Happy 39th Birthday!

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

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

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

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

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

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 ...

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

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

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!

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

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

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!

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 ....

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

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