MBC Culture Festival 23-06-12

Last Saturday was the day of the much anticipated MBC Culture Festival. The concert was scheduled to consist of cultural performances as well as music performances by Norazo, EXO-K and 4minute. 4minute performed in London before at the CUBE United Concert in December so it was great to see them perform here again. 

The tickets for the concert were sold out in less than 3 hours so it was clear that the demand for the concert was high. With 2,500 ecstatic fans waiting patiently outside the venue, we couldn't contain our excitement.

Tamanna and Reshma

Tamanna with her KPop Academy class mates Philipa, Sean & Roxi

Fans waiting in line

Excited fans queueing for the concert

While fans were waiting for the gates to open, the K-Pop Academy performed a flashmob. Can you guys spot Tamanna in the flashmob?

The concert started at 7:30am and it kicked off amazing performances by 4minute. Unfortunately, we were let in a little late so we missed the beginning of their first performance.

4minute performing on stage

4minute - Volume Up

4minute talking to the audience

4minute - Huh

4minute - Mirror Mirror

                                         

There was also traditional performances the a act was a guy performing martial art style moves while spinning a long rope on his head. Aswell as performances from a group of guys playing traditional Korean drums.

The second traditional act was a percussion music as well as Arirang. 

Norazo performed Happy Song, Curry, Best Salesman and Superman. Unfortunately we don't have any fancams of them but we did manage to take a few pictures of them.

A traditional Korean fashion show displaying traditional hanboks worn by royality. The detailing on the outfits was intricate and eye catching. The some of the members of 4minute also took part in the fashion show.

Hyuna, Gayoon and translator

The final act was one which everyone was waiting for EXO-K. There performance was outstanding the dancing was on point and the singing was amazing. For a rookie group they are AMAZINGG!! EXO-K performed 3 songs History, Angel and MAMA.

History

                                                                                                                                                                                                                              

Angel

                                      

EXO-K talking to fans

                                        

MAMA

                                        

MBC Culture Festival closing

                                 

All of the acts gathered on the stage for the closing speech. 

Another successful KPop concert in the UK hopefully there will be many more in the future. 

Let us know what artist and groups you guys want to see in the UK *fingers crossed* they might come soon.

EXO-K, 4minute and Norazo at London Heathrow Airport [21-06-12]

Today was such a surreal day. I saw EXO-K, Norazo and 4minute (again) at London Heathrow airport.

Initially I didn't plan to go to the airport to greet them but after hearing that so many of my friends were going and as K-Pop idols rarely come to the UK, I thought why not. I couldn't have made a better decision.

Fans anxiously waiting for 4minute, Norazo & EXO-K

After having waited for over 3 hours, 4minute finally came out of the terminal. At first I thought EXO were coming out as there was a man walking in front of them whom I thought was Baekhyun but I soon realised it was 4minute. o__O Ditzy moment! Haha. As usual they looked stunning. Having seen 4minute at the airport before and performing at the CUBE United concert in December, I didn't follow them out as I patiently waited for Norazo and EXO-K.

Next were Norazo. I thought I hadn't recorded a fancam of them but it turns out I have one. Jobin was  dressed in bright clothes but Leehyuk's opted for sunglasses and a cap. Nice~.

Last to come out were EXO-K. In all honesty, althought I really like 4minute & Norazo, the main reason I was there was for EXO-K. I think that was the case for most fangirls who were there. When EXO-K the fans were so excited and even the EXO-K members seemed to be at the amount of love they were getting from the fans. They were constantly smiling. Kai's smile just makes me melt.

I'm still hyped about the whole day. Being so close to EXO-K and seeing Norazo and 4minute was amazing!

I can't wait till the MBC Cultural Festival on Saturday! Only 2 days left, eek! We'll definitely keep you guys updated.  ^^

All Age K-Pop Party [13th August]

If you love K-Pop and want to party all that exam stress away, then the All Age K-Pop Party in London on the 13th August is perfect for you!

With the K-Pop fan base growing bigger and stronger, the All Age K-Pop Party, organised by Team Invasion, is a great opportunity to dance to your favourite K-Pop songs and meet other K-Pop fans. When you're taking a break from dancing like a K-Pop idol on the dance floor, you can even check out the amazing K-Pop merchandise stall. The last party was extremely successful and enjoyable so be sure not to miss it.

Date: 13th August
Time: 6pm to 11.30pm
Venue: Raduno venue, 85 Charterhose Street, London, EC1M 6MJ (near Barbican and Farringdon tube station)
Price: £5 if you buy tickets at the door but £4 if you buy them online

To find out more information visit the official FaceBook page by clicking here.
Also, you can purchase tickets online by clicking here.

MBC Culture Festival [SOLD OUT]

The MBC Cultural Festival tickets have officially sold out! The tickets went on sale at 9am and after initial technical problems, the tickets sold like hot cakes with people desperately trying to buy ticket. It is clear that the K-Pop fandom in the UK is huge!

Luckily, SistersWithSeoul were able to get tickets in Block D so we'll be filling you in on what happens at the concert and uploading our fancams after the event.

If you still haven't got a ticket, a FaceBook page that has opened for those who want to sell or buy spare tickets. You can visit the page by clicking here.

MBC Culture Festival [UPDATE]

Although my K-Pop fans were waiting anxiously to purchase tickets for the MBC Culture Festival, it appears ticket release has been pushed forward and they will now be on sale on Monday 11th June at 10am.

Rumours have been flying around that they may be adding more acts to the list. *Fingers crossed* But nothing has been confirmed as of yet.

We'll update you when we find out more information.

Remember, ticket will now be on sale on Monday at 10am. You can purchase tickets on TicketMaster or Gigs&Tours.

MBC Culture Festival [23rd June 2012]

I've finally calmed down after hearing about the MBC Culture Festival for K-Pop and Cultural Performances in London. The concert is scheduled to be held in the O2 Indigo in London on the 23rd June at 7pm. From what we hear, the groups that are said to be coming are EXO, 4Minute and Norazo.

SM Entertainment's newest group EXO

4minute

The amazing Korean duo, Norazo

Tickets will be on sale on the 8th June 2012 from 10am. You can purchase tickets here.

Be sure to wake up bright and early for a chance to grab a pair of tickets.

All Eyes On Korea [1st June - 9th September 2012]

All Eyes On Korea has officially began. With so many exciting events from Korean art to Korean culture, there is something to suit everyone at All Eyes On Korea.

Here is an overview of all the events so far:

If there's anything that tickles your fancy, you can purchase tickets here.

We'll definitely be attending most of these events, so see you guys there~! ^^

Jeong Wa Choi [Korean Artist]

This Wednesday, several volunteers, including myself, helped blow up balloons for Jeong Wa Choi's brilliant instillation 'Life Life'.

Jeong Wa Choi gazing at his work of art 'Life Life'
Source: KCCUK

Jeong Wa Choi (최정화) is a famous Korean artists who has created amazing architecture and interior all over the world from Korea to Australia and now in London. But it isn't the first time he has come to London to showcase his art. His first project in London was way back in 2004 where he made the Happy Happy Project.

I was lucky enough to help him with his latest installation 'Life Life', a tree with an array brightly coloured balloons hanging on a tree between the South Bank Centre and Queen Elizabeth Hall.

Source: KCCUK

There are several volunteers on hand to blow up the balloons, some who even started from 9am, showing their commitment to the project and appreciation for Jeong Wa Choi's art. Luckily we didn't have to blow them up manually as there were pumps to help making things a lot easier. All the volunteers hard work paid off as the finished product looked fantastic.

Source: KCCUK

The Life Life tree
Source KCCUK

After the event, the volunteers has time to unwind and relax. Me and some of my fellow K-Pop Academy classmates, had the privilege of speaking to Mr Choi about his artwork. When asked about where he got his inspiration for 'Life Life', he replied 'in your heart' showing his art is in the eye of the beholder and depends on the viewers perception.

Source: KCCUK

Source: KCCUK

 All in all, I had a great time helping at the event and I'm sure there will be more events like this in the future.

If you want to find out more about the spectacular pieces of art Mr Choice has made all over the world, click here.

K-Pop Academy [Week 12] Gradutation Ceremony

This Saturday it was the K-Pop Academy graduation ceremony. Boohoo~. Can't believe it's going to be over even though it feels like just yesterday that it started. But as usual, the Korean Cultural Centre (KCC) prepared a wonderful ceremony for us.

Pictures of the students

To start the ceremony, Ambassador Choo said a few words about how successful he felt the K-Pop Academy scheme had been in helping us get a better understanding of Korean culture. His speech was followed by the KA students singing the KA song which was composed by my fellow classmate Katerina, a talented singer and composer.

K-Pop Academy students singing the KA song

A group of student performed a hilarious skit of what would happen if there was a K-Pop Academy reunion in 40 years. Pictures of popular idol groups were ingeniously edited and some of the funniest groups were 'Girls Generation' which was changed to 'Granny Generation' and '2NE1' was changed to '6NE1'.

Students performing their skit
Source: KCC

After this we each gave a little speech about our experience at the K-Pop Academy and how our views of Korea have changed as a result of our involvement in the K-Pop Academy. From my own personal experience I said how I felt that before the K-Pop Academy I thought I well-rounded understanding of Korean culture, but I realised how little I knew about the history and traditional aspects. It was great hearing what others thought and how we all had the same view.

Giving a speech about my experience

After a short break, guest speakers gave their thoughts on how successful they felt the scheme was. It was amazing hearing the positive feedback the guests said.

Brigadier Brian Parrit talking about how great he felt the K-Pop Academy was

Then it was time for our certificates to be given out. I was presented with the 'Best Director Award' which I found pretty funny. There'll be no reason for my to make dorky YouTube videos anymore. *Sigh* Haha.

Ambassador Choo and Directon Won presenting me with my award

The Director then announced the winner of the best performing student: Amy Moorfield. Congratulation Amy~! =)

As if the day wasn't filled with enough surprises and activities, it was revealed that Big Bang has a video message for us! Oh my gosh~! BIG BANG!!

After a long day, the KCC provided us with a wonderful buffet~. Definitely a great way to end the day.

Source: KCCUK

Source: KCCUK

Although we made a video showing our appreciation for all the time and effort the KCC took into organising everything for the K-Pop Academy, we felt that it wasn't enough so we brought a cake with 'Thank You KCC' written on it.

Students giving the cake to Directon Won

Overall it was a brilliant day~! I can honestly say I've enjoyed every minute of the K-Pop Academy and  I can't express my gratitude to the KCC for giving us a once in a lifetime opportunity.

Thank youuuuuuuuuu~!

K-Pop Academy [Week 11 - Homework]

Seeing as we visited the British Museum this week, our homework was based about the National Treasures of Korea. There are so many beautiful historical sites I would love to visit in Korea but I focused on Korea's intangible heritage of humanity instead.

During my visit to Korea, I saw a spectacular Taekwondo performance. From then onwards I have been in awe with Korean martial arts which is why for this weeks homework I chose to do a promotional video for Taekkyeon (택견), a form of traditional Korean martial arts. 

Here is a video of Taekkyeon:

I tried to the mimic the style of the Infinity Chanllenge's Bibimbap promotional video too:

Although I attempted to imitate various moves from videos of Taekkyeon, I added my own moves which is why I called it 'Tam-kwondo'. Check out my video below:

Mandatory Homework

In addition to the video, this week we also had another piece of homework. We visited the British Museum for this weeks class and were told there were some errors in some of the description in the Korean room.

After class, a group of us K-Pop Academy students visited the Korean room again searching like crazy for the errors. We even attempted to speak Korean to Korean visitors to ask if they had realised any errors and they attempted to help us but had no luck too.

Therefore I decided to us my best friend Google. =)

It turns out that the birthplace of the Buddha was incorrectly noted to be in India, however, the British Museum have now corrected this information.

An iron statue of a Buddha in Korean room in the British Museum
Source: KCCUK

So how could the Korean room in the British Museum improve to promote Korea's cultural heritage more effectively?

1. More about Korean traditional music

Having learnt about how Korean music has evolved, it would have been nice to see artefacts of the early instruments used in Korea. The techniques used to make the instuments in the past and now may differ a lot. Therefore it would have been great if there was more information about traditional Korean music now that Korean music, especially K-Pop, is becoming more popular.

2. More about Korean art

Although there were numerous traditional Korean ceramics in the museum, personally I would have liked to see more traditional paintings and drawings. I am aware that there are some marvellous Korean folk paintings, such as the ones below, so I would have loved to see more in the Korean room.

Painting of Taekwondo

3. More about the Korean language

Having gained a better understanding of the birth of the Korean writing system, Hanguel, through the K-Pop Academy, it would be truly amazing if there were pieces of early documents written in Hanguel.

Overall, although there were many beautiful artefacts in the Korean room, in my opinions the room would better promote Korean culture if it provided more information on traditional Korean music, art and Hanguel.

K-Pop Academy [Week 11]

This week us K-Pop Academy students took a field trip to the British Museum. Exciting~.. I've only visited the museum once even though it's so close to my university, so it was lovely going with the KA class.

First we were taken around the Korean room in the museum. The room was filled with beautiful artifacts and sculptures. We were kindly shown around the room and given information about the various artifacts.

Source: KCCUK

Not only did we see fascinating artifacts but we gained a better understanding of the Korean history: from understanding how Buddhism became more popular in Korea to the armour worn by solders in Korea.

Korean pottery was just amazing. They had a slight wonky-ness to them which showed that the pots had their own 'personality'. Rather than being perfectly designed, the imperfect nature of the vase made them unique.

Almost, one of the most spectacular pieces in the room was the Sarangbang (사랑방), typically used as a scholar's work room in the past. At first I thought SarangBang meant 'Love Room' *awkward* so I was surprised to hear about the actually use of this house. Scholars would often sit outside the room and greet guests while the women in the family would stay indoors.

Sarangbang

KA students with the exhibitor in front of the Sarangbang
Source: KCCUK

 After having a look around the Korean room, we had a quick look at the Samsung room. I had no idea there was a Samsung room in the British Museum so it was great to know that the Korean brand had grown so much

 Then we carried out group tasks. One of them was to see who could complete a jigsaw with the Korean map the fastest. Then we had to draw a campaign poster of a Korean historical building or activity. My group designed a poster about Taekkeyon, a traditional form of martial art.

My groups poster about Taekkeyon

 Overall, it was a lot of fun learning more about the Korean history through the artifacts. I'll definitely be visiting the Korean room more often to see the new pieces~..
To find out more about the Korea room in the British Museum click here or even better, visit it yourself if you get the chance. ^^

KA in front of the British Museum
Source: KCCUK

Check out the video of this weeks class:

Our next class will be the K-Pop Academy graduation ceremony. Oh my goodness, I can't believe  all these weeks have passed by so fast~.. I don't want it to end! T___T


-Tamanna