RANT: Relax, Netizens.

SCANDAL*SCANDAL*SCANDAL*SCANDAL*SCANDAL*SCANDAL*SCANDAL

SCANDAL*SCANDAL*SCANDAL*SCANDAL*SCANDAL*SCANDAL*SCANDAL

DBSK2's Yuhno looking scandalously sexy for "Catch Me" promotions

Note: Ranting. This girl tends to go off topic when upset. To visually spruce up this post, I've included screenshots from DBSK5's "Wrong Number" MV to relay my message.


       I understand that K-Pop artists are held under a different standard regarding their public etiquette. They are in the spotlight on a daily basis, so it's only natural that they always try to uphold a certain reputation. Despite this, I find that Netizens (internet + citizens) and fans are becoming increasingly more critical of their artists. Whatever their expectations are of their idols, it's becoming ridiculous. They are still people, they still make mistakes, and sometimes when they get 2 hours of sleep on an already off week, it's only expected that they may make an off comment or action.

How stressed are they really? How would you feel if had daily schedules filled with recording, vocal practice, dance practice, live performances, radio appearance, reality show appearances, MC duties, as well as a drama filming on the side? Maybe you're also traveling back and forth from Japan, Taiwan, Thailand and Malaysia for mini-concerts while simultaneously learning the language. In addition, what if your sleep schedule ranged anywhere from 2-6 hours scattered whenever available throughout the day, and your eating routine is dictated by your entertainment company, who insists you diet to stay thin?

So say, if you get a little aggressive during a variety show (A-Pink's Eunji on '1000 Song Challenge'), make a face when a professional host asks your members if you are "two-faced" (F(x)'s Krystal, or have a drunken actress slung on your arm trying to kiss you after drinks, (Big Bang's Seungri and the Anna Kubo Scandal), then it should be expected that you are going to react in some way. The sad part is, even if you bite your tongue, even the smallest expression of displeasure can be captured on camera, and the next moment, that small bite on your tongue is blown up to huge proportions with article headlines like, "Group A's Member X Shows Bad Attitude."

There should be a limit to what can be criticized. If someone states something that is potentially harmful or physically hurts someone, it's okay to criticize them. But if they really try to say what they think without harmful intentions, let them say it without judging them for saying something (that may not be positive). Also, lighten up, people. Not everything needs to be conservative, prude and proper. Fans like interesting people who can integrate humor and laughter into their every day lives. Very often, a joke can be taken the wrong way, (Teen Top's C.A.P.'s shocking comment) and the media will instantly jump on that person's throats. Take a moment to fish out the truth from different sources. When all else fails, take their apology when given, and consider it their lesson learned. Otherwise, it'll only create unwarranted damage.

It's also very lame to criticize artists or groups based entirely on another group. I understand that some fans feel disgruntled when another group beats out their group for music program wins or general popularity, but it's not fair to bash them without checking out their work. Consider individual group talents, genre, and see what they offer. Don't bash groups in comparison to other groups unless it serves as an example to how they either have no talent or consistently do something wrong. Though I am also biased and believe certain groups deserve more recognition than others, I can't deny that Group X is doing well because they have worked their butts off, put in an X number of years actively promoting, and have achieved it all despite the scrutiny of the public eye. 

It doesn't matter how much an artist or their company pisses you off, it is not okay to perform public acts of violence. It may seem like a harmless, childish thing to do, but throwing eggs is an act of violence. If you're throwing anything at anyone or attempt to physically or mentally hurt them, that is abuse. (I'm referring specifically to the protestors who threw eggs at the Core Contents Media building under the T-ara/Hwayoung bullying rumors). That type of response has no positive effect, doesn't help anyone, and can only further escalate the situation.

Also, just because an artist chooses to be in the media does not mean they belong to anyone, and especially not owned by their fans. For example, fan girls will constantly beech out about their idol oppas even being on the same show as another girl- that's ridiculous. If they happen to like her, so what? It's not like you directly control their life- they probably don't even know you exist. Secondly, they probably won't engage in a relationship anyways, because it's not beneficial for their career. Thirdly? It's JUST A SHOW. Or a collaboration. Or even a coincidence meeting caught on the same tape. If they have sex and one-night stands, so what? They lead hectic, fast-paced lifestyles that may require quick stress release. If they are depressed or go insane from lack of relief outlets, you lose out as a fan. Judge all you want and just stop following them. Don't go around writing hate messages anywhere you can comment and start an online war. Burn their CD, whatever. Blog it out. Let it blow over. Most importantly, love your artists for the person they work to portray, instead of criticize them for the stuff they can't help but be intruded upon.

Read the original allkpop articles below:

Big Bang's Seungri Caught with Anna Kubo:
http://www.allkpop.com/2012/09/big-bangs-seungri-caught-with-modelactress-anna-kubo-by-paparazzi-in-hong-kong

Big Bang's Seungri Alleged Sex Scandal:
http://www.allkpop.com/2012/09/big-bangs-seungri-caught-up-in-sex-scandal-rumors-after-release-of-pictures-by-japanese-tabloid-friday

http://www.allkpop.com/2012/09/big-bang-fans-step-up-to-argue-seungris-photos-were-manipulated

A-Pink's Eunji's 'Rude' Behavior:
http://www.allkpop.com/2012/09/a-pinks-eunji-apologizes-for-rude-behavior-in-1000-song-challenge

http://www.allkpop.com/2012/09/producer-shin-won-ho-of-reply-1997-defends-a-pinks-eunji

F(x)'s Krystal Under Fire for Attitude: 
http://www.allkpop.com/2012/06/fxs-krystal-once-again-under-fire-for-her-attitude

Teen Top C.A.P.'s Shocking Comment:
http://www.allkpop.com/2012/01/teen-top-caps-controversial-comment-shocks-netizens

Woollim confirms 'INFINITE H' sub-unit

"Mean Boys" the Movie (ha!)

         To the pleasure of many Inspirit fans, Infinite is prepared to promote its first sub-unit 'Infinite H', comprised of members Dongwoo and Hoya by early next year. The 'H' stands for 'hip-hop' and it's something the triple threat, rapper/vocalist/dancers are really good at performing. When I list those three qualities, I don't mean it in a reluctant, they can-carry-out-a-few-performances kinda thing. Though they are mainly rappers, Dongwoo and Hoya have more talents than what their profiles list. Firstly, they are solid dancers, with Hoya being labeled as the 'dance machine' and Dongwoo being a former dance instructor prior to being a trainee. The two surprised me by having so many singing parts. Within the band, Hoya and Dongwoo are strong supporting vocals to their main vocalists Sunggyu and Woohyun. In their latest title track, "The Chaser," Dongwoo harmonizes well on the chorus, while Hoya serves as the lower pitched background vocals. 

Prior to this announcement, they first introduced 'Infinite H' on their "Over the Top" album in a track called, "Crying" featuring Baby Soul. Also, at Infinite's concert in February, the two coolly performed "Crying" and did a cover of Verbal Jint's "You Look Good." When prompted why he chose to cover the song, Dongwoo replied that it's an easy song that Hoya sounds good singing. As an afterthought, he states that it also complements his own voice.

Woollim Entertainment staff have recently confirmed the news, and a phone call with TV Daily has revealed, "After Infinite returned from finishing up their Japanese promotions, Infinite Dongwoo and Hoya have recently started recording and working on the Infinite H album."

Though I'm glad to hear that Dongwoo and Hoya will be getting more individual attention and broadening their skills, I'm wary on seeing the members commence on sub-units. With larger, nine-unit groups like SNSD and After School, it makes sense to give certain members extra attention because they have stronger vocals or specific talents. With Infinite, I've been so used to their "we want to remain as 7" mantra that it'll be scary for me to see the boys move into different spotlights without each other.

Already, members Sungyeol, L, Hoya, and Woohyun have commenced on their acting careers (even Sunggyu has done a cameo on Woohyun's "The Thousandth Man" drama). Woohyun and Sunggyu have individually participated in Immortal Song 2. Certain members are receiving more limelight than others, and that can possibly be why Dongwoo is included in Infinite's first sub-unit. Still, I'm worried about Sungyeol and Sungjong falling behind on popularity. What's more, with so many individual activities, the members will see each other less, and it may detract from their activities as a group.

Despite all these silly worries, I trust Woollim Entertainment to know what their doing, because they have done well in producing bands like Epik High (though it should be noted that they are under YG Entertainment now), Nell, Infinite and Tasty 2wins. I guess it's all fine and dandy, so long as the boys get enough rest amongst all these new activities. Still, I think it'd be better if they upped the focus on Sungyeol and Sungjong instead, adding Dongwoo in as a third sub-unit member. Hmm, maybe a 'girl dance' parody sub-unit? Now that would be precious. Especially since Sungjong is a 'sexy girl dance' queen, Dongwoo had once taught girl dances, and Sungyeol gained pelvic muscles dancing as the female in his and Sungjong's cover performance of "Troublemaker."

Check out some of their prior individual and Infinite H performances below:

 Infinite H featuring Baby Soul "Crying"

 Infinite H "Crying" Live

"Crying" Live (Dongwoo Focus)

 "Crying" Live (Hoya Focus)

Infinite H "You Look Good" Cover

 Infinite H "Without U" (New Song) Dongwoo Focus

Infinite on Beatle Code 2: (Dongwoo sings "Noel's Fate" live at 2:18)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=92B60YHgKpE

M! Countdown Dance Battle (Dance starts at 1:16)

MCD Dance Battle Behind the Scenes (Eng Sub)

Dancing to T-Pain's "Freeze"

UPDATE (January 11th, 2013): Infinite H "Fly High" Mini-Album Released
http://kpopdebut.blogspot.com/2013/01/infinite-h-to-promote-with-fly-high.html

U-KISS "Stop Girl" Comeback

           Boy band U-Kiss is back and sexy as sheeeet in their 7th mini-album "Stop Girl" with a title track of the same name. The song title signifies exactly what happened to me when I saw the music video trailer- my heart stopped! U-Kiss has always shown a fierce and sexy image, but they're only getting manlier- especially in a black and white music video! The release of a color version MV comes shortly after, but I'm actually more attracted to the mysterious appeal of the black and white film. This latest title track has a different feel from their previous pop-synth dance songs. "Stop Girl" is a slower, smooth R& B track with simple, heavier drum beats. Really, who is this sultry, play-boy type U-Kiss? I'm hard-core fangirling because the beat is so hypnotic and sensual, reminding me of T.O.P's masculine "Turn it Up" track. The choreography felt partially hidden in this video, but from the few body rolls I've seen and the way that one female dancer sidled up to Kevin, I'm excited to see the live version of this mature, more sensual U-Kiss.

On a side note, it may only be a five month hiatus to study at Columbia University, but U-Kiss feels like a much smaller group without AJ.

I can imagine what you Kissme's (U-Kiss fans) are thinking, "Is this going to be the one?" For all of you less adamant followers out there, U-Kiss has debuted for more than four years now. Early March 2011, members Alexander and Kibum's contracts have been unexpectedly terminated, and their company, NH Media, have since replaced the two members with Hoon and AJ. The company claimed that they wanted stronger vocals in the group, especially since U-Kiss had not established a firm group identity. Fans were outraged with the company's decision, and it further destabilized the group. Unfortunately, U-Kiss has also never won #1 on a South Korean music program before, despite having strong popularity in Japan and various other countries. They have come close with "Doradora" being second place, but they've still been denied the #1 spot, and that is an sad reality considering how long they've been around. Honestly, it's probably because NH Media spends less time promoting each album within South Korea before sending U-Kiss across the border to promote in neighboring countries. This being said, many fans were speculating that this new song, with its addictive beat and a more alluring U-Kiss, will be the track that grants them their first win. Goodness knows they deserve it. Good luck U-Kiss!

Tracklist for "Stop Girl" 7th Mini-Album:

1. Imma New Thang (Intro)

2. Stop Girl

      U-Kiss "Stop Girl" MV (Black & White version)

           U-Kiss "Stop Girl" MV (Color version)

3. Time To Go

4. Remember (acoustic ver.)

5. Sexy Baby

6. Stop Girl (english ver.)

7. Stop Girl (inst.)

U-Kiss "Stop Girl" Live Stage Performances:

 U-Kiss "Imma New Thang" + "Stop Girl" MCD Comeback (120920)

UKiss Intro + "Stop Girl" Music Bank Comeback (120921)

Ukiss "Stop Girl" Inkigayo Comeback (120923)

Comments:
The stage visuals sure are pretty for this promotion. The chess theme, checkered stage and duo-toned outfits are blowing me away. However, I can't say that their "Stop Girl" comeback stage on M! Countdown was comparable to their usual live stages. The boys look tired and stressed, appearing as if they stayed up the last couple of nights speed-learning this latest bit of choreography and doing major preparation. It's also straining their vocals, and neither Kevin or Joon's vocals are as strong as they usually are. The most consistent members based on their Mr. Removed video has to be Eli and Soohyun, but even then, Soohyun's voice wasn't as powerful until the later half of the performance. With this being said, the choreography is energy-demanding and difficult, despite the more laid back, slower tempo of the song. One of the aspects I admire most about U-Kiss is that they always diligently perform live despite vocally challenging songs and energy-consuming choreography. (Think the jumps, turns and twists in "Man Man Ha Ni," "Neverland," "Tick Tack," and even the dubsteps in "DoraDora.") Hopefully their upcoming stages will be much stronger.

U-Kiss did great in their Comeback on KBS Music Bank! First of all- whew those outfits are nice! Kevin's voice remained especially steady despite having to sing the majority of the song and often shift to center dancer. I didn't find it necessary to look up any Mr. Removed videos this time around. Sure, Soohyun's body rolls can be a bit stronger, but that's just me being greedy.

Enjoy their sleek new concept images below!

Soohyun: Leader, main power vocals

Kevin: 'Emotional' main vocals

Hoon: 'Ballad' vocals

Kiseop: Sub-vocals, sexy dancer

Dongho: Maknae, rapper

Eli: Rapper, goofster extraordinaire

Other random thoughts: 

Since three of its members are fluent in English (Kevin, Eli, AJ), I love the little bonus words and phrases that U-Kiss adds to their lyrics. For example, who else thinks the "my heart is depleted" part is really sexy?

Blonde hair on Eli is nice- I think we've established that in "Man Man Ha Ni," but I think their stylists are experimenting on his hair too much. I wouldn't mind if he just sported some sleek 'do again to create some mystery around his eyes. Also so his make-up artist doesn't have to put so much eye-liner on his already round peepers. Who else is excited to see Eli's broad shoulders in some suave suits? Also, I didn't think Eli could rap so aggressively- his style has always been more casual. I like that he's taking care of the fiercer rap segments when AJ isn't around.

Maknae still looks really cute and young; maybe it's that G-Dragon long 'do they're putting on him. Anyone notice he's still using the same lip-swiping motion originally seen from "Man Man Ha Ni?" Haha.

If someone stole the show in this music video, it would have to be Kevin, especially in that facial close-up at the beginning, and he seemed quite manly when that girl dancer moved up on him. Maybe some of you Kissme's are fuming, but his cool expression just made the choreography hotter.

Leader Soohyun is starting to steal my breath these days with his stoic manliness, and it reminds me of an interview he made during his debut days. One of his first thoughts when meeting the other group members was that he wasn't recruited for his looks. Awww. How cute and terribly humble. I'm glad he's shedding that talented underdog image and going for a more silent but manly vibe. You go Soohyun! Work that tight man sweater!

SPICA's "I'll Be There" Comeback Single

       Rookie female band Spica is coming back after six months since their "Painkiller" promotions with a new single album featuring their title song, "I'll Be There." The track sounds funky and fresh with a 90's hip-hop vibe. I don't like that they wanted to transform Spica's strong, womanly image to "fresh and bubbly" this time around, but I'll have to make due, because "I'll Be There," written by Jung Da Eun and Marco, is a fun, feel-good song only made better by Spica's stellar vocals. Their company really needs to work on it's originality, however, since the music video is very mediocre- nothing special, nothing new, and one of their outfit changes look like the same blinged-out "hip-hop" gear from their "Painkiller" promotions. Still, their too-cool-to-care t-shirt, ripped jeans and lumberjack boots featured in their promotion photos (above) are a good look for them.

Honestly, it's not about the outfits, but more about whether their company is misguiding the group's image. Since they are composed of five women and their youngest member being 23, the "cute and bubbly" concept does not mean the same thing for that age bracket as it does if, say, they were 17 year olds. If they are women- give them more meaningful, womenly songs with dance choreography that does less bouncing around and more conveying the lyrics. The hot pink shorts and revealing belly button outfits make me wince, because Spica, with their awesome raw vocals, deserves a better group identity than what their company is selling.

Spica "I'll Be There" MV

Netizens also commented that the song sounds very much like Janet Jackson's "Together Again" and the rap part sounds like Spice Girls' hit song, "Wanna Be," further discrediting the song's originality.

What their company fails to do in originality, Spica manages to make up for on stage, so stay tuned for video posts from their live comeback performances!

Spica "I'll Be There" MCD Comeback Stage (120920)

Spica "I'll Be There" Comeback Stage Music Bank (120921)

Comments:
Whatever issues I had with their video and concept outfits before are surpassed by their incredibly bright and light-hearted performance in today's M! Countdown for their first "I'll Be There" comeback stage. Not only are the girls smiling and having a good time, but their voices sound incredible just belting out the notes. I think it's funny and kinda awesome that their singing looks effortless- it's just the dancing that makes them look the smallest bit self-conscious. Either way, I'm a firm believer that true vocal talent, effort and eventual experience will create the best idols, so I hope Spica will continue to rock my ears. On a side note, the throwback denim and camouflage look fits surprisingly well, making the members look both pretty and laid back.

Plans to Build Largest K-Pop Performance Venue

What is the quality of the audience experience if the venue was ten times times this size?

 

      The latest news signifying the spread of the 'Hallyu wave' (otherwise known as the expansive craze for K-Pop) is that The Ministry of Strategy and Finance under the South Korean government is planning to build a new performance arena in Korea to seat over 15,000 people. Once built, it would be the largest stadium in the nation. So far, Korea's largest venue of choice has been the Olympic Gymnastics Stadium, which hosts a little over 15,000 seats.

The plan was proposed to encourage the Hallyu wave and appeal to fans from overseas. The idea was given on September 5th during the New Growth Engine Performance Evaluation Report Conference with the presence of President Lee Myung Bak.The project completion year is 2016, and there seems to be some mixed opinions over the announcement.

An anonymous agency representative reminds that a similar project idea to build a large Hallyu theme park a few years ago had halted because of financial complications, so what's to say the huge project won't be postponed or indefinitely scrapped because of construction expenses? After all, land in Korea is expensive and fans are wondering if the Hallyu wave will even last until 2016. A lot can happen in four years, and yet more fans are even protesting that most of their K-Pop oppas will be engaged in military service by then.

Personally, I don't see anything wrong with building a larger arena to host grand-scale performances, but I wonder if South Korea really needs it. True, the Hallyu wave is booming, but would there be enough events where they would need much more than 15,000 seats? Yes, concerts for top Hallyu stars like DBSK and Big Bang would sell out even in such an arena, but how often does that happen a year? What would the venue be used for in the meantime, and more importantly, who can afford to rent out such a hefty venue if they were short of being the biggest entertainment companies? It's a lot of land and money to be throwing to waste, and I hope they've done their full research. What do the entertainment company CEOs and entertainment Big Players think? Would they use the venue over smaller venues prized for being more exclusive, controlled and convenient?

Speaking as a K-Pop fan, I would not attend a concert if my seating happened to be more than half-way from the stage. The nosebleed seats would not be worthwhile if I had to hold binoculars to see a limited view. Say if I didn't have binoculars, I would have to view the live recorded screens, and honestly, what's the difference between watching from a TV at home? Not to mention, I would be deafened by my chanting, neighboring nosebleeders and have trouble hearing the performer's voices. Sure, you get the live experience of being there with your artists, but maybe I'm not such a big fan of inconvenience and prefer a little more intimacy with my favorite artists.


Read the original article from allkpop here:
http://www.allkpop.com/2012/09/south-korean-government-announces-plans-to-build-an-official-15000-seat-k-pop-performance-venue