Korea Observer

Malaysian authorities are investigating the fan meeting of K-pop boy band B1A4 in Kuala Lumpur last Jan. 10 after a video showed the boys hugging and kissing Muslim fans on the forehead on stage in violation of Islamic code of conduct. Read more at  http://www.mb.com.ph/b1a4s-malaysia-fan-meeting-being-investigated-for-inappropriate-behavior/ To contact the author, send email to sangchusan(at)gmail.com

By JONATHAN HICAP, Manila Bulletin The continuing popularity of Hallyu, or Korean Wave as evidenced in the proliferation of Korean dramas and K-pop music across the globe have led to South Korea being among most favored destinations of 2014.

Link to my original article on Manila Bulletin online:To contact the author, send email to sangchusan(at)gmail.com

The Commission on Filipinos Overseas (CFO), led by Secretary Imelda Nicolas, feted the winners of the Migration Advocacy and Media (MAM) Awards held at the SSS Magsaysay Hall of the Social Security System (SSS) headquarters in Quezon City, last Thursday.

The Commission on Filipinos Overseas congratulates the 10 best media works from the United States, United Kingdom, Australia, Singapore, Hong Kong and the Philippines, as this year’s Migration Advocacy and Media (MAM) Awards winners. Now on its fourth year, the MAM Awards, which was conceived in 2011 by the CFO, aim to recognize the significant role of the media in raising public awareness on issues related to Filipino migration, the challenges of migration and development, and advocate the cause and promote a positive image of Filipinos overseas. 1. BEST PRINT AWARD  (ARTICLE) PH, KOREA ACT TO PREVENT SHAM MARRIAGES  Author: Jonathan Hicap Publication: Manila Bulletin Philippines An article about marriage migration and the initiatives made by the Philippine and South Korea governments to end fake interracial marriages.  

Link to my original article on Manila Bulletin online:To contact the author, send email to sangchusan(at)gmail.com

Link to my original article on Manila Bulletin online:To contact the author, send email to sangchusan(at)gmail.com

By JONATHAN HICAP, Manila Bulletin Four-sister Filipino singing group MICA got eliminated on the Korean TV talent search “Superstar K6,” ending their journey as top 8 finalist. In the Oct. 24 episode of “Superstar K6,” MICA, composed of sisters Mylene, Irene, Celina and Almira, performed Seo Taiji and Boys’ debut single “I Know.”

By JONATHAN HICAP, Manila Bulletin  Jiyoung and Nicole, who both left the group KARA early this year, have started solo careers in Japan and Korea, respectively. Jiyoung signed with Sweet Power agency in Japan last August to launch a career as actress. She has already appeared in the live action TV program “Hell Teacher Nube,” which is based on the manga series of the same title. Nicole (left) and Jiyoung (Photos: newsen.com and oricon.co.jp)