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[makamarie]

Ink Up

Over the years, getting a tattoo has become typical among young adults. The freshly inked designs are becoming a prime example of self-expression. Many individuals choose to get a tattoo that defines who they are at that specific point in their lines. I decided to get my first tattoo when I was 19 years old. As most people already know, I have been passionate about the Korean language and culture for quite some time now. My ink takes up a small section on the inside of my left wrist. The hangul inscription is 괜찮아 (gwaen-chanh-a), which translates to it’s okay or it’s alright. You would respond with this phrase as forgiveness when someone has wronged you. I determined that this was the best place for my mantra due to all of my past experiences. A major reason for it happened back in high school. During my senior year, I was in a really bad car accident where I rolled my car. Paramedics rushed me to the emergency room while I was whiplashed and unconscious. Actually, I do not remember most of the accident. I only remember waking up in the hospital with a concussion and 23 stitches in my upper arm. However, the fact that I had lived through this experience was the major why I decided on this tattoo. 

Someday I would like to get a second tattoo. I have been constantly contemplating the ideas for it. Although, I am certain that I desire this specific phrase, “Life is C between B and D.” One of my favorite K-pop idols has this etched into his thigh and revealed his meaning behind it. Ever since that was revealed to me, I have yearned for the same motto inked on my skin. The other meaning for this slogan is: “Life is choice between birth and death.” Aside from it’s widely known religious connotation, the main reason it strikes me is the aspect of free choice. I believe everyone has the right to live their life how they want to. 

[makamarie]

First Encounter

Throughout our lives, there are people who we look towards and perceive as role models. These individuals can be anyone: family members, friends, teachers, celebrities, etc. I remember when I was younger I looked to my dad. I even drew a portrait of my dad and submitted it for an art contest, as many young grade schoolers would do. When I got older, I no longer thought of him as my only source of motivation. Something in my life had changed. Many may say it’s childish to consider celebrities as role models. However, I do not want to lie to myself; there are seven idols who are central in my life.

I remember it like it was yesterday. The smokey atmosphere still lingers in my nostrils. At times I can even still feel the pumping bass coursing through my veins. Cheers ring through my ears as I watch my seven heroes give their all on stage. I always feel sadness at the close of every concert that I attend. However, at the end of this particular concert, I felt excited. At long last, I would meet my sources of inspiration and the reason why I keep going. They gave us clear, concise instructions over the loudspeaker. We were informed to line up single-file when they called our section. I was jittery with anticipation when section 105 was first to be announced over the microphone. My friend and I managed to stand up and wobble our way in line. We were shaking, clinging to each other as we waited. Suddenly, the line started moving. Both of us were certain we were going to die of abrupt tachycardia. As we neared the door, I could hear the faint echo of fangirl screams. I began to tremble with nerves. I thanked God for the heavenly air conditioner or else my hands would have been slimy and clammy. My heart skipped a beat when I finally had them in my sights. There they were, Monsta X, my seven role models.

Changkyun was the first in line to high five. As I shook his hand, I remember thinking, "Okay, this isn't so bad." Out of the blue, my newly found confidence crumbled and suffered a crippling defeat. My eyes were locked with Minhyuk's. To an outsider, our interaction could have resembled a staring contest of sorts. Photography did not seem to do this man justice. He was a million times more gorgeous in real life than those photos could ever portray him. His eyes were piercing through my soul, and I was thoroughly convinced I was experiencing cardiac arrest. I don't even remember my hands coming into contact with Shownu at all. However, the sweetest of voices pulled me out of my hypnotized state. Who knew a simple hello could be the most powerful thing in the universe? Kihyun was radiating with a glow that could not be seen with the naked eye, but it indeed could be felt. He was the breath of fresh air that would prepare me for what happened next. A hand reached out to me with a very proud and suggestive hi that followed. I froze in my steps as I was face-to-face with Hyungwon. I blush crept upon my cheeks. According to my friend, Hyungwon noticed me during the concert and attempted to get my attention. I was obnoxiously thrusting my light board about, proud to support my two favorite biases: Hyungwon and Wonho. As made hand-to-hand contact with Hyungwon, I looked over to my left and locked eyes with Wonho. My soul completely exited my body. I've looked to Wonho all year as inspiration to lose weight and get fit; it was even my New Year's resolution to become like Wonho. He is my number one role model. The fact that I was able to see up close like that meant the world to me. At the end of the line was the most precious little honey bee. Jooheon's dimples are so much better in person. As I took hold of his hand, I struggled to let go. My fingertips dragged against the palm of his hand. I didn't want this moment to end. However, in my mind, my high five with Jooheon could possibly seem like I was molesting his hand. I immediately let go and darted out the door.

I remember feeling the sweet, summer night heat against my skin. A constant stream of joyous curses escaped my lips. I proclaimed to myself that I would never get too old for this, followed by a vow to attend every Monsta X concert as long as I shall live. I will hold that feeling with me forever. I always thought I was dreaming of the seemingly impossible. However, I was finally able to meet my favorite idols. My life was finally complete and it sealed the deal that I would remain a fan for life.

[makamarie]

The Bottomless Pit of Doom

Celebrities use social media as a means to stay interconnected and update their fans. The moment I realized that my favorite K-pop stars had Instagram accounts of their own constituted my imminent doom. Eventually, I would create an account of my own and made it my ultimate goal to follow all my favorite stars. I remember waking up to 20-50 notifications blowing up my phone from Instagram alone. I was so immersed by their latest posts that I  overlooked the negative effects this left on my life.

Was being in the loop this important to me?

Eventually, I realized that I was focusing on Instagram way too much. Posts were carrying into my social life too often. The reality of it all is that no one, besides me, cares about what food my biases ate or the new pair of shoes they bought. When I took the time to stop and listen to myself, I concluded that I had no life! Needless to say, I didn’t require myself to attend a rehab meeting for overly obsessed K-pop fans. I managed to delete the Instagram app from my phone on my own free will, which seemingly solved my problem. 

[makamarie]

Don’t Date...or Else!

In close relation to their American counterparts, scandals are often fairly common in the Korean media. The public tends to freak out whenever there’s a new celebrity couple revealed from the shadows. With that being said, the popular response is generally a negative one rather than a positive one. In a matter of fact, there is a particular relationship that has been the “talk of the town” as of late. Hyuna and E’Dawn were fellow bandmates in the unit Triple H and were contracted under the same label, Cube Entertainment. The trio was in the midst of promoting their latest EP, Retro Futurism, when the couple suddenly announced that they had been secretly dating for nearly two years! Almost instantaneously this news spread like wildfire not only in the Korean media but all over the world. As a result, Cube froze all current and future activities for the pair, searching desperately for an answer on how to handle the situation.

Despite the knowledge of our veteran K-pop fans out there, I would like to provide some insight for our newer fans. Only small amounts of people are aware of the “dating ban” that is present within the K-pop industry. Similar to pro athletes, all idols have to sign a contract when they join a particular company. Nearly all of these contracts include a severely important clause which bans the individual from dating for a specified period of time upon debut. According to Choe and Lee of the New York Times, relationships sabotage a star’s reputation and cripple their “allure” so to speak. It is inevitable that multiple red flags come to light and help us recognize this extreme complication in Korean culture. Why should idols have to give up their right to date? I believe the majority of fans are immersed in the closeness that being a fan can bring, however, making music is their profession, job, and only source of income. They do not owe us their personal lives. In reality, idols are humans too; no matter how perfect you may think they are.

On the contrary, about a month ago reporters declared that Hyuna and E’dawn were fired from their company. Cube came to the conclusion that the couple ultimately demolished their trust and that the said trust was now far beyond repair. Most international fans will argue that Cube Entertainment is a significant example of a horrendous agency. It’s not like this is the first dating scandal to pierce the scene. For example, back in 2014 prominent idols Taeyeon and Baekhyun of SM Entertainment were allegedly dating. Aside from the initial resistance, many fans worldwide and even the duo’s agency supported their relationship. Why did this pair have such a positive reaction as opposed to backlash Hyuna and E’Dawn received and endured? SM Entertainment does not include a dating ban in their contracts.

All Korean entertainment agencies must eliminate this limitation from their contracts. Without initiating this as a problem, the overall public would not see personal relationships as an issue. It’s only such a big ordeal because this restriction exists in the first place. Cube Entertainment could have avoided the extreme outrage from fans, the drastically dwindling stock prices and the dismissal of their two biggest stars if they did not include this clause in their contracts. Despite everything, Cube will experience a tremendous blow to their company by the termination of Hyuna and E’Dawn. 

We may be unable to modify the system of how Korean entertainment industries operate, but we can change our own perspectives on the situation. Put yourself in their shoes. How would you feel if someone placed restrictions on your love life or even regulated your intimate affairs? Celebrity or not, everyone deserves the right to freely love who they choose. Therefore, we should strive to positively support our biases not only in their musical endeavors but also in their personal ones as well.

Works Cited

Caronan, Mikka. “In Focus: Why A K-Pop Idol's Dating Life Should Be None Of Our Business.” ABS-CBN Lifestyle, Chalk Magazine, 13 Sept. 2018, lifestyle.abs-cbn.com/articles/6990/in-focus-why-a-k-pop-idols-dating-life-should-be-none-of-our-business/.

Choe, Sang-hun, and Su-hyun Lee. “We're Dating, K-Pop Stars Declare. You're Fired, Their Label Says.” The New York Times, The New York Times, 13 Sept. 2018, www.nytimes.com/2018/09/13/world/asia/kpop-hyuna-edawn-dating-fired.html.

Hong, Dam-young. “Mixed Reactions over HyunA and E'dawn's Dismissal by Agency.” The Korea Herald, The Korea Herald, 13 Sept. 2018, www.koreaherald.com/view.php?ud=20180913000663.

ilmare42. “Fans Are Loving These Hints At HyunA And E'Dawn's Relationship.” Soompi, Soompi, 3 Aug. 2018, www.soompi.com/article/1209789wpp/fans-loving-hints-hyuna-edawns-relationship.

Serendipity. “EXO's Baekhyun & Girls' Generation's Taeyeon Reported to Be Dating + SM Confirms It's True.” Allkpop, Allkpop, 19 June 2014, www.allkpop.com/article/2014/06/exos-baekhyun-and-girls-generations-taeyeon-reported-to-be-dating.

Sheffield, Donna. “HyunA and E'Dawn of Triple H Confess They're a Couple.” Metro, Metro News, 3 Aug. 2018, metro.co.uk/2018/08/03/hyuna-edawn-confirm-dating-performing-todays-music-bank-7794562/.

“What the HyunA-E'Dawn Drama Says about K-Pop Idols Dating.” AsiaOne, Philippine Daily Inquirer, 30 Sept. 2018, www.asiaone.com/entertainment/what-hyuna-edawn-drama-says-about-k-pop-idols-dating.

[makamarie]

Becoming Wonho

Through the rise of Korean culture around the globe, the Korean entertainment industry is bursting with talent that is like nothing we have ever seen before. Numerous youngsters audition all over the world and very few are accepted into agencies. Not long after an individual is chosen, they become a trainee and work countless hours perfecting their vocals, choreography, acting, image and some even take language classes. Trainees can train for as long as 10 years and still only a select few are given the opportunity to debut. With that being said, even after debut, most spend all their time making this their lives. Idols prove that work ethic has not completely dissolved from today’s generation.

Some may say that they are overworked, but I believe what they do is truly inspiring. An idol that has been a significant role model in my life is Shin Hoseok, otherwise known by his stage name Wonho. Aside from his normal idol activities, in his spare time, he works out and maintains his remarkably fit body. Earlier this year, fans were finally able to get some sort of answer as to why he does this. Wonho explained that not only did he really enjoy exercising, but he saw it as “etiquette towards his fans” (Soompi). 

For a few years now, I have looked up to Wonho. My New Year’s resolution for 2018 was to become like Wonho. I was inspired to lose weight and become fit. Assuming a diet and little exercise, since the beginning of the year I have lost 30 pounds. My progress has been fairly slow and I will probably never be as buff as him, but I plan on continuing my quest to make a healthier me!

Works Cited

Blessedkpop. “MONSTA X's Wonho Reveals Why He Makes An Effort To Maintain His Body.” Soompi, Soompi, 26 Mar. 2018, www.soompi.com/article/1145541wpp/monsta-xs-wonho-reveals-makes-effort-maintain-body.

Chua, Jessica. “The Extremes That Koreans Take to Become a Kpop Idol.” Entertainment | Rojak Daily, 27 Jan. 2017, www.rojakdaily.com/entertainment/article/1728/the-extremes-that-koreans-take-to-become-a-kpop-idol.

[makamarie]

My Karaoke Song

Although I have never attended a public karaoke session, I am guilty of bouncing around my house and belching out my favorite songs. In my opinion, I have become a pro at this as there are many songs that I am now decent at. I am able to recite lyrics from memory, hit high notes that are challenging for anyone, and even successfully execute the dance moves. Out of all the K-pop tracks that have been released this year, I would have to say the one that I have completely mastered is “BBoom BBoom” by Momoland. 

This song has an extremely catchy beat and simplistic dance moves. Plus, the music video is quirky and fun! It makes it really challenging not to sing and dance along. 

[makamarie]

Questions to Ask Yourself When Selecting a Korean Drama

Recently, Korean culture has been increasing in popularity worldwide and America is no exception. A year ago Korean pop group, BTS, took home the award for “Top Social Artist” at the Billboard Music Awards. They successfully defeated other major artists such as Shaun Mendes, Ariana Grande, and Demi Lovato. Later on in the year, the seven members continued their conquest by being the first K-pop group to perform at the American Music Awards. Their presence and soaring reputation are physical proof that the K-wave exists. The Korean Wave, otherwise known as Hallyu, is the term used to define the rise of Korean culture and entertainment not only in South Korea but all around the world. Besides K-pop, other forms of Korean entertainment are flourishing throughout the states. Thanks to the growing acceptance of media streaming services, Korean television is being enjoyed on a global scale. 

A major part of Korean television is the dramas that they create. K-dramas are remarkably similar to its American counterpart and many of the same aspects apply. One minute detail can make or break a show for you and it is crucial to have a basic knowledge of your preferences. You may even be new to the scene but don’t worry, below contains a series of questions you should ask yourself to ensure that you are choosing the perfect K-drama for your tastes. 

[Lee Jongsuk as Dalpo in ‘Pinocchio’, 2014]

primary component 

Question #1: What genres typically appeal to you? 

Much like American dramas, Korean dramas are broken down into genres or categories that define them. The majority of popular K-dramas are romantic comedies, however, categories such as action thrillers, historic melodramas, science fiction fantasies, and loads more exist. The key is finding a K-drama with an identical genre or theme that echoes your current top favorite series.

[Jun Jihyun as Shim Chung in ‘Legend of the Blue Sea’, 2016]

Question #2: Do you have a favorite Korean celebrity?

This proves to be extremely beneficial when selecting a show to watch and in most cases is a deciding factor. Most avid K-drama watchers already have a preference when it comes to favorite actors and actresses, however, what if you’re new to the K-drama scene? My recommendation would be to start by researching famous celebrities and determine the series that they are featured in. Additionally, if you have any favorite K-pop idols look up to see if they’re present in any shows. 

[Kim Taehyung (BTS) as Hansung in ‘Hwarang’, 2016]

Question #3: How good is your attention span?

You wouldn’t think this would matter, but many dramas can be pretty lengthy. Most episodes are 60 minutes long and that’s without commercials! Completing a series is a major accomplishment, especially if you have a short attention span. With that being said, shorter dramas do exist. I am currently watching I’m Not A Robot, where the episodes are only approximately 30 minutes long. 

[Yoo Seungho & Chae Soobin as Minkyu & Jia in ‘I’m Not a Robot’, 2017]

Question #4: How strong is your emotional tolerance?

These shows can put a deep emotional strain on your life. If you can’t handle tough situations some dramas just might not be right for you. For example, in the drama Boys Over Flowers, the main character has to go through a series of bullying from her classmates. It includes a few violent scenes where she gets hurt. You must have a heart of steel while watching or they will completely break you. 

[Lee Minho & Ku Hyesun as Junpyo & Jandi in ‘Boys Over Flowers’, 2009]

Question #5: What is your purpose for watching?

Are you watching for entertainment or learning? Do you want to laugh or cry? Do you normally enjoy the kiss scenes or do you live for the thrill? These are all things to consider when choosing your drama. Your purpose is your sole reason for watching. Please ponder this carefully before making your final decision. 

[Kim Soohyun & Jun Jihyun as Minjoon & Songyi in ‘My Love From the Star’, 2013]

I know that this must be a lot to take in, however, I believe if you stop and take the time to evaluate these things before you start your next K-drama you won’t be sorry. You may already internally think about these things before you watch anyways. Taking the extra step will be worth it. 

[makamarie]

My Inspiration Playlist

What inspires you to do what you do every single day? A great deal of my inspiration comes from the music I listen to. I personally turn to a wide variety of K-pop soundtracks to get me going. In fact, I am currently listening to a series of songs that I had previously jumbled together. I enjoy upbeat tunes, with relatable lyrics, and quirky music videos. This is probably why K-pop seems to appeal to me so much. Not only is the musical composition inspirational, but the whole underlying concept of a comeback is fascinating to me. While I was attending art school, I harnessed this passion to inspire my creative works. A majority of my projects included the Korean idols that I loved or had a hint of Korean culture in them. My love for Korean culture is still evident in my creative drive even today, for that one of the factors that influenced my decision to create this blog. 

[makamarie]

Sensuous Sexy

Gradually gaining popularity, rookie boy band SF9 is back with their fifth mini-album, Sensuous. The group of nine debuted two years ago under FNC entertainment; which produced other well-received Korean artists such as F.T. Island, CNBLUE and AOA. SF9 is an acronym that is short for Sensational Feeling 9 and their fandom was given the name, Fantasy. The group later explained that “Fantasies are the fulfillment of one’s hopes in your imagination; fans will be part of the fulfillment of their hopes" (Soompi). These members are not widely known on the international stage, however, their latest release includes traits that worldwide idols possess: a strong concept, immense quality, and outstanding performances.

Compared to their previous eras, this one contains an increasingly mature vibe and portrays the members in a “darker place” (Billboard). “Sensuous sexy” is the term that the group and many of the fans have adopted to define this current concept. The album consists of five tracks which are centered around the title track, Jilleosseo, otherwise known as Now or Never. This single consists of an electronic pop sound with thumping bass beats. Everything from the teaser photos, to the music video, and even the song lyrics have a notably sophisticated atmosphere. Two distinct styles of the album were released: Exploded Emotion and Hidden Emotion. Exploded Emotion stays true to the previous SF9 comebacks and is familiar to the fans, as it contains intense colored imagery and holographic patterns. On the flip side, Hidden Emotion encompasses this new dark and sexy side that we have never seen before.

Vivid yet sleek, the music video echoes these album concepts perfectly with its contrasting hues, sensual angles, and provocative dance movies. SF9 leader, Youngbin, explained how they were able to feel comfortable with their director. This marked their third time working with him, as he also produced Fanfare and Roar, which in turn played a crucial role in the cinematic execution. Simply writing about it does not do it justice. If you have the time you should watch the music video, for I will link it below.

Not only is the quality of the concept superb, but a great deal of time and effort went into producing the choreography for this title. SF9 had the gracious opportunity to work with American dancer Keone, who has also rendered dance moves for world renown idols BTS and other major K-pop superstars. In addition, the youngest member, Chani, created a solo dance feature where he was presented as a silhouetted figure in the music video. The eighteen-year-old exclaimed that he worked extremely hard and dedicated his smooth, fluid moves to the late King of Pop, Michael Jackson.

The Merriam-Webster dictionary defines sensuous as, “producing or characterized by the gratification of the senses: having strong sensory appeal.” I believe these boys accomplished this in their 5th mini-album. They displayed not only their fans but to viewers around the world that they can accelerate as mature, young adults in the Korean pop industry. All the previously stated aspects: concept, quality, and performance mold and define idols as stars. In conclusion, watching the music video and listening to the album is a must. Whether you are a new or existing K-pop fan, I believe you will enjoy listening to what this musical piece has to offer.

Works Cited

FNCent, director. SF9 - 『질렀어』 Music Video Making Film. YouTube, 2 Aug. 2018, www.youtube.com/watch?v=MKgHpC5jSek.

Herman, Tamar. “SF9 Say It’s ‘Now or Never’ in Dramatic New Music Video.” Billboard, Billboard, 1 Aug. 2018, www.billboard.com/articles/columns/k-town/8468053/sf9-now-or-never-video.

ilmare42. “SF9 Announces Official Fan Club Name On 100th Day Since Debut.” Soompi, Soompi, 12 Jan. 2017, www.soompi.com/article/936495wpp/sf9-announces-official-fan-club-name-100th-day-since-debut.

LOENENT, director. Now or Never MV. YouTube, YouTube, 31 July 2018, www.youtube.com/watch?v=rQ8MFfg3DHA.

"Sensuous." Merriam-Webster.com. Merriam-Webster, n.d. Web. 20 Sept. 2018

www.fncent.com. “메인화면.” FNC Entertainment, FNC Entertainment, 2018, www.fncent.com/?r=home.

[makamarie]

On the Brink of “Saesang”

Hello everyone, my name is Makayla. I’m sure you all are wondering what the term “saesang” is and what it means. Saesang derives from South Korean culture and is a phrase used to define creepily, crazy fans that stalk their dearest Korean idols and celebrities. I have read plenty of horror stories pertaining to these legends, however, I have never actually encountered one for myself. With that being said, I believe one could argue that I am on the brink of saesang.

I know what you’re possibly thinking and I promise you that I’m not the “village crazy lady” or anything. I just have an intense love for Korean culture. For as long as I can remember I have been interested, and even curious, in the other cultures around me. I have always been particularly drawn to Asian culture, specifically Japanese culture, as I spent my adolescent years watching anime and reading manga. In my freshman year of high school, one of my friends introduced me to “K-pop” or Korean Pop, and that marked the end of my life. Ever since then I have acquired further knowledge of this genre of music. I began branching out to other groups, memorizing names, and defined their personalities and concepts. In time I even obtained information about their language and culture as well. 

I may not be quite on the level of saesang, but I do know that my passion for South Korea burns very bright. I love Korean culture: whether it is their music, dramas, food, or their overall way of life. I wish to someday travel to Seoul and experience everything first hand.