[ARTICLE] INTERVIEW: Solo Debut of Sunrise Dongwoon from BEAST!! He talks about his life since he was born up until now!

◆ Today’s theme is “What kind of person is Son Dongwoon?”. We would like to hear about your life from your birth till now.
DW: Got it, please be nice to me!

◆Where were you born?
DW: Busan. Do you know Busan?

◆ Yes, I have never been there but shooting of huge hit movie “Ode to My Father” was held in Busan, right.
DW: Yes. I was actually born in Busan and lived there for around one year. But due to my father’s university/school matter, we moved to another place, so there are not much memories from living in Busan.

◆Have you ever asked from your parents that what kind of child were you?
DW: I heard that I was a child who has a big/loud crying voice.

◆ Does your real name is Dongwoon?
DW: Yeah. It is written as ‘孫東雲’ (Kanji means ‘Grandson’, ‘East’, ‘Cloud’). It is written as ‘cloud’, but the meaning is not cloud but “Galaxy”. “East” is preferred to Asia, so I don’t know well but I think “To become the galaxy of Asia” might be the hidden meaning.



◆ You have an older brother, right. How do you call each other?
DW: I call him “Brother (Bro~~)”. And he calls me “Dongni” (laughed shyly).

◆How is your connection with your brother?
DW: It’s really good these days. He’s managing a cafe right now, so sometimes I give him advices here & there.

◆Was there any time when connection between brothers were not that good?
DW: Never. He’s now 29 years old and we have a pretty large age gap, so there are no times for us to quarrel. So we have never been in a fight.

◆ Then what kind of child were you when you were in a kindergarten?
DW: I went to “Cheongju Kindergarden” in Cheongju city. I was much more cool/handsome when I was in kindergarten. The time when I was in the kindergarten, was the time when my face was the most handsome in my whole life. A-ha!

◆That means, you were already a flower-boy back in kindergarden! (laughs).
DW: Yeah. I think so (Genuine/ non-guilty face). I was a really healthy/cheerful boy.

◆ What did you played back then?
DW: Like computer games…

◆ You were playing indoors while saying you were a cheerful boy?
DW: Haha, yeah. I was more like an indoor type of person.




◆ When was the time when you hurt so badly?
DW: I think there is none. I’m taking care of my body so carefully.

◆When you were a child, what was your dream occupation?
DW: When I was little, I wanted to become someone “admirable”, so becoming a lawyer was my dream. but the wall of life… (laughs).

◆That wall was “grade”? (laughs).
DW: Yes, it was difficult. I bumped into that wall in middle school (laughs).

◆How was your days in elementary school?
DW: In elementary school, I was a bit more into ‘outdoor’ type. I was an inline skate athlete. I participated in “Korean Championship” as a representative of Cheongju and I got into 2nd place.

◆ Wow, that’s so great! You are good in so many things?
DW: Yeah, of course. I have so many talent. I’m still good in that, too.

◆ Please show us on the stage! Fans will be delighted to see you coming out on stage while doing inline skate!
DW: Ahaha! Really~~!? (Laughs).



◆How about school/grades?
DW: I was pretty good on that, too.

◆ What kind of existence were you in your class? Leader type?
DW: I wasn’t a leader-type. Leader had to be called out to the teacher many times, so I didn’t like it, I was more like outsider-type? (laughs). I did have a lot of friends though.

◆Were your parents strict?
DW: They weren’t that strict. They always supported what I wanted to do.

◆ Have you ever scolded by your father?
DW: ….. I have. In 3rd year of middle school, when I quit being JYP trainee. I was told “What are you trying to do quitting being trainee!”

◆ After being told like that, what was your answer?
DW: I was silent, can’t say anything.

◆What about your experience in studying instruments?
DW: I had studied violin for 6 years since kindergarden.

◆ Were you the one who said you wanted to learn playing violin?
DW: No, it was my parents’ decision. I was good in playing violin. But study/grades were more important than violin, so….

◆You didn’t have much time to play violin?
DW: No, I did have time. It’s just I didn’t want to play it (laughs).

◆I got it (laughs). What else have you learned?
DW: Inline skate & English. Kids start to learn English since their kindergarden in Korea… But I forgot them all (laughs).

◆How about piano?
DW: There was a piano that my grandfather bought in our house, so I learned playing when I was in elementary school. It’s self-taught.



◆What kind of child were you in middle school?
DW: I was a JYP trainee from 1st year till 3rd year in middle school, so there was not much time to play with my friends and I didn’t have many friends back then. But since I was a trainee, I was popular in my school.

◆ Arts & Science, which were you better at?
DW: I like language classes, so its arts. I was good at English.

◆ How about school works?
DW: There are not much school works in Korea.

◆In the middle school, you were…… leader-type? (laughs)
DW: I wasn’t (laughs).



◆ Did you go to coed-school?
DW: Yes, it was boys & girls school. But the classroom had only male students. I made 3 friends in high school. 4 of us, including me, have always been playing together and we still have a good relationship.

◆How did you guys met?
DW: One of them was my 1st grade classmate and we became friends while talking about HIP HOP. Other one was from another class, but he was a friend of my friend who loves HIP HOP, so eventually we became friends. Last one was also from different class but he was also a friend of my friend who loves HIP HOP, so (laughs) we became friends.

◆Your friend who loves HIP HOP was the key-man (laughs).
DW: Yeah (laughs). Three of them were from same middle school but it seemed like they weren’t that close back then, but when me & my friend who loves HIP HOP played together, 4 of us got together. I liked HIP HOP at that time and when I met my friend who loves HIP HOP, we had a quarrel about “Who is the best rapper?”, and then we became friends with that.

◆Did you had a concern over university entry exam or your future plans?
DW: I debuted when I was in 3rd year of high school, so I didn’t have any concern towards entering university. University was not that important to me at that time.



◆Since when did you chose music as your job/occupation?
DW: Since in middle school. I was a trainee in JYP and I loved singing.

◆When did you start dancing?
DW: When I became trainee, I started dancing for the first time.. But I wasn’t in a good shape with my dance instructor, so I didn’t really liked my dance lesson. That’s why I am still bad at dancing (laughs).

◆When was your most popular days among girls?
DW: It’s now (smiles). My middle school was boys-school, so it wasn’t a time to get chocolates on Valentine’s Day. And I wasn’t that popular in my high school, so I haven’t received that much of it (laughs).

◆Why? When you are this handsome! (laughs).
DW: I wonder why? I don’t know. Even my personality is nice, too… I had been always hanging with my 3 friends and I was a decent student in my class.



◆From the relationships you have been experienced, was there any episode or experinced-talk?
DW: Yeah, through ‘loving’ (he talked slowly to pick the words he use), I got to know about expression of feelings and the way of how to love someone. By loving, I understood the meaning of love songs. I think that also influenced my singing technique.

◆How about your experience doing part-time jobs?
DW: I don’t have any. I was a trainee since when I was in middle school.

◆Was there any part-time jobs you wanted to try to do if you had a chance?
DW: Handing out/putting out flyers.

◆Handing out/putting out flyers!? (laughs)
DW: Yeah. I was good in inline skates, so handing out flyers while doing inline skate seemed like I can do it in a short time, so I wanted to try it once.

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[ARTICLE] ‘Old School’ MBLAQ reveals situation where BEAST turned/stole fans

MBLAQ (Seungho, G.O, Mir) revealed a situation where they lost fans to BEAST in the early days of their debut.

On the 24th on SBS Radio Power FM “Kim Changryul’s Old School’ MBLAQ guested and showed off their talking skills.

On this day, DJ Kim Changryul asked MBLAQ ‘In the early days of your debut, you attended ISAC (Idol Sports Athletic Championship) with BEAST. There were 300 MBLAQ fans and 300 BEAST fans who came. I heard you lost your fans to BEAST’.

G.O replied, “We had a lot of fans at the start of our debut.”

He then added, “BEAST have a lot of aegyo (cuteness) towards their fans. But we didn’t know (how to do) those kind of things. On that day, it was really tiring. During the break, we went to the waiting room and slept. BEAST went to their fans to greet them,” he explained.

G.O continued, “When we woke up and went out, we saw our fans stomping out of their seats and went to sit at BEAST’s side.”

Kim Changryul then asked, “Did you feel regretful?”

G.O replied, “At that point, we were like ‘They’re leaving. They’re leaving. Look at that.’ We were positive and thought ‘If they like (BEAST), it’s good if they left.’ But not now. We will run to their seats and grab them.”

Source: Star News
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[ARTICLE] Composer Kim Hyeongseok “After working with BEAST Yang Yoseob, I became a fan”

Composer Kim Hyeongseok complimented BEAST’s Yang Yoseob.

On SBS Power FM ‘Kim Changryul’s Old School’ that was broadcasted on the 25th, composer Kim Hyeongseok appeared on the ‘Music’s dignity’ corner.

On this day, Kim Changryul DJ asked, “Are there any young singers that you’re keeping an eye on lately?” and Kim Hyeongseok replied, “This is not recent but I like BEAST Yang Yoseob.”

He added, “Yang Yoseob sings really well. In the past, there was an instance of us working together and there was one verse in which he sang in a style that I didn’t want. So I said, “Could you change and sing this part in R&B?’ and he replied refreshingly ‘Sure, I’ll do it’ and without even trying/practicing it, he immediately changed his singing style.”

Kim Hyeongseok said, “When I heard that, I thought ‘What? There are kids like this’ and I was left in admiration. After that, I became Yang Yoseob’s fan” complimenting Yang Yoseob.

Source: TV Daily
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[FEATURE] Once you get to know them, dance machines – boy group version (Yoseob)

The charming point about MBC’s ‘Sunday Night – Masked Singer’ is that it is reliant solely on the voice without any prejudice and you could feel it wholly. Whenever EXID’s Solji, BTOB’s Yook Sungjae, B1A4’s Sandeul, Kahi, APINK’s Eunji and other skilful idols make an appearance, they gather interest and their talents are recognized. In that case, instead of ‘Masked Singer’, how would ‘Masked Dancer’ be?

For idols, dancing, apart from singing, is a needed virtue. In every group, there would be someone in charge of dancing, highlighting the importance of performance. Shinhwa’s Lee Minwoo, DBSK’s Uknow Yunho, SNSD’s Hyoyeon, 2NE1’s Gong Minzy, Kahi are some of the idols knows for their dancing skills but there are many other idols member whose (skills) are hidden.

Removed a paragraph

BEAST Yang Yoseob, turns out to be dance’s standard/formula

BEAST’s main vocal Yang Yoseob. In BEAST, the members in charge of dancing are Lee Kikwang and Jang Hyunseung. However if you look at Yang Yoseob during BEAST’s performance, you’ll be able to know the person who dances closest to the standard. Lee Kikwang dances freely, Jang Hyunseung is powerful while Yang Yoseob dances cleanly without superfluous moves and he commands attention. You could see him properly in his solo music stage ‘Caffeine’. During ‘Caffeine’, like his performance, the choreography is made up of moves that highlight his strengths and clearly draws attention to it. From the chorus, Yang Yoseob starts off lightly with restrained movements showing off a clean/crisp dance. If seeing it just on stage feels regretful, I recommend a practice clip of him with Prepix team Ha Woosin and Lee Illhyeong dancing too Craig David’s What’s Your Flava. It is a video that will allow you to rediscover Yang Yoseob.

Source: TenAsia
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[ARTICLE] Interview: SANSPO (Dongwoon)

-Congratulations on your solo debut!
Thank you! I will work hard!

–This year, the independent label BEAST Music was formed and for 10 consecutive months, a single will be released every month. In the midst of that active promotion, Dongwoon-san debuted solo. Please tell us your resolution.
Although I’m feeling burdened/pressured by the solo album, but I will work hard as BEAST’s representative.

-When did you start preparing for the album?
I first heard talks about the solo album in December last year and started preparing from late February. I prepared for about 3 months.

–What did you feel when you first heard about the solo debut?
I was really happy and there were various things so I was really anticipating/looking forward to it. However, all these while I’ve been promoting as 6 so having to do things (by myself) for the first time, or having to know what to do – I feel pressure at those parts. Even now it’s pressurising.

–What did you prepare?
For this first solo, I wanted to express to everyone my outlook/view on music so I wrote the lyrics. I decided on the overall concept (of the album); for the jacket photos and MV too, my opinions are reflected. I wanted to personally include my stories.

–Does it reflect your experiences too?
Although it’s not 100% my experiences, the things that I imagined, I think of them as my stories. There are general experiences and there are also experiences that I went through myself.

-In the non-title songs, there are various forms of one-sided love being expressed, but like you mentioned just now, would it include stories you experienced for yourself?
I didn’t include it on purpose because I experienced it, rather it went in subconsciously.  I’ve also experienced unrequited love before.

–You’re not debuting solo in Korea but in Japan coupled with solo promotions. What are you concerned about?
The ways of promotion and its contents differ when in Japan and when in Korea. In Japan, before the album is released, there are various things that are done so in that regard it’s different. Also Japanese is a foreign language for me so it’s difficult.  Because the whole album is to be sung in Japanese, it was important to be able to express my emotions .

–It’s really difficult to be writing lyrics expressing your emotions in a different language; how did you study (Japanese)?
I think of an image that reflects the Japanese word so when I’m singing, I recall that image.

–Last year when BEAST released Adrenaline, you came to Japan alone for promotions. Is there anything you would like to try alone?
Through this album, I want to have many live (sessions). I want to meet fans in different regions and I’m planning to go.


-Not too long ago, you had a live guerrilla (session) in Shibuya.
Yes. I was really nervous. Up till now, I’ve only performed in front of fans who like me so it wasn’t as nerve wrecking and I was able to sing but standing and singing in front of people who don’t know me at a considerably close distance, I was nervous.

-In Korea too, there was never an instance of having a guerrilla (performance)?
Yes, I’ve never done it in Korea and it was my first time ever in Japan.

-What were the reactions of the viewers?
I think the reactions were good.

-We’re really anticipating the songs you wrote ‘Only You’, ‘Too Sweet, You’, ‘Star’, together with Ayaka-san’s cover song ‘Tsuyokuomou’ and a new song Ayaka-san wrote (title undecided). Please tell us the point of each song.
For ‘Only You’, it is a track that talks about love; Although you may not think of it that way but I thought of a more widespread content and I wanted to give courage to the people who are sad; I wrote the lyrics with that kind of story. For ‘Too Sweet, You’.. I’ve always liked R&B and it’s been a song I’ve been wanting to sing for a long time. I hope you listen to this song with the R&B melody that it carries. The song that Ayaka-san wrote and gifted me is a song about unrequited love and the main person in that (song) is me. I think it’s heart-warming. Because it’s (about) a man who kindly wishes for the other party to be happy, I hope you feel the heart-warming emotions. For ‘Star’, I sang this song last year at the concert with  Yoseobie hyung and Doojoonie hyung and the fans made me feel touched at that concert. I wanted to include that feeling in the album too so I had a new recording for it. I hope you feel the touched feeling and the happy memories (of the concert) from the song.

-Is there a song you would recommend specially or specific lyrics that you like?
It’s the first solo so everything is good but I like ‘Only You’ and ‘Star’ which is a song that has shared memories of me and the fans.

-What is Dongwoon-san’s lyrics writing style?
I’m someone who will take a long time to write. I’m someone who will write an expression and erase it and repeat the whole process again. I’m the style that will have a memo; I want to write lyrics that are reminiscent of a drama or a movie so I think of a scene and write based on that. There are moments when I write in Korean, there are also times when I start writing in Japanese and end the lyrics with all of it completely being in Japanese.
 Inspiration for ‘Star’ came from the scene of China’s ‘The Three Kingdom’ where Sima Yi knew of Zhuge Liang’s death.

-I heard that the cover song, Ayaka’s ‘Tsuyokuomou’is your favourite song, what part do you like?
I liked the lyrics and the melody so I listened to it but I really like the meaning behind the song and I’ve always thought of when I would be able to sing this kind of song. This time round, there was a great opportunity resulting in me being able to sing this song. Since I’ve always thought of doing a cover, I feel happy.

-What do you like about Ayaka-san?
I think she’s really amazing at expressing emotions. Her singing skills is great too but her ability to express emotions is really excellent.

–Please let us know how Ayaka-san came about in writing a song for you.
Listening to ‘Tsuyokuomou’, I requested to do a cover of the song but Ayaka-san too wanted to gift me with something so she made a song for me.

-Was there an opportunity for you to speak to Ayaka-san?
Ah Ayaka-san is busy and she’s in the midst of her pregnancy so we weren’t able to meet up but through the staff, I received a message saying “I will work hard on creating a song that Dongwoon-san’s fans would like”. I am really happy.

-Apart from Ayaka-san, at concerts you’ve sung Ken Hirai-san and MISIA-san songs too; Do you have a favourite song or singer from Japan?
I’ve always liked R&B. The song that I like recently is Kobukuro’s ‘Flower Bud’ and I listen to it often. I really like the lyrics. Through the lyrics, I learn Japanese and listening to it, it seems like it gives me strength.

-In your next work/album, would you like to try it out?
Whenever my skills improve, I’d like to try it but right now it’s still too much (for me). Even so, I would like to try it someday.

–Junhyung-san made two songs for you; how were the members’ reactions?
Whenever we have solo activities, we don’t give things like advices. We don’t say much to each other but even so, just by being next to each other, it becomes a strength for us. We support each other through our heart so even when we don’t say anything, we know it (the support). Although they do say things like “Work hard/do well”. (laughs)

-Do you get advice from Junhyung-san on how to sing?
I’ve been working with Junhyungie hyung for a long time so there’s no special advice or anything. Hyung too knows my voice and method of singing well so he makes songs that would match that; I’m also aware of hyung’s directing style so naturally I’ll match it (JH’s style with his singing).

–What were the response of the people around you when BEAST MUSIC was established?
At first it was pressurising creating a label with BEAST’s name but having many opportunities to sing various genres of music, I think it’s a really good thing.
Not just writing his lyrics in Japanese but even during Japanese concerts, he wrote the script/ment too. His Japanese language skills have really improved. In this interview too, he was without a translator and he gave all his answers in Japanese. Therefore, now he said his aim is to dream in Japanese.

-Your Japanese (language) skill has really improved by a lot, how did you study?
Lately, I converse in Japanese with my teacher for two hours a day. In a week, I do it for 3-4 times but lately I don’t have much time…

–You’re really good.
I’m trying hard. I have schedules so I’m not able to do it every day but when I get time, I’ll practice. But I’m still lacking in a lot. I want to try even harder.

–When did you start studying?
It’s been about a year and five months.

–What motivation did you have to keep maintaining it?
Not being able to understand what the fans were saying, I was a little angry at myself so I started studying. My motivation is thinking of being able to personally converse with the Japanese fans in Japanese.

-Last year in Korean broadcast, you hosted ‘Super Idol Chart Show’ as an MC, this year you’ve tried radio DJ and your solo activities have increased. What’s the difference between group promotions and solo promotions?
For solo promotions, you get to show off your own charms and it’s great but in that regard, alone you can’t not match up to the skills that the group, six people, possess so it’s hard.

–What is something that you must try in the future?
I want to be a regular DJ. I like listening to other people’s stories and talking about it.

–Dongwoon-san’s era is here.
(shy) Hahaha… I’m working hard that on the opportunities that are here so I believe that a time like that will come.

–Amongst the members, only Dongwoon-san is the youngest (as the other members are the same age). Being the maknae, what are the pros and cons?
The merit of being a maknae is that when we have to talk to the company boss, even if I don’t personally do it myself, leader Doojoon hyung will speak up on my behalf so it works out even when I don’t do anything – that’s the merit. I have pretty much the same opinions as the hyungs so I just don’t do anything. There’s nothing difficult about being the maknae. I’m close with the hyungs and we’re always playing and drinking together. More than hyungs, they feel like friends (same age).

-You debuted at 19, and it’s been 6 years since debut. Compared to the debut period, has there been anything that changed?
In the past, even when there was something I wanted to say, I won’t say it. Now, I’m able to articulate it properly. Rather than me gaining confidence, it’s because I would get frustrated if I don’t say it so I’m not able to hold myself back (laughs).

-What do you think your personality is like?
I think I’m kind and humorous (laughs). The people around me say I’m kind too.

-Please tell us your hobby or the way you relax during your break.
I’m someone who doesn’t really go out. At home, I rest by lighting candles, and looking at figurines (BE@RBRICK). I planted plants but in winter, they wilted and it all died. I’m pretty sad…

–A fashion style that you like?
I like a comfy style. Lately I’ve been working out so I’m always wearing training gear and comfortable shoes.

-What work out do you do?
I train my muscles. I’m continuously doing it for 100 days. I do it in Japan too. There’s no time to head to the gym so I bought a mat and I do things like push ups.

-Please tell us your aims for the future.
I want to release my solo album in Korea too. I will also work hard so that I’m able to release another album in Japan too.  More than my solo activities, I want our group activities to increase and for us to promote for a long time.

-Is there anyone in Japan that you would like to perform with?
I want to try (acting) with Satomi Ishihara. I like them all. If there is a chance for me to make an appearance in a Japanese drama, it would be great.

–Is there a pledge made for this solo album?
Firstly, I’m satisfied with people just listening to my music but.. Oricon first place!….is too much but.. second place or third place… hahaha. This is the album’s aim. If I achieve the aim for this album, I’ll bow to this album.

-Something you’ll like to do with the fans?
I want to meet fans from various provinces with my promotion, this time round I’ll be going to the places we planned. I want to sing live in front of fans from the various provinces. If I do head to the provinces, I want to walk on their streets.

-Lastly, please leave a message to the Japanese fans.
I’m releasing a solo album for the first time so I’ve worked hard on it and I ask for your support. Now it’s the start and I will continue making progress so please keep a lookout for me!

Source: SANPO
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[NEWS] BEAST Assert 'This Is My Life' With Latest Music Video Release Under Group's New Japanese Record Label

Beast proclaim "This Is My Life" with their fourth Japanese project single. "This Is My Life" was released through Beast's Japanese YouTube channel BEAST MUSIC OFFICIAL on June 22.

Beast is releasing a Japanese track each month in honor of launching their Japanese label. "This Is My Life" is the fourth release following "One," "Hands Up," and "Can't Wait to Love You."

The single features a smooth beat and a calm but upbeat sound. Like Beast's previous Japanese releases, the music video showcases the song's lyrics rather than the members. Lens flares, street lights, and a blurred nighttime city scape form the background as white lyrics float across the screen. Even without the members, the song comes to life through the simplicity of the lyrics paired with the beautiful backdrops.

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B2ST Music, Beast's Japanese label, is maintained primarily by the group members themselves along with other producers and songwriters. Rapper Junhyung, however, acts as the label's main producer. He also directs the label's musical sound. They are the first Korean group to launch a Japanese company run by their own members.

Beast will continue releasing a Japanese song per month through December of this year.

Check out the short lyric video below. To listen to the full song, fans can find the track on iTunes and Amazon music.

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[ARTICLE] Cube Entertainment Aims to be a Global Brand

Cube Entertainment is filled with aspirations to secure new growth-oriented driving force through Chinese advancement and a new TV channel.

On April earlier this year, Cube Entertainment was listed on KOSDAQ following after its merger with SPAC. This listing debut has pushed Cube Entertainment as one of the ‘Big 5′ of the local entertainment agencies, alongside SM Entertainment, YG Entertainment, JYP Entertainment and FNC Entertainment.

Established in 2008, Cube Entertainment started recording a profit since 2009. Last year, its revenue recorded at 21.1b Won, operating profit of 2.35b Won, and a net profit of 1.8b Won. Cube, being an affiliate of iHQ, has gained investment capital to enhance its music business and plans to establish itself as an undisputed global K-POP brand.

◇ Retains Signature Idols and Stable Contents are Cube’s Strength
Cube Entertainment holds the characteristics of ‘killer contents’. It’s rare for a company to have both prominent male and female idol groups in the market, but for Cube Entertainment, they have BEAST and 4minute. Moreover, the inclusion of actor-singer ‘World Star’ Rain widens a stable set of ‘portfolios’, which forms the core strength of Cube Entertainment. The 3rd quarter of last year (July~September) had recorded a revenue of 14.2b Won and operating profit of 1.7b Won. Last year’s income can further be broken down into Music (30%), Concerts (21%), Royalties (18%), CF and other broadcast appearance (14%). Its local and foreign income was in a ratio of 71% and 29% respectively.

Cube Entertainment’s signature star is definitely BEAST. Debuted in 2009, BEAST is a team that is responsible of 50% of the total revenue. Last year, BEAST was chosen by Billboard as ‘KPOP Top Artist’ and its fancafe members recorded at more than 250,000  members. They are active in Japan activities as well. For three consecutive years, they have held arena tours. Next year, they aim to performe on a Dome Tour. Also, BEAST established label ‘BEAST MUSIC’ and will release a song a month in Japan. Member Son Dongwoon too, is currently preparing for a solo album in Japan as well.

4minute who debuted in the same year as BEAST, too, are active in promotions as well. Earlier this year, in February, 4minute released album titled ‘Crazy’ and has recorded 22 million views on Youtube within 4 months. 4minute’s signature star Hyuna further secured its position. Last year, she released solo track ‘Red’ and left a strong impression among fans. Hyuna is currently in works to prepare for a solo comeback in the second half-year.

Following after BEAST and 4minute, Cube’s latest team includes male group BTOB (debuted in 2012) and female group CLC (debuted this year). In particular, BTOB member Yook Sungjae has recently gained the spotlight for his variety and drama skills, which prompts the group on a rising trend.

Singer and actor Rain, gagman Kim Giri, actor Na JongChan, soloist G.NA, Shin JiHoon, Roh JiHoon are also under Cube.

◇ New Driving Force #1 ‘Rain-BEAST-4minute Triangular Formation into China Market’

The listing has provided Cube Entertainment 14.2b Won of ‘bullets’. These funds are for the purpose of talent development, training facilities for artists and trainees, overseas market advancement and other areas. Cube placed the most emphasis on China market as part of their strategy. Starting from this year, Cube will enter into the Chinese market, and are currently in discussion with 2~3 local firms. The first frontier for Chinese advancement is Rain. Rain’s 6b Won of appearance fees for 40-episodes Chinese drama ‘Diamond Lover’ will be aired around August~September. Rain has further established himself in the Asian market. He gained various awards and had built a demand for his Chinese activities, including a model advertisement as well.

BEAST and 4minute too, are accelerating into the Chinese market. BEAST has up to 530,000 members in China’s famous portal site, Baidu. This year, they shall start with a tour and visit 100,000 fans at 5 stops. 4minute too have charted at #1 for 10 consecutive weeks, a hot response from local fans. 4minute’s Baidu members have exceeded 250,000 members. Recently, 4minute has gone on a few activities in China. BEAST and 4minute members have also received acting proposals in China as well, according to Cube.

Rookie girl group CLC are aiming for both Chinese and South East Asian market. CLC member Sorn is a Thai member and had won audition program ‘KPOP Star’ which was held over 5 countries.

◇New Driving Force #2 ‘First in the industry – Launch of Cube TV, Enhanced Contents’

Among the Cube’s latest list of new items, ‘CUBE TV’ which is set to launch on 1 July, is the most attention-grabbing. CUBETV is a 24-hours channel where Cube will be involved directly in producing and organizing its contents, while actively showing Cube’s artists looks. Not only through TV, CUBETV will also be aired on Cable TVs and IPTV as well.

CUBETV, one of the channels of CUMedia (which operates channels such as DramaX and ComedyTV and K-Star), is the first ever channel created between a broadcast channel and an entertainment agency. From Cube’s point of view,  as it receives support from iHQ in terms of production staff and expertise, it is a rather cost-effective investment for Cube. Meanwhile, it increases the value of Cube brand while serves as a window of opportunity to diversify its business portfolios. Although the target for revenue this year is low, anticipation is rising as this investment could potentially turn out to be a major source of revenue starting from next year. As part of CUBETV launching program, BEAST member-and-producer Yong JunHyung ‘Yong JunHyung’s Good Life’, BTOB’s own variety show ‘BTOB SHOW’ and girl group CLC’s real variety ‘Beautiful Mission’ will be aired.

This year, Cube will strengthen their Merchandising (MD) business. In 2014, MD was 5.9% of the total revenue but there are plans to diversify products and distribution channels. To achieve this, Cube has recently set up a task force for this purpose.


cr. Loveindacube
Source: Sports Seoul

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[NEWS] Kikwang receive casting for SBS drama ‘Mrs Cop’ + reps from SBS and Cube

Lee Kikwang, to act in ‘Mrs Cop’… Working with Kim Hee Ae

BEAST’s member Lee Kikwang will be acting in SBS Monday-Tuesday drama ‘Mrs Cop’.
A representative told MBC Star on the 18th, “Lee Kikwang will be appearing in ‘Mrs Cop’ with a maknae (youngest) detective role.”

‘Mrs Cop’ is a drama about criminal (police) detectives. Earlier Kim Hee Ae and Son Hojun have confirmed their castings and Lee Hana is positively considering the drama, raising expectations for the drama. Lee Kikwang is appearing in the drama as a powerful/strong maknae adding interest/fun to the show.



It’s been a year since Kikwang acted in ’20s’ that was aired in January last year. Also, (he) appeared in MBC ‘Me Too, Flower’ as police officer Jo Maru and the change to a detective this time round is receiving attention.

In the meanwhile, ‘Mrs Cop’ will air in August after the completion of ‘High Society’.

Comments:

#1 [+2743, -285] ‘I’m A Flower’ drama? In whichever drama, the(his) acting is simple
– It’s ‘Me Too, Flower’
– He was in ‘High Kick’ tooㅋㅋ
– He’s good in acting
– Ouh fangirls, stop promoting, I have no interest in your oppas
– He was in ‘My Friend Is Still Alive’ too! His acting really make me choke up
– You have no interest but why are you even reading comments
– ㅋㅋㅋㅋㅋㅋㅋㅋㅋㅋㅋHonestly he’s better than xxx

#2 [+2188, -277] I think even his acting side would be suave. When he was in ‘Laws Of The Jungle’, his muscles were cool too

#3 [+1952, -188] From Jo Maru policemen to detective!

#4 [+1892, -199] His eyesmile is really lovelyㅠㅠ

#5 [+1828, -222] I’m anticipating this, he acts well and he’s good looking~

Source: MBN
 

BEAST Lee Kikwang’s rep, “Received ‘Mrs Cop’s’ casting offer, under discussion”

BEAST’s member Lee Kikwang has received casting offer for SBS new Monday-Tuesday drama ‘Mrs Cop’ and the offer is under discussion now.

Lee Kikwang’s agency, Cube Entertainment’s rep informed Star News on the 18th, “Lee Kikwang received an offer for ‘Mrs Cop’ and we are currently discussing it”.

removed repeat information

Source: STAR NEWS

Kim Hee Ae is the lead for ‘Mrs Cop’, NO confirmation for Son Hojun-Lee Hana-Lee Kikwang

It is clear that Kim Hee Ae is the female lead for ‘Mrs Cop’.

However, removed info on others, BEAST member Lee Kikwang’s rep said, “It’s true that we received a casting offer but we’re still considering it.”



removed repeat information

Source: NEWSEN

cr. theb2utynotes.com

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[FEATURE] STARCAST: The behind scene of BEAST’s thrilling beautiful show at Taiwan where they had a hot night

BEAST who stirs up the Beauty’s mind with their always-hot stage visited Taiwan after a while. They held their stage with all their effort for Taiwanese fans who showed a great excitement where they bought all tickets in a day. We prepared various looks of BEAST from BEAST who held a small talent show at Taiwan for the Beauty who is waiting for BEAST to comeback 24/7 to the hot charismatic looking BEAST no matter what they do, shall we go and check them out?

We visited BEAST members’ stand-by room where the members were getting ready to get on the stage. We see the leader Yoon Du Jun who showed off his talented acting and eating skill by appearing in the drama ‘Let’s Eat’. Isn’t it good to see his happy face despite his packed schedule? 

He didn’t chat with us that much, Yoon Du Jun attracted all our attention by saying he is going to try hanging on the youngest member Son Dong Woon’s arm as appreciating the muscular arm who is indeed enjoying exercising lately.

Do you feel how strong Son Dong Woon’s arm is by looking at the picture? Check how much the leader was hanging on Son Dong Woon’s arm via watching the clip provided below!

The victory V which displays the youngest member Son Dong Woon’s cuteness, who just showed off his mighty muscle strength. v(^_^)v

Lee Ki Kwang who were checking out on other members, soon he took off his cell phone. The reason was…

If you watched the behind scene of last Hong Kong beautiful show you might have already guessed it, he took out the phone to get valued on how well he learnt from the selfie skill lecture which he got from Yang Yo Seop.

This is a picture he posted on his SNS. Yet it still does not look as good as his real look, do you agree with me?

Yong Jun Hyung who was keeping himself quite got on something and it was a moving cart. Yong Jun Hyung lightly sat down on the moving cart which made to carry goods around; can he really look so cute like this on it? Yong Jun Hyung said he wish he get to ride on this when he had to make a move on his solo stage, Baby slow… Take it slow…… you don’t have to be in a hurry ……

He didn’t stay on the moving cart for long, Yong Jun Hyung performed his photo shoot as leaning on to the sofa like he never been on the cart before. Such unexpected act would be Yong Jun Hyung’s charming point, right?

Jang Hyun Seung who doesn’t let lose himself even before getting on the stage for a great performance also took a cut! Don’t you feel Jang Hyun Seung’s captivating charisma?

Yoon Du Jun put his thumbs up along with his simple victory V! Yoon Du Jun is very handsome as both an actor and a singer on the stage.

We also captioned Yang Yo Seop who made a pose which it seemed like he was about to cover his small face completely up with his hands. Yang Yo Seop always makes the beauty heart aflutter with his cute and handsome look. “5 minus 4 are…”

"It’s one."

Now, only 1 minute left till they get on the stage! We took a picture of Yong Jun Hyung who was determining himself to hold a perfect stage and Yang Yo Seop who is following after Yong Jun Hyung. See you all at the stage!

Son Dong Woon who looks very driven is also about to get on the stage. This day, Son Dong Woon held an extra special stage.

Why? Because June 6th was his birthday. It was very touching to see many Taiwanese beauty fans singing happy birthday song in Korean. Thank you again for coming out to the world Son Dong Woon!

News/Picture/Clip= Cube Entertainment
※ All rights are reserved to Cube Entertainment.

SOURCE: NAVER

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[ARTICLE] TV Station JPN magazine (Dongwoon)

Please do not repost photo on Twitter.

So far I’ve been promoting as a BEAST member coming here; and I’m really happy that one of my dreams – debuting solo (has come true). The members too give me a lot of support so there’s pretty much nothing that made me feel apprehensive.  All these while, whenever we travel/move locations or eat, I’ve always been with the members so now that I’m doing it alone, of course it’s lonely. That’s when I want to see the members the most (laughs).

The songs included in the mini album [Only You] & [Too Sweet, YOU]  lyrics were written by me and they were songs that member Junhyungie hyung made. Hyung knows my taste and my vocal/voice really well so he made great songs that matches me.

[Only You] has a love-song kind of vibe, it is a song in which one wants to give courage to someone who is sad/depressed. I’m always gaining strength from the fans, I hope that when you’re (the fans) feeling down and you listen to this song, you’ll get strength from it. I filmed an MV for this and I also thought of the whole concept for it. Especially, if I could bring your attention to something, it’ll be the part in which I acted as me being lost in concentration (shy). I poured out my soul and acted really hard!

[Too Sweet, YOU] is a song in which the points are the tender melody and my falsettos. Please also pay attention to the lyrics that has a fantasy of an angel coming down!

This album expanded my view of the music world/industry so I think it is a ‘door’ that is needed. From here onwards, I’m taking a new step forward and I hope to deliver more songs in the future too. I also hope to be able to hold a solo concert whenever in the future.

Also, I like Japanese dramas so if a chance arises, I’d like to make an appearance. The drama I like the most is [Rich Man, Poor Woman]. Satomi Ishihara is really suave in the drama that I’ve become a fan. I also like Masato Sakai. [Legal High] and [Hanzawa Naoki] are really fun!! But [Legal High] dialogues go by too fast that it’s hard watching it without subtitles(laughs). I will continue studying Japanese diligently so that I’ll be able to understand the conversation no matter how fast it goes!

Q. Something that was really enjoyable to you recently?
Not too long ago, on our rest day, I went riding with Doojoonie hyung and Yoseobie hyung – it was really fun. Hyungs rode the kickboard while I took the bicycle and we went around a total distance of 40km. Although they were electric kickboard and electric bicycle (laughs). Even so, being able to feel the wind against my skin was really nice!! I want to ride again. Also, if I get time, I want to go to Hawaii again. Last year during our vacation, I went (to Hawaii) together with Doojoon hyung and Junhyung hyung, it was fun that I’ve gotten addicted to Hawaii (laughs). I want to surf again!

Dongwoon is saying it! BEAST members(love)

Doojoon – To the reliable leader “cider”!?
Even when he’s the leader, he’s reliable and humorous so he’s a really fun person. Even with just hyung’s presence around, the atmosphere of the place becomes bright. He’s always making the group feel refreshed, it’s like the existence of a ‘cider’ (laughs).

Hyunseung – More hardworking than anyone else “mysterious hyung”!?
Hyunseungie hyung is like a mysterious person. We’ve been together for a long time but even now I can’t read what hyung is thinking about~ (laughs). But that is hyung’s charm. Also, when it comes to singing and dancing, I think he’s more hardworking that anyone else.

Junhyung – Caution of burn!? A composer that is like “dried ice”
If I were to express (him) in a phrase, he’s someone like “dried ice” (laughs). A glance of him looks like he’s cold but in reality, like being scalded, he’s someone with a warm heart. Also whenever he makes songs,  he will always listen to the members’ opinions properly and make great songs.

Yoseob – With a beautiful voice, “reaction king”
I always joke around with Yoseob hyung so we’re like a gag combi. No matter what I say, Yoseobie hyung will give me the greatest reaction so I really like it (laughs). Also, just by listening to hyung’s voice when he’s singing, I can learn something from it.

Kikwang – The charm of the gap! “A country boy”
He looks like he’s able to do everything but in reality, he’s someone who is just like “a country boy (simple)” (laughs). He can’t take good selcas with devices, and even with uploading sky pictures on SNS, he’s just like a country boy(laughs). But that gap is cute!!

SOURCE: a8sun (SOURCE), KongKongXD (JP-KR)
CR. theb2utynotes.com
 

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[NEWS] BEAST Summer Comeback Preparations Underway Despite No Official Return Date

BEAST is likely not joining the lineup of stars who will be making their comebacks in July.

Although several previous reports slated BEAST's return for July, Cube Entertainment has come out to provide accurate information for anxious fans.

"It is true that they are quite far into preparations for their new album, aiming for July, but the exact date has not been confirmed yet," said a CUBE representative on Thursday, June 11, as reported by Soompi.

The representative further revealed that BEAST has no set time frame for their return. "While BEAST has consistently been working on a new album, the specifics of the comeback time frame have yet to be decided."
Also, he said that the members have been balancing their promotional activities overseas while working on projects in the studio. "In addition to their overseas activities, they are preparing new music."

Continuing to show his skills as a producer, BEAST rapper Yong Jun Hyung is also said to be playing an active role in the group's comeback.
BEAST have been traveling and just recently visited their fans in Japan during the month of May. Their fan meeting tour titled The 5th BEAST Fan Meeting in Japan, kicked off on May 20 and ended on the 26.
The group also held an event with 4,000 fans in Shanghai, China on April 25.
Member Dongwoon is going to make his Japanese solo debut in July.



cr. KPOPSTARZ

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[NEWS] Target Audience 10s~20s for Kpop Full Channel CUBE TV Launching

A rough translation of this ARTICLE

On July 1, iHQ will be launching a KPOP full channel called 'CUBE TV' for audience in 10s~20s. The iHQ media department representative stated that this launching of CUBE TV in KPOP is set to take a step in Korea's global attention with a K-pop globalization slogan, 'Beat to the World'.

Because of this, they made an ideally mobile and web reaction type (real time) broadcast setting platform for their audience in their 10's to 20's and for their global fans as well.

The subsidiary of iHQ will collaborate with CUBE entertainment together with the top local artists for this production. They said that this collaboration of a broadcasting company and an entertainment company is the first in business world.

Park Chungmin, CUBE's representative, said that, "There will be a rise along with the artists in CUBE TV, and a synergy effect will be a big thing." He added, "In satisfying the overseas market K-Pop demand, CUBE TV is expected to rise globally in putting together the entertainment company.

Additionally, CUBE TV will feature Beast's Yong Junhyung's music travel vacation show with GOODLIFE, "BTOB SHOW" and CLC's "Beautiful Mission"

Source: NAVER
Trans. By: Licelle, @BEASTPH

 

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