienced the sadness of losing his father before the official release of Roof Top Prince. Since Rooftop Prince is a romantic comedy, people were concerned about whether he has overcome his feelings.
But this makes Park Yoochun stronger. Park Yoochun explained, “It was just that at that time, I went through something that anyone would experience. And by thinking so, I felt comforted. Because I felt too miserable and my heart felt so much pain that that instant became a turning point at which I was able to keep myself away from confusion and stayed focused.”
“At the funeral with my brother, there were many people who came with their condolences. For our future days, I have the thought of making my family have more trust in me and can depend on me.”
“I haven’t had a fight with my mum for over ten years but we had a big fight recently. From my mum’s point of view, she felt sad for me and wanted me to bear fewer burdens. But I did not agree and there were conflicts between us. On the day after the fight, I had to leave home for the drama filming but I felt weighed down with sadness. So I called my mum and apologized and then I sent her and grandma to Jeju Island.”
Source: OBS NewsKorean to Chinese translation: 暖日呀呀 Weibo | Chinese to English translation: mandragore of JYJ3
JYJ, who are the endorsement models for Chong Geun Dang Pharmaceutical‘s painkiller brand ‘Penzal Q’, have released new commercial!
The new Penzal Q commercial, which will begin airing in June, features the members performing the theme song “Don’t Be Sick” at a concert. In the scene, a female fan is heard saying, “My head hurts” to which Jaejoong asks the audience, “Does anyone have headache medication?”
Another female fan then shouts, “If it’s headache medication, it’s Penzal Q”. The CF later follows with Kim Junsu saying, “Penzal Q, thank you.”
Kim Jaejoong continues being poster boy even at historical drama’s filming site.
The behind-the-scene of MBC’s weekend drama ‘Dr Jin’ with Kim Jaejoong, who was named as the visual shock of historical drama, was revealed on the 6th of June.
In the drama, during the recovery commemorative dinner of his father Kim Byung Hee (Kim Eung Soo), Kim Jaejoong was enjoying his break and his pose was captured amazingly.
Removing his official’s hat and relaxingly resting, Kim Jaejoong simply sat there with the sword he usually holds and yet it created an ambience that is poster-like. It immediately attracted all the female staffs’ lovely gazes.
In order to fully portray the highly martial-skilled Kim Kyung Tak, Kim Jaejoong had more horse riding scenes than most of the actors thus he is currently expertise with horse riding skills.
During his break, he walked towards the horse and smoothen the beautiful mane and then starts to play with the mane. These special caring showed off his mischievous looks. It was known that his unique display of caring made surrounding staffs can’t help but laughed out.
‘Dr Jin’ representaive said, “Due to Kim Jaejoong’s role in the drama as the illegitimate son, his character faced humiliation in almost every episode but in actuality, his seriousness towards the drama and his caring for his co-workers made him well-liked by seniors and co-actors. At the same time, his unexpected and unique actions gave joy to the surroundings, this made the filming set’s ambience very amicable.”
Additionally, on the broadcast of ‘Dr Jin’s 4th episode on the 3rd, the episode ended with Kim Kyung Tak went to the cholera-infested village and started a subtle psychological war with Hong Young Rae (Park Min Young) and Jin Hyuk (Song Seung Hun). This cliffhanger incited the future development of the relationship between the three.
Credit: newsen+joongyiTrans by: rachui@sharingyoochun
B1A4 debuted in April of 2011 and ran all the way here without taking a break while releasing ‘O.K’, ‘Beautiful Target’, ‘Baby I’m Sorry’, and now, ‘Baby Goodnight’ and they are currently still running forwards. How was B1A4’s 1 year?
It’s already been over a year since you debuted. Comparing how it was when you first debuted with now, what changed the most?
You gained a lot of juniors in 1 year. Just around a year ago, you guys were the youngest, so how does it feel to hear yourselves being called seniors?
You even participated in ‘Dream Concert’, which is said to be a festival for popular singers. It was the largest stage since your debut, so how did it feel?
You did a lot of variety show promotions in the past, but which member has the most personal connections?
If you were to pick idols that you want to befriend in the future?
I want to become friendlier with Super Junior seniors as well. I also want to befriend Beast seniors. Although there were many times we met during trainee days, I wasn’t able to say anything and I felt sad about it. (Sandeul) I want to become friends with Beast seniors as well! (Jinyoung)
DBSK seniors for me. I want to learn a lot from them by talking about their know-how’s as seniors, thoughts they get when holding a performance, and the stage manners. (Gongchan)
Truthfully, I want to befriend Big Bang seniors, DBSK seniors, Super Junior seniors, and Beast seniors, but I have a larger desire to learn from them instead. Since we’re still rookies who have only reached 1 year, it’s difficult for us and we can’t really approach them easily either. It would be really great if we could become friends with these seniors. (CNU)
Having unit group promotions inside groups are getting more popular, so if you were to do unit group promotions later on, which member would you like to try it with?
Even if it’s not album promotions, I want to do a performance with Gongchan. There were times when I said to Gongchan, ‘Let’s harmonize with each other and sing a song,’ and practiced. I think it would be fun if I did it with Gongchan. (Sandeul)
Later on in the future, I think it would be fun to divide ourselves in groups of two and switch off with each other and create our own album. And each group that meets would be different. I think it would be really fun. (Baro) And have the album called, ‘Number of Cases’. (Jinyoung) Hyung needs to make us 10 songs. (Gongchan)
trans. cr; hyejin @ b1a4trans
Actress Kim Ha Neul is attracting considerable attention with her upcoming jaw-dropping bath scene.
Kim Ha Neul, who plays the role of Seo Ee Soo in SBS’s weekend series “A Gentleman’s Dignity”, will appear in a bikini and take a bubble bath for the drama’s sixth episode.
The scene was filmed on May 27 in a prepared set in Gyeonggi-do. Kim Ha Neul successfully shot her scene like a professional, despite the long hours of filming in a bathtub.
On June 7, SBS released series of preview stills showing Kim Ha Neul’s bubble bath scene. In the photos, the actress showcases her milky white skin, slim shoulders, fantastic clavicle as well as her lovely face without any makeup on.
Source: Star News
Singer Tony An donned a getup from his heyday, a costume worn during his days in the ‘90s idol band H.O.T, for a cameo role on a TV show.
An posted a picture of himself in baggy overalls and a bandana on his Twitter account on June 4 with the comment, “Today I took part in the sitcom ‘Answer me 1997.’ It’s based around 1997 and I played myself from back then. It was so much fun and it’s been a while since I’ve worn those pants,” said An.
Netizens and fans were thrilled and said the picture brought back memories of the ‘90s sensation that An was a part of.
Though the program has not gone to air yet, it is known that the plot will be based around events from the ‘90s.
Earlier in the year, An made headlines for performing with current boy band Smash, which he created back in 2008.
The collaboration, which went by the name “Tony & Smash,” performed for the last time on SBS’ “Popular Songs” on April 8.
On the following day, TN Entertainment stated that the former musician and current music producer has put an end to performing with the band and will concentrate on music production for the time being.
By Carla Sunwoo
Source: JoongAng Daily
Going to action school 4 hours a day.
Actor Kim Soo Hyun has become completely immersed in action.
According to his agency Key East, Kim Soo Hyun has been attending action school since last month and preparing for his movie. He has been on a diet and is working out to intense levels for 4 hours or more everyday.
Kim Soo Hyun is currently preparing for his upcoming movie “Covert and Great”. It is a webtoon that has been movie-fied about a spy who disguises himself as a neighborhood dummy.
Key East revealed, “Kim Soo Hyun is passionate about this movie as it is his first main role. There are many action scenes since it’s a spy movie and he’s working hard to be able to carry out his role.”
Source: hancinema
Big Bang, who recently returned with new mini album ‘Still Alive’, is set to take their “Big Bang Alive Tour 2012” to Asia, North and South America, and Europe, performing in 25 cities in 16 countries.
After revealing the list of tour locations in Asia, Big Bang has now confirmed the first stops in North America for their worldwide tour. According to Big Bang’s official Facebook page, they will be bringing “Big Bang Alive Tour 2012” to Los Angeles and New York. However, concert details are still being discussed and will be posted on a later date.
Korean drama “Queen In-Hyun’s Man” is concluding with final episode on June 7th, 2012. Other than whether Kim Bung Do (Ji Hyun Woo) and Choi Hee Jin (Yoo In Na) can be together as a lover, fans are also paying attention on whether the “ambiguous” atmosphere of Ji Hyun Woo and Yoo In Na will continue.
In the photos released on the morning of June 6th, 2012, Ji Hyun Woo has completed all the shooting of his scenes, but he voluntarily stayed behind to become the crew during the filming of Yoo In Na. When the behind the scene photos were released, they caused people to feel confused and unable to differentiate whether it’s a “plot” or “true feelings.”
In the photos, Ji Hyun Woo was holding the clapperboard to replace the crew member. On the clapperboard was interesting sentences of “2 times, 3 times camera obvious angle” and “Worked hard in editing” written personally by Ji Hyun Woo.
In addition, Yoo In Na has also expressed her thoughts on the end of the drama, where she mentioned that she will probably miss the “ancient people” that captivated her in the drama. Many fans who read the testimony could not help but reminiscent of never stopped rumor of “false thing become true” of them.
Source: dramahaven
Gaon Chart is the national record chart of South Korea. It is complied by the Korea Music Content Industry Association with an aim to create a national chart for Korea similar to the Billboard charts and Oricon charts.
[Rankings for Week May 27 - June 2, 2012]
Weekly Singles Chart
1. Girls’ Generation TTS (TaeTiSeo) : “Twinkle”
2. G.NA : “2HOT”
3. IU : “Every End of the Day”
4. LeeSSang : “My Love”
5. Baek Ji Young ft. B2ST’s Junhyung : “Good Boy”
6. Brave Guys : “I Don’t Care”
7. LeeSSang ft. YB : “Someday”
8. Jung Hyung Don & Defconn : “Olympic Expressway”
9. Baek Ji Young ft. LeeSSang’s Gary : “Voice”
10. Ulala Session : “Beautiful Night”
----
Weekly Album Chart
1. B1A4 : “The B1A4 IGNITION” [Special Album]
2. INFINITE : “INFINITIZE” [3rd Mini Album]
3. 4minute : “Volume Up” [3rd Mini Album]
4. XIA : “Tarantallegra” [1st Album]
5. EXO-K : “MAMA” [1st Mini Album]
6. Various Artists : “Love Rain OST Part 2”
7. MYNAME : “MYNAME” [1st Single]
8. Heo Young Saeng : “SOLO” [2nd Mini Album]
9. Busker Busker : “Busker Busker” [1st Album]
10. A Pink : “UNE ANNEE” [1st Album]
YG Entertainment has joined hands with eBay Korea and opened its very own eBay store ‘YG Store’ (http://stores.ebay.com/ygentertainment)!
According to YG Entertainment on June 7th, the company officially launched online store, ‘YG Store’ on eBay. The new eBay store will serve as an outlet for fans overseas to purchase their own copy of Big Bang‘s special edition ‘Still Alive’ album, as well as upcoming works and fan merchandise for other YG artists like 2NE1 and Se7en.
With the new store, YG Entertainment plans to make Big Bang the first celebrities in Asia to open up a ‘eBay Celebrity’, where the group will put up merchandise such as autographed CDs.
eBay Korea’s Na Young Ho stated, “There are 10,000 K-Pop related items on sale on eBay. We believe that with the opening of the YG Store, it will play a significant role in the export of Hallyu.”
You know you’ve got a killer lead couple when they aren’t afraid to speak the truth to each other. Better yet when beta male can ruffle alpha girl’s feathers. Ji-an learns that it’s lonely on top and Tae-kang finds out that earning a buck is harder than it looks.
This episode took a slight dip in ratings from 10.5% to 9.8%.
EPISODE 2 RECAP
In a darkened street corner, both Ji-an and Tae-kang recognize each other. He bolts and she chases after him barefoot.
They end up at the police station as she demands the name behind the knockoffs. Interesting that she doesn’t accuse him of making them himself. Tae-kang insists on his innocence despite the evidence pointing to the contrary. As to why he ran? “A perverted woman was running after me! You think I wouldn’t run?”
Ji-an raises a heel which is when the police officer who’d been fully amused at their bickering finally steps in. He orders Tae-kang to out the culprit (Dad) but his lips remain tightly sealed, his eyebrows furrowed, conflicted.
Meanwhile Dad’s been calling incessantly, concerned that Tae-kang’s no-show might indicate he’s been caught. Choong-baek, however, assures him that Tae-kang is a pro at slipping away safely.
Clink. Before he’s hauled off in cuffs, she sits him down in the interrogation room. Tae-kang fesses up that he stole, made, and sold the shoes himself – it’s not so hard to nail a few soles together, right? He could make it in his sleep.
She breathes, “Liar.” and explains that that level of caliber can only be achieved through decades of experience. Grabbing his hand, she says that his should be calloused, his fingerprints rubbed off, his nails blackened to the point one couldn’t tell if it was a hand or not. Only through that amount of labor can one heel be made.
Genuinely concerned now, she warns Tae-kang that he can actually be jailed for this – what would his father think? Tae-kang glares at the audacity of her words and throws them back at her that she should be worrying about her own family.
Now he gets where her parents are coming from, “How hard must it have been on them to have such a cold and heartless daughter? I would have disowned you too by now.”
Ji-an looks at him, her eyes glazed in tears, and she seethes, “You…really are trash.” Angry, Tae-kang admits to it that he’s a piece of trash who had to throw away his conscience to make a living because he was less educated and less skilled. “What about you?” Why is she trying to milk money off of some who has none?
It would be pointless to throw at him jargon like intellectual property rights and leaves him with one word of advice: there are plenty of other people who are worse off than he is but lead their lives differently. So what she’s hearing is just excuses coming from a dropout.
Dad’s eyes grow wide when the news report on the recent crackdown on knockoff sellers. Then we see Tae-kang, his face and voice disguised (I know it’s not supposed to be funny but it is) and Dad’s face falls.
So it’s Tae-kang’s turn to be surprised when he’d led out only to see Dad being cuffed. He’s turned himself in and softly tells his son to return home. As he’s taken away, Tae-kang is held back as he shouts for his father. It breaks my heart seeing the lengths to which they’d protect each other.
When he gets home, there’s a handwritten note from Dad telling Tae-kang not to worry. And then my heart breaks into a million pieces as the tears drop from Tae-kang’s eyes looking at the lonely dinner laid out for him.
At the airport, we’re introduced to YEOM NA-RI (Im Soo-hyang). It’s been 15 years since she’s been in Korea and she heads straight to the office. She moseys to Uncle that there was a particular office she liked…
… and then we see Ji-an things packed and see her fuming at the sudden move out. Nepotism has reared his ugly head since Na-ri’s MBA from the States and a stint in Milano has bumped her to Vice President. She’s polite, though she carries a pretentious air as she introduces herself to the staff.
A clunking sound down the stairs alert Na-ri to greet Ji-an. She’s annoyed (as she should be) and rolls her eyes at Na-ri’s attempt to shake her hand when her hands are full. Na-ri barely blinks at eye at Ji-an’s honesty and steps closer to put out her hand again, the friendly gesture thinly veiled by a challenge.
Ji-an takes it this time, however reluctantly, and turns to leave. Yet Na-ri picks up a conspicuous brochure about menopause and brings it to everyone’s attention.
Despite trying to downplay the embarrassing moment, Na-ri oh-so-innocently comments that Ji-an does everything quickly from her work to her age. Ouch. Looks like newbie can spit fire.
She’s still seething in her new office when Mom calls to give her the third degree about her date with Eun-sung. It surprises Mom when Ji-an tells her that she likes him given that he didn’t. She smiles as Mom reports that they said she wasn’t funny, unladylike, and so strong-willed that Ji-an could never get married.
All seems to be going according to plane until Mom drops that Eun-sung must have a strange taste in women because he liked Ji-an.
She rips him a new one on the phone while Eun-sung plays dumb that it’s all their parents doing and he’s totally sick of meeting her too. She raises her voice at his suggestion to play along for the time being – what if their parents push them to get married? What will he do then? Eun-sung: “Then we’ll just get pushed into it.” Omg, you totally love this.
Eun-sung asks why she takes life so seriously and that they’ll take it as it comes. That does little to settle the mind of a successful shoe designer and she interprets this as romantic interest.
He claims no such thing, jokingly accusing her of being a snob. Doesn’t she know that getting angry for no reason is a classic sign of menopause? DUDE you are pushing your luck here.
Ji-an refuses his invitation to dinner (tofu stew is supposedly good for those with menopause) and barks that he was the one who got themselves into this mess so HE can be the one to get them out of it.
Tae-kang waits for Dad outside prison. When he appears, he shoves a bottle of soymilk instead of tofu (given to eat after release to symbolize a new beginning). HAHAHA. Dad’s annoyed, wondering how Tae-kang made bail to get him out. Yes, how did you manage it, Tae-kang?
Cut to Dad groaning loudly at the jjimjilbang (sauna). HA – you sold your house to get Dad outta jail? So like you to not see things through.
Tae-kang defends that he needed the cash and even selling Beyonce wasn’t enough to make bail. The house turned into a living hell and he couldn’t sleep a wink knowing Dad was locked up (aw).
Dad reminds him that even renting a room is difficult in this economy and cringes as Tae-kang pipes that he’ll get them a house or get a job. Tae-kang declares that he can do it if he just puts his mind to it and stands up, “I’m the head of this household! So I’ll take responsibility!” Aw you’re so adorably earnest.
He instructs Dad to rest and storms off to find a job. Dad calls out, “Don’t go! It’ll cost money for you to come back in!” HA.
So Tae-kang finds every odd job under the sun (a nude model to a window washer to a farmhand). The best is when he’s at a morgue trying not to psych himself out in front of a corpse.
His hands betray him, trembling, when the lights flicker out like a bad horror movie. The body opens its eyes and stares at Tae-kang, who chokes and faints.
Na-ri’s changes at the store don’t go unnoticed by Ji-an who confronts her about it. The line she put up for sale was going to be used for a charity event and Na-ri merely answers that she was just getting rid of extra inventory.
She thought Ji-an would be onboard as the most adventurous and progressive person in the company. What’s the point of rehashing the same concept? Shouldn’t they move towards more groundbreaking ways for the company to move forward?
Both women are strong-willed and Na-ri doesn’t skip a beat when Ji-an challenges that they simply can’t change things around according to her whim. But Na-ri stands firm that they’ll just need to find a way to make those changes with the least amount of loss possible.
The staff complain in the office about being overworked and its toll on their health and personal lives. Ji-an stops to listen in on their woes about how they hate shoes and their stress is leads them to spend their money on hospital fees.
It runs on the dramatic edge, but it must be news to her that not everyone is a workaholic like she is.
They clam up when Ji-an walks in and further surprised when she compliments them on their efforts. As an attempt to boost morale, she invites them out to an office dinner.
Why am I not surprised that Ji-an equates office party to a fancy dinner? Ji-an waits and waits at the nearby restaurant, growing angrier by the minute. She does her best to pretend that she hardly cares but her words indicate that she does by keeping track of the clock.
It’s then the meekest office worker runs in to relay the others’ excuses (“Tell Medusa I stayed up all night to fix the designs!”, “Tell her I have stomach cramps…I don’t know. Tell her I died!”).
Ji-an bites down on her emotions that they can eat together then but sadly, she too has a reason to leave.
Ji-an wanders the streets alone as people pass by happily. I’m not sure if it’s intentional, but seeing that nearly everyone has a companion is a nice contrast to Ji-an’s lonely walk.
She sits on a bench, contemplating how to cure her loneliness and hunger. Her friend Jun-hee is no help (she’s at a club which makes me think that she’s an irresponsible divorced mother).
As she searches through her contacts on her phone, Ji-an realizes that there’s not a single person to call. Tears well up in her eyes as she solemnly sighs, “I don’t want to eat ramyun today.”
Choong-baek laughs at his friend for taking on the most difficult of menial jobs. He’s amused at Tae-kang’s explanation that he wanted to test himself like the main character they read about in the comics; to become stronger through adversity. “I thought I’d have that kind of super energy too.”
Tae-kang laughs at the “It takes hard work and time” speech, still fixated on snagging a job that pays well and is cool. Choong-baek clucks at him that his friend hasn’t suffered enough to learn the meaning behind earning a dollar.
Suddenly Tae-kang has a brilliant idea – what if he works here? I love how Choong-baek immediately stutters that he should rather do something he’s good at like fighting or being a con artist.
They nearly get into a small tussle when Ji-an sudden appearance catches both off-guard.
Tae-kang hilariously frets in his seat and silently mouths Why is she here? Why?!. Deciding to slip out without notice, he grabs his bag to hide his face. But either he resolves to face the truth or his vanity trumps his fear as he plops down in front of her, slamming his hand on the table to grab her attention.
She’s hardly surprised to see him out and about and doesn’t appeal to his vanity in the slightest, “You think I came here to see you?” Tae-kang scoffs in response that SHE’s been constantly on his mind. Are you backhandedly telling her that you’ve been thinking about her?
He instructs Choong-baek to drop the act and discloses that they’re childhood friends and that he deliberately brought her here to get her drunk. He drills, “Understand?”
Much to his surprise, Ji-an coolly replies, “So?” Did he think she would get upset or be shocked? He must be more naïve that she thought since disappointment can only come from expectations. That certainly doesn’t apply to them since they’re not in any kind of relationship.
He must be upset that she turned him into the cops but some people turn that anger into motivation to succeed, she explains. “They turn that hatred into a strength.”
She continues, “What would a loser like you know about that?” Tae-kang glares.
Ji-an gets up to leave when Tae-kang raises his voice, “What about you? Do you consider your life a success? You make a lot of money, drive a nice car, and wrote an autobiography. Is that considered a successful life?” She’s been cast out by her parents and has no friends. In his eyes, he regards that as pretty pathetic.
She fights the pain from his words – how would he know? Tae-kang answers that he doesn’t, since he’s never experienced such loneliness. “For some reason I think that you won’t have anyone around you and all you’ll have left is your shoes. But no matter how many you have, shoes are just shoes.”
He finishes off that she seems like the loser. The tears start to form in her eyes and it’s not until she leaves does Tae-kang begin to regret his harsh words.
Ji-an returns to her disheveled apartment, strewn with clothes and old food. Tae-kang’s words ring in her ears. As she digs her chopsticks into her ramyun she finally breaks into tears, “How am I supposed to eat ramyun without any kimchi?” Just like his words, she sleeps in the shoe closet, surrounded by the array of shoes for company.
At the same time, Tae-kang mulls over her words. Taking Dad’s calloused hand in his, he breaks into tears, asking sleeping Dad why he worked so hard. He lies down and places his hand over Dad’s before falling asleep.
At work, Ji-an introduces a Shoe Reform Contest to promote their company’s image and to hire a new designer. The credit initially gets passed to Na-ri who pipes that it was Ji-an who came up with the contest idea. Ji-an gives a slight smirk, knowing that something else lies beneath the compliment but can’t help be pleased to be credited appropriately.
In the bathroom, she figures that Na-ri’s been coached to say the right thing since the Ice Queen suddenly turned into Soft Serve. She’s simply changed her tactic, Na-ri explains, from a whip to a carrot. Playing on that metaphor, she adds that the dangling carrot will help Ji-an stay young longer.
Bringing up the topic of age again, she hands over coupons for spa treatments, “At your age beauty requires effort and money, right?” They’re open 24 hours so Ji-an can fit it in despite her busy schedule.
The job search continues to look bleak for Tae-kang. But a promotional poster for the Design contest catches his eyes, particularly the grand prize: 30 million Won (about $ 30,000 USD) and a job offer. He gasps and a lightbulb pops above his head.
I find it absolutely hilarious that he brings the poster to show Dad, constantly reminding him about the prize money. Dad’s understandably less than thrilled about the idea – there’s no way a newbie could win over those who studied abroad to learn design. Plus, they’ll need to buy a shoe to redesign.
Dad doesn’t budge about investing money for a slim chance at winning and like a petulant child, Tae-kang gets up and peevishly tells Dad that he won’t give him a cent if he wins.
Tae-kang gets to work and scratches his head over how to redesign the shoe, examining it from every angle. He sighs deeply when Dad chides him on the rooftop, asking if he’s come to see him struggle.
He’s not but brings up the time when their store was destroyed in a fire. He lost the will to live and contemplated about jumping off a bridge into the Han River.
That’s news to Tae-kang and he listens as Dad continues that he was just about to when he remembered that Tae-kang had a school picnic the next day. Dad laughs as he recalls that he stepped down to prepare for it as planned, thinking that he couldn’t even die when he wanted to.
Placing a hand on Tae-kang’s shoulder, Dad reminds him that Tae-kang is the head of the family. “I’m alive because you’re here. I can endure because you’re here.” Gah, break my heart Dad.
Dad softly asks for the shoe but Tae-kang clings onto it, vowing that he’ll do it himself to rub it into Dad’s face. His pettiness is an attempt to make Dad proud – how sweet. Dad runs him through several rounds of, “Then you take care of it!” until Tae-kang finally picks up on the undertone of You can do it!.
Then Dad grabs him for a playful headlock. *sniff* I’M NOT CRYING.
Jun-hee stares open-mouthed at the luxurious spa treatment. She asks about updates about Eun-sung and Ji-an answers that she’s considering it given his persistence (he texts three times a day without fail).
So she’s surprised when Jun-hee bursts laughing that there’s a smartphone feature that sends text messages at preset times. Ji-an is slightly annoyed at having been fooled at a trick that even a child would know.
But as she sips her drink, there’s the inevitable lurch to vomit and we all know what that means…
Cut to Eun-sung’s voice, “Congratulations, you’re pregnant.” He tells the couple (what a tease) that it’s a crucial period for them and to take care of their health.
He’s naturally confused at his next patients (Ji-an’s parents) and he hesitantly asks after her age. “I can suggest a really good adoption agency.” Keh. Dad snipes if he intends to change his specialty (“You look under women’s skirts all day.”). When Dad clarifies that they’re Ji-an’s parents, he bolts up to greet them properly.
At dinner, Dad asks his opinion about a working woman and Eun-sung starts, “Well most women work nowadays so… she’ll need to stop.” Dad continues on his traditionalist women-need-to-stay-at-home tirade and Eun-sung amuses him, calling him “father-in-law.”
He maintains the well-behaved future son-in-law act to the end. He calls Ji-an to gripe about the sudden visit but she hangs up before he gets the chance. After contemplating on his next move, a small smile spreads across his face.
Not surprisingly, Ji-an opposes Na-ri’s vote for finalist, using her words of “fresh” and “original” against her. She absentmindedly picks up a shoe (Tae-kang’s) as her choice. It’s more of an act of defiance and when Na-ri pipes that she’ll choose the winner, Ji-an pointedly notes that that’s her job as event coordinator.
Ji-an argues that this is a company and here, “Professionals aren’t born but made.” Na-ri asks if this is attempt to sabotage her first major event but Ji-an bites back what could possibly make her think of such a thing – does Na-ri have something against her?
The news about the standoff travels fast as the employees whisper that Ji-an must really be the Medusa to stand up to the VP and snicker when Na-ri arrives at work.
Tae-kang nervously bites his nails at the restaurant and Choong-baek reports, shell-shocked: “Dropped.” Tae-kang’s tries to hide his disappointment and Dad adds that these kinds of contests are always rigged.
Which is when Choong-baek clarifies, “$ 30,000 dropped! You’ve won!” (The former sentence and initial confusion makes sense since a pronoun isn’t necessarily needed.) Heh, I love that Dad and Son both yell at Choong-baek before they grab each other for a victory hug.
Tae-kang steps out of the room of finalists, all women, commenting that the gabbing is just like inside a women’s locker room. He gets annoyed when the vending machine eats his coin and he proceeds to kick it to release his anger.
So who should walk by at that very moment as he bashes the machine from every which angle and steps forward to yell… when a spray of coffee splashes on her front.
He apologizes profusely but places a hand to his mouth, recognizing her. Ji-an’s eyes grows wide as she stutters, “Y-you…”
Tae-kang laughs awkwardly, “We meet again.”
COMMENTS
Suffice it to say that I really love our lead couple and for the first time in a long time, both seem perfectly well-rounded. Usually you’ll see one character (often the heroine) getting the short end of the character description stick, but there’s depth and potential exploration in each.
Starting with Tae-kang, I adore the relationship he has with his father. They’ve been through good and bad and both strive to protect the other, no matter the cost. Dad might appear gruff but under that tough exterior is a father whose pull back into the world was his son. Their interactions are both hilarious and sweet. It tugs at and warms my heart.
Then there’s Ji-an who despite all her success in life, still longs for a steady relationship in her life. Her loneliness just about kills me and her unkempt apartment was a great way to show us what that drive to success has lead to. Even a bowl of ramyun needs kimchi. Kim Sun-ah is great at these soft, heart-breaking vulnerable moments where Ji-an’s pain almost becomes your pain.
All signs are pointing to pregnancy and perhaps motherhood will break down her strong front and help her face what it means to love another. Until then, she’ll be asleep in her vast array of shoes alone.
