# WELCOME TO KARA's GOKPOP FORUM THREAD #
INTRO :-
Kara (Hangul: 카라, Japanese: カラ, often stylized as KARA is a South Korean pop girl group formed by DSP Media in 2007. The group's name comes from the Greek word "chara" (χαρά, lit. "joy"), which they interpreted to mean "sweet melody".
Kara originally started as a four member group, composed of Park Gyuri, Han Seungyeon, Nicole Jung, and Kim Sunghee and made their debut with "Break It" (2007) while displaying a strong female image and a mature R&B sound. They released their first studio album titled The First Blooming in 29th March 2007.
In 2008, Kim Sunghee departed the group due to parental pressure, and members Goo Hara and Kang Jiyoung were brought in. They released their first mini-album entitled Rock U in July 2008. They achieved their first number one song with "Honey" (2009). In July 2009, the group released their second studio album entitled Revolution. The album spawned the hit single "Mister", whose choreography featured the "butt-dance", which helped increase the group's popularity within East Asia. Their follow-up singles including "Lupin" (2010), "Jumping" (2010), "Step" (2011), and "Pandora" (2012) were also successful and helped further establish the group within the Korean music industry.
After finding national success the group eventually began to expand their music to Japan by signing to Universal Music Japan's subsidiary label, Universal Sigma in 2010. The group's debut was a success as they were dubbed as "Japan's #1 Rookie Artist of 2010" by Oricon and also receiving the "New Artist Of The Year Award (International)" from the Japan Gold Disc Awards. In April 2011, the group achieved their first number one single in Japan with "Jet Coaster Love", making them the first foreign female group since the creation of the Oricon to rank number one in the first week of release and also the first foreign female group in thirty years to do so. Overall, the group managed to sell over one million physical singles within two years, making them one of the fastest-selling South Korean acts in Japan.
MEMBERS :-
Current
Gyuri
Birth Name : Park Gyuri
Hangul / Hanja : 박규리 / 朴奎利
Birthday : May 21, 1988
Born : Seoul, South Korea
Blood Type : AB
Position : Leader, Lead Vocalist
Active : Since 1995
Schooling :-
Currently attending Dongduk Women's University (majoring in Broadcasting Communications)
Biography :-
Prior to her singing career, she was a child actress. She is the only daughter of popular voice dubber Park Sohyun. She's the one who came up with the name Kara which comes from the Greek Word "chara" (χαρά, lit. "joy"), which interpreted to mean "sweet melody". She is often described by the Korean media and many fans as a 'Goddess' due to her exotic and beautiful looks.
> Gyuri's profile <
Seungyeon
Birth Name : Han Seungyeon
Hangul / Hanja : 한승연 / 韓昇延
Birthday : July 24, 1988
Born : Seoul, South Korea
Blood Type : A
Position : Main Vocalist
Active : Since 2007
Schooling :-
Attended Tenafly High School (New Jersey)
Currently attending Kyunghee University (majoring in Film Arts and Theatre)
Biography :-
She's the only child in her family. She left high school mid-course in order to pursue a singing career. After returning to Korea, she debuted as a singer on March 29, 2007, as a member of Kara along with Park Gyuri, Nicole and Kim Sunghee.
> Seungyeon's profile <
Nicole
Birth Name : Nicole Jung ; Jung Yong-Joo
Hangul / Hanja : 정용주 / 鄭龍珠
Birthday : October 7, 1991
Born : Glendale, California, US
Blood Type : A
Position : Main Rapper, Main Dancer, Vocalist
Active : Since 2007
Schooling :-
Attended Global Christian School
Attended Laurel Springs School, finished 11th grade
Received her GED
Preparing for College (Aug '11)
Biography :-
She's the only child. Nicole was into the visual and performing arts while in school. She participated in choir, drill team, played the violin for 4 years and took dance classes. She auditioned for DSP by sending a video of her singing an Ivy and Black Eyed Peas song. Her mom was very supportive and told her that it was her decision and whatever decision, she would fully support her. Nicole made the decision to go to Korea and experienced hardships such as adjusting to the culture and missing her friends terribly. She accepted DSP's offer, her mom moved with her to Korea and has opened up a successful Korean BBQ restaurant called "Aura The Grill" that is often frequented by Nicole and KARA fans alike.
> Nicole's profile <
Hara
Birth Name : Goo Hara
Hangul / Hanja : 구하라 / 具荷拉
Birthday : January 13, 1991
Born : Gwangju, South Korea
Blood Type : B
Position : Lead Dancer, Sub-Vocalist, Sub-Rapper
Active : Since 2008
Schooling :-
Dongmyeong Woman's High School of Industry and Information
Currently attending Sungshin Woman's University (majoring in media/film acting)
Biography :-
Before debuting, she participated in the SM's youth appearance tournament in 2005. In 2007, she auditioned for JYP, however, she lost the runoff.
She was also an online shopping mall model, having been scouted after her photos were uploaded onto DSP's homepage. Thus, Goo Hara became a member of Kara.
> Hara's profile <
Jiyoung
Birth Name : Kang Jiyoung
Hangul / Hanja : 강지영 / 姜知英
Birthday : January 18, 1994
Born : Paju, Gyeonggi, South Korea
Blood Type : O
Position : Vocalist, Sub-Rapper
Active : Since 2008
> Jiyoung's profile <
Schooling :-
Graduated from Kwanghee Middle School
Graduated from Muhak Woman's High School, in February 2012
Biography :-
She's the youngest among 3 sisters. She debuted at the age of 15 as a third grade middle school student. She is one of the 2 members that joined after member Kim Sung Hee left. She sang Girls' Generation's song "Kissing You" for her audition. Kang is the cousin of the Korean pop singer NS Yoon-G.
On November 7, 2012, it was announced that Ji-young was accepted into Sungkyunkwan University's department of Theater and Fine Arts, however, she has not made a final decision as to whether she will attend or not, she want to speak her parents to see what to do.
Former
Sunghee
Birth Name : Kim Sunghee
Position : Lead Vocalist
Active : Since 2007, departed from group in 2008
Reason for leaving : Focus on her studies, as her promise to her parents.
FANCLUB :-
Official Fanclub Color: Pearl Peach
Official Fanclub Name: Kamilia (combination of "Kara" and the Latin word "familia") stands for Kara's family of supporters.
Source : Karaholic , KARA @ Wikipedia
- Love_KARA_4ever_93 -
If you want to check KARA's Korea discography, refer here. Their discography, placed in a wrong order. And, the release date is in wrong info too ! For more confirmation, search for their comeback's song at Music Core @ YouTube. The date tell you the answer !
Note : KARA's debut song is Break It
Korean Discography
2007:-
[070329] The First Blooming
2008 :-
[080724] Rock U
[081204] Pretty Girl
2009 :-
[090218] Honey
[090731] Revolution
2010 :-
[100217] Lupin
[100503] We're With You
[100831] We Online
[101110] Jumping
2011 :-
[110906] Step
2012 :-
[120822] Pandora
[121204] KARA Solo Collection
*Note : KARA's Korean discography will updated when there is a release of album or singles*
- Love_KARA_4ever_93 -
If you want to check KARA's Japan discography, refer here. Their discography, placed in a wrong order. And, the release date is in wrong info too ! For more confirmation, search for their comeback's song at Music Core @ YouTube. The date tell you the answer !
Note : KARA's debut song is Mister
Japanese Discography
2010 :-
[100428] Kara Special Premium Box for Japan
[100811] Mister
[100929] KARA BEST 2007-2010
[101110] Jumpin'
[101124] Girl's Talk
2011 :-
[110406] Jet Coaster Love
*Postponed from March 23, 2011, due to 2011 Great Tohoku Earthquake and tsunami disaster in Japan*
[110629] Go Go Summer!
[111012] Winter Magic
[111123] Super Girl
2012 :-
[120323] Speed Up /Girl's Power
[120905] Kara Collection
[121017] Electric Boy
[121114] Girls Forever
- Love_KARA_4ever_93 -
*Note : KARA's Japanese discography will updated when there is a release of album or singles*
♥ I LOVE HAN SEUNG YEON UNNIE (:
# REFLASH NEWS #
Who’s the most beautiful KARA member according to professionals?
KARA’s beauty ranking by professionals was revealed.
MBC Music’s ‘All the K-pop’ performed a survey with 100 plastic surgery surgeons and other personnels from Chungdamdong, asking to rank the KARA members in terms of looks.
Park Gyuri, who is well known as a “goddess”, ranked first on the survey. Most of the plastic surgeons said, “Gyuri has golden proportions. She has the most ideal eyes, nose, and lips. Many patients come to us asking for a face like Gyuri.”
Seungyeon ranked second with her cute and innocent appearance. She said, “I actually don’t like my eyes. I often hear that I look scary and mean when I open my eyes wide. But I’m happy that I ranked second.”
Jiyoung placed 3rd, Goo Hara placed 4th and Nicole placed 5th. Many fans were surprised at Goo Hara ranking as fourth. Professionals explained, “Goo Hara has good proportions and is pretty. But maybe that is why she seems a little less natural.”
Source: TV Report
KARA tops Taiwan’s mobile chart with “Pandora”
KARA’s latest track “Pandora” has experienced great success in Taiwan, sweeping Taiwanese mobile chart prior to their album’s official release.
According to DSP Media on September 18th, KARA’s “Pandora” recently became the most downloaded caller tune and topped Taiwan Mobile’s download chart. It is more impressive as KARA has not yet officially released the album in the country.
A music representative in Taiwan revealed, “With KARA officially releasing their album in Taiwan, it is expected to show great success on more music charts.”
KARA will release “Pandora” on September 28th in Taiwan.
Source: Naver
KARA Goo Hara’s unedited shots show off her beautiful figure
KARA member Goo Hara’s doll-like figure is attracting a lot of attention recently.
Unedited photos of Goo Hara, revealing her perfect figure were uploaded on online community boards. The singer, who is currently the face of the Lacoste L!ve, recently participated in a pictorial for the brand.
In the revealed photos, Goo Hara is wearing a wide stripe cardigan and mini dress with a pair of red roller skates to give a more refreshing feel. Her beautiful legs and perfect proportions are especially eye-catching even though the photos are not retouched.
Netizens commented, “Goo Hara doesn’t look any different in the edited photos,” “Goo Hara’s legs are so beautiful” and “Goo Hara’s like a mannequin.”
Source: TV Report
Via : Latest K-pop News - K-pop News | Daily K Pop News
- Love_KARA_4ever_93 -
# REFLASH NEWS #
Kara and Jang Seohee take the K-FOOD to the world!
On Oct 2, K-pop girl group KARA and Hallyu actress Jang Seohee were appointed as the K-FOOD Export Ambassador, representing the launch of K-FOOD global campaign.
Seo Kyurong, the Minister of Korea Agro-Fisheries&Food Trade Corp, attended the Appointment Ceremony as well as more than 200 KARA and Jang Seohee fans came from Japan and China. On the Ceremony, all the fans and medias together watched KARA's K-FOOD CF, Making film UCC and the special recipe video of KARA's member and Jang Seohee for the very first time. These videos will be released on the internet for all the fans of K-FOOD over the world.
< KARA's K-FOOD promotion campaign video >
The K-FOOD Series CF contains five parts, each part represent different themes and colors, which is, Health(Black), Taste(Red), Nature(Green), Beauty(Yellow), Love(White), delivered by each member of KARA. to Bring more vivid images to the K-FOOD customers all around world. KARA and Jang Seohee will join more events in the future one year, such as posters campaigns, fan meeting, hope to let more oversea customers know the good taste of K-FOOD.
KARA to become first K-Pop girl group to hold concert at the Tokyo Dome
KARA has been named as the first Korean female group to hold an exclusive concert at the prestigious Tokyo Dome.
On October 8th, KARA announced at the ‘2012 Sigma Festival in Okinawa’ concert that they will be holding their first exclusive Tokyo Dome concert on January 6, 2013. The big achievement comes three years since the group first stepped foot in Japan, making them the first Korean girl group to do so.
This huge arena accommodates about 50,000 people, and it is known as the dream stage among Japanese singers. To this day, the only Korean artists to perform in the venue are TVXQ, Rain and Big Bang. KARA will now be able to proudly join the list, confirming their reputation in Japan as top stars.
Via : Latest K-pop News - K-pop News | Daily K Pop News
- Love_KARA_4ever_93 -
# REFLASH NEWS #
KARA’s Seungyeon & Jiyoung, Lee Min Ki camp out in Alaska for ‘Unionbay’
Girl group KARA members Seungyeon and Jiyoung once again teamed up with actor Lee Min Ki for a new photoshoot for fashion brand ‘Unionbay’.
Under the concept of ‘Camping in Alaska’, the new photoshoot showed the three stars bundled up in sporty winter apparel to complete their winter looks. Seungyeon and Jiyoung also showed off their adorable charms as they hug giant polar bear dolls.
KARA Nicole’s diet menu revealed
KARA member Nicole’s diet menu has been revealed to public.
Recently, some photos of Nicole’s lunchbox were posted on an online community board. The photos were screen captures from the episode of KBS 2’s ‘Star Interview - KARA’ that aired on October 24.
The said episode featured Nicole revealing her diet menu. Her lunchbox includes tofu, mushrooms, carrots, and other vegetables, and many netizens are giving close attention to her diet.
Netizens commented, “She’s got the best diet menu,” “She’s really into this,” “Her body shape is perfect” and more.
KARA's Kang JiYoung gets accepted to Sungkyunkwan University!
KARA's Kang Ji Young will be starting her college life very soon. It has been revealed on the 7th of November via an official from Kang Ji Young's agency DSP Media that she has passed the entrance exam for Sungkyunkwan University under the department of Theater and Arts.
Kang Ji Young had to delay her college life last year as she was busy with activities with KARA but this time she finally had time to prepare for the entrance exams. Being accepted in such as a well known university, Kang Ji Young is likely to choose Sungkyunkwan University and join their freshmen batch of 2013.
Source: Nate
Written by: blueprincess824 @ dkpopnews.net
KARA's Nicole reveals childhood photos
KARA's Nicole reveals childhood photos.
She tweeted on 16th of November,"I have become fairer,i am happy playing outside,but i was really thin that time".
Fans commented,"Baby Nicole is so cute","born to be cute","slim now and before".
Via : Latest K-pop News - K-pop News | Daily K Pop News
- Love_KARA_4ever_93 -
Kamilias, the main purpose for me to create KARA forum thread is sharing news. I had see, this site almost never post any news related to KARA, due to minority crews. The other reason is, majority of Kamilias, posting news at K-Pop fansite, instead at international non-official fansite, Karaholic. Next, the sources for KARA's news, are not much.
# REFLASH NEWS #
SHINee and KARA certified gold status in Japan
Idol groups SHINee and KARA have nabbed gold title in Japan with their latest single albums.
According to the Recording Industry Association of Japan (RIAJ) on November 12th, SHINee’s “Dazzling GIrl” (produced by Jeff Miyahara) achieved the Gold Certification for shipping out over 100,000 albums, reaching up to second place on the Oricon Weekly Chart.
KARA’s “Electric Boy” received the same status for selling over 100,000 albums. In fact, “Electric Boy” sold 57,942 albums in the first week of sales alone, which was enough to clinch second place on the Oricon Weekly Chart.
Proving their record-selling power in Japan, SHINee and KARA are handful of artists gaining big popularity in both Korea and Japan.
KARA, 2PM, INFINITE and T-ara rank high on Oricon Chart
K-pop idol groups have secured hearts of music fans in Japan with their latest records’ sales scoring big on Oricon’s music charts.
KARA released its new concert DVD, ‘KARA 1st Japan Tour 2012 KARASIA’, on November 14 and it immediately took the top spot of both Oricon’s compilation DVD and music DVD charts. Following them was INFINITE, who released their DVD ‘2012 INFINITE CONCERT [SECOND INVASION] in JAPAN’ on the same day.
In addition, KARA’s 3rd Japanese studio album ‘Girls Forever’ ranked second on the Oricon ‘Daily Album’ chart after selling 28,724 copies.
2PM’s latest Japanese single “Masquerade” debuted at #2 on the Oricon Daily Singles Chart after selling 88,166 copies on its first day. Girl group T-ara was just close behind, taking the 4th place of the same chart.
Via : Latest K-pop News - K-pop News | Daily K Pop News
- Love_KARA_4ever_93 -
# REFLASH NEWS #
KARA Jiyoung’s fresh debut photos revealed
KARA member Kang Jiyoung’s fresh debut photos are drawing people’s attention.
Recently on an online community forum, photos of young Kang Jiyoung were released under the title, “Kang Jiyoung looked totally different when she first became a singer.”
The photos were taken from a variety show, which aired in 2009. Unlike her current mature image, she looks like an innocent girl with bangs and puffed cheeks.
Upon seeing the photos, netizens commented, “She was so cute”, “Wow, she was a baby” and “Looking quite different from how she looks now.”
KARA’s Goo Hara looks stunning for ‘Dazed & Confused’
KARA’s Goo Hara graced the cover of fashion magazine, ‘Dazed & Confused’.
Goo Hara has taken a step away from her usual youthful concepts to go for a more mature approach. During the shoot, the idol exuded her mystical look, donning white dresses and veil.
Even with her busy schedule, she showed her professionalism and successfully conveyed the pictorial’s concept. Goo Hara worked along well with the staff and earned praises for her goddess-like charms.
SISTAR's Hyorin, Kara’s Hara & 4Minute’s Hyuna for Lotte Liquor
SISTAR's Hyorin, Kara’s Hara & 4Minute’s Hyuna for Lotte Liquor.
The pretty girls from girl groups SISTAR, Kara and 4Minute endorse Lotte Liqour.
Hyorin, Hara and Hyuna are looking gorgeous and sexy while posing with Lotte Liquor. The girls show their perfect figures while holding the bottle of Lotte Liquor.
Check out their pictures below.
Via : Latest K-pop News - K-pop News | Daily K Pop News
- Love_KARA_4ever_93 -
# REFLASH NEWS #
KARA's Nicole reveals her lovely bookshelf
On November 15, KARA's Nicole revealed her bookshelf through her twitter account with a message,
In the photo, Nicole stands next to her lovely bookshelf, smile happily with a cute pose. The bookshelf is decorated with books and stuffs given by fans.
Netizens commented, "Nicole really loves her fans", "Please read all of them", "Nicole's fans seem like reading"....
Source: Nicole's twitter
Written by Jenny@dkpopnews
KARA's Seungyeon tweets bare face selca
KARA's Han Seungyeon revealed a new selca through her Twitter on 22nd November.
She mentioned,
She then shared the photo above, she is seen posing without make-up in the photo above.
Fans commented,"flawless skin","Seungyeon is so pretty" and etc
Goo Hara's face is smaller than a balloon?
KARA's Goo Hara updated her Twitter with a new selca.
She tweeted,
She then shared the selca above,she is seen holding a balloon and carves a sweet smile.
Fans commented after seeing the photo,"She has a really small face","pretty and sweet girl" and etc
KARA's Jiyoung tweets "Red Cheeks" selca
KARA's maknae Jiyoung shared a selca on Twitter on 25th November.
She said,
And shared the photo above.
She is seen posing cutely to the camera with full make-up,her hair is a bit untidy,she must be really tired after the performance.
Fans commented,"She's cute","Long time no see" and etc.
Via : Latest K-pop News - K-pop News | Daily K Pop News
- Love_KARA_4ever_93 -
# REFLASH NEWS #
KARA becomes overall #1 in DVD sales in Japan
KARA beat out Girls’s Generation and become the overall #1 in DVD sales for a foreign artist in Japan.
On November 21, a Japanese media outlet reported that the sales of KARA’s latest DVD ‘KARA 1st JAPAN TOUR 2012 KARASIA‘ which was released in the country on November 14, has sold over 30,000 copies in just one week, shooting to the top of the Oricon Weekly DVD Chart.
The report added, Both KARA and Girls’s Generation topped on the DVD sales chart twice. However, this time, KARA has surpassed Girls’ Generation and they’ve taken the #1 overall spot for a foreign artist.”
KARA also topped on the Oricon Weekly DVD Charts with previous DVD releases ‘KARA Best Clips’ and ‘KARA Best Clips 2 & Shows’.
Source: Xportsnews
KARA shows individual charms for ‘Dazed & Confused’
In addition to Goo Hara’s pictorial, other KARA members graced the cover of ‘Dazed & Confused’ magazine, displaying each member’s individual charms.
Park Gyuri showed her own distinctive charisma and transformed into goddess queen. Nicole portrayed a fierce yet lovely devil girl and Han Seungyeon is a bold femme fatale. The maknae Kang Jiyoung transformed into mature, sophisticated woman and Goo Hara is a beautiful winter princess.
Staff on set commented that despite their busy schedules, the members successfully and accurately portrayed their pictorial’s concept.
Gyuri
Hara
Jiyoung
Nicole
Seungyeon
Via : Latest K-pop News - K-pop News | Daily K Pop News
- Love_KARA_4ever_93 -
28th November 2012
# NEWS #
KARA, 2PM and T-ara dominate Oricon’s weekly charts
Hallyu groups KARA, 2PM and T-ara dominated the upper tier of this week’s Oricon’s Weekly Singles and Albums charts.
According to Oricon’s latest ranking released on November 26, KARA’s 3rd Japanese studio album ‘Girls Forever’ which was released on November 14th, has sold an impressive 73,224 copies in first week, making them to hold its second position on Oricon Weekly Albums Chart.
2PM’s latest Japanese single “Masquerade” managed to sell 130,242 copies for the week and came out in second place of the Oricon’s Weekly Singles Chart for the week. T-ara’s “Sexy Love” was just close behind, taking the 4th place of the same chart with 40,835 copies sold.
KARA’s Nicole and Hara release solo MVs for Korean ‘KARA Solo Collection’
As reported earlier, KARA will be releasing its ‘KARA Solo Collection’ album in Korea. The album was first released in Japan on September 5th and will be released in Korea on December 4th.
Ahead of the official release, the first set of music videos featuring Nicole and Goo Hara’s solo track were unveiled. Nicole released her solo track “Lost”, a traditional R&B piece that sings of longing for a lost love while Goo Hara released her medium-tempo urban dance single “Secret Love”.
Check out the link below!
KARA (Hara) - Secret Love (Korean Ver.)
KARA (Nicole) & 2AM (Jinwoon) - Lost (Korean Ver.)
Via : Latest K-pop News - K-pop News | Daily K Pop News
- Love_KARA_4ever_93 -
# ARTICLE #
DSP Media rides KARA success as brand name rises
This article focuses on DSP Media and KARA especially since KARA is DSP's cash cow now. And let's admit Kamilia, we are supportive of KARA's juniors just as our girls are. I've seen many Kamilia who are also Rainbow fans and who became A-light and who are watching Puretty's development.
> INSIDE K-POP: 4. DSP Media <
Back with its new EP “Pandora,” five-member girl group KARA is here, there and everywhere. The girls have been especially successful in Japan: Last year alone, the group won Japan’s Golden Disc Award, K-pop Lovers! Award and Japan Record Award.
Every EP released since KARA’s Japan debut has been a hit. A line of dolls based on the girl group has been launched and the K-pop stars are the faces of various perfumes and food companies.
KARA’s success can be attributed to the hard work of its members, as well as the talent behind the scenes. But the ride with DSP Media, its agency, hasn’t always been smooth.
In this fourth installment of the Korea JoongAng Daily’s Inside K-pop series, we explore how the successful group came to be and the role its agency DSP Media played in the unexpected rise.
As a smaller agency compared to its competitors YG, SM and JYP, DSP Media doesn’t hold annual concerts featuring a star-studded lineup of K-pop acts. Founded by Lee Ho-yeon, the agency is not a household name, but most would recognize the groups that it has churned out from the early 1990s. Before KARA, Rainbow and A-Jax, there were Sechs Kies, Fin.K.L and SS501.
But most struggled to stay in the spotlight. KARA hopes to buck the trend.
“Apart from Shinhwa, only a handful of idol groups have made it past the four-year mark of relevance like Super Junior, Girls’ Generation, the Wonder Girls and of course KARA,” says Yun Heung-kwan, director of DSP Media.
Unlike its three better-known contemporaries, DSP has not laid its eyes on a global audience - the agency focuses on the quality of its talents and the formation of idol groups rather than on marketing gimmicks. This has been a pillar of its K-pop model, for better or worse.
The making of KARA
In 2005, when the agency decided to launch a girl group, it wasn’t as easy as you’d imagine.
“With the first round of auditions, we were really unimpressed,” Yun says.
This led DSP to think outside the box, with the agency tapping into its vast Hallyu network.
Han Seung-yeon was eventually recruited through a dance school which trains Lee Hyori’s backup dancers. Park Gyu-ri, a child actor, was introduced to DSP through another agency. Nicole Jung was introduced to the agency by a mutual friend when the agency heads were visiting the United States.
“A native English speaker is needed in this day and age, so we recruited Nicole for that reason.”
In its initial stages, there was another member named Kim Sung-hee, who was a trainee at DSP from middle school. When she left, Goo Ha-ra joined the band through an audition. Then came Kang Ji-young, who was introduced by NS Yoonji, a relative.
If talent was the only thing DSP was looking for, then NS Yoonji would rightfully be a part of KARA today.
But when the 24-year-old soloist came in for an audition, she was told that she didn’t exactly fit in with the group’s vibe. She then recommended her younger cousin.
Polishing the gem
With a minor reshuffling KARA spent just two months training before it launched its second album, and debut for its current members, “Rock You” in 2008. Needless to say, it wasn’t an easy few months.
The plight of trainees is drawing more and more attention today as idol group members give their accounts of the training process once they make it big. Every aspect of a potential talent is scrutinized, from his or her age to looks, vocal, dancing skill and ability to connect with future audiences.
“With all things, we ask the simple question, ‘Will they fit in with the group?’?” Yun says.
The director says that a potential star’s “it” factor, or his or her ability to relate to the audience, also plays a big part in the auditions.
“Being a singer is all about entertaining the masses, but if a candidate can’t stand in front of a crowd and sing, then there really isn’t much that we can do for them.”
It’s also important that in today’s interactive media environment stars are taught good manners from the beginning.
“Trainees are not celebrities, and we instill that in them,” says the PR manager, Cha Hee-jin. “In many ways, trainers are harsh on them like teachers would be to students.”
Life of trainees
Like many other agencies, DSP boasts a new talent development team that manages casting and auditions which take place once a month.
Every month, 150 hopefuls register their interests online, but only about 20-25 make it through. Final cuts are even harsher, with only a handful moving on to become DSP trainees.
Currently, there are about 20 trainees who clock in at DSP after school. Although the agency doesn’t pay its trainees, it does offer benefits and incentives such as rebates on gym memberships.
The trainees - both those who come in at 1 p.m. and at 3 p.m. - spend about five to six hours training in dance and vocals.
To equip them with the skills needed to reach its biggest target market, Japan, the trainees are also given Japanese language lessons.
In terms of the private lives of the trainees, the agency does try to moderate it to a certain degree.
“Like with any other adolescents, when trainees start dating, they lose a lot of time with which they could be spending on rehearsals, so we don’t really endorse it,” says Yun, who makes time to pull trainees aside to reprimand them if they are seen making moves rather than rehearsing new dance moves.
Being media responsive
Despite this, Yun acknowledges that kids are kids, and you can’t really keep puppy love from blossoming.
After all, DSP is one of the few agencies that has a talent who is in a public relationship with a fellow idol group member.
On KARA member Goo’s public romance with Beast member Yong Jun-hyung, Yun has a laissez-faire outlook.
“After much deliberation, we told them, best of luck,” he says, looking back on the time when the paparazzi snapped a picture of the two together.
Yun says that he has the “changing times” to thank for the somewhat relaxed policies of dating between idol groups.
“Ten years ago, it would have been fatal [for their careers], but now the relationships among fans and idol groups are changing.”
In fact, many a time, Goo has received support letters from fans rather than death threats.
“One time, a fan from abroad handed Ha-ra a letter with hearts and the words ‘Ha-ra for Jun-hyung’ on it.”
Yun says that the agency is always keeping up with what the fans are thinking, and decisions follow soon after.
“We monitor what’s going on online so we know how to react. Even with issues like cosmetic surgery, you would just look like a fool in today’s society if you denied that entertainers had work done.”
Marketing the brand
The agency says that KARA’s success in Japan was a bit of a fluke, but how they capitalized on it with endorsement deals rolling in was creatively reactive. Due to its unexpected success in Japan, the group spends about 45-50 days of the year there.
Instead of coming up with a marketing plan for overseas markets, as a lot of bigger agencies have done, DSP maintains its focus on group formation.
“Of course when selecting idol group members these days they look for language abilities, vocals, rap and dance skills. Like other agencies, we look for these things too, but our point of difference is that we look for specific attributes that each member can bring.”
Yun boasts that even physically, unlike many other girl groups, KARA members all have their unique appeal.
In terms of what they bring to the group, Jung raps and speaks fluent English; Han and Park are vocalists; and Goo and Kang are the best dancers.
Looking to the future
Through the feats of its artists, DSP says that it hopes to gain momentum in the K-pop industry and eventually expand its operations across the globe.
“Today the music environment is changing and many fans of bands become fans of agencies,” says Cha, the PR manager who has seen her share of fan letters and bizarre propositions.
She added that it helps to see agencies as brands.
“If you like Apple, then you tend to buy a lot of Apple goods, and it’s the same for the entertainment industry.”
Apparently this philosophy works for recruiting talents too.
“There are some who will go to auditions at a specific agency every two months,” Yun says. “It has a lot to do with a sort of mental fixation that a hopeful has.”
One member from A-Jax, Jae-hyung, was such a case.
He had idolized Kim Hyun-joong of SS501 and came to DSP to follow in his stead.
“He said at the audition, ‘I want to make it here at DSP because Kim Hyun-joong is my role model.’ Even to this day, he raves about the agency during various interviews.”
DSP says that later on, it wouldn’t be out of line to see a branch open up in America.
“With focus on our brand name, we hope to expand little by little, with a new studio and taking on more employees,” Yun says.
As the agency makes a steady progress, it believes that time is and will continue to be on its side.
“The thing is that the music industry is fluid. Back in the ’90s, the Korean music scene was dominated by Western pop,” Yun says.
“But now, it’s the other way around. In the United States, people are listening to K-pop and so there really has never been a time like this for Korean artists.”
Source: Korea Joong Ang Daily
Via : Latest K-pop News - K-pop News | Daily K Pop News
- Love_KARA_4ever_93 -
29th November 2012
# NEWS #
KARA releases jacket photos for Korean ‘KARA Solo Collection’
As reported earlier, KARA will be releasing its ‘KARA Solo Collection’ album in Korea. After pre-releasing the first set of music videos featuring Nicole and Goo Hara’s solo tracks, they have now unveiled unseen jacket photos from their upcoming album.
‘KARA Solo Collection’ was previously released in September in Japan, and will be released in Korea on December 4th. The album was produced by the Sweetune team, including Han Jae Ho and Kim Seung Soo, as well as composer Lee Joo Hyung and G-High.
Check out the photos below!
Group
Gyuri
Hara
Jiyoung
Nicole
Seungyeon
Via : Latest K-pop News - K-pop News | Daily K Pop News
- Love_KARA_4ever_93 -
29th November 2012
# NEWS #
KARA's Gyuri receives praises with her cameo appearance in "What Is Mom"
KARA's goddess Park Gyuri has just made a cameo apperance in sitcom "What is Mom"
Although she only appeared for a few seconds, her appearance garnered much attention
Gyuri took the role of a gorgeous, stylish lady, who's the new renter of Moon Hee's grandma. With her beautiful look and fashionable style, she attracted every men around.
Gyuri's cameo received so many possitive comments. One of the staff shared, "Although her appearance was short, Gyuri still checked everything carefully, from her outfits, hair style and sentences".
Currently, 'What Is Mom' is broadcasted every Monday and Tuesday.
KARA to receive a Best Dresser Award in Japan
Hallyu group KARA is being recognized for its style and fashion in Japan.
The secretariat of International Jewellery Tokyo(IJT), the organizer of IJT 2013, the largest jewelry exhibition in Japan, announced on November 27 that Korean girl group KARA had been selected as the recipients of the 24th Japanese Best Jewellery Wearer Awards female category.
The awards ceremony will be held on the second day of the 24th IJT, which will be held for three days from January 23 next year at Big Sight in Tokyo Odaiba.
This year’s prize winner in the male category is Japanese gymnast Kohei Uchimura, a London Olympics gold medalist.
KARA joins the list of other Korean stars who have been the recipient of the award in the past including Lee Byung Hun, Won Bin and Girls’ Generation.
Via : Latest K-pop News - K-pop News | Daily K Pop News
- Love_KARA_4ever_93 -
1st December 2012
# NEWS #
KARA’s Gyuri, Jiyoung and Seungyeon release solo MVs for Korean ‘KARA Solo Collection’
Following the first set of music videos featuring Nicole and Goo Hara’s solo tracks, KARA has now unveiled the music videos for Gyuri and Jiyoung’s tracks from their ‘KARA Solo Collection’ album.
Gyuri’s solo track “Daydream” features a tango-like rhythm and plays out much like a musical number. The music video also stars Jung Seok Won, who plays the lead male character.
Jiyoung’s “Wanna Do” is described as a rock ballad and features Supernova’s Park Geon Il on the music video’s storyline. Seungyeon, on the other hand, will transform into a rockstar for her solo track “Guilty”, the song which will further showcase her individual colors apart from KARA.
Check out the MVs below!
[MV] KARA (Jiyoung) - Wanna Do (Korean Ver.)
[MV] KARA (Gyuri) - Daydream (Korean Ver.)
[MV] KARA (Seungyeon) - Guilty (Korean Ver.)
KARA gets own animated show in Japan
Girl group KARA will get their own animated adaptation that will air in Japan next spring.
On December 1, DSP Media announced, “A traditional animation titled ‘KARA the Animation’ starring five members of KARA as its leading characters is to be broadcast at the beginning of next year. Following its airing in Japan, the series is expected to air in Korea during the first half of 2013.”
The fictional stories will feature each of the members in a different career; Gyuri as a police officer, Seungyeon as an astronaut, Nicole as a passenger boat captain, Hara as security police for the Monaco royal family, and Jiyoung as a sexy and spirited firefighter.
Each group member will provide the voices for the animated versions of themselves, as well as sing the series’ title song. The series will also mark each members voice-acting debut.
An advanced preview of the show will premiere during the groups first performance at the Tokyo Dome stadium on January 6.
Source: Animenewsnetwork
Hyuna, Hyolin & Hara release hot CF for "Chum-Churum"
4minute's Hyuna, SISTAR's Hyolin and KARA's Goo Hara release the latest CFs for "Chum-Churum" Soju.
Check out their hot CFs below as they perform hot dance and flaunt their perfect S-line.
[Eng Sub] Hyuna,Hara,Hyorin's New CM[2012.12.01] _4minute,kara,sistar 2012 mama psy js sj jackie
[Eng Sub] Hyuna,Hara,Hyorin's New CM[2012.12.01] _4minute,kara,sistar 2012 mama psy dance js
[Eng Sub] Hyuna,Hara,Hyorin's New CM[2012.12.01] _4minute,kara,sistar 2012 mama trouble maker js
Via : Latest K-pop News - K-pop News | Daily K Pop News
- Love_KARA_4ever_93 -
2nd December 2012
# NEWS #
KARA's Ji Young learns guitar for her solo song
KARA's Kang Ji Young has shown her enthusiasm in learning guitar to perform her new solo song.
On November 30, Kang Ji Young published her solo song titled "Wanna Do" through KARA official Youtube channel and other web sources. "Wanna Do" is a rock ballad with powerful beat.
Since it was her first time singing a ballad son g on her own, Kang Ji Young practiced her guitar skills hard. While filming the music video, she directly performed the song.
The song describes the heartbreaking story of a sweet couple who love guitar. Park Geon Il and Kang Ji Young receive praises with their amazing acting skills.
Recently, KARA released "Solo Collection" (Korean ver) with 5 songs and 5 MVs for each member.
T-ara,2PM,4Minute,KARA,MBLAQ & more perform on Korean Music Wave concert in Kobe
*There are too many videos, that's why I can't post at here*
Via : Latest K-pop News - K-pop News | Daily K Pop News
Congratulations to KARA, you'd won Best Global Female Group for 2012 MAMA ! ^_^
#KARA #KAMILIA
- Love_KARA_4ever_93 -
3rd December 2012
# NEWS #
KARA’s Seungyeon talks about releasing first solo track
KARA’s Han Seungyeon commented about releasing a solo track.
On November 30th, KARA members released solo tracks through official YouTube channel and various music websites. During an interview with the media, Seungyeon talked about participating in writing the lyrics for her solo track.
Seungyeon shared, “I’ve been really happy for the last six years as a member of KARA, but I’ve also gone through many hard times. But, I wanted to get through them, and become a stronger person.”
She continued, “I tried to express my wish to become a stronger person in my solo track, ‘Guilty’.”
“Guilty” is a hard rock number, characterized by a strong guitar sound and a shouting voice. Seungyeon is attracting a lot of attention as a rocker in this song, getting away from a lovely image.
KARA to release special edition of ‘Solo Collection’ album
KARA will be releasing a limited edition of their latest album ‘Solo Collection’.
On December 4th, KARA will be releasing their new album ‘Solo Collection’. The album will be released in original edition and special limited edition, and only 5,000 copies of limited edition will be released.
In the limited edition, an extra DVD containing high definition music videos of each solo track and never-before-seen photos taken from music video shooting will be included. The album package of original edition will be pink, the limited edition will be mint, and the package will look like a book collection.
Nicole and Goo Hara’s solo tracks were released on November 28th, while Park Gyuri, Han Seungyeon and Kang Jiyoung’s solo tracks were released on the 30th. The songs are growing greatly popular among many music fans, as the members successfully expressed their individual colors and charms.
Via : Latest K-pop News - K-pop News | Daily K Pop News
#KARA @fateflysy
- Love_KARA_4ever_93 -
#KARA @gyuri88 @fateflysy @_911007 @_sweethara @kkangji #KAMILIA
Congratulations, you'd won Best Global Female Group for #2012MAMA !
#KARA, fighting !
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