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Watch 'River Where The Moon Rises' Featuring Kim So Hyun & JiSoo on 15 Feb on Viu

Tuesday, February 09, 2021

Viu is set to premiere the anticipated Korean period romance drama series River Where the Moon Rises on 15 February 2021. The story is adapated from a Korean folktale recorded in The History of the Three Kingdoms and based on Princess Pyeonggang (starring Kim So Hyun) and her General, On Dal (starring Ji Soo).

Born as a princess but raised as a soldier, young Pyeonggang sets out on a tour of the kingdom with her mother, the Empress, during which they arrive at a village where they meet General On Hyeop and his son, On Dal. Sharing with him her goal of becoming Goguryeo’s first queen with her intellect and confidence, the straightforward On Dal laughs at her lofty dreams as women do not engage in state affairs, though he means no harm. Meanwhile, the Empress is seeking help from General On Hyeop due to the schemes and conspiracies ongoing in the kingdom, but the two are assassinated in the process. The story follows Pyeonggang’s quest to uncover dark and dangerous conspiracies in the kingdom.

The series features Kim So Hyun, who is well-known among K-drama fans for her varied roles in everything from historical dramas to rom-coms. Kim began her career as a child actress in 2006 and initially gained fame for playing a villainous young queen-to-be in Moon Embracing the Sun. Subsequently, she took on leading roles in hit dramas such as Who Are You: School 2015, The Emperor: Owner of the Mask and even won the Excellence Award at the 2019 KBS Drama Awards for her portrayal of a clumsy, yet hottempered courtesan in The Tale of Nokdu. Most recently, she is reported to be the youngest actress to surpass 10 million followers on Instagram which illustrates her popularity around the world.

Playing On Dal, Ji Soo captivates audiences with his boyish charms and athletic looks. He has appeared in romance dramas including When I Was the Most Beautiful and all-time favourite JTBC title Strong Woman Do Bong Soon. He also played the love-struck prince Wang Jung in 2016 time-travel period drama Moon Lovers: Scarlet Heart Ryeo - a Kdrama classic.

River Where the Moon Rises is produced by established South Korean production house Victory Contents. Behind the lens, Yun Sang Ho (Kingmaker:The Change of Destiny and Saimdang, Memoirs of Colors) will direct and writer Han Ji Hoon helms the production of the series (Temptation and Women of 9.9 Billion).

Viu-ers in Singapore, Malaysia, Indonesia, Thailand, the Philippines, Myanmar, Hong Kong, United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Kuwait, Bahrain, Oman, Jordan, and Egypt will be able to watch River Where the Moon Rises exclusively on Viu on February 15, 2021.

This series and other top performing titles such as True Beauty and Mr. Queen, as well as the upcoming The Penthouse 2, Mouse, Luca and Dear.M can be watched on the Viu app which can be downloaded for free on App Store, Google Play, and selected smart TVs, as well as on the web at www.viu.com.

BLACKPINK

BLACKPINK Brings Online Virtual Concert To Another Level - 6 reasons why BLACKPINK Virtual Concert is Pretty Savage

Monday, February 08, 2021

We may not be able to see our idols in person due to the pandemic but thanks to technology we are still able to connect at a global scale through virtual concert! Virtual concerts is now the fans’ alternative to traditional live events in the face of global pandemic leading to border closure and social distancing rules across many countries. Several virtual concerts have been held over the past months to feed our concert craving.

Streamed live exclusively on Youtube, BLACKPINK THE SHOW brought together the global top K-pop star and more than 280,000 fans from across the world. The group sang 19 songs over the 90 minutes show with a setlist featuring their latest album, The Album, as well as songs from their previous EP and singles.

Image courtesy of YG Entertainment

Here are 6 reasons why BLACKPINK Virtual Concert is pretty savage.

1) Concert Flow

Image courtesy of YG Entertainment

BLACKPINK sang, danced, and laughed their way through a setlist that brought together familiar tracks as well as brand new performances. The concert never runs out of steam as fans were gifted with one performance after one another with only little break time in between. Opening the night with Kill This Love, BLACKPINK presented an explosion of colour and vibrancy, followed by Crazy Over You, one of the tracks in their latest album. The 90-minute gig also featured several record-breaking hit songs such as How You Like That, Playing with Fire, Lovesick Girls etc. One of the concert’s highlights was definitely the performance of “Ddu-Du Ddu-Du,” where BLACKPINK could be seen dancing on the floor of water while being surrounded by fire.

Image courtesy of YG Entertainment

Bringing back old favourites interspersed with never-before-seen performances such as Sour Candy, Love to Hate Me and You Never Know, we must say this is a show BLINKS would not want to miss.

Intermission-type talk segments that were scheduled in between the songs allowed fans to engage in BLACKPINK’s fans-loving and friendly side. The girls shared how much they missed BLINKS while teasing each other, enlightening the ambience after those intense stages!

PS: Our favourite is definitely Pretty Savage. It was total lit and yasss we finally got to hear Jisoo’s BLACKPINK IN YOUR AREA verse clearly in Pretty Savage!

2) Stage design and concept

Image courtesy of YG Entertainment

Despite the pandemic, it does not stop the creative industry to be more innovative! An online location does not mean that it would be more underwhelming comparing to a regular concert. The 90-minute concert showcased a variety of aesthetic and beautifully designed stage sets, complemented with dazzling lighting and special effects to enhance each performance! Despite not incorporating AR (augmented reality) and XR (extended reality) technology, it allowed the viewers to focus more on the performers and performances itself.

3) Solo Performance

Throughout the concert, each member had a solo performance to highlight their individual talents as singers, dancers and their general musicality.

Dressed in a purple flowery dress, Jisoo performed her own rendition of Tove Love’s Habits in Korean with her soothing and soulful voice.

Image courtesy of YG Entertainment

Lisa hyped up the concert with an electrifying performance of Doja’s Cat Say So which was choreographed by the queen herself. The retro-style costumes and choreography only magnified Lisa’s charm even more.

Image courtesy of YG Entertainment

Jennie did a fierce and charismatic remix version of SOLO in a red rose-shaped gown, the revamped rap and dance break absolutely wowed the audience.

Image courtesy of YG Entertainment

Among the most highly anticipated parts of THE SHOW was Rosé’s solo performance since YG Entertainment had announced her very first solo debut not long ago. Sitting on a white swing, Rosé premiered a sneak peek performance of her new self-composed solo track, GONE. We are already looking forward to the album! (As well as Jisoo and Lisa’s solo.)

Image courtesy of YG Entertainment

4)Live Band

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With the presence of live band, it helps to fill up the empty gap of a ‘live concert’. The girls were back by their trusted touring band, The Band Six. The Band SIx reworked some of BLACKPINK's most signature songs with live instrumentation, you have to hear it for yourself!

5) Outfit

Image courtesy of YG Entertainment

When it comes to on-stage costumes, BLACKPINK never disappoints. From their looks dating back to the legendary How You Like That Music Video where they could be seen wearing modernized Hanbok, to recently THE SHOW, the girls make fashion just as much a part of their shows as the songs themselves.

Blackpink leads the fashion, nuffsaid.

6) Memory lane

Image courtesy of YG Entertainment

Towards the end of the virtual concert, the girls took a walk down memory lane at Olympic Gymnastics Arena, where they held their first-ever live concert since their debut. The girls took turns talking about their feelings and were emotional about not being able to connect with their fans in person. Nevertheless, they hope the fans enjoyed the concert at home as they really hope to meet BLINKS in person again! Giant sticky notes with messages from BLINKS around the world were incorporated into the stage during the last song, the girls’ obvious happiness at seeing the messages on the stage was evident in their wide smile.

Having previously postponed due to pandemic-related reasons, Jisoo expressed her regret by saying that even though they have encountered unexpected situations while preparing for the show, but she is glad to wrap it up safely this time around, and hope the fans gained some good energy from it.

Lisa also gave her fans and families in Thailand an emotional and heartfelt speech in Thai as she could be seen holding her tears in while talking to the screen.

“We miss seeing everyone in person, but please know that we’re all there with every one of you.” - Rosé

Image courtesy of YG Entertainment

K-drama

Who's Your K-Drama Love Match and Soulmates Based On Your MBTI Personality?

Monday, February 08, 2021

Sometimes, all you need is love and a little bit of introspection.

There’s a reason why the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator (MBTI) is still one of the most popular personality markers in the world. Not only is it a fun way to find out more about yourself by identifying with any of the 16 personality types, you could also learn to understand others - especially your significant other - better!

With romance on our minds now that Valentine’s Day is just around the corner, discover what kind of romantic partner you’re like according to your MBTI personality type as well as the K-drama characters you share similar traits with. Psst... you might find your ideal K-drama soulmate too!

INTP

INTPs may be independent and direct, but when it comes to matters of the heart, they prefer to give hints to people they are interested in and wait for them to make the first move instead. INTPs can be loyal and passionate partners, and tend to avoid conflict if they can help it.

You share similar traits with: Ahn Eun-young from The School Nurse Files

Your K-drama love match: Kang Chul from W-Two Worlds Apart

INTJ

INTJs are loyal and strategic partners whom you can count on to make plans when it comes to romance. However, their expectations and ideals can be unrealistic at times, so it may take some time for INTJs to grow into love.

You share similar traits with: Chae Song-hwa from Hospital Playlist

Your K-drama love match: Yoo Si-jin from Descendants of the Sun

INFP

Nurturing and empathetic, INFPs are hopeless romantics who believe in true love and won’t settle for less. However, their idealised expectations from a partner may result in concerns about finding a perfect match.

You share similar traits with: Yoon Ji-ho from Because This Is My First Life

Your K-drama love match: Koo Chan-sung from Hotel Del Luna

INFJ

INFJs take romance seriously and are always looking for ways to strengthen their relationships. Once they find the person of their dreams, INFJs won’t take their partners for granted and are caring, insightful, and supportive of their significant other.

You share similar traits with: Go Ae-shin from Mr. Sunshine

Your ideal K-drama match: Gu Seung-joon from Crash Landing on You

ISTP

Dating can be complex and interesting for ISTPs. Though they are spontaneous and love living in the moment, ISTPs tend to conceal their feelings and often need the space to be themselves in order to maintain a happy, steady relationship.

You share similar traits with: Kang Sa-ra from Beauty Inside

Your ideal K-drama match: Kang Sun-woo from Oh My Ghost

ISTJ

Loyal and reliable, ISTJs take commitment seriously and have strong family values. Though they prefer to remain in their comfort zones, they are dependable and dedicated to having a stable and satisfying relationship.

You share similar traits with: Lee Yeon-seo from Angel's Last Mission: Love

Your ideal K-drama match: Kim Tan from Inheritors

ISFP

ISFPs may have a mysterious air to them simply because of their tendency to protect their sensitive emotions carefully. When they finally find someone they can let down they guard with, ISFPs are patient, easygoing, and will always find ways to show how much they care.

You share similar traits with: Kang Mi-rae from My ID Is Gangnam Beauty

Your ideal K-drama match: Hong Dae-young from 18 Again

ISFJ

ISFJs can be shy, but are kind, helpful, and supportive. Though they may struggle with expressing their emotions, ISFJs take dating seriously and only start relationships that are likely to last.

You share similar traits with: Dong-baek from When the Camellia Blooms

Your ideal K-drama match: Ko Dong-man from Fight for My Way

ENTP

Open-minded and spontaneous, ENTPs enjoy trying new things and are always looking for creative ways to surprise their partners. Though they can be a bit oblivious when it comes to their partner’s feelings, you can always count on ENTPs to work on self-improvement and encouraging their partners to do the same.

You share similar traits with: Im Jin-ju from Be Melodramatic

Your ideal K-drama match: Han Ji-pyeong from Start-Up

ENTJ

ENTJs are goal-oriented and often take the lead in relationships, as they feel a sense of responsibility to try to keep things interesting. If they’re not careful, however, they can come off as domineering and insensitive.

You share similar traits with: Ko Mun-yeong from It's Okay to Not Be Okay

Your ideal K-drama match: Seo Jeong-hu from Healer

ENFP

Expressive and affectionate, ENFPs go all-in with relationships and wholly devote themselves to the person they have committed to. They may feel unhappy or misunderstood if their excitement and devotion is not reciprocated, however, and take break-ups hard.

You share similar traits with: Do Bong-soon from Strong Girl Bong-soon

Your K-drama love match: Sunwoo Jun from Do Do Sol Sol La La Sol

ENFJ

ENFJs take dating seriously and trust that their selected partners are aligned when it comes to long-term plans for the relationship. Selfless and perceptive, ENFJs feel the most joy when they make their partners happy with their efforts.

You share similar traits with: Yun Se-ri from Crash Landing on You

Your ideal K-drama match: Kwon Si-hyeon from Tempted

ESTP

There are pros and cons to ESTPs’ natural charm and practicality. On one hand, their enthusiasm and unpredictability makes for an exciting relationship. On the other, they may get bored easily and are able to move on quickly if the relationship isn’t working for them.

You share similar traits with: Go Hae-ri from Vagabond

Your K-drama love match: Kim Shin from Guardian: The Lonely and Great God

ESTJ

ESTJs are dependable and straightforward, preferring to make their intentions clear from the very beginning. However, they can also be opinionated to the point of stubbornness, which may inadvertently hurt their partners’ feelings.

You share similar traits with: An Jeong-ha from Record of Youth

Your K-drama love match: Nam Do-san from Start-Up

ESFP

Friendly and somewhat of a free spirit, ESFPs enjoy trying new and exciting activities with their partners. However, they may have a tendency to avoid promises and commitments, so establishing a solid relationship will take time and effort.

You share similar traits with: Kim Bok-joo from Weightlifting Fairy Kim Bok Joo

Your K-drama love match: Cha Dal-geon from Vagabond

ESFJ

On top of love and devotion, ESFJs believe that mutual respect and support for each other are essential for maintaining a stable and harmonious relationship. They need to have their dreams and opinions respected, or they will feel very hurt.

You share similar traits with: Kang Dan-i from Romance Is a Bonus Book

Your K-drama love match: Yi Rim from Rookie Historian Goo Hae-ryung

Want to get to know your K-drama soulmates better? Catch them in their respective K-dramas on Netflix!

Im Si Wan

7 K-Drama Good Guys Who Are Hotter Than Bad Boys

Monday, February 08, 2021

K-dramas are a bit notorious for featuring male leads who start out as cold and rich bad boys, but end up changing after falling in love. Let’s be real- guys who are genuinely good from the beginning are so much more attractive. Thankfully, recent K-dramas have kept up with the trend of having more good guys and making them super appealing. Check out some recent good guys you’ll fall in love with below!

Im Si-wan (Ki Seon-gyeom) from Run On

Image credit to Netflix

Run On’s track star Ki Seon-gyeom (Yim Si-wan) appears to be a bit socially awkward at first, but he’s cute once you get to know him. Seon-gyeom is caring and makes his feelings for Oh Mi-joo (Shin Sae-kyeong) obvious. In addition to his swoon-worthy words and actions, Seon-gyeom doesn’t hesitate to make the difficult decision to stand up for Kim Woo-sik (Lee Jeong-ha). Seon-gyeom often places other people’s needs before his own, and he sticks to his convictions.

Kim Seon-ho (Han Ji-Pyeong) from Start-Up

Image credit to Netflix

Start-Up’s Han Ji-pyeong (Kim Seon-ho) could easily be misunderstood as a typical cold male lead. However, he’s truly a good guy in every way. Ji-pyeong isn’t aware of his growing feelings for Seo Dal-mi (Bae Suzy) at first, but he’s always looking out for her. Even after realizing his feelings for her, he never burdens Dal-mi and doesn’t make her uncomfortable. His sweet relationship with Dal-mi’s grandmother is so precious as well. His nickname is definitely “Good Boy” for a reason!

Nam Joo Hyuk (Nam Do-san) from Start-Up

Image credit to Netflix

Nam Do-san (Nam Joo-hyuk) was also a very good boy! While he struggled about the truth behind the letters, Do-san always does his best to help Dal-mi. How adorable was Do-san when he gifted Dal-mi’s grandmother with his hand-knit RGB-colored dish sponges? Furthermore, he even developed a brand new app to help her visually impaired grandmother. A good boy not only takes care of you, he takes care of your grandmother too!

Park Bo Gum (Sa Hye-jun) from Record of Youth

Image credit to Netflix

Record of Youth’s Sa Hye-jun (Park Bo-gum) is such a pure character despite his difficult circumstances and the industry he works in. Hye-jun is very loyal and trusts the people around him. Even though his best friend Won Hae-hyo (Byeon Woo-seok) is more successful than him at first, Hye-jun doesn’t get envious and feels truly happy for his friend instead. As a celebrity, public scrutiny should be a concern, but Hye-jun always cares more about the people he loves than what the public thinks of him. He just might be an angel in disguise.

Kim Soo-hyun (Moon Gang-tae) from It's Okay to Not Be Okay

Image credit to Netflix

It's Okay to Not Be Okay’s Moon Gang-tae (Kim Soo-hyun) is another studly and empathetic character. He started taking care of his older brother from a young age, and gently cares for his patients. When Ko Mun-yeong (Seo Yea-ji) is intent on harming a patient, Gang-tae blocks her knife with his own hand. Even when Mun-yeong's romantic obsession with him gets annoying, Gang-tae still takes care of her and helps her heal. He’s also thoughtful and careful not to lead Nam Ju-ri (Park Gyu-young) on.

Lee Jong-suk (Cha Eun-ho) from Romance Is A Bonus Book

Image credit to Netflix

Romance Is a Bonus Book features Cha Eun-ho (Lee Jong-suk) as an accomplished writer and chief editor who has been in love with his long-time friend Kang Dan-i (Lee Na-young). Eun-ho eagerly helps Dan-i every way he can after she has nowhere to go, following her divorce and eviction. He’s her biggest cheerleader and supports her efforts to re-start her career and life. The way he embraces her with open arms not seeking anything in return is clearly a good guy trait.

Park Seo-jun (Park Saeroyi) from Itaewon Class

Image credit to Netflix

Itaewon Class’s Park Saeroyi (Park Seo-jun) has such a good heart even though the world, especially Jangga Group, has not been kind to him. After being wrongfully expelled and convicted, Saeoryi does have revenge on his mind. However, he goes about it the wholesome way and seeks to establish a business more successful than Jangga Group. He’s truly kind and gives marginalized people a second chance. Saeroyi’s father undeniably taught him well.

Which K-drama good guys do you love the most? Check them all out on Netflix!

K-drama

Which Song Joong-Ki's Roles Are Your Favourite?

Thursday, February 04, 2021

Hallyu heartthrob Song Joong-ki is set to make a much-anticipated return in February as a spaceship pilot in the film Space Sweepers and a lawyer to an Italian mafia in the drama Vincenzo. After debuting in 2008, the actor has steadily captivated audiences through many films and shows. Let’s prepare our hearts for his comeback projects while reminiscing his most swoon-worthy roles.

Nice Guy

Image credit Netflix

Nice Guy was Song Joong-ki’s first drama as the main lead. Of course, he was already popular having appeared in several well-loved dramas, movies, and variety shows. Nonetheless, Nice Guy was pivotal in his career and proved he had acting range as well as the ability to carry a series as the main lead. His character Maru transforms from a kind medical student who sacrifices everything for the woman he loves to a man on a dark path seeking revenge against the woman who betrayed him.

Descendants of the Sun

Image credit Netflix

Descendants of the Sun was Song Joong-ki’s long-awaited comeback project after the actor served his military service. Having just been a soldier, he was able to seamlessly transform into Special Forces Captain Yoo Si-jin. His character was adored by many for his bravery, honor, and wit. As with most post-military roles, Song Joong-ki was able to show a more mature side of himself which contrasted with his earlier flower boy image.

Arthdal Chronicles

Image credit Netflix

Song Joong-ki showed a decidedly unique image in the drama Arthdal Chronicles. In fact, he portrayed two different characters named Eunseom and Saya. The fantasy story of various individuals and tribes seeking power in the ancient land of Arth is fascinating and previously unheard of amongst K-dramas. You naturally end up rooting for sweet Eunseom and Tanya (Kim Ji-won), but it was especially nice to see a muscular and rugged Song Joong-ki.

Space Sweepers

Image credit Netflix

Song Joong-ki will be making his return through the space blockbuster movie Space Sweepers very soon! In this film, he’ll portray genius pilot Kim Tae-ho who is willing to do anything for money. Set in the year 2092, Kim Tae-ho and his fellow spaceship misfits chase after space debris for a living. They inadvertently come across a dangerous humanoid and attempt to make a large profit through a dangerous trade.

Vincenzo

Image credit Netflix

Song Joong-ki will also be making a drama comeback via Vincenzo where he portrays a consigliere to an Italian mafia. He returns to Korea in search of treasure hidden by the mafia, but accidentally gets embroiled in a lawsuit against an evil conglomerate. As shown throughout his career, Song Joong-ki will bring to life a character different from all of his previous roles. The actor looks handsome regardless of what he wears, but he does look exceptionally fine in suits.

Watch 'River Where The Moon Rises' Featuring Kim So Hyun & JiSoo on 15 Feb on Viu

BLACKPINK Brings Online Virtual Concert To Another Level - 6 reasons why BLACKPINK Virtual Concert is Pretty Savage

1) Concert Flow

2) Stage design and concept

3) Solo Performance

4)Live Band

5) Outfit

6) Memory lane

Who's Your K-Drama Love Match and Soulmates Based On Your MBTI Personality?

7 K-Drama Good Guys Who Are Hotter Than Bad Boys

Which Song Joong-Ki's Roles Are Your Favourite?

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