Marissa:my simple joy

'The Legend' Confirmed To Air On June 25th

2007-05-07T14:58:00.000+08:00

Bae Yong Joon's new historical fantasy drama 'The Legend' (script by Song Jina and directed by Kim Jong Hak) has pushed back its first broadcast date again, which is now confirmed to air on June 25th.

The PR agency for 'The Legend' revealed on the 3rd that "after endless negotiations with MBC, we came to a conclusion to have the broadcast date on June 25th."

Just not so long ago, MBC had decided that 'The Legend' would air after 'H.I.T.' and was set to air on May 28th. But production company of 'The Legend,' Kim Jong Hak Productions requested for more time since the cg effects for the drama will take longer, so eventually the broadcast date was pushed back. 'The Legend' was originally planned to air in March.

After the national Korean broadcast was delayed to June 25th, 'The Legend' seems that it will be seen by the viewers in Korea and Japan at nearly the same time. 'The Legend' will be broadcasted through NHK in Japan.
.
Due to the delay in the broadcast of 'The Legend,' MBC plans to air the 8 episode miniseries, 'Wise Mother Shin.'

The plans for 'The Legend' were started in 2003 and filming was started last March. It had a full support, but it is currently only 60% complete. But as a fantasy drama, the cg effects are crucial, so it seemed hard to complete everything by the first broadcast date.

'The Legend' portrays the life of the 19th king of Goguryeo, and the characters of the Four Gods. The funding for this drama was 43 million won, and will feature Bae Yong Joon, Moon So Ri, Jung Jin Young, Choi Min Soo, and others. Currently, the filming is still in progress on location in Jeju Island.

Source: BROASIA.com
http://www.broasia.com/lwboard/lwboard.php...pg=1&no=259

Bae Yong Joon, photos from Japanese remake of 'Hotelier' revealed

2007-04-17T15:18:00.000+08:00

Photos of Bae Yong Joon in the scenes of the Japanese remake of 'Hotelier' were revealed.

At the filming that took place on the first at Lotte Hotel in Seoul, Bae Yong Joon had his hair tied neatly wearing a clean suit. Most of the lines exchanged between the main characters Ueto Aya and Tanabe Seiichi and Bae Yong Joon were in Korean.

The Japanese remake of 'Hotelier' will start airing on April 19th through Japan's Asahi TV. Bae Yong Joon is guest appearing in the upcoming version as Shin Dong Hyuk from the original series.

Bae Yong Joon commented, "'Hotelier' which was also loved in Korea has great meaning to me. I was happy to hear that it is the first drama being remade in Japan and am glad and thankful to have the opportunity to participate in the series."

Bae Yong Joon will be starring in 'The Legend' which is scheduled to air in May.

Source: BROASIA.com
http://www.broasia.com/lwboard/lwboard.php...pg=1&no=241

Happy Easter!!!

2007-04-08T10:02:00.000+08:00

To my bae sisters,

May the Glory of the Risen Lord bring you hope, peace and love.

A blessed easter to everyone.

Japanese Fans Hold Art Fair on Bae

2007-04-03T17:25:00.000+08:00

Japanese fans of Korean actor Bae Yong-jun held a 3-day art fair themed on Bae from March 23rd in Kyoto, and from Friday to Sunday in Shinjuku, Tokyo.

Organized by Bae's fan club "EndlessLove-With BYJ," the fair entitled "100% BAE YONG JOON Art Fair" had on display 150 pieces of fan creations and a 55 minute video that was a compilation of 16 individual submissions.

The fan club says 900 people visited the Kyoto fair and 1,200 the Tokyo fair on Saturday alone, with an estimated total of 4,000 for the Tokyo exhibition.

Those with works on display also gave out picture postcards they had prepared out of their own pockets as gifts to visitors.
Source: KBS Global http://english.kbs.co.kr/entertainment/new...8027_11858.html

Japanese Fans Swarm At Bae Yong Joon's Classic Concert

2007-03-15T12:28:00.000+08:00

Korean top celebrity Bae Yong Joon's first produced Classic Concert opened on the 13th in Japan's Saitama Super Arena.

At his concert, Bae Yong Joon himself could not attend on that day due to his drama "The Legend," but about 10,000 fans gathered to make this event a great success.

Bae Yong Joon's Classic Album, " BYJ Classics/Hero," had compilations which were the focus of this venue, and a Korean-Japanese conductor Kim Sung Hyang led the Tokyo Philharmonic Orchestra in performing these songs. Of course, the pieces conducted were said to be picked personally by Bae Yong Joon for the performance. There was a special behind-the-scenes footage for the fans introducing his album, which got much applause.

At the event site, Bae Yong Joon's popularity was confirmed again after thousands of "Bae Yong Joon 05-06 As Seen By Nikkan Sports," scheduled to be sold in all bookstores on the 15th, were sold in an instant.

Source: BROASIA.com
http://www.broasia.com/lwboard/lwboard.php...pg=1&no=206

Shy Guy!

2007-03-14T13:40:00.000+08:00

Liezle got these from nagjun's blog and shared it at BYJ's thread in soompi.

Love, love, love it! He looks like he's having some fun with the people inside the studio. I just wish he has more time to laugh and have fun like what he did here.

Books About Bae Yong Joon's Works Appear Rapidly In Japan

2007-03-08T13:54:00.000+08:00

Despite his absence at the official press conference for the drama "The Legend," Korean top celebrity Bae Yong Joon's popularity is ever the same. As if to validate this, the recent publishing of a book version of the drama "Did We Ever Love" (Japanese title "People Who Love") is receiving much attention lately.

Beginning this month of March, the "People Who Love" had appeared in bookstores and it includes a present from Bae Yong Joon. Goto Yuko, who is a big fan of Bae Yong Joon, is so passionately enthralled with Bae Yong Joon¡¯s character Kang Jae Ho, that she made this book in order to spread and share the attractiveness of the story.

There is a detailed introduction about Jae Ho's charisma, the lessons learned from "People Who Love," the world of "People Who Love," the character relationships in the drama, Jae Ho's feelings, and etc. Afterwards, there are also thoughts about Bae Yong Joon as Jae Ho, Jae Ho's fashion, etc, as well as the on location reports of Jae Ho's house, college, and the seafood market.

Ever since a few years ago, books about the works in which Bae Yong Joon appeared have been published one after the other. Starting with the publishing of Fall in Love with the Prince of Smiles from "Hotelier" and "Winter Sonata," by novelist and reporter Mukoyama Masako a number of books are still being published about Bae Yong Joon. This year, Yahata Kaoru¡¯s "Yon-sama's Path" has become the best-seller on the Japanese Amazon website.

The Japanese fan's love for Bae Yong Joon can be seen in the internet fan-fiction novels such as "Winter Sonata By The Fans: The After-story From A Cell phone," and the "Korean Drama Creative Theater." Last year in June, the climax of this phenomenon reached after Satovic's "Yon-sama Theater."

Until now, among the dramas with Bae Yong Joon, there have been the most books published about "Winter Sonata," then "Hotelier", and then "Did We Really Love."

Source: BROASIA.com
http://www.broasia.com/lwboard/lwboard.php...pg=1&no=201

Still Wanting Him Single

2007-03-07T11:28:00.000+08:00

Starnews, a Korean Daily carried an article on a survey recently conducted in Korea on who among the korean male celebrities do they want to remain single for now. Our dear Yong Joon placed second after JDG.

It's a surprise to me only because I thought the younger actors like Jo In Sung or Hyun Bin who ranked 3rd and 4th respectively will top the polls. Since BYJ is now in his mid 30's I have no problem if he decides to tie the knot but it seems there are still a majority out there who are not ready to see him settled.

And with TWSSG almost ready to be screened, I'm sure more female hearts will be taken in by his magnetic presence.

A Real Gentlemen

2007-02-27T10:54:00.000+08:00

I just read a translation of the article posted by suehan at the freeboard section of BYJ Quilt that will appear on the March 2007 issue of GQ Korea. I found it interesting that writer tried to make Yong Joon say that he is a gentlemen.

Webster defines gentlemen as "a man whose conduct conforms to a high standard of propriety or correct behavior". And Yong Joon fits that description based on what I've observed from watching countless vods and reading articles about him through all these years as a fan. But it's not just me or countless other fans but even people who are close to him, had a chance to work with him attest to his gentle manner and conduct with anyone he's in contact with.

He is a man who is never boastful of what he has achieved although he has all the rights to do so. And so it was no surprise that he just gave his idea on what is a gentlemen but never said that he is one. And so with a smile I say amen to the last line by the editor Cho Kyung Ah in the said article "But, he is a gentleman. Because I don’t want to call a person, who says that ‘I am a gentleman’, a gentleman...

Hybernation Mode?

2007-02-20T13:23:00.000+08:00

It's been a while since my last blog entry, no let me rephrase that...my blog entries of late are to sparse when compared to the past. Is it an indication that I'm moving on, or have I moved on to a new phase in my being a fan of Yong Joon.

I would like to think it's the latter, after all I still check on what's new with him everyday. But unlike before, I'm content with reading news about him but I'm not participating actively in the forums as I use to. Or maybe because there's not much to talk about this days. He is still in the midst of shooting TWSSG so maybe when it starts airing a new breath of energy will come forth to make me and my blog active and alive again.

Till then I'm stamping my entry with an artwork from my fave nagajun that was posted in soompi by fellow bae blogger liezle.

TWSSG Banned in China

2007-02-05T15:42:00.000+08:00

I just read two articles today one from English Chosun, and the other from KBS Global
on the criticism by the Chinese government on BYJ's current drama "Taewangsashingi" because of issues on the historical accuracy. In fact they have already imposed a press embargo and has banned its broadcast in the said country.

I'm not an authority on the history between China and Koguryo Dynasty of Korea so I will not attempt to make sense on why the Chinese government made such a decision. I hope some of our sisters here who are well versed on the subject matter can help out. All I know is that both countries are sensitive about the interpretation of what transpired during those times.

I'm sure the staff of TWSSG is already aware of the situation so let's see what will happen as the filming transpires.

And I Spoke Too Soon....

2007-01-09T10:27:00.000+08:00

Seems there were a lot of us who prayed to Quilt may be revived because no sooner after I successfully published by previous post our beloved BYJ Quilt is back online.

Let's just hope that a solution can be agreed upon so that the site can remain online. I'm sure there will be a lot of volunteers willing to do their share in keeping our home alive.

Saying Good-Bye To A Home

2007-01-08T11:51:00.000+08:00

I just read about Quilt finally closing it's doors from bb's blog and tears slowly dropped from my eyes. It was home to all BYJ english speaking fans in the truest sense of the word.

I first got to know about the site when Winter Love Song started to air in the Philippines in November of 2003. It was a haven of information for a newbie like me, in fact in took me two whole days to finish checking all his photos and saving most of it in my hard drive. I started reading all the fan accounts of those lucky enough to have a glimpse of him or better yet had a short conversation with the man.

But the greatest legacy Quilt has in my life is the friendship I've gained through all these years. From fellow filipinos like Mariz (sunset) and Judy whom I first came into contact and later became the core officers of BAEwatchphil. To foreign sisters like Evelyn (HK) who kindly sent me a BYJ Calendar, a gift I treasure up to now; Helen who is also so generous with her collections; bb my blogging mentor; haeyon tiffany; mariko; tomato and countless other sisters whom I only encounter on the net but has accompanied me in my journey as a bae fan. Through their postings I have gotten to know more and more about Yong Joon and kept the fever alive for me and I'm sure to countless other fans.

Three years down the road who would have thought that the home I treasured will bid good-bye. But nothing is the world is constant except change and so with a heavy heart I'm saying farewell. To Joanne and Hyeon who did their very best to maintain the home for us, my undying gratitude to both of you. You may never truly know how through Quilt you have changed countless lives for the better. I will forever include you and your family in my prayers.

I'm still hoping that there is a way to rebuild our home. After all like the name itself Quilt is a patchwork of different people all after one goal. I'm sure from amongst us we can find a way to help each other in maintaining the site in whatever little way we can. Till then...

2007-01-03T11:33:00.000+08:00

It's been a while since I visited KOB because I'm still having problems going online. But it was a joy to see baesis tomato translate a part of the Nikkan Sports Special for us so I'm keeping a summary of his activities for 2006 here in my blog.

★　Looking back Yon-sama’s year 2006 with Nikkan Sports ★

☆ January ☆
◆ DVD”April Snow” record sales of 89,000 copies.
Hits number one on Oricon DVD chart on its first appearance on 16th.
April Snow making DVD sold in September 2005 also won number one,
it was first time in history to double top one’s.

☆ February ☆
◆ Invest in Kosdaq listed software company with 9billion won and owns 37.5% of its stocks and becomes its largest shareholder.
Company changes its name to “Keyeast,” and changes its business to producing movies and drama contents and its distribution.

☆ March ☆:
◆ IMX in Japan opens ‘café-B’ at Shibuya, Tokyo.
Yons-sama sends message, “I hope this place will be loved by everyone and that it will give comfort in everyone’s busy life.”
◆ As beginning of TWSSG shooting starts, traditional ceremony was held in Jeju.
Yon-sama attended the ceremony with Director Kim Jon- hak and other staff.
BYJ gave his words, “Everyone attended and determined our minds.
Now I am looking forward to and getting tense.
I hope everyone will be safe and healthy till the shooting ends.
I will do my best for this work.”
◆ Some geography text books for year 2007 high-schools will be using BYJ’s Japan visit photos as a symbol for Japan- Korea cultural exchange.

☆ April ☆
◆ DVD sales and DVD showing for fan event of 31 August 2005, “April Snow –reunion-” was announced.
◆ it came to known that Hong Kong’s wax museum Madam Tassau’s will exhibit Yon-sama statue.
Experts from London head office visited Korea to measure Yon-sama’s body size and took 8 months to make the statue.

☆ May ☆
◆ selected to be media diplomat for “Hallyu Expo” wih Lee Yong Ae.
◆ co-stars with Yuko Ogura for Lotte Almond Chocolate,.
Yon-sama shows a confused look with a smile when Yukorin (Yuko Ogura) acts as a convenience shop clerk and replied with her “Korin language.”
“I am not able to go shopping at a convenience store in Korea,
but when I am abroad I do shop for sweets.”
◆ House in Seoul has caught fire and burnt his bed and some of the furnitures.
No injuries for Yon-sama. Cause of fire was short circuit.

☆ June ☆
◆ Movie “April Snow Director’s Cut” to be shown in theaters from September.
People lined up all night to buy advance tickets, and theaters were expanded to several big cities and
showed remarkable phenomenon.

☆ July ☆
◆ Donated 200million won to Korean heavy rain disaster victims
◆ Visits Japan on 20th for CF shooting and press conference for restaurant “Gosireh,” which he had produced.
To avoid confusion, schedule was hidden but some of the fans gathered around Gosireh,
IMX had send out message for fans soon after his arrival to calm down the situation.

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★finally we can reveal his schedule during his Japan visit ★

20 July
◇ am11:15 depart Incheon Airport, Korea
◇ pm 1:30 arrive Narita Airport
◇ pm 3:00 arrive hotel in Tokyo
◇ pm 7:00 dinner

21 July
◇ am 10:30 breakfast
◇ pm 1:00 leave hotel
◇ pm 1:30 arrive at restaurant Gosireh at Shirokane (have catering lunch)
◇ pm 2:10 start shooting for Lotte CF
◇ pm 6:00 finish shooting, other shootings
◇ pm 7:00 leave Gosireh
◇ pm 7:30 arrive hotel
◇ pm 8:00 dinner

22 July
◇ whole day off physical exercise at hotel gym etc.

23 July
◇ am 9:30 breakfast
◇ pm 12:30 lunch
◇ pm 2:00 hair and make up
◇ pm 3:10 leave hotel
◇ pm 3:45 arrive at Gosireh
◇ pm 4:20 press conference at Gosireh
◇ pm 4:45 leave conference
◇during press conference at Gosireh,
Yon-sama commented, “I wish to do more activities for Asian culture exchange.”
later attended Korean traditional ceremony ‘Gosa.’
He sent message to fans, “I feel sorry for not being able to greet you directly.”
◇ pm 6:00 Opening party at the restaurant. Mr. Shigeo Nagashima also attended the party.
◇ pm 7:30 leave Gosireh, stopped by for shopping on his way

note: Yon-sama stopped by at a well-known jewelry shop in Tokyo.
His stay was only about for 20 minutes but he did buy several jewelries that he liked.
During his 5nights-6days Japan visit, this was only time he enjoyed his private time.

◇ after pm 8:00 arrive hotel
◇ pm 8:30 dinner

24 July
◇ am 9:30 breakfast
◇ am 10:30 hair and make up
◇ pm 1:30 arrive at studio in Tokyo
◇ pm 2:00 shooting for Secom CF’s steels
◇ pm 5:00 finish shooting. costume change, hair and make up.
Photo shooting for photo book and CD jacket etc.
◇ pm 10:00 finish shooting
◇ pm 10:30 arrive hotel and dinner

25 July
◇ am 10:00 breakfast
◇ noon leave hotel
◇ pm 1:00 arrive Narita airport
◇ pm 1:55 leave Japan
◇ pm 4:20 arrive Incheon airport

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☆ August ☆
◆ Sends video message to Nihon TV’s program “24hours TV” to support its charity.
“Family and ‘Kizuna(bond)’ with family(fans) in Asia is important,
I hope that this warm heart will last for long time.”
◆ On his 34th birthday(29 Aug), he concentrates on drama shooting.

☆ September ☆
◆ His costumes for new drama was revealed for the first time,
“I am looking forward to shooting after long period of preparation.”
◆ Appears in new CF for SECOM, short hair and dressed up in security uniform
BYJ commented “(wearing uniform,) I feel I have to go out and guard someone.
Family in broad meaning is everyone you love.
I sympathize with the commercial message.”

☆ October ☆
◆ To commemorate sales of charity photo book ”Super Stars,” photo exhibit is to take place at Omotesando Hills, Tokyo in November.
Project was planned by Singapore photographer Mr. Leslie Kee, photo book will feature more than 300 Asian stars from various quarters.

☆ November ☆
◆ Announcement of First Classic music selected album “BYJ Classics / Hero” to be on sale from 25 December 2006.
Two types of album, special edition and regular edition will be released.
It will feature photo book and booklet with original essays.
Essays will explain how he has selected Mozart or Beethoven and also writes how and when he listens to these music.
Photos were taken by Mr. Leslie Kee.
Album recorded 20,000 sales just after 10days it has started to accept reservation
This record sales is equivalent to ranking 10th at Oricon weekly album sales chart.
◆ Attended opening ceremony at “Hallyu Expo.”
His appearance to Korean public event was first time after two years absence.
He joined the tape cut ceremony.

☆ December ☆
◆ With his wishes to “help out children who need hope and courage.”
Collaborated with natural cosmetic company KohGenDo and sell “BYJ deep moist lip & gloss set.”
Part of profit will be sent to charity.

source: Nikkan Sports
japanese to english translation by tomato99 of KOB
photo by makiko @byj’s gallery

BYJ's New Year's Message

2007-01-03T11:18:00.000+08:00

Dear family, Annyonghaseyo? This is Bae Yong Joon..

I’ll start off this letter by greeting everyone into the 2007 new year.
I wonder how everyone will be spending the last few days of 2006.^^
Hopefully, everyone will spend those days with their families and friends..
Last month, I was very glad to have met all of you again at the very meaningful location
of the Asian Culture Exchange.. The event motivated me to, again, contribute myself to the cause.

Looking back on the past year and my hectic schedule, I was able to enjoy some joyful, wonderful moments with everyone thanks to your support. On the other hand, I also remember the tsunami many Asian families had to suffer through; and recently, I have also been concerned when having been informed of unfortunate events occurring throughout the world.. I just hope that no one had too much of a loss during these times, and pray that everyone is better.

Despite my lack of often meeting all of you this year, throughout my projects and other works this upcoming year, I hope there will be many good chances to be a part of this family. And I sincerely hope that you and your families will be well, and many good things will come to you all this upcoming year. And I will continue to do my best as an actor and as Bae Yong Joon, an individual.

I hope everyone has a good new year.

Sincerely,

Bae Yong Joon

credits to suehan of KOB for translating Yong Joon's message in english.

Happy Holidays!

2006-12-27T14:51:00.000+08:00

To all my dear baesisters who still find time to visit my blog even if I'm not deligent in updating it, I wish you and your family a Merry Christmas and peace and prosperity for the coming year!

artwork credit to hyejun of BYJ Quilt

Finally Meeting Her

2006-12-21T10:16:00.000+08:00

I've "known" her through Quilt for two years, greeted each other online through forums and exchanged private emails so I was excited when she told me her plans to spend the holidays back to her country of birth.

Dear baesis Mariko arrived last Saturday, Dec. 16, I gave her a call and arranged for a dinner date together with other baesisters last Tuesday. The meeting place was at a mall on the north of where my office is located. Travel normally takes an hour on a bus or taxi but since it's christmas time where traffic is on a standstill in a lot of areas, Northstar thought it best that I take the public train instead and cut my travel time in half. It's been a while since I took the train so I was shocked on just how many people are now using it, it was so full there was no room to move. I was just happy to make it in one piece.

Mariko, Northstar and Liezle were already waiting for me at Starbucks. I knew what Mariko looks like because of the photos we have exchanged but it was still a welcome surprise to see how lovely she is in person. In between dinner, we talked and talked about Yong Joon-ssi. Her experiences in Korea and Taiwan when she attended the premiere of April Snow. How she felt when he finally saw BYJ in person. She also shared some photos of Yong Joon, as well as copies of Myonne and pallets artworks (thanks ladies love them). We were so happy exchanging stories that we forgot about the time ~ we all have to rush home if we want to catch Episode 8 of BYJ's First Love on KBS2.

We'll be having another dinner date next week and hopefully more baesisters can join us.

'April Snow' to Begin 3rd Run in Japan

2006-12-06T16:26:00.000+08:00

The film 'April Snow' starring Bae Yong-Joon and Son Ye-jin will be screened in Japan for the third time.

On Wednesday, the online edition of Japan's Nikkan Sports daily reported the decision to rerun the Korean melodrama starring heartthrob Bae, whom Japanese fans adore as "Yonsama."

Since its September premiere, a director's cut of the movie was screened during the following two months, and that same version will be shown again this month. Three runs of the same film is considered highly unusual.

A director's cut is usually only found on a DVD release, which points to the Korean actor's runaway popularity in Japan.

Bae on Tuesday thanked fans for their love and support, saying he's happy to meet them again through the movie and that he hopes April Snow will remain a pleasant memory.

Source: KBS Global
http://english.kbs.co.kr/entertainment/new...8793_11858.html

BYJ at the Hallyu Expo Opening

2006-11-29T11:39:00.000+08:00

The Hallyu Expo in Jeju was finally opened today so as expected we have a barrage of photos coming in. I'm just keeping some of my favorites here to remind me of this beautiful day.

photo credits: as labelled
posted by frances and flor at BYJ Quilt

For Your Reading Pleasure

2006-11-14T10:58:00.000+08:00

Four of my very good friends made a trip to Korea last month mainly to watch Rain's showcase. But a trip to Korea will never be complete without visiting Nami Island and the other location sites for Winter Sonata for this drama started it all for most of us.

I'm sure you will enjoy reading about their stay because her writing style is amusing. Here's the link to their korean adventure

Wrapped In A Tight Embrace

2006-11-14T10:44:00.000+08:00

I found another source of inspiration for the day. A kind baesister 권오경 posted some scanned photos of our dear Yong Joon from the new issue of Joseijishin that made me smile like silly again.

Such broad shoulders that can take you straight to heaven if he dares to wrap you in his embrace. And that smile, that smile alone is enough to make me see rainbows around me.

HOT, HOT, HOT!!!

2006-11-07T11:31:00.000+08:00

I just come from KOB and baesis 권오경posted a second batch of photos from CREA and now I'm fanning myself even if our aircon is now in full blast.

These are just two of my fave from the second batch but there's more, lot's more... here,here,here,here,here,here, and here

I Lost My Mind.... Yet Again

2006-11-07T11:02:00.000+08:00

A beautiful sister uploaded some photos taken from the December issue of CREA and though it took me a while to download the files (I'm not a techie) it was all worth it. Right now I'm just pretending to work because my mind just turned into jello.

And there's more here and here.

http://cafe.daum.net/byjfan-kaorin님

A Sight To Behold

2006-10-31T14:08:00.000+08:00

I just came from KOB and saw a translated post of gaulyeoja giving a link to Yong Joons photos as Damdeok. At long last a visual representation of the character I've read about for a year now. What a sight to behold...... my dreams does not even come close to seeing these photos that I'm keeping it here.

Source: mbc gallery
credits to gaulyeoja of KOB

He Is Back In Seoul

2006-10-27T10:16:00.000+08:00

Fellow baesis gaulyeoja just shared in KOB that Yong Joon is back in Seoul after almost a week of shooting in Jeju. His comings ang goings have been kept secret so there's an obvious lack of photos.... sigh I'm back in my "missing him" mode.

It's Hard To Be "BYJ"

2006-10-26T14:07:00.000+08:00

Anyone into K-pop will surely know MC Mong, one of S. Korea's best hip-hop artist. In an interview recently published in broasia.com, he made mention on how he got a first hand experience of how hard life is for our dear Yong Joon.

He moved in to the apartment previously occupied by BYJ and there were instances when his sleep will be disturbed by BYJ fans wanting to meet Yong Joon or simply have their pictures taken inside the apartment. Whatever happened to the building security? Aren't they supposed to monitor the people going in and out of the apartment complex. It made me wonder if the same is true when he was still residing in that apartment. It must have been hard to be always on guard and having a personal relationship is simply out of the question if there are prying eyes watching your every move.

Back to MC Mong, he felt he was losing his privacy so he decided to move to another unit in the same apartment complex, a wise decision on his part I'd say.

Related.... Somewhat

2006-10-17T18:16:00.000+08:00

Seems BOF is doing well in handling the career of their new talent Heo Ji Jae. Her movie Sunflower with Kim Rae Won will be showing this November and she's been confirmed to be the female lead for the upcoming drama series Goong 2 opposite singer Seven.

I do hope to hear more from Lee Na-Young and the other talents signed by BOF.

========================================================

The replacement for Chung Jinyoung who back-out from the drama TWSSG is finally cast. He is renowned actor Oh Kwangrok who was last seen in the movie Oh Happy Time.

If his face looks familiar to you, its because he also appeared in the movies Sympathy for Lady Vengeance, Old Boy, Sympathy for Mr. Vengeance and A Bittersweet Life.

With such noteworthy cast, I'm getting more excited with the BYJ's latest drama.

A Temptation That's Hard To Resist

2006-10-11T10:15:00.000+08:00

Our dear sister makishi of Quilt was kind enough to share BYJ's latest CF for Rummy and Bacchus chocolates. Anyone who bothered to read my short profile knows how I love eating chocolates and I won't be blogging about BYJ for more than a year now if I don't adore the man. So imagine putting those two together ~ aigooo what a lethal combination.

A Letter To A Fan

2006-10-04T13:15:00.000+08:00

I'm sure most if not all of you have seen the letter written by Yong Joon to his fan Miryeo that was posted by Gaeulyeoja in KOB and was later shared by Joanne in Quilt. I just want to keep it here because it's a nice momento of the times when BYJ can still afford to have a personal interaction with his fans. I'm sure that as much as he wants to greet each and everyone of us it's just too much to expect from him. So I'll just close my eyes for a moment and imagine that he has the same thoughts for me too.

BYJ, Still On Top

2006-09-26T10:47:00.000+08:00

I don't normally bother participating in those online polls aimed at finding who is the hottest korean star, the most handsome, who you want to spend valentine with and the likes. But I feel very proud when our dear Yong Joon still manages to be on the list and at times being numero uno (#1). Have you read cam and frances latest entries in Quilt about him being awarded in China for being one of the Top Hallyu Stars, if not then do check them out.

I know that if only his fans will really put their heart in voting in all those polls, there's a great chance of their sites crashing from the millions of votes that will pour in. It's no joke because most of his fans are just silently supporting him, just one call and an overwhelming show of support will be manifested. So we are doing them a favor by just being selective of what polls to support but to those sisters who are showing their love by monitoring them and keeping us posted, my heartfelt thanks to you.

The Road to Kyrgyzstan

2006-09-12T15:20:00.000+08:00

Our dear baesis Gaulsan just translated a news article on BYJ's Quilt about the upcoming shoot of BYJ for TWSSG (Legend) to Kyrgyzstan on the 21st of September.

I've only heard about that country during my classes in Asian and World History and by watching a documentary on Marco Polo. But beyond that I have very little knowledge of the country and its people. But there's nothing that a few clicks of the keyboard won't do for us so you may want to check out Lonely Planet . And for those planning to visit the country for that chance of seeing BYJ then go check this site for more info about how to get there, accomodations and other tourist attactions. Meanwhile for dreamers like me who wishes to one day travel to exotic places around the globe if I happen to be fortunate enough to stumble upon a ginnie in a bottle, I'm sharing some photos of the countries landscape to start with.

Tien-Shan's wild valleys

Lets just make use of our fertile minds and imagine our dear Yong Joon clad in his armour and riding proudly on a beautiful stallion accross the plains and valleys as he battle it out against his opponents.

BYJ as Damdeok Is Finally Revealed

2006-09-11T17:50:00.000+08:00

At long last as clear image of how BYJ will look like in his new drama TWSSG and suddenly I'm a little girl again dreaming of a prince to fulfill my fairytale fanstasies.

Wedding Bells for Manager Wee

2006-09-11T15:00:00.000+08:00

Wee Seung Chul (위승철, 29) who is the marketing sector director of the entertainment agency BOF will wed actress Jang Shin Young (장신영, 22)in November. They were introduced to each other in 2004 by the stylist of the movie “When Spring Comes (꽃피는 봄이 오면)” led by JSY. They have been dating since then.

Thee representative of BOF states, “They have been maintaining good relationship for more than one year. We know their decision of getting married recently.” The representation of JSY’s agency “Ana Film (아나필름)” states, “Currently, JSY is taking a break at home after she completed her recent filming for a movie. We don’t know the details of the plan of the wedding ceremony yet.” Mr. Wee has good friendships with top stars such as So Ji Sub, Kwon Sang Woo, and Lee Byung Hun. Since her debut in 2001, JSY has been performing in dramas such as “Pretty Woman (MBC)” and “Next” as well as movies “When Spring Comes “, “Red Eye” and “My Boyfriend’s Diary”.

Source: http://www.mydaily.co.kr/news/read.html?newsid=200609081002341110

Keeping It Hot

2006-09-11T14:50:00.000+08:00

Our dear Yong Joon really knows how to create a stir amongst us his fans who are patiently waiting for any crumb of news or a photo of him. Just saw some photos posted by flowerbossa in her blog and boy isn't he HOT!!!

My personal favorite!!!

BYJ Now In Jeju

2006-09-06T15:38:00.000+08:00

At long last a proof that he is really starting with his shoot. BYJ arrived at the airport in Jeju at around 8:30 pm. yesterday and was greeted by about 200 Japanese fans at the airport.

He started his shoot today but with a lot of difficulties. Seems fans are flocking to the location and caused delays because Yong Joon cannot get out of his car. Reading this kind of news makes me sad because such delays cause loss in productivity and money. I'm not sure how production people and extras are paid in Korea but in the Philippines it's on a per day basis. No work no pay. I'm sure they have anticipated the said problem a long time ago but there seems to be some loopholes in whatever plans they made. I'm just hoping there won't be a repeat of what happened just now.

Happy Birthday Yong Joon!

2006-08-29T10:32:00.000+08:00

Yong Joon~ssi,

As you celebrate another milestone in your life I wish you more blessings so that you can continue to be a blessing for others. May you always have good health to carry you through the boundless projects you have coming your way. And may love finally find it's way to you so that you can find another source of inspiration and happiness.

Nothing Really .......

2006-08-18T17:29:00.000+08:00

I went to one of newest malls here two days ago and while strolling my friends called my attention to the name of one of the shops "simplejoys" my blogs namesake. Too bad we were all hungry so I was not allowed to linger to check the stuff that they sell but I'll come back one of this days to see what they have to offer.

What Keeps Me Inspired

2006-08-16T15:36:00.000+08:00

Here's a look at my workstation, BYJ as my pc wallpaper, a desktop calendar with lots and lots of his beautiful photos and a mouse pad still with his face on it.

GKFG Better Than Lord of the Ring

2006-08-11T15:38:00.000+08:00

I guess most of you have read the news translated by Joanne regarding the excitement generated by the five minute teaser film of Yong Joon-ssi newest drama, if not then read it here. It must really be that well crafted that some of those lucky enough to watch it, made a comparison to the Hollywood blockbuster "Lord of the Ring".

I'm just keeping my fingers crossed that the production can meet such high expectations. Do I sound pessimistic, maybe because I've always been wary of the koreans cold reception of BYJ's work. But then again, he can always count on the support of his wordwide network of "family" to make sure it will be the biggest drama to come out of Korea in 2007.

I'm A Year Older

2006-08-08T10:49:00.000+08:00

Today my blog is officially a year old. I can't believe it's already a year since I started putting my thoughts, my comments and everything about BYJ that I want to keep for posterity. But all these will never be possible if one beautiful baesis started the ball rolling for me. To happiebb

To everyone who found time to visit, post their comments and share their ideas

Here's to another year of shared thoughts about our MAN.

I Was Sleeping When.....

2006-08-04T15:45:00.000+08:00

Everytime I see hiyonn's beautiful artworks I can't help but sigh. They are so alive that I expect Yong Joon to pop out from her canvass. How I wish I have just a bit of her talent but alas I was sleeping when God showered his artistic blessings on us. You can view some of her other works here and here.

Just in case you come by in the hopes of reading something new but sees yesterdays news, you might want to check my other blogs with links at the right side of your screen because I do update them regularly too. simplymarissa is about me outside fandom, myrainyadventure is dedicated to singer Rain while the latest addition is for the k-pop group Shinhwa. Happy reading and enjoy your week-end, I'll be going out of town tomorrow to recharge.

The Element of Surprise

2006-08-02T11:59:00.000+08:00

I would like to share the first part of baesis belinda's writings in our website about Yong Joon. Hope you enjoy it.

Originally posted at www.baewatchphil.com
by belinda

When Bae Yong-Yoon celebrated his 10th year as an actor, he decided he owed it to his fans to give them something new and refreshing, thus, the Image Volume I Photo Book that, apart from having cherished messages from loyal fans for its opening sequence featured the different faces of Bae Yong-Joon yet to be seen by the public. For the Photo Book, BYJ went on a strict 100-day diet and weight training regimen (that gave him his gorgeous 6-pack) particularly for that new image of the Silent Hysteric. It was a very painful experience even for a determined workaholic like Yong-Joon but he stayed with it until the end of a hundred days and long after. While scores of fans weren't too happy to see that, in place of the chubby cheeks we'd come to adore, he had developed facial muscles from weight-lifting that made him look literally “lean and mean”, all the hard work and sacrifice paid off beautifully. His Image Volume I turned out to be a creative masterpiece--the first 100,000 copies of which were sold out on the day the book was formally launched in Japan. It is reported that BYJ'S photo book even outsold Brad Pitt's in the same market.

BYJ is such an exciting person to watch, too, especially when he's doing something he loves. Whether he's reading a book or snoozing in a corner, taking photographs of his co-workers or posing for the pleasure of the press, talking about his passion for the movies or raving about a game of golf, goofing off or dead serious, gliding across a room with the grace and majesty of a king or simply standing on a stage quietly gazing at the faces of his fans-- BYJ is breathtaking. Even in basic white tees and tattered blue jeans, he is a noble prince who stands out in a crowd of magnificent stars and, when under pressure, he is a picture of dignity.

Not one to be stereotyped or to let an opportunity go unchallenged, he is always trying to experiment with interesting ways to present himself and always breaking new ground, it's impossible to get bored with him. BYJ does have a reputation for thinking out-of-the-box and for going against the tide. A few years before Winter Sonata, he did the TV mini series, Have We Really Loved, despite his awareness of the unpopularity of the theme of the TV novel. Traditional Korean society frowned upon the idea of a student falling in love and having a relationship with his professor so that everyone anticipated a poor showing at the ratings game for the series. Not one to be easily disheartened, BYJ went ahead and did the TV novel where he played the poor, bitter, and ambitious KANG JAE-HO. He was challenged by the role he was to play, the fact that the novel was some kind of a dark horse, and had such great respect for the writing style and acumen of the screenplay writer that he took the risk. And he was right to go with his instincts because, quite unexpectedly, playing the role of Kang Jae-ho turned out to be a defining moment for the up and coming young actor – a pivotal point in his career that finally launched him as a serious actor to reckon with--the first of several leaps of faith that had helped mold him into the superstar he is, today. (Personally, I thought it was his best performance, by far-- an acting coup definitely worthy of critical acclaim.)

A Passion for Excellence

BYJ is synonymous with thorough and perceptive self-management. He takes his craft very seriously and works hard at it. He is meticulous, exacting and, is his own fiercest critic. He is an intelligent but humble student with an unquenchable thirst for knowledge and the courage to walk on unfamiliar ground and subject his abilities to the acid test. Until April Snow, BYJ never reported to the set without having thoroughly prepared for the character he was about to portray. A co-worker relates that his script was the busiest he'd seen in the industryCcrowded with notes he'd written, perhaps, to remind him of his desired treatment or manner of attacking a role. With April Snow and the characteristically unorthodox crafting style of Director Hur Jin-ho, BYJ did an unexpected 360-degree turnabout, braving what was, by far, the biggest and most difficult challenge of his life as an actor. The test was to give justice to the role of In-soo, a happily married man--or so he thought-- who is betrayed by his wife and, in the midst of all the pain and disillusionment, finds himself in exactly the same situation as his wife's-- all that without benefit of a pre-written script, with the barest minimum of dialogue and with barely a support cast to help tell the story. It was a fearful first for BYJ and yet, he was equal to the challenge. Not only did he shine through the movie with a sincere and touching performance; apparently, he was so deeply touched by the entire experience that it had increased his depth and understanding as an actor and a person, as well.

To be continued …

He Is Back In Korea

2006-07-25T17:37:00.000+08:00

Just when you thought your heart is back to normal after the deluge last weekend, here comes another set of heart stopping photos taken after he arrived in Korea around 4:30pm.

source: as labelled
posted by inkorea at BYJ Quilt freeboard

BYJ At The Opening Of "Gosireh"

2006-07-24T12:11:00.000+08:00

I've been away from my notebook for the past two days so as usual I was late in seeing his latest photos takes during the ceremony called "kosa" for the opening of "Gosireh" in Japan. Are my eyes playing tricks on me or is Yong Joon really getting younger and younger everytime I see him. He looks so fresh and inspired in the photos that came out. I have to prepare myself to see him in full costume cause I have a hint that I will fall in love all over again once it comes out.

BYJ In Heroine 6??????

2006-07-21T16:24:00.000+08:00

Anyone watching Heroine 6 on KBS2? If so then you are familiar with the game Dibi dibi dip! Another baesis Twinmom posted this hilarious screencaps in KOB and dear Gaulsan shared it at Quilt.

The object of the said game is for a group of players to defeat the masked player within 60 seconds by not doing the same action he does.

Now let's imagine our Yong Joon going up against the masked alien for a while......

Dibi dibi dip!!!

Dibi dibi dip!!!

BYJ And The Holey Shirt Is Back

2006-07-21T10:57:00.000+08:00

You must be hiding somewhere if you haven't heard the news that BYJ came out from "hybernation" and flew to Japan for some activities, here's the official annoucement from JOB. I was waiting for any picture of his arrival but nothing surfaced until this morning thanks to mikann3 who scanned an article in a japanese newspaper.

Omo, he looks so handsome and is that my fave holey shirt? It must be real comfy but it does turn the heat on! I can't wipe the smile off my face that is until I read bb's translation of an appeal posted in JOB. I can understand her apprehension in translating this but I know majority of our Japanese sisters will understand the gravity of the situation and will heed the call.

BYJ, Beautiful Within

2006-07-20T15:06:00.000+08:00

His face appearance first captured my heart but it's his beautiful soul that touched me deeply and is the reason why I'm still a fan to this day.

Yong Joon is a man that acknowledges the universal truth that sayeth "To whom much is given, much is expected in return". During the tsunami that hit South East Asia in 2004, he made a generous donation to World Vision that triggered a chain reaction, with his "family" making substantial contribution not just to World Vision but to various charitable institutions helping in the relief operations. I'm sure he shared is blessings in countless ways unknown to us because he never craved publicity.

Before he left for Japan this morning, he made another act of kindness those who are affected by the floods that hit their country, read about it here. I'm sure it will go a long way in easing the burden of those affected.

If only more people will be like him, our world will be a better place to live in.

The Long Wait Is Over

2006-07-13T15:41:00.000+08:00

Joanne just translated a news article that says our dear Yong Joon started shooting for his part in the epic drama GKFG last Tuesday, if you haven't read it yet then click here. I'm sure there will be a collective sigh of relief from everybody in baeland since we can now expect an influx of photos and articles as the shooting of the major stars progresses.

I can already imagine calls being made to travel agents as bookings for trips to Jeju are being arranged. I know our bae sisters are very well behaved so I hope that some of the shooting will be open to his adoring fans.

Good luck to those who will make the trip, fighting!!!

Yong Joon, I Wish To Thank You

2006-07-12T13:49:00.000+08:00

For being the light in my times of darkness when
I never could have survived until you touched my heart.

For your being my constant source of inspiration
amidst the daily hustle and bustle that I go through.

For being the best example I can ever have,
compassionate in your heart , and stirring in your thoughts.

For being the best example of what I should aspire for,
doing the best in all that I do.

And if I've been amiss in saying this to you,
With all sincerity I say.....
thank you.

marissa 7/12/06
artwork by nagajun and posted by frances in soompi

FANDOM

2006-07-11T12:21:00.000+08:00

I saw this in one of the forums I regularly visit that is not BYJ related and I want to share it with you.

Fandom is focus. Fandom is obsession. Fandom is insatiable consumption. Fandom is sitting for hours in front of a TV screen a movie screen a computer screen with a comic book a novel on your lap. Fandom is eyestrain and carpal tunnel syndrome and not enough exercise and staying up way, way past your bedtime. (fandom is instant technical know how on downloading, uploading, making websites, forums, videos and just about anything related to the world wide web. fandom is exorbitant electricity and dsl fees)

Fandom is people you don't tell your mother you're meeting. Fandom is people in the closet, people out and proud, people in costumes, people in T-shirts with slogans only fifty others would understand. Fandom is a loud dinner conversation scaring the waiter and every table nearby. (fandom is people you sometimes tell your mother, you're meeting though she absolutely cannot understand what on earth would you still be talking about when you see each other, that you havent discussed, dissected, and digressed on the forums, emails, sms, and phonecalls. fandom is staying for more than four hours in the mall's food center with the occasional trip to starbucks)

Fandom is you in the US and me in the Philippines and him in Korea and her in Japan. Fandom is a sofabed in Singapore, a roadtrip in Hawaii, a friend behind a face in Malaysia. Fandom talks past timezones and accents and backgrounds. Fandom is conversation. Communication. Contact.

Fandom is drama. Fandom is melodrama. Fandom is high school. Fandom is Snacky's law and Godwin's law and Murphy's law. Fandom is smarter than you. Fandom is stupider than you. Fandom is five arguments over and over and over again. Fandom is the first time you've ever had them. (fandom is feeling sadness, hurt, anger, joy, elation all in the span of one day, over news that absolutely has NO obvious and direct relevance to your everyday life - ouch! ahahahaha)

Fandom is female. Fandom is male. Fandom lets female play at being male. Fandom bends gender, straight, gay, prude, promiscuous. Fandom is fantasy. Fandom doesn't care about norms or taboos or boundaries. Fandom cares too much about norms and taboos and boundaries. Fandom is not real life. Fandom is closer than real life. Fandom knows what you're really like in the bedroom. Fandom is how you would never, could never be in the bedroom.

Fandom is shipping, never shipping, het, slash, gen, none of the above, more than the above. Fandom is love for characters you didn't create. Fandom is recreating the characters you didn't create. Fandom is appropriation, subversion, dissention. Fandom is adoration, extrapolation, imitation. Fandom is dissection, criticism, interpretation. Fandom is changing, experimenting, attempting. (fandom is IMX, Broasia, cdjapan, hmv, kinokuniya, yesasia, SINO center etc. etc. etc. - shipping lah? )

Fandom is creating. Fandom is drawing, painting, vidding: nine seasons in four minutes of love. Fandom is words, language, authoring. Fandom is essays, stories, betas, parodies, filks, zines, usenet posts, blog posts, message board posts, emails, chats, petitions, wank, concrit, feedback, recs. Fandom is writing for the first time since you were twelve. Fandom is finally calling yourself a writer. ( fandom is expression of a creative genius you may or may never know existed within you. and the best part - a matter of perspective really, you enjoy doing it even though you dont get PAID for it)

Fandom is signal and response. Fandom is a stranger moving you to tears, anger, laughter. Fandom is you moving a stranger to speak. ( fandom is subtitles and no subtitles, bad and good dubbing and everything in between. fandom is habitual marathon, overnight videofests. )

Fandom is distraction. Fandom is endangering your job, your grades, your relationships, your bank account. Fandom gets no work done. Fandom is too much work. Fandom was/is just a phase. Fandom could never be just a phase. Fandom is where you found a friend, a sister, a kindred spirit. Fandom is where you found a talent, a love, a reason. (fandom is insanity and sanity, spending hard-earned money for a 7 day trip, a seat at a concert or a movie premiere, a meet and greet, and knowing it was well worth it. fandom is workdone when you should be WORKING really. fandom is where i found BAE YONG JOON!!! and where i found you (yes guys..)

Fandom is where you found yourself....(MAYBE.... ahahaha)

BYJ with Lee Young Ae

2006-07-10T15:59:00.000+08:00

Here's more old clips of our dear Yong Joon with his co-star in the drama Papa and more widely known as Janggeum in the drama Jewel in the Palace, Ms. Lee Young Ae for LG Credit Card.
You know the drill to watch just click here, here and here.

AS Director's Cut Movie Tickets Now On Sale

2006-07-06T15:14:00.000+08:00

Our dear sister tomato99 just translated the latest news here about the advance ticket sales for the Directors Cut of April Snow movie showing *lucky, lucky japanese sisters*

Those who will watch will get anyone of this special postcards:

A Not So Typical Morning

2006-07-04T13:40:00.000+08:00

Since I'm still in my nostalgic mood and checking my precious bae clips collection, I'm sharing some of my favorites here. One is a CF he made for LG Home Shopping with our dear Yong Joon acting what I always imagined as a typical morning is for him, go and check it here

And remember his old Taster's Choice CF that had most bae sisters making their own brew and enjoying their cuppa while relaxing in their tub. Wanna get inspired again then click here

2006-07-03T16:27:00.000+08:00

Thinking Of You
When the morning sun streams
through my window pane
I think you ......
Did you have a restful sleep
Just as I do.

As I go about my daily work
you are never far behind
Your images surrounding me
never fails to keep me inspired.

At night before sleep calls on me
I look at the stars and say a prayer
You may be out of sight for a while
But I know it's but temporary.

So until such time
When you reveal yourself again
I'll look deep into my treasure filled memories
Of my days as your fan through all these years.

marissa 07/01/06

July 1- Stars Take On The Streets Again

2006-06-29T15:09:00.000+08:00

The poster of the event from CDMI’s site http://www.screenquota.org

Starting July 1st, the new screen quota will take effect in Korea , for the newbies you can more about it here.

A major protest action will take place on that same day starting at 5pm alongUniversity Road and they will parade until Kwanghwamun in downtown Seoul. There is even a scheduled autographed signing from Jang Dong Gun, Jeon Do Yeon and Lee Junki who were all active in the previous protest actions. And will be capped by a cultural show that will last until 11:30 pm.

I'm sure his more mature fans will remember how BYJ got flanked not just by the media but by people in the industry for not participating in the said rallies. But in one instance Manager Yang made an appearance in behalf of BOF. It was later revealed that during those times he is deep into finalizing "Key East", read more about it here.

I'm doubting if he will make an appearance on Sunday and I'm sure he will not be the only one doing so. But with his current status as a top Hallyu star, I'm sure people will again take notice of his actions and make comparisons with the likes of JDG, LBH and KSW. I guess we have to be vigilant once again.

Reason Why It's Hard To Be An Actor's Girlfriend

2006-06-28T14:28:00.000+08:00

It seems just about every woman out there has had at least one sweet dream of being the star's girlfriend. I'm listing some reasons why it can be hard for us to do so. I'm not insinuating that BYJ fans are mean and bitter and fill never allow him to find a mate because we are exactly the opposite. Still the following is a common enough scenario if one chooses to get involed with a celebrity irregardless of which part of the globe you come from.

* Your private life will be all over the internet

* All those photos from your childhood till your teen years including those unflattering graduation pictures that you long wanted to burn but dared not because your parents will kill you will be duplicated a million times on the net.

* All your enemies will be more than eager to spill out your most embarrasing moments that you wish never happened.

* The moment you take your vows you will be public enemy no. 1 of the countless other women who desired to be in your shoes.

* Pictures of you buying some expensive bag or trinket will be posted on various forums and message board with comments like "all she does is stay at home and spend the hard earned money of their idol".

* If you are pretty, people will credit the wonders of plastic surgery. If you're not, better steel yourself. You can't imagine the mean things people can say about you.

* Even if you look alright people will still say you are ugly.

* Whenever you happen to have a lovers quarrel you have to keep your mouth shut. Any hint of complaint coming from you will cause a buzz on the web insinuating your impending break-up.

* You must smile at all times, look cross just once and your photo will be splashed accross the tabloids under the headline "Actor BYJ's Marriage In Crisis?" Or they will say you are a bitch on the web boards.

* Be on high alert in fending criticisms once his acting level drops in his current drama or movie.

* Whenever you go the paparrazi will be right behind you. And since people will regognize you, you won't be able to go to the nearby convenience store, market or even take out the garbage without make-up and a decent wardrobe.

On Liezle's Post

2006-06-27T15:27:00.000+08:00

Fellow blogger liezle is asking for our comment on an entry she made in her blog and since I need time to put my thoughts in writing I’m only posting my thoughts now.

I limit my visits in soompi to certain threads in the k-drama section since not everyone is matured and reasonable in their adulation for their fave celebrities. And I hate to ruin my day by reading negative and baseless comments. This brings us back to what was insinuated by that lady “you need to be respected and loved in your home country before you take over other countries”. Who gave her the idea that Yong Joon was never respected and/or loved by his countrymen? He may not be the hottest star doing back-to-back movies and television dramas but nonetheless everyone (meaning from people in the entertainment industry to ordinary citizens living in Korea and in other countries) acknowledges the fact the Hallyu phenomenon started with Yong Joon. Even their economist attributes a certain portion of their 2004 and 2005 economic growth directly to him.

I had to laugh when I think of him taking over another country because it was never his intention. It’s his earnest wish that Korea can strike a balance of cultural exchange with the countries that are now deep into everything and anything Korea. He is never selfish in his thoughts and actions.

I pity those who make generalized comments and sweeping statements without even doing research. It may take time but at least they could have backed her statements with facts rather than their own biased opinion.

Full Super Sunday Clip

2006-06-23T16:25:00.000+08:00

Did you enjoy seeing Yong Joon dancing, singing and doing comedy in my previous post? Then are you curious to see the entire skit from Super Sunday. I remember I had it on file sent by fellow baefan qtt so I've uploaded it to my youtube account. Happy viewing and enjoy the rest of the week!

Super Cute

2006-06-23T11:55:00.000+08:00

He's so cute here promise!

BYJ 1994 Ramyon CF

2006-06-23T11:40:00.000+08:00

In times like this when everything is relatively peaceful exept for Quilt experiencing network problems, we need to have something to pass the time. I decided to bring back his old CF's because I like the youthful, carefree man that we was before.

Thinking Of You

2006-06-16T15:02:00.000+08:00

Since all is quiet again in baeland I decided to re-check my meager collection of BYJ clips which I uploaded in youtube. This vod is was posted by heejin at BYJ Quilt, love the song.....

It's A Win For the Red Devils

2006-06-14T12:41:00.000+08:00

Did last nights win of Korea made the day for our dear Yong Joon. I sure hope so because I had a great time watching it too. I've made a separate blog entry about it and you can check it here.

It's A Red Letter Day

2006-06-13T13:12:00.000+08:00

I just got an email from a friend whose now in Seoul and apparently everyone is excited to watch the game between South Korea and Togo which will be telecast at 2:00am (Seoul time). I'm guessing it's a delayed feed since game will start 15:00 in Frankfurt or 10:00 in Korea. Anyway the subway leading to the City Hall in Seoul has announced that they will continue their service till 2:00am so people can watch from the huge screen they've set up in the park. She told me that the police are a little worried that there might be a riot if things won't come up to the fans expectations.

Didn't I mention that I'll be watching the game tonight with some friends? I even have a change of clothing since I'll be coming straight from work and yeah red shirts are not considered corporate attire. I do envy yokee though cuz she has "Be The Reds" written on her shirt, check it out here just click Man, Ball and Me on the left hand corner of your screen. And yes, I'll be bringing our mascot Alfred so he can enjoy some night out, I even have a red shirt made up especially for tonight.

WLS OST

2006-06-10T20:42:00.000+08:00

Guess what I heard playing while doing my grocery shopping at Market, Market? It's entire WLS OST..... and you should have seen the smile plastered on my face while going through my shopping list. And before I forget, Tricia's friend just came back from her vacation in Kenya and same OST was playing in a Korean restaurant where they had their dinner. And being another BYJ fan, she felt right at home.

Another BAEtiful Saturday

2006-06-10T19:26:00.000+08:00

It's one of those spur of the moment things when Northstar asked if I'm available to have a late lunch with her and then I decided to invite the other bae sisters within Makati to check if they can join us. Good thing it's a Saturday so Belinda, Tricia and Christie were able to join us.

As expected our talks centered on BYJ and what's the latest with him since my companions are all remiss on what's happening with Yong Joon due to personal and professional reasons. They're asking me to talk about the Man? Of course I obliged and by the time I'm done, 2 hours have alreadly passed and so is the delicious korean food on my plate burp!!! But it's not yet over because I still have some goodies for them, each got a sheet full of BYJ stickers. And for the highlight I showed them the Brokore and the AERA magazine so they can have their dessert, pwahahaha..... We finally parted ways by four with a promise to keep in touch.

Sitting here typing this entry just made me realize how lucky I am to have friends who share my love for Yong Joon. Somehow having people who enjoy the same things you do make it more enjoyable. I hope BYJ knows the role is playing in our lives. Through him I've forged new friendships with people whose lives are different from mine. There may come a time when he will choose to lead a life different from what he has now but the legacy that he gave to me will forever be etched in my heart.

A Shoutout

2006-06-09T15:24:00.000+08:00

My very own copy of Brokore No. 5 finally arrived the other day, hurray! I just want to say "thank you" to a very beautiful and kindhearted sister from Japan who helped make sure that I got one and took the time to mail it. Now if only my GQ copy will arrive next week..... it would be the final touch to my already blessed special day.

Welcome To The Family

2006-06-05T12:04:00.000+08:00

Reading bb's newest entry in her blog reminded me of a long delayed plan of mine to update my links. I never even knew michelle has a separate blogspot account cuz I always visit her livejournal.

I'm so happy to see more people joining us in our blogging about anything and everything BYJ. Of course it did not stop there, as you may have noticed there are some of us who keeps more than one blog like tiffany's blog dedicated to anything korean or a personal blog like mine.
So to Tania, flowerbossa and happieh welcome and hope to read more from you.

To jaime and all the other newbies and silent readers of my blog a warm hug to all of you. I hope that we may be of help to you in knowing more about the man who touched our hearts.

More Loving Thought From Belinda

2006-06-05T10:59:00.000+08:00

You enjoyed reading my previous post from fellow bae fan belinda? Well there's more from her so I'm posting it here for you to read as well.

Here are more loving tips on how BYJ can try to keep HAPPY despite the weight he carries on his shoulders:

Dear Yong-Joon,

1. You are blessed with a wonderful sense of humor and a childlike freshness/guilelessness about you. I pray that you will never run out of those qualities. I pray that you will learn to laugh at yourself and at the world some more. Go ahead and welcome a reality-check, as often as you can. It's a good way to keep your balance.

2. If it bothers you but there is nothing you can do about it at the moment, leave it, let it be amd get on with the important matters tat you can do something about. What's the point of stressing over a problem that you cannot solve? Bad press? Loss of privacy? Unfortunately, they come with the territory. When the going get's tough, count your blessings and then get tough yourself.

3. I trust your family nurtures and supports you no matter what or when or where. So please stay close to them and draw strength from them especially when your legs are about to buckle under from the weight that you carry. Your family will not fail you.

4. Make your own home or a private space a pamper reward center; fill it with all the things that you find soothing, peaceful and pleasurable.

5. Surround yourself with good people, people who have a healthy sense of humor and a lot of humility. People who nurture, people who are honest and authentic. True friends no matter what, when or where. Please stay away from people who take themselves too seriously and have a twisted sense of their own importance. Stay away from insincere people; they are toxic.

6. Take your camera with you as often as you like and as often as you can. Give the paparazzi a dose of their own medicine (all in good, clean fun) and help them learn to be a good sport about it. For every photo they take of you, allow yourself to take one photo of them. " What goes around comes around." Happy clicking BYJ!

7. When your're in a public place and if you're in the mood for it, before anyone can approach you make the first move. You do the watching and observing. (Oh course it not polite to stare but it's not a sin to observe people either. I do it a hot, hehehe) Interview someone interesting and willing to be interviewed. Ask for an autograph if you want to. The point? At least you know you're the one taking the initiative instead of being the one "ambushed" all the time.

8. There are ways to remind people that there is a right time for everything (Eccleasiastes). Of course, it takes some getting used to but it won't hurt to start helping people get used to it.

For instance, set a "Fans Day" at Park BOF every month (as often as your schedule will allow, anyway). This is the day you spend precious time with your "family", dialogue and tell stories with them. Share your thoughts and feelings as a person with them, share a meal and discuss your projects (if you want) and give them your autographed photos. In a way you satisfy their (our) need to have a glimpse of you, hear your wonderful voice and take something of you/from you back home with them to tide them through the next days without you.

This is also the chance for your to engage their support in making it possible for you to preserve a little private space for yourself. I bet your "family" will only be too happy to help you guard your privacy especially if you are dedicating a private day with them that they can look forward to. Anyway, to a certain extent it beats having to follow you arond on the off-chance that your would look their (our) way.

(You might want to have a "Press Fellowship Day", up t you.)

9. We don't expect you to be dressed-up-to-the-nines-glamorious all the time. So please dress comfortably, as often as your psyche yearns for it. Did you know that the beauty about being you is that you can dress in your comfortable jeans and tees and still look enviably and tastefully gorgeous?

We know you're a fashion icon and that there is a certain image you want to maintain. But we are simple people with simple taste and, as far as we are concerned, we're just happy to accept you as you are. We don't want you to come off looking so "unreachable". For as long as you are comfortable, confident and at peace with yourself, we are thrilled.

10. When you're feeling sad and alone, after you say a little prayer for GOD to see you through the hump, please read your fan's love notes to you. There's an overflowing reservoir of good feelings and loving thoughts to lift you up. Feel free to indulge.

11. And when you finally get around to it- as I hope you will. Please visit the sites dedicated for you. They brim with love and support for you too.

Please don't forget, your happiness is up to you. Be well, Dear BYJ!

Sharing A Sisters Thoughts

2006-05-29T17:15:00.000+08:00

posted by: belinda at Interactive section of www.baewatchphil.com

marissa: I would like to share the thought of a friend and fellow bae fan belinda here since amongst the baewatch sisters I'm the only one active in the blogging world

========================================

Once again, through the Korean GQ Interview, our dearest YONG-JOON speaks to us about his sleeplessness, loneliness, and feelings of anxiety over the loss of his privacy--the price he has to pay for being highly successful and visible. Maybe, this is a silent call for help. Maybe, he is just going through a transitional phase and it ain't so smooth. Maybe, all the hoopla he's been getting is much more than he ever bargained for and he is overwhelmed. Or maybe, it is a state-of-mind and he needs to tweak the mindset a bit. Whatever it really is, it doesn't sound good and, of course, we worry about his well-being.

If I could speak to Yong-Joon personally, this is one of a few "LOVING I-WISH-YOU-HAPPINESS TIPS" I would like to share with him ...

There was a man who asked God to give him happiness and God said, "No. My job is to give you blessings. Happiness is up to you."

I hope Yong-Joon's capacity to find happiness does not depend on other things or other people. I hope he will learn to be happy despite his circumstances. I also hope he will never forget that he has a choice. If it's something that will make him lose his spirit and rob him of a higher quality of life, I would rather he walked away from it, let it go.

However he may wish to deal with the price of success and all, I ask him only to let his walk always be a walk with God. In that way, no matter how messy things get, he can't go wrong.

I wish Yong-Joon would also remember that God does not expect us to give beyond our capacity. HE SAYS THERE SHOULD BE A CERTAIN EQUALITY otherwise we would go "bankrupt" and not have anything more to give. That would be very painful for a GIVER like BYJ.

I ask him to breathe more easily. He doesn't have to work too hard. He already is an invaluable gift to us.

A Whisper From The Heart

2006-05-25T16:16:00.001+08:00

Our “family” in a quandary once again after reading the translated interview of our dear Mr. Bae [thanks Mr. Fumi] for the June issue of GQ, Korea. Such an opposite reaction to the elation we felt when all we saw all those heart stopping black and white photos [see previous post]. Mariko’s writing today in Quilt made sit back and gather my own thought as a fan.

Here is a man who rarely grants interviews both for print and television suddenly expressing his feelings about the kind of life he’s living at the moment. From what I glimpsed, the feelings of loneliness and sadness that he expressed in the late 2004 has not abated . But then, when you are in your mid-thirties one tends to be more contemplative of how much you have accomplished, what you have missed and how the future looks for you. I’ve done it so I’m guessing most of my sisters in baeland had their own moments of reflection too.

I’m thinking the interview was done after the pictorial [notice the mood of the photos] or maybe the writer caught him while he’s in a pensive moment because he agreed to the questions that was raised [normally an advance set of questions are sent for the approval of an artist or his management company] with more emphasis given to the burden he is feeling because of his superstar status. I too felt sad to know how he feels about not enjoying the same freedom that we sometimes take for granted or that he suffered from insomnia due to stress. How he wishes to travel but is restrained because he’s an easy prey to the paparazzi and some over zealous fans. He even addressed the rumor that I've heard late last year about a lady carrying his child. Situations like these can really take it's toll mentally and emotionally.

But such feelings of sadness only comes at certain times or in his own words “sometimes”. It’s an occupational hazard that one has live with. I'm not saying that he's got no right to complain because he chose to be an actor. He is after all a feeling person as human as you and me. But I've gotten to know him as man matured and wise enough to know that everything comes with a price and that he can always challenge himself in a new playing ground if he thinks he's had enough and wants to open a new chapter in his life. Who knows if he is even using the interview to test the water and guage on our reaction.

His success has afforded him the chance to do some of the things he envisions. Key East is his gateway to ensure the continued development of the Korean entertainment industry. His restaurant business showcases his newfound appreciation for a balanced wellbeing by serving healthy meals. BOF is developing new artist that will someday make their own mark in the entertainment industry.

All these things he enjoys because of our continued love and support. So we don’t have to turn our backs so he can have that freedom. We just need to learn temperance so he can have some personal space to breathe and be like us. I must admit it will be hard for we want actually "see" him in person and will grab at whatever chance we could be it at the gym, the dental clinic or salon he frequents. But we must all realize what is too much by imagining what it's like to be in his shoes.

Love after all can be expressed by silent thoughts
for the weary soul needs no words
to feel the whisper coming from a heart
of someone that truly cares.......

When Heaven Smiles!!!

2006-05-23T19:57:00.000+08:00

I knew I've blogged about how we have practiced the virtue of patience to the hilt because the man who captured our heart takes his work seriously by taking his sweet time in coming up with projects worthy of our patronage. But he sure knows how to reward those who behaved themselves with heart stopping, mind boggling images that will have us talking about it for a looooooong time.
I feel like so excited I want to join him as he lights up a cigar to calm my nerves....

But then again who needs a smoke when staring at his profile has the same effect.

What a sight, I hope someone up in heaven will continue to smile upon us.

A Sigh of Relief

2006-05-16T17:43:00.000+08:00

Style posted a news article still written in hangul at the freeboard section of Quilt an hour ago and dear sis Mariko mentioned fire in her reply. Maybe she tried to use an online translator so she can only get few words here and there.

Apparently there was a fire in BYJ's house last May 7 that caused minor damage in his room. Faulty electrical wiring seems to be the cause. The news was not immediately leaked to the media because he doesn't want to alarm all his fans. At the moment he's staying at a hotel in Seoul maybe until the problem has been fixed.

I'm just relieved he is safe, fires are very devastating in fact I'd rather be robbed than have my home gutted by fire. And I'm also touched that even at that instant he still thought of how his family will receive the news so he tried to keep that piece of information private.

And The Journey Continues

2006-05-15T13:55:00.000+08:00

It’s been two years (November 2003) since I first laid eyes on the man that made my days worth living again. Like a high school girl on the threshold of discovering the attraction of the opposite sex, I lived my days in a bubble. He occupied my thoughts day and night dreaming of scenarios on how our paths would cross and hoping for that slim chance of catching his attention. His photos adorned my bedside table, my wallet and my pc and I can't stop talking about him to my friends. It went on for months and I plead guilty if I irritated those closest to me but I was head over heels attracted to him.

I can’t remember exactly when I stopped having those silly thoughts and started seeing him in a whole new light. By then I have read countless articles about Bae Yong Joon as a person, separate and distinct from all the characters he has portrayed. By no means did my feelings waver but rather transformed itself in a whole new level. My admiration and respect for him grew leaps and bounds for one cannot fake his true nature and I can't remember ever reading anything unpleasant being said about him by his fans and employees and co-workers.

His dedication and perseverance to achieve the look he wants for his photo book “The Image Vol. 1” showed a strength of character sorely lacking in most of us. He’s compassionate nature never fails to impress his fans and his example has inspired a lot of us to do good deeds big and small.

All through the years, I’ve also seen other dramas and have gotten to know other k- stars. Sometimes I can’t help but wish he accepted more projects like the other leading Hallyu stars that do an average of 3 projects a year not counting their product endorsements. He could have milked his popularity in Japan but he was never greedy. Instead he’s been teaching us by example to look at every opportunity that comes our way but only choose the one that will make us fulfilled as a person.

Time moves fast, season changes but here I am still deeply rooted in Baeland . I may have come to a clear understanding of what kind of love I have for him but it doesn’t stop me from “floating in the air” every time a gorgeous photo of him surfaces in the net just like this one.

Until when you ask? Honestly I don’t know but for now I will remain a fan who is admiring him from afar, silently supporting him in this career choices and hoping that one day he can find his own personal happiness.

The Long Wait Is Over

2006-05-09T11:48:00.000+08:00

It's been really quiet in baeland for a few weeks now except for the occasional sightings of BYJ attending social functions or those rare instances when his fans get a chance of bumping into him while he goes about his daily life while preparing for his upcoming drama GKFG. So this blog took a rest while my personal blog got more attention.

Finally after a few months of waiting for more concrete news on his new drama, bb posted in her blog that GKFG has finally and officially started shooting this month and BYJ more likely to start before the month ends.

And the most notable piece of news for me is that MBC will broadcast it this October and not February 2007 as earlier announced. And just maybe the DVD with english subtitle will be released before the year ends (keeping my fingers crossed). Just thinking about all these things puts a smile on my face.

Wait There's More....

2006-04-24T13:31:00.000+08:00

The King of Baeland Has Arrived

2006-04-24T13:15:00.000+08:00

I've been away from the net for the week-end to meet with my high school girlfriends and I'm still nursing a hangover and suffering aches from a rather long trip but when I logged on to Quilt this morning this picture was like a shot of espresso to my brain. Halleluya ..... I feel alive again!

Of all the gorgeous photos that come out, this one called to me the most. There's something about those long strides, the tilt of his head and confident stand that makes one believe he is really a King. I can just imagine myself giving a royal bow while he is passing before me.... sighs How much more can I take when he reveals himself as the Great King in his upcoming drama.

An Easter Wish For You

2006-04-15T23:57:00.000+08:00

May joy fill your day....
Hope light your path.....
And many blessings of Easter warm your hearts.
Happy Easter to everyone!

And I Said I'll Behave This Week

2006-04-12T14:10:00.000+08:00

Just when I'm conditioning myself to part with my notebook for a few days so I can focus on my spiritual contemplation, a picture of him came up on BYJ's Quilt.

All I said was "Oooohhhhhh" and then started having that "I'm in cloud 9 dont dare disturb me" look here at the office.

BYJ at Gorilla Kitchen?

2006-04-05T19:21:00.000+08:00

OMG!!! Even with a cap on with just a bit of his side profile I can't help but be mesmerized by him. And look at that hair and that broad mascular back ~ haay call him to do CPR I think I'm gonna faint

credits to makiko of quilt

Winter Sonata in Equador

2006-04-05T15:53:00.000+08:00

Joanne just translated a news article in Quilt about KBS signing a deal with the broadcasting company HOY TV in Equador to air the drama WLS on a primetime slot Monday-Friday 6:00pm with a replay the following day at 12:00pm.

Sisters, we are going to see an influx of South Americans who will be eager to learn more about WLS and of course our dear Yong Joon. Remember the time when it was shown in Egypt and how a lot of them started to frequent BYJ Quilt and KOB? It will be another opportunity for us to share just how good BYJ is not just as an actor but as a person.

BOF Welcomes Lee Na-Young

2006-04-04T16:14:00.000+08:00

I've made a wish more than a year ago that BOF should start expanding their stable of talents and not concentrate on BYJ alone. I felt that the burden must have been heavy for a single artist to make BOF a profitable business venture.

It was with joy that I welcome the news of new and upcoming talents being trained by BOF and just a few months I was elated by So Ji Sub signed up with them to manage his career after his discharge from the army in 2007.

With gladness I join the other baesisters in welcoming Lee Na Young in BOF. The very irritating younger sister of Jaeho has blossomed as one of Korea's most talented actress in dramas and movies and a much sought after product endorser. I'm sure even IMX Japan and America will make an effort to promote her projects so she can be one of the dominant forces in Korea's Hallyu.

"Gorilla in the Kitchen" Opens In A Week

2006-04-04T15:59:00.000+08:00

This photo was taken a month ago and now there is news from Quilt that "Gorilla In The Kitchen" will open it's doors next week. Hurray!!! I'm expecting another deluge of photos when we makes an appearance for the store opening.

The list of "must visit" places for baesisters is growing but I'm sure it will be worth it just for the fact that The Man himself had a hand in planning the menu and the interior.

April Snow on Philippine Cable TV

2006-04-02T23:49:00.000+08:00

Never mind if I saw the movie countless times before but when my baesis Jobel sent an SMS last night to share the good news that AS will be shown on a local cable channel Cinema One I got so excited. Then another baesis Northstar texted me the complete details - April 16 (Sunday) at 8:00pm. How, what a welcome it would be after my planned holy week vacation.

To my Filipino baesisters spread the news and let's make it a date!

Another Inspiring MV

2006-03-29T19:05:00.000+08:00

Since we are still waiting for more updates, I'm sharing the other MV we made for BYJ's birthday.

Because I Miss You

2006-03-24T12:00:00.000+08:00

All is quiet at baeland so I decided to view one of the MV's we made for Yong Joon's birthday last year and just remind myself of how much we miss him. Care to sing along with us?

Press Release of BOF for the Drama GKFG

2006-03-16T16:04:00.000+08:00

Here's the official Press Release of BOF that accompanied the photos below.

On March 16 in Jeju island, the GKFG started shooting after a ceremony wishing for success.

GKFG is a huge project, which gained attention since long before its start.
All staff including director Kim Jong Hak, writer Song Ji na, and main charactors such as BYJ, Choi Min Soo, Park Sang Won, Park Sang Myun, Yoon Tae Young, and Lee Da Hee. This was the first time that all the main charactors gathered together.

BYJ, who acts as Dam deok, spoke about long-waited GKFG, "I am glad to be altogether with the director and other actors. It was a meaningful time. I am looking forward to the success of this drama, I am a bit anxious, also. I hope all the staff to be in good condition without any accident. I will do my best to the last moment."

Park Sang Won (acting as Yon Ga Ryo) said, "The shooting begins at last. I am expecting this place to become a great studio within several months. I hope everyone to have a good start."

Park Sang Myun(acting as Joo Moo Chi) said, " I am glad that the shooting has started. I am very glad to work with great actors such as BYJ, Park Sang Won, and Choi Min Soo. I am also glad to work at this wonderful island Jeju."

Yoon Tae Young(acting as Yon Ho Gae) said, " I've prepared about 2-3 months for GKFG. It will be a hard task, but I think I will learn a lot. Let's do our best."

Lee Da Hee(acting as Gak Dan) said, " I prepared a lot. I feel strain, but I am expecting a lot. I will show you my best performance."

Hail To The King

2006-03-16T14:38:00.000+08:00

The picture that made up for all the waiting we all did. How can he manage to look so much younger is beyond me. And those eyes can captivate my heart anytime even with those glasses on. Oh my, I'm in cloud nine and have no plans of coming down to earth for a while......

Taewang Sashin Gi Starts To Shoot Tomorrow

2006-03-15T15:21:00.000+08:00

Finally the news we've all been waiting for has arrived (hugs to Gaulsan), GKFG will start shooting tomorrow at Jeju Island Myosanbong Tourist Area.

According to the officials of Jeju Island, the ceremony wishing for success will be held at noon at 묘산봉 관광지구(Myosanbong Tourist area), and shooting will start right after the ceremony.

About 100 people including the director, writer, actors including the main charactor BYJ, staff, and Kim Tae Wan(minister of Jeju Island), etc. will attend this ceremony.

The first scene is BYJ playing Kyuk-Gu (Korean style polo). Jung Jin Young, Choi Min Soo are appearing in this scene, too.

Expect baeland to be in a frenzy tomorrow and our blogging network to be busy as a bee. Still at work to pop champagne but let's share an online drink to celebrate!

Cheers!!!

His Latest CF for Keongnam Honorsville

2006-03-09T17:43:00.000+08:00

Another reason for us to smile, gosh I really miss him.

It's Ok To Be A Sex Symbol Once In A While

2006-03-07T14:32:00.000+08:00

had dinner with some bae sisters last friday night at Sakura, a japanese restaurant in Glorietta. It's been a while since I've seen them and I really missed their company and the endless chatter about our MAN. We decided to stay at a nearby park after to enjoy the cool breeze after and that's when North Star made mention on how she wished BYJ will make even one "feel good super romantic movie" the likes of Notting Hill and Pretty Woman.

A movie that will have his fans sigh, swoon and fantasize over the sight of him from the beginning till the end of the film. After all he has all the qualities of a true blue sex symbol - sexually attractive, articulate, alluring but more importantly he has this air of mystery about him that makes you want to know the person more.

I love the publicity photos during the AS days especially those shots taken with SYJ at the park and at the concert scene. It made our hearts beat faster and made us fall in love with him again. But I have to agree with my bae sisters that it's impossible to fantasize about him while watching the film. Can you imagine yourself blurting out to the the one nearest you "Oh gosh, he looks so handsome!" while watching him come face to face with the betrayal of his spouse?

He may have caused a lot of ladies (me included) some sleepless nights after watching him portray Jo-won in Untold Scandal with all those love scenes and intense looks but he's so into the character that I can't glimpse the Yong Joon that I've grown to love.

What I want is a well written film with him looking just like his normal self while discovering the joys of falling in love. A movie that I can watch over and over again while staring at his face, making idiotic smile while letting my imagination get the best of me.

It Made Me Smile

2006-03-02T15:05:00.000+08:00

My new favorite gif, and don't ask me why

When My Patience Is Running Low

2006-02-28T17:50:00.000+08:00

The waiting game for Yong Joon's next drama is testing our patience with shooting only to start mid-March and the drama to be shown sometime next year. It's during this times that I remember the corny joke of my aunt in Canada when I complain of things not going according to plans "Go to the store and grab some Pasencia (Filipino cookies)! Haaay, I'll be gaining weight and not losing them if I eat them everytime I need some patience.

Can't Get Over You

2006-02-23T14:34:00.000+08:00

Aish! Just when my heart is back to normal after seeing his photo, here comes another one. The hair, the nose, those kissable lips, chest made for hugging and those sexy hands that begs to be touched..... needs to fan myself

Key East, BYJ's Dream of Introducing Korea to the World

2006-02-23T11:01:00.000+08:00

Sohn Ilhyeong(from the left of the photo), CEO at IMX, Moon Kyuhak, CEO at the SoftBank Korea, Bae Seongwoong, CEO at BOF are having press conference announcing the making of the top Asian media company on 20.

BYJ’s investment of his 9 billion won earning last year to establish Key East in partnership with Soft Bank has made news a few days ago. Their aim is to sustain the Korean Current that has hit all of Asia and expand it across Europe and America with BYJ personally producing the Korean Current contents such as entertainment and music with competitive power by utilizing IPTV.
I’m not gonna lie is saying I understand the nature and scope of work that Yong Joon is putting himself into. I’ve never heard of IPTV before but that’s the joy of the internet, we can always do research at a flick of our fingers.

Apparently, IPTV (Internet Protocol Television) is basically a way of getting TV transmitted over high-speed internet connections. The conventional tv that we are used to is usually sent to our sets by cable, satellite, or through the air, as analogue or digital signals. IPTV means video data is sent across the net in packets of data. It can then be stored on a server and sent to computers or straight to special set-top boxes, over ADSL (asymmetric digital subscriber lines), or cable lines. IPTV can be in the form of live TV, but more usually as stored video - sometimes known as video on demand (VOD). To watch IPTV, a person sitting at home needs a computer, or set-top box, plugged into the TV. I’m familiar with VOD and I’ve already watched some live tv on the net but I still experience delays even if I’m using a broadband connection. Most of the time I end up hearing the audio before seeing the actual clip.

The programs being broadcasted through IPTV can be paused, and re-wound, as they can with personal digital video recorders, like the Sky+ box. Reminds of TEVO in the US that I’ve wanted to have here in the Philippines.

But realistically, until broadband speeds are a standard above the current entry level of 1Mbps of 2Mbps, it is unlikely to be widespread. It may take five to seven years before there will be a single pipe coming into our homes that will be capable of carrying our voice calls, standard broadband data connection, and TV and net radio stations.

Since IPTV is still in the infant stages around the world, I can see why BYJ decided to venture in this type of business. He has the understanding of the inner workings of the entertainment industry having been in the business for more than a decade. BOF has a roster of new talents that they have been training so they can have another avenue of exposure for them. It’s been mentioned that he made initial talks with SM Entertainment and with the screen quota more likely to be final, I’m sure they will see Key East as a partnership worth exploring as an alternative in marketing their talents. And lastly he has the luxury of time to think and prepare programs that will be acceptable not just to Asians but to the rest of the world.

I Love Your Smile

2006-02-20T11:02:00.000+08:00

I've been missing him for a long time now so I lost it for a few seconds when I saw this photo. My gosh, he's hair is gorgeous, his smile sublime and his body.... his body.... what can I say but just perfect!

How True?

2006-02-15T12:28:00.000+08:00

Surfing the net for news when I read about Park Yong Ha's upcoming album launch in Japan. What caught my attention is the following statement.

"During the showcase, Park received a question on whether or not he would participate in the on-going protest on the campaign to preserve the screen quota system in Korea. Park replied that he is willing to participate in the rallies and that he heard Bae Yong-joon is preparing for the relay of the one-man demonstrations. "

How true? Your guess is as good as mine....

My Valentine Wish!

2006-02-13T17:16:00.000+08:00

To friends I made whom I never met
My wishes I share thee

May your life be rich with love
May your days be filled with laughter
And may our circle of friendship prosper
not just now but forever.....

Happy Valentine's Day!

Yong Joon Are You Joining Them?

2006-02-08T15:54:00.000+08:00

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Originally uploaded by marissa_p.

The Korean Government announced last January 27 that they will reduce the quota of local films that must be screened to 73 movies starting July in order to accomodate more foreign movies specifically those made in Hollywood. As expected the news generated a negative response from the korean movie industry.

For those not familiar with the quota system, Korea first introduced the screen quota in 1966. In 1985, when the nation liberalized imports of foreign films, the guideline was set higher to two-fifths from one-third. However, the system didn't function properly because local theaters often violated rules and authorities were enforcing the rules. Since a screen quota watchdog was launched in 1993, however, the system has been operating smoothly with support from the booming local movie industry. Beginning in the late 1990s, economy-related ministries have raised the need for the quota's reduction as the United States increased its pressure. In response, producers and actors began to step up their efforts to defend the screen quota and shield the Korean film industry. Meanwhile, the Coalition for Cultural Diversity in Moving Images representing supporters of the quota said “the decision, giving in to arrogant US trade pressure... is an anti-cultural coup d'etat in itself” and went on to vow that the coalition will strive to save the quota till the bitter end using any and all means available. Its members demanded that the US stop applying trade pressure immediately and that the government scrap its decision to halve the screen quota.

However, I don't think their government will give in because they see this as an opportunity for a free trade agreement with the US and an increase in their export of korean made products. In the economist point of view, this is the best course of action.

Starting last Saturday (February4) veteran actor Ahn Sung-ki started his protest at the front of Gwanghwamun Street in downtown Seoul. The next day had Park Joong-hoon, then Jang Dong Gun and Choi Min-shik. Today at 1:00 in front of a Cathedral a large group of stars including Ji Jin-hee, Lee Byun-heun, Lee Na-young, Han Chae-young, Song Yun-ah, Kang dong-won, & Soo-ae joined in the street protest.

I made me wonder what BYJ's stand on the issue and how he express his point of view. I remember him stating the need for a more unilateral cultural exchange between Korea and other countries. But Yong Joon is also very patriotic so he may also share the sentiments of his fellow actors. In that case, will he just issue a statement through BOF or will he go as far as join the others in their street protest.

Just me thinking...... What about you?

A Drop of Rain IN the Desert

2006-02-03T15:28:00.000+08:00

Ok, so I said I like his brooding look better but after almost two months of waiting, I felt like jumping when I saw this picture taken by a japanese fan who accidentally saw him going to the Loft last January 20. That smile is so genuine you can't help but grin too!

Freedom is A Right

2006-02-02T12:20:00.000+08:00

Forewarned: I'm just expressing my personal opinion without intention of hurting anyone's feelings or appear to be condescending so I hope I won't get flanked with this.

Honestly, I've been debating with myself if I should blog about it but then again, this is the purpose of coming up with your own site. To have a venue to express what I feel which I may not be comfortable to share in the other sites.

So what is all the fuzz about? As I was checking the various sites for any news about our MAN as we all do I came upon this article posted by Joanne "Japanese tourists visiting dental clinic BYJ frequents by [Joongang Daily]1/31/06 19:14" . The feeling of sadness hasn't escaped me until now because I felt BYJ's world becoming smaller and smaller. It's one thing to visit the drama sites, location shooting if he doing any work, Park BOF, Lotte and The Loft but it's another thing to reseach where he lives, the places where he dines with friends, have his hair cut, his dental works (get my drift?) for that slim chance of seeing him in person. We all know BYJ does a good job of keeping away from the limelight if he wants to and finds the need to do so but his movements are more constrained and his options getting limited as his popularity increases. Imagine how much harder it will be to book an appointment to these places, should he do it at dawn or how about late at night where the chance of him being sighted will be slimmer.

The business side in me says why not, they have the money to pay for those services. And they infuse the capital of Korea adding to the current GNP contribution of BYJ to their economy. He may not be paid to do endorsements for these shops but his good hearted nature will be more than please that his popularity is helping their business grow. But there are intangible cost as well.

I know it's not cheap to go everseas and we all want to maximize our chances of seeing Yong Joon in the flesh. But I just hope we can cut a line on how far we can go without invading his personal space. Freedom after all is a right not a priviledge, and I sincerely wish that he can enjoy what is rightfully his.

Peace everyone .......