GQ Japan Magazine (July 2011 issue)

As the power of K-pop continues to steadily spread globally, the world is turning their attention to the nine talented entertainers with world-class appearances, vocals and dancing skills, whom we grew to know and love as Girls’ Generation or SNSD.

GQ Japan became the first magazine for men to conduct an interview and photo shoot with SNSD, who represents not only Korea but the entire Asia. Through the interview, we get a closer look at the real SNSD and we want to stop talking only about their “beautiful legs”, which is a problem not only in Japan but the whole world as they regarded SNSD as “Idols with pretty legs”.

Along with other K-pop representatives, SNSD is steadily rising in their position as pop stars to capture the attention of not only Asia, but the whole world. Their agency, SM Entertainment, held two successful sessions of an all-star concert SM Town Live in the continent of Europe and the tickets were sold out within 10 minutes!

As far as the opposite side of the Earth in Brazil, there is a fanclub for them and the girls also made it as a representative and main focus in BBC and France’s 2nd TV’s broadcast about the globalization of K-pop, as they are regarded as the best representative of K-pop as a whole.

Along with their popularity, SNSD’s value to market products has also greatly increased as proven from the ‘Chocolate Love’ PV for LG to working with famed director James Cameron for the promotion of Samsung’s 3D TV. Later, they worked with one of the biggest computer processor producer in the world Intel for their Asian Campaign and provided another PV, namely ‘Visual Dreams’ because they have attractive appearances and are also believed to be capable of raising the sales rate of the already well-known product.

However, what we are trying to say here is that these amazing results did not come out of nowhere. In order to get started in K-pop, you are usually required to spend around five to eight years as trainees, besides aiming for the global market primarily. Thus, having Jessica and Tiffany, who have lived in the US, is an advantage and a great weapon for SNSD.

Besides that, the staff working closely with the group and supporting them are also top-class composers, song writers and choreographers. They have all the necessities for productions aiming for worldwide promotion.

For a top group like SNSD, it was a pleasant surprise to find out that they are not arrogant at all when you actually get to meet them in person. Rather, they are sweet and straightforward girls, so sometimes it feels as if they are not defending themselves. They have extremely good relationships with each other even when each member is unique and different from the others.

One of the main strengths of SNSD is that every member is an all-round player that can switch to any positions of the group and yet keep their charms and uniqueness. Each member is great in terms of vocals and dancing, and some are exceptionally talented in either one.

Furthermore, each member had the chance to expand her talents in individual commercials, dramas or variety shows so all nine members have their own territories to shine in and they do not have fixed positions such as leader or “centre”.

In 2009, wearing identical performance uniforms, they performed ‘Gee’ and ‘Genie’, showing how SNSD is a group of all-round players. To get to know more of SNSD’s true selves, it is recommended for readers to search on YouTube for their charismatic dance steps, great vocals singing famous western music and as well as their playful sides in talk shows.

When asked about their strength to help them stand out from other groups around the world, Jessica replied, “We have nine colors, just like how the colors of the rainbow vary. Furthermore, the energy and teamwork shines brighter when all nine of us are together.”

Like what Jessica said, fans around the world focus mainly on their uniqueness as well as teamwork. Not only that, the fact that they are very hardworking is also their weapon to success. Each member has gone through 10 hours of harsh training every day during their teenage years. This story itself has become a unique and valuable part of SNSD and this “uniqueness” has motivated each member to work even harder.

Taeyeon talked about their latest single ‘Mr. Taxi’ and stated, “The dance moves were hard. However, since we have been singing and dancing to a wide range of songs, this song wasn’t exceptionally hard.”

On the other hand, when asked about the song which can best represent SNSD, Sooyoung answered, “’Run Devil Run’ because it is the coolest and most artistic song. Also, we enjoyed performing this song the most.”

The girls do not allow themselves to feel proud or satisfied by only having the cute image as stars.

Maxime Paque, who runs Korean Connection, a French K-pop fansite, stated, “They are all hardworkers compared to some European stars. Korean stars are just like athletes.”

These girls do not only have to care about their health, have daily training, but also listen to Corinne Bailey Rae or Bruno Mars, and watch online video sites to try out new dance steps.

SNSD, who works hard day and night, can proudly state that they know their own values and the expectations of fans.

So, we cannot help but wonder, why is the world attracted to them?

Their agency, SM Entertainment, have used worldwide platforms such as YouTube in order to expand their stage globally. Because they have “shared” the growth of SNSD as a group, they have also successfully created fans worldwide. You can even think that when SNSD is releasing a Japanese PV, there are more international fans waiting than Japanese fans. Through these global modes of communications, SNSD has improved their attractiveness and more fans look forward to their next albums.

K-pop and Bollywood are the two best examples of successfully integrating YouTube into a business strategy. Because American pop music has already been known worldwide, YouTube was used only to slightly expand on their popularity.

However, it is a completely different story for K-pop. There are not much ways that Europe and South America can get to know K-pop. Thus, they have to find out about K-pop themselves through YouTube and Internet.

Luca, an administrator of a Brazilian SNSD fan site stated, “While I was searching for pretty computer wallpapers, I came across the nine beautiful girls and started to search about them. 2 years ago, it was extremely difficult to find information about them. However, due to the internet, there are more and more fans. Our site has around 3,000 to 4,000 visits daily now.”

Maxime Paquet stated, “I think that the French listeners are slowly getting sick of western pop culture. K-pop is extremely similar to American pop culture. However, they have something that American pop culture is lacking in. Furthermore, K-pop entertainers have shown their high quality as all-round entertainers. They all sing and dance very well. Maybe the fact that their hardwork is shown clearly during their performances is fresh to the French listeners. K-pop listeners are still increasing in number and I assume that there’s around a hundred thousand listeners in France.”

People compared K-pop artists with American pop artists and chose to listen to K-pop, a genre of music from a far eastern country and the same thing is happening in Japan. It is also said that the teenagers react most to SNSD.

Even though no one tells them who sings and dances better, Japanese teenagers will naturally know by comparing SNSD to other Japanese idols. They will then accept SNSD as well as the fact that their success is the product of their hardwork.

K-pop is trying to replace what was called as western music. We can’t say for sure why the new global stars are cute Asians. It might be the result of great business strategies, or it might be because the world has been desiring something Asian for a long time.

We won’t answer why it has to be these 9 girls for this phenomenon to happen. What we can tell you is that if the 21st century were to be the age for Asians, then the success of SNSD is the sign for the start of that age.

Meanwhile, here is the interview we conducted with each of the nine girls of SNSD, where ten questions were asked. The ten questions asked to SNSD are as follows:

1. How would you describe your personality in one word?

2. When was the moment you were glad to be a member of SNSD?

3. What strength do you think you have that you can be proud of internationally?

4. Please tell us which member you respect and why you respect her.

5. Which song and artist are you into right now?

6. What do you want to develop more on as an artist?

7. Which Korean celebrity do you admire? What’s the reason?

8. What made you happy recently?

9. What compliment makes you happy?

10. What’s your ideal dating course?

Hyoyeon

1989/B

Dancing is her specialty.

Her powerful performance exceeds female level.

“I want to learn various hip hop dances.”

1. Cool

2. When I stand on stage

4. Seohyun because she’s optimistic

5. Jessica J’s ‘Do It Like a Dude’

6. I think it is necessary for us to keep trying hard. I want to try hip hop dance from old school to newest styles.

7. I was motivated while recently watching a Japanese dancer on YouTube. I don’t remember the name though.

8. When I succeeded in shopping! When people saw me with my new clothes, they said that I’m very stylish!

9. When they say that I am charismatic on stage.

10. Looking at flowers in spring. I like tulips.

Seohyun

1991/A

Youngest in the group.

The bookworm of the group and is a fan of the Korean author Lee JiSung.

“I enjoy reading because there are a lot of encouraging books.”

1. Positive! Cautious.

2. When a lot of people tell us that they get encouraged while listening or watching our music.

3. The fact that the nine of us can provide bright energies to make global fans smile. We can also speak English, Chinese, and Japanese!

4. Hyoyeon’s caring personality.

5. Hot Potato’s ‘Confession’ and Taylor Swift’s ‘Speak Now’

6. I want to try composing and song writing.

8. When my parents compliment my actions.

9. Had a good family education, professional and is good at self-control.

10. Parks or rivers where we can feel the nature.

Tiffany

1989/O

From US

Her friend told her, “Your debut story is like a movie scenario.”

1. Wild

2. When I perform in front of large audiences on stage

3. Teamwork, stage performance

4. Taeyeon because she is good with rhythm and she’s really cool while dancing.

5. Katy Perry, P!nk

7. Lee HyoRi, because she has always been passionate on stage since her idol years. I admire how she always tries her best.

8. When the filming for ‘Mr.Taxi’ PV ended.

9. I’m happy when people who watched our performances tell us that we are good.

10. I want to have a date that won’t get off my mind the whole day.

Yuri

1989/AB

Has written the lyrics for one of their songs.

“When you put in your feelings to the lyrics, you can express your feelings better while singing.”

1. Energetic

2. All the time. I am thankful to the fact that I can always share the music I like as well as creating memories and learning new things.

3. Teamwork

4. Tiffany because she is always passionate on things that she likes and is eager to learn.

5. P!nk’s performances.

6. I was very motivated while watching foreign artists’ concert videos recently. Having your own style of music is an amazing thing so I’m working hard to become those kinds of artists.

8. When I hear my manager saying that he gets motivated by my passion and hardwork.

10. Taking a walk.

Sooyoung

1990/O

Her specialty is Japanese.

“I wish to become a type of person who can make others feel comfortable, at work or in daily life.”

1. Enthusiastic and lively, but shy.

2. Always because I am able to achieve things that I couldn’t have done alone.

3. Each of the member’s charms and the energy we have onstage.

4. Seohyun because even though she’s the youngest of the group, she can take care of herself well.

5. P!nk’s ‘Dear My President’, ‘Perfect’, Bruno Mars and James Morrison

6. I want to have one thing that I can proudly say that I am confident in.

8. When my pet got better from being sick, I was really happy.

9. When I hear that I make others feel comfortable, I feel happy.

10. A date where we eat, drink coffee and talk?

Sunny

1989/B

Talks well and is the mood maker of the group.

“When I participated in shows alone, I felt thankful to the members.”

1. Optimistic

2. When we go on stage. Because the members have a good relationship with each other, we have never been bored even in other countries.

3. Teamwork.

4. Tiffany because she gets along well with others.

5. Tamia’s ‘Officially Missing You’.

6. Because I still have a lot more to improve in every perspective, I think I have to work harder.

7. WheeSung. I admired him since he was our vocal trainer, but I really like how he is always trying his best.

8. When my 2-year old niece smiled while looking at me. I was really happy and glad.

9. “You are improving” and “You seemed to have gotten prettier”.

10. Amusement parks

Taeyeon

1989/Blood type O

Outstanding singing skills acknowledged by fellow members.

Finds that her ‘ability to immerse people into the music by her voice’ is her strong suit.

1. The Universe

2. When I wake up and wash my face.

3. The fact that some concepts can only be used well on SNSD.

4. Yuri. I respect her for being able to do something with perseverance.

5. Recently I’m into Frankie J’s ‘Don’t Wanna Try’.

6. I want to study more on music, because I want to become a singer who can present any kind of song well.

8. I feel really happy when I watch DVD movies on my own in the room.

9. From the opposite gender, it will be “Your song is great” or “You sing well”. From the same gender, it will be “Your skin looks great”.

10. I wish to go to an amusement park.

Jessica

1989/Blood type B

Born in the US.

Took the leading role in the musical ‘Legally Blonde’,

“I started to have a positive mind, and started to like pink too!”

1. Cool (Smiles)

2. The fact that I have friends and colleagues for life.

3. We have nine colors, just like how the colors of the rainbow vary. Furthermore, the energy and teamwork shines brighter when all nine of us are together.

4. All our members’ endurance!

5. Corrine Bailey Rae’s ‘Paris Nights/New York Morning’ and ‘My love’

7. It’s BoA sunbae. She gives me a lot of advices and I like how she always put efforts into her work.

8. A birthday party for myself, with many precious people around. ❤

9. When they say “your voice is beautiful”.

10. Amusement park, ice skating and shopping

YoonA

1990/ Blood Type B

Active as an individual actress and model, “I enjoy presenting so many styles to the people, while gaining experiences.”

1. Bright.

2. When I was pursuing my individual career, I felt lonely. (smiles) I like it very much when I’m with the members, because they become my energy.

4. Seohyun. She always studies hard. Although she has a tender heart, she is really worth the respect.

5. Boys II Men’s ‘End of the road’, Bruno Mars’ ‘Just, the way you are’ (This song is nice!)

6. It’s important to always build my character and constantly try to upgrade myself.

8. When I got my driving license.

9. If they add an “I knew that you are…” before their compliments, it gives me the feeling that they trust me.

10. Drive on a beautiful road.

Ray Magazine (August 2011 issue)

Taeyeon

9^th March 1989

Interests: Movie, Music, Book reviews

With outstanding singing skills

Q1. What are the charms of SNSD that you know as a member of the group?

It’s our simplicity and frankness and how we behave naturally all the time.

Q2. What is the song you would sing for people in love?

I will recommend “Born to be a lady”.

Q3. Who are the people you consider to be your allies?

It’s our fans. They always give us support and the energy to produce the next album. We never fail to get strength from our fans.

Q4. What do you want to be if you were to be reborn again?

A bird, I admire them because they can fly!

Q5. Who is the member you would marry if you were a man?

Myself. (Smiles) Because I know myself the best.

Q6. What is the fashion item you are aiming for this summer?

During summer, your arms will usually be exposed when you wear short-sleeves or no-sleeves, so I will find some bracelets that will stand out.

Q7. Please reveal the secrets of your fair skin.

I will do hot-packing before firming, sometimes I also use scrubs.

Q8. Which is the place you wish to go in Japan?

Tokyo’s Disneyland and hot spring.

Q9. Any surprises from Japan’s culture and habits?

How they broadcast live on TV early in the morning.

Q10. If you broke up with your lover, how will you overcome this?

I think time heals all wounds.

Q11. What do you do when you can’t sleep?

I listen to music. My favourite artiste changes from time to time. (Smiles)

Jessica

18^th April 1989

Interests: Move, music reviews, shopping

Specialized in: Singing, English and Piano

Born in San Francisco

Q12. How will the aura be like when all members gather around?

It will be very noisy but relaxed.

Q13. When people do Gee and Genie dance covers, what are the key dance steps?

In either ways, leg movements are the key steps. You can check them out through MVs.

Q14. Your impression on Japanese guys?

I feel that they’re very careful and sensible. They’re cautious and careful all the time.

Q15. Have you ever gone for shopping in Japan?

Yes. I like Shibuya’s opening ceremony. Because we don’t have this in Korea, I will go for shopping when I come to Japan.

Q16. What are the things that give you comfort?

Bag and shoes. When I see cute things I will purchase it ‘unconsciously’.

Q17. If you were to be reborn again, would you like to be a girl or a boy?

I would still like to be a girl. Then I can have a lot of styles!

Q18. What are your thoughts while trying out your roles in the musical ‘Legally Blonde’?

I feel that it’s a new experience. I took the leading role, the musical is a fresh experience for me and I found it enjoyable.

Q19.What kind of styles and behaviors of a man that could make your heart pounds?

When he suddenly touches my fringe and helps me tidy it up. (Smiles)

Q20. What do you think of Japanese female fans?

They have a variety of personalities and they love fashion.

Q21. Which sports do you have confidence in?

I’m not very good at sports……..Although I like watching footfall, I don’t enjoy playing it by myself.

Q22. Please reveal the secrets of maintaining nice legs.

Although I don’t put extra attention into it….. Sometimes I will get into a hot tub.

Hyoyeon

22th September 1989

Interest: Movie reviews, Shopping, Chinese

Attract fans with powerful dance performances.

Q23. What are the new trends among girl groups?

It’s nail art. I like leopard spots, so I will keep the design but only change the colors.

Q24. Something that all the members want to do in Japan?

Go to Sapporo during winter, and other places that receive positive comments, like hot spring.

Q25. Which is the place you like most about your face?

Is it the eyes…… If not it will be the face when I smile. Because people around me praise me about that. When I talk about it myself, it’s a little embarrassing. (Smiles)

Q26. Food you like?

Korea’s rice cake (“tteok”), in hot sauce….. and tteok…. Whatever it is, as long as it has the word ‘tteok’, I will like it.

Q27. Sports that you would take up as a challenge?

Swimming. Previously when we went overseas for filming, members played at the sea. Because I’m bad at swimming, I want to do it well. (Smiles)

Q28. What do you think of Japanese females?

I think they have strong personalities and confidence.

Q29. How do you overcome it when you’re disheartened?

Because I have my parents at home, I can go home, relax and rest, then I will feel better.

Q30. How is your room decorated?

Simple but it has a ‘princess style’ to it (Smiles). My curtain has lace, basic color being ivory, and the main color is pink.

Q31. How is your character when you’re with friends?

I will be very naughty. (Smiles) I will also crack a lot of jokes.

Q32. You receive good comments on your dance performance. What are the points to note when you dance?

I think it’s taking note of the angles and settings in front of the mirror, eye movements too.

Q33. Something that you will never forgive?

Betrayal. Because I’m the type of person who takes relationships seriously. I would really feel hurt.

Seohyun

28^th June 1991

Interests: Music reviews

Specialised in: piano, singing and Chinese

Maknae who receives a lot of love from the members.

Q34. What’s on your mind during performances?

I will enjoy it while thinking ‘Let’s enjoy this moment’.

Q35. What is the fashion you want to try out this summer?

Usually I stick to basic styles but this time, from summer onwards, I want to try other styles too.

Q36. Your happiest moment?

When I accomplish something I’ve planned for.

Q37. What’s the job that you would want to take up?

A professor in a university. Because professor is the one who guides students on the road to their dreams. I think it’s a very meaningful job to take up.

Q38. Do you think your fashion has to suit the taste of someone you like?

Although it’s important to wear something you like, to a certain extend, trying to match the taste of people you like is not a bad choice too. (Smiles)

Q39. What is your dream in the future?

I want to do something that empowers people and give them strength.

Q40. If time machine ever exists, which era would you like to go to and what would you do?

Into the future, because as society develops, I’m curious how it will be like from now on.

Q41. A number you like?

1.

Q42. When is the time that thoughts like ‘Still a young child~’ comes to your mind?

When I can’t control my own emotions properly.

Q43. A tour spot in Korea you would recommend?

The Gyeongbok Palace because it’s a place where you can experience Korea’s history and culture.

Q44. You’re the most serious member, anything you like being a dongsaeng (younger sister)?

Because I’m the only daughter in the family, whenever I’m with my 8 cute unnies (older sisters), I feel very happy.

Yuri

5^th December 1989

Interests: Books

Specialized in: Dance, acting, swimming

The outstanding health-mania is the result of Yoga and sports.

Q45. What kind of female you would want to be 10 years later?

I think it will be good if I can continue doing music like now, and at the same time save some space to enjoy life as well as becoming a career woman. I also want to make one of my dreams come true, which is to master Japanese language, and take up some roles in Japanese drama and movies.

Q46. When is the time you think that you’ve already grown into an adult?

When I try to smile instead of getting angry. Now I have learned to take everything easy.

Q47. If you don’t have anything to do now, what would you want to do then?

Because I really like music very much, I think I will still be doing music anywhere I go.

Q48. If you were to become another member for one day, who would you choose to be?

Although all of them are great, I’ve never thought of being someone else. (Smiles)

Q49. In a day, when do you feel the calmest?

When I wake up in the morning and the bright sunlight shines on my face.

Q50. What is the dream that makes you feel good when it comes true?

I want to master Japanese language. I also want to watch Japanese dramas without subtitles.

Q51. A Korean food and drink that you would like to recommend?

Biji Jjigae. It’s a stew made using tofu residue. It’s tasty and is also good for health.

Q52. Something that made you cry recently?

During acting lessons, when I was angry with myself for not speaking well.

Q53. Please tell us some simple ways to maintaining health.

Before you sleep, look back at the entire day and be self-affirmed. That is really simple!

Q54. What kind of fashion do you like?

Chic styles that make use of black and grey designs. I also like to wear simple and basic items.

Q55. Something that you’re currently interested in?

Stage performances. So, I’m learning it through watching foreign artistes’ live performance videos.

Sunny

15^th May 1989

Interests: Sports, music reviews, shopping

With a cheerful character, she is also active in variety broadcasts.

Q56. What is your most nervous moment?

When I get returns for my hard works. When our fans have good reactions to it, I feel really satisfied.

Q57. Something that you want to do when it comes to summer?

Going for vacation. It will be nice going to the beach, I also want to go to tropical regions and eat delicious fruits!

Q58. If you are to change your hairstyle, what kind of hairstyle would you like to try?

Short hair! I want to keep it very short. (Smiles)

Q59. A book or comic you like?

Novels written by a French writer called Bernard Werber. A Comic would be “One Piece” which teaches us about friendship and fate.

Q60. What kind of compliment do you want to hear from a man?

‘You’re charming’ or ‘You’re smart and mature’.

Q61. How would you react if you forget about the lyrics or dance steps?

It’s important to stay calm and act naturally! Also, quickly make myself steady.

Q62. Your impression on Japan?

Everything is in order right start from the airport, people have good manners, roads are also neat and clean.

Q63. A place for shopping in Korea that you would recommend?

Seoul’s Garosugil (Tree-lined street). There are a lot of café houses and clothing stalls. You can find a lot of clothes there. It’s also a place that I like very much.

Q64. How do other people comment on your characters?

They say that I’m cheerful and lively but I think, other than that, I’m also quite reserved sometimes. However, I’m working hard on becoming more cheerful.

Q65. Any ways to relieve stress?

Watch TV or movies then go to sleep. I like thrillers and mysteries.

Q66. When you go out with others for a meal, what would you choose to eat?

Japanese Ramen. I like Miso ramen the best. (Smiles)

Sooyoung

10^th February 1990

Interests: Movies, music reviews

Specialized in: dance, acting, Japanese

Knows a lot about Japanese culture and habits.

Q67. Is there something that you must eat when you come to Japan?

Fried oysters. They taste the best when they’re fried!

Q68. What do you talk about when members gather around?

We talk about nice food or discuss about other artistes’ new songs.

Q69. Do you prefer confessing to the person you like, or get confessions from others?

I’m a young girl so I would prefer getting confessions if possible. (Smiles)

Q70. Say a word about your characters?

When I asked Taeyeon-jang, she said ‘like the sky’ (Smiles) because my emotions are very stable so I think this is the way to describe me.

Q71. Please tell us some Japanese words you like.

Food.

Q72. Something that made you laugh recently?

When I said “We are Sooyoung!” instead of “I am Sooyoung!” during our trip to China.

Q73. Are you aware of fashion trends?

Although I feel that I’m aware of that, I would like to have my own style.

Q74. If there was a conflict among the members, how would you solve it?

Talking to each other will do. And say ‘sorry…….’ to each other sincerely.

Q75. What is the most touching movie or drama you’ve watched until now?

Korean drama will be ‘Love Generation’ and ‘The Painter of the Wind’. I also like Japan’s ‘Nobuta wo Produce’. Movie would be “Forrest Gump”.

Q76. Something you’re currently interested in?

Fashion, Travel, and artist P!NK.

Q77. Do you have complex emotions?

Of course I have.

YoonA

30^th May 1990

Interests: Movie review

Specialized in: Acting

Active as an actress.

Q78. What kind of people are the members to you?

People who understand one another even without saying anything.

Q79. Please tell us your dream as a group.

Always take up new challenges, we are also thinking of becoming a more and more charming Girls’ Generation.

Q80. Which part of your body do you like the most?

My hands. My fingers are so long that I’ve never considered them cute last time. But I started to gain confidence afterwards.

Q81. If you were to have a date during summer, what kind of date would you like to have?

I would like to walk on a long and beautiful road, on a day of mild weather. In the evening, I will drive along the Han River under the lights, that will be great too.

Q82. Food that you dislike?

I’m not particular about food. I eat a lot!

Q83. What do you do to maintain your style?

Recently I go to gym for exercises. I also eat a lot, which gives me the energy to dance.

Q84. What do you do during your holidays?

I watch movies and meet up with friends. I also go to the gym.

Q85. A country that you’d want to go, at least once?

Czech Republic, especially Prague.

Q86. Something that you would consider a treasure?

An album that contains my photos since young. My mobile phone is also a treasure. (Smiles)

Q87. What is the source of your luck?

I react very sensitively to the weather. So I’ll be happy on bright days!

Q88. What are your thoughts about the Japanese broadcasts?

I was surprised looking at Japan’s camera sets and the speed they switch from one to another.

Tiffany

1^st August 1989

Interests: English, Music reviews

Specialized in: English, Plotting stories, singing

Born in L.A

Q89. Do you go out with the members and what do you do?

We go for shopping or movies. Recently we also went for bowling.

Q90. Something that you want to try from now onwards?

Because the language that first comes to my mind is English, I want to try acting in America.

Q91. How do you keep everything uniform with all the members when you dance?

Because we do it together for a long time, we don’t have the sense of being stressed trying to breathe at the same rate. All of us have high expectations even after we’ve completed the task.

Q92. Any Korean drama you would like to recommend?

‘Secret Garden’ and ‘Hwang Jin Yi” are really interesting dramas!

Q93. Something that you’re really bad at?

Making people laugh. Because I take things seriously, I can’t say anything funny.

Q94. What kind of male fashion do you like?

Style that looks rough, and is outstanding anywhere a person goes. Because I think that one can tell another person’s sense from his accessories, I look at their shoes and watches. (Smiles)

Q95. Do you have good sleeping habits?

According to the members, I behave well when I sleep. (Smiles)

Q96. What was your dream when you were young?

I wanted to become a singer and lawyer like Elle Woods in the movie ‘Legally Blonde’.

Q97. What kind of woman would you think, “she’s beautiful”?

Someone who has confidence and passion. Also someone who is attractive.

Q98. What kind of fashion do you pay attention to?

All! If I want to wear one-piece dress with feminine style, I would choose matching shoes to go with it, right? In this way, I’m pretty concerned about all kinds of fashions. (Smiles)

Q99. A message to Ray’s readers!

Thank you for always supporting us! I feel that the 8^th month publication is a gift for me because my birthday is in August!

Q100. What do you need for your future plans?

Tiffany: Exercises. I don’t like to exercise so I haven’t been doing it for 3 years, but recently I go to the gym and toughened up my body. Also, to present a good image during the Japan tour, I would work out even if I’m tired.

Yuri: I need instruments or guitar for my music compositions. I went to Shibuya’s big instrument shop before, and I want to own all the things in the shop. (Smiles)

Jessica: To have dreams. I think it’s good to have big dreams. People will work towards their goal if they have one. To me, I want to try shoe designing in the future.

Sooyoung: Exercises. Because no matter what we want to do, health is always the priority. So, I think nothing will work if we don’t build up our physical strength.

YoonA: I want to upgrade myself. To display my abilities, it’s important to have passion in anything I do. I think it will be good if I have better concentration.

Hyoyeon: Learning to speak and master languages. Now I’m studying Japanese language. I also think that I should study Chinese so that I won’t forget what I learned in China during my 1 year study there.

Taeyeon: I want to study music. Because I feel that if one cannot make her own music, she cannot find anything to express herself.

Sunny: We need to plan our future properly, both for SNSD and for ourselves. It’s important to prepare ourselves well for the future.

Seohyun: I think no matter what we do, the basic of all is still health. As health is not something to be achieved within one day, it’s important to take care of our food intake and habits, as well as to take in vitamins.

Sunny voted as ‘Best Variety Idol’ on Daum Star Ranking

From a poll conducted from December 21st to December 27th to determine the ’2010 Best Variety Idol’, Sunny emerged as the winner as she obtained over 50,000 votes from the 7-day poll, leaving behind her closest contender IU by more than 40,000 votes.

Congratulations to Sunny. 역시 이순규!

SNSD awarded for national contributions at ‘2010 Proud Korean Awards’ by Casper on December 10, 2010 at 1:08 am

Having just walked off with three awards from the ‘25th Golden Disk Awards‘ last night, the girls of SNSD girls added yet another prestigious award to their list of accomplishments.

Earlier this morning, the group was recognized by the ‘2010 Proud Korean Awards‘ for their contributions to national unity and their positive representation of South Korea to the world. They were awarded as winners of the ‘Art Category’ by the Journalists’ Association of Korea.

Members Hyo Yeon, Seo Hyun and Sunny were present to receive the honor.

Check out the event photos below!

Sunny goes short and wavy

On November 20th, SNSD performed the title track from their 3rd mini album “Hoot” on MBC Show! Music Core without Tiffany who is still nursing her knee injury. The attention however was on Sunny who appeared with her new short and wavy hairstyle.


On Sunny’s new hairstyle, netizens commented:

-”So cute”
-”The hairstyle suits her”
-”SNSD are so pretty”

Tae Yeon for sale on Gmarket

Recently, Gmarket users were shocked when they found out that Tae Yeon was put up for sale on G-Market. Of course, it was just a ‘parody’, as some might have called it. This interesting piece of ‘parody’ has become a hot discussion subject among netizens.

Korean netizens had creatvely put up Tae Yeon for ‘sale’ on Gmarket complete with information about the ‘product’. The ‘sale’ was put up by a user name 엄빠시카 (Omppasika) with a very high price, without a single Won of discount. Every purchase comes with insoles that would help the customer to exceed 1.60m. The ‘product’ received some reviews and comments:

*Sunny commented, “this product is weird. i actually bought it because of the gifts (the insoles) that came with the product, but the product went into the bathroom with the gifts and hasn’t come out. Do you mind giving me one more piece of the insole?”

*Tiffany said, “Because The product is cute, pretty and tiny, it really looks like a baby. The nickname “TtaeTtae” is good as it is easy to remember. Is there a device to change the language? I couldn’t understand anything as she speaks in her own dialect. Can I get an after-sale service?”

*Yuri said, “It’s not bad but I think this product is a pervert (byuntae). Originally, does it have the habit of looking at people’s backside? Once, I got out of the room to get a drink and I saw it watching Rated-19 videos in the living room. Because of this, I am worried and do not get enough sleep these days. Can I ask for a refund?”

Unlike others, *Jessica left a short comment, “It’s totally cute”.

Netizens who saw the “parody” commented:

-”100%, match perfectly”
-”I want to buy it”

*The comments are made by fans/netizens and they do not involve the opinions of any of the girls. Keep in mind that this is a ‘parody’ and ONLY meant for FUN.

SNSD’s Sunny changes how she acts around guys?

The SNSD ladies revealed that member Sunny changes up how she acts whenever there’s a boy around.

On this week’s ‘Happy Together‘, Yuri said, “Sunny is usually less energetic and carries around a poker face, but whenever a guy comes near, she puts on the faces she uses on stage.”

Soo Young confirmed, “Sunny has a certain smile she uses for guys: she wrinkles up her nose. She also walks regularly, but around a guy, she acts all cute and skips around.”

Guilty as charged, Sunny acted out all of those things and made the whole set crack up. Seems like she’s becoming quite the ‘Queen of Aegyo‘!

SNSD Sunny's Name Was Misspelled!

On KBS 2TV’s “Happy Together” which will be aired on November 11th, Sunny rev ealed some interesting stories while performing in Japan. Sunny said, “While performing on stage in Japan, I noticed some interesting messages on the placards heldby the Japanese fans”.

According to Sunny, there were some mistakes made by the Japanese fans when they wrote the messages in Hangul. Some of these mistakes were:

- 결혼해줘 (Romanization: gyeolhonhaejwo/ Meaning: Let’s get married) which was written as 걸혼해줘 (Romanization: geolhonhaejwo)
- 사랑해 (Romanization: saranghae/ Meaning: I love you) which was written as 서랑해 (Romanization: seoranghae)

Sunny thought that it was really fun to see these spelling mistakes. She added, “Seeing my name “써니 (Sseoni)” being written as “싸니 (Ssani)” gave me a heartache”. Upon hearing Sunny’s explanation, the crowd burst into laughter.

Hyo Min likes Sunny more than Shin Min Ah

Sunny and Hyo Min’s close friendship at the 1st anniversary of KBS 2TV’s “Invincible Youth (IY)” garnered much interest from viewers and netizens.

KBS 2TV’s “Invincible Youth 1st Anniversary Special” was aired at 11.10pm on October 29th. The show highlighted the value of hardwork in country life as well as sweet memories and friendship among the members. A year had past since its first broadcast and the unity among its members did not change.

For the 1st anniversary broadcast, the first generation members who left the show half way due to their respective commitments were being called up again for the special broadcast. Sunny, HyunA and Kim Taewoo who had left IY for quite some time were reunited again with the members and the production crews of IY.

Sunny, HyunA and Taewoo were welcomed with warmth especially Noh Juhyeon, Narsha, Goo Hara, Han Sunghwa and Hyomin. Hyomin who is very close with Sunny from the beginning of IY’s broadcast, hugged and greeted each other.

In this episode, Kim Taewoo asked Hyomin with a calm voice, “Between Sunny or Shin Min Ah, who do you like more?” This question was asked because Hyomin and Shin Min Ah who both acted in SBS’ drama “My Girlfriend Is A Nine-Tailed Fox” recently are very close to each other as well. The photos of Hyomin and Shin Min Ah’s close friendhip were disclosed on the internet.

In reply to the question, Hyomin proudly said, “Sunny”. Taewoo then mentioned that recently, Hyomin and Shin Min Ah are close to each other but he thinks that Hyomin has not changed and she still likes Sunny more. Hyomin instantly said “The drama has ended”. Upon hearing that, Sunny smile and gave Hyomin a hug.

A new girl group union is created: UG (United Girlgroups)

A new girl group union has emerged named the UG (United Girlgroups). The union includes the representative names of this generation of girl groups such as SNSD / Girls’ Generation, After School, f(x), Rainbow, 4Minute, T-ara, miss A, and Secret. The members all came together in a special interview celebrating Daily Sports‘ 41st anniversary.

With all of the trendy girl groups invited in one room, what kind of questions revealed their dreams and what events made them cry? Here’s an excerpt from the interview:

Journalist: Congratulations on becoming a UG member.

SNSD Sunny: I had no idea Daily Sports was this old. I always thought it was a newer newspaper company… Daily Sports and SNSD has many unforgettable memories together such as us dominating the first page last year when we won the Golden Disk Award. It was such an honor, I have it saved.

T-ara Eunjung: The first thing I think of is ‘drunk talking.’ I had to solve a few current event quiz questions while drunk. Haha.

Journalist: Let’s start the discussion for real now. There’s a lot of rumors saying that the girl groups aren’t close to one another and that there’s a bit of tension.

Rainbow Jaekyung: That’s absolutely not true. We’re all people, you know. Out of everyone present here today, I’m the closest with Hyosung (Secret). We began talking after we started using the same waiting room. We even created a meeting called the ‘Secbow.’

4Minute Hyuna: I’m very close with miss A’s Suzy since we’re both JYPE trainees. We may be competing but I’m always glad to see her whenever we bump into each other at events.

Journalist: Then what about your own team members? What was the most recent fight you had?

SNSD Sunny: The members wanted to go bowling the other day but I said I was tired so I skipped out. They kept nagging at me because of it.

Secret Hyosung: We fight over the littlest things as well. This afternoon, I got upset because I wanted to eat Korean food when we were deciding our lunch menu but the other members wanted Western. I really, really wanted a nice warm stew with rice.

Journalist: While we’re on the topic of food, let’s talk about diets for a second. What do girl groups eat?

4Minute Hyuna: You may not believe it but my nickname is pig. I last through the day with food.

miss A Suzy: I eat a~ lot as well. I eat three meals a day on top of nonstop snacking. When we have a schedule that requires a lot of traveling, I really never stop snacking.

Secret Hyosung: Wow~ I’m envious of that. I get a lot of stress because of my weight. My diet meal plan consists of bananas, cucumbers, sweet potatoes, and chicken breasts. I also exercise vigorously with my instructor at the fitness center.

T-ara Eunjung: I also follow a meal plan set up by my trainer. I have to keep it at a maximum of 1,200 calories a day.

Journalist: SNSD’s meal plan was also highly popular as well.

SNSD Sunny: It was false. We never received a meal plan like that. Normally, we eat a lot but go into a sudden burst of dieting right before music video filmings. All of us in SNSD eat well so please don’t worry.

Journalist: You all do have something you don’t like about your physical appearance, right?

SNSD Sunny: My petite height, haha. I recently earned the nickname of ‘Grave Height,’ which basically means that I’ll be short until I die. If I say it like this, I feel like people will search for it so I’ll just explain it here. On KBS 2TV’s ‘Sketchbook,’ I greeted the audience after Yoona. The camera suddenly dropped when it got to my part.

After School Nana: My skin makes me worry. I’m very jealous of f(x)’s Sulli’s clear skin.

4Minute Hyuna: I’m jealous of Nam Jihyun unni’s skin as well. Her no make up face is the best.

Journaist: It’s getting boring, isn’t it? We’re only talking about boring things. Was there ever a time you got angry at your company’s CEO?

4Minute Hyuna: I was sick one day and got in trouble because I couldn’t dance well. I was so upset, I started crying. Still, I love our Hong Seung Sung Cube CEO. Daddy, don’t be mad, hehe.

Secret Hyosung: I rehearsed all day long and was so fatigued but our CEO walked in and kept saying I needed to rehearse more. I held it in, though.

miss A Suzy: I worked really hard on a recording but producer Park Jinyoung graded it a zero.

T-ara Eunjung: Our Kim Kwangsu CEO always nags at us to diet and then takes us out to eat at a really delicious restaurant. Exactly how does he expect us to lose weight…

Journalist: You all have a lot of older male fans as well, yes? When do you begin dividing the difference between an ‘oppa’ and an ‘uncle?’ And how much older are you willing to accept dating wise?

miss A Suzy: An old man, I consider 40 years old? And dating wise, I don’t think age matters but I’m willing to go up to 12 years my senior. Three years younger than me works as well, too.

Rainbow Jaekyung: If they’re not married, I consider them an oppa. If they are, they’re not. And I don’t think age matters as well.

SNSD Sunny: I think style is more important than age. There are a lot of young people that look old..

Journalist: Then what’s your most recent dating experience?

All: Hm… It’s been a while since we’ve dated. (Moment of awkward silence)

Journalist: Please reveal your ideal male celebrity. You cannot name foreign stars.

miss A Suzy: Kang Dong Won. Kang Dong Won no matter what.

Secret Hyosung: Ah! I’m a Kang Dong Won fan as well. Just hearing his name makes my heart flutter. I’ll be able to meet him one day, I hope.

SNSD Sunny: Wonbin for me!!! My man~ I’m going ot marry him some day. Hahaha, I’m asking to be terrorized, aren’t I?

T-ara Eunjung: When I was younger, I liked people with a warm charisma like Park Haeil. I like smaller eyes as opposed to larger eyes as well. Someone that’s good at rap… Ah! I like Big Bang’s T.O.P senior.

Journalist: When was the day you cried the most after debuting?

f(x) Luna: The day we debuted. I began thinking of my trainee years and sat in the waiting room, crying.

4Minute Hyuna: Same for me. I made a comeback with 4Minute after withdrawing from Wonder Girls. A lot of people anticipated a lot from me, but I was so upset that I couldn’t do as well as I wanted to.

Suzy, Nana, Eunjung: The day we won 1st place. We all thought of the pain we went through, and also felt a bit empty.

Journalist: Do you feel happy living life as a girl group member? Have you ever regretted your debut?

Secret Hyosung: I get depressed when I can’t eat delicious food but I’m always happy and excited when I stand on stage.

SNSD Sunny: I want to go hang out with my friends and date so it does get depressing when I can’t. Still, it’s a thrill to hear the support of our fans when we’re on stage.

f(x) Luna: Same for me. I’m sad that I can’t meet my friends but every day is filled with delight.

Journalist: If you could go back in time to before you became a celebrity, what would you do?

SNSD Sunny: I’d like to work part time at a restaurant or cafe. It’d be fun to see such a diverse group of people.

T-ara Eunjung: Me too… I want to observe how everyone lives. I debuted at 16 so I don’t know too much about the outside world.

Rainbow Jaekyung: I want to date as much as I want. And I want to run away from home one day as well.

4Minute Hyuna: I want to go to an amusement park and hang out until I get sick of it.

Journalist: What kind of dreams do girl groups have?

f(x) Luna: To become the world’s best diva.

T-ara Eunjung: Asia’s best Miss A.

After School Nana: I’d like for all of the citizens in Korea to know my name.

SNSD Sunny: A worldwide S! N! S! D!

Journalist: Could you please say something in representation of the girl groups?

SNSD Sunny: I feel that a girl group special interview being included in celebration of Daily Sports’ 41st year anniversary is proof that the level of influence of girl groups have risen drastically over the years. I’m extremely glad to be a part of this girl group union and will work hard around the world in representation of our country.

During the interview, the members were hesitant to answer many questions as they were being eyed by fans and their agency representatives. The following are a collection of the questions and answers that were given while under such observance.

Journalist: Which girl group is the prettiest?

All: Our group! (Points to their own group)

Journalist: Which present was the most awkward to receive?

All minus Sunny: The love of our fans are put in the presents, how can they be awkward?

Sunny: Garlic juice.

Journalist: Were you ever hit on by a male celebrity?

All: You’d think that we’d get hit on often, but never.

Journalist: How much do you have in your bank account?

All: Our parents manage it so we have no idea.

Sunny reunites with Invincible Youth in Japan

SNSD’s Sunny recently reunited with the Invincible Youth cast in Japan after a tearful emotional exit two months ago.

The Invincible Youth cast had gone to Japan last week for a special recording and Sunny who said her goodbyes when she left Invincible Youth rejoined them for this trip.

On July 5th a representative stated, “Sunny has made a surprise appearance…She was very glad to be with her members again and she engaged herself in the filming.”

Sunny, who is currently preparing for SNSD’s Japanese single release was able to join the Invincible Youth members, thanks to the high interest level of fans.

It’s been about 40 days since Sunny left and she was able to joyfully spend 3 days and 2 nights with the members in Japan.

In particular, Sunny’s Invincible Youth buddy, T-ara’s Hyomin, who recently cried over Sunny’s empty presence, became teary-eyed upon reuniting with Sunny.

This and other events that occurred while they were in Japan are scheduled for broadcast on the 16th and 23rd of this month.

Hyo Min tears again over Sunny’s empty presence on Invincible Youth

As most of you may recall, on the teary episode of Invincible Youth when it came time for 4minute’s HyunA, and SNSD’s Sunny and Yuri to leave, T-ara’s Hyomin started to drop tears while she was reading a farewell letter to Sunny.

Several reporters flocked over to the KangWonDo Yuchiri area, the scene where the filming for the recent Invincible Youth was taking place. During an interview with Hyomin, she started to tear once again as the topic of Sunny began being discussed.

When Kim Shin Young revealed, “After Sunny left, she said over the phone ‘once you get to know Hyomin, she is naive. So please take care of her well’,” tears started to well in Hyomin’s eyes.

In response to that, Hyomin sadly expressed, “Her empty presence is quite large,”and then brightly stated, “But, now I’m doing well.”

Sunny and Luna got busted by Eunhyuk?

On June 25th, Super Junior’s Eunhyuk tweeted pictures of SNSD’s Sunny and f(x)’s Luna getting caught trying to steal a snack from Super Junior’s snack box.

The pictures see Sunny and Luna with a surprised look after being caught trying to take Super Junior’s stuff. Eunhyuk wrote, “Luna… Sunny… You can’t do this… Someone please buy them something to eat…

Netizens replied back things such as, “Cute~,” “I want to buy them something to eat,” “It would be heartwarming to see them share the snacks,” etc.

Heechul and Sunny pose for the camera

With SNSD returning from their vacation, it looks like the members are back to resume to their busy schedules. Despite the latter, Heechul was able to free up some time before a recording to snap a shot with SNSD’s Sunny.

He said, “Recording with the cutie Soonkyu (Sunny)“ with the both of them making a pose and stand back-to-back. Aren’t those two just adorable?

Yuri, Sunny, and Hyuna say their goodbyes

Girls’ Generation / SNSD’s Yuri, Sunny and 4Minute’s Hyuna were in tears when it came for them to say their adieus on their final appearance on Invincible Youth.

Ever since the very first episode of Invincible youth, Yuri, Sunny, and Hyuna have spent the last 8 months building lasting friendships with the G7 members. These months seemed to have whizzed by fast, and the three girls could not believe that it was finally time for them to leave.

One by one, tears starting welling up amongst the Invincible Youth crew as they started sharing their goodbye letters and handing out gifts to the 3 girls.

For those of you fans who have enjoyed Yuri, Sunny, and Hyuna’s presence on Invincible Youth, don’t be sad! On the bright side, they all have promised to keep in touch with one another although they will not be appearing on the show anymore.

Sunny bids farewell to her cow on Invincible Youth

People say dogs are man’s best friend… but how about cows?

The big day of departure for Sunny, Yuri, and HyunA has arrived, as their final broadcast will be going on air in Korea on the 11th. Although their last filming session took place nearly a whole month ago, the three girls’ farewell episode still hasn’t been aired until now.

On this bittersweet episode, it’s been said that Sunny has had her last moments with her everlasting buddy, Pooreum the Cow.

According to the filming staff, Sunny had personally prepared Pooreum’s food with red and teary eyes, bidding the cow her final farewell. Somehow aware of Sunny’s melancholy, the cow was also seen shedding its giant tears.

Meanwhile, the new owner of Pooreum will be decided once the newcomers get settled into the show. The producer of the show promises that some sort of competition will take place in the future to decide the cow’s brand new owner, so make sure to stay tuned for that. This teary episode will air on June 11th.

Sunny and Tiffany are on Fire in 1000 Song Challenge

Last week, SNSD’s Sunny and Tiffany performed T-ara’s Bo Beep Bo Peep on 1000 Song Challenge wearing the stuffed bear paws as additional props. On the most recent episode of the show, they continued to belt more notes and even busted out their rapping skills to 2AM’s This Song, 2NE1’s Fire, 4minute’s Hot Issue, Super Junior’s Sorry Sorry, among others.

What stood out to me the most, though, (aside from the MC’s hilarious proclamation when his favorite song was played) was their rendition of Davichi’s 8282. Aside from the fact that the song is not an easy one to sing, Tiffany managed to pull it off rather well, with Sunny supporting her with harmonization.

f(x)’s Amber wishes SNSD’s Sunny a belated Happy Birthday

Looks like T-ara’s Hyomin wasn’t the only one to leave a birthday message affection for SNSD’s Sunny on her 21st birthday on May 15th. f(x)’s Amber also left a birthday message for Sunny even though it was a belated one.

Amber posted her belated birthday message with a picture on May 16th at 12.04am through her me2day, “Everyone~ do you know what day today is? Although a few minutes has passed, but that (day) is Sunny’s unnie birthday!!”

She continued with her long message, “Unnie, sorry for this belated message. You know how much I love you right? Hehe, My Su Su Su Su Sunny unnie!! Happy Birthday!! Hope that you have been receiving blessings all this time! Although late, I hope everyone can congratulate her too…”

Netizens commented, “It’s so nice of Amber to remember Sunny’s birthday,” “They look good together“, “Amber has so much boyish charm“, etc.

SNSD’s Sunny reveals her real height

SNSD’s Sunny revealed her real height on Invincible Youth. On SNSD’s website, her profile reads that she is 158cm.

During the episode that aired on the 14th, she was shoveling with Kim Tae Woo. She was so good at shoveling that Kim Tae Woo commented, “You could be a woman in the army.”

Then Sunny replied, “There’s one problem. I’m only 155cm tall.”

She quickly joked, “I got 3cm shorter.”

The honest side is what we love.