Zoom on Bae Yong Joon

Choa - BYJ in Kyoto 2

2011-12-01T00:07:00.000-05:00

Hi sisters ..... dear cloudnine even translated a summary of Yong Joon's footsteps in Kyoto! So next time when you visit Kyoto, maybe you'd like to follow his route too :)

** BYJ’s footprint **

6th - From Shin Yokohama to Kyoto by a Shinkansen (bullet train)
stroll around Ponto-cho, Dinner

7th - Stroll in Sagano
Suntory Whiskey Yamazaki Distillery in Osaka. Three hours of looking around and tasting.

8th - Daikakuji Temple
Saw some treasures and important cultural properties. presented ‘a letter of appreciation’ by the commissioner of Japan Tourism Agency for his contribution to Japan-Korea tourism and the support for the earthquake disaster.

Restaurant ‘Nezameya’ (in front of Fushimi Inari Shrine) Unagi restaurant with 450 years history.

Kiyomizu Temple night visit. Enjoyed the night view of Kyoto from the temple’s ‘stage’

9th - Koryuji
Saw the national treasure ‘Pensive Bodhisattva’
Sawai Shoyu (soy sauce) Main store, shoyu maker with more than 130 years history. BYJ observed the shoyu making process and bought some.

Ebisugawa Street, known as a furniture street lined with long-established stores. Near Sawai Shoyu.

10th - Ebisugawa Street Visited some antique stores.
Soba restaurant ‘Honnke Owariya’, a famous restaurant with 540 years history.

Flew back to Korea from Kansai International Airport

Thanks cloudnine for the translation and laki for the pictures. Can't wait for more .....

Choa - BYJ in Kyoto 1

2011-11-30T00:57:00.000-05:00

Hi hi sisters ....... how are you? Hope everyone is well. Our dear cloudnine always keeps us overseas sisters in her mind. From time to time, she would bring us some interesting tidbits on Yong Joon so we won't have to miss him too much. Remember our prince took the chance to tour beautiful historic Kyoto after his acceptance of the DATV Dream High award last month? Hehe, diligent reporters and fans are able to trace his footsteps in Kyoto .....

‘Choa’ magazine: BYJ in Kyoto part 1: Departure and Sagano

Till Departure

“I wish to go to Kyoto someday”, said BYJ when we interviewed him in a Seoul hotel in the autumn of 2009. He mentioned so in passing when he was talking about his book ‘Travel in search of Beauty of Korea’ in which he introduced Korean traditional cultures. To write the book he travelled around Korea and even to Morioka city (in Japan) and he came to deeply understand the traditional cultures of Korean Peninsula and Japan and their cultural exchanges from old days.

In his book he refers to the Pensive Bodhisattva, one of Koryuji in Kyoto and the another one in National Museum of Korea. Both are designated as a National Treasure. By his nature he is attracted by the traditional cultures or the authentic that could survive for a long time.

Through his drama ‘The Legend’ and the experience of writing the book it seems that his interest in the history has grown greater. In the book he writes ‘I think the history is a storehouse of treasures.’ So I guess it was only natural that he was more and more interested in Kyoto. He had a chance, officially or non –officially, to come to Japan before or after 2009, but his wish didn’t come true due to the his scheduling problems. It has been two full years since he mentioned his wish and at last he was able to turn his steps to Kyoto.

October 6 = Departure

This time he arrived in Japan at night of October 4th. Next day he attended the award ceremony in Tokyo because the drama ‘Dream High’, the first drama he joined as a special producer, won the Sky Perfect Award grand prize. Then the next evening of 6th, He took a bullet train at Shin-Yokohama station and headed to the ancient city.

As he arrived late at night, he only strolled around Pont-cho (cloud nine: one of five geisha districts of Kyoto). Pont-cho is a street stretching about 500 meters from Sanjyo avenue to Shijo avenue, between Kamo river and Takase river. It’s a restaurant area with about three hundred years history. He stepped into an alley, which is so narrow, just enough for two adults to pass each other. Watching a classic geisha- teahouse style building bathed in a dim light, his eyes were shining like a child. He told his staff to move into a lane away from the traffic and to walk in single file. He never failed to show his thoughtfulness. He went into a restaurant facing Kamo river and enjoyed ramen.

October 7th =Sagano

First he headed to Ohkochi Sanso (cloud nine: the former villa of actor Ohkochi Denjiro), which is situated in the southeast of Mt. Ogura. Getting out of the car he rode in a rickshaw and started to stroll. The 300- meters- long ‘bamboo trail’ from the villa to Nonomiya Shrine is well known as an especially beautiful bamboo grove in Arashiyama and Sagano area. The trail at first slopes down gently and straight, then snakes its way and descends down a steep slope. ‘I prefer a winding road to a straight through one. Because the former reminds me of “desire” and the latter “contemplation” ‘ This is what he wrote in his book ‘Beauty of Korea’. I’m sure he was satisfied with this road too.

Along the way he got off the rickshaw and started to walk. Tenryuji Temple (north gate) at right and Nonomiya Shrine at left. Both sides of the bamboo trail are lined with brushwood fences, which are about 1.5 to 1.7 meters high. Being 180 centimeters tall the fences didn’t obstruct his view so he must have seen all the way down the trail. He might be reminded of the bamboo forest in Guanwondo he saw when he was visiting mountain temples for the book of ‘Beauty of Korea’.

Turning left at the end of the bamboo trail stands Nonomiya Shrine, which is famous for the scene of Hikaru Genji’s visit in ‘Sakaki’, the tenth book of ‘The Tale of Genji’. Incidentally the book sets September 7th of the lunar calendar 1000 years ago as the date of Hikaru Genji’s visit to this place. On the solar calendar it falls on October 3rd, so BYJ happened to visit there at the same season as Hikaru Genji.

Going a little farther there’s JR Sanin Line (Sagano Line) running ahead. Crossing the railroad, to the left there’s a straight stretch of the railway with Mt. Ogura behind and a tunnel is seen with its mouth open. The scene surely excites the emotions of a traveler. Needless to say BYJ, whose hobby is camera, was taking pictures enthusiastically. Sagano stroll ended there beyond the crossing and it was about an hour walkabout.

Written by Yujin Kubo (Nikkan Sport)
Thanks cloudnine for sharing!

Tribute to Steve Jobs

2011-10-05T23:41:00.000-04:00

Hi hi sisters ....... hope you are all doing fine. I try to stay away from the computer as my health has been unstable lately. Steve Jobs, the technical innovator who redefined how this next generation live and think has just passed away. I couldn't resist sharing this ingenious speech which he gave 6 years ago with you, probably one of the most inspirational article I have ever read. Coincidentally, he also touched on his life, illness and how he viewed death. It's long, but I promise, it's well worth your time .......

This is the text of the Commencement address by Steve Jobs, CEO of Apple Computer and of Pixar Animation Studios, delivered on June 12, 2005 at Stanford University:

I am honored to be with you today at your commencement from one of the finest universities in the world. I never graduated from college. Truth be told, this is the closest I've ever gotten to a college graduation. Today I want to tell you three stories from my life. That's it. No big deal. Just three stories ......

The first story is about connecting the dots :

I dropped out of Reed College after the first 6 months, but then stayed around as a drop-in for another 18 months or so before I really quit. So why did I drop out?

It started before I was born. My biological mother was a young, unwed college graduate student, and she decided to put me up for adoption. She felt very strongly that I should be adopted by college graduates, so everything was all set for me to be adopted at birth by a lawyer and his wife. Except that when I popped out they decided at the last minute that they really wanted a girl. So my parents, who were on a waiting list, got a call in the middle of the night asking: "We have an unexpected baby boy; do you want him?" They said: "Of course."

My biological mother later found out that my mother had never graduated from college and that my father had never graduated from high school. She refused to sign the final adoption papers. She only relented a few months later when my parents promised that I would someday go to college.

And 17 years later I did go to college. But I naively chose a college that was almost as expensive as Stanford, and all of my working-class parents' savings were being spent on my college tuition.

After six months, I couldn't see the value in it. I had no idea what I wanted to do with my life and no idea how college was going to help me figure it out. And here I was spending all of the money my parents had saved their entire life. So I decided to drop out and trust that it would all work out OK. It was pretty scary at the time, but looking back it was one of the best decisions I ever made. The minute I dropped out I could stop taking the required classes that didn't interest me, and begin dropping in on the ones that looked interesting.

It wasn't all romantic. I didn't have a dorm room, so I slept on the floor in friends' rooms, I returned coke bottles for the 5¢ deposits to buy food with, and I would walk the 7 miles across town every Sunday night to get one good meal a week at the Hare Krishna temple. I loved it. And much of what I stumbled into by following my curiosity and intuition turned out to be priceless later on. Let me give you one example:

Reed College at that time offered perhaps the best calligraphy instruction in the country. Throughout the campus every poster, every label on every drawer, was beautifully hand calligraphied. Because I had dropped out and didn't have to take the normal classes, I decided to take a calligraphy class to learn how to do this. I learned about serif and san serif typefaces, about varying the amount of space between different letter combinations, about what makes great typography great. It was beautiful, historical, artistically subtle in a way that science can't capture, and I found it fascinating. None of this had even a hope of any practical application in my life.

But ten years later, when we were designing the first Macintosh computer, it all came back to me. And we designed it all into the Mac. It was the first computer with beautiful typography. If I had never dropped in on that single course in college, the Mac would have never had multiple typefaces or proportionally spaced fonts. And since Windows just copied the Mac, it’s likely that no personal computer would have them. If I had never dropped out, I would have never dropped in on this calligraphy class, and personal computers might not have the wonderful typography that they do. Of course it was impossible to connect the dots looking forward when I was in college.

But it was very, very clear looking backwards ten years later.

Again, you can't connect the dots looking forward; you can only connect them looking backwards. So you have to trust that the dots will somehow connect in your future. You have to trust in something - your gut, destiny, life, karma, whatever. This approach has never let me down, and it has made all the difference in my life.

My second story is about love and loss :

I was lucky - I found what I loved to do early in life. Woz and I started Apple in my parents garage when I was 20. We worked hard, and in 10 years Apple had grown from just the two of us in a garage into a $2 billion company with over 4000 employees. We had just released our finest creation - the Macintosh - a year earlier, and I had just turned 30. And then I got fired. How can you get fired from a company you started? Well, as Apple grew we hired someone who I thought was very talented to run the company with me, and for the first year or so things went well. But then our visions of the future began to diverge and eventually we had a falling out. When we did, our Board of Directors sided with him. So at 30 I was out. And very publicly out.

What had been the focus of my entire adult life was gone, and it was devastating.

I really didn't know what to do for a few months. I felt that I had let the previous generation of entrepreneurs down - that I had dropped the baton as it was being passed to me. I met with David Packard and Bob Noyce and tried to apologize for screwing up so badly. I was a very public failure, and I even thought about running away from the valley. But something slowly began to dawn on me - I still loved what I did. The turn of events at Apple had not changed that one bit. I had been rejected, but I was still in love. And so I decided to start over.

I didn't see it then, but it turned out that getting fired from Apple was the best thing that could have ever happened to me. The heaviness of being successful was replaced by the lightness of being a
beginner again, less sure about everything. It freed me to enter one of the most creative periods of my life.

During the next five years, I started a company named NeXT, another company named Pixar, and fell in love with an amazing woman who would become my wife. Pixar went on to create the worlds first computer animated feature film, Toy Story, and is now the most successful animation studio in the
world. In a remarkable turn of events, Apple bought NeXT, I returned to Apple, and the technology we developed at NeXT is at the heart of Apple's current renaissance. And Laurene and I have a wonderful family together.

I'm pretty sure none of this would have happened if I hadn't been fired from Apple. It was awful tasting medicine, but I guess the patient needed it.

Sometimes life hits you in the head with a brick. Don't lose faith. I'm convinced that the only thing that kept me going was that I loved what I did. You've got to find what you love. And that is as true for your work as it is for your lovers. Your work is going to fill a large part of your life, and the only way to be truly satisfied is to do what you believe is great work. And the only way to do great work is to love what you do. If you haven't found it yet, keep looking. Don't settle. As with all matters of the heart, you'll know when you find it. And, like any great relationship, it just gets better and better as the years roll on. So keep looking until you find it. Don't settle.

My third story is about death :

When I was 17, I read a quote that went something like: "If you live each day as if it was your last, someday you'll most certainly be right." It made an impression on me, and since then, for the past 33 years, I have looked in the mirror every morning and asked myself: "If today were the last day of my life, would I want to do what I am about to do today?" And whenever the answer has been "No" for too many days in a row, I know I need to change something.

Remembering that I'll be dead soon is the most important tool I've ever encountered to help me make the big choices in life. Because almost everything - all external expectations, all pride, all fear of embarrassment or failure - these things just fall away in the face of death, leaving only what is truly important. Remembering that you are going to die is the best way I know to avoid the trap of thinking you have something to lose. You are already naked. There is no reason not to follow your heart.

About a year ago I was diagnosed with cancer. I had a scan at 7:30 in the morning, and it clearly showed a tumor on my pancreas. I didn't even know what a pancreas was. The doctors told me this was almost certainly a type of cancer that is incurable, and that I should expect to live no longer than three to six months. My doctor advised me to go home and get my affairs in order, which is doctor's code for prepare to die. It means to try to tell your kids everything you thought you'd have the next 10 years to tell them in just a few months. It means to make sure everything is buttoned up so that it will be as easy as possible for your family. It means to say your goodbyes.

I lived with that diagnosis all day. Later that evening I had a biopsy, where they stuck an endoscope down my throat, through my stomach and into my intestines, put a needle into my pancreas and got a few cells from the tumor. I was sedated, but my wife, who was there, told me that when they viewed the cells under a microscope the doctors started crying because it turned out to be a very rare form of pancreatic cancer that is curable with surgery. I had the surgery and I'm fine now.

This was the closest I've been to facing death, and I hope it’s the closest I get for a few more decades. Having lived through it, I can now say this to you with a bit more certainty than when death was a useful but purely intellectual concept:

No one wants to die. Even people who want to go to heaven don't want to die to get there. And yet death is the destination we all share. No one has ever escaped it. And that is as it should be, because Death is very likely the single best invention of Life. It is Life's change agent. It clears out the old to make way for the new. Right now the new is you, but someday not too long from now, you will gradually become the old and be cleared away. Sorry to be so dramatic, but it is quite true.

Your time is limited, so don't waste it living someone else's life. Don't be trapped by dogma - which is living with the results of other people's thinking. Don't let the noise of other's opinions drown out your own inner voice. And most important, have the courage to follow your heart and intuition. They somehow already know what you truly want to become. Everything else is secondary.

When I was young, there was an amazing publication called The Whole Earth Catalog, which was one of the bibles of my generation. It was created by a fellow named Stewart Brand not far from here in Menlo Park, and he brought it to life with his poetic touch. This was in the late 1960's, before personal computers and desktop publishing, so it was all made with typewriters, scissors, and Polaroid cameras. It was sort of like Google in paperback form, 35 years before Google came along: it was idealistic, and overflowing with neat tools and great notions.

Stewart and his team put out several issues of The Whole Earth Catalog, and then when it had run its course, they put out a final issue. It was the mid-1970s, and I was your age. On the back cover of their final issue was a photograph of an early morning country road, the kind you might find yourself hitchhiking on if you were so adventurous. Beneath it were the words: "Stay Hungry. Stay Foolish."

It was their farewell message as they signed off.
Stay Hungry. Stay Foolish.
And I have always wished that for myself. And now, as you graduate to begin anew, I wish that for you. Stay Hungry. Stay Foolish.

Thank you all very much.

Senkichi curry udon

2011-09-22T14:41:00.000-04:00

Hi hi ....... hmmmm, feeling a bit hungry and wondering what I should make myself for lunch? Ahhhh, I suddenly remember some pictures I downloaded a few weeks ago. Hehe, this sure looks tempting, slurp slurp :)

If you haven't seen this yet, this is one of the delicious meals that Yong Joon had during his 'Dream High' tour.

This curry udon shop apparently is in Ginza but I have never seen it before?? Must be on one of the many side streets, it's called Senkichi.

Just like his favourite little ramen shop in Shibuya, this udon shop looks pretty local to me, kind of like a 'eat and run' place.

Hehe as usual, he seemed to have his back facing outside. It is said that the servers did not recognize Yonsama at first, at least not until he took off his sunglasses. Well well, looks like our Japanese sisters have another destination to explore now :)

Pictures reposted from BYJGallery - tomochang, thanks!

Nikkan Sports Interview

2011-09-16T12:44:00.000-04:00

Hi hi .... our dear cloudnine was busy at work again! She translated the interview that Yong Joon gave to Nikkan Sports while he was in Tokyo. As usual, he puts in a lot of thoughts and sincerity in his response. Furthermore, you can feel his regrets towards his fans for not being able to show us more acting. Obviously his health is still not 100% as before, hope you'll get there soon, Yong Joon! Thanks cloudnine for always thinking of us :) Here it is ........

Nikkan Sports September 13 ‘Exclusive Interview with BYJ’
Here’s an exclusive interview with a Korean actor Bae Yong Joon (39).

While he was in Japan for the drama ‘Dream High’ Dvd release event, the interview with Nikkan Sports took place in a staff room of Saitama Super Arena. It’s seven years since the big hit of ‘Winter Sonata’ in 2004. The actor, who laid the foundation of the prosperity of Korean entertainment and who has been a permanent top star himself, told us frankly about who he is now. ( Interviewer; Hayato Kubo)

Q: You must be tired after the event. It’s been a while since you met your family (fans) , how do you feel now?

A: I’m most grateful and at the same time I feel sorry. Due to my health problem I was very sorry for not appearing much in the drama. I’m deeply sorry even for today’s event, because if I could sing or dance like my juniors I would have shown it. I wish to show my work as an actor, but it has not been decided yet, I feel terribly sorry for this too.

Q: For ‘Dream High’ you joined not only as an actor but also as a producer, how did you find it?

A: It was my first attempt, which put me in a different position from acting. I think I could see the parts which I had missed while I was working only as an actor. Also about the drama I could acquire the broader understanding and which was very helpful for acting. What I had no chance to see as only an actor , this time from a viewpoint of a production company I was able to see, and that is for example how the direction was and how the staff were working. Actors tend to be quite selfish on the set inevitably. For them acting is above everything else and building up character’s emotions is very important. So actors really don’t notice other things. Now I can look over such parts, but this doesn’t mean I don’t focus on my character or acting. I had no idea how much it costs to produce a drama, however now I understand how much we need.

Q: If you have an another chance, would you like to work as a producer again?

A: If I do so, my family might say something to me (laughs). For the time being I will be a full-time actor, however as for ‘Dream High 2’ I wish to be involved in the project at least. Actually here (in the dressing room of Saitama Arena) JYP and I were having a kind of meeting about the story. The theme for the drama is ‘dream’. In the event being asked ‘What is a dream?’, I answered that for me it’s a high ideal which I can’t reach. In the true sense fulfilling dreams or saying that the dream came true are very serious matter and difficult to do. It’s something like reaching an unreachable state of mind, that is what we call in Buddhism ‘attaining an enlightened state of mind’ I think. In today’s event JYP suggested me to become a director, which I consider one of my dreams rather than a goal. I have no idea if it’s possible or not, but for me it’s my dream.

Q: We are living in a tough world, difficult times in many ways. For young people it’s getting harder to pursue their dreams. For those people what kind of advice would you give?

A: I suppose young people don’t know much about the world yet. They just have no idea about what kind of jobs are there or, what kind of jobs they can do, so at any rate I want them to try a lot of things. I want them to make efforts to try anything. This may be called curiosity and I want them to see various things and feel them. Above all the most important thing is to do their best at this moment. Doing their utmost efforts now will lead them to their future, and it will also bring their dreams into shape. It will be a process to understand what dreams are .

Q: Fans who came to the event and who didn’t both care about how you will appear in the next work. About your new work do you mind sharing as much as possible at this stage?

A: First I will work on the ‘Dream High 2’ project and in addition I will return to my day job. I’m making my utmost effort in order to start shooting at the earliest possible time. However as there is nothing concrete, I can’t tell you anything, but I think I will do a drama.

Q: While you were filming the drama TWSSG you broke the ligament of the index finger, injured the cervical spine and shoulder ligament. Early this year you were hospitalized due to a herniated disk. How are you feeling now?

A: Actually I haven’t fully recovered yet. From old times they say ‘Health is above everything else’ , or ‘If you are in good health, you can do anything.’
These words deeply pierced me to the heart now. I vaguely thought that I would get well with time, but then I found that I hardly recovered just with time. So in order to really get healthy I’m making various efforts now.

The whole interview will be carried on a Asian entertainment Magazine ‘Choa’, 4th issue to be out on September 20th.

Picture from BYJGallery - miemi, thanks!

Dream High Event - II

2011-09-05T22:24:00.000-04:00

Hi sisters .... let's continue with cloudnine's account of the event, shall we? She asked us to acknowledge Kei-san, who delivers Yon-sama mail almost daily. Her account is based on Kei-san's mail of Sep. 4 extra edition and of Sep. 5. Thanks cloudnine and Kei-san.

Next session was ‘Lucky Draw’

Yong Joon offered the pair of glasses he used in the drama, autographed.
JYP offered his favorite headphone with his autogaraph. I happened to be sitting close to a lady who won the glasses, so I asked her to show me the glasses.

Then two gentlemen left the stage and the talk show by the students began.
Among the NG scenes we watched, there was a scene in which Suzy’s nose was running. Su Hyun who was sitting next to Suzy was twittering “Aigo, aigo” He was so cute.

‘My best scene’ picked by each of them was introduced one by one. Both Tae Gyon and Woo Yong picked their first appearances in the drama, action scene of Tae Gyon and Woo Yong’s speaking English scene. Su Hyun picked his crying scene. (Sorry I don’t remember which one Suzy picked.)

There was also ‘Lucky Draw’ by those young cast.
Suzy offered her favorite ear rings, Su Hyun a pair of shoes he wore in the drama and Kirin Art School uniforms were offered by Tae Gyon and Woo Yong.

The event was coming to an end.

In closing the cast and audience together sang ‘Dream High’ theme song. Then on the screens Yong Joon and JYP who were watching the arena from backstage appeared. They came out of the dressing room and headed to the stage led by Mr. Shin who was holding a flashlight. Both of them looked very cool. By this time audience got very excited.

They were welcomed by the students.
Everyone made a farewell speech and Yong Joon was the last speaker.
He said “Thank you everyone for watching us for a long time . Next time we will do our best in the production of Dream High 2. I thank very much cast and staff for giving their best.”

Finally with Yong Joon’s call of ‘Se no – here we go’ we all shouted ‘Dream High!’

Thanks to all Japanese and Korean sisters for sharing the pictures.

Dream High Event - I

2011-09-05T14:54:00.002-04:00

Hi hi ...... I am so grateful to cloudnine for her kindness. Knowing how exhausted she must feel from all the excitement, she still did a detailed writeup of the event so promptly. Thanks so much cloudnine for your selflessness and love for Yong Joon and the family :)

As you know, the concert took place on September 4 in Saitama Super Arena with 12000 in attendance.

Part 1

Five students, Tae Gyon, Woo Yong, So Hyun , Suzy, and Joo, appeared on stage and started to sing ‘Dream High’ theme song in Korean. I first thought Joo was there instead of IU, but she herself was in D.H., who played a role of an aggressive student (who told a lie to be a solo dancer at entrance ceremony, and Baek Hee put a thumbtack into her shoe remember?)
They introduced themselves in Japanese, but Suzy had a little trouble and others cheered her saying ‘yukkuri- slowly’.

They sang and danced very well. Suzy was in a lavender color dress and Joo, was in a mini pink dress, very cute girls. Two of 2pm wore black leather suits and Su Hyun was in a black suit with a tie.

After the opening, JYP appeared and sang solo in Japanese, which was quite good too. Then ‘My Valentine’ by 2pm boys, ‘Winter Child’ by two girls, and ‘Dreaming’ by Su Hyun followed. There was also a ‘dance battle’ by 3 dancers centering JYP. I’m sure one of the boys was Woo Yong but the other was not Tae Gyon. He has been suffering from his leg injury for the past few days and he ended up with a wheel chair (I heard) on the final stage of 2pm’s ‘Hands Up’ tour in Seoul which took place the previous day. The camera didn’t catch the third dancer anyway.
The show time was only 30 minutes and there was about 30 minutes break before the part 2.

Part 2

Mc was a young Japanese lady, Saki Yagi, who was known as a bilingual (Korean and Japanese) announcer from Osaka. First 4 students(3 boys and Suzi) appeared, then JYP, and finally wuri Yong Joon who was welcomed by the furious applause. BYJ fans today seemed to shout out louder than usual so that they won’t be defeated in spirits by young K-pop fans, hehe.
Each of the cast again greeted with a message in Japanese.
So we heard Yon-sama speak Japanese after a long time.

“Everyone of my family I’m very happy to see you. I’v been very much
worried about Japanese people so I am relieved to see your smiles today. Today let us spend a fun time together.”

I’m sure all of us were moved with his words, but also felt that his Japanese was not as good as before.

Then ‘Talk Show’ time with JYP and BYJ

Q(mc) How do you feel being together?
BYJ Today I’m here very relaxed being together with JYP.
I usually become nervous on stage, but this time with JYP by my
side, I feel comfortable.

Q How did you find working for D.H. as a producer?
BYJ I have always wanted to have such a school. Then there was a person who introduced me to JYP who had the same idea. We met up and decided to produce D.H together. Without “Ji Yong’ (this was how BYJ actually addressed JYP) Dream High was impossible.

Q How do you find JYP as your partner?
BYJ As I have no experience in production, it’s not flattery but I’m quite sure that without him this drama could not be accomplished. He is a reassuring partner indeed.

Q What was your message through the drama?
BYJ People can grow or comfort each other through music and dance.
I wish the drama will encourage people to make a start for their dreams and passions

Q How did you find JYP as an actor?
JYP cuts in Japanese “How do you do, I’m an actor JYP.” (laughs)
BYJ For me JYP is a big threat. (laughs)

Q What did you do for your character as the head director?
BYJ (in Japanese) I did research a lot. (then switched to Korean) To tell
the truth I feel sorry that I was not able to do my best. Because of the injury I got before, I had to give up my appearance halfway. I really wanted to continue to the end. For this I am very sorry.

Q Still you showed your presence.
BYJ Thank you

Q For JYP what kind of person is BYJ?
JYP We are very close friends. He has a fault but he is also very adorable. I want to protect him. (BYJ pats JYP on the shoulder bashfully.)

Q At what kind of occasion do you want to protect BYJ?
JYP I’m quite straightforward about what I say, however, Yong Jooni takes time to think about what to say or how to say while giving thoughts to his counterpart. I wish he would speak out more freely.
BYJ From now on I will say what I want to say to you. (laughs)

Q Will you give a message to those who follow their dreams?
BYJ It is very hard to do. I think goals and dreams are quite similar, but dreams are something we can’t reach. Bur because we have dreams, we try to accomplish our goals one by one.

Next session was an announcement of ‘Best 5 scenes’ selected by the fans.

No. 1 Ha Myon, head director plays the piano in an audition. (ep.1)
No.2 Kiss in the Ferris wheel in Nagoya (ep. 10)
No. 3 Mr. Jing Mann (English teacher) versus Jason (ep.9)
No. 4 Students sing and dance ‘Genie’ of Girls Generation to encourage Guku’s senior. (ep. 5)
No. 5 Head director visits Mr. Jin Mann at his house. (ep.2)

JYP This was a very first scene for me to shoot. BYJ taught me in details line by line about its meaning and the character, which helped me a lot. I thought BYJ will be a good director.
One thing, in the scene (ep.2) when I shook hands with BYJ, it was right after I scratched my hip so I feel very sorry.
BYJ I almost tried to withdraw my hands. (laughs)

Mc From now I would like you to answer the questions by the fans.
Q If there were Kirin Art School, would like to go?
BYJ Yes, of course. I will practice singing and dancing hard and wish to be like Ji Yong.
JYP I am a good looking actor. (laugh)
BYJ After looking at his face for a while, he looks handsome.

(to be continued)
Pictures posted from BYJGallery by style and Polaris - courtesy of Asahi and Oricon, thanks to all the sisters for sharing.

Still Yonsama!

2011-09-03T22:56:00.001-04:00

Haha, I guess I don't have to re-iterate the commotion when our prince arrived at Haneda Airport - fans squeaked, squealed, screamed and he responded by smiling, greeting, bowing, waving, even blowing kisses :)

To be honest, with Yong Joon's long absence and the increasing popularity of younger K-pop idols in Japan, I thought the fans' passion for him would cool down somewhat with time. But Yonsama is Yonsama, he sets standards and creates phenomenon, he is indeed a class of his own!

Let's see, 50 fans on board the same flight, 100 police officers, 200 security guards, 1000 (some reports 3000) fans inside the terminal, 1500 outside .....

Yes yes, our dear cloudnine is as diligent and loyal as always, she was patiently waiting at Haneda to welcome our prince too. If you remember well that she struck gold last December when Yong Joon and KHJ stood very close to her outside the airport for the longest time? Hehe, this time our dear moichan and pallet also wish to rub some of this luck off cloudnine, all 3 ladies were waiting outside of Haneda terminal. From cloudnine and Pallet's account, when Yong Joon's car slowly passed in front of them, he laid eyes on the drawings that Pallet san was holding up and even recognized it @@ Lucky lucky Pallet san, great work! You ladies all deserve every single second of his attention :) Good luck everyone at the Dream High Event today!

Him at long last!

2011-09-01T21:07:00.001-04:00

Omo omo, our dear Yong Joon at long last! He is heading to Tokyo for the Dream High event now, the handsome prince almost takes my breath away!

He looks absolutely stunning, so cool with his denim jacket and leather carry-on

How do you like his new hair style? so young and hip @@

You miss his warm and tender smile? I do I do!

Have a safe flight Yong Joon, have fun!
Repost from BYJGallery - polaris, thanks for sharing.

Tonkatsu celebration

2011-09-01T18:13:00.001-04:00

Hi Hi sisters ..... doesn't this birthday cake look delicious? Thanks to cloudnine (or NO thanks cause this tempts me too much :) for sending me a picture of this super cute cake from her Japanese sisters' BYJ birthday party! Can you count the 39 burning candles on the cake? Haha miahnae Yong Joon, I think we have to call the fire department in!

Cloudnine shared with me that Kiyomi san and 32 of the 'April Snow & Now' sisters got together at Mai-sen Tonkatsu Restaurant in OmoteSando Hills to celebrate our prince's birthday. Remember, this is the place that Yong Joon and Kim Hyung Joon dined in during their Tokyo Hohoemi charity event last December. For those sisters who are not familiar with Japanese food, tonkatsu is deep fried pork cutlet with a very fluffy and crispy coating, served with shredded cabbage and specially prepared sauce, yum yum :) I guess this is the 'in' spot for BYJ gathering these days. Hehe Yong Joon, bet you also have a craving for tonkatsu now, right?

FYI the link is http://mai-sen.com/restaurant/ , thanks cloudnine for always sharing!

Happy 39th Birthday!

2011-08-29T21:30:00.002-04:00

Dear Yong Joon, it's been a while. Have you been well? You have been keeping quiet for many months now, I hope you are enjoying the peaceful life you always long for. Eventhough I have not written much about you, you and your dear BYJ family are never too far from my heart. On your birthday, I wish you health and happiness, and continue to pursue your dreams in life. Love :)

Wine and People

2011-06-22T21:34:00.005-04:00

Hi hi ... remember that wine sommelier friend of Yong Joon - Atom? He occasionally blogs about his outings with Yong Joon - may it be a night out in town or away on an overseas trip. Thanks to him, we get bits and pieces of where our handsome man roams about and what 'good' he is up to :)

Atom san apparently has written a book on (whatelse but) wine and looks like Yong Joon has also played a role in it. As you can see from the cover(?), they were dining in Gorilla. Looks like there will be some kind of promotional event too. Hehe, I just translate the words in the pictures here .....

"A wine journey together with Atom in Gorilla in the Kitchen
Bae Yong Joon san's sommelier Atom san, his book 'Wine and People'
Commemoration of simultaneous release in Japan and Korea. Special Event!!"

" 1. At Bae Yong Joon san's Gorilla in the Kitchen, Atom san's recommended wine and special cuisine will be served. *Special cuisine will be identical to what is served to Bae Yong Joon san in the book 'Wine and People'

2. Atom san will reveal inside conversation with Bae Yong Joon san and Kim Hyung Joon san during his 'Wine and People' interviews.

3. Handshaking with Atom san and picture taking (by blog cameraman?) - 4 per person. The picture taking will use the same background as what Bae Yong Joon san was in.

4. Participants will have Atom san's autograph in both the Japanese and Korean version of 'Wine and People' as presents."

Hehe done, correct me as you see fit, ok? Thanks to polaris from BYJ Gallery for the pictures.

Post Papa's Day

2011-06-21T20:01:00.002-04:00

It's a different Father's Day this year - I do not have my papa to celebrate with anymore. No matter how others say time passes and things will heal, it seems that the pain lingers on like the scent from an extinguished candle. Instead of healing, I'd say old distant memories are merely being clouded by new recent ones, much like the moon being masked by moving clouds. As the dark clouds drift away, the brightness of the moon reveals itself again. Behind that active schedule and smiling face, the sense of loss of a parent still feels like a part of myself is forever gone. Wish you were still here, papa!

'Dream High' coming to Tokyo

2011-06-09T00:37:00.008-04:00

Haha, seems like Yonsama has heard my grumbling yesterday. Cloudnine just told me that the handsome one will be taking his entire 'Dream High' cast to Tokyo this September, hurray!

Dream High Premium Event
September 4, 2011
Saitama Arena
First show from 1:00 p.m.
Second from 5:30 p.m.
BYJ, JYP, IU, Suzy, Kim Su Hyon and two boys from 2PM (Tae Gyon and Woo Yong)

From cloudnine's info so far : "Seems only those who buy D.H. Dvd Box (1,2) will be invited. 20,000 tickets are prepared and the dvd set costs 35,700 yen. The first reservation period is from noon today (June 9) to July 15 and the second reservation period is from August 8 to 14 and it's 'first come first served'. We don't know yet that tickets will be sold in the ordinary market."

I sure hope that some tickets are reserved for overseas fans, but then come to think of it, this is a bonus gift for purchasing the Japanese DVD set, and the seats are quite limited. Hmmm, do I even have a chance? Since the fans will be for Yonsama and all the young idols, it should be a really energetic and dazzling event @@ Thanks cloudnine for sharing :)

Dry spell

2011-06-07T19:17:00.011-04:00

Hi hi sisters ....... it really has not been easy for fan sites' administrators and us bloggers lately : the Japanese sisters call this the 'Ice Age', I call it the 'Dry Spell'. Basically, other than the rare sightings of him going to restaurants and salon, or the occasional mentioning of him in people's twitters (thanks to the diligent effort of suehan), there is no concrete news, no project plans; nothing for us fans to even have a faint hope of seeing our handsome man in any artistic capacity, sob sob :(

But come to think of it, everything has its own time and its own course. I remember when I knew about Yong Joon back in 2005, he is already the top Hallyu star in Asia. Everywhere he went in Korea, Japan and even the US, he was swamped by adoring fans, curious onlookers and security guards. He even expressed that he was quite affected by this lack of freedom and privacy. With him fading gradually from the limelight after TWSSG, he had the chance to pursue his dreams like the 'Beauty of Korea' and 'Dream High'. This long period of absence from his fans not only gives Yong Joon the time to recover from his neck injury, it also gives him his deserved space to live a 'normal' life, doing what average people do like going out for coffee or taking a Sunday drive (hehe of course, his Sunday drive is in his flashy Ferrari :) Whether his long absence is pre-planned or not, the BIG question now is : When will he come back?

Hehe, as I said, there is really nothing to report on. So, I just post some letter arts that Japanese sister Conan created, thanks!

Hopes and Connections

2011-05-22T15:53:00.003-04:00

Hi hi .... sigh, I had another problem with Blogger lately which prevented me from publishing post, glad that it's resolved now, phew! This is late news, for those who want to follow up on how Yong Joon's generous donation of 1 billion won for the Japanese disaster relief is being put to use, I received this heartwarming piece of writeup translated by our diligent cloudnine, thank you so much :)

"I'm attaching the translation of the writing about BYJ's medical aid cars sent for the victims of earthquake and tsunami. It was witten by an actress-turned nurse and healthcare counselor, Mitsuko Ishii and posted in Yomiuri Newspapaer blog - yomiDr. http://www.ishiimitsuko.net/ " - Thanks cloudnine!

BYJ’s cars run in Fukushima

Cars donated by Mr. Bae Yong Joon are now running around Fukushima. (Three cars have left Tokyo.)
　
I think I wrote before that my thesis adviser at the graduate school was from Fukushima, and one day this professor said, “An foreign actor is going to donate three medical aid cars to our NPO” I found out later that it was a Korean wave star Mr. Bae Yong Joon.

It was shortly after the earthquake that Mr. Bae proposed to make a monetary donation of 75,000,000 yen to Cabinet Office for the blankets and three cars.

Then it was officially announced that the cars would be sent to the NPO, for which the professor takes on the position of the chairman. It took a while for the cars to complete its interior renovation as well as the exterior work that includes the name of St. Luke’s College of Nursing, names of volunteers, and its project name of ‘Hopes and Connections’, but on May 8th all three cars were delivered to the headquarter of the NPO.

I drove one of those cars to Soma City’s health center in Fukushima and left it to the nurses of the mental care team. We had a press conference there and told that as one of St. Luke’s College of Nursing projects, using this car ‘Hopes and Connections’ project will continue through next March to support mental care of Fukushima people. Areas to be covered are Iwaki City, Soma City, and Koriyama City. Each city has its car. Whenever it was necessary, based on administrative directions, the cars should be used for any medical aid purposes.

Looking back on the past days when I was terribly worried over how we could provide medical support in a long run and also how we should design the contents of medical aid with cars, I remember visiting my alma mater, St. Luke’s College of Nursing. It was a day toward the end of March.

When I actually saw those three cars, not the ones on design paper, they were just splendor and my hearts was full of deep emotion. I was really surprised to see BYJ’s fans who came over to see us off on the day of our departure. His popularity is great indeed.

We have created the official site of ‘Hopes and Connections’. We’ll have to start fund raising. We are planning to post the video clips of running cars, so please visit our site ‘Hopes and Connections’ - URL http://kiboutokizuna.jp/index.html

Zen ...

2011-04-26T16:35:00.005-04:00

Hi hi ..... read from his staff blog that Yong Joon is currently doing "Indian Yoga" to help with his rehabilitation. Hmmmm ..... I don't know much about Yoga even though over 50% of the women around me swear by it! Could it be something like this??

A holistic setting,
a relaxed posture,
a focused mind,
and a flexible body.
Ready? Now turn and bend ....
lower ...
even lower (Help!) ...
CLUCK!! (sound of bone cracking)

Master, I think you've just cured my shoulder pain :)
original from cafe.daum.net/byjgallery by 권오경 (from his 'Beauty of Korea' documentary)

Sakura 2011

2011-04-06T16:41:00.008-04:00

Hi hi sisters ...... Amid all the grim news in the past weeks, cloudnine reminded me that Sakura is in full bloom in Tokyo. Thanks cloudnine for sending me this picture :)

I'll add a few more here .... BEWARE, looking at Sakura can become addictive! (hehe, pretty much like looking at our handsome prince :) pictures are reposted from leotamaki.com, forenglishfans.blogspot.com, thebeehive.net respectively, hope you enjoy :)

Light up for Japan

2011-04-05T21:56:00.019-04:00

To show solidarity with Japan as it faces the monumental ordeal of earthquakes/tsunami/nuclear radiation, 10 iconic towers in 7 different countries are lit up to show support and encouragement to Japan's relief effort. Starting from April 4 Monday at sunset, these skyscrapers are illuminated in the midst of the city's skyline in red and white, the color of Japan's national flag. Participating cities are hoping that the prominent visual spectacle would remind their residents of the disaster and encourage donation to the relief fund. Sorry I cannot find the red and white illuminations for some of the towers. I will post more once I find the pictures, please add your imagination @@

CANADA - CN Tower, Toronto CANADA - Olympic Tower, Montreal USA - Empire State Building, New York USA - Space Needle, Seattle USA - John Hancock Observatory, Chicago KOREA - North Tower, Seoul MALAYSIA - Menara KL, Kuala Lumpur CHINA - Macau Tower, Macau UK - Spinnaker Tower, Portsmouth NEW ZEALAND - Sky Tower, Auckland

Ganbare Nippon!

2011-03-31T23:24:00.009-04:00

Hi Hi .... Have you ever seen a Taiko drum performance? It's one of the most mesmerizing experience for one's ears and soul. Like Odori (dance), this art form can be seen throughout Japan in most festivals and events. Its thunderous sound and accelerated beats can pound right into your heart and open up all your senses. Taiko drums consists of groupings of drums in different sizes and shapes, complemented by other melodic instruments like koto and shamisen. I find the attraction of Taiko drum performance lies not only with the rhythmical skills of the drummers, but their 'martial-art like' choreography and unique ethnic costumes.

Nagata Shachu is a taiko performing troupe based in Toronto, they tour widely throughout Canada, US and Europe. They will appear in 2 fundraising concerts for Japan earthquake relief . The first one is in Guelph, Ontario :

The next one will be in the Japanese Canadian Cultural Center in Toronto. This is a wonderful opportunity to experience Taiko performance while supporting a cause close to heart :)

Open your hearts

2011-03-24T16:32:00.005-04:00

Hi hi sisters ...... it's almost 2 weeks since the 9.0 earthquake struck Japan, the news time that TV networks devote to the coverage of the series of disasters is beginning to wane. Occasionally, we hear reports on the radiation scare and food/water contamination reminding us of the on-going rescue/relief effort still happening over there. The Japanese government estimated the cost to rebuild after the disaster to be over $300 billion. This is quite an astronomical figure for any average folk to comprehend, but we can see from the video footages and pictures how catastrophic the damage this disaster has left behind. People have lost their homes, personal belongings, means of livelihood; and escaped with only the clothes on their backs. The emotional pain of losing their families, loved ones and their communities is just unimaginable.

Since the disaster struck, I have read/heard comments like "Oh, Japan is a wealthy country, they don't need our help". Yes, we are impressed with how civilized and resilient the Japanese people are, revealing their 'respect for others and properties' even in emergency situations. We also know the strong bonding among the Japanese people and the determination they have to rebuild their communities. True, we cannot replace their family treasures or momentos from the past, part of that history is wiped out with the tsunami. But we can help by instilling hope to mend their broken hearts and restore their confidence. We can spread our love to let them know there are people out there who care and support them.

We have seen Yong Joon's lead with his 1 bilion won donation and the generous show of hearts from the Malaysian BYJ Family. I am encouraged by flowerbossa's posts on the many fundraising events in/outside of Japan and how wonderful these artists use their talents for good causes. There are many channels that we can help the Japanese victims as listed on the homepage of xiaoyi's blog, and also bb's mention of DATV Hohoemi project on JustGivingJapan.

If you prefer something more personalized, there are always the local Japanese communities' fundraising drives. In Toronto, the Japanese Canadian Cultural Center is organizing the Taiko drums flash mob tomorrow, and also the grand Sakura Ball which parts of the proceeds will go to help the relief efforts. The Toronto School Board also participates in teaching Elementary to High School students to fold 1000 paper cranes and send to the Japanese school children, as a way to show they are in our thoughts. Many victims are still suffering from the cold, hunger and loneliness, please open your hearts and help however you can. Love always ......

BYJ's message to Japan

2011-03-15T01:17:00.007-04:00

Hi sisters ...... As you expect, this massive Japan disaster hit Yong Joon close to heart. The Japanese family always support him and he holds a special love for them. Yong Joon has taken swift action and donated 1 billion won to the Japanese government for relief effort - food, water, clothing and shelter for the victims.

Furthermore, he wrote a comfort message for the Japanese family in JOB and thanks to cloudnine for translating it for us.

"To the victims of Tohoku Taiheiyo Coast earthquake :

Today I hesitate to start with the regular greetings such as ‘Hello, this is Bae Yong Joon’. Watching the news about the earthquake on 11th, I can’t take my eyes off the television. Because I’m very much worried about not only you, my family, but also all the victims of the earthquake.

More and more damages are being reported and I am deeply troubled by the news of continuous aftershocks, too. All I can do is to watch the news and I feel helpless. Whatever I do, I don’t think I can heal wounds and pains, but I would like to offer my heartfelt condolences to the earthquake and tsunami victims. I really wish that the secondary disasters and accidents will not occur any more.

Having been in such troubles even in the past, I understand that you have overcome quickly and calmly. With the great interest and support from all over the world, I truly wish that you will live through this difficult situation to restore peaceful days as soon as possible. At the same time I am currently considering the best course I can do.
Offering fervent prayers I and my Korean family hope to see you again in good spirits.

Bae Yong Joon"

元気な姿でまたお会いできることを私も韓国の家族も一心でお祈りしております。
ペ・ヨンジュン

The BIG one!

2011-03-11T16:13:00.010-05:00

Dear sisters ..... it's the morning after in Japan now. When the people in Japan wake up (for most, maybe they never slept) after one of the most horrifying days in their lives. March 11 at 2:45 pm will forever be remembered, as the most devastated earthquake in Japan history, of 8.9 magnitude, hit near the coast of Sendai triggering a massive tsunami.

I was awakened unusually early this morning, had an uneasy feelings of some sort. Just happened that our pre-historic 'dinosaur-sized' TV in the bedroom, which had been serving us dutifully for the past many years, had finally succummed to its old age. So I half-sleepily switched on my laptop, customarily checking my mail and Yong Joon news. BAM! This headline struck me : 'Record 8.9 earthquake hit Japan'! Chill literally spread from my head, spine, body to my limbs, my worst nightmare really came true!

You know how attached I am to Japan, the places, the people, the culture, everything. But I have to admit while I was living there, the threat of 'the BIG one' did exist in the back of my mind. Besides educating ourselves with earthquake emergency procedures, I know we cannot live our lives in constant fear of natural disasters that are beyond our control. Still, as images of the devastation flooded the internet and TV news channels, tears just uncontrollably streamed down my face. Even though I am thousands of miles away, there is little comfort to know that my dear sisters over there are shaken up and suffering.

Thanks cloudnine for checking up on other sisters and letting me know that they are unhurt. I am so relieved when I could get in touch with you and Olivia this morning. I hope you can all re-unite with your families very soon when the transportation network is resumed. Pray for the people in Japan that there will be no more destruction of any sorts, please take care sis ^^

maybe later ....

2011-03-10T14:12:00.012-05:00

Dear sisters ..... I have to admit I do feel a bit down today. To think that I could have been strolling on the bustling streets in Shibuya right now, chatting with my dear Japanese sisters and slurping up my favourite ramen, yes yes believe it or not, I really feel pumped up by the rush, the noise and the crowds in Tokyo :) Instead I am stuck in frigid cold wilderness, unpacking my lugguage and emailing my dear sisters that we had to wait a little longer to see each other again. Yes, I am talking about cancelling my return trip to Japan at the last minute, quite a disappointment (let alone wasting all the planning efforts!)

Normally, I am not a big travelling enthusiast (I am still amazed at how our old bones could survive those 7 side trips to neighbouring countries during our 2 1/2 years stay in Japan!), but going to Japan is like 'going home' to me. I miss the sight, the sound, the taste, the feel of Japan and most of all, the dear friends I've made there. Well, maybe later .....

pictures from xiaoyi's blog, original from posoku in posoku's blog

Dream High special concert

2011-03-01T22:35:00.004-05:00

Hi sisters .... you know there was this special concert held in Seoul to commemorate the ending of the drama 'Dream High'. Btw, have you been following it? What do you think of Yong Joon's 'baby' - hehe, I mean the drama :)

All the young idols who played the main characters took part in the special concert. Undoubtedly, this was a hot ticket in town as each idol is already popular in his/her own right.

Who are you cheering for? Haemi, Jinguk, Samdong, Baekhee, Jason or Pilsuk? For me, I really like the 'Milky Couple' - Jason & Pilsuk, they are just sooooo adorable together @@

Anyway, what I am trying to say is - what a wonderful idea to have this special concert for the fans of the drama. Too bad our Yong Joon was not able to attend. DO check out the the footage of the concert in Xiaoyi's blog (thanks Xiaoyi!), especially Part 1 from minute 11:20 when Jason, OK Taecyon and JYP danced to MC Hammer's 'Too Legit to Quit'. Those trio are just super amazing dancers!
Pictures shown are from Innolife

Closing of Gosireh

2011-02-28T21:24:00.006-05:00

Dear sisters ..... How's your winter so far? I read that Korea has got more than its fair share of snowfall, plus the close to 'zero' news from Yong Joon - make this winter quite uneventful in the Bae world, huh?

Cloudnine reminded me that today is the last day for Gosireh in Shirokane, Tokyo. This famed, Yong Joon restaurant was opened in August 2006, an introduction of Korean palace cuisine to Japan. Gosireh was loved by BYJ fans since its opening, numerous fan gatherings were held there in support of Yong Joon. Many overseas sisters made Gosireh one of their main Yonsama destination during their visits to Tokyo. I myself, of course have many wonderful memories there, even my farewell gathering was held there last year, sob sob :(

Cloudnine told me that today is full house at Gosireh, both lunch and dinner time. I can imagine how touching one felt to be greeted by the staff at the elegant entrance for the last time, how bittersweet it was to taste the fine delicacy one last time, how heartbreaking to have one last look at that stunning dining room in which so many friendships and happy memories were made. This is indeed the end of an era. As cloudnine described the mood so eloquently - (It was very cold and rainy in Tokyo. We have a phrase in Japanese 'Rain of tears', heaven also felt sad and sorry for the closure of Gosireh so it brought the rain.) All the best to the former staffs of Gosireh, thank you for your kind service.

Ruptured cervical disc

2011-01-17T16:27:00.003-05:00

Hi hi sisters ..... hope you had a nice weekend. The fact that Yong Joon's health seems to stick to the back of my mind even though I am busy with other 'stuffs' triggered me to dig up more about 'ruptured cervical disc'. What exactly is it and how does the 5th, 6th and 7th disc affect the patient's health? If you are also curious like 'moi', you are welcome to read on. It's a bit lengthy but quite easy to understand .....

Extracted from the Spinal Columns Network, Laser Spine Institute :
************
The 'cervical spinal disc' has one main function and that is to act as a shock absorbing device for the bones in your spine called vertebra. The cervical disc is comprised of a tough outer layer called the annulus fibrosus but often referred to as the capsule. Inside the capsule is a soft gel like material called the nucleus pulposus. A healthy cervical disc will act as a shock absorber and lend flexibility to the spine. As we age the outer capsule of the cervical disc begins to weaken and eventually through this break down the inner material may sometimes push through causing a ruptured cervical disc.

When considering the pain caused by a ruptured cervical disc you would not imagine that it would affect your extremities. The problem with a ruptured disc in your neck is that the ruptured disc itself is not painful. The pain comes from the inner gel like material pressing on your nerve roots or your spinal cord itself, sending painful signals to the area in relation to the nerve affected. Some of the most common ruptured disc in neck symptoms will include a numbness or a tingling sensation that is felt in the arms, as well as pain that radiates down the arm and into the hand or fingers. Like most other spine conditions, certain positions and movement will prove to intensify the pain felt by a ruptured cervical disc.

The cervical discs in your back are labeled and identified through the letter “C” and a corresponding number. Ruptured C5 C6 disc and ruptured C6 C7 disc is the most common diagnosed cervical disc problem. Ruptured discs can have anywhere else in the cervical spine but very rarely will one occure at the C7 T1 Level.

A cervical ruptured disc usually creates pain by affecting one of the nerve roots at the spinal level. In the case of a C6 C7 ruptured disc the C7 nerve root is affected causing pain patterns and neurological deficits. Listed below are some problems associated to the nerve root being affected:

•C5 nerve root compression (C4 C5 ruptured disc) - This may often cause weakness in the upper arms deltoid muscle. C5 nerve root compression will most often no cause tingling or numbing sensations but may cause shoulder pain.

•C6 nerve root compression (C5 C6 ruptured disc) - This form of nerve compression can cause weakness in the biceps located in the front of the upper arm. Along with weakness, numbness and a tingling sensation accompanied by radiating pain can be felt in the thumb side of the hand.

•C7 nerve root compression (C6 C7 ruptured disc) - This compression may cause weakness in your triceps as well as your finger extensor muscles. You may feel numbness or a tingling sensation going down your arm through the triceps and into the middle finger. This may as well be accompanied with radiating pain. C6 C7 ruptured disc is one of the more commonly diagnosed ruptured discs.

•C8 nerve root compression (C7 T1 ruptured disc) - Patients who suffer from this very uncommon ruptured disc will feel weakness in their handgrip accompanied with numbness, tingling sensations and radiating pain starting from the top of the arm and ending in the little finger side of the hand.

Because the genetic composition of people is not identical it is quite possible that the pain patterns listed above will not always be a perfect match to the individual. Because of this fact some people may rarely be affected differently then the majority.
************

This is just a general description of the condition and it may not be exactly what Yong Joon is experiencing, therefore I would not include any recommended therapy or treatment here so as not to confuse things more. I believe he is definitely under the care of the most proficient medical staffs and the most advanced technological solutions. Most of all, he has the blessings and prayers from the family who love him so much. So be strong and have faith huh, Yong Joon ssi!

Get well soon

2011-01-13T19:14:00.005-05:00

Hi hi sisters ..... I think most of us are worried sick right now knowing that Yong Joon is in the hospital again. Apparently he was taken to the hosiptal by ambulance on the 4th due to pain caused from his previous neck injuries. I must admit that this has taken me by surprise. Even though I have not been blogging as frequent lately, I still pay close attention to what our handsome prince is up to @@ Of course that includes watching Director Jeong flexing his fingers muscles on the baby grand :)

As his fan family, besides supporting him and wishing him the best, my mind just crowds over by worries ..... How long has he been suffering from this pain? (since TWSSG, THAT LONG!) What is the extent of his injuries? What length did he go and hide so as not to cause us worry about his health? Gosh, I am so ashamed of myself that lately in my heart I was quietly wondering where Yong Joon is heading??

Little do I realize that our Yong Joon has carved out many opportunities in the last few years for us to see him (in events, drama, book and documentary) despite his ongoing health concerns! He always wants to reveal his best side to his family and never wants us to worry about him. Yong Joon, thank you for being so kind and considerate, now please take good care of yourself and don't come out until you're 100% recovered, ok :)

On marriage rumours

2010-12-16T19:07:00.003-05:00

Hi hi sisters ...... after the event, Yong Joon gave an interview in the backstage. he changed from his formal black suit to this very cozy 'teddy bear' sweater (remember it has all kinds of tails dangling from the collar?) He just looked so cute and adorable here :) Anyway, I am particularly interested in him bringing up Lee Ji Ah and Lee Na Young - the 2 actresses whom many wonder if they have ever been his 'underground' lovers? Now he clarifies it :

[Money Today Star News Tokyo (Japan) = Reporter Kim Hyun Rok]
Interview extracted from suehan's blog, thanks!

R : There was a rumor that you purchased the house to marry someone in 2011.
B : That’s why I told you before. (Bae Yong Joon said to his fans, “Please introduce a girl to me.) I rarely go out, so I don’t have opportunities. But the marriage rumors kept floating around. Maybe, it is the time to get married. If I marry, then I’ll release the story.

R : Your sister is already married and you have a nephew.
B : I like children and enjoy playing with them. I want to marry, but it’s not my choice.

R : Are you close to Lee Na Young? There was marriage rumor from the stock market.
B : Na Young appeared in the drama, “Have we really loved?” as my younger sister. I wonder where those rumors are coming from. It’s really weird. Before, I had wine with a make-up artist and Song Hye Kyo. But there was an article saying that I met Lee Ji Ah instead at night. So I said, “Apparently, you don't really exist, Hye Kyo.” (laugh).

picture original from Naver - Starnews
reposted from xiaoyi's blog, thanks!

Hohoemi Event - detailed account

2010-12-15T15:53:00.008-05:00

Dear sisters ...... we are always so lucky to have kind sisters like cloudnine. I know she is excited and also tired from the last few days, but she still selflessly sacrificed her rest time to translate a detailed account of the Hohoemi event for us. Cloudnine, for those of us who cannot attend the event, I thank you from the bottom of my heart.

original : Daily Yonsama Mail by Kei san - Dec 15
translated from Japanese to English : cloudnine

First there was a video footage shot when BYJ visited Children’s Medical Center (Kanagawa Pref.) Beside the scenes previously aired, there were some unreleased scenes. We saw several scenes in which he visited hospitalized children and their parents and one of them was a baby who was born four months earlier. Patting gently the baby BYJ said to her mother, “This baby wanted to see her mother sooner” I was really moved by this.

When asked about the premature babies he said, “ I was 4400 grams when I was born.”. (Jaime : hehe, he's a BIG BABY!) This caused the laughter from the audience. I guess BYJ family responded to the figure of 4400 and other fans responded to the large number. (￣▽￣)b

Right after the video was over, the stage was spotlighted and Yong Joon was there!
My eyes had been glued to the screen so I had no idea when he came up to the stage. (cloud nine: he came up from the lower level.)

Waving his hands he answered to Yong Joon calls from the audience. A Q and A session followed. . *The following dialogues are not exactly the same as Yong Joon said because I wrote according to my memory. I would like to ask you to just feel the atmosphere.

First of all his greeting.
“Everyone of my family, Good evening. I greet you after a long time. I’m very happy to be in such a significant place with you. …I have wanted to see you…”
A bit bashfully he said “Pogossipo sumnida – I wanted to see you”, which was very cute.

The talk show was supposed to be done with mc and BYJ sitting on chairs, however, when they were going to take chairs, fans in the block behind the stage shouted, “We can’t see …!” (laugh) Suddenly(!?) talk show was going to be done on the rotating stage.

Asked about this project he said, “When children were born and if they have no chance to live in this world, it is very sad I think. Because of the polluted air and bad environ-
ment, a lot of premature babies have been born. I think everyone is responsible for this.
I would like to ask your sufficient interest and cooperation. I would like to protect precious lives that make our future. “

What made you to join the project?
“I have a keen interest in the earth’s environment and I hope this project will create an opportunity that Asian children restore their smiles.”

What inspired you to start charity work?
“I was totally inspired by everyone of my family. As I always receive true love so I wish to react to the love. “

The item which will be put up for auction is the brown coat that he wore in WLS. Besides special wine will be given to those who set the high price.
”I gave this coat to my manger, but he has kept it in a good conditions for the day when it is used for a good purpose.”
“This is my favorite brand wine and I put the label of the book ‘Travel to search for the beauty of Korea’.”

Then he said to mc Hide, “Can I offer one more?” and started to take off his necktie quickly. As I had thought that the gesture of a man taking off his necktie was sexy, I was a bit excited with this petit live show of changing!?
This necktie was put up for auction.

Yong Joon also signed an autograph on the object (cloud nine: it’s a transparent globe every artist was asked to sign.) He wrote the Chinese character of ‘Love’ and signed his name below. When I saw the letter of Love I got slightly teary. (>_<) Then he fixed his collar (cloud nine: he didn’t tidy up his collar after he took his tie off and I myself felt uneasy, but he didn’t seem to care. Finally the interpreter suggested him to fix it.) Watching this mc Hide misunderstood that Yong Joon would take off his jacket and said, “I thought you would put your suit up for auction. If you keep taking off your clothes it will be Yakyu ken game.” (cloud nine: Yakyu ken is a game played with two people. They do rock-scissors-paper and the loser has to take of one’s clothes.) (-_-;)

Mc Hide suddenly asked Yong Joon about his marriage.
To answer the question, “Everyone of my family, please introduce someone to me.” said Yong Joon…I automatically wanted to raise my hand…but I only have sons. (￣▽￣;)
“When I find someone to marry, I would like to introduce her to you, my family first and foremost.”

Then he talked about ‘Dream High’ as his future activity. The images shown on the screens were all new to us and there we saw Yong Joon playing a role of the board chairman.
Today’s event in Tokyo Dome was being shot to use as a part of Dream High. He said finally, “I will make an effort to produce a good drama.”

The time was up. MC Hide asked him for the last message…”It’ll come to an end so soon…”, he looked unsatisfied.
((´-ω-`) Kei tweets: Hide, say something ad- lib..)

“The time I share with my family goes so quickly. I’m always grateful to you and I feel sorry too. I’ll try to do more activities in 2011. While listening to the theme song I thought that no matter how hard and difficult things we might encounter, we will strive for a big dream taking each other’s hands and comforting each other.”
“ (In Japanese) I love you my family.”

Kei’s comments:
He looked so cool when he run up the stairs. Yong Joon’s appearance in this event was not much, but how come I have a sense of satisfaction? Are we happy just to see attractive Yong Joon? I am happy to join this significant event.
Auction will begin from today on Rakuten’s auction site. On my way home I met up with Fuyuka and some other sisters and we said each other, “Yong Joon was so cool~.”
I guess every sister also shared her excitement with others here and there.
桂(^-^)(__)

Hohoemi Event in Tokyo Dome

2010-12-14T14:00:00.005-05:00

Hi hi sisters .....the Hohoemi Event had just finished a few hours ago. We are gradually receiving accounts and images from the kind sisters who have attended.

It looked like a damp wintry day in Tokyo, but nothing compares to the brutal -21C that I am stuck in right now!

Hehe, a jam packed 35000 young and young-at-hearts fans :)

The familiar stage, very much like the set up in 'WS Anime' and 'Beauty of Korea'

As we expected, everyone danced and sang except our handsome prince. Well, remember MC Miyamoto san said in Tokyo Dome last year that Yong Joon just has to stand on stage, then the fans are happy already?

Hehe of course, he didn't just stand there and look pretty. Cloudnine shared that he talked about his thoughts on charity, his concerns for the deprived children and the environment. I can't wait to know the details of his thoughts and action plan on these very real issues.

When asked by the MC Nakayama Hideyuki (the host in the Omoikkiri Don! show) about his marriage plan, Yong Joon once again pleaded with everyone to introduce him to some prospective candidates! He stressed that when he finds his bride, he will inform his family (meaning us?) first. I sincerely hope his wish will come true soon.

The stars donated some personal items for auction. Yong Joon donated the infamous Winter Sonata coat, 3 bottles of wine and he even gave his necktie up! Hehe, I wonder if it still got his body warmth when the bidder won it :) Hehe, if I had spare million yens lying around, I would definitely go for that Winter Sonata coat. To me, the coat represents the epitome of MinHyung, it's classic and priceless! Of course, it also serves a very practical purpose to keep me warm while I sleep in it :) Want to think about it, sisters?

Thanks cloudnine and tomato for sharing the details of the event.
Thanks to xiaoyi for posting pictures from various Japanese and Korean sources in your blog.

He takes Haneda!

2010-12-13T19:08:00.009-05:00

Hi hi sisters ....... I am sure you still haven't waken up from the beautiful dream of what happened in Haneda Airport yesterday, huh?

Who would even think that our super low-key prince would reward his fans with this 'close encounter of the handsome kind' after such a long, cold absence?? Ok, you're forgiven, hehe :)

Remember, usually when he comes and goes through airports, he would only linger for seconds, considerate enough not to cause any inconvenience to the general public. This time according to the fans, he was actually taking his time waving and looking at them!

The most surprising act was when he got out of his van and took a walk to the fans waiting outside of the terminal building! Now, if this doesn't cause commotion, I don't know what will? Our dear cloudnine is one of those very lucky fans (and tomato san too) who was waiting outside and Yong Joon happened to stop near her! She was able to see the 2 handsome princes up close for a few loooooong minutes @@ I am so happy for her :) Of course at the same time, I also kick myself that if I were still in Tokyo, I would be standing next to her drooling together too :(

You know, this scene reminds me of that song by Leonard Cohen/Jennifer Warnes - "First we take Manhattan, then we take Berlin ....." Why? You know, this guy breaks all kinds of airport records, even his own!

2004/04 Haneda Airport - 5000 fans (old terminal)
2004/11 Narita Airport - 3500 fans
2008/05 Kansai Airport - 3000 fans
2010/12 Haneda Airport - 4000 fans (new terminal)

Good luck Yong Joon and all attending sisters for a successful Hohoemi Event in Tokyo Dome!
repost pictures from xiaoyi's blog, thanks!

Still got the magic touch

2010-12-11T22:23:00.007-05:00

Hi hi sisters .... just got back from a dinner party, am sooo tired and just about to crawl into bed. But but how can I not share the handsome one's royal departure pictures from Gimpo Airport? Please enjoy, guarantee you will be smiling all day after you see his super gorgeous look @@

By now, Yong Joon has landed at Haneda Airport already and will start his busy schedule on the Hohoemi Project. Hehe, from my experience, I think my dear Japanese sisters will not be able to sleep knowing that the Yong Joon is on the same soil as them. Sob sob, how I wish I were among them! Good luck everyone in Tokyo, hope you will all enjoy the show :)

Thanks to pola from BYJGallery for the pictures
original source - Newsen and Arts News

The King's arriving

2010-12-11T10:54:00.003-05:00

Hi hi sisters ...... sorry for the long absence. Can't really keep quiet anymore knowing that the handsome one is about to embark on another official trip to Japan. Read that he will be arriving at Haneda Airport around 11am on Sunday. So sisters, please get ready for another round of pictures overload! Hehe, the kind that we are so thirsty for and gladly accept.

Just a preview of what's about to come in a few hours time, take a deep breath and exhale!

Thanks to xiaoyi's blog for the pictures

From Hawaii with love

2010-10-21T16:58:00.008-04:00

Dear sisters ....... I thank you from the bottom of my heart during this time of grief. Eventhough I have been so quiet lately, you still come around to send me words of comfort. I know these kind of caring and thoughts cannot be faked, you are all truly beautiful human beings. Sorry to cause you any worry, I will strive to live a meaningful and truthful life and help the less fortunate around me.

Hehe, speaking of beautiful human being, I have been resisting the temptation of one extraordinarily handsome fellow for the last little while. Please allow me to repost his very relaxed (and even semi-sexy) photos from Hawaii. Gosh, I keep thinking whoever interacted with him over there didn't even realize how super super lucky they were! Thousands of women soooooo wanted to trade places with them, how 'fate' plays in life :)

I love this sheer white top with super long sleeves! Definitely not for someone who has 'dishwasher' written all over her forehead, like me :)
Ahhh, soooo wish I could also dip my feet in that pool, WITH HIM of course :)
Hehe, check out those sexy hairy legs @@
Sigh, gentle and delicate like a woman, strong and sexy like a man! Perfect!
Have you seen a man looking this good riding a bike?

or to that extent, holding a coffee crossing the street?

Always love him in sunglasses and ...
sweater over his shouders, so resorty-looking!
Thanks to maron and kiss from BYJGallery

RIP, Papa ...

2010-10-15T01:05:00.004-04:00

Papa, it's been almost 3 weeks since you've left us. How come it still seems so unreal? The image of you is still lingering around the house, but you are not here anymore. You drifted away so slowly and quietly, without leaving any words to us. I feel this heavy clock in my heart that I am struggling to turn back its time. I am not asking for too much, please just give me back a few more years, a few more months, even a few more weeks - to show my gratitude to you .....

I still remember that last night, it was uneasily quiet and chilly, as if the whole world had left our family alone. While mama had fallen asleep in despair on the temporary cot next to you; we sisters each retreated to our own little corners, had way past exhaustion by then, could only stared at you helplessly in tears and 'spoke' to you in our own special ways. I glanced around the dim, cold hospital room while attempting to cover as much body area as possible under my sweater to keep warm. H was sitting upright like a court lady diligently reading the scriptures and J was leaning on the cabinet humming a hymn softly like a choir girl. This scene reminded me so much of the 'Little Women' and had left an imprint forever in my mind.

I curiously picked up the red-covered book (I just learned from mom) that you had devoted your heart and soul in researching, organizing and writing; and to my shame, I never even knew about! I was so amazed at your spectrum of knowledge and the depth of philosophical thoughts, how blind I was not to see and support you before. And all these years, I was so immersed into my own life and just took your caring for granted. Seeing the large turnout of your friends and students at your funeral who showed so much respect for you, instead of feeling proud to be your daughter, I totally broke down and only felt I did not deserve your love. Please forgive me, papa. I love you and miss you very much. May you rest in peace in God's Arms, and till we meet again .......

Beijing Book Release

2010-09-16T12:30:00.009-04:00

Hi hi sisters ...... seems like Yong Joon is not only making waves in Japan, he's also stirring up a little ripples in China. As you know, the long awaited Chinese (traditional) version of his 'Beauty of Korea' book was released in Taiwan 2 weeks ago. Now the simplified Chinese version is also launching in China. As you have read in bb's LoveBaeYongJoon, she has kindly translated the event details of the Press Release, organized jointly by the United Book chain and the media company.

Fresh out from the oven, the event took place yesterday inside the Korean Embassy in Beijing

The congratulatory flower baskets from fan clubs all over China @@
Quite some nice displays of his travel photos, eh?

The capacity of the hall was 100, with 60 reporters and 40 fans. Well, if Yong Joon were there, multiply it by 1000 :)

Even though Yong Joon was not present, representatives from Keyeast and the Korean Tourism Organization were there.

Perhaps Mr. Li Xin of the United Bookstore expressed it best, "There is a fundamental difference on this book, apart from the average travel books. It depicts the type of travel based not on the temptation of eating, drinking and playing. Rather, it's a cultural journey, a journey into the soul."

Of course, we are more interested in what our BYJ family was doing, right?

Hehe, they came prepared, much like going to the Tokyo Dome Events, with banners and everything!

The 'famous' fan/interpretator Wonchun (she accompanied Yong Joon throughout his Beijing visit in 2005) asked Keyeast director Mr. Hwang Chang Woo when Yong Joon will go to China again. He answered that when time comes for the promotion of his future acting works, Yong Joon will definitely return. The Chinese family seemed a bit caught off guard when asked what they'd like to say to Yong Joon. They hoped their well wishes from the Chinese family could be carried back to Korea to Yong Joon, how sweet!

To be honest, I am quite happy to see 'official' BYJ promotion events held in other countries, so fans outside of Korea and Japan can also experience that sense of belonging in a BYJ family. As the consuming power in China continues to escalate and the Chinese family continues to grow, I am not surprised to see more events coming out from there. Now, dare we dream there will also be a book press release in N. America when the English version comes out?? kidarikeyo ~@@~

Thanks to amma格格 and 清夜儛婂 for posting the pictures in baidu!

Yummylicious

2010-09-13T13:23:00.011-04:00

Hi hi sisters ..... I found this set of amusing screencaps (from DATV's History of Bae Yong Joon) and they present themselves for a wonderful storyline. Nop, our handsome prince was not having a toothache, he is just his usual self as a food-loving growing boy staring at his favourite food :) It just happened that I had my wisdom tooth taken out this past weekend, and I also was staring at all the yummy food at home but could not eat any, wahhhh *0*. Hope you enjoy the cute expressions of our prince .....

YJ : this is too irresistable @@

reporter : is that sashimi?

YJ : yup

reporter : do you like sashimi?

YJ : ummmm .... yum yum :)

reporter : which one is your favourite?

YJ : Hehe, I love them all ^o^

YJ : may I start now??

director : HOLD IT! This is the prop for our next scene!

YJ : but I am soooo hungry *o* ...... back to staring @@

original from マイ・Ｊｏｏｎ・メモリーズ by Sayaka
reposted from baidu / YJ影之国, thanks!

100% BYJ Art Exhibition

2010-09-12T10:33:00.006-04:00

Hi Hi sisters .... our dear cloudnine has been working very hard recently in translating some Japanese articles to share with our English speaking sisters. You can read her latest translation on Fumi's articles on Dream Hi in bb/tomato's LoveBaeYongJoon site. She sent me this very interesting post in Fuyuka's blog, it's about the BYJ Art exhibition which was held in Tokyo last month. Sob sob, cloudnine probably pities me that I couldn't go there in person and witness it myself. So cloudnine, thank you so much for your kind heart and dear sisters, hope you enjoy .....

Original in Japanese : from fuyuka’s blog - August 30 100% BYJ Art Exhibition
Translated to English : cloudnine

Yesterday was Yon-sama’s birthday and I went to BYJ 100% Art Exhibition to Shinjuku
with a sister H.
It was soooo crowded~~.
Once you stepped into the venue,
I was riveted to “a certain corner”!!
which was…!

“We don’t need the glasses that cover too much!!” corner!!
I didn’t expect to see my pals here~~!! LOL
Then we drooled over the illustrations of Yon-sama without glasses…

There was a corner of ‘flash’ created by fans.

This was a corner of ‘coloring’.

I did coloring on an illustration of my favorite artist koshuka・

I was also hooked on nagajun-san who was actually painting just in front of me.

There was even a place where we could enjoy files of art work while seated.
Especially we were excited about kinkan –san’s work and, which was
illustrations of BYJ without glasses and with glasses~!

We enjoyed saying each other “I want this file~~!!”. ^ 0 ^

And there was a surprise at around 2 p.m.
It was a birthday cake!

Under hiyonn-san’s lead we all sung ‘Happy Birthday Yong Joon’.

The fresh cream was very delicious!
We took picture with Yon-sama masks. (laugh)

It was even more crowded toward the end…
It was indeed a shoulder-to-shoulder exhibition.

I had a picture taken with Hiyonn-san in hunbock against the background of the illustrations.♪

Everyone in this art circle, thank you very much for such a wonderful art exhibition.
I felt your love from each work. ・
Thanks to you, I recharged my Yon-sama batteries and
I was happy to see YANCHO-san, nagajun-san, boruneo-san, and kinkan-san.

Ahhh I really wish Yon-sama would see this exhibition ~…
He would be touched….

P.S.
You know what! After I left…Kim Tei-san came with her boy.
BYJ☆EY-san sent me this photo.^

2011 diary

2010-08-30T15:32:00.004-04:00

Hi hi sisters ...... after the 2011 calendars, the BYJ diary is also released! To be honest, I'm a little surprised at how 'un-feminine' it looks this year. In the past, they had shocking pink, deep purple, bright red .... or neutral color like shiny silver to suit everyone's taste. Hehe, but I guess they decide to go more 'subdue' this year. So well, if I really have to choose, I'd go for the pastel - mint green :) Now next year, please give me back my pink or blue, huh?

They give you 3 pictures so you don't get stuck with the same face 365 days a year. Haha, they even have colorful patterns on the back, so just in case when your hubby or boss walks in, you can quickly switch it to a more 'business-like' diary, so smart, eh?

As usual, there are more handsome pictures inside the diary so you have something pleasant to look at in case you are bored waiting at the doctor's office @@

Hehe, I don't mean to sound like a BYJ salesman, but I really enjoy using the calendar and diary all year round. I always have a smile whenever I look at them. So dear sisters, please don't just keep it wrapped in the original plastics, open and use it well, ok? Take care!

LoveBaeYongJoon is born!

2010-08-29T15:10:00.006-04:00

Hi Hi dear sisters ..... I am so happy to hear from bb that she has created an English BYJ site for us to gather and share our love for Yong Joon. Her site is appropriately called LoveBaeYongJoon! How thoughtful of her to give us this space on the handsome prince's birthday :) What can I say? I am just super super impressed ! Thanks princess and tomato san for your generosity, please access ......

http://www.lovebaeyongjoon.com/

Tokyo Dome 3D

2010-08-24T01:44:00.012-04:00

Hi Hi sisters …….. hope you had a nice weekend. Even though I have left Tokyo, there are still so many outings I wanted to write about. Hmmm …. How about starting with that Tokyo Dome 3D movie in late May?

One of the venue was the chic Roppongi Hills Toho cinema, it was literally just steps away from my Tokyo residence. Many of Yong Joon’s old dramas like Winter Sonata, Papa, Barefooted Youth and TWSSG were shown there during weekday mornings. So, if some Japanese sisters recalled bumping into a droopy-looking ajumma donning her pyjamas and hair-rollers in the cinema drooling over Yonsama, sorry, that would be ‘moi’!

I still remember that was a busy week with TWSSG movie Chapter 3 also happened to be showing next door.

Just a snapshot of some BYJ merchandise in the display case before the sales people threw me out :)

Hehe, as I mentioned before, this country bumpkin had never watched a 3D movie before, so it was pretty cool when the usher handed me this futuristic doohickey at the door @@
As I was curiously examining my new toy, the familiar sweet melody of Winter Sonata came on. Aye .... why was there snowflakes dancing all around me? There ....... our handsome prince, with his usual charming smile, was taking each step slowly towards me?! It was so clear, it was so blue, he was so close! Sigh, of course this was only my illusion @@ My imaginery love-rival CJW just cut right in front of me?!

Thanks to the strategically-positioned 3D cameras on the stage and the magnifying effect of 3D eyeglasses, I could actually distinguish the ‘depths’ or ‘layers’ among different objects. Can you see the varying depths of CJW, her monitor, his monitor and Yong Joon here?

Now, the floating balloons and the audience inside the Dome really exemplified this 3D effect @@
Surprisingly, the Winter Sonata Anime event only occupied about 40 minutes of the 2-hours movie. More scenes from the ‘Beauty of Korea’ book event were shown, especially on Yong Joon's writing the postcard and reading passages from his book. So touching!
It was a pleasant reminder of the forgotten details from last September and was wonderful to re-live those 2 precious days with Yong Joon and our sisters.
Yes, compared to those blockbusters like Avatar with fantasy settings and graphics which fully explored the 3D technology, the Tokyo Dome Events would not present as an ideal 3D candidate. But to us fans, we are talking about simulating Yong Joon within our same physical space - as if he was close enough that we could almost reach our hands out to him, how cool is that! Of course, that was just the amazing 3D capability coupled with pure fan’s fascination. I thank Yong Joon for his brilliant sense on the pulse of the world, so this ajumma can proudly pronounce that “YES, I’ve watched 3D!” Hope you enjoy :)

2011 calendars

2010-08-20T15:22:00.003-04:00

Hi hi sisters .... thank you for your kind comments, even though I have been absent for a while. Hehe, still didn't miss much from Yong Joon's camp. Yeah, I read about his leisurely time in Hawaii and California, guess we also benefit from his trip as the handsome prince did his 2011 calendar shoots with his new look @@

Wall calendar - 8 pages

Desk calendar - 16 pages

Both calendars include a bonus picture card and a special QR code - which I think fans can use their mobile phone to access the 'calendar shooting and making' footage. Hehe sorry, I can only make out this much with my poor Japanese. The 2011 calendars are available for ordering from JOB/goods ......

You know, I swear to myself as I was unpacking boxes and boxes of BYJ goodies from my Japan shipment that I will never be a BYJ shopaholic anymore! God knows I am still finding nooks and crannies in my cabinet to stuff those BYJ goodies. But, but ..... the moment I saw this picture of our handsome prince with his super long legs (and sockless!), slender body and refreshing smile, all my determination just fly out the window :) Haha, who wouldn't want to look at this face on your desk everyday in 2011? There is no excuse not to be happy and well anymore, don't you agree?
Thanks Xiaoyi for the pictures

Bumpy re-entry

2010-08-19T20:26:00.004-04:00

Hi dear sisters ...... as I am typing here, I feel like a third person occupying someone else’s body. My eyes are seeing the open blue sky and the rich green foliage here in Toronto while my heart is still lingering in the colorful world and bustling crowds in Tokyo.

It seems like ages since I learned about this distinguished man named Bae Yong Joon, started writing about him at this very same desk, looking out to the same view of swaying trees and neat houses. Five years later, the trees in my front yard are now higher than my house and the leaves are so dense that I do not have to worry about nosy neighbors pressing their noses against the windows to check on me anymore (haha just kidding :) In this faraway Canadian city where life is peaceful and quiet and nothing ever seems to change, no way on earth would I ever dream I had the chance to come this close to the world of Bae Yong Joon in Japan!

Yes, 2 ½ years ago, my dream did came true. I called it a dream because it’s not a pre-planned agenda, but more of a very timely, fateful opportunity. Compared to migrating to Canada during my teens, moving to Japan at this ripe old age of course cannot be considered as a life-altering event. But the people, the culture, the history, the beauty and the love we experienced in Japan have totally cleansed, refreshed and recharged our dormant and tired spirits (hmmm.... sounds like a skincare commercial, huh?), we will never look at things the same way as before!

Miahnae dear sisters for not writing for so long and making you worry. As you can guess already, it was a very bumpy emotional and mental re-entry for us. Not a single day did I not think about Tokyo, my dear Japanese sisters and Yong Joon. I try to suppress my thoughts and sights on anything Japan so I would not miss them so much. It is a losing battle though whenever I read about how much my dear Japanese sisters are missing me also, tears will uncontrollably stream down my face, sob sob :(

This week, I decided to pick up Winter Sonata (for the 20+ times @@) and re-watch Yong Joon at his most brilliant moments. All the warm feelings about unconditional love, truth and purity re-surface from looking at the handsome prince's lovely smile. Will it really do any good for anyone to hide myself in a shell and carry on with my mourning of the time in the past? Or should I be thankful for what I have received already and be strong and positive to face what’s ahead of me. Thank you my dear sisters for your encouragement and staying with me through our BYJ journey :) Now, let's rock n' roll .......

Too cool to miss

2010-06-09T01:08:00.006-04:00

Hi hi sisters ..... thanks for being so understanding. Some survey said moving is one of the top 5 stressful events in life. I believe this is especially true considering this is a 'half way around the world' move. From the outside, I think I still appear quite calm, but inside I am actually very confused. Not only that it's heart-wrenching to leave the country I love so much and the dear friends I've made here, but I have grim problems facing me back home (oh well, that's another long story). Eventhough hubby is quite an efficient man, but he is too busy to attend to every little detail. So it leaves 'this little obasan' to figure out the moving logistics which is a disaster, as I am definitely not a logical person.

This scene of Yong Joon running up the 'seemingly never ending' stairs really resonates with how I feel now - charging uphill in the dark, one step at a time, cautious but optimistic. Hopefully when I reach the top of the stairs, it's all smooth sailing and the road will be flat. Well, I only have one belief in my mind which is : If we can make it all the way over here, we can certainly make our way back home :) As long as our family is together, anywhere in the world is home to us. Oops, what am I doing? I should be packing now, why am I still blogging?! Hope you enjoy these captures .......

Thanks to flare in cafe.daum.net/BYJGallery

Too cute to miss

2010-06-08T09:05:00.005-04:00

Hi hi sisters ..... long time no 'talk'! Things are getting busy (hehe at least mentally) here as we are wrapping our lives up in Tokyo. Haha, that doesn't mean I have forgotten about Yong Joon and our sisters. I went to quite a few Yong Joon events like the Tokyo Dome 3D movie, Gosireh Hwa in Lotte Hotel, and my farewell party at Gosireh proper. Will try to write about them before I leave, hehe the keyword here is 'try' but I think you can understand :)

Anyway, you must have seen his Megane Ichiba CFs already. I found some captures of him making his ever-so-cute pouty lips! Makes me want to poke his cheeks, hehe :) You think he's getting a bit tired or bored when he did this? Please enjoy!

Another cute one @@ Thanks to flare - cafe.daum.net/byjgallery

Actor's passion

2010-05-25T10:33:00.013-04:00

Hi sisters .... just finished watching the 3rd chapter of TWSSG 3 - 別れのきざし, the omen of separation. I’m not going to bore you again by repeating the details of the movie. In brief, this chapter started with Damdeok retrieving the green dragon sacred relic from Chuoro, all the way to Sujini leaving Damdeok thinking she was the black Sujak.

You know, I walked away from the cinema thinking to myself, “my gosh, BYJ is really an amazing actor! From his eyes expression, to his facial muscles, to his tender smile, to his body movements; every single cell inside this man is a creation of art! Pity that he does not have that hot passion for acting now.”

You probably have read that translated article in suehan's blog from My Daily's reporter Bae Kook Nam - 'Bae Yong Joon, Lee Young Ae, who are they?'. Now, I don't necessarily agree with the opinion of the reporter that because BYJ and LYA are top stars, they need to continue to act to please public expectations. However, I do like to highlight the examples of 2 elderly actors, I quote .....

"Lee Soon Jae, 77 years old, has been acting for 54 years : I'm going to retire if I keep making mistakes and disturbing others due to my memory lapses.

Yoon Yeo Jeong, 63 years old, has been acting for 44 years : I want to continue acting until I am not able to memorize the lines.

They have made the viewers and audiences cry and laugh through countless dramas and movies for such a long time, and we were touched by their realistic and truthful talent. "

You can't help but admire the passion and work ethics of these 2 actors. Some people are born performers and entertaining others is their lives. Yong Joon has said it multiple times that he is not a born actor, he has to make tremendous effort to immerse himself in the character he plays. Being a perfectionist as he is, he seems to have that gift that everything he does will turn out brilliant! Appropriately our actor Yong Joon is wearing many hats now - business man, ambassador, traveller, photographer, author, traditional arts enthusiast ..... , and so does his passion for all these roles expand. Acting seems to be a familiar and repetitive task now, something that he had experienced and conquered; unless a refreshing and challenging role presents before him. Of course I am just like every other Bae sister out there; waiting, hoping, longing that Yong Joon would act continuously on one drama after another. But seeing 'acting' is NOT really a breezy and glamouros life always, especially when our prince getting hurt!

Reading how fulfilled and carefree Yong Joon is in pursuing what he enjoys doing like travelling, golfing and just hanging out with friends, I somehow think that he is glad to be under the radar right now. What is going to trigger that passion for acting in BYJ again? Maybe that special script, inspiration or mentor? Just hope that it'll appear sooner than later :)

TWSSG II - すれちがいの運命

2010-05-17T07:46:00.007-04:00

Hi hi sisters ...... as promised, I’d like to write about Chapter 2 of TWSSG - The Destiny of Missing Encounter. We’ve read some positive reviews so far, quite an improvement to the first one, huh? Maybe the story was gearing up to the climax of the carefree Damdeok evolving into a mighty king, we were able to enjoy our handsome prince’s acting in many scenes :

Well, to start, we were already off to a winner – a drool-worthy scene @@

His very distressed fight in the rain - disbelief, anger, pain, longing - all written on his face.

Having faith in himself first, so others would have faith in him! Ahhhh ..... don’t we all need a little 'faith' in ourselves too?

His oh-so-naughty drinking scene :) I am still amazed by his superb change in facial expressions – from oblivious to playful to mischievous to commanding, all in seconds! Who says the man only has a pretty face??

Hehe, I remember writing a post about this scene - love with authority. "The man in front of you is ‘King’ ah!" ..... a victorious smile :)

The second chapter covered all the way to Damdeok and his army reaching the foot of Chuoro’s Gwangmi Castle. There were many sub-plots to cover and each scene also happened very fast, but the flow didn’t feel choppy at all. Being an epic production like TWSSG, Director KHJ nim of course would not throw away his precious footage of those large-scale fighting and war scenes. It was a mixed feeling to watch Yong Joon again, in a drama that he put so much of his blood and sweat in.

The 3rd chapter will be out this Saturday, as well as the BYJ 3D in Tokyo Dome. Now the big question for the Japanese sisters is : how are they going to divide their time on both movies? Hehe, I think for myself, I'd like to space the 2 out in at least a week's interval so I can savor each one slowly :) Good night!

The young ones

2010-05-14T03:43:00.007-04:00

Hi hi sisters ...... let's talk about something that makes you happy. Have you seen these pics before? These are his CF shot for FRJ Jeans, gosh, this is wayyyyyyy before my time! I honestly don't know when Yong Joon did this, the hairstyle looked a bit like him in "Have we really loved", huh? His autograph should leak out the date too, but I can't make out what our prince wrote?? If you can see it, please enlighten me.

Doesn't his youthfulness remind you of Cliff Richard's song - The Young Ones :
The young ones,
Darling we're the young ones .....

Our shy prince, always will be @@
Hehe, you don't see him in this serious frowning face again

Haha, reminds me of my son, "I'm not letting you take my computer away!"

Hope you enjoy :) I am having visitors from Canada staying over at my home till next week, will try to blog when I have sometime, ok? Have a nice weekend!

Footprints in the Sand

2010-05-13T10:15:00.009-04:00

Hi dear sisters ..... how are you doing? I feel sad learning that a few sisters seem to be experiencing some emotional lows in their lives. Without knowing them very well or understanding their situation, I only hope that they have the willpower to pull themselves out of the blues and look forward to the positives.

Sometimes my wishy-washy character doesn't make me the best advisor, but I think it's the same soft heart that I feel the pain for my friends easily. So I'd like to offer a poem I heard when I was a young girl, the words stay with me throughtout my life. I hope it can help my dear sisters who need it now .......

One night I dreamed I was walking along the beach with the Lord.
Many scenes from my life flashed across the sky.
In each scene I noticed footprints in the sand.
Sometimes there were two sets of footprints, other times there was one only.

This bothered me because I noticed that during the low periods of my life,
when I was suffering from anguish, sorrow or defeat,
I could see only one set of footprints.

So I said to the Lord, “You promised me Lord,
that if I followed you, you would walk with me always.
But I have noticed that during the most trying periods of my life,
there has only been one set of footprints in the sand.
Why, when I needed you most, have you not been there for me?”

The Lord replied, “The years when you have seen only one set of footprints,
my child, is when I carried you.”

Copyright © 1984 Mary Stevenson
website : http://www.footprints-inthe-sand.com/

BYJ 3D in Tokyo Dome review

2010-05-12T13:17:00.009-04:00

Hi dear sisters ...... just before I want to hit lalaland, I received this wonderful translation from cloudnine. Aiya, how can I delay my sisters from reading great review about our Yong Joon? Thank you dear cloudnine for your hard work :) Please enjoy .....

Upcoming movie report on ‘PREMIERE PORT’ by Nobuko Kazui

Bae Young Joon 3D in Tokyo Dome in 2009

His smile is right there.
He was just right there. ‘Oh no, BYJ is really cool!’ I’m falling in love with him. Such realistic sensation Being in a preview room, I was almost clapping hands.
Not only those who couldn’t make it to Tokyo Dome but also those who were there can enjoy this movie for sure.

You can see Yon-sama and Jiwoo-hime (princess) so clearly even the feel of their skin.
Because it was shot by 3D cameras. For more information about 3D camera please refer to this site.

Now about Yon-sama’s charm
Probably most Japanese have prejudice against ‘Yon-sama’.
‘Yon-sama’ followed by ‘obasan-middle aged women’ in a wide-show program on TV.
‘Yon-sama socks’ sell at a price of 100 yen as a typical souvenir.

Even a Korean drama fan like me who watched “WLS” and “April Snow”, the title was stunning. ‘What is BYJ 3D?’

Let us think about it carefully.
It’s not WLS 3D. Nor TWSSG 3D. But Bae Yong Joon 3D.
It’s a documentary film of just an event.?! Who said, ‘Let’s make a movie’ ? Who said, ‘Let’s shoot it with 3D cameras’ ? To mobilize in large number for such a purpose, it is only possible when the actor is truly attractive.
I saw the movie and convinced.
BYJ well deserves 3D movie.

Everyone who knows Yon-sama and appears in this movie describes him as being sincere. Actually his character reveals itself in less than two hours film. His behavior, his talk and etc. You can’t help admiring him. ‘How attractive this man is!’
Any woman can’t help falling love with him.
Can’t stop falling in love. (c9: this part is written in English)
“I’ll do my best and head down the right path.” His words impressed me.
This is what seems that everyone can do, but actually very difficult to achieve.
He said these words veeerrrry politely, which gave a catch in the throat.
‘I’m ashamed of myself. I have to live with a definite goal.’

I was reformed.
What is this religious power?
A power like ‘ Imagine all the people ’
He came out being carried on a special vehicle, which was just like a king’s chair, and waved his hands to his family (he calls his fans family). He was a king indeed!
My friend said, ‘BYJ looked like a Christ.’ (She has no religion.)
His clothes were not special, he has no air of arrogance, still he had a distinctive aura.
Umm. He is respectable.
He is worth being called with ‘sama’ (a Japanese honorific for a person)
I called him ‘senior’.
‘　I’m always grateful for your support.’ and then after a pause, with the perfect timing, he concluded saying ‘ I love you.’
Though they are just simple words, he said very politely and emotionally.
I was reminded of the word ‘kotodama – power or spirit of words’.
There was great power, warm and strong.
This must be BYJ’s charm, only unique with Yon-sama.
Only good looking guys are not enough.

There was a scream even when he sat down.
There was a scream even when he wrote a letter.
Nobody but Yon-sama (and raccoons) can excite people by just making ordinary movements.
Yon-sama and Jiwoo-hime, going around the dome in balloons were just like lovers painted by Raymond Paynet.
If live performance of Paynet lovers is to be planned, I recommend this couple.

He said, ‘ Someday I wish to be a beautiful memory of Korea.’ I’m sure you will.
This is what I have been thinking for some time. Yon-sama’s achievement is just great.
He easily changed Japanese people who had looked down other Asians.
Now it’s not rare to find Japanese people who study Korean language.
He has achieved what so- called diplomats failed to do. Those cocky men had spent a lot of tax money flying between two countries for nothing.

Art is wonderful.
So it’s quite possible that BYJ’s statue will be built.
Of course the pose would be that he lifts up one of his hands and looks up.
Those who were not interested in blue men (c9: she meant Avatar?), I would like to recommend you to make a debut in 3D movies with this one.
Thanks to Yon-sama, I did. I’ll go to see the movie when I feel lonely.

From cloud nine : About Nobuko Kazui, to be honest I don’t think she is a very good writer. There was one sentence I was not able to understand and sometimes it’s hard to judge that she was just joking or serious. She became interested in Korean entertainment since she saw ‘Temptation of wolves” Now she is working as a writer and model while learning Korean language. She also watches various kinds of movies. Her favorite Korean actor is Gang Dongwon.

For original review in Japanese, please refer to : http://www.premiereport.com/yjsenpai.html

Thanks to vento for posting the pictures in BYJGallery

This and that ..

2010-05-12T10:24:00.010-04:00

Hi hi sisters ...... didn't mean to be lazy, but was busy out 'playing' again :) Let's see ...... I watched TWSSG II on Monday, and maybe KimJongHak director nim has read my complaints on TWSSG I. This 2nd chapter is much much better, so good that I may be very tempted to watch it again! I'll write about it soon, ok? Oh btw, cloudnine told me that the 'Tokyo Dome Events - 3D' movie VIP premiere had received a rave review. Hmmmm ........obviously I am not a VIP, that's why I cannot give you a review yet. But when it starts showing to NIP (Not Important People) like me on May 22, I'll let you know if I can really feel like I am touching Yonsama, ok?

Oh, another thing I'd like to mention is : some sisters have asked me about bb's blog since we all encounter the same problem accessing it. Yeah I understand, bb's blog is very near and dear to our hearts because we just love to read what princess writes, no matter it's BYJ or personal, eh? I asked princess and if I may relate her reply to you - she is just incredibly busy now and when things ease up, she will attend to this matter. So dear sisters, please be patient and we'll wait. Princess, hope work will ease up soon and please take care of yourself :)

Last week, I went to Megane Ichiba in Shinjuku hoping to get my son a pair of Yonsama eyeglasses. They have the same billboard since summer 2007 when I visited! Sometimes I just deliberately shop around there so I can look at his huge billboard @@ Hehe, but the frames look too mature for a young man like my son. So, we picked some other styles. The service is impeccable and the price is really reasonable compared to Canada.Hehe, maybe the salesman saw me taking pictures of Yonsama's standee. He gave me a set of his pictures before I left, happy happy gal :)

Have a good night!

Happy Mother's Day

2010-05-09T07:58:00.010-04:00

Hi dear sisters ..... Happy Mother's Day! I hope all the 'omma' today to have a truly sweet and loving time with your children :) As you know, my little family of 3 has been pretty much on our own since we moved to Tokyo. This simple setup really allows my teenage boy and I to bond as we learn to deal with a foreign environment together. This will forever be a very special memory for us, I hope.

Hehe, remember I mentioned some day I will compile all of Yong Joon's pictures holding a bouquet? Haha, what day is better than today when he can give all these flowers to so many mothers out there? Ok, let's start with Face Shop ....

They really love putting Yong Joon with flowers, eh? Then Arnold Bassini, I can only find one with some fresh spring flowers :)

SkyPerfect TV, I think

Viliv and flowers? Even Shinhan Financial Group?! What does flowers have to do with stocks and bonds??
Is this Japanese Hotelier?

Now, some older CF pictures ........

Old & New

So, after seeing so many beautiful bouquets, which one do you want to receive from Yong Joon? Hehe, since I don't know how to take care of plants, can I ask for a blowing kiss instead? :) Yeah yeah I know, I have a better chance in grabbing a star from the sky than that :) Hehe, this is my little presents to you dear sisters, hope you enjoy :

thanks to sayaka for the letterhead designs

Love shines

2010-05-07T09:56:00.008-04:00

Hi hi sisters .... found these forgotten pictures in my cellphone which I took a couple of months ago. Didn't realize that my chanoyu (tea ceremony) lesson was in the vicinity of Yong Joon's 'first handprint' in Japan! Haha, cloudnine was kind enough to show me the way there. It is just in front of an office building across from the side entrance of Peninsula Hotel, off the Hibiya subway exit.

Yong Joon's autograph was dated 2005.8.30. So if I've not mistaken, it was the April Snow promotion in Tokyo, right?

Hehe, want to know who Yong Joon's neighbours are? Superstar Tom Cruise.... and the very popular - Jackie Chan.
Are you wondering now why Yong Joon's plate is so gold and shiny? Hehe, the secret lies with the very dedicated Japanese fans. While I was busy sizing up which angle I should shoot using my very sub-standard cellphone camera. Cloudnine quietly took out her own handkerchief and started rubbing the dust off Yong Joon's handprint, so cute! I could actually feel the stares from those salarymen and office ladies who were smoking just in front of the building. They must be wondering why were those 2 silly obaasan photographing and wiping the sidewalk?! Cloudnine told me that some Japanese sisters actually take turns to come here to wipe Yong Joon's handprint, that's our way of taking care of what he gave us. You can tell the result of their tender loving care :)

Of course now, Yong Joon has left more handprints in Japan, like the one on the wall at Gosireh Hwa Nagoya, but this one in Hibiya will always be special. So, next time when you are around the Ginza area in Tokyo, you might like to walk a bit further and check this one out :)

The Sartorialist - III

2010-05-06T07:55:00.007-04:00

Hi hi sisters ....... thank you for your interests. We all know Yong Joon has been in the limelight for 16 years. By now, he is a real pro in mastering the art of 'being photographed'. It’s logical to expect that he’s 'trained' to treat the camera as if it doesn’t even exist and continue with his routines. Conversely, it's also reasonable to assume that he’s 'conditioned' to be aware of his surroundings, thus always have his 'camera' face ready. So, can we really see the 'natural' BYJ from the many publicly-released photos?

Let's take a look at these so called 'hidden' shots shared on the net ...... Do you really think Yong Joon wasn't aware of somebody pointing a cellphone at him? Can you tell whether he was in his 'natural' or 'guarded' face?

shopping in a Gangnam book store
hanging out in a neighbourhood café

But then in these next 'official' shots, it's clear that the photographer was right in front of his face, but you can't say that Yong Joon wasn't in his 'natural' moments .......

knowing how much Yong Joon can withstand suffering, it didn't look like he's faking this pain while mounting on a horse, sob sob :(

if he's more concerned about the camera than the rice, he wouldn't be squatting like this for a pose (you got to agree this is not his most elegant pose, right?) You can tell his concentration was all on his work.

Hehe, need I say more : when a Korean man needs to munch, he needs to munch (especially when it is the kimchi that he personally made :)
So what can I deduce with my very limited observation? At the end of the day, Yong Joon is an artist. Whether he is behind the camera or being photographed, he is still the master in image creation. The image that he projects is what he wants to reveal to us, that's the extent he wants us to see.

Perhaps I quote what Scott Schuman wrote about his subjects on the streets whom he photographed :

"I want to capture something about people I shoot but at the same time I am totally open to creating my own version of who I think this person is. The reality rarely lives up to the romance, and I think we all could benefit from letting ourselves get lost in the romance of an idea or perception instead of having to know every excruciating detail of reality."

I am not adamant about finding the 'unguarded' Yong Joon anymore because just like the rest of us, he deserves to live an unrestricted and fulfilled life. So the romance of a perception with BYJ continues .........

The End, thank you for reading :)

The Sartorialist - II

2010-05-04T08:04:00.016-04:00

Hi hi sisters ...... As we all know, some people are a 'natural' in front of the camera; while others feel totally uneasy or even 'photophobic' (errr, I think I just invented a new word, haha :) Scott Schuman's pictures on everyday people are about self-expression and not perfection, so his readers can find their own inspiration. You will agree that some of the world's best photography are the ones that capture the subjects in their most 'natural' or 'unguarded' moments. Like this one, or at least I'd like to think so :

Thanks to suehan's effort, we are able to see these candid shots by Korean bloggers who have the chance to spot Yong Joon in the same city. When I pause to think : besides Yong Joon locking himself inside his house, how many 'unguarded' moments can this man really have? There seems to be always fans waiting at major hotspots, papparazzi jumping out from nowhere, cameras clicking at every angle, whether he is :

coming or going ....... getting ready for work .......
or actually working ........ enjoying his food ...... or enjoying his game.......socializing ........
or feeling anti-social ......
even when he is not up to it!

Now, that makes me feel a bit sad, so what really is the 'real' BYJ like in his 'natural' moment, without the awareness of a camera nearby? I'll come back and finish what I want to say tomorrow, ok? Please be patient with me.

The Sartorialist - I

2010-05-03T04:42:00.017-04:00

Hi Hi sisters ..... did you have a nice week? We are still relaxing in the Golden Week holidays, enjoying the warm breezy spring weather. Last weekend, my husband suggested that we went to a book signing event. Book? What book? Hehe, as far as I am concerned, the ONLY book that I dream about getting signed is the you-know-who's book :)

Have you heard of Scott Schuman? In the fashion and design world, apparently he is an influential and respected figure. He is renowned for his sense on street fashion photography and runs a highly popular blog http://www.thesartorialist.blogspot.com/ Scott published his first book 'The Sartorialist' last year, compiling 500+ pictures of everyday people (with styles! of course :) he took around Europe and the US.

Hmmm ...... wonder if it's the Japanese rice he eats or the Tokyo air he breathes in, I don't know when hubby has become so 'hip'? He actually has been following the Sartorialist blog and ordered the book in time for the signing event :) Ah no, let me confess : this is definitely not our regular weekend hobby. To be honest, while we were waiting in line, the 'uninformed' me had to quickly glance through the book and checked out its author's name, phew! The signing took place at the United Arrows store in an artsy backstreet of Harajuku. Suffice to say, there were all these good looking, avant-garde 20-something (both westerners and Japanese) eager to meet Scott Schuman. Why? As I noticed some even brought along their scrapbooks to show him! Yikes, I was afraid that a couple of old folks like us might be mistaken for some star-craved parents accompanying their models-wannabe offsprings on an audition @@

Fortunately, Scott Schuman is a really cool and swell guy! He was sipping champagne while patiently looking through his fans' works. For those starving (juz kidding) young talents who didn't have the book, he just gladly signed on their calendars or notebooks.

I asked Scott if he planned to do a book on Japan. As when it comes to style and uniqueness, you really cannot find a more original city than Tokyo. He replied that he'd actually taken some pictures here in the past few days. He is really an easy guy to talk to and never rushed you. As hubby and I we were walking back to the bustling street of Harajuku, we looked at each other and couldn't help laughing at ourselves : what have we just done? how old are we anyway? Looking up at the clear blue sky of Tokyo, we actually enjoyed the experience and had a great time!

So now you ask, why am I sitting here reading all these? What does this got anything to do with our Yong Joon?? Hehe in my book .... everything about anything has to do with Yong Joon huh. But sorry, am really tired tonight, I'll have to continue tomorrow, ok? Sumimasen.

Noble prince 贵公子

2010-04-29T11:56:00.004-04:00

Hi hi sisters .... the Japanese Golden Week has started today and this is like the busiest (and longest) holidays in Japan. Unlike in most parts of the world, Japan does not have Christmas Holidays, so a lot of people are taking this week to travel. Since we will be leaving in 2 months, we decide to stay put and enjoy our few precious moments here (even though I sooooooo wish to go to Seoul one more time), sob sob!

Hehe you remember he was wearing a pinstripes suit in Gosireh Fua opening, huh? I dig up this set of pictures of Yong Joon, also in pinstripes suit. Think it was back in 2003 Untold Scandal premiere in Korea? He really looks like a noble, walks like a noble, speaks like a noble and smiles like a noble! (haha, not that I know any nobles, but I've seen some on TV) Hehe that's why the media termed him - 贵公子 : ) Enjoy ......

pictures credited as shown

Third time's a charm

2010-04-28T09:39:00.006-04:00

Hi hi sisters ..... it really is a 'live happily ever after' dream ending for our beloved drama. After going through life and death, heartbreak and separation, the handsome prince and pretty princess will finally be walking the rest of their lives together hand in hand. Hehe of course, this is just acting and drama, but we all believe in 'happy ending' for everything in life, don't we?

Incidentally, you know this is not the first time Yong Joon and CJW dressed up in wedding costumes, eh? You remember this very heartwrenching private ceremony, interrupted so rudely by SangHyuk? I still can't believe how MinHyung thought he could get away with marrying his 'so thought' half-sister?! Imagine the pain and desperation in his heart :(

Hahaha, you think I forget, don't you? They say : the third time is a charm! They were in wedding costumes one more time walking the catwalk in Andre Kim's fashion show in Sydney 2002. Hehe, no comment on the clothes itself, but the groom sure looked mighty gorgeous to me @@ What do you think?

pictures credited as shown

Memory of the Journey album

2010-04-26T11:53:00.008-04:00

Hi Hi sisters .... am supposed to have lunch at Gosireh Fua in Lotte Hotel today, but didn't feel well therefore couldn't go, sob sob! Since I can't share that experience with you, maybe I can show you something else. I received this BOFi package a couple of weeks ago .....

Tada! It's the Bae Yong Joon Photo Album - 'Memory of the Journey' in search of Beauty of Korea. The name is quite a mouthful, huh?The left is the photo album, the right is the album pocket.

The size of this album is very generous - 22.5cm x 28cm, with over 75 pages of colored photo (quite a lot of them are close up shots too) @@ I hope it's ok to show a few samples here, hehe my shots are bad enough to be worth any reproduction anyway .. .....

See, if you can't read Korean or Japanese from his 'In Search of Beauty of Korea' book, this photo album is sort of like a 'pictorial substitute' (IMHO). By looking at the pictures, you can get a feel of his experience - his curiosity, his attentiveness, his sincerity - in this journey.

Hehe, sort of on the side : I always wondered about the sneakers that Yong Joon wore during his travel as I am curious how he could keep the white sole so clean?? Haha, now you know I am a clean freak too. I finally noticed the label on the sole in a picture that he sat down on the steps. It's the Lanvin hi-top suede sneakers 2008. Apparently these are highly sought-after fashion sneakers, hehe, much like its handsome owner :)

I know I know, I am silly enough to even look at the soles of his shoes! Hope you enjoy :)

TWSSG I - 千年の愛

2010-04-25T10:48:00.007-04:00

Hi Hi sisters ....... last week, cloudnine and I watched the first chapter of the TWSSG movie in Toho cinema. To ensure we had a perfect view of the handsome Damdeok, I even ran to the cinema 2 days prior to showing and reserved the best seats in the house (hehe, and can’t help patting myself on the back for acting so quickly this time :)

On the morning of the showing, I was expecting crowds of BYJ fans gathered in the lobby, chatting and busy taking pictures of Yonsama's poster (much like the time when I watched Winter Sonata during my visit here in summer 2007) Aye? …… “Did I mix up the dates? Where is everybody?” I was wondering. I double-checked my ticket again, yup, it’s today. “But why is it so empty?” I guess 25 out of 165 seats can safely be considered as ‘empty’, right? My heart was dropping, has everybody forgotten? (Trust me, Toho cinema has shown Winter Sonata, Barefooted Youth and Papa before and it was always full house) I came up quickly with my own justification..… it could be the fact that the movie has been showing everyday since April 10 in many cinemas across Japan. Or as cloudnine explained to me that most fans would go on Wednesday, ‘ladies day’, which they pay only 1000 instead of 1800 yen for a movie, therefore Thursday is usually quiet. Arayso …… before I had time to analyze further, the theme song of TWSSG started playing and I was eager to watch the handsome Damdeok again!

第1章：千年の愛
The movie began with the drama-ending which the teary King Damdeok speaking to Kiha, who had turned into a black sujak. Then the story was directed back to 2000 years ago on the mythology of Lord Hwangwoon, Gajin and Sae-oh. The director was basically re-telling the story as in the drama – plot by plot, scene by scene in the same order. From the title "Thousands Year's Love", I thought there would be more emphasis on the love relationships, emotions and sensitivity revolving around the characters. Maybe I have misunderstood the intention of this project, there was no new perspective, no new scenes as I was hoping for. The re-editing from 6 hours of drama to 2 hours seemed choppy at times as certain scenes went too fast and you felt like something was not explained in between (of course for BYJ fans like us, we can practically recite the dialogue backwards :) I wonder for someone who has never watched the drama before, if they are able to follow what happened.

For example, this romantic scene showing Lord Hwangwoon’s attraction and courting of Sea-oh was skipped. which made it quite abrupt when Hwangwoon (out of nowhere) declared to his aboji that Sa-oh would bear his child and be the mother of Earth??
By the same token : the scene when Hwangwoon cured Gajin from her injury which led to her falling in love with him was also skipped - which made it hard to explain Gajin's jealous eyes as she watched Hwangwoon kissing Sae-oh??
Having said that, TWSSG is TWSSG. We all know it's a magnificent production with the best cast and crew from Korea. The drama has a heavy historical element init and the story has to be told. There are a lot of plots and it's certainly not an easy task to condense and re-edit 21 episodes into a 4 parts movie. Hehe, the good news is a condensed version means they have cut out a lot of non-BYJ scenes and the frequency of Yong Joon showing up is so much more higher. Hehe, not to give away too much details, the ending scene is Kiha embracing the teary Damdeok in the wooden shed. Now in this scene, they did show a new angle shooting from Damdeok's back for a few more seconds :) All in all, there is really no NEW surprise in this movie so far, if that's what you are looking for. For fans who miss Yong Joon and like to see his acting, I guess it's a wonderful outing with your Bae sisters :)

Chapter 2 ：すれちがいの運命 (The Destiny of Missing Encounter) will be showing starting May 8!

kaichoo or haiyuo

2010-04-22T07:08:00.012-04:00

Hi hi sisters ..... So many times, I sat down and tried to blog, but my other interests usually took over. I comfort myself that "Well, if Yonsama can disappear for months without a word to his fans, then what's the significance of the 'little me' blogging or not?" Yeah, I know I shouldn't think this way, because blogging is a very personal decision. Everyone blogs for different reason and enjoyment and I respect that. My reason is to record this beautiful journey down and share with my BYJ sisters. This is also my own 'little' way to support him. It's what Yong Joon has accomplished in the past that filled and re-played in my memory. As for what he will do in the future? Well, I'll just leave a blank space in the corner of my mind for him to fill. It's beyond my control, BUT it's definitely within that handsome guy's capability. So Yong Joon, please please start acting :)

Hehe, I was a little bit, juz a bit, worry that our Yong Joon is looking more and more like a kaichoo (CEO) than a haiyuo (actor) here ......

Hahaha, I dare not mention ajussi or I will be squashed to a piece of gum :)

But my 'tongseng', who saw him at Lotte Hotel opening, reassured me that he is 'very handsome'! (and she is not even his fan) That's makes me very happy :) Look at him, kakko ii (cool) desu ne!

Every inch like a superstar @@

It is revealed in the latest issue of Josei Jishin that Yong Joon went to a spa resort in Hakone - XIV Hakone Rikyu - opened in March 2010. This is an exclusive VIP club resort, the same series as the Tokyo Baycourt club he stayed in Tokyo Odaiba. Hehe, I guess it's safe to disclose this info as they know we are not going to dash over here to apply for membership anytime soon :)

It is said that Yong Joon stayed in the top level suite (needless to say). I just post the best suite they show in the site, maybe Yong Joon stayed in an even more luxurious suite, I can't imagine!
with its own private onsen, of course. Who can be so lucky to be sitting in the same onsen as Yong Joon (flapping my eyelashes)?? and a grand view of the Hakone mountain range filled with cherry blossoms, how beautiful @@
It is reported that Yong Joon enjoyed an 80-minutes facial esthe in the resort's famous Swiss anti-aging clinic.

You mean he's going to look even younger? The world is not fair! I am not sure how accurate this is, I was told that Yong Joon also played golf in Nagano before he returned to Korea last weekend. So, looks like a really relaxing trip for our handsome prince. Where's next?

Thanks to miemi and style for posting in BYJGallery

Sherlock-ing Yonsama

2010-04-13T10:06:00.012-04:00

Hi hi sisters ....... how're your days? I always enjoy reading Sherlock Holmes when I was a child, so I was eager to watch the new 'Sherlock Holmes' movie in the weekend. It just seems like these days if the movie is not about 'saving the world from being destroyed', then the plot is not grand enough. The Sherlock Holmes and Dr. Watson have turned into fighters and jokers here, not the English gentlemen and great detectives that I was familiar with :(

Well, my detective skill has nothing to boast about either. The handsome 'suspect' has been walking on the same piece of land for a week now, but there isn't a trace of where he is! All we know so far is he caused chaos in a new restaurant in Kinshicho Lotte Hotel ...

then he stopped traffic on the way to a hospital in Kanagawa prefecture
Suffice to say, he stole many female hearts in Japan and around the world. Now, can't say that detective Jaime didn't try her darnest to apprehend this culprit ....... I did stake out at his favourite hangout, Gosireh, during one lunch hour.

Hehe, even tried out his new 'bait' - the beautiful skin lunch course (ginseng chicken)! Oh, so yummy and full of collagen :) Too bad I was wearing kimono that day and had to nibble like a proper lady, otherwise I would have gobbled up everything on the plates. This beautiful Sunday, hubby and I strolled past his DA office on our way to Sakura viewing. Was hoping for the odd chance that he might drop by the office. What?! NOT a single person working on Sunday afternoon?? Hmmmm ..... I think I have to report this to the handsome CEO :)

So, this concludes my Yonsama tracking in Tokyo for now, stay tune for my next report :)

Publicized moves

2010-04-07T22:21:00.007-04:00

Hi hi sisters ....... when they declared 'top secret', they really mean top secret, huh? Nobody knows where he goes, what business he has in Tokyo? Or is he still in Tokyo or off to some remote mountains soaking in an onsen already?? Hehe regardless, it's so nice to see him coming out in good shape. Btw congrats moichan, I am happy that you finally have your wish of seeing Yong Joon closer :) Just recap his 'publicized' moves :

Hisashi buri desu ne!
Lottel Hotel opening
Gorsireh Hwa greeting those ultra-lucky fans

Checking out Sky Tree @@ Hahaha, talk about Sky Tree ...... when I read the news of him looking out at the Sky Tree from Lotte Hotel room, I thought that was an English error. I thought "Why does Yong Joon want to see the skyline and trees in Kinshicho while there are much better views elsewhere in Tokyo??" Sky Tree is actually the newest, tallest structure in Japan - a digital communications tower, how ignorant of me!

Next, his charity business and visit to a hospital in Kanagawa prefecture.

Washing his hands before entering ICU

Never was handwashing so interesting to look at @@
Serious matter deserves serious expression!

He sure knows his power as a celebrity - bringing public awareness to this charitable cause. What's your next move, handsome?
Thanks to baidu/fongfong4 for sharing.

Keep them coming :)

2010-04-06T10:01:00.007-04:00

Hi Hi .... we must really miss him. His pictures just keep coming :) Ahhhh.... isn't that like a 'Annie Hall' frame? Waw, our prince was quite dressed up today - pinstripes suit, silver grey tie and cuff links :)

original from JOB, reposted in baidu/yj2829. Thanks much much!

Hi, 2 more from chanmi300, posted by mizuumi in byjgallery, thanks for sharing!

Finally

2010-04-06T07:47:00.007-04:00

Hi hi sisters ...... The whole day, I was like 'an ant in a hot frying pan'. I practised one dance, walked over to my computer and checked for HRH's new pictures ... nope. Practised another one, walked back and checked again .... nope again! Must have walked back and forth 10 times, then I just gave up and decided to concentrate to finish my practice :) Finally after dinner, a merciful sister is generous enough to share her pictures of the handsome one - original in mrs*alice's blog, reposted in baidu/YJ影之国, thanks. Yes, I understand the staff usually requests the fans not to take pictures, so if reposting these is not appropriate, please give me a shout, ok?

According to xiaoyi's blog : "Yong Joon came to Gosireh Hwa around 11 am this morning. He made his round to each table and greet the family. He left around 1pm and 500 family was waiting for him outside. He slowed down the car and lowered the window, smiled and waved to his family." He was wearing black framed eyeglasses, white shirt and dark colored suit. Doesn't he look so happy and gorgeous?

Some people speculated he might have gone to his favourite restaurant in Tokyo afterwards. Where else, but Gosireh! Could he even go to his Digital Adventure office after lunch, which is in the neighbourhood anyway?? Aiyo, if that's the case, I really should kick myself in the bxxx! I can practically crawl to his DA office in a few minutes :(

Still wondering how long Yong Joon will be in Tokyo for? Sakura is in full bloom right now, I hope Yong Joon can go around freely to enjoy the beautiful Sakura while he is here :)

He's flying?

2010-04-05T19:03:00.008-04:00

Hi Hi sisters .... just read that this morning Yong Joon is flying to Tokyo for the opening of Gosireh Hwa! So he is somewhere in the air between Korea and Japan now?

Yes, I am banging my head on the desk right now for not making a lunch reservation on the first day of opening. Yes yes, the thought of running to Kinshicho Lotte Hotel and wait for him has also crossed my mind. Yes yes yes, it could very well be the last time he comes to Japan before I leave. What should I do? What should I do? I sooooo want to see his face one more time before I leave Japan. Gosh, this is so hard, every time he comes to Tokyo, there's always this big struggle in my mind of where he is now, what he is doing and should I try to find out? Should I push aside all my plans for the day and wait for him indefinitely? Thanks goodness, I do not live in the same city as him, otherwise I will be up and about 24-7! Hehe at the end, I think my sense (and my old tired body) kind of tells me to stay put and just wait for his new handsome pictures, like most other sisters :) Have fun, Yong Joon and those lucky sis who will be at Gosireh Hwa :)

Do I see it right, a table for 1?
Thanks to byjintoronto for the original post and baidu/爱俊一梅 for reposting.

Tropical delight

2010-04-04T09:26:00.010-04:00

Hi hi sisters ........ I am so glad that DATV is showing the 'History of BYJ' series, we get to see some never-shown-before footage of Yong Joon. What a wonderful way to console our longing hearts! Thanks to houren who posted the images in her blog and baidu/YJ影之国 for reposting. I cropped the images that I love the most, doesn't he look gorgeous? Please enjoy :)

Next life?

2010-04-01T10:33:00.004-04:00

Hi Hi sisters ...... this is just the kind of days when Yong Joon lays so low that you feel he is so far far away from you. I once read a post in baidu how a sister wishes to be with Yong Joon in her next life (sorry I forgot when and by whom). I know the idea sounded so far-reached but her writing was kind of cute, and her sentiment certainly truthful. I vaguely remember just this, in her next life -

- Yong Joon will only belong to her since she has to share him with so many women in this life
- Yong Joon will cherish her and even spoil her since she gives un-reciprocated love to him in this life
- Yong Joon will tolerate her little imperfections since she shed her tears for him in this life

You know, that makes me think …… If this ‘past life, next life’ belief holds true :

“How about that special someone who is by your side at this very moment, loving and supporting you quietly while we indulge in this Bae fandom? What if HE is the ‘Bae Yong Joon equivalent’ from your past life? (haha, no guarantee that he has to come back tall, handsome and rich in his next life, right?) If that’s the case, aren't we ignoring the true love that we already possessed while chasing for the impossible dream?”

Hahaha, don’t blast me. I know I know, we love and support Yong Joon for his many virtues, definitely not for this ‘next life’ reason. Sigh, I guess maybe this is really a sign of too little BYJ news, I am even talking nonsense like this! So hehe, I won't be offended if you just ignore me :) Happy Easter!

San-commercial pictures

2010-03-30T09:14:00.008-04:00

Hi Hi sisters ..... I was trying to post back the pictures that I missed in the last little while, but kind of hesitated. Ok, our prince is handsome alright, but the images represent more of the concept from the brand rather than Yong Joon himself. Take a look ......

The World Cup - this is fine cause he is cheering for his country
Face Shop - holding a bouquet?!Arnold Bassini - holding a bouquet again! Hmmm .... I wonder how many times Yong Joon has held a bouquet while shooting a commercial? Some day I have to collect all those pictures and post them, hahaha :)
Honestly, I miss those pictures that Yong Joon had taken especially for us, not for any specific commercial purpose. Remember 2/3 years ago while we were waiting for the filming of TWSSG, Yong Joon would release some of his handsome pictures to quench our thirst? Like these ones that Leslie Kee shot @@ Look at his sensual expression, hehe, make me sweat! And this easy breezy pose :) The BYJ Classic CD - so enchanting! Even his Image Album - I'll take this anytime over those CF shots, at least the concept came from himself. So dear Yong Joon, even if you haven't decided on your next project, maybe you can pose some pictures for us please?
Hehe, but handsome is handsome. As bb said before, there is really no bad pictures of BYJ. So I just have to post these newly released Face Shop pictures, enjoy :)

Catching up ...

2010-03-29T07:49:00.006-04:00

Hi Hi sisters ...... my visiting family has just left and I finally have some time to catch up on my BYJ business. Hehe, when I say business, there really are some busy Bae business going on in Japan. You all know that Gosireh Hwa will be opening in Lotte Hotel, Tokyo Kinshicho area on April 6. Sob sob, I bet all tables are booked by now. But I am determined not to miss these next few shows :

Have you heard that the 24 episodes of TWSSG have been re-edited and condensed into 4 chapters? The first chapter is about to be released on April 10, 2 more in May and the last chapter in June. Each movie will run approximately 120 minutes. Hehe, I ran to Toho Cinema the first morning they opened the sale and got myself a booklet of 4 tickets in postcard format.

第1章：千年の愛 (The Thousand Years' Love) - from April 10. The front of ticket for chapter 1.

This is the back of the ticket for chapter 1. Hehe, I only show the ones with Yong Joon's face, ok?

第2章：すれちがいの運命 (The Destiny of Missing Encounter) - from May 8. The front is Kiha and this is the back, can you see our handsome Damdeok? The image is too tiny eh?

第3章：別れのきざし (The Omen of Separation) - from May 22. The front is Sujini.

第4章：かなわぬ想い (The Un-fulfilled Thoughts) - from June 26. The front is Hogae and the back is not even Yong Joon, so I am not posting it here. This is the poster they give out as gift.

I wonder if they will make these 4 chapters into a DVD set for sale later. Just hope that I can make it to all 4 movies before I leave Japan :)

And as if that's not enough to keep us busy, the 3D compact version of the Winter Sonata Anime Event and the Beauty of Korea Event - 'Bae Yong Joon 3D in Tokyo Dome 2009' will be shown from May 22 across Japanese 3D cinemas! Frankly, I have never watched a 3D movie before. Yes Yes I admit, I am not hip and I haven't watched Avatar! I can't wait to experience this and re-live those 2 wonderful days with Yong Joon and the other 45000 sisters :)

a photo album as gift

Yong Joon to waiting family

2010-03-16T01:26:00.006-04:00

Hi hi sisters ...... an unknown fan has posted Yong Joon's words to the waiting family in the hotel before going to the hospital. Not sure if it's word by word, please just read the essence.

Posted and translated to Chinese : loveyongjoon / snowkin
tranalated to English : jaime

I am sorry, how should I say it? I do not have any words to express.
Today is supposed to be a happy day, and it turns out to be like this, I am deeply sorry.
I want to have pictures taken with the family who travel from afar, but it turns out this way, I apologize.
I heard that 20 people got injured, some are in more serious conditions.
I am not able to continue the photograph session with the family anymore. Some day, I will find another opportunity to have our family picture taken again, that's what I hope to do.
The condition of the injured family is still not known, I have to visit them in the hospital now.
I am truly sorry, please give me your understanding, thank you.

How fate ties drama into life

2010-03-15T00:43:00.009-04:00

Hi hi sisters ...... While I am reading some fans' accounts of Yong Joon's reaction, the scene of 'MinHyung looking so concerned after Yujin got hurt while trying to save him' crossed my mind. I'd like to capture these extracts :

Original from Yellow Angel (http://cafe.daum.net/byjintoronto)
Reposted from xiaoyi’s blog – translated by suehan

Yong Joon, "I’m going to visit the hospital."
Toru (Korean fan) said, "I should have gotten hurt."
The others (moer Korean fans) said too, "I should have gotten hurt."
Joonie said, "I should have gotten hurt."

Original from yuri's blog
Reposted from Quilt / flor
"YJ came to hospital to visit us at 7pm last night.
He held our hands tightly.
His expression is very sad ....."

How fate ties drama into life!

It's all my responsibility.
I am truly sorry, and thank you!
Please rest well.
Besides hoping that the injured have a speedy recovery, we hope that Yong Joon will move on to make something positive out of this experience. He is not only a loving and caring person, he is also a marvellous leader. We can see how swift his management team came out to take care of the injured and handle publicity issues, perhaps they can learn and improve on future tours and events. It will break his fans' hearts (including the injurd sisters) to see him blaming himself and wishing he was the one who got hurt! I just read a motivated post in baidu, allow me to translate and share it with you :

You cannot decide how long you live, but you can decide how full your life is.
You cannot influence the weather, but you can adjust your own mood.
You cannot alter your face, but you can show off your smile.
You cannot control others, but you can take charge of yourself.
You cannot predict about tomorrow, but you can make full use of today.
You cannot force the end result, but you can manage the process.
You cannot ask for everything to go smoothly, but you can try your best at everything you do.
Author : Unknown

I, what should I do?

2010-03-14T00:56:00.013-05:00

My heart is very heavy as I am translating this account of an injured Japanese fan. Please pray for the healthy recovery of everyone who got hurt in this accident. Please especially pray for Yong Joon so he has the strength to deal with this unfortunate incident.

From JOB : hokahoka (3/14/2010)
Japanese to Chinese : loveyongjoon/snowkin
Chinese to English : jaime

I am one of the injured fans. As there may be some misunderstanding, I’d like to tell you about what happened during that accident :

After the 4th group of family had finished taking their pictures, Yong Joon san was still standing in the middle of our crowd. As the wind turned stronger, Yong Joon made a ‘X’ hand signal to stop the picture taking. We were told that the photograph session would be moved indoor, so we proceeded walking towards the hotel. Along the way, words spread that since picture taking has not finished yet, they would attempt to do it again. Didn’t know which way to believe, we lined up once more but then realized almost instantaneously that this was a mistake!

We started running from the open parkland to the direction of the hotel. However the gust became so fierce already, I could hardly move an inch forward and sense the danger. Right at that moment, I was hit by a very strong force on my back and got knocked down to the ground. The stage which was used for the photograph session had collapsed. The staffs were frantically removing the wooden planks, despite the high wind, trying to retrieve me from underneath. I was taken to a waiting ambulance and there were already a few other patients with bleeding down their heads. I later learned after my hospital checkup that these people were injured in the course of saving others. My heart ached and felt very apologetic because they braved the strong winds and caused their faces injured. I thought if I were kept standing at the time, I’d have sustained serious injury.

While I was lying on the stretcher in the hospital, Yong Joon san arrived. He was struck at the sight of me lying there, he held my hands close, his eyes swelled with tears and kept apologizing to me. Then he went around to each injured fan, held their hands and apologized one by one. Lastly, he returned back to me, held my hand and murmured softly, "I, what should I do?" I could only reply, "kenchanayo". He is about the same age as my son. Whenever I think of the young man with his warm loving hands and the burdens he has to carry, my heart aches into million pieces. Fortunately, there is no injury to my bones, I can sit in front of the computer again after I took my medicine. I pray that all the injured will recover quickly and be back to good health. I sincerely hope that the pain in Yong Joon’s heart will be relieved. I am grateful to the staff who protected us and got injured. Thank you to the family who are concerned about our safety.

A freaky mishap

2010-03-12T06:13:00.008-05:00

Hi hi sisters ...... So, you've been glued to your computer waiting for any news on how our handsome prince looked today and what he did with the fans? Well, thanks to our diligent sisters like xiaoyi and bb for sharing, we are able to get bits and pieces of info. According to the Japanese fans who attended, they were divided into groups of 10 to view the outdoor filming from the 3rd floor hotel rooms. Silly me, that ship thingy is actually a hotel structure built to look like a cruise ship!

After the filming, 1500 fans again were grouped into 100 each and had their turns taking a 'family' picture with Yong Joon! Wow, lucky lucky fans :) You probably have heard by now that about 28 Japanese fans were injured when the strong wind blew down parts of the filming set. I can imagine the chaos when our helpless Japanese sisters were hit by the debris and the pain our Yong Joon feels for them :(

Yong Joon and CJW later on thanked the fans for attending and apologized about the accident. No wonder Yong Joon and his staffs looked so grim in this picture. Hope everyone will feel better again after he visits the injured sisters in the hospital. Let's wait for happier news soon :)

Quick update

2010-03-11T20:14:00.005-05:00

Hi Hi sisters .... just a quick update before I leave to meet cloudnine in Ginza. From yuri's blog (thanks xiaoyi and suehan for their updates), the fans have arrived at the wedding site. I'll just do a quick translation here from Japanese :

They have started filming the wedding rehearsal in the outside. Yonsama is in black tuxedo, white shirt, black necktie, hair in bright tea color, with eyeglasses. Fantastic! Jiwoo san is in a wonderful white wedding dress. Haha, as if this is a real Yong Joon's wedding :) Hopefully a picture or two when I come back, have a nice day!

Anticipating....

2010-03-11T06:22:00.007-05:00

Hi hi sisters ...... I am so so sorry for making you worried, thank you so muchfor your concerns. Yes, I'm still alive and well, just very busy doing just about err ..... nothing, and everything :) I did manage to sneak in 1 episode of 'Have We Really Loved' each night before I fell asleep. But my dear sisters, let me forewarn you : if you are depressed about not hearing from Yong Joon already, please please do NOT watch HWRL. It will ache your heart even more so watching the pain that Jaeho had to suffer. Then the rest of the night, you will be staring at the ceiling wondering what life is all about and how vulnerable human beings are, sob sob!

Ok ok, enough of my self-pity session. Big and happy day tomorrow! You know what it is, right? The 'mystery' filming of that ending scene in the final episode of WS Anime! I know my lucky Japanese sister Happychan is on her way to Seoul already, lucky lucky her, get to see the handsome prince in person tomorrow :)

Well, even though it's supposed to be a mystery, we sort of know that filming will take place at the Suncruise Resort, outside of Seoul. And JunSang and Yujin will have a wedding ceremony on the luxury liner. Hehe, that liner looks like it's sitting on the top of the hill, like Noah's Ark?!

Just wondering what our handsome prince is thinking tonight? Is he excited since he will be filming before 1200 of his 'family'? This will be like a mini fan meeting, I hope they will release some pictures of how he looks tomorrow. Anticipating :)

My Nihon Buyo debut

2010-02-24T08:31:00.010-05:00

Hi hi sisters .... errr, this isn't really BYJ news, more of my own. But since it has some BYJ bits in it, I'll post it here. In the past weekend, I made my solo Nihon Buyo (Japanese dance) debut. I was undeserving to have so many dear sisters coming all the way to cheer me on. Thank you so much for being so sweet and encouraging, I truly feel so much love from you :) The very cute card with their well wishes ......

The super gorgeous pink floral basket. They even brought the handsome man (for moral support) who first inspired me to go for the seemingly impossible and then to do my best! I was so moved to see his picture and my sisters' beautiful smiles :)

Life is amazing when you are learning new knowledge! If you're interested, you're welcome to check out my 'Sakura no Yume' blog :)

Grow it back!

2010-02-19T12:05:00.004-05:00

Hi hi sisters ....... OK, it's official! Our prince looked too handsome in his long hair, I propose a 'grow it back' campaign :) Gosh, these pictures can really drive a sane woman crazy! Thanks tomato for posting in Quilt, original from KOB.

Those were the days

2010-02-18T11:23:00.004-05:00

Hi hi sisters ..... these pics from BYJ mobile phone just reminded me of the song 'Those were the days', sung by Mary Hopkins. Yong Joon looked so young, innocent, carefree in that limegreen hoodie. And oh those long hair .....

posted by loveyongjoon/snowkin and BYJGallery/daisukubyj

A stroll in the museum

2010-02-16T04:39:00.007-05:00

Hi hi sisters .... how are you? Really really busy this week with personal stuffs, just a quick one for fun, ok?

you see, Yong Joon ssi, our museum collects a vast selection of treasures ......
like this smiling Kannon, not very lady-like the way she's sitting, but nevertheless still managed to charm all of our visitors :)
And this lavish egg holder, probably used to hold poached dinosaur egg a million years ago. Imagine the poor chap's stomach after his hearty breakfast, huh?
And Mr. Ambassador of Tourism, I proudly present you our museum's in-house seafood restaurant!
Let's check out today's lunch special @@ Wow, there sure are a lot of fresh catches to choose from!
See that chubby one swimming at the back, I can almost taste it in soya sauce already :)
Slurp slurp, I think this place definitely qualifies as 'the Beauty of Korea', click click click! Repost from BYJGallery/Style, original from houren's blog

Happy Valentine's Day

2010-02-14T09:15:00.006-05:00

Hi dear sisters ...... Hope you have a warm and sweet Valentine's Day with your loved ones! Hehe, you notice I said 'ones', I suppose that handsome one is not too far from your heart today :)

Hehe, in case you think I am having some romantic dinner at a 3-star Michelin restaurant, sipping fine champagne and nibbling on Imperial caviar, it's nothing further from the truth. We were all so busy with our own chores that mom, dad and son just decided to grab a stack of bento boxes and munched in front of TV watching the Vancouver Winter Olympic Games. I am never really big on special days like anniversary, birthday and Valentines. I don't mean to sound corny, but I really feel that if you are happy, then every day is a celebration.

This year's Valentine's Day happens to coincide with Chinese New Year, so I guess a lot of Bae sisters (and Yong Joon too) are very busy with their families. My wish that everyone will have a wonderful day filled with love and happiness :)

Sakura no Yume

2010-02-10T09:20:00.005-05:00

Hi hi sisters .... just in case you wonder why I have been so busy, I was over at my cottage doing some final decorations. Hehe no no, I meant my new personal blog - Sakura no Yume :)

I never thought I needed a separate blog, as my love for Yong Joon is already a part of my journey, pretty much like other things in my life. Sharing this experience with BYJ sisters here are both joyous and precious to me and nothing will change. In the past 2 years, as I opened my eyes to the Japanese world of kimono, nihon buyo (dancing), chanoyu (tea), arts and literature, I know I'd like to study further to enjoy this beautiful culture. This is the beginning of my Sakura dream .....

Hehe, you're welcome to hop over to my cottage but please don't feel obliged, I won't be hurt :) Thanks!

A walk in the summer

2010-02-07T00:54:00.006-05:00

Hi hi ... the summer collection already?! Wonder why they rolled it out altogther? Hehe, but more the better, please enjoy :)

This was the candid shot released last month from the CF shooting on the yacht.
Remember we saw this picture of his back while doing the AB shooting in Jeju last month?

Ahhhh..... so this is the front view, nice :) But are they nuts, putting our Yong Joon outside in windy cold weather like this??

posted by BYJGallery/shianco, thanks!

One fine spring day

2010-02-06T23:28:00.007-05:00

Hi hi sisters ...... I know it's in the middle of our cold winter, but we are getting a little warmth and sunshine from the smile of Yong Joon. Yeah, it's indeed 'one fine spring day' in our hearts :)

What is he toasting to??
love him in this bright yellow, or any other color @@
My gosh, is he picking a ring already?!

Hehe handsome prince, I think you need a bigger bunch than this to propose :)

Hehe, but if you are Yong Joon ssi, 10000 girls will say 'yes' even if you are holding an orange :)
lucky lucky gal!

Good luck, dear!
posted by BYJGallery/Shianco, thanks!