It’s hard to ignore the pink elephant in the room when everyone keeps asking me if I’ve seen it. Yes, my sweet chingus, thank you for the unending links and emails about Yoo In Na and Ji Hyun Woo dating in real life. Yes, I’ve seen it. The reason I chose not to write about it was, borrowing from the always succinct Rhett Butler, “Frankly my dear, I don’t give a damn.” While I love it when stars that have great onscreen chemistry date, and I enjoy speculating about possible onscreen couples, I really chafe at being led around like a guppy and pulled into entertainment industry machinations. So while I’m glad everyone is happy about the Queen In Hyun’s Man couple dating, and I’m supportive that the couple appears happily together, the whole last two weeks felt like increasingly putrid rotting fish that rather made a happy occasion stink up the joint.
First off, I like Ji Hyun Woo. As an actor he has charm if not a wide-ranging acting prowess, and I’ve probably watched more of his dramas than most casual drama watchers (at least prior to QIHM, where now I’m assuming folks are digging up his old stuff to watch). He seems like a decent guy in real life, and being a musician probably renders him less stuffy and more free-spirited. All good. When I first heard that he confessed to liking/loving Yoo In Na at the end of the QIHM viewing party, I was totally ecstatic and supportive. A public and unfettered declaration of love is romantic, even if any such declaration is misguided and rather self-absorbed (rendering the other side in a rock-and-a-hard-spot as to possibly saying no and coming off like a heartless jerk/bitch). I thought all signs pointing to Yoo In Na reciprocating his feelings so no harm done.
Then comes the fall out, and his subsequent response really annoyed me. First off, he tweets that if he could do it all over again, he would still do the same thing? Really? I thought spontaneous expressions of love were by default not appropriate for the occasion. Because if a person thought about it, the practical answer would be “let me tell her privately and we can discuss it”. Otherwise the world would be littered with folks shouting their love in public venues and let’s not consider the mortification to befall most of them. So for him to say he would do it again – dude, so not considerate. I was fine with it being in the moment, but on reflection I expect more maturity and thoughtfulness from you. Plus when I watched the video, it was clear it was not an “excited utterance” as per legal parlance (and what I assumed it was), but he planned it. I really dislike moments clearly planned but made to seem impromptu.
I also docked him brownie points for then telling folks to not to pay too much attention to his public confession. BUH? Seriously? That’s like a exhibitionist taking off all his clothes and streaking past me, and then turning back and telling me not to look, that’s impolite. Oh dude, your hypocrisy kills me. YOU made it public by revealing to the entire world you like Yoo In Na. It’s not like anyone went prying into your business. You WANTED to tell people. You can’t then backtrack and tell us not to pay attention to it. If you wanted the peace and quiet to woo your girl, then you should have kept your mouth shut and told her privately that you liked her. The moment you went viral and public, it’s fair game to the public because you are a public figure.
The downside of being a star is the lack of privacy. It’s a sad reality that stars must exchange a loss of expectation of privacy for the chance to be adored, idolized, and fawned over. Of course the fans can’t cross the line, and the line in Korea is pretty firm. Korea doesn’t have a paparazzi because the law criminalizes it, making it an invasion of privacy to film stars. That’s why so many relationships between stars can be kept on the down low, even if everyone in the industry knows it, because the media can’t report on it unless the stars have consented to go public.
So this leads me to the “photos” shot of Yoo In Na and Ji Hyun Woo out strolling the park late at night, wearing matching casual work out clothes and being all affectionate. If you don’t believe that was staged then I have gold in Nigeria to sell you. So the two of them wandered around for over an hour in the wee hours outside, not noticing a photographer was snapping away left, right, and center? Pfffttt, so lame. In one picture Ji Hyun Woo even makes eye contact with the camera, LOL. But I get it. Their management companies probably decided the best way to salvage this situation is to have them appear to be outed as a couple by intrepid an intrepid shutterfly, hence the staged “accidental” photo op. Otherwise the news papers would never dare run with this, at the risk of being sued by a big entertainment company like YG.
This post is purely to sate everyone’s curiosity who has been asking me what I think about their dating. I don’t want to pour cold water on all the In-Hyun shippers, who rightfully should be happy. Somehow their dream couple from QIHM made it work! I am just expressing my disappointment and distaste for how it all unfolded. Before the couple went public a few days ago, last week I had some hilarious chats with friends on the topic of “Ji Hyun Woo – idiot romantic or conniving douchebag?” The overwhelming majority felt he was a conniving douchebag for planning a public love declaration that would inevitably put Yoo In Na in a difficult position. Say no then she will comes across as some heartless floozy who likely toyed with his affections on the set.
But with the confirmation of their relationship, it becomes clearer that this was likely all staged from the get so they could go public. I think going public is better for Ji Hyun Woo, who’s off to the military and obscurity for the next two years. Whereas now Yoo In Na will be asked about Ji Hyun Woo every single time she does an interview for anything and everything. Not exactly an ideal situation for a rising actress. But since both appear happy and this is the path they have chosen, like I said in the very beginning, I am happy for them. I just don’t want to play the Korean entertainment behind-the-scenes staging game. So that’s my two cents, and I hope this effectively ends the incessant barrage of questions as to what I think about this admittedly pretty fascinating reel-to-real couple. What I think doesn’t matter to them in the least.
Ah, I am actually watching the show right now and they do have crazy chemistry. I think it is hard for actors in Korea to go public with relationships. I agree that the whole public love confession seems a little contrived. Anyway, I wish them both luck.
All I’m saying is that this is pretty much “Keeping with the Kardashians” but pretending it was all happening on the fly and a camera happened to be there. Nothing wrong with scripted reality shows, as long as the viewer knows its scripted. Its like Kim marrying that douchey whats-his-name and pretending her “marriage and divorce” was really just a love story gone awry. Ooookay. I’m happy for the outcome but I call bullshit on the entire process. But at the end of the day, what’s not to like about two pretty people who clearly like each other getting together. I just won’t be gushing about how “romantic” it all was, is all.
And the bullshit is stinking up the place … much as we’d like to live in “dreamworld”, reality (and reality shows) SUCK, so much so, that Yoo In Na may be in a horrible place in life without a way out that won’t damage her image while Ji Hyun Woo walks away scot-free in the ultra-machismo Korean society and ent business.
I really hated almost everything about the way this went down and my disgust has increased this week in direct proportion to other fans’ delightful squeals. A girl should have a choice and a chance to say NO without the pressure of her entire career being damaged for just not liking a boy as much as he likes her. I’ve smelt a rat from the very beginning of this entire charade and I think I know who will get the short end of the stick.
Color me seriously pissed off.
lol Leonardwench
YIN herself said she had feelings for him way back then while filming the drama, so she asked JHW to wait until the drama end because she didn’t want to mix work and love.
And he agreed. And did just like she asked.
Did you ever saw what was her reply? Her entire reply I mean, read it all and you’ll see it is just two people in love.
Stop making things more dramatic than they are.
@leonardswench: Took the words right out of mouth. Someone raised my hackles by mentioning on tumblr that “if Yoo In Na did not liked Ji Hyun Woo, she should not have flirted with him on set. She should have known better than to lead him on.” Really!? What are we in? The Dark Ages? If HE couldn’t stand rejection, then he shouldn’t be playing the game at all. It seems that pro-male supremacy is still popular with some and not only in Korean society.
If they eventually break up, Ji Hyun Woo would be lauded for his brave confession. Some fans (and may i stress the word ‘some’ in case ‘some’ rabid fan decides to jump-ass me) will probably ‘mourn’ his lost but we know how that works. ‘Oh how tragic that they didn’t end up together. My heart bleeds for him. He was so brave and romantic. She should have held on tighter. Yada yada yada…Moving on…’ . Yes, lets move on.
Err, their feelings weren’t staged. You can it the date in public was staged/planned, but you can’t say their feelings aren’t real.
And even if his confession and date was staged/planned, doesn’t change the truth: they like each other.
And this stage/plan was made for what? For they date in public, because they can’t win taht much doing something like this putting their career in danger just because of a drama or a little of spotlight,, that they didn’t much because they already had it before with the drama gossip about them dating plus explosive chesmitry.
People here are talking as if they don’t have any feelings and just got together to make news. Oh Please.
Gosh, and here I was thinking that I was the only one that felt extremely unconfortable with the news of his public confession. And I did like him, but he choosed to act like a selfish and arrogant person with his actions, just because he “liked” a girl. It would be totally acceptable if they were already a known couple and he was just declaring his feelings. What he did was simply putting her against the wall. And everybody is praising his “manliness” for having the balls to do what he did. ew
Kudos, Koala, for your reasonable two cents!
I really don’t understand why people must be negative about public love confessions. This is not something new. I don’t think it should be a topic for analysis. They are just two people in LOVE. If you like them, support them and give them your prayers. Otherwise, just move on to another page. Hehe.
Scripted , planned , staged or not , im stilL in favor in their relation , I wilL stilL support them as my idol , anyway they are a good couple for me , so for those who’s stilL making an ugly issue , its your problem not them (Ji Hyun Woo/Yoo In na forever)
I love them as couple….
He is just the right type of guy for her…
I feel he would always support her and encourage he
because he truly cares for her….
Go team HyunNa !!!!
From her statement on her radio show it’s clear she knew about his feelings but asked him to wait until the end of the drama.
Imagine her surprise LOL. She asked for a week (but took longer) and then called him out to the park to accept him. She said she planned to announce it on the radio first but she saw the reporter she didn’t feel the need to run away and just accepted it.
Staged or not I’m glad for them. I always liked YIN (between Heroes and being a YG fan LOL) and enjoyed JHW work (plus being adorable on Invincible Youth 2) so I’m glad they are happy.
I agree wholeheartedly with your analysis Mrs Koala. Btw, I’m interested if you have gold to sell. 🙂
The worst publicity is: No publicity.
The all revelation thing has been prepared to have the maximum of impact for everyone involved: Actors, channel and people around them.
That said, I’m happy for them. Now only time will tell about the strength of their bond.
I agree with your assessment of her assessment, and I am happy for them.
If you are trying to get publicity for something you don’t do it when it’s over. The show had 1 episode left and it was airing that same day. He is going to the Army in the summer. So his career gained nothing by his admission. The show was over so it gained nothing. Yoo in Na was not a major star so the fact that his confession was so widely publicized came as a surprise to her.
I think Koala is overly cynical. But that’s her opinion so that’s it.
I completely agree with your assessment!
agree! =]
I agree with your comment
Will we still be talking about ’em IF nth of this happen? I call this exactly trying to get publicity and kudos to them, they get A LOT of it.
I’m happy for them if they r truly in love. I just don’t see the need to play it out so publicly, esp with YIN’s radio show, sweet as it’s presented, it’s TMI. What normal human being keep track of every word and exact timeline of every details and all that in the whirlwind of falling in love?!?!?
As norm, I’m wording everything dearKoala said. EVERY sentiment and whattheheck?, mine as well.
me too, why analyze everything? let’s be happy if others are happy…
anyway it’s not about their drama anymore, it’s their personal life so leave them alone….
i totally agree with you!!
YG is such a calculating person and I’m surprised he even allowed her to go public what with her being a rising actress and him enlisting within a couple of weeks. It is a precarious situation for her more than him as she WILL be asked about him whenever interviewed.
Anyways, here’s wishing the two of them the best of luck! <3
They are dating, I’m glad…have a happy life and cute babies…
Let’s talk about s’thing else 😉
I think people over-think too much. There was no planning behind it. it was spontaneous. and Yoo In NA clearly explained that they had feeling for each other during the filming but wanted to separate fiction from reality so she asked for time to sort it out. But questions were asked during the preview of the last episode and that led to the answer he gave.
I don’t understand why people have to see something sinister behind it. Sometimes things are just as they are. Simple.
Now leave Koala alone no more questions. And stop stalking In Hyun. If you love them leave them alone.
Well said, agree with you. Thanks.
i think they’re an item even before they started QiHM. his brother mentioned in one article that JHW was working really hard for that project to even talked to a few actresses to be his lading-lady. so maybe his first choice was his crush or girlfriend which is YIN of course … JHW also mentioned that their tiptoe kiss was his idea and YIN agreed to it … IF it was staged, i’m not complaining .. not at all cuz’ i’m sooo happy for them.
*clapping* I like what you said. People just analyse too much at times. After all, we don’t know what the actual situation is like, only the two concern know. Although it’s good to know that they are now dating, but whatever he said or she said in public only matters to them. JHW being inconsiderate or rash, I think the only person has the right to say would be YIN herself. If she thinks it’s just an honesty act, then public should just accept and disregard our own thinking, cos it didn’t happen to us. Whether she’ll be asked during her interviews, that’s all up to her to approve the question when the draft is given to her. As we know, showbiz is all about showing the public and creating interest. So, I just want to wish them all the very best and I do hope for a long lasting happy ending. ^^
Amen sistah! Yeeesh, after reading koala’s blog entry about this, it left a really bitter taste in my mouth. Waaay too calculating and over analytical. Jhw a hypocrite? aigooo indeed. That’s for them[yin] to decide. way too judgmental over here. If this was hollywood, no one would give a stink over love confessions. Clearly, if he didn’t have anything to back him up, JHW would not have confessed. Sometimes, in this industry… gotta try different things to win the girl.
Hmm, so that was it, I disagree with you but is nice why you said that thing about this not being worth your comment or being staged, because the way you said it before let me believe you said they weren’t really together because they had feelings for each other/liked each other but just for the sake of publicity, which isn’t the case. Yes, they planned to go out and date in public, but they do like each other for real, I see no problem in them wanting to date in public. People always complain famous k people can’t date in public because netizens and people and media will made their life a hell, but when they do, this happens, people complain and prefer they did it behind the scenes. I really don’t get it.
And since it was planned, I believe YIN knew too, right? So now I wish people could stop saying he doesn’t care about YIN and thinks about him.
YIN said she saw rhe reporter and that is why she did the fighting plus V sign to the reporter.
Whether or not it was staged or not, am happy for them so I hope it works out for them. I honestly did not think it was douchy behavior to announce it like that, maybe cause am an idealist.
i am with you! people enjoyed their drama and if their relationship works … good for them…it is not our business if they are in love or just making publicity …
I agree. They can stage it or spontaneously start making out on the stage, I don’t care and am not rendering judgment on whether staging it is right or wrong. I simply feel like if my impression is that it’s staged, then it sorta loses the romanticism angle for me, so my reaction consequently is one of “meh” because it doesn’t trigger me to swoon over it. That’s all. I think they are an adorable couple, and hope it works out.
Ahh I see. I didnt really watch the show, but I read the recaps and i thought it was cute. I like your deductions from all of this. I was really ecstatic for Yoo In Ah because I like her. I don’t know or keep up with much Kpop other than YEH and Bigbang. But Hmm, I can actually say I dont know how to take your assessment. But I like you am happy for them especially if they really really really like each other. who knows. I was initially glad that Yoo In Ah found someone and I didn’t want to see a public rejection–that would suck booty. So I was happy for that…until maybe now that I got more info. Huh.
What I find more interesting than this confession is the sudden outburst of celebrity couple reveals.
Seo Eun Ho and Choi Jin Hyuk
Seo Woo and In Kyo Jin
and of course said couple.
And all in the last week?
That’s a good thing if k-celebs not afraid to tell the public they’re dating. If more and more celebrity couple doing this maybe Korean public and netizens will change slowly. This entertainers should be judge by their performance in their projects. It’s sick that merely dating or breaking up with somebody can ruin your entire potential career.
Ms. Koala, you sound much like voice in my head, thank you to voiced that out…
*run away from fans*
Don’t feel bad…I think a lot of us had the at least a little same feeling somewhere inside. I’m definitely of the same opinion overall. Everything was just too coincidental and forward and looks like a publicity ploy. I just don’t know why they would need it.
*a little of the
Oh, and I’m not saying that their bad people or don’t care about each other, I just think that they were way too careless to not be somewhat on purpose. I really think that they wanted to come out.
Why run away…BE HAPPY! USE THEM ALL WELL!
Dear Ms Koala. this shippy heart of mine agrees with you.Contrived or not if they are brave enough to stage it to smooth.the road ahead,go for it.
finally you step out and share your thoughts about this issue. though it seems that this post of yours is milder than your tweets with your friends! by the way, thanks for clearing your points. 🙂
Here we go again. And again, mleh. If you really didn’t give a damn, you should have just kept quiet about it. You wrote a lengthy post, it doesn’t seem like you don’t care.
If you bothered to read the post itself, then you would know the only reason I wrote this post is so people would stop emailing me and posting links about this and asking for my opinion.
It’s quite incessant, so the easiest solution is to come out and just say I don’t care and render my impression and BAM! that ought to stop the never-ending barrage of questions. I would be happy not to have my inbox flooded with requests for me to post about this. Capiche?
Yeah right you don’t give a danm about them. Calladita te ves mas bonita mi hija. You could just ignore those emails that’s it. Stop being negative and keep your destructive comments to yourself Mrs ” knows it all” Staging it or not at least they are real.
look, if you don’t like it so much, then don’t read her blog– quit hatin’ and writing hateful stuff in SOMEONE ELSE’S lair
You could have simply ignored those “floods of emails”. Just because people tell you to do something doesn’t mean that you’re forced to do it. The point is, you choose to make this post, so there’s no reason to act like you were forced to do so. This is your blog, so yes you are entitled to your own opinions, but when your opinions are so ridiculously skewed and biased, well, your audience is entitled to comment, so there’s no need to get snarky. I’ve been following this blog as a quiet reading for quite some time now, and I’m really disappointed with this post. None of us really knows what’s going on behind the scenes, so why don’t we just give them the benefit of the doubt and let them be happy. It’s difficult enough dating when you’re a celebrity. It’s comments like this that only exacerbate the problem. I don’t understand the reason for this to be staged, because I don’t see how it affects a drama that is already finished already nor do I see how it affects two people that are already relatively successful. Staged or not, fake or not. WHO CARES. They’re not hurting anyone.
What is so important about her blog? what a blog full of insult and hateful comments will do to me? Pleaseeeee
Not sure what’s so important about her blog, but apparently she gets overwhelming amounts of emails asking her about her 2 cents on everything, so she must be a really important person. Yeah that has to be it.
Yeah right.
People if you don’t like what’s written on this blog, why come and read here? Differences in opinion are welcome as all of us have different perspectives and insights. Respect is common sense even in the real world. Insinuating comments that tarnishes the blogger’s character is rude and unacceptable. Let’s all be civil if we don’t agree on something.
For the record, Koala is an important person.
Yeah she is important maybe for you you need her recaps.
Well said! 🙂
@xiaoSxin
You got your unni’s back? That’s cuz I feed you kogi and ply you with soju shots, right? 😉
Ignore the trolls. If they can’t see that my opinion (1) is perfectly valid, especially in light of how many comments share the same perception, (2) really doesn’t matter and shouldn’t affect their own love for the couple, then it’s hardly our place to teach them manners. But good try.
@xiaoSxin
People if you don’t like what’s written on this blog, why come and read here? Differences in opinion are welcome as all of us have different perspectives and insights.
You seem to contradict yourself there. If differences of opinion are welcome then the reader of Ms. Koala’s blog should be able to express their difference of opinion freely and be able to respond without being told “if you don’t like what’s written on this blog, why come and read here.”
Respect is common sense even in the real world. Insinuating comments that tarnishes the blogger’s character is rude and unacceptable.
Respect is definitely lacking in our society now a days, however, respect is not “common sense” it is earned. There are a lot of people with common sense but lacking in moral character to give respect to others. On the other hand, there are people that do not have the wherewithal to earn respect. If Ms. Koala is putting her opinions out there, then she must also be ready to accept responses whether they may be positive or negative. I don’t know Ms. Koala therefore I cannot judge her character except what can be gleaned through her writing (even that does not qualify me to judge her character). However, if there is such a thing as “writer’s responsibility to their readers” then what she writes in an authoritative manner must also be backed up. If not then we as the reader must take her opinion like a grain of sand; it does not mean we cannot disagree and post it on her blog.
Let’s all be civil if we don’t agree on something.
Right! Agree with you.
For the record, Koala is an important person.
I don’t know her well enough to give her importance (there are prominent people in our government but I don’t give them importance) unlike my circle of friends and families, but I do enjoy reading her commentaries on dramas. The last comment below from our “chingu” from Korea seems to clarify some information. Though the English may be challenging to read, his or her thoughts came across pretty well.
omo! what is this! Who intrudes in Koala-land?
Mrs. Koala is an important person for me too. I’m a shallow thinking person so her different perspective is so awakening for me!. Even if I disagree, she won’t put me down. She respects my opinion.
Captain, luv u…don’t mind the haters!
Teaching people manners, you think it’s hilarious calling someone “conniving douchebag.” The bloggers are praising you because they need your recaps that’s all. Your opinion is important oh please. Even though you use insulting words they won’t complain; they want you to recap their favorite dramas.
Whoever said my opinion is important? Wherever are you coming by that assumption, and attributing it to me? I’m baffled. Truly I feel like you are conjuring up whatever you want to think and going with it. I can’t stop it, but it’s wondrously amusing to behold.
If you got “important” from me saying lots of folks have been bugging me to write about this, then that’s quite a leap. So what if enough people read my site to merit me getting emails often? I’ve certainly not said I was important. If I wrote this piece for the folks who asked for my opinion, then I’ve shared what I wanted with them.
YOU chose to come here. YOU chose to read. You don’t see me going to sites of people happy about this couple and trolling my opinion over there. No? Have a care and stop being so childish. Be happy with the things that you like, and try not to argue mindlessly and without merit on the things you happen to disagree with. It renders your online voice ill-mannered.
And by the by, I don’t claim to run a recap site. I write 2 measly recaps a week (and currently its for a drama other recappers are also recapping). So your assertion that I’m surrounded by yes-men who mindlessly agree with me for recaps is truly fascinating. You leap in logic is….unique. I must look into what magic is in my recaps, so I can harness that power.
@Jihwan @mckaplan
The both of you apparently need to take a chill pill.
Yes! Yes! Yes! or better yet drink some tea.
I wish we could all get along like we used to in middle school… I wish I could bake a cake filled with rainbows and smiles and everyone would eat and be happy…
at least they look like they really dating.. unlike lee min ho and park min young last time.
So true!
What happened between them? All I remember we’re the ambiguous dating/not dating rumors and agency statements…
You crack me up! 🙂
Koala~~ <3 I love your wit and humor… and thank you for a very informative post about the korean entertainment industry~ =3
Seems to me that Ms Koala is 100% accurate in her analysis. Paparazzi are illegal in SK, otherwise I would know who was dating my Moon (lol). While it is ok to disagree with an opinion, Ms Koala always answers (our burning questions) with a studied and well written answer. I love this lady (blogger).
Thank you for all your posts, always enjoy reading you.
I don’t know if it was planned or not, but regardless I say good for them for getting publicity out of it and getting to actually date too. It’s kind of nice to see a celebrity use the fan craziness to their advantage. This situation seems at least less of a publicity stunt than did the lee minho/ park min young couple.
Since you comment on lee minho and park minyoung couple. Lee minho lost big chunk of his fan base after it. Do you really think he needs this kind of publicity stunt?
He did not even wear his beloved ring anymore after that and blocked any question related to PMY. If it is for publicity stunt, it is only for PMY’s advantage.
Haha, I figured it was a publicity stunt but I have a soft spot for manipulative bastards (eh, will probably bite me later) so I liked that they used the media system/fan popularity to their own advantage, so to speak. As for feelings, well, if they’re going to that much trouble they probably do care?
Oh WORD. I, too, have a soft spot for manipulative bastards. I was rather hoping Ji Hyun Woo was being a conniving bastard rather than a moronic idiot in his public confession, i.e. it was all staged. But then it tempers my squeeing is all.
I do wonder though…..say she does like him back, but is still considering whether to date a guy off to MS for 2 years (which a normal sensible girl ought to consider, regardless of being in the entertainment industry or not), if his confession was on his part only, that does back her into a corner. She can’t turn him down without getting slimed. Even if she liked him, but didn’t like him enough to do a long-distance relationship (been so there, done that myself), then now she’s gotta give it a go.
I dunno – I’ll stick with “they planned it together and is now happy and naming their future children” angle. Anything else just doesn’t rub me the right way any way I look at it.
Ji Hyun Woo will be joining the South Korean Army as active duty on July 3rd, 2012.
These 2 lovebirds will probably call it quits like Actor Hyun Bin & Actress Song Hye Kyo before he (Hyun Bin) joined the South Korean Marines.
Remember Lee Jin Wook and Choi Ji Woo?
Didn’t Lee Jin Wook and Choi Ji Woo break up after Lee Jin Wook got out of the army?
I forgot about this couple, so sorry about that. These 2 never crossed my mind. I believe there was more news on Hyun Bin & Song Hye Kyo as in are they a couple? or are they not a couple?
i’m sure you’d be siked if it were a couple you backed.
whatev. don’t care about their dating, so eh.
If I remember right koala liked the idea of them dating in real life but I can see why she would be tired of people incessantly bugging her about it and how out all played out in the end.
Amazing. How is it that this subject (post) can bring out such nasty words? I know you welcome differing opinions but am bewildered as to the negativity.
I know! I’m rather immune to immature pot-shots, but it’s baffling since I expressed no negativity whatsoever about the happy couple happily dating. I said I was happy they are dating! What more positive thoughts need I have?
I merely provided a, rather well argued IMO, analysis of the entire “process” of them getting together. Which felt manufactured and scripted, hence I’m hardly going to toss flowers and rice and dance the jig about. Oh well, I never aim to please anyone, and definitely not everyone. Thanks for getting my back, and welcome back to drama land. Btw, I think Big is much more sophisticated than an average rom-com, and perhaps a future analysis of mine can persuade you it’s not a “mess”. 🙂 Looking forward to a lively discussion on it.
It always amazes me when people write such mean-spirited things on people’s blogs. You stated your opinion thoughtfully and didn’t rant and rave like a crazy person. They get mad and criticize you for stating your opinion (which clearly some people didn’t fully understand) yet they were the ones who decided to click and read the post. If people disagree with you then they should find mature ways to state their opinions (like you did) instead of bashing you to the high heavens. I’m fine if people disagree, but there is no reason to say such mean-spirited things.
I thought I was the only one. I thought he was inconsiderate with his public confession.
I love watching dramas. And sometimes I even care when actors are dating, but usually not. I read this blog because I enjoy the writing and reading about dramas.
I can do without the real life drama in so many of the harsh replies from other readers.
Wow. Seriously people? Who cares what anyone thinks about two actors dating to get so angry about it to leave such nasty messages here (or anywhere for that matter)? There are a lot of things worth wasting your anger on in this world, and this, in the grand scheme of things, really isn’t one of them. If this post makes you that angry, maybe you need to reexamine what’s important in your life and get your priorities straight.
Just saying.
*steps off soapbox*
I am Not familiar with English .(because i am korean..)
but there is too many Misunderstood things, so I am writing here.
.
-first. The twitter comments(The same answer comes back saying the situation) means this. DO Not unexpected that the simple confession of faith by means of confession.(just like you)
and then it is a Sending a message to the media in South Korea.
In order to understand this You must know Special circumstances, QUIM was placed
QUIM is cable drama. so they Are in different place with the main broadcast.
SO QUIM Do not drive the attention of the media wrote. There was a little. very little
(ex. The reporter did not come in the event of theater-Confession place)
but. after Confession… there is so many Rumors on nets, He noted that about it.
-second, He hates a lie. in the event of theater some fans asks how you feels about YIN
.he just Confessed to the heart, after thathe Looked like Was anxious. hmmm To explain the authenticity of his confession, you know something about JHW. He did not commit scandals More than 10 years of his career. and he Has been saying to his fan throughout all his carrer “if he have a girlfriend, he tell truly..” and there is a fan. he tell truly. what’s the matter ?
.
-third, The way that he confessd Was not rude Just as you think. He was with her on the radio show (Raise the volume). he inquired her about Preference of confessing ways Compared with the program story in radio. she Said that she likes Direct confession. and she said that she would like A public confession if she has a good feelings to People who profess.
-fourth. Korea doesn’t have a paparazzi because the law criminalizes it ? kkk
Korea have a paparazzi of Daily Newspaper. and The most famous of them is DISPATCH.
sports seoul is One of them. they Chase stars from door to work. they were photographed because they Decide to meet publicly. Korea doesn’t have a paparazzi because the law criminalizes it? Are you kidding?
there is so many Mistranslation and Misunderstanding about the events.
just like that their meaning of confession Mistranslated long time.
Be with caution to think. plz.
.
사업?? 상업적인 이용?? 그들중에 한명은 육개월이내에 군대에 가고
Business ?? Commercial use ?? One of them will go to the army in sixth months.
그들중 남은 한명은 31살이야. 여자지.
and another of them was 31 years old. and female.
한국에선 그건 거의 사업성 없음과 동의어가 되는 거야.
in korean that means they have not development potential.
“지현우는 7일 오후 tvN 수목드라마 ‘인현왕후의 남자’ 종영 기념 팬미팅 현장에서 “저희 드라마를 좋아해 주시는 팬들 앞에서 진심으로 고백하고 싶었다. 진심으로 유인나 씨를 좋아한다. 예쁜 모습으로 봐주셨으면 좋겠다”고 고백해 자리한 이들을 깜짝 놀라게 했다.”
“아이고~참!걱정들 엄청 하네~!멀쩡하게 잘먹고 잘살고 있으니까~잠수탄 거 아니니까~걱정마요~!나한테 똑같은 상황이 와도 난 똑같이 할꺼니까!아~그리고 예로부터 남의일에 신경 많이 쓰는 사람치고 잘 된 사람 없다고들 하니~적당히 신경써줘요~다 행복하게! ”
남의 일에 신경 많이 쓰는 사람일까… 지가 먼저 남들 앞에서 “고백”한건데 말입니다. 파파라치가 문제가 아니라 이것이 뻔한 언플인 게 문제입니다. 지들이 벌써 사귀고 있었다는 스캔들을 피하기 위해 소속사가 일부러 고백을 집중화시킨 언플. 소속사와 대한민국의 더러운 연예부 저널리즘의 짜고 치는 고스톱은 뭐 하루이틀인감…
상업적인 이용이고 스캔들을 피하는 꼼수지요~ 어차피 지군은 곧 군대 가니까 조용히 이렇게 마무리짓는 게 낫겠죠? 스캔들을 좋아하는 디스패치 같은 타블로이드의 또라이짓을 피하고, 지군을 낭만적인 “진짜 사나이”로 변화시키고, 유인나를 조연급 배우에서 주연급 배우로 변화시키고. 누이 좋고 매부 좋고… 이런거죠. 뭐 새삼스럽게… 뭔 빠순히짓을 하시는건감… ㅋㅋㅋ
I didn’t make it clear when I discussed the paparazzis in Korea. Of course Korea has them, but they don’t have the slew of publication sources to earn the types of money from the fruits of their labor. Korea has rather extensive libel, defamation, and invasion of privacy laws. Hence news outlets don’t leap on the chance to publish anything and everything they can get their hands on.
JYJ is currently suing The Dispatch for defamation and invasion of privacy for releasing the audio of them flipping out with their saesang fans.
http://www.ohkpop.com/30905/jyj-to-sue-dispatch-for-defamation-and-invasion-of-privacy
It’s been industry accepted that the mainstream papers are never going to risk getting sued to publish a picture unless they are sure the stars involved are okay going public about it. Plus its one big back-scratching cross industries anyway. End of the day, Korea isn’t rife with candid pictures of the stars day and night out and about being plastered all over major news outlets.
make sure!
They exist, and their revenue model also
and news outlets can leap on the chance to publish anything and everything they can get their hands on.
they are not minor. they can published almost everything they want
JYJ is Is a special situation in korea. although there is so many papaz and sasaeng fans but most stars Endure that.
Koala,
Thanks for explaining me why there is so little gossip about korean stars. I had no idea the laws in Korea were so severe when related to privacy issues. I had been assuming that the reason was some cultural thing, I’ve always had this feeling that koreans were reserved people.
I really didn’t like this drama, I got bored in the first episode and ,therefore, stopped watching it. I respect the viewers that liked it, but something was missing in the show, unlike “BIG” that is hooking me each and every episode – what a great drama!! Anyway, I couldn’t care less about the actors relationship. But, all this discussion left me wandering about the ratings of this drama, was it so low to justify a staged real life romance???? Was the drama that bad that the actors had to performe outside of the screen in order to increase the ratings???
in reply to Lucy,
No, it’s a cable drama and therefore doesn’t get the hype it deserves. If you bothered with the rest of the episode, you would get why people love this drama. The consistency of script-writing, the cinematography, the actors and cast made this drama highly top notch. Anyway, answer the rest of your own questions by watching it. This is actually the first time TvN[the cable station] will be issuing a DVD because the fans want it so much. and TvN has produced some of the best dramas this year. Ramyun Shop, Shut up Flower Boy band. There’s a huge difference in production details and the work that they choose. Seems like they actually care about the QUALITY of the shows. So before you comment on why this and that, refrain yourself. [roll eyes]
darksugar: I said it was illegal not Ms Koala. Read carefully yourself. Be cautious.
So tell me who is dating who over there cause I read those papers and nothing private is ever disclosed.
Read carefully. Ms Koala has an opinion as you do.
Just one question about YIN saying what type of confession she likes. As far as I know, she said she likes “direct confession”, but not mentionning about “public confession”. These two are quite different.
I’m happy for them. Maybe some of my other favorite drama couples will go from reel to real. I can hope, right? haha
헐 당신 소스가 올케이팝이야?ㅋㅋㅋㅋㅋ
ohhh your source is allkpop ? K K K K K
거기엔 잘못된 정보가 너무나 많아.
there are so many wrong things.
설명하기엔 너무나 많지. 아……
that’s too much to explain.ahhhhhh
심지어 거기 운영자도 한국인이 아냐.
Even the site’s operators is not korean.
차라리 다음을 가는 것을 권한다. 번역하는 어려움이 있다 하더라도.
Rather, I recommend the site to go daum. Although there are difficulties in translation
Of course that’s not my source. I linked to it since it’s in English for others to read. The law is the law, and the lawsuit in discussion is merely the latest in a string of celebrities seeking to protect their privacy.
….그리고 말이 좀 짧네. 이건 디씨가 아닌데 말입니다. 코쟁이랑 얘기하는데 말을 깔 수도 있다 이건가…
Eh…I agree with ockoala….the whole confession thing seemed overly inconsiderate on his part from,the very beginning to me…unless, of course they were already dating
All the nasty comments here make the drama’s/OTP’s fans look crazy and by association the drama/OTP as well…I was thinking abt watching this drama but all this BTS drama has left a bad taste In my mouth even before I’ve started watching
Oh D!
I’m sorry the rabid In-Hyun fans have turned you off Queen In Hyun’s Man. The drama really is worth watching. Though now it probably taints whomever is watching the drama for the first time with the shadow of all the “real” events happening around it. Which is such a shame. It’s not perfect, but had some brilliant spots and overall is worth checking out. Maybe when the bad taste lessens you’ll check it out. I actually think this is a drama that is better marathoned any ways.
Thanks for your take Koala
Yeah, I’m definitely going to hold out on this drama till JHW is in the army and this madness has died….I like JHW and have watched one too many crappy dramas of his including the 50 eps makjang craziness that was 1000 Kisses from last year…he finally does something that is not a dud and all this nuttiness…I think he has some really bad management
I couldn’t agree more with you. I have yet to watch this drama. I think ever since the drama’s fans’ displeasure on Koala stating her opinions on the fanservice & the hero’s character inconsistency in episode 11-12 and later on the ending has given me a pause to watch this show. I know it’s good but somehow with the drama on the previous posts and especially this one makes me go ehhh. It’s my loss, I know!
Conformity is so boring. It boggles my mind that shouldn’t said fans be rejoicing that their OTP’s dating instead of hating on a blogger who has every right to her opinion. Heck, she was even lauding the actor for confessing to the actress publicly. Their behaviour is not only uncalled for but also is going to leave a bitter taste (re the drama and the OTP) on viewers who have yet to watch this drama and Koala herself.
I don’t see problem in two person dating…It looks in Korea it’s harder dating celebrity then do crime.
Really don’t have problem with them, wish them all the best and I hope they’ll last, If they don’t…God it’s not end of world.
Go public, make a lot of photos, If you are happy show everyone.
Use newspapers,tabloids who use you!
Omo, Koala I am one of those person who wanted your opinion and posted about it.
Gah, Im sorry. I mean, I’m glad I know what your thought is on the whole situation, but all these people coming on your blog to combat you—not kewl!
Don’t apologize! I’m happy to discuss my opinion. It’s just odd that this particular topic got more people than usual asking me to weigh in on it. No biggie, I wasn’t unhappy writing the post at all. But without any prodding I would have let it pass on by.
🙂 Alright My Captain. I love to hear your two sense, whatever they may be.
Dear Koala, one question, off topic!
Is in Korea mandatory to be actor- musician -(idol)-model?
Or this is trend with new ones…
wow, first of all, ms. koala, I thought you argued your points quite well. respect.
But seriously, all this negativity. I’m so glad I watched QIHM in real time. It definitely would not have the same effect otherwise.
I was actually excited about this couple in hearing their reel-to-real relationship until all this debate about how it’s wrong, and right and inconsiderate, etc etc turned me completely off.
I mean, at the end of the day, all parties involved are happy that these two became a couple. So why fuss at the means when the end is the same? Honestly, it’s not even YOUR relationship, it’s theirs. I wasn’t even planning on writing a comment (and I know you can handle your trolls) but if by any chance those trolls ARE reading this comment of mine, why are you picking fights online about OTHER PEOPLE’S LOVE LIVES!?!
perhaps it is time to invest in your own love life. Then you can fangirl, opinionate any way you want. =D
*sigh* this is probably why world peace can never happen. I mean people get this vicious about celebrities, let alone politics.
Love your stand, misachan. Have an opinion, and then move on to more important things. But it appears to be hard to do when something becomes more personal than it ought to.
And really, I wasn’t even trying to argue a point (i.e. persuade people I am right), I was merely articulating an opinion and supporting it with my observations. Those who hold the opposite point as me, I’m cool with that. Always have been, always will. People like stuff I don’t like and vice-versa. Happens all the time. The first rule in civil online discussion is “don’t make it personal.”
Anyways, this is just much ado about nothing. I wrote a post, that’s it. It’ll blow over and folks will move on. At least I hope so. 🙂
I usually don’t read hateful/mean comments. But I happen to visit this site often and therefore am also interested in the people who read it with me.
But wow people are so much meaner online. No wonder cyber bullying exists (this is not really talking just about the trolls, but I mean in general – and kinda going off topic now).
whatever happened to “if you can’t say something nice, say nothing at all”?
This should be translated to internet speak as “if you can’t comment nicely and rationally without engaging in excessive emotions, DON’T”
maybe it should also be added with “get out more”
I was also waiting for your opinion. 🙁 Because I’ve seen you kid about HJW and LSG, KJH and YEH, wanting them to be real-life couples. I thought this news was squee-worthy for you. And I do love reading about squeeing koalas. 🙂
But your post explained it well so I’ll back off too. I respect your opinion koala. People should be able to agree to disagree without ending up in a fight.
Agree. 😀
And for the record, I like Ji Hyun Woo, I like Yoo In Na, I think they have burning chemistry in QIHM, and I am happy if they are happily dating. I just can’t squee over the “how they got there” part, but I do love pretty people getting together to make me more pretty babies.
Dear Koala,
you are so patient with all your readers and event take your time to answer to their quiries and thoughts and comments (either positive or negative). It’s pretty impressive!
Also thank you for taking your time and posting news and recaps. It does make my life easier as I don’t really understand Korean and don’t know to many website where I can get an update.
Kamsahamnida eonni!
Wow . . . nice article you wrote and a brave one too . . . I’m with your opinion too . . . just finished reading the comments and hey it’s good to know that you’re not bothered by other’s opinions . . . anyway, this is your blog not theirs 😉 . . . always love reading your articles and reviews!!!
…might as well toss in two pennies ~ ~
My Spidey-Sense tells me that a man who has spent almost 10 years in B-list acting roles with older/Sunbae women has “received some life-advice, here and there, not only on acting with women, but how to treat women in general”.
I say this because there’s not a single young man who falls within my *Noona-Sphere* that doesn’t get several bits of un-solicited advice from me. The more potential I see in them, the more advice they unwittingly get.
Meaning: I think he TOTALLY asked InNa if it was ok to confess publicy.
I see no reason to believe he’s naive or stupid….and that he wouldn’t understand that this relationship that he wanted so badly could damage her if spoken aloud.
He, certainly, must have spoken with her first…..THUS…it was not the walk-in-the-park photoshoot that was the 1st staging…it was the confession.
—► through mutual agreement.
Whether or not publicity was the reason, or simply a by-product, of two people saying, “Screw it, we’re going public!”…..dun care. at all.
It’s fine with me to see *anyone* take a shot at the ludicrous nature of Korean Celebrity Celebacy™. …….go for it Lovebirds….toe-kiss until everyone else on the planet dissapears ~ (っ˘з(˘⌣˘ ) ♥
Storm in a teacup!
A blogger must say her/his opinion, that’s the whole point! 😛
About the declaration:
As much as I like them happy together(haven’t finished their drama yet, I think I left it at episode 8th), I hate public declarations. If it was planned and she knew about it, then it was just a show for us, but if she didn’t know anything about it, then it’s rude and manipulative actions from a man. I am not her, if she likes it, she’ll deal with it, I am not feeling sorry for her, she still can say no at anytime, but if this relationship ends, she’ll be the guilty one.
Everybody should watch Big, in the 6th episode they teach you very well, how “the public” should react for couples actions. Hilarious and sad. They see only what they want to see. This is why, it could be manipulative any time.
I like reading about Korea, there is always the real Korea culture behind the “drama land”, but that is as mystic as the actors itself. I still don’t understand the “fighting” and hard working expressions from the actors, I really hope they don’t mean it.
Here is a public proposal, to ease the storm. 🙂
[youtube http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5_v7QrIW0zY&w=560&h=315%5D
Oh, couldn’t embed the link. But you still can click on it.
Ockoala has a point about the the playground date being staged and all. She’s entitled to say anything she wants to bec this is her site. I will visit the site too regularly to see her recaps.
I was just not pleased with what the exchange I saw on twitter between her and her pals about JHW being a douchebag, well granted she said it on twitter which is supposed to be a personal space, but she’s somehow a public figure too because of her blog’s popularity. She should’ve toned down the words she used even a little bit. I noticed that her comments today here are less harsh compared to her tweets, perhaps if she didn’t use some words, the negative reactions might have never been triggered anyway.
I just remembered javabeans’s tweet (consequence of mocking the Boong-do love it is strong and fierce etc etc) after Kim Ji Suk parodied JHW’s confession. The fans are all out in their support for the two so any negative reactions toward them will definitely irk the fans.
I like darksugar’s insight on the issue. Being in Korea and knowing the situation first hand, her insights are helpful. Like what she said, JHW is a credible guy for me bec he’s never been involved in such scandals before. I think he’s just being honest with his feelings. We do irrational and unacceptable things when we’re in love so he didn’t stage the confession just for other gains. He just want to date the girl freely. I’ve been with douchebags before, maybe he’s reckless but he’s not a douchebag.
Well that’s all.
marsupial girl wins she’s got many visitors on her site
~long live ingwa couple!!!!
Marsupial girl?!
So childish! It’s because of fans like you who’re tarnishing the show, the couple, and the majority of the fans’ image. Kudos. Mission Accomplished!
This is in response to Trident’s comment.
ya! theres nothing wrong with being a marsupial. I think koalas are proud to be marsupials, so are kangaroos. Koala’s are marsupials right? it’s not like i dropped an f word here or something. dont be ridiculous.
Why did I even bother?! *headdesks*
good think you asked yourself that
@Anonymous:
Yes, it’s a good thinG I asked myself that. As somebody who hasn’t watched this drama I have been giving these rabid fans (who can’t stand any critique about their ‘most favourite drama’, oppa, unnie, or OTP) the benefit of the doubt. But, geez, they’re almost akin to those Kpop fans who can’t stand their oppas not being everyone’s fave. If I’d have further called out Trident’s wry explanation on the ‘marsupial’ comment I’d only embroil myself in a vicious circle that I don’t care to find myself in.
Just because I believe in respecting others’ opinions doesn’t mean they’ll return the same favor. That’s o.k. with me. It’s just that these fans are making their fandom look ridiculous to others by taking unnecessary pot-shots, is all.
it’s my turn to…*facepalm*
yeah, you should be called spellingOC it’s cuter than anon. i just said long live the ingwa couple and here you are taking the marsupial comment negatively. you wouldn’t understand since you didn’t watch the drama so there’s no point in discussing with you. i’m better off gathering eucalyptus. ktnxbai
Well said, Koala. My drama chingus and I were also skeptical about the whole thing (confession, paparazzi pics, etc.). I’m definitely sure we got a different version of what actually happened. However, it doesn’t change my opinion of both JHW and YIN or make me love them any less. K-ent is one crazy world, you got to do what you go to do. As long as they are happy, I’m happy for them and hope that it all works out and they’ll make beautiful babies together. 😉
Wow, why all the hate? I feel like the flip side of kdrama fans’ rabid love for their favourite dramas and actors is this sometimes irrational knee-jerk response to any real or perceived slight to their idols. It’s like “love is blind” with a mob mentality, which is kind of scary.
I enjoyed reading your post. I personally wasn’t too interested in the story one way or another, but I do find it interesting how the couple played the players, i.e. the media.
Here’s to more rationality like yours in the kdrama blogosphere! 🙂 (Hey, I can dream, can’t I?)
Heheh. I like what you said about the “couple played the players.” Kudos to the lovers, though. Love ’em both.
I’ve been a silent lurker for some time now in Koala’s blog, and though sometimes, I admit I don’t agree with her opinions, I just leave it at that, respect it for what it is, her own personal take on things.
I haven’t watched Queen Inhyun’s Man, although I can say I’ve been an innocent bystander to the hype and fandom, as I frequent other blogs as well. I guess I can be a little objective about this whole fiasco, as I’m detached to the actors. I feel that the guy is more reckless (to the point of being somewhat idiotic) than he is conniving. He hasn’t had too much experience in the limelight, so I guess he is not aware of the backlash it might cause, especially for the girl, who is a rising actress at that.
To all the trolls in here, shame on you. You are giving your fandom a bad name, even to the point of discouraging other people to watch QIHM (I might be even one of them).
“Hell has no fury like shippers scorned”. Lol. I don’t know which is worse, rabid kpop fangirls or deluded obsessed shippers.
I don’t know which is worse, rabid kpop fangirls or deluded obsessed shippers.
Both are equally wacky
The latter is proven by some of the comments in this post.
Heard great things about the drama and was planning on marathoning it, but I am very turned off by Ji Hyun Woo’s public confession. I don’t find it romantic at all. If he did it without asking for her permission first, then the guy is a selfish jackass and a control freak. I don’t believe that he accidentally blurted it out; the man has been in the industry for years, there’s no way you can convince me that he lost control of his tongue because he is a fool in love.
The optimist in me still hope that it is not staged even though the whole thing smells pretty fishy to me. Nevertheless, I don’t think I can be as emotionally invested in the characters knowing I’ll be watching a semi-reality tv show featuring Ji Hyun Woo and Yoo In Na. And when they kiss, I would feel as if I am one of those saesang fans peeking through the window. This is exactly why I couldn’t get into any post marriage Nicole Kidman/Tom Cruise movies.
You brought up a name that had already flashed into my head over this situation: Tom Cruise. Remember the crazy-assed Oprah-show jumping on the couch confession of love about Katie Holmes?
Yes, this is a flashback to that same insanity, and I still don’t believe so much in Mr. Cruise’s confession. Too long in the industry, too long in a controlled environment of “spinning” his skewed world-views for good press, and under both a PR machine and management team known for the gonzo tactics at getting the press they want for their stars … hmm, 3 for 3 Tom Cruise is much like Ji Hyun Woo, minus the ridiculous star machine, of course.
YG Entertainment, let’s take a look at that machine and Yang Hyun Suk as CEO. The Korean press vilifies its’ stars’ and their relationships, skewing their news in a generally neutral to negative light many times, hanging on speculative words — tabloid journalism at it’s best (which means worst). The system of backhanding and back-scratching in the male-dominated society is well marked and well outed with towering scandals of recent months as proof (Open World Entertainment scandal being the latest can of worms). Yang Hyun Suk has always been rather notorious for his very tight control of his stars and their personal lives, and has spun many a mini-scandal (G-Dragon’s “accidental” marijuana use) in his time as CEO, as well as suppressed mega-scandals involving close industry friends (Seo Taiji and Lee Ji Ah marriage and divorce).
The ‘confessions’ and Volume interviews so frequently quoted by fans read more like well-planned scripts with PR spin than inept love declarations by love-inexperienced actors/actresses. I’ve been impressed with both Ji Hyun Woo’s and Yoo In Na’s acting skills, so it just seems like an enormous play, only, in this case, the evidence points strongly to YIN not being prepared for this and her career is more at stake than his. Add the contrived dates …
She has more to lose, more easily, on the whims of a fandom and netizen culture that feeds like vultures on women that they feel have ‘wronged’ or behaved wrongly towards popular male idols or actors.
My uneasiness and uncomfortableness about all of this situation has more to do with the behind-the-scenes players (YG, in particular) who are the puppet-masters of many a stars’ life. I stand reserved and not overly joyful at all.
But in all seriousness, I don’t get WHY the bother with all the love and want for reel to real. Is it greed? We have our perfect drama experience and our perfect OTP on screen and we demand them to bear children and continue OUR OWN fantasy regardless of them being real human beings with no puppetry strings attached!? Are fans all psychics with magical unicorn powers just fr what they see on their drama screen the perfect RL match is made?!
While we r at it, I do wish someone would dissect this phenom to me, I’m most baffled.
And in more seriousness, I’ll pin this and remind myself: RL shipping eat brains, zombie apocalypse. Life lessons learned at lovely AKP June, 2012.
True true. I’m prone to RL shipping as well, I’m not sure as to the psychology behind it, but it’s sort of like an “side effect” of a certain drama. But while I do have some OTPs I want to see together IRL, I just treat it as wishful thinking. However some people think of it as something that HAS to happen, because “omg they were so fllirty offscreen during the drama!!” and so on. The latter falls into the deluded group who literally troll all over everything that disagrees with them. I hate these kind of fans the most.
U speak my mind, esp the ‘side effects’ analogy…..considering most are not desirable or constructive but we took the drug, ‘reaped’ the benefits and brave through the side effect as wishful thinking…knowing quite well this is not the intention. Although as I rule I’m very against RL ship myself (it actually takes away my appreciation of the work put in knowing it’s just…2 ppl falling in love and not magic craftsmanship), but I can perfectly understand that.
It’s the other group that is, alarmingly growing into the majority in fandom, is beyond my comprehension. It’s almost like with intense love, there’s always the other side, residing uglier side of humanity where there is an insatiable desire to claim, own and control the object of the desire, to make a fantasy the reality.
I looked up “Sports Fan” and read a bunch of psychology words that I can summarize.
Fans live vicariously through their objects of fandom.
“Watching someone perform an action triggers mirror neurons, making the viewer feel, to an extent, like he is the doer. The greater the observer’s personal draw to the action, the more intensely he feels that he’s the one [living the reality] Hirt says.
Whatever attractive qualities the hero has, the fan takes these on in their minds. “Die-hard fans experience the same hormonal surges athletes do. ‘They even become more optimistic about their own life when ‘their’ team wins and gloomy about their personal future when ‘their’ team loses,’ says Hirt.
When fans together – in person or online – a supportive community develops – “which are key to fostering well-being, notes the North American Journal of Psychology.
I admit to all of the above!
That explains rabid flailing, like you’ll find your object of your desire so nummy you want to marry to him blablabla, BUT still that doesn’t touch RL shipping…
A as X; B as Y; in drama X/Y= OTP
A=/=X; B=/=Y why do we neeeeeeedddd A/B= RL OTP?
Well, I don’t think there is such a thing as RL shipping as a separate form of entertainment than fictional.
The OTP is a projection of our desires whether the characters are actors or people – real or not. That line is completely blurred in the way the audience experiences it.
When we watch or read stories F and NF, we make them real in our minds/hearts. We allow ourselves to feel a connection to the characters as if they were our friends and family, as if they were us.
The Real part of the shipping has as little to do with us as the Reel one. We react the same way.
(I am not making myself as clear in my words as I am in my brain. I apologize!)
I both agrees and disagrees with the points you brought up, but I don’t think there is a reason for you to be so cynical about the whole thing. It didn’t played out like well written romantic novel but it’s not fake either. Yeah I believe that their actions are staged to a certain extent but the main thing is their feelings for each other is real. They might have their reasons to go public with their relationship instead of remaining private , but it’s their lives, they’re the celebrities they know how it works behind the scenes. so let’s just be glad, be happy or simply be indifferent. Reading this post make me feel like reading a recap post from you, you analyses way too much. While its fine for dramas because it’s friction and everything can happen “like it should” just by the whim of the author, things in life don’t work out with just one person effort. So although there are aspects of this whole ordeal that could hav played out better considering everything, but it didn’t because ppl don’t act rationally. They rationalize their actions give everyone involve the benefit of the doubt
Sorry about all the trolls!
I actually like how smart they were about it – with the confession (which I agree, was probably an agreed-on thing) and then the clearly staged pictures. That actually makes me like them better as a couple because I like people who go about things in a competent fashion.
This said, I never understood the backlash about public confessions in general – surely it depends on what the gal in question likes? I am a total exhibitionist and when Mr Mousie proposed he tailored it accordingly, in a very public place in a dramatic fashion. I was happy as a clam!
I guess ultimately it’s all tl:dr about people we do not know. I think they are gorgeous people who like each other and who I wish happiness to, but ultimately I don’t know either of them, so that is where it ends for me (for them or any other actor couple).
Agree.
I would like to say sorry if some In-hyun’s couple fans where are being rude/too much.
But I would also like to say that there are some here that doesn’t seem to be the couple fans but just troll/haters who are just wanting to hate on you, Koala. I know you have fans, but you also have antis and I believe some of them are getting this chance to say nasty things too.
I see some defending the couple, fine, no problem at all.
But some here aren’t even defending the couple at all, they are just ofending Koala.
I hope Koala and people who are getting turned off by these comments don’t take it too much to heart, don’t give up of the drama because of these people who have nothing to do.
I hate it when people make something good look bad. (I’m mentioning here these called ”fans” who are ofending Koala and others who agree, making people dislike the drama or couple)
I visit soompi thread and there most of the replies are mature and people do not ofend Koala and say they respect it, of course have some angry but so far I didn’t see people calling names.
I would like to some ”called” In-hyun fans to grow up or to be more mature please. Respect others comments!
And if you are a troll/Koala hater please don’t use this couple story or this post just to hate on her.
As for the immature In-hyun’s fans I’m sorry Koala that you have to pass for it.
I disagree with what you said, but I think it makes sense and people should just chill.
Koala is not hating she just have a different opinion.
I’ve tried to tell folks turned off by the fans not to link that to the drama Queen In Hyun’s Man. I hope with time this distaste will lessen and the drama can be judged on its merits. Though that is always hard, but I hope I’ve been able to sway some drama fans to not toss the baby out with the bathwater. Thanks for sharing some very considerate points of view.
OMG……THE STORM OF NEGATIVE COMMENTS BOMBARDING Mrs Koala………Please lets all be civil….I am a huge QIHM fan, even made a video to show my support of the couple and a nigerian….However, not everyone would see the same things equally….Therefore, she shouldn’t be bombarded with insults and spoken to with disrespect about her views. That’s the point of the blog, to talk about what she wants to….not to say what you want to hear.
To borrow a phrase from The Moon That Embraces The Sun, a conversation between Yeom and Prince Lee Hwon,
Yeom: “If His Highness does not like the answer, does that make it wrong?”
Chill, people. Just focus on the happy ending shall we? Ji Hyun Woo is happy, Yoo In Na is happy, shippers are happy, the drama production company is happy, majority of the female population is happy, I’m happy, Koala is happy too, just not as ecstatic as you, that’s all.
Humans are not perfect, we have flaws, no one is perfect. We’ve got to accept reality.
Good day to all ^_^
Didn’t YIN state in her confession that they knew the photographer was following them? She said she even put up a peace sign to him to take a picture…..
Wow…after reading these hate comments,
I instantly thought of this quote:
“I wish we could all get along like we used to in middle school… I wish I could bake a cake filled with rainbows and smiles and everyone would eat and be happy…”
At the end of the day, one thing is true: Yoo In Na and Ji Hyun Woo have feelings for each other!
Let’s all be happy shall we?
Koala, I got you.
Thanks. 😉
I am not a huge fan of either Ji Hyun Woo or Yoo In Na
I don’t ship actors in real life
I enjoy this blog.
But there’s a difference between journalism (fact based) and editorial (opinion) writing. Stating an opinion or ‘two cents’ implies I care. Stating you are unbiased or balanced is akin to stating you are humble. If it’s not based on facts, it is always biased and that invites comments – agreement and otherwise.
I’m confused. This post was not a fact-based post. It was a post about them dating and the title explains that what follows is MY opinion about what happened. And where did I say anything about being unbiased and balanced? Of course my opinion is biased, heck the very nature of an opinion stems from a well of biases that make up the person’s experience and viewpoints. Where did you reach that conclusion that I assert myself to be unbiased and balanced? I merely said my conclusion was based on rational analysis, but my opinion is just that, mine and not an indicator of any definitive authority on this topic. I do welcome comments. I don’t tell people to stop commenting, and I didn’t delete a single comment. Yes? I agree with everything you said, but I’m confused how you attribute that to my post is all.
I’m probably misterpreting what you meant when you said ‘well argued’. I recognize you’ve never said it was fact based and I don’t think I said that either. I’m just saying that anytime it is opinion based, you’re going to get all kinds of comments and opinions right back.
But like you’ve said even the negative ones are just as valid. It’s not a gripe with you – it just seems silly that anyone needs to defend anyone/thing or take sides.
I see. Thank you for explaining what you meant. I think some folks got so heated that I pointed out things they don’t agree with, and some were quite rude, which in turn got others upset, and well, you know how it goes. I do find it fascinating with the need to defend something so passionately, whether resorting to good points or pure mudslinging, on something truly so remote and inconsequential. It’s not like we’re defending the right to democracy here. But I like debate, even on shallow topics that stars and their admittedly personal lives that really have nothing to do with me. My analysis could be all wrong, but I still think at least my thought process in coming to my conclusion in the post has a rational basis. Good chat, thanks.
the post and the negative comments are both extreme. it’s hurting my gentle soul LOL
Hmm. Those who feel that it the confession was premeditated on JHW’s part need to watch this close up shot of the couple when he confessed: http://v.youku.com/v_show/id_XNDE3MjU1MDYw.html
😀
I am glad that finally I found someone whose thinking on this incident almost completely similar to mine. Koala, thank you for speaking it out!
One thing to add, even all these were not set up at the very beginning, I personally don’t appreciate a planned public confession, which may immediately put the other in a difficult situation. After all, love is a private issue – no need to put it on stage.
Trolls are so funny.
I happen to be happy about this real life couple but I still think the “public confession” could’ve been handled in a different manner.
Oh well that’s life. Ish happens and we move on.
Ji Hyun Woo & Yoo In Na Fighting!!!
of course all is planned carefully (idk if hyunwoo plan this first, or they both are in this together since the beginning) and all is discussed within the two companies. maybe yoo in na got flacks (?) from the confession before, but at the end of the day, she knew that dating him would be harmless to her. instead, i bet she’d gain “lovable girlfriend” image and this is worked way better than scripted WGM the company planned before. maybe they love each other, maybe not. but in the end, it’s mutually benefit. i’ve lost my lee dong gun-han ji hye, which is the cutest (and kinda staged too, haha) couple, so i welcomed this cute couple abroad. i’ve just watched fancam about them attending iu’s concert together, and i enjoyed the cuteness from that scene. <3 thanks for sharing your opinion anyway.
Staged or not, what’s important is that they are in love. From that things that I have seen over the internet regarding these two love birds, I’d say they are genuinely in love. I just think that JHW’s confession is his way of breaking free the norm when it comes to celebrity dating. I think he wants to be able to publicly date YIN and not have to worry about prying eyes or possibly misinterpretations later on had he not done what he did. Both of them are great persons, and I believe that they are lucky to have each other. Also, I’ve watched QIHM and the kisses and the chemistry is something that I have never yet seen from all the other dramas that I’ve watched.
They are happy and that is what is important and I think we should respect each other’s difference in opinion and just wish them the best and give them our support.
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Respecting koala’s blog but I’ll have to disagree here (since I have to say I’m a fan of this couple myself)
But, I think that it was better to publicly announce it rather than keep it stifled in because I think fans would be more happy if they heard it directly from Hyun woo than the reporters? I understand that it put pressure on YIN, but I think that the outcome is all that matters. They’re now a couple and I hope that they stay together because they’re extremely cute after watching QIHM. =)