[News] Kim Hyun Joong Releases 1st Mini Album Break Down

on June 7, 2011 at 10:21 am

A week ago, Kim Hyun Joong released the audio track to his song, “Please“, which he then followed up by releasing a music video for the same track. Then yesterday he released the music video for the title track, “Break Down“, and now the audio for the entire mini album has been unveiled!



Check out all five tracks below!

(Intro) Let Me Go

Break Down

Please

Kiss Kiss

Yes I Will

[News] Kim Hyun Joong talks about the pressures of going solo

 on June 7, 2011 at 12:00 pm

 SS501’s Kim Hyun Joong recently talked about some of the pressures of being a solo artist.

Kim Hyun Joong held a press conference at the Jang Choong Gymnasium on June 7th about the release of his new solo mini-album “Break Down“.

Kim Hyun Joong stated at the press conference, ”I wanted to show my masculine side through this solo album“, and he continued, “I don’t think I’m ‘macho’ yet. I wanted to show as much as I could of my transition from a boy into becoming a grown man”.

He went on, “There were many performance songs with SS501 as well, but I feel that we lacked something in showmanship. Through this solo album, I believe I’ve become much stronger in the aspect of performance. I really wanted to show my maturity as a man”.

Kim Hyun Joong has worked in many areas including acting, but it has been a while since he has come to the public with an album. On top of that, he feels much pressure since it’s his first attempt at a solo album away from SS501.

Kim Hyun Joong revealed, “I had a lot of pressure before going on as a solo artist. I’m the fourth member of the group to come out as a solo artist, but I realized that it’s not easy with just the title of SS501 in my background. I realized I need to try even harder”.

He continued, “I worked harder to make better music to move away from the shadow of SS501″, he added to this by saying, “The jacket design, choreography, and even the puppy in the music video was set by me. The staff I worked with took and shaped my ideas very well”.

Kim Hyun Joong recently moved his contract to KeyEast, an entertainment agency lead by Bae Yong Joon. “Yong Joon (hyung) showed me many music clips, and he also offered to take pictures for my album jacket as he has a talent in photography but it was canceled due to his trip to Busan”, Kim Hyun Joong stated. He continued saying, “Yong Joon doesn’t seem to have a dream as a musician, but I think he studies a lot in music production as he is the head of the agency”, and “Yong Joon gave me a lot of detailed advice after watching dance videos”. The new album kicks off with the intro song “Let Me Go” which captures listeners with a powerful pipe-organ sound and contains a total of 6 songs that all carry different, but powerful attractions. The title song “Break Down” is a dynamic song with powerful electronic brass and synthesizers in the background, creating the feel of an urban south dance song. “Break Down” is focused on creating the right atmosphere for Kim Hyun Joong’s intense performance. Kim Hyun Joong’s debut album “Break Down” was released officially in Korea just hours ago, on June 8th.

[News] Kim Hyun Joong releases second set of album jacket photos for “Break Down”

on June 5, 2011 at 12:42 am

In addition to the first set of album jacket photos SS501′s Kim Hyun Joong revealed last week, he’s returned today with a brand new set!

In contrast to the darker image he portrayed in the first set, he’s looking as sleek as ever in various suits that show off an air of sophistication.

Netizens wrote, “Charismatic Kim Hyun Joong!”, “Is his album a photobook?! So much eye candy”, and“An amazing combination of luxuriousness and sexiness.”

His upcoming album has been revealed to be the work of producer Steven Lee, who made visits to Korea over the course of a year to finalize with Kim Hyun Joong.

“Break Down” will be released on June 8th all over Asia, so stay tuned for its release!

[News] Kim Hyun Joong Releases Break Down Album Jacket Photos

on June 2, 2011 at 2:01 am

After releasing his music video for “Please” yesterday, SS501′s Kim Hyun Joong followed up with some album jacket photos for his first solo album, “Break Down“!

The singer/actor is known for his smooth look, but his image for “Please” is very powerful and masculine, leavings fans in a state of curiosity over what his performance style would be like.

His mini-album contains a total of six tracks, including an intro titled “Let Me Go“, and of course, his R&B dance track,”Please”. The title track, “Break Down”, is also the work of Ken Lewis, who has experience working with Eminem, Kanye West, and Usher. It’s described to have electric brass sounds with a synthesizer that elevates it into a dynamic, urban house-style track.

[News] Kim Hyun Joong "Please"

allkpop reported recently that SS501’s Kim Hyun Joong released a music video teaser of his title track, “Please“, from his new comeback album. On May 30th, he revealed the full audio version of the song.

“Please” has a nice R&B flavor to it, with a strong beat and beautiful piano melody. This song will be the title track off his mini-album, “Break Down“. The music video will be released on May 31st

[Info] Pre-orders for Hyun Joong 1st Mini Album Break Down has Achieved 70,000

Pre orders for Kim Hyun Joong's first mini album "Break Down" has reached 70,000 in 10 days while the teaser for his “Running Man” episode has also been released.

Running man teaser video:

[News] Kim Hyun Joong to Release his 1st Mini Album Simultaneously Across Asia

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on May 26, 2011 at 12:58 am

 SS501’s leader, Kim Hyun Joong, will soon be releasing his first ever mini-album simultaneously across Asia.

On May 26th, KeyEast Entertainment stated, “Kim Hyun Joong’s first mini-album ‘Break Down‘, will be released in Korea, China, Japan, Taiwan, Hong Kong, Thailand and Singapore, all at the same time. We chose to release it simultaneously in Asia because of his international fans.”

The mini-album’s title track is called, ‘Break Down‘, and the remaining tracks have been listed as ’Intro (Let Me Go)‘, ‘Please‘, ‘Kiss Kiss‘, and ‘Yes I Will‘.

Kim Hyun Joong himself visited the U.S. to prepare for the album, and the music video took 200 million won to film.

The star will start his promotions with a showcase on June 7th, which will host around 4,000 fans.

‘Break Down’ began its pre-orders through an off-line store on May 20th and the album is set to be released on June 8th.

[News] Kim Hyun Joong becomes a college student

on May 25, 2011 at 9:24 pm

 It’s just been revealed that SS501’s Kim Hyun Joong enrolled in a college earlier this year.

In March, the idol-turned-actor was accepted into Chungwoon University as a stage production business major. Fans were surprised by this new info, since Kim Hyun Joong previously dropped out of high school to fulfill his dreams as a musician. After putting his education on hold, he decided to enroll in the university as part of the class of 2011.

On May 26th, a representative for his agency stated, “Kim Hyun Joong became a late college student earlier this year and is juggling both his education and music production. He is working hard to have his comeback as a singer as well, in addition to continuing his studies as a student.”

Kim Hyun Joong is scheduled to have his singing comeback in June, and is holding a showcase on June 7th.

[News] Heo Young Saeng designs his own smartphone case

  on May 23, 2011 at 1:41 am

SS501’s lead vocalist Heo Young Saeng has designed his very own smartphone case! An agency of his representative revealed, “In addition to his first solo mini-album, we worked hard to ensure that his first product was also of the same top quality by making it a soft durable case.” The case was designed personally by the star himself and is unfortunately a limited edition item. Not only is it a fun promotional tool for the company, but it’s also a memorable present for fans who hope to have a part of him in their daily life. Fans can check out Heo Young Saeng’s special case through his official homepage.

[News] Kim Hyun Joong releases 'Behind The Scenes' rehearsal photos of his “Break Down” comeback

on May 22, 2011 at 9:36 pm

While preparing for his highly-anticipated comeback, SS501’s Kim Hyun Joong gave his patient fans a treat by unveiling some BTS photos from his practice room.
The photos are from his rehearsal for his “Break Down” stage, and fans on various community boards left enthusiastic messages of support for the star.
KeyEast commented, “Kim is literally counting down the days until he’s able to meet with his fans on stage, and is focused entirely on his singing and choreography practice. He’s determined to do his best until the very end so that the album can be considered a present to all those who have waited.”
Kim Hyun Joong will be holding a debut showcase at a venue which seats a 4,000 member audience on June 7th.

[News] Park Jung Min reveals Japanese version of “Like Tears Are Falling…” music video!

on May 13, 2011 at 8:47 am 

Park Jung Min of the group SS501 recently released his Japanese music video for “Like Tears Are Falling…” on his official YouTube channel!

It’s mostly a behind-the-scenes look at the recording of the track, which gives fans a rare look at the singer. 

[News] Park Jung Min models for “JN NEOTERIC”

 on May 11, 2011 at 2:13 am

SS501’s Park Jung Min is the latest spokesmodel for make-up brand, ‘JN NEOTERIC‘.

Representatives commented on the singer who had his first shoot on the 3rd, “The concept for our brand emphasizes healthy and beautiful skin. Since we are advancing into Asia this year, we felt that we couldn’t find a better fit than Park Jung Min. Not only does he have the image we were looking for, but he also posses the talent and experience of working all over Asia as well.”

Since Park Jung Min has a passionate interest in make-up brands, he’s coming up with ways of sharing skincare tips as the brand’s model and will also take part in designing the product bottles and containers.

[News] Kim Hyun Joong answers interview questions from kids

 on May 11, 2011 at 4:22 am

 SS501’s Kim Hyun Joong recently took part in a unique interview with “Dispatch“, where he was asked a series of questions asked by kids. The star’s 4-D personality definitely shone through in this amusing set, so check it out below!

Q. Ham Tae Hwan (7) “I don’t like it when people call me pretty. Hyung, how do you feel when people call you pretty?”

KHJ: “So you don’t like it when people call you pretty. I hear that often, and I think you’ll find that you’ll like hearing it as you grow up. It’s better to be called pretty than ugly, right?”

Q. Chun Ah Young (7) “Hyun Joong oppa, why do you only act? Do you not sing lately?”

KHJ: “I’ve only done two projects in my acting career so far. I’ll be making a singing comeback in June. I’ll be sure to show the singing side to my career so you don’t have to ask next time, ‘Why do you only sing? Do you not act?’ I’ll go back and do my best.”

Q. Yoon Tae Joon (8) “Hyung, it’s so hard for me to memorize the times table. What do you think is the best way to memorize it?”
KHJ: “When I was younger, my mom put on a song that went like this. ‘Two and one is two, two and two is four…’ Download the song and listen to it in your mp3 player, I’m sure it will help.”

Q. Yoon Jae Yeon (11) “I want to dye my hair but my mom won’t let me. Oppa, when did you first dye your hair?”

KHJ: “I did try dying my hair when I was younger… And although 26 years old is still young, I’m a bit embarrassed dying my hair at this age. It’s unfortunate if your mother is against it, but I think dying your hair when you’re young is an experience worth having.”

Q. “I like Park Ji Sung. Which soccer player do you like the best?”
KHJ: “You must dream of becoming a soccer player. I’m a Korean man, so I also like Park Ji Sung. Let’s like soccer together forever, okay?”

[News] Heo Young Saeng almost killed Kim Hyun Joong?!

on May 11, 2011 at 5:29 am 

SS501′s Heo Young Saeng, who released a teaser for his solo debut last week, revealed that he almost killed fellow SS501 member Kim Hyun Joong by accident.

During a recent recording of KBS 2TV’s “Happy Together 3“, Heo Young Saeng confessed, “I almost killed Kim Hyun Joong by accidentally starting a fire”

He explained,

“One night, Kim Hyun Joong and I were drinking at our house. We often light candles at our place and so that day, without fail, we drank after lighting candles.

While we were doing so, an acquaintance called and asked me to come out for a bit. I ended up leaving Kim Hyun Joong who was sleeping to go out. As I was meeting with my acquantainces, I was shocked when I got a call saying that there had been a fire in our house.

I rushed home and saw that 9-1-1 had already come and it was a big mess. I was so worried about Kim Hyun Joong, who was sleeping inside the house, so I quickly went inside to find that Kim Hyun Joong was still sleeping, even though there had been a fire. He was safe, and the house didn’t get damaged that much either.

I was so sorry to Kim Hyun Joong who almost died because of me, but Kim Hyun Joong laughed as he said, ‘Well, you have a story to tell on broadcast now’.“

This broadcast of “Happy Together 3″ will air on May 12th.

[News] Heo Young Saeng releases BTS photos from “Let It Go” MV set

  

on May 9, 2011 at 12:16 am

 SS501’s Heo Young Saeng released some behind-the-scenes photos from the set of his “Let It Go” music video.

Earlier, the singer unveiled a teaser video through B2M’s official YouTube channel, which has been receiving widespread attention in not only Korea, but France, Egypt, and the Czech Republic as well. 

The photos revealed today are from a set in Namyangju, and reportedly, its production costs were worth approximately $100,000 USD.

Heo Young Saeng will be releasing his solo album and music video on May 12th, which will be followed by his ”Music Bank” comeback stage on the 13th.

[News] Kim Hyun Joong has his homepage hacked

  

on May 8, 2011 at 6:04 am

SS501’s Kim Hyun Joong, who recently opened fanclub membership for his new solo fanclub, “Henecia“, reported that his official homepage was recently hacked. Cyber investigations have begun, and KeyEast has asked fans to refrain from submitting membership applications for the time being.

The hacker changed the notification post so that fans were now required to pay a $35 USD membership fee, and even went as far as to change the bank accounts associated with it.

Another false post was made, informing fans that they would receive a special fan-meet opportunity with the star in Jeju Island for an extra fee of $100 USD. An additional $800 USD fee was asked for those wanting a 1:1 dinner meal opportunity.

Representatives of KeyEast stated, “The official homepage was recently hacked. We would like to inform fans that the account listed in the notification is not KeyEast’s account, and that the Jeju Island fan-meeting is also false and has nothing to do with KeyEast. We will be halting all membership applications for Henecia for the time being.”

They continued, “The case has been turned over to cyber investigations. We would like to apologize for raising concerns.”
The homepage has currently blocked all visitors.

[News] Kim Hyun Joong and Jung So Min attend an event for “Playful Kiss” in Japan

 on May 5, 2011 at 4:28 am 

Actors Kim Hyun Joong and Jung So Min recently met with their Japanese fans at an event commemorating the broadcast of “Playful Kiss” in Japan.

On May 3rd, the actors met with about 6,000 fans in two different events held at Osaka’s Grand Cube Hall. Tickets for the two events sold out on the first day the tickets became available, and it’s largely being attributed to Kim Hyun Joong’s popularity.

The idol-turned-actor spoke candidly at the event, saying, “I was very worried about my fans after hearing the news about the earthquake in March. I was very disappointed that I couldn’t come in March, but I’m happy I get to see you all before the drama starts its broadcast.”

The two shared some behind-the-scenes stories from set, and showed their affection for their characters. Kim Hyun Joong also sang ‘Thanks‘ and ‘One More Time‘ at the event, giving his personal fans an extra treat at the event.

[News] Kim Hyun Joong participates in a marathon supporting childhood cancer

May 2, 2011 at 1:30 am

On May 1st, SS501’s Kim Hyun Joong joined about 150 people in a Seoul city marathon competition at the Han River Park in support of children affected by cancer.

This was the 8th marathon co-hosted by the Running Doctors of Korea corporation and the Korean Marathon Association.

At the event, Kim Hyun Joong helped out in the ceremonial handover by presenting $23,000 USD in donations collected by employees of an anonymous company to the two organizations.asdf

The proceeds from this competition will go to the aid of children suffering from cancer.

[News] Kim Hyung Jun & Kim Kibum celebrate their mother’s birthday

 on April 29, 2011 at 1:03 am

 On April 28th, SS501’s Kim Hyung Jun shared a family photo of himself with younger brother Ki Bumas they celebrate their mother’s birthday.

He tweeted, “My mother, the woman I love and respect, and someone who deserves more than a lifetime’s worth of filial acts.  Today is the day you receive blessings.  Happy birthday.  Please always be healthy, and by my side, I’ll always make you happy.  I love you.”

Fans commented, “Your mother is so beautiful,” “Such handsome brothers”, and “She must be so happy.”

[News] Heo Young Saeng records “Running Man” in a cast

  

on April 27, 2011 at 8:10 am 

On April 25th, SS501’s Heo Young Saeng attended the recording for an upcoming episode of SBS’s “Running Man“.

As previously reported, plans for his solo album release were pushed back after Heo Young Saeng sustained a hand injury during a choreography rehearsal. Unfortunately, he was not able to push back his other pre-scheduled activities, and so he showed up at the recording in a cast.

B2M Entertainment stated, “His doctors told us to restrict physical activity until his hand heals, but he was determined to keep his promise with the producers. The producers thought highly of his determination and sincerity with his work.”

His castmates had no idea that Young Saeng would be showing up in a cast and expressed their surprise over the unfortunate situation; as for Young Saeng himself, he tried his best to hide his cast.

His “Running Man” episode will air on May 8th.

[News] Kim Kyu Jong volunteer work with the Heart to Heart Organization

on April 26, 2011 at 5:45 pm

 SS501 member Kim Kyu Jong is the new face of ‘Heart to Heart Organization‘ in Korea.

Last winter, Kim Kyu Jong had worked as a surprise volunteer at an animal shelter with Lee Hyori and co-member Heo Young Saeng. This time, it’s been revealed that Kyu Jong agreed to promote the organization to return some of the love that he received from the fans.

Kim Kyu Jong has recently been cast as the crowned prince in the musical ‘Goong,’ and is busy with rehearsals along with helping out with Heo Young Saeng’s solo debut album.

“I didn’t want to do it before because I was embarrassed about people recognizing me,” said Kim Kyu Jong about volunteering. Now, however, he said he would like his fans to volunteer as well. “I am glad to be part of Heart Heart Organization and I will do my best to share the love.”

Kim Kyu Jong plans to participate in a ‘Warm Dinner’ campaign that cooks dinner to undernourished children. He will also perform with the Heart Heart Orchestra, the nation’s first ADHD youth and will work with sponsors to help countries in need.

[News] Kim Hyung Jun begs JYP for songs?

on April 21, 2011 at 4:00 pm

SS501’s Kim Hyung Jun earned the nickname of ‘Song beggar’ after earnestly asking J.Y. Park (JYP)for a song.

During the broadcast of MBC “Radio Star”, that aired on April 20th, Kim Hyung Jun revealed, “Every time I go on a broadcast, I always state that I like J.Y. Park. However, I never got a call from him. I even asked for a song through his manager but it seems J.Y. Park only did it with UV.“

About the music video, “Itaewon Freedom” that  J.Y. Park appeared in, Kim Hyung Jun stated, “Truthfully, I was mad after I saw that music video. I didn’t receive any songs, but I don’t know why he was featured in UV’s song.”

Through a video message, Kim Hyung Jun pleaded, “Humanely, please just give me one song!” After watching this, MC Kim Hee Chul jokingly stated that Kim Hyung Jun looked like “a new type of song beggar”.

After watching this broadcast, netizens commented, “Kim Hyung Jun is so cute. Now, his nickname is ‘the new song beggar’.” “J.Y. Park! Give him a song please~” “I think Kim Hyung Jun will finally be able to receive a song now”.

[News] Heo Young Saeng postpones solo debut due to an injury

on April 20, 2011 at 8:51 am

SS501′s Heo Young Saeng was originally scheduled to make his solo debut on April 28th, but plans have been pushed back after he sustained an injury during rehearsals.

B2M Entertainment reported, “Heo Young Saeng was practicing his choreography in the training room on the night of the 19th. He injured the back of his hand and was immediately rushed to the hospital. Test results showed that his hand has a ruptured ligament (desmorrhexis) and a fracture that will take five weeks to heal. He’s currently hospitalized and is awaiting further results.”

Due to the sudden injury, all of the schedules for his solo promotions have been postponed.

His representative added, “Mentally, Heo Young Saeng is extremely upset over the fact that he must push back on his promise with his fans. He’s determined to push forward with a cast if it’s possible, so we’ll be discussing release dates as soon as he is discharged.”

[News] Kim Hyung Joon shows off his language skills

 on April 13, 2011 at 8:33 pm

On April 13th, SS501′s Kim Hyung Joon guested on MBC’s “Radio Star” and participated in a ‘blank sheet’ special with ZE:A’s Kwanghee and Kim Jong Min. The nickname ‘blank sheet’ is normally associated with SECRET’s Sunhwa, and it’s used to express a person who’s clueless or dumb. For this special, the three were tested on their Chinese character skills, and were asked to write their names in ‘Hanja’. Kim Hyung Joon was unfortunately the only one to get it wrong and excused himself by exclaiming, “It’s because I used to live in Australia.” When asked how long he lived there, he hilariously replied, “Two years.” The men were also tested on their English skills, which Kim Hyung Joon expressed his confidence with. When asked to write ‘Boys Be Ambitious’, Kim Hyung Joon mistakenly wrote ‘voice’ for ‘boys’ and switched out the ‘a’ in ‘ambitious’ with an ‘e’. He once again joked by giving the excuse, “The pronunciation was a bit weird.” Unfortunately, the MCs saw right through his excuse and amused themselves by teasing him endlessly.

[News] Kim Kyu Jong to participate for the musical “GOONG” in Japan

on April 13, 2011 at 11:22 am

 Previously reported that SS501’s Kim Kyu Jong would participate as the role of ‘Lee Shin (Prince Shin)’ in the musical “GOONG” which will be staged in Japan and now more information has arisen.

The musical premiered last year in Korea and TVXQ’s Yunho was cast as the leading role of Prince Shin. The musical was a hot topic because the attendance figures showed that more than 60% of the audience were foreigners with the Japanese making up the largest portion.

On Kim Kyu Jong’s role, the production company stated, “Kim Kyu Jong has already shown off his impressive vocal and dance talent while working with SS501. With his handsome looks, he’s distinguished himself in a variety of fields. We’re looking forward to working with him, as he is determined and passionate about his role.”

GOONG will be performed from June 11th, 2011 to July 1st, 2011 at the Minamiza Kabuki Theater in Kyoto. Ticket sales will begin on April 14th.

[News] Kim Kyu Jong reminisces over SS501’s debut days + confirmed for ‘Goong’ musical

 on April 12, 2011 at 2:11 am

On April 11th, SS501′s Kim Kyu Jong took a trip down memory lane with his fans by sharing photos of him and his fellow members from the time of their promotions together. He excitedly wrote, “2005!!! Time flies so fast!! Wooooow hehe. It’s spring~!! Hooray!!!! Let’s all laugh and find strengthhhhh.” The pictures he shared ranged from comical shots, to profile shots, and even a heartwarming shot of the group at the beach, all holding hands. Previously, Kyu Jong had expressed his longing for his bandmates by bringing up their debut year. On April 1st, he tweeted, “2005. It’s already 2011.” Fans commented, “I really miss those times”, “I want to see SS501 as five again on stage”, and “Kyu Jong is the last one to announce any promotion plans, so it feels good seeing that he’s doing well.” After his fan-meeting with Heo Young Saeng last December, Kyu Jong took a brief break before recently gearing up for the role of ‘Lee Shin’ in the musical “Goong” which will be staged in Japan. The production company stated, “Kim Kyu Jong has already shown off his impressive vocal and dance talent while working with SS501. With his handsome looks, he’s distinguished himself in a variety of fields. We’re looking forward to working with him, as he is determined and passionate about his role.”

[News] Park Jung Min reveals pictures from his upcoming photobook

on April 8, 2011 at 11:29 pm

 SS501’s Park Jung Min has revealed some photos from his new photobook, which ranges in concept from sweet to chic.

Eight days after releasing his first mini-album, “The, Park Jung Min“, we’re finally able to see some of the images from the photobook, which is packaged with the physical album.  

For one, both the front and back cover of the photobook have been designed to look as if they are two different album covers, and show the two different concepts of “tears”. One cover (white) shows the tears of a pure-hearted man, while the other cover (dark) shows the tears of a tragic man.

Park Jung Min will be busy the rest of the year, with promotions planned for Taiwan, China, and Japan.

[News] Park Jung Min shares practice video on Facebook

on April 8, 2011 at 3:33 pm

Last week, SS501 member Park Jung Min celebrated his birthday and received many great gifts. Earlier today, he returned the favor to his fans by uploading a video on the Park Jung Min official Facebook page.

The video is of Park Jung Min practicing for his Taiwanese fan party back in February.

In the video, he’s seen learning Taiwanese singer William Wei Li An’s ‘Yes or No’, which he sung for fans at the fan party as a gift.