Categories
Show Review

HallyuPopFest 2019 Rounds up its Exciting K-Pop Packed Weekend

Held over the past weekend (May 25-26) to much fanfare, HallyuPopFest returned to stage at the Singapore Indoor Stadium, 8 months after their inaugural festival in Singapore last year. This year’s 2-day festival saw headlining acts such as Super Junior, WINNER, MONSTA X and NU’EST, as well as a fan-favourite lineup which included Hyolyn, KARD, PENTAGON, (G)I-DLE, and more.

First time in Singapore, up-and-coming girl group GWSN made their way to the red carpet right after the afternoon showcase on the first day of the festival. As newcomers in the K-pop scene, GWSN names Girls’ Generation as their role models, and even did a dance cover of TWICE’s ‘TT’ upon request, inviting cheers from all corners.

The 7-member girl group also conveyed their wishes to take on a powerful and energetic concept for their comeback in the near future.

Back in town for HallyuPopFest, this trip marked A.C.E’s third visit here and the members mentioned Sentosa and Merlion Park as the places they hope to visit if they could have a free day to explore Singapore.

Having travelled around the world to meet their international fans, A.C.E describes music as a universal language for everyone, and added that they were able to feel the energy and communication with their fans through music even though they may not speak the same language together.

The first act to kick off Day 1’s evening concert, N.Flying sent fans into a fit of roaring cheers when they performed their hit tracks “HOW R U TODAY”, “Rooftop” and more.

At the red carpet, the group recounted their reactions when they first found out that “Rooftop” charted at the top on the music charts. Describing it as a surreal feeling that they’re never experienced before, the members shared that they could still feel the nervousness and excitement from that very day, as they thanked fans once more for their love and support.

Dressed in bright red for the red carpet and concert, Oh My Girl sent hearts aflutter with several of their hit numbers that evening, including “Secret Garden”, “Liar Liar”, and their latest comeback track “The Fifth Season”.

Having tried various genres and concepts for their first full length album in 4 years, Oh My Girl revealed that they hope to take on a retro and powerful concept for their next comeback, and would love to release an upbeat and lively song to welcome the approaching summer.

One of the most anticipated groups for HallyuPopFest, NU’EST returned to Singapore as a full force and the wait for them was definitely worthwhile as fans were treated to hot performances at the concert, such as “Hello”, “Segno”, “Bet Bet”, and more.

On what fans will be able to look forward this year, Baekho answered that it has been awhile since the 5 of them gathered as a group, so instead of rushing things out, he hoped that fans could anticipate and watch them grow further. Minhyun added that being able to show their stages and performances is their definition of happiness, and they were glad that they could visit Singapore and perform for the fans.

In related news, NU’EST will be returning very soon for their own concert this August and this will mark their first full-scale concert in Singapore since their last L.O.Λ.E Tour in 2013.

 

The vocal queen of all genres, Hyolyn treated fans to a power-packed setlist at the concert, as she dominated the stage with all-time hits “Dally”, “SEE SEA”, “Paradise”, as well as a special medley of SISTAR songs.

At the red carpet event, the female powerhouse declared her love for Singaporean food, naming Chilli crabs as one of the must-have dishes whenever she makes a visit here. Hyolyn also named American rapper and songwriter Cardi B as one of the artistes whom she looks up to and hopes to collaborate with if there’s an opportunity in the future.

Finally, the headlining act of Day 1’s evening concert, WINNER got everyone in the crowd cheering and screaming at their loudest the moment they walked the red carpet. Back in town 6 months after their solo concert, members talked about having fond memories of Singapore whenever they visit.

WINNER also shared their source of inspiration that goes into their album making, stating “Whenever we produce music, we think of our fans and us singing out loud to it. That’s how our music came about.”

It was a complete party later at the concert as WINNER drove fans into a new high with their hit songs one after another. From their debut song “Empty” to their classic and latest hits “AH YEAH”, “MILLIONS”, “REALLY REALLY” and more, they ended the concert on an incredibly explosive note, leaving fans screaming for more.

The second day of HallyuPopFest began with the afternoon showcase, which was led by up-and-coming artistes TREI, Kanto, and VERIVERY.

3-member idol group TREI, was the first group to make an entrance on the red carpet, as the trio greeted fans in their biggest enthusiasm and talked about their desire to return to Singapore for a concert in the near future.

As self-producing idols, TREI shared that their fans were the source of inspiration when they make music. Even though it has only been 3 months since their debut, they would like to do a collaboration with other artistes in the future when the opportunity arises.

Rapper Kanto was next on the red carpet, drawing attention as he walked in style and made his way to the stage in all smiles.

On his upcoming plans for the second half of the year, Kanto revealed that he’d be busy with performances all throughout summer. He also added that he had been preparing for a collaboration track by himself, naming NU’EST Baekho and A.C.E Chan as the ones he hopes to join forces and work with.

Shortly after, VERIVERY took the red carpet stage and greeted fans in all corners with their trademark introduction. The 7-member boy group from Jellyfish Entertainment shared that their goal for 2019 is to receive a rookie award at the end of the year, as they promised to work harder to show a better and improved version of themselves for the next album.

The opening act of Day 2’s evening concert, (G)I-DLE made an appearance at the red carpet and shared their excitement of being in Singapore to perform for the fans.

Prior to their debut, they have visited Singapore for an album jacket photoshoot, where member Yuqi recalled about the bungee jumping experience they had at Sentosa, exclaiming that it was one of their fondest memories in Singapore.

The girl crush group also discussed on what they hope to achieve by the end of this year, which is to top the music charts with their new album.

During the concert, they showed off their charismatic charms with powerful songs like “MAZE”, “HANN”, and their highly well-received debut track, “LATATA”.

Another fan-favourite act of HallyuPopFest, KARD candidly talked about switching parts of their song with another member and as usual, fans were able to see their great chemistry with one another even when they’re not performing.

J.Seph picked Jiwoo’s part, explaining that she gives off a great impact and a lot of energy when she sings. On the other hand, Jiwoo chose B.M and said she don’t mind trying out his rap part someday.

Although they do not have any fixed plans next, KARD hopes to greet fans with another album as soon as they can, and in the meantime, they will be working hard towards achieving this goal.

Also the only co-ed group to grace the festival, KARD pumped up the crowd at the concert with their incredible energy and addictive tracks such as “Oh NaNa”, “Don’t Recall” and “Bomb Bomb”, which had everyone singing along!

Set to return this November for their very own World Tour, PENTAGON revealed that Singapore will be their last destination for the tour and they are looking forward to deliver hot performances for the fans.

When asked which member is most different on and off stage, a majority of the members picked Wooseok, to which Hongseok explained, “Off the stage, he (Wooseok) is a really fun guy with a sense of humour, but on stage he’s so serious and unfunny.”

PENTAGON was the third artiste to take the stage during the concert and they treated fans to a setlist that comprised songs of a variety of genres. These included the feel-good “Shine”, the mellow and sweet “Violet”, as well as the bold and slightly retro “Critical Beauty”.

MONSTA X played it cool wherever they go. Treating fans to their best hits that evening, the group performed high energy tracks that were representative of their unique and strong style, such as “DRAMARAMA”, “Alligator” and “From Zero”. During their performance of “Need U’, they even went around the stadium to get up-close with fans!

Even though Jooheon and I.M filmed their mixtape MV Be My Friendin Singapore previously, the group hoped to shoot another one here again if they could travel overseas for an MV shoot. And if there’s an opportunity, Shownu added that he would love to try a variety of Singaporean dishes for his Mukbang broadcast in the future.

The Kings of K-Pop, Super Junior was the finale act of the night and they truly ended HallyuPopFest 2019 with a bang as they performed classic hits such as “Sorry Sorry”, “Bonamana”, “One More Chance”, “Miracle”, and even surprised fans with special solo stages by Yesung and Ryeowook, as well as a unit stage by Super Junior D&E!

When asked what’s their secret to maintaining a great teamwork, Leeteuk says, “There’s no particular secret. We’ve spent a long time together, so we think of ourselves and our fans as a family.”

Adding that Kyuhyun has officially completed his mandatory military service, they are looking forward to release a new album together as a team in the later half of this year.

For the concertgoers who attended the festival and were treated to a K-pop packed weekend, HallyuPopFest 2019 definitely wrapped up on a memorable note.

 


(Photos: Nicole & Meixian)

Categories
K-Pop

Sam Kim To Perform at His Upcoming Concert in Singapore

Korean-American singer-songwriter and guitarist Sam Kim will be performing with a full band at his upcoming concert in Singapore on July 26.

The runner up of K-POP STAR 3, Sam Kim has garnered over 35 million views to date on YouTube for his MVs which include “It’s You” (ft. Zico), “Make Up” (ft. Crush), and more. Tickets to his concert will go on sale on June 3 from 12pm onwards and it’ll be a free standing concert.

Details of Sam Kim 2019 Concert in Singapore:
Date: July 26, 2019 (Friday)
Venue: Zouk Singapore
Time: 7:30pm (Doors open at 6:45pm)
Ticket Pricing: (before booking fee)
S$65 (Early-Bird) / $75 (General Admission)

30 lucky ticket holders will win a photo-taking session with Sam Kim. More information will be announced here.

 

Categories
K-Pop

CANCELLED: 2019 NU’EST Segno Tour in Singapore

(Cr: Live Nation Singapore)

Updated 6 Aug 2019:

NU’EST Concert [Segno] in Singapore has been cancelled. Here’s the official statement released by Live Nation Singapore and PLEDIS Entertainment:

It is with deep regret that Live Nation and PLEDIS Entertainment announce the cancellation of 2019 NU’EST CONCERT ‘Segno’ IN SINGAPORE due to unforeseen production issues.

For those who have purchased their tickets, you will receive full ticket refund via SPORTS HUB TIX. Please contact SPORTS HUB TIX hotline at +65 3158 7888 for the details on refunds.

Updated 25 Jun 2019:

Get ready to welcome NU’EST back in Singapore for their full-scale concert this August at the Singapore Indoor Stadium! More information have been released for the tickets and fan benefits:

Details of 2019 NU’EST Concert [Segno] in Singapore:
Date: August 24, 2019 (Saturday)
Venue: Singapore Indoor Stadium
Time: 6pm
Ticket Pricing: (exclude booking fee)
S$268 / $228 / $188 / $148

Fans who purchase the Category 1 ($268) tickets from June 28 to August 16 will automatically be enrolled into a lucky draw to win fan benefits such as the Hi-Touch event, Send-off event, Exclusive L-folder or Exclusive Photocard signed by a random member. Each winner will only be awarded one fan benefit as shown below:

(Cr: Live Nation Singapore)

General ticket sales will commence on June 30 from 12pm onwards (based on Singapore time) via Sports Hub Tix website and hotline (+65 3158 7888), as well as Singapore Indoor Stadium box office and island-wide SingPost outlets.

There will also be a 1-day priority sale for SingTel customers on June 28 from 12pm to 11:59pm via all Sports Hub Tix ticketing channels, as well as a 1-day pre-sale for Live Nation members on June 29 from 12pm to 11:59pm via https://www.livenation.sg/. Check out the seatmap below!

(Cr: Live Nation Singapore)

Original Article:

NU’EST has announced all dates for their upcoming concert tour stops in Asia. Just over the weekend on May 25, the boy group was in town for HallyuPopFest, where Aron hinted that they hope to see fans again at the same stadium, and it looks like fans didn’t have to wait too long to catch them performing in Singapore once more.

Set to return this August 24 for their Segno Tour at the Singapore Indoor Stadium, this will mark NU’EST’s first full-scale concert in Singapore since their last L.O.Λ.E Tour in 2013. The much anticipated concert will also be staged at a larger venue, marking their return a grand and glorious one.

NU’EST recently released their 6th mini album in April to much success, featuring the chart-topping title song “Bet Bet”. Check out the above poster to see which other cities that they’ll be stopping at for their upcoming Segno Tour!


Watch this space for the latest updates on the above event!

Categories
Features

Call for Auditions: 2019 Changwon K-Pop World Festival (Singapore Preliminary)

Returning with a fresh new look and name, the call and search for international talents to perform at the 2019 Changwon K-Pop World Festival has begun.

This year, the global competition will stage its preliminary rounds in over 70 participating countries, where shortlisted finalists will be invited on a 2-week all-expense paid trip to Korea to experience the Korean culture first-hand and receive dance/vocal lessons by the industry experts in preparation of the final showdown at the grand finals in October 2019.

The Singapore Preliminary will be held on June 28 at Victoria Theatre, and interested applicants would be able to compete under two categories – vocal and dance performance. Top two acts will then proceed to the next round where they will be representing Singapore in the upcoming stages of the competition.

What’s different in this year’s competition?

In bids to welcome more participants into the competition, the audition is now open to any one who works/study and reside in Singapore, excluding tourists and those of Korean descent. Interested applicants with only one parent who has Korean citizenship are eligible to join.

As the competition intensifies, all performance groups will be required to lip-sync to their performance songs during their live performances. While there is no restriction on the number of members for performance groups, it is strongly recommended that they have the same number of members as the original K-Pop group of their chosen performance songs.

Under the vocal category, there is no limit to the number of vocalists per act, however, KBS reserves the right to remove any vocalist from the subsequent rounds if they are deemed to not be of significant contribution to the team. Vocal acts are now given the option to add on up to 2 additional backup dancers to spice up their stage performance.

Interested applicants may submit their audition video via the online registration form on the official website here from now till June 5, 2019.

The 2019 Changwon K-Pop World Festival (Singapore Preliminary) is brought to you by the Embassy of the Republic of Korea in Singapore.

Categories
K-Pop

ATEEZ Invites Fans to Vote for Their Next Promotional Title Song

Rising rookie boy band ATEEZ is calling on their fans to choose their next promotional song through a three-round voting project on MyMusicTaste, titled ATEEZ x ATINY: Vote For ATEEZ Next Song.

Comprising 8 members namely Hongjoong, Seonghwa, Yunho, Yeosang, San, Mingi, Woowoung, and Jongho, the boy band is already being hailed as one of the main representatives of the new K-pop generation for their well-crafted performances and producing abilities.

They made their debut in October 2018 and have been receiving worldwide attention since, including getting featured on Billboard, MTV, The Grammy, DAZED and many more outlets around the world.

Slated to drop their third album TREASURE EP.3: One To All on June 10 at 6pm (KST), ATEEZ is now inviting their fans to participate in a poll on their potential title song, where the members will then make a final decision vote.

Check out the voting schedule below:

The first round of voting starts on May 24 at 6pm (KST), where fans will get to preview short audio clips of two potential title songs. The second round of voting will proceed on May 27, 6pm (KST), and fans will vote once again after watching a preview of the choreography for the same two songs.

The third and final round of voting will be done by ATEEZ, and a video of the members voting will be released on May 30, 6pm (KST). To join the song voting project, visit here.


(Source: MyMusicTaste)

Categories
Travel

This New Cafe in South Korea is taking over the ‘grams with its “Stairway to Heaven”

(Pic Credit: IG @vintage_playlab)

South Korea is known for its vibrant cafe scene where various types of cafes exist, from the artsy to the character cafes, or even the quirky ones. One of the newest cafes to hit the locals, the Cielo 957 cafe is taking things on a whole new level with its ultra cool “Stairway to Heaven” ladder and it’s absolutely Instagram worthy.

Located in Gokseong, Jeollanam-do, this cafe recently began operations on April 27 and is reportedly attracting snaking queues every day where tons of people would wait in line to take photos at the dreamy spot. It is even said that the waiting time is approximately 1 hour just to take a photo at the stairway!

(Pic Credit: IG @cafe_cielo957)
(Pic Credit: IG @sk__magic00)

A step into the cafe shows that lots of thoughts were put into its aesthetics and design (both interior and exterior) that’s set in a modern and minimal space. The second level includes cosy seats facing the lake, boasting a picturesque view of the scenery.

Whether you are seated indoor or outdoor, the calm ambience is real and even any unassuming corner may turn out to be a good spot for your ‘gram.

(Pic Credit: IG @sk__magic00)

With the addition of the piano and chandelier as decoration, the cafe totally makes for a perfect place to wind down or could even pose off as the setting of a music video shoot!

And no matter how you pose at the iconic stairway, any photo can look dreamy and picture-perfect with some creative juices and editing skills.

(Pic Credit: IG @lx_____k)
(Pic Credit: IG @yul_jina)

100/100 for this pose:

(Pic Credit: IG @13byun)

Expectations:

(Pic Credit: IG @__tanto)

Reality:

(Pic Credit: IG @sk__magic00)
(Pic Credit: @cafe_cielo957)

Opening Hours: 12pm to 9pm daily
Address: Jeollanam-do Gokseong-gun Gyeom-myeon Majeon-ri 957-5 (전라남도 곡성군 겸면 마전리 957-5)
Getting here: Take the KTX to Gokseong Station (곡성역). Thereafter, get on the Okgwa country bus (곡성 – 옥과) and alight at Samo Station (삼오역). It takes 13 minutes on foot to Cielo 957 cafe.


Tip: Stay connected while you are on the go with Klook’s Data/Prepaid 4G SIM Card or unlimited 4G WiFi coverage in Korea from as low as S$3/day!

ALSO READ:

5 Interesting Types of Cafes to Visit in Seoul for the Healing Experience

Categories
Features

[Interview] Former Royal Pirates member James Lee rises to the top with crowdfunded EP, “The Light”

Recently hitting No.2 on iTunes in Singapore with his crowdfunded EP “The Light”, American born Korean musician James Lee opens up about the severe injury he suffered in 2015 and shares how he overcame it with music that he’d written post-accident. For someone who has truly experienced the lowest point of his life, climbing back up had not been an easy journey and he could not have launched the project if not for his fans, shared James.

(Pic Credit: James Lee Official Facebook)

The former bassist of Korean-American rock band Royal Pirates had went through a horrific accident back in 2015 where he suffered from a crushed shoulder and wrist, and as a result was unable to play the bass any longer. He officially left the band in 2017 due to his worsened health implications.

Despite having multiple surgeries and going through a tough rehabilitation, it did not stop James from restarting his hopes as a musician. During his time spent in recovery, James has been writing music and finally had the opportunity to release his solo English EP, “The Light”, after launching a successful Kickstarter campaign.

“The Light” EP is the sincerest project he has ever worked on, containing tracks that he’d written after his accident, as the singer inspires others with lyrics that describe his journey from the darkness of depression to accepting fate with hope.

One of the tracks “Let’s Get Away” features Sooyoung from Girls’ Generation, and it is about getting away from the weight of the world. James has also collaborated with Amber Liu for the song “Perfect”, which sings about dealing with inner demons and addictions.

Even though this EP is not K-Pop, the singer hopes to go back to the foundation of what helped him develop his sound and work on songs that contain a little more Korean element in the near future. But for now, the main message that he wants to convey through “The Light” EP is sincerity and authentic conversation.

Watch our full interview with James to find out what he wants to say to his fans on this successful project as well as updates on his health:

Follow James’ official channels here:
YouTube | Instagram | Twitter | Facebook

Categories
Features

[Feature] THE BOYZ is the Next K-Pop Group to Keep An Eye On and Here’s Why

(Pic Credit: THE BOYZ official FB page)

One of the rising boy groups in the K-Pop scene, THE BOYZ has been gaining attention ever since their debut in 2017 and it’s all for the various good reasons. Formed and debuted under Cre.ker Entertainment, THE BOYZ comprises 12 members namely: Sangyeon, Jacob, Younghoon, Hyunjae, Juyeon, Kevin, New, Q, Ju Haknyeon, Hwall, Sunwoo, and Eric.

These 12 boys have made a name for themselves as they have gone on to dominate the music charts with their mini albums and digital singles, and bagged home numerous rookie awards, making them the next K-Pop group to look out for.

(Pic Credit: THE BOYZ official FB page)

For the first half of this year, THE BOYZ has made plans to meet their international fans and they will be setting out on their first Asia Tour titled The Boyz Asia Fan-Con Tour “The Castle”, visiting cities such as Hong Kong, Singapore, Indonesia, Thailand, Taiwan and the Philippines.

Having successfully kicked off their Asia Fan-Con Tour for two days in Seoul last January, the 12-member boy group is ready to set foot in Asia next month with a 6-city tour. But before that, let’s dive into their idol journey and give you a little more insights to stan this talented group!

1. Their group choreographies are absolutely on point

Once you’ve watched their music video or performance clip, you’ll subconsciously find yourself absorbed into their eye-catching and seamless dance moves. With so many members in the group, sometimes being synchronised with one another is a challenge by itself. Nonetheless, their performances are always a joy to watch as the choreographies were meticulously crafted out to make each member stand out on their own.

Here’s one dance practice video they’ve recently released to celebrate THE BOYZ 1st music show win for ‘Bloom Bloom’!

2. A burst of energy and boyish charms

THE BOYZ entered the world of K-Pop with their debut mini album [The First], which placed third on Gaon’s weekly chart during the week of its release. The title track ‘Boy’ sings about the hardships they’ve gone through in order to achieve their dreams, as it calls out to the world with their cool and boyish charms.

In 2018, the boy group has gone on to release two other mini albums and a digital single, successfully garnering a bigger fanbase and gaining more attention both domestically and internationally.

Some of their best hits include ‘Giddy Up’, ‘KeePer’ (produced by Block B’s Park Kyung), ‘Right Here’ and ‘No Air’. Every new release was able to showcase their different charms – from the boyish to the cutesy and more – as they displayed their vibrant and youthful energy.

Their recent comeback covers 3 songs in the digital single, which features ‘Bloom Bloom’ as the title track that is sure to get listeners tapping their toes. A complete mood lifter with an addictive chorus going “Bloom-bloom pow”, the song has also won them their first and well-deserved music show win after 1 year and 5 months.

Not to mention, part of the choreography is really cute, as though these flower(boys) are all ready to bloom and soar higher! Their diverse discography just proves that THE BOYZ are a bunch of versatile idols capable of performing a wide array of genres.

3. Making waves during their pre-debut days

Some members’ names might have rang a bell and it’s because they had experienced their own share of popularity on reality competition, survival programs, and even appearances in other artistes’ music videos.

Prior to debut, members Kevin and Sunwoo were contestants on “K-Pop Star 6” and “High School Rapper” respectively. Ju Haknyeon also participated in “Produce 101 Season 2”, where he was ranked #19 in the finale of the survival program.

Younghoon appeared in several MVs like I.O.I’s ‘Whatta Man’, John Park’s ‘DND (Do Not Disturb)’, and Melody Day’s ‘Color’ (alongside Eric, Hwall and Hyunjae too).

In fact, all of them have experienced huge popularity during their pre-debut days through their very own web variety show “Flower Snack”, which gained them over 10,000 fan club members and more than a million likes. (Watch it here)

THE BOYZ was also signed on to Sony Music, Japan’s largest record company, for their Japanese management contract – and this took place even before they made their official debut in Korea. Talk about their overflowing potential!

(Pic Credit: SBS MTV The Show)

4. They’re extremely talented

Like how it’s all part of the idol package, THE BOYZ also has members that are gifted in songwriting. Their very own debut title track ‘Boy’ was co-written by member Sunwoo, whom together with Eric, were also credited as co-lyricists for the vibrant track ‘Bloom Bloom’.

Take a look at how THE BOYZ steal hearts with cover dance performances of other idol groups’ hits:

5. Personalities and visuals, they have ‘em all

THE BOYZ has always been an idol group known for their outstanding visuals, but not only that, members were also praised for their good personalities on the variety shows they’ve appeared in.

With their Asia Fan-Con Tour taking place in Singapore next month on June 16, we are excited to watch these 12 boys unfold their talents on stage and perform their best hits live. Tickets are available for grabs via APACTix from S$118 onwards, and the fan benefits are just as amazing.

Updated 30 May 2019:

Check out the ADDED PERKS for fans who’ll be attending the Fan-Con Tour in Singapore! On top of the already amazing fan benefits, all ticket holders will now be entitled to a Hi-Touch session with THE BOYZ, while all VIP ticket holders will receive a guaranteed Photo Op and Rehearsal Pass too.

This fearsome idol group is ready to take you higher and for all we know, the Fan-Con Tour is gonna be an exciting one. Find out more details here!

Follow THE BOYZ’s official channels here:
YouTube | Instagram | Twitter | Facebook

More Fan Benefits Released for THE BOYZ’ Upcoming Asia Fan-Con Tour in Singapore


THE BOYZ 2019 Asia Fan-Con Tour [The Castle] in Singapore is brought to you by Three Angles Production.

Categories
Fashion

SPAO Unveils An Exciting Collection Series Featuring Toy Story and Zootopia

SPAO is back with a really cute collection to knock out all fans of Toy Story and Zootopia. This collaboration with Disney is about to take the stores in Korea from May 17 onwards, and it’s already making hot rounds on the internet and social media when the news was first announced.

Known for their amazing collaborations with numerous media franchises, the fashion brand has released hit collection series in the past, featuring Pokémon, Line Friends, We Bare Bears, Harry Potter, Dragon Ball, Crayon Shin Chan, Adventure Time, and many many more.

This time, an exciting series is about to unleash and here’s what SPAO has included in their upcoming new collection:

T-shirts featuring Toy Story characters – Woody, Buzz, Aliens, Rex, Lotso, Mr. Potato Head (₩19,900 / ~SGD 24):

One-piece (long t-shirt) featuring 3 designs (₩19,900 / ~SGD 24):

Toy Story Drawing T-shirt featuring Sunnyside Daycare characters, Mr. Potato Head, Aliens (₩15,900 / ~SGD 19):

Zootopia Pocket T-shirts (₩19,900 / ~SGD 24):

Zootopia Drawing T-shirts (₩15,900 / ~SGD 19):

This collection is exclusive to SPAO Korea, both online (from May 15) and offline (from May 17), and we foresee it’s gonna fly off the shelves as quickly as it hits the stores.


(Photo Credits: SPAO)

Categories
Features

[Interview] DreamNote shares MIXNINE Experiences, Role Models and Future Goals

Dreamy and sweet-looking, 8 girls with an average age of 18 came together and burst into the K-pop scene with their refreshing charms and bright music.

Formed and debuted under iMe Korea in November 2018, these girls seemingly remind us of the ‘girl next door’ image as they capture attention with their fresh looks and bubbly songs.

Known as DreamNote, the K-pop girl group comprises members BoNi, Eunjo, Lara, Sumin, HanByeol, MISO, YOUI and HaBin.

Featuring a retro, 1960s upbeat pop title song “DREAM NOTE”, their first single album [Dreamlike] gave an introduction on how 8 ordinary young girls stepped into a new world as they dream of their debut and being on stage. Interesting to note, the title song was composed by David Amber and Andy Love, the genius people behind several hit tracks such as “Heart Shaker” and “Yes or Yes” by TWICE.

Albeit not an instant hit, the single album still managed to peak at 26th position on the Gaon weekly chart during the first week of its release, marking a good start for the rookie group.

In March this year, DreamNote made a comeback with their second single album [Dream:us] featuring the title song, “Hakuna Matata”, an up-tempo synth-pop track that sings about feeling confident and achieving their dreams.

Like an upgraded version from their debut single album, this track showcases their cheery vocals and somehow gets people grooving to its catchy lyrics and tunes. Even though they’ve only debuted for 6 months, there are definitely much more potential we see in DreamNote down the road!

Watch our interview below and get to know more about this 8-member girl group as they discussed about their future goals, artistes whom they looked up to, MIXNINE experiences, and more.

In case you didn’t know, 3 members (Sumin, Eunjo and HanByeol) had experiences taking part in the survival program MIXNINE, where Sumin was ranked Top 3 at the final round.

(Video translations & editing: iMe Korea)

Follow DreamNote’s official channels here:
YouTube | Instagram | Twitter | Facebook

Categories
K-Movie

[K-Movie] South Korea’s First-ever Sewol-Themed Film “BIRTHDAY” Opens in Cinemas 16 May

The first-ever South Korean film to explore the 2014 tragic sinking of the MV Sewol ferry, BIRTHDAY tells the story of a family coping with the loss of their son in April 2014, and the people who love him reminiscing their memories of him when his birthday approaches.

Perhaps the most painful event in Korea’s modern times, this film tries to capture those experiences as realistically as possible, reminding audiences of the tragic accident after 5 years and allowing them to reflect on the preciousness of their daily lives and the people they love.

Headlined by veteran actors Sul Kyung-gu and Jeon Do-yeon, BIRTHDAY has amassed over 1 million moviegoers in less than 3 weeks and topped the box office charts in just 6 days after premiering in South Korea cinemas as it captures the audiences with its heart-wrenching story.

Celebrating a ‘birthday’ in the film means ‘we will remember’, and that we will never forget. The movie also marked Director Lee Jong-un‘s debut film, as she hopes to captivate audiences with sincerity and share the pain with those who bear scars that can’t be erased.

Film Synopsis:

After April 2014… A story of those left behind

‘Jung-il’ and ‘Soon-nam’ miss their son, ‘Su-ho’, who passed away in a terrible accident. His family’s longing for him only gets bigger as his birthday approaches.

Su-ho’s birthday without Su-ho…
Family and friends plan to gather and present their special memories of him as gifts.

One day a year, where we all come together for you…

“We will never forget you.”

Title: BIRTHDAY
Genre: Drama
Cast: Sul Kyung-gu, Jeon Do-yeon, Kim Bo-min
Directed by: Lee Jong-un
Singapore Release Date: 16 May 2019
Runtime: 120 Minutes
Rating: All ages (G)

BIRTHDAY opens 16 May 2019 in Golden Village. Check out the movie trailer above!


(Photo Credits: Golden Village)

Categories
Features

[Interview] A.C.E Talks about Their Love for Singapore Fans and Why They’re Excited to Return for HallyuPopFest

In Singapore recently for a mini Meet & Greet session brought to fans by HallyuPopFest, K-pop boy group A.C.E sat down for a candid interview with us and shared their thoughts on performing at the upcoming mega K-pop festival.

Branded as Southeast Asia’s largest K-pop festival, HallyuPopFest will be returning for two days on May 25 & 26, featuring a brand new artiste line-up this year that includes headliners Super Junior, WINNER, MONSTA X and NU’EST.

Set to perform during the afternoon showcase slot on the first day of the festival, A.C.E will be bringing their hits to stage including new tracks that they’ll soon be releasing. On top of that, they’ll also be joining other artistes to make an appearance at the glamorous Red Carpet event on Day 1 of the festival.

Even though the 5-member boy group only debuted in 2017, they have been steadily making waves as rising rookie stars both individually and as a group.

Besides bagging home the ‘Best Newcomer Award’ at StarHub Night of Stars last year, they have also received recognition at SBS PopAsia Awards (2017) and The Fact Music Awards (2019) for ‘Rookie of the Year’ and ‘Rising Star Award’ respectively.

In light of their upcoming comeback, A.C.E has recently released “If You Heard”, a special song co-written by themselves and dedicated to their fans.

They are slated to drop their second mini album [UNDER COVER] : BECAUSE I WANT YOU TO BE MINE, BE MINE on May 17 at 12pm (KST).

(Update 13 May 2019: Due to unforeseen circumstances, the interview video will not be released on management’s request.)

In all good news, HallyuPopFest has also confirmed that all artistes will be walking the red carpet on their respective performance date, including the headliners such as Super Junior, WINNER and more. The red carpet will be open to the public on both days at the main festival square, HallyuTown.

Expect lots of artiste interactions and plentiful fun for all at the upcoming festival! Single day tickets are available at www.sportshubtix.sg from S$98 to $288.

Find out more about the activities taking place each day at HallyuPopFest:

https://www.hallyusg.net/2019/03/23/hallyupopfest2019-singapore/