K-pop star Park Ji-min is set to headline SHINE NOW 2019 as a speaker and performer over the 2-day ‘unconference’ taking place from 18 to 19 December at *SCAPE Singapore. The former member of 15& will be sharing more about her journey and passion for music, with the hopes of inspiring youths in Singapore, at the upcoming talk session “In Conversation With Jimin Park”.
Powered by the National Youth Council (NYC) and organized by Gushcloud Entertainment, SHINE NOW is targeted at youths of all backgrounds and disciplines, and seeks to inspire and spur youths to become future-driven.
“I’m so honored to be invited to SHINE NOW and to share the story of my musical journey. I’ve been blessed to be able to follow my dream, and I can’t wait to talk to the youth of Singapore about everything I have learned and experienced. I hope my personal story can give other young people like myself, the hope and confidence in paving their own paths,” said the 22-year old singer.
Aside from attending as a keynote speaker on Day 2, Park Ji-min will also be performing at the closing concert on the same day, joined by other homegrown acts like Narelle, Rriley and YASAI. Tickets start from $30 (Single Day General Admission) and 2-Day +Plus Pass tickets ($70) are available from https://www.thenowcon.com/.
10cm (Kwon Jung-yeol), a Korean acoustic-folk indie singer, was in Singapore last Monday evening (18 November) for his long-awaited We Are Close Enough concert held at the Esplanade Annexe Studio, where he greeted Singapore fans for the very first time.
Taking the stage with his band, 10cm started off the night with the much-loved “It’s So Nice”. He also performed the crowd-favourite “Americano” which shot him to stardom in the Korean indie scene, and “What The Spring?”, one of the most popular songs to listen all year round.
10cm’s songs are known to the general public as being lively and cheeky, with catchy tongue-in-cheek lyrics. However, fans would know that the singer also has many honest, emotional songs as well. He performed some of these slower songs during the concert, such as “Stars”, “However”, and of course the classic, “Stalker”.
Belting out “Kingstar”, a track from one of his older albums, Kwon sent the audience into fits of laughter when he specifically requested for red stage lights to capture the sexy, mischievous vibe of the song.
The singer revealed that it has been a long time since he last performed in a small and cozy venue, but he loved it as he was able to see every single face in the studio, making each performance much more intimate and engaging for his fans.
Besides his own hit tracks, Kwon is known to have lent his voice to many popular drama OSTs, and fans were definitely excited to see him perform “Lean On Me” from Hotel del Luna, as well as “My Eyes” from Guardian: The Lonely and Great God (more commonly known as “Goblin”).
Between each song, Kwon interacted so much with the audience and there was so much laughter – Fans were definitely glad to be able to see various sides of him.
Kwon also shared about several unique traits of his shows. Firstly, he enjoys taking fans on a rollercoaster of emotions by performing an upbeat song, followed by a slow ballad, then an upbeat one again. Secondly, he does not go offstage before the encore as he feels he could use the additional time to perform more songs for the audience.
The night came to an end as Kwon picked up his acoustic guitar and performed stripped-down versions of some fan-favourites that include “That’s Not…”, “Everything” and “Nothing Without You”, and he even sang a snippet of IU’s “Through The Night”!
10cm’s unique sound, witty lyrics and engaging performance style has truly allowed him to cement his place in the Korean indie scene. He promised to be back soon with new music and we absolutely cannot wait! In the meantime, check out our interview with Kwon to get to know him better.
Special thanks to Mode Entertainment for the invite and photos!
(Article: Sarah | Official Photos: AlvieAlive for Mode Entertainment)
In Singapore to hold his first ever concert for local fans, South Korean acoustic-folk indie singer-songwriter 10cm will be performing at the Esplanade Annexe Studio on coming Monday, 18 November 2019.
The long-awaited concert has been much anticipated by fans, proven with the sold-out status for the VIP ticket tier that comes with a solo photo opportunity with the singer after the concert.
(Photo: MODE Entertainment)
Since breaking into the indie music scene some 9 years ago, 10cm has released numerous chart-topping hits like ‘Americano’ (2010), ‘Fine Thank You and You?’ (2012), ‘What The Spring??’ (2016) and more, making a name for the (now) one-man band in this genre.
Over the years, 10cm has gone on to record more songs under his extensive discography, including contributing his melodic vocals to popular OSTs for K-dramas ‘Goblin’ and ‘Hotel Del Luna’.
(Photo: 10cm Official FB Page)
His unique sound and music has won over the hearts of many fans, including Chen from EXO, who is known to be a huge fan of 10cm since high school. The pair of singers eventually made a dream collaboration in 2017, releasing a co-written mid-tempo, feel-good track ‘Bye Babe’ that blends their sweet vocals well with the beautiful harmonies produced. (Check out the song below!)
With his upcoming concert in Singapore, we’re delighted to sit down with Kwon Jung-yeol from 10cm to find out more about him and his future plans.
Q: Why did you name your Singapore concert ‘We Are Close Enough’? Any special meaning or significance?
Since I wasn’t able to meet my Singapore fans often, I thought about the concert name and felt that ‘We Are Close Enough’ gives off a meaning that I am being brought closer together with my fans through this concert.
Q: On your latest release, “Do You Think of Me”, what was the inspiration behind the lyrics?
I got bitten by a mosquito and that’s how the idea sparked off. (laughs) I wanted people to be reminded of me whenever they see a mosquito. Likewise to my fans, I hope they can think of me whenever a mosquito appears in front of them.
Q: What’s a typical day like for you?
My day basically revolves around work. I spend a lot of my time in the studio. Even when I do step out of the studio, I’ll still be out somewhere thinking of ways to create songs.
(On average, how long do you spend at the studio a day?)
Uhm… I’d say it’s usually above 10 hours.
(What was the longest record then?)
18 hours. (laughs)
(Photo: 10cm Official FB Page)
Q: What type of traveler are you? Are you a foodie, an adventurer, a detailed planner, or the ultimate tourist?
I’m definitely not an adventurer. Maybe I’m more of a foodie? In general, I just like having my own free time to enjoy the holiday.
Q: Is there anything you’d like to experience here in Singapore?
I’d love to go shopping and try various types of local food, especially Chilli crabs! (laughs)
Q: What is something that you have a lot of interest in these days?
As I am preparing for my concert, I have been looking up other people’s concert videos for reference. That’s what I’ve been doing these days…
(Photo: 10cm Official FB Page)
Q: Now that you’re in your 30s, what is different for the Kwon Jung-yeol now, and the one that you imagined when you were in your 20s?
Wow, there were lots of differences… For instance, I had not imagine being able to visit Singapore to hold my own concert, and even doing interviews like these… I didn’t expect myself living such a happy life now. (laughs)
Q: Name a Korean dish that goes well with your character.
Ramyeon (instant noodles). The reason why I chose ramyeon is because I wanted to be seen as someone who is simple and easy-going on the outside (with reference to the packaging). Whereas on the inside, there are also my own charms and charismatic side.
Q: If you were not a musician, what would be your next dream job?
I was studying to become a teacher, that was actually my major. (laughs) I wanted to be a Korean language teacher.
(Photo: 10cm Official FB Page)
Q: So what’s next for 10cm?
I want to release a full album next year! Just like now, I will continue working hard to produce music for my fans, and I hope to visit Singapore with a concert again in the future. I really like Singapore and I feel apologetic to my fans who’ve waited a long time for me to perform here. In return, I’ve worked hard to prepare for this concert so you guys can definitely look forward to it.
Limited standard tickets to 10cm ‘We Are Close Enough’ Live in Singapore are still available for grabs via APACTix channels. Be there on coming Monday (18 Nov) to enjoy a night of great music together with 10cm!
A new romance comedy movie is about to come your way this November. Starring Kwon Sang-woo, Lee Jung-hyun and Lee Jong-hyuk, “Love Again” is one of the newest Korean comedy films to hit the cinemas, presenting a realistic story of marriage, divorce and romance of modern-day men and women with an identifiable message.
In this film, Kwon Sang Woo plays the role of Hyun Woo, an average man who has gone through a divorce ceremony and is enjoying his single status, until he suddenly finds himself crossing path with his ex-wife again. He will be reuniting with Lee Jong-hyuk 15 years after starring together in “Once Upon a Time in High School”, as well as Sung Dong-il in “The Accidental Detective” series.
Meanwhile, Lee Jung-hyun is set to offer fresh, new delight to audiences with her all-time comic and realistic character Sun-young. Joining the cast is actor Lee Jong-hyuk, who takes on the role of Sang-chul, a character of interest who completes the twisted triangle between the main characters.
Film Synopsis: After the embarrassing divorce ceremony, Hyun-woo (played by Kwon Sang-woo) returns to the single life that he dreamed of and hopes to enjoy his freedom forever. Just six months later, Sun-young (played by Lee Jung-hyun) comes back into his life as the love interest of Sang-chul (played by Lee Jong-hyuk), an old friend from high school. The funny reality of Hyun-woo, who struggles to escape from Sun-young’s sudden return and being unable to ignore her when she is in need, evokes empathy in real-life situations.
Title: Love Again Genre: Romantic Comedy Cast: Kwon Sang-woo, Lee Jung-hyun, Lee Jong-hyuk, Sung Dong-il, Jung Sang-hoon Directed by: Park Yong-jip Singapore Release Date: 21 November 2019 Runtime: 112 minutes Rating: TBA
The inaugural KAMP festival made its first stop in Singapore for 2 days on 9 & 10 November, with both days boasting a stellar line-up — (Day 1) AleXa, Chungha, Ha Sungwoon, GFRIEND and NCT 127; (Day 2) Momoland, Sonnet Son, WJSN, Stray Kids and Super Junior.
Fans got to interact with their favourite idols as they walked down the red carpet in the afternoon, before a whole night of performances at the Singapore Indoor Stadium – it was truly an unforgettable weekend. Here’s what you may have missed on Day 1:
The exciting night kicked off with the first act, GFRIEND – who treated the audience with an 8-song set. The girls performed fan-favourite “Fingertip”, before raising the energy of the crowd with “Navillera”, “Life Is A Party” and “Vacation”. They truly knew how to set the mood for the night.
Yerin and Eunha even showed their aegyo (cuteness) for the lucky audience that night!
GFRIEND changed up the atmosphere and performed a ballad version of their hit “Rough”, showcasing their powerful vocals. The audience was in awe whenever main vocalist, Yuju, hit her powerful high notes. The girl group ended off their set with “A Starry Sky”, “Fever” and “Time For The Moon Night”.
Former Produce 48 contestant, AleXa, made her strong debut on the Singapore stage with her debut single, “BOMB”, filling up the huge stage with her powerful dance moves and strong stage presence. At the red carpet, she encouraged everyone to add this upbeat song onto their workout playlists.
AleXa then busted out powerful dance covers of boy group numbers “DRAMARAMA” and “Warrior”, exuding confidence throughout the stadium. Despite having only just made her debut last month, AleXa proved that she is a force to be reckoned with.
Next up was Ha Sungwoon – who made his return to Singapore, but this time as a soloist. He performed his debut track “Bird”, followed by “Tell Me I Love You”, immediately captivating the crowd with his soothing vocals.
He continued his set with “Don’t Forget”, “Bluemaze”, refreshing tune “Blue”, and lastly “What are you doing today?!”. Despite being a solo act, Ha Sungwoon filled up the entire stage that night with his natural charms and good looks.
Dance queen Chungha took over the stage with her recent hit “Snapping”, showing off her amazing dance skills and power vocals. She exclaimed, “I always get the best energy in Singapore!”
Chungha got the entire audience singing along to “Gotta Go”, “Rollercoaster”, and her debut song “Why Don’t You Know” – songs proved to be loved by everyone, both fans and non-fans alike. The crowd went wild as Chungha ended off her set with “Bang Bang”, a performance in which she played a huge part creating the iconic choreography during her stint on Produce 101 back in 2016.
The last act for the night was NCT 127, kicking off their set with their hits “Fire Truck” and “Cherry Bomb”. Their perfectly synchronized dance moves and high energy proved why they receive so much love and attention not only in Singapore, but all around the world.
Just as we thought the cheers from the audience could not get any louder, NCTzens proved us wrong as their loud chants filled up the entire stadium when NCT 127 performed “Touch”, “Replay” and “Regular”. The sea of bright green light sticks, accompanied by the loud fan chants, was truly a sight that night.
“Even though we are not here (in Singapore), we will always be thankful, and we will always come back,” Mark said, before NCT 127 ended off the night with “Superhuman”.
Check out more photos from the red carpet event on both days:
AleXa
Chungha
Ha Sung Woon
GFRIEND
NCT 127
Sonnet Son
WJSN
Momoland
Stray Kids
Super Junior
(Concert & Selective Red Carpet Photos: KAMP Singapore 2019)
Based on the best-selling novel in Korea, KIM JI YOUNG, BORN 1982 is about to hit the Singapore cinemas with a story that depicts the unknown struggles of a woman named ‘Kim Ji-young’ as she lives today in 2019.
Once a woman with a promising career, Ji-young (played by Jung Yu-mi) now lives as a mother of a baby girl and a wife. However, the image of Ji-young, who has sinking feelings in her heart from the repetitive struggles of everyday life, recounts her stories and pains that she doesn’t realize are within her.
Her husband Dae-hyeon (played by Gong Yoo) sees her talking as if she is someone else at times and gets worried and heartbroken. Also, glimpses of Ji-young’s mother, family and co-workers, capture the relationship and emotions between the people in her life in an ordinary yet special story.
This film marks the third time both Gong Yoo and Jung Yu-mi are starring together since ‘Silenced’ (2011) and ‘Train to Busan’ (2016). Taking on an ordinary character who struggles through her everyday life, Jung Yu-mi was able to lead the drama with delicate, dedicated acting that focuses only on her character.
Meanwhile, Gong Yoo plays a very ordinary character unlike his previous roles, maximising immersion into the drama with a detailed portrayal of a husband who is deeply considerate of his wife.
Jung Yu-mi and Gong Yoo, who meet for the third time and work together as a couple for the first time, will present a special chemistry together that can’t be missed in KIM JI YOUNG, BORN 1982.
Film Synopsis:
Kim Ji-young (played by Jung Yu-mi) is an ordinary Korean woman in her 30s who is often distressed by her everyday life as a full-time mom and housewife. Although being married to the man she loves and the struggle of raising a baby girl have forced her to give up on many things, Ji-young believes she is content in life.
However, her husband, Dae-hyeon, notices that life is hitting Ji-young harder than she realizes. Worried, Dae-hyeon turns to a psychiatrist saying, “My wife is turning into someone else,” as Ji-young begins to speak strikingly similar to her mother, her best friend who died while giving birth, and her late grandmother.
Title: KIM JI YOUNG, BORN 1982 (82년생 김지영) Genre: Drama Cast: Jung Yu-mi, Gong Yoo, Kim Mi-kyung Directed by: Kim Do-young Singapore Release Date: 14 November 2019 Runtime: 120 minutes Rating: To be advised
WINNER will be returning to Singapore with a brand-new tour “WINNER [CROSS] TOUR”, slated to take place at The Star Theatre on February 8, 2020. After kicking off their [CROSS] Tour series in Seoul last October, the group will be making stops in various cities such as Taipei, Jakarta, Macao, Bangkok, Kuala Lumpur, Manila, Ho Chi Minh, and finally Singapore. This concert will also be the last concert tour before the members enlist.
Details of WINNER [CROSS] TOUR in SINGAPORE: Date: February 8, 2020 (Saturday) Venue: The Star Theatre, The Star Performing Arts Centre Time: 6PM Ticket Pricing: (excludes booking fee)
S$288 (VIP), $208, $188, $148, $118
There will be a priority sale for SingTel mobile customers on 15 November, 10am to 11:59pm across all APACTix channels, while Live Nation members pre-sale will commence on 16 November, 10am to 11:59pm via https://www.livenation.sg/. Public sale will take place on 17 November from 12pm onwards via APACTix.
All VIP ticket holders will be entitled to one WINNER album and one guaranteed fan benefit of either a Soundcheck event, Send-off event or Fansign event, whereas Cat 1 ticket holders will be entitled to 1 lucky draw chance to join in the Soundcheck event. All fan benefits will be randomly assigned and full details of the fan benefit activities will be announced 3 days prior to the show on ONE Production’s FB page here.
An actor, a singer, an entertainer – There’s literally nothing Lee Seung Gi cannot do, and his recent Fanmeeting in Singapore was another testament to the already-established fact. The power-packed 2.5 hours flew by and before I even knew it, I was walking out of the venue telling my plus-one how this was one of the most enjoyable fanmeets I’ve ever attended. Read on to find out why.
(Photo: IMC Live Global)
Taking inspiration from his latest drama alongside actress Bae Suzy, this Asia fanmeet brings the actor all around the continent as he celebrates his 15th year since debut. In true vagabond style, Lee Seung Gi will be visiting different Asia stops every other week to meet and greet his avid Airens.
Donning a white prince-like outfit and appearing as if straight out of a fairytale, the ‘Vagabond’ actor marked the start of the long-awaited fanmeet singing his debut track, “내여자라니까 (Because You Are My Woman)”. With his soothing vocals and the crowd’s passionate cheers filling the venue, it was hard to believe that this was an actor’s fanmeeting.
As with any other fanmeet, the setlist was split into a few sections. Mainly: Talk time, performances and games. Quickly after wrapping up his first song, Lee Seung Gi moved on to share with his fans what he has been up to since his previous visit in July 2018.
From filming a blockbuster drama series in Morocco, to winning the prestigious honor of “Grand Award (Daesang)” at the annual SBS Entertainment Awards, the actor sure knows how to excel in everything he does. Whoever said that a Jack of all trades is a master of none has obviously never seen Lee Seung Gi before.
(Photo: IMC Live Global)
After an immensely hilarious talk segment, Lee Seung Gi proceeded to show off his cooking chops by assembling a sandwich from scratch! Whisking eggs and chopping vegetables all seemed like second-nature for this talented star as he skillfully manages to navigate his way around the tiny onstage kitchen.
Not wanted to sacrifice the best for his fans, it was even revealed that Lee Seung Gi requested for an induction cooker to better cook his food! As the smell of fried eggs (the actor really loves his salt) wafted through the cold air, I would be lying if I said I didn’t feel my tummy rumbling at all.
(Photo: IMC Live Global)
Luckily for 2 fans, they got to walk away with a box of sandwiches to the envy of many others. Fun fact: The couple shown above are actually the ones Lee Seung Gi helped get together during one of his first few visits here (talk about fate!). But of course, that was not the end of his fanmeet as there was a game section up next.
(Photo: IMC Live Global)
After dividing the venue into 2 sections, 5 representatives from each area were picked via lottery and were made to go on stage to play a game of telepathy with Lee Seung Gi – 2 images would be flashed onscreen and the ones performing the same action as the actor would be able to continue onto the next round.
It was an intense match but unfortunately, there could only be one winner and guess what the winning team got? Not only were the representatives gifted with a Leaders gift bag, but their entire section was also treated to the ultimate fanservice when the actor got off stage to interact with them up close. I repeat, UP CLOSE.
(Photo: IMC Live Global)
After going out of his way to meet the passionate crowd, the actor signaled the event’s inevitable end. However, as with all other fanmeets, no celebrity leaves Singapore before being shown a touching video montage!
Local Airens went above and beyond, preparing a sweet tribute to show their appreciation and love for their idol. And boy was Lee Seung Gi visibly touched by the thoughtful gesture. Alas, this give-and-take made me tear a lil’ too.
(Photo: IMC Live Global)
Just when you thought it couldn’t get any sadder, the actor proceeds to sing “Delete (삭제)”. However, it wasn’t before long that he decided to end the night on a high note with his catchy tunes, “Smile Boy” and “Let’s Go On Vacation (여행을 떠나요)”. Both of which are bops, by the way. Do give it a listen!
It was a fun night and I couldn’t have asked for a better way to start the long weekend. For starters, “meeting” Lee Seung Gi was somehow akin to meeting a long-time friend, there was no awkwardness, sense of distance and he wasn’t boring at all. Throughout the show, there was only fun, laughter and tears from chuckling too much.
(Photo: IMC Live Global)
In all honesty, my knowledge of Lee Seung Gi prior to Saturday was at the bear minimum – All I knew was that he is a successful singer, actor and variety star. However, his endless charms and bright personality sure made me do a double-take and I definitely agree that Lee Seung Gi is well-deserving of his nickname, “Nation’s Son-in-Law”.
Special thanks to IMC Live Global for the invitation to Lee Seung Gi 2019 Asia Fanmeeting ‘VAGABOND VOYAGE’ in Singapore!
(Photos: Erny Kartolo | Official Photos: IMC Live Global)
StarHub Night of Stars has unveiled their full line-up for the second edition of its awards ceremony, slated to take place at the Sands Theatre at Marina Bay Sands this November 24, where a total of 19 awards will be presented as a recognition of outstanding performance for the artistes.
With big names such as Park Min Young and Kim Jae Wook being announced previously, fans can look forward to the addition of attending artistes including K-pop boy group AB6IX as well as actor Sung Hoon, who came to Singapore in September for the Meet & Greet series.
Aside from the actors and performers from Korea, other notable guests include singers Yoga Lin, Ekin Cheng, actors James Wen, Kenneth Ma, Xu Kai, Tian Xin, and many more. Check out the full line-up from the poster or visit here for more information.
There will be a public Green Carpet event happening on November 24, 4:30pm onwards at the Digital Light Canvas at The Shoppes @ Marina Bay Sands, where the artistes will be making an appearance at. Thereafter, the star-studded awards ceremony will commence at 7pm at the Sands Theatre, by-invitation only.
StarHub Night of Stars will be broadcasted on Hub E City (StarHub Channel 111/825) on 8 December 2019, 7pm. It will also be available on the StarHub Go steaming app, under the Go Local reel, for free to all in Singapore, from 8 December 2019, 9:30pm.
