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History Comes To Life in Dramas

January 16, 2014, 3:32 pm
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The eagerly awaited historical drama, Inspiring Generation, starring Kim Hyun Joong has finally arrived! The action packed show, set in 1930’s Shanghai, is a story of justice, revenge and love.


Historical dramas are one of our favorite genres here at Viki! We can’t get enough of the costumes, sets, history, sword fights and epic stories. Here are some other historical dramas you should check out.




During the Chosun Dynasty, a woman takes her brother's identity to enroll in the prestigious Sungkyunkwan University to help support her family.  But how long can she keep her true identity a secret?


Park Min Young goes to extremes to keep her real identity hidden



This Indonesian action comedy is about an unlikely group of amateur soldiers who band together during the Military Aggression II of 1948. It’s an inspirational story of courage and patriotism.





In 14th Century China during the Yuan Dynasty, a monk predicts that whoever wields the two powerful weapons, known as the heavenly sword and dragon saber, will rule the land and bring peace. A man named Zhang Wuji learns that his fate is linked to the two weapons, but will he be able to bring peace to the disgruntled masses?





Much like Inspiring Generation, the K-Drama Bridal Mask is also set in the 1930s; but this story takes place in the dark period of Japanese occupation in Korea. Joo Won stars as a martial artist who uses his incredible skills to lead an independent movement against Japanese imperialists. He wears a traditional bridal mask (gaksital) to hide his true identity.





Which historical drama is your favorite? Tell us which classic stories we missed in our list!
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Let's Cook With Viki: Saltine Toffee!

January 17, 2014, 3:30 am
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Some of our favorite dramas are British, including “Jane Eyre”and “Oliver Twist.” These period dramas take place in Great Britain and are filled with detailed costumes and beautiful scenery that make all of us want to visit the English countryside. (And also meet some hot British actors!) So in honor of our favorite British dramas, we’ve made our version of English toffee this week — saltine toffee!


Haven’t seen our favorite British dramas yet? Check them out now!




Now, let’s get started making these delicious saltine toffees! As always, remember to wash your hands and start with a clean workspace!

For this recipe, you’ll need:

  • One box of saltine crackers
  • 2 sticks of butter
  • 1 packed cup of brown sugar
  • Optional: melting chocolate (can be dark, semi-sweet, white, or all of them!)
  • One baking or cookie sheet
  • Parchment paper
  • A heavy pot
  • A double boiler (omit if not using chocolate)
Note: This recipe involves working with hot sugars, and it may be best to keep young children away to avoid any injuries!

Preheat the oven to 400 degrees.

Line your baking sheet with parchment paper, as this will help with clean up later! Then lay out all of your saltine crackers on top of the parchment paper, edge to edge. This will form the base of your saltine toffee.


Next, put the butter and brown sugar into a pot and slowly bring to a boil on medium heat — be careful not to let this mixture burn! Once the butter and sugar have formed the same consistency as a hot caramel sauce, remove from the fire and pour this mixture over your saltine crackers. Be very careful not to burn yourself!


Place the cookie sheet into the pre-heated oven and bake for about 8 minutes, or until the caramel begins to bubble. Take the baking sheet out of the oven and let it cool.

Optionally, while you’re waiting for the saltines to cool, you can melt some chocolate in a double boiler and drizzle it across the top of saltine crackers. We chose to cover the saltines with semisweet chocolate and then drizzle some white chocolate across the top. (If you don’t care for chocolate, sprinkle some chopped peanuts or some salt on your saltines — be creative!)


Once the saltines, the caramel, and the chocolate have cooled down (it should almost be like a slab of toffee coated saltines at this point), remove the saltines from the tray by lifting out the parchment paper (we told you this would make it easy!). Then place the slab in a plastic bag or cover in plastic wrap. Using a rolling pin or even a small meat tenderizer, hit the slab until the saltine slab breaks into various pieces, continuing this process until the saltine toffee is the desired size. Serve and enjoy!

What did you top your saltines with? Maybe you’ve got a recipe you’d like us to make? Let us know in the comments below!

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‘Inspiring Generation’ Recap: Most Memorable Moments of Premiere

January 17, 2014, 3:57 pm
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The much-anticipated historical epic, “Inspiring Generation,” finally premiered this week! The first episode is filled with both sweet romance and intense fighting, introducing us to all three leading characters. You can watch the exciting first episode for yourself. Here is what we thought were the most memorable moments from the premiere of what promises to be a great new historic drama.




Gaya’s Entrance: The episode opens with an unknown man being hurled across the room. He crashes to the floor, and we hear the voice of the female lead, Deguchi Gaya’s (played by Lim Soo Hyang), calling out the names of famous mountains. Kneeling next to the man and shaking with anger, Gaya asks the man, “Where … shall I bury you?”


Jung Tae in the Ring: Directly after Gaya’s entrance, we’re transported to a boxing ring, where our hero, Shin Jung Tae (played by Kim Hyun Joong), lies dazed on a dirt floor. With onlookers cheering and placing bets, Jung Tae musters the energy to return to his feet and lunge toward his opponent. But will it be enough for him to win the fight and the cash prize?

 



Makeup Mishap: After the violence and intensity of the opening sequence, this light-hearted segment is a breath of fresh air. We’re taken back in time to Jung Tae’s childhood, where he is welcomed to a medicine shop by the bright-eyed Yoon Ok Ryeon (played by Jin Se Yeon). In a rush to hide a blemish on her chin before her handsome crush’s arrival, Ok Ryeon applies far too much white makeup. She can barely hide how excited she is to see Jung Tae, and he can barely hide his amusement at her makeup mishap.


A Ride Through Fields of Gold: As we may remember from the first scene in the episode, Deguchi Gaya is a strong, formidable woman. She is strong even in her youth, having to deal with family responsibilities and the threat of violence almost everyday. When Jung Tae takes her out of town to a field of wildflowers, she lets her hair down and smiles freely for the first time. This scene includes wide shots of the beautiful country landscape and a lovely soundtrack as well.


Did the first episode of “Inspiring Generation” live up to your expectations? Let us know what your favorite moments were in the comments, and check out episode 2!

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Sealed With a ‘Mischievous Kiss’

January 19, 2014, 3:30 am
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Do you remember the dreamy Baek Seung Jo (played by Kim Hyun Joong) in the Korean drama “Playful Kiss”? He stole fans’ hearts with his fabulous looks and sheer brilliance. But wait until you see Japan’s answer to the hit K-drama!

If you loved the “Playful Kiss” story of high school romance, check out the 2013 Japanese adaptation “Mischievous Kiss: Love in Tokyo,” which will be available on Viki soon! Catch the trailer below.







The Japanese drama adaptation features a high school love story between the lovable scatterbrain Kotoko Aihara (played by Miki Honoka) and the suave and intelligent Naoki Irie (played by Yuki Furukawa). It brings back some of the hit classic manga’s most memorable scenes! Here are a couple of them.

The First Kiss

The Korean drama features Ha Ni and Seung Jo sharing their first kiss at their high school graduation party.


In ‘Playful Kiss,’ Ha Ni and Seung Jo have their first kiss at school 

The sudden kiss, when portrayed in the Japanese version, catches Kotoko off-guard and makes her realize that she is falling deeper in love.


 

The Rain Kiss

For fans of “Playful Kiss,” this is a highlight of the story, where Seung Jo admits his love and leaves Ha Ni completely speechless. It’s also one hot kiss!





Both dramas depict the innocence of high school puppy love, and these are just two of our favorite scenes. Which adaptation is your favorite and what scenes do you like best?


Favorite the “Mischievous Kiss: Love in Tokyo”channel to watch the series once episodes are uploaded!
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Cartoons You Should Watch This Year

January 25, 2014, 3:00 am
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Ever wonder where all our favorite telenovelas and K-dramas get their inspiration from? Shows like “City Hunter,” “Playful Kiss”and “Boys Over Flowers”are all based on famous mangas and cartoons! Want to know what shows might soon become dramas or just looking for something new to watch? Check out this list of our favorite cartoons that we think you should watch this year!



Ten-year old Ben Tennyson finds an out-of-this-world device, known as the “Omnitrix,” which gives him the power to shape shift into any alien in the universe! Check out Ben’s adventures as he travels around the world, protecting the Earth from evil alien threats!



Koutetsu Sangokushi

Based on a legendary Chinese tale, this exciting Japanese anime follows the story of a great power struggle. The hero, Rikuson Hakugen, goes against the norm and decides to fight as the Red Warrior and guard the Imperial Seal. For those who loved “Gu Family Book” and “Warrior Baek Dong Soo,” this is the perfect cartoon for you!



Popeye the Sailor

This American classic features the iconic 1930s cartoon character, Popeye, who eats his spinach in an effort to stop his nemesis Bluto from making inappropriate advances on his girl, Olive Oyl. Lovable and fun, this classic American cartoon character is now recognized all over the world.



The Rose of Versailles

Following the tale of a young French woman raised as a boy during the French Revolution, Oscar François de Jarjayes becomes tasked with protecting the famous Marie-Antoinette. This shoujo anime title marks one of the beginnings of modern Japanese anime and has a plot that those who enjoyed gender-bending dramas like “Coffee Prince”and “You’re Beautiful” will love!

Which cartoon is your favorite? Which one do you think should be made into a drama one day? Let us know in the comments below!

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Solutions to Life’s Problems From Dramaland: Part 1

January 27, 2014, 10:24 am
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We all have certain adversities in our lives that we may have a hard time overcoming. Whether they involve physical injury, heartbreak, or both, sometimes we need some help from role models who have been through the same situation. Luckily, we have dramas! Here are some of our favorite solutions to life’s problems that can be learned from Dramaland:

Are you a rebellious bully with no social skills? A mother’s love is all you need to turn your life around. There was no one we wanted to hug in “Heirs” more than Choi Young Do (played by Kim Woo Bin).


Are you having trouble with your reputation in the media? Just enter into a contract marriage with the nearest tabloid reporter, like Prime Minister candidate Kwon Yul (played by Lee Beom Soo) did in “The Prime Minister Is Dating.” All your troubles will disappear.


Are you a smuggling gangster who always gets into fights? Buns stuffed with sticky bird’s nest are the best home remedy for cuts and bruises. The bird’s nest helps your skin heal quickly, so eat up like Poong Cha (played by Jo Dal Hwan) and Jung Tae (played by Kim Hyun Joong) in “Inspiring Generation”!




Does your crush fail to notice you at all? All you have to do is fall asleep in the same room with him, like Kotoko in “Mischievous Kiss: Love in Tokyo.” Without fail, seeing you in a state of peaceful slumber will melt his heart and make him fall in love with you.




Disclaimer: We can’t guarantee that using Dramaland problem-solving techniques will actually work in the real world, so try them at your own risk! But let us know if any of these ideas work for you!

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Let's Welcome the Year of the Horse!

January 29, 2014, 9:44 am
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Known to many as the Lunar New Year, this big occasion for all our fans who celebrate this holiday from across the globe is fast approaching! In Chinese beliefs, each year in a 12-year cycle is related to a particular animal, and this incoming year will be the Year of the Horse!


People belonging to the Horse zodiac are believed to be energetic, good with money and ooze heaps of sex appeal! Do you think the stars below fit these characteristics?








With the festivities lasting for 15 days, there’s so much to see and do during the Lunar New Year observations! Here are some of our favorite traditions:


Gathering Red Envelopes



If you’re young and single, get ready to make a small fortune with red envelopes (usually containing money) from the elders. The intended meaning? For blessings, good luck, prosperity and protection against evil spirits!


Igniting Those Firecrackers




Back in the olden days, people believed the ruckus caused by firecrackers drive away the “notorious” Nian monster, rumored to eat little children. Since then, firecrackers have become one of the Lunar New Year’s best-loved traditions.


Decking Out in Red & Gold — Even Neon!



Bright colors should definitely be worn during this festive season, for it brings prosperity, luck and positivity in the New Year. So get those stunning clothes on and usher in the New Year with a great party!


Watching the Lunar New Year Special

Hebe, EXO and Guo Shu Yao (top to bottom)


Celebrate with the “2014 Super Star: A Red & White Lunar New Year Special,” which promises nothing but fun, packed-to-the-brim exciting performances from EXO, Dream Girls, Hebe and more!

What are the biggest celebrations in your part of the world?

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Viki Mobile: More Than 17 Million App Installs

January 30, 2014, 4:00 am
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Viki isn’t just global, we’re mobile, too! We now have nearly 17 million app installs! Did you know that more than 65 percent of Viki viewers now watch on a mobile device, or that the United Kingdom is the fastest growing viewing market for mobile? Interesting, huh? Read the full Global Mobile Report read below for more great information about your favorite global TV source. 


Viki Global Mobile Report 2013 by Viki, Inc.


Haven’t downloaded our free Viki mobile app yet? Click here to get it and watch your favorite shows, movies, and more on Android, iOS, XBox, Blackberry, Smart TV and Chromecast. 

Check out our funny commercial about Viki on-the-go below.



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Celebrate These Stars’ February Birthdays!

February 1, 2014, 3:30 am
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This year is already off to a great start with awesome dramas like the drool-worthy “Let’s Eat” and the action-packed “Inspiring Generation”! Now, who’s ready to celebrate some birthdays?! Join us and eat some cupcakes to celebrate these stars born during the month of February!





February 9 — Choi Jin Hyuk

This dark horse starred in some of 2013’s biggest dramas, including “Gu Family Book” and “Heirs”! If you’re like us, and simply can’t get enough of him, check him out in “I Need Romance” as well!



February 10 — Soo Young (Girls’ Generation)

Soo Young, a member of the ultra-popular girl group, took a quick break from all the singing and dancing to star in “The 3rd Hospital”!



February 13 — Park Ki Woong

Park Ki Woong has done it all — melodramas, comedies and romances. Just to name a few of the many dramas he has been in, be sure to check out “Heart Is Beating,” “Bridal Mask”and “Full House Take 2”!


February 15 — Jin Se Yeon

Jin Se Yeon was Park Ki Woong’s costar in the series “Bridal Mask,” and she’s currently starring in Viki’s exclusive series, “Inspiring Generation”!


February 16 — Kim Soo Hyun

One of our favorite actors, the adorable Kim Soo Hyun was in “Dream High,” “The Moon Embracing the Sun” and is currently starring in “My Love From the Stars”!


Whose birthday are you most excited about this month? How do you plan to celebrate? Let us know in the comments below!
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Funny Scenes From ‘Boys Before Friends’

February 2, 2014, 4:30 am
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By now, you’ve probably heard of “Boys Before Friends,” the currently airing American remake of the famed Japanese manga “Hana Yori Dango.” One of the most popular versions is the Korean drama “Boys Over Flowers.” Whether you’ve kept up with all four episodes of the new remake or have yet to get started, we’re here to bring you up to speed with the funniest moments so far from the American series. Not all of the comedy was intentional, but it kept us watching nonetheless.


Episode 1

Here, we get acquainted with the intimidating bullies known as the F4. Leader Liam Montgomery ceremoniously pulls out a pair of scissors (does he carry those everywhere?), and chops off a classmate’s ponytail. The student doesn’t seem to resist and just takes his punishment for whatever wrong he may have committed against the powerful leader of the F4. The other F4 members stand solemnly in the background, but we’re sure that they’re holding back smiles during this ridiculous moment.


Zoey finally stands up to the F4, and they find a creative way to take revenge. Zoey goes to dance in the practice room at school, but she walks in to find the hardwood floor covered in slippery wax! She flops around the floor like a fish before giving up entirely.

 

The tables are turned once again when Zoey and her friends, the "Z3," pour food coloring into the boys' shampoo. Their pouty, multi-colored faces are priceless, but it looks like Oliver emerged unaffected! Oliver's reply to his friends' resentful glares? "What? I don't shower here." 

See the F4 get out-smarted with fake shampoo in Episode 1 of Boys Over Friends.

Episode 2

Liam may be the leader of the most feared group on campus, but he cowers under Zoey’s fierce presence. He doesn’t quite know how to handle a fearless woman who doesn’t swoon or cower in his presence.

 

Some fans have commented that the American Zoey is too tough for her character, but let’s not forget Geum Jan Di’s epic spinning back kick in Episode 2 of “Boys Over Flowers.” You go, girls! 

  

Of course, Zoey isn’t finished taking out her anger on Liam. He tries to go in for a kiss but gets a nasty surprise instead.



You may have noticed that the girl dousing Liam with a drink in the last scene was a different actress from the Zoey in Episode 1. The production company decided to cast a second actress named Dawn Morrow to take over the role of Zoey during the filming process and the switch occurred with a makeover in Episode 2. Poor Liam can’t catch a break no matter which Zoey he’s dealing with! Here’s even more scenes where Zoey puts Liam in his place:

  

But to find out how Zoey’s attitude toward Liam begins to change in Episode 4 (see below) and beyond, make sure to favorite the “Boys Before Friends” channel on Viki. 


Be sure to tell us which scenes you thought were hilarious so far in this series!

Special thanks to Dr Myri Blog for the great animated GIFs!

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Part 1: The Best Asian Drama Bromances

February 3, 2014, 7:30 am
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One thing that we thoroughly enjoy about watching dramas is the “bromance,” a term used to describe endearing friendships (or sometimes angst-ridden relationships) between two male friends. In our favorite bromances, the characters have known each other for years, have gone through thick and thin together, and tease and joke with each other like there’s no tomorrow. They might fight, but once the fight is over, their friendship stronger and closer than ever.

Here is Part I of our favorite bromances from Asian dramas.

Two Fathers — Xiang Xi and Zhen Hua


In the 2012 Taiwanese drama “Two Fathers,” Tang Xiang Xi (played by Yang Leroy) and Wen Zhen Hua (played by Lin You Wei) are two straight bachelors who raise a baby girl together because they don’t know which one is the girl’s father (from a past girlfriend). Although they aren’t in a relationship, the men act like a mom and dad (e.g., Zhen Hua tying Xiang Xi’s tie for him), which makes for a pretty entertaining bromance.

Reply 1997 — Kang Joon Hee and Yoon Yoon Jae 


In the successful 2012 Korean drama “Reply 1997,” the friendship between Yoon Yoon Jae (played by Seo In Guk) and Kang Joon Hee (Hoya) was a bittersweet one. The two were always there for each other and had a great friendship, but it broke our hearts watching the gay Joon Hee pine over Yoon Jae, who would never return his feelings.


A Gentleman’s Dignity — Im Tae San  and Kim Do Jin


In the 2012 Korean drama “A Gentleman’s Dignity,” we witness an impressive decades-long friendship among four grown men who still act like boys when they’re all together. Best friends Kim Do Jin (played by Jang Dong Gun) and Im Tae San (played by Kim Soo Roo) are like oil and water: Their opposite personalities often lead to fights, but at the end of the day, they can’t live without each other.

Shut Up! Flower Boy Band — Yoo Byung Hee and Kwon Ji Hyuk


In the 2012 Korean drama “Shut Up! Flower Boy Band,” the bromance between bandmates Yoo Byun Hee (played by Lee Min Ki) and Kwon Ji Hyuk (Sung Joon) lasted only for a short time. But even within that short time period, we could clearly see the close bond between the eccentric, charismatic band leader Byung Hee and his best friend, Ji Hyuk, who share a common bond with music and family situations. And even when Byung Hee isn’t around anymore, his memory continues to inspire his friends to take their band, Eye Candy, as far as they can go.

Dear Brother — Takehiko Henmi and Takashi Ichinomiya


Yes, “Dear Brother” is a Japanese anime, but it’s worth being included in this list. The protagonist, Nanako, is a girl who attends a prestigious high school and deals with the stress of high school life by writing to Takehiko, her former tutor whom she looks up to and calls “brother.” Takehiko and Takashi are college buddies, and both are good, smart men who are protective of the women in their lives. Takashi is really supportive of Takehiko (who has a lot of drama in his life) and often drives him around and pays for things (because he’s rich).

Bridal Mask — Lee Kang To and Shimura Shunji


In the 2012 Korean drama “Bridal Mask,” we witness the most tragic bromance between Lee Kang To (played by Joo Won) and Shimura Shunji (played by Park Ki Woong). Kang To and Shunji were unlikely friends who were nevertheless able to forge a strong bond. Family and political issues caused them to turn from best friends into mortal enemies.

You’re Beautiful — Kwang Tae Kyung, Kang Shin Woo and Jeremy


It’s hard not to enjoy the awesome, silly bromance between the bandmates of A.N.Jell in the very entertaining 2009 Korean drama “You’re Beautiful.”  When you put together the moody band leader Hwang Tae Kyung (played by Jang Geun Suk), the soft-spoken romantic Kang Shin Woo (played by Kang Shin Woo), and the adorably silly Jeremy (played by Lee Hong Ki), there was bound to be some priceless moments — such as their ramen dance and their reenactment of a scene from a fanfiction!

Heirs — Choi Young Do and Jo Myung Soo 


The popular 2013 Korean drama “Heirs” was full of bromances. The lead bromance was between best friends-turned-rivals Kim Tan (played by Lee Min Ho) and Choi Young Do (played by Kim Woo Bin), who spend the majority of the drama fighting over the same girl. But the far more entertaining bromance is between Young Do and the comical Jo Myung Soo (played by Park Hyung Sik). Although Myung Soo is a bit clueless, he’s very cute, loyal, and the only real friend that Young Do really has.

Recalling all these bromances will put a smile on anyone’s face! What bromances do you think we should feature in Part II of our list?

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Happy Olympics! Viki All-Star Team Readies for Community All-Star Games

February 6, 2014, 7:00 pm
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Here's a fun fact to share about the Viki staff: Even though we're only 60 people, we represent more than 20 different countries and nearly 30 languages (hmm, sounds a lot like the Viki community).

Not surprisingly, the Olympics are very popular around here. So to celebrate the real Olympic Games starting in Sochi this week, we'll be launching our own virtual games (with prizes) worldwide for Viki viewers. Bring on the cultural understanding and world peace! 

Make sure to like us on Facebook and follow us on Twitter to be notified of new games and to play. In the meantime, tell us what sports or country you'll be rooting for!







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Drama Delays Due to Winter Olympics

February 7, 2014, 2:30 pm
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The 2014 Winter Olympic Games are finally here! We’re excited to cheer on our favorite teams as they compete for the gold medal in Sochi, Russia. But we’re a little sad that our beloved dramas are being postponed due to the Olympics.


‘Golden Rainbow’ and other K-dramas will not air on Saturday, Feb. 8
On Saturday, February 8, the following new drama episodes will not air:
Don’t worry! All of the episodes listed above will be postponed by only one day, and they will air on Sunday, February 9.

Here is our updated schedule of next week's dramas:

Monday, February 10
Tuesday, February 11
  • I Need Romance 3 -- Episode 10
  • Can We Love? -- Episode 12
  • A Word from Warm Heart -- Episode 19
Wednesday, February 12
Thursday, February 13
  • Miss Korea -- Episode 18
  • My Love from the Star -- Episode 17
  • Inspiring Generation -- Episode 10
  • Let's Eat -- Episode 12
  • Boys Before Friends -- Episode 6
Saturday, February 15
Sunday, February 16
Note: “Madly in Love” will end after 45 episodes, instead of the previously scheduled 50.

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Are Dramas Ruining Your Love Life?

February 8, 2014, 3:30 am
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Why oh why can’t love be like our favorite TV shows? Is that too much to ask? As avid drama fans, many of us have found that the romantic stories in our favorite dramas are ruining us for real relationships. Here are just a few of the ways we may be losing touch with reality.


You Have Unrealistic Expectations of Future Partners 

Whether it’s the grand romantic gestures or the ridiculously good shape the stars are in, the leading men in our favorite dramas make us set unrealistically high bars for any real mates.

The drama men are stylish, give piggyback rides, and even sing and dance, like Lee Ki Kwang in “20’s.” So why can’t we find that in our real partners?




You Get So Caught Up in a Show That You Lose Touch With Reality 

Some of us have started listening to people’s thoughts because of Lee Jong Suk in “I Hear Your Voice.” It’s great to know that all of our crushes are in love with us, too! Right…?



You Won’t Settle for Anything Other Than Chocolate Abs

Goodness gracious, great abs of steel. Song Seung Heon in “My Princess,” anyone? Or Vanness Wu in Taiwanese drama "Autumn's Concerto." 





You Won’t Go Out Anymore

And why would we, when we can watch all the best global TV for free on Viki? Just stay at home like Dok Mi in “Flower Boy Next Door” and let the day pass by.



You’re Starting to Think Stalking Can Be Kinda Romantic

Which it’s totally not, of course! Unless the only way we can stop seeing scary ghosts is by touching the body of So Ji Sub. Oops!



You Are Seriously in Love With a Fictional Character 

We are so in love with Kim Soo Hyun in “My Love From the Star,” a character who’s not only fictional, but a fictional alien. Someone help us.



You Think Being Super Poor Will Help Attract Rich Men

This is maybe one of K-drama’s biggest clichés. Geum Jan Di (“Boys Over Flowers”) manages to make Gu Jun Pyo fall for her between working multiple part-time jobs and school. And how can we forget the classic scenario where the girl has no other option but to move in with her crush due to circumstances beyond her control, like Oh Ha Ni (“Playful Kiss”) after her house is destroyed in an earthquake, and Cha Eun Sang (“Heirs”), whose mother works as a maid in Kim Tan’s house?
Or "Princess' Stand In," where an ugly bucktoothed girl gets free plastic surgery to resemble a rich guy's dead fiancé.



You Think Traveling Across the World Will Help Your Relationship

Go Eun Chan (“Coffee Prince”) and Tae Gong Shil (“Master’s Sun”) both went on distant solo adventures right when things seemed to be getting good and came back to relationships that seemed to be even stronger than before.



You Expect Grand Romantic Gestures

While the male lead doesn’t always start out treating the girl very nicely, we love it when they show their affection with grand romantic gestures, like Ba Wool bringing So Yi a giant stuffed teddy bear in “Flower Boy Ramyun Shop.”

Or Chris Wang in Taiwanese Drama "Love Family" who searches tirelessly for his childhood 'angel' with only a scarf as a clue to her identity. 





If our expectations are unrealistic, then we don’t want to face reality! Let us know in the comments below how being a drama fan has ruined you forever!

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Hollywood's Biggest Comedies Now Available on Viki!

February 9, 2014, 9:30 pm
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All-time popular comedies that have become fixtures in American pop culture, such as “The Office,” “Parks and Recreation,” “Psych,” "Monk" and others are now available to viewers in most Southeast Asian countries and QCs. If you missed these hilarious shows the first time, here are a few reasons you should watch NOW.
‘The Office’ Cures Your 9-to-5 Blues

You think your office is dysfunctional? You haven’t seen anything yet! At the Dunder Mifflin Paper Company’s Scranton office, the employees take pranks and office shenanigans to a whole new level.




A Fake ‘Psych’ Solves Real Crimes
Follow Shawn. He has an incredible ability to read people and an exceptional eye for detail — but he pretends to be a psychic to help the police solve tough crimes! Bromances, mysteries, and hidden pineapples make “Psych” a fresh take on the old crime series genre.



Get Into Local Politics With ‘Parks and Recreation’!



See all there is to love about hometown politics with Leslie Knope, Deputy Director of “Parks and Recreation” for the small town of Pawnee, Indiana. Armed with her binders, scrapbooks, obsessive love for waffles, and inspirational photos of Hillary Clinton, Leslie and her Parks and Rec department team get into fun and crazy hijinks.
The biggest prankster is none other than Leslie’s coworker, Tom Haverford, Pawnee’s own trickster with #swag.



Don’t miss these and other great shows from NBC Universal on Viki!
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‘Inspiring Generation’ Recap: Most Memorable Moments of Premiere

January 17, 2014, 3:57 pm
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The much-anticipated historical epic, “Inspiring Generation,” finally premiered this week! The first episode is filled with both sweet romance and intense fighting, introducing us to all three leading characters. You can watch the exciting first episode for yourself. Here is what we thought were the most memorable moments from the premiere of what promises to be a great new historic drama.




Gaya’s Entrance: The episode opens with an unknown man being hurled across the room. He crashes to the floor, and we hear the voice of the female lead, Deguchi Gaya’s (played by Lim Soo Hyang), calling out the names of famous mountains. Kneeling next to the man and shaking with anger, Gaya asks the man, “Where … shall I bury you?”


Jung Tae in the Ring: Directly after Gaya’s entrance, we’re transported to a boxing ring, where our hero, Shin Jung Tae (played by Kim Hyun Joong), lies dazed on a dirt floor. With onlookers cheering and placing bets, Jung Tae musters the energy to return to his feet and lunge toward his opponent. But will it be enough for him to win the fight and the cash prize?

 



Makeup Mishap: After the violence and intensity of the opening sequence, this light-hearted segment is a breath of fresh air. We’re taken back in time to Jung Tae’s childhood, where he is welcomed to a medicine shop by the bright-eyed Yoon Ok Ryeon (played by Jin Se Yeon). In a rush to hide a blemish on her chin before her handsome crush’s arrival, Ok Ryeon applies far too much white makeup. She can barely hide how excited she is to see Jung Tae, and he can barely hide his amusement at her makeup mishap.


A Ride Through Fields of Gold: As we may remember from the first scene in the episode, Deguchi Gaya is a strong, formidable woman. She is strong even in her youth, having to deal with family responsibilities and the threat of violence almost everyday. When Jung Tae takes her out of town to a field of wildflowers, she lets her hair down and smiles freely for the first time. This scene includes wide shots of the beautiful country landscape and a lovely soundtrack as well.


Did the first episode of “Inspiring Generation” live up to your expectations? Let us know what your favorite moments were in the comments, and check out episode 2!

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Valentine’s Day Reality Check: Dramas vs. Real Life

February 11, 2014, 3:30 am
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So Valentine’s Day is coming up, and unless you already have that special someone, Valentine’s Day should probably be called Singles’ Awareness Day. But have no fear. Viki helps you separate your dreams about an ideal relationship with what you can expect in real life on this American lovers’ holiday.





Getting a Gift for That Special Someone

In dramas, there’s no better way to show someone you like exactly how you feel than showering the person with an abundance of gifts.


Jo Bo A in ‘Shut Up! Flower Boy Band’   

In reality, you probably drop a gift and run so that your crush has no idea that you even exist!

Yoon Doo Joon in ‘Let’s Eat’

Going Out to Dinner With That Special Someone

In dramas, we all look cute and sexy when we eat with our special someone — not to mention that the atmosphere is perfectly romantic.

                                  
 

In reality, we can only hope to look as cute as HyunA when being a couch potato. *Sigh.* Even Woo Bin in “Heirs” looks sexy when he eats!

Yoon Doo Joon in ‘Let’s Eat’

Sharing A Romantic Kiss With Someone

In dramas, everyone has a heart-stopping kiss with their true love, or at the very least a very sweet kiss from their special someone. Not to mention those adorable kisses in “Love Rain” and “Queen In Hyun’s Man”!

The passionate kiss in ‘Princess’ Stand In’
The sweet forehead peck in ‘A Word From Warm Heart’

In reality, the guy gets confused when you even try to hold his hand, much less kiss him!


The awkward hand-holding in ‘Secret’

Cuddling With Someone on Valentine’s Day

In dramas, the cuddle is cute, and it’s filled with smiles and happiness.


*Insert smiles and happiness*

In reality, cuddling is actually more awkward than the one time in “Playful Kiss.” 

Too uncomfortable to cuddle in ‘Playful Kiss’

And Finally … What That Special Someone Should Look Like

In dramas, your special someone is sexy and cute at the same time with a smile that would melt your heart.

Check out even more of L in ‘Shut Up! Flower Boy Band’    

In reality, your special someone is sexy and cute at the same time with a smile that would make your heart melt — if only he could walk out of your computer screen.

Let’s be honest. This sooo isn’t happening.

Well … at least Viki will always be there for us. Let’s go watch some more dramas!

How do you plan on celebrating Valentine’s Day? Let us know in the comments below!

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Win Viki Prizes in Winter Olympics Scavenger Hunt!

February 11, 2014, 10:25 am
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The 2014 Winter Olympic Games are officially underway in Sochi, Russia, and we want the Viki community to join in the fun! We may not have our own hockey rink or alpine ski course, but we’ve got awesome prizes and even an Olympic torch:




Are you ready for the Viki Winter Olympics Scavenger Hunt? Follow these instructions and you will have a chance to win Viki swag or even a month of free Viki Pass (Watch Viki in HD with no ads, worth $3.99USD)!

Answer the questions below as a comment on this blog post, and don’t forget to write your Viki username. Also, share this post on your Facebook page or Twitter to increase your chance to win. You have until Sunday, February 16, at 11:59 p.m. (Pacific Standard Time) to submit your answers. Two winners will be selected. Good luck!

Viki Winter Olympics Scavenger Hunt Clues

Answer the following four questions in a comment on this blog post.

1. How many times does Ren Guang Xi (played by Vanness Wu) score a goal in Autumn’s Concerto Episode 2?



2. Describe one of the challenges played in the Winter Olympics special episode of Running Man, and include which team won the challenge. (Example: rope-climbing race, blue team)





3. In the classic American film The Golf Specialist, how many times does the “specialist” change golf clubs? 


Remember to include your Viki username in your comments, and submit your answers before Sunday, February 16, at 11:59 p.m. (PST). May the games begin!

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See the Film That Made Child Actress Shirley Temple a Star

February 11, 2014, 10:33 pm
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The world lost one of its brightest stars when Shirley Temple Black died at the age of 85 at her home in Woodside, California, this week. Known to the world as Shirley Temple, the American actress and future world diplomat is one of the most iconic and famous child stars from the early days of Hollywood.

Temple began her career in movies at the tender age of 3, acting, singing and dancing alongside some of the greatest actors of the time. In 1939, she starred in the classic “The Little Princess,” one of her most famous roles that cemented her status as a Hollywood star. In the film, Temple plays Sara, whose father leaves her at a seminary for girls while he goes to Africa to serve in the army. When her father is reported killed, little Sara is reduced from a life of privilege to that of a house servant.



Rediscover Temple’s adorable dimples, her iconic curls and her admirable acting chops in “The Little Princess,” available on Viki with subtitles in 14 languages! You’ll be reminded why Temple is ranked 18th on the American Film Institute’s list of the greatest female American screen legends of all time.

Catch the many other U.S. classic films also available on Viki!
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The Couch Potato’s Way of Taking Part in the Olympics

February 12, 2014, 4:00 am
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OK, so we will probably never know what it feels like to be a true Olympic athlete. That would require us to go to the gym and … exercise … and stuff. But have you always wanted to know the thrill of competition without having to get off the couch? Viki makes it easy for you to take the lazy way out and live vicariously by watching these sports-themed episodes of your favorite shows!

Basketball

A young man born into poverty tries to find a better future through the early full-contact sport of basketball as part of the unified Korean basketball team to make it to the 1948 Olympics. Who knew the sport could be so sweaty and sexy at the same time?



Triple

An aspiring young figure skater gets more than she bargained for when reunites with her stepbrother after she moves to Seoul to train. The outfits, the triple axel, the arabesque — we may not know what these terms actually mean but we know we like watching the graceful moves. 



Boys Over Flowers — Episode 8

Tension boils over the big swim competition at school. Our favorite flower boys Ji Hoo (played by Kim Hyun Joong) and Yee Jung (played by Kim Bum) suit up and get wet for the big meet.


The Office — Season 1 Episode 4

Michael Scott (played by Steve Carell) resorts to some unusual management skills with his employees. In this episode, he challenges the warehouse workers to a game of basketball to determine who has to work on a Saturday. Some of the employees may have taken the game a little too seriously (we’re looking at you, Dwight, with the full face guard). 


Mischievous Kiss: Love in TOKYO — Episode 7

Naoke and Kotoko play a doubles tennis game against Yuko and Sudo. But will the friendly match stay “friendly”?


Don’t forget to enter to win a free month of Viki Pass (watch your favorite dramas without ads and in HD) with Viki’s Winter Olympics Scavenger Hunt!

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