kdrama and kpop

Actor Kim Bum is making an impression on audiences these days with his role as the younger version of the character played by actor Song Seung-hun in the MBC TV drama, "East of Eden." Soon, Kim Bum will be impressing audiences in Japan as well--the actor recently signed a contract with a Japanese management agency.

Kim Bum's agency in Korea, Eyagi Entertainment, announced that Kim Bum just signed with Glory Entertainment in Japan, which is owned by the Glory Group, which also has ties to a major movie production company.

"There are not many Kim Bum productions in Japan, but he is still very popular in Japan," said a representative of Glory Entertainment. "We believe in the star quality that Kim Bum has, which is why we signed him."

Kim Bum is planning to work in both Korea and Japan. In December, the actor is set to star in the KBS 2TV drama, "Boys over Flowers."

Source: KBS Global

http://english.kbs.co.kr/mcontents/enterta...3593_11692.html

Singer-actor Rain [YONHAP]

Since he was a child, Rain has always kept his money safe in the bank. Despite being one of Korea’s most successful entertainers, it’s a habit he’s kept till this day.

The star’s sensible saving practices were recognized at the 45th National Saving Day last Tuesday, where he was awarded a Presidential Commendation.

“When people were calculating yields and putting money in equity funds and other investments that promised higher returns, I placed my cash in bank accounts, a habit I inherited from my parents,” said Rain, 26, at the ceremony at the Korea Federation of Banks building in Myeong-dong, central Seoul.

Although the singer-cum-actor is said to be worth billions of won, he still receives a monthly allowance from his father, who manages his son’s sizable assets.

Rain recently appeared in the Hollywood movie “Speed Racer” and his second U.S. film, “Ninja Assassin,” is set for release next year.

Rain talked about the importance of saving for the future. “I can guarantee that however little money you have, when it is piled up, it will be of enormous help in the future,” he said. He also cited the proverb, “Many drops make a shower.”

Kim Ji-su, an actress who received a Prime Ministerial Commendation for her saving habits, also cited “security” as the biggest merit of bank savings.

“Unlike other occupations, acting does not guarantee a sustainable income. As I don’t really know other methods of asset management, I opted for saving that involves no risk and burden,” she said.

The 36-year-old actress recently appeared in the hit TV drama, “Woman in the Sun.”

By Seo Ji-eun Staff Reporter [spring@joongang.co.kr]

http://joongangdaily.joins.com/article/view.asp?aid=2896800