DramaQueen Report: 2013 Leessang 1st Asia Showcase

Leessang held their first showcase in Singapore on 30 November 2013. My friend who is a fangirl of Gary told me about this fanmeet. Swept by her enthusiasm and under the influence of the recent Running Man fever, I bought the category 1 ticket!

This friend of mine who set up Leessang Singapore Fan Page decided to plan a surprise for her idol. She even proposed her idea to the organizer - Fast Track Events! Even more surprising was that the proposal was accepted!! My friend spend a lot of time and effort for this special event.

Fangirling at its max! I seem to have entered a world of no return....

Cake...

In addition, she made a cake specially for Leessang (above) and even made clover leaves (below) and gave it to the people who attended the event. Alas, the arrangement fell through and did not go according to plan with an explanation that the clover leaves did not match the theme of the event that day. With this 'explanation', my friend's time and effort went down the drain (than again it is a massive coordinating effort on part of the organizer, fan club and management of the ones to perform).

Props...

Speaking of the showcase itself, I was rather disappointed with the arrangement and planning for the event. First of all, there should have been clear instructions about what time the doors at Shanghai Dolly will open. Despite having stated 4.30pm, they let the fans go in at 4pm. I understand that it is a small space to accommodate almost 800 over people, however, they should have prioritized via categories (like boarding Singapore Airlines). 

Although I have not (yet) attended that many fanmeets, this would have to be on my list of one of the worst fanmeets ever! Not only did fans have to queue up for hours just to get in, it was an unruly mess. For the amount of money we paid, they should have made the wait less horrendous by calling in order of categories, I mean that's the reason why the pricing is different, right?! Else it might as well have been a free for all and tickets set to a standard pricing to lower expectation.

The merchandise booth was unappealing, so much so that all we could think of was to just get our ticket check and go in. As usual, we were told not to take any photos, but security was lax. Upon entering we were given some leaflets (about Korea Tourism Board - a smart move because who wouldn't want to go visit Korea when its on promotions and have the chance to meet your favorite star?) and a ticket in exchange for free drink from St. James Power Station (they could have just handed out drinks though), along with a giant poster was given out to all tickets holder. It would have been useful and more marketing sense if they had placed them all in a paper/plastic bag. Imagine lugging around the cumbersome things while attending the fanmeet, and trying to take photos and enjoy the music at the same time. -_-"

The event was free standing so those who came early occupied the best spot. Looking at the back, the category two seem pretty good too. At least their view was not blocked and they are standing at a elevated platform which is higher than the people in category one who stand on the ground floor. We waited for half an hour and was already tired from the waiting. There was not much of an excitement like what we felt the previous time at Running Man Fanmeet. 

There was a short video of Leessang involvement in the variety show: Gil in Infinity Challenge and Gary in Running Man. Finally, our long awaited Leessang came onstage and belt out their famous hits such as: Remembrance, You are the answer to a guy like me, Turn off the TV, Tears, The girl who can't break up, the boy who leave. Both Gary and Gil look smart in their dressing. Especially Gary look exceptionally sparkling on stage. I admit that I am bias since Kookie Running Man is my favorite Korean Variety show.  After the performance, they mentioned that they are supposed to change their clothes but got too carried away with their performance. 

After that, the MC of the event came onstage with the translator. Prior to the show, the organizer had collected some questions from the fans. Leessang were seated on the chair as they answer their fans queries. One of them asked Gary when is he getting married and the fans immediately shouted 'Song Ji Hyo!' He replied Singapore girls and the fans shouted Song Ji Hyo instead. Leessang was asked about their impression of Singapore and Gary said that Singapore is a nice place to stay and he is considering that. They also mentioned that the girls in Singapore are pretty. 

After that, they were asked which club they will go to after the showcase. While Gil replied that he is unfamiliar with the clubs in Singapore, Gary mentioned that he had visited Zouk the other time during Running Man Fanmeet. At the showcase, Leessang stated that they have known each other for 17 years and both of them wrote Leessang songs. Gary will release a solo album soon, somewhere in April next year. This is a secret which they revealed in Singapore. The translator at one point was lost in the translation. Leessang teased her in a joking manner. 

The next game is pepero game and a lucky fan will be hand picked from the crowd. Who else to play the game with other than Gary? The host jokingly asked if Gary will play this game with a guy, he immediately request for a lady to play the game with him instead. This lucky fan was able to answer the question about Gary birthday and was selected to go onstage. Naturally, all the fans wanted to be pick, therefore, when this fan went onstage and was kissed on the lips by Gary, I heard hearts breaking. They even took picture onstage while the rest of the fans looked on with envious and jealous eyes! During the performance, some security guards move around and stop fans from snapping photo and taking video of the performance. It was rather annoying to me as their presence disturbed the performance. 

Leessang changed their clothes and came back on stage with other hit songs such as Ballerino, Pursuing the happiness, Hope and I'm not smiling. They moved around the stage and shake the fans hands. Towards the end of the performance, they even spray water from bottled drinks and threw a towel and cap. In order to please the fans, they signed on caps and album handed to them from the fans near the stage. Gary wore a Mickey Mouse headband and Gil exchange the cap he was wearing to a fan who was holding another cap near the stage. 

The audience shouted encore and after some time, they came out and sang the last finale song: Hard to be humble and Our meeting. Time flies and they announced that the Showcase had ended. However, when we looked at the watch, it was only 6.45pm. Isn't it a two hours showcase? It is not even 7.30 yet. Many did not not leave and Leessang have to come out again and officially put a stop to this showcase as they thanked the fans and encourage them to come for the Hi-five event the next day at City Square Mall. 

Before we left, there was a booth at the side to offer a cup of free drink. Many did not take the drink and some of the fans left behind the leaflets and some giant posters which were cumbersome. 

Afterthoughts

I personally felt tried of waiting at the queue and stood there waiting for the showcase to begin. The feeling was 'meh' and the rain further dampen the mood. Iceprinxess told me that since I am here, I might as well enjoy myself and make the best out of it. YES! I did enjoy the party and took some good pictures. However, I felt short change by the organizer as they officially stated that the showcase starts at 5.30-7.30pm! I heard there were supposed to be some games or songs to extend the time but it was cancelled later on. I would have gladly sell the ticket if I know that this is going to happen. The organizers did not plan the showcase properly at the first place. Everything was rushed, just like the name of the event company: FAST TRACKS! Anyway, ironically, I did enjoyed LeeSSang performance because I am not a big fan of theirs. Since expectation is not that high, I get to enjoy myself better with my friends too. Let's wave and shout Leessang!!! 

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Good Doctor Episode 14

That was a frightening look from Shi-On father. Those terrifying eyes which send a chill down Shi-On spine! The reunion of Shi-On and his mother leaves Shi-On confused as he recounted his childhood days and how his mother abandoned him. Doctor Choi acted as a 'mentor' to Shi-On and thus discovered his talent in envisioning the human body parts. 

Shi-On managed to complete a surgery in the operation room! That was a rather fast progress for an autistic person. Then again, it is a drama and he need to show remarkable progress along the way even if it is rather rushed. Nonetheless, I like Do-Han compliment to Shi-On. In my opinion, Do-Han is like an elder brother to Shi-On. 

This girl is so cute! She gave a can drink to Doctor Choi when the vending machine broke down. I think she wanted Doctor Choi to help him open the can instead of giving it to him. I like the friendship between Doctor Pomade and Shi-On. I find it rather cute that Shi-On shared his problem with Doctor Pomade and how he gave some allowance to him in return. This kind gesture was  comforting to Shi-On.

I was worried about In-Hye when she discovered that her sister In-young works in a nightclub. She felt hurt that Jin-Wook  knows about it but she is kept in the dark. I believed that In-Hye felt sad and guilty that her sister work in the nightclub to foot her hospital bill. 

The 'mistake' that Yoon-Seo made which was not her fault became her setback and I like how Shi-On comforted her with a sweet and gentle hug. The music played on and this Original soundtrack is from Kim Jong Kook - How come you don't know. A lovely song from Kookie!!! 

Please view this link at Dramabeans for a drama recap: Episode 14

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Good Doctor Episode 16

Look at Nurse Jo expression! He looks like he is ready for a fight.. Oh dear, Do-Han was wounded by the stabby!! Shi-On to the rescue but the dude has a weapon! Oh no!! 

Eventually, our scary nurse Jo subdue the stabby with his fist? Wow!! This guy is not as simple as we think he is. Nurse Jo was arrested by the police for assault. His secret admirer Nurse Nam was worried about him. That was interesting. 

I love the scene when Chae-Kyung visited Do-Han in the hospital. This is the only time through out the past episodes which I find them really close to each other as a couple! They finally showed their vulnerable side to their otherwise stubborn characters. 

A welcome kiss on the cheek from Shi-On to Nurse Jo? Okay, that is cuteness overflow! He finally returned the 'kiss' to Nurse Jo. 

Is that a 'green eye monster' that I see in Yoon-Seo when she knows that the sweater which Shi-On wears is a gift from Chae-Kyung? That is just an expensive sweater from Chae-Hyung to show her gratitude to Shi-On for saving Do-Han life. However, Yoon-Seo seem to be really jealous of her. Hmm... I smell sour grapes from you Yoon-Seo! I am keeping my finger crossed to see their development. 

In-Hye and Yoon-Seo shared the bed and talk about Shi-On and In Hye share her worries about the operation she will be going through. That kind of closeness makes me wonder, is there really this type of doctor that will go to great length for their patient?  A patient that have such a bonding with her doctor?  A doctor fall In love with a patient sibling? Is that true in real life or in a drama land? Anyway, i am sure it is the latter. Oh no! In-Hye is in trouble! Hope she will survive! 

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Good Doctor Episode 15

Who finds Shi-On cute and innocent? He even tried to cook a meal for his crush! In this episode, Yoon-Seo continues to act as though nothing happen although she knows that Shi-On still carries a touch on her. She could be still in denial and felt confused about their relationship. First, it started off with Yoon-Seo treating Shi-On like a younger brother. Suddenly, she realized that Shi-On like her. In my opinion, they have lots of chemistry. Even if they remains as friends it is fine with me too.

This scene was scary and I think that was crime a scene. Indeed, a girl was stabbed and rushed to the hospital. This girl was so traumatized from this incident.  Later on, we gets a glimpse of the stabber face!!! He even showed up in the hospital. 

That was so heartwarming!!! I love the way Do-Han used the toy stethoscope which Shi-On gave him. He used this toy to play with the injured girl before he used the real stethoscope on her. Which means Do-Han carried Shi-On toy Stethoscope all the while! That was a pleasant surprise to me. 

Shi-On said to Do-Han that in order to overcome a trauma, the victim need to believe that there is someone warm and stronger by her side, who is stronger than the culprit. Unknowingly, he has become the 'stronger' person that he had mentioned to Do-Han when he saw his father lifted up his hand and intend to hit his mother. He actually stepped in and protect her mother! I admire his courage to stand up for himself and protect his mother from his father attack. 

Chae-Kyung is not really a bad person as I initially thought. She just wanted the person who drove her father death to pay the price. Along the way, she became self centered and cold to the people around her. I was glad that she realized her mistakes and that she was wrong to betray the hospital. 

Please view this link at Dramabeans for a recap of the drama: Episode 15

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Good Doctor Episode 13

Finally, Shi-On have to deal with his inner fear and overcome his trauma. Oh why? Why did this happen when Shi-On is making some improvement and now he seem to go back to his 'shell'! I know eventually Shi-On will be alright, however, my heart goes out to him at this moment. Even though Shi-On father had cancer, he should show some remorse and repentance other wise I think he should really die!  

It was touching that Yoon-Seo and Do-Han were trying to help Shi-On overcome his fear. It helps that people around him shows concern and genuinely care for him. Do-Han even challenged Shi-On to surpass him. 

Doctor Pomade and Shi-On became friends? I like that Shi-On has this non-judgemental attitude towards people. His inability to lie makes him so childlike and sincere. Those good qualities were found in Shi-On and I enjoyed his character development. Because of the people who believed in him, he had been making some improvement in all aspect. 

The creepy chairman and the assistant chairman seem to have some motives and hidden agenda towards the hospital. Nonetheless, they were just a few minor characters which does not contribute much to the plot. 

Please view this link for a drama recap: Episode 13

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Good Doctor Episode 12

It is really not easy to be a doctor. Especially when it comes to making decision to save either the mother or the child. This episode was very touching and I was in awe of a mother determination to save her child at all costs. On the other hand, I was full of sympathy of Shi-On as he encountered his father again. Those memories of child abused was really terrifying. 

The fact the Shi-On father seem to be unrepentant makes me flare up with a character like him. I was worried about Shi-On reaction when he see his father and mother again. Is he able to handle all these betrayal, abandonment and violent abuse from his incorrigible father? 

The interaction between Shi-On and Yoon-Seo remains cute and interesting. Especially the part where Shi-On said he is going to buy a hammer at a convenience shop? Lol! He is actually looking for an excuse to walk her out. The way he pouts when he saw Do-Han waiting for her outside the hospital was so CUTE!

Do-Han and Yoon-Seo looked compatible too. However, their chemistry is that of a siblings to me. Do-Han seldom show a cheerful side and gave me an impression of a stern person. After watching this episode, I discovered another side of him. 

However, the story about how Chae-kyung and Do-Han used to love each other deeply is still unconvincing in my eyes. Anyway, I support the other couple In-Young and Jin-Wook. The latter discovered In-Young secret trade and that is working in the nightclub. Oh dear! 

Chae-kyung and Shi-On friendship is sincere. Shi-On even revealed that he has a crushed on 'someone'! We know who is that person. Both of them is rather cute in their interaction. 

Please view this link at Dramabeans for a drama recap: Episode 12

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Hits and Misses at MNET Asia Music Awards (MAMA)

Mnet Asia Music Awards (also more known as MAMA for short) is the biggest music event for Kpop fans around the world, especially in South-East Asia. This year MAMA was held in Hong Kong. With the big names (and the not so big names) such as Big Bang, EXO, Lee Seung Gi, Lee Seung Cheol, Girls Generation, Lee Hyo Ri, 2NE1, Infiniate, A pink and Sistar, it was quite the event.. I am glad to watched the live broadcasting on Channel U and Mnet channel on TV. Check out the happenings at twitter #2013MAMA if you have missed this event.

Kim Jong Kook, Song Ji Hyo

Emcees at the Red Carpet event

EXO

2NE1

Fans were anticipating their favorite artistes to be the winner of the night (and I suspect only, if not not most of, the winners attended). As usual, the stars walked down the red carpet gracefully. The Spartace couple (Kim Jong Kook and Song Ji Hyo - what can I say Kookie!!!) were particularly eye catching in black. As commented by one of the emcees' that night, they looked like Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie (Korean version). Interestingly, both of them said that they have great anticipation for EXO.  After a short interview, they were ushered off to the main venue. The other hightlight of the red carpet was the entrance of popular boy group EXO which consisted of 12 people selected from different countries. They walked in unison and stormed the event with fans screaming at the top of their voices.

 

Best Music Video - G Dragon

With the red carpet having been walked, it was soon time for the event to begin and all the artistes were seated cafe/restuarant style with a table placed in front of them sans the waiters, menus and such.  The stage was nicely decorated and the atmosphere was high. The show began with Lee Seung Gi as the main emcee of the night. I have to admit that I was pleasantly surprised that he is pretty good in English and able to host such a big event.

The (first and) best music video award was presented by our my Spartace couple,  specially invited to present the trophy to none other than... G Dragon! It was a short appearance by the Spartace couple and they were not seen in the event after that. Well, except for Song Ji Hyo who appeared later and looked 'Mong' (blur) when she announced the next performing artiste - Big Bang! 

Trouble Maker

The first performance of the night was Korean duo Trouble Maker - Hyuna and Hyunseung. They lived up to their name, dancing passionately and seductively to the music. Both of them did pretty well to warm up the atmoshpere. Their song item ended with a surprised kiss onstage and the camera immediately zoomed in on Big Bang Seungri astonished expression! The next performance by a new KPop group dance 9 really leave me scratching my head and wonder who are they and are they doing a stunt or dancing? Anyway, they are a relatively unknown group (I think?).

  Aaron Kwok! This guy still has the grooves!

Next, awards were given out to the celebrities in different parts of Asia, with video clips of them saying their thanks and regrets that they could not be there. It was soon followed up by a  performance by one of Hong Kong Heavenly Kings - Aaron Kwok! He heated up the stage as he belted out his hit song with fabulous dance moves and a stage presence which would give his (younger) Korean counterparts a run for their money!

Paris Hilton and G Dragon. I guess Paris is in on the Korean Wave?

Numerous awards were given out during that night and Big Bang's leader, GDragon was clearly the biggest winner of the night with four awards under his belt. He even had a chance to present an award with Paris Hilton?? Lol... I wondered why Paris Hilton was here. Oh, she also wrapped up the night as the last act; DJing and singing her latest song (she sings?)?? Something that I did not heard of! (Sorry to her fans).

Ailee

Ailee, who was recently involved in a photo scandal, won herself the best vocal female performance. Looks like the scandal did not have a negative effect on her career, but helped her to get more votes. Although Shinee won the best dance group performance award, they were unfortunately not able to attend.

 Icona Featuring CL

Crayon Pop - Power Rangers style

 Ylvis - and the wolf said... please.. don't sing... really... I mean it....

2NE1 did a marvelous job as usual and officially announce their comeback in the music scene in 2014. Their 'punk' music direction was polished with style and charisma. Just when I thought that MNet had reached its highest with outstanding performance by the artistes, the next performance by Icona pop featuring 2NE1 CL was a letdown. Their weak stage presence could not be saved even with CL's entrance.

Finally, just when the performance was over and I thought that the show could not get any worse,  the next performance leave me completely 'speechless' (that and the one after it)! The amusing antics singing by comedy comedic duo Ylvis and Crayon Pop is like dumb and dumber.

Just like what iceprinxess said, "It sounds like a children's song that went wrong somewhere along the way! OMG.... Don't you think the fox status in the backdrop looks scary? It could be part of a horror flick where the status comes alive and happily eats everyone alive with an evil gleam in its eyes." She even mentioned that she would rather hear the wolf GROWL (in reference to EXO's Hit Song - Growl)! Ylvis mentioned that they were inspired by Psy therefore, they produced a song - 'What does a wolf say?' At least Psy songs are catchy unlike Ylvis who is just a joke onstage. One that is just a fad for the moment. Anyway, that was the worst performance for me.

Infinite

EXO

 Park Jae Jung and Zhu Jia Jia

Fortunately, the following acts saved me from switching off the TV after a disgusted and distasteful performance. EXO and Infinite saved the day with their slick moves and well choreographed dance steps. They were one of the highlights of the event that night. Next up were Park Jae Jung and Zhu Jia Jia, both winners in their respective countries singing competition (Korea and China respectively). They did well in their performances and their vocal harmonized well for the song - We are Young by Fun, leaving a strong impression.

Big Bang

Lee Seung Gi

Rain.. yup he's back.. Rain is back... but the hair...

Lee Hyo Ri

Big Bang stormed the stage with a amazing performances both individually and as a group. They were at their best during the performance of their hit song - Fantastic Baby. Than it was Korean Superstar Rain (Bi) to rock the stage in his comeback performance (and hint of this new album?) after he completed his national service at the army. He sang his hit songs 'It's raining' and 'Hip song' to the delight of the audience especially the ladies. There was only one issue I had have with him and that is his image and dressing (what happened?). iceprinxess and I were discussing, "So guys wearing leggings under a pair of leather shorts a fashion trend in Korea now?"

Lee Seung Gi who won the best male performance vocal award on the other hand, gave an average performance with the orchestra that night. I do not know is it because of the sound system or he did not have enough vocal warm up. His voice seemed weak and he could not reach the high notes.
 

Stevie Wonder and Hyorin

Stevie Wonder sang a duet with Sistar Hyorin towards the end of the performance and was later joined in by Aaron Kwok. That was a smoothing ending to a party night. Perhaps, time for the 'party animals' to sleep. Anyway, the biggest winner of the night who won the daesung was EXO who received the award for best album. Some of them were overwhelmed by emotion as they gave their thank you speech.

  

Overall, in my opinion, this event was like a roller coaster ride which went up and down with somethings shocking turns and twists that made me want to switch channels. The pacing and the arrangement of the performances and alternation of award giving was "choppy" and a little confusing at times, giving the impression was not well-planned. At certain times, the sound system was bad. I mean, how could you have a technical difficulty when it was THE Stevie Wonder giving his thank you speech, his voice cannot be heard. Even G-Dragon, Taeyang and Seungri who were on stage to present him with the award were a little at a loss (you could see one of their hands offering their mikes to Stevie Wonder).

On a side note: G Dragon would be one of the smartest person to have worn a pair of sunglasses that night, he was nodding his head a couple of times throughout the 3 hour (or so show) as if he was enjoying the performances, but whether he was resting his eyes, only he would know. 

Just like any music award event there are definitely hits as well as misses. The only difference is how many hits and how many misses, and what kinds. We all have different views, so what is yours? Do share with us your thoughts!

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