liainlife

Leo Burnett Indonesia names head of digital - News - Digital - Campaign Singapore

2012-02-13T12:53:00.002+07:00

Leo Burnett Indonesia names head of digital - News - Digital - Campaign Singapore
JAKARTA - Leo Burnett Indonesia has appointed Venke Sharma as executive director, head of digital for the agency.

Making the announcement today, Thomas Sutton, country advisor of Leo Burnett Indonesia, noted that the appointment is a reflection of the agency's ambition to be a leading force in digital.

“We have been steadily building our digital business, but 2012 is the year in which we will take our plans to the next level. Very importantly, we aren’t building a separate digital agency; we are building digital capability in Leo Burnett Indonesia,” said Sutton.

Sharma, who was previously leading Leo Burnett’s marketing services arm, Arc Worldwide in India, said Indonesia is rapidly emerging as a growth leader in Asia and marketers are looking for direction from agencies to tap this vast consumer presence on the digital medium. “Our focus in Indonesia will be on developing break-through digital strategies for clients and building a best in class team to execute the same,” he said.

Under his leadership over the last five years, Arc has rolled out impactful campaigns for clients including P&G, Philip Morris, Blackberry, Tata Tea, Big TV, Piramal Healthcare, Hindustan Petroleum Corporation, Carrefour and Asia Pacific Breweries.

The agency has won awards in digital creativity and effectiveness at various global and local forums, including the first and only Indian Cyber Lion at Cannes Lion. Prior to Arc Worldwide India, Sharma was the co-founder and country head of Tribal DDB India.

Surprise Dance on Finnair Flight to celebrate India's Republic Day

2012-01-27T21:31:00.000+07:00

Takeoff to Bollywood! A Dance Crew surprises passengers after boarding of a Finnair flight to Delhi to celebrate India's Republic Day on January 26th 2012.

Read more about what happened behind the scenes in the Finnair blog: http://blogs.finnair.com/2012/01/26/take-off-to-bollywood/

When I first saw this I had goosebumps coz it's such a nice gesture of respect from one country to another.

an ACT, not an ad.

imperfection is perfect.

2012-01-07T11:41:00.000+07:00

Funny Jap Commercial

2011-12-04T15:47:00.002+07:00

Softbank

another funny Gatsby commercial!

2011-12-04T15:39:00.000+07:00

Childhood's TV memory lane

2011-11-27T15:19:00.015+07:00

Little House on the Prairie

Six Million Dollar Man

CHIPs

Bonanza

Dallas

Dynasty

Love Boat

Charlie's Angels

Fantasy Island

I dream of Jeannie

Mission Impossible

Hawaii Five O

Star Trek

Tour of Duty

Knight Rider

Remington Steele

Beverly Hills 90210

C-JeS Mango Tree PROJECT (eng.kor.jap.)

2011-11-25T22:17:00.001+07:00

JYJ to Participate in Charity Project to Plant 20,000 Mango Trees in Sudan

JYJ, Park Yoohwan and Song Jihyo Transform into Mango Santas. “Let’s Plant 20,000 Mango Trees in Sudan!”

JYJ, Song Jihyo and Park Yoohwan stepped up to the “Plant 20,000 Mango Trees of Hope in Sudan, Africa” Project ahead of Christmas.

Recently, JYJ, Song Jihyo and Park Yoochun gifted an early Christmas through the website of the C-JeS Entertainment, saying: “How does gifting mango trees that can act as food and shades for the children of Sudan, Africa who are losing hope due to long internal wars?”

The support of mango trees is an enterprise proceeded by World Vision to help the children of sudan, Africa. The stars of C-JeS Entertainment will combine in the campaign with the fans in a meaningful way and so will promote enthusiastically with the goal of sending 20,000 mango trees.

The seedlings can be supported for 10,000 KRW (approximately 10 USD) per one. C-JES Entertainment plans to send a letter with a thanking message and autograph from the stars to everyone who participate.

JYJ said: “We heard that mango trees become food and act as good shades for the children. We hope to create a dense forest with the fans who look after and love us. Since a mango tree has a lifespan of 100 years we want it to be something of precious significance that are together [with us] for a long time.”

Lee MinHo on " The One and Only" 2012 Toyota Camry CF [ Eng Sub ]

2011-11-20T13:45:00.002+07:00

New Toyota Camry Ad..interesting..

The last episode killed the whole film by inserting the "in your face" product knowledge..I guess it's one of those things an agency has to do against our free will..hahaha..every ad man went thru it at least 10 times in their career life!! Cheers!

I personally just love the fact Lee MinHo is in it. Cheers to that!!

Mr. Brown's "SIMI" with subtitles - Singapore version of SIRI iPhone4S

2011-11-19T14:24:00.000+07:00

Super FUNNY!!!!!

Happy Energy Campaign - JYJ

2011-11-18T21:37:00.000+07:00

[GALAXY Note] Introducing Samsung GALAXY Note

2011-11-14T21:11:00.000+07:00

Pink Samsung Galaxy S2 launches

2011-11-14T20:56:00.001+07:00

Samsung fans and just fans of colourful phones in general will soon be able to get hold of one of our favourite handsets in a shocking pink colour.

Samsung has introduced a pink version of it’s award winning Android smartphone, the dual-core touting, Super Amoled running and 8-megapixel Samsung Galaxy S2.

Unfortunately the phone is only available in South Korea at the moment, but we’re hoping if sales are steady it will hit these shores.

The black edition has been around since launch, with the white version launching recently in the UK, selling 4 million and 850,000 respectively in Samsung’s native country alone.

With the pink version the South Korean camera giant is clearly trying to edge into the female market. Although whether women would choose a pink above black or white remains to be seen.

Japanese Phone Service Lets You Make Friends with Coke Machines

2011-11-14T20:51:00.002+07:00

The Japanese branch of The Coca-Cola Company announced on Thursday that it will launch "Happiness Quest" mobile phone service on December 5, allowing users to become friends with an anthropomorphic Coke soda machine. "Happiness Quest" lets users customize a Coke machine character and enjoy "friend-like communication."

"Happiness Quest" users will be able to interact with vending machine characters and receive messages from them. People can create a name for one of 20 basic soda machine friends and customize them. The Coca-Cola Company will release 1,000 different facial expressions and items for the characters online.

Coca-Cola machines throughout Japan will display special plates with QR codes (a type of matrix barcode) that people will scan with their mobile phones to access the "Happiness Quest" software and get a soda machine pal. Over 400,000 Coke machines will display the plates to start, and the beverage company plans to introduce them on 820,000 machines by next March.

Coca-Cola has also partnered with anime and manga projects in the past, including the Air Gear side-story manga and the Coca-Cola Racing Family: Fantastic Four anime-style commercial.

source: ANIME NEWS NETWORK

Perhatiin baik-baik!! Aneh banget!

2011-11-02T16:38:00.000+07:00

TVXQ & Gospellers singing Towani

2011-08-25T22:43:00.000+07:00

TVXQ - Bolero LIVE

2011-08-23T22:43:00.000+07:00

TVXQ - Begin Live

2011-08-23T22:42:00.000+07:00

Beautiful..

Kim Jaejoong with his SAMSUNG GALAXY S2.

2011-08-04T22:46:00.001+07:00

Ui aa! (We Are!) by Tohoshinki.

2011-06-27T22:40:00.000+07:00

the melody of my mood today.

J.K. Rowling unveils "Pottermore"

2011-06-25T21:06:00.000+07:00

J.K. Rowling Announces Pottermore

2011-06-25T21:02:00.000+07:00

Asia 21 2011 Public Service Award

2011-06-07T20:37:00.002+07:00

Asia 21 2011 Public Service Award

We are now accepting applications for the Asia Society's Asia 21 Young Leaders Initiative 2011 Public Service Award (PSA). Deadline for submissions is midnight ET, June 30, 2011. Please submit all applications by email to Asia21PSA@asiasociety.org.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS (FAQ):

1. What are the criteria for this award?

All organizations applying for this award must:

Be nominated by an Asia 21 Fellow or Delegate of a past Asia 21 Young Leaders' Summit;
Be based and conduct activities in the Asia-Pacific region;
Have a plan to engage actively with and accept ongoing support from the Asia 21 Class of 2011 Fellows;
Have permission to accept funds from the United States of America;
Demonstrate positive impact from their work at the time of submission of their application;
Have an annual budget of less than US$3,000,000; and
Have a transparent accounting process for finances.

For a list of additional desirable criteria, please see the complete application form.

2. What documents are needed for applying?

Completed nomination form;
Two (2) references / letters of recommendation from individuals and/or organizations clearly indicating their support for the nomination for the Asia 21 2011 PSA and attesting to the nominee's contributions. These supporting letters must come from appropriate project stakeholders (e.g. project beneficiaries, government officials, or private sector);
Most recent annual report of the organization from 2009-2010 or 2010-2011, including an annual financial statement (please include only the latest report);
Additional information that supports your application (such as press releases, reports or other data relating to projects mentioned in your application). The additional information should be a maximum of five (5) pages. This is not essential to your application. We may request additional information during the review process.

3. When is the award going to be decided and what are the deadlines of which I should be aware?

Call for Nominations: May 6 - June 30, 2011.
All proposals for the Asia 21 2011 PSA should be submitted by email to the Jury Administrator by June 30, 2011, 12:00 midnight ET.
Review of proposals and the selection of Top 5 nominees: July 1 - August 15, 2011.
Announcement of the Top Five nominees on the Asia Society website: August 15, 2011.
The Top Five contenders are notified of the results of the Asia 21 2011 PSA: September 16, 2011.
Asia21 2011 PSA Presentation Ceremony at the Asia Society's 2011 Asia 21 Young Leaders Summit in New Delhi: November 19, 2011.

4. Why is it important for the organization that I nominate to be able to communicate with Asia Society Asia 21 in English?

In addition to the US$10,000, a very important component of the Award is access to the Asia 21 Fellows' network for program development and mentoring. To ensure that the award-winning organization gets the most out of their experience through this exchange, English proficiency is a requirement. Click here for a link to the profiles of the 2011 Asia 21 Fellows.

5. Is the award only for organizations or can individuals also apply?

This award is only for organizations that are based and conduct activities in the Asia-Pacific region.

6. Can I nominate my own organization if I work at a public service organization?

If you are a past Asia 21 Fellow or Delegate, you are also encouraged to nominate your own organizations.

7. Who should I contact if I have more questions about the Public Service Award?

For further queries, please e-mail us at: Asia21PSA@asiasociety.org. In order to ensure a speedy response, please do NOT leave a question in the comments section on this page.

http://asiasociety.org/policy-politics/asia-21/asia-21-2011-public-service-award

110528 Lotte Duty Free -- NEW Full Version

2011-05-30T07:07:00.001+07:00

Starring: Hyun Bin,JYJ,Bigbang,Song Seung-heon,Choi Ji-woo,2PM,Jang Keun-seok,Kim Hyun-joong

ToHoShinKi 3rd LIVE TOUR 2008 T - Kiss Shita Mama, Sayonara

2011-05-17T00:00:00.003+07:00

What a beautiful song..

Kiss shita mama Sayonara (As we kiss goodbye)
by Kim Jaejoong & Park Yoochun (TVXQ/Tohoshinki)

Blink... Smell it... and feel it...
Open, open your eyes
Just look at me now

Boku no sekai no subete datta
You were my world

Nakushita katahou no kutsu mo oreta chiisai tsume mo
Koboshita atsui coffee mo iroaseta namida mo
One lost shoe, a small broken fingernail
The spilled hot coffee and stale tears too

Girl, tell me little lie Please, tell me little lie Kikoeru you ni
Demo yawarakaku kono te kara koboreta kimi
Girl, tell me little lie Please, tell me little lie So that I can hear you
But you just softly slipped away...

* Longway people Longway people
Sou, kizukanakatta ano hi hanashi kakeru
Longway people Longway people
That's right... we were unaware that day, just talking

** Longway people Longway people
Tada naite naite naite wasureru shika nai?
Longway people Longway people
Just crying... crying... crying... Can I forget?

Nagaku tsuzuku kono michi ni ima wa inai kimi e
Kiss shita mama goodbye
On this never-ending road...That you're no longer on
As we kiss goodbye

Girl tell me little lie Please tell little lie Kikoeru you ni
Ima furitsumoru konayuki ga boku wo dakishimeru
Girl, tell me little lie Please, tell me little lie So that I can hear you
Now the snow piles up, enveloping me

* Repeat

Longway people Longway people
Tada naite naite naite wasureru shika nai no?
Longway people Longway people
Just crying... crying... crying... Can I forget?

Kioku ni nijinda namida no kazu wa kawaite iku boku no kokoro
Kazoe kirenai, hoshi no you ni
Blurred in the memories, the number of my tears (my heart will dry)
Are countless, like the stars

** Repeat

Longway people Longway people
I know kimi wa mune no naka ni itsumademo
Longway people Longway people
I know you will live in my heart forever

Longway people Longway people
Tada naite naite naite Kiss shita mama, sayonara
Longway people Longway people
I'm just crying, crying crying... as we kiss goodbye

Japan doctors used Twitter to save patient lives after quake

2011-05-15T18:57:00.000+07:00

Doctors in Japan used Twitter to reach chronically-ill patients in the wake of the devastating March earthquake and tsunami, telling them where to go to get life-saving treatment after phone networks became unusable.

In a letter published in The Lancet on Friday, doctors Yuichi Tamura and Keiichi Fukuda said they sent tweets to 60 patients to tell them where to obtain crucial daily refills of a drug to prevent heart failure when they realized they couldn't reach them by phone due to congestion or damage.

"There are only about 1,000 such patients in all of Japan. It is a rare disease and there are not many hospitals that supply such rare drugs," Tamura, based at the Keio University School Of Medicine cardiology department in Tokyo.

The patients suffered from pulmonary hypertension and needed once-daily refills of a drug that is pumped into a catheter connected to a vein in their neck. It prevents blood clots and heart failure.

"We directly contacted 60 patients and they re-tweeted to over 100. Some couldn't reach hospitals because they were living in disaster areas, so we took drugs to them using cars and, in one case, by helicopter."

Short message services SMS.L and now online social media are increasingly used by healthcare workers around the world to remind patients of appointments and to take their medicines.

The March 11 quake and ensuing tsunami have left nearly 25,000 dead or missing in Japan.

source: REUTERS; japan_now

JYJ, Nature Republic and Samsung Galaxy Tab!!

2011-05-01T18:51:00.000+07:00

NIKE WOMEN'S RACE TEASER

2011-04-05T23:33:00.000+07:00

[110403] All About JYJ 3

2011-04-04T19:36:00.000+07:00

JYJ Live in Indonesia Vid Teaser

2011-03-24T06:22:00.000+07:00

ALFALFA - Let Me Call You Sweetheart

2011-03-20T15:47:00.000+07:00

a great learning: In tragedy, Japan impresses the world

2011-03-16T23:24:00.000+07:00

Despite the horrific scenes of destruction, Japan may emerge from its quake-tsunami disaster with a stronger international brand-name as the nation's resilience wins wide praise.

Television stations around the world have broadcast the footage of the seismic waves as they razed homes and carried away cars as if they were toys, stranding dazed survivors on the brutalized landscape.

But coverage has also shown another side -- Japanese showing calm as they search for loved ones or wait for basic necessities. There is not a hint of looting or violence, even as residents line up at half-empty stores.

Entries on the English-language blogosphere speak of the Japanese as "stoic" and wonder the reaction in Western countries would be to a disaster of similar magnitude.

Harvard University professor Joseph Nye said that the disaster may turn out to benefit Japan's "soft power" -- a term he coined to describe how nations achieve their goals by appearing more attractive to others.

"Though the tragedy is immense, this sad event shows some of the very attractive features of Japan, and thus may help their soft power," Nye told AFP in an email exchange.

"In addition to the sympathy it will engender, it shows a stable, well-mannered society that was as prepared for such a disaster as any modern country could be, and which is responding in a calm and orderly way," he said.

Officially pacifist Japan has historically relied on aid as a key tool of foreign policy, but it is expected to reconsider at least some of the spending as it contends with a hefty reconstruction bill.

Even though Japan is one of the world's wealthiest countries, Americans alone have donated more than $22 million since Friday's 9.0-magnitude earthquake, according to a tally compiled from aid groups.

While nearly all nations enjoy sympathy at a human level when they experience tragedy, countries' reputations rarely benefit as a result.

Pakistan received aid from the United States and other countries last year when it was submerged by major floods. But funding came slowly from individuals overseas with relief groups pointing to Pakistan's image problems.

China and Haiti also faced criticism over government handling of earthquakes in 2008 and last year.

Some experts believed the earthquake could change the narrative about Japan to one of rebirth after years in which the country was identified with feeble economic growth, an aging population and revolving-door governments.

"The question was whether Japan was going to be able to deal with what's necessary, to innovate and revive its economy," said Nicholas Szechenyi, deputy director at the Center for Strategic and International Studies.

"It's way too early to make any predictions, but I think so far, viewed from afar, it seems like the Japanese people are demonstrating resilience at a time of crisis. I think that could say a lot about Japan in the days and weeks ahead," he said.

Japan, however, has come under scrutiny for the safety of its nuclear industry after explosions rocked overheating reactors at the Fukushima plant.

Critics of nuclear power have pointed to the crisis as a reason to freeze moves for nuclear power, while lukewarm supporters of atomic energy in the United States have now called for a safety review.

In Germany, Chancellor Angela Merkel put off a plan to postpone the date when Europe's largest economy abandons nuclear power.

However, in the United States, Senator Jon Kyl of Arizona, the number two Republican in the chamber and advocate of nuclear energy, spoke of being "very impressed" with earthquake preparations by Japan.

"It may well turn out here that the Japanese did a phenomenal job of avoiding a catastrophe," Kyl told reporters.

Leaving aside the nuclear issue, newspapers saluted the Japanese response.

Canada's National Post said that Japan's foresight saved "untold tens of thousands of lives."

"Unlike in Haiti (2010), Pakistan (2005) or Sichuan (2008), the rolls of the dead were not needlessly extended by acres of ramshackle tenements that collapsed immediately upon the heads of their occupants," it said.

The Wall Street Journal said in an editorial: "After a once-in-300-years earthquake, the Japanese have been keeping cool amid the chaos, organizing an enormous relief and rescue operation, and generally earning the world's admiration."

source: Yahoo; japan_now

Your Inspiration ELLE atTV

2011-03-08T20:18:00.000+07:00

[ELLE atTV] MOVIE STILL with JAE JOONG

2011-02-27T10:44:00.000+07:00

Hotel Fort Canning - a new discovery in Singapore

2011-02-19T19:43:00.002+07:00

Namie Amuro - Coca-Cola Zero - 'WILD RACE' (30s)

2011-02-13T19:49:00.000+07:00

Toho suing Honda over Godzilla

2011-02-13T19:46:00.000+07:00

Movie Company, Toho, is currently suing Honda for using their character “Godzilla” in an American commercial without their permission.

They’ve presented their case on the 11th and are suing Honda through the Los Angeles district courts. A specific claim amount wasn’t included in the legal brief.

The advertisement in question is a commercial for the Honda Odyssey. They never mention Godzilla’s name, but a character in Godzilla’s image was shown breathing fire on a video screen inside the minivan.

People close to Toho stated, “Godzilla is also popular in America, but they used our character without permission and infringed on our copyright”. Honda is leaving it up to the lawyers stating, “We can’t comment on this case”.

source: TOKYOHIVE;japan_now

Daun Sirsak (Bunuh Sel Kanker)>>Soursop Leaves (Kill Cancer Cells)

2011-02-05T10:36:00.001+07:00

Daun sirsak (latin: Annona muricata)

Dari alam telah menyediakan obat alami yang dapat membunuh sel penyakit yang sangat berbahaya. Ya, daun sirsak. Rupanya sangat sederhana dan mudah dicari di sekitar kita. Banyak orang meninggal karena penyakit yang satu ini. Daun yang dapat di petik dari tumbuhan berbuah ini ternyata sangat ampuh bahkan lebih kuat dari obat kimia kemoterapi.

Orang yang menderita penyakit kanker sudah barang tentu sangat menderita yang dirasakan. Bagaimana tidak? Orang yang terkena penyakit kanker sudah menderita karena penyakitnya, penderitaannya ditambah karena obat kemoterapi yang menyiksa. Orang yang menjalani kemoterapi rambut yang tumbuh di tubuhnya sudah pasti akan rontok. Itu dikarenakan obat keras dari ramuan kemoterapi yang masuk ke dalam pembuluh darah kemudian disalurkan ke seluruh tubuh.

Selain biaya yang murah dengan menggunakan obat yang telah disediakan oleh alam dan tidak menyiksa saat anda menggunakan obat ini, cara pengolahannya pun juga mudah. Berikut cara pengolahannya :

1. Rebus 10 buah daun sirsak yang sudah tua (warna hijau tua) ke dalam 3 gelas air dan direbus terus hingga menguap dan air tinggal 1 gelas saja.

2. Air yang tinggal 1 gelas diminumkan ke penderita setiap 2 kali sehari.
Setelah minum, efeknya badan terasa panas, mirip dengan efek kemoterapi. Dalam waktu 2-4 minggu, hasilnya bisa dicek ke dokter. Daun sirsak ini sifatnya seperti kemoterapi, bahkan lebih kuat lagi karena daun sirsak hanya membunuh sel-sel yang tumbuh abnormal dan membiarkan sel-sel yang tumbuh normal.

Kandungan dari daun : Senyawa aktif untuk pemompaan P-glycoprotein untuk menhasilkan senyawa anti kanker alias kemoterapi.

Sephora Cosmetics Launches U.S. Hello Kitty Line

2011-01-30T22:20:00.000+07:00

In an e-mail newsletter, cosmetics retail chain Sephora announced that it is launching an exclusive Hello Kitty line of products this month. The line includes cosmetics in branded Hello Kitty-shaped cases, perfume in a Hello Kitty bottles, and various accessories, including a scented necklace. Prices range from US$5 for nail art stickers to US$55 for the Hello Kitty fragrance. Sephora website customers can also receive a free sample of the fragrance in a corresponding Hello Kitty bottle if they have earned 100 reward points (by spending US$100 or more at the site).

The Hello Kitty character is famous for being attached to all manner of products. Last year, a Hello Kitty Italian motor oil was announced, as well as a joint birthday event with Space Battleship Yamato; the two were created in the same year (1974). In 2009, a Yoshiki-branded Hello Kitty named "Yoshikitty" was announced. In 2007 the BBC reported that police officers who had committed small infractions in Thailand could be made to wear a Hello Kitty armband as punishment.

source: ANIME NEWS NETWORK

Japan x Twitter = A Bear that Tweets Out Loud

2011-01-26T20:53:00.001+07:00

Last year marked a breakthrough for Twitter in Japan. The microblogging service rapidly expanded from near obscurity to near ubiquity, creating a phenomenon that fascinated local media and critics.

Last summer during soccer’s World Cup, for example, the Japanese set a global record at the time of 3,283 tweets per second for the most-ever chirps per second; and Japan broke its own record just after midnight on New Year’s Eve with all the “happy new year” tweets.

Now that the Japanese have embraced Twitter, it’s time for the Twitter culture to start adding more of the local flavor in the home of Hello Kitty and Pokemon. And so it was that, addressing Japan’s well-known obsession with cute characters, Tokyo-based toy maker WiZ Co. late last year released a new product: A four-inch tall bear that reads out aloud every tweet that comes into your Twitter account.

The “Charatter,” as it’s known, is Japan’s first tweet-reading character toy. It received an unusually large number of pre-orders online, and has been enjoying brisk sales since its Nov. 30 launch, says a WiZ spokeswoman, though the company doesn’t disclose sales numbers.

How does it work? Users first download a special Charatter application either via iPhone or PC. This free software developed by WiZ translates the tweets into sound and sends it to a speaker inside the bear toy, which then reproduces the message out loud in a robotic voice. Not cute enough? How about this — its little lips actually move in sync with the sound.

Officially, WiZ says that the bear is designed to read out tweets in Japanese, but in its own rigorous newsroom tests, Japan Real Time tried the toy out and found that it actually reads tweets in English too. Though it does sometimes miss some words and pronounces English with an unmistakably Japanese accent – which perhaps even enhances the “cute” factor.

One word of caution: There’s no button on the bear itself to change the volume of its voice (though users can do so via the iPhone or PC), so be careful if the friends you follow frequently tweet about embarrassing subjects.

WiZ says the idea for some kind of talking toy came about after the number of Twitter users began to increase sharply in Japan last spring. Several ideas came and went during the development stage, including a tweet-reading bird, an obvious association from the Twitter logo. “In terms of cuteness, everyone agreed that the bear was the best,” said the WiZ spokeswoman.

And as you might have already guessed, the tweet-reading bear has its own Twitter account. The account picks up many comments from Charatter fans: “It’s so cute I don’t know what to do with it,” reads a tweet by one of the fans. Some fans tweet photos of their pet cats sitting side by side with the toy bear.

And now to the cold, hard cash part of the equation: The suggested retail price for the Charatter is 2,200 yen (about $27), but it can sometimes be found at lower prices at consumer electronics retailers and other stores in Japan. WiZ currently has no concrete plans to sell it outside Japan, although the company would be interested in opportunities to take it overseas, the spokeswoman says.

follow the bear thing on twitter: http://twitter.com/charatter_PR

source: wall street journal, youtube

"Virtual fishing to get reel in Japan"

2011-01-26T20:50:00.001+07:00

Good news for busy, urban anglers: Japanese toymaker Tomy will release an augmented reality fishing rod allowing users to feel a bite and reel in a heavy fish regardless of their location.

"Virtual Masters Real" -- a palm-sized rod with an antenna-like tip equipped with a reeling handle and small screen -- will go on sale in Japan in July for 6,279 yen ($76), Tomy said on Tuesday.

The rod's camera uses special technology to augment any location shown on the screen with "fishing opportunities", potentially giving offices, streets and shopping malls the refined air of a relaxing day by the lakeside.

Or, depending on the size of the fish, users could find themselves haunted by a virtual obsession to rival Captain Ahab's pursuit of Moby Dick.

A whirring sound accompanies the simulated casting of the line, as well as a satisfying "plunk" when the sinker hits the water, the company said.

The harder the user casts out, the further the line flies on the screen. A bite on the line is conveyed by a vibrating reel with the "weight" on the line changing in accordance with the size of the fish, it said.

If the fish is successfully hooked, the reel will shake as users work to reel in the virtual beast. The line will go limp if the fish is allowed to escape.

Tomy has set a sales target of 300,000 units for the first year of sales as it looks to cash in on the rising popularity of outdoor leisure activities, including fishing, in Japan, the company said.

source: Google; japan_now

Kim Junsu for Naver Happy Bean

2011-01-21T00:11:00.001+07:00

Singer and musical actor Kim Junsu, who is currently participating in the musical “Tears of Heaven” where he would be embroiled in a love fate relationship with a girl, has recently partaken in a charity drive event for the African children.

Kim Junsu has been active as a member (Xiah Junsu) of the group TVXQ that is under the company SM Entertainment and is currently involved in another group JYJ.

According to a staff on the 19th of January 2011, Kim Junsu has helped Jirani Choir from Kenya, Africa.

Jirani Choir was set up for the children from the only music school (Jirani Arts School) in Goreugochyo village that is located in Kenya, Africa. Goreugochyo village has been labeled as a ‘garbage village’ where a daily meal cannot even be guaranteed for the villagers.

Kim Junsu expressed his thoughts, “I gained energy from songs and music”, ” ‘Jirani Choir’ is the only place where the African children can learn about music in such a tough situation. The children in there will be able to seek hope and gain happiness, thus I would want to help them even if it’s insignificant amount.” He also shown his concerns, “I hoped they will become someone who is able to bring happiness and hope to everyone through music in the future.”

Anyone can join Kim Junsu in helping the Jirani Choir by donating your own Happybean though Kim Junsu’s link (http://happybean.nav...yEnergyView.nhn) Each donation of a Happybean equates to 100 won, which will then be given to Jirani Choir.

The staff from the musical will be giving out “Tears of Heaven” tickets through a lucky draw to the netizens who donated their Happybean. Netizens who joined the donation drive will also be receiving the most anticipated special chance of 2011.

Not only actor Kim Junsu, the production team of “Tears of Heaven” also participated in this donation drive event.

The production team has been revealing through a blog about the production process of the musical and behind-the-scenes stories. Production staff said, “This is for netizens who has never seen a musical before, to have a chance to get in touch with a musical and to also provide a chance for those who would like to work in the musical field.”
Additionally it will be holding an audition for those who has the ambition to become a musical actor.

The donation that will be collected through the musical will be used to build classrooms for children in Vietnam.

“Tears of Heaven” is a musical that shows the benevolent love of a man who overcame his destiny and is a work consisting of top participants from both Korea and overseas.

This touching stage will be created by world renowned composer Frank Wildhorn (whose works include “Jerkyll n Hyde”) as the music producer and includes the performers Kim Junsu, Brad Little (who acted as Phantom in “The Phantom of the Opera”), Yoon Gong Ju, Jung Sang Yoon, Lee Haeri and others.

Musical “Tears of Heaven” will premiere on the 1st of February 2011 at the National Theatre.

McDonald's Japan: Big America 2 campaign

2011-01-15T20:06:00.000+07:00

In slender Japan, chain dishes out burgers piled high with tortilla chips, hash browns.

Even as its U.S. parent bows to consumer demand for healthier products, McDonald's in Japan is ladling on the calories -- an unusual strategy in a country known for its healthy diet and longevity.

Japan's top restaurant chain by number of stores, McDonald's Holdings Co. (Japan) Ltd. rolled out its Big America 2 campaign last week, featuring four burgers named after U.S. locales. The Idaho burger, which will make its debut by the end of this month, features a quarter-pound beef patty, melted cheese, a deep-fried hash brown, strips of bacon, onions and pepper-and-mustard sauce. The calorie count: 713.

The Texas 2 Burger -- with chili, three buns, cheese and bacon -- comes in at 645 calories. The 557-calorie Miami burger has tortilla chips -- not as a side dish, but nestled on top of the beef patty. By contrast, McDonald's Japan's Quarter Pounder and Big Mac mainstays come in at 556 calories each.

McDonald's Japan expects to report a 41% drop in net income to 7.6 billion yen ($91.4 million) for last year, largely because of the cost of closing 433 smaller and underperforming stores during the year. But the outlook is less severe than the 55% drop the company had forecast earlier and accompanies an improved outlook for operating income and sales. McDonald's Japan's stock rose 14% last year, while Japan's Nikkei Stock Average fell 3%.

Yasutsuru Mori, a svelte 74 year-old patron, wolfed down a Texas 2 Burger this weekend. "I love hamburgers. I eat every new hamburger that comes out in Japan, but I especially love McDonald's burgers," he said. "McDonald's keeps to the fundamental American hamburger profile: ketchup, mustard and beef."

The strategy in Japan seems diametrically opposed to McDonald's U.S. strategy: a continued focus on healthier eating options. Though McDonald's in the U.S. still offers hefty items, such as a Double Quarter Pounder with Cheese listed at 740 calories, nine meal-size salads and a fruit-and-walnut salad for snacking are on the menu as well. The U.S. website features a steaming bowl of oatmeal, studded with fruit. In Japan, there's only one salad offering -- a puny side salad -- and no oatmeal.

McDonald's Corp.(NYSE: MCD - News) in the U.S. says it doesn't have plans to add bigger burgers but that the Angus Third Pounder already on its menu is successful. A spokeswoman called the Japanese campaign "just one creative example of how McDonald's markets strive to cater to local customer tastes."

McDonald's Japan says its strategy here isn't different from that of its parent, which owns 50% of the Japanese company. A McDonald's Japan spokesman said it regularly is in touch with its U.S. parent to discuss strategy and products. "I believe we are not going in a completely different direction to the U.S.," a McDonald's Japan spokesman said. "Consumers in Japan see beef as what McDonald's can offer, and it tastes good. It's our core competency."

The big burger blitz comes as the Japanese, famed for their fish-and-rice diet and general slenderness, have been plumping up over the years. The proportion of Japanese adults considered overweight increased nearly four percentage points to 23.2% in 2004 from five years earlier, according to the World Health Organization.

While Japan is still several waist sizes away from the U.S. -- the WHO said 66.9% of U.S. adults were overweight in 2004 -- health concerns have prompted Tokyo to implement measures to help trim expanding waistlines. In 2008, the federal government passed a law that makes waistline measurements a compulsory part of annual check-ups for adults between 40 and 74 years old.

Unlike its U.S. parent, McDonald's Japan hasn't been vilified for the nation's expanding girth. A spokesman said men around 18-30 years old typically make up the bulk of its "big sandwich" consumers, though other age groups consume them as well.

Part of the success in Japan is because of its marketing strategy. The company has homed in on a crucial element of the Japanese consumer psyche: a predilection for offerings that are available only during a short time span. For example , the Texas 2 Burger, introduced last Friday, will be replaced by the Idaho burger later this month. The company also has used Twitter and bloggers to spread the word.

"Japanese people have a weakness for products that are available for a limited time period," 34-year-old Kazuyo Aoshima said outside a McDonald's outlet in Tokyo's posh Ginza district last Friday. The Tokyo resident said she plans to try all four burgers.

McDonald's outlets in Japan also don't evoke the image of a typical fast food joint. Workers greet customers with the type of enthusiastic attitude characteristic of Japan's service industry and the restaurants are lit with a warm glow.

"There are more service people and they come around [to clean] pretty frequently. The garbage cans are never full at McDonald's," Mr. Mori said. "The management is far better here than other places," he said.

source: YAHOO; japan_now

Samsung Share a Book Everyday Campaign

2011-01-11T13:09:00.004+07:00

[Trans] 110107 JYJ Participates In A Book Campaign – Jaejoong Recommends A Japanese Author

Popular Korean group 「JYJ」 will be participating in 「Samsung Share a Book Everyday Campaign」. This was confirmed by Samsung Campaign’s press relations company, Prain on the 7th.

Prain explained, “In this campaign, JYJ will participate through Samsung’s blog, and recommend “a book of hope” which holds a special meaning to themselves.” The books that 「JYJ」 recommend, along with books chosen for the campaign will be gathered and donated to a choir for the disabled.

Jaejoong recommended author Suzuki Hideko’s「辛いときはただ泣きなさい」(Just Cry During Tough Times), Junsu recommended poet Jung Ho Seung’s「내 인생에 힘이 되어준 한마디」(A Word That Gave Me Strength In My Life) and Yoochun recommended photographer Jo Seon Hui’s「힐링포토」(Healing Photo).

Jaejoong, who recommended Suzuki Hideko’s「辛いときはただ泣きなさい」, expressed this thoughts on the book, saying that “the line ‘Be grateful for everything on Earth’ hit home “and “after reading this book, you feel that if you look at everything positively, your life can be beautiful”.

On the other hand, Yoochun revealed, “I have all of his books in my study, but I keep 「힐링포토」in my room.” He also added “Some years ago, when I felt very beaten down, I received the book as a farewell present from the one who gave me strength.” Junsu said, “Feeling the importance of “A Word” and understanding the need to be alert when I talk”, and recommended 「내 인생에 힘이 되어준 한마디」.

Through sites like Twitter, net users can participate and the members also sent this message, “Even in tough times, we want the members of the choir, who continued with music (despite everything), to read the recommended books and feel happiness and hope.”

In this same campaign, net users can choose “a book of hope” along with stars, and donate books to low-income earners, childcare centres and people who have a lesser chance at contact with books.

Source: [Wow!Korea]

Japan Today Interview: Coca-Cola in Japan.

2010-12-26T19:43:00.004+07:00

Coca-Cola has been operating in Japan since 1957. It operates a franchise system with 12 bottling partners. The company sells more than 30 brands and more than 850 products a year through some 1.15 million retail outlets and nearly 1 million vending machines. Brands include Coca-Cola, Fanta, Minute Maid, Georgia canned coffee, Sokenbicha blended tea, Aquarius sports drink, I LOHAS mineral water, Goonew yogurt drink, Glaceau vitamin water and many, many more.

Japan Today editor Chris Betros visits Sayre(Coca-Cola Japan President) to hear more about Coca-Cola in Japan.

How come every time a flavor I like comes on the market, it’s gone after a few months?
Retailers and convenience stores expect new products. The competition for shelf space is fierce. We have more competitors here for tea, coffee, sports drinks and water than in any other market. However, drinks tend to stay a bit longer in vending machines.

Your business seems to thrive on new products.
We are always testing products and packaging innovations. It’s one of the ways in which we differentiate ourselves. Our brand managers are relentless. They never stop changing flavors. Sometimes, we’ll release a new product every week; other products will be seasonal. For example, for winter we have a new Fanta snow squash strawberry drink in a ball-shaped bottle, and we have just introduced some soups for vending machines.

How much autonomy do you get from head office in terms of product introduction?
About 70-80% of time, we get a lot of autonomy, which is more so than a lot of other multinational companies. But the other 20-30%, particularly on Coca-Cola, there are very firm parameters. Most of the flexibility we get is on flavors and bottle shapes because there is a strong mandate for us to be locally relevant.

What are your best-selling drinks?
There are six drinks, which each sell more than 100 billion yen a year. They are Coca-Cola, Coke Zero, Fanta, Georgia canned coffee, Sokenbicha (blended tea) and Aquarius. Japan is one of the top five markets in the world for us.

How come some flavors differ slightly from country to country? For example, Fanta orange in Japan is not quite as orange as in other countries.
First, let me say that Coke is Coke, wherever you go. But some flavors like Fanta do differ. In Germany and Latin America, for example, the color is much more orange. We tested that here and it came across as too artificial. The Fanta orange in Japan has no preservatives, no artificial colors, and that is why it is a softer color.

Speaking of Coke Zero, why isn’t Diet Coke more popular in Japan?
Our bottlers said that Diet Coke would not be a big seller. We have to respond to consumers and Japanese consumers have embraced Coke Zero instead. For example, McDonald’s – which is one of our single largest customers – was our first customer to convert all of their outlets to Coke Zero last year.

What are some unique characteristics of the Japanese market?
The frequency with which we launch new products is much higher in Japan. It can be every week. What we have got better at is managing the life cycle of products in terms of right level of demand and production. One of the challenges is that some of our competitors—and ourselves—in the past have had a tendency to get to a number with a convenience store or supermarket operator and then flood the market with it. Well, after a drink peaks, what do you do?

What frustrates you about doing business in Japan?
In Japan, there is still a strong need for consensus and I would suggest that consensus does not necessarily focus on the consumer. The consumer here is relentless, they know value, what they want and are extremely intent on getting more value. Some of the key business leaders haven’t woken up to that. I still think that in some regards, Japan is still too producer-focused on what is right for the business. Japan is undergoing a huge transformation on the consumer side and the government is slow to react while the consumer moves on.

read more questions @ source!!

source: JAPANTODAY; japan_now

A quote I found..

2010-12-22T07:45:00.001+07:00

To be a good human being is to have a kind of openness to the world, an ability to trust uncertain things beyond your own control, that can lead you to be shattered in very extreme circumstances for which you were not to blame. That says something very important about the condition of the ethical life: that it is based on a trust in the uncertain and on a willingness to be exposed; it’s based on being more like a plant than like a jewel, something rather fragile, but whose very particular beauty is inseparable from that fragility.

- Martha Nussbaum -

Hillarious!!!! WTF!!

2010-12-21T22:43:00.011+07:00

Clap Yer Hair Gatsby TV Ad

tears of heaven - i really love this song..

2010-12-17T21:11:00.000+07:00

Sweet potato flavored chocolate? Only in Japan

2010-12-16T22:23:00.000+07:00

On December 20, Kit Kat will launch its two final limited edition flavors of the year in Japan.

The two new flavors are Kit Kat "Daigaku Imo" (candied sweet potato) and Kohaku Mini Red and White (milk chocolate and white chocolate in one package), costing approximately ¥525/€5 each.

Kit Kat Japan began offering a handful of novelty flavors in 2007, a strategy that has transformed the way it is eaten, and unique to Japan. Today, Kit Kat flavors vary from region to region (Baked Corn flavor can be found in Hokkaido and Yuzu Fruit flavor in Kyushu Island) and limited edition flavors are introduced each year. As of March, there were 19 standard Kit Kat flavors.

Current flavors include Strawberry Cream Cake, Gouda Cheese and Brown Sugar.

The Japanese confectionery market is known for its extremely local and expansive range of flavors. Glico's popular chocolate covered biscuit snack has featured "Milk Coffee" as well as "Men's Bitter" and "Skippy" (dried crepe and peanuts covered in chocolate) flavors. Pucca brand biscuits are available in "Sweet Potato" and "New York Cheesecake" and Lotte brand Ghana chocolates are available in roasted mochi (Japanese rice ball) and sweet crouton flavors.

Kit Kat is available in a plethora of options specifically tailored to local tastes around the world (although none are as colorful as the offering in Japan). The candy is produced in more than 10 countries and sold in 72. There are different Christmas/holiday versions available as well, including a Crispy Santa in Europe and Holiday Minis in the US.

The first ever flavor variant was Kit Kat Orange, introduced in the UK in 1996.

source: INDEPENDENT; japan_now

OFFICIAL BEHIND THE SCENE - VIDEO MIZONE FLASHMOB INDONESIA

2010-12-07T18:15:00.000+07:00

OFFICIAL VIDEO MIZONE FLASHMOB BANDUNG

2010-12-07T18:06:00.000+07:00

Hit List: Japan’s Top 20 Products In 2010 (And 2011)

2010-11-28T16:35:00.000+07:00

What are Japan’s top products in 2010? That’s a question Japan’s (and one of the world’s) biggest advertising agency Dentsu recently asked in a survey it has been conducting since 1985 (n=1,000). For the first time, Dentsu has also compiled a “hit list” that’s supposed to shine a light on what’s going to be “hot” in Japan next year.
The subjects of the survey could name anything they wanted to: persons, products, services, TV shows, food etc. What’s interesting is that there is a high number of tech-related items in both lists, which are shown below:

2010 Hit Products (emphasis on tech-related items supplied)

No. 1: Smartphones
No. 2: Twitter
No. 3: Munchable chili oil (a hot topping)
No. 4: Digital broadcasting-equipped flat-panel TVs
No. 5: Ryoma Sakamoto (popular historical figure; a TV series about him was aired earlier this year)
No. 6: International flight services at Haneda Airport (Japan’s No. 2 airport boosted its number international flights this year)
No. 7: Tokyo Sky Tree (broadcasting tower to be completed in 2012)
No. 8: Energy-saving home appliances (the government supports individuals buying eco-friendly electronics)
No. 9: 2010 FIFA World Cup in South Africa
No. 10: LED light bulbs
No. 11: “B-grade” local gourmet food (relatively inexpensive food)
No. 12: Akira Ikegami (journalist)
No. 13: Domestic “fast fashion” brands
No. 14: GeGeGe’s Wife (hit TV drama)
No. 15: 3D movies, TV, cameras and other 3D products
No. 16: Hybrid vehicles
No. 17: Imported “fast fashion” brands
No. 18: AKB48 (48-member all-girl idol group)
No. 19: Tablets
No. 20: Yoichi Watanabe (war photographer and TV personality)

In the 2010 list, eight of the top 20 products are tech-related, but the number is much higher in the list of the upcoming hit products and services, which just sees six items that are not related to technology in one form or the other:
2011+ Hit Products (emphasis on tech-related items supplied)

No. 1: Tokyo Sky Tree
No. 2: LED light bulbs
No. 3: Electric vehicles
No. 4: International flight services at Haneda Airport
No. 5: Smartphones
No. 6: 3D movies, TV, cameras and other 3D products
No. 7: Hybrid cars
No. 7: E-book readers
No. 9: Discount airline tickets
No. 10: Tablets
No. 11: Home solar power systems
No. 12: Digital broadcasting-equipped widescreen flat-panel TVs
No. 13: Compact data communication devices
No. 14: Home fuel cell systems
No. 15: Group purchase coupons
No. 16: Bread and sweets made with rice powder
No. 17: Blade-less electric fans
No. 18: Cloud computing (including related books)
No. 18: B-grade local gourmet food
No. 20: Alcohol-free beer-like beverages

Source: Asiajin, japan_now

JYJ in Billboard New York, USA

2010-11-27T08:36:00.000+07:00

"Ayyy Girl" (Kanye West) At Billboard and the interview

"Empty"(Rodney Jerkins)

(funny campaign - check it out!) SOJU MAN

2010-11-20T20:15:00.001+07:00

The adventures of SOJU MAN as he sets out to share the great taste of JINRO SOJU with the world!

Follow SOJU MAN on Facebook and Twitter:

iLoveSojuMan

www.facebook.com/ilovesojuman

www.twitter.com/ilovesojuman

DRINK SOJU!

(sooo..funny) How To Go K-Town Clubbing

2010-11-20T20:12:00.000+07:00

Asia's best male stars in one commercial.

2010-10-31T22:34:00.002+07:00

Rain, (the late) Park Yong Ha, JYJ(TVXQ), BIG BANG, Ji Seong, Kang Ji Hwan, Song Seung Heon.

THE MAKING SERIES:

"Rain"

"JYJ (TVXQ)"

"Big Bang"

"Ji Sung"

"Park Yong Ha"

Green tea found having little breast cancer prevention effect

2010-10-31T21:32:00.000+07:00

Heavy intake of green tea was found to have little effect in reducing the risk of contracting breast cancer, contrary to common belief, according to a report released Thursday by the National Cancer Center.

As there was little difference in terms of the degree of risk between those who drink little green tea and those who drink more than 10 cups a day, "we cannot expect breast cancer prevention effect from the intake of green tea," said Motoki Iwasaki, section head of the Epidemiology and Prevention Division at the center.

Although animal tests have shown that catechin and other polyphenols contained in green tea are possibly effective in preventing breast cancer, epidemiology studies on human beings have produced varying results, according to the center.

The center had conducted tracking research since 1990 and 1993 over an average span of 14 years targeting some 54,000 women aged 40 to 69 in nine prefectures. Among them, 581 women developed breast cancer during the period.

In comparing the survey results, the center divided the women into six groups in terms of how often they drank green tea -- from less than one cup a week to more than five cups a day.

The findings showed no clear correlation between the frequency of drinking green tea and breast cancer development, the report said.

Of the 54,000 women, the center performed detailed analysis on about 44,000 over a period of some 10 years by subdividing frequent drinkers.

Even among those who habitually take green tea, including those who drink seven-nine cups or more than 10 cups a day, there was no correlation, the report showed.

The difference in the quality of the leaf, such as medium-grade and coarse-grade, did not affect the risk of developing cancer either, according to the report.

source: japan_now

the price of being famous..scary indeed!

2010-10-26T00:09:00.000+07:00

Sony Walkman Declared Dead in Japan

2010-10-23T19:59:00.002+07:00

After 31 years and over 200 million units sold, Sony is officially putting the cassette model Walkman out to pasture. Introduced in 1979, the portable tape player defined the following 10-plus years of mobile music playback. It was even a leader in the era of optical media, with its Walkman line of portable CD players eventually known as Discman. But in the era of the iPod, the brand name has diminished in value. Radios and digital media players still go by the name Walkman, but the moniker has always referred to the tape-playing model in the collective mind. And as Sony announced that it shipped its last batch of tape-playing Walkmen back in April, we couldn't help shed a tear for the ubiquitous '80s gadget.

You'll still be able to find cassette-playing Walkmen if you happen to live in Asia or the Middle-East. Sony has licensed the name to a number of Chinese manufacturers who will continue to produce the portable tape players. But if you're hoping to get your hands on an authentic Sony Walkman manufactured in Japan, you'll have to settle for an MP3 player.

source: SWITCHED; japan_now

Sony Walkman Declared Dead in Japan

2010-10-23T19:59:00.001+07:00

OFFICIAL VIDEO MIZONE FLASHMOB

2010-10-11T22:04:00.000+07:00

Hayao Miyazaki Art Adorns Tokyo Bike License Plates

2010-10-10T08:24:00.001+07:00

Mitaka City uses Poki mascot drawn by Ghibli founder on minibike plates this month
Mitaka, a city in western Tokyo, began accepting applications this month for minibike license plates decorated with Poki — the city's mascot character which happens to be drawn by Studio Ghibli co-founder and award-winning director Hayao Miyazaki. The plates mark the 60th anniversary of the city that is the home of the Ghibli Museum.

The license plates are available for minibikes and motorized bicycles with engine displacement of 50cc or less. Applicants do not have to live in Mitaka, as long as they use the parking areas in the city.

Miyazaki unveiled the falcon baby character in October of 2001 to mark the opening of the Ghibli Museum. A four-year-old child named the character in a contest.

The public broadcaster NHK posted a video report about the plates. Another Tokyo-area city, Chofu, is already using Shigeru Mizuki's GeGeGe no Kitarō character for its plates.

Miyazaki's newest work, an anime short called "Pan-dane to Tamago-hime" (Yeast and Princess Egg), will begin playing at the Ghibli Museum's Saturn Theater on November 20.

source: ANIME NEWS NETWORK

Korea Tourism Organization thinking out of the box!

2010-10-02T15:44:00.004+07:00

Indonesia Tourism Board/Dept., please check it out! See how other countries understand how to leverage various national assets? What used to work in the past may not be the right solution for today. The world, the country, the people..all have changed, therefore, the way to communicate, the medium we use, the focus, even the strategic alliances must change along with it too. Work together with partners, professionals that can provide the right solutions not the ones that gives the right kick backs! The budget allocated may be small, but if we maximize every single penny and be creative in the way we spend it, the result will definitely be positive.

Please visit the website: http://www.haru2010.com/

when breaking the rules is not a crime! - "talking to leaders campaign"

2010-09-30T21:40:00.004+07:00

YOOCHUN to President Obama G20 Summit Seoul Promotion.

JEJUNG introducing Seoul G20 Summit to his Japanese fans.

JUNSU YOOCHUN JEJUNG promoting the G20 Seoul Summit and album showcase.

There's even a "behind the scene NG" part for additional humor!

when breaking the rules is not a crime! - "Indonesia, please learn!"

2010-09-30T21:04:00.011+07:00

a creative way to leverage the privilege of being a host country of a high profile state event.

Creating proximity between government and the general public.
Creating ownership and sustainability by making it relevant and known to all.
A simple way to educate what G20 is all about, why it is important, why a country needs to participate and the benefit for the people.

In order to succeed, a government needs the full support of the people, young and old. Therefore, it is crucial for a government to be able to communicate their vision and objectives clearly; making the people understand the reason why they have to support a certain action taken by the government. Like a parent speaking to a child, a government needs to speak in a way that is easy to understand by its people. The language of politics seems to be distant from the common people. But why must it be? Isn't misunderstanding the first cause of many conflicts? So why sound intellectual when no one can understand? Be human. Be real. Be relevant. And be surprised of what wonders it will bring to a nation by just communicating.

The three members of TVXQ, Jaejoong, Yoochun, and Junsu, recently expressed their thoughts on their overseas promotions at a G20 Seoul Summit blog interview.
JYJ stated, “We’re glad to be able to participate in an event that gets Korea recognized to the world. We feel responsible as singers that represent Korea overseas – especially when our international fans listen to not only our songs, but support us with their love for Korea as well.”
The members went on to talk about their views about G20’s “Consideration Campaign”. Yoochun stated, “I’m currently studying the analects of Confucius in order to learn how to become a bigger person. It’s definitely important for us to learn how to be considerate of others and to keep order so that we become a considerable nation.”
Junsu chose throwing trash away properly and Jaejoong chose apologizing to those one bumps into in the streets as their global manners. Jaejoong went on to state, “As we promoted in Japan, we saw that the Japanese apologize at all times for even the littlest things. Through this campaign, we’d like for our fans to participate through these actions with us.”
The three concluded the G20 relay interview by stating, “We’re extremely excited as citizens that Korea will be hosting the Seoul G20 summit.”
Kim YunA, Park Ji Sung, Park Tae Hwan, Edward Kwon, and others were present at the interview as well. Their individual interview segments can be found on Naver.
Source + Photo: Daily Sports

Who is JYJ?

JYJ Announces "The Beginning"
New album from the ex-members of Asia's top selling male vocal act "TVXQ" collaborates with international music superstars on global debut

29 September 2010, International: JYJ, which includes 3 main members from arguably the biggest selling male vocal group in Asia "TVXQ" has teamed up with A-list US producers Kanye West and Rodney Jerkins for their global album debut "The Beginning". The title of the album is synonymous with their journey to date and marks a first for the group to release an English language album.

JYJ has an enormous fan base worldwide and the trio made it to the Guinness Book Records in 2008 and 2009 for having the World’s Largest Official Fan Club at over 800,000 members in Seoul alone and being The Most Photographed Celebrities in the World shot an estimated 500 million times in magazines, albums jackets, and commercials from the time of their debut in 2003 to May 19 2009 with their former group.

The first single off the album "Ayyy Girl" is produced by Kanye West who lends his vocals to the song. It also features the maestro of spoken word, Malik "The Poet" Yusef. It's a song that depicts the quest of seeking that perfect girl but when you find her, things are never quite as perfect as you envision it to be.

Besides the catchy first single by Kanye West, The Beginning also sees original compositions by top music producer Rodney "Darkchild" Jerkins. The two tracks are "Empty" and "Be My Girl".

"I'm really glad to work with JYJ on their debut album. It’s all about the East meeting the West these days and the world is becoming a melting pot of various cultures. To have Kanye and myself champion the cause of unifying the world through the international language of music and introducing top artistes from one end of the globe to this end in America makes this a very special project to us" adds Rodney Jerkins.

Other than the creative collaborations with the US top producers onboard, JYJ who has been dabbling in songwriting since their teenage days, have also contributed a song each to the album. The tracks are "Still in Love" Jaejung, "I Can Soar" Junsu and "I Love You" Yuchun.

"We have faced many challenges in these recent months but are glad to complete an album which the boys are extremely proud of. The Beginning is a product of their blood, sweat and tears, and they hope fans will see the efforts that went into making this excellent album. As a partaker in their journey, I am so proud of them at this moment for what they have achieved." Says Mr. Baek Chang Ju, the trio's manager and CEO of C-JeS Entertainment.

The album comprises of 7 tracks and 3 remixes. Jae Chong, one of Asia's leading music producers has also contributed a track on it and played a big role in organizing and producing the overall project with the 3 members.

The Beginning is produced by Show Shop Entertainment and distributed by Warner Music worldwide. The album will be released on CD & digital formats from 12th OCT. There will also be a special limited edition 'Luxury Package' which will be numbered and limited to only 99,999 sets.

The first single "Ayyy Girl" will be made available via i-Tunes for download on the 19th of Oct.

New Album Showcase Tour 2010

JYJ will be embarking on an 8 city new album showcase tour from the 15th of Oct to the end of November in Asia and the US. More information on the confirmed tour stops can be found via the tour schedue tab.

About JYJ

JYJ comprises of three members from South Korea namely Kim JaeJung, Park Yuchun and Kim Junsu. They were originally from the boy band Dongbangshinki also known as "TVXQ" and "Tohoshinki" which is formed in 2003 in Korea. who are active in Korea and Japan from 2003 onwards. Known for their good looks, dancing skills and vocal capabilities, the boys took the world of Asian pop music market by storm. They were also the first group to successfully spearhead carry the 2nd Korean Music wave into the Japanese music market by becoming industry and became the first non Japanese act foreigner to have achieve nine No. 1 singles songs on Japan's Oricon Charts. In 2009, the trio left the band and went on to form JYJ. In 2009, the trio sued their management company for release from their 13 year slavery contract. The suit became Korea's largest news making headlines and legal battle ongoing till now was further intensified by the involvement of their Japanese record label. In June 2010 this year, JYJ held their first concert under their new identity rebranded at the Tokyo Dome, singing to more than 200,000 fans from 43 countries around the world. To date, the concert DVD became the second fastest selling DVD in Japan this year shifting 140,000 copies in its first week of release.

just something i like..

2010-09-22T22:59:00.000+07:00

"Picture of you" by TVXQ

Kit-Kat to hold treasure hunting event with Kuroki Meisa via Twitter

2010-09-16T12:14:00.002+07:00

Nestlé Japan has announced a special Treasure Hunting game event using the social networking tool, Twitter. The event will occur on September 21st to celebrate the anniversary of their Kit-Kat products.

Various treasure hunting hints will be tweeted on Kuroki Meisa and Akagi Meisa’s Twitter pages. There will be two goals, a Black goal where Kuroki Meisa will be tweeting the hints to achieve the goal, and a red goal where Akagi Meisa will be tweeting the hints for this goal.

The first five people, per location (total of 10 people) who arrives at each goal will receive a special present from Nestlé Kit-Kat. No word on what the prizes will be. Hints will be tweeted on September 21st from 9AM through 10AM under Twitter account of “Meisa_Kuroki” and “Meisa_Akagi.” As a bonus, the first person to arrive at the goal(s) will receive an additional surprise gift.

source: TOKYOHIVE, japan_now

what indonesia should learn.

2010-09-06T10:02:00.003+07:00

TokyoHive recently covered Arashi appearing in the skies with their own jet, and now they are going to be appearing on the desk of every child and teenager through a textbook appearance. It sure seems like Arashi is taking over Japan one product at a time.

A book called “Nippon no Arashi” has appeared in every elementary, junior high, and senior high schools in Japan recently. A letter that was sent along with the books explained that the goal of the book is to teach the children of Japan of its beauty and culture, and to encourage them to travel the country. The book is not for public sale though, as Arashi actually volunteered for this project.

In the book, Arashi is featured as tour navigators, presenting each chapter on different parts of Japan. For example, Sho visits a rural town in Aichi Prefecture and helps with the farming. The book has many photos of the members getting a hands-on experience and spending time with the locals. There are no interviews in the book, however, there are detailed reports written by professionals who observed Arashi’s activities.

The book was published two days ago, and two copies of “Nippon no Arashi” have been sent to each school, and they will be placed in the school’s library. While Arashi is on the cover, the real stars of the book are the locals, who are featured along with the lengthy articles. This book isn’t a fan book at all, it’s an educational book hoping to get children more interested in their country. While many may not understand that concept, this is one book that will certainly touch the hands of many children for years to come.

With the release of this type of book, this is a strong testament to the popularity of Arashi in Japan, something even the government recognizes.

While it was told to us that this book is not for sale, there was a press conference back on April 8 in which the publishers requested TV stations from China and Korea market the “sightseeing navigator”, which plays an active part in promoting Japan overseas. Using Arashi as the face of Japan is the company’s catchphrase logo.

Twitter account GAKUJI received their copy four days ago (9/1) and uploaded the photo of the book. While they don’t explain the book, they did provide the link to the press conference with Arashi.

At a press conference the members each had a message:

“I am Sho SAKURAI, and I am very excited to be appointed as the Japanese Tourism Promotion Representative. I will make every effort to encourage you to visit Japan by introducing all the wonderful destinations in our country. I will be waiting for your visit here in Japan, so come enjoy endless discovery.”

“I’m Aiba Masaki and I was appointed as the sightseeing navigator. I did my best to show everyone Japan’s charm, so everyone hold on tight! I’ll see you all in Japan!”

“I’m Arashi’s Matsumoto Jun. I am a sightseeing navigator. We had two concerts in Korea and it’s a country I like very much. This time I want everyone to see the good of Japan. Everyone, Japan is waiting for you all!”

“We couldn’t call for a meeting place today, I’m sorry about that. I’m happy that Arashi has been appointing as the nation’s sightseeing navigators. There are many various things to discovery when traveling, and I think there is a moment in one’s life to look at yourself and make big changes. One of my hobbies is fishing, and I traveled around looking for fishing spots. I was touched by our island’s beauty and the warmth of every person as I traveled. I hope that people from overseas will know about his book, and through us, help them see the beauties of Japan.”-Ohno Satoshi

“I’m Ninomiya, a sightseeing navigator. I apologize for not being able to set up a meeting place. This is a chance for me to introduce the wonderful places of Japan, domestically and internationally. Even though I’ve been living here all my life, I discovered something new everyday. Wouldn’t you like to discover something new with someone all over Japan as well?”

source; TOKYOHIVE

Interesting promotional campaign: JAL launches Arashi Jet

2010-09-04T23:23:00.002+07:00

Japan Airlines, which is currently undergoing reconstruction due to its financial troubles, is looking to boost its business with Arashi's help. The airline has commissioned a single "Arashi Jet," which is basically a Boeing 777 whose fuselage is decorated with a 5-meter-tall, 20-meter-wide seal bearing the images of Arashi's members, along with the title of their latest album, "Boku no Miteiru Fuukei."

The plane will take its first flight on Sunday at 1:30pm, flying from Tokyo's Haneda Airport to Osaka. The plane is expected to be primarily used for domestic flights, serving the routes between Haneda and three other airports: New Chitose Airport in Sapporo, Itami Airport in Osaka, and Fukuoka Airport in Fukuoka. JAL plans to use the plane until January 2011.

In addition to the Arashi Jet, JAL will be selling the "Boku no Miteiru Fuukei" album (with a specially designed cover) in-flight on several of its domestic routes.

source; TOKYOGRAPH; Japan_Now

so near yet so different..

2010-08-23T13:13:00.002+07:00

This is so funny..

In Malaysia, banci means census.
In Indonesia, banci means queer!

The Philippines Under President Aquino

2010-07-09T16:24:00.002+07:00

The Philippines Under President Aquino

In a country governed for decades by elites and oligarchs, he spoke of simplicity and modesty. And while he himself comes from one of these elite families, he is divesting himself of the vestiges of entitlement.
Symbolically, he has banned politicians and other members of the elite from driving around with police escorts and blaring sirens. Ordinary Filipinos have long resented the massive traffic jams from such blatant daily abuse of power.
He won the election on an anti-corruption platform and in his speech identified his foremost duty as being able "to lift the nation from poverty through honest and effective governance". This brought positive response from all sectors, particularly local business, which has long complained of the cost of corruption to its bottom line.
Foreign businessmen are likewise beginning to have confidence in the Philippine economy. In the past, foreign direct investment in the Philippines has been very minimal compared with other countries. The perception has been that investing in the Philippines is high-risk, financially and politically. Many cite past corruption-tainted projects such as Manila Airport's Ninoy Aquino Terminal 3 project where Fraport, a German company was involved, and the NBN-ZTE broadband deal, where a Chinese telecommunications company was implicated. With renewed confidence from the international and local business community, the Philippine economy should be able to benefit from the surging overall vibrancy of the Asia's regional economy.
Then there is the question of the Philippine military which has indulged in adventurism in past years, including multiple rebellions and coups during his mother's term. The new President almost lost his life in a 1989 coup attempt and he still has a bullet lodged in his neck. Former Brigadier General Danilo Lim, a West Point educated and decorated elite officer, is being prosecuted for leading a number of alleged destabilization attempts against the previous Arroyo administration. Quite interestingly, he allied himself with Aquino -- his former nemesis -- and the now president's party, but the general failed to win a seat in the Senate at the election.
Many will be watching how President Aquino will move with peace talks with the communist and Muslim rebels. But the military now seems intent on following the people's sentiment, and this can only strengthen the new administration's hand.
President Aquino tempered the expectations of his people by admitting that the massive problems facing the Philippines can not be solved overnight and that real remedies could take years. He appealed to a sense of civic duty all Filipinos to do their share. By casting himself as a personal example provides the air of hope, optimism and renewed surge of patriotism among Filipinos, at home and abroad.
The Aquino government is only days old and it is yet to be seen how the backbone of his presidency- his Cabinet line-up - will perform. Nonetheless, Filipinos feel reinvigorated. They have a feeling of euphoria and pride - one that comes from the national redemption that democracy is resurrected and their dignity has been restored.

Arnel Paciano Casanova is the Executive Director, Asia Society Philippines.

It's definitely a home coming for Y&R Jakarta's Gold Lion!

2010-07-08T09:49:00.002+07:00

The World's most expensive cities.

2010-06-28T15:02:00.005+07:00

10. Zurich, Switzerland
Rank in 2009: 10
Food: Lunch at a restaurant: $25
Can of beer from grocer: $2.01
One kg of rice: $3.36
One dozen eggs: $5.81
Entertainment: Movie ticket: $16
Appliances: Washing machine: $974

9. Geneve, Switzerland
Rank in 2009: 9
Food: Lunch at a restaurant: $30
Can of beer from grocer: $2.02
One kg of rice: $3.81
One dozen eggs: $7.64
Entertainment: Movie ticket: $16
Appliances: Washing machine: $1,304

8. Copenhagen, Denmark
Rank in 2009: 7
Food: Lunch at a restaurant: $36
Can of beer from grocer: $2.10
One kg of rice: $4.85
One dozen eggs: $6.99
Entertainment: Movie ticket: $15
Appliances: Washing machine: $1,196

7. Kobe, Japan
Rank in 2009: 6
Food: Lunch at a restaurant: $16
Can of beer from grocer: $3.09
One kg of rice: $8.57
One dozen eggs: $2.81
Entertainment: Movie ticket: $20
Appliances: Washing machine: $470

The city has one of Japan's largest ports and has become home to many heavy machinery, iron and steel, and food product companies. According to the Japan External Trade Organization, 117 foreign and foreign-affiliated companies have offices in Kobe. As the price of Kobe beef, the style of high-grade meat named after the city, suggests, food is costly here, as are other living expenses.

6. Stavanger, Norway
Rank in 2009: 14
Food: Lunch at a restaurant: $33
Can of beer from grocer: $4.76
One kg of rice: $5.71
One dozen eggs: $6.34
Entertainment: Movie ticket: $15.50
Appliances: Washing machine: $749

5. Yokohama, Japan
Rank in 2009: 4
Food: Lunch at a restaurant: $17.39
Can of beer from grocer: $3.26
One kg of rice: $6.54
One dozen eggs: $3.72
Entertainment: Movie ticket: $19.50
Appliances: Washing machine: $630

About half an hour by commuter train from Tokyo, this port city has active shipping, biotechnology, and semiconductor industries. Yokohama is one of the world's most expensive cities, but companies here enjoy lower operating costs compared with the nearby capital. Nissan opened a new headquarters in Yokohama this year and reportedly will sell its office in Tokyo to cut costs.

4. Nagoya, Japan
Rank in 2009: 3
Food: Lunch at a restaurant: $19
Can of beer from grocer: $3.08
One kg of rice: $9.14
One dozen eggs: $3.33
Entertainment: Movie ticket: $20
Appliances: Washing machine: $621

Japan's fourth most populous city, Nagoya is also among the country's most expensive. The city ranks No. 1 for the cost of rice: $9.14 per kilogram, according to ECA International data. As Japan's auto hub, the Nagoya area is an important center of business: about 44 percent of automobiles produced in Japan are made here, according to the Greater Nagoya Initiative Center. Such companies as Toyota, Honda, Suzuki, Mitsubishi, Volkswagen, and General Motors have headquarters, manufacturing operations, or distribution points in the Nagoya region.

3. Luanda, Angola
Rank in 2009: 1
Food: Lunch at a restaurant: $47
Can of beer from grocer: $1.62
One kg of rice: $4.73
One dozen eggs: $4.75
Entertainment: Movie ticket: $13
Appliances: Washing machine: $912

2. Oslo, Norway
Rank in 2009: 8
Food: Lunch at a restaurant: $43
Can of beer from grocer: $4.71
One kg of rice: $5.66
One dozen eggs: $6.72
Entertainment: Movie ticket: $16
Appliances: Washing machine: $880

1. Tokyo, Japan
Rank in 2009: 2
Food: Lunch at a restaurant: $18
Can of beer from grocer: $3.37
One kg of rice: $8.47
One dozen eggs: $3.78
Entertainment: Movie ticket: $22
Appliances: Washing machine: $879

The strength of the yen has brought Tokyo back to the No. 1 spot on ECA International's ranking for the first time since 2005. In addition to the costs above, rent for a two-bedroom apartment for expats is typically more than $5,000 per month in Tokyo, according to data from EuroCost International. While visitors need more pocket money here than in any other city, the monthly consumer price index in Tokyo's wards has actually dropped year-on-year for 14 straight months as of May 2010, based on figures from Japan's statistics bureau.

Results acquired from "ECA International" (a global human resources company).
ECA’s ranking is based on a basket of 128 goods that includes food, daily goods, clothing, electronics, and entertainment, but not rent, utilities, and school fees, which are not typically included in a cost-of-living adjustment. ECA researchers and local partners gathered prices in September 2009 and March 2010 for domestic and imported brands that are internationally recognized—such as Kellogg’s cereal or Sapporo beer. While lower-priced goods and services are available in these markets, the study estimated the cost of supporting the standard of living expected by expatriate employees, says Lee Quane, ECA’s regional director for Asia. Some of the cities, such as Seoul and Stockholm, jumped up in the ranking as the local currency strengthened against the U.S. dollar. Quane says that while a slowdown in business may tempt employers to scale back compensation, "recessions only last so long" and retaining top talent in these places is critical to companies’ success when the global economy recovers.

Source: Japan_Now

Gold Cannes Lion Award Winner - the first for Y&R Jakarta and Indonesia!

2010-06-24T18:51:00.005+07:00

beautiful little blind girl..with DBSK - playing "you raise me up"

2010-06-14T11:46:00.000+07:00

the question i ask myself everyday..

2010-06-14T11:42:00.000+07:00

DBSK - Why did I fall in love with you.

The 2010 Asia 21 Young Leaders Summit will be in Jakarta 5-7 November 2010

2010-05-28T15:06:00.001+07:00

The 2010 Asia 21 Young Leaders Summit

The Asia Society is planning to hold the 2010 Asia 21 Young Leaders Summit in Jakarta, Indonesia, from November 5th -7th. The focus of this year's Summit is "Unity in Diversity: Responsible Leadership in the Asia-Pacific." The next generation of leaders from across the region will gather to discuss issues pertaining to leadership and the positive values of regional collaboration and values-based leadership, and build relationships with each other.

The Asia Society is currently accepting nominations. The criteria for selection are:

40 years and under;
Established leader in their field; and
Fluent in English.

If you or someone you know is interested in applying, please sendasia21@asiasociety.org the following information: Full Name, Honorofic (Mr./Ms./Dr./etc), Job Title, Job Affiliation and Email Address. Applications will be sent to the nominees, and will be reviewed by the Asia 21 Selection Committe

Glorious

2010-05-13T09:29:00.005+07:00

Here I stand in the rain
Looking up to see your face
Pass the Windows for a glimpse of you
Can’t you see how I feel
So come undo this hurt now
I wish you were beside me

I’m knocking at your heart
Begging you to open up
Let me feel you through the night
I walk a million miles
Whatever it takes

Glorious, you’re glorious

A miracle
You’re the dreams I got inside

‘n paint my world
of colors so divine
Glorious, so heavenly
You stole my heart
And you stepped into my life
Like no one else have done
It’s making you glorious

When the nights tumble down
I can feel you close to me
You got heaven stored inside of you
Say me, say you that’s how it all should be now
I wish you were beside me

I’m knocking at your heart
Begging you to open up
Let me feel you through the night
I walk a million miles
Whatever it takes

Glorious, you’re glorious
A miracle
You’re the dreams I got inside
‘n paint my world
Of colors so divine
Glorious, so heavenly
You stole my heart
And you stepped into my life
Like no one else have done
It’s making you glorious

Maybe I’m a fool, notorious, I never learn
Maybe I should leave my dreams of you behind
But when I see your eyes and touch your lips I know
I’m truly yours so glorious love can be

Glorious, you’re glorious
A miracle
You’re the dreams I got inside
‘n paint my world
Of colors so divine
Glorious, so heavenly
You stole my heart
And you stepped into my life
Like no one else have done
It’s making you glorious

Glorious, you’re glorious
A miracle
You’re the dreams I got inside
‘n paint my world
Of colors so divine
Glorious, so heavenly
You stole my heart
And you stepped into my life
Like no one else have done
It’s making you glorious

It’s making you glorious

Kseniya Simonova - Sand Animation (Ukraine's Got Talent Winner 2009)

2010-05-02T13:25:00.001+07:00

Bunderan HI fisheye view.

2010-04-27T11:50:00.001+07:00

SOHO at 8AM

2010-04-27T11:49:00.002+07:00

Asia 21 2010 Public Service Award

2010-04-22T22:23:00.000+07:00

Asia 21 2010 Public Service Award

Asia 21 Fellows, Class of 2010

2010-04-21T13:01:00.000+07:00

Asia 21 Fellows, Class of 2010

numbers bites.

2010-03-22T21:16:00.001+07:00

who says that one person can't make change?
it only take one person to become an angel of change to create a ripple of change.

no one effort goes unnoticed by God.
all one needs to do is act and believe.
look forward with a smile of an angel of change.

the world may be too big to imagine for one person to change..
but think of it more as another person's world.

the reason why veronica missed her flight.

2010-03-22T21:04:00.002+07:00

read her story:
Kontak Kick Andy

because i love you.

2010-02-04T00:13:00.004+07:00

Even if I lost you tonight,

I won't ever forget,

because I love you.

Every time we softly exchanged a short kiss under the moonlight,

affection would overflow with the gentle feeling

Both your laughter and your sad face, I had come to see them many times,

but that look which I saw for the first time still amazed me

You hold the key to unlock my heart, gently

My gratitude won't even reach your heart

In the middle of this endless road, I wonder what you're thinking

Don't ever forget, let me gently stay in your heart

There was a time when I would mess around,

hiding my pain in the darkness, planning on become just another boring adult,

but you held the key to unlock my heart, gently

I wonder if my word of gratitude can reach you in this moment

In the middle of this endless road, I wonder what you're thinking

Don't ever forget, let me gently stay in your heart

Looking back on the days we were together,

you were the one who taught me that I was not alone

I have decided that I would be the one to stand by your side in times of sadness

Don't ever forget, that I love you...

Even if I lose you tonight,

I won't ever forget, because I love you.

Don't ever forget, because I love you.

eternal

2010-02-03T23:49:00.004+07:00

To love and to hate

It is not something that can be conveyed easily with words

Once a year, on this special day

Time and again, forever, closest to you

Your smile, and the very same gestures

Every single one of them are all my treasure

You're smiling, you're living

Just for that alone

It makes me happy and warm

and I feel that I could be gentle

You light up my future

The warmth mum gave me

It is wrapped in a large form of love

I'll take all of that and walk on

Showered by our friend's gentleness

We messed up and fought...

But we learnt the happiness of understanding each other

Uncountable amount of memories

From this day on, let's create more of them

Say for example should I be born on this world again

We will each meet again like this

And I will love you again like this

There are barriers we have to overcome

But no matter what happens

I'll be right next to you

Say if my wish could come true...

Would someone please cast magic on you so that

No tears of saddness would ever have to fall down your face

I'll live on together with you

With a beautiful smile and my head held high

I'll hold your hand, and we'll walk side by side

Such a future awaits us

Thank you for today

my last horoscope reading in 2009

2009-12-31T12:32:00.001+07:00

Today's Full Moon Eclipse polarizes your 7th House of Relationships and you may need to explore how your feelings differ from those around you. In particular, you might be involved in a power struggle with your partner or a family member as you try to establish which one of you is calling the shots. Unfortunately, there will be no absolute winner because you both lose if either is disenfranchised. As challenging as it sounds, find common ground and move on from there.

Green tea-drinkers less likely to suffer depression

2009-12-23T23:30:00.003+07:00

Elderly people who drink several cups of green tea a day were less likely to suffer from depression, probably due to a "feel good" chemical found in this type of tea, Japanese researchers said.

Several studies have linked drinking green tea to lessening psychological problems and Dr Kaijun Niu, of Tohoku University Graduate School, and colleagues found men and women aged 70 and older who drank four or more cups of green tea daily were 44 per cent less likely to have symptoms of depression.

Green tea is widely consumed in many Asian countries, including China and Japan.

Dr Niu and the team investigated 1058 relatively healthy elderly men and women.

About 34 per cent of the men and 39 per cent of the women had symptoms of depression, according to the study that was published in the December issue of the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition.

A total of 488 participants said they drank four or more cups of green tea a day, 284 said they downed two to three cups daily and the rest reported having one or fewer cups daily.

According to the researchers, the apparent effect of drinking more green tea on alleviating symptoms of depression did not fade after they factored in social and economic status, gender, diet, history of medical problems and use of antidepressants.

By contrast, there was no association between consumption of black or oolong tea, or coffee, and lower symptoms of depression.

A green tea component, the amino acid theanine, which is thought to have a tranquillising effect on the brain, may explain the "potentially beneficial effect" shown in the current study, Dr Niu noted.

However, further studies were needed to confirm whether greater green tea intake actually had antidepressant effects, the researchers said.

source: heraldsun.com.au

When I Grow Up I Wanna Work in Advertising

2009-12-23T23:19:00.001+07:00

Truth in Advertising

2009-12-23T23:18:00.001+07:00

Funny..

have you seen motorola droid?

2009-12-19T21:31:00.002+07:00

iPhone 3G takes 24.6% of consumer smartphone market in Japan

2009-12-19T21:25:00.003+07:00

Nearly half of all domestic smartphone users have turned to the iPhone in Japan, giving Apple a dominant position in the market, according to a new study.

New data released this week from Tokyo-based research company Impress R&D shows the iPhone 3G taking 24.6 percent of the consumer smartphone market.The iPhone 3GS, released this year, accounts for another 21.5 percent.

Most of those gains came at the expense of the Sharp WillCOM W-Zero 3 Advance, a phone with a 3-inch screen and a slide-out QWERTY keyboard. In 2008, the phone was the most popular in Japan with 26.8 percent of the smartphone market. This year, its share tumbled to 14.6 percent while the iPhone 3GS was introduced, and the iPhone 3G saw a slight gain of 0.9 percent.

The success story soundly disproves reports from earlier this year that the iPhone was "hated" in Japan. It also demonstrates that the iPhone 3GS had a tremendous debut, just like the iPhone 3G did in 2008. This despite the fact that the Japanese market is notoriously difficult to crack for newcomers.

According to MobileCrunch, the iPhone has been aggressively marketed by carrier SoftBank Mobile, the exclusive wireless provider of the iPhone in Japan. "TV commercials virtually around the clock, print ads in major media, super-competitive pricing etc. do have an effect, it seems," the report said.

http://community.livejournal.com/japan_now/362140.html

Crayon Shin Chan Movie Trailer?

2009-12-13T23:49:00.001+07:00

hahaha...

The Best Blogging Phones

2009-12-13T11:10:00.002+07:00

Blogging is no longer a matter of sitting down at a computer and hammering at the keyboard. Nowadays it is a matter of participation, of getting actively and enjoyably involved in the world around you. It is about interviews conducted via email, constant twitter updates, exploring the world with your digital camera and remembering to check your comments whilst on holiday. This new interactive and slightly daunting world means that we need new technology. I still survive (just) with my laptop alone for my blog? but now I am beginning the long and complicated search to find a blogging super phone that will help to expand my world.

This searching has made me realise just how many phones are out there ? and I thought that you guys could probably use a list of the best blogging phones out there, just like I could! So, in no particular order, here are the 4 best options on the blogging phone market.
The iPhone

Yup, it had to be first. I am afraid there is no doubt about it ? if this isn?t the best blogging phone out there, it is certainly the most well known! The email facilities and apps mean that this phone really does try to outstrip its enemies, with apps for most blogging system, not to mention for anything else you may ever need! The camera isn?t that great so you will need your faithful digital too, but the screen and usability are quite brilliant! Don?t immediately think that this is the best out there though ? if you need a camera and a cheap contract there are better options out there by far!
The Blackberry Bold

The king of emails, these phones made their name by the ability to receive and send emails quickly and effectively on your phone. The Bold is the most powerful option out there, and includes a QWERTY keyboard that isn?t on a touch screen, which is quite a relief. The screen is much smaller but still pretty user friendly, and I know that at least Wordpress are currently developing a specific blogging app for it, that is currently in beta. Given that this phone boasts soo many fabulous features, I am quite disappointed that the camera is a puny 2MP.
The HTC Touch Pro 2

What, you have never heard of HTC? Don?t worry; I hadn?t until earlier this month! They are, however, a real competitor for top blogging phone, giving us a great big touch screen that doesn?t need two hands to hold (hello massive iPhone!) and plenty of good usability. The touchscreen is as good as an Apple, the looks are really stylish, and this baby comes packed with a 5MP camera that is more than enough for everyday blogging needs. Be careful though ? this is often sold without an internet package meaning life can get very expensive, even though it has email capabilities and should be on internet contracts!
The Nokia N97

My personal favourite, this phone seems to happily combine all of the good points about the three phones above! I particularly admire the slide out keyboard which means you have enough space to type without difficulty ? something that is vital for bloggers. You get tons of storage along with all the things that Nokia lovers already love, as well as a stonking 5MP camera with the much loved lens feature! There are no blog platform specific apps (can we push the Wordpress people, please??!), but you can blog directly from your phone with generic apps as well as get email, surf the web and listen to music. It is a good looker too, but watch out ? the contracts on this beauty can be huge, although affordable ones are out there if you search!

Editor?s note: This post is not sponsored, nor has it been influenced by our sponsors Windows Phone. The content of the post is purely editorial as noted by Lauren Cooke.

a new discovery...

2009-12-06T01:55:00.001+07:00

Sometimes MV by Masaki Okada

the rhythm of my heart today..just today..

Esquire's Augmented Reality Issue: A Tour

2009-12-01T15:04:00.001+07:00

President Obama met Crashers Michaele and Tareq Salahi at White House State Dinner

2009-11-28T20:21:00.001+07:00

"wow!!"

Buying, Selling, and Twittering All the Way

2009-11-28T10:54:00.003+07:00

Jerry DeFrancisco twitters to a Best Buy customer.

Retailers twitter to attract shoppers.

By STEPHANIE ROSENBLOOM and KAREN ANN CULLOTTA

Once upon a time, people mailed their holiday wishes to the North Pole and hoped for a reply on Christmas Day. Nowadays they are sending their wishes into cyberspace and are apt to get a reply in minutes.

America’s first Twitter Christmas got under way in earnest on Friday. Across the land, retailers and their customers used the social networking site to talk to one another about bargains, problems, purchases and shopping strategies.

After buying a new navigation system at 6 a.m. on the most frenzied shopping day of the year, Laura S. Kern of Los Angeles could not figure out why it was not giving her traffic updates. She sent a message to Best Buy’s Twitter account and within five minutes not one, but two Best Buy employees responded with fix-it advice.

In Bloomington, Minn., Mall of America used its Twitter page to tell consumers two of its parking areas were at capacity and that their best bet was to park near Ikea.

Twitter permits public communication via short, to-the-point messages. Many people use it to send mundane updates to their friends, but increasingly, the nation’s retailers see it as a business tool.

It gives customers a practical way to cajole a retailer, complain about something or ask questions.

A Twitter post can in theory be seen by millions, and thus packs more punch than an e-mail message or a phone call to a store. The big retailers are all scrambling this Christmas to come up with Twitter plans. They are designating tech-savvy employees to respond to the posts, sometimes by providing up-to-minute inventory information from a sales floor, for example, or by offering help with some balky gadget.

“It’s one of the greatest emerging communication channels out there,” said Greg Ahearn, senior vice president of marketing and e-commerce for Toys “R” Us. “This is a way people can stay connected with the brand in a way they’ve never been able to before.”

So far this shopping weekend, special deals have been posted on Twitter from stores as varied as Best Buy, J.C. Penney, Toys “R“ Us, Staples, Gap, Bloomingdale’s, and Barneys. (Links to the retailing Twitter accounts mentioned in this article can be found in the Web version of the story on NYTimes.com.)

For the uninitiated, Twitter.com is a Web site where each member has a password-protected page. It has a blank box for typing in a message of 140 characters or fewer, an act known as tweeting.

To see a retailer’s messages, Twitter users “follow” the retailer, which means that the chain’s posts show up on their Twitter home page when they log in. And the system allows users to send messages in the other direction, so that a retailer’s employees will see them.

“I think in this economy you need to leverage every asset that you have,” said James Fielding, president of Disney Stores Worldwide, who sends messages under the Twitter name, or handle, DisneyStorePrez.

On Friday morning, as consumers flooded Disney Stores around the country, Mr. Fielding messaged: “We have amazing ONE DAY ONLY deals previewing on our Facebook page — become a fan today and find out more!”

Retailers hope that if they send Twitter messages, consumers will come. About 47 percent of retailers said they would increase their use of social media this holiday season, according to a study by Shop.org, part of the National Retail Federation, an industry group. And more than half of retailers said they added or improved their Facebook and Twitter pages. There are advantages for consumers too, like discounts. For instance, those who decided to follow Gap Outlet received an offer for 15 percent off purchases of $75 or more.

As shoppers jammed the aisles on Friday at a Best Buy store in Arlington Heights, Ill., an employee, Jerry DeFrancisco, went up to a computer kiosk and used his Twitter account to tell customers about Best Buy’s home theater deals. Then he resumed his in-store duties, helping a customer decipher a sales circular.

A few months ago, Best Buy began piloting a Twelpforce — a Twitter-inspired play on “help force” — of some 2,500 employees that answer consumers’ questions in real time.
“It’s 24-hour access to our employees,” said Brad Smith, director of interactive marketing and emerging media for Best Buy. The Twelpforce had fielded about 25,000 questions even before gearing up for Thanksgiving weekend.

Ms. Kern in Los Angeles used the service on Friday. After she could not get her new navigation system to work, she tried Best Buy’s telephone support line, only to receive a warning that her wait would be an hour. So she posted on Twitter instead, and within minutes, Best Buy employees were sending her useful links and details about her gadget. “It’s amazing,” she said later in the day. (Her interaction with the employees ultimately helped her realize she would need to go back to the store for help.)

Many retailers will be posting to their Twitter pages throughout the weekend and the entire holiday season. Some chains have an official Twitter account. Others have many, like one for each store, or one for each employee who wants to post messages. There are Twitter pages for designers, like Nicole Miller and Diane von Furstenberg.

Retailers also use Facebook to interact with their customers. But Facebook, with its photo albums and various applications, does not have the same no-frills immediacy as Twitter — which is why Twitter is ideal for instantaneously announcing sales.

In addition to bargains, stores are also using Facebook and Twitter to promote contests and games that they hope will keep consumers engaged and coming back. Best Buy has an interactive Secret Santa application on its Facebook page. Gap is using Twitter to inform New York City residents and visitors where its “Gap Cheer” bus (filled with dancers and drummers) will be parked and giving away sweaters and jeans.

Of course, sometimes retailers simply use their Twitter posts to capture the spirit of the season. At 3:30 Thursday morning, an employee posted seven words on the Macy’s Twitter page, about a marching band that was practicing hours before the chain’s Thanksgiving day parade.

It said: “Is he really running with a tuba?”

IKEA Facebook Showroom

2009-11-27T09:46:00.001+07:00

Does it remind you of the "burger king sacrifice your friend for a burger"campaign?

Awesome promo that let's users win stuff by tagging photos of IKEA rooms on Facebook.

muji lego.

2009-11-27T09:37:00.004+07:00

how cool and cute..

can i have one?