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.

Park Min Young Confirms Her Friendship With SNSD's Jessica!

Park Min Young recently expressed her affection for SNSD's Jessica.

On the 11th, Park Min Young talked about her friendship with Jessica during an episode of KBS 2TV 'Entertainment Relay'.

The actress proved her close friendship with Jessica after posting a photo of the idol on her Twitter. She stated, "It has been about 8 years since I have known Jessica."

Park Min Young caused laughter by adding, "Jessica is the prettiest in SNSD. After her is Yoona."

SNSD's Soo Young is a talking goat?

Recently, SNSD were guests for the show "YaHaengSung" (Night Star Variety Show).

For a segment of the show, SNSD together with the hosts had a Audio Book Recording. The book was "The Smartest Giant in Town". For the recording, Tae Yeon plays George the Giant, Yoona plays a Giraffe, Soo Young plays a Goat etc.

Soo Young's "imitation" of a goat was so impressive that she received a standing ovation. Even host, Gil jokingly said that the "Daejong Goat Acting Awards" should be given to Soo Young.

Check out Soo Young's impressive Goat imitation here!

SNSD’s Yoona chosen as the idol with the most beautiful smile

SNSD’s Yoona was recently chosen as the idol star with the most beautiful smile.

Seoul’s Jamsil Dentistry, which held a poll from November 20th to December 3rd, asked 712 participants: “Which idol star has the most beautiful smile?”

Yoona ended up being the #1 ranked idol, receiving 49.4% of the votes. Following YoonA were KARA’s Nicole (281 votes, 39.4%) and Tiara’s Jiyeon (201 votes, 28.2%), who took second and third place respectively.

BEAST’s Ki Kwang confesses to liking SNSD’s Yoona

On this week’s episode of MBC’s ‘Hot Brothers’, BEAST’s Lee Ki Kwang shyly confessed to have a crush on SNSD’s Yoona.

As part of the show’s new ‘Season 2′ format, the cast members were given a mission to learn how to become teachers for a countryside school. After taking tests for their level of proficiency, members Tak Jae Hoon, Park Whee Soon, and Lee Ki Kwang were appointed to teach in a lower graded class.

During class time, Park Whee Soon asked Ki Kwang which member of SNSD he liked the most. Upon Ki Kwang’s hesitation to answering, Whee Soon asked, “Are you worried news articles will write about this?” To which Ki Kwang replied, “Yes, I’m scared. I like Yoona-ssi.”

Chinese football star is a fanboy of SNSD's Yoona

According to China’s Sina.com on December 1st, “National (China) football player, Ronghao published on his personal blog a picture of Girls’ Generation’s Yoona and left a message “Don’t be long-winded, if you see a woman of this type, let me know”.

Following the blog post, his fans commented, “Yoona who is 20 this year has both innocent and cute image. Is she Ronghao’s dream girl?”. Besides that there are also fans who urged him to play in the Korean League by saying, “Conquer the Korean League and return with a beautiful lady”.

Yuri gave the deepest impression to Eun Hyuk

On KBS 2TV’s “Night Star” which will be aired at 11.15pm KST on November 28th, Super Junior’s Eun Hyuk and SNSD members talked about their first impressions of one another.

Hyo Yeon said, “During trainee days, I was really nervous when I first met Eun Hyuk. He would greet me in an honorific manner when we met at the rehearsal room”.

Eun Hyuk explained, “SNSD gave me a strong impression, especially Yuri who made the dinosaur-like noises during her pre-debut days” He also mentioned that before debut, the trainees would have to prepare for their personal repertoires every week and it involved singing and dancing. Eun Hyuk added, “Yuri then made an impersonation of ‘dinosaur voice’ by mistake on one of the entertainment programs”.

Upon hearing that, Yoona revealed, “At that time, besides the dinosaur-like noise, Yuri also did other weird impersonations as well”. Yuri then was asked to reenact those weird and wacky impersonations.

Lee Jong Seok's interview about Yoona & Hyoyeon

He became close to many trainees while he was training to become an idol. He has friends in pretty much every group. In particular he has a close friendship with SNSD's Hyo Yeon and Yoong.

"I met Hyo first through a close hyung(older friend) when SNSD just made their debut. I then got to know Yoong through Hyo Yeon." [ I omitted this part out-non SNSD related]

Q: What does Lee Jongseok do when meeting up with SNSD friends...?

"Like everybody else. We go to a cafe to drink coffee and chit chat. We also go to board game rooms. In Hyo's case, she likes to walk, so I walk with her often wearing our caps really low."

In Yoong's case, she is more of a prankster then he thought. He has been frustrated before b/c she is quite different from the clean image that she appears on TV.

"When I would call Hyo, suddenly someone else would pick up the phone. Yoong would play a joke on me by imitating Teacher Jun Wonjoo. At first, I was duped and it was hard to accept, but nowadays, it's ok."

SNSD’s Yoona and Jessica participate in magic show on Star King

Magician Choi Hyun Woo surprised SNSD members with his magic show.

On a recent recording of ‘Star King‘, Choi Hyun Woo showed off his magic tricks that were bordering on the supernatural.

SNSD’s Yoona was shocked when Choi successfully changed clear water to coffee. It wasn’t just the color, but the smell and taste also changed, which kept the audience in awe. In addition, Choi moved Jessica’s autograph card in a bottle without opening it.

Additionally, Choi is also able to take ordinary forks and spoons and bend them at will.

This episode will air November 27th at 6:30 PM.

Which careermen would be most suitable as husbands for SNSD?

A recent poll held by wedding information company, Docs Club, revealed some interesting results for the SNSD members.

They asked 71 “couple managers” from various wedding planning companies about which careers would best fit the future husbands of the SNSD ladies. The top four results were: legal, financial, politician, and someone working in the management field.

74% picked member Seo Hyun as someone would be most compatible with a busy legal professional, because she portrays an image of the ‘classic dutiful wife’.

Because Sunny is known for her cute image, she was chosen to fit best with a financial professional, locking down 39% of the votes. With 41% of the votes, Yoona was selected to be most compatible with a politician husband because of her spotless reputation.

Finally, with 51%, Leader Tae Yeon is said to match with a CEO because of her strong image.

What do you think about these results, or even this poll? Let us know through your comments below!

SNSD becomes muses of high fashion for ‘W’

The ladies of SNSD challenged themselves by shooting an interesting pictorial for fashion magazine, ‘W‘. For this shoot, SNSD took on the role of iconic muses of high fashion.

In order to show the individual charisma of each member, the magazine brought in a team of their best editors, wardrobe coordinators, hair and makeup stylists, and photographers.

Each girl was assigned a different fashion icon element, and it was reported that both the staff and the girls were very pleased with the results.

The editor confessed, “We were surprised by the members’ understanding of high fashion.‘

Tiffany revealed, ‘Even though I don’t have a lot of experience wearing red lipstick, it was fun getting a new look for this shoot.‘

Although the girls have got their hands full with their Korean and Japanese promotions (as well as adjusting to a recent injury), they were able to complement each other well throughout the photoshoot and created a warm atmosphere on the set.

The photoshoot will be revealed in its entirety on the December issue of ‘W’.

SNSD @ SBS Sharing Love Concert

SNSD performed “Hoot” at the SBS “Sharing Love Concert” to commemorate the 20th Anniversary of the founding of SBS. The concert was aired on November 14th, at 3.10pm KST. The girls performed their 3rd mini album title track “Hoot” in sexy and elegant black costumes. Yoona had a little more job to do than her 8 sisters as she was the MC of the event alongside Jo Kwon and Seo Hyun’s “hubby”, Yong Hwa.

For those who missed the girls’ performance at the concert, here’s “Hoot”:

Yoona, Jo Kwon and Yong Hwa, MCs for "Share the love" concert

MCs for Share the love" concert 2010 held by SBS will be Yong hwa, Jo Kwon and Yoona.

Korea's one of the best idols, actors/actresses and entertainers have come together and fans are looking forward to this. So far, Yong Hwa and Jo Kwon have been MC-ing together for SBS Inkigayo and YoonA has shown MC capabilities through other shows.

In this concert, Beast's "Beautiful" comeback stage will be opened, V.O.S and Choi Hyun Joon's Adieu stage, Ga In's goodbye stage are planned.

SNSD, 2PM, 2NE1, Miss A, Kim Jang Hoon, Psy, Rainbow, U-Kiss, Oh Won Bin (feat. Miryo from BEG), VNT and others will be present and it will be broadcasted on the 14th at 3.10pm KST

If SNSD Yoona Was a Male? Pretty Boy Force Released

Photoshopped pictures of SNSD member Yoona as a boy is hot on the Internet.


On the latest online community board, Yoona’s face was synthesized on the figures of male idols, in which male Yoona pictures were released.

With a baseball cap, hoodie, and casual look of a boy, Yoona is reminiscent of a pretty boy force, the parody Yoona still looking like her real figure.

Netizens said “It looks like it was put together with DBSK, Big Bang, SHINee.” “ The stars of ’The 1st Shop of Coffee Prince’, ‘Sungkyunkwan Scandal’ force” “Yoona is handsome”.

SNSD returned with the recent mini album, “Hoot!” and ranked 1st in various charts , continuing with their activities.

Yoona to meet ideal type Takuya Kimura?

SNSD‘s Yoona might soon face her ideal man.

With the Korean group’s rising popularity in Japan, the nine girls are expected to appear in the Japanese program Battle of Red and White Song, in which popular music artists are divided into competing teams of red and white.

SNSD might be joining the list of artists in the red team while Japanese singer Takuya Kimura, who is also Yoona’s ideal type, is anticipated to be on the white team.

Although the official roster of performers has not yet been completed, Yoona still expressed her excitement and stated, “I’m going to study Japanese and when I meet him, I’ll greet him.”

Yoona’s latest Innisfree CF revealed

SNSD member Yoona released a MV for Korean cosmetic brand Innisfree earlier this month entitled "Innisfree Day."

She’s back with a 15 second CF featuring the cosmetic company’s Olive Real Power Cream. The CF shows Yoona roaming around a vineyard of sorts, even doing some labor at some point! She looks so fresh and clean in the CF that it’s no wonder Innisfree chose this lovely lady as a representative!

Check it out below!

SNSD Yoona’s MV for Innisfree Day CF released

As we reported earlier, SNSD’s Yoona has been advertising for the Korean cosmetic brand Innisfree, for which the song of the CF, titled ‘Innisfree Day’, was released a few days ago.

A short music video for the song has just been released, which consists of Yoona singing in a studio for the recording of the track, as well as some behind footage of Yoona taking part in the photo shoot.

Check it out below!

SNSD’s Yoona releases ‘Innisfree Day’ song

SNSD’s Yoona has been quite busy lately, not only with Japanese promotions with her fellow members, but also with her duties for cosmetic brand, Innisfree.

The idol recently released a cute and bubbly song for the brand, titled, Innisfree Day, and it shows off her singing skills and lets fans hear something new.

If you recall, Yoona also took part in a CF for the brand, specifically for the Jeju Volcanic Pore Clay Mask back in July.

Be sure to check it out below!

Yoona promotes the use of ECO handkerchiefs

SNSD’s YoonA was recently chosen to become the model for a new Eco-handkerchief campaign.

This Eco-handkerchief campaign was part of Innisfree’s 10th anniversary celebrations, and it seeks to pass on the message of reducing the use of paper tissues, and asks people to use handkerchiefs instead to save the earth. With YoonA being the main model for Innisfree, and a widely recognized celebrity in Korea, there was no better person than her to promote this.

Through a series of promotional photos, YoonA demonstrated the use of the campaign’s handkerchiefs in 10 different scenes that would happen in daily life to everyone. For example, you can use a handkerchief after you wash your hands, wrapping a handkerchief around your drink, using it to wrap your gift, and as a fashion accessory in place of a paper-related material.

YoonA expressed, “With this little action of using handkerchiefs in place of paper, we can save the environment and cut down on the number of trees being felled. I hope that by me actively participating in this campaign, I can help to get more people to join in and save the earth.”

An Eco-handerchief exhibition will be held from 28 – 29th of August where 16 different handkerchief designs will be on display, and they have been designed by YoonA herself together along with four other designers. A handkerchief will be presented to those who visit this exhibition. There will also be a sale for these handkerchiefs in Innisfree stores, and online in limited quantities from September onwards.