Give The Gift of Global TV with Viki Pass!

December 18, 2013, 2:12 pm

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The holidays. Sure, we love family, friends, and food. But who doesn't love getting and giving gifts even more? Don't sit back and accept that ugly snowman sweater as an inevitable reality! Give and request what you and your friends really want this year.

Just in time for the holidays, you can purchase Viki Pass, the gift of global TV. Watch Viki in HD, without ads, with exclusive content and in convenient 3-month, 6-month, or 1 year upgrade options -- all redeemable with a code by email. The more months you buy, the bigger the savings (woot!).

Make the fangirl or fanboy in your life happy this holiday season. Or share this link with parents, friends or Santa to give them the not-so-subtle hint. ;)

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Spread the Holiday Cheer with these Memes!

December 21, 2013, 3:30 am

≫ Next: Happy Holidays, 节日快乐, &καλές διακοπές!

≪ Previous: Give The Gift of Global TV with Viki Pass!

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Ready for some holiday cheer, Viki style? 

First, check out what's coming soon, including Kim Hyun Joong's return to TV, "Inspiring Generation" available worldwide this January. Reminder also to let us know what shows you loved on Viki this year in our annual Fan Favorite Vote.

And finally, the holidays aren't complete without holiday memes - share these with friends and family: 

What do you want this holiday season? We loved So Ji Sub in "Master's Sun." 

The holiday season is a great time to spend with family and friends, including your favorite fictional ones like the group in Flower Boy Next Door. 

If you're going to ask Santa for something under the tree, you might as well dream big, right? While you wait for your favorite stars to be wrapped up, watch them in some of their best roles like Lee Min Ho in "Heirs," Mario Maurer in "To Each a Flower," Jang Geun Suk in "Beautiful Man," and Kim Soo Hyun in "The Moon Embracing the Sun."

Need something to get excited about in the New Year? Kim Hyun Joong returns to TV in K-Drama "Inspiring Generation," available worldwide to Viki fans! 

Happy Holidays from all of us at Viki! And don't forget to tell us which shows you're watching this holiday season.

Happy Holidays, 节日快乐, &καλές διακοπές!

December 22, 2013, 2:00 am

≫ Next: Things That Remind us of Christmas

≪ Previous: Spread the Holiday Cheer with these Memes!

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From all of us at Viki, to our amazing community all over the world, we wish you Happy Holidays and a joyous New Year!

Also, special shout-out to the below Viki community members who contributed to our Happy Holidays e-card. What other languages are we missing? Share yours in the comments here or on on Facebook and Twitter!

keii2009

norzaman_agha

shms

mateja_3

spanic

kiki14_2

Bastet

LaLena

seca2204

la_bonita29

Mayaka19

KarolineL

elsa_astrom

edvagab

soncka

brightshade

Things That Remind us of Christmas

December 23, 2013, 4:00 am

≫ Next: K-Pop Idols Yoona and IU Star in New Dramas

≪ Previous: Happy Holidays, 节日快乐, &καλές διακοπές!

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Bells are ringing, presents are being wrapped; our favorite snowy season is right around the corner! While you curl up warm and fuzzy in bed, what better to snuggle with than dramas and movies?

In the spirit of Christmas, here are some of the things that fondly remind us of the holiday season!

Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer

The tale of Rudolph, the red-nosed reindeer is a classic Christmas story. Relive your childhood memories with this Christmas tale of an underdog who helps light the way for Santa's sleigh.

Rudolph is one of our favorite Christmas stories of all time.

Santa Claus

What would Christmas be without this white-bearded jolly old man sliding down chimneys and stuffing presents in everyone's Christmas stockings? See Santa in action in the animated cartoon.

Santa Claus rides around the world in his sleigh in this classic cartoon.

And check out actor Ethan Ruan, who sneakily dresses up as Santa in the Taiwanese drama, My Queen! 

Food

One of the best parts of this joyous season is a home-cooked holiday feast.Let's Eatis a Korean drama made especially to get your mouth watering. It's all about eating, and features B2ST's handsome leader Doojoon as a food-loving playboy.

White Wonderland

When we think of the holidays, we think of a white wonderland of gorgeous winter weather. Whether you live in the snow-covered hills in Europe or the warmer climates of Singapore and Australia, get into the holiday spirit by snuggling with your loved ones and enjoying these dramas.

That Winter, The Wind Blows

An opportunistic con artist sees an easy prey in a blind heiress … until his emotions get in the way.

In My Love From the Star, Kim Soo Hyun plays a 400-year-old alien from the Joseon era, who falls in love with a top actress. We can enjoy sweeping views of the Korean landscape in all different seasons.

Kim Soo Hyun's immortal character plays over 10 different roles in Episode 1 alone.

Tell us, what are some of your favorite shows that put you in a festive mood?

K-Pop Idols Yoona and IU Star in New Dramas

November 21, 2013, 4:00 am

≫ Next: EXCLUSIVE: New Year’s Eve LIVE Concert in Taipei

≪ Previous: Things That Remind us of Christmas

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This winter, K-pop idols are taking lead roles in several anticipated new dramas. IU, known as the “Nation’s Little Sister” in Korea, will star in “Beautiful Man.” Yoona from Girls’ Generation will play a spunky reporter in “Prime Minister and I.”

IU’s character in “Beautiful Man” is a very ordinary girl named Kim Bo Tong. In addition to being a strange-sounding girl’s name, “Bo Tong” literally means “average” in Korean! IU has acted in past dramas such as “Dream High,” and we’re excited to see her take on another cute, underdog role alongside the beautiful man himself, Jang Geun Suk.

IU plays average schoolgirl Kim Bo Tong in ‘Beautiful Man’

“Prime Minister and I” is not Yoona’s first drama, either. She co-starred in the romantic melodrama, “Love Rain” with Jang Geun Suk. Yoona will shed her sleek idol image for the role, sporting a combination of curly hair and baggy clothes.

Yoona is a courageous reporter in ‘Prime Minister and I’

“Miss Korea” stars the beautiful Lee Yeon Hee and premieres on December 18. The lovely actress is not a K-pop idol, but here’s a fun fact: Lee Yeon Hee was an S.M. trainee who almost debuted as part of Girls’ Generation! She chose to pursue her acting career instead.

Which K-pop singer are you looking forward to seeing on Viki this winter? Let us know!

EXCLUSIVE: New Year’s Eve LIVE Concert in Taipei

December 27, 2013, 2:30 am

≫ Next: EXCLUSIVE: U.S. ‘Boys Over Flowers’ First Episode Released

≪ Previous: K-Pop Idols Yoona and IU Star in New Dramas

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Want to be a part of the first ever LIVE concert on Viki? We’re preparing for one of the biggest New Year’s Eve events in the world — the 2014 Taipei 101 New Year’s Eve Countdown — featuring performances by top Taiwanese Pop stars such as Rainie Yang, Wilber Pan, David Tao, and S.H.E.!

The show's going live very soon! Join the watch party on our Taipei 101 YouTube Channel and stay tuned. You won’t want to miss this global entertainment showcase streamed real-time! 

When: From 7:00 p.m. on December 31, 2013, to 1:00 a.m. on January 1, 2014 (Taiwan local time)

Where: Live streaming on Viki’s Taipei’s 101 YouTube Channel 

Latest Artist Line-up: Bii, Dream Girls, S.H.E, Fukuyama Masaharu, Rainie Yang, Wilber Pan, Hebe, Janet, Luan Tan Ah Xiang, Wei Li An, Liu Zi Qian, Xia Yu Qiao, Yoga Lin, Lin Zhi Sheng, Yang Dai Kang, Hao Jiao Xiang Qi, Chairman, Lan Xin Mei, Xie Jin Yan, Guo Yan Wen and David Tao

Don’t forget to check out our playlist of hit songs from the concert’s performers, and enjoy promotional clips and shout-out videos on our Viki channel.

If you can’t watch the concert live, you can see all of the footage subtitled by Viki volunteers (on a one-hour delay) on the 2014 Taipei 101 New Year’s Eve Countdown channel. 

Want to help subtitle or segment the concert while it’s on air? Sign up to join the Taipei 101 channel team here in our discussion forums. 

EXCLUSIVE: U.S. ‘Boys Over Flowers’ First Episode Released

December 27, 2013, 4:03 pm

≫ Next: Christmas with Lunafly

≪ Previous: EXCLUSIVE: New Year’s Eve LIVE Concert in Taipei

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Last night, the U.S. version of the famous drama franchise “Boys Over Flowers,” premiered last night, exclusively on Viki.com, in the United States. 

You can watch the episode for yourself below. But first, check out our review, which points out a few of the most noticeable differences you'll see between the U.S. and Asian drama versions.

Watch the First Episode of 'Boys Before Friends'

What are the main differences between the U.S. show, "Boys Before Friends," and the Asian dramas?

Grown Ups and Graduate School

“Boys Before Friends” takes the classic love story out of high school and plants it in a performing arts graduate school. As we meet the main characters in the opening sequence, we learn that they are adults in their 20s who live apart from their families. This is one important difference between the American and Asian versions, which featured parents in major decision-making roles. We’ll have to wait to see whether the infamous evil mother appears in future episodes!

Bullying Is for All Ages

In the first episode, we see some familiar bullying scenes inspired by the Asian dramas: An innocent girl gets her homemade cake smashed in her face, and classmates pour trash on the heroine, Zoey. There are even some more creative tactics added to the mix. While it’s unusual to see this kind of behavior from adults in graduate school, the description of the four “F4” boys reveals that privileged backgrounds have allowed them to act like children with no consequences.

'Z3'and the Power of Friends

In the behind-the-scenes interview, cast members talked about the changes we could expect to see in the American “Boys Over Flowers” remake. Without a doubt, one of the biggest differences I noticed was that Zoey was given a strong group of girlfriends. These girls not only listen to Zoey’s stories about events at school and offer advice, they also stick up for Zoey when she’s in trouble, fearlessly facing the F4 (and naming themselves “Z3” for fun). Some of my favorite scenes were watching Zoey, Piper, and Chloe joke around with each other; their friendship will definitely be a highlight in the show.

The attractive, multicultural cast of ‘Boys Before Friends.’

We hope you enjoyed the review of “Boys Before Friends” Episode 1! You can catch new episodes every Thursday on Viki.

Christmas with Lunafly

December 29, 2013, 3:00 am

≫ Next: 9 New Year's Resolutions for K-Drama Fans

≪ Previous: EXCLUSIVE: U.S. ‘Boys Over Flowers’ First Episode Released

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Christmas came early for some Lukies as they celebrated the joyous season with Lunafly during their recent showcase, Christmas with Lunafly Live in Singapore. From familiar tunes like ‘Fly to Love’ and ‘Day by Day’ (English version of Clear Day, Cloudy Day) to covers of classics and hit songs, Lunafly grabbed the hearts of their fans with their amazing live performances.

Not only are they talented, their humour is a plus point as well! Teo did a perfect imitation of British-Korean member Sam’s accented English, and even teased the crowd with pick up lines in Mandarin.

Pleasing the fans even more, Teo showed off his nifty dance moves to fellow labelmate LC9’s Mama Beat, drawing screams from the numerous fans. As it was their 450th day since debut, Lukies prepared a fan event - holding cards to congratulate them, and presented a cake to the 3 boys.

Saving the best for the last, Christmas couldn’t get more exciting for Lukies when Lunafly came back for an encore in Santa costumes and even personally presented roses to the fans!

Now Viki has a special present for Lukies around the world too! We will be giving away 3 autographed polaroids of Lunafly together with a Viki Tshirt. (Psst! Each of the Lunafly members have a Viki shirt too, so you might be one of the lucky fans to get an identical shirt with them!) 

Stay tuned for more details on this exclusive giveaway!

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9 New Year's Resolutions for K-Drama Fans

December 30, 2013, 3:00 am

≫ Next: Officially Dating: Yoona and Lee Seung Gi!

≪ Previous: Christmas with Lunafly

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If you’re a K-drama fan, you might just be able to relate to my New Year’s resolutions. Here are my resolutions for the upcoming year.

1. Watch More Dramas

I started this resolution early. With all the great on-air dramas out lately, I’ve resolved to keep up-to-date with “Let’s Eat,” “The Prime Minister Is Dating,” “Miss Korea,” and “My Love From the Star.” Wish me luck!

2. Learn a New Language

Since you’re watching dramas anyway, why not try subtitling to help build your Korean or other language skills? Watch and learn.

3. Eat Better

With easy-to-follow recipes from our Let’s Cook With Viki blog series, such as home-made jja jang myun, bubble milk tea, and more, we all can eat better (or more deliciously) in 2014.

Don’t be afraid to enjoy your food, just like Lee Min Ho does in the following episode of “City Hunter.”

Check out our recipe for jja jang myun, or black bean noodles, here!

4. Travel More

For your travel inspiration, enjoy shots of exotic locales all over Southeast Asia and the world in “Barefoot Friends” and “Here We Go, World Challenge.” I say we all meet up in Korea next year! Who’s with me?!

I can’t wait to visit Jeju Island, where countless K-drama scenes have been filmed.

Ha Ni and Seung Jo play around on their honeymoon in ‘Playful Kiss.’

Yi Jung and Ga Eul meet for a chat in ‘Boys Over Flowers.’

5. Be Thankful for Loved Ones

Let the holiday spirit of giving continue into 2014. Show your gratitude for family, friends, and the volunteers who subtitle your favorite shows on Viki. (Just leaving a nice comment on the video page makes their day!)

6. Get in Shape

Need some motivation to hit the gym? I’ve found that watching K-dramas on my phone or tablet while working out on the treadmill does wonders! Think chocolate abs and shower scenes!

Excuse me while I replay this scene of Kim Soo Hyun in “My Love From the Star” as inspiration to go to the gym.

7. Explore Other Genres

I tend to watch a lot of romantic comedies, so I’ve resolved to watch more fantasy and action dramas next year, and dramas from outside of Korea. If you have the same idea, we’ve got your back — with Taiwanese dramas (e.g., “Just You”), Japanese dramas (e.g., “Innocent Lilies”), and telenovelas (e.g., “Eva Luna”).

Just look at Aaron Yan in ‘Just You’ — how cute is he?

8. Try a New Look

Trying on a new hairstyle or outfit is always fun, especially when you need that extra spring in your step to tackle your New Year’s resolutions. Makeovers are a key plot point in many dramas, such as “Boys Over Flowers,” “Coffee Prince,” and “Princess’ Stand In.”

9. Watch the Live Stream of the Taipei 101 New Year's Eve Countdown

I'm going to ring in the new year with one of the biggest countdown events in the world! I'm talking about the Taipei 101 New Year's Eve Countdown, a LIVE concert featuring top Taiwanese pop stars such as Rainie Yang, Wilber Pan, David Yao, S.H.E, and Puff Guo from Dream Girls and the drama "Just You."

You can watch the live stream on our Taipei Countdown YouTube Channel on December 31st. If you miss the live event, you can watch the show after the fact on our Viki Channel. Check out our blog post for more details!

So what did you think? Can you relate to my New Year's resolutions? Tell us what you would add to this list!

Officially Dating: Yoona and Lee Seung Gi!

January 2, 2014, 3:35 pm

≫ Next: The Results Are In! Viki Fan Favorites 2013

≪ Previous: 9 New Year's Resolutions for K-Drama Fans

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Yoona of Girls’ Generation and actor Lee Seung Gi are dating!

The K-entertainment world got a big surprise on New Year’s Eve when news broke that two of the hottest stars in Korea — Yoona of Girls’ Generation and actor Lee Seung Gi — are officially dating!

The Korean news agency “Dispatch” caught the couple on several dates since September. Its coverage includes pictures from a date in October, when Lee Seung Gi had just returned to Korea after his concert in Japan and picked up Yoona for a date at the Han River and gave her a gift as well. Both stars’ agencies were quick to confirm that the pair is indeed dating, emphasizing that the couple is in the beginning stages of getting to know each other. 

Lee Seung Gi has publicly stated that Yoona is his ideal type multiple times and was also teased about it while hosting the variety show “Strong Heart.” Yoona has had several moments with Lee Seung Gi on “Strong Heart,” including in Episode 1, Episode 4 and Episode 18, in which she chose Lee Seung Gi as her ideal type over 2PM’s Taecyeon.

Yoona is currently starring in the hit drama “The Prime Minister Is Dating” and previously appeared in “Love Rain.” You can find Lee Seung Gi in “The King 2 Hearts,” “Gu Family Book,” “My Girlfriend Is a Gumiho,” “Shining Inheritance” and “Strong Heart.” 

Congratulations to the young couple!

The Results Are In! Viki Fan Favorites 2013

January 3, 2014, 4:00 am

≫ Next: 10 Signs You’re a Drama Addict

≪ Previous: Officially Dating: Yoona and Lee Seung Gi!

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The results are finally in! You voted in our Viki Fan Favorites 2013 poll and told us about your favorite shows of the year. Without further ado, we bring you the winners of the Viki Fan Favorites for 2013:

Favorite Comeback Performance: Jo In Sung in That Winter, The Wind Blows
(2nd place: Choi Ji Woo in The Suspicious Housemaid)



Favorite Action Drama: Gu Family Book
(2nd place:Two Weeks)



Favorite Romantic Comedy: Master’s Sun
(2nd place:Flower Boy Next Door)

Favorite Couple: Park Shin Hye and Lee Min Ho in Heirs
(2nd place: Gong Hyo Jin and So Ji Sub in Master’s Sun)

Park Shin Hye and Lee Min Ho are your Favorite Couple for 2013.

Favorite Taiwanese Drama: Just You
(2nd place:Love Around)

Aaron Yan's drama intrigued fans

Favorite Korean Drama: Heirs
(2nd place:Master’s Sun)

Heirs was your favorite drama this year

Let us know in the comments whether your favorite drama won any of the Viki Fan Favorite distinctions for the past year!

10 Signs You’re a Drama Addict

January 4, 2014, 3:30 am

≫ Next: Get a Signed Polaroid From Lunafly!

≪ Previous: The Results Are In! Viki Fan Favorites 2013

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We don’t judge, but here are 10 helpful signs that maybe you’re watching just a little too much Viki, and your life has been consumed by the wonderful world of asian dramas.

1. Weekends Are for Drama Marathons

Just like Mary in “Marry Me, Mary!” we stayed up all night watching almost an entire season of a drama. Guilty, and not even sorry.

2. You Consider Back Hugs to Be ‘Second Base’

Like this one from “To The Beautiful You,” hugging someone you like from the back is really getting intimate! Omo, so scandalous.

3. You Think All Men Should Look Like This

All men should be semi-dressed and ever-so-cool like Rain in “Fugitive Plan B.” I mean, really?! He’s so hot, he set that car on fire.

4. You’re Learning Korean or Another Language

Oppa, annyoung, wae— these are some of the first words any K-Drama fan learns. Add the cute wave like Jeremy in “You’re Beautiful” and you’ll be fluent in the language of your favorite drama in no time!

Saranghae to all our fans who make learning languages on Viki possible!

5. You Think Kissing With Your Eyes Open Is Totally Normal

The eyes stay open in this scene with Lee Min Ho and Park Min Young in “City Hunter” and basically every other kissing scene in an Asian drama ever. See our list of best kisses in dramas.

6. You’re Often Sleep Deprived

Just like Lee Min Ho in “Heirs,” you’re sad and tired — except you don’t have a pretty cry.

7. You Think Piggy Back Rides Are an Efficient Form of Transportation

Just like Kim Sun Ah in “My Name Is Kim Sam Soon,” you think that getting carried around is way faster — and better — than walking on your own.

8. You Suffer Physical and Emotional Pain While Watching Dramas

So many feels. No I’m fine, I just need a moment.

When a character dies — you’ve been known to not leave your house for days. OMG, do we have to bring up “King 2 Hearts” Episode 19?

9. You Think All Showers Should Be Filled With Angst

In “My Princess,” Song Seung Heon showed off his six-pack in a pensive shower scene during the second episode of the show. Yet another reason to watch. 

10. You Can’t Contain Your Excitement for a New Episode and Watch Without Subtitles

As soon as a new episode is uploaded, you want to watch immediately even though the subtitles are not yet completed. But really, our community of fans is awesome — we’ve got this, just try to wait a few hours and the subtitles will be there.

Are you watching too many dramas? How many of these signs do you have? Maybe you have signs that we haven’t even mentioned. Let us know!

Get a Signed Polaroid From Lunafly!

January 6, 2014, 5:21 pm

≫ Next: Who Wore it Better? ‘Boys Over Flowers’ Hairstyles

≪ Previous: 10 Signs You’re a Drama Addict

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Last month, we covered K-pop group Lunafly’s showcase, “Christmas With Lunafly Live in Singapore.” Even if you couldn’t make it to the event, you now have a chance to win an autographed polaroid from Lunafly, exclusively for Viki community members, and a Viki T-shirt! All you need to do for a chance to win is participate in our photo caption contest!

How to Enter:

1. Add text to the photo above to create a funny imaginary scene starring Lunafly
2. Post your captioned image on Twitter or Instagram
3. Make sure to include @Viki and your Viki username in your Tweet or Instagram post (you must be following us on Twitter & Instagram)

Three lucky winners will receive an autographed polaroid from Lunafly and a Viki T-shirt. The winners will be contacted via private message on Viki on Monday, January 13. Happy captioning!!

Who Wore it Better? ‘Boys Over Flowers’ Hairstyles

January 8, 2014, 10:00 am

≫ Next: Rich Bad Boys We Love to Hate in Dramas

≪ Previous: Get a Signed Polaroid From Lunafly!

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For fans of the wildly successful Korean drama “Boys Over Flowers,” there is no feature more iconic than Gu Jun Pyo’s curly, permed hair. And Ji Hoo’s flowing red locks are a close second. But what’s so important about the hairstyle in the making of international versions of the show?


These hairstyles, some of which are adopted from the original Japanese manga, tell us a story about the characters and match their personalities. Gu Jun Pyo’s curly, almost over-styled hair is a sign of his wealth and rebellious nature. Ji Hoo’s straight, lighter hair adds to his peaceful, angelic presence.

Check out all of the cast members and decide which hairstyle you like best!

As you can see from the photo comparison above, some versions of the TV show have featured characters with hair completely different from the original manga. One of the biggest differences between the American characters of “Boys Before Friends” and their Asian counterparts is that their haircuts are mostly short. Liam Montgomery (Gu Jun Pyo’s counterpart) starts out the series with a long, wavy ponytail but cuts it off in Episode 2.



Shorter hairstyles in the American version probably point to a cultural difference between what is fashionable for young men in the United States and in Asia, as well as the fashion of the year each show was filmed.

What do you think of the American F4’s hair and fashion compared to the characters from Asia? Let us know!

Lee Min Ho and Joseph Almani show off their hairstyles for BBF

Rich Bad Boys We Love to Hate in Dramas

January 11, 2014, 3:30 am

≫ Next: Fashion, Dating and Friendship in New Chinese Dramas

≪ Previous: Who Wore it Better? ‘Boys Over Flowers’ Hairstyles

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Nothing says Asian drama like a romance between a rich leading man and a poor innocent girl. The wealthy leading men are inevitably cold, bad-boy types, but we’re always won over by their bad-boy charm!

Here are our favorite rich bad boys that we love to hate from our favorite Asian dramas!

Dae Woong in ‘My Girlfriend Is a Gumiho’

Dae Woong (played by Lee Seung Gi) is a spoiled, aimless young man who dreams of becoming an action movie star. But he accidentally releases a legendary gumiho (mythical nine-tailed fox) who helps to set him on the right path.

Dae Woong killed us with his cuteness, too

Joo Won in ‘Secret Garden’

Joo Won (played by Hyun Bin) is an arrogant, conceited CEO who mistakes a struggling stuntwoman for a famous actress. The snobby businessman tries to forget about his gaffe, but he cannot get the feisty Ra Im (played by Ha Ji Won) out of his mind — and eventually out of his body! 

Joon Pyo in ‘Boys Over Flowers’

Yes, Joon Pyo (played by Lee Min Ho) is handsome and rich, but he also is an arrogant jerk. He torments Jan Di (played by Goo Hye Sun) when she stands up to his bullying, but in the end falls for her instead. Despite his possessive, jealous ways, Joon Pyo wins Jan Di’s heart — and ours, too!

Yang Tai in ‘Princess’ Stand In’

In this Taiwanese drama, Yang Tai (played by Chris Wu) is a rich perfectionist who loses his fiancé in an accident. He pays for Da Hua’s (played by Nikki Hsieh) plastic surgery to make her resemble his lost love just to further his career. But who can resist the bad boy’s dashing good looks?

Yang Tai’s good looks won us over in Princess’ Stand In

Don't mind me, I'm just over here being handsome

Crown Prince Lee Shin in ‘Goong (aka Princess Hour)’

As the Crown Prince of South Korea’s fictional monarchy, Lee Shin (played by Joo Ji Hoon) is maybe the richest guy on this list. But he isn’t just royal, he is a royal jerk. When his girlfriend rejects his proposal, we don’t blame her. We’d say “NO” to his smug face, too — Prince or no Prince. Forced to pursue an arranged marriage to Shin Chae Kyeong (played by Yoon Eun Hye), the Crown Prince is annoyed by her positive enthusiasm. But he soon falls in love with her sweetness, and we learn he is actually a big softy deep down inside (he owns a teddy bear!)

The Crown Prince is tough on the outside but soft on the inside

Who knew being bad could look so good? Who is your favorite rich bad boy? Let us know!

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Fashion, Dating and Friendship in New Chinese Dramas

January 12, 2014, 3:30 am

≫ Next: 5 Reasons to Watch ‘Inspiring Generation’ on Viki

≪ Previous: Rich Bad Boys We Love to Hate in Dramas

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Calling all the single ladies out there! “Sex in the City”and “Group of Women”are new Chinese dramas on Viki that focus on strong female friendships, relationships and family challenges. The women in these dramas face the all-too-familiar realities of life while still trying to find time to have fun, find love and make money. You’ll be drawn to the different personalities of the female leads in these addicting dramas!

The Love Seekers

Julie (left) and Xiao Chun (right)

Julie from “Group of Women” is focused on landing a rich husband. While some may call her a gold digger, we like her feisty personality.

Xiao Chun from “Sex in the City”longs to find a boyfriend through blind dates, but she is an intense germaphobe who scares off potential guys.

The Powerful Alphas

Kasey (left) and Soso (right)

Kasey from “Group of Women”is an elite executive at her company. Although a little temperamental at times, her stability and years of work experience make her the most rational out of the lot.

Soso from “Sex in the City”is the kind of woman who seems to get everything without trying. She radiates sex appeal and can get any man she wants wrapped around her elegant, manicured fingers.

The Quiet Ones

Bi Ran (left) and Ka Si (right)

Sometimes it’s the shy, quiet ones you have to watch out for! Bi Ran from “Group of Women”is a high school English teacher whose glasses and bangs hide her tough attitude.

Ka Si from “Sex in the City”keeps up a poker face towards any strangers she meets, but beneath that façade is an unexpectedly wild woman who desperately wants to find love.

The Loyals

Qing Xia (left) and Sha Jing (right)

Qing Xia from “Group of Women”is the boss of a bar, who still longs for the guy she dated seven years ago.

Sha Jing from “Sex in the City”is a designer handbag addict who wants to start a business so her grandmother can move in with her. No dedication is as endearing like dedication to family!

Which character can you relate to the most?

5 Reasons to Watch ‘Inspiring Generation’ on Viki

January 13, 2014, 9:30 am

≫ Next: Lunafly Caption Contest Winners!

≪ Previous: Fashion, Dating and Friendship in New Chinese Dramas

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The hottest new K-drama of 2014 is fast approaching: “Inspiring Generation,” starring Kim Hyun Joong, which will premiere on January 15. We could not be more excited! Here are our top five reasons you should check out this upcoming Korean drama.

1. Global Premiere — The show is available WORLDWIDE, and viewers in the Americas and Europe can enjoy the show exclusively on the Viki website and mobile apps.

‘Inspiring Generation’ is available worldwide on Viki.

2. Anticipated Comeback — This will be Kim Hyun Joong’s first TV drama since “Playful Kiss” in 2010. We look forward to seeing how both his appearance and acting style have matured in this month’s premiere. Watch the behind-the-scenes showcase and press conference below, where the actors share their excitement.





3. Strong Support — Have you seen the supporting cast? Song Jae Rim is a model-turned-actor with previous roles in “Two Weeks,” “Nail Shop Paris” and “The Moon Embracing the Sun.” Kim Jae Wook most recently played a ghost in “Who Are You?” Finally, you may remember Kwak Dong Yeon from “Jang Ok Jeong, Lives in Love.” He will play the younger version of Kim Hyun Joong’s character. These talented, eye-catching actors should not be missed.

The supporting cast includes Song Jae Rim, Kim Jae Wook and Kwak Dong Yeon.

4. Historical Intrigue — “Inspiring Generation” is a big budget, action-packed drama taking place in 1930s Shanghai, China. We can expect to see film-scale cinematography, impressive set design, and feel the bustling excitement of one of Asia’s first multicultural cities. Watch the trailer to get a taste.





5. Delightful Fashion — Like “Bridal Mask” and “Basketball,” “Inspiring Generation” will feature a variety of colorful, intricate period costumes. The 1930s were a culturally transitional period, so characters may be seen wearing everything from traditional Japanese kimonos to Western leather jackets.

The cast of ‘Inspiring Generation,’ dressed in 1930s period costumes.

Tell us what you’re most excited to see in the premiere of “Inspiring Generation” on January 15!

Lunafly Caption Contest Winners!

January 14, 2014, 1:35 pm

≫ Next: グローバルテレビを日本に！英語の力を磨こう！

≪ Previous: 5 Reasons to Watch ‘Inspiring Generation’ on Viki

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Last week, we asked Viki community members and Lunafly fans to fill in the speech bubbles on a photo of the boys at their recent showcase, “Christmas With Lunafly in Singapore,” to create the best imaginary scene possible. We received many funny and creative entries, so it was difficult to choose just three fans to award a signed Lunafly polaroid and a Viki T-shirt. But we had to make the tough choices anyway! Thank you all for participating!

Without further ado, we give you the winning entries of the Lunafly caption contest.

Aren’t these captions clever?? Remember to follow Viki on Twitter, Facebook and our blog to find out about other exclusive contests related to your favorite artists and shows! And congratulations again to our three lucky winners!

グローバルテレビを日本に！英語の力を磨こう！

January 10, 2014, 2:51 pm

≫ Next: Can You Guess the Real Lee Min Ho?

≪ Previous: Lunafly Caption Contest Winners!

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Vikiは、世界中の人たちが韓国、台湾、中南米、そしてハリウッドなどの「グローバルテレビ」を観て楽しむことができる人気のサイトです。

Vikiの素晴らしいところは、皆さんのようなファンのコミュニテイがボランティアで字幕を付けてくれていることなのです。ファンの皆さんは、仲間と興味を共有すると同時に、言葉の壁を取り除くための手助けもしてくれているのです。

どうしてこんなことを言うかといいますと、もっとたくさんの番組を皆さんに観てもらうため、日本でもVikiを始めたいからなのです。でも、これは皆さんの協力なしでは実現できません。グローバルテレビを日本でも観るには必要なことがあります。

番組や映画の日本語字幕付けへのご協力

語学力を磨きながら、世界中の人気番組にアクセスするためのワードポイントを獲得しましょう。スタートするには、viki.comまたはviki.jpのサイトに行くだけ。そこでどんな番組を視聴できるか見てみてください。また、詳しい説明は以下でもご覧いただけます。

• Vikiのコミュニティについて
• 字幕について－紹介
• Qualified Contributor (QC－クオリファイド・コントリビューター)になるには

日本のContributorへの特別プロモーション

Qualified Contributor (QC）とは、特に熱心にVikiを支持をしてくれているコミュニティメンバーのことをいいます。QCになると、Vikiパス（広告なし・高解像度で視聴できるパス）が無料でもらえたり、日本国外でしか視聴できない番組を観ることができるなど、数々の特典がもらえます。

2014年3月1日までの限定期間内に、1,500の台詞に日本語字幕を付けてくださった方には、QCのステータスを差し上げます。3月2日以降は、通常の3,000の台詞の字幕付けがQCになるための条件となります。限定期間中は、1,500の台詞字幕付け完了後、こちらからQCになるための手続きをすることができます。

楽しい字幕作成を！そして、世界を小さくすることへのご協力、ありがとうございます。

ご質問またはヘルプが必要な方は、Viki支援までどうぞ。

Can You Guess the Real Lee Min Ho?

January 15, 2014, 7:17 am

≫ Next: History Comes To Life in Dramas

≪ Previous: グローバルテレビを日本に！英語の力を磨こう！

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The famous wax museum Madame Tussauds in Hong Kong has just unveiled its wax figure of Lee Min Ho. Lee Min Ho is the second Korean celebrity to have a wax figure in the Hong Kong museum.

Lee Min Ho began his acting career in 2006 and shot to fame playing the infamous rich bad boy Gu Jun Pyo in the 2009 Korean drama “Boys Over Flowers.” He showed his action skills in the drama “City Hunter” (2011) and his bravery as a tough warrior in “The Great Doctor (Faith)” (2012). The actor most recently starred in “Heirs” (2013), and his role as Kim Tan in the series garnered many drama awards. Lee Min Ho is now considered one of the hottest Asian actors and models working today, despite being only 26 years old.

So, fans, can you tell which Lee Min Ho above is real and which is wax? Leave your answer as a comment below!