Ayumi Hamasaki To Celebrate 15th Anniversary With 5 Consecutive Months Of New Releases

Ayumi Hamasaki

Ayumi Hamasaki has announced a new mini album titled "LOVE" which will be released on November 8th. The mini album will the first in a series of 5 new release over the course of 5 months, leading up to the singer's 15th anniversary.
Ayu made her debut under avex on April 8th, 1998 with the release of her first single "Poker Face". To commemorate her 15th anniversary, the singer will have a new music release for 5 months. Starting with "LOVE" on November 8th, something new will be released on December 8th, January 8th, February 8th and March 8th.
The new mini album "LOVE" will have 12 tracks, 3 of them newly written songs. The three new songs are titled "Song 4 u", "Melody" and "Missing". It will come in 3 editions: CD Only, CD (Tales Edition) and CD+DVD.
"Song 4 u" will be used as the theme song for the PS3 game "Tales Of Xillia 2". A preview of the song was released along as part of the trailer for the game shown at the Tokyo Game Show gaming convention. Check it out below:

ayumi hamasaki - Song 4 u (XILLIA2 ver.)

濱崎步 - Song 4 u (時空幻境 無盡傳奇2 主題曲)Tales Of Xillia 2 テイルズ オブ エクシリア2 Theme song濱崎步粉絲團 https://www.facebook.com/ay...

"Melody" is a medium-tempo ballad composed by Hoshino Yasuhiko. It is describe to be an inspirational song that shows of Ayu's signature style.
"Missing" is composed by Hara Kazuhiro. It is also described as a medium-tempo track full of pain.
Check out the track list for the new mini album below:
CD
1. Song 4 u (Original mix)
2. Melody (Original mix)
3. Missing (Original mix)
4. You & Me (Remo-con rmx - extended)
5. You & Me (SHINICHI OSAWA remix)
6. song 4 u (Orchestra version)
7. Melody (remix)
8. Missing (remix)
9. Song 4 u (Original mix -instrumental-)
10. Melody (Original mix -instrumental-)
11. Missing (Original mix -instrumental-)
12. You & Me (Original mix -instrumental-)
DVD
1. Song 4 u (video clip
2. Melody (video clip)
3. Song 4 u (making clip)

Kana Nishino Reveals Covers And Tracklist For Her 4th Album!

Kana Nishino

Last week Kana Nishino released her new single GO FOR IT!! Check out the covers and tracklist for her 4th album titled, Love Place!
The album comes in 2 version, Normal and Limited CD+DVD edition.
Normal Edition

1. *Prologue* ～Welcome～
2. Watashitachi (私たち)
3. Day 7
4. GO FOR IT !!
5. Be Strong
6. Happy Half Year!
7. Love Song
8. FANTASY
9. Is this love?
10. Honey
11. SAKURA, I love you？
12. Tatoe Donnani... (たとえ どんなに…)
13. kiss & hug
14. My Place
15. *Epilogue* ～Love Place～
Limited Edition DVD Tracklist

1. Alright Video Clip
2. Alright Video Clip Making
3. たとえ どんなに… Video Clip
4. たとえ どんなに… Video Clip Making
5. SAKURA, I love you？ Video Clip
6. SAKURA, I love you？ Video Clip Making
7. 私たち Video Clip
8. 私たち Video Clip Making
9. GO FOR IT !! Video Clip
10. GO FOR IT !! Video Clip Making
Love Place will be released on September 5th.

T-ara’s 7 Most Controversial Moments

T-ara

The biggest news of the day was T-ara’s announcement of releasing Hwayoung from the group.
On July 30, Kim Kwang Soo, CEO of Core Contents Media, said in a statement that Hwayoung would be leaving the group due to her “disturbing behavior,” based on the opinions of 19 staff members. Hwayoung refuted by tweeting, “Facts without the truth,” and fans have reacted furiously to her departure, as more than 6,300 fans dropped out of the official fan club.
But this is not the first time T-ara made headlines with controversial issues. Since their debut in 2009, ironically T-ara has been involved in more controversial issues than other top idol groups. We don’t have the exact data to prove it, but it seems like T-ara somehow managed to get their names out more frequently than other idol stars.
Here we have 7 of the most controversial issues that involved T-ara members in the past. We hope the Hwayoung issue gets settled soon, and the girls find peace amidst all the media hoopla going around!

2 more Idol Groups suspected of bullying

T-ara

With Hwayoung‘s controversy with T-ara coming to public light, the K-Pop industry is now attempting to take a closer look as to where these issues could be stemming from. Unsurprisingly, Hwayoung isn’t the only one suffering, as other groups came forward with their own concerns.
Reporters were able to find that the issue of bullying already has strong roots within idol groups, especially with the growth K-Pop has been seeing lately. There’s a correlation between the level of an individual member’s star power and the level of discontentment within the group, as the bigger the difference there is in income, the more prone the group is to bullying.
A B list group anonymously named ‘A‘ has been battling bullying issues since their debut because of member ‘B‘, who is considered the face of the group due to her various activities in dramas and variety programs. Although she helped bring the group’s name to the spotlight, she eventually became the target of bullying due to the vast difference in their earnings.
A former manager of the group stated, “Idol groups are young in age so it’s easy for them to get swept up in emotions. The members know that the company favors to get at least one member to popularity in order to have the group follow, but they still bully that member once it happens. These days, companies have to rotate the group’s center member while eyeing the members.”
The trainee system also plays a part in the issue since stars are picked at a young age and put through five to six years of training at the least, before having to endure hard competition to be chosen as a final member. Naturally, new members that join in the middle get faced with criticism and hate for essentially “getting a free ride.”
Girl group ‘C’ is representative of this case, as they were recently found to have been bullying their new member.
Another manager in the industry revealed, “Whenever I saw member D of group C, she was always standing alone in the hallway outside of her waiting room at music programs. The members would be so immature in the way they treated her, such as forcing her to wear the outfit concept they hated the most or giving her the most outrageous hair concepts. In the case of bigger groups, they’ll try to use the senior card to train the new member into submission by forcing them to use separate hair salons and forcing them into smaller vans.”
The only solution at the time seems to be ample communication between both the members and the company. Pop critic Kang Tae Gyu commented, “The issue of bullying within idol groups is severe, as it’s a sensitive issue that’s difficult for the company to get themselves involved in. Managers will usually only know that it’s happening but not the inner details, and won’t try to resolve the problem since it’s not something they can make a sound judgement on.”
The critic compared the problem to homeroom teachers being oblivious to the problems of bullying within the classroom. Unlike members who are together 24 hours on top of dorming, managers are only with them for certain times of the day.
The solution he offered was that companies setup  a system that gives members an opportunity to anonymously submit issues going on within the group, and to open up communication in general. “Lack of communication can ultimately lead to bigger consequences. Just the mere notion of bullying needs to be reported immediately, and members need to be assured that their privacy will be protected.”
Another solution is for companies to make training in character and ethics mandatory.
Shinhwa‘s secret to maintaining a good relationship for 14 years also lies in their communication skills. Leader Eric had stated, “While promoting, there are times when we get sensitive, which later erupts into fights. There are a lot of instances where we even physically fought each other. There were issues, but we ended it there. We all worked hard to resolve them through communication.”
SISTAR overcame similar problems, as previously revealed by Dasom, “I used to believe that I wasn’t of any help to the team and felt envious of Hyorin and Bora unni. I wanted to be acknowledged and win over the unnis too and felt upset when I couldn’t. Every time I felt that way, though, the unnis consoled me, which helped a lot in bringing up my self confidence again.”

Still cuts of SISTAR’s Dasom in ‘Shut Up Family’ released

SISTAR's Daom

New pictures of SISTAR‘s Dasom on the set of her debut acting drama, KBS‘s daily sitcom ‘Shut Up Family‘, have been released!
Dasom was recently cast as the role of a delinquent student, which you wouldn’t be able to tell at all judging from a first glance at the photos. Dressed neatly in her school uniform with a sweet pink ribbon to boot, Dasom gives the look of a cute student more so than any delinquent.
It hasn’t actually been that long since Dasom herself graduated from high school so it should come to no surprise that the uniform fits like a glove.
Dasom’s character is a two-faced young girl who uses her good grades and angelic face to get her way. The sitcom begins airing next month.

Source + Photos: Sports Chosun via Naver

EXID unveils photos of their 2 new members Solji & Hyerin

EXID's New Members

After announcing their new member line-up earlier this year, Shinsadong Tiger‘s girl group EXID has begun preparing for their comeback with the teaser photo releases of their two new members, Solji and Hyerin.
Solji will be taking the position of main vocalist, as she has previous experience debuting under 2NB and being recognized for her outstanding vocal talents. She earned attention for her witty remarks and vocal imitations on variety shows.
Vocalist Hyerin also shares the same vocal talents but with added skills in dancing that helped her break through some tough competition to get into the group.
Now that EXID has finalized themselves as a five member group, the girls are looking towards a mid-August comeback.

Preview for SECRET’s Japanese “Love is Move” PV Revealed!

SECRET

The girls of SECRET are gearing up the release of their Japanese full length album, ‘Welcome to SECRET Time‘, and ahead of its release in August, a preview has been revealed for the upcoming PV of the Japanese version of “Love is Move“.
Dressed in gold, the girls sparkle as they dance and sing on the set of their newest music video.

Check out the preview below!

Morning Musume's Latest Single Becomes da Group's 50th Top 10 Single

Morning Musume

With the release of its latest single "One Two Three / The Matenrou Show", all 50 of Morning Musume's singles have been a top 10 hit, charting in the top 10 more times than any other artist.
The single has sold 101,000 copies in its first week, placing in 3rd for the week and selling over twice as many copies than their last single "Renai Hunter". This is the first time the group has sold over 100,000 copies since 2002 with its single "Koko ni Iru Ze!".
With 50 out 50 of the group's singles in the top 10 on the Oricon weekly singles chart, the group has place in the top 10 more than any other artist. Ayumi Hamasaki comes in 2nd with 48 top ten singles, while B'z and SMAP are both in 3rd with 47.
"We're so happy about releasing our 50th single, but there was a lot of pressure. I'm truly happy from the bottom of my heart. Thank you everyone!," group leader Sayumi Michishige stated.

B2ST Drops Album Image for Comeback Mini Album ‘Midnight Sun’

New Mini Album of Beast 'Midnght Sun'

After holding their “Hang Out Live On Air” event on their Google+ page to celebrate their 1000 days as well as announcing the news of their comeback, B2ST has dropped the name of the new mini album along with an album image.
Fans’ anticipation for the group’s comeback was made even more apparent through the live stream session held on July 11th at midnight KST for fans from 50 different countries tuned in to participate.
The event also ranked #1 on Korean search portals despite it being late into the night, further signifying the group’s popularity.
B2ST’s new mini album, ‘Midnight Sun‘ will drop on July 22nd, so stay tuned!

Beast

New 'Dragon Ball' Movie on da Way

Shonen Jump

This year's 33rd issue of Shueisha's Weekly Shonen Jump magazine reveals that a new Dragon Ball movie will be on the way.
The Official Japanese website of Shonen Jump have recently launched a "D" web countdown to a "surprise" on July 14 and to add to this upcoming surprise Dragon Ball creator, Toriyama Akira, will be taking part in the movie's scenario.
The Japanese release is currently planned for March 30 next year.

[BIG] Gong Yoo & Lee Min Jung to Have an Outdoor Date

BIG Drama

New preview pictures for upcoming episode of BIG released by KBS on July 10 showing the two main leads, Gong Yoo and Lee Min Jung, in the middle of what look like a date.
As the development between Kang Kyung Joon and Gil Da Ran romantic feelings to each other going strong, the signs of the switch-soul are following.
Check out the preview pictures below and catch the new episode at 9.55 PM KST every Mondays and Tuesdays on KBS!

Orange Caramel to Debut in Japan with "Yasashii Akuma" (♪やさしい悪魔 / キャンディーズ)

Orange Caramel

After School's sub-unit, Orange Caramel, will be officially making their debut in Japan this September!

Made of members Raina, Nana and Lizzy, Orange Caramel will be releasing its first Japanese single titled, "Yasashii Akuma (Friendly Devil)." The single will be available in 3 different versions: a CD+DVD (with music video), a CD+DVD (with live performances) and a CD+photobook.

"Yasashii Akuma (やさしい悪魔)" is a remake originally performed by legendary Japanese artist Candies in 1977. The B-side track for the single will be the Japanese version of Orange Caramel's hit Korean track, "Magic Girl."

Orange Caramel will release their debut Japanese single on September 5th. Are you looking forward to their remake of "Yasashii Akuma"?

Listen to the original below!

BEAST Confirmed to Make a Comeback on July 22nd!

BEAST

Popular boy band BEAST, has announced that they will be making a comeback at the end of this month with a new album.

At 12:00AM KST, in celebration of their 1000th day, BEAST held an online live broadcasting chat event called "Hang Out Live On Air" and spilled information about their comeback.

After commenting about their 1000th day since debut with friends, BEAST announced that they will be returning shortly to meet with fans again. BEAST member Kikwang announced, "The time that everyone has been waiting and waiting for! Our album and new songs! We will be coming back on 22nd (of July)!" With the comeback date announced, BEAST's Junhyung added, "We're returning to you guys once again and we're very nervous."

They will be returning after 1 year and 2 months and their recent trip to New York to film their new title song music video has risen the anticipation of fans and the media.

On July 10th, CUBE Entertainment stated, "BEAST is coming back after one year and two months and we announce this to the nation of fans who have been waiting for a long time. We will be having a live online video in order to communicate with the fans directly. Instead of having prevalent announcements and a promotional teaser site, we will try a new way of communication."

If you missed BEAST's live video chat, check it out below!

[PV] IU - You & I Japanese Ver. HD

IU

via tokyohive
Korean solo artist, IU, is set to release her second Japanese single, “You & I”.
Although the single won’t be out until July 18th, fans can get a taste of the song before its official release through the full PV, which has been aired recently.

Check it out below! Do you prefer the Korean or Japanese version?

Kara’s Kang Ji Young Updates Fans on Her Life from Singapore

KARA's Jiyoung

The girl group, Kara’s Kang Ji Young updated her life from Singapore.
On the afternoon of July 9, Kang Ji Young posted “Universal studio in Singapore,” on her twitter and uploaded her picture with it.
In the revealed picture, Kang Ji Young is standing right in the middle of the street with both of her arms open wide. She looks very comfortable with her short hot pants and flip-flops. She’s also wearing a shirt with blue, purple, and white. She added a rope-like belt to make her outfit a bit more stylistic.
Netizens who saw the picture commented, “She’s such a cutie,” “Didn’t know she was in Singapore,” and “Hurry back to Korea!”
Kara will be attending MTV World Stage Live in Malaysia 2012 on July 14 with Justin Beiber, Jay Park and Mizz Nina. It will take place at Surf Beach at Sunway Lagoon.

SISTAR’s Meals Have Changed After Their Hit Song “Alone”

Sistar n' Boom

Recently, SISTAR revealed that their meals have changed ever since their debut.
On July 6, SISTAR appeared on SBS Power FM‘s “Boom’s Young Street.” During the program, Boom asked SISTAR, “SISTAR has been gaining a lot of attention lately especially after the release of ‘Alone‘ – does your agency do anything different for you now?” SISTAR’s response was, “Food.”
They further elaborated by saying, “Shortly after our debut, our agency bought us meals that were worth about six dollars. Now, they buy us meals that are worth at least thirteen dollars. Also, we were not allowed to eat anything that we wanted. Most of the time, we had to eat chicken breast and vegetables to keep up with our diet. Now, we are allowed to eat anything we want. In addition, we used to complain about how we were rarely allowed to spend more than twenty dollars on a meal for four people. Things have definitely changed, because just yesterday we had a chicken party with members of Boyfriend.”
Meanwhile, SISTAR also sang live and answered questions for prizes throughout the program.

Secret to Make Chinese Debut + Celebrates 1,000 Day Anniversary

SECRET

Secret is bringing their sexiness to China, as they announced plans to debut in the mainland this summer.
Secret is currently planning a trip to China to film the music video for the Chinese version of “Starlight Moonlight.” There are a lot of K-Pop artists popular in China now, but it’s rare to see them actually release a Chinese-language song. But Secret is really looking to boost their activity in China and Japan this summer, so the move makes a lot of sense.
Their Chinese promotions will run simultaneously with the release of their second Japanese album this summer. They are expected to come out with the Japanese version of “Love Is Move” too.
“This summer, Secret will mostly spend time in China and Japan. We’re also working on a Korean comeback, but that’s most likely going to happen later this year,” TS Entertainment said.

Meanwhile, Secret’s Hyosung also celebrated the group’s 1,000 day anniversary on July 9. Alongside two photos, Hyosung posted on her Twttier yesterday, “Today is Secret’s 1,000day anniversary!!! Secret Time, you’re going to stay with us until our 10,000^th day, right? We’ll come back to Korea soon too, so please wait for us just a little bit more~ Thank you!”
Netizens commented, “Hyosung, you’re just way too hot girl,” “You better stay together for another 9,000 days!” and “Congrats on the Chinese debut and your 1,000^th day!“

IU Reveals Her Potbelly for the First Time

IU

IU revealed her potbelly for the very first time.
Recently, on an online community site, a picture was posted under the title, “IU reveals her belly button for the first time ever!”
In the revealed picture, IU is on stage performing her first individual concert, “REAL FANTASY,” which started in June. IU radiated her lovely charm with her hair in two braids with a ribbon headband and short denim shorts.
However, what drew the eyes of fans wasn’t what she was wearing. It was what she revealed with her attire. During the performance, IU’s top was lifted a bit and revealed IU’s unexpected and “familiar” potbelly.
Netizens who came across the picture showed numerous different reactions. “Her belly is unexpectedly chubby,” “She is not too skinny anymore,” “She looks lovely,” and “Is this IU’s first exposure of her belly button?”
Meanwhile, IU made an appearance on “Strong Heart“ and confessed her height and weight in order to clarify the controversy over her very skinny body. IU stated that her height is 5 feet 3 inches and her weight is 99 pounds. IU said, “People tell that I only have skin and bones and they also say I look like an elementary school kid but I weigh 99 pounds and I think my weight is suitable to be a celebrity.” This comment by her made the entire studio laugh.
The “REAL FANTASY” was IU’s first individual concert in 4 years. She started on June 2 in Seoul and toured around Ulsan, Jeonju, Suwon, Busan, and Daegu.

TEEN TOP Celebrates Their 2 Year anniversary with Fans Through SNS

Teen Top

Idol group TEEN TOP celebrated their two year anniversary with fans online.
On July 10th, fans left congratulatory messages to the members for their two year anniversary through TEEN TOP’s official homepage and social networking sites like me2day, titling their posts as ‘TEEN TOP 2 year anniversary celebration’.
TEEN TOP showed their gratitude and love for their fans by replying with messages of their own thanking them and promising to continue to work harder.
The idol group debuted in 2010 with their single album, ‘Come into the world‘ and grabbed the public’s attention with their synchronized dances and powerful performances despite their young age.
Their hit song ‘No More Perfume On You‘ attracted many nuna fans as they accentuated their charms as younger men.
Fans commented, “We hope that you guys have a long run without any members quitting“, “It’s already 2 years… Congratulations TEEN TOP on your 2 year anniversary“, “It’s good to see that you guys are always doing your best“.

T-ara Boram & Eunjung’s Selca as if Right Out of a Fairytale

EunJung - Boram

Girl group T-ara member Boram revealed a selca taken together with Eunjung looking as if right out of a manga.
Boram tweeted in the afternoon of July 5th, “Ham Baekgu Baegu Andersen fairytale prince. And Ramppo ice. Kkeung” followed by “Merong” along with 2 pictures.
In the first picture, Boram and Eunjung have their heads together making cute faces. Enjung is puckering up as if ready for a kiss and Boram looks like a doll staring in a direction. In the second picture, Boram is wearing a tube top showing off her voluptuousness.
Netizens commented: “I didn’t know Boram was so voluptuous”, “It looks like a cover of manga”, and “Wish you success of T-ara’ comeback!”

T-ara released their new song ‘DAY BY DAY’ on July 3rd and are preparing for the comeback promotions.

Secret Hyosung’s Busty Figure Exposed by Water Balloons

Hyosung - Sunhwa

Secret’s water park commercial from last month has drawn renewed interest lately after photos of Hyosung getting water balloon-attacked (and showing off her busty figure) made it to online community forums.
Recently, still shots from the commercial were posted online under the title, “Sunhwa throws water balloons at Hyosung,” were posted alongside the video of the commercial. The photos are part of the scene where Sunhwa runs at Hyosung, who’s lying next to the pool, and attacks her with water balloons. The scene slowly depicts the water balloons falling on Hyosung’s breast area, emphasizing the sexy idols perfect bodyline.

Netizens that came across the photo commented, “OMG, I need to watch that again,” “This is going to be my wallpaper,” and “Did Hyosung lose weight? I’m disappointed.”

In case you haven’t seen the video, enjoy it below!

AAA Announces New Album "777 ~TRIPLE SEVEN~"

AAA

AAA will release a new album titled "777 ~TRIPLE SEVEN" on August 22nd.
The upcoming album will be the group's 7th studio album. It will include 12 tracks, including 4 brand new song.
The album will come in 4 different editions, each including 1 of 8 different collectable trading cards.
avex's mu-mo shop will include a special 2CD version of the album which will come with an addition picture label, postcard and booklet. The 2nd CD will feature a discussion about the group's 6th anniversary.
Check out the tracklist below:
Regular Edition CD Only
- Charge & Go!
- Lights
- SAILING
- WISHES
- Still Love You
- I$M
- 777 ～We can sing a song!～
- Perfect
- Last Love
More tracks to be revealed
Regular Edition CD+DVD
CD
CD the same as CD Only version
DVD
- Charge & Go!(Music Clip)
- SAILING(Music Clip)
- Still Love You(Music Clip)
- 777 ～We can sing a song!～(Music Clip)
- I$M (Music Clip)
- SPECIAL Document Movie
Limited Edition CD + Blu Ray
CD
CD the same as CD Only version
Blu Ray
- Charge & Go!(Music Clip)
- SAILING(Music Clip)
- Still Love You(Music Clip)
- 777 ～We can sing a song!～(Music Clip)
- I$M (Music Clip)
- SPECIAL Document Movie
Limited Edition CD + 2DVD
CD
CD the same as CD Only version
DVD 1
- Charge & Go!(Music Clip)
- SAILING(Music Clip)
- Still Love You(Music Clip)
- 777 ～We can sing a song!～(Music Clip)
- I$M (Music Clip)
DVD 2
- Special Document Movie

2NE1 & Sagging Snail Hit MelOn’s Roof Simultaneously

MelOn Charts

Hitting the roof on one of Korea’s most popular music sites, MelOn, is no easy task, unless you’re 2NE1 and Sagging Snail!
2NE1 has hit the roof on MelOn’s real time charts multiple times since the release of their latest single, “I Love You“, displaying the immense popularity of the song as well as the group’s wide appeal.
What’s special about the latest real time chart is that not just one, but two groups have hit the roof simultaneously! This is something that hardly ever happens, especially at the same time. To determine real time chart positions, MelOn takes into account streaming (40%) and downloads (60%) every hour. Thus, not only does it depend on mass streaming, it also depends on how many are willing to purchase the song.
For MelOn’s real time chart at 8AM and 9AM KST, Yoo Jae Suk and Lee Juk (Sagging Snail) have claimed first place by hitting the roof alongside 2NE1 with their newest track, “Punk in the Corner“. Although Sagging Snail was currently in the lead at 8AM, 2NE1 has taken back the #1 spot at 9AM, leaving the competition neck and neck between one of the nation’s top girl groups and the nation’s favorite MC.
Congratulations to both!

SISTAR's Bora Shows Her Support for Labelmate Boyfriend

SISTAR's Bora

SISTAR's Bora is cheering for male group, Boyfriend.

On July 5th, Bora posted on SISTAR's official Twitter account, "Please give a lot of support to my dongsaeng's album, Boyfriend's 'Love Style'! Daebak~ away! Also give lots of love to 'Loving U'~", and shared a photo along with the post.

In the photo, Bora's bright smile is seen along with the signed Boyfriend album in her hand. Because SISTAR and Boyfriend are under the same agency, Bora has is passionately promoting her labelmates.

Netizens commented, "I will give a lot of support!", "They're from the same company, amazing" and "Boyfriend and SISTAR, daebak~."

Boyfriend released their last album, "Love Style," on June 14th, while SISTAR released their summer special album, "Loving U," on June 28th.

New Boy group A.cian (인트로영상)

A'CIAN

Boy group A.cian is set to have its debut later this year, and have just recently revealed a short teaser video as well as concept teaser pictures.

ISS Entertainment first introduced the members through their official YouTube channel, showing pictures with the members' names tagged on it to distinguish the different members of the group.

Consisting of five members, A.cian is lead by leader Seulgi, who was a band's vocalist during his high school days. He is said to be able to dominate the stage with his looks and charisma and has shown potential as an actor.

Chanhee was the member who spent the longest day as a trainee, and was revealed to have his own colorful and distinctive voice.

With a dream of standing on stage, member Crooge went to various dance competitions, while Sehee appeared on MBC's "Starry Night."

Just as leader Seulgi, maknae Sanghyeon started out in a band. Being involved in music from such a young age, he was revealed to have high performance abilities and impressive vocal skills.

Seulgi, Crooge, Chanhee, Sehee and Sanghyeon are currently having last-minute preparations and will officially debut in August.

Brown Eyed Girls to Release Digital Single Later tis Month

B.E.G

Brown Eyed Girls will be releasing a digital single later this month, according to Star News. The girl group who gained much popularity after releasing their hit single "Abracadabra" in 2009 have mainly been focusing on solo activities as of late.

A representative from their agency told Star News, “Brown Eyed Girls's new digital single is scheduled for release at the end of this month. This single is meant to be a gift for the fans who have remained faithful despite the group not being active at the moment. Although there is a digital single being released, there are no current plans for broadcasts or promotions.”

In related new Ga-in is preparing for her solo comeback in August. Are you excited for the digital single?

Celebrity Baby Photos! Kdrama Actor/Actress Edition!

Celebrity Photo

Earlier this week, we brought you a collection of K-Pop idols’ baby photos. Hope you enjoyed them! Today, we’ve put together yet another set of baby photos, this time featuring your favorite kdrama actors and actresses! As you can (or will) see, some of these baby photos make it quite obvious as to who they belong to, while others are more of a mystery…
Can you guess these famous faces before they became Korea’s hottest stars?

2012 Half Year Top 10 K-Pop Songs

We have reached the half way point of 2012 and it is time to announce the half year top 10 songs on our chart.  The calculation method is the same as what we used for our year end chart and soompi gayo awards.  Newer songs will have a higher weight and each song’s total score will be adjusted according to their weekly chart position, competitions they are facing, and time of release.
There are a total of 355 songs that appeared on our weekly top 50 during the first half of 2012. With the number of K-Pop artists now and the frequency of major new releases each week, the competition is very tight.  However, there is one song that stands out on our chart and runs away from the competition to win the No. 1 song in the first half of 2012.  That is SISTAR’s “Alone”.  This song spent a total of 11 weeks on our chart.  It was No. 1 for two weeks in May and also stayed in the top three for six weeks.  “Alone” has a score of 6493, which is more than 800 points ahead of the No. 2 song T-Ara’s “Lovey Dovey.” “Alone” is still on top 20 as I write this post, but it is likely to be replaced by SISTAR’s new song “Loving U.”  Even with 6493 points as a final score, it is already good enough to be in the year end top five.  Congratulations to SISTAR.
Speaking of “Lovey Dovey”, it spent 17 weeks on our chart, which is more than any songs in the first half of 2012.  It also spent four weeks on top of our chart. Since “Lovey Dovey” was released earlier in the year, its score have lower weight than “Alone” which is released later in the year.  Therefore “Lovey Dovey” comes in a distant second with 5634 points. It is a good follow up for T-Ara, who won our chart’s Song Of The Year in 2011 with “Roly Poly”.
At No. 3, the highest ranked boyband goes to none other than Big Bang, as their song “Fantastic Baby” scores 5228 points to round out the top three.  When Big Bang released their album “Alive” in March, they listed all the songs in the album as title tracks. As a result, there were six Big Bang songs on the chart simultaneously for several weeks.  Even though another song “Blue” became No. 1 on our chart for two weeks and also won in various Korean music shows, “Fantastic Baby” seemed to be listeners’ choice as this song stayed a lot longer on the chart.
Just under “Lovey Dovey’s” record 17 weeks on the chart, at No. 4 we have a song that spent 16 weeks on our chart.  That is Ailee’s “Heaven.”  Not too bad at all for a rookie artist.  This song reached as high as No. 3 in March Week 2. This is also the highest ranked digital single so far this year. Ailee already got rave reviews on her performances.  We are sure we’ll hear from her again in the second half as she will probably release her first full or mini-album.  Ailee is also the only solo artist to make it into our half year top 10 list.
At No. 5 it is the only non mainstream artist to make it into our half year top 10.  Male trio Busker Busker, runner-up of Superstar K3, had a very successful debut with their first album.  The title song “Cherry Blossom Ending” spent a week at No. 1 and is a top five song on our half year countdown.  This song is very refreshing indie light rock style that has successful crossover to the pop chart.
The first sub-unit from Girls Generation, TaeTiSeo, checks in at No. 6 with their 3-weeks No. 1 hit “Twinkle”.  Even though only one third of Girls Generation is represented, they don’t miss a beat and topping the chart as usual.  Notice that “Twinkle” is still on the chart while most songs ahead of them are not.  If this song stays on for a few more weeks, it will definitely move past songs currently ahead of them in the year end countdown.
At No. 7 it is another girl group.  4minute’s “Volume Up” which also spent a week as No. 1 in April.  4minute has consistently done well on our chart and this song is of no exception.  Had this song not being released at almost the same time with Sistar’s “Alone”, it may be even more popular.
At No. 8, it is pop rock group FT Island’s “Severely.”  This song spent three weeks on top of our chart in late February to early March.  It had a very close battle with Seven’s “When I Can’t Sing” and this song came out on top.
The fifth girl group to make the top 10 is at No. 9.  miss A’s “Touch” spent one week at No. 1 and two weeks at No. 2.  A total of 11 weeks on the chart enables this song to make it into our half year top 10.

The last song on our top 10 list belongs to Infinite, who won the top male group on our Soompi Gayo Award last year.  Despite not reaching the top of our chart (highest position was No. 2) and only six weeks so far on the chart, “The Chaser” spent five weeks in the top 10.  This song is still ranked high on the chart and that means it will pass several songs currently ranked higher on the year end chart.

1. (–) Sistar – 나혼자 (Alone)
Score: 6493
Genre: Pop/Dance

Music: Brave Brothers / Lyrics: Brave Brothers
Album: Sistar Mini Album Vol. 1 | Purchase this Album
Watch: MV

2. (–) T-Ara – Lovey Dovey
Score: 5634
Genre: Pop/Dance

Music: Shinsadong Tiger, Choi Gyu Sung / Lyrics: Shinsadong Tiger, Choi Gyu Sung
Album: T-Ara mini-album Vol. 5 | Purchase this Album
Watch: MV

3. (–) Big Bang – Fantastic Baby
Score: 5228
Genre: R&B

Music: Teddy, G Dragon / Lyrics: G Dragom
Album: Big Bang Mini Album Vol. 5 | Purchase this Album
Watch: MV

4. (–) Ailee – Heaven
Score: 5088
Genre: R&B

Music: Wheesung / Lyrics: Wheesung
Album: Ailee digital single “Heaven”
Watch: MV

5. (–) Busker Busker – 벚꽃 엔딩 (Cherry Blossom Ending)
Score: 4991
Genre: Indie Rock

Music: Jang Bum Joon / Lyrics: Jang Bum Joon
Album: Busker Busker Vol. 1 | Purchase this Album
Watch: MV

6. (–) TaeTiSeo – Twinkle
Score: 4922
Genre: Pop/Dance

Music: Brandon Fraley, Jamelle Fraley,
Javier Solis / Lyrics: Seo Ji Eum
Album: TaeTiSeo Mini Album Vol. 1 | Purchase this Album
Watch: MV

7. (–) 4 minute – Volume Up
Score: 4450
Genre: Pop/Dance

Music: Shinsadong Tiger, Rado / Lyrics: Shinsadong Tiger, Rado
Album: 4Minute Mini Album Vol. 3 | Purchase this Album
Watch: MV

8. (–) FT Island – 지독하게 (Severely)
Score: 4193
Genre: Pop Rock

Music: Kim Do Hoon, Lee Sang Ho / Lyrics: Han Sung Ho
Album: FT Island mini-album “Grown Up” | Purchase this Album
Watch: MV

9. (–) Miss A – Touch
Score: 4045
Genre: Pop/Dance

Music: Park Jin Young / Lyrics: Park Jin Young
Album: Miss A mini-album “Touch” | Purchase this Album
Watch: MV

10. (–) Infinite – 추격자 (The Chaser)
Score: 3766
Genre: Pop/Dance

Music: Han Jae Ho, Kim Seung Soo / Lyrics: Song Soo Yoon
Album: Infinite Mini Album – INFINITIZE | Purchase this Album
Watch: MV

Kim Na Yoon, a Contestant from SBS ‘K-pop Star‘ will be Signing a Contract with Starship Entertainment

Kim Na yoon 'SBS K-pop Star'

Kim Na Yoon, a contestant from SBS ‘K-pop Star‘ will be signing a contract with the same agency as SISTAR!
On July 5th, according to insiders in the music industry, Kim Na Yoon is said to be finalizing her exclusive contract with Starship Entertainment, the home of SISTAR, K.Will, and Boyfriend.
One representative stated to Star News, “Kim Na Yoon signing with Starship Entertainment is almost a certainty.”
In addition, Starship Entertainment also revealed, “Kim Na Yoon’s contract is being positively reviewed. The contract hasn’t been finalized yet but should be signed soon.”
Kim Na Yoon, a cheery young girl from California, garnered much attention with her adorable aesthetics and her piano skills. She was even give the nickname, ‘genius girl’, bringing her into the top 9 with her perfect pitch.
Although she was eliminated during the round of 8, her popularity remained as she garnered much interest from the netizens with her much matured look since ‘K-pop Star’.

CHI-CHI 'Love is Energy' Handblender, Handcopter, or Mirroball Dance TUTORIAL

cHI-cHI

After the release of CHI CHI’s “Love is Energy“, we reported on how their “Hand Blender” dance was sparking hot interest.
Numerous dance covers and tutorials of the “Hand Blender” dance started pouring onto UCC video sites by fans, and it looks like Trophy Entertainment took notice.

Check out the tutorial of the “Hand Blender’ dance, from CHI CHI themselves!

YG-Life Enters Count Down for 2NE1′s “I Love You” Release

2NE1

After unveiling the last of the audio teasers and teaser photos earlier, YG-Life has updated with a count down timer (here) for the release of 2NE1‘s newest single, “I Love You“!
There is less than 12 hours to go until the girls of 2NE1 will drop their much anticipated track.
As mentioned earlier, the girls will be releasing their songs separately to allow each of them to receive equal amount of attention. Thus, after revealing “I Love You”, they will follow up with a new single in a few weeks.
So Blackjacks, are you ready??

T-ara to Release 2nd MV for “Day by Day” Next Week

T-ara

After revealing their first video for “Day by Day” music video yesterday, it has been announced that T-ara will be revealing a second music video for the song on July 9th!
The second music video that will be revealed in the upcoming days is said to of a different format contain the choreography for the song created by Beyonce‘s choreographer, Jonte Moaning. Thus, it seems we will have to wait a bit longer to see the continuation of the dramatic sci-fi story that we saw in the first video revealed yesterday.
The girls will be holding their first comeback stage on July 7th through ‘Music Core‘ before releasing their second music video in the line up, which is assumed to be the “dance version” judging by the description, on the 9th.