I regret to post my weekly Wehaiyo! Drive so late this week. With a death in the family, it was a difficult week for me. Professionally, I had a lot to catch up on this week, so I will make a shorter post.
A week ago, I started this new drama and I was blown away by the story. I become obsessed with the drama, watching seven episodes at once. I really love watching strong heroines characters and Fu Yao (played by awesome actress, Yang Mi) is definitely one of them. It is amazing how she did not start the story with much kung fu skill, but she somehow made it through every round of the competition with a big credit to our leading man, the fake prince.
I am also fond of Zhangsun Wuji (Ethan Ruan), who pretends to be the prince, but who also shows his charms to Fu Yao at every turn. He unnecessarily worries about Fu Yao, which in turn, saves her life. He has superior martial arts skill, but somehow allows Fu Yao to plant mud on both of his cheeks during their first fight.
Ironically, I am watching this week's episode with an actual death in my family, so it was also sad to watch a drama where everybody has a timer that keeps ticking until death. However, I think this week was also a downer because of the fact Choi Michaela aka Mika (played by Lee Sung Kyung) and Lee Doha (played by Lee Sang Yoon) are still painfully separated.
However, the main developments were in the pressure that Doha receives from his father, his so-called fiance, and his potential business partnership with his Chinese business partner besides the pain he is already in as a result of a breakup with Mika. I really do feel bad for Doha for having all the problems come to him all at once. By the end of episode 12, Doha had enough and I believe he will move toward being independent from all the people who give him trouble even if that means losing his family and business.
What's Wrong with Secretary Kim remains to be a fun and interesting drama. I am all caught up to episode eight where the problems are beginning to be resolved. Lee Young Joon (played by Park Seo Joon) and his brother's past become a little bit more clear as it seems the older brother Lee Sung Yeon (played by Lee Tae Hwan) lost his memory after the kidnapping event, but believes that he was the one kidnapped with Secretary Kim Mi So (Park Min Young).
However, it does not matter to Mi So because she finds herself falling deeper in love with Young Joon, so it does not matter whether he was the oppa whom she had a childhood bond with and with whom she promised to marry after the kidnapping experience. She lets Young Joon get away with bossing her around even when she has already gave her end-of-employment notice because I think she loves him. Mi So was extremely bothered by how Young Joon thinks of her when she was around Sung Yeon and when Sung Yeon publicly stated that he was in love with her without giving out her name.
Without words, Mi So seems to have known what Young Joon's trauma was without asking Young Joon about his trauma. At the end of episode eight, when Young Joon could not secure the first kiss, Mi So took the initiative and went straight for the kiss, healing Young Joon and helping him overcome his trauma.
I was touched to see that a pair of lovebirds have emerged.
This week's Music:
1) NU'EST W (뉴이스트 W) - Dejavu
There is no question that I mention Nu'est W's comeback on my Wehaiyo! Drive. I have been waiting for this group since their last album, W' Here. The song sounds a bit complicated, but musically satisfying. I want to hear "dejavu" sung over and over again. I must say that all four members are looking especially handsome for their comeback. Even as I am going through a tough week, I can count on Dejavu to comfort me in the background.
2) Kim Hyun Soo 김현수 - It's You '너야'
Continuing my thoughts on the special Woo Jin Young and Kim Hyun Soo team who was featured on the Wehaiyo! Drive last week, I now solely focus on Hyun Soo. I stumbled upon this special clip of him singing, "Neo Ya" ("너야") or "It's You." Every time he belts out, "Neo Ya," I feel really emotional and special. It's easy to put this song on replay. Hyun Woo needs to release more songs for us to enjoy.
3) BTOB (비투비) - Only One For Me (너 없인 안 된다)
I naturally eased myself into listening to BTOB's newest song, "Only One For Me." They are so good at singing romantic melodies, which is so appropriate since their fandom name is Melody. I listed to this on replay many times this week and I am very touched by it.
This week, I barely had time to pay attention to the entertainment world, but please continue to support the Wehaiyo! Drive as I upload more content.
By the way, did you all know the special way to eat ramyun when it is too hot?
Fold the lid into a cup and put the noodle in it to cool it down.
I am back with another week of the Wehaiyo! Drive. This week, I did not have much inspiration to write or make posts since I experienced personal setbacks, but I am hoping to get back into the groove next week.
I am very interested in this drama, watching episodes as they become available. I really love the chemistry between Park Min Young and Park Seo Joon. Currently up to episode four, I am excited to see Park Min Young's character, Kim Miso aka Secretary Kim and Lee Young Joon played by Park Seo Joon, the Vice President gradually realize their feelings for one another.
Upset after being punched in the face by his older brother, the only place Young Joon wanted to be is to be near Miso. Just like his character in Fight My Way, I think Park Seo Joon is replaying the clueless-in-love role, because if a person shows up at another person's house in the middle of the night, longing for that person, it usually means that the person has fallen in love with the person he or she is waiting for. Young Joon should know that he is in love with Miso.
Back in episode three, I loved the "blockbuster date" that Young Joon arranged for Miso in the amusement park, disguising the reason for the date as an event for employee appreciation to thank her for all her hard work over the years. It is hard for any guy to surpass this blockbuster date experience with a private amusement park, fancy dinner, watching fireworks by boat, a huge cute cow stuffed doll gift, and well, an ending kiss that did not happen.
I do wonder why they did not have these feelings before this entire story started. They were working with each other for nine years, but did not seem to have any romantic feelings until Kim Miso decides to resign from her position. I find that odd. They could have been stuck in a professional groove, but I find it hard to believe that they did not encounter any heartwarming moments that would make them think twice about each other.
I know it seems too early, but I want to see a milestone kiss to seal the deal.
I am equally drawn to the About Time drama as well. It seems Viki viewers think the plot is becoming way too sad, but for me, it is fine. In episode ten, our leading lady, Choi Michaela, played by Lee Sung Kyung, tries a lot of ways to break up with her boyfriend, Lee Do Ha, played by Lee Sang Yoon, who has also been emotionally scarred by his ex-girlfriend, Kim Joon Ah, played by Kim Gyuri.
Michaela or Mika, for short, realizes that she is gaining time rather quickly while Do Ha's time is decreasing rather quickly in return. I think this is because they fell deeper in love with each other. Mika's instincts is to first break up with Do Ha, but she used a really lame excuse such as not loving him anymore and breaking up with him the day after a really fun and romantic date. By the way, Do Ha looked like a puppy while watching the scary movie. The breakup did not make sense to me, but maybe she wanted him to have a great memory of their ideal life before dealing a huge blow to Do Ha. I think the date hurt them both even more because of the memorable date. Furthermore, like Do Ha mentioned, who would accept this kind of excuse of not loving each other anymore as a breakup reason?
Around the same time, Do Ha's fiance wannabe, Bae Soo Bong, played by Im Se Mi, revealed all her evil intentions to her love rivals. If she was truly evil, she would have kept the truth to herself and let everybody move toward their demise, but I think Soo Bong was too impatient and revealed all her intentions like a rookie villian-in-training. Also, her chit-chat with her rivals is really annoying. I am disgusted by her behavior and I cannot wait for the moment she realizes how ugly she became as seen in the mirror that Joon Ah gifted Soo Bong in reference to what Joon Ah said to Soo Bong before ultimately leaving. Soo Bong is setting herself up for her own demise by forcing her marriage to Do Ha.
Lastly, even though words may hurt, Mika cannot hide her true feelings behind her actions when she rushes to save Do Ha from a panic attack on the street. Her only way out is to tell him the truth, but she twists it a little to say that Do Ha is the one draining her time clock and that he should let her go. After thinking about it, if she said she was draining Do Ha's time, Do Ha could say that he does not care that Mika takes his time away since he loves her. However, if Do Ha takes Mika's time away from her timeclock, Do Ha would make sure he stays away from Mika for sure.
Up to this point, I have no idea where the plot will go next, but I think the story was written brilliantly. Since there is not that much time left for Mika to live, I think Do Ha will eventually realize Mika's lie and get back with her even though he will die earlier because of it. If they meet in the middle, they could live together at least around 30 more years unless the time drains even faster as they fall deeper in love. They can still have time to make a lot of milestones and not worry about having regrets before dying.
I tried to start this drama because it really seemed like an interesting story. Unfortunately, I did not finish watching the first episode. The reason is not because of boredom, but because sadly, I really did not have enough time this week to watch dramas.
I can tell that this is a sad love story, but I am drawn to the characters and plot line. Leading man, Chae Do Jin/ Yoon Na Moo, well played by Jang Ki Yong, is intense and direct in his interview to become a police officer. When the other three candidates were gossiping about his childhood case, he could have gotten angry or told them off as a normal reaction, but he remained really calm and calmly sat down with him to explain the case to them. I find that creepy and mature at the same time. This is a noteworthy scene.
I will try to write more about this drama in future Wehaiyo! drives.
This week's Music:
1) Woo Jin Young (우진영) and Kim Hyun Soo (김현수) - Falling in love (설레고 난리)
In continuation of mentioning Mixnine stars, Woo Jin Young and Kim Hyun Soo released a special album titled, "Present," to thank their fans for support. I am not disappointed in their single as the song was fun and easy to listen to for a countless number of times. I cannot wait for their next work.
While Kim Hyun Soo fell out of the Mixnine position in the last episode, Woo Jin Young maintained his first place position at the conclusion of Mixnine.
In the behind the scene music video clips, I can see Kim Hyun Soo naturally speak in dialect, but I am not sure exactly where he is from. However, the recorded version of his voice has no hints of dialect.
2) Kim Dong Han (김동한) - SUNSET
Woah. Kim Dong Han, formerly a Produce 101 contestant and JBJ member, has gone solo with his mini-album, D-day. I was very impressed with his dance skills on Produce 101. His vocal parts while he was in JBJ were also strong. I thought this guy had the full package as an stage entertainer.
I am not too impressed about his debut as a solo singer though, but his tracks are okay and not vocally extraordinary. After listening to his album a few more times, I have started liking it. The main song, "Sunset," just sounds better and better after every play. The song is about how a woman looks in the sunset and how the singer feels about her at that time.
3) TheEastLight (더 이스트라이트) - Let Me Stay With You
I cannot see TheEastLight doing any wrong. Their songs are so good! I am such a fan of their works. Aside from their title track,"Love Flutters," TheEastLight promoted "Let Me Stay With You" by releasing a choreography version of the song. They also sang this song on music shows as well.
The song is about how painful it is for the singer to be a girl's best friend when he would rather be the girls' lover instead.
These guys still seem so young to me, but I have to remind myself that they are old enough to date and possibly experience such feelings that were mentioned in the lyrics, which is not a good thing as it seems to be unrequited love, but it would contribute to their life experience.
Somehow, I think of this song even when I am feeling sad. This song make me feel better during sad times.
I see a lot of rookies reaching milestones with their mini-albums. I want to wish them all the best of luck and success.
Welcome to this week's Wehaiyo! Drive. This week's theme mostly revolves around achievement and success. I can't wait to get started. This week, I was full of energy, creating posts, watching dramas, listening to music, maintain an old page of my blog, thinking up great ideas for my blog, and so on.
Warning: If you do not want to know the ending, do not read further. Spoilers ahead.
I finished this drama finally. A big success for myself. When I do not like a drama too much, I spend a long time finishing it. However, since I was almost at the end, I figured I would watch until the end to get it over with.
Last week, I grumbled about the ridiculous plot line between Sungyeol and Woohyun, who have the same names in real life. It only takes Sungyeol, who gets sick once a year, to realize that living harmoniously with Woohyun and their mother is the best plan of action. I really wanted to make him get sick earlier in the drama to avoid the biggest conflict of the drama. Solving the mother problem is almost too easy.
I do not understand Sungyeol too well. After everybody is mostly happy, he decides to run away from home (Can a high school student just get up and leave?) to start a new life. On top of that, while he was crossing the street, he was hit by a car and both Woohyun and Seulbi, played by Kim Sae Ron, risked their lives to save Sungyeol.
I also did not understand Angel Brother (type figure), Chun Byungchul, played by Lee Chang Joo, who tries to force Seulbi to become an angel again and then tries to force Seulbi to not remember her past. This angel is such a stubborn character. Also, is an angel who tries to harm humans considered an angel?
When Seulbi loses her memory, I basically shook my head the entire episode. This particular plot line was so unnecessary, but I do like the scenes where her amnesic self has a crush on Sungyeol instead. Irony? Sungyeol then has a great opportunity to reject her. Sungyeol, meanwhile becomes a popular college boy who dates a lot and has a huge following of girls after him. That sudden character change is hard for me to accept.
High School - Love On became a happy ending with every high school student, which is expected for a high school drama. Success!
This is the hottest new drama that just started last week and I can see why. I have only seen two episodes and I have become addicted to the drama already. This drama started off really strong. I love Park Seo Joon and Park Min Young's character in this drama.
Park Min Young's character, Kim Miso, is the ultimate executive assistant. I have no idea how she survived nine grueling years as the executive assistant of Lee Young Joon played by Park Seo Joon. Still, I admire her great sense of patience and her professionalism.
Even though Lee Young Joon is a very narcissistic person, I still can see his dumbfounded charms showing through. It seems odd to me that he would not let women touch him except for Kim Miso. I am anticipating more episodes to find out about his life history. Lee Young Joon's attraction to Park Min Young is the best part of the drama. I can't wait for more episodes.
Since Kim Miso and Lee Young Joon are already much success in their career, I can't wait to see them succeed in their love life.
I started watching Wok of Love since last week. Now, at episode 8, I am excited to see Lee Junho who plays Chef Seo Poong assemble his restaurant team of gangsters led by Doo Chil Sung (Jang Hyuk), what seems like former-masters-of-the-kitchen staff, and the lovely Dan Sae Woo played by Jung Ryeo Won. The drama has a nice pace with mini-sized episodes (30 minutes each). Chef Seo is out for revenge and I cannot wait until that happens with all its hilarity. This is a drama where there are a lot of unfortunate people in difficult circumstances, so I am rooting for all of them to succeed.
Wehaiyo!
This week's Music:
Last week, I mentioned that I would talk about the an exciting and friendly musical feud between our former Mixnine star groups, ONF and A.C.E, who just released their title tracks on June 7th. I feel like these guys put in 200% effort into their performances. Even if the songs sounded bad (which they do not), I still would have supported them just for the effort they put into their performances. I missed these guys so much since YG's music survival program, Mixnine was over. They deserve all the success that they have. Too bad I cannot see them combine into the winning Mixnine group. I am curious about all the backstage banter between the two groups at music shows.
1) A.C.E - "Take Me Higher"
In terms of repeat value, I definitely listened to "Take Me Higher" the most of this week. The music is very relaxing. I have seen A.C.E's busking performance and their live musical performances and was very impressed with their live vocals with complicated and sharp choreography. They are not veterans in the music industry yet, but they are already looking like veterans. Their vocals are very stable.
Every single time Donghun wears these shirts that flip up when he dances, I take notice right away. When Byeongkwan dances his fluid dance moves in the back as they dance in a diagonal line, I am once again, amazed. I have no idea if Byeongkwan is the best dancer I have ever seen.
2) ONF - "Complete"
On the other hand, ONF is also a formidable music opponent. I knew they also had excellent singing and dancing skills since debut and from further watching Mixnine. Since ONF's amazing debut song, "ON/OFF," I had anticipated what they would come back with next. "Complete" is also a very catchy song, which I think will also be very successful. The only thing that is stopping my enjoyment is the fact that I do not know the names of every member. I did know about the members more from watching Mixnine, but I need to see more of them on programs. I will as time goes by.
I cannot help but notice Laun's smiley face in most of their performances. I do not think I can hide from this guy's smiles. He is the smile master. MK has a nice smile as well. They look a bit similar to me. When they smile, I smile. I give honorable mention to Seungjoon, who also caught my eye with his performance. Somehow, I did not notice popular member Hyojin that much. I think I barely recognized Wyatt and U. This is a group I would like to know more about.
3) Doyoung - "Hard For Me"
I think it is hard to get by a Wehaiyo! Drive week without NCT being on my list. Since I am still watching the Rich Man, Poor Woman drama where this song is part of the OST, I am very drawn to Doyoung's poignant, "It's hard for me...to forget you" line in the lyrics. I love Doyoung's voice. I want more of his works. He is such a great singer. I will not forget him, for sure. For those listeners who like this song, I also recommend Cheeze's version of the "Hard For Me" song.
No matter how much success we achieve in life, we cannot forget about our love.
Welcome to the first Wehaiyo! Freestyle review. Every now and then, I get inspired to review something that is not a standard drama, movie, or music. In this case, I watched a short film commercial, but I would like to call it a "story" commercial. I feel that a story commercial is way more effective than an infomercial. I thought I would post about it.
Today's story commercial review is a collaboration between Tous, a "successful and desirable" jewelry brand and the Dingo K-Beauty Youtube channel. The short film sells the Tous "Your Moments" Eau De Toilette product. The product itself is not cheap ($62 for small or $75 for large size). I do not usually buy perfumes, but use sample perfume products from a magazine. After watching this story commercial, I want this perfume. I do not care that I am 36 years old, married, and not in the dating scene. I want this perfume. I am hugely debating clicking my own referral link just to make a purchase.
If you are thinking of buying this product, why not buy it below or the link is also featured at the bottom of this post for those who do not want to wait until the end.
If you have 13 minutes and 16 seconds to spare, you can get through this exciting student love story between Han Jisoo and Kim Jinwoo. You can watch the video now and then read my commentary afterwards.
Update 14-JAN-2024: The Youtube video was made private but the video can still be viewed on Facebook: https://fb.watch/pzTyV4Am5f/
[Things Women Just Know] When a Guy Friend Suddenly Looks Attractive (5년 된 남사친에게 설렌다니?! 완전 사랑스러운 고등학생들의 연애 이야기)
Our story starts off strong at a cafe where within seconds, Han Jisoo (조혜주/Jo Hye Ju or Jo Hye Joo) confesses to her friend, Jinkyung that Jisoo likes her guy friend, Kim Jinwoo (정효준 Jeong Hyo Joon). Her friend spits out her drink in surprise.
It all started the night before when all three friends were at a norebang (karaoke/song room). Jinwoo was singing karaoke and Jisoo was suddenly attracted by his singing voice.
They glance at each other and Jisoo seems too embarassed to go on. She leaves early while Jinwoo continues to sing.
At home, Jisoo agonizes over what she should do when she found out she has a crush on her guy friend. His voice echos in her mind all night long. By morning, she sits in her bed like a zombie and admits that it is time for school.
When Jisoo arrives at school, she is unbelievably the most popular girl in school. She waves to people like a celebrity and she models the latest backpack on her back. She arrives to her desk that is already filled with lots of gifts for her. After giving away some of her gifts and packing other gifts, she opens a small-sized carton of strawberry milk and drinks it. As she tilts her head forward after finishing her milk, she sees Jinwoo sitting opposite of her with a smile. Jisoo almost spits out her drink.
Jisoo remains shy and embarassed as Jinwoo asks her why she left early and whether she is sick. He comments on her red cheeks and and feels her forehead for fever.
At the present moment in the cafe, while Jisoo is still recounting the day's events, Jinkyung asks if Jisoo flirted with Jinwoo. Jisoo insists that she did, continuing her story.
After lunch, Jisoo sat on a bench, waiting for Jinwoo to arrive. The first thing Jinwoo comments on is how great of a hamburger Jisoo missed during lunch. Jisoo wasted no time and showed Jinwoo of a picture of another guy and asked Jinwoo for his thoughts. Jisoo claims that this guy likes all her Insta (Instagram) pics and DMs (direct messages) her constantly. She tells Jinwoo how handsome the man looked, hoping to bring out Jinwoo's jealous feelings and perhaps a confession.
Instead Jinwoo comments that the man is really good looking and Jisoo should introduce the guy to Jinwoo after she meets the guy. Jinwoo chirps out compliment after compliment about this guy and Jisoo almost stomps away in resignation.
Back to the present moment again, Jisoo and her friend were leaving the cafe, grumbling over how Jinwoo does not realize how lucky he was since Jisoo likes him.
In order to make Jinwoo see Jisoo as a girl, Jisoo and her friend head over to the nearby cosmetics store and try on make-up. This part made me feel a bit disappointed because I believe a truly beautiful woman does not need to enhance or over enhance herself with make-up. However, I know that Korean culture is especially very focused on cosmetics to look beautiful.
Jisoo places some cosmetics into her shopping basket, but I wondered as a student, how much money does she have to be able to afford the cosmetics and the "Your Moments" Eau De Toilette. I suppose she is a rich girl since she has the latest backpack.
At home, she dances to some upbeat music, takes a selfie with the "Your Moments" Eau De Toilette, and publishes it on Instagram. Jinwoo does not respond to her post. Instead, Jinwoo uploads a picture of himself and his mention of the "best" burger.
Jisoo resolves to put on a lot of make-up for the next day at school. She struts down the street, flaunting her beauty.
My first thought is, how could a student put so much emphasis on make-up? I really hoped that Jinwoo would not fall for Jisoo because of her make-up as that would be so disappointing.
To my delight, a teacher immediately saw Jisoo with a lot of make-up on and immediately asked her if that was allowed at school.
The situation becomes a bit forced in the story. Jisoo gets her shirt wet while cleaning off her make-up in the bathroom. Honestly, she looks so much prettier with less make-up on. She calls Jinkyung and asks Jinkyung to lend her Jinkyung's P.E. or gym shirt.
After changing, Jisoo notices that the P.E. shirt had a bad odor. Jinkyung apparently had not washed it in a while. This situation sets Jisoo up to use the "Your Moments" Eau De Toilette on herself. The Tous "Your Moments" Eau De Toilette saves the day.
Upon Jisoo walking into the classroom, Jinwoo, with his head on his desk and his eyes closed, smelled an aroma and wakes up. Jisoo expects Jinwoo to mention her perfume. Jinwoo hesitates and announces spaghetti being the meal that would be served for lunch. Jisoo lost to her competition, Jinwoo's appetite.
In the evening, Jisoo sees that Jinwoo posted a photo about spaghetti and the hastag, #BestDayEver. On the other hand, Jisoo thinks that she had the worst day ever instead. At the bus stop, Jinwoo walks up to Jisoo complaining about his stomach when Jisoo was trying to avoid him by leaving earlier. Jisoo asks Jinwoo if he was going to hagwon, which is a private institution, academy, or cram school, but Jinwoo continues to complain about his stomach and therefore, would not be going to hagwon. Jisoo thought Jinwoo was bluffing about his stomach problem.
In the bus, the two sat next to each other in the back row, but were oddly quiet towards each other. Suddenly, Jinwoo leans on Jisoo's shoulder and told her that he was tired and wanted to stay on her shoulder for a while.
Jisoo's heart beats out of control. She secretly pleads not to be embarrassed over her heart-beating situation. With his eyes still closed, Jinwoo asks Jisoo why she was wearing perfume that day. Since his head was on her shoulder, he could probably still smell perfume on her. Jisoo complained about Jinwoo scaring her since he spoke out of the blue. Jinwoo insisted that Jisoo never wore perfume for the five years that he has known her.
Jisoo hesitates and finally blurts out, "So what?" and that she flat-out likes him.
She goes on a tirade in all honesty. She felt her burden being lifted and she felt so much better.
Jinwoo finally smiles. Jisoo asks him if her confession was very funny. Jinwoo denies it and tells her his side of the story.
Apparently, he fell in love with her around the same time at the norebang that night. I think he lost confidence because she ran away that night.
Spot your K-pop favorites on the wall!
He was also rolling around the bed that night thinking about Jisoo and whined over her pretty self on Instagram. In the most funniest scene of the story, he contemplated killing himself for having thoughts about his crush by jumping out his bedroom window, but soon realized that his bedroom is on the first floor.
Jinwoo wonders how he can go to school when he has feelings for his friend, but he comes into the classroom so naturally, as if nothing happened after a mental pep-talk.
After Jisoo showed Jinwoo the Instagram picture of the handsome man and huffs away, Jinwoo berates himself for complimenting the guy.
At night, Jinwoo hilariously wanted to post a negative comment on that guy's Instagram picture. He thought his relationship with Jisoo could have been over before it started.
However, Jinwoo confessed that when Jisoo stood in front of him and especially him in the classroom wearing perfume, he knew that he also liked Jisoo.
Our story ends in shyness as the two look away from one another, but end up reaching for each others hands. It's so cute to see Jisoo, the most popular girl in class, cave into shyness when she is around Jinwoo.
Yay for happy endings! Amazingly, the two lovebirds fell in love and confessed within two nights. How is that for a fast love story?
The behind the scene shots were cute as well.
In the end, do women really know when a guy friend suddenly looks attractive? The possibility is there. In the case of yes, would all women try to pursue their crush or would they cower in the face of friendship?
On one hand, I can understand that a person would not want to risk the possibility to lose a friend after confessing, but on the other hand, a person would not want to regret not being able to confess and risk nothing happening or that his or her friend would start dating someone else. I say, "Seize that moment" like Jisoo does. I only wish she did not have to spend money on cosmetics and perfume in order to seize that moment. Actually, I have a hard time believing she would be rejected by Jinwoo, seeing how she is the most popular girl in school and she obtains nice things. The sweetest part of the story is the evidence that Jisoo and Jinwoo fell in love. I think the writer and the director of this story was really good at portraying so much in so little time.
In case you are interested in seizing your own moment and buying Tous' "Your Moments" Eau De Toilette or other Tous' products (not required), please see below for a discount code. I hope you enjoyed the mini-recap and review.
If you want to buy the Your moments' Eau De Toilette, check out my Amazon affiliate links to support me and Amazon:
Welcome back to our second week of the Wehaiyo! Drive. I had an uneventful week. How about you?
Because I did not do anything particularly exciting or special, what could possibly drive me this week?
Episodes 5-6: I can't believe it. The theory that Lee Sung Kyung's character may be draining Lee Sang Yoon's character's time clock as she gains time on her life clock whenever her heart flutters was correct. Am I suppose to expect a tragic ending now? Why does Do-Ha's (Lee Sang Yoon's) clock drain faster than what Michaela (Lee Sung Kyung) gains? I'm glad he has a long lifespan, but at this rate, maybe he can't make it past his thirties in age.
We find out that Madam Oh has the ability to see time clocks too. However, as she also asks herself, what can she do with this power? Her feelings: whatevs. I suppose we'll have to go with the flow.
I am up to episode 16 on this drama. This drama takes forever for me to finish because the story is so absurd. I have been watching Infinite members, Woohyun and Sungyeol, who use the same names in the drama, fight for many episodes and it was suffocating. All of a sudden, they are now fighting over their mom, who is the real mom for Woohyun and step-mom for Sungyeol. Why can't we all get along? I suppose this is the main conflict driving the plot other than Woohyun, who is supposed to die sooner or later because of his destiny. I cannot handle this plot, but I am rolling with it.
I originally watched maybe 12 episodes of this drama, but I stopped to watch other dramas instead. However, I am trying to go back to watching this drama, so I re-watched the first eight episodes this week.
I do like the drama, but why is this drama 40 episodes long? It's true that there is a mystery killer out there who framed our heroine, Bong Hee (Nam Ji Hyun) of being a murderer (Poor Chansung, who is giving me boyfriend vibes similar to Joo's "Bad Guy" music video) and whistles a creepy tune. Even if Bong Hee is acquitted of a murder charge, her reputation remains tarnished.
Shall I go with the flow? I can always count on Mr. Lee Deok Hwa to give me a laugh (Signature line: 무야? Mu-ya? What?)
This week's Music:
1) Park Bo Ram -- "Yesterday" from the About Time OST
I feel the tragedy already with this song. The song has a calming feel, so I can only hope that I have no regrets when I leave this world. The song is beautiful, yet sad. The song fits perfectly in line with the About Time drama. Park Bo Ram's sings this song beautifully and delicately.
2) Wanna One (Triple Position) - "Kangaroo"
On June 4th, 2018, Wanna One's special album, "Light," was released. However, I am not too interested in the title track, but more interested in the light and bouncy "Kangaroo" track featuring Wanna One's sub-unit, Triple Position, which includes Kang Daniel, Kim Jaehwan, and Park Woojin with Zico as their producer and collaborator.
The song is about pushing aside the work and going on a trip with someone special. Why not just get up and go? You can tell that sounds exciting to me since I did not have much of an exciting week. Let's bounce!
3) NCT 127 -- "Baby Don't Like It"
Warning: For adults (18+) only because of the ending of the song.
As I was saying, since I did not have much to look forward to, I just let my Youtube go on autoplay and this song keeps popping up on my playlist throughout the week. The chorus of "My baby don't like it when you come around..." sound pretty catchy. I can only conclude that this song is about a guy's wavering feelings for another woman who is not his girlfriend. A cheating song? Do I go with the flow for this one?
However, I did listen to this song a lot, but it was not until I was writing this post and listening to it for review did I actually notice squeaky sounds at the end of the song. What? So, the guy actually goes and presumably cheats on his girlfriend at the end?
Woah, sometimes NCT surprises me with these adult themes. I thought NCT U's "Baby Don't Stop" was already too hot to handle. I am glad Haechan (Please save Haechan's innocence who just turned 18 years old on June 6th!), according to this Youtube video, sings chorus only. Still, listening to 18-year-old Mark rap about possible cheating feels weird in a certain way. However, the song, minus the ending, is so good to listen to that I am just going to roll with it.
Bad boys coming through!
Next week I will probably talk about an exciting and friendly musical feud between our former Mixnine star groups, ONF and A.C.E, who just released their title tracks on June 7th. I'm sure they will be on replay for my next Wehaiyo! Drive. Thank you for joining me for this week's Wehaiyo! Drive. What drove your life this week?
Since "Where to learn K-pop Dance in New York" is such a popular post at Wehaiyo!, I thought I would update it to reflect the most current information. I scanned the Internet for the latest updates. Of course, not all of us can go to Korea and join the 1MILLION Dance studio, then for people in New York, the following dance studios are the next best places.
ARE YOU READY, NEW YORRRRRK?
Why do I focus on New York? Because I am based in New York. If there is a popular demand for other places, I may consider posting about it.
If you know of a K-pop dance studio in the New York state, please let me know and I will feature the dance studio in my next update.
#1 – I Love Dance (ILD) – Manhattan and Queens, NY
Certainly, the number one place I recommend to learn K-pop moves is to go to the I Love Dance studio in Flushing or Manhattan, NY. According to their website, more than 80% of its members are non-Korean, so that is great for those who may be intimidated by not knowing the language or culture. Their Facebook page has more than 20,000 followers.
Honestly, it doesn’t get any better than this place where founder MJ Choi and her staff are super dedicated to the art of K-pop. They have classes regularly in Manhattan and in their main studio in Flushing. I Love Dance (ILD) feature monthly K-pop dance classes where students learn the choreography of a featured K-pop song or songs each week over the course of one month.
From time to time, I Love Dance recruits dancers to cover a K-pop music video. I Love Dance also organizes flash mob activities in the New York/New Jersey area, especially when a K-pop concert is held in the area. Personally, I have participated in the first K-pop flash mob in Times Square in October 2011 and the 2NE1 Flashmob in August 2012. It doesn’t matter whether you dance well or bad, as long as you have the dedication, you will be accepted into I Love Dance. MJ Choi is a charismatic person.
After the completion of learning a dance, the class dance is usually recorded and uploaded on Youtube. I would encourage everybody to subscribe to their Youtube channel. You’d be amazed at what students can learn in a month. MJ Choi has an affinity for Korean hip-hop style dances. I have never taken an official class at I Love Dance, but my advice for students would be to be dedicated, don’t give up, and practice! I sincerely believe dancers can become K-pop stars after training with I Love Dance.
Other Flushing classes include Kpop diet dance, yoga, kids Kpop, and kids modern dance classes. Other Manhattan classes include basic popping and K-pop diet classes. I Love Dance also welcomes suggestion for K-pop song choreography requests.
Classes at I Love Dance are considered expensive, but I can see it is worth the money with great instructors, organized business structure, professionalism, and their very own dance crew. Currently, I Love Dance offers monthly packages with 1-6 or unlimited classes per week and they also have a special drop-in class price. Flushing and Manhattan locations have the same price.
The 1,600 foot I Love Dance studio can be rented for parties or events. K-pop class instruction can also be an added service for the special event.
Every year, I Love Dance hosts a annual showcase with an admission charge featuring K-pop and Hip-Hop performances.
For those dancers who think about being a Korean professional singer or actor, Born Star is an option. Founded in 2008 by the Korean rock guitarist, Kim Tae-Won from the famous rock band, Boohwal, many trainee hopefuls may gravitate towards Born Star Training Center, which may provide them experience and the path to success and stardom. Kim Tae Won also acts as the Director or Dean of Born Star Training Center.
Born Star Training Center has close ties to many agencies. Opportunities may include produce digital music singles, television dramas and films, commercials, and other multimedia contents. Trainees will have opportunities to attend casting calls and may be represented by Born Star. To enter the Born Star as a trainee, the applicant must go through a four-step admissions process: Application, Interview, Audition, Registration and Evaluation.
The facility itself has practice rooms, recording studios, and class rooms just like a entertainment company. There are programs in acting, vocal, musical, dance, and Korean language.
The reason why I am including Born Star Training Center on the list is because they do have drop-in and hobbyist dance classes. Dancers may purchase a single class or a four-class package. Classes are 90-minutes long with a timeline of warm-up, learning the dance technique and choreography, recording a dance video, and ending with the cool down/stretch.
If you’re cash-strapped, I recommend going to Bodhi Fitness in Flushing, NY for your K-pop fix. Joanne teaches the Let's Dance and Abs & Stretch classes at Bodhi Fitness. Classes are 40-45 minutes long and begin with a warm-up before learning choreography. I joined Bodhi Fitness for about two years before I stopped my membership after the birth of my daughter in 2014. Even though the class are short, there is a good amount of choreography each time. I do not recommend skipping a class while learning choreography for a song because afterwards, it is harder for a student to catch up, unless the choreography happens to be easier. To do my best, I usually attend classes, download the actual dance choreography on my phone, study it on my free time, and practice on my own time. Otherwise, I would have to relearn last week’s choreography and commit the current week’s choreography to memory. After learning the entire song, we used to film our dance cover casually and the video is uploaded to a closed group on Facebook. Seeing a video of myself is great for the memories. There is no pressure to dance well and I’ve seen a lot of people quit the class upon their first try because they probably feel too overwhelmed, especially when they join mid-way through a song.
Classes are included in your membership to the gym. Please ask Bodhi Fitness for the current prices. Taxes and fees are included plus there is free parking in the basement. If you have health insurance that reimburses you for gym visits, Bodhi Fitness should fit the requirements and essentially defray the costs partially or entirely.
I paid $365 for a yearly membership. That’s $7 a week, $3.50 per class. I also take belly dancing and Zumba with another wonderful instructor so the savings are even more. If not, other prices are 6 months for $270, 3 months for $170, or a monthly membership $50 + $50 initiation fee.
I recently heard of DreaMer Studio through an Instagram ad, which lead me to think about updating this topic. I am happy to discover more places that teach K-pop dance. I did not take any classes here, but I can see that DreaMer studio is a great fit for those who are beginners and would like to try it out. Based on their website and Facebook page, the staff seems to be fluent in English and Chinese. According to their website, every class includes review time of the choreography in slow motion at the beginning of class. A music tutorial video may be provided if requested. Personally, I think it is hard to learn the choreography without some type of video guide to look at while I practice outside the studio. I used to sit in the car and review choreography, rewinding a million times until I think I know the choreography on top actual practice.
Besides offering K-pop classes for girls, DreaMer Studio specifically offers classes for boys as well. Rose Lu teaches boys style K-pop while Sherlin Li teaches hip-hop girls style K-pop. There are other instructors who teach popping, hip-hop, and girls dance. Classes are available for adults, teens, and children at the Queens or Manhattan location. I see other classes available on the Flushing location calendar such as fitness, jazz, G style jazz, kids foundation, and pole dancing classes. On the Manhattan calendar, Hip-Hop Foundation, Urban Choreo are classes not previously mentioned, which are held on weekends only.
DreaMer Studio releases videos of some of the songs that they are working on in the studio as well as make Youtube videos of the choreography that can either be personally choreographed by their choreographers or the official choreography of the song. The videos are not at the level of I Love Dance studio, but again, this is a great choice for those who are beginners to show their talent.
Besides K-pop dance, DreaMer Studio offers music instruction in guitar, electric guitar, bass guitar, bass drum. Vocal lessons are also available. Music classes are available at the Flushing location only.
It seems the DreaMer studio itself can also be rented as well.
Dreamer Studio itself also sells its own apparel, so feel free to go to Flushing to check it out.
Tuition is clearly stated at the Flushing location with the options to pay per class, 10-40 classes (with expiration dates), or a one, three, six month or one year unlimited class card for all classes with the exception of pole dancing. A kids card is available to take one class per week for two months, half year, or one year with expiration dates. Private instruction is also available per class, 12 classes with a bonus class, or 20 classes with two bonus classes. Private instruction for more than one person can also be inquired with DreaMer Studio staff. The prices overall seem affordable and that is good bonus to join them now before they start raising prices.
There are also special events that I did not mention, so please be sure to follow their Facebook page to make sure you do not miss out on free classes or summer camp sessions.
At the Manhattan location, there are options to pay per class, but there is a promotion where a dancer can take two classes for the price of one class. Otherwise, they also offer the 10-20 class pass with the same prices and expiration dates as the Flushing location (Note: prices are subject to change after publishing this post).
#5 – Eastern School of Music, Art and Dance – Queens, NY
The Easter School of Music, Art and Dance is a great option for young students to learn K-pop as well as the other arts. K-pop classes are available every Wednesday and Friday, 6:00-7:00 PM for ages 7-10 and 7:00-8:00 PM for ages 11-19 for either eight lessons, once a week or 16 lessons, twice a week. Please see the website for the latest tuition price. The dress code is comfortable clothes and sneakers.
Girls, aged 6-11, who are very interested in Kpop dance can join the Eastern Dance Crew where practice is held every Friday from 7:00 to 8:00 PM in a 12-week program. Those who are interested must be already in the K-pop class, receive a recommendation from the dance instructor, and need to audition and contact the school for audition times and information.
Namhee Kang and Joanne Lee (who also teaches at Bodhi fitness) are the dance instructors.
Other than K-pop classes, there are art, ballet, voice, percussion, guitar, brass, woodwind, strings, piano, and language classes. This is the type of place that will train students from beginners all the way to professionals. For music students, the Eastern School of Music, Art, and Dance also hosts NYSSMA (New York State School Music Association) and ABRSM (Associated Board of the Royal Schools of Music). The school also has a repair shop to service instruments. Music instruments are also available for rental. The Eastern Hall at the school can also be rented for special events.
The school operates on three semesters a year: Spring, Summer, Fall. An Eastern School Festival is held annually for students to showcase their talent. Participants are expected to pay application fees to join this event.
Founded in 2007, Lollipop Dance Studio offers K-pop dance classes seemingly for all ages. The studio also performs dance covers and post dance videos on their Facebook page. Mandy is the instructor for K-pop classes. I saw that they also held a dance showcase at the Fort Hamilton High School.
Overall, the instructors and students seem to be a fun group who love to dance. They may dance to or perform Chinese songs as well. They also offer other classes such as Hip-Hop, Street Jazz, Ballet, Salsa, Latin Dance and more styles.
Hopefully, I introduced you to enough options to get your k-popping started. I wish you all the best in going out there and showing your stuff. Be limitless!
I hope to also write about K-pop Zumba in a future post. Stay tuned...
