Archive for June, 2008
Sohu.com Korean Entertainment No. 2 – Cutting Edge Personalities
Sohu.com Korean Entertainment No. 2 – Cutting Edge Personalities
Weekly Magazine 2008/ 01
Topics On the Cover
Gong Yoo
The Departure of the Coffee Prince
Pusan Man King of Fighters Super Strong Male Hormones
I’m not the classic pretty boy type but I possess an actor’s face
Friendly, Likes to play jokes but a little small-minded
Yoon Eun Hye : Gong Yoo is a very warm man
On “Gay Love” Gong Yoo : All kinds of love have value
Looking forward to GY’s return after two years
Page 1
Editorial Note: This Magazine is a new series featuring the hottest personalities in Korean Entertainment Field.
Page 2
Why Choose Gong Yoo?
Gong Yoo (孔侑) whose previous name was translated as “公侑” is like the persons in the Korean “X Files”, he seems to always to be found wanting that last 2%. Not by any means without charm, but it just feels that there is something lacking. However, his appearance in CP has changed this situation.
In 2007, who is the Korean actor with the fastest rising popularity gaining the attention of everyone ? Gong Yoo. We should have published a special issue on him earlier as he most definitely deserves the title of “Korean Entertainment’s Cutting Edge Personality”.
On January 14, 2008, that is today, is the day for GY to enlist for his MS. Sohu.com Korean Entertainment specially issues an edition to help all of us get to know actually what kind of prince is this “Coffee Prince”. In doing so, we shall carry this memory while waiting for his re-appearance in two years’ time.
What is most disappointing is, we have not met GY face to face to feel his charm, so we had to rely on Korean Press reports, to get the best possible outline of his background.
Page 3
“King of Fighters” Gong Yoo: At that time, I never thought of wanting to become an actor
When a butterfly was still a caterpillar, what kind of life does he(she) live ? Is it like us, each day searching hard for the path to our dreams ?
Gong Yoo, real name “Gong Ji-Cheol, screen name gong yoo, actually the authentic Chinese characters of his screen name is “Gong Liew” (“孔刘”) – father’s surname is Gong , mother’s surname is Liew, to make his screen name Gong Liew. But as this name sounds a bit strange (in Chinese) people have become used to calling him Gong Yoo.
What a coincidence, the subject of our first issue – Lee Jun Ki, like Gong Yoo is from Pusan. The special characteristic of Pusan men as Lee Jun Ki previously told us, is being called in Korea as “Men like Fire” – just look at GY’s masculine hormone oozing body and you’ll understand this point.
“Certainly did not like fights as a student, but as a boy this cannot be avoided. The most unforgettable experience involving fighting was in my second year of first middle school, the assistant monitor at that time, I fought with a classmate in the toilet, we fought until my school jacket and shirt were stained with blood, and I ran home like that. Afterwards, he apologized to me, and the two of us became friends, and to this day, we still keep in touch. During my mid-high school days, my fighting rank is mid-upper level. Because I do not have much experience of being beaten, I was worried about my acting in “Same Age Family Education” (NB:Literal Translation of Name of Film/Drama?).
Never Thought of Becoming an Actor
Unlike many actors who dreamed of becoming an actor since their childhood, GY at that time never had an idea to become an actor. “Up to high school, my grades were very good, so there were no worries about the future (smiling), my grades in mid-High school started to fall, so I had to start thinking what ability I can rely on for my meal ticket.”
“When I made the choice, my parents opposed it, not to be an actor, but a profession in film-making, which involves directing and producing films as a career, and I never felt that if I cannot be a director, then the advertising and similar fields would do. But I never thought at that time to be an actor, and I even determinedly explained to my parents that becoming an actor was not my objective.”
“At that time, I really wanted to work in an advertisement company, and it would have been enough if I signed an advertisement contract . I did not yet have any thought of becoming an actor at that time. My parents told me not to go into acting. In the Kyung Hee University examinations for Performing Arts in Film, the literacy test accounted for a greater proportion than performance skill test. One month before the examinations, I was all along practicing more to improve myself for the performance skill test, for instance imitating and so on. Afterwards, my result was not superior, it was just enough to pass and enroll at the University. “
Gong Ji Chul in the eyes of a Teacher
Junior Middle School Home Room teacher’s appraisal of GY: He was a very quiet student, if he is having any trouble, he would manage it himself, a model student. He was very strong and excelled in sports. Other teachers were envious of me, especially the female teachers, so jealous that they did not like me.
High School Teacher’s appraisal of GY : He now looks like he has a great body, but at that time he was tall but his head was small, that’s why he had the nickname “small head”.
Page 4
Super Strong Male Hormones
GY’s body , is probably the most special amongst Korean male stars. There are a lot of Korean stars with great bodies, but you don’t often see a body like GY’s which is a “western (Caucasian) type of body”, the most typical of which is his broad shoulders, some people sigh and say “His shoulders, I only live to be able to hug them.”
Gong Yoo, his whole body gives off a strong manly appeal, this sort of super strong male hormones, not every movie star can have.
A very warm-hearted man
On the one side a face with masculine sex appeal, and on the other side a friendly face, his image on nthe screen often comes across as being an ordinary guy which he says he also is in real life. “I don’t like to stand out and to be picky, just carry on harmoniously with my friends, I am more into sports, watching movies, my interests are much like those of other guys of the same age.”
When GY was mentioned, YEH said “When we were filming together, I felt that he is a warm-hearted man, if we did not work together, I could probably not be able to act out even one half of the character of Eun Chan.“
Friendly, Likes to play jokes
“I frequently play jokes on others, but I do watch out not to overstep beyond the limits of other people. Frequently being told off : I don’t like you anymore.”
Page 5
[Star Quotes] Gong Yoo: I’m not the classic pretty boy type but I possess an actor’s face
I like the strong creative aspect of being an actor. I am not a classic pretty boy type, but I have a good actor’s face. No matter what role is given to me, I have the confidence that I can quickly get into character, at least gain from the audience’s vision approval of my outward appearance.
I really want to try doing an anti-hero role, try the sort of role where outwardly the character has a sunny disposition but deep inside he is sinister. I have never included myself in the idol level as a star.
My position in the movie world is a little bit high Although it’s not pleasant to hear , it’s actually speaking from the heart. Compared to newcomers, my acting skill is more mature, but compared to highly skilled actors , my acting is immature. There are times in my performance when I cannot completely grasp the character. If the image in the silver screen I give to everyone is the same all the time, I don’t think that is also very good.
Page 6
[Star’s Special Traits] On “Gay Love” Gong Yoo: All kinds of love have value
In CP, what attracted most people is the question of friendship between two people of the same sex. In Kang Dong Won’s interview, KDW clarified his relationship with GY – relatives by marriage, that is why they are close. Then how does GY look at “Gay Love”?
“Having filmed CP, only then can I comprehend, ‘Gay Love’. I respect the love between two gay persons, because love is something which cannot be explained, it can happen anytime, any place, and can occur to any person, it should be understood, and should be tolerated.”
“I neither support nor am against gay love, I just feel that all kinds of love have value. But for myself, there is no possibility of me falling in love with someone of the same gender, because I am not GAY (laughs). In the drama , it was not really a Gay love relationship, so there is nothing to worry about. “
Page 7
[Star’s View on Love] Gong Yoo : Very Conservative and moreover, very resolute
In fact my view of love is very conservative and very firm. My character is not one who quickly falls deeply into love, and loves so extravagantly. For me, to start a love relationship, time is a difficult matter. But once it has started, I will treat it with extreme care, and be very persistent, because of this, each relationship lasts for a long time.
I am friendly with girls who are older than me. My own feeling is that, age is not crucial, I feel that girls older than me are more mature whether in disposition or psychologically. Actually, I do not have any special strict age limit requirements. I prefer those types of mature women who stay beside a man whenever he feels tired, even if at times when I am very impolite very mischievous. I am waiting in anticipation (for her).
Page 8
[Star Secret] Easily frightened, Small Minded Gong Yoo
Secret 1: He can’t help but close his eyes when watching horror movies, so will never watch horror movies with his girlfriend.
Secret 2: On the emotional side, the type who remains calm even when he is excited. He and his ex-girlfriend were both Blood type A, both were rather small minded, and had many disagreements when they were together, and the one who usually ends up losing control and exploding is the girl.
Secret 3: The most terrible thing in the world – High School Gangs (mafia?)
Secret 4: Guess what ? GY’s and KDW’s grandfathers were very good friends of many years, because of this they became relatives by marriage of their children, so that two of Korea’s top level pretty boys, GY and KDW became relatives by marriage.
Page 9
In the eyes of other people] YEH: GY is a very warm-hearted man
YEH: When we were filming together, I felt that he is a warm-hearted man, if we did not work together, I could probably not be able to act out even one half of the character of Eun Chan. I am really, extremely thankful for his help and care.
Eon (“Min Yeop”): He really is like Han Kyeul, actually I knew him since the days of “School 4”, after so many years, he is still the same outgoing and warm person.
Kim Dong Wook (“Ha Rim”) : He is a very humane sunbae (senior), filled with passion when working, I have learned many things from him. Also a joker whom you cannot find repugnant
Kim Ja Ok (Han Kyeul’s Mother): He is a person with depth, and responsible.
Make-up Artist: Our heights have a great disparity, so putting on make-up for him has to have a time limit, as my arm will get tired from lifting it up too much. After he discovered this, he would adjust to my height by bending his waist or his knees, this little things he does shows his thoughtfulness and empathy with others
Hair Stylist: Although we have specially prepared a separate Hair styling area, he does not want to go there and has his hair done together with other regular customers. Very kind, accommodation all requests for autographs making him popular with our customers.
Page 10
[Star Work] “Coffee Prince No. 1 Shop”
Photo Caption : “CP” has made GY rise to the most popular star level after so many years
What did you think when you accepted “CP”?
Recently modern love romance dramas have not been very successful, so when I first accepted to work on “CP” I did not have very high expectations. Compared to me, my Agent Company was more positive.
Actually, I am someone who has to think a lot before doing something, at 29 this year, having been around for 6 years, the first time to have a meeting specifically to discuss my work (smiles). During that time I was full of worries about the future, I keep thinking about how I can continue to be an actor.
In the end I decided to accept this script, one half of the reason is because I had confidence in the director, but my heart was quite restless. After the filming of the drama was completed, it was only during an interview that I found out that the director was initially feeling very restless about actors like me. (laughs).
Did the Director tell you the similarities between yourself and Han Kyeul?
Actually, on the question why I was chosen to play Han Kyeul, the director all along never gave me an official reply, whenever I asked her about acting, she always wants me to think about it myself, to speak truthfully, there are times I felt it was troublesome (laughs), as my previous thinking/approach was “ more hands-on directions (from the director), should help make the performance smoother”. Afterwards, I understood that the director wanted to give me the opportunity to experience the pain of growing, making me feel embarrassed about my complaints before.
About the strong kiss
This is not my first kiss, nor is it my first screen kiss, but it is my first time to kiss a “male character”, ha ha. This is also my first strong kiss, I always acted very gentlemanly during the time when I was in love before. During the time when I filmed this scene with the strong kiss with YEH, because I had to act out the feeling of kissing a person of the same sex, I was very nervous, feeling excited and not natural.
On “Strongman” Eun Hye
At the time, I had to lie prone on her back, I felt very sorry. Her small thin body had to carry my 184cm frame, and I had to pretend to be drunk, completely relying on her shoulder. But Eun Hye never said a thing, she just carried me that way and walked, which made me admire her very much.
Page 11
[Star Work] Biscuit Teacher and Star Candy, One Fine Day, S-Diary
Biscuit Teacher Star Candy
This is probably the drama that made more people know GY. A cool High School student, and his acting was not bad. The GY now is more mature, and the young cool boy then is now a full grown man.
BTSC placed an average teacher with dreams of becoming the best teacher together with an outstanding but destructive boy, going through their development dealing with young people’s problems, growing pains, and not simply a story about two people.
One Fine Day
If I said this drama wasted GY, I don’t know if you would agree or not? GY’s role in the first half is a very individualistic character, but towards the end, I can only remember GY wearing sports pants standing dazed in front of the aquarium and pestered by Sung Yu ri —- if the writer wrote the character more fully, it would be so much better!
Gong Yoo’s Filmography
Movies:
2003 《同龄家教》My Tutor Friend
2004 《间谍女孩》Spy Girl
2004 《S日记》S Diary
2004 《Mr. Gam`s Victory》
2005 《校园卧底》She’s On Duty
2007 《与龙一起》Like a Dragon
Dramas:
2001 KBS《学校4》School 4
2001 KBS《总是忐忑不安》Whenever
2002 KBS《挡不住的爱》Hard Love
2003 SBS《20岁》20 years
2003 网络连续剧《你房我房》Internet Drama – Your Room My Room
2003 SBS 《梦想的荧幕》Screen
2005 SBS 《饼干老师星星糖》BTSC
2006 MBC 《美好的一天》OFD
2007 MBC 《咖啡王子1号店》CP
Page 12
[Conclusion] Anticipating Gong Yoo’s Return in Two year’s time
I still feel a bit of regret, because I was not able to interview GY face to face, I was not able to form a definite and bright impression.
Two years time, speaking for fans, missing him starts from today. Then, let’s wait together in anticipation of the return of the Coffee Prince in two years’ time.
Add comment June 28, 2008
Gong Yoo “Wicked Boy” Book of Confessions
Article from Chinese magazine [2008-01-04]孔侑“恶童“自白书
Gong Yoo “Wicked Boy” Book of Confessions
Talking Incessantly About Nothing
Unlike the “cold prince” type he portrays in TV dramas, the real GY is actually quite talkative. In this regard, both Kim Sun Ah and Nam Sang Mi who worked with him before, feel the same. During the filming of S Diary, GY would unload all his recent gripes to KSA which would sometimes last for over two hours, making KSA suspect that there must be a woman living inside GY’s body. Unnie KSA also said that it was only every time they finished talking, that she would realize that all GY talked about was nonsense, the kind of things that she would not have any recollection whatsoever. But GY treats women differently, based on whether he is close to them or not, he would talk incessantly beside those women who are close to him, but would not have anything to say to women who are not close to him.
Doesn’t care about bad image
Most people in the entertainment field take extreme care of their image, they must maintain the most perfect appearance and always look like “the prince in the mirror”, but GY in this regard can be said to be thoroughly the “rough” type.
He not only would not bring a mirror everywhere, but he would not have any regard for the basic image that an actor should project , making all his friends around him jokingly refer to him as “not having any movie star consciousness” in him.
Other actors would refuse to have their photographs taken without fixing their appearance beforehand, but GY doesn’t care, and would have his pictures taken any time even when his face has not been fixed by the make-up artist and he is not properly dressed. He feels that even if he is an actor, he should still live like a man and it’s not necessary to be like women who worry about trivial matters like whether their hair is properly arranged and whether the dress they are wearing is appropriate.
No Regard for Age
Behind the scenes, GY is wickedly mischievous towards his leading ladies no matter what their age. In CP, the hot tandem of GY and YEH did not have any scandal because the way they treat each other is really too “MAN(LY)”. Whenever GY and YEH meet in the drama, naughty GY would use his hand to knock on YEH’s head as a form of greeting. Not before long, YEH also followed this gesture, and they ended up greeting each other in this manner hitting each other on the head continuously not satisfied until the other one cries out in pain. How can people think of them as being sweet together? GY and KSA in S Diary acted as a pair of lovers in the movie and as required by the script GY would call KSA “My Baby, My dear, etc…”. But after filming has ended, GY still called KSA, who is several years older than him, “My baby, my dear” and did not use the formal style of speaking with KSA (as per Korean custom when speaking with elders) making KSA grit her teeth as there is nothing she could do about this “disrespectful” younger brother.
Actually He is also very Manly
Although he is not considered to be handsome but he has a strong manly appearance, first rate superb body, and have an exceptional bond with women, GY being like this as he is, constantly gives off dangerous signals to the women around him. One time, when he was asked once again when he had the experience of his first love, GY’s reply surprised everyone, he said that “Although it may sound like a joke, for me my first love is my last love. The girl I finally marry with whom I have a family together, that girl is my first love. I believe that the relationship must have that result for it to become my first love. If somebody asks me who my first love is, I will say that my first love is my wife. The one I love who is beside me now is the most precious one; compared to remembering the past, treasuring the present is more important.”
*** Credit iluvyoo2 for posting and ariesw@YOOhouse for translation ***
Add comment June 28, 2008
Gong Yoo: “Coffee Prince Shop No.1 is an unforgettable project in my life”
[Interview Translation] Gong Yoo: “Coffee Prince Shop No.1 is an unforgettable project in my life”
The original article and pictures were re-arranged and published on: GongYoo @PTTHttp://blog.sina.com.tw/gongyooptt/
Translated from Japanese website Cinema.cafe.net
http://www.cinemacafe.net/news/cgi/interview/2008/04/3730/
When Coffee Prince Shop No. 1 was aired in Korea in 2007, it became popular and received lots of support from viewers. This drama is about Eun Chan who was being mistaken as a man, was accepted to work in a Coffee House which was restricted to handsome looking crews. Subsequently, Eun Chan developed a sweet but heart-breaking relationship with the manager of the coffee house, Han Kyul. Gong Yoo who acted in School 4 and One Fine Day took up the role of this manager who was attracted to Eun Chan whom he saw as a man, and got himself into dilemma.
When Gong Yoo was offered this role, he was uncertain whether to accept it.
“This is a typical youth modern drama. When I received the scripts, I was worried that this project does not have much content. However, the director has taken in lots of factors into considerations to make this drama realistic. As a result, this project turned out to be an excellent production, and to me it is also an unforgettable project in my life.”
This drama hit the highest viewers’ record at 32% when it was aired. This was how Gong Yoo analyzed the popularity.
“Yes, this is a youthful modern drama. The director paid attention to every single minor detail and make detailed arrangements. I believe the viewers must have felt the same, that’s why, this drama was able to catch their attention. Other than that, this project was well structured, the acting skills of the actors are excellent. With these three important factors, it is hard not get to gain popularity right?”
From the start of the interview, Gong Yoo kept mentioning the words “Director” and “Directing”. Is “Director” the basis of his decision for choosing a project?
“Yes. However, the co-stars, the role I am taking up and the storyline are also very important. As for the role of Han Kyul in Coffee Prince Shop No. 1, I was also concerned whether I can add life to this character and whether I am equipped with the right acting skills to bring out the realistic feel of his character. These factors are also important”
Other than that, Gong Yoo also said “Communication is very important.”
“Interaction with the director and the co-stars is just like dating (Laugh). It is important to build rapport with the co-stars, communicate with them and open our heart to them. This process is important as we progress in our filming. This drama achieves all the mentioned. If the process is carried out properly, we may be able to deliver the messages of the drama to the viewers. Through this drama, I have the practical experience in thi”
Han Kyul was in dilemma when he fell in love with Eun Chan, whom he thought is a guy. Because this will not happen in real life, it became enjoyable.
“Yes, normally such situation will not happen. However, when we were filming, the feeling became so real gradually. For example, the scene of Han Kyul blowing his top at Eun Chan. At first, I thought it was unnecessary to display violent anger. However, after discussing it with the director and writer, that should be the expected reaction from Han Kyul. After going through many of such similar discussions, the feeling of Gong Yoo and Han Kyul seems to blended together. Of course, such situation is impossible in real life but ‘Love’ explains everything. Looking at this from a rational angle, you have to do this and that. However, when you really fall in love, you may act against your principles, isn’t this very common?
Unable to act according own wish and being tied down by rationality is something I think will also likely to happen if love exists. “
“I hope to take up a role as villain or someone with mental problem. I am very keen on those roles that can express my emotion to the fullest.” Gong Yoo said, denying the idol image that the public has fixed for him. He is currently serving his military service. Eagerly waiting for two years later, when he can come back to Korean entertainment world to bring us his new projects.
(photo：Toshiyuki Sasho)
Add comment June 28, 2008
Pops In Seoul 1000th episode ~ in Manila!!
OMO-OMO-OmiGosh~!!
pops in seoul of arirang tv will be holding their 1000th episode here in Manila!!! i am so excited ~~ well, for those who doesn’t know or care – arirang tv is korea’s multi-lingual cable channel – if you have cable you can check it out.. pops in seoul is one of their programs that features k-pop music and artists, it is one of my fave shows in arirang & vj isak is really cool ^^
going back to the 1000th episode ~ here’s the poster …
ohh can’t wait.. and what’s more fun is that the GY fans in Manila will meet up for this event hehe ahem ~ i hope the crowd is not too young hihi *^__,^
so if you are a k-pop or k-drama fan – you shouldn’t miss this once in a lifetime event! tara na~! ka ja~! hmmm.. i wonder what our shirt color will be ^^?
here are a couple of emails from my fellow YOOgal Irene and the event coordinator…
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
hi fellow gy addicts, in case you gals didnt know there is an upcoming event here, the korean music show pops in seoul, will be filming their 1000th episode in manila on july 5 at 3pm.. any kpop- or k-drama fans are so welcome to attend..i think this is a good chance that you can show to gy that he has fans here in the philippines. . in case you want to attend pkitxt lang ako here’s my cp number- [i purposely removed it], i actually need somebody who can be the leader for the gy fans, onnie jane nde ka ba busy sa date na yun? all fc’s decided to wear color coded shirts,
fly to the sky fans- sky blue
dbsk fans- red
super junior fans- yellow
big bang fans- white…
i just want to share to you the email that i got from the coordinator from cass_ph, ( dbsk fc) coz they are the one who was assigned by arirang tv to promote it here in the phils.
———— ——— ——— ——— ——— ——— -
hi irene,
yes as of the moment i am the one coordinating and promoting this to each fanclub in the Philippines, Arirang TV asked Cassiopeia Philippines to promote for them so we are doing this in their behalf.
you and your group could come, every one is welcome in this event and we hope that everyone would have a good time ^__^
ok here are the details of the event, Pops in Seoul 1000th Episode. Arirang TV’s Pops In Seoul will be coming to Manila and shoot their 1000th episode.
All K-pop and K-drama (even non-K-pop and non-K-drama) fans are invited to join!
VJ Isak, together with special guest Min Gyung Hoon (vocalist of band Buzz), will fly to Manila to celebrate the 1000th episode of Pops In Seoul.
FREE ADMISSION.
FINAL DATE IS JULY 5 2008 – 3PM.
Also here is the poster that we are using for the event since Arirang TV haven’t released theirs yet.
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v326/ohjongyoonho/popsinseoul1000th-2.jpg
2 comments June 25, 2008
Fans Encounter with GY on June 14
These are consolidated write-ups from fans who were lucky enough to meet GY on June 14. These have been translated from Korean to Chinese to English… so here’s the English translation.
PART 1
This article is published on: [GongYOO@PTT] http://blog.sina.com.tw/gongYOOptt/
Although YOO left a message on 12 June stating that he was not certain whether he will be attending the autograph session, the fans still went to Cherowan hoping to see you. And, they really saw him~~~
And they chatted with YOO for four hours~~~
They also had cold noodles with YOO during lunch~~~~
One of the fans (YOO may know her?)couldn’t go to Cheorwan as she was on tour, they even let YOO spoke to her over the phone~~~
During the free time yesterday (Army guys are allowed to walk around the vicinity freely if they are not assigned to any activities),YOO met up with his manager in a nearby coffee house. While they were chatting and smoking, a pregnant woman seated nearby wanted to change seat. YOO realised and apologised to that lady very sincerely.
Source: YOO&I
We are just so lucky to meet YOO~~~
YOO bought us cold noodles~~~
He chatted with us from 12pm.
To be able to get so near to YOO and chatting together is just like a dream~~~
YOO wasn’t informed of the autograph session beforehand.
He answered every questions and his reply are very mature.
Before we left, we exchanged hugs, shook hands and took some photos.
When bidding us farewell at 5pm, he saluted to us shouted “Pil-Seung”
YOO~~~How can I not love you~~~
Seems like YOO is not feeling well but he still put on a smile. He is so nice to us, we appreciate that very much~~~
I can’t sleep at the moment.
It is a pity that many fans couldn’t go together
Wish everyone have a happy weekend^^
Source: YOO&I
There are many army guys walking around in the stadium.
We met other YOO’s fans who were there to see YOO.
All of us sat down at one corner eating our sushi roll and looking for YOO at the same time.
We found him!
YOO got out of the stadium for a smoke but disappeared immediately
But we still stay put
Then we received a call from our friends
YOO is actually in the BBQ shop, buying cold noodles for us!
All of us were very excited and ran to the shop.
YOO was really there!
So we ate the cold noodles with YOO.
YOO finished his portion. He was eating and chatting with us.
Oh yes, maybe there are some of you who cancelled the trip to Cheorwan because of YOO’s message on 12th June. I need to explain to everyone so there won’t be any misunderstanding.
YOO said he has no idea about the autograph session at all. He is worried that his fans come all the way here and will be disappointed if he cannot attend. That’s why he left that message.
He was only informed last night that he could come to the stadium. Just like the rest of the comrades, he is here to join in the activities.
We asked for permission from a soldier who seems to be the unit officer to meet up with YOO and he agreed.
But we didn’t expect that we could talk to YOO for nearly 5 hours!
There are around more than 20 fans who came to Cheorwan, trying their luck to see if they can meet YOO. We are really lucky!
Although I already know that YOO is a profound person,
the YOO that I saw today is very gracious and is a deep thinker.
He answered all the questions raised by the fans very sincerely, and maintained eye contact with each one of them.
I am very touched to see his sincerity and seriousness.
Frankly speaking, my seat is the furthest away from YOO. Hence, his conversation with the rest cannot be heard clearly. The deepest impression I had was, when he was signing his autograph for me, I told him I am same age as him….I saw one fan asking YOO to sign on the DVD, I also asked YOO to sign on my wallet…He even wrote “TO CC”, I told him, Errr…That his my daughter’s name, not mine. He asked if I am married??? So he made some correction so my name turn out a bit blur.
YOO is more tan now, his waist seems to be giving him problem. He already injured his waist previously and now with his training, his condition does not look good….Even so, YOO seems to have adapted well, that’s great!
YOO said after his enlistment, he may take a longer time but he still wants to do a movie as his come-back project.
Today is a very lucky day,
Hope this short article can comfort those who couldn’t make it to Cheorwan
And I hope those who misunderstood YOO can understand the actual situation….
Before saying goodbye, YOO hugged each of his fans who went to see him.
I am very grateful to YOO who gave me a precious and unforgettable memory.
Thank you for reading this article
PART 2
This article is posted in : [Gong YOO@PTT] http://blog.sina.com.tw/gongYOOptt/
Source of original Korean article: YOO&I
The translation is only done on part of the article for sharing purpose.
Note: “I” in the following article refers to the fans who spent the lovely afternoon with YOO.
YOO is a serious person and is mature enough to protect himself. Hence, everyone don’t have to worry about his army life.
From the conversation with YOO, we can understand the training in the previous training camp was very tough. The support from his religious belief helped him to get over that period.
YOO’s parents have visited him twice in the camp.
His mom hopes he can call home often but he couldn’t do so.
YOO went through the photobook with us. He said that this photobook will become an important part of his memory in future because it is a collection of photos taken when he is young.
I think YOO’s psychological age should be around 42 years old but he is still so cute and he smiles very often.
He seems to love smoking very much.
He wanted to quit while he’s in the training camp but was unable to do so because he need to interact with the comrades.
If he encounter any problem, he will smoke to relax himself.
Other than that, he said that he does not drink in the camp.
While he was on leave, he had a gathering with the “Coffee Prince” casts. He was drunk and he couldn’t remember how he left the place.
Many people have written to YOO and I was worried if the bulk of letters posed any problem to him. However, after talking to YOO, I think every letter is an encouragement to him. It is not easy to spend two years in the army with people of different character and life style so he need to patient in putting up many inconveniences.
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Another article also mentioned YOO and 20 over lucky fans did not just eat cold noodles. They also drank soju and ate some other appetizers, such as spicy chicken feet, kimchi pork and YOO’s strong recommendation: stir-fried chicken organs.
YOO’s recommendation: Stir-Fried chicken organs.
PART 3
[0619]14-June Report No 3
This picture was exposed on 30-March, heard that it is a military poster? No one can confirm even after checking….
The picture of YOO was taken when he was at Nonsan Training Camp, he’s still chubby then…
When he just reached Cheorwon, he was worried that he has a little tummy.
But now he become so thin~~~
p.s. As the fans arrived in Cheorwan separately and only gathered much later, their sharing of their initial meeting with YOO varies. This lucky fans should in the group who get to meet YOO first.
Regarding the photos issues:
At the beginning, there were only 6 fans with YOO and they requested to take photographs. At first, the officer who was with them did not approve. He finally gave the green light only after the fans’ pleas and they promised that the photographs are for their keep and will not be distributed.
Later after that, more fans came together (20 over members) and made the same request. This time, it was YOO himself who declined their request. He doesn’t want to take pictures (in military uniform).
Article was published at [gongYOO@ptt]
http://blog.sina.com.tw/gongYOOptt/
Original source: YOO&I
Only part of the contents are translated
============================
When we arrived at the stadium, there were many soldiers in uniform, we could not locate YOO.
Suddenly, we saw YOO!
But he disappeared very fast.
We contacted other fans at another part of the stadium and told them we found YOO here.
Everyone came over to search for YOO.
Because of our love for YOO in our heart,
We were very happy in greeting each other and making new friends.
The feeling is just like our own family members.
At the beginning of the Celebrity Soccer Match, the MC announced the names of the participants. We were very attentive but did not hear YOO’s name.
Then suddenly, we discovered YOO!
He was sitting there with his comrades watching the soccer match!
We asked YOO’s senior to help to tell the officer in-charge that there were friends coming all the way here from Japan to see YOO. They would like to pass him some gifts personally and talk to him for a short while. The senior officer granted our request.
Everyone tried searching for a quiet place to spend time with YOO. We finally decided on roast meat shop.
YOO started signing autograph for everyone. Some comrades and officer were with him. Excluding YOO and his companions, there were only 6 of us. We wanted to take photos of YOO but the senior officer did not allow us to do so. It was after our pleas and promises over and over again that the photos will be for our own collection, that the officer finally agreed. But he wanted us to promise not to distribute YOO’s photos (face’s pics) elsewhere.
공유씨에게 사진을 찍자고 했더니…사진은 안된다고 했는데 6명이 간곡히 부탁을해서리..중대장님에게
애교섞인 목소리와…절대 갠소장하겠다고 다짐을 받고 허락하에 함께 찍었답니다.
After contacting the rest of the members nearby, they gathered at the roast meat shop very quickly, there were 20 over of them ~~~
When we wanted to buy some drink and lunch,
we found out that YOO had already ordered 30 sets of cold noodles and even paid for it!
Since when did that happen?
YOO’s action is really fast!!
We feel bad to let YOO buy us lunch.
Thank you YOO!
But we really feel bad ~~~ We had no appetite to eat because we were too excited….
While YOO ate his cold noodles, everyone didn’t dare to speak to him. We were afraid that we might disturb him so we just sat there quietly and secretly looking at him.
After YOO emptied his bowl, he went out for a smoke and took a short rest.
Picture taken from dcGY, thanks to happYOO for sharing YOO’s “Safe” photos with everyone.
When YOO came back, I took out the yellow honeydew which I brought from home as dessert for everyone, YOO ate some too.
Korean yellow honeydews which look like sugar ball.
YOO talked about army life…. answered everyone’s questions…he was not feeling very comfortable with his waist…. but he told us not to worry about him…. medicines and medical equipments for physiotherapy are available in the army camp, he asked us not to worry… etc.
Other than that, we also touched on his respiratory problem.
As the air is very fresh, he has already recovered. Just have to be careful not to catch flu.
He appeared to be very uncomfortable with his waist after sitting for too long.
After that, we took out the photobook and as YOO went through it with us, he told us more about the photographs….
YOO had a short break in between, and continued to chat with us when he was back..
He also signed autograph for each one of us…
We are really thankful for that
Finally, YOO hugged each and everyone of us…
and ended the gathering with a “Pil Seung!” salute…
We are really very very happy…
The feeling is not like talking to a celebrity, but rather like chit chatting with friend of younger brother’s age. It was such an extremely enjoyable session!
Rather than a little brother, we actually felt like he’s an elder brother instead~~
We really feel so happy in meeting YOO unexpectedly.
Thanks to all YOO’s officer and comrades who were there.
Because of you all, we were able to have such a relaxing and happy afternoon.
Hope you all will take good care of YOO!
Wish everyone a vital day filled with joy and happiness!!
Pil-Seung!!
Extract of additional comments by YOOko:
The articles on the fans’ encounter of YOO are so interesting when reading them together, hmm….such a coincidence~~~
They are so helpful too, updating YOO’s latest movement and location….
About that officer, another article mentioned the fans were trying to plead him sweetly, kekeke~~~
And, when YOO went out for a smoke after he had finished his noodles, everyone in the roast meat shop were having a YOO’s utensils war~~~that is really cute~~~
Source: YOOhouse.org
Add comment June 23, 2008
GY News (6th Division celebrating 60th anniversary)
i know i haven’t been diligent in posting updates about GY – ^* anyway, here are some happenings about GY in the military… ^^
6th Division celebrating 60th anniversary (04-Jun-200 
English translation:
Gong Yoo’s army unit will be celebrating their 60th anniversary with many interesting activities lining up from the 11th-14th June. The attendees for this celebration include warriors who took part in 6.25 war, civilians staying in Cheorwan, soldiers of the unit and their family. This activitiy will also be opened to public who register with them.
11th - A sports commemoration ceremony will be held in the training camp.12th – “Army and Civilians get together Musical Concert” performed by Korean Arts School will be held in the Indoor Stadium. Around 2500 people consisting of the state governor, civilians, soldiers of the units and their family members will be attending this concert.
13th - A commemoration ceremony for 60th anniversary of the unit will be held in Commander Training Camp. The previous heads of the unit, warriors who took part in the war, officials from Cheorwan, Civilians and students will also be present. The previous heads of the unit and warriors will inspect the parade. There will be a session to reminisce the 6.25 war to convey the peaceful reunification pledge which was done that time. Other activities for that day include recognition and presentation of trophies, etc.
14th - Opening ceremony will take place in Cheorwan Public Stadium. There will be helicopters passing by the stadium with congratulatory message. The main government officials in Cheorwan will officiate this ceremony. Other activities include:
> 17km DMZ Peace Marathon
> Enlisted Celebrities vs Civilians friendly soccer match.
> Sing-together with soldiers, their parents and local residents
> Celebrity performance and Army musical performance
> Evergreen Camp Festival. Sale of handicrafts and handmade items by soldiers
In the venue, there are stalls selling food and specialities of Cheorwan. Other than that, barracks canteen and photography corner for taking memorable pics in army uniform will also be there.
There are many prizes for the lucky draws. That includes additional off-days for the lucky soldiers.There may also be a “Superstar look-alike autograph session” and other interesting activities.
~~~~~~~
Chinese article posted at: http://blog.sina.com.tw/gonGYOOptt//
@ my Friendster™ blog -> http://ybban7.blogs.friendster.com/my_blog/2008/06/gy_news_part_2.html
Add comment June 12, 2008
GY Interview (TV Korea Book Vol. 17)
Basic summary:
Gong Yoo is asked how he even started in the entertainment business. He says that he and a couple of his friends decided to take some pictures, wearing different outfits and posing different ways to get some profile pictures and turned it into m-net for a VJ spot. He said that they were just playing around and having fun with it, but without even knowing it he got picked out of the group of his friends to come and be a VJ for a certain show/date. Gong Yoo said it was surprising because his friend who really wanted the spot dropped the first round (if that’s a good way to put it..) and Gong Yoo got all the way up to the third round. He wasn’t even thinking about it till someone called him to tell him he made it. Gong Yoo says having the job as a VJ was especially popular for college students because it made a person look smarter, plus it looked like he/she knew english (lol i guess thats a big deal in korea), and it gave lots of money and also the person’s face would be out on tv or other. Gong Yoo was very glad to have that job, and soon it would lead him to becoming an actor. His parents seemed to not really agree on what he did but Gong Yoo sent a lot of money to his parents and also he thought since he was having fun, he was able to continue with being a VJ. Then, Gong Yoo says, some managers from companies started calling him and asking him to try CF’s or other, and Gong Yoo at first didn’t really know what any of these people did and what they wanted so he looked at all of them as thieves [who just wanted money from him] (lols), but after a year or so of looking around, Gong Yoo first got casted in KBS ‘School4′ and in the middle of it too. After experiencing filming in front of the camera, Gong Yoo says that was when he actually felt a selfishness of wanting to act more. Gong Yoo says his original dream to achieve wasn’t acting but actually something along the lines of working with advertisment businesses. I guess [back] then Gong Yoo wanted to do something that dealt with organizing and creating ideas. Right now, [actor] it’s different from what i wanted to be when i was younger, but it is still sort in a similar category.
I’m not sure what the question was but Gong Yoo says after filming the first two episodes of ‘One Fine Day’ he hasn’t had time to go on the internet at all, but he says that the staff and his friends all told him he was doing great and the drama looked really good. At first Gong Yoo says that he thought it was just to keep his spirits up and to help him keep doing a good job, but everyone kept complimenting and he says it was a good feeling.
Gong Yoo says his past partners were all more of the well-known and famous actresses, like Kim Sun Ah and Gong Hyo Jin. but filming in OFD was different, because Sung Yuri was a singer before. Truthfully he was a little worried about how he would get along with Sung Yuri and cooperate with their acting skills, but Gong Yoo says after just filming the first episode all the worries went away because everything seemed to go along fine. Also, sunbae (older) actors like Lee Sung Jin and .. (Hyo Joo’s father) was very helpful to make things go smoother.
Gong Yoo talks about his character Gun and how he is a person who has so many people to deal with and so many people he wants to try and please. Gun is someone who has a hard time taking care of the people around him and himself, so he doesn’t know really know what love is. Gong Yoo says that even when he’s acting out his character he feels more sorry for Gun and in the emotional parts he becomes sadder.. (and then he foregets what the question was so he asks the reporter lols) [Q: How are you like Gun] Gong Yoo says that he’s most like Gun as to how Gun doesn’t really show his feelings when he feels hurt/tired, because he feels like it would more likely hurt/tire other people around him. So Gong Yoo feels like he should just keep it inside of him so not to make it harder for others.
Gong Yoo says since he’s is an actor and will stay being an actor, even though he doesn’t get selfish with wanting to act more and more, he wishes that he will just do as much as he’s doing now and not too much. Gong Yoo thinks that not taking things for granted is very important, and he wishes that he could slowly, not too fast, but be able to act and enjoy acting at the same time.
Source: http://gongyoo.exteen.com/
Add comment June 7, 2008
