Popular group JYJ member Kim Junsu held his first solo concert on the 20th of this month at Jamsil Stadium. One fan commented with irritation, “The fact that an artist such as him with such amazing skill and talent is prevented from appearing on broadcast stations is really saddening,” as well as “Just how long will they have such unfair restraints put against them? We have no idea.”
A middle-aged female fan from Yangcheon commented “As a Hallyu Star representative, Junsu has released an album and has started many activities. Does it make any sense at all that we cannot see any news of his activities on broadcast stations?” Furthermore, “We hope that not only Kim Junsu but all JYJ members will be able to showcase their music to the public through broadcast stations as soon as possible.”
Recently, due to a tight deadlock from broadcast stations, JYJ’s inability to appear on music broadcast programs is causing a rise in fans’ resentment. Such resentment rose much more significantly after Kim Junsu’s concert.
On online community boards, fans wrote “Whether it’s because of their skill, their overall presence or their title as South Korea’s best singers, JYJ members are not able to be seen on music broadcast programs” stating that “It is a complete loss to the entire music industry of South Korea.”
As expected, during Kim Junsu’s interview with reporters for his solo album release, Junsu said, “More than anything the most distressing issue was that this album was created under the assumption that I would not be able to perform on various broadcast programs. It is as if it is now a situation where I can only use my own strength/force.”
JYJ had appeared on music broadcasting before, yet their lack of appearance is now protracted due to the boycott by music broadcasting stations. The three members of JYJ filed an injunction to suspend the validity of their contracts and the court has consistently ruled in favor of the members. The court deemed that JYJ had the freedom to appear on music broadcast stations. However, due to the strong hegemony of power within the entertainment and broadcasting sphere, it is as if the court had no say over the matter.
It cannot be forgotten that despite all this JYJ has been able to consistently spread their fanbase across the world. The members have reached out to different fields of entertainment such as musicals and dramas. This has clearly made their presence stronger as a whole.
As of a few days ago, Kim Junsu’s MV for his title song “Tarantallegra” recently hit a record of 3,000,000+ views. He also topped Lady Gaga and Justin Bieber in Japan on iTunes rankings. Furthermore, presales for his album broke the 100,000 mark. This clearly demonstrated his immense popularity despite not being able to appear on music broadcasts.
Reasons for disallowing JYJ to perform on TV are weak and unpersuasive. Preventing JYJ from appearing on broadcast stations is a loss for the country and in fact is quite an embarrassment. Broadcast stations would do well to remember that in the future, when looking back at this point in time, there will forever be a “stain” on history/in our memories.
Source: ejanews I Translated by: buniu of JYJ3
Shared by: JYJ3
Please do not add, alter or remove the credits.
who need a fvcking promotion on tv, u already are popular
but yes, it must be stressful for the boys because it’s like they’re not acceptable in their own country >.<
Exactly! Their own country…that’s sad and truly embarrassing. If their own can’t appreciate JYJ’s skills and accomplishments, the international fans will certainly welcome them with open arms and lots of love
“Reasons for disallowing JYJ to perform on TV are weak and unpersuasive. Preventing JYJ from appearing on broadcast stations is a loss for the country and in fact is quite an embarrassment. Broadcast stations would do well to remember that in the future, when looking back at this point in time, there will forever be a “stain” on history/in our memories.”
Preach it LOUD and long!
This says it all doesn’t it. Nothing more need be said.
Ditto ^^
@BAFfie
Great, isn’t it? “stir the pot, journalists of SK and all the rotten bits lying at the bottom will once again be brought to the surface.”
I have to marvel at Junsu’s courage in speaking out consistently and to applaud his actions. It makes me wonder whether as a member of JYJ in group activities he’s been under a restriction to say nothing from the other two. The group JYJ has been extremely circumspect about the issue, referring to it only rarely and then in a carefully worded sentence or two.
Anyway, I really trust these statements of his are going to help make this barrier come DOWN.
@Lilibaiyu
Oh, the chickens will come home to roost. No worries.
No, I don’t think restrictions from the other two are the case. I think it’s simply a matter of personal choice, what to say and when.
To me, it really didn’t make sense to push the issue early on because, there were more pressing issues to deal with. Now, I think as things begin to wind down, there is nothing to lose. They weren’t on any programs before, and if they don’t get on any after the lawsuit is over, still nothing to lose.
I feel the much more important issue is how SK looks to the rest of the world with these shenanigans going on. As long as fans clamor for concerts, and fan meets around the world, that is much more meaningful than a few performances on some lame music/variety shows. If it happens, so be it. But the world will still revolve.
The model for these programs is…the latest album to be released gets chosen as the week’s winner. BIG SURPRISE! Yes, Korean fans deserve better than this, but it simply highlights how shallow the industry is.
So, if SK’s music industry doesn’t give a fig how it is portrayed to the rest of the world, I surely won’t hold it against them letting me think they are the scum of the earth. I will glady accomodate them.
@BAFfie
“I feel the much more important issue is how SK looks to the rest of the world with these shenanigans going on. As long as fans clamor for concerts, and fan meets around the world, that is much more meaningful than a few performances on some lame music/variety shows.”
Oh, my goodness, I couldn’t have put it better! For those paying attention in SK, and that of course is the operative phrase here, for those keeping track of what has been going on in the music business there, this is nothing less than a national disgrace. Here in the U.S. and I’m sure elsewhere if this kind of illegal and pernicious co-opting of a free market were going on, blaring daily headlines would be going on for MONTHS. And as I said, I think it’s up to each of us to keep stirring the pot.
You also said “The model for these programs is…the latest album to be released gets chosen as the week’s winner. BIG SURPRISE! Yes, Korean fans deserve better than this, but it simply highlights how shallow the industry is.”
Yes. I have long been one who says, after watching these shows and seeing what they are all about, who NEEDS them!?? Mostly, they look to me like juvenile sex fantasies for young males. I can’t think why else S. Korea needs 99 different prancing, posing, pouting scantily clad young women most of whom can’t sing well in ersatz “competition” each week. Do people in S.K. really truly believe that these shows aren’t rigged and decided in advance??
Do I want JYJ on any of these shows?? NO. The most I will allow is that THEY seem to want the option of being on them. It seems important to THEM That is as far as I am prepared to go. Were it up to me: never again with the variety shows and on TV only in a concert setting.
Yes Lili,
It is seems to be important for the guys because it is important to their loyal fans who see this as meaningful. This I would not take away from them.
But seriously, we both know standards differ here in the west. Successful artists have much more leeway. They are not treated as pariahs because they choose to look out for their own best interests. There is none of this, how can they sue nonsense. How can they bite the hand that feeds them. Forgetting the fact that the hand that feeds you in SK is only givng you crumbs, when you deserve a 10 course meal.
I’m reminded of when Prince sued Warner Music over his catalog rights. He refused to even use his name. Preferring to print the word ‘Slave’ on the side of his face, and use a symbol for his name until the case was resolved. He was never denied the right to be on broadcast TV. Granted we don’t have variety and music shows, but he certainly appeared on the nightime talk shows, and award shows. the only thing he couldn’t do was talk about the case, which is SOP here.
SK has a long way to go before they can be considered mainstream in the international music industry.
@BAFfie
Sorry to be seeming to be having a one-on-one discussion with butterfliesarefree here kids, but I think the points made here are important.
I think about this: Bob Dylan, Sting, Bruce Springsteen, Neil Young…. would any of them go on these goofy music show competitions and be made fun of by these “entertaining” MCs?? NO. Why?? Because these shows are strictly kid stuff and beneath them. Their managers wouldn’t ALLOW them to do shows like this and for good reason. So I am going with the side that says that SM has unwittingly done the guys a great service in getting them banned from them. They clearly define mediocracy in S.K. right now.
The more that SM continues along this path, they are going to add to the irrelevancy of Kpop. Sure there will be an interest in the genre around the world. But again, that sneaky, quirky, old thing called longevity.
LONGEVITY allows you the freedom to be meaningful as an artist. Granted the music industry worldwide does cater to the ‘youth’ market, but even with that, young artists around the globe have a chance to grow, and expand their talents to other levels. Not so in the SK market where instant riches for the puppeteers is the rule. Once you hit a certain age, you are no longer relevant.
But funny thing about real talent, it will carry you a lot farther than people think it can. In particular, I think about some of the Latin artists who have made it big, who started out very young and are now in their 30s, some now even in their 40s. Granted there is a large Spanish speaking world out there to support them, but you still have to have talent. I get so sentimental thinking about Selena and where she would be right now if she were still alive. That young woman had some serious chops, and presence when she performed.
There is no rush. The guys will have that career a lot longer. Being in control of your creativity and product is what will make all the difference. Granted the artists you named are considered ‘seniors’ now, but they also have loyal fanbases. Those fanbases did not desert them as they got older. This is where the odds are in JYJ’s favor. The fans are not being manipulated by a company.
IMHO, the fans in this fandom are here because they want to be. They don’t have to be sold on anything. The fans know what they like and don’t need a company to tell them what they should like. And since internationally, fans around the world are a lot more discerning, they have freedom of choice. This is what gives JYJ a track to the larger world. They have what it takes to give fans great music and possess skills that are not ordinary. Package that all up with real poise and charisma, watch out world!
@BAFfie
“Granted the artists you named are considered ‘seniors’ now, but they also have loyal fanbases. Those fanbases did not desert them as they got older.”
Just a post script here: Bob Dylan was awarded the Presidential Medal of Honor here today by Pres. Barrak Obama. He’s in his 60s. And still relevant, still touring. So yes, it doesn’t take much imagination to envision where the members of JYJ will be in 20, 30 or even 40 years from now…
Can I join your discussion @lilibaiyu and @butterfliesarefree2 ? I can’t even imagine JYJ on one of those music programs. They just wouldn’t fit. In addition to the difference in their talent, the whole production style just wouldn’t be a fit to them anymore. But it isn’t just the music shows. It is all access to public media including variety shows, all the shows like Strong Heart, Running Man, Happy Together – a great resource for the public getting to know them. Even the types of news articles in the entertainment section, etc. Can you imagine any entertainer in the world having to operate in a total black out. JYJ members get covered individually as actors and musical singers, but not as JYJ. Even when they do cover them as JYJ, they try to diminish JYJ’s success by crediting it to Kpop, sometimes not even mentioning the name JYJ while showing their video of them. That gives such an ever present oppressive feeling, really like being in the confines of a jail. It is very different to decide you don’t want to be on a show as opposed to being blocked with everyone pretending you don’t exist.
Happy to see this news article. Would love to see more of them in larger papers.
@Lisa
” Even when they do cover them as JYJ, they try to diminish JYJ’s success by crediting it to Kpop, sometimes not even mentioning the name JYJ while showing their video of them. That gives such an ever present oppressive feeling, really like being in the confines of a jail.”
Hi Lisa,
Yes, I think you are right in your assessment. I don’t think we can possibly imagine the stress and frustration the members feel day in and day out over this boycott by SM. But I refuse to let the passage of time mask how serious, damaging and ultimately destructive it is and how dangerous it has been to the members’ states of mind. So I think what I’ll do is direct my new little friend Sandy to come over here and read this thread, Because I think girlfriend needs some educating and after being labeled an elitist asshole by her, I’m thinking maybe she should start right here.
I want to comment on my comment ^ ^.
For years I have thought that broadcast media is extremely old fashioned. To have to tune in at a certain time? It’s so 20th century. It is much easier for me to watch their dramas on Viki than to get up at 6:00 am to watch it on poor quality satellite with no subtitles. I can watch it on Viki, pause and rewind, on my own time.
So I think JYJ should embrace the new age and fully use it to their advantage, making new alliances in the new media. Why not have their own music show, advertised over twitter, facebook, youtube etc. Take out subway ads to promote it. Then sell advertising just like the tv shows do. If I had the knowledge, I would move to Korea and start doing that.
Why not make the media that is blocking them completely obsolete. C-JeS could become this huge pioneer entertainment company with all kinds of real talent, not that manufactured artificial stuff the tv shows have. I keep sending tweets to beyondmonica about this. I think JYJ and C-JeS are missing a huge opportunity to be the pioneers of the future. Any of you with the capability, go for it and make such a show for them.
@Lisa
“So I think JYJ should embrace the new age and fully use it to their advantage, making new alliances in the new media. Why not have their own music show, advertised over twitter, facebook, youtube etc.”
Now THAT is a really truly great idea!!
And who better to be media pioneers than JYJ?
Hello Lisa, welcome to the conversation. Lisa, your comment about using the ‘new media’ is as good a place to plop this piece down. I saw it last week and saved it thinking it would be a decent conversation piece to revamp our discussion format.
Please take into consideration I’m not suggesting this should be copied per se by JYJ, but just as an example of what some leaders in the music industry are thinking. Hopefully, people here will know who Jermaine Dupri is…
http://www.huffingtonpost.com/shira-lazar/how-jermaine-dupri-is-con_b_1513349.html?ref=technology
I found his comments interesting especially when talking about communicating. But here is someone who is recognizing the potential of new media and is doing something with it. You were right Lisa, the old way of doing things does not necessarily fit where JYJ is at the present time.
The online media offers way more opportunities than simply appearing on broadcast TV. I had to chuckle when you said you can watch things on Viki without having to sit and wait for the timed broadcast and get subs to go along with your viewing pleasure.
Long before the Internet brought folks together and the opportunity to experience all kinds of wonderful things, I used a vcr and video cassettes to do exactly what you can now use Viki for. I recorded EVERYTHING! I watched at my leisure, AND skipped commericals. My viewing interests did not hold me hostage. I got so see what I wanted, when I wanted, skip the ads, and go back and see scenes over again. It was truly liberating! Of course now I have TIVO.
But the important part is technology no longers requires one to remain shackled. Even though there can be inherent problems, there always are, this does not preclude the chances to move along. So, if they remain blacklisted, then the fandom can let CJeS and JYJ know that using alternative methods of reaching out to the fan base, is gladly accepted and encouraged. This media along with other forms of SNS will caterpault JYJ out of the SK blockade and into the rest of the world.
Jermaine Dupri is using the technology to do what he wants to do as a producer, performer, and creator. Chuck D. said long ago, the Internet was going to change the music industry and he was right. This is the time, this is the place, this is the method for the strong to survive. I hope you find the article interesting and will comment on it.
@BAFfie
“Long before the Internet brought folks together and the opportunity to experience all kinds of wonderful things, I used a vcr and video cassettes to do exactly what you can now use Viki for. I recorded EVERYTHING! I watched at my leisure, AND skipped commericals.”
I think our media evolution matched yours, sis. We also started with VCRs and now TiVo fills the bill here too. I hope Lisa finds that article by Germaine Dupri interesting and will post her thoughts on the GAPP. We badly need topics people can sink their teeth into over there. This one seems like a winner!
Lili, I hope she sees too.
Yes, I really like that interview. That is the new reality. I don’t know if that is exactly the model for C-JeS, and definitely not for our busy JYJ members who don’t even have time to sleep, but it shows that he understands how to use social media.
Another point (sorry to all of you who aren’t interested in all this. just skip my comment) – I get frustrated at all the Kpop festivals all over the place that JYJ aren’t invited to perform at. I would love to see a JYJ and friends festival – with all those artists Yuchun recommends and Jaejoong and Junsu’s friends in the entertainment world. I would love to see that. Anyway, there are so many possibilities. I don’t know anything about C-JeS’s real situation, but those are the kinds of things I would like to see happening.
Also, I was so happy when SBS used fans’ artwork on Rooftop Prince and even encouraged fan participation. I thought, Oh, they understand how to use the fan base to help them. We have so many talented people in the JYJ family. Ok, I better stop. That’s it on this post. Bye.
yes!
When will all this oppression end????…. The people of Korea have to speak-up…more so within the industry itself.
We, the i-fan can only support…who at loss in the end is Korea… such a shame…
This stuff always saddens me. They’ve earned their time on the music shows. They deserve so much better treatment than they receive. When will SM just grow up and stop strongarming everyone to shut them out?
JYJ have such strong vocals, why can’t they peform on music shows? It is just because of the case? That’s freaken STUPID!
“It is a complete loss to the entire music industry of South Korea.” I second this!
Very embarrassing for Korea tv broadcasting to act so ridiculous because JYJ has let the entire world know how proud they are of their culture, their music and the fame they have now has let others curiosity of getting to know more about the Korean culture and I’ll bet that tourism has grown more because of them. Still JYJ have stand tough and proud, regardless of the obstacles they faced, that’s why I admire them.
those stupid broadcasting station makes enjoying music less fun for Korean fans. I hope they will wake up one day and regret how much they have missed. tsk tsk tsk tsk.
today, i download a K-POP charts app from android market, with the small amount of curiosity in mind, wonder if i can catch a glimpse of junsu’s tarantallegra or JJ’s song from Dr. Jin OST since it’s top melon chart yesterday, when i looked through it, one thing i could do was smiling, one f*cking bittersweet smile.
over 100 songs, not even once i see JYJ boys name. not in chart section, not in new section, not even in review section…ohh…but they have so many many review of SNSD’s songs, even the old ones..tell me how loud my laughter should be?
i should have know that i must kill my attention over these kind of charts, it’s useless, and i agree with the last paragraph “Reasons for disallowing JYJ to perform on TV are weak and unpersuasive. Preventing JYJ from appearing on broadcast stations is a loss for the country and in fact is quite an embarrassment. Broadcast stations would do well to remember that in the future, when looking back at this point in time, there will forever be a “stain” on history/in our memories.”
oh, you should be embarrassed south korea. you kill your one of the best talent out there, when what they did is bringing a gold platter name of the thing called “South Korea best artist” for you.
well at least i could still see my 2 other boys in the charts, and looks like the chart section is objective, i saw iu and leessang topping it ^^
i know, i know what it feels like…i wonder how it feels like to have them on TV every week, on every music shows..how is it that something which are normal to other people, seems only like a dream for JYJ fans
@yukasato
“over 100 songs, not even once i see JYJ boys name. not in chart section, not in new section, not even in review section…ohh…but they have so many many review of SNSD’s songs, even the old ones..tell me how loud my laughter should be?”
This is the ONLY way that SM can see its way forward in terms of a marketing strategy, so that they can continue to make money: by manipulating the market, suppressing real talent and competition and creating a wildly uneven playing field for its own acts to “win” on. And hope the general public doesn’t catch on.
I also wondered why he’s not in any major chart. My respect goes to him though along with IU. No dance or eyecandy tricks. JYJ (all three of them) can write their own music. Most of SM artists left now are no more than eyecandies and dance machines. Good thing JYJ left!
I’m so fed up with these TV stations and their lame excuses that I don’t even wanna talk about them anymore. But every time JYJ or its members release any album or song, the matter is once again like “in your face”, can’t be ignored, and is so effing infuriating. With the current Junsu’s solo album and Jaejoong’s freshly released OST, it’s an obvious loss for Korean music industry since people lose a chance to enjoy real music and amazing live performances aside from the typical K-pop. It’s not surprising that JYJ’s fanbase is increasing because the more neglected they’re in Korea, the more protective, supportive, and sympathetic their fans become. JYJ, be strong and keep moving forward!
I already give up TV station (music division) but I haven’t give up about TV station (film division) coz they still allowed JYJ to appear as actor. Hope they make and sing more OST. At least we can hear their music from the OST.
Everyone, keep supporting JYJ. Only us can help them.
why do i feel that SK giant entertainment and broadcasting sphere refuse to believe/admit that again, history will tell, courageous DAVID beat disrepute GOLIATH.
GO JUNSU`
GO TO HEEL for SoMeonE boycott u heee
“It is a complete loss to the entire music industry of South Korea.”
AMEN.
“Preventing JYJ from appearing on broadcast stations is a loss for the country and in fact is quite an embarrassment.”
A MEN!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
-____________________- (pouts).
“Reasons for disallowing JYJ to perform on TV are weak and unpersuasive. Preventing JYJ from appearing on broadcast stations is a loss for the country and in fact is quite an embarrassment.”
The person that wrote this article has got some GUTS! I LIKE!
Me SUPER LIKE too! Love this gutsy writer! >.<
“The fact that an artist such as him with such amazing skill and talent is prevented from appearing on broadcast stations is really saddening,” – THIS THIS THIS SFM
Honestly, this kind of articles have been coming out so very often esp when JYJ release any songs or albums.
It’s just too tiring sometimes to even bother to tell those dirty idiots that “Hey, the court ruled in JYJ’s favour and you shouldn’t be blocking them …. blah blah blah”
It’s a kind of mentality that still exist in South Korea despite proclaiming themself as a democratic country.
They are afraid of any changes that may hinder their powers.
I believe, even without SoMeone, so openly as to tell the broadcasters and other agencies what to do, those old idiots sitting in those companies already have the same thinking.
They are afraid that JYJ will set the precedence that those ‘kids’ finally have some say in their own lives.
And what’s worse, some companies, even some people actually are behaving like they are bigger than the law over there.
A shame, really coz I kinda like South Korea.
But as the author of this article put it, “Broadcast stations would do well to remember that in the future, when looking back at this point in time, there will forever be a “stain” on history/in our memories”
Reblogged this on dreamalexia.
Totally! Media out of Korea are dying to get a glimpse of them, yet media in Korea ban them? Ugh, the irony. Sometimes I wish JYJ weren’t from South Korea.
…yet they do not need the TV stations! Look how HUGE they are!, and how they keep growing. Indeed, one day, those stations will look back at their enormous mistake. In the meantime, let’s keep supporting them to be even bigger musicians, stars, actors…seem they don’t have a limit! JYJ fighting!
Well-written article! Yes, they don’t need TV promotion to do well, it’s already proven but it’s really distressing for the three of them. Imagine not being able to broadcast your music through your own country?! I really hope too that this problem get fixed as soon as possible. If SM is confident enough with their current roster of talents, they wouldn’t mind the competition, right?
JYJ, fighting! Your fans are always here for you ^_^
Where is antitrust law in South Korea? Do they have one? This on going mistreatment shows that South Korean government and it’s judiciary system have totally failed. JYJ needs to take the government and SM to court for industrial bullying, and to start lobbying for change. And, JYJ fans (specially fans from overseas) can help by sending complaints to Blue House to demand S.K government should step in to solve the problems. JYJ members are their citizens, paying lots of tax, and being an excellent ambassador who generate more economic opportunities for their country. S.K government should do their job.
@modernblazer96
Great post, you made strong arguments and I agree with you. We international fans should be doing more. We should be writing to as many people in power in SK as we can find addresses for. I’d love to write an email to the Blue House. Does anyone know that email address?
http://www.korea.net/
@BAFfie
OK, well, there’s that whole website. Any hints as to the Blue House email addy?
What you expect this to be as transparent as whitehouse.gov? Shame on you.
Now on the site for the Mayor of Seoul, there is a button: email the mayor. Doesn’t get any simpler than that. Somehow, I don’t think the president of SK is interested in hearing from anyone, hence the lack of easy access to the dude, or the folks who get his email.
http://english.seoul.go.kr/
Thanks lili,
The reason I want to encourage international fans to write is that Korean govermemt will be more sensitive to how other countries perceive them. Believe me, it’s a cultural thing. You’ve got to start a wave somewhere to make Tsunami effect. Here is one site you can try.
http://www.english.president.go.kr
then select Lee Myung-Bak
that should direct to Chungwadea (Blue House) contact.
Sorry, but you will have to remove the http://. That does not bring it up. I got an error with it. If you use the http://www.english.president.go.kr, it brings up the exact thing I sent her. There is no transparency for the Bllue House email address.
@modernblazer96
@BAFfie
None of these links are working for me.
Besides, I don’t think the Mayor of Seoul is going to be able to do much. I could be wrong. It’s just a feeling. I think it’s gotta be the President. You know–the guy who shamelessly USED Jaejoong on their little jaunt to Turkey to guarantee a lot of attendance and interest in his appearances. Grrrrrrrrrr…
My VE Sister,
I get your point, I’m just pointing out the difference in transparency and how exactly this is going to work – not very well. If the president’s office was interested in hearing from people, how hard should it be to contact by email. It’s not as if he’s going to open the email. A paid civil servant is going to do it. I was trying to illustrate that the http:// should be eliminated. Once you do, the exact same link from the website I sent you comes up. These folks are hiding. One has tooo dig deep to try and find them. Like moles, you know.
@BAFfie
“These folks are hiding. One has tooo dig deep to try and find them. Like moles, you know.”
True enough, true enough. And their lack of accessibility speaks volumes, no? I’ve been having a bit of a tweet back and forth with a reporter named John Bloom who made the serious mistake of writing favorably about the SMTown show in L.A. somewhere I had occasion to see it. Big mistake, I think you can all agree. lol So I’ve been educating him on the real poop and scoop vis a vis K-Pop. So amazing. The man knows NOTHING about it and still, as an entertainment reporter, posts about it on the internet. He’s obviously another one of these guys who got the pre-prepared SM tear-sheet full of bullshit happy talk about the roster and just cut and pasted some of it. Geez. *rolls eyes*
OK my sister, in response to your convo with the reporter regarding SMTown in LA. What part of journalism is no longer what it used to be don’t you get? I’m being serious here. Laziness is the rule of the day here. No longer do MSM have to conduct themselves with integrity. Get it out fast before the competition does. This is the new mantra.
Quality, meaningful reporting is not going to be recognized as much anymore. Yes, there are a few shining examples. Not to brag or anything but the Pulitzer prize for journalism was won by a team from our Inquirer here in Philly. The subject was a series on violence in our schools. But it does indicate there can be some honest reporting going on.
Entertainment reporting is not exactly a high rung on the totem pole. Yes, some outlets are better than others. But look at it this way, it was probably the same old stale message SMTown puts out every year. So, it’s not as if they were telling anyone anything new.
Besides, when news outlets don’t have anything to compare this information too, it’s not hard to understand their willinginess to access what is thrown their way.
@BAFfie
“Besides, when news outlets don’t have anything to compare this information too, it’s not hard to understand their willinginess to access what is thrown their way.”
Just because they are a bunch of lazy-ass bastards doesn’t mean they’re going to get past me when I have it staring me in the face.
And trust me, I hit all your bullet points above with Mr Bloom. I tried to be civil, I hope I was. I know that SM is operating in a knowledge vacuum here in the U.S. in regards to K-Pop awareness and they are using that to their FULL ADVANTAGE. Selling their seemingly never-ending supply of virtual soft-porn girl groups is just that – a pretty damn easy sell to a certain kind of male American journalist. *Siiiigh*
Beyond that, I agree with all of the points you made except “What part of journalism is no longer what it used to be don’t you get?”
There is an extremely viable, critical and erudite music press in this country and frankly there always has been. These bottom-feeders covering SM’s brand of K-Pop are not to be judged as the cutting edge, to put it mildly. K-Pop in fact has yet to even be acknowledged by the legitimate music press here. That’s how little they take this particular brand of music seriously. They simply turn a blind eye. The journalists of the world who are likely to pick up an SM press release, copy/paste it and go to press with it are not credible, to me anyways. Merely by that action they cancel themselves OUT. That’s what I wished to convey to Mr Bloom. I hope I was kind. I may not have been.
Ok, ok, don’t get your knickers in a twist.
By the way, what pub does this ‘Walter Cronkite’ write for? Please don’t tell me the LA Times. I will be so dissolutioned if you say that. 
@BAFfie
“By the way, what pub does this ‘Walter Cronkite’ write for? Please don’t tell me the LA Times. I will be so dissolutioned if you say that. ”
I’m mystified. I give up. Or to put it a different way – “Huh??”
And re: my knickers – OK, busted there too. They’ve been in a twist all day long. Right now I’m singing along to “If you’re cranky and you know it clap your hands!” *clap clap*
Sister, sister…what news outlet does the reporting wunderkind write for? I will just be so disappointed if it’s for the LA Times.
This is the e-mail address for President Lee Myung-bak at the Blue House – http://english.president.go.kr/common/email.php
@modernnblazer96
You are making the assumption that the judicial system in SK has some teeth. This is a false assumption given that SK is a quasi-democracy. The test of a real democracy is a robust legal system, with juries of one’s peers. One that has some teeth. When your rules of law are scoffed at, ignored, and pretty much made useless, there really isn’t much to say.
Antitrust laws? From day one, if SME had been in the U.S., their behinds would have been held in contempt of court, and their execs carted off to jail so fast, it would make your head spin. What they would be held up to here would be the Rico laws….racketeerng. Antitrust is civil, racketeering is criminal, jail time. I’ll take the criminal any day, over antitrust. No judge in this country ever allows anyone, in either criminal or civil cases make a mockery out of the laws. Doesn’t matter which side you’re on, the system will call you out.
Justices on the Supreme Court in this country have been removed from the bench. So, any entity in any case that thinks it’s above the law should think twice. That’s what makes what’s going on in SK more of a joke than anything else. There are no serious checks and balances to hold ANYONE accountable. My respect for their legal system is zilch.
Clamoring for change with emails will let them know the international community is watching, but don’t expect anything to change. They are too wedded to the system. The only way for meaningful, structural change to occur, change the party in power. This has to come from the people of SK.
Dear Butterflies,
I appreciate your comments.
I searched a little bit about antitrust laws in SK and found out it’s relatively new to the country compare to United States. It might take a very long time to evolve in SK. Anyway, you and I may not have any power of changing SK political party nor judicial system. However, we have good amount of JYJ armies, and I believe we can make ripple effect. All great things start with one individual.
@modernblazer96
Thanks for doing the research, modernblazer. We need MORE people like you here. It all starts with doing the reading, gaining knowledge and then…action!
@modernblazer96
Don’t get me wrong, I do understand the power of ‘making noise’. You are talking about someone who worked it during the Civil Rights and Vietnam eras here in the States. The last thing in the world I would say is don’t do it. My issue is people expecting anything to change with this current govt regime in power. President Lee is a very shrewd operator. I have found that the conservative element in today’s world, no matter where one lives, is not the respected conservative thought that was rational. It is much more paranoid today. Paranoia does not lend itself to allowing people to think and act rationally. Prime example: here in the U.S.
Anyone who would give a pardon to LSM is not someone I’m going to hold my breath waiting to do the right thing. Actually, I think a mult-pronged attack might be more effective. By that I mean an onslaught to yes, governmental ministries, along with the president’s office, AND a host of the news media. It should be well orchestrated though. Like compiling lists of the major outlets and offices. Then pretty much sent out at the same time.
Whether anyone DOES anything or not, is not really the answer. Letting them know, the WORLD is watching is more important. They cannot stop the rest of the world from seeing unless they want to be viewed from the same prism as NK. Not a very nice picture if you ask me.
“It is a complete loss to the entire music industry of South Korea.”
Amen.
“More than anything the most distressing issue was that this album was created under the assumption that I would not be able to perform on various broadcast programs.”
That’s sad. But SM’s bs is actually just a blessing covered in bs because it encourages him to whip out everything he’s got. He can be as daring as he wants to be (Tarantallegra’s mv). He can do whatever the hell he wants.
Basically, he doesn’t have to fear ish.
Thanks, I guess, SM.
For hacking the hell out of men and molding them into true musicians.
*out of our men~
I know it may split loyalties, but maybe the only way to get SM to back off is to stop buying music from their groups for a while. As long as SM gets fans to support their products, they won’t change, but in order to help JYJ you might have to hurt the sales of the remaining members, and other SM groups.
@Anthony
“but maybe the only way to get SM to back off is to stop buying music from their groups for a while. ”
Several of us here have been saying this for months going on years. I think it’s a mandatory strategy.
Haha… glad someone have the same thinking^^
I have been doing it for the last 2 years. Boycott all of SM products^^
Then some SM sycophants said they don’t want to hurt other SM puppets. That why SM keeps their arrogant head up.
Believing that they have the power over the SK law, keep me a break lol
If you want SM to change for better, you must kill SM cash flows. That is how thing improve^^
that is true… for SM change for the better… one has to act by killing the source of their income… I’ve stop buying any merchandize related to SM and all products that uses SM idols as their models…
@masi
“I’ve stop buying any merchandize related to SM and all products that uses SM idols as their models.”
Of course, so have I well over a year, going on 2 years ago. Although the Christmas before last my husband surprised me with a new computer monitor that was a Samsung. I felt ever so guilty about using it! But that’s been it for me. No more Korean anything until SM’s evil financial back is broken.
Yes, hitting folks where it really hurts is the only answer. The only thing SME understands is currency. But sacrifice is the only way people can give that message. I really don’t believe the mindset of the fans of today are able to reach that deep. They simply are not political. Depriving SM of money is a political statement. One has to be willing to step up to the plate and sacrifice. SM has done a wonderful job over the years of creating a mindset in its fanbases, that tells the fans they cannot do without this product. Thereby creating a protective barrier. The fans in these groups are conditioned just like brainwashing – Stockholm Syndrome. Or like Pavlov’s dog, unless a new element is presented, the dog keeps doing the same thing over and over again.
I said it before, and I’ll say it again. If the product coming out of SK, not just SM, doesn’t have the name JYJ on it, I’m not buying it – cars, appliances, electronics, etc. I bought a brand new glass top electric stove in December. Didn’t even look at anything that had a SK company name on it. My next purchase, a flat screen TV. The likelihood of it being from a SK manufacturer is nil.
I think this article sums it up well. I don’t even care about the music programs in S. Korea. I have staged my own personal boycott and refuse to watch them.=P Let’s keep supporting JYJ and buy those albums! Let their sales do their bidding. =)
I do what I can do for the boys ..they have all my support ^^
Reblogged this on Ai.
It is more than a boycott to me. I can’t stand to watch those shows anymore or to listen to the music. Anything related to their treatment of JYJ makes me so frustrated and upset that I can’t take it. I used to watch lots of Korean tv but not anymore.
I think any letters to politicians have to be specific as to what action is expected. In the past when I wrote a letter to the minister of culture, right after that they appointed JYJ as ambassadors for something. I think the Pres. thought he was supporting JYJ by that trip to Turkey. But that stuff is just for show. Doesn’t help their cause much. We need antitrust laws enforced. They need to know that until this blocking is over, it will continue to damage S Korea’s reputation in the international community.
Also, on one website that ran a critique of Junsu’s album, I saw a supposed Junsu fan write all kinds of hateful comments towards the person doing the review with lots of foul language. I hope that no JYJ fans do that towards these Korean politicians. That really damages JYJ’s reputation.
@Lisa, etc.
OK, that link worked: http://english.president.go.kr/common/email.php
Here is my letter to Pres. Lee, just sent:
Dear Mr President Lee,
I am writing to plead with you to finally step in and end the unfair boycott of the famed S. Korean singing group JYJ orchestrated my their former employers SM Entertainment. This sinister company has demanded and enforced an industry wide boycott through threats and intimidation of TV stations, concert venues, music charts, CD manufacturers and print media among many others for over two years now even though the High Court in Seoul ruled long ago that the members of JYJ were free to go about conducting their activities unhampered and unimpeded by outside influence. SM has flouted this ruling repeatedly and so far with impunity. No one seems willing or able to stop their law-breaking vendetta to end the careers of JYJ. There are no finer examples of hard work, great talent and determination to succeed in S. Korea today than these exemplary young men, Kim Junsu, Kim Jaejoong and Park Yuchun. They are a great credit to their homeland and have always been willing to promote the interests of their country as ambassadors of good will. As you know, in addition to a devoted fanbase at home, they have a huge and growing fandom internationally, with no end in sight. Isn’t it a terrible shame then, and certainly a blight on the reputation of S. Korea’s democracy for JYJ to be banned from ever appearing in TV in their own country by this criminal organization, SM Entertainment, who goes about flouting the law and attempting to ruin them time and time again? Something MUST be done here. Someone must act to end this terrible situation. I implore you, President Lee: please do something. You gave a Presidential Pardon to SM’s chairman of the board Lee Soo Man sometime ago. Can you not now ask for something in return from him? Can you not end this cruel boycott?
Most Sincerely Yours,
etc.
Since broadcast stations such as KBS, SBS and MBC are public domains, i. e, paid for by the taxpayer and operated by the government, it is therefore the Korean government that needs to be held responsible for this saga. It seems Korea is advanced in technical fields but clearly remains primitive when it comes to judicial and social matters. Regarding JYJ, obviously Korea still operates as when it was Koreo. This is rather unfortunate for a country that seeks its place among great nations.
Reasons for disallowing JYJ to perform on TV are weak and unpersuasive. Preventing JYJ from appearing on broadcast stations is a loss for the country and in fact is quite an embarrassment. Broadcast stations would do well to remember that in the future, when looking back at this point in time, there will forever be a “stain” on history/in our memories.
love this part…and they’re still so stubborn and would not budge. oh well, xia junsu/jyj/jyj family/xia fans are going to conquer in the end.