Amal

Don't have any significant numbers with me, however I've most commonly observed T-ara stated to being amongst the top 3 most popular groups (followed by other statements of top 5 and then various others, some of which they aren't even mentioned haha.)
These are some numbers I came across before from a study conducted by HunanTV this year back in June/July-ish I think (listing only top 3):
T-ara: 36,236,452 votes f(x): 21,742,292 votes 2NE1: 1,280,847 votes Full list: http://www.hunantv.com/v/2013/crqoxtt/#1
According to Wiki at least (unless a Chinese member here can clarify this), HunanTV is the second most watched channel in China. Now those votes could all just be fandom power but if so that alone is some pretty good fandom power.

I disagree. T-ara is third most popular Korean girl group in Japan. They're still profitable in Japan, unlike many other Korean artists who debuted there. But I wouldn't be surprised if J-Rock decided not to renew the contract (which was a record-breaking 4.3 million when they signed it) due to Hallyu wave dying and T-ara's scandal. When T-ara signed with J-rock they were on the path to becoming the second biggest girl group in Korea (and Asia) after Girls' Generation, but after the scandal they were knocked down to mid-tier.
Still, I think they are profitable in Japan and any agency would be lucky to have them over there. Especially now that their Korean popularity is rising again, and Hyomin was able to headline her own Japanese movie.

T-ara, A Tearful Interview… Instead of explaining, they are reflecting
By Kim Yong Ho


I met with girl group T-ara. The “T-ara Incident” that caused uproar in Korea last year. At the time, after finishing their Japan Buddokan concert, success was right in front of their eyes, but a small argument between the members became a large controversy through SNS. More so than the truth of what happened, the public was more interested and passionate in their witchhunt. There is nothing more saddening than to be misunderstood. The T-ara members had also wanted to defend themselves saying that “This was not what happened in reality.”

Just like that, a year has passed and T-ara met with us reporters. But this time, the interview is not a consoling one. The controversy has to be something they face once more before their wounds can begin to heal. So right from the beginning I asked a powerful question “Why do you think T-ara is being criticised?”



The girls jumped at the question. But it is a question that must be answered. Perhaps it was a question they were mentally prepared for. Member Eunjung carefully replied, “We think that there must be a reason. Although there were some misunderstandings, because we think part of the reason we hear those words is because of us, we have humbly accepted [the criticism].” Hyomin said “Because we disappointed a lot of people who gave us love, we were wrong. That was an irreparable mistake. We can’t pretend it never happened. We have reflected upon our immature actions and think that we can only work hard to [make up for it].” Eunjung said, “We think that not expressing our thoughts at the time was one of the reasons we were criticised so much. We are very regretful for not expressing our thoughts from our hearts well at the time. But now, instead of using words, we think that we should use action to demonstrate [our hearts].” The members expressed their regret.



T-ara used to be one of the most loved girl groups. But now they are harshly receiving hate. A change like that is difficult for young girls to accept. I asked, “Isn’t the reality now very saddening?” But the answer I received was a mature one, “It seems like the sad period has passed and now we are thankful for little things.” Soyeon said “In the past, being nominated for 1st place seemed to be a given. But now, when we hear that we have been nominated for 1st place, we feel so happy we get goosebumps.” Eunjung said, “The way we think has changed. I think we are lucky to have obtained these results from working hard. We hope that we will achieve better results in the future.” Jiyeon said , “It seems like we really learned a lot. We learned to be thankful for little things.” T-ara talked about their thoughts on their comeback. Eunjung, “Achieving a lot of popularity at a young age can make people arrogant and that appearance can be revealed unconsciously. Although it may not be revealed with bad intentions, it seems to have been interpreted as such.” Answers like these, instead of defending themselves, it seems like T-ara has embraced a reflective attitude.

Suddenly, the young girls began to cry. Hyomin and Eunjung were the first to pick up tissues. Soyeon, although saying “I really don’t want to cry”, started to choke up as well. Jiyeon, who usually does not say much and has been misunderstood a lot, her tears also ruined her makeup. The members all expressed their thanks to their fans. “We are so thankful for our fans who have stayed by us even after so many bad things happened. We understand how valuable they are,” they said, revealing their honest thoughts.



T-ara recently released their 8th mini album “AGAIN” and is promoting with double title tracks “No.9” and “I Know the Feeling.” In particular, No.9 has reached 1st place on several charts upon release and was even nominated for 1st in a music programme, achieving popularity. But T-ara is still very humble. With their heads down, they said “Instead of a desire for 1st place, we have been practising overnight with the thought that it would be great if we can receive love. We are thankful for getting response that is better than we thought.”

Looking at T-ara, who expressed, “We were afraid about performing on stage when we knew we wouldn’t receive applause, but for those who have given us applause, we will do the best we can,” I am touched by the way they are struggling to overcome their trauma. I wonder if shedding tears like this will make them feel better. I look forward to T-ara overcoming these trials and becoming a cheerful girl group once again.

Original source http://www.sportsworldi.com/Articles/EntCulture/Article.asp?aid=20131022022822&subctg1=50&subctg2=00&OutUrl=daum
Translated via Chinese trans by TCN: http://www.t-arachina.cn/bbs/thread-67945-1-1.html

[13.10.18] Video HD - T-ara "Number 9" @ Music Bank



http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=S8HmQh4mBoI



credit : 뚜 껑 @youtube

[13.10.11] Hwang Jungeum sends a message to T-ara, "You have suffered a lot, but be happy now"


Hwang Jungeum left a message of support for T-ara.

On the 11th through her blog account, Hwang Jungeum posted, "Pretty T-ara dongsaengs album came out! I can see their maturity. Their hearts suffered a lot, but now, promote happily and prettily." She also included a picture of their new album.

T-ara's image has transformed from their traditional image into a sexy image. They exposed their smooth legs and dark makeup - a sexy charm.

T-ara's mini album "Again" has double title tracks, both which have appeal as emotional songs with compelling lyrics.

Hwang Jungeum is currently in the KBS2 drama "Secret" and her words of support for T-ara have caught attention.
***
Source: http://news.nate.com/view/20131011n14450
Translated by: Nathaniel @ Diadem

There was audible cheering from male and female fans, and no boos could be heard from the videos I've seen. The male groups received much louder cheers, obviously. Even when Crayon Pop performed, the cheers died down a lot compared to U-Kiss or other male groups, but we all know that's how it works in Kpop lol.

There are already fancams up now, and a thread was made not too long ago about their performance at the Hallyu Dream Concert, that happened this past weekend.
I'll let the videos speak for themselves, because there's definitely cheering going on supporting our T-ara.

[13.09.29] Video - Hyomin's Instagram Update



"Coming soon JINX!!! (2013.11.16)"



*****

Credit: robbe881 @ youtube

[13.09.26] T-ara to have comeback stage at Hallyu Dream Concert


Girl group T-ara will comeback with "No. 9" on Sunday, October 6th at the Hallyu Dream Concert before making their broadcast comeback on the 10th.

T-ara's "No. 9" first be revealed at the Hallyu Dream Concert, four days before it's release on the 10th. Their agency believed this would be the best idea despite the givencircumstances that fans could record the audio and leak it out to the public or ruin it for other fans.

In addition, T-ara revealed a new poster today, showing off their mature image in a sorrowful state.

"No. 9" was produced by Shinsadong Tiger and Choi Kyusung and has been described as an "unconventional song" with emotional lyrics. T-ara will stick to what they are known for which is intense dance song with addictive melodies.

T-ara will unleash their teaser for their comeback today through their website at 1:00 PM KST.
***
Source: http://news.nate.com/view/20130926n05742
Translated by: Nathaniel @ Diadem

Cre: ps_BB67 twitter + loveisallthesame + Diadem

[13.07.29] T-ara to release special summer song on August 1st with Davichi and Skull


Girl group T-ara announced a surprise comeback for August 1st with the digital single "Bikini".

T-ara's new song is produced by hitmaker Double Sidekick and will feature the female vocals of Davichi as well as reggae musician and rapper Skull. The combined strength of the musicians will set off a new style and trend of music.

"Bikini" begins with the sound of seagulls and goes in an exciting melody with a distinctive bass part and Skull's rap. The Davichi and T-ara's emphasis on their vocals will create a lively and cheerful song that will make you want to head to the ocean.

At the moment, there are no plans for T-ara to promote "Bikini" through broadcast activities but they will release a music video. Right now, T-ara is busy preparing for their upcoming showcases.

T-ara's agency Core Contents Media said, "T-ara will go on tour in Japan and Hong Kong soon, so they will only release the song online and a music video as well."
***
Source: http://m.media.daum.net/m/entertain/newsview/20130729111504988?newsid=20130729111504988
Translated by: Nathaniel @ Diadem

Cre: T-ara Official Japanese Website + loveisallthesame + diadem

I don't see Dani as part of T-ara for the same reason I don't see Jiae and Jiwon as part of T-ara either. Why? Because they have never debuted as T-ara. Period.
I know you will write an essay why you disagree with me and how "wrong" I am. Don't bother, save your time. I have my opinion on this and you have yours. It's too obvious that we will never agree with each other.

Ok after this whirlwind tour, can I first say 'YAY, 6-ara.' /awkward crickets chirping
*cough* I mean come on I think this is the only good news I can pick out from this article. Though honestly I feel really bad for T-ara now. I mean with all the addition and subtraction of member changes, in the end they end up with the six original members. On one side I feel really happy cause 6-ara was already doing great(in my opinion) but on the other hand I feel that the netizens are gonna pick up on them again, as 'HAR HAR Why keep on adding so many members if you're gonna kick them all out in the end?' Yep, I can totally see that one coming.
However I'm really happy with 6-ara coming back. I just don't know why KKS thought it would be funny to play with them like that? That aside, I'm totally hyped for their comeback now.
As with Dani, is it like they're making her be only a member of T-ara N4? I mean like with Henry and Zhoumi of Super Junior-M? Hmm, that does make sense, seeing that she's the only one who understands English.
Though I would like to say, KKS must always act before he think. I mean after all this it has to be pretty evident. If he gave it deep thought he could have always made good use of 6-ara, made a sub-unit with only Dani, allowed Ahreum a solo career and asked what she wanted to do before pushing her in T-ara.
Also I don't understand how THE SEEYA's Yeonkyung can be allowed to perform as a part of 5DOLLS and still go back to performing in her own group? KKS you're seriously screwed up in so many more ways than one.
Messed up CEO of the Year : Kim Kwang Soo

Yet T-ara debut was as a 6 member group and without Jiae and Jiwon. So yeah I would say originally it was a 6 member group. What was pre debut? Who cares, no debut no group.
Also if it was Areums voluntary decision how come on the same day CCM announced that Dani will be joining N4 (and I bet T-ara as well)? Coincidence? Yeah right.

The 5-member lineup you mentioned never actually debuted. They were trained as 5 member group for few years, but when they finally debuted they were six member group: Eunjung, Jiyeon, Hyomin, Soyeon, Boram and Qri.To me debuted lineup is the one that counts.

[13.07.11] T-ara's Areum Denounces Rumours of Mental Illness on SNS


Areum has come out to say that the rumours surrounding her departure to T-ara being related to an illness is not true.
On July 11th, T-ara's ex-member, Areum posted on her personal Instagram, "You didn't see it from me, nor heard it from me; so [whatever is going around] is not true. Whoever went around to say all these things about me, would you come out and contact me directly and I'll go and buy you a meal. I don't want to end things on bad terms," regarding the rumours going around that she left T-ara due to an illness.
"I'm not going to make any explanations. Let's just keep living our own busy lives and if you don't know what's really going on, you shouldn't meddle in other people's businesses! Promise?," she wrote, "And I'm not going to say this twice, because people can think whatever they want to think. You can't live a dream unless you risk some, and that's the kind of Areum that will rise from all of this. From here on out, please do not bother our CEO and my family from our company".
Earlier today, an article through Billboard Korea had posted that the reason for Areum's departure from the group was because of a mental illness. They have posted that this started to happen after their performance in the United States in May.
Credits: http://www.newsen.com/news_view.php?uid=201307111744561210
Translated by: Elly @ Diadem

Okay Emperor, to satisfy your belief upon KKS, here are videos.
T-ara has already said that they had to eat inside toilet/restroom because KKS didnt let them to eat and it was confessed by them on "T-ara Mnet confession" and even other celebs/idols are saying that. Here is the video of IY and its family. Hyuna asked KKS to feed Hyomin properly.

KKS made T-ara to perform under such cold climate so I dont have any respect for this guy, not even slightest. T-ara's members are basically performing with" Its really cold" expression.

And this is my most heart-breaking video till date. Jungiee was thrown off the horse(Nov 14) and she was taken to Emergency care. I followed her way before being a Queen's and this video plays a big role why she is my ultimate obsession. Even with such injury, she had to perform on Cry Cry and that appearance alone bought me. Had KKS been such a caring CEO like you believe, he would have told Jungiee to rest rather than making her perform. In addition to that, we have Soyeon & Jiyeon performing will major injuries as well. On top of that, Eunjung had to perform with torn ligament. Finally, these days I am getting what the other fellow was trying to say me time and again. Health is first and KKS is the main enemy of T-ara.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Y18AePc4UJg
About T-ara going vacation, if you are talking about their stay in Europe, well that's not a vacation at all. They were here for photo shoot and I dont think I predicted and made assumption on my own when T-ara, themselves said they want vacation on shows like Princess T-ara( Recently Hyomin asked them to give vacation) and there are lots of those from the past. I will state them once I am more sure of the show. In addition to that, on varieties like T-ara's confession and T-ara Star life theater they had clearly stated that they had to be on diet strictly. Soyeon even said that she was only drinking water to maintain her figure. Well, if you wanna believe KKS, your call mate but I will believe T-ara and what they told. Everything I said or stated here is legit and rational as well as truth. I have even stated the name of Shows as well. If you find it lazy to go after all episodes then do let me know, I will post you the particular moment. Btw, I believe you must have came across the post of NB on [spazz] Its over where its basically tell how T-ara is treated by KKS and its not only me who thinks T-ara is over worked and they need some time to relax. Again, glad to have rational discussion with you and my apologies for throwing a wall of text to you and all members.

[13.05.20] T-ara N4 announces plans to enter the US market


On the afternoon of May 20th, T-ara N4 held a press conference about its plans to enter the US market at Seoul Imperial Palace Hotel. Members Eunjung, Hyomin, Jiyeon and Areum attended the press conference and expressed their aspirations for their future in the US.
On the afternoon of May 20th, T-ara N4 held a press conference about its plans to enter the US market at Seoul Imperial Palace Hotel. Members Eunjung, Hyomin, Jiyeon and Areum attended the press conference and expressed their aspirations for their future in the US.
On May 12th, on invitation from well-known American artist Chris Brown, T-ara N4 traveled to the US for 5 days 4 nights. Member Eunjung expressed, "Although we received an invitation from Chris Brown, we still wondered whether we would really meet him. We were very excited. He was very welcoming and treated us well, we are thankful for that. We also discussed music and production plans. There were many good things that we had never even imagined before."
Eunjung added that the following day, T-ara N4 received any invitation from Youtube channel network company “Freestyle,” and the members visited the company about the possibility of a T-ara Channel. Footwear brand “Vlado”, famous among hiphop dancers, also extended an invitation to T-ara N4. “More fans that we had expected came and so we held a fansign for a few hours. Vlado also proposed to make custom shoes with the T-ara N4 logo. Singer Ray J spoke about us on twitter and so we had the chance to meet and discuss music with famous producer team "1500 or Nothin."
The members said "We had a successful meeting through a good opportunity and was able to discuss our plans to enter the US market. After meeting with Chris Brown, we also met with a lot of good opportunities. We are very lucky. We feel a lot of pressure on our shoulders and will work even harder in the future. About our trip to the US, the other members asked us when we will return to Korea and said we still haven't watched Iron Man 3 together."
Hyomin revealed that a remake of "Jeonwon Diary" will be released in 5 versions and the rap parts currently done by SPEED’s Taewoon will be done by Snoop Dogg, Wiz Khalifa, T-Pain, Ray J and Chris Brown. The song is scheduled to be released in June in the US and also worldwide at the same. Eunjung added, "We will sing our parts in Korean, and the rap parts by the other artists will be in English."
Jiyeon also revealed, "We will be leaving for the US on the 25th to perform the opening stage for Chris Brown's solo concert in Las Vegas. We are very nervous but we want to show our good side in our first performance in the US."
Areum added that they are planning to attend the BET Awards with Chris Brown on June 30th. "Although it still feels surreal, we are very happy."
Asked about the backstory to the meeting with Chris Brown, Eunjung said, “There really is no special backstory. T-ara trainee Dani attended Chris Brown's concert, and told him about T-ara and “Jeonwon Diary.” After watching our MV, Chris Brown really liked the song and asked whether he can see us directly. We suddenly went to the US in the midst of our promotions.”
Hyomin, “Many parts actually happened spontaneously. We visitied Chris Brown’s MV set, and we suddenly received an invitation to cameo in his MV. But because our hair and makeup etc had not been prepared, we regretfully couldn’t appear in his MV. Just like this, many things actually happened without plan, and we are also looking forward to see what will happen when we visit Las Vegas this time.”
Eunjung: "Before our debut, we felt that we would already be lucky if we could gain popularity domestically." "Because of the popularity of K-pop, we naturally started our Japan activities like other K-Pop singers. Our US activities also happened like this and started really suddenly. From now on, we will prepare accordingly regarding music and language.”
The Director of CCM's overseas marketing team Lee Jintaek revealed that T-ara N4 has signed a contract with Empire Records (a subsidiary of Universal Recrods) for the re-release of “Jeonwon Diary”.
He said of the good results from T-ara N4's US trip, "T-ara N4 received a lot of attention and love in the US. In particular, they met with Chris Brown and many other producers and received good appraisals from them."
The reporters asked whether this focus on the overseas activities was to avoid the negative response from the public after the Hwayoung controversy last year. About this, Eunjung said "We felt that an opportunity like this is rar, other than our sudden plans to go to the US, our other schedules will still proceed according to plan. Other than T-ara N4, the rest of the members will also be continuing their Japan sub-unit activities. They will be filming for their MV next week in Japan."
Eunjung added that, "We think that what we will demonstrate and show to everyone in the future is the most important. Whether on stage or somewhere else, we will demonstrate our genuine, honest, prudent and good appearance, so please anticipate our future activities and give us a lot of support. K-pop has received a lot of attention, not only from the US but also from other countries, so we feel a sense of responsibility to work hard and carefully in the future.”
Source: http://news.nate.com/view/20130521n17113
***
Translated by: kkyc222 @ tiaradiadem, mostly based translations by TCN.

[13.05.13] T-ara N4's first meeting with Chris Brown.. "All smiles"


Girl group T-ara's unit T-ara N4 and worldwide hip-hop star Chris Brown had their first meeting.

On the 13th, according to Core Contents Media, after arriving to the LA airport on the 12th (local time), Chris Brown's 18 bodyguards escorted T-ara N4 to his location.

T-ara N4 had their first meeting with Chris Brown on the set of his MV filming. At the sight of the T-ara N4 members, Chris Brown welcomed them with smiles and said "I wanted to meet you guys."

T-ara N4 members said to Chris Brown, "Thank you for liking our 'Rural Life' music and inviting us to the United States with the hospitable treatment of limousines and bodyguards."


Core Contents Media said, "T-ara N4 will meet with numerous American artists including Chris Brown, and during their stay in America they'll meet with various music officials before returning on the 16th or 17th to Korea."
***
Source: http://news.nate.com/view/20130513n14431
Translated by: Nathaniel @ Diadem

[13.05.13] T-ara arrive in LA to meet with Chris Brown, greeted by 300 fans


T-ara N4 were grateful for all the fans who gathered at the airport to greet them in the USA.

T-ara N4 arrived at the Los Angeles International Airport on the 12th at 10:15 (local time). They were warmly welcomed to the USA for the first time by a swarm of around 300 people.

T-ara N4 said, "We were tired and confused, but then became so surprised."

Ahead of their visit, T-ara N4 received a love call from Chris Brown where he told them he was interested in their music and them being in their music video. Because of Chris Brown, T-ara make schedule readjustments so they could depart to LA.

Chris Brown couldn't meet directly with T-ara N4 at the airport, so instead he sent five limos and 18 bodyguards.

T-ara N4 will have a meeting with Chris Brown and officials on the 13th to talk about music. If possible, they will also proceed to take part in a collaboration with Chris Brown.

T-ara N4 will have various other meetings until the 16th, and then return on the 17th.
***
Source: http://news.nate.com/view/20130513n11546
Translated by: Nathaniel @ Diadem

[13.05.09] Video - Mainichi T-ara Day 0 (N4)



http://youtu.be/vOBFwtNOR0k

*****

Credit: Robbe881 @ youtube

Hwayoung please come forward and defend T-ara. Don't be spiteful.

Remember to go vote for T-ara N4 on MCountdown!!!!
(Can login with f/b account or twitter and vote once per day)
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