Solely Seoul

타이밍 by 강풀

2012-01-13T07:56:00.001+08:00

Ok. Weird. Confusing. Brilliant.

That was the order in which I can describe the emotions I felt as I progressed from book 1 to 3.

If you have not read any of Kangfull's manhwa, you must remember to read this series FIRST BEFORE you read 어게인 . Simply because this is the prequel to 어게인.

The 6 characters remain the same: The medium teacher, the angel of death detective, the time-stopper student, the heterochromic-eyed girl , the time-turner ajosshi and the boy who looks like Zhe Xuan.

Please keep all 3 books with you all the time because of you're like me, you probably would need to flip back and forth to make sense of what's ACTUALLY going on. But as soon as you understand, everything is clear.

This is not one of my favorite series. But it's essential for progressing to 어게인.

Timing, 26 years & Apt

2011-12-24T08:44:00.001+08:00

With these 3 series, my Kangfull Manhwa collection is complete. Happy Happy!

Seoul Winter 2011 (Hungry?)

2011-12-22T16:10:00.007+08:00

When in doubt, SERTU!

We brought along the Sertu Soap this time so that we can use the utensils in the pantry of our Guesthouse. You can get this soap(bar or liquid type) from any Malay shops in Woodlands, geylang etc..

Gam Ro Dang Restaurant (감로당)
Today we went to Gam Ro Dang (Pronounced as "Gam-No-Dang") just behind the Gyeongbuk Palace. The Vegetarian restaurant is housed in an actual bungalow, with its own herb garden. It's 2-storey high, and delicious temple food is served. "Eh? Temple food?" you might say. yes, Temple Food but it's visually pleasing and delightful to eat (Might be a tad expensive at 23000 won per person for a 9-course meal).

But for Muslim tourists, I think it's the best way to taste authentic Korean food.

Just remember to call or email the manager at least 2-3 days in advance, as they would need time to prepare the courses.

Looks like Daejanggeum food

By subway, take to Gyeongbukgung Station exit 3. Walk pass by Dunkin Donut till you see Starbucks on your right. Turn right after Starbucks, walk about 1 minute into the alley and you will see the sign (in the photo above)

By Taxi, ask the driver to enter the address into the GPS, stop outside Starbucks and walk into the alley as mentioned above.

Seoul Winter 2011- First Day

2011-12-20T07:08:00.007+08:00

Brrrrrr.....ccccoooolllldddd... The blast of icy cold winter wind hit our faces as soon as we stepped out into Incheon's welcoming greet. But we were prepared this time, becuase we heard that winter will be extremely cold this year in Korea. No snow seen yet though.
I lost my handy-dandy 2012 Cath Kidston diary with all the important stuff at Dongdaemun. THAT was the highlight of my first day.
We also found out that our favourite Mr Kebab Store has closed down ㅜ.ㅜ so Hongdae-ites can only get their Kebab from the Other Kebab-on-wheels Turkish ajosshi on Fri, Sat& Sunday evenings at the entrance of the Hongdae Station.

Here are snapshots from Day 1:	The Korean Immigration actually provide reading glasses to aid in filling up forms
A lifesaver in this sub-zero winter night (and day)	New boots for Iman and Me 55000 won each
My chocolate brownie chilling outside Mister Donut – literally and figuratively “chilling”	Street stalls in abundance. Kalau tak kuat iman, habis semua kita makan!
I used to pity those mascots underneath the unbearably hot costumes. But in this winter weather, I wish I could be in those warm,silly costumes	My sons-in-law

이웃 사람

2011-12-03T11:11:00.002+08:00

Another brilliant manhwa by Kangfull. This one reminds me of the movie I watched many years back 'The Bystanders', starring Eric.

This manhwa is bleak but like all other Kangfull manhwa, he focuses not on the evil that people do but on the goodness of humanity that comes out of such situation.

As the title reads, It's about a group of neighbors who started out being individualistic in minding their own lives. When faced with extreme danger however, Kangfull tells us how they put their differences aside and banded together to bring back peace into their neighborhood.

The manhwa is full of suspense. You won't stop flipping the pages till the end. Read it (after you've read all the other earlier manhwas I've blogged about of course).

Again

2011-11-30T14:37:00.002+08:00

If anybody has read this manhwa by Kangfull, please contact me. I would love to discuss this manhwa. Mainly because I am very much confused about the difference between an Again and a Messenger apart from the part that the former is kinda bad and the latter saves people.

I had to read Book One 'again' to fill in the brain gap.

당신의 모든 순간

2011-10-11T21:08:00.003+08:00

I finished reading this series of 4 manhwas. It's so good, made me cry and cry after I read the last sentence . I won't spoil it for you . Read it!

Seoul Trip March 2011 (Hungry anyone?)

2011-10-03T20:04:00.004+08:00

- Part 2: In search of Halal Food

HALAL MEALS in SEOUL
6 years ago when I stayed in Seoul for 1 month, I starved. I lost weight (which is a good thing, by the way), and I suffered if not for pre-packed rice and seaweed. So, this time, I came well prepared. With a husband and 2 kids to feed (one of them is constantly hungry), I had to choose a guesthouse with a kitchenette. After a trip to Grand Mart for cooking utensils, it was easy to plan the next meal.

While looking for the nearest departmental store/supermart, I met these nice couple selling street food, or what the Koreans call “김떡순” (Kim Ddok Soon”, a short for “Kimbap” “Ddokpokki” and “Soondae”, very common street food.

The nearest Departmental store accessible by the subway is “Grand Mart” at Sinchon Station (1 station away). You can get your groceries, breakfast, utensils, etc etc. Please remember to bring shopping carrier because they will charge you for the plastic bags.

Halal Restaurants in Seoul.
I know that there is a lot of info about “halal” restaurants in Seoul – usually located in Itaewon. While most of them probably serve halal meat etc, you need to be aware that some of these “halal” restaurants serve wine and beer in their menu. You can browse through the list of halal restaurants in their websites .You can find a list of halal restaurants here . I have not visited them all, so, please let me know your dining experience.

We went to Usmania Restaurant in Itaewon on the day we arrived. The restaurant is located on the 3rd floor, along the lane, right turn from Hamilton Hotel. 6 years ago when I was here, the staff were very kind to me and gave me lots of side helpings because I was a poor foreign student. This time I came with the family in tow. Our bill came up to about 68000 won (!).

Instead of being excited about lunch, Iman was more excited about the JYJ CD she just bought on the way to the restaurant

100% Vegetarian Restaurants

After researching a list of Vegetarian Restaurants, I shortlisted 2 that are most likely REALLY 100% vegetarian. We went to Hangwachae Restaurant at Insadong. If you can’t find it, please seek out the English speaking Information Center staff at the entrance of Insadong street. The owner is a very nice lady, whose husband is a vegetarian. All ingredient used do not contain ANY animal products at all, and yet, they’re so delicious. We’re able to taste real Korean cooking at last!

Click on photo to enlarge map

Here you can find a list of Vegetarian restaurants around Seoul. Please be selective and read the descriptions carefully. Some might not be 100% vegetarian.

Kebab Shop
One saving grace has to be this Turkish Kebab shop smack in the middle of Hongdae. They serve delicious average costing kebabs and HALAL! (This is not to be confused with another kebab seller that operates from a push cart at the mouth of Hongik Station)(dec update: The Mr Kebab store has closed. Not sure abt the Itaewon branch. If anyone knows, please email me. I will update when I go to Itaewon on 23 Dec)

Click on photo to enlarge map

What to bring from Singapore - a Muslim Ajumma's Guide

If you’re very particular about your food , you will suffer…..seriously. You can’t cook asam pedas in the Guesthouse lah! But if you are Ok with simple food, you will survive.

Things to bring from Singapore:

1. Instant noodles.
2. Chili Ikan Bilis Flakes – get from NTUC -$3 per bottle. This is a life saver for those who can’t live without chili
3. Can tuna & sardines – whatever type you prefer.
4. Nutella spread – if you have kids.

Things you can buy from Supermarket (* Don’t buy from 24-hour provision shops – they’re a bit ex)
1. Nembi pot (4500 – 5000 won)
2. Lock & Lock Lunch Box – cheaper in Seoul than in Singapore
3. Korean spoon & chopstick set (1500 won)
4. Salad – all kinds of salad leaves…., cucumber, fruits
5. Packed pre-cooked rice 4000 won for pack of 6
6. Seaweed
7. Eggs and Mayo
8. Sliced Bread (from shelf not from the bakery)

I usually prepare a lunch box for the day trips and come back to the guesthouse for dinner, unless we decided to eat in a restaurant. Seoul is such a nice place, than we can practically eat our packed lunch anywhere. Drinks are available everywhere and if you’re not too fussy, the vending machines offer a nice variety of soft drinks, mineral water, and hot drinks.

Halal Restaurant in Incheon

We were blessed to have kind friends in Incheon. I have known Mr & Mr Kim from the time when I went to Seoul in 2006. We weren’t that close then, but over the 5 years, we’ve became closer. Her Daughter Nayeon is like a sister/daughter to me. Mrs Kim came to Singapore with her elder sister, whom I call “eldest sis” in June 2010.

They brought us to the Arabesque KMF-certified Halal Turkish restaurant. The food’s REALLY good. REALLY. I’m not sure if she’s the owner of this restaurant, but she’s married to a Korean and speaks like a Korean. We also met 3 Malaysian students who’ve studied and worked in Incheon for the past 5 years.

----- To be continued -----

Seoul Trip March 2011

2011-07-22T00:38:00.004+08:00

The hubby, kids and I finally flew 6 hours from Singapore to Incheon Airport, and a 45 min Bus ride later, we arrived at Hongdae area in Seoul. The 9 days 8 Night trip was a Free & Easy (literally backpacking) trip around Seoul with a night in Incheon.

Hongdae Guesthouse
홍대게스트하우스
#308 Paradisetel – 3rd floor, 159-6 Dongkyo-dong, Mapu-go, Seoul , Korea
Tel: 02-336-0003 / Mobile: 017-291-0599
Email: hongdaeguesthouse@yahoo.com
Website: http://www.hongdaeguesthouse.com/index.php

View of Hongdae Guesthouse at Paradisetel. From Top left, clockwise:
Loft Stairs, Loft bedroom with 2 single mattresses, Main Level with queen bed and single bed & pull-out bed, Bathroom & washing machine, View from 19th floor window, Kitchenette, Water Dispenser & Computer corner.

We stayed at the Hongdae Guesthouse at Paradisetel Building, just 2 minutes away from Exit 1 of Hongdae Subway line 2. The Airport Limousine Bus No 6002 also stops just across the road from the building.

Hongdae Guesthouse is a very good location to stay in , especially if you’re travelling with children. The building is easily accessible via subway, bus and just within walking distances from nearby cafes, restaurants etc.

Mary, the proprietor of Hongdae Guesthouse was very friendly and welcoming. She will give you a brief introduction of Hongdae area and its attractions.

Facilities inside the room are ideal for our family of 4 :

The kitchenette enabled me to prepare simple packed lunch, as we’re unable to eat at the restaurants while we’re out . On the first day, I went to Grand Mart at Sinchon Subway (1 stop away from Hongdae) Station to purchase the necessary stuff like Ramyeon Pot, cutlery sets, bowls and perishables.

Remember to bring your own shopping bags, as Supermarkets and stores in Korea do not provide you with plastic bags for free.

The washing machine in the bathroom is such a welcome piece for us. So, if you stay here, you need not bring too many clothes. The room comes with a drying rack, and iron (upon request).

FREE WI-FI & PC !!!! Bring your iPad along….One setback: No mini-fridge. But then again, with the weather in the range of minus 4deg to 6 deg, we hardly needed any refrigeration at all.

Hongdae & It’s Surrounding area

This Map was given to us by Mary. It’s a wonderful map that shows the different art places around the university. I made some changes to the map to highlight some of our favourite spots in Hongdae. It’s a large file, please click on the image for larger pix.

Coffee Prince Café:

Apparently, there were 2. Café No 1 is the original café where the drama , Coffee Prince was shot in. And no, I did not go in for a drink. Just got a couple of shots. The night was a freezing minus 4 degrees at 8pm. The kids were warmly snuggling up in their beds, surfing on the iPad and iPod, while the hubby and I went along Dabok-gil to visit the Café, and proceeded to walk down the smaller lane past the Café.

The Coffee Prince Café No 2 is located about 30 minutes walk away from Café No 1, Along Parking Street. You will see Luxury Ho Bar, and then, Hello Kitty Café (see below), and then, walk up to see Coffee Prince Café No 2. It’s smaller than Café No 1.

Hello Kitty Café:

I think a lot of people know about this Café liao. It’s so cute and pink. Just being there make you want to eat everything, even the pink truck parked outside.

Trompe l’oeil Museum

Hubby has been talking about this Museum since we arrived in Seoul. It’s a really cool place – the Trick Eye Museum is a must for anyone who goes to Hongdae. Dream High’s Kim Soo Hyun’s Guerilla Interview took place in this Museum too.

Hubby spoke to the Museum owner, who informed him that it was opened after 3 years of careful planning. The Museum is located at B2 of Seokyo Plaza. Turn left at Tony Moly Store’s corner. There is a signboard just before you reach the building.

Quaints Shops along Hongdae back streets:

Jaesun Shop – Website: http://www.jaesun-shop.com/

I bought this 45 000won bag handmade by artist Yoo Jae-Sun who specialises in cat images. She also has a gallery at the Trompe l’oeil Museum. It’s called the Cat Museum – cat in silhouettes, sculptures, cloth prints, etc can be seen here.

The shop I bought this bag from is located about 5 minutes walk from Coffee Prince Café No 1. I love this shop!!! This is exactly how I want Solely Fabrique Shoppe to look like if and when I get the chance to open one. Brilliant!

Cath Kidston (!!!!)

I almost passed out when I saw this shop. 'Nuff said. If you're a Kidston Maniac like me, you'll know what I mean. It's about 5 min walk from Hongdae Station. GO!!

Hongik Flea Market / Free Market

This Flea Market opens only on Saturday afternoons. Usually crowded with stalls selling handmade goods from trinkets to T-shirts. Cash only though. We went mad here , so many things to buy, so little time. To me, the most amazing thing is the energy that you get from all those present. Sellers selling, buyers buying, buskers busking at the playground , just like Mugyeol did in Mary Stayed Out All night ( snow has melted by this time).

To be continued.....

Shoppe re-Opened

2011-06-23T18:09:00.003+08:00

Finally able to open the Solely Fabrique Shoppe with a few new products! Phew! Took me long enough to finish the embroidery work after completing all other orders.

Double Graduation

2011-06-16T21:39:00.008+08:00

The daughter and I completed our respective levels happily and successfully. As she scored 11 marks more than me, I concede that my daughter is smarter than me. heh heh....

Yoon Ssem with Class of Advanced 3 (Apr-June 2011)

Eom Hye Jin Ssem with Class of Advanced 2 (Jan-Apr 2011)

Anyway, we have decided to skip this coming term, and rejoin in Oct 2011 after the Ramadan and Syawal months.

우리 예쁜 선생님

2010-11-21T14:12:00.003+08:00

My Teacher at Singapore Korean School, 명윤희 선생님.

It's been about 2 months of twice weekly lessons at SKS. So far, it has been a rewarding experience. I love the way the lessons are conducted, which kept the students constantly on our toes... because we're constantly called upon to either read passages or memorize sentences/expressions, and of course the 1-min unprepared speeches and the vocabulary tests at the beginning of each lesson.

I am not good at blogging about lessons and things learnt in each one, unlike Equinox. I'll just say that I am enjoying myself in class, even though some of the grammatical stuff can be quite hard to understand or remember.

Anyway, I just learnt that the Soju bottle contains exactly 7 glasses of soju. Why 7? Because it's a "marketing strategy" revealed my teacher. You see, when drinking with friends, you need to pour each other a glass of soju, right? So, if you keep pouring a glass for each other, the last person would be left with no more soju to pour. So, he'd need to order ONE more...and so on and so forth. Because 7 cannot be divided into 2,3,4,5 or 6....So, who wins in the end? Yup. Marketing strategy. Err...that's Korean Trivia for you.

Korean Product Fair at NTUC

2010-11-21T13:43:00.006+08:00

NTUC is having the Korean product fair from now till 1 Dec 2010. Lots of food stuff that you normally wouldn't cook on your own, or able to purchase off the pushcarts like the ones on Korean streets. Anyway, these are some of the products that I could snap secretly with my handphone. They are NOT HALAL by the way, hor...

Korean Eggs

2010-10-11T19:00:00.004+08:00

These eggs from Korea under the brand name (신선란) are available at NTUC and Cold Storage. I bought a packet of 8 eggs last night for $2.65 at NTUC Marsiling MRT branch. They're slightly larger than the usual Singapore or Malaysian eggs that we get here.

At Marsiling MRT NTUC, you can get them at the usual eggs sections, although blog reader netbus77 informed me that they're placed at the chilled section elsewhere. Where did you get yours?

I haven't eaten them yet. Will do so soon and let you know how it taste like.
I know...I know...eggs are eggsa, but these eggs' parents speak Korean, ate Korean food, and probably can do the Bonamana.

Maiden Advance 1 class at SKS

2010-10-07T17:52:00.006+08:00

I attended my first class at SKS on 5.10.2010. I was so nervous because it's an unfamiliar surrounding for me. After being a student at NUS Ext since 2004, coming to a different environment was something that I, being an "S" , am not really comfortable with.

All students were gathered at the school hall at 7pm for a brief hello etc (Just like at Kyung Hee University's start of programme) by the teachers. There were like.....at least 200 students from Elementary to Advance level. Most of the students were young adults in their 20's.

My class consists of about perhaps 20 students. Apparently I was the only tranfer student in this class. Again, I am the only ajumma in the class of youngies. Here's what I think about my first day experience at SKS.

The programme is more focused on speech and listening vs reading and writing. The latter 2 are used as a tool to aid the former 2. I like the fact that everyone gets the chance to speak, and that at every lesson, students must take turns to practice free-talking for 1 min.

Lots of homework . Had to memorise like 30 vocabs by next lesson (which is tonight).

I am starting to wonder if my brain can process this much information in such a short period of time. But then again, I have committed myself to attending this programme , and am determined to complete my Korean Language Education till the end.

So, Fighting!

The Gift....

2009-10-21T16:59:00.006+08:00

FINALLY....The Gift is in my hands. Opening the box really feels like opening a gift from Park Hyo Shin..... omg...omg...

There're only 6 songs in this album - I was kinda surprised because I have been waiting for 3 years for this album to come out. Well, we'd just have to wait for the next Gift......

The feel of this album is like his 5th album "The Breeze of Sea", except that in The Gift, he sounds more matured, while "The Breeze" he sounded more mellow and soft.

The single 사랑한 후에 is lovely of course.....after listening to it online over and over again and all the teaser trailers and finally the full MV. Of course.

I also like the 4th Track 이상하다. I call this kind of song my "afternoon tea music".

Buy it.....or perhaps wait for the (I hope) "The Gift Set" with all the Gift Instalments. In the meantime, my ears are stuck to my ipod.

옥수수를 찾아 헤매다.

2009-09-04T12:02:00.002+08:00

I need Korean corn/maize so badly that I am salivating as I write this.
I can still remember the taste of those corns, ripely steamed by Eun Sook's mom.
I can also remember the taste of those mini corns that Ja bought for me 2 years ago.

Called almost all of the korean supermarkets in Singapore - all of them said that the corn's too expensive and thus, they do not import them.

Dang.

Anyone out there going to Korea this week and back next week? Please buy me a couple of these delicious, starchy, hot corns.

General Hospital 2 종합병원 2

2009-08-17T09:08:00.008+08:00

General Hospital 2? Got General Hospital 1 meh?

Do I think that this is a good drama ? Yes.
Do I think this is an entertaining drama? Not really.
Compared to the other Hospital dramas, it this better? Um....yes and no.

Yes, because the Doctors and patients are the main deal in this drama , not just a background story like in New Heart and Cain and Abel and Cloud Staircase.

No, because, somehow, I don't get the excitement like in most Korean dramas. It's kinda laid back. Perhaps that's the way it's intended to be. I dunno.

But this drama is the only one that reminded me of my days working as a Medical Social Worker at a Tertiary Hospital in the West and the Specialised Hospital in Hougang. My 11 years of working with House Officers (the"Aini, need me to complete any forms?" lot), Medical Officers (the "Aini, this case got financial problem, can help or not?" lot) and the Consultants (the "Aini, how come this patient still not discharged?" lot) . Brings back good memories of working with the wonderful nurses in the wards and the clinics. They are the ones who know the patients the best - the ones who made OUR jobs that much more pleasant and easier.

Anyway, back to the drama. As usual, you can expect good acting from Kim Jung Eun, funny acting from Cha Yae Hyun , and kinda robotic acting from Ryoo jin (Ok, ok...I am being unkind here. There are a few parts where he was kinda good ... too bad his character is not as developed as I would have liked it).

I think the thing that sets this drama apart from other Hospital dramas is that the people behind this drama took more time researching the deeper issues in the lives of doctors and patients. I saw more emotions in this drama where they portray relationships between Drs and Patients , and also focuses more on the fact that these doctors actually have feelings too.....

Romance is there - but repressed....argh...Ryoo Jin is a perfect Cheesecake wrapped in Chocolate Brownie coating. I am biased lah. I have always liked men who're repressed and quiet- just waiting for the time to ooze out all his love and affection....

The Gist

The lives of first year Residents. I am not sure how the Korean Medical system is . Perhaps they are equivalent to M.Os? Each episode looks at different encounters with patient, medical dilemmas that made the doctors start to question their principles and ethics.

I especially like the episode where the Doctors were in dilemma about the liver transplant case - reminded me of my time being in the Liver Transplant team - counselling patients and the family, especially about the financial aspect of the very expensive transplant (then), and the aftercare of the pateint.

I give it 3 popcorns. You can give it a miss if you don't like hospital stories (like my hubby) or watch it online.

The Official Website

The MV - Kim Bum Soo's song - Dr Baek and Dr Jung's Love theme

Boys Over Flowers 꽃보다 남자

2009-08-17T08:45:00.004+08:00

If you have not heard of this drama or the name Goo Jun Pyo, I have just one question for you:
WHERE HAVE YOU BEEN?

The MOST talked about drama since Goong in my opinion. And the most interesting, colourful, romantic version of Hana Yori Dango. The chemistry between Lee Min Ho and Goo Hye Sun is so electrifying that it made Jun Pyo's hair more wavy by the day...

It took me 6 months before I finally decided to blog about it. Too much hype, too much permed hair and I wanted the hype to die out before I write my review. So, 6 months later, the hype is still there , thanks to Channel U's sslllooooowwww airing of the drama - like on weekends only.

I dun think I need to write a synopsis at all right? I mean EVERYONE who love Korean Dramas or anything Korean would know these good looking people in this page, and the name Goo Jun Pyo and Geum Jandi is spoken so often, that my mother would think that it's a new Korean Kitchen product.

The only thing that I feel kinda unsatisfied about is the fact that they spent too little time on Kim Joon.... sigh.

Anyway, I give this drama 4 popcorns for being the best version of Hana Yori Dango.

The Official Website

Cain And Abel 카인과 아벨

2009-08-17T07:36:00.005+08:00

Remember "Time Between Wolf and Dog?" If you like that, you'll like this drama. It's kinda heavy with all the fighting scenes, but with repressed romance in the hospital setting like in New Heart. I have never quite liked So ji Sub since I last saw him in "Sorry, I Love you". Perhaps because he's too buff and too "violent", I never did get to see the softer side of him in most of his movies and dramas since he came out of the Army.

And then, came this drama. My friends have been tryign to get me to watch it for the longest timme, while it was on air in Korea, and when it's finished its run. But only a couple of weeks ago, did I manage to completely watched the drama. And whoa.....3 letters: 서.지.섭.

The only thing I know about Cain and Abel was that one brother is always trying to kill the other. Not much of a storyline if you ask me. But this drama ventured into other themes of forgiveness, unconditional love, and of course, fate......like the red thread of life. You how I just love it when the chocolate brownie secretly continues to faithfully love the girl.....sigh....

The Gist:

Dr Lee Cho In and Dr Lee Seon Woo - both Neurosurgeons in a prestigious hospital run by their father, who, unfortunately was in a coma after a brain aneurysm. now their mother took over the running of the hospital.

Both brothers love each other , and both loved the same woman, Seo Yeon. But when Seon Woo disappeared for 7 years after he left for USA to further his studies, Seo Yeon fell for the charming, kind-hearted and Optimist Cho In.

When Seo Yeon finally returned to Korea, he thought he could continue with Seo Yeon where they left off 7 years ago. But seeing that Seo Yeon had fallen for and accepted Cho In's proposal, he started to harbour hatred towards Cho In.

When Cho In was sent to observe an important neurosurgical procedure in China, he met a defected North Korean tour guide, Yeong Ji. I won't tell you these parts, coz it would spoil the pleasure of watching the drama yourself. But suffice to say that Yeong Ji was absolutely captivated by Cho In as I was..ha ha.

But, you know lah, scheming here and scheming there, one thing led to another, we found Cho In in the middle of the desert, dying after a shot in the head (which of course missed his brain by few millimeter....) and suffering from amnesia (LOL...of course!!!).

And the rest...you've got to watch it yourself.

WARNING : Please DO NOT hate Shin Hyun Joon too much. He's just a damn good actor who happens to have performed marvellously as the evil Seon Woo.

WARNING: Please DO NOT take your eyes off Cho In and Yeong Ji when they're having a meal in the dimly lit hospital cafeteria - coz you might miss the 2 second kiss.....ah....what a kiss....actually it was just a "peck" on the lips but I have NEVER seen such a sweet and romantic-goose-bumps-inducing- kiss.

So Ji Sub : Epitome of cuteness - even in bowl-hairstyle. I love whoever dressed him in this drama. He even looked good in surgical garb.

Han Ji Min : I remember her as the good lady doctor in Dae Janggeum. She's a cross between Geum Jandi and Eun Joo in Que Sera Sera. Kind, sweet, optimist...with poor luck.

4.5 popcorns for me . Buy the drama and watch it annually.

The Official Website

The MV - Spoiler - but I love this song by Jang Hye Jin (Always loved her)

The other MV - Spoiler too. This one is by Howl

and this MV by VOS

Singapore Comics

2009-08-15T15:53:00.006+08:00

I was at the Singapore Games, Toys and Comic Convention with my 14-year old son, Qory. We're like the first 100 people to enter the convention hall at 11am. And the moment we entered, my son said "Bye...see you around" and off he went on his own exploring the labyrinth of booths packed with toys, Wii, Guitar Heros, star trek, star wars stuff etc etc.

It was fun and tiring - I suppose I have to concede that walking around the convention hall for 2 hours is no joke at my age! Ha Ha.

And then, I came across a wee booth, with a single guy sitting behind a display of 4 comic books. Hmmm Singapore comics...interesting....

And I bought the first volume of Troy Chin's The Resident Tourist and Loti. The Resident Tourist is entertaining, reflective, a good read while I walk down memory lane - of the old Singapore that I remembered as a teenager, the sights and sounds that are no longer there.... the Author told me that it's an autobiography - The story of a young man who's been studying and living in USA, coming back home to be near his family, and to start life anew in good ol' Singapore. Ahem....sounds like a National Day sorta mini-drama. Actually.....yeah....maybe I should send a copy to Mediacorp.....for next year's NDP telemovie .

I have yet to read Loti.. I just got home, and in between traffic light stops, I was reading the first comic - cause I could not put it down at all.

The comics are available at just 3 places in Singapore: Kinokuniya, Ani-Play (at Sunshine Plaza) and G&B Comics at Rochor Centre).

Check out his Website...it's nice and you get to read the comics here too..... But I would prefer to purchase the real thing cause it's worth every dollar.

Can't wait to get my hands on the next 2 volumes...

Harin Mart 할인 마트

2009-08-12T10:24:00.007+08:00

I went to this Warehouse yesterday with Ja. Armed with no expectations at all, I was pleasantly greeted with a curious smile by a Korean Lady staff who was busy packing goods for delivery. Another male staff courteously bowed to my "안녕하세요".

After explaining to her that Mr Young told me I could come to buy stuff, she politely told me that the place is haphazardly stacked to the brims, and that it would be easier if I told her what I wanted.

After going about the place for a few minutes, I told her that I needed sauce for making kimchi, some Korean melons (which I love so much) and onigiri seaweed. Even though the purchase was below $20, she gave me free Korean green pumpkin (애호박) and an extra melon.

Overall, it was not a supermarket lah. I actually felt bad intruding into their already cramped space, and when they were so busy packing their delivery orders.

Will I go there again? maybe.
Will I order from them online? Yes definitely - if I have lots of stuff to order. Their online site is comprehensive.

Nicholas Teo- 张栋梁

2009-08-08T13:40:00.003+08:00

The Moment Of Silence (Commemorate Edition)CD+DVD

I bought this set this morning. Nice packaging, lots of photo cards and mini photo cards as well. I dun know what to do with them, perhaps if you want them, please email me, and I will gladly give them to you.

It's a good CD, songs are nice, and his voice is as good as always.

I dun have any fave right now. Perhaps after a few more listenings, I might update this blog.

Here are the songs in this CD:

CD
01. Sempurna (完美) Perfection
02. 沉默的瞬間 The Moment of Silence
03. 低調 Low Profile
04. 說你也一樣愛著我 Say You Love Me
05. 就是愛 This is Love
06. 我們都有錯 We were wrong
07. 男人不壞 Not A Bad Guy
08. 不要再聽他寫的歌了 Don't Listen to His Song
09. 愛你勝過自己 Love You More
10. 幸福下一站 Next Stop Happiness
11. 平靜曲 Silent song

DVD
01. 沉默的瞬間
02. 說你也一樣愛著我
03. 低調
04. 愛你勝過自己
05. 「沉默的瞬間」不沉默幕後花絮

Korean Intermediate Level 1's Last Day of Lesson

2009-08-07T23:50:00.001+08:00

Class ended tonight after 4 months of lessons. I must say that this was the most relaxed class I have ever attended. Not because if was easy. but I guess it was because I took it slow and did not push myself too much to do! do!do! But instead, I did what i could and just enjoyed the lessons as they progressed.

Tonight, the young ladies in the class prepared a surprise birthday celebration for 김 선생님. It was nice and fun, with cake and all.

A couple of the girls will be going for the 2nd Summer exchange programme at Kyung Hee University in September. I am excited for them.

I will continue to study on my own while waiting for the next level's class to start after the Fasting month. In the meantime, back to self-study and drama watching....

Korean Things for Sale

2009-07-11T09:09:00.014+08:00

Below, you will find interesting stuff brought in directly from Korea, when my Korean Tutor Jenny Lee 선생님 went to her hometown to visit her parents.Please feel free to browse through the items. If you are interested to buy, please contact her directly for the transactions:

Arnold Palmer Frilly Umbrella Price=~~SGD42.00~~ SGD30.00	Arnold Palmer Cute Umbrella Price=~~SGD42.00~~ SGD30.00 Colours Available: Red(1) Black(2)Cream(1)	Keyboard Stickers Price: ~~SGD 6.00~~ SGD10.00
Spoon & Chopstic Set Price: SGD 10.00	Big Bang T-Shirt Price: ~~SGD 48.00~~ SGD 35.00 Sizes available: M (2), L(1), XL(1)	Big Bang Hooded Jumper Price: ~~SGD 81.00~~ SGD 75.00 Sizes available: S(2) M(1) Also available in T-shirt version: Price: ~~SGD 42.00~~ SGD 30.00 Sizes available: S (2), XS (2)
바보 Manhwa Set (Vol 1 & 2) by Kangfull Price per set: ~~SGD 40.00~~ SGD 37.00	~~그내를 사랑합니다 Manhwa Set~~ SOLD (Vol 1 ,2&3) by Kangfull Price per set: ~~SGD 46.00~~ SGD 44.00	꽃보다 남자 (Boys Over Flowers) Manhwa Set (Vol 1-20) Price: ~~SGD 233.00~~SGD 200.00
꽃보다 남자 Original OST (Korean version) Free postcards included. Free Kim Jong Kook latest Album Price: SGD 30.00	꽃보다 남자 Magazine (With stickers) Price: Price to be confirmed	For Purchasing Details and Transactions, Please contact Ms Jenny Lee at HP: 98713744

Heartbreak Library 그 남자의 책 198쪽

2009-07-07T17:19:00.003+08:00

Well, actually the title says" The Guy's Book, Page 198". But I guess that won't sound too nice as a title, right?

Anyway, Lee Dong Wook....wah long time never see you on the big screen lah. And finally, a good movie. And with my Eugene, some more!

They look so good together. Such nice sparks when they're together (I am biased of course...whenever Eugene in on tv/dvd/laptop, my screen always lights up!)

The Gist:
Eun Soo, fresh after a break-up with a twit of a boyfriend, immersed herself in her job as a librarian. Day in , day out..books books. Bored and lonely, until one day, she met (or rather attacked) Joon Oh who was caught tearing up pages 198 from books in her library. You see, Joon Oh didn't realise that there's such a thing as a "Photocopy Machine" in the library....

Intrigued by his reason for doing so, she decided to help him.

Joon Oh's girlfriend left him, you see. And all he had was a postcard with the words "Look up page 198". But he didn't know WHICH book. With so much left unsaid, and with no closure to his relationship, he NEEDED to find that book so that he could understand her feelings and the reasons for leaving him.

And together, they set out to find her.....and by doing so, she helped Joon Oh release himself from the pain that had incapacitated him for the past months.

But....this is a Korean drama....so, that's not the real reason, and that's not all.... Lee Dong Wook's portrayal of a man with so much unspoken pain was so poignant, that I found myself wanting to reach out across the screen and wipe his tears. Such a chocolate brownie....argh...

Anyway, Eugene was perfect, as usual. I don;t have to say anymore about her absolutely perfect portrayal of a lonely, single woman in this world full of undeserving, pathetic, twit of a double-faced, full-of-himself, good for nothing, two-timing men. Oh...no...I don't mean Lee Dong Wook's character. Chocolate brownies are perfect, you see.

I give this movie 3.5 popcorns for making me cry when Lee Dong Wook cried.

Watch it.

Official Website

Summer Whispers 여름, 속삭임

2009-07-07T16:28:00.004+08:00

Ah...I love this kind of movie. It's beautiful, calming and makes me think about the simple things in life.

It's good to be able to watch Lee Young Eun as a lead actress in this movie. She's so pretty and captivating in this movie. I don;t recall having watched Ha Suk Jin in any movies/dramas before...hmmm...doesn't his name remind you of a boarding house (하숙집) ㅋㅋ?

The Gist:
Yeong Jo, a graduate student, was asked to help a retiring professor organise his mount of books in bhis private library, so that he could donate them to various organisations after he retired. The job was supposed to take place during the 15 days when he was away visiting his son in the US.

Yoon Soo, the young owner of a flower/plant shop was asked by the same professor to nurse the latter's late wife's orchid collections back to health. Although Yoon Soo was good at what he does, he felt that he could have done better in other more respectable business. The professor thought otherwise.

During the 15 days of summer heat and rain, both Yeong Jo and Yoon Soo worked independantly, never meeting once, only communicated via scribbled notes and ones typed on an old typewriter (sigh....if you are too young to know what a typewriter look like, please click here).

Thanks to a cat names Dung Chi, they finally met.

Like all Korean movie of this nature, there's always a link between the two of them right from the start.

I give this movie 3 pop corns.

Watch it online.

敗犬女王 Queen of No Marriages

2009-06-29T21:49:00.007+08:00

Formerly known as "My Queen", this drama is another of Taiwan's better production with good cast and better directing. For those of you who think that this might be another version of Fated To Love You , you are wrong . Well. Sort of.

This drama has about 40 percent of the same cast as the Fated to Love You drama. Same lead, same mother, same colleagues etc. But this drama is more similar to the korean drama My Lovely Samsoon. Mid 30's woman in want of love, found herself suddenly pursued by a younger man. Ahem! I thought. How true, how true...... These things happen. What i like about this drama is Ethan Ruan and Cheryl Yang. Oh! They are so so good. For a moment there, my daughter and I thought that we were watching a Korean drama. So intense...

The Gist.

Shan Wu Shuang is 32 going on 33 very quickly. A success at work, a sorta failure when it comes to matters of the heart. After being left standing alone on the day of her wedding announcement 6 years ago, she buried herself with work, work and more work.

A chance meeting with Lu Ka Si (heh heh....actually Lucas pronounced in Hanyu Pinyin) changed her life forever. The 25-year old Med School dropout is searching for the meaning of life, to atone for something that was actually not his fault. You see, he was trying to find peace after his girlfriend drowned during a surfing accident, and he's having a hard time forgetting her and forgiving himself.

A meeting here, a bump there, badabing badabung, and they found themselves attracted to each other. Lucas, the Strawberry realised that underneath the thick shell of Wu Shuang, the turtle, she's actually quite vulnerable and nice.

One problem: The turtle is still in love with the Polar Bear (Wen Sheng Hao) who ditched her 6 years ago. And She thinks the Strawberry is just too young for her - 8 years! I mean , come on!

Like any good ~~Korean~~ Taiwan Drama , the love triangle dominates 2/3 of the drama. Umm...no one died, thought, which is good. Good cast, good looking other guy (Wen Sheng Hao), and just nice feel to the drama.

I give this drama 4 popcorns coz I still prefer Fated to Love You.

Watch it!

Official Website

Hanaro Mart

2009-06-24T19:18:00.004+08:00

Aini said as she entered the store : "안녕하세요."

Store 언니 said under her breath: "어머. 한국 사람인데?"

Aini: "아뇨. 한국어 학생이에요"

Store 언니: "어머 ... 세상에..."

Aini: "....um....."

Store 언니: "You are the first Malay to enter my shop! I am so happy!"

Heh heh...that was as good as it gets....when it comes to making an entrance, don't you think?

Anyway, she practically followed me around the store exclaiming how wonderful it is to have me there, and that I should tell all Malays in Singapore that it was OK to eat Korean food. She even brought in a Malay employee whose shop is next to hers, to prove to the latter that a Malay had come to buy Korean food from her shop. 어머 어 머...

The store 언니 was very friendly. She gave me a free apron (it's from a Brand 해찬들)

Thet have free delivery for purchases of over $40. If you want the list, email me. I can send the pdf file to you.

Speech Contest?

2009-06-21T01:10:00.004+08:00

Last night, during lesson, Kim 선생님 told us about the Speech Contest organised by Hannah Press in July 2009.

She encouraged us to take part in this contest to test our ability. I was thinking like "um..... 자신이 없는데....." . I remember attending the contest organised by the Singapore Korean School 2 years ago - where my classmate Equinox won the 1st prize. He was GOOD....there is no way I would reach his standard. Anyway, he's probably like 100 times better now , since he's been in Kyung Hee for the past 6 months, and is still studying there.

Anyway, my teacher practically "forced" us to prepare a 3-min speech by this coming Friday as part of our homework.

I went home and thought "what the heck! just give it a go lah". So I prepared a full A4 sized speech about my 1-month long experience in Seoul. Not sure if it's good enough to be submitted, but 자신 or no 자신, perhaps one should try anyway.

A long time coming....

2009-06-06T01:55:00.003+08:00

Hmmm... I have not been updating my blog for a while. Been busy lah, with the kids, and my sewing projects.

After a year of rest, I had enrolled into Intermediate Level 1 class at NUS. It's been a couple of months since class started. Was kinda rusty at first, but I guess I am Ok now.

Last week during lesson, we sang SS501's "I am Stupid" as warming up session. It was fun. Luckily it was a song that I know well, so it was enjoyable. I like my teacher, 김 선생님. She's kind and is very sensitive towards the students' learning pace.

My current class is OK, I guess . I was kinda worried at first ,about how I was gonna get along with the class - especially after the disastrous and disruptive classmates that I had during my last Level, 2 years ago. Although my current classmates comprise of young girls, they're look like they are hardworking and serious about learning the language.

Although I am enjoying myself in the class, I am considering hard now, whether I would want to resume after this class ends. I think since my return from Haj, I have changed, sorta... Not sure what I am going to do after the course ends in August. Maybe rest some more...argh...나이 많이 먹었다.

Devil Beside You 惡魔在身邊

2009-04-01T18:52:00.006+08:00

I know , I know, the photos look like they're from Why Why Love. That's because the 3 lead actors WERE from that drama. Except that this drama was like 2 years before the Why Why Love was shot.

I guess I was lucky to have watched Why Why Love BEFORE I watched this drama. Otherwise, I would have been put off watching any other Taiwan dramas. What's with all the snogging in almost every scene? I kept thinking "Whoa..... is snogging a favourite past-time for them?". I mean, in Korean dramas, even a peck on the cheek, or on the forehead is a big deal. What more SNOGGING!

I won't even go into the Gist of this drama, or the plot (what plot?). The script, the directing, the editing - oh, they are all oh so wrong! The only thing that kept me from returning this DVD to the videoshop was the chemistry between Rainie Yang and Mike He.

Hmm...Mike He...the epitome of Chocolate brownie- Cheesecake : Sinful, dangerous, but delicious. Need I say more?

Kingone Wang - I dunno if this was his first drama, but it looked it. He was kinda stiff, compared to his acting in Why Why Love. I won't mention the rest of the cast - it's not worth my typing effort.

I give this drama 1 pop corn - because of Mike He.
Don't watch this unless you're into snogging.

Official Website

ToGetHer 愛就宅一起

2009-03-24T16:14:00.006+08:00

I am currently watching this drama that airs concurrently in Taiwan and on Channel U. I heard that the rating is not too good for this drama. I don't know why that is so, especially with Rainie Yang and Jiro Wang and Especially with George Hu acting in this drama.

Since it's currently still airing, with about 7 more episodes to go, I can't quite review it yet. But I like the way the story unfolds at the moment. Some tender moments here and there.

The Gist:

Chen Mo Mo (aka Ah Zhai) lives only for one thing : To be reunited with her "Prince Casaba", an anime hero, whose words of wisdom about living life becomes Ah Zhai's guide. Ah Zhai lives with her spendthrift elder sister Chu Chu in a comfortable little house, left behind by their deceased parents. Due to financial difficulties, they have decided to rent out their parents' room to earn some money.

Mars (aka Dong Zi) is an idol-has-been. With shaky financial situation, he's forced to rent Ah Zhai's room, while his management company try to regain his popularity.

Incidentally, they are also classmates in the same university.

Same formula: Poor girl with pride and perseverance gained the respect of the charming idol as time goes by...and then some .

But what I like about this drama is the chemistry that Jiro and Rainie have between them. So pure and so heart-warming. And George Hu is so cute as a hunk with an 8-year-old brain. Hard to believe though. He looked absolutely charming even with a lollipop in his hand.

Update: May 2009 after watching last episode:

Hmm...I am so glad this drama only has 12 episodes. By episode 10 , I was losing steam watching this drama.

I was expecting Rainie to FINALLY change her hairstyle. But she didn't.

I was expecting George to finally get a brain after from the Wizard. But he didn't.

I was expecting a big bag, fireworks ending . But it didn't happen.

But I was happy to see that they end up ToGetHer...get the pun?

Only 2.5 popcorns from me.

Wait for the rerun on Channel U.

Why Why Love 換換愛

2009-03-05T17:56:00.004+08:00

Why oh Why is the title of this drama called Why Why Love?

After watching this drama in full, I am still asking "Why".

It's a pretty simple, feel-good kinda drama which would be a hit amongst teenagers. My 11-year old daughter said that it's funny and nice, and that the hero (Huo Da- Mike He) is handsome, and the girl (Jia Di - played by Rainie Yang) is pretty. Hmm...

The Gist:

Again hardworking poor girl, Tong Jia Di, who's born to a poor, terribly complicated family with a useless younger brother, and an equally useless uncle. It's funny how they all seem to think that Jia Di could get money for the family WHENEVER they need it.

Huo Yan, the elder son of a rich family, manager of the shoppng center chain, is the suave, quiet chocolate brownie, entangled ina love triangle with his younger brother, the rebellious Huo Da - cute, cheesecake, in search for the ONE who will fill in the void in his heart.

Which one would Jia Di fall for? Which one would tug at Jia Di's pure heart?

Much in the tradition of Korean dramas, this drama is well paced, well directed, and their acting's not too bad either. I can't believe how much Rainie Yang has grown since I saw her in Meteor Garden.

The last 3 episodes got me crying so hard at 3.30 am that I had a hard time opening my eyes the next morning. I have not had such a good cry in a loooong time.

Anyway, this drama gets a 4 pop corns for me. The 3 lead actress & actors are very watchable.

Link to Official Website.

Smiling Pasta 微笑Pasta

2009-03-04T20:01:00.005+08:00

Some say that this is the Taiwan version of "Full House".
Aini says "Nope! Far from it".

The GIST

Cheng Xiao Shi - a failure in love and believed that she's cursed with the "3-months only" relationship. After 17 boyfriends, she's finally gonna give up. But a chance bump and an accidental smack on the lips with hearthrob of an idol, singer He Cun, her life turned into a roller-coaster. A contract relationship seemed the only way to get rid of the annoying reporters, and a gangful of family members who're desperate to marry Xiao Shi off.

I am sorry to say that this drama is NOT a remake of Full House. Please.

Firstly, bad acting on the part of both lead actors - But when I realised that their day jobs are actually singers, I forgave them, and plauded their efforts. Nicholas Teo looked so much like Kim Jae Won, I am sure they're seperated at birth.

Secondly , directing and editing were bad too. Some parts where the guy blinked, one blink was like 5 seconds - just to close his eyes. I mean, what? I was kinda of lost at certain parts because the storyteller got lost along the way too. Which was kinda sad because I can see some silver lining behind the clouds when He Cun finally realised that he WAS in love with Xiao Shi. But the director/editor failed to maintain the momentum, and the moments were lost again in the endless "sibling rivalry" and " past love" themes.

This drama gets 2 pop corns for me. Watch it if you've REALY got nothing to do.

But I am thankful nonetheless, because after watching this drama, I discovered Nicholas Teo. Such a brilliant singer. I am officially a fan, and to think that he's just across the causeway-away.

Link to Official Website

Fated to Love You 命中注定我愛你

2009-03-04T19:44:00.003+08:00

The Video shop ajumma told me that this drama is good, and that she had personally watched it, and even BOUGHT this dvd for keeps. I trusted her , and yes, I thoroughly enjoyed watching this drama.

It felt so familiar, watching this drama. It was like watching a korean drama. Good directing, good acting, good-looking people and just such a warm drama - albeit looooonnnnnnggggg and kinda draggy towards the end. But it was GOOD.

The Gist :
Plain "Post-It" girl, Chen Xin Yi, apparently a common name, has never had any luck in the department of love. She's either bullied or made used of by men. On a cruise (that she's duped into going by her flirt of a BF), she "accidentally" went to bed with a super-duper rich Ji Cun Xi, who was on the cruise planning to propose to long-time sweetheart Anna.

Unfortunately, that one night stand led to Xin Yi being pregnant. To make story short, this drama is a journey of a couple who're pushed into a marriage of convenience.

But what made this drama worked was the clever pacing of the development of what I call, "Affection" and not "love" between the couple. There are a lot of good scenes with very good dialogues, and superb acting, especially on the main actress, Chen Qiao En. She looked so much like Soo Ae, not too pretty but enchanting. She's believable. She made me cry when she cried, she made my heart ache when she was yearning for her husband's affections.

Watch it!

I give this drama 4.5 pop corns.

Link to Official Website

Hana Yori Dango 1,2,& Final 花より男子

2009-03-03T20:01:00.005+08:00

The one that started the whole hullabaloo about boys and flowers and the whole F4 craze.

Although I felt that this is the weakest of all the 3 versions, I'd have to concede that they were right to make the drama short and concise - with all the juicy bits in all the right places.

Now, don't be confused with this version's Parts 1 & 2. If you've watched Meteor Garden 1 & 2 first, and are planning to watch this Japanese version, you'd be shockd to find out that Hana Yori Dango 1 & 2 is essentially Meteor Garden 1 + Episodes 1& 30 of Meteor Garden 2.

Uh huh......yup. I was shocked too, when I found out what a waste of time MG 2 was. But let's not digress...coz I have said my say in the other review.

Anyway, let's start with the Domyoji - He's kinda too feminine for my liking - I mean, he's supposed to be this leader of F4 right, supposed to be the potential head of a powerful conglomerate, and supposed to be this ccol guy, right. But Jun Matsumoto was too pretty. He was OK as part of Arashi, but when put next to Mikano (Mao Inoue) , I don't see the match there.

Perhaps that's the only complaint I have about this version. Apart from that, this drama also exudes warmth at certain parts (although far and few in between). The storyline is the same (pretty much), but the acting kinda lacks the umph that the Korean version has.

For the sake of completing the Boys Over Flowers trilogy, please take your time to watch this Japanese version. And for fans who're suckers for closure, Hana Yori Dango Final, the movie, sorta feeds our needs. Spoiler ahead: The setting of the movie starts in Vegas and ended with the fairy-tale-like marriage. I kinda like the movie - ridiculously like LOST & Survivors, but it was OK lah. For closure purposes. Watch it.

Link to Official Website

Meteor Garden 1 & 2 流星花園 1 & 2

2009-02-28T10:48:00.006+08:00

The Korean Drama 꽃보다 남자 has triggered a lot of interest in this Taiwanese drama and its Japanese original version. To be honest, I have heard about MG so much during its initial debut in 2001, that I lost all interest. It was like "boy-band-meets-poor-girl cliche" blah blah" I thought. BOY!! Did I have to swallow my words.....

For those novices in Taiwanese dramas like myself, let me share the pleasure I have had in watching this drama, albeit 8 years late.

F4 - nope, that's not a type of fighter plane. It's actually 4 bl***y rich guy who're the heirs to their respective conglomerates/businesses. Along with richness comes smugness, self-importance and the need for love.

San Chai - nope, that's not a type of vegetable. She's a tough, little poor girl, who studies in the same school with the F4s.

hmm..............

Actually, you can read about the drama from the many sites out there. What I wanted to share was my thoughts about the drama itself.

Did I enjoy this drama when compared with the Japanese version? Well, of course. Firstly, the Domyoji is so much more handsome here. Jerry Yan looked so good - ahem. And the way the story is weaved together is interesting, and more believable than the more -slap-stick, cutesy-mutesy Japanese version (sorry guys....I am gonna get lots of antis because of this).

Secondly, you know how you feel all warm inside when super touching and romantic scenes come out? Well, MG has lots of such scenes. My favourite is when San Chai was kicked out of her apartment, and had nowhere to go. Her phone was not on, and Ah Si kept calling her and leaving voice messages...." SanChai, you stupid woman...where are you", "San Chai, you bad woman.. I can't stand it anymore. Where are you?" "San Chai, San Chai..." and then, he suddenly appeared in front of you ....Aini *faints*.

Thirdly, although the other F3 can't really act to save their lives, I actually enjoyed watching them TRY.

So, if you're in love with the manga, and in love with the Korean version of this drama, you MUST watch this version.

Oh, and by the way, don't bother watching Meteor Garden 2. Apart from being such a waste of time (30 episodes!!!), it'll kill your patience. Just watch the first and last episode. Coz, the in-betweens are really justa waste of time. Trust me.

On Air 온 에어

2008-10-23T07:49:00.007+08:00

My 13 year old son watched this drama - in its entirety and came up with a very apt one line review of this drama: "Urgh....what a crappy ending".

Why did he say that, you might ask? Well, you gotta watch the whole drama too, don't you?

Kim Ha Neul and Park Yong Ha...kinda weird pairing. It's like watching Stained Glass and Winter Sonata ---- something doesn't click here....somehow.

Kim Ha Neul did not shine here. Neither did Park Yong Ha. The one that stole the drama in MY opinion was Song Yoon Ah 송윤아. I love her in Arang, and she was great here. She's feisty, temperamental, funny, boisterous and downright human.

Lee Bum Soo 이범수 as the agent was also believable, perfect and I would like to see him in more of such roles, rather than in slapstick comic roles that he's been given in the past.

But one thing good about this drama are all the cameo appearances of actors and actresses. Try to find them all...

The Gist

Actress Oh Seung Ah (Kim Ha Neul) was at the height of her popularity - she's such a snob that everyone hates her except her agent Jang Ki Jun (Lee Bum Soo), who absolutely adores her.

Lee Gyeong Min (Park Yong Ha), a PD , wanting to prove his worth and ability as a PD, had to work REALLY hard to get the star Screenwriter Seo Yung Eun on his side, and agree to use her scripts for is drama.

There is only one problem: Yung Eun absolutely HATES Seung Ah because of her snobbish attitude.

What followed was a series of quarrel here, shout there, "Action!" here and "CUT!" there. You get the gist...

Anyway, this drama had the promises of being a good show, giving us viewers glimpses of life behind those lights and cameras. But I felt that it lacked good sript and a plot.

I love Kim Ha Neul, but even she, can't keep this drama on air for too long.

I give this drama 2 pop corns. 'nuff said.

Cloud Staircase 구름 계단

2008-10-23T07:06:00.012+08:00

I am not sure if this was 한지혜 Han Ji Hye's come back drama. It's good to see her on the tube again after such a long break (and break up from Lee Donggun).

The cover photo of Cloud Staircase looks like Stairway to Heaven (Don't you think), and the title sounds somewhat similar too. So, the first thought that came to my mind was: Oh dear, someone's gonna have an incurable disease and DIE! But let's talk about the drama first before we go around killing characters off.

Shin Dong Wook 신동욱 - never seen him, never heard of him, but I thought he looked a tad like Evelyn. Too pretty lah. If it's not because of his voice, I'd probably think that he's kinda too petty to be a hero.

Lim Jeong Eun 임정은 got my attention as the loyal, suffering-in-silence, pillar of strength, love-forlorn other girl. I told my daughter that I liked her face. She's not beautiful or marvellously pretty. But she has a certain sweetness and charm. I hope hat she would one day get the chance to be the leading lady in a drama/film.

Kim Jung Hyun 김정현 - aigoo....ajuhsshi to the core.....need I say more?

The Gist

Choi Jong Soo (Shin Dong Wook) caught a glimpse of Yoon Jung Won (Han Ji Hye) on the last day of school. But a glimpse was all it took to embed her face inside his heart and mind. 7 years later, by chance they met again on an island where Jong Soo is now the island's "assistant doctor". With no paper qualifications nor practical experience, he performed an emergency op on Jung Won. Days after being together, they opened up their hearts to each other - but in silence.

Because.....in actual fact, Jung Won is already PRACTICALLY engaged to Dr Kim Do Hoon (Kim Jung Hyun ajuhsshi). Jung Won works as a marketing manager in her father's hospital, where Do Hoon is the star surgeon.

Jong Soo had spent years looking for his father, whose "abandoned" him for some unknown reason. When he finally found his pneumonia-stricken father, the latter was dead after being turned away by Drs in Jung Won's hospital because he was a vagrant.

Now, remember, there is a theme of vengeance here. I don't like it, but that's the way it is....... Jong Soo started working as a surgeon in that same hospital, after Jung Won's father offerred him the job for saving her life. Remember: Jong Soo = seek vengeance.

I don't want to write more, coz I want you to watch this if you :

1. Like Han Ji Hye
2. Like Pretty boy with manly voice
3. Miss Sterile Hospital Settings
4. Like Ajuhsshi in nice clothes
5. Got nothing better to watch

Anyway, I give this drama a 2.5 pop corn.
You be the judge.

Here In My Heart

2008-07-01T02:17:00.006+08:00

As he makes his way towards the Enlistment Reporting Centre today, I'll have all the songs embedded in my heart. It's like saying goodbye to a good friend, an 오빠.

When I got the album from Alison a few days after she returned from the Concert in Daegu (Read her review here), I did not automatically rip open the plastic film covering the CD. I did not immediately put the CD into my car CD player. I took my time to do so.

Why?

Because I know that this album would have to last me for the next 2 years. Just like in any parting, you'd want the last gift to be lasting. That's why it took me a few hours before I could actually muster the courage to listen to all the songs.

I told Alison that I had the impression that this album was rushed - perhaps because Kyung was too busy. That was why I was so pleasantly surprised with the beauty that's present in each and every one of the songs. Call me biased. But if you appreciate a good voice, beautiful lyrics and simple, yet mesmerising music, you'd love this album too.

It's a beautiful parting gift. I dare say that I like this album better than The Ballads - perhaps because the songs are soothing and pleasing to the ears, and they fed my longing for these new songs for the past 2 years.

My favourite is 어디에도. Simply because of the simple , sincere lyrics. I can totally identify with what's written , having been there, done that . I dun think he'll have the time to sing this song live. I will try to make an MV of it. T-R-Y.

Anyway, if you have not gotten your copy, visit Lilac Dreams to check out where you can puchase your very own album.

9 End 2 Outs 9회말 2아웃

2008-06-23T21:44:00.008+08:00

This is how much I love this drama :

I watched it twice back to back. 2 full days in a row.

Why do I love this drama?
1. There are no evil people in this drama.
2. There are no scheming people, with a past and a vengence.
3. The actors/actresses are beautiful. So beautiful - and I am also referring to the men.
4. I love the "Don't look too far for love" theory. So true, been there, done that.
5. Wonderful editing and directing. No need for me to press the FF button.
and on and on and on

Throughout the drama, I kept thinking to myself. Lee Jung Jin is so beautiful. I marvel at this God's creation (I hope he's not gone under the knife). He's so perfect - from his nose, to his uneven teeth, to his slit-eyes, and the hair, and he looked so good in anything he wears. Is there such a man in real life???????

The Gist
Think "When Harry Met Sally". They have heard this many times "Men and women can't be friends", and yet Hyeong Tae ( Lee Jung Jin 이정진)and Nan Hee (Soo-ae 수애)continued to remain friends because they can't bear to lose their 30-year old friendship. In fact Nan Hee broke up with her boyfriend when the Boyfriend asked her to choose between him and Hyeong Tae. Aw..... Gamdongi ya...

They shared an officetel , without the knowledge of their family or friends for fear of starting a rumour or any misunderstandin (refer to the above-mentioned theory)

Nan Hee , reaching 30 soon, started to get kinda worried that she might miss the train if she could not maintain her current relationship with a younger man, Jung Joo, an up and coming baseball star. Although Hyeong Tae did not approve of her relationship, he decided to support her nonetheless.

But after a year together, and due to the diff in age, Nan Hee decided that for Jung Joo's future and career, they should end their relationship. Hyeong Tae, of course provided the much needed shoulder for her to cry on.

Favourite scene.....Ah..FINALLY....

Throughout these 5 months of living together, Hyeong Tae suddenly realised that he could not live without Nan Hee. No, he simply couldn't breathe without her.

I mean:
He would rush home after work, while his colleagues would be out drinking.
He would be worried sick if Nan Hee returns home late.
He would know what Nan Hee needs even before she opens her mouth.
He would carry her to her room each time she falls asleep in front of the laptop.
He knows her bra size.
He knows what sanitary pads she uses.
He would come running whenever she calls.

What ensued were subtle glances, accidental brushing of fingers, momentary mesmerised looks, and on and on until one day they realised that they are just fooling themselves. They simply can't live without each other.

For their ability to maintain the constant warmth in my heart, I give them 5 pop corns.

If you are feeling blue, lost and lonely, watch this drama. You'll realise that perhaps the person whom you've been looking for is actually right there, next to you. I found mine in my best friend - after 6 years of platonic relationship. Until one day, I realised that I looked forward to seeing him everyday, and the day would not be complete if I did not hear his voice.

케 세라 세라 Que Sera Sera

2008-06-20T20:07:00.008+08:00

When I was just a little girl

I asked my mother, what will I be

Will I meet Eric, will I kiss him?

Here's what Mom said to me.

Que Sera Sera

Whatever will be will be

If it's Eric you're fated to meet,

Then, 키스 해라, 해라!

......That's why you see.....I can't be a songwriter. Kinda lame, I know. So, I'll write a review instead.

At first this drama was kinda slow to me. I was losing interest like 3rd episode onwards. But later, I became intrigued by Eric's performance. I know he's not a wonderful, dynamic actor - like many others. But there was something about his interpretation and performance a lonely guy in the midst of all the glamour and richness.

I felt his solitude whenever he sought solace in that small apartment of his. But at the same time, I know that being in that same building as Eun Joo gave him peace and filled his empty heart. Aw......

I told my friend earlier "Aiyo, this drama so boring leh...." but I have to retract that remark, Ja. This drama made me cry along with Eric, especially the later elevator scene.

The bubbles are kinda small. If you're interested in reading what I've written, click on the photo.
Watch this poignant scene here.

The Gist

Despite his reputation and "vocation" as a playboy, Kang Tae Joo's heart has never been touched by any woman until he met a nerdy, simple, naive, kind-hearted Han Eun Joo. They live in the same apartment, a few doors apart.

During one chance encounter in the apartment's elevator, Tae Joo sorta kissed her, sorta , kinda, trying to ive her the first kiss so that she won't "lose out"......sorta. But that first kiss was IT for her. She fell in love with him . Hopelessly, helplessly.

Tae Joo realising his mistake, tried to brush it off as nothing. But as they progressed to be friends and neighbours, Tae Joo slowly opened his heart up for her, albeit platonic only. But Eun Joo remained hurt that Tae Joo cold not accept her as a girlfriend.

Along came Jun Hyuk, a rich guy with a past. He's so suave, gentlemanly, too-good-to-be-true manager, who came along and wanted to mend Eun Joo's heart.

In the meantime, Tae Joo got a new project to be the "fake lover/fiance" of Jun Hyuk's employer's daughter. A rich girl who's used to getting what she wants. She needed him to stop her father from matchmaking her with slobs and useless bums who only eye for her inheritence.

Anyway, Tae Joo later realised that he was ACTUALLY in love with Eun Joo. DUH!!! But this and that happened (as in other korean dramas). And the star-crossed lovers had to undergo lots of heart-breaking situations, after situations. Too long to write here.

The ending? Ah...wonderful ending. Watch it!!!!

I give this drama 3.5 popcorns.

마지막 춤은 나와 함께 Save the Last Dance For Me

2008-06-18T19:17:00.006+08:00

I know this is an old drama. Have been wanting to watch it for the longest time, but only managed to watch it last night. I had a 10 hour marathon. I am groggy now, lack of sleep, lack of food, and plenty of exposure from Pre-New Heart- Ji Sung.

While watching this drama, images of other dramas kept popping up in my mind. There were the Winter Sonata moments (amnesia, lost love), the Lovers In Paris moments (Sibling rivalry, Vengeful corporate staff), the An Affair to Remember moments (Spoiler: Got knocked down- crippled-painting - recognised by guy- met girl 1 year later).

For all that this drama lacked, it gained by having Eugene and Ji Sung and Ryu Soo Yeong in the cast listing. I rarely did marathon these days (probably getting older....), but what kept me glued to the small portable iLuv DVD player was the chemistry between the leading girl and guy. I love the pension scenes, the carefree lives of these 2 young people. I love the heartaches of losing one's love , and realising that he has also lost all memories of their Love.

The Gist.

Eun Soo and her ailing father run a debt-ridden but lovely little pension in the country. They chanced upon an injured Hyun Woo one night, and took him in while he nursed his amnesia, and stole Eun Soo's heart. After exchanging their love vows, and exchanging of couple necklaces and pendants in an engagement ceremony, the father passed away peacefully.

In the meantime, Hyun Woo's family thought that he was dead. After living as Chang Ho for a year, he was discovered by a seemingly caring family friend, Tae Min, who had taken over as the heir of the rich and powerful Global Enterprise in Hyun Woo's absence.

Instead of bringing his back to his family. Tae Min orchestrated a kidnapping and an attempted murder on Hyun Woo. Amidst the struggle with his kidnappers, he got hit by a car. And EUREKA!!!! He got his memory back. But But But.......he seemed to have no memory of his past 1 year living with Eun Soo!!!!! Here comes Jun Sang all over again.

Eun Soo, not knowing where Chang Ho had gone to, decided that if they're fated to be together, they would meet again. And true enough, in the fashion of so many SBS dramas, they met as "Employer and Employee". To make the story short, Hyun Woo somehow with the help of some dejavu here, and a smile from Eugene there, fell helplessly in love with Eugene.

And then, came the parting again. The mandatory sea-side-parting scenes, the "I don't love you" lies etc.....

And THEN, came the "An Affair To Remember" moment. Oh! I love this moment. Whenever I watch this movie, I never fail to cry the moment Nikkie entered the apartment and saw Terry sitting down, not even greeting him, and then he went to the bedroom and saw the painting, and realised that she was left crippled after beign knockd down by a taxi on the way to eet him at the top of the Empire State Building on Valentine's Day......Ahhhh...Sigh..........

Sorry...back to the drama - Happy Ending , if you want to know lah.

Trivia: There is ACTUALLY a pension called 꿈꾸는 숲. Check it out here.

I give this drama 3 popcorns. Worth the watch.

Kimchi , Kimbap, Bibimbap and Aini

2008-04-07T16:45:00.003+08:00

Kimbap

Today, my Tutor came over to my house and taught me 3 "essential" Korean dishes. It was fun, exciting and rewarding - coz I now know how to make my very own Kimchi.

Bibimbap- That's my tutor Ms Jenny Lee

Went to Lotte Mart to get some ingredient. Then, we decided to buy some stuff from NTUC - cheaper ^^.

Kimchi

Took us about 2 hours to complete making all 3 dishes. Hmm....delicious.

Sisily 2km 시실리2km

2008-03-25T19:27:00.004+08:00

Or another name for it "To Catch A Virgin Ghost".

I know this is an old movie. But my Korean tutor has been lending me her DVDs lately and this is one of them. It's such a funny move - scary, funny and heartwarming. My kids and I love this movie so much, so I thought I should write a review of it so that you might also enjoy watching it.

Frankly speaking, I don't know any of the actors in this movie except for the old man and the 2 gangsters: Byeong Hee Bong (who's acted in so many dramas), Ahn Nae Sang (I last saw him in "Marathon Man") and Park Hyuk Kwon (I last saw him in "Time Between Dog and Wolf").

Anyway, the GIST:
A gangster ran away with a few diamonds belonging to a notorious gang leader. While on the run, his jeep was driven off the road when he tried to avoid hitting something black and crouching in front of the jeep.

Unhurt, he sought the help of a seemingly friendly group of villagers in a quiet village named Sisily. I said "Seemingly" because they're the eventual cause of all the mishaps that followed.

The gang leader, a knife-wielding "oppa" with a principle. When the villagers refused to reveal the gangster's whereabouts, the gang leader decided to camp in the villagers' huge house.

That night, while asleep, he was visited by a beautiful ghost in black. Not wanting to believe that he was afraid of any ghosts, he proceeded to enter the forested nearby area in pursuit of the gangster.

And like dejavu, he found himself face to face with the ghost in his dream.......... what's the connection between the ghost and the villagers? And where is the gangster hiding....or is he still alive......and where are the diamonds?

I give this movie 4.5 pop corns for it's wonderful editing which kept my kids and I on the edge of our seats for the next scenes.

Watch it!

KHU Summer 2006 Class Photo

2008-03-15T21:34:00.006+08:00

I FINALLY got this scanned into my computer. Can you spot me?

바보 (Fool) Seasons 1 & 2

2008-03-15T11:18:00.006+08:00

바보 tells a story of Ji Ho, who's just returned from USA after leaving Korea 10 years ago. Her journey back to her small hometown was full of anticipation and nostalgia. Old houses, old friends, familiar places, and familiar feelings.

However, her chance encounter with a strange kid when she arrived at the hometown, turned her life around.

Lee Sun Seng Nim told me, "Aini, when you read this, you must have a box of tissue with you". And a quarter into the book and I found myself reaching out for the box of NTUC tissue. Sniff

Kangfull is such a brilliant storyteller. He does not only capture the old neighbourhood scenes and the many different characters, he also captured the reality of existence of prejudice against those less fortunate or different.

I love this manhwa. They've made this into a movie by the same title starring Cha Tae Hyun and Ha Ji Won. From the looks of it, the film makers did a good job coz it looked exactly as how it did in the manhwa. I hope to watch it really soon. In the meantime...back to the manhwa.

순정만화 Season 2

2008-03-15T11:08:00.005+08:00

After reading Season 1 of this Manhwa, I got so hooked on it, and my kind Tutor, Lee Sun Seng Nim, got a friend to buy Season 2 and both seasons of 바보 (Fool) when he came to Singapore a week ago. I am reading both at the same time.

In Season 2, Kangfull tells us about how The ajosshi and Student's relationship developed into something more serious, just as Student's mother started to get to know the man whom her daughter is in love with. Interesting. Interesting.

I realised that after reading these manhwas, I have learnt a lot about how to use certain phrases and words in colloquial . I would encourag fellow students to read these or other Kangfull's manhwas coz they are simple to read, and the stories told are lovely.

Last November, this manhwa was made into a movie. I've had the chance to watch it recently. It was highly anticipated because of the popularity of the manhwa. I was not disappointed by what I saw. Although it was only about 1 hour 50 minutes, the movie captured the essence of the manhwa.

I love the interpretation of the 4 main characters, especially the student and the ajosshi. One of my all-time favourite actor, Yoo Ji Tae was perfectly casted. So was Kang-In.

Watch the movie. You'll love it as much as I did.

And By the way, just like in the Manhwa, Kangfull made a cameo appearance as the side-street seller ^^

29th February 2월 29일

2008-03-14T09:18:00.005+08:00

Wah L*u. This was one scary movie - at least in my opinion.

The kids were kept awake with my screaming! LOL. The kids usually have to sleep by 10pm, and that's when the hubby and would watch horror movies together - I dun watch horror movies alone. NO WAY!.

This movie made me wonder about the tollgate workers along the Malaysian North-South Highway, on which I travel every month to visit my in-laws in Malacca. Although I only drive during the day, I am sure it must've been kinda scary to work along the long dark stretch of quiet highway at night.

Anyway, I won't spoil it for you. Coz the climax of the movie is the part where you'd go "Ah....is that why? Alamak....really ah?"

Park Eun Hye was teamed up with his royal highness Im Ho from Dae Janggeum once again in this movie. Park Eun Hye was perfect for this movie. She brought us along with her on that scary roller coaster ride between reality and dream.

The Gist
The movie started on 28th February of the leap year. Ji Yeon, a tollgate worker, was on duty on the night of 28th, and went about her usual business until suddenly a blackout occured. Then, a car moved towards her booth and handed her a bloody toll ticket stub. From that moment on, she was haunted by an apparition who liked to dress up exactly like her.

On 29th February, she was again handed a bloody ticket stub, and on and on. But was it just a dream? Coz she seemed to be the only one who could see the apparition. While everyone around her thought her crazy, we're told of the real story behind the murders.

OK, let me just say this: I thought the movies scary bits were D**n scary. But the climax was like *&%$#@*, and I thought it was a damper. I mean , I love scary movies (but my hubby MUST sit next to me lah), and I was inda disappointed with the ending.

BUT having said that, Watch it.

I give this movie 3 pop corns for the first 3/4 of the movie.
I give this movie 1 pop corn for the ending.

BUt still....Watch it.

H.I.T 히트

2008-03-14T08:07:00.013+08:00

This drama was a HIT for me, pardon my corny pun. It was a HIT for the whole family. Good script and the cast's and director's aility to have a good laugh at their character's corny moments.

Another wonderful acting by Go Hyun Jung. I thoroughly enjoyed her in this drama. She was the perfect actress for this part. After watching her in Fox, What Are You Doing? and her pre-hiatus Spring Day, it was a refreshing change to see her in a combination of charaters from both previous dramas.

In this drama she's reunited with her co-star from Foxy , Son Hyun Joo - Funny ajosshi, and I love the way their characters interact with each other He provided good laugh.

Remember Ha Jung Woo from Time ? To be honest, I have not seen many of his dramas/movies. So, apart from Time, this was the second time I have seen him. My daughter and I agreed that he looked like a typical ajohsshi. Ha Ha, seriously...small eyes, not particularly good looking. Goofy, I should say. But his character was such a chocolate brownie, that I can't help but to think that he's cute. Favourite quotes which I hope would be as popular as those from Lovers In Paris:

Lt Cha, Do you have Change?
Lt Cha, Let me have the report NOW!

These were actually codes that he used in their secret workplace romance:

Change = How about a kiss?
Report= Let's eat.

LOL

Now about the drama, it's like a cross between CSI and Silence of The Lamb. The screenplay, the directing and the editing of the drama was well done, well enough to keep me up all night watching this drama - I have not done this in a while.

The bunch of detectives were a motley crew -

The very cute and good looking, with chiseled face and rosy lips: Jung Dong Jin
The veteran Choi Il Hwa
The brawny Ma Dong Suk
The scheming Kim Jung Tae

Oh..oh..oh...and Kim Jung Min was also in this drama. He has a small part to play but I liked his potrayal of a loyal friend who's secretly in love with his late-partner's girlfriend. Ah....so he's cool.

The Gist

Detective Cha Soo Gyung had a past - her boyfriend, a fellow detective, was killed by a serial murderer 14 years ago. She could not bring herself to shoot the murderer when she had the chance to. She also did not have the time to save her BF.

Prosecutor Kim Jae Yoon had a past - when he was 5, he was kidnapped by her nanny, who's actually having an affair with his father. He was kept in isolation for 5 days, and when he was finally released, he had also released all sense of trust in anyone else but himself.

Despite these, they ploughed on in life trying to find normalcy and in the process, found closure in each other.

After the success of a serial murder case, Detective Cha was tasked to head a team to investigate and solve violent murders - but in reality, she was just another token representative in a political affirmative action. Nonetheless, she survived the office politics thanks to her supportive superior and a team of less-than-perfect detectives.

And of course, there're the loose "changes" rolling on the floor, and a bit of "report" submissions here and a bit of the usual "Korean drama" parts there, as my 13 year old son puts it.

I give this drama a generous 5 pop corn. Good in entertainment value and a change from the usual K drama formula.

Dalja's Spring 달자의 봄

2008-03-03T14:27:00.008+08:00

This is a funny drama. I thoroughly enjoyed watching it despite the 22 episodes. Chae Rim was hilarious. She has not appeared in any drama for quite a while, and I thought this was a perfect come-back for her.

Lee Min Ki gave me a warm feeling each time he comes up on screen. The last time I saw him was in RRLY. And I really really like him in this drama as well. When he smiles or....

when he's brooding.... He looked so charming. Or have I been fooled by the character that he's playing? Well, that's why we women (married or single) watch Korean dramas. We like to imagine that such men ACTUALLY exist in real life.

I feel that this drama was well casted. Such superb actors like Lee Hye Young who played the cool (but with a warm heart and an emphatic brain) SunJu, and Gong Hyeong Jin who played the playboy-turned-monogamous SaeDo. And many others of course. Check out the drama for a treat and a laugh.

The Gist:

Oh Dal Ja , a 33 year old career woman , left too long on the shelf - not because she's unattractive, but because of her poor judge of character of men, and of course, a lack of self esteem in the love department.

She falls in love with men who pay a slight attention to her, or offer her kindness (like most of us hopeless women), and then, she breaks her heart when she fails to sustain their "love". Which led to a chance encounter with Gang Tae Bong, a seemingly useless bum who offers "fake lover" services to such women as Dal Ja.

A 1 month contract to be her lover turned out to be enough for both of them to secretly fall in love with each other. There seems to be only 1 problem:

She's 33. He's 27.

It's not a problem for Tae Bong, but the lack of self esteem on Dal Ja's part, and expected objections from the parents made their relationship more difficult than it ought to be.

What I liked about this drama, is the wonderful editing and timing, that helped to sustain my interest and kept my fingers off the fast forward button of the remote control. The colours of this drama reflected the much awaited appearance beautiful Spring season. I was reminded much of Spring Waltz for its warm and bright colours.

"오.달.자. 씨!" ㅋㅋㅋㅋㅋㅋㅋㅋ

Although many viewers would say that this drama has certain ingredients present in My Name is Kim Sam Soon, to me, Dal Ja's Spring spoke to many single, career women who have yet to meet their soul mate - be it a Chocolate brownie or a Cheesecake.

I felt that Dal Ja finally understood the meaning of 운명 (Destiny), at the end of the drama. Instead of fitting the men she met into her idea of Destiny, she finally learnt to let go and let Destiny bring her to him.

By the way, Coffee Prince's Waffle Kim Jae Wook and Eun Chan's replacement (the girl who speaks Japanese) also acted in this drama ^^.

4 pop corns for this drama.

New Heart 뉴하트

2008-02-28T15:21:00.021+08:00

Eun Sook told me during one of our long-distance phone calls ="Aini, you MUST watch 뉴하트...it's very nice..I love 은성!" So, watched I did. And I was HOOKED. On Eun Sung too...ha ha....

My pre-Korean-madness job was as a Medical Social Worker (MSW) in a tertiary hospital in Singapore. Incidentally, I had also worked as an MSW with the Cardiac & Cardiothorasic Surgery department - for about 4 years. So, listening to CABG and AMI etc... sounded so familiar to me. Thank goodness for that, coz this drama has no English Subs yet. Phew.

Ji Sung in his "ajumma" Hairstyle. Just like my Kyung a few years back. My favourite..

But I am not going to talk about warfarin or myocardial infarct. I am here to talk about Dr Lee Eun Sung, played wonderfully by Ji Sung. I am not particular a fan of his, but I was practically blown away by his performance as a poor orphan who wants to be a surgeon, against all odds.

Kim Min Jung on the other hand sort of grew on me. She started off as a cold as a pickled cucumber that's been left too lonf in the fridge, walled herself up so that she won't get hurt. But as she lets Eun Sung into her barricaded heart, she started to warm up. And I kinda like her in the end. Just like when she was in Fashion 70's.

Anyway, <>The Gist:

Simple: Hospital setting, Cardiothorasic Department. Lots of blood, lots of white coats, lots of love in the air.

Aw...what a cute couple...... Aw...what a serious looking prof.

Lee Eun Sung, a happy spirit, not a damper in sight, always has a rainbow above his head, and eyes full of twinkly stars...Hmmmm..... nope.... this kind of guy doesn't exist in real life...I know.

Nam Hye Suk, an uptight, closed, always defensive etc....basically the opposite of Eun Sung lah. They were both accepted as residents with CTS of Kwang Hee University Hospital. And along the way, Hye Suk slowly realised what a wonderful person Eun Sung is.

Some snippets of the other lives in this drama:

Prof Choi, the head of CTS who sacrificed his family life in order to save lives
The team of Medical Officers(MOs) and House Officers (HOs) who have no lives as well.
A team of back-stabbing Professors who decided that making money is more impt than saving lives.

What do I think about this drama as a whole?

Yup that's Lee Ji Hoon as an actor with a heart condition

To be honest, the drama reached it's peak at Episode 15-16, and then, started going downhill in terms of the plot etc. The last few episodes appeared to be a bit of "Let's throw in a pacemaker here, and how about a Tachycardia and while we're at it, a heart transplant won't be too bad, either..."

So, I believe that if we take away Lee Eun Sung's character and his pursuit of melting Hye Suk's heart, New Heart would be like a reality show set in a CTS department and ward.

So, why did Aini stay on and watch this drama beyond Episode 15? Because I want to see how Eun Sung and Hye Suk develop their love. But they sort of stopped developing when they FINALLY 드디오 locked lips. Argh! What took them so long???

And as Luck would have it, I was disappointed with the ending of this drama. There's a feeling of wanting, after I have completed the series. I would encourage you to watch this drama anyway, because it's interesting, and fun (at least thanks to Eun Sung).

I give this drama 3 pop corns.Don't buy the video, just rent it, or watch it online.

Now, here's something nice from the drama. Eun Sung sang this song, originally by Travel Sketch, and then, covered by Sung Si Kyung. It's a beautiful song, and I didn't even know that Ji Sung had such lovely singing song. The song is called 별이 진다네.

Sung Si Kyung's version & Ji Sung's version.Fast forward to 4.00 to watch Eun Sung sing

별이 진다네 - 성시경 (original artiste:여행스케치)
(Remake Album Track 2)

어제는 별이 졌다네
나의 가슴이 무너졌네
별은 그냥 별일뿐이야
모두들 내게 말하지만
오늘도 별이 진다네
아름다운 나의 별 하나
별이 지면 하늘도 슬퍼 이렇게
비만 내리는 거야

나의 가슴속에 젖어오는
그대 그리움만이
이 밤도 저 비 되어
나를 또 울리고
아름다웠던 우리
옛일을 생각해 보면
나의 애타는 사랑
돌아 올것 같은데

나의꿈은 사라져가고
슬픔만이 깊어 가는데
나의 별은 사라지고
어둠만이 짙어 가는데

King and I 왕과 나

2008-02-16T22:57:00.005+08:00

No silly, this is not a remake of Yul Brenner's classic movie. It's a love story. At least that's what I think this drama is about. But I don't care. Because one of the most talented actors in the world is acting in it:

Oh Man Suk or 만짱 as he's called by his fans.

To be honest, I have only watched the first 70 minutes of this drama ie episode 1. But it's loaded with promises of being a great drama. It's basically about Oh Man Suk's character as a eunuch (tsk..tsk...what a waste to castrate such a man.....) and his love for the Emperor's "future" concubine. (Tsk..tsk...what a waste again).

I can't wait to do the review when the drama ends its run in 2 months time. You can catch the drama on Veoh (sans English Subs, though) . All I could afford was 1 episode per day - too heavy for me lah, this drama - because it's in old-style Korean dialogue, and my half-past Korean isn't good enough to understand 100% - but still watch lor....bec of Man Jjang)

Till then, here's the MV from this drama (the MV got ang moh playing violin, one, ha ha):

순정 만화

2008-02-10T14:31:00.004+08:00

My Tutor introduced me to this manhwa so that I could practise my reading as well as get a hang of some of the words used in conversations.

What started as a homework ended up as a sort of obsession.

I LOVE THIS MANHWA!!!

I LOVE KANGFULL!! He's a genius.

Unfortunately my tutor only has the Part 1. I need to order the Part 2 from Korea.

Yesterday , I found out that it'll be made into a movie starring Yoo Jitae and Lee Yeon Hee , as the Ahjosshi Kim Yeon Woo and Han Soo Yeong. Chae Jung An and Choi Siwon will be the Hak Seng Kang Sook and Nuna Kwon Ha Kyeong.

I thought the casting is perfect. I don't know how it'll turn out, but I am sure with such a wonderful cast, and great story, nothing will go wrong. I hope to be the first non-Korean to review the movie when it screens. But in case you (like me) love Kangful, and wants to know about the manhwa, here's :

The Gist:
30 year old Kim Yeon Woo and 18-year old Han Soo Yeong live in the same apartment. He lives 2 floors up. They met every morning in the elevator. At first Yeon Woo did not create a good impression for himself in front of Soo Yeong. He wears the same old boring brown suit, and the same old blue tie, the same uncombed hairstyle and the silly expression on his face. Soo Yeong , however, appeared cute and pretty to Yeon Woo. They shared nothing in common except their tardiness. And they never talked to each other, until one morning.

Soo Yeong had forgotten to put on her blue school tie during one of her morning rushes. She suddenly approached Yeon Woon in the elevator: "Ajohshi, lend me your tie!!!". And the rest of the manhwa is filled with lots of secret glances, waiting by the elevator, at the bench near their apartment etc..and they fell in love.

One day, Soo Yeong's mother was alerted of a certain ahjosshi who's been seen talking to her daughter. And she went to investigate.........

If you can read in Korean, I would suggest that you get the manhwa. It's interesting and good for reading exercises like I had the chance to 1 month ago. It took me about 5 days to complete the whole manhwa.

The Best Romance 최강 로맨스

2008-02-06T09:54:00.000+08:00

Um...I am not sure what to say about this movie.

Lee Dong Wook has not been acting much these days, but this movie does not do much to advance his career as a big movie star, at least not in my opinion. His last movie, Arang was kinda good, in a dark sort-of-way. But this movie......ummm......

Hyun Young - I have seen her in several TV programmes, but never in a movie. She reminded me so much of Goldie Hawn, funny and cute, and pretty. But I wish I could see her act in a more serious movie/drama. There were some scenes which required her to shed her cutesy, girly persona, and she was kinda good. But then again, Hyun Young won't be Hyun Young without her shrilly voice and cute mannerism, I suppose. So..

The Gist

Police Detective Kang has a phobia - anything to do with sharp things would make him freeze. This did not go well with his job as a man of the law. He's gotten into lots of hot soup because if his phobia.

Ironically, during a chase with a suspect, he bumped into Reporter Choi, who was eating a stick of odeng. As luck would have it, the stick accidentally found its way into Kang's abdomen, and so begins the love-hate relationship between Choi and Kang (Thus the Title of this movie).

Choi and Kang were reunited again when the former was given the chance to document police work in a documentary. What ensued were your usual hate-hate-turned to Love-hate-love kinda situation during the process.

Maybe.....this movie is kinda funny, kinda wierd, kinda "shrieky"....kinda funny (I said that already). It's slapstick, some parts of it. It's entertaining at some points, but I found my hands doing something other chores while I was watching it.

I give it 1.5 pop corns.

Watch it ONLY if you are a die-hard Lee Dong Wook fan (but then again, you might be disappointed). So, perhaps, you should give it a miss, unless it's showing on a lazy Saturday afternoon on Channel U in the near future.

My Father 마이 파더

2008-02-03T23:36:00.000+08:00

I remember when I was in Seoul for my Summer Korean language programme, there were quite a number of Korean-born fellow students who came to Korea to look for their Korean parents. Some were from as far as Sweden and Norway.

This movie reminded me of these kids, who were (in my opinion) lucky enough to be able to have 2 sets of parents from 2 different cultures. Although I don't know what they have gone through to finally meet their birth parents, I believe that this drama may have depicted some of those journeys to some extent.

Daniel Henney surprised me with his superbly improved acting. In the words of Yoda the Wise :

IMPRESSED, I was.

The movie ended like half an hour ago, and I am still sobbing hard, while I write this review. I hope I could write a review that would do justice to Daniel's acting.

Like I have mentioned in my reviews in Samsoon and Spring Waltz, I am not a Daniel Henny fan. I thought he was lucky to get into the acting scene through his good looks. But I think differently now.

Hey! Don't get me wrong. I have nothing against good looking guys getting a shot at acting. But they gotta be able to act too. And Daniel has proved all his critics wrong. He's good, he's in control, he delivered.

The Gist

James Parker, an adoptee, volunteered to be in the Army, based in Korea to have the chance to track down his biological parents. One thing led to another, and he finally met his birth father - in a death-row prison. What ensued were scenes of getting to know each other etc etc. But one thing that James was not prepared to accept was that his father was INDEED a guilty man.

The rest of the movie? Watch it yourself. I guarantee Daniel will blow your mind with his superb acting.

The whole thing about this movie was great. The acting, the camera, the music, the editing. It managed to capture my attention from the moment Daniel said "You have taken care of me for the past 20 years....".

Daniel and Bates

Before the credit rolled, there was a (I guess) some scenes of the man, whose story this movie was based on. Someone called Eron/Aaron Bates. You can get the interview between Daniel and Bates here.

My favourite part was when he finally accepted that his father was guilty, and he's facing death sentence, and he was so angry that his father had lied to him. Oh! HE's SO Good. !!!

Looking forward to seeing more of Daniel. Not because of his good looks. But because of his wonderful acting.

I give this movie 5 pop corns.

Virgin Snow 첫눈 初雪の恋

2008-02-03T00:34:00.000+08:00

Aw...such a lovely movie. Beautiful music, beautiful setting, beautiful story, beautiful Jun Ki.

I have not watched this kind a movie for a long time now. So warm and lovely.

Lee Jun Ki again showed us why he's such a versatile actor. Thanks goodness for those pencil slit eyes, that would be filled with pockets of tears just hanging there, threatening to fall down his peach-smooth cheeks. Aw....

This movie, I think shown in Autumn/Winter 2007 is a collaboration of both Japanese and Korean actors - Lee Jun Ki and Aoi Miyazaki. The movie reminds me of how it was like to be in love for the first time. The waiting by the phone, the slow walk along the road (to nowhere- basically, just walk...그냥), the heartache of love lost, and the joy of love found.

The Gist:

Kim Min followed his father to Kyoto, where father works as a college professor, and also a professional potter. On one of his cycling adventures, exploring Kyoto, he chanced upon a beautiful, quiet, mysterious Japanese Girl, Nanae.

After a short courting episode, Min and Nanae found soul mates in each other. He promised to make a bowl, and she promised to draw on it. Someday. On the 100th day anniversary, Min made a clay figurine gift for her, while she gave a traditional Japanese handicraft thingy, but Min's not allowed to open it until later.

And after that night, she disappeared.

Min returned to Korea, and did not open his gift (which he gave to grandma as a souvenir), and tried to move on with his life without her.

Spoiler Ahead:
2 years later, in Deouksu Palace, they met again, by chance. But Min was still bitter about being left behind without a word 2 years ago. He was curt and bitter. Until grandma told him that he should read what's written inside the gift that Nanae gave him 2 years ago. And the rest of the movie was like watching the last 10 minutes of Sleepless in Seattle (think Deouksugung instead of the Empire State Building). Aw...so sweet......

Anyway, this is such a lovely movie. Wait. I think I have said that already, right. But , what the heck I'll say it again.

This is such a Lovely movie. It makes me want to be in Seoul or Kyoto next year, and walk hand in hand with my hubby when the first snow falls. (I will keep the kids in the hotel room, while we stroll along Myeongdong in the snow....)

Anyway, I have never watched Aoi Miyazaki's films before. She's so ...... normal looking....that doesn't sound very nice, but I meant it in a good way. She's so unassuming, that her countenance makes one feel at home, relaxed and comfortable. Perhaps that's what's special about her. I will look out for more of her movies in the future.

I give this movie 4 pop corns.

Watch it!

Taiwanese Drama/Movie Review

2008-02-02T18:51:00.007+08:00

Disclaimer: Save the rotten tomatoes and eggs, don't throw at me hor. I am new at this Taiwanese drama/movie reviews. Actually, when I was 12 years old, I started watching Liu Wen Zheng's movies, and Chow Yuen Fatt's dramas, and Lin Feng Jiao etc.. Remember "Heaven Sword and Dragon Sabre" , "Brothers", "Man in the Net"...Yup..LOOONG time ago. But the drama and movie scenes have somewhat changed these days from what I can see. The girls are cute, the guys are cuter, and the story lines are more "docile". If you have any Taiwanese drama/movie worth watching, please email me. Would love to watch them and give my 10TWD (that's about S$0.40).

Romantic Princess 公主小妹

2008-02-02T10:16:00.001+08:00

The funny thing is....I had planned to watch this drama on my own....but in the end, my 13-year old son, and 10-year-old daughter ended up watching the whole drama. They commented every now and then, "Ibu, this drama is better than your Korean dramas". Hmm.......

It's now showing on Channel U, I am not sure which episode, but I guess its popularity amongst non-Chinese viewers is apparent.

My daughter's Malay classmate told her "Eh..that hero Jin is very handsome, hor!" ...Yes, yes....I agree, I said to my daughter. 吴尊 is good looking - and he looks so much like U-know Junho and Wang Lee Hom. Don't you think?

Anyway, must congratulate myself for completing a Taiwanese drama (finally). They're not so bad lah...if you look at the brighter side of life. This particular drama is not jam packed with dramatically controversial issues. It's just a feel-good kinda drama. The only PG part was the kissing scenes (and my kids would use a pillow cushion to cover their eyes ^^).

The Gist

Xiao Mai, a poor but hard working girl found out that she was actually the heir of the richest man in Taiwan (if not Asia). Her bl***y rich grandfather is the moghul of the Huang Fu Dynasty. Having lost Xiao Mai when she was kidnapped when just a baby, and having lost Xiao Mai's parents in an accident some years ago, grandfather took in the Nan Feng brothers and cousins. They are known as the Nan Feng Dukes.

Nan Feng Jin, is the elected successor amongst the Dukes. Handsome, quiet (Taiwanese Chocolate Brownie...Hmmm....that's new....) and with a heart full of love waiting to burst out in passionate.......oops....hang on.....that's not right.....let's get back to the gist...

But there is a catch here, dear viewers. In order for Xiao Mei to inherit the richness after grandpaa's demise, she needs to marry the successor, Jin. Otherwise, the whole Dynasty will fall into the hands of the Board of Directors. ("Got such thing meh? " I asked)

What ensued are the usual antics by grandpa to get the 2 together. And of course, like its Korean counterpart, there IS an illness in this drama. Anyway......

So, what does Aini think about this drama? Aini thinks it's OK lah. I don't quite like the prolonged suspense of "Will she admit that she loves him?" "When is he EVER going to say I love you too, Xiao Mai"....I was going like "Ah for goodness' sakes, get on with it already!" The acting skills of Wu Zhu and Calvin Chen from the group Fahrenheit 飛輪海 in this drama needs more work, I think, compared to Angela's more relaxed style.

But more importantly, what do Aini's kids have to say about this drama? Aini's son (Who's NEVER watched any drama from start till end), proclaimed "This is the BEST drama I have ever watched!".

But seriously, I think they should sack the music director and editor of this drama. The music's inappropriate for some scenes, poor choice of songs, poor editing. Basically, the music editing sucks.

To summarise, this drama is like watching Goong, Goong S and Hello Miss ....in Mandarin.

I give this drama 2 pop corns

(I am kind. I took into account the entertainment value from my kids' perspective).

Watch in on Channel U. Don't buy the DVD.

설날 is coming

2008-01-21T22:15:00.000+08:00

Alison's potrait of Kyung in Hanbok.
멋있어요, 경오빠.

For more of Alison's Kyung Art, visit:

1. Her blog
2. Lilac Dreams - Tips on how to sketch his Purple highness
3. Alison's webpage.

Air City 에어 시티

2008-01-21T16:05:00.000+08:00

This drama made me feel like working in an airport. Why? Because they're lots of 멋있는 남자 working at the airport. Tsk Tsk, Aini....

From the start till the end, this drama was captivating, thanks to the wonderful editing and the cast - mainly Lee Jeong Jae. Thank goodness for this versatile actor. Ah....a chocolate brownie.....(Think Il Mare and Typhoon)

When the Video shop ajumma told me that a lot of people borrowed this drama, and came back with positive feedback, I told her that I wasn't interested because I don't quite like Choi Ji Woo. Moreover, she looked a tad older in this drama - She looked like she needed Botox badly.

But because of Lee Jeong Jae..(hmmmm *^^*).....I told ajumma : OK lah...I will watch.

The Gist:

Han Do Kyung, a capable, vicious, single and available new manager of the Incheon International Airport Corporation, became the talk of the airport after making a "grand" entrance on her first day of work.

Kim Ji Sung (I like that name), National Intelligence Svs Agent (like CIA), all out to avenge the death of a fellow agent, found himself assigned to the IIAC, much to his displeasure.

Their chance meeting on the flight to Incheon led to more encounters and eventually....yup, you've guessed it......the gunfire arguments between them transformed in fireworks in their hearts.

But I dare say that this is NOT a common love story. No.

It's a story about how love found it's way into the lives of these busy airport staff, and how against all odds, love prevails.

Lee Jin Wook 이진욱 and Moon Jeong Hee 문정희 were reunited in this drama. The last time they acted together was in Alone in Love. Lee Jin Wook's acting in this drama has improved - although I guess he has a long way to go before he could reach Lee Jeong Jae's level of acting. Looong Waaayyyyyyy.........

I like this drama because it's fast-paced, interesting look at what goes on beyond the departure gates. I mean, I didn't even know how the Baggage Handling System worked, until I watched this drama. It's like watching "The Terminal" without Tom Hanks, and with a dash of Attention Please (アテンションプリーズ) .

Anyway, it's worth watching this drama - for a change and respite from the usual soap operas that we watch nowadays.

And Choi Ji Woo was not as irritating as I thought she would be (like in Stairway to Heaven, Winter Sonata and Beautiful Days - I call these "The Choi Ji woo Trilogy". She was actually quite good in this drama as a competent and level-headed career woman. Did she cry? Yes, of course, but in very few scenes. So, Botox or not, she was quite a pleasure to watch.

Did anyone contract some kind of illness or disease? Of course lah! What do you expect? This IS a Korean drama right? ^^

The ending? Hmm........not your usual "Ah....So In Love....hug hug.." kind of ending. The ending has a touch of reality in it. Like most stuff you see in life.

I give this drama 3.5 pop corns

Watch it.

My journey begins again

2008-01-15T07:13:00.001+08:00

This morning, my Korean Language journey will begin again. I have engaged a private tutor to help me with my conversational skills - I thought that while waiting for a suitably timed class to begin, I should polish up on my very fast-rusting conversational ability - if you can call it "ability" ^^

I have been pretty slacked lately, only watching dramas (repeated viewings of Coffee Prince) listening to songs (Kyung's, of course) to oil my ears off the March 2006 rusts......that's how long I have not been studying........

Reading about Equinox's Korean Language Journey makes me wonder if I would ever reach that level. The peak looks pretty far away from where I am standing . It's like Everest-away.

Anyway.......Here I go...one step at a time....

In-Soon Is Pretty 인순이는 예쁘다

2008-01-04T23:19:00.000+08:00

With such a title, I was drawn to the tube, just so that I could find out how pretty In-Soon was.... This drama just ended its run on KBS.(You can watch it on KBS online-with no subtitles)

Yes. In-Soon was pretty. Of course, because she was played by one of my favourite actresses, Kim Hyun Joo. I last saw her in Marrying a Millionaire. I thought she was perfect for this role. She's not too "plastic"ly pretty, neither is she too plain. Just right and perfect for the Cinderella role. I think it's a very good comeback choice for her after a 2-year hiatus. Or was it 3 years?

This drama started of showing what the reality of life is for someone with a past. With no money, no place to stay in the cold autumn weather, no job, no one to confide in...I felt her despair.

The Gist:

In-Soon, incarcerated for 15 years after accidentally causing the death of a bullying classmate in high school. Her grandmother, her only source of comfort, died while she was away in jail. With her prison background, she found it hard to find a job, and having found one, she was unable to hold on to it.

SangWoo used to have a crush on her in high school before they were separated when he went overseas with his then, bankrupt father. Fate brought them together again. He tried to pursue her again, rekindle the past, but upon hearing of her criminal past, he took a step back.

But like most people put in Sang Woo's position, his reaction was understandable. Nevertheless, Sang Woo, remembering what a warm person In-Soon was, found himself falling in , love with her all over again. Helplessly in love. (Spoiler: Watch Episode 10 ^^ I love the confession scene. So classic..so beautiful...so simple......so ....heartbreaking......argh......)

Along came all the other characters in her life. Her lost-and-then-found domineering mother, her seemingly sanguine half-sister and the "bad-boy" adopted younger brother, who secretly loves her, and (Spoiler)he himself had a secret that would put things in perspective later on.

Doesn't she remind you of Zoe Tay?

I concede that the storyline and plot got kinda caught up in the usual Korean-drama-styled-messy triangle relationships here and there. BUT, what made me stick to this drama till the end was Sang Woo's character (all intense and full of pent-up emotions beneath that cool demeanour) and I wanted to know what would happen to In-Soon's Cinderella story.

And although I didn't quite like Kim Min Joon's acting in Lovers in Prague, I kinda like him in this drama. Perhaps because his character was a chocolate brownie.... faithful and (FINALLY) with a backbone.

Kudos to the drama team of producers/directors for showing us the lives of those in need of the yellow ribbon. They have succeeded in addressing several issues: The unforgiving nature of society, The need to have a passion in life, The need to respect before being worthy of respect etc... Don't hate me, but this drama suits me just fine.

Let's talk about the other characters:

Lee Wan : He's grown up! He's beefed up. His acting has also improved in leaps and bounds.
Seo Hyeo Rim: As In-Soon's half sister - she was a pleasure to watch.
Nah Yeong Hee: She reminded me so much of my Korean teacher, Ms Ebony Bae- strict but nurturing.

Doesn't this photo remind you of Sorry I love You's promotional shot?

Should you watch this?

If you are not in a hurry, go ahead.
If you have just completed Coffee Prince, you might find this drama too slow.
If you have just watched Thank You, you will enjoy this drama.
If you enjoyed Marrying a Millionaire, you'll love this drama.

Anyway, I give this drama 3.5 pop corns

Watch it.

황진이 Hwang Jin-I (Movie)

2007-11-28T01:52:00.000+08:00

For those of you who've watched the drama version before watching this movie, you'll be surprised at how differently Jin-I was potrayed in the movie. None of those artistic componets, the dances, the poetries. It's a pity that Jin-I was potrayed as more of a high class prostitute than an artistic gisaeng that she (I assume) was supposed to be.

On the plus side, this movie was shorter (MUCH!) and was pleasanter to watch from the filmographic point of view. The editing was good, and the timing was apt. But, if you're looking for a romanticised Jin-I in this movie, you'll be disappointed.

The Gist:
Hwang Jin-I, was raised as a lady of the house of a rich and powerful man. But in actual fact, she was an illegitimate daughter of a maid of the house, an unfortunate product of a rape by the "rich and powerful man". The maid was asked to leave the House, and she eventually died years later as a gisaeng. When Jin-I's secret was revealed, her rich fiance's family broke off their engagement.

Nom-I, a childhood friend and secret admirer of Jin-I, returned after a long period of self-exile. Rekindled his love for her, and eventually became her protector when she decided to leave the House to become a gisaeng, like her deceased mother.

It's a bleak movie. What else can I say?

Let's talk about Song He Hyo. She's .......F-L-U-F-F-Y.......P-U-F-F-Y.....C-U-T-E...with or without hanboks. I last saw her in All In. Yes, it was THAT long ago. She's so much better in this movie. The subtleness of her beauty works well in her potrayal of a conniving Myeong Wol.

Yoo Ji Tae ..AH.......after Traces of Love 가을로, I am so glad that he's back with this pitiful but strong, repressed but overflowing with tenderness....ah.....my idea of a chocolate brownie.......... But.....I wish he would have gotten out of that awful green garb of his.....at least CHANGE ONCE for goodness' sakes.

Over all, it's a darker, less colourful version of Hwang Jin-I.

Did I enjoy watching this movie? Hmm...kind of...it's just that I actually enjoyed watching her lady Fluffiness more than the movie.

Would I watch it again? NOPE.

2.5 pop corns

Hwang Jin-I 황진이 (Drama)

2007-11-19T11:16:00.000+08:00

This drama makes me wanna wear a Hanbok. Doesn't it have the same effect on you?

I like this drama. But it's kinda slow. Took me 10 days to finish. That's how slow it was. 24 episodes , but what made it slow was the pacing, or editing of the drama. I thought it could have been better edited to keep the viewer's interest.

What kept me interested was the beautiful Hanboks. I think they really saved the drama.

The Gist:
Jin-I , daughter of a gisaeng, danced her way up the competitive ladder of life in the Arts scene. Of course, entertaining men, was part of the deal. There's no room for love in the Gisaeng world. You either love and go blind, love and die, or love and love and love and still never get to live with the love of your life. Well, that's the unfortunate life of Jin-I.

Basically, that's the whole drama. Oh, and of course there're lots of dancing, and twirling, brandishing weapons and scarfs, and poetry competitions, and BIG wigs.

Ha Ji Won was good. I thought she was very good, despite the weak story line. She's really grown up from the little girl in "My Lovely Slave 내 사랑 싸가지". And guess what! Kim Jae Won played her final lover. I mean, what a treat. I didn't read up on this drama prior to watching it. So it was a pleasant surprise to see both of them acting together again.

Remember Yoon Tae Joon 윤태준 the super cool bodyguard with the mole in "Really Really Like You?". He played a gigolo here. A cute one. He was so good that I actually hated his guts.

And how come Korean men looked so desirable in Hanboks, hat, moustache and beard? Huh? Seriously now....I mean, I used to think that only the old harabojis wear such get-ups, but with all these period dramas, they suddenly looked soooo gooooood.

I should buy a hanbok for my husband on our next trip to Seoul.

The ending of this drama? Hmm....I didn't need any tissues....

3 pop corns (because of the hanboks)

Header photos

2007-11-18T20:42:00.001+08:00

Winter Sonata Revisited

2007-11-15T16:50:00.000+08:00

It's that time of the year again, when the weather all around the world (EXCEPT Singapore!) starts to get really cold.....and I would take out the white and blue box-set to watch Yu Jin fall into a dilemma over Jun Sang and Sang Hyuk all over again. Winter ... play me that Sonata again....

And I can't believe that after watching this drama SO MANY TIMES, for so many years, I still cried my eyes out when Jun Sang got hit by the truck. And when Yu Jin broke down listening to "처음" from the tape that Jun Sang sent in the mail, I broke down along with her.

Jun Sang ah.....

Sung Si Kyung and Lilac Dreams

2007-11-06T17:57:00.001+08:00

Kyung holding the Lilac Dreams Booklet of Fan Messages
시경이가 이쁘죠?

Alison made it to Japan and attended not just Sung Si Kyung's Autumn Premium Party, but also 2 Na Yoon Kwon's Japan Concerts, where Kyung sang 2 songs as his guest. Read the concert review here.

Although Alison was unable to meet Kyung personally to hand him the Lilac Dreams' gift booklet (Kyung was apparently late for rehersal and was too rushed for time), the booklet DID find its way to Kyung via the kind help of Oasis president, Ms Susoo.

We are all so grateful.

Not only that, Ms Susoo actually got Kyung to take photos with the booklet. You can see the rest of the photos at Lilac Dreams website, as soon as I have completed uploading them.

Oh what a day - after seeing those pictures, I could not do my ironing, cooking, laundry, or any other human activities for a long time.............

3rd Korean Speech Competition

2007-11-03T21:23:00.000+08:00

It felt so good to be in the company of old friends with Korean Language blasting in stereo all around me. The afternoon at RELC with my kids and Wendy Blurgal was well spent.

It was good meeting Spicebear again. She looked as beautiful as usual. And it brought back lots of good memories of our time together in Seoul, those days of climbing stairs and eating rice with seaweed..... I ate the rice and weaweed. SHE ate EVERY GOOD KOREAN FOOD THERE WAS.

It was also good to meet Huang SY from Tour2Korea's Korean Interest Group. She was first to present her speech. She came up to me and asked if I was from Solely Seoul. I said "How did you recognise me?". She said, looking around "Err...I guessed you're the one - because they're no other Malays here".

Err...true, true. It was like in Seoul all over again. A lone Muslim in a sea of Koreans.

My daughter Iman, enjoying the "Beautiful Opera singer", although she and I have NO IDEA what the song was all about.

Attending the 3rd Korean Speech competition was a good idea. It made me realise how much I missed studying the language. NEX's Saturday Post-Advance classes clash with my family schedule. SKS's Year end classes clash with the fasting month. So, instead of wasting my time spinning cobwebs in my brain, I decided to take private lessons from a private teacher. I hope to improve on my speech - hopefully, I have a chance to get free tickets to Korea next year.

Anyway, the Competition was good. I summarise the theme for the day as "LOVE". Love was everywhere.

Interesting stories of long-distance love relationship, love for Rain (비), love for Korea, loving memories of Korean holidays, love for Ji Jin Hee 지진희, love for the teachers who taught them Korean language.....love love love.

사물놀이-SKS students. So cute. So wonderful.

Wendy and I planned to join the competition next year with the topic : "내사랑 성시경" and decided that even if we don't win, at least we've given Lilac Dreams free publicity to about 150 people ^^

And finally, no surprise...^^ when an ex-classmate took the grand prize home - a 37-inch LG LCD TV. Congrats! I knew you're gonna win the moment I heard you speak about your arm (팔)and legs (발).........

I have finally done it!

2007-10-28T18:26:00.001+08:00

Yes, I have FINALLY pre-ordered Kyung's latest single from Yesasia. Should arrive in Singapore 1st week of November. I hope I can sustain and contain my excitement till then.

My friend Blurgal35 had a post recently about how she feels about Kyung's latest song. Alison has also had her share of excitement about meeting him in next week. And Anne (Tumbles) has been busy uploading all his performances - which has added much happiness to the lives of all Kyung's Fans. 박수......

Me? Well, I only have his numerous performances that Tumbles has uploaded to keep me happy these past 2 weeks. Each performance is unique and as good at the others. I can't believe how he can sing the same song EVERYDAY. He's on TV EVERYDAY, and last night and tonight he'll be at Yonsei in the October Snow concert. and Next week he'll be flying to Tokyo. Poor guy. But the thing is, he sounds perfect everytime, no matter how tired he is.

His single? I love the way the intro sounded - reminds me of the way music was written in the 70's. So, calm and serene. The more I listen to it, the more it grows on me. Much more than 거리에서.

Have not ordered your yet? Check out this link and order yours now.

不能说的秘密 Secrets OST

2007-10-26T10:14:00.001+08:00

Brilliant OST. Buy it! I won’t upload any songs, coz if you think it’s worth listening to, it’s probably worth BUYING. What I HAVE included in this post are some music videos and piano pieces put up by inspiring netizen-pianists.

This is the list of songs in the soundtrack and clips where available to ENTICE you into BUYING the OST. Please check out the uploaders via the links.

01. Opening

(by betaunknown)

02. 脚踏车

(by betaunknown)
03. 早操

04. 淡水海边

05. 斗琴 - (Aini's thoughts: OMG this one is so BRILLIANT!)

(by tamiyalagu)

06. 湘伦小雨四手联弹

(Uploaded by astorlo)

07. Ride With Me

(by KiRarA1988)

08. 父与子

09. 情人的眼泪 (演唱: 姚苏蓉)

(Uploaded by Almurnith)

10. First Kiss

(by smlxl82)

11. 女孩别为我哭泣 (演唱: 黄俊郎)

12. 晴天娃娃 (演唱: 江语晨)

(Uploaded by jazznutt)

13. 阿郎与阿宝

14. 与父共舞

15. 路小雨

(by betaunknown)

16. The Swan

(by valkzz)

17. Flash Back

18. Secret (慢板)

(by KiRarA1988)

19. Angel

20. 小雨写立可白Ⅰ

(by Shuntoshi)

21. 小雨写立可白Ⅱ

(by Goldstin)

22. Secret (加长快板)

(by KiRarA1988)

23. 琴房

(Uploaded by RMByou)

24. Ending

25. 不能说的秘密

不能说的秘密 Secret

2007-10-19T22:09:00.000+08:00

Actually, even with my limited Mandarin, I can read that the title is not "Secret", but "Secret That Can't be Said(Told)". But I guess calling this movie "STCBS" would be too long like calling Voldemort "He Who Must Not Be Named". Harry is smart to just say his name . Saves lots of energy that way.

Back to this movie.

I lost interest the first time I watched it - like 10 minutes into the movie, I switched the video player off and went to sleep.

But the second time I watched it, I decided to give Jay Chou another chance. And I am glad I did. It was like watching Somewhere In Time and Bungee Jumping and Il Mare , all at once. I love all these 3 movies, and so, I thought ....OK...Jay , show me your stuff.

What started as a sweet love story turned out to be more than that. Read on:

The Gist (SPOILER ahead)

Jay, a gifted pianist wlaked into the school's old music room, and stumbled across a pretty, quiet girl, Xiao Yu (Literally meaning "Little Rain". The chance meeting led to hours of fun in the music room - (no , no, you dirty minded people you...not THAT kind of fun!) they played music, for goodness sakes...ON THE PIANO!!! Anyway, Jay was intrigued by this asthmatic girl, who has no friends in school except him.

Now, another girl called Sky was secretly in love with Jay. She took every opportunity she could to get the chance to be with him - especially hitching a ride on his bicycle AND playing music in the old music room. But Jay wasn't interested.

One day, Jay made plans to meet Rain in the music room one evening. But he was "tricked" into kissing Sky who turned up unexpectantly, in full view of Rain, who stood by the door. Rain was upset and ran off...and disappeared for 5 months.

On graduation day, Jay played the piece of music that he had promised Rain. Rain appeared at the door of the concert hall, but ran away when Jay saw her. she later disappeared again. Jay confronted Rain's mother about her ....and the great secret unfolded.

I can say one thing about this movie - It's got Jay Chou written all over it. I have seen him act in Curse of the Golden Flower, but was not too impressed by his acting there. I was not impressed by his acting either in this movie, but his music talent was beyond my expectations. Click here for the Secret OST review.

4 pop corns

Trace of Love - 가을로

2007-10-18T21:37:00.000+08:00

Frankly i dunno why the English title is "Trace of Love". Do you? Perhaps it's a hint that the lead male will be "tracing" the footsteps of his deceased fiance? Maybe.

But halfway through watching this movie, I started asking myself why I had bothered to watch it in the first place. Of course the presence of 유지태 was an obvious reason, and I love sad movies. But this movie was boring till about 20 minutes before it ended.

If you're old enough too remember the Hotel New World disaster, you can perhaps identify with the trauma of a bystander, as I watched this movie. If you have ever been trained in emergency behaviour crisis, you can probably identify with the post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) that the 2nd female lead is experiencing.

The gist:

Hyun Woo's and his fiance Min Joo's rendezvous ended up in a tragic pile of rubble when the building where Min Joo was in collapsed, minutes before Hyun Woo reached it. Fast forward to 5 years later, Hyun Woo found himself in the possession of Min Joo's diary - where she planned a would-be honeymoon trip to her favourite places in autumn Korea.

While on the sole trip, Hyun Woo's path crossed that of a mysterious traveller, who whipped oout quotes directly from the diary. Mystified and puzzled, Hyun Woo found himself drawn to her...and the mystery behind her seemngly calm facade.

Yoo Ji Tae's acting was so-so here. I was kinda disappointed by his performance as a grieving fiance, I thought he was much better in One Fine Spring Day, albeit younger and fresher.

Anyway, if you like Yoo Ji Tae, and you love Autumn scenery, AND you have nothing else to watch...watch this lah. Otherwise, you can give it a miss.

1.5 pop corns.

Selamat Hari Raya Aidil Fitri

2007-10-13T14:03:00.000+08:00

From Aini, Ali, Qory and Iman

Sung Si Kyung's Latest Album

2007-10-10T13:56:00.001+08:00

Or rather digital single..... And I can't wait to watch the video clip!It's like waiting for 거리에서 all over again last year.

I am all excited, as are all Kyungies in the whole world.

Cepatnye...

2007-10-07T08:48:00.000+08:00

Ramadhan cuma tinggal 5 hari saja. Begitu cepat masa berlalu. Entah tahun dapat dapat jumpa Ramadhan lagi ke tak.

Ja tahun ini beraya di Seoul. Pertama kali dia beraya di rantauan. Semoga Ja tidak sendirian pada 1 Syawal, semoga dapat bersama Muslimin yang lain yang sama-sama beraya di Seoul.

Dengar khabar, package yang I hantar dah sampai - dapat lah dia makan kueh mueh raya dan lontong & rendang pagi raya nanti.

Ja dengan buah hati dia Lee Byung Hun in Seoul

Bad Couple 불량 커플

2007-10-06T13:14:00.000+08:00

Have you ever met a guy who would:

1. Wash your feet when you feel tired?
2. Clip your toe nails?
3. Prepare rose-bath for you?
4. Run off to buy crabs in the middle of the night when you said you FELT like eating some?
5. Send you love notes in little film canisters - a whole Christmas tree's worth!
6. Not look at other women - except you?

Well, I haven't. But with a man looking like 류수영, I only have to BELIEVE that such man exists.

Ja recommended this drama to me. She said that I should put it on my "To Watch" List - and the list keeps getting longer and longer...

Anyway, I have always thought that 류수영 has a perfect face - whether he smiles or frowns or doesn't move a muscle, his face always looked perfect. How is that possible? Is it plastic surgery? Let me know if you have any "inside info". I first saw him in 18vs29, and it was kinda like watching him all over again in this drama - same geeky, nice guy kinda character.

But the true hero/heroine in this drama has got to be 신은경 - She was perfect. Why is it that I have NEVER seen her act before? Hmmm???

The Gist:

A successful and seemingly contented Kim Dang Ja started to waiver and rethink her life after a death of an equally successful University Lecturer, who died alone - no family, no relatives, no friends. And that started the whole chain of event in her pursuit of getting the perfect sperm to father her baby. I would call it FATE , after she decided on Professor Choi Gi Chan, a dashing, eligible, rich, smart, dish of a botany lecturer. But there's a problem:

Namu ya....sarang he....

The professor gets turned on by the sight of a wild orchid - not a woman. Except if the woman wears a hanbok ^^. Now....how do we get him to notice her...let alone donate his sperms willingly...without strings attached?

Will she succeed in seducing him? Will she succeed in getting the sperm sample? Will she succeed in getting pregnant and will she succeed in getting rid of the professor once everything is done?

The drama attempted to address issues about relationships in this modern age. We have :

A woman who chooses to have a baby and not a husband.
A woman who looks up to her adulterous husband as god.
A woman who decidedly want her married boyfriend to dump the missus
A woman who has a good husband but is wanting in the "mommy" department

And then, we have:

A man who's perfect in every department except...the romance department
A man who's THOUGHT to be perfect but he's really a big time jerk.
A man who's neither a dish nor perfect but is ACTUALLY a great husband and father
A man who is both a dish and perfect but is Actually a fake lover.

This drama made me laugh right from the start. And despite the laughter, I could sense the feeling of wanting and that "I-just-need-something-in-my-life" kinda feeling watching Dang Ja trying to fill her life with the joy of motherhood, and Gi Chan trying to fill HIS life with the joy of having someone to share it with.

And Look out for the sextuplets....They're so funny....

1. The Matchmaker

2. The Doctor

3. Fortune Teller

4. Housekeeper in a Hanok

5. Can't remember - can you fill me in?

6. Can't remember - can you fill me in?

7. Delivery woman (배달)

It has an unbelievably good ending.....unbelievable because it was too good to be true. YOU watch and tell me what you think about the ending.

I am a sucker for good endings. So, I like this drama.

Unbelievably or otherwise.

I leave you with the wonderful song from this drama. I like the Sweet Sorrow version better. Sweet Sorrow is what I call "Good Music" ^^:

Video Credit: SMarie7

사랑한단 말이야

안 그래도 널 사랑한단 말이야
안 그래도 널 못 잊겠단 말이야
생각하면 생각할수록 내 가슴에 피어나는
너는 나의 화분처럼 늘 숨을 쉬곤 해

떠나가도 널 사랑한단 말이야
헤어져도 널 못 믿겠단 말이야
멀리 가면 멀리 갈수록 그리움에 젖은 내 모습은
정말 너를 사랑하나 봐

이젠 네가 없으면 세상이 없는 것 같아 (왜 이렇게)
늦었을까 네 진실이 보이는 거짓말을 왜 몰랐을까 나는
너의 하루하루에 내 사랑이 가득했음 해 (언제든지)
기대어 줄 수 있는 네 행복한 얼굴을 또 상상하면서 좋아 그렇게

언제라도 널 사랑한단 말이야
언제라도 널 기다린단 말이야
생각하면 생각할수록 내 가슴에 피어나는
너는 나의 햇살처럼 또 달려오곤 해

떠나가도 널 사랑한단 말이야
헤어져도 널 못 믿겠단 말이야
멀리 가면 멀리 갈수록 그리움에 젖은 내 모습은
정말 너를 사랑하나 봐

안 그래도 널 사랑한단 말이야
안 그래도 널 못 잊겠단 말이야
사랑하면 사랑할수록 내 가슴에 피어나는 너를
정말 나는 사랑하나 봐

3 pop corns.

Kyung on my Window

2007-10-04T22:41:00.001+08:00

Car Decal on my driver's window. Cruising along with it feels soooooo gooooooddddd.... I am declaring:

"Hey Drivers!! Look! I am a Sung Si Kyung Fan!!"

Maybe I should make more and give this as a welcome gift for new members at Lilac Dreams.... Hmm...that's a thought....

Lilac Dreams has been getting membership applications from around the world, really. My dream is for all the English speaking fans to one day gather in either Korea or Singapore (the latter preferably, of course), and Si Kyung will sing all his hits, and have a gala of a time speaking to us in perfect English. Ah...dream....꼭.

So, Singaporeans, yes, you! Come on out and declare:

I am a Sung Si Kyung fan! And Proud of it!

Update (6 Oct 07):
To answer Wendy's query about the exact loaction of Kyung in my car...
cosily located next to me when I drive.... Err...that's not my car, hor. My Mr Nakamura is black. Yup, Mr KIM NAKAMURA. He's a Japanese-Born Korean....from the 135th Generation of the Kim Nakamura-Honda Stream Clan of Hokkaido Island. His cousin, Mr Park has been adopted by Pakistanis.....I miss Mr Park.

Hello, Miss - 헬로! 애기씨

2007-10-01T15:07:00.000+08:00

A Spring drama - love the colours , love the weather, but the drama? Errr....hmmmm....it's like watching a Cross between My Girl and My Little Bride 18.

2 reasons why I watched this drama:

1. Lee Ji Hoon
2. Lee Ji Hoon

After that, everything else didn't matter. But I must say, that I was kinda disappointed with Lee Ji Hoon's exposure in this drama. There's not much opportunity for him to shine, really. What with all those slapstick lines.

But, Watched, I did.

The gist:

Lee Su Ha, the Lee Jae Ahn Clan's 38th Generation granddaughter of the last surviving Clan leader of Hwa An Dang, a traditional village head-sort-of household. Broke, alone and desperate to save the household, she was forced to seek help in the form of a job, a scheme, a loan - whatever she could take/do to raise the 5 million wons to save Hwa An Dong.

Along came Hwang Dong Gyu, the eldest grandson of the TOP tycoon group chairman. By the way, the Chairman actually made it good after stealing a cow and a sack of rice from Hwa An Dang where he was employed as a servant 50 years before. With a sense of guilt and shame , as well as greed to make Hwa An Dang his own, the Chairman challenged both Dong Gyu and his other grandson Chan Ming, to win Su Ha's heart. In this way, forming a conglomerate of Tradition and Wealth.

Lee Ji Hoon pretending to be Harry Potter with Nimbus 2000

What followed was slapstick attempts at winning the girl's heart, with a couple of naughty girls trying to ruin the pursuits of love and business.

I didn't quite enjoy this, unfortunately because I did not see much meat in the storyline.

Perhaps after Coffee Prince and Thank You, all other dramas would have to work REALLY hard to satisfy me.

2 pop corns
Watch it if you like Lee Ji Hoon or Lee Da Hee.

Blue Night with Kyung tonight

2007-09-30T00:25:00.000+08:00

Tonight, the songs that he played were so lovely, beautiful and romantic ...that I found my eyes getting a wee bit teary.....What a lovely way to spend the evening....

Time Between Dog and Wolf 개와 늑대의 시간

2007-09-26T06:44:00.000+08:00

I rarely watch action dramas/movies. I don't like gangster-themed dramas either, as I have declared in my review about "Lovers". But THIS action-packed drama was so well choreographed and directed (at least in my opinion) that I forgot I was watching an action-packed-gangster-ridden drama. How's that?

This drama ended 2-3 weeks ago in Korea. Although the end rating was not as good as the mid-episode ratings, I do declare, Lee Jun Ki had a lot to do with its popularity. Lee Jun Ki was such a feast to the eye, with his pencil thin-slit-eyes, and lips that most women would die for. He's also very good in this drama. I do declare now that he's NOT just another pomegranate-drinking, pretty face.

Sawadikap----Ari ya...

Omo...omo....Soo Hyun Ah......

The Gist:

You can get the Gist and then some from the brillinat Soompi page here. But my advise to you is:
WATCH IT!

But let's talk about Lee Jun Ki - This guy had so many different styles - hair, clothes, personality etc in this drama - that you would have no doubt at the end of the drama that this drama should be called "이준기의 시간- Time of Lee Jun Ki" instead.

I also thoroughly enjoyed the superb cast of veterans. I do not think this drama would be as convincing if they had another cast.

Don't get me started on Nam Sang Mi...... I can write a whole blog about her. A versatile actress, pretty to boot and of course, she was lovely in this drama. A female protagonist whose life is filled with threats of precarious emotional turmoil. What with the death of a mother, a gangster of a biological father, a secretive stepfather, a "dead" (yes, "dead") boyfriend whom she had just established a relationship after 15 years of separation...or so she THOUGHT......until she saw him 2 years later alive and still so very very cute. No wonder she went bonkers for a bit. She was thinking like : "Eh...how many cute, slit-eyed, killer-smile, perfect skin, pomegranate-drinking men are there in this world? This MUST be my Soo Hyun!".......ahhh...do I need to go on?

And don't get me started on 장혜진. I LOVE this woman!!!! What a voice!!!! I don't particularly like female singers - but this woman had me on the first note of the One Fine Day OST song 눈물이 겠죠. Watch the MV of 하늘을가리고 below. I have included the romanised lyrics if you wanna sing along.

Video Credit: SMarie7

하늘을 가리고 - 장혜진(개와늑대의시간ost)

비바람에 몸을 맡기던
Bi Baram eh momeul matgiton
불안했던 나에게넌
buran hetton na eh ge non
한 줄기 햇살
han julgi hetsal
어둠속에 꽃이 피 듯이
odum gode kochi pi teushi
가슴속에 내 사랑이
Kaseum soge ne sarangi
자라나지만
jaranajiman

사랑은 안녕 눈물은 안녕
Sarang eun annyong nunmur eun annyong
널 위해 곁에서 멀어져 줄게
Nol wee he gyotteso morojyo julke
내가 있으면 니 웃음이 사라져
Nega isseu myon ni u seumi sara jyo
너의 뒤에 선 나의 앞에서
No ye dui eh son na ye appeso
그 누구보다 더 행복해 줄래
Geu nugu poda dho hengbokhe julle
내 품 속에 있을 때 보다
Ne pum soge isseul dde poda

수 천번의 해와 달 지고
Su chorn bon e hewa daljigo
하늘 별이 사라지면
Ha neul byori jarajimyon
날 잊어줄래
nal itjojulle
할 수 없는 일이라지만
Hal su opsoneun iri rajiman
내 두 손이 저 하늘을 가려볼테니
Ne du soni jo ha neu reun karyo bul teni

Chorus **
사랑은 안녕 눈물은 안녕
Sarang eun annyong nunmur eun annyong
널 위해 곁에서 멀어져 줄게
Nol wee he gyotteso morojyo julke
내가 있으면 니 웃음이 사라져
Nega isseu myon ni u seumi sara jyo
너의 뒤에 선 나의 앞에서
No ye dui eh son na ye appeso
그 누구보다 더 행복해 줄래
Geu nugu poda dho hengbokhe julle
내 품속에 있을 때 보다
Ne pum soge isseul dde poda

못 버린 버릇처럼 바보처럼
Mot borin boruet chorom pabo chorom
잊지 못하고 널 찾을지 몰라
It ji mot hago nol cha jeul ji molla
하지만 걱정마 그 때 난 잠시만
Hajiman kok chong ma geu dde nan jam si ma
너를 바라보다 뒤 돌아갈게
No reul para poda dwee dora kalke

추억이 남아 기억이 남아
Chu ogi nama ki ogi nama
울어도 웃을 수 있는 거니까
Uro do usuel su it neun go ni kka
내 걱정은 하지 않아도 괜찮아
Ne kok chongeun haji anna do kwenchanna

너의 뒤에 선 나의 앞에서
No ye dui eh son na ye appeso
그 누구보다 더 행복해 줄래
Geu nugu poda dho hengbokhe julle
내 품 속에 있을 때 보다
Ne pum soge isseul dde poda

사랑도 눈물도 이제 다 안녕
Sarangdo nunmul do ije dha annyong.

Lee Jun Ki - 10 out of 5 pop corns (yes, yes, I am biased)
Nam Sang Mi- 10 out of 5 pop corns (I know, I know...)
*** - 4 out of 5 pop corns
The drama - 3.5 out of 5 pop corns.

꾸마 옥수수

2007-09-24T14:25:00.000+08:00

I finally get to eat these colourful corns. Thanks to Ja , who spent almost $30 on postage (!) to send these to me...... 친구야! 사랑해!

Links:
Maize 옥수수
Yellow Maize at Sol Mart
First Amazing Encounter

The State of Nothingness (or Not)

2007-09-18T13:54:00.000+08:00

With no TV to watch and no Dramas to review, I am left with a seemingly empty daily routine. Or so I thought.

But with each Ramadhan, apart from the usual dilemma and housewifely stress-filled endless chanting of "what to cook for break fast?" and "what to serve for sahur", I am left with lots during these quiet mornings at home.

With so many things deleted from my daily planner, I started to have more time to think about and DO other stuff.

Like, to concretise my plans for the ultimate deed of supplication.
Like sewing again.
Like FINALLY cleaning those kitchen cabinets. Urgh...next time it's Ikea stand-alones for me. No more cabinets!

Now, if you're like me, with the incessant "How many hours to go till Maghrib, mom?" and the daily chore of wringing my brain cells off everytime the clock strikes 5pm, I would like to recommend you this brilliant site: Backpacker Mama Quest for Halal Food. This site is like THE GUIDE to a well-filled stomach.

Huh? Yes, dear, coming!!! ...it's time to hit the kitchen. We're having fish and chips tonight. I leave you with this clip from Ummah Films . If you're a Muslim, you will laugh along with the commentator. If you're a non-Muslim, you'll get a bit of insight into what happens during Ramadhan.

Selamat Berpuasa

2007-09-13T05:23:00.000+08:00

Today Muslims all over start the fasting month called Ramadhan. As usual, a "tradition" in my family, which started 3 years ago, no TV's allowed during Ramadhan. So, no cartoons, no news, no Korean dramas/movies.

So, I won't be putting up any new reviews for the next 30 days.

I WILL, however, return with a vengence with the help of my friendly videoshop ajumma, 30 days later.

Cliches in Dramas

2007-09-10T13:40:00.001+08:00

Ja emailed me this interesting article about cliches in dramas.
See if you can identify and agree with them:

1. Poor protagonists (usually the female leads) live in roof-tops. In reality, most poor ones live in the basement - where it's colder in winter and hotter in summer - one such drama that depicted this true fact is Spring Waltz. But according the people in the industry, the rooftops have better visual appeals - think Beautiful Days, Lovers In Paris, My Lovely Fool, Attic Cat etc etc...

2. Jilted Wives are usually successful. Seemed like a good way to get back at the useless-jilting husbands. But in actual fact, from the production point of view, it's a good way top show off product placements.

3. An argument takes place in a restaurant, girl became upset and threw a glass of water at boyfriend's face. Why water? At least the laundry fees won't be too much as compared to red wine/champagne/minestrone soup...you get the picture.

4. The sudden U-turn. Whether it's a one-way street, or a two-way street, or on an off-beaten track, when the male lead suddenly realised something - "I don't care about the world! I love her" - and needed to confess straightaway, he usually made a sudden U-turn back to her. Never mind the string of honking, crashing row of cars left behind. Tsk.

5. Cinderella Meets Prince Charming, and the ugly stepsisters are usually prettier, smarter, richer and nastier. They come in such packages. But the Prince's heart is usually binded by the hard-working, positively dispositioned Cinderella.

For full write up, read it here: Digital Chunsoilbo.

커피프린스 1호점 OST

2007-09-08T19:47:00.001+08:00

This OST arrived in the mail today, thanks to Nayeon.... 고맙다!!

Cruising along the highway listening to the tracks , I could just imagine driving with Han Kyul and Eun Chan. Lovely!

1. 랄랄라, It's Love!- 더 멜로디(The Melody)
2. White Love Story -애즈 원(As One)
3. 커피 한잔 어때?- (feat. 요조) 허밍 어반 스테레오(Humming Urban Stereo)
4. Go Go Chan!! (고고찬!!)- (feat. 요조) 티어라이너(Tearliner)
5. 커피향 설레임 (Guitar inst.)- 티어라이너(Tearliner)
6. For A While -MNI민재
7. Mocha 캐스커-(Casker)
8. 바다여행 (최한성 ver.) -이선균
9.햇살 한 조각 (inst.) -티어라이너(Tearliner)
10.Polly -더 멜로디(The Melody)
11.알콩달콩 (inst)- 티어라이너(Tearliner)
12.바다여행 -티어라이너(Tearliner)
13.Double Shot 캐스커(Casker)
14.좋은 기억 (inst.) -티어라이너(Tearliner)
15.바람에 살며시 앉다 (바다 여행 Piano ver. 오수경) -티어라이너(Tearliner)
16.Go Go Chan!! (고고찬!!) (방송 ver.) -(feat. 요조) 티어라이너(Tearliner )

I love ALL the songs. I have ordered the 2nd album online. Coz lots more songs in that one.

ZingDo Korean restaurant

2007-09-06T20:54:00.000+08:00

I finally set foot on ZingDo last week with Hye Jee, who is now in Pusan for a week-long visit to her family. I miss her.

Anyway, ZingDo's setting was not THAT kind of restaurant, I am afraid - felt more like kopitiam kinda setting, but friendly and relaxed ambience.

We ordered Bibimbap and Bulgogi and a plate of Jap Chae-like omeletty-sort of dish. Delicious, although Hye Jee said that it's kinda more like fusion Korean-Singapore food.

Anyway, no 반찬 (side dish) at all. Not even kimchi. So that was disappointing. But the food was delicious. The waitresses were friendly. And the cost was, on average, quite OK too.

Will I go again? Yes definitely. I mean , so hard to get to eat HALAL Korean food in Singapore. But I will come WITHOUT breakfast the next time - because of the huge servings I'll get.

ZINGDO KOREAN RESTAURANT
Jurong East Entertainment Centre
#01-152 Jurong East Central 1
Singapore 609 731
Tel: 6562 1339 Fax: 6425 4338
(Opening hours: 11.30am to 10.30pm)

Header floral

2007-09-04T20:11:00.004+08:00

Fox, What Are You Doing ? 여우야 뭐하니?

2007-09-03T14:57:00.000+08:00

Frankly, I am also not sure what the fox was up to. Or who the fox was. Or why there was too much fox about women having a relationship with younger men.

I mean: Really.

Apart from that thing about foxes, I kinda enjoy this light-hearted drama. A WARNING though: Do NOT watch this with your kids. Too many "foxy" stuff for the young ones.

Last saw Go Hyun Jung (고현정) when she was in Spring Day 봄날. I haven't blogged about that drama yet - too depressing, I thought. And Go Hyun Jung's character in Spring Day was equally depressing. So, I was REALLy happy to see the lighter side of her. Ajumma or otherwise, I thought she's very talented.

Chun Jung Myung (천정명) - Remember him as the rebel in Fashion 70's. He looked and acted really cute here. Hmm...but kinda too cute for my taste. he's neither a Cheesecake, nor a Brownie or a Tiramisu. I suppose young girls would go "Ooohhhh and Ahhhh" over him, but the ajumma in me kept saying :"Aiyah..so young..."

The gist

33 year old Byung Hee, left on the shelf for far too long, got her break when an eligible AND straight AND rich AND good-looking to boot, started showing interest in her. A few dates here and there, and she was smitten.

Or so she thought.

Chul Soo, younger brother of Byung Hee's best friend has been her secret admirer since they were young. A drink here and a motel there, and a "mistake" took place one night on Oido Island. Since that night, Chul Soo has decide to be "responsible" for his "mistake" but Byung Hee kept puhing him away, and brushing his declaration for love as "childish".

But, in true Korean drama tradition, the producers managed to stretch the simple storyline that could fit into a one-and-half hour movie into a 16-episode drama.

Did I enjoy the drama?
Well, I did because it was fun watching the 2 of them.
Did I think it's a good drama?
Well, it was a waste of great talents like Go Hyun Jung.
Would I recommend this drama to you?
Well, only if you enjoy oogling at Chun Jung Myung's young face

2.5 pop corns

The 1st Shop of Coffee Prince 커피프린스 1호점

2007-08-28T22:29:00.000+08:00

Fancy a cuppa? I did. A fusion of Arabica beans with a dash of Gong-Yoo essence.

The drama ended 2 nights ago with an hour special last night. This drama (an adaptation of a novel with same title by Lee Seon-mi 이선미) engulfed me with so much aroma that I was intoxicated every Mondays and Tuesdays.

I have not seen such an interesting setting in a long while (since Samsoon, I think):light-hearted, and yet warm; generally happy, with intense heart-tugging moments midway into the drama (episodes 9-12) . It's a good mix of actors - and I dare say that all of them got pretty good air times, especially the other 3 princes.

Gong Yoo has always had a place in my Korean-influenced heart since I first saw him in Biscuit Teacher, and then, Spy Girl, and then, S-Diary (*^^*) and the ultimate She's On Duty. And after that, who could forget his face.

His character and style in this drama is neither Cheesecake nor Brownie material. It's Tiramisu. Yes! I am creating another category in my "Theory of Men".

Tiramisu: rich coating on the surface, and even richer taste when you dig in deeper. Non-judgemental, giving, patient. 아.. Gong Yoo was so perfect as a Tiramisu in this drama.

Yoon Eun Hye. Finally , a good script and good character to allow her to shine. She was so wasted in The Vineyard Man. I hope she wins the Best Actress award next year. Wow, I was blown away. She must've done lots of research on her character. Remember the way she sits and eats? LOL.

The princes : Take your pick -

the goofy Min Yeob played by Eon (Left)

the chocolate brownie Sun Ki (Right) and his alluring mane, played by Kim Jae Wook.

the cute Harim, played by Kim Dong Wook(Left).

or you can even have the ajosshi supervisor(Right).

The Gist:

Go Eun Chan (YEH) became the sole breadwinner when her father died. She worked round the clock to support her mother and younger sister. But her Tomboy appearance became both a disadvantage and in this case, an advantage. After fate brought her to the path of Choi Han Gyul (GY), she decided to keep her true female identity to herself, to save her job in Han Gyul's all-male-employee cafe, Coffee Prince.

Coffee Prince was originally a dilapidated cafe, until Han Gyul's grandmother decided to put him to test by challenging him to triple the cafe's profit in 3 months, after which, he's free to pursue his dream as a toy-designer in New York.

Eun Chan's carefree and positive disposition captivated Han Gyul's heart, making the latter go through emotional dilemma -"Am I gay?" he asked himself. He decided later that he was not but failed to distract himself. In the meantime, Eun Chan was slowly falling in love with him.

As for the rest of the drama, I only have this to say : WATCH IT!!!

I LOVE THIS DRAMA. But, I must say, I wished that the ending could have been more romantic. I am not sure if it's the same ending in the novel, I will check the novel out soon.

The OST is also great - I am excitedly awaiting a package from my Friend Na Yeon - 고마워, 친구야...

5 pop corns.
And thousands of kernals ready to pop at any given time.

Sol Mart @ Square 2

2007-08-27T14:23:00.000+08:00

I totally went bonkers and started filling up my basket with the help of a friendly ajumma (I should have taken a photo with her...).

Since it was early in the morning, and I practially helped her open her shop, she was relatively free to guide me along the aisle, introducing me to ingredients I needed to cook 2 new recipes that she aptly took out of thin air, as we browsed along.

Although this is a small store ( I was expecting it to be larger), it's well stacked with any Korean-loving shopper's daily need. The relatively large open freezer is well-stocked with ...well, whatever you need.

Although she spoke English well, having lived here for the past 10 years, she chose to speak to me in Korean because she said "I needed the practice" - har har..how perceptively true.

While paying for my goods, I chanced upon a magazine with Jo In Sung's picture on the cover. Ajumma asked if I liked Jo In Sung. I said, "Well, not really. I like Sung Si Kyung". She said " Ah.....you are like an agasshi". I said" No lah..I am an ajumma too..hee hee".

Anyway, it was a pleasant experience.

And I get to eat my Korean Maize, albeit without the technicolours. But the taste reminded me of the long humid walk along Hoegi.

And my fridge was suddenly engulfed with Kimchi smell, until I bought this perfectly brilliant Touch-Vac Vacuum Container. It's Korean made, of course. Perfect.

Coffee Prince Skit LOL

2007-08-23T14:21:00.000+08:00

I thought these guys from Suju are so hilarious.

Thank You 고맙습니다

2007-08-18T09:52:00.000+08:00

"Thanks for showing (teaching) me how beautiful Life is". That's what the tag line in the poster below said.

OK , I have recuperated from the sudden powerful impact that this drama had on me for the past few days. It was breathtakingly beautiful. Full of subtle messages and full of brilliant acting, script, camera works, just BEAUTIFUL.

Two words : JANG HYUK.

What a comeback. What a guy. He's chosen an amazing way to return to his fans. Although I am sure, Ja, my friend in Seoul had hoped that he would choose HER as his soulmate.

Anyway, the brilliance of his performance lies not just in the delivery of the well-written scripts, but in those unspoken moments of silence , that tried to mask his utter emotional turmoil. He did it so well, that I suddenly found tears falling down my cheeks, looking at him and his unshaven face, those 5-oclock shadows, and the unkempt hair, and those tortured eyes.....aigu..... bila dia nangis, tolong kesat air hidung dia....nah ...ambil tisu ni...

Kong Hyo-jin (공효진) - I have not seen her since Biscuit Teacher And Star Candy (건빵 선생과 별사탕) with Gong Yoo (ahem *^^*) and Sang Doo! Let's Go to School (상두야, 학교가자!) . You see what good scripts and directing can do to an actress. She was so perfect for the role of a single mother with a demented grandpa and a daughter inflicted with AIDS. Although at first I thought she and Jang Hyuk looked kinda mismatched, I realised that this actually worked like marvel.

Shin Goo (신구) as Choco Pie-loving Demented Grandpa

I thought grandpa also stole the limelight in this drama. Although his basic script consisted of "Can I give you a Choco Pie?" and "Bean paste, I want a Choco Pie", I thought he was such a convincing Haraboji with Dementia. Remember the scene where he insisted on distributing Choco Pie to everyone on the island? You cried your eyes out, didn't you?

The gist:

Dr Min Gi Seo (Jang Hyuk), rich, successful, brilliant surgeon and (ahem*) handsome too, was unable to save his girlfriend (also a doctor) in her battle with cancer. He followed her on a ferry to meet an island woman, Lee Young Shin (Kong Hyo Jin) and her 8-year old daughter, Bom (봄 - as in "Spring") to say sorry for accidentally transfusing her with contaminated blood during an emergency procedure in the past.

Fate brought Bom and Young Shin on to the same ferry, where Girlfriend recognised Bom and only managed to give her a huge teddy bear before she died. Fast forward a few months later....

Seok Hyun, working in Gi Seo's mom's giant empire, was sent to the Blue Island for a surveying project. He had not returned to his hometown on Blue Island for the past 8 years, and was pleasantly surprised to meet Bom (whom he had always believed to be his daughter). Gi Seo was also sent to the Island by his mom to help Seon Hyuk.

Fate also brought him to the path of Young Shin and her family. I won't tell you the rest of the drama because seeing is believing....

I thought Jang Hyuk looked absolutely 멋있다 here.

Seo Sin-ae (서신애) as the AIDS inflicted girl and Sin Seong-rok (신성록) as Seon Hyuk.

There are no bad guys, bad girls here. In fact, everyone portrayed in this drama were very human.

The moral of the story :

I thought that, apart from the AIDS message, there were many others that were apparent in this drama. For instance, at the beginning of the drama, all the islanders lived very closely with each other - treating everybody like family members. They looked after each other's children - very much like Singapore in the olden days. However, when tragedy struck, every one's lost in their own fear, neighbours became enemies, past good deeds were forgotten, loved ones were suddenly feared of. But it took only one selfless person to start believing again. That person was Gi Seo, who chose to return to live with Young Shin and Bom (and grandpa, of course) when everyone else ostracized them.

Marie Curie said "Nothing in life is to be feared. It is only to be understood". How true.

I give this drama : 8 out of my usual 5 pop corns.

I give Jang Huk a 10 out of my usual 5 pop corns.

WATCH IT!. Get the OST. I am.

The theme song in the MV said it all:

고맙습니다

당신은 바보네요. 정말 고맙습니다.
Dang Shineun paboneyo. Jongmal gomapseumnida
나 하나밖에 모르고 아낌없이 다 준 사람.
Na hana pakke moruego akkim opshi da jun saram

당신은 천사네요. 때론 힘들고 지칠텐데
Dang Shineun chonsa neyo. Dderon himdeulgo jichil tende
아무것도 볼 것 없는 사람을 변함없이 믿어주네요.
Amu gotdo bolgot opneun sarameul byonham opshi midoju neyo.

이상하죠. 그댄 눈물샘이 없나봐요.
I sangha jyo. Geuden nun mul semi opnabwa yo.
아파도 날 위해 늘 웃어주네요.
Apha do nal wihe neul uoso juneyo

그대 곁에서 난 행복해서 우네요.
Geude gyotteso nan hengbokheso uneyo
목끝에 차있는 그 말 정말 사랑합니다.
mok keute cha itneun ge mal jongmal sarang hamnida.

표현도 못하는 못난 내사랑
Pyohyondo motha neun mot nan nesarang
이제서야 말하네요. 나 그대 있어 살아가죠.
I jesoya malhaneyo. Na geude isso saragajyo.

이상하죠. 그댄 눈물샘이 없나봐요.
I sangha jyo. Geuden nun mul semi opnabwa yo.
아파도 날 위해 늘 웃어주네요.
Apha do nal wihe neul uoso juneyo.

그대 곁에서 난 너무나 행복한 사람
Geude gyotteso nan nomuna hengbokhan saram
해맑은 그대 미소는 나를 비춰주네요.
He malgeun geude misoneun nareul bichuojuneyo.

먼 훗날 세상이 다한다해도
Mon hutnal sesangi dahandahedo
잊지말고 기억해줘요.
Itjimalgo kiokhe juo yo.

그대 곁에 나 있음을.
geude gyotte na isseumeul

나 행복해서 우네요.
Na hengbokheso uneyo
목끝에서 차 있는 그 말 정말 사랑합니다.
mok keute cha itneun ge mal jongmal sarang hamnida.

표현도 못하는 못난 내사랑
Pyohyondo motha neun mot nan nesarang
이제서야 말하네요. 나 그대 있어 살아가죠
I jesoya malhaneyo. Na geude isso saragajyo.

Fireworks 불꽃놀이

2007-08-17T11:21:00.000+08:00

Another spring-summer drama which promised Fireworks, but for me the Fireworks died after the 6th episode. It's no wonder that the average ratings for this drama was low too.

I suppose, the beginning of this drama was promising, with the heart wrenching scenes of Shin Nara's situation, and how she and In Jae met etc. But as the drama progressed, it became rather draining for seasoned" K-drama viewers. Plus, I hate indecisive, backbone-less cheesecakes.

The gist

Shin Nara spent 7 years of her life financially and emotionally supporting her boyfriend, Seung Woo, who later passed his CPA and became an accountant. Now, Nara has made a promise to herself that she would not go to bed with Seung Woo until they both passed the CPA.

After 7 long years of endurance and celibacy, Seung Woo finally succumbed to the temptation of a woman whom he met on a business trip to San Francisco. And that ended (or so we thought) their relationship.

Fate brought Nara to Na In Jae's path one night. And they became friends eventually- at first platonic, and later romantically - in a very Korean Drama fashion. The temptress, in the form of Cha Mi Rae, happened to be In Jae's deceased brother's fiance.

AND to make things MORE complicated, Na In Jae's super rich mother happened to be Shin Nara's mother's good friend from long ago.

Aigu.... I rest my case.

Anyway, in the first place, I don't quite fancy Han Chae-young (한채영) , not since I saw her in Only You. Dunno why........ In this Fireworks, although she was quite believable as poor-little-hardworking-naive girl, I felt that her character was quite constraint and was not developed to its full potential. I would have loved to see her more robust when she bounced back after being jilted by Seung Woo - much like Kim Sam Soon would have done.

Kang Ji-hwan (강지환) - he did not light my fire when he was dying in 90 days, and he failed to sustain the fireworks in this drama too. I am very sure he's a good actor, but what's with the boneless character lah...man. I mean, come on.....if you love Nara, just say so lah! aigu.....if you can't stand the sight of Mirae's attention seeking and conniving excuses to tie you down, just tell her to sod off. And Ji Hwan sshi, next time, please choose a chocolate brownie role, please....

Remember Yoon Sang-hyeon (윤상현) PD Yoo in Marrying a Millionaire? I was so HAPPY to see him again in another drama. Although his character is a jerk (really, I would have loved to send a swarm of bees in his direction) , he's a good jerk. Decisive and focused, albeit cold at times. But I think he should smile more. He looks so much better when he smiles like during the first 5 minutes of the drama.

Park Eun-hye (박은혜)- I loved her in Daejanggeum as Janggeum best friend. I was kinda able to tolerate her schemes in 18/29, but I could not stomach her character in this drama. It just didn't work. I mean, can you imagine Elmo as a villain?

So, if you're a fan of any of the actors/actresses above, you should watch this drama.

But if you're hoping to see Fireworks like the ones in Marina Bay on 9th August......hmm....save your pop corns for next year's NDP.

I give this drama 2 pop corns.

Corner * With Love 轉角＊遇到愛

2007-08-14T13:01:00.005+08:00

Pardon me while I digress......

I have run out of good Korean dramas on the shelves. so, the video shop oppa told me that I should try this Taiwan drama. Here's how they tried very hard to convince me. Incidentally, videoshop ajumma was off today...

Videoshop oppa: This story has a rich girl and a poor guy working in a restaurant.

Videoshop agasshi: The girl always quarrels with the guy.

Videoshop oppa: But the guy secretly loves the girl...etc etc..

Aini: Hmm...sounds like a Korean drama - minus the terminal illness. OK la. I try.

Videoshop oppa and agasshi: But not subtitle hor....

Aini: Oh.....hmmm....time to brush up my Mandarin.....

Update: 15.8.07
I am so sorry folks. I can't take it any further. I don't think I am ready to watch Taiwanese dramas yet. Perhaps I should start with Taiwanese movies first. Shorter and faster.

I watched 3 episodes of this drama, and all the while I was thinking " Hmm...what Korean drama should I watch next"...and at the end of the 3 episodes of watching Barbie and the (劉文正)Liu-wen-zheng-lookalike bickering non-stop, I said to myself. OK, that's it. I know this is a good drama, but perhaps...I will watch it again at another time.

Update : 20.3.09
I have decided to rewatch this drama and give it another go. This time with an open mind, and thanks to Meteor Garden, I kinda like Barbie Hsu.

After rewatching th whole drama, I guess I have to take my earlier words back. The drama is OK - kinda reminds me of Vineyard Man 포도밭 그 사나이 a while ago. The same kinda formula - rich girl thrown into life of average-normal-working classed people and slowly falling in love with the perfect-next-door-kampung boy.

Although I have seen him in Taiwanese variety shows, I have never seen Show Lo (with his 白馬王子's eyes) act before. The guy has a nice charm about him - the dark, handsome, chocolate brownie that I usually like. I like the way the hero, Qin Lang, confessed his love with tears in his eyes, to a "sleeping" Xin Lei. It's so ....nnniiiiccceeeee.......

With the non-stop bickering and the "tell, or don't tell" dilemma between the 2, I was kinda glad that the drama was only 16-episodes long. It has its high moments - I especially like the "shoe" scenes.

And I suppose they can do away with the unnecessary novel-publishing duo which took up too much air time.

I give this drama 2.5 pop corns - for making me cry when Show Lu cried.

Myung Se Bin

2007-08-10T19:13:00.000+08:00

Myung Se-bin with fiance Gang Ho-sung.

The Queen is getting married next Friday. Don't they look lovely...

News: Korea Times

Sung Si Kyung's latest look

2007-08-09T23:32:00.001+08:00

진짜 진짜 멋있죠?
너무 맛있다.

Majulah Singapura

2007-08-08T20:17:00.002+08:00

Aini and Korean Language Teacher Ms Ong Wann at the Ambassador's National Day Party in Seoul last year.

This morning, being the eve of National Day, throngs of school children streamed out of their respective schools clad in red and white. My kids started singing the National Day songs about a week ago.

Students of Marsiling Primary School

This morning, Qory had to leave home earlier usual, because he had to prepare to recite the pledge in front of the whole school as the Head Prefect. He was anxious about his performance, as usual. You may read about our encounter with Qory's new appointment as a Head Prefect a few months ago here.

Iman and her primary 3 classmates were chosen to compete with students from Primaries 4 & 5 for the Annual Best National Day Performance Award. When I picked her up from school this morning, she ran towards me jubilantly screaming " We Won! We Won! we beat the P4 & 5!!!"

Photos taken from NDP website

Although I do not have a Singapore flag hanging outside my window, I am proud to be celebrating our National Day in the comforts of my home. Lest we forget - there are other nations suffering at this very moment because of instability of their countries, or the loss of their homes, or the loss of family members.

I know I am safe in Singapore.

site

궁s - Goongs

2007-08-08T10:26:00.000+08:00

Hmm....... What did you say? You haven't seen this?

Hmmmm... Then, in that case, Just Imagine:

Instead of a King, you have a Queen.
Instead of a bad Auntie, you have a bad Uncle.
Instead of a scandal involving the King and the Aunt, you have the Aunt and Uncle.
Instead of a free-go-lucky girl-turned-princess, you have a guy-turned prince.
Instead of nice clothes, imagine the opposite.
Instead of Alfred, you have the Worry Bear (picture at the bottom page)

Anyway.

The gist:
Delivery-Boy, Kang Hoo, found out that he's actually the last direct decendent in the royal line of the current queen. In the palace, he met and fell in love with Yang Soon Yi, the palace maid-turned-court lady-turned-Royal Academy-student-turned-Court-interpreter-turned..........hang on....this sounds like Daejanggeum's career story..... Anyway, a scandal here and a scandal there, a sacrifice here and a sacrifice there, and you have 20 episodes of stale bread.

I alwats tell myself: DON'T BLAME THE ACTORS...They're just soing their part.

I mean, let's face it, even with a beautiful cast, screenwriters Do Yeong Myeong & Lee Jae-soon cannot beat Park So Hee's brilliant writings.

Choi Dong-Wook...I mean, Se7en........he had not-so-good reviews about his acting when the drama first screened. I have read the reviews, and was anticipating as much. But I was actually surprised that he was not too bad, really. I mean, he was believable as a miserable prince, trying his best to fit in. I am looking forward to more movies/dramas with Se7en as the lead. I think he will improve. 꼭.

She's looking pretty here and she's looking very Kim Tae Hee here

Heo E-Jae ....who IS this woman? she's so beautiful (I hope it's not plastic). from some angles, she looks like Kim Tae Hee. I enjoyed her scenes. Her refreshing acting and interesting character provided a nice respite from the morbidness that surrounded the palace.

Kang Du ....Who? Eh? Who? A Singer? Who? Which group? Solo? Really? Kang Du Who? I felt sorry for the hairstyle that he has to put up with during the first couple of episodes. And those 70's black glasses......Luckily Se7en accidentally knocked those glasses off during one sparring scene. I secretly think that Kang Du purposely ad-libbed that scene to get rid of those ghastly glasses. Kand Du's character grew on me as the drama progresses, because Prince Joon is not a nasty person. He's a good person who loves Yang Nai unconditionally. Aw....a chocolate brownie prince....

Park Shin-Hye...Trying to imagine her as a bad girl is like trying to imagine Sung Si Kyung singing off-key.....It just WON'T work! Lucckkkiilllyyyy....she became a good girl in the end.

Overall, I was kinda disappointed because I was hoping that those bad reviews that I read were just prejudiced because of the comparisons with Goong. But they were right.

I hope there won't be Goong T, Goong V etc... the only Goong sequel that I WANT to watch will be Park So Hee's Chapter 13 onwards.