Hot Korean Girls | Korean celebrities photo gallery and information

Han Ji Hye Beautiful Girl Of Korean

2011-03-19T09:59:00.000-07:00

Han Ji-hye (born June 29, 1984) is a South Korean actress and model. She made her debut in 2001 in dramas before taking up a lead role in Sweet 18. Born Lee Ji-hye, she used the stagename "Han Ji-hye" upon learning that her real name would cause confusion among fans with an older actress, Lena Lee, who has the same Korean name as Han.

The Best K-pop Chae Yeon Sexy Girl of Korean

2011-03-19T09:57:00.000-07:00

Chae Yeon (채연) is a Korean pop singer who was born on December 10, 1978. Although visible now in the public eye, it took chae yeon many years to get to that point. In fact, she had to start out her career in the Japanese music industry first.

Chae Yeon is known for her dancing skills and for her beauty, despite the fact that she is relatively old (most Korean pop singers are in their teens or early 20s). Chae Yeon biggest single was 둘이서 (Two Of Us), which was the lead single from her second album; this single pushed her to #1 on many music charts

Popular Korean Sexy Girl & Beautiful Girl Kim Tae Hee

2011-03-19T09:56:00.000-07:00

Kim Tae Hee (born March 29, 1980) is a South Korean actress from Ulsan. Kim, who received a bachelor degree in fashion designing at the Seoul National University, rose to stardom via her portrayal of the evil stepsister in the popular SBS TV series Stairway to Heaven. Her recent TV projects include the supernatural KBS series Forbidden Love and the SBS campus romance Love Story in Harvard.

Both series were successful. For her performance in Forbidden Love, Kim was honored with the Best Female Newcomer award. Her younger brother is Lee Wan, who is quietly making a name for himself as well in the entertainment industry. She is especially famous for her stunning beauty accompanied with exceptional academic excellence, as proven by her national college entrance exam score in which she ranked within top 1% and led her to acceptance into Seoul National University, the most prestigious university in South Korea.

Han Chae Yee, BIMOS 2010

2011-03-19T09:53:00.000-07:00

New girl, for me and for cutekimchi. Han Chae Yee, her cuteness like Han Chae Yee, right?

XCN : Han Chae Yee/Lawel - BIMOS 2010

Park Si Hyun, Black Crop Top and Jeans

2011-03-19T09:51:00.000-07:00

Taken June 1 2010, published August 10 2010. Show you the finest curves of Park Si Hyun. Don't you think "Memories" photos style become better each time, I can say almost same with "INFINITI" >_<.

XCN : Park Si Hyun/Memories - June 2010 - Black Top Crop

Im Ji Hye, Latest Studio Photos

2011-03-19T09:49:00.000-07:00

From her cafe this is her latest portrait studio photos, actually there are new post today but the photos seem just an edited one, a photo collage.

Note : From the EXIF data show this photos was taken 26-27 June 2010

XCN : Im Ji Hye/Young - June 2010 - 1

XCN : Im Ji Hye/Young - June 2010 - 2

XCN : Im Ji Hye/hanbyoulrisa - June 2010

Gallery Photo of Eugene Kim Korean Actress

2011-03-19T09:47:00.000-07:00

Kim Yoo-jin (born March 3, 1981), professionally known in English as Eugene, is a South Korean singer and actress, known mostly for her musical career as part of the hit K-pop group S.E.S..
Profile
Name: 유진 / Yoo Jin (Yu Jin)
Real name: 김유진 / Kim Yoo Jin (Kim Yu Jin)
Nickname: Panda
Profession: Singer and actress
Birthdate: 1981-Mar-03
Birthplace: Seoul, South Korea
Height: 160cm
Weight: 47kg
Star sign: Pisces
Blood type: A+
Family: One younger sister

Im Ji Hye at P&I 2010

2011-03-19T09:46:00.000-07:00

Remember Im Ji Hye? She is the one that made me start to collect race queens photos, she was one of the first race queen go to international(her photos posted at non-korean site). She still look beautiful right?

XCN : Im Ji Hye/DJ Air - P&I 2010

Gallery Pictures Korean Sexy Girl Chae Jung An

2011-03-19T09:44:00.000-07:00

Chae Jung-an (born September 9, 1977, Busan, South Korea as Jang Jung-an), is a Korean actress and singer. She made her debut in acting in 1995.

In 2001 she acted as the lead role in the musical drama Mina. Many of her songs were played in the drama.

Name: 채정안 / Chae Jung Ahn (Chae Jeong An)
Real name: 장정안 / Jang Jung Ahn (Jang Jeong An)
Date of birth: 1977-Sept-09
Profession: Actress, Singer
Height: 172cm
Weight: 48kg
Blood type: B

Hot Korean Sexy Girl and Hot Singer Boa Kwon

2011-03-19T09:43:00.000-07:00

Boa Kwon (born November 5, 1986 in Guri, Gyeonggi-do, South Korea) is a multilingual, Korean singer, commonly known by her stage name BoA, and the letters of her first name have been backronymed to Beat of Angel by her fans. She has been active in both South Korea and Japan. Aside from Korean, BoA also speaks Japanese and conversational English. She has also released a number of Chinese songs, although she is not able to speak the language itself.

Lee Hyori - Popular South Korean singer and actress

2011-03-19T09:42:00.000-07:00

Lee Hyori is a popular South Korean singer and actress. She wan born on May 10, 1979. She started off as part of the successful K-pop girl group Fin.K.L, but has since become a solo artist. Her first album was very successful, winning many "Daesangs" (a Korean award equivalent to "Artist of the Year") for that album. She has since become the highest-paid female singer in South Korea.

Lee Eun Seo at P&I 2010

2011-03-19T09:41:00.000-07:00

I'm not going to be picky about what to post and what not now, free time will spam post with old photos >_<. Here you go Lee Eun Seo at Photos and Imaging 2010.

XCN : Lee Eun Seo/No Name 3 - P&I 2010

Goh Eun ah, cute Korean actress

2011-03-19T09:39:00.000-07:00

Goh Eun ah, cute Korean acress and model.

Cute Choi Seul Ki

2011-03-19T09:38:00.000-07:00

Not really new for me, but she's new for cutekimchi, it's been a while, almost forgot that she once stay same stage with Hwang Mi Hee :).

XCN : Choi Seul Ki/Makers - Aug 2010

Park Ji Yoon Korean sexy singer and actress

2011-03-19T09:37:00.000-07:00

Park Ji-yoon (born 3 January 1982) is a Korean pop singer, actress, and model, who debuted as a Haetae CF model at age 13.

Kang Yui, Close-Up (part 3)

2011-03-19T09:36:00.000-07:00

Let's her beauty decorate your desktop.

XCN : Kang Yui/Sonic - Aug 2010 - close up

XCN : Kang Yui/Boss - Aug 2010 - close up

XCN : Kang Yui/No Name 3 - Aug 2010 - close up

Son Ye Jin - Korean cute actress

2011-03-19T09:35:00.000-07:00

Son Ye Jin is a South Korean actress. She is noted for her acting roles in the film The Classic, as well as the 2003 KBS drama Summer Scent, co starring Song Seung-hun and 2006 SBS drama Alone in Love. She was ranked 9th in the most South Korea's sexy girl from Movie week poll.

Kil Gun, Korean sexy singer

2011-03-19T09:33:00.000-07:00

Kil Gun is korean singer. She started her career in music business as back dancer of artist like Eun Ji Won, Lee Hyori, Baek Ji Young. With her strong voice and sexy moves she became a star.

Lovely Hwang Young Ah

2011-03-19T09:32:00.000-07:00

XCN : Hwang Young Ah/Memories - July 2010

XCN : Hwang Young Ah/HBK - July 2010

XCN : Hwang Young Ah/KARAS - July 2010

XCN : Hwang Young Ah/Gakdeki - July 2010

Huang Mi Hee, Korean super model

2011-03-19T09:31:00.000-07:00

Huang Mi Hee was born on 21 January 1982 in South Korea. This stunning beauty is a race queen in Korea. She was discovered duting the Seoul Motor Show 2007.

Korean beautiful singer and actress, Kim Yoo-jin

2011-03-19T09:30:00.000-07:00

Kim Yoo-jin with beautiful pose photos.

Sexy Kim Ha Yul Posing on Bed

2011-03-19T09:29:00.000-07:00

After Ryu Ji Hye, now it's Ha Yul turns. Just a so so photos for me, sorry

XCN : Kim Ha Yul/SIMSIM - Aug 2010 - on bed

Korean's singer sexy photo, Boa Kwon

2011-03-19T09:28:00.000-07:00

Bang Eun Young, Korea GT 4th 2010

2011-03-19T09:26:00.000-07:00

Just hope many race queens in this racing event. Bang Bang as always look cute, love her with race queen outfit than normal cloths.

XCN : Bang Eun Young/DJ Air - GTK 4th 2010

XCN : Bang Eun Young/Gakdeki - GTK 4th 2010

Lee Soo Jung, Sexy Sailor. Again.

2011-03-19T09:24:00.000-07:00

I'm not sure if "this Lee Soo Jung" are same with "previous Lee Soo Jung". Please let me know if i'm wrong, but this one now is real Lee Soo Jung, photos are from her official cafe.

XCN : Lee Soo Jung/Lee Sang - GTM 4 Aug 2010

XCN : Lee Soo Jung/Pherrahab - GTM 4 Aug 2010

Lee Soo Jung, Sexy Sailor (part 2)

2011-03-19T09:22:00.000-07:00

XCN : Lee Soo Jung/No Name 2 - Aug 2010 - Sexy Sailor

Korean sexy actress and singer, Lee Ji Hyun

2011-03-19T09:21:00.000-07:00

Lee Ji Hyun is a South Korean singer and actress. From 2001 to 2006, she was a member of the popular girl group Jewelry. She left to pursue an acting career. Along with comedian Lee Hyuk Jae, she was the co-host of Happy Shares Company, a popular MBC program. She has recently left hosting Happy Shares Company to further pursue an acting career, which includes future plans to appear in Korean TV-dramas. Her final episode of Happy Shares Company aired May 19, 2007. She is currently acting in a supporting role on the SBS program Love Days.

Kang Yui, Close-Up (part 2)

2011-03-19T09:20:00.000-07:00

Today just 5 photos :(. Better than nothing, I like "Flying Jun" version this time.

XCN : Kang Yui/Flying Jun - Aug 2010 - close up

XCN : Kang Yui/Coolman - Aug 2010 - close up

XCN : Kang Yui/No Name 2 - Aug 2010 - close up

Hwang-Im's 'Happiness' Invited to Toronto Film Festival

2010-12-31T09:10:00.000-08:00

The Korean film "Happiness" starring Hwang Jeong-min and Im Soo-jeong has officially been invited to the 32nd Toronto International Film Festival.

The Toronto festival, called the 'Cannes' of North America, is the largest regional film market and one of the four major global film festivals after the Cannes, Berlin and Venice.

An official of the movie said, "An invitation to the festival's Contemporary World Cinema category came simply through a preview of the film's edited version, as full editing and mixing has yet to be done. It's double the pleasure to have been invited along with the Cannes winning Korean film 'Secret Sunshine'."

The Contemporary World Cinema category, regarded a key section at Toronto, invites award winning films and new productions by up-and-coming directors.

'Happiness,' directed by Heo Jin-ho, depicts the ultimately cruel love story of a couple who first meet at a nursing home.

'Angel' Chae Raising Profile in China

2010-12-31T09:09:00.000-08:00

Singer Chae Eun-jeong, known as 'Angel', is rising as a Hallyu star in China.

Less than a month after she debuted at the RNX Hallyu Concert held last month in China to mark 15th year of bilateral ties, her blog has opened on China's largest portal Sina.com.

The number of visitors topped 80,000 on Wednesday. Members of the blog have given Chae the nickname "sexy princess."

Also posted on the blog is her first solo album title song 'POP,' a music video, her profile, photos and some 500 online comments.

An official of her management agency said, ¡°Chinese fans have instantly took note of her charm. We will lend our best support so Chae can reach Hallyu stardom following singers like Lee Jeong-hyeon and Jang Nara."

Nancy Lang to Hold Exhibit in Paris

2010-12-31T09:08:00.000-08:00

Pop Artist Nancy Lang will hold an exhibition in France at the invitation of a Paris gallery.
The month-long exhibit will open Sept. 8.

In an interview with Sports Hankook, Lang said "I'm happy, as I feel that my work has been recognized by the home country of art. After the exhibit, the gallery wished to submit my works to the FIAC fair in October.

FIAC is the largest art market in France that will showcase over five days works by some 600 contemporary artists from 200 galleries worldwide, including New York, Venice and London.
Lang will present her created art work 'Taboo Yogini.' She says "If the exhibit proves successful, hopefully it will boost my US debut and gain wider recognition for me as a contemporary artist."

Pop artist Nancy Lang

2010-12-31T09:07:00.000-08:00

Since her performance of 'Lost Dream' in her underwear at the 2003 Venice Biennale, Nancy Lang was introduced to Korea, and she quickly appeared in magazines, on TV and on the Internet. Her showbiz philosophy that she would make money with art shouting "Cutie! Sexy! Kitty!" and "I Love Dollars" has raised controversy among art circles as well as the public.

Unconventional performance

Lang played the violin in the middle of a street wearing Victoria Secret lingerie and red high heels with kabuki style makeup. Her childhood dream was to become a violinist. And she realized the dream through art. Once, at the San Marco Piazza in Venice, she was held by the police for four hours, after which she became popular. Her performances thereafter continued to stand out. The New York born ethnic Korean is a US citizen. She only attended an international high school in Manila but her mannerisms and accent bear the hallmarks of a third generation Korean-American. Her Korean name is Park Hye-ryeong. But eyeing the world as her stage, she strategically changed her last name through help from a lawyer. "Lang" was the final choice among several names as it visually looked nice in typographic terms. Born into a well-to-do family, Lang however went through difficult times when her father died during her college years and her mother fell sick. At times, she couldn't pay her tuition. But through the trials, she developed a clear sense of life and living.

The evolving Taboo Yogini

Multi-talented Lang's unconventional character and provocative performances have grabbed the attention of the art, fashion and entertainment circles alike. In her trademark series 'Taboo Yogini,' characters such as a woman with a huge courtesan wig or a figure with a body of a robot and a head of a girl, rooster or dog appear. And invariably held in their hand is a powerful gun or a Louis Vuitton bag. In the backdrop is a car, a Chanel lipstick and other luxury brand logos. "Yogini" means an angel or a devil in the dictionary. Taboo Yogini, representing both good and bad, is a ceaselessly resurrecting spiritual being due to its persistent power and life energy. It is the symbol of Lang herself, her dreams, her wounds and her fight. The self-proclaimed 'walking pop art' doesn't hide her love for brand name and elite goods. Last year at the Seoul Arts Center, the bikini clad Lang asked audience members to put oil on her body before going on to sing 'Purple Scent' to the tune of a karaoke machine. She pulled off another eccentric performance "Nancy Lang's autograph session" during which she autographed her posterior as the inaugural artist of the Gwangju Biennale. The Taboo Yogini series is expected to evolve even more. In pursuit of breaking apart and assembling robots, Lang has only yet gathered the parts, and during the process she can let go of past regrets. Her work these days in fact show glimpses of her severing chains with the past and moving toward a fantastic future, portrayed by a wounded yogini and a guardian angel robot. If yogini was Peter Pan to Lang, the robot would be her Tinker Bell. It may be that she is inviting someone she can rely on in the future into her world filled with luxury goods.

Dreaming of Korea's Takashi Murakami

Her work and lifestyle and her brutally candid and daring speech and actions invite criticism at times. But she doesn't care. She confidently argues that, like a racehorse, she only runs toward a clear goal. She has firmly established herself as an artist reaching out to the public. Few others see art as showbiz as much as she does. But approaching show business with new ideas and works is a whole different realm. Her role model is Takashi Murakami, who successfully turned his character creations into art based on the animation, comics and games culture. Most of her works sell well and her name once topped the top online search word list. She knows what she wants, "I will become a world renowned artist who can influence the general public, and based on that foundation, I want to gain wealth and fame." We wonder what she will show us next, as she brings along issues and controversies wherever she goes with her art.

Singer Seo Shows Off Archery Skills in China

2010-12-31T09:06:00.000-08:00

Sexy singer Seo In-young has maintained Korea's pride in archery.

With group member Park Jeong-a and break dancer Poppin Hyunjoon, Seo on July 30 attended an opening ceremony of a Chinese satellite variety program promoting the success of next year's Beijing Olympics.

During the show, Seo teamed up with Hyunjoon and took part in an archery match, finishing in first place among seven teams.

The program's producer said the energetic performance of the three has impressed many Chinese viewers.

Seo's management says "We hope that the Beijing Olympics will facilitate Korean stars' advance into China. Chinese media is showing interest and Seo is receiving many calls to be on Chinese broadcast shows. She will soon release a Chinese album to launch full fledged activities in China."

Bada to Appear in Musicals

2010-12-31T09:04:00.000-08:00

Singer Bada will appear in two musicals in October: the one-person musical "Tell Me on a Sunday" and the French musical "Notre-Dame de Paris." The latter drew two million viewers in France and some 10 million viewers in 11 countries since its debut in 1998. In 2005, it was staged in Korea by the original French cast.

The musical in which Bada will play the lead is based on a novel by Victor Hugo. The cast will comprise Korean actors.

Bada will receive singing and acting training from the original French cast in France over two weeks in September.

Actress Jeon Do-yeon One of 50 Most Influential Women

2010-12-31T09:03:00.001-08:00

Korean actress Jeon Do-yeon has officially become an influential world star. Jeon recently made the list of '50 Most Influential Women' released by America's Variety magazine.

Quoting Korean critics, Variety described Jeon as a "chameleon" actress who is capable of completely engaging herself in a given role. The magazine said Jeon received the Best Actress Award at the Cannes Film Festival for her role as a mother who loses her only son in Lee Chang-dong's film "Secret Sunshine." The magazine went on to comment that it was the first time for a Korean to win an award for best acting in an international film festival and that it was the result of a unanimous decision.

In May, Variety chose Jeon as one of the 60 most prominent people to lead the future of the Cannes Festival.

Actress Kim Hee-seon Holds Promo Tour in Japan

2010-12-31T09:03:00.000-08:00

Actress Kim Hee-seon has begun a promotion tour in Japan with support from her close celebrity friends.

Lee Byeong-heon, Ryu Si-won, Kwon Sang-woo and Jackie Chan sent video messages to her official news conference at a Tokyo hotel on July 22 that gathered 150 teams of reporters. In the messages, the actors spoke of how they felt about Kim while working together with her.

After the news conference, the Korean beauty met with 1,300 fans, sang the theme song of her drama 'Sad Love Story,' and played the piano. She also gave out gifts and took pictures with fans.
The fan meeting in Japan was arranged at the invitation of Fuji TV, which aired 'Sad Love Story.'

Wonder Girls Enter MTV Thailand's Top-5

2010-12-31T09:01:00.000-08:00

The song "Irony" from the female group Wonder Girls, which debuted in Thailand in June, took the fifth spot on MTV Thailand's international chart.

The chart announces the most popular songs based on the frequency of their broadcasts and the number of viewer requests to play them over the past one week. By taking the fifth spot, the Wonder Girls have beaten even world famous stars such as Justin Timberlake and Maroon 5.

The group was also selected by MTV as the Artist of the Month in July, and it has gained enormous popularity all over Asia.

Since its debut earlier this year, the Wonder Girls have been performing vigorously in various countries. In April, the group held a showcase in China. In early June, the band released its first single album in Thailand at the urgent request of its Thai fans.

The band entered MTV Thailand's top-five with its album just a month after its release, without having visited the country in person so far.

The Wonder Girls will perform in Korea, China and Thailand after releasing its first full-length album during the second half of the year.

Film Starring Kang Su-yeon to Compete at Venice Film Festival

2010-12-31T09:00:00.000-08:00

A movie starring world star Kang Su-yeon, her first big-screen work in 20 years, will be screened at the Venice Film Festival.

Kang gained global acclaim in 1987 by winning the Best Leading Actress award at the festival for her role in Lim Kwon-taek's movie "The Surrogate Woman."

Her new film is a story about a nine-year-old girl from a mining village in Gangwon Province and her views on her family and the world. Kang plays the girl's mother in the movie.

Directed by Jun Su-il, the movie will compete in the "Horizon" category of the Venice festival.

Lim Kwon-taek's movie "Beyond the Years" will also participate in the festival in the non-competition category.

Song Hye-kyo Bag Line Boosts Her Pan-Asian Status

2010-12-31T08:59:00.000-08:00

Actress Song Hye-kyo reconfirmed her status as a top Asian star on July 18 at a product launch event for the handbag brand "Song Hye Kyo for Celine."
Song, who arrived in Hong Kong July 17, gave interviews to a number of media outlets from all over the world.

The actress was pursued by the paparazzi all the way from the airport, and some 200 journalists attended the event, double the originally expected number.

The director of Celine's Hong Kong branch said he was satisfied with the new bag line because it turned out more beautifully than he had expected. He also added he was honored to have a business partnership with Song, who is a pan-Asian star.

A person from Celine said the company was flooded with orders for the Song Hye Kyo for Celine bags even though they have yet to go on sale.

Korean Stars To Visit Japan in August

2010-12-31T08:58:00.000-08:00

Well-known Korean stars with large fan bases in Japan will travel to Tokyo in August. The Japanese sports daily Nikkan Sports reported that a number of famous Korean stars are scheduled to appear at the two-day "FACE in Japan Premium Event" at the Tokyo Dome on August 14th and 15th. The event is part of a cultural exchange program between Korea and Japan and a sequel to the Hallyu Expo held in Jeju Island last year.

Actress Yoon Son-ha will host the show for two days. Actress Ha Ji-won, actors Lee Dong-gun, Jo Han-seon, Shin Hyun-jun, the popular idol group TVXQ, and other up-and-coming singers and performers will make appearances.

Honey Lee Likely to Become 1st Hallyu Miss Korea

2010-12-31T08:57:00.000-08:00

Honey Lee, who finished fourth at the 2007 Miss Universe beauty pageant, has recently drawn attention from Singapore's The Electric New Paper.

It was the first time the daily introduced a beauty contestant, not a celebrity. It wrote that Lee, who holds a third degree black belt in taekwondo, "once played 'bodyguard' to actress Kim Tae-hee" when she was in college, because she is 10 centimeters taller than Kim and has excellent taekwondo skills. The daily wrote, "The two beauties have been good friends since joining the same ski club while studying at Korea's prestigious Seoul National University in 2004."

Lee currently hosts a weekly entertainment show along with emcee Seo Kyung-seok, but she denies that she has made an official debut in showbiz. The Singaporean daily quoted Lee's agency as saying that Lee "wants to represent traditional Korean beauty and culture to the world. And this is the first step toward fulfilling her goal."

The Electronic New Paper showed great interest in Lee, adding that she received a traditional red Mexican doll from the First Lady of Mexico at the Miss Universe competition back in May.

Kim Yun-jin Shares Beauty Tips in Fashion Magazine

2010-12-31T08:55:00.000-08:00

The influential fashion magazine InStyle, which is published worldwide, featured beauty tips from actress Kim Yun-jin in its August edition.

In her interview, Kim, who is introduced as a self-confident actress, shares her tips on skin care, hairstyling and makeup.

Gaining enormous popularity worldwide for her role in the U.S. ABC TV series "Lost," Kim has been interviewed by several prestigious magazines so far including an exclusive interview with People.

Her photos have appeared in many popular magazines, such as Vogue and Maxim, including a photo that appeared on the cover of an entertainment magazine.

She was also selected as one of the 100 sexiest beauties in the world by world-renowned magazines.

Kim's book, "The World is Your Drama," which depicts her advancement into Hollywood, has become a bestseller recently.

Son Ye Jin, returns to the screen in two years as a femme fatal pickpocket

2010-12-31T08:54:00.000-08:00

Top star Son Ye-jin will turn into an 'international' pickpocket.

In the upcoming movie 'Open City' directed by Lee Sang-gi, Son Ye-jin will act as the boss of a pickpocket organization displaying her femme fatal charm.

Scheduled to open in December, she is appearing on screen two years after the movie 'The Art of Seduction' which opened in 2005.

The movie has especially gathered attention as she will be partnering with actor Kim Myeong-Min of the MBC drama series 'White Tower'.

'Open City' which depicts the conflict between an international pickpocket organization and an investigation team will feature Son Ye-jin who rids of her innocent image in a seductive and strong character.

Her character Baek Jang Mi grows her organization with her charm femme fatal charm, making any man want to give up everything to be with her.

But falling in love with Kim Myeong-Min, a member of the investigating team, she cannot hide her identity as a female and her painful past.

Younha, Actor Lee Named Anti-Corruption PR Envoys

2010-12-31T08:52:00.000-08:00

Singer Younha and actor Lee Jin-wook have been named as publicity envoys for the anti-corruption Clean Wave Campaign.

The two will attend the appointment ceremony Monday and perform their duties for one year.

The anti-corruption committee cited Younha's clean and pure image and her exemplary behavior since her debut and Lee's upstanding image established through his drama roles.

The ceremony will be attended by a hundred teachers from across the country. The singer and actor's activities will include participation in the Campus Clean Wave, a similar campaign for teenagers, and International Anti-Corruption Day events.

Min HR Sizzles Under Asian Spotlight

2010-12-31T08:51:00.000-08:00

Singer Min Hyo-rin is receiving interview requests from a slew of Asian media outlets and broadcasters including China's largest portal SINA.COM, the popular Hallyu magazine COOL MUSIC and Japan's KN.

Even inside officials are amazed by the calls as Min has conducted no overseas activity whatsoever.

A foreign media official says that Min is a new face but her mystical and at the same time lovely persona is appealing to Hallyu fans in China and Japan. He said Min's interviews will be released some time next month via various outlets.

Her management agency says a possible advance to China or Japan isn't planned and she will focus her work in Korea, expressing deep gratitude for Asian fans' interest in the Korean singer. It also added that should the opportunity and right conditions arise, Min will consider going overseas.

Park Jung-sook Gives Lecture on Korean Wave

2010-12-31T08:50:00.001-08:00

TV personality Park Jung-sook, who is currently studying at the University of Columbia in the USA, will give a lecture at Waseda University in Japan on July 11.

Park's lecture will deal with international relations with a focus on the popularity of Korean culture overseas. The seminar will be attended by experts from Japan and other countries as well as former President Kim Young-sam.

Park says she will speak about the creation of an integrated cultural zone in Asia through Korean culture.

On June 30, Park made a presentation in Japan at a women's forum on ways to prepare for the issue of aging in society. Back in February, she presented at a forum on the popularity of Korean culture in Asia at Harvard University.

"Ice Bar" Wins Top Prize at Fukuoka Asian Film Festival

2010-12-31T08:50:00.000-08:00

The family film "Ice Bar" won the best picture award at the 21st Fukuoka Asian Film Festival that was held in Fukuoka, Japan from Jun 29 through July 8.

The film's production company MK Pictures said that its director, Yeo In-kwang, personally attended the award ceremony last Sunday to receive the top honor.

"Ice Bar" was chosen for the top prize because of its beautiful portrayal of a local city in the 1960s and 70s, and for the natural and realistic acting of its leading actress and child actor who played the roles of mother and son.

"Ice Bar" is the fifth Korean film to win the best picture award at this film festival. The other four award-winning films were "An Affair" in 1999, "Nowhere to Hide" in 2000, "Bad Guy" in 2002, and "YMCA Baseball Team" in 2003.

Yoon Mi-rae Makes Successful Comeback

2010-12-31T08:49:00.000-08:00

Singer Yoon Mi-rae, also known as T, has recently made a successful comeback in Japan after a five-year hiatus, suggesting a new direction for the Korean wave.

Yoon displayed her formidable hip-hop skills on July 10 at the Drama original Sound Korea 2007 in Tokyo, evoking applause from some 2000 people in the audience.

Yoon sang "After Pain Subsides," the theme song of the SBS TV drama "Prague Lovers," which is airing in Japan. Her unique style of voice that is quite rare in Japan captivated the hearts of Japanese listeners.

Yoon was the only performer at the concert to receive a curtain call, in which she sang "Scent of Life," a song from her first album.

The singer's agency says Yoon will, at the minimum, hold some small-scale concerts soon in Japan to target the Japanese music market.

Lee Eun's Online Mall to Enter China

2010-12-31T08:48:00.000-08:00

The recently launched online shopping mall of Lee Eun, a former member of the girl band Chakra, is seeking to advance to China as the first shopping mall opened by a Korean celebrity.

Sales are brisk at the shopping mall "Euni," which has posted a three-fold sales increase in recent days. Singer-turned-actress Lee recently visited China for inspections to launch her business.

She said, "Never did I imagine advancing abroad, but I decided to expand my business upon the advice of a relative living in China. I want to further promote the Hallyu boom as a businesswoman and later return as a performer."

Model Han Hye-jin Attracts Attention from Global Fashion World

2010-12-31T08:46:00.000-08:00

Model Han Hye-jin made her name known to the world fashion industry at the New York Collection held from Feb. 1 until 9 by being cast to appear in fashion shows for the world’s top designer brands such as Marc Jacobs, Michael Kors and Vera Wang.

She was also promised a chance to participate in the Calvin Klein Collection by the brand’s senior designer Francisco Costa, who lauded her charm as a model.

Han will appear on the music and entertainment cable channel Mnet in season 3 of “I Am A Model,” in which she, along with fellow models Kim Da-ul and Park Yoon-jeong, will show the auditions and fashion shows involving the New York Collection as well as their daily life from waking up to going to bed.

The program’s producer, Lee Seon-young, said, “Season 3 of ‘I Am A Model’ is aimed at showing the real lives of fashion models.” New models selected through the show's season 3 will have opportunities not only to work for new casual brand “Dressed To Kill” but also to participate in the Paris Collection, Lee added.

Korean Actress Cast for Japanese Musical

2010-12-31T08:45:00.000-08:00

Singer-turned-actress Shoo, a former member of the female trio S.E.S., has been cast for a supporting role in the Japanese musical “High School Musical” produced by Fuji TV. According to her agency, Sedona Media, she attended a press conference held at a hotel in Tokyo on Monday to announce its production.

Based on the Disney’s TV animation with the same title, the musical deals with high school students who work at an audition for a musical.

Shoo is cast to play Deira, a friend of the female leading character Gabriel, to be played by Nami Damaki. Koyama Keiichiro, a member of the Japanese idol group NewS, will play the male leading role. It will be staged in Tokyo and Osaka from June 12.

“I will put everything I have into the musical to show a great performance,” Shoo said.

Shoo has been working as a musical actress in Japan since S.E.S was disbanded. She received a good review when she performed the leading character Shelley in the 2005 musical "Batboy" in Japan.

New Singing Star Ayo Comes to Korea

2010-12-31T08:44:00.000-08:00

Emerging new pop star Ayo will come to Korea to promote her debut album “Joyful.” She gained popularity here in Korea when her hit song “Down on My Knees” was included in the original soundtrack of a Korean TV drama recently.

She will arrive in Korea on April 8th and attend a promotional event on the 11th at the KT Art Hall in downtown Seoul. She plans to sing some seven songs during the event, including “Down on My Knees,” “Help is coming,” and “Only You.” Korean singers and a noted songwriter are scheduled to appear on the event as well.

Ayo will also make appearances on a variety of radio and TV programs during her stay in Korea.

Jun Ji-hyun to Debut in Hollywood

2010-12-31T08:42:00.001-08:00

Actress Jun Ji-hyun is gearing up to debut overseas. Jun, who has gained popularity not only in Korea but also in Hong Kong, China and Japan for her sometimes sassy, sometimes naive roles in movies, will make her Hollywood debut in the movie “Blood: The Last Vampire.”

“Blood: The Last Vampire” is based on the same-titled popular animation novel by famous Japanese writer Oshii Mamoru. Jun plays the role of the vampire hunter Saya, who is half-human, half-vampire but who disguises herself as a human being in order to destroy vampires. The actress is expected to display impressive action stunts in the movie.

Playing opposite Jun will be actress Allison Miller, who has gained popularity for her role in the TV show “Desperate Housewives.” In the movie, Miller’s character teaches Saya what it’s like to be a human.

Interest in movies starring Jun has been on the rise in Hollywood. Jun has drawn notice in Hollywood through the movie “The Lake House,” starring Keanu Reeves and Sandra Bullock. The movie is a remake of the Korean movie “Il Mare,” which stars Jun. Jun’s hit movie “My Sassy Girl” is also currently being remade in the United States, with actress Elisha Cuthbert playing the lead.

The filming of “Blood: The Last Vampire” will begin March 15. The movie has drawn significant attention for its impressive scale as it involves famous film production firms and filmmakers. After shooting several scenes in Buenos Aires, Argentina, the filming location will switch to China before the movie opens in 2008.

The movie is expected to make Jun another hallyu star in Hollywood, like Kim Yun-jin. Jun will go by the name "Gianna Jun" in the United States.

Kim Yun-jin to Give Interview to People Magazine

2010-12-31T08:42:00.000-08:00

Actress Kim Yun-jin, who has recently drawn the spotlight for announcing a comeback to the Korean big screen through the movie “Seven Days,” will give an exclusive interview to People magazine on March 30.

Kim’s agency said the magazine requested an interview after the actress’s popularity soared when a section introducing Kim’s preparations for the Golden Globe event was posted early this year on the magazine’s Web site, recording more than 300,000 hits a day.

The agency added that previously, any U.S. media reports about the actress and her appearances in various talk shows typically made big news, but now Kim has gained full recognition for her hard work and passion to the extent that even a prestigious U.S. magazine has requested an exclusive interview with her.

Korean Actress Song Hye-gyo to Present Hong Kong Film Award

2010-12-31T08:40:00.000-08:00

Korean actress Song Hye-gyo will attend the Hong Kong Film Awards to present the Best Asian Film award.

The secretariat of the Hong Kong Film Award said that Song’s rising fame around the world makes her the most appropriate presenter for the Best Asian Film award. It added that since Song is extremely popular in Hong Kong, her presence at the award ceremony will be much appreciated by Hong Kong fans.

During the Chinese promotional tour of her TV drama “Full House” last February, Song’s beauty was rated by the press and fans to rival that of celebrated Chinese actresses such as Zhang Ziyi and Cheung Pak Chi.

Kim Yun-jin to Appear on Letterman

2010-12-31T08:38:00.000-08:00

The Korean actress Kim Yun-jin, who thanks to the ABC hit series "Lost" now has considerable star appeal in the U.S., will appear on the long-running "Late Show with David Letterman," an honor last accorded a Korean when the teenage golfer Michelle Wie made an appearance last year. Being a guest on the show will give Kim a sense of having finally arrived.

According to a source close to the actress, Kim joked it would be nice if she was invited on the Letterman show when she started acting in the States. Two and a half years later, that dream has come true. This is not an invitation during the publicity season for ¡°Lost¡±, says the source, but is instead due to Kim Yun-jin¡¯s own star power.

The live appearance in front of a studio audience is scheduled for July 11 and will provide a good opportunity for the actress to introduce the world of Korean films as well as open up opportunities for herself. Kim will catch a plane headed to New York on July 9. Kim finished shooting for the second season of "Lost" in May and will start work on the third season in August.

Jeon Do-Yeon Wins Best Actress Award at Cannes

2010-12-31T08:36:00.000-08:00

``I can't believe I'm here. I heard there are so many actresses here who poured out their soul in great films, I'm not sure if I am qualified to be here,'' Jeon, clad in a shiny golden dress, said in an accepting speech at the awards ceremony in Cannes.

``But I thank the Cannes film fest for giving me this honor. What would have been impossible with myself alone became possible thanks to director Lee and Song Gang-ho,'' she said, referring to her co-star in the film.

Cannes was the first exposure to an international film festival for the veteran actress, who has won many domestic film awards.

``I am so honored to have my first experience at Cannes,'' she said in a press conference. ``I tried to calm myself down, telling myself that nothing would happen to me. I wanted to hide when somebody spoke of expectations. Now I'm glad and grateful that they turned into messages of support and celebrations.''

The year is turning out to be a lucky one for Jeon. She's a newly wed, having married a businessman nine years her senior in March in an intimate ceremony.

``They honored me with many prizes in Korea, but winning the best actress in Cannes will remain a great achievement in my life,'' she said. Asked what the marriage means to her, she said smiling, ``One of my life's biggest presents.''

Jeon Says Her Cannes Win is Near Miracle

2010-12-31T08:34:00.000-08:00

``It was like a miracle, I think.’’ So said actress Jeon Do-yeon in reference to her winning the Best Actress Award for her leading role in Lee Chang-dong’s ``Secret Sunshine’ at the 60th edition of the Cannes Film Festival at a press conference at CGV Apgujeong in Seoul, Wednesday.

``I’ve almost been in a state of shock ever since I was named the winner of the prize,’’ Jeon said. ``Words cannot express what I feel but let me just say `I am delighted and honored.’ I still cannot believe it.’’

Although the local and international press predicted the likelihood of her winning after official screenings, Jeon tried not to think about it and kept telling herself that nothing was going to happen, she said. Jeon was praised for her realistic portrayal of a grief-stricken woman who loses her son and husband.

`` People there seemed to be surprised that an actress who came to an international festival for the first time won the award,’’ Jeon said. ``If it weren’t for Song Kang-ho and director Lee Chang-dong, it would have been impossible for me to complete the character, Sin-ae.’’

Lee said it is impossible to define Jeon as a certain type of actress. ``In the film, she successfully expressed emotions that I, the audience or maybe even herself would not expect. She has a wide spectrum in expressing emotions and performing roles,’’ Lee said at the conference, adding he expected either the grand prize or the Best Actress Award.

Song Kang-ho who played the part of Jong-chan, the leading male role in the movie, said he was in awe of her when they performed together. ``She was almost ‘scary’ when I saw her perform,’’ Song said in the conference.

Despite the praises, Jeon first hesitated to take the role. She said that she had already decided to play in the film even before she had read the script mainly because it was Lee’s film. But after reading the script, she seriously wondered whether she would be capable of it.

Her efforts paid off with the prize, which has brought her into the international spotlight and some press reports are referring to her as a world star.’

However, Jeon is cautious about her new moniker.

``I think it is too early think about being cast in a foreign film. I believe there are a lot of things that I have to do in Korea first,’’ Jeon said. ``(English) language is an issue too. But I would love to explore options when a good chance and scenario arises.’’

Jeon is the second Asian actress to win the prize. Hong Kong actress Maggie Cheung took the title for her role in the film ``Clean’’ by French director Olivier Assayas at the 57th Cannes Film Festival in 2004. Cheung was invited as a juror this year.

``I have seen a lot of movies of hers and loved her so much. I was really happy to meet her in person after the closing ceremony. The meeting remains on my mind,’’ 34-year-old Jeon said. ``We agreed to hang out in Seoul when she visits.’’

K-Pop : Sexy Stars Versus Sweet Girls

2010-12-31T08:32:00.000-08:00

Lee sent temperatures rising in 2003 when she made her debut as a sexy singer. Many female singers have since tried to follow in her footsteps, pushing the limits of sexiness with barely-there outfits and hot dance moves.

Lee is still a top fashion icon and sought-after product endorser, but she seems to be looking for a new direction for her career. She appears in several ads as well as sizzling spreads showing off her gleaming skin and curves in fashion magazines like W and Cosmopolitan.

Earlier this year, there was a backlash against her sexy image. Her recent mini-drama ``If In Love ... Like Them'' failed to draw in audiences. Lee has also not been paying much attention to her music career, only releasing a digital single album last March.

While Lee struggles, several female K-pop singers are making their move. Some are going for the hardcore sexy image, while others are keeping it sweet.

Leading the pack of sexy singers are Seo In-young and Chae Yeon. Seo, a former member of girl group Jewelry, who has generated controversy with her barely-there costumes and hot dance moves. At the Dream Concert last weekend, she even gave a pole-dancing performance.

Chae Yeon also doesn't balk at being branded as a ``sexy singer." She has recently been performing her latest dance single ``My Love," while wearing low-slung mini-skirts and cropped tops.

While these divas have been trying to outdo each other with sexiness, there is another group of singers who are downplaying their sex appeal. Ivy, Lexy, Hyun Young and Banana Girl are still making waves in the music scene with their unique personalities.

Ivy may have made her debut with a sexy image last year, and helped popularize hot pants that showed off her beautiful legs. This year, Ivy is focusing more on showing her strong voice and keeping her clothes on.

It may have helped her career more, since she was chosen as the opening act for international pop superstar Christina Aguilera's concert in Seoul this weekend. She is also preparing for her solo concert ``Ivy & Present First Concert" on June 30 at Jamsil Indoor Stadium.

Lexy is going the opposite route of sexy with a tough tomboyish image. The hip-hop star released her third album ``Rush" last April.

Hyun Young is making the transition from actress to perky pop star. She looked like a Barbie doll with blonde hair and pink clothes, for her almost-comical music video ``Love Revolution." Her remake of Japanese group Morning Musume's song is climbing the charts.

Banana Girl's cute, fresh look and catchy song ``Chocolate" is also making a splash in the music charts.

Korean Movie Actress Found Dead

2010-12-31T08:29:00.000-08:00

South Korean actress Lee Eun-ju, star of one of the country's highest grossing films, has been found dead after an apparent suicide in Seoul.

The 25-year-old, known for her role in hit film Taegukgi, or National Flag, was found hanged in her dressing room.

Her family said she had been suffering a bout of mental illness after performing nude scenes in Korean thriller The Scarlet Letter.

Lee's managers denied the film had anything to do with her death.

Box office record

Police found a suicide note with the words "Mom, I am sorry and I love you" written in blood.

Lee's most successful film, Taegukgi tells the story of two brothers forced to fight in the Korean war. It set an opening day box office record in Korea.

The actress made her screen breakthrough with 2000 film Oh! Soo-jung and starred as jazz singer Ga-hee in The Scarlet Letter which closed the prestigious Pusan International Film Festival last year.

She graduated from Danguk University several days before her death.

Top Actress's Suicide Shocks Nation

2010-12-31T08:28:00.000-08:00

Lee Eun-ju, who shot to fame with her roles in the TV drama "Firebird" and the film "Taegukgi: The Brotherhood of War," hanged herself in her apartment on Tuesday. She was 25. Lee's brother alerted police after discovering her lifeless body at her home in Seongnam, Gyeonggi Province in the early afternoon.

Marks on the body indicated that Lee had also tried to slit her wrists. A letter written in blood and found at the scene read, "Mother, I'm sorry. I love you." In a separate suicide note, the actress wrote, "I wanted to do too much. Even though I live, I'm not really alive. I don't want anyone to be disappointed. It's nice having money... I wanted to make money."

Lee's family said the actress had been experiencing insomnia and showing signs of depression over racy nude scenes she did for the film "The Scarlet Letter," which debuted last October. They believe this was the reason she killed herself.

Lee broke onto the scene in 1996 as an advertising model for school uniforms. Beginning with a 1997 role in the KBS drama "Start," she appeared in a string of TV dramas and movies.

Through films like Hong Sang-soo's "Virgin Stripped Bare by Her Bachelors," "Bungee Jumping on Their Own," "Unborn But Forgotten" and "Au Revoir, UFO," Lee had secured a place on Chungmu-ro's A-list. Last year, she appeared in the TV drama "Firebird," winning great acclaim for her portrayal of a strong yet feminine character.

The news sent shockwaves through the entertainment industry and her fan community. Internet sites devoted to Lee were being bombarded with condolences, and some fan sites temporarily crashed due to the sudden onslaught of traffic.

At a fan site on Naver.com, hundreds of posts expressed disbelief or hope that the story was false. Internet user "nsy9251" said, "You were really beautiful on screen... I want to see that smile once again." Rumor also ran riot, with comments reading, "There was no reason for her to kill herself," "Perhaps this was foul play," or "She was worried about the 'entertainment x-file.'"

Kim Yun-jin Unveils Hollywood Life

2010-12-31T08:24:00.000-08:00

Actress Kim Yun-jin in front of a crashed Boeing 747, at the production site of ABC hit series ``Lost'' in Hawaii. ``I starred in Korea's first blockbuster film, 'Shiri' -- but I was completely overwhelmed by the making of a pilot clip for an American TV series!''
By Lee Hyo-won
Staff Reporter

The first Korean to successfully break ground in the United States as a star of hit TV series ``Lost,'' actress Kim Yun-jin offers an intimate glimpse of her passionate ``love affair'' with Hollywood through her diary-like book.

``Kim Yun-jin's Hollywood Story'' takes readers on an intriguing, amusing and above all, truly inspiring adventure as she ``treat(s) Hollywood like you would treat your boyfriend,'' as advised by her management agent.

The book is thoroughly enjoyable as the 33-year-old pours out her fears and frustrations, and courage and determination in an honest voice, spiced with occasional humor.

The story unfolds from the climactic moment at the 2002 Daejong (Grand Bell) Awards, the Korean equivalent of the American Academy Awards. Crowned Best Actress for her performance in ``Ardor'' (2002), Kim is at the height of her career.

Turning down a string of lucrative offers, the heroine in 1999's ``Shiri,'' Korea's first blockbuster film, decided to do the unthinkable.

``It's like diving headfirst toward the ground,'' her own manager said when she announced her plans to leave the country to pursue acting in Hollywood. But what appears to be a sudden move stems back to a long-standing determination. One night, Kim comes across a long-forgotten item.

``Three years, the top, money. 2:39 a.m., November 3, 1999'' read the message inside the small pendant. And indeed, exactly three years later, Kim had realized all three wishes.

It was now time to live out her childhood dream while growing up in the United States -- to succeed as an actress there. ``Hollywood top, marriage, happiness,'' she updates the note inside the pendant.

``Hollywood Story'' reveals the excruciating work behind the glamour and glitz of the entertainment business, even for a well-established actress like Kim (or perhaps because she is one).

From preparing her show reel to nerve-wrecking auditions, Kim ventures off on a tough yet exhilarating journey. Although reading lines for Steven Bochco (creator of hits such as ``NYPD Blues'') may seem far away, anyone who has ever prepared for a job interview will be able to relate.

There are the initial pains of having to step down from being the leading lady to a novice. Even after being cast as Sun in ``Lost,'' a role that J. J. Abrams specially created for her, she had to overcome frustrations of being out of the spotlight.

``Remember: there are no small parts, only small actors,'' she repeats Konstantin Stanislavsky's immortal words.

Yet, there are other concerns. With large almond-shaped eyes, Kim feels that her looks do not conform to what seems to be the ``Western standard'' of Asian beauty, notably slanted eyes and strongly defined cheekbones. But this does not let her down.

Just when all begins to go well, however, the actress is struck with a viral infection that paralyzes one side of her face. The book testifies Kim's amazing sense of determination as she overcomes the disease.

It is also heartwarming to see Kim as an individual possessing great integrity. The Korean-American chooses to retain her Korean name even though adopting an English one would spare the trouble of ``Yun-jin'' being butchered.

``Arnold Schwarzenegger, Uma Thurman and Oprah Winfrey became stars despite their difficult names,'' she quotes her high school teacher as telling her. ``Fine acting will have people seeking you, after practicing your name hundreds of times. So concentrate on acting.''

A passionate and diligent student, Kim spent four hours everyday on the road to study at the High School of Performing Arts in New York.

Having lived near the studio of ``The Late Show with David Letterman,'' the Boston University graduate fantasized about appearing as a guest and signing autographs for fans.

In December 2006, the star finally did -- and did not forget to take the time to sign autographs for those who waited with ``Shiri'' posters and DVDs.

One of the most valuable insights the book has to offer is her firsthand account of how the American production business compares to that of Korea. Also impressive are Kim's conscious efforts to positively represent the Korean community and to correctly present Korean culture.

As much as ``Hollywood Story'' intrigues readers with encounters with iconic filmmakers and stars, it shines upon Kim -- how she constantly makes an effort toward self-improvement, and how she spreads inspiration like a virus.

Toward the end, Kim is exhilarated to be able to work with her ``longtime idol'' Margaret Cho, one of the first Asian faces to appear on U.S. national television. But Kim herself is now such an idol to many.

``I'm going to win the award for Best Actress at the Academy Awards!'' she exclaims, and so her challenging journey continues.

``Hollywood Story'' includes colorful pictures that invite readers into the actress' world -- from photos that capture her ordinary side, like hanging out around Hollywood Boulevard in jeans and a T-shirt, to exciting peeks into the production set of ``Lost'' and glamorous red carpet portraits and magazine covers.

Visit www.yunjinkim.com (in English and Korean) to learn more about Kim.