bigbangupdates

Yang Hyun Suk, “I don’t have the courage to make another group like Big Bang anymore.” [NEWS]

2012-02-25T11:54:00.000+08:00

YG Entertainment’s CEO, Yang Hyun Suk (43), has revealed, “I don’t have the strength or courage to create a group like Big Bang anymore.”

When CEO Yang recently held an interview at the Seoul Mapo-Gu YG Building, he stated, “Although I will be producing more groups in the future, I don’t think I will ever be able to find new group members that could harmonize with each other as well as Big Bang does. All of them match up to each other perfectly like a man and woman would do when they are in love.”

According to his explanation, Big Bang may not be the best looking and may not be the best dancers out there, but each member holds a distinct individuality as a weapon that allows them to perform freely, which is the main reason why they receive so much love from their fans in and out of our country.

“Usually in both Korea and Japan, group dancing (synchronized dancing) is the most popular characteristic people look for in groups. However, Big Bang shows a lot of free moves and dances within their performances. That is why I think they receive a lot more response from different countries outside of Korea and Japan.”

Considering these factors, Big Bang’s new mini-album ‘ALIVE’ holds many different genres of music to appeal to fans outside of Korea as well.

CEO Yang also stated that, “Aiming to make a musical change and living up to the focal point, this is an album with comprehensive genres” and that “in order to let each of these songs shine it’s own special light, we have decided to make all six songs the title song.”

Currently, to let the world know of these songs, Big Bang has been undergoing multi-directional promotions.

On the past 22nd, one of their songs titled “BLUE” was the first to be released and has taken over the #1 spot on all music charts and the rest of the song’s teasers have been planned to be revealed through TV advertisements starting on the 24th.

The order of these releases are as follows: 24th ‘Love Dust’, 25th ‘Bad Boy’, 26th ‘Ain’t No Fun’, 27th ‘Fantastic Baby’, and the 28th ‘Wings’.

CEO Yang elaborated, “Having all the songs from the album be title songs might be, needless to say, the first to set precedent within the country” and that, “Choosing only one song to perform on music show programs to win the #1 spot is meaningless now, in my opinion. What’s more important is that we need to let everyone know of this brand called Big Bang and let everyone know of every song on their album.”

Big Bang’s new mini-album will be released on the 29th, as well as the group’s comeback concert (on March 2-4) at the Olympic Sports Stadium.

Source: Nate
Translation: swaggalevel-1000.tumblr.com

Big Bang's Rise in Worldwide Popularity [NEWS]

2012-02-25T11:18:00.000+08:00

Big Bang’s comeback is causing a syndrome at home in Korea and abroad.

The announcement of Big Bang’s fifth mini album, “Alive,” has been attracting much attention all over the world. On February 22, the first single, “Blue,” was released and since has been doing very well on domestic charts as well as overseas through iTunes. The single’s music video has gained immense viewership on Youtube as well reaching over 6 million views in three days.

The single “Blue” was made available at the same time on digital music sites such as MelOn, Naver, and MNET. Within an hour the newly released track had achieved an “all-kill” on the domestic music sites. “Blue” has continued to be at the top spot since its release.

The music video for the single also was released on February 22. After a day of being revealed to the public the video pulled in over 1 million views. Currently, the view count stands at over 6 million views. The popularity of the video is spreading worldwide and continues to grow even higher. The map shows where exactly the popularity of “Blue” is the strongest.

“Blue” further proves it is popular in many countries through the iTunes charts. The United States, Canada, United Kingdom, France, and Mexico have the single ranked at #45, Australia #51, New Zealand #61, and Finland where the song made it into the top three. The song was released the same time worldwide and has managed to make it into the top 100, it is a quite an accomplishment for a K-Pop artist.

For Big Bang's upcoming concert, the agency wants to go where the desire for the group is high. Big Bang is to begin their tour in March and will take the tour around the globe as they traverse 16 countries. As of this time, YG Entertainment has not reveal specific cities as they continue to receive many inquiries from all over the world.

Yang Hyun Suk commented, “The United States, Britain, France, Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, Mongolia, Central Asia, the Middle East, and other high profile areas show their desire for Big Bang as they continue to contact us regarding the show.”

He continued, “With Big Bang’s comeback approaching, many are discovering them through their international popularity. On February 29, when the album officially releases overseas, it is expected to do better on the iTunes chart.”

Let’s hope YG is right, though Big Bang has accomplished much with “Blue” already. Congratulations Big Bang on their many achievements thus far and wish them the best on their comeback.

Source: Soompi

T.O.P becomes a suave gentleman for ‘Cosmopolitan’ [NEWS/PHOTOS]

2012-02-25T11:15:00.002+08:00

Big Bang‘s T.O.P recently displayed his good-looks for Cosmopolitan Korea.

The handsome rapper is known to be able to pull off a variety of different looks, but this time he looked dapper and charming in a classic ‘suit’ look.

On February 24th, a fashion magazine unveiled the photos of T.O.P that will grace the cover of Cosmopolitan’s March issue. T.O.P pulled off the ‘American Twist Classic Style’ look, putting together ensembles by incorporating suspender belts and cardigans to complete his casual suit look.

He creatively used on the props on set to freely deliver various poses, proving himself to be a natural model and fashionista.

Although the shoot went on into the early hours of the morning, T.O.P did not show that he was the least bit tired and reportedly kept the atmosphere on set upbeat.

Netizens who saw T.O.P’s recent photos remarked, “Looks good from every single angle“, “Not a lot of people can pull that look off. Only T.O.P“, “This is what you call ‘swag suit’“, and more.

In related news, T.O.P along with the rest of the Big Bang members will be dropping their long-awaited fifth mini-album on February 29th.

Official pics:

Article: Nate, allkpop
Photos: Cosmo Korea

Big Bang Ranks in Forbes Korea "Top 40 Celebrities" [NEWS]

2012-02-25T03:53:00.004+08:00

The interesting thing to note about this year’s list is that 10 of the top 20 celebrities are idol singers.
Here’s the breakdown of the idols in the top 20: Girls’ Generation in at #1, Big Bang at # 2, IU at #3, KARA at #4, B2ST at #9, 2PM at #11, JYJ at #13, TVXQ at #15, Super Junior at #16, and T-ARA at #17. The reason why these idols have made the list is because they have played a huge part in spreading K-pop awareness all over the globe. Flash mobs from New York, Los Angeles, London, Paris, and more began requesting performances from their favorite K-pop artists in their home countries, and cover-dance teams emulating K-pop choreographies have grown in number.

The only celebrities from last year’s list who made it within the top 10 this year are Olympic Gold medalist figure skater Kim Yuna, actor/singer Lee Seung Gi, and Manchester United soccer player Park J i Sung. Of all the celebrities, Kim Yuna has had the most media influence.

The list of Top 20 is as follows :

1.) Girls’ Generation
2.) Big Bang
3.) IU
4.) KARA
5.) Kim Yuna (World Champion Figure Skater & Olympic Gold Medalist)
6.) Lee Seung Gi (Actor / Singer)
7.) Park Ji Sung (Midfielder for Manchester United & former Captain of Korean National Soccer Team)
8.) Kim Tae Hee (Actress / Model)
9.) B2ST
10.) Park Tae Hwan (Champion Swimmer & Olympic Gold Medalist)

View the full list here.

(Parts ommitted)

Source & Image: JoongAng via Naver
Translation: AKP

NOTE: Please keep the comments polite and civil. Any rude comments left not only reflect on yourself, but also the entire fandom here at BBU. Thank you :)

D-4: "Bad Boy" Preview (120225) [VIDEO]

2012-02-24T23:11:00.005+08:00

Longer version from Naver App:

Lyrics Translation:
Me, the guy you love? Sorry, I’m a bad boy.
Fine, then just leave. Bye. You’re a good girl.
As time goes by, the more I get to know you,
I know that all is gained is disappointment, but
Baby, don’t leave me.
I know you still love me.
Honestly, why are you being like this?
I need you so much, my lay lay lay lay lady.
My lay lay lay lay lady.

Credits: http://swaggalevel-1000.tumblr.com

G-Dragon, "My lay lay lay lay lady" (120224) [ME2DAY]

2012-02-24T23:10:00.002+08:00

Big Bang's competitive spirit on fire while filming for Running Man [NEWS]

2012-02-24T20:25:00.006+08:00

On the 20th, Big Bang filmed SBS Running Man at Seoul National History Museum and had a big match with the Running Man members.

Big Bang and Running Man were split into 2 teams and formed offense and defense teams just like in soccer. Running Man's producer shared with SBS Entertainment News, "Big Bang members were in a very high competitive spirit during the filming. T.O.P and Taeyang encouraged the other members a lot while completing their mission. I was also surprised with their excellent entertainment sense."

The Running Man episode with Big Bang will be shown on TV on March 4.

Source: SBS
Translated by V@bigbangforlife

Big Bang on the cover of Asta TV Magazine + New photos for Sunny10 Sparklingade [PHOTOS]

2012-02-24T19:15:00.001+08:00

Source: Rakuten (via happyrichlife)

Scans or complete photos form the magazine will be posted when available

Vote for Big Bang to be Seoul's next celebrity ambassadors [NEWS]

2012-02-24T18:57:00.001+08:00

From Seoul Metropolitan Government's Official Facebook:

What do these celebrities have in common? SNSD, 2PM, Kim HyunJoong, DBSK, Lee Byung Hun, Wonder Girls, and Jay Park.

If you guess that they have all worked with the Seoul YouTube channel before, than you are correct! The Seoul Metropolitan Government is looking for another celebrity that will promote Seoul to the world. Here is a list of nominations:

1. 빅뱅 (Big Bang)
2. JYJ
3. 장근석 (Jang Geun Suk)
4. MBLAQ
5. 인피니트 (Infinite)
6.FT 아일랜드 (FT Island)
7. 2ne1
8. 티아라 (T-ara)
9. 카라 (KARA)
10. f(X)

Vote for BIGBANG by leaving a comment on their Facebook page here

Yang Hyun Suk talks about Big Bang's "Alive Tour" preparations [NEWS]

2012-02-24T18:02:00.000+08:00

YG Entertainment’s president, Yang Hyun Suk, shared his confidence and excitement over Big Bang’s fast approaching comeback.

Big Bang is scheduled to begin their promotions in early March. The group is to hold concerts on March 2 through 4 at Korea’s largest indoor venue, the Seoul Olympic Park Gymnastics Stadium.

Big Bang’s highly-anticipated comeback to the music scene will be nothing short of big. There are plans set for the group to perform in 20 cities around the world. Their “Alive World Tour 2012” will take them to Asia, North America, South America, and Europe. The fact that they are planning on having a World Tour is adding to the public’s excitement.

Even though Big Bang has many things to prepare for between the promotion of six title tracks and the concert dates in March, the members along with YG are ready. This is an extremely meaningful comeback for the members, their company, as well as the music industry.

For this monumental endeavor YG has enlisted great help. One of those assisting is Laurieann Gibson, who in the past was responsible for directing: Michael Jackson, Madonna, Beyonce, and Lady Gaga’s concerts. Gibson will assume the role as global director for Big Bang’s World Tour. Live Nation will also be helping to organize the tour.

YG is not cutting any cost in preparation for Big Bang’s comeback tour. The foreign staff has been staying in Korea preparing for the concert since the beginning of February. Rehearsals has begun for the show a month prior to the opening night of their concert. Rehearsals are taking place in another location which also happens to be a large indoor venue.

On February 23, Yang Hyun Suk shared with Star News, “Big Bang is working hard to bring a different level of performance to audiences. The sound, lighting, and visual engineers are from abroad and have already been stationed in Korea for the past three weeks. The members of Big Bang have joined rehearsals this week. In preparation for this concert there have been a full month of rehearsals, this is something that is seen as unusual in Korea.”

Yang Hyun Suk continued, “Normally Big Bang would worry that they were unable to bring the best to their fans. This time around they won’t have anything to regret since they have had plenty of time to prep and refine in bringing a wonderful show to the public. When observing the Big Bang concert you will realize the importance of thorough rehearsals to a performance.”

On February 22, Big Bang released their first single “Blue” from their upcoming mini-album, “Alive.” With the song’s release, “Blue” immediately shot up to the top spot on many online music sites. The single achieved an “all-kill” in no time at all. Big Bang has also had success with the music video for the single, which was released the same day. At this time the video has accumulated over 5 million views in the two days since it’s release. Big Bang’s comeback album, “Alive” will be released on February 29.

Source: Soompi

Song Baek Kyoung, "Fantastic Baby will make your grandparents dance" [TWITTER]

2012-02-24T17:33:00.001+08:00

스포를 날리자면 Fantastic Baby 듣고있노라면 몸을 가만히 둘수가 없음. 진짜...ㅜ 할아버지 할머니도 그루부타게할 음악임.
— 송백경 / S.Baek Kyoung (@superfunkboy) February 24, 2012

TRANSLATION: Once you hear Fantastic Baby, you won't be able to stand still. FOR SURE. Even your grandparents will dance to it.

Credits: @lucywinslet
Note: Song Baek Kyoung from 1TYM (YG Family)

"2012 Big Bang Global Event" Coming Soon! [PHOTO]

2012-02-24T11:51:00.007+08:00

Source: http://contest.ygfamily.com

More packaging photos of Big Bang's "ALIVE" Mini Album [PHOTOS]

2012-02-24T10:47:00.000+08:00

6 Versions Covers (via lookkorea.jp):

Posted previously:

Pre-Order
YGESHOP: $12 USD excl. shipping fees; Release: 2/29
YESASIA: $12 USD ($22 USD for poster in tube) excl. shipping fees; Release: 3/2

Big Bang reveals addictive preview of ‘Love Dust’ [NEWS]

2012-02-24T10:30:00.000+08:00

Big Bang is aiming to bomb the music scene again with its new single Love Dust.

The group released a preview and commercial of Love Dust through YG’s official blog and Naver Music.

While Blue was a calm and lyrical piece, Love Dust showcases a brighter mood and an addictive hook, living up to the expectations of those fans who were looking forward to the single ever since its unique title was released.

The commercial for the single features a laid back T.O.P. It seems as if he is taking a rest before a shoot, listening to music in a neat suit that contrasts with his mint colored hair.

Big Bang plans to reveal video previews of its new singles with the members until February 29, when the full album will be released. February 25 will bring on "Bad Boy", February 26 "No Fun", February 27 "Fantastic Baby" and February 28 "Wings".

Fans are digging Big Bang’s strong promotions, and are looking forward to what songs the members will be revealing every day.

The group announced it would be launching a big comeback promotion project before the release of its mini album, and started to air commercials on main channels from February 17 that showed the members talking honestly about how they feel about their comeback. On February 22 they released Blue, and swept through music charts while its music video shot through 3 million views on Youtube.

Big Bang will release its mini album Alive on February 29, and will start off on its world tour with concerts in Seoul from March 2-4.

Source: Enewsworld.com

“Love Dust” sounds and looks totally different from “Blue”

“Love Dust,” the second title from Big Bang’s fifth mini album ALIVE, was unveiled.

At midnight on February 24, the teaser video image of “Love Dust” was posted on the YG Life Blog. Starting with the big words, D-5, the 30-sceoned video first features the T.O.P. listing to “Love Dust” with a gloomy look and an impressive red hair.

Unlike “Blue,” revealed earlier, “Love Dust” is a song with faster beats and empathic lyrics.

Fans who listened to the second title left various responses: “’Blue’ sounds great, and ‘Love Dust’ as well seems fantastic.” “I can say it will make a huge splash.” “’Love Dust’ also sounds great. Now I know why all the songs in the fifth mini album are decided to be title songs.”

Source: TV Report, Korea.com

K-Pop royalty Big Bang releases ‘Blue’ [NEWS]

2012-02-24T10:05:00.001+08:00

Article from Yahoo Philippines:

K-Pop royalty Big Bang solidifies their "K-Pop blue blood" status with their latest release titled "Blue."

Known for their hard-hitting hip-hop electronica hits like "Tonight" and "Love Song," G-Dragon, Taeyang, T.O.P., Daesung, and Seungri returns with their newest mini album titled "Alive" with "Blue" as the first track off the mini-album. "Alive," Big Bang's fifth EP consists of seven new songs and is set for release on February 29, 2012.

Given their K-Pop royalty status, "Blue" immediately topped various music portal sites including Melon, Bugs, Naver, M.net, Soribada, and many others upon its release. Boasting of a new "icy-cool" look, Big Bang is again taking the K-Pop world by storm.

"Blue" is a slow-tempo track with subtle electronica influences characteristic of Big Bang. As the title suggests, "Blue" is an emotional song about longing and heartbreak. The music video was shot with simple background, reminiscent of early Big Bang music videos such as "Lies" and "Haru Haru." Compared to their previous MV, a Caucasian model can be seen in the new video. Fans may also be a bit surprised for the choice of a soft-tempo release which is not typical of Big Bang but this is a a sign of the artistic and personal growth of the group. "Blue" was written by G-Dragon with Teddy, the resident producer of YG Entertainment.

The YG X-Files "How Much Does YG Earn?" [NEWS]

2012-02-24T10:01:00.003+08:00

Former singer of ‘Seo Taiji and Boys’ Yang Hyun-Suk currently representing YG Entertainment has stated that the revenue and operating profit were much higher than anticipated from that of the previous year.

On Feb. 9th, LIG Investments and Securities ‘YG Entertainment member idols X-File belonging to public (Jeong Yu-seok, an analyst)’ It is reported that this year’s sales had increased 122.7 percent to about 167 billion won, a 167.4 percentage higher than the anticipated 36 billion won. The current target price (based on 8 days) was predicted as 48,150 won but was 81,000 won, nearly doubling up ‘buying’ were revealed.

This report pertains to YG Entertainment’s singers Big Bang, 2NE1, Se7en, Gummy, Psy, Tablo, and Actors/actresses Yoo In Na, Kang Hye Jung, Jung Hye Young whose activities were more vigorous than ever this year, and thus saying the performance improvement was expected. In particular, Yang Hyun-Suk audience brought nearly 15.0% for SBS ‘Kpop Star’ in his appearance on episode ‘The Boss is at Work’ where he also predicted that Big Bang and 2NE1 would increase rapid growth in sales.

During Big Bang’s comeback activities last year alone brought a revenue of 29 billion won. This year’s scheduled comeback for Big Bang is expected to increase even more sales. The report says, the scheduled March 2-4th Big Bang concert is expected to raise the revenue of 4 billion won. They are working with the music industry in the United States for 2NE1’s collaborations, even more growth than last year is predicted to show up for them as well.

Last years report in the case of Big Bang, the sales (280 million) more than doubled to 78 billion won and could reach to over 200 million won a day in increase sales are being analyzed. Big Bang’s 38 billion won in sales revenue of the concert, record’s revenue 12 billion won and, advertising revenue was estimated at 5 billion won.

This year alone, 2NE1 brought in 30 billion won in sales from last year’s 220 million. It is predicted to increase by 27% in the coming year. 2NE1’s report shows 15 billion won in concert revenues, record earnings and source as 50 billion and 30 billion in advertising revenue.

2NE1 debuted three years ago in July 2009, and soon another new group will be presented. Mnet’s ‘Superstar K’ Kim Eunbi and Kang Seung Yoon who appeared with eight other trainees, are currently being prepared for their debut.

Report written by Jeong Yuseok Analyst states that “YG Entertainment invests 70.1% on Big Bang and 2NE1’s sales which are too high a risk. But with the other celebrities and the new group being introduced, this will advent these risks gradually and even out the odds.”

Source: Korean Herald via Nate
Translation: Yoophoric @YGLadies.com

T.O.P: "Tomorrow comes..." (120224) [ME2DAY]

2012-02-23T23:27:00.005+08:00

TRANSLATION: Tomorrow comes, pretending as if nothing happened. (Lyrics)
TAG: Love Dust

Translation by @lucywinslet

D-5: "Love Dust" Preview [VIDEO]

2012-02-23T23:03:00.006+08:00

▶ Longer preview released through Naver App here

Lyrics: 오늘이 지나면 난 사라질 먼지 사랑이 뭔지 나 슬퍼보인다면 내 눈물은 연기 춤추는 연기처럼 내일이면 또 아무렇지 않게 하루가 시작돼 널 잊고 살겠죠 그저 니가 행복해지길 나는 이곳에서 남아서 웃으며 빌어줄게

Translation: After today is gone, I’m just dust that will disappear. What is love? If I look so sad, my tears act like dancing smoke. Tomorrow comes, pretending as if nothing happened. I live like I already forgot you. I just want you to be happy. I stay and pray for you with a smile.

Translated by @lucywinslet

Taeyang: "Real recognize real" + New Twitter Profile Pic (120223) [PHOTO]

2012-02-23T21:55:00.001+08:00

YG-Life Update: Big Bang's Melon Chart Record [PHOTO]

2012-02-23T20:45:00.004+08:00

Related news: On Melon Music, one of the largest online music download sites, BIGBANG’s explosive popularity is well-reflected as it showed “Blue” receiving the highest-possible points for the chart. Netizens have already dubbed this phenomenon as “kicking through the roof” popularity. (Soompi)

SBS Strong Heart preparing for a "YG Special" [NEWS]

2012-02-23T19:29:00.002+08:00

Lee Seung Gi’s last ep of Strong Heart to be ‘YG special’

On the 22nd, a related person from SBS said, “On the 15th March, at Strong Heart, ‘YG special’ where all the singers from YG entertainment will appear will be filmed. The production team are having meetings about various concepts such as Psy being the MC.”

March 15th is the date of the last recording of the current MC of Strong Heart, Lee Seung Gi. Lee Seung Gi is leaving the show in order to concentrate on his acting and singing activities.

SBS has been generous to YG artists. In 2010, when 2ne1 made a comeback on Inkigayo, for the first time ever, they performed 3 songs. In addition, in February 2011 when Big Bang made a comeback, a program called ‘Big Bang Show’ was made. Yang Hyun Suk is also active on SBS Kpop Star at the moment.

Big Bang, who is about to make a comeback in March were invited as guests on ‘Healing Camp’ on the 20th, where they were able to explain about their recent problems and they have also recorded ‘Running Man’.

As if to repay SBS, Se7en who has recently come out with a new song, and Big Bang, have released their MVs firstly on Strong Heart. Because of the relationship of SBS and YG, many are curious how this Strong Heart YG special will be like.

However, because the last recording date for Lee Seung Gi was decided quite suddenly, it is possible that the schedule of the YG special might be changed.

Source: Ohmynews
Translated by http://ceciliase7en.wordpress.com

Big Bang to have their "Inkigayo" comeback stage on March 11 [NEWS]

2012-02-23T18:43:00.000+08:00

Big Bang is having their comeback on March 11 in SBS’s Inkigayo.

A staff member of SBS’s variety shows said in an interview with TV Report, “Big Bang is planning to return on March 11 in Inkigayo. Yet, we’re not sure about the details such as how many songs they will be performing, but they’re certainly giving returning performance on March 11.”

Because Big Bang has experience of performing three of their new songs in Inkigayo before, the group is likely to have another unusual comeback performance this time.

Originally, Big Bang considered returning to TV on March 4 after releasing its mini-album, but the group insisted to postpone the date to March 11 in order to focus on their upcoming concert.

Big Bang will hold its solo concert a2t the Olympic Gymnastics Arena in Bangi-dong, Seoul from March 2 to 4.

Source: TV Report
English version: Korea.com

Jay Park & Eli (of U-Kiss) tweet praises for Big Bang [NEWS]

2012-02-23T18:42:00.002+08:00

빅뱅분들역시멋지시네요~ㅋ
— JAY BUM PARK (@JAYBUMAOM) February 23, 2012

Translation: As expected, the members of Big Bang are really awesome~ ke

Translated by @kristinekwak

BIG BANG - BLUE~~ Awesome song hehe listen to it
— eli kim (@u_kisseli) February 23, 2012

- Celebrities tweet about Big Bang's "Blue"
- HaHa: "Big Bang, more like national artists rather than idols"

Big Bang Interview in New York with allkpop [SUBBED]

2012-02-23T17:50:00.002+08:00

Big Bang's "Blue" hits 3 million views one day after its release, #1 on Youtube daily charts [NEWS]

2012-02-23T15:33:00.000+08:00