Asian Stars Shine at Music Festival in Seoul (09-22-2007)
Top stars from around Asia are kicking off the Chuseok holiday with
exciting pop performances at the 4th Asia Song Festival, Saturday
evening.
Thousands of fans are expected to flock to the Sangam World Cup Stadium
to see Taiwan's F4 and A-mei, China's Vicky Zhao, Hong Kong's Gigi
Leung, Japan's Kuraki Mai, Thailand's Golf & Mike, Philippines' Barbie
Almalbis, Vietnam's Lam Truong, and Indonesia's Peter Pan. Korean pop
stars TVXQ, Lee Hyo-ri, Super Junior and SG Wannabe will also perform.
With 13 performers from nine countries, this is the largest Asia Song
Festival since it started in 2004.
``This year is going to be bigger than ever, as many countries around
the region will broadcast the concert. With the theme 'We Are One,' we
believe the Korean artists are not just for Korea and the same with
Japanese artists and Asian artists. We believe culture is for exchange.
We hope through the festival, this would be fulfilled,'' said Shin Hyun-taek,
chairman of Korea Foundation for International Cultural Exchange (KOFICE).
KOFICE is the organizer of the Asia Song Festival.
Many young female fans are eagerly awaiting the performances of TVXQ,
who have lately focused their activities in Japan; Super Junior, who
have released a new album; and F4 or JKVK, a Taiwanese pop group who
gained popularity through the drama ``'Meteor Garden.'' Composed of
Jerry Yan, Vanness Wu, Ken Chu and Vic Zhou, F4 are also in Seoul to
promote tourism to Taiwan.
Many of the festival's performers expressed their interest in Korean pop
culture. Zhou said he liked the music of Korean singer Rain, while Leung
said she admired actresses Lee Young-ae and Jun Ji-hyun.
Golf & Mike, who said they enjoyed watching dramas such as ``Goong'' and
``Full House,'' will perform their upcoming Korean single ``Fight for
You'' for the first time during the festival.
``We love Korea. We like the language and music style. I hope Koreans
will like our songs,'' Golf said. The duo will also perform their hit
Japanese song ``Fever,'' which was originally recorded with J-pop
heartthrob Tomohisa Yamashita.
Lam Truong, who was given the nickname the Kim Jong-kuk (a Korean R&B
singer) of Vietnam, will also perform his version of ``Forever,'' a song
originally recorded by Ahn Jae-wook.
Since the Asia Song Festival will feature performances in Chinese,
English, Korean, Japanese and other languages, KOFICE believes this is a
good opportunity to promote different cultures.
``Language cannot be a barrier when it comes to music. I believe Asians
have something in common when it comes to music. So we would like to
take this opportunity to share the music,'' KOFICE's Shin said.
An indication of the growing cultural exchanges, many of the festival's
performers have collaborated with stars from other Asian countries.
Wu, who collaborated with Korean singer Kang-Ta, said: ``To be able to
work in so many different places is a blessing and to have this mixture
of cultures, and learning and understanding of new cultures is another
gift that everybody should receive,'' he said.
Zhao, who appeared in a Hong Kong-produced movie ``So Close'' with
Korean actor Song Seung-heon, said she would like to work with other
Korean stars such as Choi Min-sik.
F4's Chu said he is in negotiations to star in an independent film to be
directed by a Filipino director and shot in the Philippines. ``Right
now, we are still dealing with the contract. It is an independent movie
that will be shot in the Philippines. We might finish it by end of
October. If the contract goes well, I will do it,'' he said.
Aside from the Asian stars, the festival also gives a chance for new
performers to show their talent. Korean pop group FT Island and Thai
singer James will receive New Singer awards, while new girl group Kara
and singer Whee will also perform.
Organizers said there was a huge demand for tickets for the Asia Song
Festival, not just in Korea but also overseas. Around 3,000 foreigners
had applied to get free tickets to the event. The organizers' server
crashed due to the rush to download the free tickets.
*****
F4 join forces in Tokyo
Yesterday, F4 appeared in Tokyo as Taiwan tourism bureau ambassador
recommending Taiwan food. They were carefil not to mention the word
"country". F4 event on 28 Oct was rumoured to be their last event
together b4 disbanding. Jerry's manager Zheng Mao Liang & F3's manager
Zhi Xiang Li denied he rumour and expressed the 4 of them will hold
concert in Japan next year.
At Japan press conference yesterday, as usual Jerry walked out 1st,
followed by Vanness, Ken & Zai. As the theme for the press conference
was Taiwan delicacies, therefore the 4 of them recommended some
distinctive taiwan snacks. Jerry introduced Xiao Long Bao, he usually
enjoys eating snacks and xiao long bao is his favourite. Vanness
recommended Dan4 Zai noodles, he feels that it's similar to Japan's
ramen. Ken mentioned Cai4 Pu eggs, and Zai praised bubble tea for being
Taiwan's specialty.
Zai displayed his cold jokes once again. When Vanness said he likes
eating Dan Zai noodles, Zai said to the Japan media: "Do u know why
Vanness likes to eat Dan Zai Mian?" Coz i'm ZaiZai, there's "zai" in Dan
Zai Mian.
Source: 21.09.2007 http://udn.com/
Credit to michi of OnlyF4
*****
Ken Chu, Vanness Wu flies to Japan to attract Taiwan tourism
Being Taiwan tourism ambassador for Japan & Korea region, F4 wiill hold
a press conference in Tokyo & Korea next few days.
Yesterday, Vanness Wu & Ken Chu almost couldn't make it to Japan due to
typhoon. Their manager Zhi Xiang Li said they have "risked" their lives,
to do their part for Taiwan tourism.
Jerry had arrived 2 days ago, and Zai arrived the day b4. But Jerry's
make up artise & hair stylist departed from Taiwan yesterday. The crew
self consoled by saying: "Don't worry, typhoon will be over soon, won't
be affected."
Vanness & Ken took the Cathay 12:50 flight to Japan, together with 5
crew. Upon reaching the airport, they worried that flights will be
cancelled. Chih said: "Heard that the direction of the typhoon is the
same as the route to Japan, so we were racing with the typhoon."
Yesterday, as weather reports stated that typhoon rain will be heavier,
many Japan flights were cancelled. Although Vanness & Ken's flight
successfully took off, there was a slight turbulence. They felt relieved
after the safety belt alert lights went off.
Chih expressed, as their Japan schedule is very tight, Japan crew were
nervous, worried that Vann & Ken might delay in reaching Japan, thus
affecting the work schedule. Last night, they tried on their outfits for
Tokyo press conference.
Early September, Jerry faced the strong typhoon during White Tower
promotion. This time, he arrived in Japan just b4 the typhooon. His
manager Zheng Mao Liang said: he was fate with typhoon. Until today, his
make up artise & hair stylist have not reach Japan. Zheng Mao Liang
explained, Japan side has prepared make up artise & hair stylist too, it
won't be a problem.
When Zai arrived Japan on 17th, there were almost 300 fans waiting at
the airport. Even Zai himself was shocked as his flight schedule was a
secret. 2 hours after reaching Japan, Zai tried on at least 30 sets of
outfits. After that, it was a photo shoot for official fanclub
merchandise. Following, a series of interviews with Japan media,
regarding his new album which will be released in October. The new album
will be released in Japan too, but he won't have time to visit Japan
again for promotions as he is busy filming Taiwan tourism drama.
F4 will be holding a fans session on 28 Oct. As the event is said to be
favouring Japan & Korea fans, Jerry, Zai & Vanness have plans to hold
another fans session to meet up with Taiwan fans. Zai's is said to be
held on 27th, and different from previous dinner session, this time he
will be singing his new song from his new album
Source: 19.09.2007 http://udn.com/
credit: Michi@OnlyF4. com
*****
"Wish to see you in Taiwan" F4 international firmer
October 28 at National Taiwan University Gymnasium reappearance
The Ministry of the Tourism Bureau in April following the holding of the
"Wish to see you in Taiwan" F4 firmer international success in
attracting 5,000 fans to come to Taiwan, Japan and South Korea, have
optional set on October 28 (Sunday) at 3 points comprehensive Taiwan
University Gymnasium again decide Game 2 , estimates the event will
attract more than 5,000 fans in Taiwan, Taiwan will bring at least
another 100 million yuan more than the NT tourism revenue.
The Tourism Bureau said that since the invitation of F4 as spokesmen
announced after markets in Japan and South Korea led to great effect
,3-Japan and South Korea to Taiwan in August, compared with growth of
4.6% last year, 29,502 more people, an increase tourist foreign exchange
earnings forecast of NT 10.14 billion; Taiwan's tourism advertising
"Wish to see you in Taiwan" has been in Japan, South Korea and flights
in Japan, Korea International Airlines flight line players, it is also
aimed at 9-11 in Taiwan tourists to South Korea and India have launched
F4 design notebook, passport packs donated goods limited peripheral
activities. To publicize these events, also attended the F4 on September
20 in Tokyo GRAND HYATT HOTEL, and September 21 in Seoul SHILLA HOTEL
held a press conference, a series of publicity and marketing plan,
further spurring visitors to Taiwan.
For some fans complained that Taiwan did not decide in the international
invitation list B, the Tourism Bureau said that the activities of
international tourist publicity scheme B ring, as interludes decide
impression DVD player and Taiwan, Korean introduce Taiwan tourism
resource, primarily for the purpose of promotion of Taiwan tourism, and
use government budget, to attract more foreign tourists to come to
Taiwan to consumption, increasing foreign exchange and economic growth
targets. Apart from South Korea and visitors spent more than 20,000 yuan
NT tour to Taiwan to participate in activities, but also paid a visit
around the scenery and experience in the food and caring for domestic
aviation industry, the hotel sector and the related tourist industry has
brought remarkable opportunities that contribute to domestic economic
growth. Remember to repay its fans, expected to be broadcast via the
Internet decide whole way, please come to the scene could not
participate in the experience with fans through the Internet F4 charm.
Kindly Credit KensWorld for the translation.
*****
Wish to see you in Taiwan - F4 fan event
28Oct See u @ NTU SPORTS CENTER
Following Wish to see you in Taiwan F4 event success in attracting 5000
Japan & Korea fans to Taiwan in April, Taiwan Tourism Bureau has
organised a 2nd fan event on 28 April, Sunday 3pm, at NTU Sports Centre.
The event is estimated to attract more than 5000 fans to Taiwan &
bringing in over NT1 million in tourist revenue.
Taiwan tourism board expressed, ever since announced F4 as endorser for
Taiwan tourism, they have received great response from Japan & Korea
market. Compared to the same period last year, Japanese & Korean tourist
have increased 4.6% (29,502 people) from March to August this year.
Wish to see you in Taiwan promotional commercial is broadcast in Japan &
Korea, as well as international flights to Japan & Korea.
During September - November, Taiwan tourism board has plans to release
notebook with F4 picture printed on it, passport covers and limited
edition merchandises for the event. F4 will attend press conference on
20 Sept @ Tokyo Grand Hyatt Hotel as well as Seoul SHILLA HOTEL on 21
Sept as well as other series of promotions to further attract Taiwan
tourism.
Regarding the issue of Taiwan fans complaining not being able to attend
the event, Taiwan tourism board expressed that the event is part of
Taiwan tourism project. At the event, dvd videos of Taiwan will be
shown, introducing tourist attractions in Japanese & Korean. The
objective is to promote Taiwan tourism, using government's budget to
increase foreign spending & bringing economic growth.
For those who are unable to attend the event, details for online viewing
of the whole event will be announced soon.
Source:
http://www.taiwan.net.tw/lan/cht/news_event/news_content.asp?id=12995
*****
It's final: Iza Calzado to star with F4's Ken Zhu!
Since last February, the group of Ignite Media, Inc. has approached me
to look for the appropriate lead for their very first solo venture as
producers in "Batanes: Sa Dulo Ng Walang Hanggan." Of course we all know
Ignite Media, Inc. to be in charge of big co-productions such as
"Exodus," "Kadin" and the latest Bong Revival filmfest entry "Resiklo."
Now, they're coming to their own through this new project to be directed
by Adolf Alix and Dave Hukom. What's special about this project is that
it will star F4's Ken Zhu and our very own Pinay Hollywood actress Iza
Calzado.
Written by Arah Badayos, Iza plays the role of Pam, the Manila girl who
went to Batanes because she fell in love with an Ivatan. Ken Zhu
portrays the role of a Taiwanese fisherman who has a mysterious affair
with a girl he met in Batanes.
Among those who are tapped to play important roles in the movie are
Glaiza de Castro, Sid Lucero and Coco Martin.
Before the role finally got to Iza, a lot of other actresses were
considered. Judy Ann Santos, who was the top choice was the one who
referred the role to Iza when they were doing "Ouija." Juday couldn't
not give a green light to the project since she is occupied till the
first quarter of next year. Iza, on the other hand, had to fix and
dabble through the Hollywood stint and the shooting of "Desperadas. "
"Thanks to Roselle Monteverde, Manny Valera, Joel Lamangan and GMA Films
for fixing Iza's schedule," says Iza's dad and manager Lito Calzado. "Iza
really wanted to do the role and she is doubly excited since the movie
is due for Asian release, too."
i SPEAK:
Congratulations to Iza Calzado for bagging the role of Pam in the
Batanes flick. It's true that other actresses were considered for the
role particularly Jennylyn Mercado and Angelica Panganibanâ? but this is
when Iza's Hollywood schedules got in the way. But the producers thru
their executive producer Arleen Cuevas said that, "those are all
exploratory talks and Iza was our main consideration all along."
Ken Zhu arrives on September 26.
Sunday September 16, 2007 Philippines
Source: Manila Bulletin Online
*****
Heartthrobs of Asian pop gather in Seoul
The Asia Song Festival, the largest pop music event in Asia, will open
on Sept. 22 at the Seoul World Cup Stadium in Sangnam-dong, western
Seoul.
The fourth annual festival organized by the Korea Foundation for
International Culture Exchange, a private organization to promote
cultural exchanges and cooperation among Asian countries, will feature
14 stars from nine Asian countries.
Among the foreign artists set to fly to Seoul for the festival are: Thai
pop stars Golf & Mike, a male duo who also enjoy popularity in Japan;
Lam Truong, one of the hottest Vietnamese singers, known for his
Vietnamese version of Ahn Jae-wook`s "Forever"; and Peter Pan, a
six-piece pop rock band from Indonesia.
JVKV, a popular Taiwanese boy band formerly known as F4, will also
appear on the stage during the show as special guests. For many Korean
fans the festival could be the last chance to see them sing together on
a live stage. The group announced last month that they will officially
disband in October with a concert in Taipei.
The 2002 World Cup venue will heat up even more as pop divas who
represent each of their countries, and pitch their talent and charm
against each other on the stage. Vicki Zhao, one of China`s most popular
actresses and singers who won "Favorite Artist -- Mainland China" at the
2006 MTV Asia Awards, will showcase her versatility.
Also joining the "divas` party" will be Barbie Almalbiz, a songwriter
and folk rock singer from the Philippines; A-mei, the "pride of
Taiwan,"; Gigi Leung, a veteran Hong Kong actress and singer; and J-pop
star Kuraki Mai. Representing Korea will be sexy A-list pop star Lee
Hyo-ri.
In the past eight years, Japanese star Mai has released seven albums, 26
singles and several DVDs. Five of her albums reached number one in
Japan`s Oricon charts. She has also released an English-language album
in the United States under the name of Mai K.
Korean boy bands such as SG Wannabe, Super Junior and TVXQ (Dong Bang
Shin Ki) will also join the event. Since the festival`s inception in
2004 TVXQ, whose popularity extends across Asia, have participated in
the festival every year.
"Our dream is to bring together all the Asian neighbors to enjoy an
exciting blend of culture," Shin Hyun-taek, chairperson of KOFICE, said
in an interview. "The festival will unite all the participants as one
through songs and dance," he added.
Tickets for the festival are free and can be downloaded from the Korea
Foundation for International Culture Exchange (KOFICE) website (www.kofice.or.kr).
For more information, call (02) 3153-2552 or visit asf.kofice.or.kr
By Lee Yong-sung
*****
Ken, Vic and Vanness will have Japanese drama in Jan
There is news about Zai yesterday about a charity function, we only
translated those parts related to F3 / Ken.
Zai said: Simply ask Jerry, Ken and Vanness donated NT600 million each
then can build the house (for charity) easily.
Zai is now very busy for "Wish to see you again". In addition to his new
drama with Director Cai, he will also have a Japanese drama with F3 Ken
and Vanness in January. Besides, he will go to Japan and Korea with F3
for press conference on Sept 18 to 24. After the function on Oct 28, he
will have fan meeting for Taiwan fans also.
Zai is getting thinner and thinner, the media mocked him: it is because
you are standing next to Ken, thus makes you look so thin." Zai did not
deny and laughed: "This is you who talked like this, don't write as I
said like this."
Ken and Vanness manger replied: They make donation for aided child
bearing already. They donated 10% of their income for charity.
translated by simple@kenforever. com
Thanks & credit to simple of kenforever
*****
F4 to reunite next month, favouring Japan & Korea fans again
Jerry Yan consoles Taiwan fans
F4 join forces to promote Taiwan's tourism. Early this April, F4 Wish To
See U In Taiwan event is only open to international fans, causing Taiwan
fans disappointment. On 28 Oct, there will be another fans event
exclusively for Japan & Korea fans.
Fortunately, Jerry "consoles" fans by having a fans session the day
before, and is open to all nationalities.
Following last year's Forever 4 2006 concert, F4 join forces once again
this year as Taiwan's tourism ambassador. Estimatedly bringing in NT$42
million. They went to Japan & Korea in March to promote Taiwan's
tourism, and held an international fans gathering in April. Fans can get
a chance to meet their idols when they spend over NT$30,000 worth of
tour package. However, it is only open to Japan & Korea fans. Taiwan
fans are unable to attend.
Taiwan toursim bureau will hold a 2nd fans event on 28 Oct, 3pm.
Similarly, fans will have to join tour packages in order to attend.
Every fan who attends the event will receive a limited edition F4 Tshirt,
in addtion there will be lucky draws and prizes includes F4 figurines &
3D2N Taiwan package.
Taiwan tourism bureau estimates that Japan & Korea fan club tour package
will bring in close to NT$1 million, and can bring into Taiwan total of
almost NT$42 million in revenue. Despite their good intentions, they
have received complaints from local fans that Taiwan tourism bureau are
favouring overseas fans. Spokesperson for Taiwan tourism bureau
explained that F4 is the ambassador for Japan & Korea region. The
purpose is to attract more Japanese & Koreans to Taiwan for sightseeing,
and not for F4 fans session.
Jerry's manager Zheng Mao Liang said: "We have received phonecallls from
fans complaint abt it, and we are currently communicating with Taiwan
tourism bureau." Prior to the event, Jerry will have a fans session to
meet up with fans from various countries. F3's manager Zhi Xiang Li said
they are ambassadors for Japan & Korea region, but the company will try
their best to help Taiwan & other international fans.
Source: 12.09.2007 Taiwan apple daily
Pls credit Michi@ OnlyF4 if u wish to post the above translation
elsewhere. Thanks!
*****
Ming Dao, Ken Chu fighting for more scenes.
Producer: Don't act if still quarrel
Ken Chu and Ming Dao To quarrel due to a China drama "Chiv, Sword, Laugh
(The Three Swordsmen)" . Yesterday producer Muxiaoguang could not help
saying : "To fight to the other side with the mainland actors, rather
than fighting inside closed doors themselves. Too narrow perspective,
this will make outsiders look as a joke!"
"Chiv, Sword, Laugh," moive version was filmed by Andy Lau, Lin
Ching-hsia and Xu Jin Jiang. The television version caused great
sensation even before shooting. The original three leading men were
Nicholas Tse, Ken Chu and Ming Dao. Tse later refused the drama due to
his wife Cecilia Cheung gave birth to their baby. Then the war between
Ken and Ming Dao staged. From the character, reward, circumstance to
facility eqipped with, all become life-and-death wars. Once it is heard
that producer Muxiaoguang is having "revolutionary sentiment" with Ken
due to Chuliuxiang. He said to Ming Dao's agent that : "I only support
Ken!" Then, there was news that Ming Dao has been kicked out from the
drama.
Yesterday Muxiaoguang attended the movie "Contract Lover" premiere in
Hong Kong, he sighed : "After I go to the mainland for filming, as long
as there is Taiwan actor/ actress, I must give them suites, assistants
and private business cars. But now if someone quarrel for whom earn 5000
more, whom has less car, I might simply change the roles into three
mainland actors at the end. "
Muxiaoguang said, he spent money on the production. He paid reasonably
for actor/ actress. The paid for 3 leading role in "Chiv, Sword, Laugh"
are almost the same. Now, he needs one leading actor and wants to choose
amongst Dylan Guo, Wallace Huo or Show Luo.
Ken's manager Mr. Chih also agreed to "muzzle external" theory. He is
very confident about Ken's overseas advantages, absolutely the top
priority of the production team. "I can take less money ah, but who is
ranking ahead, we know it very well." He even denied the discords with
Ming Dao's agent. And Ming Dao's agent trusts the sincerity of
Muxiaoguang and doesn't care about this "saliva war". The other agent
Xiang said that Ming Dao is popular in the mainland has become the fact.
Translated by Simple of kenforever
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