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Kim Tae Hee :The South Korean actress from Ulsan

2008-02-19T22:35:00.000-08:00

Kim Tae Hee (born March 29, 1980) is a South Korean actress from Ulsan. Kim, who is a bachelor of medicine at the Seoul National University, rose to stardom via her portrayal of the evil stepsister in the popular SBS TV series Stairway to Heaven. Her recent TV projects include the supernatural KBS series Forbidden Love and the SBS campus romance Love Story in Harvard. Both series were successful. For her performance in Forbidden Love, Kim was honored with the Best Female Newcomer award. Her younger brother is Lee Wan, who is quietly making a name for himself as well in the entertainment industry.

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Music Videos
Don't Go Away by Park Yong-ha (2004)
Only by The Jun (2003)
Letter by G.O.D. (2002)
Zoy Project

Drama
2004-2005: Love Story in Harvard (SBS)
2004: Forbidden Love (KBS)
2003-2004: Stairway to Heaven (SBS)
2003-2004: A Problem At My Younger Brother's House (SBS)
2003: Screen (SBS)
2002: Let's Go (SBS)

Film
2007: Ssawoom (Quarrel)
2006: The Restless
2002: New Citizen (short film)
2001: Last Present (short appearance)

Awards
2007 Daejong Film Awards: Overseas Popularity Award-Female (The Restless)
2007 Paeksang Arts Awards: Movie section Popularity Award-Actress (The Restless)
2005 Paeksang Arts Awards: TV section Popularity Award (Love Story in Harvard)
2004 SBS: Highest Popularity Award for actress (Love Story in Harvard)
2004 SBS: 10 Stars Award
2004 KBS: New Actress Award (Forbidden Love)
2003 SBS: New Star Award (Screen & Stairway to Heaven)

[edit] External links
Kim Tae Hee Official Website (Korean)
Kim Tae Hee at the Internet Movie Database
Kim Tae Hee at HanCinema

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Jun Ji-hyun :The South Korean actress and model

2008-02-19T21:54:00.000-08:00

Jun Ji-hyun (Korean: 전지현; born 30 October 1981) is a South Korean actress and model famous for her role in My Sassy Girl.

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Biography
Jun was born in Seoul, and studied in the Department of Theater and Film at Dongguk University. She began her career as a model in 1997, and after appearing in a number of TV sitcoms, her movie debut came in White Valentine (1999). This was followed by a role in Il Mare (2000), which proved to be a success. An American remake of Il Mare, The Lake House, was released June 14, 2006. Her biggest breakthrough was in My Sassy Girl (2001), a romantic comedy that won her the Best Actress award at the Daejong Film Festival in 2002. In 2004, Jun starred in Windstruck (내 여자친구를 소개합니다), a 2004 South Korean fantasy-romantic comedy directed by Kwak Jae-yong. The film was a major success, ranking as the 8th-highest grossing Korean film of 2004. In 2006, she starred in Daisy.

Since her debut as a model for Echo, Jun has modeled for many fashion companies and more recently, in advertisements for mobile phones and cosmetics. Some of her more popular product endorsements include Giordano, Laneige, and Samsung Anycall.

In 2005, she became the first Korean artist to feature on the cover for the famous fashion magazine ELLE.

Jun will play the lead role of Saya Otonashi in the live-action version of Blood: The Last Vampire, which is to start filming in China and Argentina in March 2007. It is slated for a Spring 2008 release.

Filmography

Film
White Valentine (1999) (Hwaiteu ballentain - 화이트 발렌타인) - Jung-min
Il Mare (2000) (Siworae - 시월애) - Kim Eun-joo
My Sassy Girl (2001) (Yeopgijeogin geunyeo - 엽기적인 그녀) - The Girl
The Uninvited (2003) (4(sa) Inyong siktak - 4인용 식탁) - Yeon
Windstruck (2004) (Nae yeojachingureul sogaehamnida - 내 여자친구를 소개합니다) - Yeo Kyung-jin
Daisy (2006) (Deiji - 데이지) - Hye Young
Blood: The Last Vampire Live Action (2008) - Saya Otonashi
A Man Once a Superman (2008) (Superman Ieotdeon Sanai - 슈퍼맨이었던 사나이) - Song Soo-jung

Drama
1999 Happy Together
1998 Fascinate My Heart
1997 The Season of Puberty

External links
(English) Jun Ji Hyun.org
(English) Jeon Ji Hyun Online
(English) Jeon Ji Hyun
Ji-hyun Jun at the Internet Movie Database
(Korean) 전지현 at nkino.com

From Wikipedia

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Leah Dizon model, singer, actress, and TV personality in Japan

2008-02-16T23:31:00.000-08:00

Leah Dizon (リア・ディゾン, Ria Dizon?, born Leah Donna Dizon on September 24, 1986) is a model, singer, actress, and TV personality in Japan, born in Las Vegas, Nevada, US.[1] Her ethnicities include Chinese, Filipino and French.

Early life
Leah Dizon was born in Las Vegas, Nevada. Her parents were casino dealers. Her father was a business man in one of the largest cities in California. She has two older brothers, an older sister, and two younger brothers. She says she grew up listening to Rock and R&B music. She took dance lessons and was in her high school theater. Dizon dreamed of pursuing a career as a singer.[2]

Career
After graduating from high school, Dizon decided to pose for the cover features of various import car magazines. This gained her much attention and a fanbase overseas, predominantly in Asia. One year after her pictures were posted up on the internet, she already had 2,000,000 hits from search engines.[1] Following the advice of her fans, Dizon sent a demo tape with model photographs of herself to a talent agency in Japan and in April of 2006, after being accepted, she immediately moved to Tokyo. In October 2006, she released her first photobook titled Petite Amie (Little Girlfriend in French), which was ranked as the third best selling photobook of that year.[3]

On February 14, 2007, she released her first CD single and DVD package, Softly under the record label Victor Entertainment(VIZL-216),[4] which peaked at number #7 in the Oricon Weekly Chart. At the same time, she also released her second photobook titled Hello! Leah.[5].

On May 30, 2007, Dizon released her second single Koi Shiyō (恋しよう♪, Koi Shiyō?), which also peaked at #7 on the Oricon Weekly Chart. The title track is described as a 'grooving, up-tempo dance song' and the single features 2 B-sides: Could you be that one? and Aishiteru～ Love Story (アイシテル～ Love Story, Aishiteru～ Love Story?).[6] The title track, Koi Shiyō is being used in a Lotte TV ad[7] while Could you be that one? is being used in a PlayStation 3 Ninja Gaiden Sigma TV ad, with Dizon starring in both commercials.

Her third single entitled L・O・V・E U was released on August 8, 2007. [8]

Leah released her debut album "Destiny Line" on September 12, 2007. The CD+DVD Edition contains 14 tracks, 10 of which were penned by Leah herself the single PVs as well as a special album PV "Again and Again". The CD Only Edition contains the digitally released remix of Koi Shiyō, called Koi Shiyō♪ (yasutaka nakata-capsule mix).

Leah Dizon's third photobook titled Heaven, was released October 5, 2007. It includes a DVD.

Officially announced on her website, Dizon's next single will be titled "Love Paradox". The Title track is said to be American like Urban song, and the B-side "Under the same sky" is rumored to be a mid-tempo ballad.

Leah Dizon's next photobook, "Pure Leah", was shot at a private resort, and is said to be more sexy and cute than all of her previous photobooks.

Works

Film
Traffic in the Sky[9]

Commercials
FromA
Lotte Rich Fruit Chocolate (Strawberry/Raspberry)
PlayStation 3 & TECMO (Ninja Gaiden Sigma)
Lotte Yukimi Daifuku (Mochi Ice Cream)
Lotte Rich Fruit Chocolate (European Pear)
JVC Digital Audio Player (Alneo XA-S208)
FUJIFILM (Fujicolor Digicam Printer)
Coca-Cola (No-Calorie Coke)
Kao Corporation (Essential Damage-Care)

TV shows
Webtama (Co-Host) - http://www.tv-tokyo.co.jp/webtama/
Sakigake Ongaku Banzuke Vegas (Host) - http://www.fujitv.co.jp/sakigake/index2.html

Singles

1st album
Released: September 12, 2007
Oricon Top 20 Weekly Peak: 9
Album: Destiny Line

References
1 a b Leah Dizon Official Blog -Profile（リア・ディゾンオフィシャルブログ -プロフィール） powered by アメブロ
2 Leah Dizon - Cover Model Interview - Import Tuner Magazine
3 Japan Entertainment News Archives for January 2007
4 Homepage at Victor Entertainment
5 (Japanese) ハロリア! Hello! Leah【Books】-リアディゾン/書籍/HMV
6 Leah Dizon / Koi Shiyo [Regular Edition]
7 http://www.lotte.co.jp/entertainment/tvcm/0704rich/index.html
8 YesAsia.com: L.O.V.E U (Normal Edition) (Japan Version) Single - Leah Dizon - Japanese Music - Free International Shipping
9 Traffic In The Sky - News
10 Leah Dizon / Koi Shiyo [Regular Edition]
11L・O・V・E U [DVD付限定盤]/ リア・ディゾン
12Leah Dizon / Love Paradox [w/ DVD, Limited Edition]

External links
Leah Dizon Official Homepage (Japanese)
Homepage at Victor Entertainment (Japanese)

From Wikipedia

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Berryz Kobo Japanese idols Japanese idols

2008-02-16T23:04:00.000-08:00

Berryz Kobo (Berryz工房, Berryz Kobo? Literally 'Berryz Workshop'. Sometimes romanized as Berryz Koubou or Berryz Kōbō) is a J-pop group within Hello! Project. The original eight members are originally from Hello! Project Kids and often are back-up dancers for W (Double You)'s music videos. Prior to the band's formation, some members worked with members of Morning Musume in such side projects as Aa! and ZYX, and in the Mini Moni movie Okashina Daibouken.

They were first announced at a Hello! Project Club Event on January 14, 2004. Hello! Project promoted the band by releasing three singles within a month of each other, starting in March of 2004 with "Anata Nashi de wa Ikite Yukenai". Their first album, 1st Cho Berryz, followed the trilogy of debut singles in July 2004.

In February 2007, Berryz Kobo made news headlines after it was announced that the group would be holding a concert at Saitama Super Arena on April 1. Not only did the tickets for the two performances sell out (a total of 20,000 seats) almost two months before the premiere, but this event also marked an historical record in that the band officially became the first to perform in the arena, whose members average age did not exceed 14 years (thereby dethroning Morning Musume, whose average was 16.3).[1]

Members

Present members
Saki Shimizu (captain)
Saki Shimizu (清水佐紀, Shimizu Saki?, born November 22, 1991 in Tokyo, Japan) is a Japanese pop singer. Her career began in 2002 when she successfully passed the audition for Hello! Project Kids, an all-female teen pop group within Hello! Project. Since then, she has continued to sing in that group and has become a part of two smaller groups composed of Hello! Project Kids members, Berryz Kobo and ZYX.

Momoko Tsugunaga
Momoko Tsugunaga (嗣永桃子, Tsugunaga Momoko?, born March 6, 1992 in Chiba, Japan) is a J-pop singer. Her career began in 2002 when she successfully auditioned for the Hello! Project Kids, an all-female teen pop group within Hello! Project. Since then, she has continued to sing in that group and has become a part of three smaller groups composed of Hello! Project Kids members, ZYX, Berryz Kobo and Buono!.

Chinami Tokunaga
Chinami Tokunaga (徳永千奈美, Chinami Tokunaga?, born May 22, 1992 in Kanagawa, Japan) is a member of the J-pop idol group Berryz Kobo.

In 2002, Chinami successfully passed the Hello! Project Kids Audition and became a member of Hello! Project

Maasa Sudou
Maasa Sudo (須藤茉麻, Sudō Maasa?, born July 3, 1992 in Tokyo, Japan) is a J-pop singer in Hello! Project. In 2002, she successfully passed the Hello! Project Kids Audition. Sudo is currently a member of the group Berryz Kobo.

Miyabi Natsuyaki
Miyabi Natsuyaki (夏焼雅, Natsuyaki Miyabi?, born August 25, 1992 in Saitama, Japan) is a Japanese pop singer. Her career began in 2002 when she successfully passed the audition for Hello! Project Kids, an all-female teen pop group under Hello! Project. Since then, she has continued to sing in that group and has become a part of two smaller groups composed of Hello! Project Kids members—Aa! and Berryz Kobo.

On July 21, 2007, it was announced that Natsuyaki will be in a new unit with Airi Suzuki and Momoko Tsugunaga called Buono!.

Yurina Kumai
Yurina Kumai (熊井友理奈, Kumai Yurina?, born on August 3, 1993 in Kanagawa, Japan[1]) is a Japanese pop singer currently performing in the all-girl group Berryz Kobo, under Hello! Project.

Risako Sugaya
Risako Sugaya (菅谷梨沙子, Sugaya Risako?, born April 4, 1994 in Kanagawa, Japan) is a Japanese pop singer, idol, and a member of Japanese musical group Berryz Kobo.

History
In 2002, Sugaya successfully passed the Hello! Project Kids Audition. Her debut within the Hello! Project world came with the premiere of the first Mini Moni feature film, as part of 4Kids, a shuffles group formed exclusively for the movie.

In 2003, Sugaya starred in the movie Hotaru no Hoshi (蛍の星, Hotaru no Hoshi?), as Hikari, a fragile elementary school student who, with the help of her caring teacher, has a chance to be momentarily reunited with her deceased mother and overcome her emotional problems.[2] She also starred in the drama, Shonan Kawarayane Monogatari.

That year also marked her first appearance on Kōhaku Uta Gassen, as one of Aya Matsuura's backup dancers, during the 54th edition of the renowned NHK New Year program.

In early 2004, Sugaya became part of the newly formed group Berryz Kobo. Inside the group she, along with fellow member Miyabi Natsuyaki and, to a certain extent, Momoko Tsugunaga and Yurina Kumai, is one of the central performers.

Being a member of Berryz Kobo, she also participates in the band's weekly radio show Berryz Kobo Kiritsu! Rei! Chakuseki!.

She has also, like other Hello! Project members, appeared in the Musume Dokyu! segments, namely episodes 39, 40, 54, 55, and 56.

Additionally, Sugaya has done a commercial for the Nihon Shokuniku Shōhi Sōgō Center in October 2003.

In August 2006, Sugaya was interviewed by MC Maki Goto in the 12th installment of the online only show Hello! Pro Hour. She later re-appeared along Momoko Tsugunaga on the 20th and last episode of Hello! Pro Hour.

On October 12, 2006, Sugaya became the first member of Berryz Kobo and the youngest of all Hello! Project to release a solo photobook, which was, even prior to its release, met with mixed feelings both by Japanese and foreign fans. She herself admitted, in an interview with Sanspo.com, to first having doubts regarding the photoshoot, but claims to have had a pleasant experience and hopes her fans enjoy the various facets of her personality.[3]

On December 31, 2006, Sugaya once again took the stage at the 57th edition of Kōhaku Uta Gassen as a backup dancer in Morning Musume's performance of Aruiteru, along with the remaining members of Berryz Kobo, Country Musume and °C-ute.

References
1^ Sanspo.com Performers News Section (Japanese). Retrieved on February 2006.
2^ Cast of Characters for Hotaru no Hoshi
3^ (Japanese) Sanspo.com October 12, 2006

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Aki Hoshino :Japanese idol

2007-04-22T19:59:00.000-07:00

Hoshino Aki (ほしのあき)
Birthdate: March 14, 1977 (1977-03-14) (age 30)
Birth location: Japan
Birth name: Hoshino Aki (星野亜希)
Measurements: B:88F W:56 H:87
Height: 1.65 m (5 ft 5 in)
Weight: 47 kg (103 lb)
Eye color: Brown
Hair color: Brown
Natural bust: Yes
Orientation: Heterosexual
Ethnicity: Japanese

Aki Hoshino (born March 14, 1977) is one of eldest Japanese bikini idols in Japan. She has appeared in various men's magazines, such as Sabra, and often appears on Japanese television shows as a guest. One of her nicknames is "Angel of Japan."[citation needed]

DVDs
In addition to an upcoming 2007 calendar, Aki Hoshino has been featured in a poster, a trading card, and the following DVDs:

2006
Koibito Gokko (Oct. 2006)
Finder Love Guide DVD (Sep. 2006)
Bengoshi no Kuzu DVD Box (Japanese TV series) (Sep. 2006)
Gekkan Aki Hoshino Special (Aug. 2006)
Hoshino Expo (July 2006)
Watashi Tonjaimashita (July 2006)
Play H (July 2006)
Aki-Time (June 2006)
Girls love live (Apr. 2006)
Portfolio (Jan. 2006)
Kachikomi Keji Ondorya! Daisosasen Shinsaibashi wo Fusa seyo (Japanese movie) (Jan. 2006)

2005
Gekkan Aki Hoshino (Dec. 2005)
I Wish You Love (Sep. 2005)
NyaaA! (CD+DVD) (Sep. 2005)
With you -Aki Hoshino (Aug. 2005)
Honey Angel (May 2005)
Beach Angels in Hawaii (Apr. 2005)
Kekkou Kamen (Mask the Kekkou) SURPRISE (Feb. 2005)
STAR (Jan. 2005)

2004
Yaju no Shori Join 1316 (Dec. 2004)
Kekkou Kamen RETURNS (Nov. 2004)
Silky Collection Se-jo!! (Nov. 2004)
Mangekyo (Oct. 2004)
Se-jo! Series B: Aki Hoshino (Sep. 2004)
Darn-Tarn (May 2004)
Milk (Mar. 2004)
G Girl Private 001 (Jan. 2004)

2003
AAA - Triple A (Dec. 2003)
H School (Oct. 2003)
Play H (Feb. 2003)

2002
I am Hoshino Aki (Aug. 2002)

References
DVD and product listing at www.CDJapan.co.jp accessed October 6, 2006.

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Boa Kwon :Japanese and Korean idol

2007-04-21T02:48:00.000-07:00

Boa Kwon (born November 5, 1986 in Guri, Gyeonggi-do, South Korea) is a South Korean singer, commonly known by her stage name BoA (Beat of Angel). She is active in South Korea and Japan. Her Korean record label, SM Entertainment, has positioned her to become a cross-cultural idol in East Asia and parts of Southeast Asia.

She has released a total of ten full-length albums, three mini-albums, two compilation albums, two remix albums, and over thirty singles in total in both Japan and South Korea. Sold in many parts of Asia, her total record sales have passed the ten-million mark.

She is fluent in her native tongue Korean, Japanese, and speaks conversational English. She is currently learning Mandarin Chinese. BoA has re-recorded several of her songs in Mandarin Chinese and written the lyrics for several of her Korean and Japanese songs. She has also translated some of her songs from Japanese to Korean and vice-versa and then re-recorded them again. BoA is one of the most commercially successful artists in both South Korea and Japan and is one of the leading stars of the "Korean wave" or "Hallyu". BoA has re-signed an extended contract with SM Entertainment until 2012 for which she will receive 100,000 shares of SM Entertainment.

Background information
Birth name 권보아 (Kwon, Boa)
Born November 05, 1986 (1986-11-05) (age 20)
Origin Guri, South Korea
Genre(s) J-pop, K-pop, C-pop, Pop
Occupation(s) Singer
Instrument(s) Singing, Piano
Years active 2000–present
Label(s) SM Entertainment
Avex Trax
Associated
acts SMTown
Website BoA official website (Korean)
BoA official website (Japanese)

Early years
BoA was born and raised in South Korea in a Catholic nuclear family. At the age of eleven, she accompanied one of her brothers to a talent search held by Korean record label, SM Entertainment, which was searching for an international icon. After her parents agreed to let her pursue a career in music, BoA received training in singing, dancing, and foreign languages in preparation for her Korean debut. BoA attended Yangjung Elementary School, Sahmyook Middle School, and Korean Kent Foreign School.

ID; Peace B and LISTEN TO MY HEART era
At the age of thirteen, after two years of training, BoA released her debut album ID; Peace B on August 25, 2000. The album received positive reviews and climbed into the top ten chart, going on to sell 218,114 copies. Meanwhile, her Korean record label SM Entertainment made arrangements with Japanese music giant Avex Trax to launch BoA's music career in Japan.

In early 2001, BoA released her first mini album, Jumping into the World. After this album was released, BoA took a hiatus from the Korean music industry to focus on the Japanese market. The months prior to release of her first Japanese single were spent entirely in Japan, and BoA was only allowed to speak Japanese in order to solidify her mastery of the language.[citation needed] BoA has described this period as one of the loneliest times in her life.

BoA entered into the Japanese music industry soon after signing with Avex Trax. In 2001 she debuted with a Japanese version of ID; Peace B. The single reached #20 on the Oricon chart. ID; Peace B was followed by subsequent singles Amazing Kiss (#23), 気持ちはつたわる (Kimochi wa Tsutawaru) (#15), and LISTEN TO MY HEART (#5). The single LISTEN TO MY HEART became her first major success in Japan and went on to sell over 180,000 copies.

Her Japanese debut album, LISTEN TO MY HEART, was released on March 13, 2002. The album debuted at #1 on the Oricon chart in which the album charted for 91 weeks. It sold over 932,000 copies domestically and over 1,300,000 copies worldwide. A breakthrough in her career, her album was one of the few albums by Korean artists to enter the top five, and performed well despite the competitive tension between Japan and South Korea due to 2002 World Cup. On the same day as the album's release, BoA's fifth single Every Heart-ミンナノキモチ- (minna no kimochi, everybody's feelings) was released. The song was the ending theme for the hit anime series InuYasha; the single peaked at #10 on the charts.

A month later, BoA released her second full studio Korean album, NO.1. This album is her most successful Korean album to date, selling over 572,000 copies (excluding overseas sales). The album peaked at #15 on the Japanese charts.In september of the same year BoA released her 2nd mini-album (2.5 album) Miracle and sold 327,000 copies.Later in the year she became the youngest artist ever to receive a Daesang (equivalent to a Grammy) for "Artist of the Year."

VALENTI and ATLANTIS PRINCESS era

BoA continued releasing singles leading up to her second Japanese album, including Don't Start Now (#17), a "special single" featuring a Japanese edition of the promotional track of her Korean mini-album, Don't Start Now, and her hit single Valenti. It peaked at #2 on the charts, her highest showing on the singles chart at the time, and would go on to sell over 200,000 copies. Valenti was quickly followed by two more hit singles: 奇蹟 (kiseki) / NO.1 (#3) and JEWEL SONG / BESIDE YOU –僕を呼ぶ声– (boku wo yobu koe) (#3). On January 29, 2003, her second full studio album VALENTI was released. It reached #1 on the charts with over 615,000 copies sold in its first week of release (these high first week debut sales were ranked as the 83rd highest of all time in Japan according to a list compiled in January 2006). It became BoA's best selling Japanese album, selling over 1,250,000 copies domestically (making her the highest and fastest selling Asian foreigner in Japanese history) and 1,400,000 copies worldwide. After topping the album charts for two weeks in a row, VALENTI put BoA in the spotlight of the Japanese music scene with other artists such as Ayumi Hamasaki and Utada Hikaru. The album's live tour was sold out in Osaka and Nagoya within 15 minutes, while Tokyo sold out within a day.[citation needed] The album would go on to become one of the top five selling albums of the year in Japan.

Released on May 30, 2003, BoA's third Korean album Atlantis Princess sold over 340,000 copies domestically, topping the Korean music charts. Atlantis Princess was well-received throughout Korea and would receive multiple awards later in the year.

BoA released her third mini-album Shine We Are! in the winter of the same year. This album again showcased Korean renditions of her Japanese songs, but later received criticism for the darker, more mature image portrayed on the cover.[citation needed] Disappointingly, this mini-album sold only 80,000 copies.

MY NAME and LOVE & HONESTY era
After the releases of VALENTI and Atlantis Princess and her first Japanese tour LIVE TOUR 2003 -VALENTI-, BoA continued her career in Japan. She released several singles for her upcoming album: Shine We Are! / Earthsong (#2), DOUBLE/Midnight Parade/Milky Way ~君の歌~ (#2), and Rock With You (#5). On January 15, 2004 her third Japanese album, LOVE & HONESTY, was released. It reached #1 on the Oricon chart for 2 weeks and would go on to sell over 650,000 copies domestically and over 800,000 copies worldwide and would go on to be one of the top sellers of 2004. Later, the album's live tour would prove to be largely successful (in some venues, with arenas filled to one thousand above capacity due to the high demand for seats).

In 2004, BoA's fourth Korean album, My Name, was released. This album received public attention for its complete style shift from the "young and cute" BoA to a more mature one. (BoA was turning 19 in Korean age reckoning; 17 going 18 in non-Korean reckoning.) This album sold approximately 202,000 copies. BoA won her second Daesang ("Grand Prize") award at the 2004 MKMF Awards for the music video of the album's title track, My Name. The album was subsequently followed by more focus on the Japanese market. In June 2006, the music video of "My Name" became the first music video ever shown on MTV K, an MTV music channel directed at Korean-Americans.

BEST OF SOUL & GIRLS ON TOP era
After the release of LOVE & HONESTY and her second live arena tour LIVE TOUR 2004 LOVE & HONESTY, several more singles were released: QUINCY / コノヨノシルシ (Konoyo no Shirushi) (#4) and メリクリ (Meri Kuri) (#5). However, instead of releasing her expected fourth Japanese language studio album, BoA released a "best of" compilation album for her Japanese singles (including a bonus track: "La La La Love Song" featuring Japanese hip-hop group SOUL'd Out) on February 2, 2005. Her greatest hits album BEST OF SOUL made BoA the first non-Japanese Asian singer to have two albums sell over a million copies domestically.[2] Her live tour sold out once again. BEST OF SOUL became the ninth highest selling album of 2005.

In 2005, BoA released her fifth Korean studio album, Girls on Top. It sold approximately 115,000 copies, which was significantly lower than the previous album sales. A factor to the disappointing figure is that Korean album sales have dropped by over 50% from 2004 alone, making sales of over 100,000 copies respectable. This album featured a more "hip-hop" feel, following the trend of many other Korean artists who left the pure pop music sound. BoA sported the shaggy haircut, a Japanese hairstyle with many ragged, layers, for an image change during the first few weeks of promotion before switching back to a more feminine look during the promotion of the second leading track of the album, "MOTO". The album also hit #1 in Taiwan, showcasing BoA's popularity outside of South Korea and Japan. BoA would end up winning the "Best Female Artist" award at the m.net Music Festival at the end of 2005.

BoA celebrated the five year anniversary of her Korean debut with fans on August 25, 2005. To advertise for the special event, a new limited edition "MOTO" repackaging for the Girls on Top album was released.

After the release of LOVE & HONESTY and her second live arena tour LIVE TOUR 2004 LOVE & HONESTY, several more singles were released: QUINCY / コノヨノシルシ (Konoyo no Shirushi) (#4) and メリクリ (Meri Kuri) (#5). However, instead of releasing her expected fourth Japanese language studio album, BoA released a "best of" compilation album for her Japanese singles (including a bonus track: "La La La Love Song" featuring Japanese hip-hop group SOUL'd Out) on February 2, 2005. Her greatest hits album BEST OF SOUL made BoA the first non-Japanese Asian singer to have two albums sell over a million copies domestically.[2] Her live tour sold out once again. BEST OF SOUL became the ninth highest selling album of 2005.

In 2005, BoA released her fifth Korean studio album, Girls on Top. It sold approximately 115,000 copies, which was significantly lower than the previous album sales. A factor to the disappointing figure is that Korean album sales have dropped by over 50% from 2004 alone, making sales of over 100,000 copies respectable. This album featured a more "hip-hop" feel, following the trend of many other Korean artists who left the pure pop music sound. BoA sported the shaggy haircut, a Japanese hairstyle with many ragged, layers, for an image change during the first few weeks of promotion before switching back to a more feminine look during the promotion of the second leading track of the album, "MOTO". The album also hit #1 in Taiwan, showcasing BoA's popularity outside of South Korea and Japan. BoA would end up winning the "Best Female Artist" award at the m.net Music Festival at the end of 2005.

BoA celebrated the five year anniversary of her Korean debut with fans on August 25, 2005. To advertise for the special event, a new limited edition "MOTO" repackaging for the Girls on Top album was released.

After the release of LOVE & HONESTY and her second live arena tour LIVE TOUR 2004 LOVE & HONESTY, several more singles were released: QUINCY / コノヨノシルシ (Konoyo no Shirushi) (#4) and メリクリ (Meri Kuri) (#5). However, instead of releasing her expected fourth Japanese language studio album, BoA released a "best of" compilation album for her Japanese singles (including a bonus track: "La La La Love Song" featuring Japanese hip-hop group SOUL'd Out) on February 2, 2005. Her greatest hits album BEST OF SOUL made BoA the first non-Japanese Asian singer to have two albums sell over a million copies domestically.[2] Her live tour sold out once again. BEST OF SOUL became the ninth highest selling album of 2005.

In 2005, BoA released her fifth Korean studio album, Girls on Top. It sold approximately 115,000 copies, which was significantly lower than the previous album sales. A factor to the disappointing figure is that Korean album sales have dropped by over 50% from 2004 alone, making sales of over 100,000 copies respectable. This album featured a more "hip-hop" feel, following the trend of many other Korean artists who left the pure pop music sound. BoA sported the shaggy haircut, a Japanese hairstyle with many ragged, layers, for an image change during the first few weeks of promotion before switching back to a more feminine look during the promotion of the second leading track of the album, "MOTO". The album also hit #1 in Taiwan, showcasing BoA's popularity outside of South Korea and Japan. BoA would end up winning the "Best Female Artist" award at the m.net Music Festival at the end of 2005.

BoA celebrated the five year anniversary of her Korean debut with fans on August 25, 2005. To advertise for the special event, a new limited edition "MOTO" repackaging for the Girls on Top album was released.

After the release of LOVE & HONESTY and her second live arena tour LIVE TOUR 2004 LOVE & HONESTY, several more singles were released: QUINCY / コノヨノシルシ (Konoyo no Shirushi) (#4) and メリクリ (Meri Kuri) (#5). However, instead of releasing her expected fourth Japanese language studio album, BoA released a "best of" compilation album for her Japanese singles (including a bonus track: "La La La Love Song" featuring Japanese hip-hop group SOUL'd Out) on February 2, 2005. Her greatest hits album BEST OF SOUL made BoA the first non-Japanese Asian singer to have two albums sell over a million copies domestically.[2] Her live tour sold out once again. BEST OF SOUL became the ninth highest selling album of 2005.

In 2005, BoA released her fifth Korean studio album, Girls on Top. It sold approximately 115,000 copies, which was significantly lower than the previous album sales. A factor to the disappointing figure is that Korean album sales have dropped by over 50% from 2004 alone, making sales of over 100,000 copies respectable. This album featured a more "hip-hop" feel, following the trend of many other Korean artists who left the pure pop music sound. BoA sported the shaggy haircut, a Japanese hairstyle with many ragged, layers, for an image change during the first few weeks of promotion before switching back to a more feminine look during the promotion of the second leading track of the album, "MOTO". The album also hit #1 in Taiwan, showcasing BoA's popularity outside of South Korea and Japan. BoA would end up winning the "Best Female Artist" award at the m.net Music Festival at the end of 2005.

BoA celebrated the five year anniversary of her Korean debut with fans on August 25, 2005. To advertise for the special event, a new limited edition "MOTO" repackaging for the Girls on Top album was released.

Following the success of BEST OF SOUL, BoA's 15th single DO THE MOTION hit #1 on the Oricon chart, making her the fifth non-Japanese singer to have #1 single, the first in over 21 years. In September, BoA went on to release her 16th single, make a secret (#3), but it would only go on to sell 55,000 copies. Her 17th single, 抱きしめる (Dakishimeru) (#9), was released on November 23, 2005 and was met with similar sales numbers. Her 18th Japanese (and 4th Korean) single, Everlasting (#4), released on January 18, 2006, collected low debut sales again (approximately 33,000 copies) due to the proximity of its release to that of OUTGROW; however, the single's long chart life in the Top 20 allowed for it to break her mini-trend of flops and gave BoA her first commercially successful single since 2005's DO THE MOTION.

OUTGROW era

Her fourth Japanese studio album, OUTGROW, was released on February 15, 2006. The limited CD+DVD edition of the album contained music videos of the promoted singles and a secret password to unlock a special version of BoA's official website. During that time, BoA's record label stated that with the worldwide release of OUTGROW, BoA's total record sales will most likely pass the ten-million mark, a major landmark in her career. OUTGROW hit number one on the Oricon chart for its first week of release, making it her fifth Japanese album to do so. This achievement tied her with Namie Amuro, Kuraki Mai, MISIA, and Utada Hikaru for second place behind Ayumi Hamasaki (among female Japanese artists) in having her first four original studio albums hit number one; however, the album had relatively low debut sales (220,000 copies sold) making it her lowest-selling first-week debut for a studio album at that point.

BoA also released her first digital single, Merry Christmas from BoA, on December 7, 2005 (online distribution came to a close on December 25 of that same year) and performed in NHK Best Singers contest for the fourth year in a row, making her the only foreigner to ever perform in the event for that many years with other top Japanese artists such as SMAP and Ayumi Hamasaki.

During 2006, BoA was largely inactive in Korea and focused on her career in Japan. She consistently released and promoted singles and started a special ZEPP tour B0A THE LIVE on September 29, 2006. Starting from Nagoya, Japan, the tour continued until October 29, 2006 with a total of 12 shows, two in each of the following cities: Nagoya, Fukuoka, Osaka, Tokyo, Sendai, and Sapporo.

Her 19th single "Nanairo no Ashita~brand new beat~ / Your Color" was released on April 5, 2006. "Your Color" was used as the ending theme song for the Xbox 360 Japanese release of Ninety-Nine Nights. "KEY OF HEART / DOTCH" was released on August 8, 2006, which collected the lowest first week sales since the singer rose to fame. The single eventually sold a disappointing 40,943 copies. The track was the ending theme to Over the Hedge in Japan. She also released an English version of "KEY OF HEART", which was only available on the first press edition of the single. BoA's 21st Japanese single "Winter Love" was released on November 1, 2006 and debuted at #2 on the Japanese Single Oricon Daily charts on the single's first day. Staying at #2 on the Oricon Weekly Charts, the single became her highest charting single since "DO THE MOTION". The single rose to the #1 position in its second week. November 5 marked BoA's 20th birthday which made Winter Love the last "teenage" single from BoA.

BoA staged her first Christmas concert on December 7, 2006. BoA sang her own Christmas ballads ("Winter Love", "LAST CHRISTMAS" and "Meri Kuri") in the ZEPP Tokyo Stadium.

MADE IN TWENTY (20) & Upcoming 6th Korean Album era

BoA's 5th Japanese studio album MADE IN TWENTY (20) was released on January 17, 2007. Leaking on the Internet five days before its release date, the album debuted at the top of the Oricon Daily Album Charts. MADE IN TWENTY (20) placed first in the Oricon Weekly Album Charts making BoA one of the few artists with five number-one studio albums since her debut. Only Ayumi Hamasaki bests her with eight. The album, however, debuted with the lowest first-week sales of her career, at 182,009 copies. BoA's nationwide tour in Japan began on March 31, 2007 to promote her album. She will start at the Yokohama Arena and will end at the Nagoya Rainbow Hall. BoA has a contract with avex trax until 2007 but is expected to renew it.

BoA's sixth Korean album will be most likely due out in June. BoA has stated that she will start work on the album after the completion of her Japanese tour (i.e. late April/early May). [5]BoA has a contract with SM Entertainment until 2012.On September 21, 2006, BoA released her first digital single in Korea: a Korean version of KEY OF HEART. The song was used in her first Olympus commercial.

BoA is also expecting to release her 22nd Japanese single which has been named "Sweet Impact" on April 25th. The title song "Sweet Impact" is the CM song to the Fasio Cosmetics commercial. The cover (CD+DVD) of "Sweet Impact" drew controversy because of its similarity to a VOGUE magazine cover featuring English model Kate Moss.

She is also scheduled to participate in Wheesung's new album due out May 2007.

Currently BoA has decided to work on another album, formally mentioned, and appear in more tours around the world.

[edit] Worldwide career developments
BoA will perform at the Hollywood Bowl Korean Music Festival 2007 in Los Angeles in 5th May.

BoA appeared in the Korean Music Festival held in the Sydney Opera House on June 21, 2004 and in the Volvo "Hallyu" Concert in Universal City, California (outside of Los Angeles) on June 11, 2005. More recently, she performed her song NO.1 before world leaders at the 2005 APEC conference in Busan, South Korea. In November 2006, BoA was featured on CNN International's TalkAsia, interviewed by correspondent Anjali Rao. [10] She has worked with Britney Spears, Howie Dorough (of the Backstreet Boys) and popular Irish band Westlife.

Chinese activity
BoA is planning on entering the Chinese market very soon (although rumors of her entrance can be traced back to 2004, currently the most likely date of entrance is in 2008 or late 2007). She has released several overseas versions of her albums in Taiwan and China already, so she is reasonably well known in both regions. Her Korean record label, SM Entertainment, plans to have her in acting roles in China in order to become more familiar to Chinese fans before moving into the Chinese music scene.She has already made appearance overseas this year through Levi's advertisements with Edison Chen.

In many parts of Northern China, BoA has already become quite popular. Though she rarely sings in Chinese, her Korean singles and albums are for sale domestically in many urban cities including Dandong (Liaoning Province)

BoA is also the face of a Korean cosmetics line, Missha, in China.

Entrance into the U.S. market
Official SM representative and SM Entertainment founder Lee Soo Man stated in an interview, "BoA has no plans in the near future to establish a presence in the U.S. market for several reasons"; however, she has once been quoted saying she wanted to enter the U.S. market before she turns 20. Lee Soo Man has said that there would not be a need to enter the U.S. market because "China will soon become the U.S.", hence creating the constant push for BoA to begin her acting career in China.

On the May 17, 2006, BoA attended the 59th Cannes Film Festival where she walked on the red carpet with the original cast for Over the Hedge. She was the first Korean artist to attend such an event.

BoA's My Name music video became first premiere music video for opening of MTV K channel in the U.S.

BoA has also appeared on the "CNN TalkAsia" Talkshow on December 2, 2006. She discusses about her childhood and her days before her debut. She was questioned on many things such as "why she doesn't perform much in Korea". In the ending, she tells about her wishes in the future. She states that she dreams of performing on an American stage one day.

Acting career
BoA made her debut in the film industry as a dubbing actress for the voice of Heather the Opossum in the Korean and Japanese versions of Over the Hedge, which was released on May 31, 2006 in Korea. It is rumoured that after this initial foray onto the "big screen" that BoA will star in a drama later this year.

In 2005, BoA was given the main lead as Shin Chae Gyung in the rags-to-riches drama, Goong (Palace), but due to her busy schedule, the role was passed on to former Baby V.O.X member, Yoon Eun Hye.

On June 28, 2006 it was rumored that BoA may star in her first movie role alongside Chinese superstars, Jay Chou and Yao Ming, in the highly anticipated film, Slam Dunk (Guan Lan), due to be released March 2007. However in the midst of rampart rumors and speculation, SM Entertainment confirmed that BoA has refused the offer to star as the heroine in the upcoming film. "In order to participate in the filming, BoA would have to dedicate at least three months, and with her extremely busy schedule both in Korea and Japan, such a dedication is virtually impossible at the moment", explained a source at SM Entertainment, "therefore, BoA had no choice but to refuse the offer."[14] Coincidentally, the role was once again offered on to former Baby V.O.X member, Yoon Eun Hye, who later refused the deal due to a hectic schedule.

SM Entertainment is currently looking for a Korean drama that will be suitable for BoA, which will mark the beginning of her acting career. It has been confirmed that she will act in a Korean drama first, for Korean is her mother language.

Other appearances
BoA has appeared in numerous advertisements, including Lipton, Pantech Curitel, Lotte, Maybelline, Levi's, Nike, Olympus, Kose Fasio, Toshiba, and Skechers.

In early 2007, She has also participated in shooting a commercial for Korea's Corn Beard Tea, which gained a great amount of attention in Korea's internet community, due to her images that had cute and innocent with a sexy feel to them.[15]

BoA has replaced Korean actress Jun Ji-hyun as the new face of Olympus Korea, and has been featured in their adverts since September 2006.[

References
^ a b THE FIRST VIDEO ON MTV K: BoA "My Name"
^ BoA、ベスト盤が100万枚を突破！
^ B0A THE LIVE【CD購入者限定リザーブチケット予約受付】を開始いたしました！
^ Oricon Style
^ http://www.epg.co.kr
^ 보아-케이트 모스, 비슷한 화보 ‘우연’?
^ CNN.com - TalkAsia
^ 2005-08-00 : Sisa Press interviews Lee Soo Man
^ Korea.net News: BoA dreams of performing in US
^ 가수들의 끊임없는 연기 도전
^ 보아 '덩크'출연 고사… '안방'서 신고식
^ Wikipedia
links
(Korean) BoA's official Korean website http://star.ilikepop.com/starhome/boa/
(Japanese) BoA's official Japanese website http://www.avexnet.or.jp/boa/
(Chinese) BoA's official Chinese website http://www.avex.com.tw/boa/

^ a b c [4]
^ 보아, 우아한 여성미로 ‘광고계 유행 선도!’
^ http://www.oricon.co.jp/music/special/060726_01.html

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Japanese idol

2007-04-19T22:52:00.001-07:00

A Japanese idol (アイドル, aidoru?) is a celebrity who achieves widespread popularity and fame in Japan largely by virtue of her looks. The term usually refers to female performers in their late teens and early twenties who are considered "kawaii" (pretty, cute) and achieve fame through publicity in the mass media. Male performers such as Masahiro Nakai (aka "Nakai-kun") from the singing group SMAP are also commonly referred to (and refer to themselves as) "idols." Japanese idols are predominantly singers and actors, as well as models (in the case of females) for weekly men's magazines such as "Friday" and "Shūkan Gendai". Some of them may also appear as TV personalities (tarento).

History
The idol phenomenon began during the early seventies, reflecting increasingly materialistic and richer Japanese youths[citation needed]. Teenage girls, mostly between 14 and 16, began rising to stardom. One in particular, Momoe Yamaguchi, was a huge star until her marriage and retirement in 1980. Idols dominated the pop music scene in the 80s; and this period is known as the "Golden Age of Idols in Japan". In a single year, as many as 40 or 50 new idols could appear, only to disappear from the public spotlight shortly afterwards. A few idols from that era, such as Seiko Matsuda, are still popular. In the 90s, the power of Japanese idols began to wane, as the music industry shifted towards rock musicians and singers for whom music was a more important sales point than looks or wholesomeness, as well as towards genres such as rap that were harder to square with conventional prettiness. The Japanese idol phenomenon has had a large impact on popular culture in Hong Kong and Taiwan.

It is commonly said female Japanese idols represent the perfect female form in Japanese society. They are symbols of female sexuality and are often dressed erotically. For this reason they are often idolized by both males and females. Male audiences' infatuations with an idol's good looks are fed with detailed information about the idol's measurements, favorite colors, food, hobbies, blood type etc. Female audiences are interested in imitating their style, hair color, fashion etc. Good examples of fashion-leader idols are Ogura Yuko, Ayumi Hamasaki, hitomi, Noriko Sakai, Ryoko Hirosue and Namie Amuro.

Namie Amuro was the most popular idol in the late 1990s, although marketed as more sexy and mature than other idols. She began her career in 1992 as a vocalist for the pop group Super Monkeys, but the group flopped very quickly. Producers liked Amuro, and in 1995, she went solo, enjoying massive success. One of her recent CDs, "Sweet 19 Blues", sold three million copies in advance sales, and went on to become the best-selling album in the history of Japan. This number has since been eclipsed by Hikaru Utada who is known as one of Japan's current divas.

A diversification occurred in the 1990s and instead of few idols vying for popularity, a number of idols with specific characteristics divided the market. In the mid 1990s, idols became much younger than before, and groups of idols like Speed and Morning Musume became prominent. A new genre of idols called Net Idols became known in the late 1990s, only appearing on websites. In 1997, there appeared Kyoko Date, the first "cyber idol" or "virtual idol". Kyoko Date has a fabricated history and statistics and her own songs. Meanwhile, gurabia aidoru (グラビアアイドル, i.e. "[photo]gravure idols") such as Yoko Matsugane, Rio Natsume and Eiko Koike have largely appeared skimpily clad in "cheesecake" photographs.

Whereas in previous years an idol kept up her idol image until she chose to retire or was simply too old to continue being a credible idol, in recent years several ex-idols have successfully matured from being an idol to becoming full-fledged actresses, singers or musicians who are respected for their craft instead of (or in addition to) being admired for their looks and image. A good example of an ex-idol who is now a respected singer, songwriter and musician is Hitomi, who is known for writing her own lyrics, being heavily involved in the composition and production of her own music, and playing her own guitar, though she does from time to time tease her fans by modeling sexy outfits ordinarily worn by younger women. In addition, Hitomi is well-known for maintaining a successful pop career after marriage and motherhood.

Culture
The culture of Japanese idols has changed over the years and it is questionable whether past idols would have the same amount of success if given the same opportunity today. Most of those called idols have sung songs that would fit J-Pop and they are generally pretty, cute, or fresh-faced, if not beautiful. However, there are exceptions to the norm.

In the 1970s, idols had an aura of mystique that left much of their lifestyles secret. Their public and "private" lives were carefully orchestrated—they always appeared perfect in all situations and seemed to enjoy a lavish lifestyle that most Japanese could only dream about. In reality, however, they were placed under continuous surveillance by their promoters and were unable to enjoy the private lives invented for them. Their pay was surprisingly low. They were often overworked and even if their songs sold well most of the money went to the musicians and writers. Fans had few opportunities to see them beyond a few minutes on TV or radio and it was difficult to share their interests. Magazines were the best source for information and many idols had an official fan club that periodically mailed what little information could be released.

In the 1980s, idols became much closer to average Japanese people; this is likely because the average lifestyle of the Japanese improved. While still tightly controlled, idols were allowed to show more of their actual personalities and were permitted to let out some carefully scripted outbursts. The media often fabricated "competitions" between two or more idols, based on things like the number of records sold, the number of fans in the official fan club, etc. In the late 1980s, instead of relying on magazines and TV, some started experimenting with new media and technologies like video games, with mixed results. The working conditions of idols improved and even those with limited success could live modestly and more of the money made was paid to idols themselves, though they still only received a small portion.

In the 1990s, instead of being marketed as people who lived better and were better than average, idols became people who just happened to have a little something to become popular. Where the tastes of past idols had to be saccharine, it was now acceptable for an idol to simply love eating ramen or to display something other than a smile, to lament having got a little out of shape or to admit to shopping around for lower prices. Idols also became a fixture in countless anime by singing opening or ending songs that have little relevance to the anime itself. Some experimented with being seiyu, and seiyu themselves became somewhat like idols, becoming increasingly popular. Even today, some are still involved with the video game industry, though they are not always entirely successful.

From Wikipedia

Beni Arashiro:Japanese idol

2007-04-19T22:41:00.000-07:00

Beni Arashiro (安良城紅, Arashiro Beni?) is an artist on the Avex Trax label. She has a solo career and is also a member of Bishoujo Club 31. Beni was the first from the group to pursue a solo career while being an active member. She attends Sophia University, along with her friend and r&b/pop star Crystal Kay.

She was named winner of the "New Artist of the Year" for the 19th Japan Gold Disc Award in 2005. She was one of the finalists for one of the Japan's leading contest, Oscar Promotion's, National Beauty Contest. She is also the ambassador for the NFL in Tokyo, and has been the face of many products such as Kose Visee, Glico confectionery, Orion Beer, and much more.

Although Beni's sales may not be as high as other young J-Pop stars she has a dedicated fanbase, is a successful model, and is present at various events. In 2005 she was the female heroine in an Andrew Lloyd Webber play in Japan. She has also appeared in a short television program, known as BeniTV, as well as Shinkankaku Keyword de Eikaiwa which helps people learn English.

Her upcoming single will be named "Luna", and is due out February 28, 2007. It will be the theme song to a TV drama, ABC・テレビ朝日系全国ネット松本清張わるいやつら.

Background information
Birth name Arashiro Beni
Born March 30, 1986 (1986-03-30) (age 21)
Kanagawa Prefecture, Japan
Origin
Genre(s) Japanese Pop
Occupation(s) Singer
Years active 2004–present
Label(s) Avex Trax
Associated
acts 美少女クラブ (Bishoujo Club)
Website Official website

Profile
Birth Place: Kanagawa, Japan　(her father is American, mother from Okinawa, Japan)
Hometown: Okinawa and Yokosuka
Current School: Sophia University
Favorite Artists: Utada Hikaru, Janet Jackson, Alicia Keys, Nelly Furtado
Favorite Actors: Johnny Depp, Wesley Snipes
Favorite Magazine: Seventeen, XXL, Vibe
Favorite Movies: X-Men, Pirates of the Caribbean, Finding Nemo
Favorite Shows: Kim Possible, Discovery Channel

Discography

Albums
2005 February 9 - Beni reached #14 on Oricon
2006 February 22 - Girl 2 Lady reached #87 on Oricon
2007 April 24 - Gem

Singles
2004 June 9 - Harmony #26 on Oricon
2004 October 20 - Infinite... #24 on Oricon
2004 November 25 - Here Alone #14 on Oricon
2005 February 9 - Miracle #98 on Oricon
2005 June 1 - Hikari no Kazu dake Glamorous #40 on Oricon
2005 December 7 - Cherish #96 on Oricon
2006 September 20 - How Are U?
2007 February 28 - Luna #77 on Oricon
From Wikipedia

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An idol

2007-04-19T22:20:00.001-07:00

An idol is a man-made object that is venerated in some way. More specific terms include:

Cult image, a neutral term
Idolatry, a term used in religion for the non-monotheism worship of cult images, termed idols
Icon, a representative image, sometimes considered sacred
Murti, a point of focus for devotion or meditation in Hindu and Buddhist religion (not always man-made)
Fetish, a natural object believed to have supernatural powers
Idol may also mean:

Idol (philosophy), one of several concepts developed by various philosophers
Teen idol, a popular celebrity "worshipped" by teenagers
Japanese idol, a heavily promoted and merchandised singer or actor
AV idol, Japanese idol working in the adult video industry
Idol series, one of several television shows that give formerly unknown persons an opportunity to become stars. The Idol series is a television phenomenon that started in the United Kingdom and has since spread around the world - Australia, Canada, France, Germany, India, the United States, and many other countries.
Pop Idol, the original Idol series which began in Britain.
American Idol, a highly popular American television talent competition.
"Idol", an episode of the television show Power Rangers: SPD
The iDol, Japanese comedy movie.
Idol Records, a record label
Idols may mean:

Danish, Dutch, Finnish, South African or West African version of the British Pop Idol (Idol series)

[edit] See also
List of people by name: Idol
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