You might have seen all the fancams and his cover of Magnus Haven’s ‘Imahe,’ but there was more to learn about Lee Junho in his memorable trip to Manila.
Whether you’ve been a stan since the debut of the boy band 2PM or you recently became a fan due to his amazing acting in King of the Land, we can all agree that it’s impossible not to fall head over heels for Lee Junho. Luckily us, the multi-talented artist found himself in the heart of Manila, where his first fan meet unfolded as an unforgettable spectacle.
You might have seen the performances, his cover of Magnus Haven’s Imahe, and his surprise gift-giving, but before the cheers echoed through the Mall of Asia Arena last Saturday, a press conference became the stage where we had the privilege to pose questions to the artist, unraveling a more personal side of him. Here are five facts you might not know about Lee Junho.
After A Rom Com His Next Role is…
Lee Junho | Instagram
With Red Sleeve and King the Land, fans who fell in love with Lee Junho through his romantic-comedy roles were in for a surprise during the press conference. When asked about the next roles or genres he’s considering, the actor hinted at exploring something in between a character exuding a comfortable personality or an action-packed narrative. Having already made an amazing mark in historical dramas and showcased his charm in romantic comedies, Lee Junho is eagerly anticipating the next chapter in his acting journey, keeping fans on the edge of their seats as they look forward to the diverse roles he might conquer next.
Family Comes First
Despite his hectic schedule and the demands of the entertainment industry, Lee Junho emphasized the importance of family in his life. The actor shared heartwarming anecdotes about his close bond with family members, especially his nephew. When asked about how he stays in touch with them, Junho mentioned that he comes back home whenever he can to spend time with them. This insight into his personal values left people appreciating not just the artist but the person behind the spotlight.
Here’s How To Take a Break According to Lee Junho
Lee Junho | Instagram
Whether you’re stanning Lee Junho or simply working through the hectic waves of life, his insights into the art of taking breaks are pearls of wisdom worth considering. In the whirlwind of our busiest days, Junho shares his top three retreats for rejuvenation. First on the list is a visit to the gym, a sanctuary where he not only hones his physical well-being but also finds solace amidst the weights and treadmills. Second, the actor values the comfort of returning home to his family whenever he has a flight back to South Korea.
Lastly, Junho unwinds with the soothing embrace of aromatherapy, underscoring the power of scents in creating a calming atmosphere. These tips from an all-around artist shed light on the importance of balance and self-care, serving as a gentle reminder for everyone to take a day-off and recharge.
ICYDK, Here’s Lee Junho’s Definition of Sexy
Lee Junho | Instagram
In a juicier take, Lee Junho was asked about his thoughts when fans think of him as sexy and his own definition of the term. While he appreciates the flattering compliments, Junho unveils a deeper understanding of sexiness. For the actor, the allure in another person is defined by their ability to take control of their life, present themselves as put-together, and be responsible altogether. Junho’s definition of sexy goes beyond mere physical attributes, highlighting qualities that resonate with personal empowerment and a sense of responsibility.
In An Alternate Universe Lee Junho is a…
Lee Junho | Instagram
In a lighthearted moment, the media delved into an alternate universe with Lee Junho, prompting him to contemplate a life outside of acting and idolhood. When asked about his hypothetical career choice, Junho joked about applying for whatever job was hiring at the time. While that garnered a laugh from the audience, his justification behind the response revealed a candid truth—he couldn’t envision himself passionately engaged in anything else.
Given that we had a glimpse of him portraying hotel executive Gu Won in the romantic comedy King The Land, maybe he’s a hotel owner in a parallel place—who knows? To say the least, we were treated to amusing scenarios and imaginative narratives, unveiling another side of Junho that showcased his sense of humor and willingness to embrace the unexpected.
While Christmas music may fill shopping malls and public places these days, we’re still not yet ready to leave behind the new tracks from our faves that we’ll probably be blasting once the holiday parties are over. So, check out these recently released songs you may want to add to your playlist.
HOUDINI – DUA LIPA
When we saw Dua dye her hair red, we knew she was going to serve for her comeback. And true enough, she did in this sultry pop number about a potential lover you don’t know is real or just a ghost.
LALALALA – STRAY KIDS
As expected, Stray Kids’ latest musical offering takes no prisoners with a beat and bass that starts at a 10 and ends on a 15.
DRAMA – AESPA
Aespa wasn’t exaggerating when they said that they bring the drama. We’re very much here for this techno baddie energy that we love the girl group for.
VICTIM – ZACK TABUDLO
Zack’s first single off his upcoming 3rd album shows a more mature side of the OPM star in a song about being a victim of a toxic kind of love but knowing you can’t escape. The track shares a fresh perspective on love and how it’s not always seen through rose-tinted glasses.
BAD BOY! – BELLA POARCH
This pop meets doo-wap number sees Bella reclaim her narrative, especially about her body, in an empowering number of self-confidence.
MOVING CLOSER – FELIP
FELIP’s take on this Never The Strangers classic tickles the ears with its combination of smooth and soft vocals and acoustic guitar.
MALIGAYANG PASKO – JUAN KARLOS
If we’re going to be listening to Christmas music for the next eight weeks, we might as well add some new and original tracks from our current faves. This is why this Juan Karlos ditty is getting a play for capturing the holiday spirit through his signature fun sound.
NICE TO MEET YOU – PINKPANTHRESS AND CENTRAL CEE
The way PinkPanthress had the Y2K genre in a chokehold needs to be studied. And the inclusion of Central Cee is a nice bonus.
SOMETHING – JULIE ANN SAN JOSE
Julie Ann San Jose’s comeback track is a mesmerizing chill love song that delves into the depths of emotions associated with falling for someone. The track resonates as it captures the essence of feeling right about a special person and believing in the purity of their intentions.
HINAHANAP-HANAP – JIKAMARIE
This R&B track, that soars with its production, vocals, and vibe, has the Filipina songstress put a flame on blast for not being beside her when she needs him the most.
BIYAHE – RAVEN
This chill track captures the inherent romance found in traveling, and, more importantly, narrates an ode to that special someone of being there with them on their journey, wherever it may lead.
FALL IN LOVE AGAIN – P1HARMONY
The K-pop boy group’s infectious English-Korean fusion track finds a matured P1Harmony that promises to be better lovers than the last.
JUNK FOOD – OMEGA X
Unlike the type of food the song is named after, OMEGA X’s JUNK FOOD, which serves as the title track of their iykyk EP, is not bad for your health.
BETTER THAN SNOW – NORAH JONES AND LAUFEY
After enchanting us with Christmas Dreaming, Laufey is back with yet another tender Christmas tune, this time with the one and only Norah Jones.
LIGAW – KINDRED
This highlight from KINDRED’s debut mixtape is a charming and cathartic love song.
COUNTDOWN – VVYND
The dark R&B production and vulnerable vocal performance come together to create a moody and reflective soundscape on realizing that the love is slowly fading with the slight hope that things can get better.
The queens are back! K-pop girl group Red Velvet recently dropped their new album Chill Kill, with a title track of the same name and an accompanying music video. Chill Killis the group’s 3rd full album, with ten tracks of varying styles and sounds bound together by Red Velvet’s signature charm, gorgeous vocals, and engaging energy. From dreamy ballads to catchy dance tracks, Chill Kill is an impressive comeback that keeps Irene, Seulgi, Joy, Wendy, and Yeri comfortably seated on their well-deserved thrones in the realm of K-pop.
Since the teasers, ReVeluvs knew they were in for something enchanting and eerie—and Red Velvet delivered. Dramatic, bewitching, and visually pleasing, the music video was a carefully-threaded narrative filled with elements that’s going to live rent-free in our minds for a long time. So, besides the vocals and choreography, here’s some of our favorite things about the Chill Kill music video!
THE VISUAL AESTHETIC
One thing about Red Velvet—their visuals and the visual aesthetics of their comebacks are always on point. The Chill Kill era features a dark, macabre concept, stellar fashion, and the stunning platinum face cards of the girls. The music video had great cinematography and visual storytelling, perfectly accompanying the upbeat, unmistakably Red Velvet-esque pop track.
THE ACTING
Featuring several conflicts between “sisters” and each one’s personal struggles, Chill Kill had Irene, Seulgi, Joy, Wendy, and Yeri showing off their acting chops and chemistry built on a decade-long relationship. Get these girls some acting contracts ASAP!
THE MACABRE DETAILS
Shown in the concept photos to the music video, Chill Kill tells the story of five tormented sisters living in a home they wish to escape from. From cleaning up what seemed to be a crime scene to depictions of fear, the dark, creepy, and downright macabre details are well-thought out and are pure fodder for countless theories—and we can’t wait to get on social media to read some of them.
THE SYMBOLISM
Speaking of theories, Red Velvet packing up and setting the house on fire could mean so many things. We’d like to think of it as a symbolic act of freedom and defiance, leaving behind what was distressing and setting off for somewhere or something better.
THE SISTERHOOD
Throughout the video, the “sisters'” relationship with each other was highlighted. Even after they get caught by police (presumably for the crimes committed in that cursed home), the girls remained content with their freedom from the house and relied on what they’ve always been able to trust—each other.
Let’s be real, walking through the busy hallways of universities and colleges can be a challenge. Walking Running from one end of the campus to the other for your next class in just 10 minutes is a struggle. But with the perfect pair of kicks, the walk becomes bearable. And while college isn’t a fashion show, finding a reliable pair of sneakers that both look good and feel comfortable to wear for hours is something we can all get behind. So, if you’re thinking of what sneakers to wear as you blaze across school grounds, we’ve rounded up a few picks of what to have and wear for stylish yet comfortable walks through college.
It goes without saying that walking around campus in not-so-comfortable kicks is not the vibe. So, a versatile pair to check out is the Nike Air Force 1. Whether you’re having a busy day or just spending a chill study session in the library, this pair can go with everything.
If you’re looking for the perfect pair of white sneakers, look no further because the Adidas Stan Smiths have got your back. From sporty to casual ‘fits, this classic pair isn’t just about looking fly, it’s also durable, stylish, and most importantly, comfortable.
CONVERSE 70s
A blend of versatility and classic style, Converse 70s is a good addition to your kick collection for your college outfits. Regardless of which palette you opt for, these high-cut kicks can go with everything, not to mention it will feel like a breeze as you speedwalk across campus.
Resilient as your GPA goals, Dr. Martens is worth the splurge to add to your college wardrobe for its sturdy design and classic cut that can complete most outfits. Whether it’s raining or just walking around campus under the sun, Dr. Martens are those boots that will not let you down.
During those moments when time is of the essence, an easy-to-put-on shoe is a go-to. As such, the Adidas Samba is your friend. It’s an easy, versatile, and iconic pair of sneakers that could go with everything. Kick those doubts with your Sambas.
NIKE BLAZER
Whether you’re a jeans, trousers, jogging pants, or shorts kind of person, the Nike Blazer is the pair you want to be going to time and time again. With its simple yet stylish silhouette and design, these kicks will be your constant companion Monday to Friday and even your weekend classes.
College life may be a rollercoaster, so might as well have a pair of sneakers that can stand the test of time and accompany you on the journey. For that, your next favorite pair of kicks might just be the New Balance 530. Get ready to complement your outfits from laidback to edgy looks for the whole academic year and beyond.
In the kaleidoscope of the Hallyu wave, we boast the most passionate fandoms and the most energetic concert crowds, immersing ourselves in the allure of K-pop, K-dramas, and the captivating cultural richness that South Korea offers to the world. But what if the roles were reversed? Imagine a moment when we are not merely ardent fans but also influential contributors, leaving an indelible mark on the very wave we have always admired.
With Sophia Laforteza running the show in The Debut: Dream Academy and Hori7on being a South Korea-based Filipino boy band, we have proven ourselves as all-around performers. That’s why we’re now delving into the Filipino fashion designers who have dressed some of Korea’s biggest stars, one runway at a time. Scroll through to see these seven stars who have donned Monique Lhuillier, Michael Cinco, and many more.
Bae Suzy stunned at the Longines’ Launch Event in a Monique Lhuillier creation from the Filipina fashion designer’s Fall 2023 collection. The Strapless Drop Waist Ball Gown, boasting a sweetheart neckline, drop waist bodice, and a full skirt with a high slit, showcased the actress’s impeccable style. Suzy complemented the ensemble, featuring a sophisticated black and pale blush color palette, with a minimalistic set of Korloff diamonds, including Longines’ Mini DolceVita watch on her wrist.
Now, get this – this Filipino craftsmanship combined with K-Fashion flair, rings in at around ₱4,470,000. Yes, that’s the kind of glamour that takes every red carpet affair to a whole new level.
Stepping onto the carpet at the 28th Busan International Film Festival, Park Eun Bin graced the event in a beautiful blue dress from Filipina fashion maestro Monique Lhuillier. The full floor-length Strapless Tulle Ball Gown, straight from Lhuillier’s Fall 2022 ready-to-wear collection, brings the delicate charm characteristic of the designer’s signature pieces. Featuring a ruffled neckline and a boned bodice, the ensemble is nothing short of elegant. Adding a touch of grandeur, the actress adorned herself with pieces from the Bulgari Serpenti collection, crafted with 18-carat white gold and dazzling diamonds. The price tag for the whole look? A jaw-dropping ₱6,265,700. Nothing but the best of the A-list actress.
At the debut Blue Dragon Series Awards, the red carpet buzzed with Korean A-listers like Girls’ Generation’s YoonA and ASTRO’s Cha Eun Woo, but none outshone Goblin‘s leading lady, Kim Go Eun. Decked out in a stunning blue chiffon creation by Monique Lhuillier, she’s radiating princess energy.
The strapless full floor-length dress from Lhuillier’s Fall 2022 collection exudes royal and Cinderella-like charm. To complete the look, the actress accessorized with Chanel’s Ruban collection – think 18K white gold ribbon-shaped clip-on earrings and a matching diamond necklace delicately resting above her collarbone. If she’s the modern-day Cinderella, maybe her fairy godmother can make my dreams come true too, because this entire ensemble costs around ₱3,900,000. Talk about living the dream!
Another Korean actress, another Monique Lhuillier moment. Having clinched the night’s coveted Best Rookie Actress award for her stellar performance in Revenge of Others, Shin Ye Eun didn’t simply win merits and accolades—she owned the title of the night’s best-dressed actress at the 2nd Blue Dragon Series Awards. Picture this: she’s strutting on the red carpet in this midnight blue stunner by Monique Lhuillier.
The Strapless Sequin Embellished Ball Gown, featuring exquisite bead and sequin embellishments coupled with a sweetheart neckline, transformed Shin Ye Eun into a shining star. Completing her look, The Glory actress sealed the deal with the Tiffany & Co. Knot Collection. Looking like a celestial work of art, Shin Ye Eun’s ensemble comes with a price tag of an estimated ₱2,640,000.
Once again, the allure of Monique Lhuillier graced the 2nd Blue Dragon Series Awards as Jeon Yeo Been donned one of her creations. Solidifying her position as one of the night’s best-dressed actresses, the leading lady of Vincenzo enlisted the expertise of the Filipina fashion designer for her red carpet appearance.
The spotlight fell on the Off-the-Shoulder Draped Sequin Column Gown from Lhuillier’s 2023 ready-to-wear collection. Distinguished by its off-the-shoulder collar and captivating cameo-colored sequins, the ensemble exuded a sense of glamour and sophistication. Keeping her neck bare, the actress rounded off the look with drop earrings and a killer diamond ring, creating a flawless and memorable presence at the event.
In a captivating display of elegance, Korean pop star Hyuna Kim showcased her feminine allure at PARIS Haute Couture Fashion Week. Dressed in a flowing floral gown crafted by the renowned Michael Cinco, the ensemble captured the essence of haute couture sophistication. Notably, Hyuna donned COUTURiSSIMO, signifying its design by iconic couturiers, encapsulating the stunning spirit of high fashion. The ensemble stood as a testament to the harmonious blend of global couture and Hyuna’s individual grace, making a lasting impression at the esteemed fashion event.
A little throwback to 2013, BTS took the stage at the South Korean music television program Show! Music Core for their debut, and what stole the spotlight as much as their performance was their color-coordinated black and white outfits. Fans were in a frenzy over the matching looks, printed with logo-graphic writing featuring the number ‘93′. The surprising revelation? These stylish pieces were none other than sweaters by the Filipino fashion brand ProudRace.
What made this moment more special was that it wasn’t part of a collaboration or a promotional stunt. Its founder spilled the beans on an Instagram post, sharing that Filipino fans were the ones who tagged them in photos of one boy band’s OOTDs, and to everyone’s astonishment, it turned out to be BTS! To say the least, this global nod to Filipino-made fashion adds another feather to the cap of the country’s fashion industry.
A recent viral post has people defending those who stay, study, and work in coffee shops or cafés but is also shedding light on the lack of accessible public spaces in the Philippines.
For yet another time, people just can’t mind their own business. This time, though, a recent viral controversy surrounding people staying at coffee shops for extended periods of time brings forth valuable conversation about café culture, public spaces, and the struggles of living in the Philippines.
In a video posted by @maroontito on X, Scottish content creator and vlogger Dale Philip questions and criticizes the way people were doing their work at a Starbucks in SM City Baguio, on their laptops and writing on papers. Philip disapproved of the practice, citing being turned off by the long queue and not understanding why people need to be at a coffee shop to do their work.
The audacity of white people to make a living off of Filipinos while simultaenously criticizing our own culture and social norms. Didn’t even bother blurring their faces. Nakakainit ng dugo. pic.twitter.com/DhXT6yvbVl
Besides advising him to mind his business regarding the norms and practices of a country he’s merely visiting, users brought to light the contexts and circumstances that prompt people to stay and work at coffee shops—from needing access to the Internet to wanting a change of environment.
OPINIONS DOWN THE LINE
“I would hate to have a business where people just come and use it as their personal office,” Philip says in the clip. Although working and studying in cafés isn’t exclusive to the Philippines, coffee shop culture differs across the world (and rules about bringing gadgets or staying differ across coffee shops, too). Coffee shops have actually been linked to productivity, socialization, being a safe space, and more.
Philip goes on to say that people can do the same thing in their homes—but can they really? Living situations aren’t always ideal, and they’re definitely not monolithic. Some people don’t have electricity or available outlets, Internet or calm, safe spaces to work in.
Coffee shop culture is different everywhere. Coffee shops know that people will do this so they charge a premium naman since it’s part of their business model. I know other shops that don’t allow laptops and that’s okay too 🤷♀️
Of course, there’s no denying the issues that come with people staying at coffee shops. Long lines, crowded areas, noise, long waiting times—but if you’re like Philip, aren’t these problems easily remedied? I can choose to go to a different café, and I completely understand that some people need to be there for a myriad of reasons I don’t need to know.
“I don’t understand why people want to do that,” Philip says. Well, again, as plenty of other people brought up, not everyone has access to a consistent, stable Internet connection or a conducive environment for productivity. Coffee shops often provide that for the price of one drink, as well as relaxation, ambiance, and community.
1. Lack of spaces, esp student spaces. 2. Not everyone is privilege enough to have a nice working area (internet, etc.) 3. People just work better under a social climatic environment.
Many Filipinos also don’t have access to an environment where they can be at peace, like in public spaces such as libraries. Even if cafés can be busy and noisy, sometimes it’s the most viable option.
Besides, Starbucks Philippines even went on record saying they don’t really mind people staying for long in their stores. They actually encourage it. Most, if not all, coffee shops and cafés strive for an open, welcoming environment—and that means being hospitable and connected to the community. But of course—echoing Shuri from Black Panther—just because the practice works and the culture is established, doesn’t mean the situation can’t be improved.
THE BIGGER ISSUE IS…
Actually, instead of antagonizing Filipinos for this why not advocate for more shared work spaces? This is among the good things about the new gen – we can be anywhere in the world and STILL be productive.
Two things to keep in mind—first, we really should mind our own business. If it’s causing no one any harm, it’s really a non-issue for people to stay at coffee shops and make use of what they offer. Second, we really do need more public places, not just where people can do their work and be productive, but also places where people can gather and do activities without the requirement or burden of purchasing something.
Accessibility is also another important concept brought up. People have the right to have access to necessities like electricity and a safe place of comfort, solitude, and productivity. But how many Filipinos actually do?
Letting coffee shops be a place for people to stay, work, and study and advocating for public spaces outside of them where people can do the same can co-exist. These are all vital concerns to consider, and while this whole thing began just out of a divisive post, it’s a good move to keep talking about what needs to be respected, and what needs to change.
“What will you do with your degree?”, “There’s no money in a communication degree”, and other variations of these statements are probably familiar phrases and questions that communication students have heard. In a world that’s built and revolves around money, some courses, particularly those in humanities and social studies, are often looked down upon as compared to other courses, such as business and medicine. The running idea is that a communications degree is easy, has no money in it, or a course for people who don’t know what they want in life. But a communications degree is a valuable asset to have in life. Strong and effective communication skills are key to succeeding in just about any industry.
Communication majors learn to work effectively with many different methods and mediums, a valuable skill you’d be surprised that a lot of people in the “real world” can’t do well. A degree in communications opens the doors to many possible careers, opportunities, experiences, and yes, money. So, if you’re a COM student thinking of what to do next or thinking of taking the course in college, here are some potential fields you can enter.
While social media is something many people know, being good at it is not a skill shared by everyone. This is where a career in social media can come in as you can leverage your skills to properly navigate all the available platforms to your advantage. You can work with brands and become a social media manager.
You run their accounts, develop their digital strategy, communicate with your audience, and so much more. All those brands that you see go viral with their social media content can thank their communications graduate employees for thinking of their campaigns. A career in social media combines the best of written, audio, and visual media and skills to build a lasting digital audience.
Public relations lives and dies by how well you can convince the audience of your stance or idea. This is a task that communications degree holders are uniquely equipped to handle. PR is for the girlies who love managing the sharing of information between individuals or organizations and the general public. It’s a job that touches upon many tasks, from writing press releases to working with the media, analyzing trends, and more. PR is all about relationship building and setting the scene on your terms.
If you ever envisioned yourself being part of a team behind the campaigns, brands, and executions that get you to add to cart and then some, a career in marketing and advertising is for you. It serves as a key part of any business as professionals in this field use their talents to effectively promote products, services, and more. Like with many areas in communication, marketing and advertising can be done as a freelance gig, in-house with the brand, or through a 3rd party company.
No matter what job you get, being a good writer will always be important. It holds especially true for communications degree holders. As such, a job in writing or journalism might be calling your name. Live out Andy Sachs’ dream job and become a writer for a magazine, website, publication, or newspaper. And the kind of writing you decide to make your beat can range from entertainment, lifestyle, sports, or hard news.
Either way, this field will have you being in constant contact with news and information as you make your pieces. Pro-tip, if you ever saw yourself communicating with stars and celebrities, this is the job to have. If that isn’t your cup of tea, you can also bring your writing to other mediums, such as copywriting, book authoring, publishing, editing, and more.
The media you consume daily is made by a specific group of people. It’s a group you can belong to if you decide to embark on a career in the production of media in TV, film, social media, radio, and more. Want to direct movies? Produce TV shows? Write scripts? Film videos? Organize and plan events? This field is for you. Media professionals are the backbone of the production world as you surround yourself with the behind-the-scenes magic. Like with many jobs, succeeding in media production will take a lot of time and effort, but the results are always worth it.
While there is a stereotype that students take up a communication degree to become a celebrity, it is an actual possibility. After spending years honing your interpersonal skills and effectively communicating with other people, you can parlay those talents into acting in movies and TV, hosting events, modeling, being a news anchor, and even doing voiceovers for commercials and other projects.
With the goal of bringing a breath of fresh air into the K-pop scene, KISS OF LIFE believes that this comeback only marks the beginning for them. Now that the quartet successfully built a strong foundation with their self-titled debut album, featuring the title song Shhh, the S2 Entertainment girl group continues to showcase their confidence in their new EP, Born to be XX.
KISS OF LIFE firmly admits that they were not under any pressure to make the return, despite being overwhelmed by the response to their well-received debut EP. “We weren’t that worried or pressured because we were so confident that we could do better,” KISS OF LIFE tells NYLON Manila.
INSTAGRAM/OFFICIAL_KISSOFLIFE
Under the concept of presenting two sides, the “truth” and the “rumor,” the members seek to highlight and emphasize the duality of things in life with the double title tracks Bad News and Nobody Knows. In this EP, the quartet discusses rejecting prejudices and says, “Don’t judge only by what you see,” but they also want to leave as much room as possible for interpretation regarding what the letters XX mean.
Aside from the lead singles, Born to be XX includes the English version of Bad News, My 808, TTG, Gentleman, and Says It, some of which had members who were notably involved in the creation. Their participation in the creative process, together with the quality of music they’re giving, makes them one of the promising rookies to watch out for.
In an exclusive interview with NYLON Manila, Belle, Julie, Natty, and Haneul discuss album preparations, and fashion, and reflect on their journey as they look back on what sparked their passion for music.
First of all, congratulations on your first comeback! I was wondering how you used all the positive feedback you received for your debut album while working on Born to be XX. How did you find the album preparations?
KISS OF LIFE: We had so much fun preparing for the album! Because we got so much love and support for the first album, we were so excited and eager to come back with something even greater!
Did you have any worries or is there any pressure with this one? Were you thinking about how you will be able to surpass and make an even better album than KISS OF LIFE, or the excitement just took over the pressure and nervousness?
KISS OF LIFE: Actually, we weren’t that worried or pressured because we were so confident that we could do better. We actually pushed ourselves even more to make a better quality album and performance because of all the love we got in the KISS OF LIFE album!
In your debut album, there are solo songs and music videos that make it special. How about for this release, what do you think makes Born to be XX special? What are the new things you were able to realize and try this time around?
KISS OF LIFE: We think the Born to be XX album will be the start of KISS OF LIFE’s color as a group. If the first album was an introduction, Born to be XX is the start of our identity. We feel like the music and our performance that are in the album show the understanding we have for hip-hop and R&B.
“We know the truth no one else does,” the message of this album seems interesting and deep; could you elaborate with us more on the concept you would like to convey to the listeners as well as the meaning behind Born to be XX? What’s something you would like them to take away from listening to the songs?
KISS OF LIFE: Everyone is special and different in their own way. We want people to look at us and gain more confidence about themselves and just feel powerful. XX can mean anything, we don’t want to put any limitations! We also wanted to show that there are always two sides to a story! Don’t judge only by what you see.
INSTAGRAM/OFFICIAL_KISSOFLIFE
How was your experience recording the songs? Were there any difficulties?
KISS OF LIFE: There were so many difficulties because we really wanted to do great. We constantly pushed ourselves and challenged ourselves to new lengths and recorded over and over again because we wanted it to be perfect. Other than that, we had a lot of fun recording because all the songs were so good and were really our style!
Are you into fashion these days, and how did you like the outfits during the shoot?
Julie: Actually, we all love fashion and taking photos, so the photo shoots were really fun for us! Personally, I have a huge passion for fashion so it was a dream come true to wear such beautiful clothes and take so many cool photos!
For Belle: What motivated you to choose this kind of path? Some idols focus on their performance and they just think about participating in the creative process later on, but it was the other way around for you: you started composing first before becoming an idol. How does it feel to transition from just writing songs for other artists to writing your own songs and performing those on stage?
Belle: Since I was very young, I had a huge passion for singing and writing songs. The first pop artist that I was influenced by was Ariana Grande. Seeing her expressing herself on stage made me dream bigger and bigger of becoming a singer. But before that, I wanted to make songs that could move someone’s heart, and make someone’s life better just like other artists did to me. And that made me become a songwriter first!
I wrote a bunch of songs and uploaded them on social media, like Instagram and SoundCloud, so that other musicians could see them. Through that, I made contacts with many agencies and producers, so I had the chance to work with various talented artists like LE SSERAFIM and Miyeon from (G)I-DLE.
Have you now found your writing style? How do you usually work in a studio as a lyricist and composer?
Belle: Along the way, I perfectly found my writing and singing style as well! This helped me a lot in the process of becoming an idol because people liked the unique feature of my voice and considered it a huge charm. When I work in the studio, I usually listen to some good songs, find references, choose some tracks to work on, and freestyle on the beat several times to complete the song form by combining good phrases from each take.
You won the Proud Korean Grand Prize in the composer category at the 2023 Korea Best Brand Awards just days after your debut. What was your reaction, and how does it feel to be recognized not only as an idol but also as a talented lyricist and composer?
Belle: I was so shocked that my brain cells stopped working for a few seconds! I feel so grateful for people who recognized my passion for music, and I want to say thank you to my past self who worked so hard for this moment.
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For Natty: You came from Thailand, but you already have had experiences in the K-pop industry like joining survival series Sixteen and Idol School, and even debuting solo. You also went to Korea at the age of 13, not knowing what would happen in the future, plus you had to learn a whole new language. Some people around that age don’t even have any idea what they’d like to do in the future, but you are passionate about chasing your dreams because you simply love dancing and singing. How hard was it to adjust to all the things, and what was it that made you decide and led you to join survival programs and eventually debut as a K-Pop idol?
Natty: First of all, I want to say thank you so much! I was touched that you recognized my hard work for 10 years! It wasn’t an easy time. The driving force that made me endure was my parents, my fans, and the stage. I can’t forget the energy that I got when I was on stage when I was young, so I can’t give up until I show a great performance with my songs. I really wanted to show how much Natty has grown and how cool an artist is as an artist!
You’re the main dancer of KISS OF LIFE, and you created the choreography for your solo song Sugarcoat. What’s the best thing about being able to dance on stage, to groove to the music you like?
Natty: I’m the happiest when I dance on stage because I can freely express what I want to express with my body. I think I was able to show what Natty’s own dance style is since the choreography that I made is very affectionate and was made with 100% of my expressions.
What do you think are your strengths when it comes to dancing, and how would you describe your dancing style?
Natty: I think it’s hard to explain my own genre. I’ve learned all genres of dance and I have a deep understanding of them and I think I’m most comfortable and good at hip-hop-based dance. I believe my strengths are my body lines and my knowledge of basic dance skills. I’m also good at controlling my body. I think those are my strengths because I believe I have my own style no matter what dance I do.
For Julie: You also came from another country, Hawaii, and first auditioned at the age of 17. Could you share with us your experience choosing this path so far? What mindset do you have or what kind of words do you bring with you until now that help you a lot as Julie of this present time?
Julie: It was a big step for me to choose this path, but I have no regrets at all. It was the best thing that happened in my life, and I’m glad I took on the challenge and kept fighting for my dream! There’s nothing that could stop me from doing what I am passionate about and just continuing to grow and learn from all the experiences that have helped me to be where I am now.
How has your experience been so far guiding your members as the leader? There may be miscommunication sometimes, which is normal, but how do you think your relationship with each other developed over time? Also, do you have any hobbies like perhaps writing rap lyrics whenever you feel it?
Julie: I’m having a great time being the leader of KISS OF LIFE! I feel so proud to be able to lead this group because the members are all so amazing and talented. Honestly, I’m blessed and thankful for our members!
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Do you have any hobbies when writing rap lyrics? Do you do it whenever you feel like doing so?
Julie: Usually, when I feel any emotion, I tend to just jot all of it in my memo and come back to it later when I want to write something. I feel like as time goes by, the process is getting easier and smoother because I have many more messages that I want to send to the fans.
For Haneul: You’re the youngest member/maknae of the group. Are there any kinds of words that your older members have said to you that you were able to use or learn something from?
Haneul: The older members often give me advice and help me a lot. I feel like the biggest thing I’ve learned from them is to just have fun and enjoy being on stage! They always tell me that it’s all about expressing rather than just dancing moves and singing lyrics.
What do you think is the best thing about being the maknae of KISS OF LIFE?
Haneul: The best thing about being the maknae is that I could kind of get away with things because they think I’m cute. (laughs)
Within your short training period, what do you think was the biggest thing you’ve learned that you were able to apply as you debut with KISS OF LIFE?
Haneul: During my training days, I feel like dancing with the members helped me learn a lot. Because of that time, I felt like I was able to dance well with the older members on stage. I’m going to continue to learn from them and soak up as much as I can!
You’re nominated for several awards at the Mnet Asian Music Awards as well as at the Asia Artist Awards. How does it feel that you’re now one step closer to achieving one of your goals?
KISS OF LIFE: We feel so blessed, and it feels surreal that all of this is happening! We hope to continue our growth and eventually accomplish all of our big goals. We feel very happy and proud for each step we take, and we just want to continue this journey for a long time!
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Could you please complete this sentence? “I was born to be ___.”
Julie: I was born to be me.
Natty: I was born to be an artist
Belle: I was born to be a musician.
Haneul: I was born to be happy
Lastly, do you have any final messages to your fans in the Philippines?
KISS OF LIFE: To all of our fans in the Philippines, we thank you so much for all the love and support and we hope to see everyone in person! We would love to be able to show you our performances. Our second mini-album Born to be XX is also filled with great songs and amazing performances, so I hope you guys enjoy it! Let’s make many more amazing memories together!
Looking to expand your sticker and art prints collection or meet your favorite Filipino artists? Well, you have plenty of chances, what with art fairs growing more and more popular as of late. From booths at conventions to events dedicated to having local artists showcase and sell their art, local art and artists are having their time—and love and support for local art and artists are growing exponentially. One of such events is Komiket, a series of events organized by its namesake non-profit organization.
This 2023, Komiket isn’t even done yet, what with its always-stacked lineup of events. But the organization has recently released its 2024 calendar, where one can see that the komiks and arts collective and organization has a year jam-packed with events almost every month. Artists are already preparing to showcase and sell their art, and everyone else is eagerly awaiting if their favorite artists and the art they want to cop will be there.
ART AND KOMIKS GALORE
Komiket is an organization primarily dedicated to giving local komik artists and artists of all kinds a platform to share or sell their artwork. Given the rich history of Philippine komiks, they also aim to provide accessible and affordable komiks markets, where creators can showcase their work. They also strive to protect and champion creators by publishing komiks and graphic novels, discover and promote new artists, and be a bridge for Filipino art and komiks to reach the world.
Komiket events feature artists showcasing and selling their work in a wide variety of forms like comics, stickers, postcards, posters, tote bags, keychains, and more. People also often do cosplay, play games, meet their favorite creators, and more! Some artists also sell their work for discounted prices compared to in their online stores—that’s why some people are curious to see if their favorite artists will have a table at the next Komiket. Entrance fees to Komiket events are usually 100 PHP.
A YEAR’S WORTH OF EVENTS
The 2024 rendition of the event is spread out all over Metro Manila all 12 months of the year. But pick your events wisely, as a few Komiket events have faced criticism for logistics, handling, and organization. For instance, participants and users on X called out the latest Komiket partnership with Cebu Literary Festival or CebuLitFest for concerns regarding logistics and lack of proper communication. Also, earlier this year, at Komiket Pride, the organization was criticized for controversial remarks about the LGBTQIA+ community. They have since apologized.
Previous events of an organization being criticized does not mean people should no longer patronize future events, though. This criticism opens doors for organizers and handlers to do better and provide a better experience for both exhibitors and patrons.
So this year, take your pick from Komiket 2024’s almost-monthly selection of events. Some events are themed or have a specific goal, such as Komiket Pride in June (Pride Month), which highlights local queer artists and their work or the Philippine International Comics Festival in July. Watch out for which ones your favorite artists will attend or choose the one nearest to you! Or, if you’re a really avid fan, attend all the Komiket events and hoard prints, stickers, posters, komiks, and experiences.
From GRWM Cosmetics to ISSY, here’s a curated list of the newest releases from local beauty brands deserving a place in your makeup bag and skincare routine.
While people have always seen local brands as worth supporting, it’s an energy that has taken on a new meaning in this day and age. This shift is especially significant because it has moved beyond a focus on national pride—it’s all about the insane innovations that local beauty brands are throwing into the mix. In this era of a constantly evolving beauty industry, Filipino beauty brands assert their presence with top-tier formulations and trend-setting releases.
As we dive deep into the exciting landscape of homegrown beauty, we’ve scoured the beauty scene to bring you a list of the latest releases from local beauty brands that deserve a spot in your makeup bag and skincare routine and high-key should have a spot on your Christmas wishlist.
If you’ve headed back to school this week, here’s lesson number 1: the latest trend is back-to-school makeup. It basically revolves around a minimal makeup and a base-brow-lip routine. When we’re talking about affordable, fuss-free products without compromise, we can all agree that Careline Cosmetics is the perfect beauty brand for students.
With lightweight lippies and the cutest collaborations with cartoon characters, this local beauty brand never misses a beat. Now, they’re back with an easy, everyday school-friendly product—the Tinted Mint Balm. The fact that it’s infused with Vitamin E for sunlight exposure makes this lip balm the final touch for your perfect pout. Note: if your school really restricts makeup, the shades Brunch and Pink Skies are your best bet.
Winged or straight, siren or doe-eyed, everyone has their eyeliner preference. How you choose to line your eyes can dramatically alter their appearance, from lifting them to making them appear larger. And, with all the cool new eyeliner colors available from local beauty brands, it’s exciting to explore beyond the basic black.
It’s time to create colorful moments with Colourette Cosmetics. With one flattering flick, drawing thin and thick liner looks has never been easier. The brand’s latest launch, Colourflick, comes in seven shades, ensuring there’s something for everyone—whether you’re elevating your everyday look or experimenting with your more creative side. If you can’t decide on one shade, my personal picks are Blueberry, Pumpkin, and Sorbet.
If you’ve ever wondered why beauty brands reformulate their best-selling products, it’s all about responding to valuable feedback. Whether it’s an all-new formula or upgraded packaging, the ultimate goal is to give girlies the very best.
So, guess what? GRWM Cosmetics is taking the plunge by reintroducing their iconic Milk Tints. Picture this: a fresh lip-loving formula that’s all about serving both style and substance. To top it off, they’ve got these fan-favorite tints decked out in a more modern packaging. Classic shades like 2.15 Coffee, Milkshake, and Pomelo were major, but there are some new shades in town that are legit must-haves for your makeup stash. We’re talking peaches, mauves, browns, and reds – GRWM Cosmetics has you covered.
ISSY
ISSY | InstagramISSY | Instagram
We all remember our firsts—and if you’re a beauty enthusiast, that includes the first time you applied foundation, wondering if it was the right skin shade match. Emerging from that era, we’re witnessing the evolution of our local beauty brands, with their expansive collections featuring a plethora of foundation, concealer, and powder shades. While that is a win, it has been a while since they experimented with new formulas for base makeup. That’s why we’re living for the latest launch of ISSY.
Skin of the Future features an Active Foundation, True Flex Perfecting Powder, True Flex Adjuster, and a Weightless Loose Powder. However, what we’re most excited about is the True Flex Skin Balm, which is undeniably a first in the local scene—a complexion pot with a balm-to-powder formula. This one-of-a-kind foundation comes in 12 shades and includes a little spatula for maintaining your hassle-free and hygienic makeup routine.
Curated Colors
Curated Colors | Instagram
If there’s something that local beauty brands have excelled at for years, it’s crafting the perfect polish. And, if you’re craving something sweet, Curated Colors has just released their Melt With You collection. It’s literally serving a delicious array of shades, promising a burst of sweetness at your fingertips. From taupes to browns, they’ve got every November nail trend covered.
