Dream High‘s cutie Kim Soo Hyun dons the traditional Korean hanbok to usher in the new lunar year. I’m an avid follower of the drama Dream High and the adorable and steadfast Sam-dong (Kim Soo Hyun) is my favourite character after Go Hye-mi (Suzy)  Kim is such a natural on screen and his Sam-dong is so so charming!

Anyway, I’ve been wondering. Is Kim seriously playing second male lead to Taecyeon?! Scold me for being traditional, but isn’t the guy who gets the girl the main lead? Hopefully the drama’s following the reversal trend lately…

With casting finally complete, MBC’s romantic-comedy series My Princess held its first script reading on the 20th this month.  Present were the drama’s leads, Song Seung Heon (East of Eden), Kim Tae Hee (IRIS), Ryu Soo Young (Lawyers of Korea) and Park Ye Jin (Queen Seon Deok). The 3-hour long rehearsal was apparently a first meeting for the cast, but the atmosphere was described as comfortable and light-hearted.

Here’s Song Hye Kyo for the December issue of Harper’s Bazaar magazine.

[A Song Hye Kyo post to follow up on a Binnie one, how appropriate! Lol.]

Hyun Bin as Kim Joo-won, CEO of a department store

I knew this guy has comic chops, but I’m still pleasantly surprised! I’ve seen the most of Hyun Bin in melodrama Snow Queen, and bits in Kim Sam Soon and Worlds Within. Here in Secret Garden, he’s so engaging a character! He’s outwardly cool and aloof, but we’ve also caught a bit of his sincere side. Besides, he’s a tad immature (thus providing endless entertainment for us), has a glib tongue (naughty witty?), and knows how to get his way (you want your man to be a MAN, don’t you?). Shall I say, flawed in the most attractive way possible? Teehee.

Ha Ji Won as Gil Ra-im, a stuntwoman for action movies

Omg Ha Ji Won rocks my socks. She’s so very charismatic that I’m really buying how Hyun Bin is smitten with her almost right away! I would be too, if I were a guy!

I also really like how Ra-im’s a relatable character. When the snobby Yoon Seul (played by Kim Sa Rang) complains about her being allowed into the VIP room, Ra-im shows us she’s not all brawn by keeping her cool and offering to leave (why stoop to the same level as that crazy, arrogant bitch?)

We also see how she’s a reluctant hero(ine) when she takes off on bike after a thief. (You have to watch to find out; I shan’t elaborate!) When Ra-im asks Yoon Seul to give back her friend’s nametag in return for helping to catch the thief, Seul lied that she had thrown the nametag into the trash. She later gives in when Ra-im demands that she picks it out from the trash, and takes it out of her purse. Ra-im responds by stuffing her friend’s used tissue into Seul’s purse and said she’s putting it into the trash can. Nice way to throw that dirty lie right back at her face.

And how much do I love it that tomboyish Ra-im hides an inner girlish side (aww I feel her), and even a star-struck side of her when she’s with Oska (played by Yoon Sang Hyun)! Granted, I would prob get more excited if Yoon opts for a different hair, ANYTHING other than the current center parting. He also has another hairdo which is, arguably, just as ugly.

Philip Lee as Im Jong Soo, director of the action school (Ra-im’s boss)

I suspect Jong Soo is gna turn out to be a bit of a Jae-Shin, nuff said. When Joo Won turned up at the action school audition to speak to Ra-im (basically expressing his interest in her, SO OBVIOUS), she’s quick to clarify herself to Jong Soo (she’s not afraid he’s jealous or anything, just sorry to have caused some trouble indirectly, imo) that there’s absolutely nothing going on between them, “he’s a strange guy right from the start..” 

To which Jong Soo replied coolly, “It’s not strange at all. He’s a man. And you are … a very attractive woman.” Implication: All men should be able to see her for her worth. This makes me think Jong Soo may be shy to openly declare his feelings for Ra-im because he thinks he might not be worthy of her. Swoons.

Comments

First, I don’t see  Joo Won’s attraction to Ra-im as abrupt even though it began in the middle of episode 1, and I actually enjoy the set-up between the two. I expected bickering right from the start, but not the extra sparks that came with it. Ra-im IS an attractive character, and we’ve all seen how opposites attract, so I think it’s actually pretty natural that Joo Won is drawn to her. I also like that Joo Won is considerably forthright about it e.g. actively seeking out her number, queueing up just to meet her during the action school audition (despite saying that he NEVER has to queue up for anything, and aww he’s doing it just to speak to Ga-im). I like how their relationship kickstarts this way, and I believe the body swap will probably allow the two to understand the other better and true love shall blossom!

I’m also dying to find out how the love square (if i’m not wrong, Oska will be falling for her as well) will work out after the body swap. Really, how will the 2nd (and 3rd) male leads score points in Ra-im’s book if they were to start directing their affections towards the *gulp* wrong body?!

The thing about this drama: there’re funny and light scenes, and also nicely nuanced ones, like how Ra-im keeps appearing next to Joo Won, of course in the latter’s imagination, to show how his mind is preoccupied with thoughts of her. (The way Joo Won starts chanting random animal names to distract himself afterwards is HILARIOUS. Love him.) It also makes me think that the drama’s paving the way nicely for their body swap later on, by introducing a bit of ‘fantasy’ in here.

Just HOW will this swap take place? Dying to find out as well.

The kiss that took 20 NGs and will take place in episode 6:

The production team even hinted that knowing what took place between the pair before the kiss will make things even more interesting!!

Chinese table tennis star Zhang Jike (currently ranked world no. 4)

He’s so adorable.. and apparently he’s quite rebellious/naughty too, just my cup of tea! :pp

I’m not really excited about the idea of body swap in the upcoming weekend drama Secret Garden, and it’s described as a melodrama.. isn’t that taking itself too seriously? Buuut it’s got Hyun Bin and Ha Ji Won, who’re both looking good in the stills released. The drama which premieres November 13 has released its official posters (and the first of the two really channels You’re Beautiful for me teehee).

I wonder if there’s any significance in the drama title.. or thematic resemblance to the novel?

I wonder how that pose came about -.-

Anw, I love how Moon Geun Young looks at the production press conference of Mary Stayed Out All Night. The dress is cute, and the shoes are a highlight! She even has a lovely healthy glow.

The drama airs next week, can’t wait!

[Okay this has been talked-about for a while now, but I'm still intrigued.]

Barbie Hsu (Da S) is engaged to Chinese 2nd generation chaebol Wang Xiaofei! Their whirlwind romance has been causing a storm in the Chinese media and speculations finally came to an end with Wang’s confirmation of their engagement on his Wei Bo on 29th Oct afternoon. The two apparently met and fell in love at first sight at Taiwanese actress Ady An‘s birthday party in Beijing, and are planning to marry in February next year.

On 28th Oct night, Da S and her mom dined together at Wang’s restaurant, while Wang was nowhere to be seen. The next day however, he appeared with Da S at the airport in Shanghai, and the two were openly affectionate. Da S was also wearing her engagement ring.

Soon after, Wang updated his Wei Bo, confirming rumours of his engagement with Da S for the first time. He expressed:

Everyone can stop guessing, we did get engaged. It was calm and not sudden. We just met the right person at the right time. We just want a happy, comfortable life, continue my work and career, while she can quietly return to family life. There is hardly right and wrong when it comes to relationship, just suitable or not. Give some room and blessing to us two young people okay?

 

To which Da S responded on Wei Bo,

Actually not very young.. but the point is, I’m very blissful, very certain, very happy! And we’ll continue to be very blissful! From the first time I met Xiaofei, I knew it had to be him, and we got engaged after our fourth meeting. I have to say, we’re a match made in heaven. Thanks for the concern! We’ll accept all the blessings~

Other than the speed at which the romance developed, there’s another reason why the piece of news is attracting eyeballs: Wang is also widely known to be the ex-boyfriend of Chinese actress, Zhang Yuqi (张雨绮), who shot to stardom after appearing in the Stephen Chow film, CJ7. Wang made his first showbiz appearance at the fashion bazaar charity show in April this year, where he arrived hand in hand with Zhang. When asked about the state of their romance, a radiant Zhang gave a positive reply, “Our relationship is going very well, but we’ll not be getting married so soon”. Only half a year later, news of their break up surfaced, followed by Wang’s announcement of his engagement to Da S. Talk about dramatic!

[Actually there's even more backstory to this, but you can go google and read the million articles generated yourself if you're interested! =.o]

Born in 1981 (five years younger than Da S), Wang Xiaofei is the sole heir to the South Beauty Group, also known as Qiaojiangnan, a Chinese luxury restaurant chain. At 16, he left for France to pursue his studies, and returned to Beijing 6 years later with a degree in design from ESSEC (Ecole Supérieure des Sciences Economiques et Comerciales) and an MBA in hotel management from the University of Guelph, in Canada. He has since taken up the position of executive director of the Qiaojiangnan Group. The restaurant chain reportedly brings in profits amounting to over 10 billion yuan per year.

Anyway, a big CONGRATULATIONS to Da S whom I’ve always admired! Even though you didn’t end up with Peter Ho, you still got yourself an eligible, cool dude

I became inexplicably drawn to Sungkyunkwan Scandal from like episode 8, and it definitely has a lot to do with the awfully sexy and charismatic Yoo Ah In! Omg, that guy totally owns my heart now <3

It’s not like I don’t know that Sun-joon and Yoon-hee are the OTP and Sun-joon truly deserves her love and affection. (Not that Guh-ro doesn’t, really!) So one moment I’m giggling at the cuteness of the OTP, and another moment I’m clutching my chest in hurt for my Guh-ro. Show is seriously turning me schizophrenic.

Why must he be SO FREAKING AWESOME (not to mention, hot and sexy) IN EVERY WAY POSSIBLE and yet NOT get any love from the girl he loves so much?!? My heart just shatters into a million pieces for him

I’m truly going to miss the sexy Moon Jae-shin, the short-tempered Moon Jae-shin, the rebellious Moon Jae-shin, the loyal Moon Jae-shin, the bashful Moon Jae-shin, the adorable Moon Jae-shin, the gentle Moon Jae-shin and the Jae-shin who could only see Yoon-hee. I’ve not had so much heartache for a drama character in a long while.. Episode 18 really delivered the fatal last punch *sniff* I just might have to put off watching the last 2 episodes until I’m emotionally prepared (which is, perhaps, never). [No spoilers, you can go watch and tell me if the last stretch didn't stab you in the chest.]

P.S. I was pleasantly surprised when I saw a comment that Yoo Ah In resembles So Ji Sup, I thought so almost from the start too! It’s the intensity of both actors.

Have I mentioned that I love the gentle, loving Moon Jae-shin? *swoons*

I’m so sorry I neglected the other leads.. I can’t help it! Jae-shin just needs more love right now! >.<

Screencaps credits to dramabeans.

The opening ceremony of the 15th Pusan International Film Festival was held in Busan, South Korea, on 7 October 2010.  This year, the Asian film festival showcases 308 films from 67 countries and runs from 7 October to 15 October. Onward to the exciting part, the red carpet!

Zhang Yimou‘s latest film, Under the Hawthorn Tree, opened the 15th PIFF. The director came with his two young leads, actor Dou Xiao and actress Zhou Dongyu to promote the film. (They seriously are everywhere these days, not that I saw them in person -.-)

Japanese actress Yu Aoi and actor Masaki Okada came together to promote their upcoming movie, Raiou, which was exhibited in the Open cinema section. Yu Aoi still looks fresh and youthful despite being fully clad in a little black dress and black stockings.

Chinese actress Tang Wei of Late Autumn looks pure and elegant. Not sure why she isn’t with her co-star Hyun Bin..

Won Bin and his The Man From Nowhere (aka Ajusshi) little co-star, Kim Sae Ron, in matching wear and even matching pose! (Adorable.)

Wonder when (if ever) my dear Won Bin will be returning to television

Son Ye Jin (Personal Taste) dazzles in this strapless gown, and was widely regarded the best dressed of the night:

Park Bo Young (Speed Scandal) came in a rather boring short dress, but gotta give her some points for being so cute:

Good to see Kim Hyun Joo (Partner)! Is it me or does the lovely star keep too low a profile? She looks pulled together in the fake one shoulder dress, but the fitting seems a bit off.

After staring for a while at the dress Min Hyo Rin (Triple) is wearing, I decided I quite like the loose drooping concept at the back and the holes (for lack of a better word) make the white gown look more exquisite. It helps that her hair and makeup go well with the dress too. She doesn’t look very at ease in it though, considering how prone to slipping off even tight-fitting tube dresses are.

Um, I don’t get what this look does for Kim Yun Jin (Seven Days), except that it ages her by 10 years. If this were a page out of a fairy tale book, I’d place my bet on Gong Hyo Jin being Snow White and Kim the evil stepmom.

In contrast, Eom Ji Won (The Woman Who Still Wants to Marry) brightens up my screen, literally:

Lee Min Jung (Cyrano; Dating Agency) looks absolutely stunning in this metallic gown:

Choi Jung Won (Wish Upon a Star) also came in a metallic halter dress, but the cutting is less flattering imo. I thought she gained some weight at first glance, but her arms are still skinny. Check out her plunging backline:

Jeon Do Yeon (The Housemaid) always looks glamorous:

T.O.P (Into the Gunfire) looking very alert:

Su Ae (Athena) and Yoo Ji Tae (A Star’s Lover) of thriller movie Midnight FM. Su Ae is a goddess, while Yoo looks like he’s slipped back into his psycho killer persona in the shot on the right:

Newly wed Han Ji Hye (East of Eden), who arrives with Jung Joon Ho (IRIS), looks sleek and beautiful in another red one shoulder gown (but I would say Soo Ae owns the look):

I like Han Hye Jin (Jejoongwon)’s look! The old-fashioned wavy hairstyle works for her and her pissy look is adding to her cold charm. She looks like she could whip out a gun and shoot us all down anytime.

Lee Yo Won (Queen Seon Deuk) and Ryu Seung Ryong (Personal Taste) of upcoming film Bean Paste (which also stars Lee Dong Wook):

If I had to pick a dress I hated the most, it would have to be Choi Kang Hee‘s. (I know what you’d be thinking, but at least Kim Yun Jin provided me with some laughs. Choi’s look just made me go eww.) The colour washes her out and the cutting of the dress makes her look frumpy and flat chested. Also, the hair doesn’t look flattering on her, neither does that mess on Lee Sun Kyun (Pasta). The two stars are reuniting in the upcoming romantic comedy film Petty Romance two years after working together in the drama My Sweet Seoul.

Lol did Ji Sung (Kim Soo Ro) and Ahn Sung Ki (Fair Love) wear the exact same thing? The next time I see Gu Hye Sun in -gasp- a dress at an award ceremony I’ll probably squeal. The busy star will be acting opposite Taiwanese heartthrob Wu Chun in an upcoming Taiwanese remake of the Japanese manga, Absolute Boyfriend.

Kim Min Hee (Love Marriage) and Yoon Yeo Jung (The Housemaid) worked together in the film Actress. Kim looks like she extended her nightgown with some satin cloth of the same colour, and sad to say, the effect is not good.

Hong Soon Hyun (Angel’s Temptation) in a mermaid dress:

  

Park Soo Jin (My Girlfriend is a Gumiho); Moon So Ri (My Life’s Golden Age), who looks fierce enough for me to keep my mouth shut.

Love the halter dress on Park Sol Mi (Merchant Kim Man Deok), and she wears it with so much confidence, well done!

Wang Ji Hye (Personal Taste) and Kim Soo Hyun (Giant) turned up together. I can’t tell if Kim is nervous or excited, but I can tell he’s pretty cute xD 

Last but not least, Lee So Yeon (Dong Yi) looking happy and radiant: