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T-ara “Our families cried when they found out we were contenders for 1st place, our promise if we get 1st place is…” Girl group T-ara made a promise if they achieve 1st place. On October 21st at a coffee shop in Nonhyeon Dong, Gangnam, Seoul, we met with T-ara, who said “Isn’t the title of our new song No.9? We thought that it would already be really good to achieve 9th place, but we actually became contenders for 1st place. Becoming contenders and standing in the first row, we had goosebumps and were excited like rookies.” T-ara, who experienced the longest “blank period” since their debut because of the bullying controversy last year, was more spirited than expected. Without any particular promises or without saying who should do what firs, but beginning to change with every small action one by one, they greeted us greatly with their heads bowed lower. For a T-ara like this, contending for 1st place is something that is “amazing.” Soyeon said, “To be honest, because there is less applause and less people singing along with us, our confidence dropped. Before the controversy, we didn’t know that every shout of support was that valuable; now our families even cried and we almost had a party at home amongst us,” expressing her thankful heart. But, the trauma from last year has not fully healed. When we spoke of “that day,” the members’ tears still came falling. Although the other members made fun of each other, the tears could not be stopped at that moment. Their wounds are large and deep. They were worried and waited like that for a comeback. T-ara said, “We want everyone to listen to good music, and because we have a lot to protect, we cannot stop. Honestly, we were very scared and worried about whether there would be anyone who would welcome us,” “Our families, friends and colleagues gave us courage by telling us ‘It will be fine as long as you continuously show a hardworking and good appearance.” For them, how to face and approach the looks from those around them is a very difficult problem. In particular, T-ara, different from other groups and whose interaction with fans though fan club opening, autograph, and handshaking sessions etc. has reduced, said “Our company thinks the same way as us. Although we have little activities [with fans], but making food and sharing them with fans, holding a sudden signing session at our company, we must do this and work hard continuously,” “If we have the chance, we want to hold a free camping or sports event at a large sports grounds.” Following that, they said, “Not only to our fans, but to those who were burdened because of us, and other than making good music, but to work hard in order to melt the hearts of those who we meet serendipitously, this is very important” When we asked for a promise if they were to achieve 1st place, T-ara said, “It seems more realistic to make a promise for if we continue to stay as a contender for 1st place,” “We’ll do this if we can be contenders for 1st place in other music programmes,” Although they were a bit scared, they all agreed “We want to try giving ‘Free Hugs’. It seems like it would be fun.” Meanwhile, T-ara released their 8th mini album “AGAIN” on the 10th and has began promotions with double title tracks “No.9” and “I Know the Feeling.” Original source: http://wstarnews.hankyung.com/apps/news?popup=0&nid=09&c1=09&c2=09&c3=00&nkey=201310211603571&mode=sub_view Translated via Chinese trans from TCN: http://www.t-arachina.cn/bbs/thread-67940-1-1.html

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

T-ara, “That incident changed the childish us.” A Tearful First Interview. When friends or lovers get into an argument, how should you resolve it? T-ara is standing before the public with this thought in mind. When people are angry because of our actions, and when an apology cannot resolve their anger, what should we do? T-ara has chosen to silently work hard and to wait until that anger melts. Although it is common for artists to become emotional and cry during interviews, T-ara’s tears fell carefully even when they were falling naturally. T-ara, who can’t even escape vicious criticism when they prepare snacks for their fans, ended up saying tearfully, “We will work hard.” After that “incident”, this is their first interview with the media. The questions and answers that required tissue everywhere until the end are now revealed without any changes. Q: A comeback in a long time, how do you feel? Hyomin: It’s been a year since a comeback as the 6 of us. We disappointed some people before, but that won’t happen this time, we will work hard. We made our comeback nervously. Soyeon: More so than rankings, we are thankful that there are people who are waiting for our music. Q: It seems like you had a lot of worries. Hyomin: To be honest, we’ve never had a “blank period.” We were always running everywhere with no rest. Although it wasn't intentional this time, we had a blank period and during this time, we really lost a lot of confidence and had a lot of thoughts. We had a lot of worries too. Eunjung: Everyone’s attitude towards us are better than we thought it would be, we are very thankful. Just like when we first debut, our thoughts are just that we must do well. To be honest, whether people would like our music, we had a lot of worries like this. Also, many singers are making their comeback in this period, and would they like our colour? We also had a lot of worries like this. Q: A lot of other groups are making their comebacks as well. Soyeon: The timing for releasing an album is very important, no? We thought we picked an appropriate time. It seems like this was a time appropriate for all other singers too, so we all made our comeback around the same time (laughs). We are thankful just to be discussed along with these other artists. We are really happy just to be mentioned along with SHINEE and IU etc. When we see news of that, we think “Wah, there’s actually us.” Q: Now that you’ve made your comeback, do you feel more relaxed? Eunjung: People’s hearts are always like that, we should be able to feel more relaxed now, but we still worry a lot about how we can maintain this. Should we keep doing the same thing next week? Should we change our dance? What about our clothes? Etc. Hyomin: Because there are new comebacks every week, we are very nervous. Recently, there have been so many comebacks that rookies are hardly able to participate in music broadcasts. So we understand how valuable it is to be able to perform on music programmes. Eunjung: In the past we would think that this was a given, but now we know how to be thankful. In the past, even if our managers don’t mention it, we would clear out Thursdays, Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays for our schedules, because we have to perform on music shows. We used to think that way, but now we would ask our managers, “Do we have any schedules?” Q: T-ara’s schedules were very full in the past. Soyeon: We had at least 5 schedules in one day, we were very busy. We thought that they were only schedules and didn’t think much about it. We only had thoughts about wanting to look nice etc. But after experiencing this blank period, we understood that those are not just merely schedules, but is something [precious] that finds its way to us. Now, we think that every single schedule is a precious thing to us. Hyomin: Although it is better to not have experienced bad things, during that time, we only looked at the things in front of us and kept running forward following our CEO’s instructions. But now we look around us and behind us. It is something that can’t be expressed with words, but there are things we have gained. The time we spend with our fans and the way we treat our fans also changed a lot. Q: Your first performance was at the Gyeongju Dream Concert. Eunjung: It rained that day. Singing while it was raining, it felt very extraordinary and profound. Soyeon: We felt different compared to the comebacks we had before. In the past, we would know that there were a lot of people waiting for us and we had confidence. But this comeback wasn’t like that. We didn’t have confidence, and the cheers and applause for us are also different from before, but we can only work hard. So we are even more thankful for the people who have given us applause all along. Q: Experiencing something bad together, it seems like the friendship and love between members have changed as well. Soyeon: The atmosphere between us is like family. To be honest, there were times when we were so busy that we couldn’t take care of each other but were just there together. But this time, we had a lot of time to talk and reminisce with each other. And since we carry the same scars, the understanding and care we have for each other seem to have increased as well. We became closer. Boram: We think that teamwork requires every single person. Q: The leader keeps changing. Eunjung: Even though there is a leader, generally we still make decisions together, so there is not a big difference. But things like conveying information, giving notice, gathering opinions, those are things that the leader would do. Q: Even so, the atmosphere within the team would be different because of the leader right? Soyeon: Boram unnie created a very relaxed and quiet atmosphere. Eunjung is really good at managing work, and she can organise things well even when things are very messy. When Hyomin was leader, we became more fashionable. Hyomin: As a leader, the most difficult thing was to answer our CEO’s phone calls. Eunjung: He would call at 6a.m. in the morning and ask “Are you awake?”, “Have you seen your schedule yet?” Things like that (laughs). Q: Because of what happened last year, it seems like you are more thankful to be on stage and to the fans. Eunjung: About things we used to think were a given in the past, we now think “We are really thankful” “Ah, this is so good”. Not just to fans, but to the general public who watch our performance, give us applause, and sing along to our songs. In the past, we just feel like it is just a comeback, but now we are very thankful for these things. Soyeon: We did earn things [from this incident]. This happened when we were receiving a lot of love. If that hadn’t happened, we would still be kids who didn't understand a lot of things. We would think that popularity is a given. To experience something like that at that time, it seems like we found something that we had lost. The people who worked with us, those who visited us, our fans – in the past we really seemed to not understand their preciousness and didn't know to be thankful. But after that incident, we had a lot of thoughts and became more mature and responsible. Q: The comments online, have you seen them? Hyomin: Although we didn’t read them in detail, we browsed through them. In the past we would look for negative things, but now we would look for positive things. There are more and more support messages, and there are more and more of positive messages as well. We feel happier as well. We will read them to each other as well with the thought that “Wow, there are even these [good] messages for us.” Boram: There are also negative criticisms that can be constructive. Paying attention to those comments, with the mindset that “We did that before, we should correct that” is not bad. Although we cried a lot before when we saw very malicious comments, now we look for comments that can be constructive. Seeing malicious comments that would give us harm, now, instead of getting hurt, we seem to learn from them more. Q: How is each member doing recently? Jiyeon: It’s been a long time since T-ara’s last comeback, I want to show the best side as T-ara. Hyomin: I filmed for a Japan move “JINX!!!” in the beginning of this year. It was during one of our most difficult times, and I’m thankful that I was given this opportunity. It was a very memorable filming. Eunjung: I filmed for MBC’s “Welcome”. Living with students from Turkey, it was the first time for me to film a variety like this. Because I had to promote Korean culture and language, I did a lot of studying myself as well. To be honest, I had wondered whether any variety programmes would ask me to participate. I’m really very thankful that they asked me to appear. Boram: Because I had been a bit unhealthy I lost a lot of weight, but now I’ve become a lot healthier. Qri: T-ara had a lot of overseas schedules. I prepared very hard for T-aras comeback. Soyeon: I appeared in “Haeundae Lover” last year, but because of what happened, the drama seemed to have suffered because of me, I feel very sorry about that. Q: Did your boyfriend Oh Jonghyuk give you a lot of support? Soyeon: Of course he gave me a lot of support, he told me good job, and gave me a lot of trust. Q: What is the secret to date for so long? Soyeon: Although we started dating, we both have a very careful personality. Because of his military service and because I am an idol, we were both very careful. We began dating with a lot of trust in each other. It seemed as if waiting was very easy because the person I like went to the army. He must have had a lot of difficulties there but he still took care of me when I faced difficulties. Because we gained more trust in each other in those 2 years, so our relationship became better as well. Q: You must have been worried when Oh Jonghyuk extended his military service. Soyeon: Although he told me about it, I was still worried as his girlfriend. But I couldn’t express it because he is very determined. I could not express anything in particular. I just worried in my heart, but I watched him return successfully and thought that was very cool. Q: Is there anyone else who wants to date? Boram: It would be great if someone could like me, but there isn’t (laughs). I really want to date. I think out of all of us I’m the one who wants to date the most. Q: Did the members know about Soyeon and Oh Jonghyuk dating? Eunjung: We knew from the very beginning. Q: T-ara has tried cat and Native American concepts etc, are there anymore concepts you want to try? Soyeon: Our juniors are all so cute, pretty, and fresh. Is there this loveable concept that only girl groups can express? We want to try that too (laughs). Eunjung: Mr CEO, please consider this (laughs). Hyomin: It seems like our CEO is really amazing. Like a genius, he always seem to think of things that other people haven’t thought about. Eunjung: During “Sexy Love” we were really shocked. At the time, wasn’t it very difficult for us to perform and have a natural expression on stage? But our CEO suggested that we do robot dance – our expressions were neither smiling nor crying (laughs). Soyeon: It seems like we don’t create the trend, but we just change it (laughs). Retro and shuffle dance were something that other artists had already done, or we would only do something after something became a trend. We would ask “is it already too late”, but it always ends up becoming popular. Q: This time, “I know the feeling” is also a trendy phrase. Eunjung: We were worried whether we would interfere with Gag Concert. Q: It seems like there are a lot of misunderstandings about your CEO in the public too. Soyeon: Our CEO saw a lot of the messages and was very hurt. But if there are good messages, he would be very happy. Eunjung: He used to be like a tractor, but his body and heart have become a lot weaker. He listened to a lot of our opinions as well. Soyeon: It feels like he may be someone who cried the most in front of singers. He asked before “Am I difficult to get along with?” Actually we have seen the normal and private side of our CEO. We've seen him when he cried in front of those comments and when he is troubled because of us. He is someone more common and normal than people think. Q: Lastly, is there anything you want to say to fans? Qri: It seems like we have only received from our fans but have never given them anything. We are really thankful to our fans. Hyomin: You’re the member who doesn’t cry even when we achieve number 1 [about Qri who teared up]. Not just to fans, but it seems like there is so much to say to the general public. Eunjung: To be honest, for this comeback, we wondered if we would be able to receive love. But there are still people who are curious and love T-ara’s music. For that we are very thankful. Regardless of what they say, they only say it because of the appearance we present. We will accept it all and work hard. Hyomin: More so than asking for forgiveness or apologising, it seems like it is more important to work hard and present a side of us that will make others say “They’re really working hard.” In the future, we want to express that sort of feeling no matter what we do. Eunjung: When friends or lovers are mad at each other because of something the other person did, and even when repeated apologies cannot resolve the issue, the most important thing is to keep working hard until the other person’s anger melts away. It seems like we have to do the same thing as artists. Original article: http://news.nate.com/view/20131015n03773 Translation via Chinese subs by TCN: http://tieba.baidu.com/p/2651831149?see_lz=1

T-ara's Tears Have Become Pearls Girl Group T-ara welcomed their 4th anniversary recently. Once having enjoyed top popularity, this gemstone-like girl group has suffered hurt. The arrival and departure of some members (Hwayoung and Areum) and unconfirmed conjecture was discussed fervently. Their popularity that was not easily accumulated over the years seemed to have been destroyed in an instant. They seem to match the “5 year crisis” that idol groups commonly face in the Korean music industry where idols’ contracts [last around 5 years]. To say that they are not burdened must be a lie. After the controversy that broke out in July last year, T-ara did not respond to any Korean media interviews. Because they believed that if they silently continued their own way, one day, their fans will understand them and any momentary misunderstandings will be resolved. In this case, we are not here to pick at their scars. To talk about T-ara’s past, present, and future – something that they will have to face sooner or later – we carefully conducted our interview. T-ara’s Eunjung who found courage to meet with Billboard Korea said “We cried a lot.” But they still continue to smile brightly. Q: If you were to think back to the past 4 years? A: We don’t feel like it’s already been 4 years. It still feels like we are rookies who’ve just reached 2 years. Compared to the actual number of years, we’ve been busy with a lot of activities. Other than music broadcasts, member’s individual acting activities, sub-unit activities, and musicals, we’ve lived such busy lives that we couldn’t even sleep a lot, time just passed by in the blink of an eye. Thinking about being able to achieve today’s position and to receive our fan’s love… Our fans’ congratulations have made our shoulders feel heavier, and our sense of responsibility has grown as well. In the future, we will be more careful about every word we say and everything we do. Q: The most memorable activity is? A: Bo Peep Bo Peep. It was a song that showed off the charisma that only belonged to us. The first time we put on the tails on our costume and wore the cat paws, we really didn’t like it. We wanted to be a cool and pretty girl group, and we wondered, do we really have to do this? But it was through this song that we achieved our first number 1 and even made it to Japan’s Oricon chart. If we used this song as a starting point, all of T-ara’s other concept and music were never too over the top. It was the song that allowed other countries to know our name. Q: From debut to now, things that have changed and things that have not changed are: A: The way we think has changed, and we’ve become more mature. When we first debuted we did not have our own goals, we were just like kids who did whatever our company told us to do. Now, we will positively think about everything we do, and we also understand the preciousness of fate that allows us to meet even the strangers who pass by us for a second. The things that have not changed is, even though we are no longer that young, the members still love to joke and play. Everyday is a continuation of a sitcom. This is what motivates us to stand on stage happily. Q: Thoughts about the “5 year crisis” that idol groups face A: Our crisis seems to have come a bit early. Haha. This seems to turn out for the better, it’s as if such a crisis does exist as people say. Although the sayings about members’ conflict and bullying will follow us around like labels, we think that as long as it is not true then it is fine. We won’t worry too much about it. If such sayings were true, then it would be very distressful, but the stories are all different from reality. It is not something that we can resolve even if we worried about it. The motivation for the T-ara who has become mature. T-ara is truly the “Korean Digital Sales Queens.” Lovey Dovey was number 1 on Gaon Chart in the first half of 2012, defeating Big Bang. In 2011, they also achieved number 1 on Gaon's Annual Aggregate Digital Chart through Roly Poly. That year, their Japanese debut track “Bo Peep Bo Peep” also made it onto the Oricon weekly chart. Even when involved in endless controversies, T-ara’s music and stage performance were also recognized. “Sexy Love,” which was hesitantly released when T-ara was surrounded by a lot of rumours, and the summer track “Bikini” also charted and achieved a “long run.” Their recently released second Japanese album “Treasure Box” also charted number 1 on Oricon on the day it was released. Q: What is the secret to popularity? A: There is no special secret. First, we have to thank the composers who give us good songs. And also the fans and company staff who support us by telling us “everything will be better,” they’ve given us a lot of motivation. As a result, we gained confidence. We work hard on stage to compensate for our inadequacy, these all seem to have a combined effect. When speaking about T-ara’s energy, we have also borrowed from the popularity of the retro dance and the shuffle dance. Unknowingly, our performances are able to show off “T-ara’s image” and “T-ara’s concept.” To have a defined colour and flavour, we are really happy. Q: Don’t you feel tired to have such active overseas schedules? A: Although getting used to the time difference is always difficult, it is the most difficult when the food doesn’t suit our tastes. In the end sleep become our best medicine. Actually, every member seemed to have lost weight without intentionally dieting. Like a normal girl group, we eat well and don’t pick and choose when it comes to food. Q: What do you do when you rest? A: Watch movies, eat good food. When we are in Japan, we often go to Harajuku but we have not been there recently because we’ve been busy. Q: Isn’t this just the right age for dating? A: Although the work we have now is good, we still want to date. Just like a normal university student, a romantic stroll around campus while holding hands, a date in the library. It seems like the more we are not able to do it, the more we want to do it. My ideal type is someone who has a manly side, but who also has the soft side of someone young, someone who is kind and well-mannered. Appearance is not important. It’ll be great if it is someone who is able to let other people feel his charisma and charm that is unique to him. Q: What kind of artists do you want to be remembered as? A: The strengths of artists who have been active for 1 year and those who have been active for 10 years are different. I hope when people think about T-ara, they will smile and say “Ah they really had a difficult time then” or “They were really great then”, I hope that we can be a familiar and warm group in their memories. A group that is able to show off different styles like a chameleon. Or even to the point of getting critiqued by people “Do you have a split personality?” A group that doesn’t stop changing and is able to show and convey a message through their music. Q: To T-ara, CCM’s present Kim Kwang Soo is: A: The only person who can make us happy and feel tired at the same time. He has weakened a lot. He used to always lecture and scold us, but recently he asks us for our opinion and shares with us his difficulties. He has the feel of the powerless arms of a father who is growing old. His emotions are also becoming very rich and abundant, it seems like it is time for us to take care of him instead. Q: A word to your fans? A: Thankful. For always believing and watching over us no matter what. To be able to lay aside right or wrong and to believe and wait for someone is really something that is not easy. We don’t look at our fan club as one group, but now we see each fan individually, one person by one person. They are all precious. Even for those who cannot support us as fans until the end, we won’t feel sad or resentful. We won’t forget those people who have given us love up to this day. T-ara has become stronger, their hearts steadier. They are no longer a girl group that has an extravagant exterior, but have become a pearl that shines quietly and faintly. The beginning of a glistening pearl is also created from a wound. Famous Korean poet Jeong Ho Seung said “A beautiful gemstone can only be created with time, brimming sincerity, and the embracing of trauma.” It is time for the future of T-ara, who will soon enter the US market, to catch the eyes of the public once again. Original article: http://www.billboard.co.kr/?c=v&m=v1&idx=37066 Translated by via Chinese Subs by TCN: http://tieba.baidu.com/p/2556657897

T-ara N4, December US Billboard Debut T-ara began subunit activities in the beginning of this year through T-ara N4 and QBS. Their styles are different. T-ara N4 is targeted at the American/European market while QBS is targeted at Asian countries like Japan and China etc. Eunjung explained "If you say that you can feel the unique and true colors of the 6 members of T-ara when we are together, then the subunits are a different side of us." T-ara N4 gathered together the "strong" women and their music is filled with a strong and hip hop atmosphere. QBS is the opposite, very feminine, and is made up of the members who fit the image of white dresses by the sea and under the blue sky. Eunjung smiling, said "Both images are very good," "Because we can't do both at the same time, we don't feel greedy about the subunits." The subunit that has received special attention is T-ara N4. They have knocked on the doors of the US market, and received the praise of hip-hop star Chris Brown. Previously in May, they went to America and set up their future music activities with Chris Brown and T.I etc. At their interview with Billboard Korea, T-ara revealed for the first time parts of their plan for the US market. Their US album is starting to take shape. Their debut date may be December of this year. In their single album, two new English songs will be recorded along with the new version of Jeonwon Diary. The English version of Jeonwon Diary was arranged by Chris Brown personally. The title song has not yet been determined, but it should be one of the new songs. Jiyeon said, "We've finished recording it and it is a very exciting and electronic dance genre song," "There will be a featuring by a pop star which will surprise people." Their contract is signed with America's Empire Records. There are still some who remain doubtful and refuse to believe this, turning up their noses at the news of T-ara entering the US market and even making fun of their outdoor performance when they were invited by Chris Brown, saying that they've only performed on a small stage and whether all this hype is an exaggeration. At this, T-ara did not have any response. Because of some controversies, their music achievements has been downplayed and belittled. T-ara lightly said, "Theres nothing we can do about this, it seems like it is something we must face," "If we were to explain, why not perform to our best instead, and make those who like our music believe us. We cannot force the public to like us." Very frustrated. Not every performance is a large scale performance. "Whether the performance venue is big or small doesn't matter. Even if there is only one person in the audience, standing on stage itself is something to be happy and excited about" This is what they think. That there were some problems of communication is true. Eunjung said, "Honestly, we were alarmed when we saw how narrow the stage was. But this was not anybody's fault. It's just that we should have carefully asked for more details, there was just inadequate flow of information prior to the performance. Chris Brown also performed on that stage the same way we did. But our performance seemed to have been distorted and misrepresented, as if we performed on a stage that was not meant to be stood on, we are a bit sad about that." Chris Brown is still a supporter of T-ara. Chris Brown and T-ara member Dani are close and this along with some musical aspects of T-ara N4 is why he came to this decision. T-ara said about themselves "We are lucky." Reviews of T-ara as the "Girl Group with the Most Korean Flavour" plus the use of Tae Pyeong So (traditional Korean music instrument) in Jeonwon Diary caught the interest of the relevant people involved with their overseas album. Recently, T-ara has been busy learning English and Japanese. The members expressed "We never even dreamed that we could enter America," "Because we could not adequately prepare/learn foreign language like other groups, and because an opportunity like this is rare, we will work hard," They are not afraid of failure. T-ara said "We might not succeed. If we started to have these worries, then we should not start altogether." "If we continue our activities with a sincere attitude, then we should be able to achieve a good result. After Japan's Oricon chart, we want to leave a mark on a page of the US Billboard chart too." Original article: http://media.daum.net/m/media/newsview/20130826171510678 Translated via Chinese subs by TCN: http://tieba.baidu.com/p/2556263953

OMG!!! this is sooooo exciting because... FIVE FINGERS REUNION!!! hahaha

[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.

YeIn E&M's Official Apology Sent to KEMA Regarding Eunjung and Five Fingers January 23rd 2013- YeIn E&M's official apology sent to the Korean Entertainment Management Association. Recipients: Korean Entertainment Management Association, Penalties Adjustment Ethics Committee Date: 2013. 01. 23. 1. We wish for the everlasting prosperity of KEMA. 2. YeIn E&M decided to cast Core Contents Media’s artist Ham Eunjung for the role of Hong Dami in SBS’s Special Production Drama “Five Fingers.” 3. After casting Ham Eunjung, our company did not adequately discuss and communicate with Core Contents Media and the actor in question, did not have an accurate and full understanding about the T-ara incident, and unilaterially decided to remove a faultless actor from the drama “Five Fingers” before releasing any notice [about the removal]. 4. Further, our company’s removal and replacement of the original actor has caused great harm to Ham Eunjung and her reputation and self-esteem. [Releasing] reports about “loss of production fees” without any communication with the actor who had, with great sincerity and a positive attitude, attended script and piano practices, poster shooting, and also the press conference, and using hair-dyeing as a reason to discontinue filming, we are deeply regretful and apologetic towards Ham Eunjung and the Penalties Adjustment Ethics Committee, KEMA. Our failure to fully consider the actor’s position led to a wrongdoing and is an error on the part of the production team. 5. Our disregard of the fact that there was no problem with Ham Eunjung’s participation in the drama, our production company’s error in judgment, and the failure of SBS Directors and writers to handle the situation properly - it was because of this that such an incident happened. 6. Further, regarding the reputational loss and the irreparable and immense spiritual harm caused to actor Ham Eunjung, we will restore her reputation and try our best to remedy the damage. 7. Our company is also of the view that there should not be any conventional practices of unilateral removal of actors. Not from the production company's but from KEMA and actor's point of view, this is a matter of great importance currently being reviewed, and about KEMA’s concerns and worry about this, we express our sincere apologies. To prevent this from happening again, we will participate in creating a positive production environment. In the future, even though this will not happen again, regarding similar incidents that may happen, we will work hard to communicate and to look for a satisfactory resolution in accordance with KEMA’s policy measures. 8. In this regard, we ask KEMA to understand our company’s position and request that the case “KEMA members’ boycott of YeIn E&M dramas for 2 years”, put forward by the Penalties Adjustment Ethics Committee, be withdrawn. 9. Our company hopes that everything can be resolved satisfactorily and will work hard with KEMA together to create a positive television drama production environment. YeIn E&M Translated from Chinese translations from Baidu HamEunJung: http://tieba.baidu.c...317877?see_lz=1 Original Source: http://www.yeinenm.com/company4.html

[13.02.01] Video - Show Champion Backstage (Eunjung + Amber MC) Cre: MBCkpop

[12.11.16] Eunjung “Want to forget it all. Please withdraw the sanctions against Five Fingers’ Production Company” - Heard about the sanctions against Five Fingers’ production company while promoting in Japan - Told the Management Entertainment Association “Want to forget it all” T-ara’s Eunjung has requested the Management Entertainment Agency to withdraw its boycott of Five Fingers’ production company YEIN E&M. The Korean Entertainment Management Association (KEMA), in any interview with eDaily StarIn on the afternoon of the 16th, said about its sanction procedure against YEIN E&M “A sudden change in variable occurred after the news spread that we had sent out documents [regarding YEIN E&M to our members], right now, our procedure is put on halt.” A related person from KEMA said “It is because T-ara’s Eunjung, who is currently promoting in Japan, has requested KEMA to withdraw the sanctions against Five Fingers’ production company YEIN E&M regarding the dispute about her being forced off the drama.” This afternoon, Eunjung expressed to KEMA “Putting aside right or wrong, I want to put down everything related to Five Fingers and forget it all. If the sanctions against the production company can be withdrawn, then let’s just pretend this did not happen.” Because of Eunjung’s request, KEMA is currently figuring out how to solve this problem. YEIN E&M had forced an actor to leave after completion of contract signing, poster shooting, script reading and the press conference, so this cannot be seen only as a problem between one actor and one production company. To prevent similar things from happening again in the future, KEMA decided to respond by taking boycotting measures. Another related person said “Although Eunjung’s opinion should be placed first in resolving this issue, but from KEMA’s perspective, some measures have to be put into place to prevent this from happening again in the future.” Today, KEMA had delivered documents to its members and member companies (around 130) regarding Five Finger’s unilateral termination of Eunjung. The document said “We were determined to rectify the normal drama production relations and had requested for the actor’s return to the drama and for an undertaking not to allow such things to happen again, but YEIN as usual remained silent, avoiding responsibility and deceiving our Association”, “We hope that our members will confirm with our Association first before deciding to appear in YEIN E&M productions. It is our plan to implement this for 2 years (until December 2014)." [in effect meaning that without any special reasons, KEMA members should not appear in YEIN E&M dramas.] This measure is the follow up to Eunjung's sudden termination from SBS’s drama Five Fingers in August. At the time, KEMA and the Korean Broadcasting and Actors Union (KBAU) had, on the 28th, issued its protests against SBS and Five Fingers’ production company YEIN E&M for forcing Eunjung off the drama. YEIN E&M had also expressed its stance, stating that it would take strong legal measures if Eunjung’s side continues to make unreasonable propositions. The two sides were always in opposition. Translated from TCN Chinese Trans: http://tieba.baidu.com/p/1990256876 Original article: http://news.nate.com.../20121116n19835 More of Eunjung's response from other articles: "I do not want more people to be harmed because of me. Thinking back, the production company could have suffered a lot of damage because of me. Although I am grateful for KEMA's decision to protect actors, now that it is all in the past, I hope this can end well." http://news.nate.com.../20121116n26855 A related person from CCM said "Although we were very angry at the time, it is already in the past. Eunjung wants to greet everyone in a good production in the future. She hopes that this incident can end smoothly and satisfactorily." http://news.nate.com.../20121116n26515

[12.10.08] Director Cha Euntaek talks about T-ara & Eunjung in an interview with News 2 Day "The T-ara incident made me detest even more the way Korean society does not tell right from wrong" Reporter: Recently, you've supported Eunjung through twitter and this became a hot topic. You didn't expect that right? What are your thoughts about the T-ara incident? In response to the question that the reporter asked mindfully, Director Cha Euntaek surprisingly gave a calm and sharp response. Because of his message of support to Eunjung, Director Cha was also criticised by some netizens. Director Cha was the director for T-ara's MV's like Lovey Dovey, and so have known Eunjung for a long time. He understands Eunjung more than anybody else and truly feels sad and worried about Eunjung. "Although my message wasn't left simply without thought nor was it left simply just to cheer her on, it still represented my worry and care for her. When she knew that she was casted for "Five Fingers", you wouldn't know how happy she was and how hard she worked in preparation. If I was a member of T-ara, I might have hidden away somewhere because of the pain. T-ara being ostracised by the public, this has made me really detest Korean society. I really detest those who, after someone's mistake, add insult to injury without first determining right from wrong. To be honest, I thought "Should I gamble my career in the entertainment industry and just say it all [and argue]? Just say it all on twitter?" I was really angry at the time." "I've watched them grow since the T-ara members were still trainees. They are kids who have worked hard to become singers, and I was really hurt to see them criticised like that. Eunjung's message on twitter was actually really simple and pure. They cannot go out and play like other teenagers, but have to practise with all their might, running around to complete their activities. They cannot live like other kids of the same age, but are constrained by their work. They are kids who are more simple and pure than others of their age." "At the time, I was really very upset. To see how the public, without understanding the circumstances, became so sure that there must have been bullying between them. I don't understand, there have been incidents in the past that were much worse, idols who have done illegal things, but why only treat T-ara with such harshness?" About how his message of support for Eunjung caused a stir amongst netizens, Director Cha said: "Although we should criticise acts that are wrong, but to see people carelessly criticise and condemn acts that are right simply because of their own subjectivity and bias, I really could not carrying on living pretending that I did not see this in our society." "Eunjung ah, you have to live with strength" "I always talk with Eunjung, and she told me 'Because of Director-nim, I've gained a lot of strength." She cannot clarify everything that has happened, simply for the reason that they are all very close. In reality, their relationship is not what outsiders have portrayed it to be like, and they do not want each other to be criticised or blamed because of themselves. Because of this incident, they really cried a lot. I really can't bear to see them cry like that. I tried to find ways to comfort them, but I couldn't come up with any good ways but to say to them to live with strength. After Eunjung was forced out of "Five Fingers" I had once worried that she would do something stupid." English translation from Chinese translation by Woojung Baidu:http://tieba.baidu.com/p/1941485235 Original Korean article: http://www.news2day....7a101c71aa3280d

PD Lee Tae Hon was interviewed by TVReport, only the bit about Eunjung translated: On actors whom the PD worried about but displayed rapid growth and improvement: Lee Min Jung and T-ara's Eunjung. [parts about Lee Min Jung omitted] Eunjung is very enthusiastic and full of passion and charisma. While shooting for Queen Insoo, everyone also really liked Eunjung. Her acting is also very good and once she learns something, she is able to apply those skills flexibly. Original source: http://news.nate.com...n05538?pcview=1 Translated from Chinese translations again

Actress Kim Hye Eun "Soyeon staying on Haeundae Lovers, please applaud!" “It is not an issue that can be solved by leaving the drama. Ostracizing/bullying is clearly a serious societal problem, but where there is debate but no confirmed facts or truth, to unconditionally accuse and criticize young adults is not right. To push the young into a difficult situation because of the existence of a debate, is this something that adults should do?” Actress Kim Hye Eun, who also appears in Haeundae Lovers with Soyeon, candidly expressed her thoughts about the T-ara issue. On the 28th with an interview with Daily Economy Star Today, Kim Hye Eun said “There has been a lot of controversy surrounding the drama, including Soyeon’s appearance on the drama and the Busan dialect, but on set, the atmosphere is still happy and enjoyable.” “It is true that there are many unfavorable aspects, but they have to be solved wisely one by one.” Kim Hye Eun said that day: “To already have promised to appear in the drama, and to have already participated in over 5 filmings, behaviour like ‘Because of your response, I will cut you out’ is wrong.” “In the T-ara incident, most importantly, it is the adults who have made the bigger errors. I want to applaud the decision of the production team to continue working together under circumstances of debate in order to not disappoint the hardworking actors.” She continued: “Partial conversations over twitter or SMS between young adults cannot be used to make judgments on everything.” “One cannot say who was at fault, but to avoid similar situations and to prevent kids from getting hurt, care and wise judgments are needed from adults. In particular, if the agency can take some action on behalf of the children, that would be great. Very anxious” At the same time, she expressed: “No matter what the problem is, to just solve the superficial issue is not the way to resolve the problem.” She added, “Right now, Soyeon, as the object of anger, is in a dilemma. If she ignores the situation and chooses to leave the drama unconditionally, then the viewers’ wounds might feel more comfortable, but the heart will not be cured. Even if the surrounding circumstances are loud and noisy, isn’t it a good thing that the actors’ acting and the production team’s hardwork together receive praise for the drama?” On the other hand, Kim Hye Eun’s charismatic acting as the wife of President Yang in Haeundae Lover has received praise. *** Translated by @kckclalala via Chinese translation: http://tieba.baidu.com/p/1826234863 Original article: http://news.nate.com.../20120829n07603

[12.08.24] Haeundae Lover's writer, "T-ara's situation, regretful towards their agency" Haeundae Lovers's Writer opened up about Haeundae Lover's Soyeon on the morning of the 24th, expressing her thoughts about the T-ara situation: She said, "speaking about Soyeon is a very sensitive matter" "I've not seen Soyeon before. It seems like it was T-ara's agency which allowed things to become like this" She continued, "The company should, in line with what the public and citizens want, give an explanation about the issue" "Eunjung left her drama recently, and the requests for the other members to leave are also continuing endlesslessly, it is like they are digging their own graves. I feel very regretful about their company" About the requests for Soyeon to leave Haeundae Lovers, "Soyeon is not a main character but a supporting character" "Filming already began before the T-ara issue, if she were to leave, we would have to re-film which is not easy" "Soyeon began filming before the T-ara issue" "At that time we did not expect there to be such a conflict" "The Tablo incident also happened before, and I felt very saddened about it" "Same about Soyeon. Even after the debate, there is no way to accurately know the reasons, we can't just let her leave the drama. I thought the agency would come up with sensible measures, but to let the incident grow large like this, it is not possible to not have any thoughts of complaints." "Disregarding the truth or falsity of the T-ara debate, I hope that they can take this opportunity and become even more united. Personally, I also have worries as to whether T-ara will disband because of this" "When I do sports, I also gain energy from listening to T-ara's songs" She cautiously said, "Soyeon was in a traffic accident not long ago, and I know there appeared rumours claiming that the accident was fake, the situation is really serious" "For me, I want to protect those who appear in my work, the cast and crew who have worked hard" *** Translated by @kckclalala via Chinese translations from TCN Original Article: http://news.nate.com.../20120824n13732

[ENG TRANS] Director Cha Eun Taek's tweet: @goninri Eunjung has left her drama...in a very short period of time, really so much has happened...I know she even bought a piano and practiced for a very long time...I hope she doesn't suffer anymore more pain now... T/N: Director Cha EunTaek is a famous CF/MV director: he directed T-ara's Roly Poly, Cry Cry/Lovey Dovey, Day by Day/Sexy Love MV via Chinese Trans by TCN 恩静的电视剧下车...真的是很短的时间里发生了很多事啊...知道连钢琴都买了，练习了很长时间，现在希望不要再受到伤害了