TEEN TOP tries to find a scary optical illusion

For the past couple of days, a picture that creates a scary optical illusion has been the top trending topic on major Korean portal sites.
It looks like TEEN TOP‘s C.A.P., Ricky, and Chunji wanted to give it a go, as they recently updated their Me2day with a photo of themselves studying the picture.
The boys wrote, “Looking at the picture of the scary optical illusion ㅋ I see a ghost ㅋ (C.A.P. hyung is trying to look at it through half-closed eyes.”
Fans commented, “I wanted to try it but I was too scared”, “No matter how much I stare, I can’t see it”, “How scared C.A.P. must be to have to look at it through half-closed eyes”, and “C.A.P. looks scarier than the picture.”
Check it out for yourself here! Stare at her left eye for 10 seconds, then her right eye for 10 seconds, then her nose for 15 seconds.

After School releases “Diva” PV teaser in Japan!

After debuting with “Bang!” earlier this year, After School is returning to Japan with a remake of their hit “Diva“! Their agency Avex Entertainment has just released a 1:22 PV teaser on Youtube for fans worldwide to enjoy.
Although it doesn’t reveal the full track, it looks like the Japanese version will have noticeable differences as opposed to its original. The wardrobe takes a step away from the bright concept of the original for a black, white and pink theme, and the MV even features shots of dance sequences with choreography and outfits reminiscent of “Let’s Step Up” during “Shampoo” promotions. The track itself also gets an electronic twist.
With the lyrics translated and distributed differently than the original (watch it here), the Japanese remake of “Diva” gives fans old and new a fresh look at the 2009 hit track.

Check out the full audio for the Japanese version of Super Junior’s “Mr. Simple”

Earlier this month Super Junior revealed a teaser PV for their second Japanese single, “Mr. Simple“.  Although the digital single was released on October 19th, we finally have our hands on the full audio of the song.
Three different version of the single are set for release on December 7th.  Until then, anxious ELFs will have to content themselves with the teaser PV and audio.
Listen to the audio below and tell us what you think. Does it live up to its Korean predecessor?

IU invested $10 in C-Real

Rookie girl group C-Real, who made their debut earlier this month with their title track, “No No No No No“, revealed that they received a sweet present from their senior, IU.
The girls stated, “On the day of our first broadcast, IU senior gave each of us a personal diary in hopes that we’d write down all of our memories as singers in it. We were really grateful because she had even written a letter for us on the wrapping paper.”
They continued, “She also gave us a piggy bank for the team and wrote, ‘Investing $10′. There really were $10 in it. It’s such an honor for her to even take an interest in us, so it’s amazing we received such gifts from her. We’re going to work really hard to live up to her expectations and get our name out there so that we can double her investment.”
When asked about their nickname, the ‘five member IU’, the girls replied, “We think it’s a nickname given to us in hopes of singing as well as IU senior. Although it’s an honor, we’re worried that it will affect her negatively. We believe that our skills aren’t on par to such a nickname yet but we will grow every single day to live up to it.”

miss A’s Min shows off their Best Rookie award

allkpop reported earlier that girl group miss A had received the best rookie artist of the year at the “China CETV Asia Teen Star Ceremony‘.
On October 22nd, miss A’s Min posted a proof shot of their award through her me2day account along with a message of gratitude to fans. She wrote, “We got an award in China. As miss A, we will continue to transform and improve. Thank you!”
In the picture, Min is holding up the best rookie award with her lips pursed as if she is about to kiss it. Fans flooded in with their congratulatory messages.
They stated, “miss A unni’s, fighting!! Work hard”, “Congrats, congrats”, and “This must be extra meaningful for Fei unni and Jia unni… congratulations.”

Wonder Girls open teaser site with a question, ‘R U Ready?’

Preparations for the Wonder Girls‘ much-anticipated Korean comeback are now well underway, as the girls have just rolled out their first teaser event!
On October 24th, the official teaser site for their comeback was released through wondergirls.jype.com. Upon enterting the site, fans are greeted with the message, “R U Ready?” For fans that have waited nearly a year and a half for their comeback, everyone is more than ready for what the girls will be bringing out.
The JYP Entertainment building has also been wrapped in banners asking the same question, adding anticipation for their comeback.
The teaser event continues on the Wonder Girls’ official Facebook. Until the 31st, 10 fans that visit the Facebook page, like it, and leave a witty reply to the “R U Ready?” question will be chosen to win a digital camera, Wonder Girls polaroids, autographed CDs, and other fun prizes.
So is everyone ready?

2PM and JYP Entertainment donate for flood reconstruction in Thailand

On October 24th, it was revealed that 2PM and JYP Entertainment made donations to aid in Thailand’s flood reconstruction.
Representatives of the Korean National Red Cross confirmed, “On the 20th, 2PM and JYP Entertainment donated $130,000 USD to aid in the recovery and re-construction caused by the damage from the flood in Thailand.”
Starting at the end of July, Thailand has been met with severe floods that have damaged about 70% of the country. About 342 people have also been confirmed to be dead. Thailand is a country that’s special to 2PM because it’s also Nichkhun‘s hometown. The members tweeted several times in support of the nation’s recovery before deciding to move their words into actions by making a donation.
JYP Entertainment also previously donated about $300,000 USD earlier this year to aid in the Japanese relief efforts.

Tablo reveals he will not be guesting on any variety shows

With news that Tablo will be making his return to the stage for the first time in a year and six months, many began to buzz with question of whether he’ll be making any appearances on variety shows.
Before his controversy erupted, he was known for witty commentary and four dimensional quirkiness on various shows. Fans have been wondering whether he’ll be expressing any of his feelings or thoughts through variety shows now that he’s ready to return to music programs.
Unfortunately, it seems it’s still too early for this move, as representatives revealed that he will not appearing on variety programs. According to several industry officials, Tablo did not even produce this album with the thought of performing it live on music programs.  Prior to its release, he felt that he had not yet healed from the controversy.
However, in response to the huge attention and love Part 1 of his comeback album, “Fever’s End“, has been receiving from music fans, he decided to return to the stage to pay back their interest.
Even so, he’ll only be performing on music programs once or twice. Though disappointing to some, it was a decision made with much thoughts and worries.

Kim Wan Sun to make a comeback with B2ST’s Junhyung

Veteran soloist Kim Wan Sun, called Korea’s Madonna, will be making her comeback this week with the support of B2ST’s Junhyung!
On October 24th, Kim Wan Sun’s agency revealed that she’ll be releasing her comeback digital single, “Be Quiet“, on the 25th. Her title track was co-produced by Shinsadong Tiger and Junhyung himself.  It is described as an electronic dance track.
Junhyung will not only be featuring in the song, but also starring in her music video. He’s already had several rap featurings for other artists like HyunA, G.NA, and Wheesung, so fans are looking forward to what he’ll be presenting with an older artist.
Her agency stated, “Kim Wan Sun will be promoting actively on music programs. Fans can look forward to her collaboration with Junhyung’s rap featuring.”

Former U-KISS member, Alexander, to hold solo event in Tokyo

Alexander, a former member of U-KISS, will be making a comeback to the stage as a solo artist!
The pop star will be making his solo debut on December 9th through the ‘Alexander Showcase Live 2011‘ concert at the Akasaka Blitz in Tokyo. This will be his first stage since U-KISS’s December concert a year ago.
A source close to Alexander revealed to Star News on October 24th that, “Alexander recently found a new agency and has been preparing his activities as a solo artist… He’ll show you a much more mature side than when he used to be a part of U-KISS.”
Alexander himself wrote a message to his fans through the event site on the 22nd, which read, “I’m finally starting my activities as a solo artist… Let’s meet at the December showcase.”
The idol, who is fluent in 7 languages in addition to being a skilled vocalist and a dancer, left U-KISS back in February of this year.

’2011 MelOn Music Awards’ promises to be the biggest yet

The ’2011 MelOn Music Awards‘ will be kicking off its third year on November 24th at the Seoul Olympic Park Stadium, and it’s rumored to be the biggest event yet in its short history.
The ceremony will be broadcast live all over the world through MBC Drama Net, MBC Every1, MBC Plus Media, their official homepage, and their official YouTube channel.
The teaser video and website for the ceremony were unveiled on the 20th, which helped to raise anticipation and support for everyone’s favorite artists. Producers promise that there’ll be plenty of high quality content to show, making it the biggest in terms of size and quality that the ceremony has seen yet.
Loen Entertainment CEO Shin Won Soo, who’s hosting this event, stated, “Every year, the awards ceremony continues and strives to improve. This year, it’ll be the biggest yet, and we’re prepared this ceremony to become the biggest and best awards event in Korea.”
CEO Ahn Hyun Duk of MBC Plus Media added, “As co-sponsors of the event, we’ll be bringing in our own media system to bring out the best in the performance aspect of the show. We’ll be taking the best of our music shows in addition to the foundation of trust and fairness that the ‘MelOn Music Awards’ is known for.”
The awards ceremony counts digital songs released from December 1st, 2010 and ranks the top 10 nominations according to number of times songs were streamed on MelOn (40%), downloaded (50%), and used on SKT wireless (MOD, 10%).
The final top 10 will be decided through 80% MelOn chart standings and 20% MelOn user votes, which begins on the 27th.

Rookie girl band ‘Clinah’ to debut this month

And yet another girl group with an offbeat name is making their debut this month.
On October 24th, representatives of Dino Entertainment revealed that their girl group, Clinah, would be releasing their debut album, “We Are Clinah“, on the morning of the 28th.
The band is comprised of lead vocalist Han Yuna (21), first guitarist Rika (21), second guitarist Malja (17), and drummer Lee Sowoon (19). Don’t let their cute looks fool you, as they’re well-versed in composing and writing songs. Johnny Kim (formerly of rock band Superkidd) directed the album, and their title track, “Come On Boy“, is the work of rookie composer Beatnist.
Representatives stated, “‘Come On Boy’ has a bright and refreshing guitar sound mixed with electronic vibes. The fast-paced beat and exciting melody fits perfectly with Clinah’s youthful and lovely image. We’re sure that they will be a group that not only appeals to rock fans, but teen girl group fans as well.”
Clinah is currently preparing for their showcase, which is scheduled for mid-November.

SM Town releases BoA’s ‘COBU 3D’ movie trailer!

Fans have been on the edge of their seats after SM Entertainment announced that BoA would be making her Hollywood debut through the upcoming dance flick, ‘COBU 3D‘. BoA has been updating fans over the course of its production with hints and small updates, but nothing solid has been released. …Until now!
Earlier today, the ‘SM TOWN LIVE WORLD TOUR‘ event in NYC’s Madison Square Garden treated fans to a first-ever look at the trailer for ‘Cobu 3D’. Fans got a glimpse of BoA’s impeccable dance moves (which included some intriguing taiko drum scenes), and her hot interaction with fellow co-star Derek Hough.
Check it out!

“Cobu 3D” tells the story of “a pair of star-crossed dancers in New York [who] find themselves at the center of a bitter rivalry between their brothers’ underground dance clubs.” The movie is currently in its post-production stages and is set to be released sometime next year.
Are you excited to see this movie? We know we definitely can’t wait!

Kim Kyu Jong releases dance MV for “Yesterday”

SS501‘s Kim Kyu Jong galvanized fans a few weeks back when he released his very first solo music video for “Yesterday“. His ‘suspender dance’ became so popular that he’s now unveiled a dance version of “Yesterday” for fans to follow and gawk over.
The idol delivers his dance moves in front of a polished white backdrop. Though some may feel the MV might be a bit muted, it does what it set out to do — show off Kim Kyu Jong’s smooth charisma and leave fans waiting for more.
Check it out below!

Super Junior’s Donghae is envious of Leeteuk’s ‘married life’

Super Junior‘s Donghae appears to be jealous of Leeteuk‘s “relationship” with Kang Sora.
On October 22nd’s broadcast of MBC‘s ’We Got Married‘, fans witnessed Leeteuk and Kang Sora’s first date. On this day, Leeteuk said, “The Super Junior members are envious of my date with Kang Sora on ‘We Got Married’.” To prove his point, he revealed the message Donghae sent via Kakao Talk.
Donghae’s messages read, “The lady has charm” and “Something [about the relationship] seems pure. I’m already feeling jealous.” After reading the messages, Kang Sora responded with a laugh.
Netizens commented, “Donghae is jealous! wahahaha that’s so cute”, “He should be on the show too!” and “Have a beautiful married life, you two.”

Wonder Girls enlists the help of Beyonce’s “Single Ladies” choreographer

The Wonder Girls are famous for their addictive choreography, and fans have been dying to know what the girls have up their sleeves next. It’s been revealed that for their comeback next month, the girls enlisted the help of Beyonce‘s choreographer, Jonte!
Jonte is the choreographer behind Beyonce’s mega-hit, “Single Ladies“, and he’s also worked with top stars like Amuro Namie and Lady Gaga. Representatives of JYP Entertainment revealed, “The members are currently receiving lessons from Jonte. With the help of such a world renowned choreographer, we’re sure that their stage will be a highly impressive one.”
Jonte also participated in the ‘2012 S/S/ Seoul Fashion Week‘ on October 18th by opening the fashion show for designer Kang Ki Ok.
Stay tuned for the Wonder Girls’ comeback on November 7th! The girls will be holding their comeback stages the following week.

MBN to air Daesung’s new drama, “What’s Up”, in December

It’s been confirmed that Big Bang‘s Daesung will be making his official comeback on TV through MBN‘s new drama, “What’s Up“!
MBC stated that “What’s Up” will begin broadcasting in December as a special weekend drama. The series will run for a total of 18 episodes, each lasting approximately 60 minutes long. While the drama was supposed to air back in March, numerous delays resulted in a decision to broadcast the series in December.
Drama enthusiasts have already shown their interest in the upcoming series, especially with Song Ji Na being the scriptwriter. Song is widely known for her successes in writing “Hourglass”, “The Pupil of Dawn”, and “Tawangsasingi“.
“What’s Up” is a drama about a group of students in their 20s studying a major in musicals; the series follow their experiences in happiness and hardships as they pursue their dreams, passions and love. Daesung will be part of` the main cast of the drama, which includes musical actors Oh Man Suk and Im Joo Hwan.

INFINITE’s Sunggyu, Sungyeol, and Sungjong to fill in for Leeteuk and Eunhyuk on ‘Sukira’

Since Super Junior‘s Leeteuk and Eunhyuk are away for their ‘SM Town Live in New York‘ concert, INFINITE‘s Sunggyu, Sungyeol, and Sungjong will be filling in their radio show, KBS FM‘s ‘Super Junior’s Kiss the Radio‘.
The three members are known as the ‘Sung brothers’ amongst fans, and they possess great potential in variety shows. Fans are excited to hear how the boys will be interacting with one another and with guests for their week-long stint. Their temporary positions will run from October 24th through the 30th.
The members stated, “It’s our first time assuming the roles of radio DJs, but we’ll make sure to do our best in place of our Super Junior seniors.”