Idols Open and Close Social Media Accounts

It's hard for me sometimes to keep up with the comings and goings of K-Pop idols on social media. It seems at times that they come and go as they please like the ebb and flow of a tide.

Since my biases are mainly FT Island and CNBlue and sometimes I like to blog about Super Junior, I mainly stick with them. But there's so many more idols out there, trust me. In the past I've blogged about how FT Island bassist and vocalist, Lee Jae Jin, had closed his Twitter account for apparently no reason. Not too long after that, both lead vocalist Lee Hong Ki and Leader and lead guitarist Choi Jong Hoon had both opened up their own Instagram accounts.

Slowly, but surely, idols are reaching out to more of their fans through social media. So it came as a surprise that Heechul (aka Heenim or Hee Dictator) of Super Junior mysteriously closed his own Instagram and Weibo accounts.

But with every closure, two more must open. Hmm, I think I heard about that somewhere? It's like the Hydra myth where you cut off a head and two more grow back. Same concept.

So, following that vein, and of course my biases, FT Island's Lee Jae Jin and Choi Jong Hoon let fans know through their Instagrams that they have opened up Weibo accounts. Follow them both at "JamesJin" (Jae Jin's) and "ChoiJongHoon90" (Jong Hoon's). I definitely liked Jae Jin's stab at an Anglicized name. The name, "James" suits him and is still very close to his original name.

Follow, follow, follow, these two handsome cuties. And don't forget to check out Jong Hun for updates on his new drama, JTBC's "Heroes", where he will play the lead role of Choi Hee Yeol.


Credit: Lee Jae Jin and Choi Jong's Instagram. Choi Jong Hun's image courtesy of @ftnorinori (as stated on original image.)

FT Island's Leader Jong Hoon Joins Instagram

Choi Jong Hoon, Leader and Lead Guitarist of K-Pop/Rock group, FT Island

Jong Hoon relaxing with his guitar

I noticed that a lot of you seem to like my posts about FT Island's handsome leader, Choi Jong Hoon. And I can only guess that you all must be fans. So, in case you haven't heard the news yet, he has also joined his band members, Lee Hong Ki and Lee Jae Jin, in opening his own Instagram account in early March.

So much cuties on Instagram now! Their handsome features and crazy antics will definitely amuse you.  He and Hong Ki love to share what they're doing during the day and post videos of their concerts and general silliness.

Instgram and their Twitter accounts seem to be the best way to keep updated on their whereabouts and any updates to their activities. Hop on them!

You can follow him on Instagram @ftgtjhc.

Sources: PrimadonnaSarangae, Choi Jong Hoon Instagram, FT Island Jong Hoon Turkey Fan Site (yes, he's also popular in the country, Turkey!)

Peace out! Love his aegyo!

FT Island's Choi Jong Hun Bares It, Again!

What do we know about FT Island's Leader and lead guitarist, Choi Jong Hun?

We all know that he rocks on the guitar....

Jong Hun Rocking Out to His Guitar Solo in "Like Birds"/"Sadeul Cheoreom"

And can croon a tune that will make a girl's heart melt....

Taking the Mic On Accoustic Guitar In Concert

He's shown that he can be a romantic, sometimes a cheesy and hard to read one, but a romantic....

On His First Date With K-Pop Singer Choi Gina (aka G.Na) on the reality show, "The Romantic and the Idol Season 2". Sadly, they didn't work out.

And to keep up his strength for all the performances and appearances, he obviously tries to look good by keeping fit....

Keeping Fit. Even For an Album Sleeve. (Note: Extremely filtered)

He's stunned with his megawatt smile, his charms and killer body once before....

Baring it for Elle Girl

And now he's done it again....this time for Elle.

And again for Elle's upcoming issue.

So go on ladies/gals/girls, enjoy the post! And if you see any other photos from the shoot, please share!

Cute gif. I had to put it in. Nice work to whoever did this.

On another note, wasn't Lee Hong Ki supposed to be working out with him? Wonder what his results are like?

Note: I do not own any pictures. All credit goes to their rightful owners.

Review: FT Island's New Japanese Single "You Are My Life"

Here I go again, FT Islanding up my blog! For fans and Pri's, the next musical chapter in these 5 treasures' career is coming up very soon. They will be releasing a new Japanese single called, "You Are My Life".

It's soft rock ballad that starts off with leader Choi Jong Hun on the piano and moving throughout. Mixed with Seung Hyun's rock chords on guitar, Jae Jin's back-up harmonies and Hong Ki's vocals carrying the simple melodic line, it's certainly touching and sentimental. "Listen to my heart...Even till this day, even when you are far away from me...You are my life..." (Sorry, my Japanese is a little rusty. I still have a hard time gathering gists of songs in Japanese, especially slow songs because they break up the syllables. And it's been years since I tried to speak semi-fluently. I'll try to post the English subs when they're available.)

I, for one, love this song. Not just because it's FT Island and Lee Hong Ki, but I like the types of songs that you can listen to and know the theme of the song just by listening to the music. Even though it's in a different language, it touches your soul.

Here's the video released by Warner Music Japan. All right's to them and FT Island. I wish they sold the music on iTunes in the States, but this will have to do.

On sale March 27, 2013!

Review: The Romantic and Idol Season 2 Finale

It's been one heck of an interesting second season and finally it came down to this. What happened with the quadrangle that was Minhyuk, Yewon, Jonghun and Jiwon?

After a brief tease at the beginning of all the idols at the airport waiting to go back to Seoul, the show got into the final day.

Before the final selections, each idol could go on a free (as long as agreed upon mutually) date with a person of their choice. Here's the pairings:

Minhyuk and Jiwon (They got paired up first)
Kevin was a no show (He had to go back to Seoul for a "schedule")
G.Na and Eunyoung were paired with N
Jonghun and Yewon

Jonghun and Yewon
Jonghun is up pretty much up at the crack of dawn for his date with Yewon. Of course he would want to spend as much time as he could with her! But Yewon is late. Seriously late. She keeps him waiting for about an hour and a half. When she finally does appear, she asks him if he's been waiting long. And he responds that he's only been waiting for an hour and a half! Whether he was exaggerating or not, we'll never know. But oh my god....how insensitive of Yewon in the first place.

They finally set off on bikes and head into town where they visit a cute little cafe that overlooks the ocean. There they sit down at a little cafe and enjoy the view of the sparkling ocean in front of them. After they enjoy a little drink and some additional primping on Yewon's part, they went outside to take couple photos at a little stone wall overlooking the ocean. Soon after they take off on scooters to a lighthouse. If you've ever seen "Heartstrings"/"You've Fallen For Me" starring Jung Yong Hwa of CNBlue and Park Shin Hye, you'll recognize this is the same lighthouse from episode 1.

The Threesome, G.Na, N and Eunyoung
Since Kevin had to return to Seoul for a performance/appearance, these three were stuck together. Seems like they didn't want to stay home, so they ended up going to a museum to kill some time. Then they sit down at a cafe and start a bit of grilling on Eunyoung's interviewing skills. Cut to Eunyoung's interview with the PD's where she says that if N were not to choose her, if she ever saw him again, she wouldn't acknowledge him. And she would say she wanted Vixx's Ken to come on the show instead.

Minhyuk and Jiwon
Out of all the couples, I must say that Minhyuk and Jiwon looked like they were having a blast together. They went out to what looked like a ranch and spent time horseback riding and talking in the meadows. Jiwon is curious about Minhyuk's feelings and he admits that he told Yewon the night before that his feelings had changed a bit in the past couple of days. Both felt that Yewon was just as confused as Minhyuk was about their feelings. Minhyuk is confident that Yewon will pick him and he feels that he should just go where his heart leads him in the end.

Jiwon is still confused as well. She has a tough decision between N and Minhyuk. One makes her feel like they are just siblings, the other seems more of a grown man to her that she can relate to.

FINAL SELECTION DAY
As the group heads into final selections, tensions are high. It's the moment of truth, that everyone has been waiting for....

First up is...G.Na. (Oo boy...)
As the four men come up to her out of all of them G.Na looks nervous not wanting to look at them. Jonghun looks pensive like he's about to puke.

As the PD's countdown ends, one by one the men leave. But....Jonghun hesitated? And...it's only for a moment as he turns away regretfully. G.Na is stunned. She began to cry silently and says that the show really is cruel.

Next is Eunyoung
As all four men near her you can see the look of surprise on her face when she sees all four. Then the countdown begins. And at the end, as with G.Na, all the men turn to leave. But, sweetie Kevin turns back and gives Eunyoung a hug. Now that's a man!

We're finally left with the two young maidens who most of the men we're vying for.

Yewon is first.
At the end of the countdown Jonghun and Minhyuk are the only ones left. Not surprising. She asks them both what it was about her that they found so interesting. Jonghun is honest and said from the moment her first laid eyes on her, it was only her and no one else. Minhyuk agreed that even though they had their uncomfortable moments, he still felt attracted to her.

As the PD's push Yewon to make a decision, she haltingly walks towards...Minhyuk. Jonghun stands on the side with his face turned away, his jaw set in a hard line. I will never forget that look. It was such a look of hurt, and yet, you could see his pride in tatters in the expression on his face.

As Minhyuk and Yewon embraced, Jonghun walked silently away.

Jiwon is the last one and as two men come up to her she is obviously disappointed not to see Minyuk. And at the end of the countdown....she shakes both of their hands and decides not to choose either N or Kevin. Ouch.

As they all gather back at the bus, all greet Minhyuk and Yewon with cheers and applause. All except for Jonghun who is already sitting on the bus by himself. At least one couple paired up.

My take on this show/season...meh..

It was excruciating to watch. I am an FT Island fan, and it was hard for me to watch Jonghun go through the dating process. Even though I am already taken, I was still caught up in the melodrama of fangirling. I hoped he would find someone he liked. I truly wanted him to be happy. But I hated the fact that he seemed to end up wasting his time on Yewon who didn't return his affections. I also felt he could have been more...understanding and flexible. He didn't really seem to care about other people's feelings at times, and that was hard to watch. I understand that he was just trying to be true to his heart, but sometimes the heart has to remain open.

I felt bad for G.Na and Eunyoung. Both left their hearts out in the open. And both were rejected.

I wished Kevin threw himself into the experience more despite all the little pairings.

And as for the Jonghun/Minhyuk/G.Na/Yewon/Jiwon pentatrangle, what a mess. I was really rooting for Minhyuk and Jiwon because they looked so cute together. They seemed to match personalities. Yewon I just found dang irritating. Who forces someone to do aegyo when they're not comfortable?

Well, at least someone paired up...

Hope you enjoyed reading my reviews! Sorry this one was so late. I had a hard time writing this up. And I was also really sick the past couple of weeks.

With that, I hope you enjoyed the videos on this post. I felt it really suited the theme well. Remember, I don't own them, all rights go to the owners.

If you want to see the season in full, dramacrazy.net has this and the first season.

Keep coming back to read my blog, thank you for your support!

Happy Birthday to FT Island's Choi Jong Hun!

Happy birthday Jong Hunnie! Or rather, at the end of this post, happy belated birthday. =D

FT Island's fearless, studious leader celebrated his 23rd birthday on March 7th. (And that's 24th birthday if you're counting in Korean years. When you're born in Korea, your actual birth day is when they start to count the years.)

To commemorate the event, I found a video FT Island's "Sadeul Cheorum"/"Like Birds" music video. And a video from FT Island's Winter Night in Yokohama concert back in 2011. (At least, I think that's when it's from.)

He's shown his "romantic" side, with his heart on his sleeve and full of determination on the show the Romantic and the Idol Season 2, now see the charismatic rocker, musical side of this man that all of FT Island fans have come to love.

This video is actually one of my favorites. I have grown up playing and singing this song at different performances. And he brings a totally different feel to it that I totally appreciate.

Happy birthday Jong Hun, and many more! Rock on!

(All credits to FT Island and FNC Entertainment)

G.Na's Fiery Comeback

G.Na's sexy new concept.

I have become a fan of G.Na the idol (not singer, now) ever since I've seen her on the second season of the Romantic and Idol. (A/N: Most of my reviews are up for the season. Sorry, still missing the finale. I hope to do it this week to cap it all off. Plus, I don't like to leave loose ends.)


She was absolutely endearing on the Romantic and Idol. She had a mature charm about her, and a natural style and beauty that I think comes with age.

There have been hints about her comeback this spring, so I've been on the lookout for it. Finally, AllKpop released her first and second teaser photos from her agency, Cube Entertainment.

She's donned a sexy look with a new haircut and super bright red hair that adds an accent to her fair skin.

G.Na sporting a new fiery red 'do and hearts.

I was interested to see just what the theme to her title track(s) will be and it looks like it will be a love song! Hmm...According to the article I read, her next track is entitled "Oops!" and it is about being in love with a younger man! Hmm...for those of you that were following her on the Romantic and Idol, you know that she had her eye on FT Island's leader, Choi Jong Hun. Throughout the 4 days there she seemed to always get paired up with him. It was as if fate threw them together.

I hope it will be a hit! Stay tuned for her comeback and with her new track to be released on Korea's version of Valentines Day, "White Day", on March 14th!

Source: AllKPop

Updated Review: The Romantic and Idol Season 2 Episode 6

Idol G.Na and FT Island's Choi Jong Hun on their first date on the Romantic and Idol Season 2

(Sorry, I mislabeled the episode I was reviewing. It should be #6.)

We're winding down on the 2nd season of what is turning out to be an very, very, interesting season 2.

When the show opens, a quick rundown of how the couples were paired up for the song shuffle is shown. Then we come back to N's choice for the song shuffle, Jiwon or Eunyoung. And since N hasn't really had the chance to talk to her, and perhaps he is hinting his feelings, he chooses Jiwon over Eunyoung. Poor Eunyoung is left alone. And she begins to cry. She's smiling and still stomping her feet, jumping around and pointing, at least.

Cut to the awkward pairs of Minhyuk/Yewon and Jonghun/G.Na. As they cruise at a stone wall overlooking the ocean, they contemplate what they would like to do next. After a bit more awkwardness, the two pairs part ways to go on their moonlight dates. (without any staff!)

Minhyuk/Yewon
When asked how they were feeling the day before the selection, Minhyuk responded that it was "strange" which Yewon translated to mean that he felt "unsure".

As they ride off to their destination, Minhyuk casually asks how Yewon's date with Jonghun went. She responds that it went "ok" they just walked through the forest. Minhyuk offers that his date went well. It was fun riding carts. After hearing this, Yewon doesn't look so good. (Meaning she looked slightly upset.) Minhyuk tried to make light conversation and asked Yewon what she wanted to eat, but it wasn't working. She was very quiet.

Soon after, they arrive at the cafe they will be having their date at, which coincidentally happens to be the same cafe that Jonghun and G.Na had their date at the day before. They both sit down at a table and discuss their day together. Minhyuk was curious to know if Yewon had fun on her date, especially because "it wasn't me"? Yewon looks a little surprised at that and tells him he shouldn't say stuff like that and admits she doesn't really know what he's thinking of or his feelings. The conversation takes on a more serious tone as Yewon truthfully says that she came on the show to be "real". Go on the dates, experience dating with a sincere heart. She slightly admonishes Minhyuk that he should be doing the same and not thing about what other people may think. After all, they are normal people. Yewon later asks him what if he were to meet a woman who was in her 30's and cute? And Minhyuk jokingly threw back "why, are you worried?" making Yewon smile. He tells her, "then she's just cute", to which Yewon throws back at him, "I'm not JUST cute." Rowr...nope, she's saying she's got brains too Minhyuk! (I think I understood this correctly. Correct me if I am wrong, the subtitles were a little off at this point.) Yewon was curious at how he viewed himself and asked him if he thought he was cute? Hmm, well dear...he keeps on checking his hair every 2 minutes in the camera. What do you think? And of course, to no surprise, he admits that he thinks that he's very cute. LOL!

Jonghun/G.Na
Oh these two...fate has thrown them together again. You really gotta wonder how cruel fate can be. It's obvious that G.Na is uncomfortable knowing that Jonghun wanted to be with Yewon. And it must've been torture for Jonghun at not being with Yewon, yet confusing because he has started to see G.Na in a different light.

They spent their date at a restaurant where they have decided to have what looks like dinner. And what's for dinner? It looks like it's shabu shabu or hot pot! I was really interested in their date because it seemed like Jonghun was very confused at the end of the last episode.

Despite the fact that Jonghun started to eat first (a no no in most cultures, and come on, he only ate some rice I think) he stops as soon as the food seems to be cooked and begins to serve his noona, G.Na. He even cut up meat and octopus and kept on putting more and more food on her plate making sure she has a good dinner. To me, this is romantic. He looked every attentive with her, which she may or may not have noticed. Jonghun gets a little weird on their date by showing his "snake". Now, I didn't see any, so I think the translation was just a little funky. But he does try to make some funny faces using the steam from the teapot which G.Na finds odd, but it brings a smile to her face.


N/Jiwon
In a surprising turn of events, N has picked Jiwon for their night date. They had their date at a fancy restaurant where one eats steak in a sort of demi glace sauce. Here N answers Jiwon's question of what his most memorable experience on Jeju had been. He answers truthfully that it was at the carts when he got to know her a little better. He began to realize that he was happy with her. And that's pretty much how the conversation went because they turn off their camera to have a private conversation. (Argh! Seriously, could they even do that?)

Kevin/Eunyoung (the leftovers, sorry, I know that was mean.)
As they mulled over coffee (Kevin with his hot and Eunyoung with her iced), Eunyoung fears that N would turn to Jiwon instead of her. But Kevin tried to be optimistic but reminding her that Jiwon could still turn to Minhyuk instead, which didn't seem as reassuring. Honestly, that would leave N in limbo and I don't know if Eunyoung felt comfortable with that.


Then....the mission comes in. A moonlight piggy back ride!


The couples are respond with surprise and aghast, the women especially. What was really funny was G.Na's reaction.

She didn't want to see the mission video in fear that she would get indigestion. Yup, she was uncomfortable! Jonghun lets her know that it's a piggy back ride and she was all "oh my god, no way!" She tells him that, she tells the producers that. She tells the camera that she did the forehead mission so she will do the carrying. Um...yeah, right. She questions Jonghun whether or not he can even lift her. She says that she's so heavy that she will break him in half. Jonghun assures her, and tells her to trust him. She fires back that she's heavy and that he doesn't look like he works out. Oh hell no...the look that Jonghun gives her was a "are you seriously kidding me? Did you not see my arms?" kind of look. Of course he works out! He's been doing that nonstop since last year! LOL. Well, she wouldn't know that or course, she's not a huge fan, but all the Pri's out there know very well he loves to work out. But, it was ON! Jonghun takes her to a batting cage and has her film him doing all of these strength games like a punching game and whack a mole just to show that he is more than strong enough to carry her. Jonghun can carry me if he wants too! Lol. In the end, G.Na is hesitant, but gets on for the ride. All right!

Jiwon gets piggy backed by N, who seems to be really comfortable carrying her. He made it look so easy as he walked with her through a Christmas lit path in a park.

Yewon is piggy backed by Minhyuk, who out of the three, is the only one that seemed to struggle. I dunno if it was because Yewon kept slipping off, or...yeah...But anyways, he was definitely huffing and puffing at the end. =P


Going on to midnight the idols sit down for individual interviews and are asked if they have decided who they will select. Minhyuk admits that he is indecisive between Yewon and Jiwon.


Midnight comes and it is time for the confession room! Each person picks the person that they would like to confess to, apologize to, or confirm feelings with.They are given 3 minutes and the only rule is that they have to be completely honest with each other.


Up first is Minhyuk and he chooses Jiwon. She's shy and happy that he picked her. (Man the look on Yewon's face was sour!)

He's curious as to why she picked him at the mid-selection. She says that she was deliberating between two people that she crushes on. But one felt more like a younger brother (N) while he looked more like her ideal type. However, he still made her uncomfortable. To this, making it even more uncomfortable, Jiwon admits to him that he was her first choice at mid-selection, but she hadn't spent that much time with him yet. Oh snap! Yewon better watch out! And before they knew it, the 3 minutes were up.

Next was Kevin, and he also wants to say something to Jiwon so she goes back to the confession room. He was completely honest in saying that during the little time they spent together, he enjoyed her company, and he was happy with her. Oh Jiwon, another one? She doesn't say it then and there, but in an interview before midnight she confesses that she is still deciding between N and Minhyuk.

N volunteers to go next and, as Eunyoung looks on with expectant nervousness,  he surprises everyone by picking "G.Na noona". Well alrighty then!

They head into the room and N straightaway tells her the reason why he brought her in there...to find out more about what type of woman Jiwon is. G.Na squeals in excitement and happiness! She was so cute here. And tucks her knees under her begins to dish. She tells him that Jiwon is not a routine person. She can be one way one day and another way the next. Kinda implying that she goes by her feelings. You can never tell if she will go or stay. N is grateful for the insight.

The first girl goes next, and it is Jiwon, who picks Minhyuk to talk to in the room. She wonders how he's feeling and if his feelings had changed. He admits that he's still confused. He had actually wanted to re-film his mid-selection video, but didn't. Not that he didn't want to, but there didn't seem the time to and he was still confused. He admits being attracted to her and that he did like Yewon more initially, but after talking with her that day, he is even more confused than ever. He is awkward around her, but not in a bad way, he kind of liked it.

In the end, Minhyuk will just follow his heart.


(The episode cuts to their free date where they finally got to spend time together.)


G.Na is next for the girls and she picks Jonghun of course. What followed was a very one-sided conversation with G.Na doing all of the talking. Jonghun couldn't even get a word in edge wise. She lets him know that she didn't feel very happy at mid-selections. But she believed that he was mature and sincere and so that's why she stuck with him till the end. She thought that in these situations feelings may change, and although she wasn't sure of his feelings, she wanted to let him know how she felt. (She was so nervous everything just came out in a big jumble.)

Unknown to her though, in his confession earlier with the PD's, Jonghun confessed that he was now torn between Yewon and G.Na. Whoa...

But Jonghun ends up speaking with Yewon in the confession room, and not G.Na. What followed is what I thought was the most frustrating because instead of confessing to her, he unloads all of his frustrations and regrets on her not sticking around long enough to hear his song during the song shuffle. He rants that he played the song twice while they were in the car coming back from their date in the forest and he was hoping she would hear it, remember it was him and come out for him. Poor Yewon, she didn't even know. But that doesn't stop Jonghun because he says he had the whole date planned out for them where they would go and play games. Yewon asks him if he's worried and he honestly says "of course I'm worried...I'm only human." Pure and simple like that.

Yewon on the other hand doesn't want to speak to Jonghun when her turn comes and chose to speak with Minhyuk. She lets him know what's on her mind, and basically wants to know if his heart has changed. Minhyuk admits he is deliberating between two. And she lets him know that there were some things that he has done that she hasn't been too fond of. (At this point, it sounds almost like they are going out and she's being a bit possesive.) She's not happy that his heart had changed, but she's understanding and it looks like his confession has helped her make up her mind.

And the final confession goes to Eunyoung. She brings N into the room to apologize for the way she's been acting. Hey, it's all good in the hood sweetie. N doesn't mind. She didn't look like she did any wrong, she was just being honest. But that doesn't stop her from being sorry.

So..that's the end of episode 5! Pretty much.

I am probably just as confused as everyone else as to who will end up with whom. But I will make my predictions.

Jonghun will pick G.Na, N, Minhyuk and Kevin will pick Jiwon, and Eunyoung and Yewon will be left standing alone.

I may be wrong, but we'll see real soon! New episode is coming up! Enjoy!

Review: The Romantic and the Idol Season 2 Episode 4

On the January 20th broadcast of the Romantic and the Idol, the results of the midway selections were revealed. So, without further ado, here's how it all shook down:

We all know from last week that Jiwon's selection was Min Hyuk. It looked like Yewon was next, but nope, it went to Eunyoung.

Eunyoung's selection....N!
She as so cute in her interview saying that N better pick her or watch out!

G. Na was next and it was no surprise that as the camera zoomed in to the inside of the house right before the midselection viewing that she zeroed in on Jong Hun (sitting right next to Yewon). Jong Hun looked like he was sick to his stomach.

Yewon was the last of the girls to go. She was filming at the aquarium when she zoomed in to reveal that her selection was... Min Hyuk!

The guys were next. Kevin was first and he selected Jiwon! Like huh? By the look on Jiwon's face I don't think she expected it.

N made Eunyoung really happy and chose her. A happy couple finally!

Jong Hun chose his selection and it was no surprise that it was Yewon.

And finally. Min Hyuk finished the pack and chose Yewon. Awkward! But wait! In his interview, Min Hyuk confessed that his choice at the beginning may not be his choice later as he is experiencing some new feelings for someone else.

A little bit of awkwardness all around. The episode cut back and forth to conversations that night where somehow Jong Hun was giving some unasked for advice to Min Hyuk. He seemed to be scolding him about being too nice to more than one person could be misleading. (Honestly, this part was a little confusing for me since there wasn't a good all English translation for it, bummers.)

After a restless night for some, the next day comes and it's time for... Clothing shuffle!

Each of the girls picked out a men's top that they have packed in boxes. The men are supposed to pick the top that best suits their style. It was a little hard to see some of the selections cause the clothing was against the bright light from the outdoors.

Each of the girls picked a shirt they thought would look best on the man they wanted.

Jiwon is still sticking by Min Hyuk. G.Na seems to have given up on Jong Hun and doesn't know who she wants now. Eunyoung is hoping her selection gives the hint to N, and Yewon is actually hoping to spend some time with Jong Hun.

One by one the men come out to meet the girls in the courtyard. Similar in style to the necklace shuffle.

And it boils down to this:
N selected Jiwon's top. And Eunyoung halfheartedly protests. But can't do anything about it. Even Jiwon looks sorry for her.

Kevin comes out and after some double checking on the brand of shirt, goes off with Eunyoung.

Then there were two... Jong Hun comes out first very resignedly with his hands on his hips as if to say, let's see if fate is really that cruel. Lets get this over with. Min Hyuk comes out and they both wait.

Suddenly G.Na stands up and happily whisks Min Hyuk away leaving Jong Hun and Yewon. Jong Hun cannot believe it! Then he recovers as if to day "ok" and slings his arm around Yewon much to her embarrassment.

The rest of the episode was again fuzzy because of the lack of translation, but it showed Jong Hun and Yewon heading off to their date. Jong Hun playfully pokes her cheek. To which Yewon responds with a "ya!" She didn't like him doing that since her face was all puffy from drinking alcohol the night before. They drive off to the forest that Jong Hun told her about earlier to have their date. The episode jumps back and forth between when they came back to the house and while they were in the car driving back in silence. Something happened but as to what I can only guess. Mianhae. I will need to update this post.

Thoughts:
I'm happy that N and Eunyoung are happy. But aren't they not adhering to the premise of the show which was to experience dating others? Lol.

G.Na... Man, I feel bad for both her and Kevin. Maybe they should hook up? I can see her pride is really hurt, but she's such a trooper.

Poor Jiwon. I see a potential heartbreak in the future.

And does it look like some feelings are swaying?? Min Hyuk looks like he's willing to give someone else a chance. And Yewon, although stuck on Min Hyuk at first, wants to see where things will go with Jong Hun. Finally some progress!

Jong Hun... I love his honesty. His face is like a book. You see all the torment he's going through which is what any person in his situation would be feeling. Perfect. I'm happy that he finally got his date with Yewon and I can't wait to see how they all handle their next mission! Of these pd's really we e evil!

Stay tuned, the next episode airs in just a couple of hours!

Review: Romantic and the Idol Season 2 Episode 3

It's necklace shuffle time! The male idols have made necklaces each with a special meaning behind them that the girls would choose. The necklace that each girl chooses will correspond to the male idol they get to spend time with that day.

Necklace #1: Wings Necklace
Creator: Min Hyuk
Meaning: It's similar to the BtoB logo, the group that Min Hyuk belongs to

Necklace #2: Cork Necklace
Creator: Jong Hun
Meaning: He deliberately made a necklace out of cork to signal to Yewon, whom had seen him drinking the night before, that this is his necklace. In hopes she would pick him.

Necklace #3: Star Necklace
Creator: N
Meaning: He wanted a pretty necklace. (Simply put.)

Necklace #4: Cat Necklace
Creator: Kevin
Meaning: Wanted something unique. (Couldn't be any more unique than Jong Hun's!)

The girls are so excited to see who they paired up with. While the guys wait outside in the little yard, nervously.

First to come out....Jiwon!

She smiles brightly and shows her necklace. Jong Hun comes down a step, as if it were his necklace, and then steps back up. Nope, not him! It's N's!

He put the necklace around her neck. The two link hands and go off happily.

Second to come out....Yewon!

Min Hyuk and Jong Hun are very nervous when they see her. But they are both happy to see her. Jong Hun even comments that she came out "very prettily". Can't he just say she's cute??

Yewon fusses around. Confesses that she had picked the same necklace as another and she actually had to rock-paper-scissor to get a necklace. But, she didn't get the one she wanted.

She opens the box toward her first..Hana, dul....set! It's..Min Hyuk's! He can't believe it, she can't believe it either! They are both so amazed that they're on a second date together, and all the while Jong Hun is on the side looking on in jealous bitterness. He's smiling though, so that's good. But he's still terrible at hiding his disappointment. He tells them to hurry up and go already.

Min Hyuk clasps the necklace around Yewon's neck and they go off. When they are gone, Jong Hun slaps his hand against the wall in despair saying that he was too obvious. Poor thing...he tried too hard,

The last two girls, G.Na and Eunyoung, both come out at the same time.

It seems like the spirit had gone out of Jong Hun. He's clearly disappointed. But, it looked like he was still curious as to which girl got his necklace.

G.Na and Eunyoung both open their necklaces at the same time.

G.Na picks Jong Hun and Eunyoung picks Kevin! G.Na is in shock. Jong Hun can't believe it. He smiles charmingly and both guys put their necklaces around the girls and head off. On the way however, Jong Hun asks G.Na how she came about choosing his necklace. And she replies that she can't wear short necklaces, so she chose the longer one. Aww, Jong Hun, just his luck.

Min Hyuk and Yewon
They head off to a cafe, only to find it closed. However, there is a cute little puppy waiting outside. They decide to play a little game with it, see who it goes to when called. Both set off a little way down the road and call the puppy who goes to...Min Hyuk! Yewon huffs and says that it must be a girl. Implying that if it were a guy, he would have gone to her.

Jong Hun and G.Na
They arrive at a restaurant, to I guess eat breakfast?? It's a meal consisting of whole mackeral, rice and several sides (ban chan).

G.Na prods him about if he has an ideal type. To which Jong Hun simply replies that he doesn't. Oh really?? He then tried to evade any questions about his ideal type by putting the focus on G.Na, saying that she doesn't look like she eats well and begins to cutely feed her. She responds that she does indeed eat well. It seems they have an amicable conversation enough. Jong Hun even asks if he should match her style of eating. (G.Na saves the rice for last.) But G.Na doesn't mind having different eating styles. Cute of Jong Hun for asking though.

N and Ji Won
As their first stop they are drinking shakes at a cafe. Not quite sure what they're having, but they both exchange drinks and taste the others. Neither one seems to mind. For me, I would surreptitiously wipe the straw before sipping. No offense. But that's gross to me.

Min Hyuk and Yewon
We catch them being blown around a meadow overlooking the ocean. Yewon stumbles and Min Hyuk catches her in time, and holds her hand tightly. He tells the camera that it feels as if they are flying. I don't think Yewon shared the same sentiment as her hair is blown all over her face.

Jong Hun and G.Na
These two were next seen sitting at cafe taking a breather. G.Na starts the conversation about Min Hyuk and Yewon and how good they look together. As the camera catches a close up of Jong Hun, he is totally silent as he drinks a fruit smoothy/slushy of some sort.

N and Ji Won
They are getting ready to leave the cafe and they are giving their autographs. As Jiwon signs her paper, N exclaims that he recognizes the signature. It turns out that they ride the same taxi and are living in neighboring suburbs! "Daebak!" Jiwon keeps exclaiming. I've never heard it said so many times before in one conversation.

Then, just when you think it's going to be an ordinary day....the mission comes.

Cut to a scene from a drama where a man is picking up a woman (I guess his love interest) off the ground and he holds her close in a back hug. Ah, the popular back hug.

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All the idols seem to take the news fairly well, except for Yewon who squeals and runs away from Min Hyuk in mock horror, laughing.
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Min Hyuk and Yewon
They decide to re-enact the scene they had just seen literally, with Yewon falling and Min Hyuk picking her up and trying to back hug her. Umm...doesn't go quite as planned. They get drenched in the rain and have to stop for awhile before going back out, braving the gusts and finally accomplish the back hug as Yewon clings to Min Hyuk to keep from being blown away.

Jong Hun and G.Na
PD Jong Hun had taken control, planning, plotting, and reviewing the way they should do their back hug. From finding the perfect location, setting up the camera, to staging the perfect shot, all G.Na had to do was sit and wait.

When the scene was all set, Jong Hun and G.Na came walking down a little garden walkway hand in hand, swinging playfully. Then, somehow, they looked each other in the eye, and Jong Hun spun her around (gently) and pulled her into a rather playful back hug, much to G.Na's delight and embarassment.

N and Jiwon
This was probably the most awkward moments. They ended up at a gazebo with Jiwon looking over the ocean waiting for N to back hug her. It took N three, or maybe four tries, to overcome his embarrassment and get it right. Yeah, it was like NG after NG. Jiwon was clearly frustrated, smiling through it, but frustrated. Lol.

Kevin and Eunyoung
Kevin, the guy who has never dated anyone before, made a valiant effort in pulling off a back hug. He and Eunyoung chose to walk along the beach as they did their back hug. But poor Kevin, not knowing how to do it himself, ends up wrapping Eunyoung in almost a strangling back packing back hug. They awkwardly and stiffly walked robot style down the shoreline. It was painful, yet funny to watch. Haha. At one point, I think Eunyoung was carrying him. She said later that it felt like she was being kidnapped. But there was no gun. Looks like Kevin needs to work on his skills a little bit more!

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After their back hug scenes, the couples head back to the house. All except Min Hyuk and Yewon, who had gotten sidetracked and also caught in the rain.

They return an hour later, only to be greeted by Jong Hun who chastises them for being so late. You just know he was jealous as heck!

Cut to the next scene with Min Hyuk and N playing around in the house. Both are around the same age, so I guess it was natural that they liked to goof off together. N had even commented that he really liked Min Hyuk, which translated weirdly into the type of like when you like a person of the opposite sex. Hehe.

And finally, it is the scene that has been on the previews for the past couple of weeks. The bus scene!

Each guy picks a seat on the bus. The girls are then led on to the bus and they have to choose which of the four seats they would like to sit next to. Wherever they end up is who they would sit next to the whole ride to their next stop, the aquarium. There is where they will make the mid-selections.

The girls are all seated first, then one by one the guys come aboard. How did they couple up?

Jong Hun and Eunyoung
Min Hyuk and Jiwon (Yay, they both got a chance to be together! They both wanted to.)
N and Yewon
Kevin and G.Na

A true first time pairing for everyone!

Nothing is really said about the conversations on the bus, which I thought was strange. They cut away pretty quickly to the aquarium.

And here is where more drama begins! It's a free day for the idols and they can basically go wherever they want with whomever they want to. And Jong Hun immediately starts to gravitate towards Yewon and begins to film her playfully on his camcorder.

So does Min Hyuk. Who forgets that he came in with Jiwon and is now holding her bag, drifts to Yewon. Jong Hun quickly shoos him away by reminding him that he came in with Jiwon. And he snaps out of it and moves away.

While they are at the aquarium, Jong Hun sticks with Yewon and they look at the displays together. Eunyoung and G.Na seemed to have separated from their bus partners and are on their own. While Min Hyuk and Jiwon are no where to be seen.

G.Na tried to strike up conversation with Jong Hun again at one of the exhibits. He politely replies to her, but turns his attention again to Yewon. She is a little miffed and moves away, and mopes on her own.

When they return to the house they gather together and find out that they will be watching the mid-selections together! Oo, the torture! The embarrassment!

All wait in anticipation to see who goes first and the PD announces that its the girls. The fellas hoot and holler in excitement.

First up is Jiwon. And as she hides her face in embarrassment, her interview is shown along with a clip of her mid-selection which is....

None other than Min Hyuk! Finally, he knows that one of the girls he wanted to get to know feels the same in return. So sweet!

Next is Yewon, who murmurs that she felt like throwing up from all the nervousness and embarrassment at having her selection seen by others.

But who she selected we won't know until Sunday! Cause that's where the episode ends. Argh!

Thoughts:
Things are getting more interesting. Both Kevin and Min Hyuk confessed to hoping they could spend more time with Jiwon. And Jiwon obviously wanted to spend time with Min Hyuk.

Jong Hun is frustrated that he hasn't been able to spend time with Yewon. I know people are hating on him right now, but he's just being honest. We all know that when we have our eye on someone, it's hard to look at anyone else. It's just the way emotions work. I think he's just trying too hard. He needs to just go with the flow. Get to know the other girls. I'm not saying he ends up with G.Na, but I would hope he would give the other girls a chance. I believe that was the goal on this show, wasn't it? Get to know different people and see if there's a connection, right?

Jong Hun thinks that Yewon doesn't get that he likes her, but lo and behold, we find out she knows. Huh, a pretty smart cookie there. She's got a good poker face too. Cause the way she treated Jong Hun at the aquarium seemed more like brother and sister.

Min Hyuk and Jiwon or Min Hyuk and Yewon. Whomever he chooses, he looks good with either one. It'll be interesting to see who he chooses in the end. I'm just happy that Min Hyuk finally got some time with Jiwon.

And speaking of Jiwon, how many times can one say "daebak" in a conversation? Geez. She and G.Na were going with that word like crazy.

And G.Na... Sigh... I feel kinda bad for her. But like I said about giving other people a chance, I hope she does too. She's only been on dates with Jong Hun, so she obviously felt uncomfortable around another guy. I hope she bounces back. She's a lot funnier when she's not moping.

Kevin is adorable. He hasn't had the chance to date, so this whole experience is really the first time for everything with him. I can't wait to see who he picked.

N and Eunyoung... Man, these two really don't have a lot going on so far. Hopefully they get their moment in the spotlight on the show soon.

Can't wait for Sunday!

Review: The Romantic and the Idol 2 Episode 2 pt. 2

I really gotta find another way to label these episode posts. It's getting to be a long paragraph.

Anyways, I'm sorry for not continuing my review sooner. I was writing part 1 and nothing was making sense in my head that late at night. Then I got bogged down with work and headaches. Mianhaeyo...

Picking up where I left off... The couples were presented with a mission: to hold hands for at least 1 minute!

Those darn pd's are e.v.i.l.

All of the couples thought it was way too soon to be holding hands. Talk about moving to 2nd base!

Couple #1: Jong Hun and G.Na
As they both read the mission, Jong Hun started to react with surprise while G.Na exclaimed how could they ask them to do this when they only just met?

They sit and talk for a little while. Both uncomfortable. They break the silence when G.Na notices that Jong Hun is wearing the exact same scarf that she has. Same clothing likes seem to break the ice as they break out into laughter. I love that Jong Hun is all possessive as he proclaims that the scarf is his.

After a while they get up and start heading to a cafe. G.Na asks why he keeps looking at the card. Caught in the act, he confesses that he's trying to find a natural way of going about holding her hand. (Aww! How sweet!)

Finally, after what seems like ages, he tell her "Noona, let's not be like this. Let's just hold hands until we reach the cafe over there." And he grabs her hand. Lol, I had to laugh at G.Na's reaction because she initially looked so surprised, and then her face broke out into such a big happy smile. And Jonh Hun took the embarrassment out of it a little as he held her their hands up multiple times as if to say "see? We're holding hands now. We did it!"

Couple #2: Min Hyuk and Yewon
At the cafe Min Hyuk opens up the mission envelope and shows it to Yewon who tries to look embarrassed but really not pulling it off well. It's obvious that she doesn't mind holding hands at all. And he doesn't seem to disturbed by it either.

But as they move outside the cafe, both turn so shy! As they figure out how they do it, Yewon nervously tries to warm up her hand by putting her fingers against her bare neck and blowing warm air on them. Min Hyuk patiently waits for her on the side. When she's finally ready they both hold out their hands... Hands clenched into fists! Wth! Did they really want to hold hands or didn't they? Min Hyuk finally takes her hand after some hemming and hawing. And another couple successfully completes their mission.

Couple #3: Kevin and Jiwon
This couple seemed the easiest of the group to hook up hand in hand. From what I recall, and correct me if I'm wrong, but they took the news with minimal embarrassment.

Couple #4: N and Eunyoung
After a restless night, Eunyoung finally meets her "man" at the art museum. As they sit outside of the museum, the pd's with them present the task. Again the usual embarrassment. (Koreans really aren't the types to move forward so fast in public. And I'm sure that they are still conscious of their fans and what they will think when they see the show.) Finally N takes her hand and they walk along happily. In a voiceover we hear Eunyoung's voice say for her manager or CEO to look at her. She is experiencing how to date and is happy.

Later all the couples meet at the airport for their flight to Jeju-do (Jeju Island). Min Hyuk and Yewon are the last to arrive. As they gather, the cut to Jong Hun.

The producers ask him out of all the celebrities that he would like to come to the show, which one would it be. And he confesses "Yewon." Hmm...

Cut back to the airport as the couples see Min Hyuk and Yewon arrive. And you can see Jong Hun perk up considerably. Lol! It was like, oh G.Na is here I should pay attention to her. And when Yewon arrives, it was "oo, hello.." Lol. (Fan girl claws must have come out at this point.)

Min Hyuk and Yewon introduce themselves and it cuts to Jong Hun again. He says that he was really surprised to see her. And he goes on to say truthfully that he really likes the way she looks. She looks like a puppy that you would want to take care of. (A puppy? Really? That's the best he can come up with? Given the fact I know he loves dogs and cats, I shouldn't even be surprised.)

Cut to the plane ride to Jeju. Jong Hun and G.Na are looking forward to their destination. Especially Jong Hun who mentions that he's already wondering who they will be paired up on the second date...In front of G.Na who takes some offense. I mean really, who wouldn't? Someone forgot the first date hasn't finished yet... Jong Hunnie needed to be more careful.

Min Hyuk is trying to stay awake, but Yewon encourages him to rest. A little bit later, he's sleeping peacefully while drooling on his shirt. So Yewon takes care of him by putting a few napkins under his cheek. Aww...

Soon they land in Jeju and go get a few essentials they will need for their almost week stay.

A few of them pick up some vegetables, eggs, fruits. I'm not sure who it was, maybe Eunyoung? Who asks if they like jjapaguri. Apparently it's something that has meat in it cause she claims its good and she boils the meat really well. (Update: did a little digging and found out that this is another name for spaghetti noodles and the same sauce they use in jjajangmyun calle jjang sauce) Someone else mentions wanting to eat jjajangmyun (black bean noodles) and I wanted to exclaim back, "me too! Cook some for me!" (Seriously, that is one delicious dish.)

Min Hyuk carries the box of groceries out and lo and behold, the box breaks! Some of the eggs are broken, but thankfully that's the extent of the damage.

Off they drive off to the house and it is a beautiful blue and white one level house. Kinda reminds me of the Mediterranean style homes. They begin to put away the groceries and get settled for the night. But... Not before they do their daily task of texting their feelings to the pd's. Tonight, they are to text the person that they would like to get to know better.

Through several cutaway interviews and phone screen captures we find out the following:

G.Na= Jong Hun ( she's girlish when she giggles "oetokke?" Or what to do?)

Jong Hun= He's torn between his first date G.Na who is someone he can be comfortable with and Yewon who is young and friendly.

Min Hyuk= Yewon

Yewon= Min Hyuk. Although she does admit that there's something about Jong Hun's face that makes her heart melt. (That's why he's an ulzzang.)

Kevin= Jiwon

Jiwon= Kevin

N= Eunyoung

Eunyoung= N

It looks like there's a little love triangle forming already and it's already been one date! It'll be interesting to see how determined the guys are in order to keep the interest of the ladies. Will there be any jealousy? Hmmm...

Some last thoughts, why do they offer clenched fists instead of open palms first when they want to hold hands? It was as if they didn't want to hold hands at all. And, don't hate me, but why would someone like Jong Hun want to be with someone that can't stop squealing and laughing? What he calls cute, to me became irritating. Mildly irritating.

Anyone know how it's gonna be mixed up? Are they going to be dating other people? Or will they have to stick with the same person? What other tasks are they going to be asked to do? Will any of them be sent home. And who will be the couple at the end?

The next episode airs in less than a day, tonight actually in Korea, it's certainly got my attention and I will be looking forward to it!

Hope all of you will be able to watch it, too!

Ka jja! Hwaiting!

Review: The Romantic and the Idol Season 2 Episode 2 Pt.1

Quick note: Don't forget this is part 1 of 2!

Ok, so the first episode wasn't the first episode as I had thought. It was actually a preview of what was to come. (Thank you to the reader that pointed that out!) Just a thought, but instead of drawing it out, wouldn't it have been better to do a 2 hour special or something like that? And I have to say that watching it with subtitles is so much better than just trying to read body language. Although I must say that it's just as fun because what you do with your hands, arms, legs etc. really do speak volumes.

As the episode opens, we see the 8 "romantic" idols again. Some give a description of their ideal  type, and some simply wish to go about the whole situation normally, with an openness if you will.

Couple 1 at the Namsan staircase is...FT Island's Jong Hun and G.Na! (squeal!) How in the world did these two hot people get paired up on the first date? Ok, I know I know. But really, that was what popped into my head.

Both are very nervous. G.Na begins to sing a song and Jong Hun nervously admits that it feels like he is confessing instead of going on a first date.

G.Na is waiting for her man at the bottom of the staircase, unable to see Jong Hun holding a bouquet of roses at the very top. It's not only until he begins to descend and she begins to ascend do they finally recognize each other and he presents her with the bouquet. It's a slightly awkward moment. But both laugh and seem to be happy to see the other. G.Na especially seems very youthful (she's the eldest of the four women) while giggling like a teenager. She exclaims that this is the first time she's received flowers. Aww really? And Jong Hun says, "me too". Ok, say what? There's got to be something wrong with the translation there. I find it hard to believe he's never given a girl flowers. Yup, ok buddy. They descend the stairs together and leave in the car. (off camera)

Couple 2 at the pedestrian overpass is...Jewelry's Yewon and BtoB's Minhyuk!
Yewon is seen in the car waiting for Minhyuk's arrival and she is freaking out. Constantly squealing and giggling like a little school girl. At times it was a bit much for me to watch. But with all her exclamations of "I think I need to use the bathroom" and "What should I do?" is funny. I couldn't help but smile. Especially whn she wonders if any of the men are any she knew. She's said that she would hope to see Minhyuk come on the show. Haha.

As Minhyuk arrives and waits at the overpass, Yewon slowly walks over there. In the dark mind you. What happened to the sunset?? She's cute as she kind of tip toes to the top of the stairs and peeks around the corner. As she slowly walks towards him she is in shock that it is indeed Minhyuk! She sort of collapses in shock and squeals and bursts into laughter. They had just seen each other at Inkigayo a couple of hours earlier (along with FT Island, haha). He's startled at first cause she causes such a scene, but he recovers quickly and presents her with roses. She scolds him for not saying anything and he jokes back, why didn't she? We see cuts of Yewon's interview where she confesses she would like to see Minhyuk and when it cuts back to reality, Yewon is asking the production crew if they can edit her interview as she remembers what she had said. LOL, too late girl.

They go off to a cafe where they sit down and get to know each other. It's obvious that Yewon is counting her blessings. She can't believe her luck. Minhyuk's confession cuts in and out as we see that he admits to wanting to see someone like Yewon from Jewelry. He mentions that he had seen her at the recording earlier that day and she seemed cold, but sitting in front of her, face to face, he see's that she has a sweet personality. As they talk to each other he even mentions this part of his interview and tells her that he now see's that she's capable of being "sexy" much to her embarrassment. Aww, how cute.

Couple 3 that chose to meet in a crowd are...ZE:A's Kevin and SPICA's Jiwon!
Kevin's friends (members?) meet with him earlier and give him some love advice. Although I don't know how helpful one of them is as his advice is that it's "fate". Umm...yea. Ok...Kevin is dressed in a long trench coat with a briefcase making him look normal and oddly businesslike.

Kevin makes his way through the crowd that night, as does Jiwon, and they finally come face to face. Both seem happy to see each other. And Kevin presents her with his little handful of roses. Both begin to walk together.

And finally...Couple 4 is Vixx's N and Two-X's Eunyoung (the youngest of the group) meeting in the museum.

Eunyoung has hardly had any sleep and N is nervous walking around the museum. Eunyoung passes by a couple of paintings where the art is a complete disarray and she points out that the paintings are like her heart and mind at that point.

She wanders around the museum looking for another camera. (Smart girl!) Finally finding N in one of the galleries. She laughs in relief? and walks toward him accepting the roses. (Bouquets of roses all around!)

She claims that she is happy that it's N, but I dunno. The smile doesn't quite reach the eyes.

And as we think that these dates would just progress normally, the producers decide to throw the couple's closer together by...handing all of them a mission.

They have to hold hands for at least 1 minute....(da da dum....)

If you aren't familiar with Korean culture, they are not the most public displays of affection culture. Hand holding is serious. I was on edge wondering how the couples would handle it.

Ok, sorry to leave you hanging, but I can't finish this tonight. I need to work in the morning. I'll try to finish sometime during the day. (Wow, I didn't realize I wrote so much)

Jeongmal mianhyeyo...

UPDATED 1/12/13
P.S. Don't forget to check the 2nd part to this review!

Review: The Romantic and the Idol Season 2 Episode 1

First off, I wanna say, that as far as first episodes go this was kind of a let down. But only because I was actually expecting them to already go on their dates. Sorry, I guess reality TV in America spoils me. Ours tend to move really fast. They'll be kissing and hugging within the half hour, haha.

The show, overall, is a cute concept. Pair eight stars up and see if any feelings develop. See if they can learn how to love.

Five days before heading off to their show's residence on Jeju Island, the seven people meet the production crew for some preliminary interviews and preview what they will be getting themselves into. (Singer G.Na was promoting in the U.S. so they had to proceed without her.)

Yewon, Jiwon and Eunyoung each enter and give their interviews and ideal male types. Some actually have a few ideal types instead of one, I was pretty surprised. But all seemed to want a man that would be a man and take care of them. Not surprisingly, they all named stars. Yewon is so cute with her shy honesty. She seems to be the most embarrassed out of the girls.

Later in the day, the men come in to give their own interviews and also get a taste of what's to come.

I'm sorry, I only remember Choi Jong Hun, haha. The rest weren't familiar to me.

His interview was interesting. He confessed that he had dated two celebrities since his debut with FT Island. (Hmm, FNC does a pretty good job of hiding the relationships.) The producer asks him what would he do if his fans don't approve of the relationship (when he falls in love)? And he responds honestly that he wouldn't care. Whoa! Say what? Now I know that all the stuff about taking into consideration the fans feelings are all fed by the company. Haha! The beauty of a reality show with no outside interference!

I would like to say "well said" to Jong Hun. He has every right to be in charge of his own love life. If destiny finds him a soulmate, he should be able to be totally honest about it and if fans aren't ok with it, well that's tough. He can't please everyone. And following his heart will make him happy. The fans will just have to accept it. Yeah, ok, we know this will only happen in a perfect world. So in reality, he probably shouldn't have said that, and should still be cautious when he does reveal his feelings. I had to smile when he said his ideals were the two girls from Answer Me 1997. It's a popular drama right now. And why wouldn't he fall in love with two fan girls?? Jong Hun-sshi, are you hinting at what you really like or is it still a part of your subconscious? Lol.

The rest of the show goes by pretty quickly as the rest of the men come in. Btw, I just remembered that one of the other guys wanted a girl who could play an instrument, like the violin. Haha! Yeah, he wants a talented girl! Instrumentalists! Hwaiting!

Then the fun part began. Each group had been shown four meeting scenarios from popular movies: meeting on a bridge at sunset, meeting in a crowd of people, showing up at the Namsam staircase (I need to visit this place one day since it was the last scene from my first K-Drama, My Lovely Samsoon. Omg Hyun Bin in that drama!) or meeting up at an art gallery. Just my take on these, but how very awkward. Those were the movies, why couldn't they just pick something simple like meeting at a party or happening to bump into each other at the Supermarket?

I couldn't help but laugh at the girls. They looked so embarrassed! And so nervous! I swear I could see some of them blush in excitement or fear. A compete and total opposite from the guys who remained calm during the whole thing. I think they were already planning on which scenario they wanted to do and how they wanted to present themselves.

And that's pretty much where it ended. Hmph. No selection, no date, that's it.

Instead they show clips of the dates and the home that the idols would be staying in. They showed the guys cooking. (Hey now ladies, those men are keepers if the food tastes good!) Followed by a shot of them together at the dinner table, talking, laughing and eating.

And there it ended.

Promising, very promising. I can't wait to hear what else comes out of Jong Hun's mouth. He usually doesn't talk much in interviews with the group members. But it looks like he has a lot to say. Since the network forbade managers and company to interfere, it's all uncensored.

That's it! Spill your feelings out! It's always great fodder for reality television. I can't wait to see the next episode.

If you want to see the episode, there are some on YouTube. But not all have subs. Look carefully. Sorry, I won't be posting vids until after the episodes are over. I don't want to take the chance that they will be flagged and removed. But if you look for subbing groups, you will have better luck.

Let's keep eyes out for how these couples develop! Who would your ideal idol be? Which would you want to date?

The Romantic and the Idol

The second season for this surprisingly popular South Korean show begins tonight on December 30th.

Participating in this season are: G.NA, Jewelry's Yewon, SPICA's Jiwon, and TWO X's Eunyoung, F.T. Island's Jong Hoon, BtoB's Minhyuk, VIXX' N and ZE:A's Kevin.

To drum up some anticipation for the broadcast, Jong Hoon went to tweeting on his account:

"@FtGtJH: 30일 더로맨틱 방송이에요 :) tvn 에서 봅시다 !"
(More romance on the 30th on TvN) *sorry, literal translation

It'll be interesting to see how the 2nd season goes. I can't speak for the past season (since I didn't watch it) or for any of the other idols, but I did watch Jong Hoon's Mnet Scandal appearance and he was a hands on type of person. He didn't initiate most of the skinship, but he allowed it (holding hands, kissing on lips) which was, well, scandalous. I wonder how his fans will or will not take it. Haha. I bet a bunch are going to go "Nooooo!" If he kisses someone.

Honestly, I didn't know Korea had reality shows like this. From all the Koreans I've talked to, shows are usually clean and family friendly. But the concept of this show is to bring these idols together in a secluded area, throw them together in dating situations and see if any pairs match up. Very, very American. It sounds like "Big Brother" meets "Real World".

It'll also be interesting to see how idols date. It's hard for them to date with their busy schedules, and some haven't even been in serious relationships. I wonder if these guys even know how to go beyond all the cheesiness and be able to act themselves?

Which brings me to my one complaint about this show. How often do idols date each other? Is this even really realistic? I think I liked Mnet Scandal more since it paired stars with supposedly regular people. This whole show sounds like practice.

I only hope that Jong Hoon doesn't make his date wait like he did before.

To all the idols, hwaiting! Let's see how they do!

For Jong Hoon's Mnet Scandal episodes, start by going to this link:

http://youtu.be/lJWY_PmYLqU
(Found on http://www.allkoreanentertainment.blogspot.com/ and sub by Happy Island Subs)

Sources: Allkpop and Choi Jong Hoon's Twitter

Comment or give feedback, please!

Video: FT Island's Year in Review by Mnet

FT Island Bundled Up (Don't own this pic)

Thought I'd share this with all my fellow FT Island fans.

It's a year in review that Mnet had thrown together. It's funny, I'm watching the video as I type and all I see is their most recent single, "I Wish". Where's everything else? Like their songs "Severely", "Top Secret", "Stay"?

Despite that, there are some funny clips of the guys in this video.

Check it out here.

http://mama.interest.me/player/twitter_player?id=151078

Happy Thanksgiving from the Fab Filorean!

As the United States gives thanks this day, I am grateful to all of you that have come back and read my posts and also thankful to all of you that have stopped by for the first time. 

You all have given me a reason to continue this creative outlet of mine. I'm so happy to know that there are others out there that share in my enthusiasm for Korean culture, dramas and music. (Lately, it's been mostly FT Island, sorry!) I hope you all have a wonderful holiday season, God bless you!

And, of course to continue on my FT Island kick, here's a photo that was tweeted today by their leader, Choi Jong Hun. I think it's an old pic from earlier this year, but oh well!

FT Island Leader Choi Jong Hun
(credit to it's rightful owners)

Commentary: Why FT Island?

If you've read my other posts, you will notice that I write a lot about FT Island. I am an unofficial Primadonna. Yep, I said it. They are one of my favorite artists right now.

Honestly, I used to be a die hard SS501 fan, and a big fan of Kim Hyun Joong. But when they "disbanded", it just wasn't the same anymore. They will always sound better as one to me, none of this solo activities crunk.

So...I started searching for another K-Pop group. Which was kind of hard to do since most of them danced to techno or cutesy music. Anyways, I was at home, sick, re-watching "You're Beautiful" starring the one and only Jang Geun Suk and Park Shin Hye. I was thinking of what a shame it was that Go Minam ended up with Hwang Tae Kyung instead of Shin Woo when the scene, where a karaoke singing Go Minam gets soaked up on stage, comes on.

To save a bit of face, one of the A.N.Jell members, Jeremy (Lee Hong Ki), takes over on "Rudolph the Red Nosed Reindeer" and goes to stand next to Minam onstage. She is joined by Shin Woo (Jung Yong Hwa) and Tae Kyung (Jang Geun Suk) who wraps a tablecloth around the shivering Minam. Btw, that moment where he rips the tablecloth off the table is so gallant.

It got me thinking, Shin Woo and Jeremy actually sing pretty well. I wondered if they were multi-talented as well. So I did a bit of Google searching on them and found out that they were members of two groups (CNBlue and FT Island) under FNC Entertainment. Interesting that two FNC artists were acting together in the same drama.

This led me to a couple of their videos. CNBlue's "Oettoriya" (Loner) and "Jidokhagae" (Severely) by FT Island.

CNBlue's M/V of "Oettoriya" was a bit confusing for me, I don't think I got the concept as clearly as I would have liked. But the song was very catchy.

FT Island's "Severely" was a different story. Let me back up a bit and just say that the first thing I saw on YouTube for this M/V was a comment from a viewer saying "Noooo! Hong Ki!" or something to that effect. I thought, what the heck is this about?

I watched the video and I understood. Right from the beginning, that scratched in guitar intro had me hooked. The music was strong and powerful and the music video was so heart wrenching. I got immediately that Hong Ki's character was trying to go back in time to change things. (I wish he wouldv'e tried harder, but that's all moot now.)

I thought to myself, this is what I have been looking for. I was sick and tired of hearing the same sort of country and R & B and Pop music in American pop culture. Same songs that the stations feed us over and over and over. Blech!

Finally, there was a K-Pop group I could relate to. None of this dance club upbeat techno crunk. Their sound was unique, raw, real and downright emotional. I connected with their music on this level and also as a musician. They looked like they really loved what they did, that's something that's rarely seen in American music nowadays so I really appreciated that.

From there, I wanted to know everything about Lee Hong Ki, Choi Jong Hun, Lee Jae Jin, Choi Min Hwan and Song Seung Hyun. I read articles, I watched videos, listened to their music, watched them on variety shows. There was loads of information on the internet about them and they were hilarious! Just as I imagined a band of brothers would be. (Now granted, CNBlue was also all over the internet, but they weren't promoting as much at that time.)

All this while being sick in bed for a few weeks. Such a short time to convert, haha. In a way, I hated being sick, but in a way, I am glad I was. I found hope in music again.

FT Island, kahmsahabnida!

FT Island To Release New Japanese Album

South Korean K-PopRock group, FT Island, will be releasing a new Japanese album towards the end of November.

About a month ago, it was tweeted by lead vocalist Lee Hong Ki that he had called all the members over to do a bit of work. In the tweeted message was a photo of Song Seung Hyun and Lee Jae Jin in front of a computer hard at work at composing. Could this new album be the result of their efforts? Possibly so.

The single, "Polar Star" will be released on November 28th along with the full album. "Polar Star" is the group's 9th album in Japan.

Included on the album is a song composed by bassist, Lee Jae Jin called, "Fallin' For You" which he describes as a song about a man wanting to be close to his love. Another song, "Beautiful World" is a song composed by leader, Choi Jong Hun, who describes his song being about a man looking at his beautiful love.

I think the complexities and hardships of love work very well for these two. Isn't it quite a coincidence that they release these two songs about love after they have experienced break-ups of their own within the last year?

Here's the teaser again with the article that was released through Yahoo. I do not own the video, the credit goes to FT Island and Warner Music Japan.

FT Island's Jong Hun Cheers on SAT Takers

Although it doesn't apply to me anymore, I still think it's sweet when idols/stars/actors cheer on their fans as they prepare to take their SAT's.

It was cool to see that they even take SAT's in other countries. Yea, I've been pretty sheltered and I didn't know this till, like, this week. Lol.

I've been there, studying for the moment that will either make or break your life. (Sorry, a little dramatic.) I wish I had a sweet guy cheering me on to do my best. Like FT Island's Choi Jong Hun. =)

Choi Jong Hun tweets selca with a supportive message to fans taking SAT's. Source Choi Jong Hun's Twitter

Now, I dunno if I would be able to concentrate after seeing this. But I would certainly be smiling. =D

FT Island Sentimental at Fan Event

I wanted to share this article that I saw tonight on AllKpop.

It was about, one of my fave's, FT Island, at their latest fan signing event at Youngdeungpo Times Square.

Photo Credit: AllKpop via Naver and Chosun News

What immediately caught my eye was how happy the fellas looked. They were smiling genuinely, it seems, and they were even acting a little bit silly. (Hong Ki was wearing a black and purple polka dotted bat head band. Perfect for Halloween!) Indeed they looked like they were having a good time.

They later commented: “It was fun and great to meet that many fans up close. We are so thankful to our fans who always worry about us and give us so much love“.

So sweet... I'm sure their Korean fans in attendance were very happy.

Source: AllKpop