Korea Observer

By JONATHAN HICAP, Manila Bulletin JYJ and their former Japanese label AVEX have reached an agreement effectively ending their legal battle concerning the Korean boy band’s music activities in Japan. In an announcement posted on its website, C-Jes Entertainment, JYJ’s agency in South Korea, said the two sides have reached the settlement through mediation. (From left) JYJ’s Junsu Jaejoong and Yoochun (www.newsen.com)

By JONATHAN HICAP, Manila Bulletin MANILA, Philippines – Korean dramas “Tree with Deep Roots” and “The Moon that Embraces the Sun” won top honors along with films “Nameless Gangster” and “Unbowed” at the 48th Baeksang Arts Awards held April 26. The awards ceremony, held at the Seoul Olympic Hall, honored excellence in films and TV in Korea. Winners in the Baeksang Arts Awards. (Photos by www.newsen.com)

By JONATHAN HICAP, Manila Bulletin  MANILA, Philippines – It was a tearful homecoming for JYJ member Park Yoochun from the band’s successful concert in South America when he learned that his father passed away on Mar. 14. Yoochun at Incheon International Airport on March 14 (www.newsen.com)

By JONATHAN M. HICAP MANILA, Philippines – This year’s Seoul International Drama Awards ceremony will be held on August 31 and organizers have announced the nominees for different categories which were selected from 204 dramas submitted from 37 countries. Best Korean actor nominees (clockwise from top left) Hyun Bin, Song Seung-heon, Jang Geun-suk, Park Yoochun and Kang Ji-hwan