OMG!!! This is such bad timing!! I haven't been online all day until now.
I hope everything turns out right. I'm listening to their Japanese album in my car. This is bad news.
MAN!! It getting confused every hour. I want to hear from the girls not from their lawers or their mothers.
DSP Media releases official statement, Goo Hara cancels contract termination January 19, 2011 After the four members of KARA previously announced that they filed to terminate their contracts with DSP Media, representatives of the agency have finally released an official statement on January 19th.
It reads:
“DSP Media will be making an official statement regarding the contract terminations reported by Jung Nicole, Han Seungyeon, Kang Jiyoung, and Goo Hara of KARA. We received a one-sided declaration from their lawyers, Landmark, on January 18th, but Goo Hara has decided not to join the others in terminating her contract.
According to their claims, the 10-month hospitalization of CEO Lee Hoyeon caused the management to become inefficient in planning and promoting the group’s activities, but that is not the truth, as the CEO’s wife ran administration in place of the CEO. KARA’s explosive popularity with the Hallyu wave in Japan testifies to these efforts, further proving that the management did not mishandle their activities.
CEO Lee Hoyeon was not able to run the company himself beginning March of 2010, and KARA’s Japanese achievements were made five months later in August. DSP Media has done all they can in supporting and preparing KARA’s Japanese advancement.
Regarding the income distribution claims made by Nicole’s mother and their lawyers, the information they revealed was distorted and is a complete misunderstanding. Income was distributed in a manner that was most profitable to the KARA members, and unlike what they claimed, every employee was paid at the same time the moment profits were received.
They also claimed that DSP used its stature to force unwanted schedules and activities, but this is also a baseless claim. This is a claim that only defames the company employees who have worked their hardest to raise KARA as one of Korea’s top groups and leaders of the Hallyu wave.
And regarding speculations from another report about a competing agency attempting to persuade their parents and lawyers to terminate the girls’ contract with DSP, we ask that they stop such actions immediately. Should such requests be made repeatedly, we will make sure that they are met with legal consequences.
As the company that has poured their sweat and effort into creating who KARA is today, we hope that such issues are no longer exaggerated. Should there be issues between both parties, adjustments and reconciliation should be the appropriate step in continuing to promote themselves as a representative girl group of Korea.”
Regarding news of Hara staying with DSP Media, representatives continued, “Hara has decided not to comply with the terminations she submitted earlier today with the other members.” The possibility of further changes in the remaining three contracts is now at center stage.
As for their Japanese drama, “URAKARA” which is now facing an uncertain future, they stated, “They’ve already filmed four episodes before this so we have about three weeks of time left. We are looking forward to drawing a positive decision with the KARA members before then.”
2nd official statement from Landmark and Kara January 19, 2011
Seungyeon, Hara, Jiyoung and Nicole, the 4 out of 5 members of Kara, previously released a statement regarding their decision to leave their management company, DSP Media. Since then, DSP has released an official statement about the issue in which they argued against some of the four members’ points. Now that Goo Hara changed her mind to return to DSP, the remaining three members decided to press on with their offense and released another statement through Landmark, their legal representatives.
Below is the second statement released by Landmark;
The loss of faith in our company is what hurts us the most!
The members of Kara and DSP Media began to lose trust in one another ever since the change in DSP’s top management which occurred in March 2010. This is due to the fact that the members of the new management, who lacked professional knowledge, failed to provide proper management for Kara. The current executive director of DSP Media is the wife of Mr. Lee Ho Yeon, the ex-director who is currently ill. She has never worked in the entertainment management industry before; and so far, she has only been concerned about DSP’s profits and the health of DSP. She failed to build a trusting relationship with the members of Kara as she disregarded situations and the growth potential of the members.
The contract turned into a registration form!
The members of Kara signed the contract for their work in Japan under the knowledge that it was a simple registration form. The members and the parents were told that the contract, which was in Japanese, was a form for simply registering as a music artist in Japan. This made them sign t he contract without knowing that they were signing a contract, and when they asked for a copy of the contract after the fact, a DSP employee declined their request as the contract was not to be released outside of the company.
The company had no rights to make deals in Japan!
The executive director of DSP Japan, the company in charge of Kara’s work in Japan, is the same person as the original DSP executive director (wife of Lee Ho Yeon). The company removed part of the earnings as a share of DSP Japan, and then paid the members with a percentage of the remaining portion. This means that the same manager, who owns both companies, cut Kara’s share of the earnings through a transaction out of formality, which resulted in Kara getting taxed twice by the company. According to their contract with DSP, Kara members had their rights violated by this action.
Karaya is owned by the executive director and his family!
Karaya is an online clothing store for which three members of Kara (Gyuri, Hara and Jiyoung) work as models. It is owned by the current executive director of DSP Media, and other managerial positions are held by the director’s family members, which clearly shows that this is another scheme to profit from the Kara members. Karaya also made the members wear clothing with the inappropriate line “BEST FUCKIN FIVE” on it then posted the photos on its website, which not only disregarded the reputation of the members, especially Jiyoung who is a minor, but also resulted in heavy complaints from Kara’s fans. This action was a clear display of how DSP disregards the reputation or profit of the artists and is only concerned about the profits of itself.
DSP Entertainment responds to TV report article January 19, 2011
Earlier today we reported details regarding Kara’s contract, uncovered by TV report in midst of this very significant controversy. Edaily, a Korean online newspaper, contacted DSP Entertainment today regarding the report; and here is what the group’s management company had to say about the allegations against them.
A representative from DSP explained to Edaily through a phone interview today that they paid each members of Kara around 300 million Won per person ($300,000) last year, more than half of which has already been paid during the first half of the year. When questioned why the members were only paid $3,000 this past December, the representative explained that it was based from a promotion with a franchise of a convenience store during August. DSP received 3 million Yen ($40,000) from the deal, and the Kara members each received $3,000 from this according to the representative. So some may be curious on why they were only paid a share of this promotion and not their album and single sales? The representative explained this as well.
He went on to claim that Kara was offered a share of profit that was much higher than the going rate in the Japanese music industry. Japanese artists usually receive only 1% of the total album and single sales, and because DSP believed that this amount was unfair for Kara, they offered to pay the members around 20-30% of DSP’s share in the sales. In Japan, the distributor takes 84% of the album/single sales, leaving the management company with the remaining 16%. In DSP’s case, they had to split it evenly with Universal Japan, which is Kara’s management company in Japan. Hence, DSP was to receive 8% of the total album/single sales, and they would have had to pay only 1/8 of it to Kara members. However, the representative stated that they felt that the amount was unfair for Kara, so they had offered the parents of the members 20-30% of DSP’s share, which would be 1.6-2.4% of the total sales, rather than 1%.
Lastly, he stated that the Kara members were supposed to receive the third quarter profits in December, but this couldn’t be done because the parents didn’t give an answer to their offer.
A lot of information from this interview are contradicting of other reports, mostly the ones that were written in favor of Kara. This interview does give one piece of information that is of value; the fact that dispute most likely started over profit distribution of album and single sales in Japan, and the members’ parents were heavily involved in this. Reminds us of another group of the past, doesn’t it?
Stay tuned to allkpop for more on this story as it develops.
DSP Media addresses KARA fans in its 2nd official statement January 19, 2011
Yesterday, KARA’s Seungyeon, Hara, Jiyoung and Nicole released a statement regarding their decision to leave their management company, DSP Media. DSP Media released an official statement responding to the issue, in which they argued against some of the four members’ points. On January 20th, DSP Media released a second statement, but instead of providing yet another round of clarifications, the statement was a mere request for patience from fans.
The document reads:
“Hello, this is DSP Media.
We believe that there must be a lot of people currently feeling confused over the reports being made by the media regarding the termination of KARA’s exclusive contracts.
First of all, we would like to deeply apologize for creating such confusion and concerns.
About five years have passed since KARA first began promoting themselves and met with their fanclub, Kamilia. We will be working our hardest in order to make sure that the absolute support and love that Kamilias share with KARA, through all the joys and hardships, do not go waste.
We request that you extend your love and support once more to the five members of KARA, who are undergoing more difficulties through this ordeal than anyone else.
Representative reveals there is no discord between the KARA members January 19, 2011
With three of the KARA members currently filing a lawsuit against DSP Media, close representatives of the girls have alerted fans that there is no personal dispute between them, and that the girls are handling it in a mature manner.
A representative revealed on January 20th:
“When groups go through such a controversy, it’s only to be expected that they fight amongst themselves. With KARA, there’s nothing like that. Although there was a strange current surrounding the group since last year, there hasn’t been any discord between the members.”
Their characters and personalities are all so different, and there was a member who didn’t have a close relationship with the rest, but they overcame all of that with extreme trust through years of working together. They’ve built up a strong sense of co-dependence on one another by working in Japan, which further strengthened their friendships.
Each of the five members have different thoughts, but they’ve never fought or argued because of them. The five did not talk about unnecessary things in the presence of others, as they respect and are considerate of each other.”
Another representative of DSP Media also added, “Because of the differences in opinions, there most likely was something they were all uncomfortable with, but there definitely isn’t any discord. When they were working, they came together stronger than anyone else.”
KARA cancels appearances, “URAKARA” to air as scheduled January 19, 2011
Due to the contract terminations filed by KARA’s Seungyeon, Nicole, and Jiyoung, DSP Media will be halting all of their scheduled appearances.
Seungyeon, Nicole, and Jiyoung’s lawyers, Landmark, reported on January 19th that DSP Media will no longer be managing the three girls, and thus suspended their KARA schedules.
KARA will not be making an appearance at the “Seoul Music Awards“, scheduled for January 20th. Leader Gyuri will also be temporarily halting her appearances on her radio program with Super Junior’s Shindong.
Representatives of DSP Media stated,”Gyuri was put in a state of shock after receiving notice of the contract terminations, and expressed that she could not take part in the live recording for her radio show on the morning of the 20th.”
Their Japanese drama, “URAKARA,” will continue to be aired as scheduled. Representatives of Nihon TV spoke with Star News on the 20th and stated, “We are planning to air the episodes of ‘URAKARA’ according to schedule. Rumors of KARA’s disbandment are worrying their Japanese fans. Because their drama completed all the necessary filming, it will air without any problems.”
KARA Nicole’s mom tweets her stand on the agency issues January 19, 2011
KARA’s agency troubles has just added another chapter to its saga, as recent tweets by member Nicole’s mother are quickly becoming a hot topic.
She stated on Twitter, “There is no parent who would gamble with their child’s life over money. There is no parent who would destroy what her child has been working for through blood, sweat, and tears.”
She added, “Our children were able to achieve their dreams through extremely hard work. Now that we’ve looked back on the blood, sweat, and tears, we had no choice but to go this route. There are many more hills to climb in the future. Even though we knew this would happen, we still chose to do it. Because we love our daughters.”
“We will show exactly what is there. We will say exactly what is there. We will not submit to lies.”
The tweets have since been removed from her Twitter.
KARA’s composer refuses to work with KARA “if it’s not with all five” January 19, 2011
The producer behind KARA’s representative tracks (“Pretty Girl,” “Honey,” “Mister,” and “Lupin“) has expressed his opinion on the contract termination lawsuit filed by three members of the girl group.
On January 19th, composer Han Jae Ho wrote through his Twitter:
“It’s been a tiring day. Last year, it was so fun and joyous being able to watch them go up step-by-step; each day was so full of energy. This year, we’re off to a rocky start. Just like how something good happens after something bad, something bad must happen after something good.
For me, I don’t believe the issue to be as severe as reports are making it out to be. I believe that KARA will not be disbanding under any reason, and it’s so apparent that those five kids want to stick together. Why must such reports be made?
Just a day ago, the members of KARA were working hard and having fun – they were all doing fine. The ‘mass comm’ likes picking fights… Vigorous articles are flooding it now.
I believe that KARA isn’t KARA without five members. If it’s not with all five, I refuse to work with anything regarding KARA.
I hope that today ends as a bad dream for something bigger and better, and I hope that we can dream of rising up once more, just like yesterday.”
KARA’s Nicole, Seungyeon, & Jiyoung’s parents reveal their meeting January 20, 2011
The parents of KARA’s Nicole, Seungyeon, and Jiyoung are currently preparing to release statements on the hardships their daughters were forced to endure, as well as details regarding the alleged irrational income distribution by DSP Media.
The parents met in an emergency meeting on the afternoon of January 19th and revealed that representatives of DSP were trying to meet with each of the members in hopes for reconciliation. Unfortunately, the parents revealed that it would be impossible for them to cancel their decision to terminate their contracts.
In an interview with Newsen, they claimed, “Right until the girls declared that they would be parting ways with the company, they continuously asked for clear and transparent income balances, as well as communication, but DSP refused the requests. Why else do you think they would leave the company that raised them into who they are?”
The parents claimed that they requested for documents regarding the income the girls brought in in Japan, but the company delayed the sharing of such information with excuses such as, “There’s nothing balanced yet” and “Please wait until the appropriate time.“ When an opportunity for communication was finally opened, the company brought out balance documents that were difficult to understand, deepending the distrust between the two parties.
One member’s parents exclaimed, “Is such a contract that only gives $3,000 per person for dancing the ‘butt dance’ in Japan fair?“ They also revealed that the girls were put in saunas to sleep because of their busy drama filmings.
Another continued, “KARA released ‘Jumping‘ late last year, but there were barely any schedules for their Korean fans, and DSP Japan were busy working the girls to film ‘URAKARA‘ for their own profits. There were a lot of unexplainable circumstances, such as the girls being put to sleep in a sauna one night.”
All three parents exclaimed, “The company is prospering with the income that is being made, while the kids are getting bloody noses from fatigue. This reality cannot continue.”
Regarding members Park Gyuri and Goo Hara, who both are not taking part in the lawsuit, the parents revealed that Gyuri’s parents were “walking a different path from the other girls since three months ago,” as Gyuri’s parents failed to show up at a parental meeting held last November.
Asked about the rumors of another entertainment agency offering the girls better contracts, they revealed, “We can’t say anything, as the parents don’t discuss such internal things. What we’re sure is that the three members will not be able to repair their relationship with DSP.”
I read that Seungyeon is thinking about not going through it. DSP is talking each member, so there is hope. That's all I can understand with the chaos going on the web.
__________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ Landmark reveals official statement on the stance of the three KARA members January 20, 2011
The controversial contract termination saga continues, as the parents of three KARA members (Nicole, Han Seungyeon, and Kang Ji Young) revealed their official stance through their legal representative, Landmark.
On January 21st, Landmark stated, “The parents of the three KARA members came to our law firm and revealed that they would like KARA to remain as five.”
“The most important emphasis from the members’ perspective is KARA’s activities. KARA’s parents want a professional management company they can trust, and the members want a relationship with an agency that is not hierarchal, but one that works around trust and integrity.”
The representative continued, “The current situation is a problem between the members and the agency, there are definitely no problems between the members themselves.”
Landmark also sent a message to DSP Media stating, “Stop trying to divide the members.”
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The following is Landmark’s official press release:
“We want “KARA as five members”
On the evening of January 20th, the parents of the members who sent a termination notice of their exclusive contracts with DSP Media on January 19th (Jung Nicole, Kang Ji Young, Han Seung Yeon) met with our legal representative and agreed on the following stance.
1. Both the members of KARA and their parents would like “KARA as 5 members”.
The KARA members genuinely desire for KARA to stay as five members and continue with their activities as a five-membered group. There may be legal problems regarding their relationship with their agency, however, the members believe that their fundamental priority is to continue as five and promote as one team.
2. Both the members of KARA and their parents believe that “KARA’s current activities are the most important priority; the problem with their company is secondary.”
From the members’ perspective, the most important matter is “KARA’s activities”. To them, this is their primary priority, and the management company’s key role is to support their artists’ activities. The artists are not the company’s subordinate. This is the core issue.
3. Both the members of KARA and their parents “desire a management professional who they can trust.”
KARA has stated that they “would like a professional celebrity management company that can be the support of all of KARA’s talents and capabilities.” They believe that ‘trust’ and ‘expertise’ should be the tenets of any celebrity management company. In addition, the members do not want a vertical hierarchal relationship with their agency, but a horizontal cooperation based on trust and faith.
We have already pointed out many times that the current agency lacks both expertise and trust.
4. Both the members of KARA and their parents want “DSP Media to stop trying to divide the members immediately.”
KARA states, “The current situation is a problem between the members and the agency, there is definitely no problem between the members themselves. There is no discord between the members at all, but the company keeps intervening by calling the members personally and deliberately trying to divide the members. We truly want them to show integrity in their acts for the sake of the members.”
Lastly, KARA stated, “DSP Media’s “second official statement” on January 20th is meaningless. We have more evidence than they think.”
DSP Media responds to accusations regarding members sleeping in saunas January 20, 2011
It’s been reported that all five members of KARA are planning to sit down together and discuss the future of the group.
On January 20th, a representative of the company stated, “The members, including Goo Hara, will meet tonight to discuss the current situation. Goo Hara said, “I will meet with the members and find a way to reach a solution.” Ever since the rise of the situation, none of the members have been able to meet at one place for a discussion. Wouldn’t there be a breakthrough if the members talked face-to-face? Whatever happens, KARA will continue.”
Ever since Landmark revealed that Goo Hara, Han Seungyeon, Kang Jiyoung and Nicole were moving to terminate their contracts, the four members have been separated due to their personal activities. Han Seungyeon and Goo Hara had just returned to Korea from recording a New Year’s special program for SBS in Thailand, while Nicole was shooting SBS’s “Heroes“. Meanwhile, Kang Ji Young and Park Gyuri were said to have been at their own homes at the time of the notification release.
Upon arriving at Incheon Airport, Goo Hara received a phone call regarding the urgent situation and her face stiffened immediately.
It was reported that the member soon headed to the company office in Banpo, Seoul. “Goo Hara found us at the agency building on January 19th and expressed, “There was a misunderstanding. I didn’t know about any concrete details.” She came back again on the 20th and expressed her frustration, as she said, “I don’t know why this situation is turning into something different to what we really think.” The members themselves insisted to sleep at the sauna because it was too much of a hassle to go back to their dorms, so she was disappointed to see reports about the company mistreating them, amongst many other distorted facts.”
The company continued, “It’s really frustrating to read about us making the members sleep at saunas. The members said that they wanted to sleep there, but the manager tried to stop them because there were too many people. We understand that they underwent continuous filming. They’re making people think that the members are wandering from sauna to sauna without a dorm to stay in. In comparison to other groups, KARA is treated comfortably, and are even driven around in two exclusive vans.”
KARA’s Hara and Gyuri: “Our team cannot break up.” January 20, 2011
It seems that KARA is still bent on staying together, as it’s being reported that Hara and Gyuri are attempting to convince the other members to return to DSP Media. The two have apparently expressed, “Our team cannot break up.”
A representative stated, “Hara and Gyuri both contacted the other members and told them that the team could/should not break up. [If we do], we’ll all fail together. I believe they’re trying to convince the other members by stressing the importance of staying as a group.”
A staff member of DSP stated, “If one member moves agencies, it’s highly likely that the others will reset contracts as well. They’re continuing to explain the misunderstandings.”
KARA’s Seungyeon’s father believes all five should remain together January 20, 2011
The father of KARA’s Han Seungyeon revealed that he didn’t want his daughter’s group to disband through an interview on January 20th.
Reporters of TV Report visited his home in order to hear his side of the story, and although he refused the interview at first, he later agreed and stated, “First of all, although I knew that talks regarding their contracts were going on, I did not think that the issue would escalate to this level. Seungyeon has told me from time to time that she was tired, but I didn’t think much of it.”
He continued, “I received a phone call from Seungyeon on the 19th and all she did was cry. I think it was because things weren’t developing the way she had thought at first, and now that the issue is out of her hands, she was afraid to find a way to overcome it.”
When asked what he thought the members’ biggest problems were with DSP Media, he responded, “There’s a lot, but I think the main is that there’s no order. As much as KARA is being acknowledged for their efforts, the support isn’t following through.”
He further explained that the company would spontaneously schedule a B-level activity, and give up an A-level activity in order to fulfill their appearance on the B-level activity.
He also stated that the lawsuit is not because of ‘money problems’ or the rumors regarding a new agency offering them better contracts. Han explained, “I don’t want to discuss monetary issues right now, as it isn’t even the proper time for that. If DSP is unjust, I’d rather they just end their contract as opposed to move to another agency. It’s something that cannot happen.”
Han expressed his concerns for Kamilias, KARA’s fanbase, by stating, “How can a singer exist without fans? What’s most disappointing is that the members think importantly of their fans, but they’re receiving criticisms saying that they’ve lost their loyalty. I am unsure as to how to clarify that.”
He continued, “I once told Seungyeon to give up the chaotic entertainment industry and to just go back to studying. Whatever path is right, and whatever decision is the best, I just hope that the issue is resolved with wisdom.”
When asked what he thought the ‘right path’ was, he answered, “Doesn’t everyone know what the right path is? It’s for all five members to remain together. A lot of people compare the case to TVXQ, but KARA is still a beginner. Whether they stay together or leave, I don’t think it’s right to promote as separate groups. Whatever the case, I believe that they should remain together.”
Han concluded, “I think the priority right now is to figure out what exactly is the problem, and whether it’s something that can be fixed. I need to meet with the other parents to hear what they think. No matter what someone does, bringing something to a successful conclusion is a must, and as a parent, that is what’s most disappointing.”
Universal Music Japan Is Now Puzzled About KARA January 20, 2011 With the current issues between Korean idol group KARA and DSP Entertainment, Universal Music Japan is also puzzled about KARA.
On a Japanese website, Universal Music Japan commented about KARA's performance arrangements.
UMJ said, "They’ve already signed a performance contract with us. In Japan they’re a member of our company, regardless of their issues with the other party (DSP), we hope they carry out their performance schedule with us as planned, that’s what we’re asking."
Producers of KARA’s songs plead to fans January 21, 2011
Music producers who have been working with KARA recently came forth in a plea to keep believing in KARA as five members.
Han Jae Ho, the producer of ‘Pretty Girl’, ‘Mister’, and ‘Lupin‘, recently tweeted on January 21st, “I’ve been with them ever since the five members were first born as KARA, to when they were breastfed and started walking on two feet.. till when they flew up into the sky. When they didn’t even get sleep themselves, they’d always ask, “Is someone okay?” and “Is unnie okay?”, and always looking out for each other.”
He continued, “When they suffered hardships and gained rewards together, they would sometimes fight and forgive each other, that’s how they came to understand each other and become what KARA is today.”
“You see, KARA are foolish friends who think their position in the present time is nothing, who worry that they’ll ruin the group because they didn’t do a good job at something.”
“They’re foolish friends who are scared of bad reports, but they’re also intelligent friends who believe that KARA can’t be if they’re all separated. Please give KARA strength so they can be together. The distortions that are hurting both the company and the members are disdainful.”
Song Soo Yeon, a lyricist who helped in producing some of KARA’s hit songs, also stated, “The five babies who always took care of each other and laughed together.. Knowing that they are the most beautiful when they’re five, I will always support KARA as five members. I’d like it if these innocent kids would not be hurt from the media’s editing and manipulations.”
Singer Eueryn recently tweeted, “The biggest reason that makes you want to take care of KARA is the way they’re all so kind, humble, and sincere. Please don’t hurt these five kind children by refraining from speculating and keep hoping and believing that they can all come together to sing sweet melodies once again.”
And now the head of CCM is publicly calling for the three girls involved to be blacklisted. These Korean producers have no shame or limits to their greed do they.
Conspiracy Theorist
Snake Oil Salesman
“ Like always, these lyrics don’t have a deep meaning. " -Mai Hagiwara trans-Nouciel
KARA’s parents might seek the help of KEPA to facilitate reunification January 22, 2011
According to reports by the Union News, KARA’s Nicole, Seungyeon, and Jiyoung are currently discussing soliciting arbitration from the Korea Entertainment Producers’ Association (KEPA).
An industry representative, and also an associate of the three girls, ‘J‘, stated, “The parents of the three have expressed a desire to discuss matters with DSP Media. They’re also considering to request mediation from the KEPA.”
‘J’ has been making headlines as the close friend of Nicole’s mother, and for also allegedly being the figure behind the entertainment company that offered KARA new contracts under his own agency and to pay for their contract termination penalties.
‘J’, who expressed that he knew about the rumors, answered, “I was targeted to be the one offering contracts from behind, but that’s ridiculous. It’s true that I’m helping them, but it’s under a completely different understanding. I lived in the same apartment as Nicole in the U.S. and have been close with the members’ parents for a while. I listened to their concerns and gave advice from a third party perspective. I don’t even want to get into the rumor about me supposedly investing $4 million USD into an agency to take in KARA.”
He also revealed that he met with the parents yesterday and that he has been watching over the entire ordeal right alongside them. The problem is not money, he claimed, but a matter of broken trust and the problems that arose after the CEO’s wife took his place after his hospitalization.
‘J’ continued, “The remaining years left in each of the members’ contracts are different. If the original CEO was present, then we wouldn’t think twice about re-contracting under DSP, but DSP has blocked the girls from visiting the CEO in the hospital and withdrew information regarding his health. If they hadn’t done that, the girls would have at least stuck by their contract out of loyalty to the CEO. The company instead tried to hide things and never once showed proper balance statements and contract documents. DSP wanted to ‘make at least one more member return so that they can continue promotions with a new member addition’ and have been continuously attempting to meet with Seungyeon and Jiyoung’s parents in an attempt to persuade them with higher income distributions. They do not realize that this is an issue of broken trust.”
He added, “The three parents are not thinking at all about whether they’ll be returning to the company, or whether they’ll be looking for another company. They just believe that they want KARA as five. The parents will be negotiating with the company. Because of foolish speculations like ‘the parents are doing it for the money’, and further misunderstandings with the company, I, too, told them to negotiate.”
On the other hand, representatives of DSP Media revealed to TV Report on January 22nd, “We have evidence proving that ‘J’ tried to win over the parents of KARA and that he is one of the figures behind this controversy. It isn’t physical evidence, but we definitely have it.”
KARA’s Nicole finds herself in a sticky situation January 21, 2011
A close industry representative of DSP Media revealed through TV Report on January 21st that both Seungyeon and Jiyoung have a high possibility of canceling their contract terminations. He stated, “It’s likely for them both to be staying with DSP. But with Nicole’s mother being regarded as the leader of this controversy, if worse comes to worst, Nicole will leave the group.”
He continued, “Because of this controversy, Nicole is bearing the brunt of the hate. Even if all five choose to remain together, it will be difficult for Nicole to further lead a normal career. There’s even ridiculous talks of Nicole being the ‘recall’.”
Leader Park Gyuri never participated in the lawsuit, while Hara dropped out moments after reports were made. With Seungyeon expected to follow the two, many are speculating for Jiyoung to return as well.
The problem remains with Nicole, as Nicole’s mother uploaded a series of tweets that referred to the KARA members as “her loving daughters” while bad mouthing DSP Media. After it grew into a controversy, they were promptly deleted. Hara herself also revealed that she had no idea about the contract terminations, leading many to doubt whether all of the members even agreed to this.
The controversy surrounding Nicole’s mother being the cause of this entire lawsuit is further backed up by such evidence.
Netizens, as well as DSP Media, have already speculated Nicole’s mother to be the ringleader.
In TV Report’s first report, the identity of Nicole’s mother was left anonymous, but DSP Media went ahead with all three of their statements in calling out her mother directly.
Another representative close to DSP Media revealed, “Although they’re trying their absolute best in keeping the original members, if worse comes to worst, Nicole will be taken out of the group and a new member will be added to continue their promotions.”
The Korea Entertainment Producers’ Association is also expected to be raising the hand in DSP’s favor. A representative of DSP visited the KEPA on the afternoon of the 20th in order to discuss on the recent developments. The representative revealed that DSP and KEPA made an agreement in that the KEPA will not put blame on whatever decision or action DSP chooses to take.
Although representative of KEPA spoke regarding the issue on the 20th, he avoided any direct answers, “We confirm that a DSP representative visited our office, but it was regarding a substitute for CEO Lee Hoyeon in receiving his ‘achievement award,’ as he is currently hospitalized. Since the KARA controversy is what it is, discussion regarding the controversy was inevitable.”
KARA’s Nicole, Seungyeon, and Jiyoung will be giving their personal opinions at a press conference with Landmark at 3 PM KST on January 21st.
Landmark says issues lies with DSP Media; KARA members want to continue as a group January 21, 2011
The parents of KARA’s Nicole, Jiyoung, and Seungyeon held a press conference with their lawyers, Landmark, at 3 PM KST on January 20th. The members were not present.
The parents began by declaring that they wanted “a KARA of five members” and that the members genuinely wanted “a KARA of five members” as well. Although there are legal issues between the members and their agency, the parents were adamant about making clear that the members wanted to continue as a group.
The parents stated, “The priority right now are KARA’s promotions. The agency itself is the next problem. The basic job of a management agency is to support an artist’s activities. An artist is not subordinate to the company.”
Representatives of the three members of KARA stated, “We want the full support of a management company that will allow KARA to express their full potential. The very foundation of an entertainment management company is trust and professionalism. The kind of relationship the members want with their company is one of trust and cooperation. We’ve reported many times that the company lacks both elements.”
They continued, “This controversy is a problem between the members and their agency, not one between each other. There is no discord between the members, but DSP Media continues to contact each of the members in an effort to divide them. We genuinely hope that they will act with character for the members.”
When asked about the possibility of the girls returning to DSP, Hong replied, “There is a possibility, but like we’ve said numerous times, it’s only possible once the problems as revealed by the members and their parents are fixed. ”
On Hara’s decision to cancel her termination, he replied, “From what I know, she has a strong attachment to the five and wanted teamwork.”
A reporter asked, “What do you have to say about your previous claim of the members receiving 1% of their income?” Hong replied, “I do not have the exact documents so I cannot verify that for you.”
Another asked, “What do you think about the public believing Nicole’s mother is the cause of all this?“ Hong replied, “Not only Nicole’s mother, but the rest of their parents could not find a compromise with DSP, which is why they sought legal help.”
When asked for further details on the “lack of professionalism” he mentioned earlier, Hong repied, “Details will be released later. I believe the fact that the situation has even reached this point is a big error on their end.”
KARA Goo Hara’s great aunt passes away January 21, 2011
KARA’s Goo Hara has flew back to Gwangju to attend to a personal family affair.
A representative of DSP Media revealed to Star News on January 21st, “Goo Hara received notice that her great aunt had passed away this morning. She has left by plane to her great aunt’s home with one manager in tow. Her parents left separately on another flight.”
With three of her fellow KARA members undergoing a lawsuit with her agency, Hara has been earning the support of the public for having to endure the death of a family member as well.
Core Contents CEO wants the Kara members gone? January 21, 2011
The recent Kara controversy has many people upset, not only the fans but also many people who work in the industry. Mr. Kim Kwang Soo, the CEO of Core Contents Media who produced many famous groups such as T-ara, Seeya, Jo Sungmo, and SG Wannabe, raised his voice of concern much higher than others; he wants Seungyeon, Nicole and Jiyoung out of the industry… permanently.
In a phone interview with Daily Sports, he stated, “I asked the Korean Entertainment Producers Association (KEPA) to take heavy measures against Kara. I believe that if the three members left the group to join another management company, then they should not be allowed to come back to music industry in the future. All 300 members of the association must stop the three members from breaking Kara up.”
He continued, “It must have taken a great deal of the company’s passion and love to get the group up to their current level, and it breaks my heart to see it all crumbled overnight. If the quality of management was the problem, then they should get back with the company and solve it through discussions. They could also ask KEPA to intervene. Simply leaving the group like they did doesn’t solve any problems, it just creates more.”
He finished by saying, “Many artists and producers that were seniors to them spent a lot of time and effort to create a market for Korean music in Japan. Kara made all those efforts by them turn into nothing by carelessly stopping their Japanese promotions. The members must have gone through a tough time, there is no doubt; but I still hope that they would first go back to the company and then solve the problem.”
Mr. Kim is a big name in the Korean music industry, and seeing him speak out at this level shows that the management companies are quite upset, and at the same time, nervous about this fiasco. This must especially be the case as this is the second time that a major idol group has gone through something like this recently. Perhaps the CEOs want to set an example to other idol members who dream of such rebellion… but at the cost of DSP’s most valuable group.
KARA’s Nicole’s mother reveals her thoughts and addresses rumors January 21, 2011
Nicole’s mother, Shirley Kim, expressed her thoughts on KARA’s contract termination for the first time since the reports were announced.
She’s been targeted as the ringleader of the controversy, and even badmouthed DSP Media in a series of posts she wrote on her Twitter.
Through a phone call with TV Report on January 21st, Kim stated, “I have nothing to say. I’m speaking through my legal representatives.” She then attempted to hang up the phone until reporters mentioned rumors regarding ‘hundreds of thousands of dollars behind her back.’ Kim quickly replied, “That’s completely groundless, I’ll explain that immediately.”
Ever since the 20th, the entertainment industry was abuzz with rumors speculating the entertainment agency manager, ‘J,‘ the one that offered KARA better contracts, to be a close friend of Kim.
Kim began angrily shouting into the phone, “I have a friend that is in commerce and a friend that owns a hospital. If I’m sick, who will I go to? Obviously the friend with the hospital! The ‘J’ that works in the entertainment industry is my friend of 19 years. Isn’t it obvious that I’d go to him to discuss what’s been happening?”
At the mention of ‘J’ offering a new contract worth hundreds of thousands, Kim replied, “That rumor makes absolutely no sense. I want to move out right now, but I don’t have enough money, what are you talking about?”
When asked about the possibility of the three members returning to DSP, she replied, “Before the press conference, I told Hong not to mention what could turn into a controversy. I told him to exclude anything that could stimulate DSP, which is why the terms weren’t stated. Should a situation arise where I’m able to talk more comfortably, I will express everything then.”
When I looked at that, I instantly got reminded of that one Wall Street Journal article where they specifically said that there are some SNSD fans working there, in Wall Street Journal
Shame on what's happening to Kara now. Lots of things are being said, and sort of too quickly... :/ It's like the media or someone is in a rush for something.
And now the head of CCM is publicly calling for the three girls involved to be blacklisted. These Korean producers have no shame or limits to their greed do they.
Not so sure if it is greed rather than a cultural thing. I'm an attorney and I have represented a number of Koreans. They are big on group harmony and taking problems outside of one's circle is almost always viewed as disrupting harmony. When this happens they tend to go berserk. You can see some of this in the skater Kim Yun Na's split with coach Brian Orser. Right now you have management hacked off because the girls and parents lawyered up and the girls and parents are angry because they felt they had to.
DSP Media currently in meeting with KARA members to find a mutual agreement January 25, 2011
It was recently announced on January 25th that the three estranged members of KARA (Han Seungyeon, Jung Nicole, and Kang Ji Young) have been working together with DSP Media to find a mutual agreement and solve the current controversy.
“A conference is underway to find a peaceful solution. As we are currently discussing the details, we cannot yet reveal the current situation and hope for your understanding.”
The following is the official statement by DSP Media:
We, DSP Media, are currently putting in our best efforts in discussing with the three members (Han Seungyeon, Jung Nicole, and Kang Ji Young), who requested a contract termination with the agency on January 19th, to find a mutual solution.
On January 25th at 10 AM, we received a request from the three members’ legal representative, thus we are now currently in a conference to find a peaceful solution. As we are currently discussing the details, we cannot yet reveal the current situation and hope for your understanding.
For the sake of their important fans, KARA members have not changed their belief that the group must continue as five, and in order to stop this situation from escalating any further, both sides are hoping that a mutual agreement can be made.
Furthermore, as much as we are trying to find a peaceful solution, we sincerely request to suppress from releasing random articles.
The demands of the KARA trio are finally revealed January 25, 2011
The three members of KARA have finally revealed their demands in their contract adjustments with DSP Media, with the two main points being to shorten the contract time and having a modification in the board of directors.
With the three members having a contract that still lasts another 3-4 years, the trio has demanded their contracts be shortened to July of 2012 instead, as they would like to end their contract at the same time their contract with Universal Japan ends. They have also requested a more professional management team, as well as a transparent accounting system.
In addition, the three have requested for the resignation of the wife of CEO Lee Ho Yeon, who had been his replacement since last year after he fell into a coma. The trio would also like for a new system, whereby their legal representative could participate in the group’s accounting and contract audits.
It was later announced that DSP Media would agree to only partially meet their demands. A representative stated, “Isn’t demanding a shortening of their contract and a change in directors a bit too much? For reinforcing the management team and making a transparent accounting and contract system, if the members are willing to come back and discuss further, then there are possibilities that they can be partially accepted.”
DSP sends proposal to KARA, could possibly return as 5 soon January 25, 2011
On January 25th, Landmark, the legal representatives for the three members of KARA (Kang Jiyoung, Jung Nicole, Han Seungyeon), revealed that, “DSP Media has proposed the following for KARA members: ‘Creating an agreement on promotions within and outside of Korea’ and ‘Consulting and requesting the members’ opinions’. With regards to the first proposal, DSP expressed that the company has shown clear intentions of negotiating with the members. These were proposed in hope that the three KARA members will continue carrying out their schedules in Korea and Japan. The representative predicts that the fans will be able to see the five members of KARA promoting together very soon.”
The contents of ‘To create an agreement on promotions within and outside of Korea’ are as follows:
1) From now on, KARA members will have an experienced manager while promoting in Korea and overseas.
2) After discussing resuming promotions in Japan, DSP will acknowledge the opinions of members and seek contact from the manager
stated in the first point.
3) During promotions in Korea and overseas, the members are allowed to have their guardians (the members’ parents or someone they have chosen) accompanying them and contribute to making important decisions.
4) While promoting in Japan, the representative of DSP Japan will be cooperative.
However, a representative of the three KARA members said, “In regards to the second proposal, the KARA members expressed that they still don’t have faith in DSP. There’s been a promise and agreement with DSP to promote right away, yet we are disappointed with their insincerity.”
The KARA members’ opinions of ‘Consulting and requesting of the members’ opinions’ are as follows:
1) The three members of KARA will let the legal department deal with their contract, and both sides have agreed to complete activities that they have missed.
2) In order to restore faith in the relationship between KARA and DSP, the three members have suggested the following to be completed by January 27th:
a) The members will meet with representative Lee Hoyeon and not DSP.
b ) Finding an end to the gap between the management until the return of representative Lee Hoyeon.
c) They will seek a management that is highly regarded and reliable.
d) They will find a way to organize and improve Care, KARA’s management team.
e) Making sure that KARA’s promised income is given.
f) An explanation in the relationship between DSP and DSP Japan.
3) Fixing the individual contracts before all the members terminate their contract.
4) Once the overall income has been calculated, they will provide full disclosure and all paperwork regarding the income.
A representative of the three members said, “DSP was not able to give a clear answer in regards to representative Lee Hoyeon’s whereabouts, as well as performing as five members again. Not only did the three KARA members lose faith in DSP, but the contracts were also unfair. The members have also recognized a difference between their opinions and the company’s stand on the issue.”
With regards to their requests to shorten their contract, they expressed, “It was not the members who had brought it up first, but DSP had privately approached one member with this issue. We were able to find out the intentions of DSP on that day. The company had stated that they would resolve and shorten the contracts but to change their answer now has confused all of us.”
KARA’s new CF for TBC to air as scheduled this February January 25, 2011
A new Japanese CF featuring all five members of KARA will be broadcast as planned.
According to a report by Sankei Sports on January 26th, KARA was chosen as the new models for one of Japan’s biggest aesthetic companies, ‘Aesthetic TBC‘. The girls recorded a CF for the company, but due to their current controversy, the company debated over whether or not to air it.
Sankei Sports revealed, “With the five-membered Korean girl group KARA going through a dispute, news of their contract with Aesthetic TBC has been revealed on the 25th. CFs will run from February 1st, followed by the airing of their television CFs on the 2nd. All five members will be appearing.”
They continued, “The recording took place before the controversy broke out, leading many to wonder whether the CF would go on as planned, but representatives of Aesthetic TBC revealed, ‘In consideration of KARA’s future, now is the time to support KARA,’ which led to their decision.”
In support of KARA, Aesthetic TBC will be putting up advertisements with an additional statement, “Find strength, KARA!” in 200 different locations in seven cities.
Ex-KARA member, Kim Sung Hee, to get married in May January 26, 2011
“Women Chosun” has reported that former KARA member, Kim Sung Hee (21), will be getting married to Yang Won Joon (31), the eldest son of voice actor Yang Ji Woon.
The two have been dating for about a year, and they plan to tie the knot on May 7th at a small wedding hall in Gyeonggi-do, Paju.
The two first met approximately 2 years ago through their religious community, and grew close while attending various musical activities around the world. It’s been confirmed that the parents of the lovers met a year into their relationship, and agreed to set a wedding date.
Reflecting on his approval over his son’s choice, Yang Ji Woon said, “People can’t guess how cute our future daughter-in-law is when she does things. My wife is absolutely taken by her charms. Long ago, my son has gone through some hard times, but I look forward to him creating an ideal family by meeting a good wife.”
On a side note, Yang Won Joon has previously spent time in jail for refusing to fulfill his military duties for religious reasons in June of 2009.
Turning back to Kim Sung Hee, the former KARA member shocked the music industry in 2008 when she announced that she was going to officially withdraw from the group. There were various rumors floating around as to why she decided to quit, but the most prominent was how her idol group activities were ‘interfering with her religious life.’ Currently, she works as a vocal instructor for aspiring singers.
KARA’s Gyuri returns to Shim Shim Ta Pa January 26, 2011
Park Gyuri, the leader of girl group KARA has returned to MBC’s ‘Shindong and Park Gyuri’s Shim Shim Ta Pa’ program and passed her apologies along to her parents.
Park Gyuri on ‘Shim Shim Ta Pa’ in the early morning of the 27th said to her parents, “I’m sorry that I’ve been giving you such worries lately.” Seemingly a passing reference to her thoughts about the recent KARA controversies, her statement has gathered attention from the public.
For the 25th and 26th, Park Gyuri stopped her DJ activities in ‘Shim Shim Ta Pa’ due to the KARA controversy, and was substituted by group Secret’s Song Ji Eun and Zinger. She disappointed fans who wanted her view on the controversy on the day that the KARA situation
occurred on the 19th by not appearing on ‘Shim Shim Ta Pa’. Additionally, KARA members Han Seungyeon, Nicole, and Kang Jiyoung have announced the canceling of their contract against DSP Media. However, the members have revealed that they would like the whole group to once again carry out activities as five, and it has been known that they have made a compromise to keep filming the TV drama ‘URAKARA’, which is currently popular in Japan.
YPA speaks out against DSP Media in support of KARA January 23, 2011
On January 23rd, the Young Producers’ Association (YPA) released a statement in support of KARA’s three members as they stand against DSP Media.
The YPA announced:
“DSP Media’s failure to reveal clear balance statements and contract documents resulted in a broken trust, and consequently, this dispute. This issue is vastly different from that of TVXQ’s.
The other entertainment agencies which house idol groups (this includes SM Entertainment) all provide receipts and balance statements to the parents, who act as the singers’ legal representatives. This is a request that is within the singers’ rights, but it’s also the duty of the company to ensure that they provide clear and transparent contract documents.
The contract that has been used by DSP Media thus far has been followed without recognition by the members or their parents. Although they repeatedly made requests to see balance statements and information regarding their contracts, their requests were ignored. DSP Media seems intent on obsessing over the fact that the members filed a one-sided contract termination notice instead.
They’re extremely selfish in their claim, as they have been arguing that the issue comes from the greed of the members and their parents, when the issue actually stems from the company. They have attempted to drive the idea of KARA being immoral singers with the help of the Korea Entertainment Producers’ Association [KEPA] and other production companies, who only seek the protection of their own rights. By using issues that have nothing to do with the controversy, such as the competitor who attempted to lure KARA away from their agency, DSP Media is shading the public’s eyes to the real heart of the problem.
The five members of KARA remaining together is definite. All it requires is for the company to reveal all of the requested documents as transparently as possible. Should there be no problem in those documents, a proper apology and make-up should follow.
The international growth of the Korean music industry relies heavily on the competition within the country. It is the duty of production companies to eradicate wrong customs in order to create fair and transparent systems to further fuel the competitions.“
The YPA is an association created by young album production companies in order to compete in the culture and contents business. The YPA consists of Open World Entertainment, Pledis, Doori Star, and many others.
Core Contents Media CEO orders boycott of the YPA due to KARA conflict January 23, 2011
The CEO of Core Contents Media, Kim Kwang Su, expressed his displeasure with the Young Producers’ Association (YPA) due to their support of the three KARA members.
The YPA had made an official statement on January 23rd, which criticized the tactics of DSP Media and made it clear that they were standing with the members’ decision to stand against their agency.
In an interview with Star News on the 24th, Kim retorted, “The statement made by YPA glosses over the stances of the majority of producers. Because of their statement, I have ordered an immediate halt on the distribution of dramas, movie OSTs, and digital services of our artists on all digital music sites related to the YPA.”
Kim continued, “I have sent an official document to Loen and Mnet to take down our artists’ songs. The YPA has lost their ground, and even if my decision is not regarded favorably, such strong actions are needed as a veteran of the industry.”
Additional details revealed on KARA’s ‘TBC’ promotions in Japan January 26, 2011
Despite the controversy surrounding their team, KARA’s popularity in Japan is still riding strong.
allkpop had previously reported about how the girls were selected to be the new models for the Japanese aesthetics company, “TBC.” Japanese fans will be able to see the girls on various advertisements such as television, transportation ads, and magazines starting February 1st.
In their TV advertisement, the girls will be using the pronunciation of their own name, which means ‘because’ in Japanese, to deliver phrases such as “Because everyone can become pretty” and “Because everyone can become cool.”
Their Japanese advertisement company commented, “KARA’s healthy and shining image and outstanding promotions were what led us to choose the girls as our model. Due to issues surrounding KARA’s future, they’ve been receiving widespread attention in Japan, and we felt that this was the appropriate timing to start this campaign.”
They continued, “Not only Korea, but Japan is very worried about KARA’s future as well. We have decided to add another segment to their campaign in support of the group.”
KARA’s Goo Hara is searching for a new house! January 27, 2011
It was revealed that on January 22nd and 23rd, KARA’s Goo Hara had gone to Kangnam Nonhyun-dong to look for a new house.
On the 26th, a real estate agent expressed, ‘Goo Hara came with one associate on the 22nd to look for a house. She called to ask questions before her visit, and I heard that she also visited other real estate agents in the area.‘
It seems the sudden decision to find a new home is because she moved out of her dorm in Haengdang-dong in early January and has no where else to stay immediately.
KARA's “Jet Love Coaster” CM Preview! January 26, 2011
Get ready for KARA’s newest Japanese single, “Jet Love Coaster” commercial previewed from the spa and beauty company for エステティック TBC/Men's TBC!
In this commercial preview, KARA shows a bit of the dancing for “Jet Love Coaster” as well as their concept styles and fresh new look.
KARA was announced to be the new faces of the company and will promote and appear on magazines, posters and commercials throughout Japan starting February 1st.
Putting aside their conflicting case of canceled exclusive contracts, KARA fans everywhere has something new to look forward to and stay positive about!
DSP & reps for 3 KARA members meet for 8 hours, decide to continue activities as 5 January 27, 2011
KARA’s agency, DSP Media, and the representatives for three of the group’s members (Kang Jiyoung, Jung Nicole, Han Seungyeon) met for a second round of negotiation talks regarding the existing schedule and group members.
In a news item released on January 27th, it was revealed that as a result of the second talks, KARA will remain as a five-member group and will work together to continue their scheduled activities.
DSP Media representatives said, “The reached agreement for the five members to work together was in order to not cause problems for the scheduled activities.” Adding on, “In a restaurant in Gangnam, Seoul, the CEO of DSP and the parents of Kang Jiyoung, Jung Nicole, and Han Seungyeon met for the first time since the dispute occurred and talked for 8 hours. Because no negotiations were reached in the last meeting on the 25th between the legal representatives, this meeting was initiated.”
DSP Media continued, “At this meeting, the parents of the three members who were leaving the agency and the DSP Media CEO tried to agree on their demands. Thus, the urgent issue of the existing scheduled activities was resolved.”
Furthermore, DSP Media added, “The results of the issues discussed and plans of future meetings were not determined.”
KARA’s Nicole will miss scheduled recording for SBS’s ‘Heroes’ January 28, 2011
Due to the recent conflicts revolving around KARA, the member’s individuals activities have been gaining a lot of attention.
SBS’s ‘Heroes‘ has revealed that Nicole will not be attending the January 31st recording. A representative revealed, ”Since we have previously recorded material, [episodes with Nicole] will continue to be broadcasted until the middle of February.”
Despite the fact that the group has decided to continue with their 5-member activities, Landmark lawyer Hong Myung Ho explained, ”Discussion has only been done regarding the larger parts; we haven’t been able to bring much attention to the member’s individual activities yet… We plan to discuss all the affairs with DSP Media within the next few days and we expect for those matters to be decided then… I don’t believe the meeting will occur any later than this weekend.”
KARA to officially resume Japanese activities next week January 28, 2011 It was recently announced that KARA will officially resume their Japanese activities as of next week.
All five members have been scheduled to board their flight to Japan to film an episode of their Japanese drama “URAKARA” that was originally scheduled for filming at the beginning of the week.
Japanese Yomiuri Newspaper revealed on January 28th, “TV Tokyo has decided to postpone the broadcasting of the fourth episode of URAKARA.” Instead, the cable TV show will air a condensed episode of the drama’s first three episodes this coming February 4th.
One representative stated, “As KARA is set to make a comeback, TV Tokyo will instead be broadcasting the 4th episode on February 11th. The group will need fly to Japan next week in order to resume their filming duties.”
Kang Jiyoung’s dad wants to resolve KARA issue with “a forgiving heart” January 30, 2011
The father of KARA’s Kang Jiyoung revealed that he would like for the contract dispute with DSP Media to be resolved positively.
On January 29th, Kang Gun Wook posted on his Twitter, “I haven’t been able to sleep for several days because of anxiety and sadness.” Wishing for a positive resolution, he wrote, “I want to resolve this before the week passes. I will try to put my guard down and approach the situation in the hopes of solving it with a forgiving heart.”
The day before, Kang Gun Wook tweeted, “We reached the halfway point of success. KARA will continue activities and events as 5 members” and “In a few days, the rest of the agreement will come to a conclusion. It will be a direction that everyone will be mutually satisfied with”. Many are taking the tweets as a good sign that both sides are conducting business smoothly.
It was reported on the 27th that through consultation, the 3 members of KARA (Han Seungyeon, Jung Nicole, Kang Jiyoung) agreed with DSP Media that ‘KARA will continue together as 5′ and that the Japanese drama, ‘URAKARA‘, and CF schedules will resume. As for the remaining issues with the agency, they plan to meet again soon to confer.
Is it really necessary to copypasta entire articles?
"How can I help seeing what is in front of my eyes? Two and two are four."
"Sometimes, Winston. Sometimes they are five. Sometimes they are three. Sometimes they are all of them at once. You must try harder. It is not easy to become sane."
KARA are still stay together and restarted their Japanese promotion. The singles and albums are going great on Oricon charts. However, there are still some issue with DSP that we don't know.
KARA Resumes Group Activity Since Controversial Contract Dispute Good news KARA fans! The popular girl group that had halted all promotions due to a controversial contract dispute with their management agency has apparently resumed group activities yesterday as they got together for their new album’s photo shoot. An unnamed source told local media that “All five members took photos for their new album yesterday. Due to the sensitivity of their current situation, the photo shoot was done quietly.”
Monday’s photo shoot was KARA’s first group activity since three members—Han Seung Yeon, Kang Ji Young, and Jung Nicole—abruptly demanded a contract termination with their agency, DSP Media, 13 days ago. And some fans are now interpreting yesterday’s news as a sign of the girls settling all the differences and resuming their activities as a five-member group.
In fact, the three girls in dispute with DSP Media held a long meeting on Jan. 27th and agreed to carry out all remaining scheduled activities. Also, Ji Young’s father wrote on his Twitter page on Jan. 28th that “The remaining issues should be sorted out in the coming days. It will satisfy all involved parties and I would like to thank you all for your care.” And then, the following day, on Jan. 29th, he wrote again, “We would like to settle things down by the end of the week. I’ll do my best to forgive everything and understand the whole problem,” implying there’s a chance things will get solved in the near future.
Meanwhile, DSP Media said that all five KARA members will fly to Japan on Feb. 3rd to shoot for their Japanese drama, “URAKARA.” KARA’s acting debut in Japan, “URAKARA” recorded decent viewership with a 4.3% TV rating for its first episode on Jan. 14th. The girls are also scheduled to perform at the “2011 Universal Dream Live” concert in Japan next month. Tickets to that concert sold out in less than a minute, proving once again how much fans in Japan are waiting for their return.
However, on Feb. 10th, Gyuri is expected to show up at the premiere and press conference for the animation movie, “Alpha & Omega,” in which she voice-acted for. It’s going to be Gyuri’s first chance to speak directly to the media since the KARA controversy broke out last month, and since she’s the leader of the group, it should be interesting to hear what she has to say about the whole issue. Stay tuned everyone!
Here is video of KARA at Gimpo Airport on their way to JAPAN to continue filming "Urakara".
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=H753zDtWmcs
Translation of Gyuri addressing the media and fans.
"Hello, We’re KARA! Today is the first day of New Year but many people have come here, It’s been hard on you all. Firstly, we have made the fans, who always give us lot of love, to worry, we are truly sorry. In order to soon come back with activities, we are waking very hard so I hope you all will always support us. We will work hard. Sincerely thank you all. "
KARA's arrival in Japan is all over the news! Check out these vids.
I want to hear from the girls not from their lawers or their mothers.
No one know if Kara 
