table of contents
3 4 8
Editor’s Note
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Special Guide: Music Ranking Systems
12 13 17 18 19 21 24 26
f(x) News
Meeting f(ans): Being a f(x) Fan feature
With f(x)’s “Pink Tape” comeback upon us, we thought it was only appropriate to put together a little guide to the various music show and chart ranking systems.
f(nation) Q&A: 1412DC feature
f(nation) Spotlight: Electric Art! We’ve scoured the Internet for some amazing works of f(x) art!
Language Corner Fan Guide: Show Champion feature
Editorial: What’s In a Name?
This time around, we decided to tackle one of the most hotly debated topics in the f(x) fandom: does the fandom need a name?
From the f(ans): I Wish... My Style Maknae Corner
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editor’s note
Contributors Magazine Co-ordinator: drfaith101@iheartfx Editor: sparklypoga@ihearfx Being a f(an): Dawn@iheartfx KBNye Suney@iheartfx Interview: 1412@DC Language Corner: spiceshoe@iheartfx Fan Guide: darkesteyes@iheartfx Editorial: sparklypoga@iheartfx My Style: Foreveranoodle@iheartfx Maknae Corner: DisposableArts@iheartfx Logo and Ad Designer: Wildbeat@iheartfx Layout & Design: beloverly@iheartfx
Celebrating the Amazing After a slight break, welcome back to our revamped - and now quarterly f(nation) magazine. As summer continues its heat streak, f(x) seems to be both achingly far-toreach and tantalizingly close - we have our comeback date (July 25!) but our anticipation to see it happen now is off the roofs. The awe-worthy Pink Tape art film has recently informed us that we now have even more weekly performances to look forward to, neatly taking the place of f(x)’s weekly fun in Amazing f(x). Though its run has ended, Amazing f(x) was a show true to it name, reminding us all why we remain so fascinated with f(x). Keeping this in mind, in this July issue we have decided to highlight the amazingness of one of the most important aspects of K-pop culture — the fans. Being a fandom with such an international base means that many of us depend on other fans to update us with the latest news, videos, and pictures. Whether through forums, Twitter, Tumblr, or news sites, we become connected to f(x) through the efforts of other hard-working fans. In fact, most fans are probably just as familiar with certain other fans’ Twitter handles or usernames as they are with the f(x) members themselves. In these pages, you will be able to meet fans you may be familiar with, including iheartfx’s very own SuneyABO and f(x) DCgall’s 1412 (“Meeting Fans”, page xx), and discover why they think f(x) is amazing. We believe that the creative side of fans is just as important, which is why we have spotlighted fanartists who have submitted awesome works to our magazine. They have shown their talent through
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pencil sketches, digital drawings, and more, and we invite other fans to continue doing the same. Whether it be art, opinions or editorials we welcome your additions to this magazine. In the meanwhile, you can explore the thoughts and works of other fans within this magazine as we continue our fan guides, recaps, and articles that we hope all f(x) fans, both old and new, enjoy. For the past four years, the issue of f(x)’s lack of a fanclub name has been a source of recurring debate throughout the fandom. While many are still eager for a name to define themselves by, many others have embraced the idea of being identified by the lack of a set title. With a comeback imminent and sure to bring up debates again, the editors of f(nation) have laid out the reasonings and support for the different arguments “Nameless” fans have (“Name Something Title”, page xx). Lastly, we want to thank all of you for your support. The feedback and love we received for the first issue of this magazine was both amazing and humbling. Seeing the love fans from so many different countries and diverse cultures hold only emphasizes the powerful presence of f(x) and their ability to capture hearts from all over the world. We hope that f(nation) can continue to be not only a source of news, but also a collaborative effort where fans can enjoy sharing ideas and opinions about f(x).
- the Editors
Help Wanted! Since f(nation) is still pretty new, we don’t have many contributors right now to fill our pages with awesome content. The good thing is that because of this, we’re looking for contributors of all kinds to make this magazine the best it can be! If you wish to help us out, we’re looking for the following types of contributors: writers graphic designers editors artists If you have any questions about what we’re looking for, please feel free to email us at fnation.magazine@gmail.com!
Disclaimer: This magazine is a fan-run magazine and has no intention of making any kind of profit off of distribution. Those contributing to the magazine are not paid and are not receiving any kind of monetary or other physical compensation for creating content for the magazine. Any photos sourced have been credited when need be, or are still retaining the watermark left by the original source. For any original image content featured, the appropriate note has been left, stating that no one is to use the images unless properly credited.
f(x) news
breaking news! Your round-up of all things f(x)!
Pink Tape Comeback! It’s time! f(x) is to make their long awaited comeback with their second full length album, Pink Tape. Fans were treated to an intriguing teaser video on the 17th July, with their new image (hello, pink Jung!), mature feel and a distinctive flare, anticipation is definitely at an all time high. The girls are reportedly due to take to the stage on July 25th with the album following on the 29th. Keep up-to-date with iheartfx for the latest news regarding this comeback!
Vic-fashionista Exciting news! Victoria and actress Kim So Eun will be pairing up as MCs for a new variety show! “Glitter”, a new KBSW variety program, is a road variety show that gives trendy lifestyle tips to women in their 20s. “Glitter” marks the debut of both women as main MCs. Filming has already started and the first episode is due to air August 2nd. f(nation) wishes them both good luck!
Krystal Joins Heirs It is announced that Krystal would be joining SBS drama “Heirs”. Joining popular actors Lee Minho, Park Shin Hye and Kim Woobin, this will be Krystal’s first attempt at a dramatic role. Previously, Krystal had starred in sitcoms “More Charming By The Day” in 2010 and “High Kick 3” in 2011. The drama is set to air in October. Congratulations Krystal!
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f(x) news
Luna Joins High School Musical On July 9th, Luna took to the stage for her first appearance as Gabriella in the newest theatre production of “HIgh School Musical”. This is Luna’s third appearance as a musical actress and from what we hear, it’s another stellar performance! Congratulations to Luna and her fellow castmates on their opening performances and good luck for their remaining shows. Check ihearfx for Luna’s performance schedules!
Potential Comeback? July 1st was a nice start to the month! With each of the members sporting a new hairdo, expectations and curiousity surrounding their rumoured July comeback mounted. The five ladies took to the stage to perform “Pinocchio”, “Jet”, “Hot Summer” and “Electric Shock” at the Hong Kong Dome Festival. It has been a while since we have last seen the girls perform and despite the slippery stage, it was nice to see them back!
Fansigning With Sulli On June 26th, Sulli attended a LTE-A demonstration for SK Telecom. LTE-A aims to boosts speeds and coverage area. Earlier in the year, Sulli joined labelmates; Siwon, Kyuhyun, Yoona, Seohyun and Minho, as endorsement models for the upgraded mobile service. The day before her SKT appearance, busy bee Sulli had a fan signing event for Jardin Coffee “Cafe Real” for which she has become a model for. Sulli greeted fans happily and initiated the conversations with fans that had travelled from all over for the opportunity to meet her in person.
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Krystal for Adidas Krystal donned a pretty pink shirt and flexed her muscles for Adidas’ health campaign, “My Girls Seoul” on June 15th. iheartfx was incredibly lucky that our very own darkesteyes was able to attend the event and take exclusive pictures for us! Visit the forum to check them out!
Victoria on Superstar China On June 5th, Victoria recorded an appearance on “Superstar China” (the Chinese version of “Superstar K”) as a one-day judge. Later, she expressed thankfulness at the opportunity on Weibo, writing “SUPERSTAR CHINA~Although I became a guest judge only for one day, but it’s really a good experience, and I also learned a lot.”
Krystal Fansigning for Hi-Mart The 31st of May saw Krystal attend a fansigning for Hi-Mart. Dressed in a simple shirt and jeans combo, Krystal greeted fans happily and signed a copy of her promotional image. Krystal became an endorsement model for Hi-Mart earlier this year.
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f(x) news
Victoria for New Balance May 26th saw Victoria put her best foot forward as she attended apparel brand New Balance’s “New Race Seoul”. Joining a host of other celebrities, Victoria looked cheerful as she gave a message of support, posed for pictures and ran alongside the other attendees.
Bye Bye, InstaJung! It was over too soon! Though we only just celebrated the creation of Krystal’s instagram in the previous issue, the time has come to mourn it’s deletion (but it was fun while it lasted!). A caution to fans: Krystal has not re-joined Instagram and any account claiming to be her is not genuine.
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meeting f(ans)
bEing A F(x ) FAN W
e liked the idea of having f(ans) share their stories so much that we decided to include them again in this issue! This time around, we didn’t really give them a specific prompt. If anything, it’s more about what makes them love f(x) and how they fell in love
SuneyABO’s Story
with them. Some f(ans) decided to focus on specifc members, while other stories talk about how they discovered our five favorite ladies. Enjoy! - the Editors
Sulli always attracts everyone’s attention with her cute, innocent, and pure image at first. But when this girl wants to show off her mature image, almost everyone will be charmed by Sulli’s sexy side. Because of Sulli’s aptitude for acting, her mother enrolled her in a Seoul acting
soon became a trainee at SM, even at such a young age. She had to move into a SM dorm alone without her parents - and for a young girl, being so far away from family was a difficult task. Sulli said “I have lived in a dorm since the fifth grade. I really wanted to go home and see my mom. My house was in Busan, and I was so upset that I could no longer usually go home”.
school when she was 10 years old and Sulli began acting professionally as a child actress. However, Sulli also had a dream about being a singer and so she decided to participate SM audition. Luckily, SM realized her talent and Sulli
However, these serious difficulty didn’t obstruct the strong will of f(x)’s Giant Baby (as we call this tallest, still-growing member of f(x)). The young Jinri of the past has now become a beautiful and confident unknown
in the function f(x). Krystal is definitely one of the most special maknaes in K-pop world. When you see her for the first time, you will hardly realize that this is the youngest member in f(x). Krystal attracts everyone’s attention with her cool beauty, mature image and sexy style. Krystal’s look often makes everyone feel that she is uncommunicative, cold and unapproachable, but that is only the barest part of her. Inside, she has a warm heart which always cares for others and a professional style that shows how she always concentrates on work. I had a sweet moment with Krystal when the members of f(x) visited my country for their variety show, “Koala”. After finishing their filming schedule, f(x) got into the car and Krystal used her body language to ask me “Have you eaten yet?”. After I shook my head, Krystal was so surprised that she asked “Ottoke?”. Then, she smiled widely at me and used her hand to say good night. Seriously, who could hate a lovely girl like that? I hope that everyone can be as lucky as I was, to see Krystal’s different, warm side. In my heart, f(x) isn’t just a girl group with five different members - f(x) is a real family. Each member is an irreplaceable and indispensable piece that makes up the attractive and unique f(x). ♥ - SuneyABO
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meeting f(ans)
KBNye’s Story
ohsnapdawn's story I was originally actually originally only a fan of K-dramas. Since 2006, I would visit sites similar to Allkpop to get updates on my favourite Korean actors. K-pop wasn’t exactly my thing back then, so I usually skipped nay idol-related news I would see. After all, I grew up listening to artists like Tupac, 112, Ashanti, and Ja Rule so I never even imagined myself listening to K-pop. So, it was around 2009 that it all started. This was the year 2NE1 debuted, and this was the year K-pop and I started getting along. I live in Manila, Philippines, so I ended up loving the group because of Dara. Just a year later, as I was browsing through Allkpop, I happened across an article about Victoria and Nichkhun’s “Nu ABO” music video. Long story short, I fell in love with Khuntoria and they were the ones who first introduced me to f(x). The first song that got me into f(x) was obviously the phenomenal “Nu ABO”, with its catchy chorus and its cool and powerful choreography. All in all, it was a refreshing concept in a K-pop scene that was (and still is) all over the cutesy concept. Although 2NE1 was another exception, compared to f(x) they don’t exactly dance that much and I think that’s why I ended up loving f(x) more. I downloaded all their songs, bought all their albums and watched all their music videos, live performances and shows. The funny thing is, even though the majority of f(x)’s songs sound weird to most K-pop fans, I always end up liking them. I thought, “I don’t care how weird it sounds as long as it’s f(x), I’ll love it”.
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It was then that I realized I had never been like this with 2NE1. I have all of f(x)’s albums, but I have only one of 2NE1’s; I have all of f(x)’s songs on my iPod, but I have only a few of 2NE1’s; I finished all of Koala, but I only ever watched a few episodes of 2NE1 TV. Slowly but surely, f(x) had managed to take 2NE1’s place in my heart. The girls are just amazing and so special - I can’t really put it into words, but f(x) has this kind of magic in them that I have never found in any other girl group. The group may not be as well-known as its SM seniors, but one fact is definite: f(x) proves that you don’t need to be a priority to become popular. Let’s laugh and cry with them forever! - ohsnapdawn
What makes me an f(x) fan? A lot of people have asked me why I am an f(x) fan. Honestly, I can never name the exact reason, so every time someone asks me this question, I usually just answer, “Because they’re unique”. However, I always have the actual answer in my mind - it’s just that I hesitate to tell anyone. It was a day late in August of 2009. The first time I got to know f(x) was actually while I was surfing on the internet and a certain teaser caught my attention. It was “LA cHA TA”, their debut teaser. And, it was a certain member in particular that caught my attention - Krystal (okay, and as many know, Amber too). At first, I considered myself a fan who enjoyed their performances, my favorite at the time being “Just A Feeling”. I liked the rookie girls of f(x) that performed with so much passion on the stage because it always seemed as if they enjoyed just being on the stage so much. It’s not so much that I don’t like the more professional and experienced f(x) we have now, but that they had been so awkward, yet enthusiastic even when first starting. Slowly, however, as I got to know the girls better, I began to think they deserved much better in their career. They deserved bigger success because of their wonderful talents. They deserved the opportunities to shine because of how they have been working so hard ever since their trainee days. They deserved a lot of love because of how pure their hearts are. And that was that time I decided to stop being a fan who enjoyed just their pretty faces and xxx performance; rather, I turned into a diehard fan willing to spread f(x) love, supporting them as much as I can do from afar. I feel so lucky to have had this chance to know them from the start, and although a (surprising!) four years have passed, I am not going anywhere. These girls got me without even trying. - KBNye
special guide
breaking down chart rankings By drfaith101 (iheartfx.com) As f(x)’s long awaited comeback has finally been announced, we at f(nation) thought it would be a rather good idea to have a guide to the South Korean music charts, which includes the ranking systems used by the weekly shows and how international fans can aid f(x) when their comeback begins next week!
Gaon and Hanteo Charts Gaon has two primary charts; the Gaon Album Chart and the Gaon Single Chart.
Music Core and Inkigayo. Currently, all five shows award weekly trophies. It is important to highlight that music shows change their rankings a lot and quite often, not with a lot of forewarning. MBC Show Champion (Airs Wednesdays: 6pm KST) Digital Sales: 75%, Netizen Vote: 15% and Experts: 10%
Cyworld, Dosirak, Melon, Mnet, Naver and Soribada.
Mnet M!Countdown (Airs Thursdays: 6pm KST) Digital Sales: 50%, Album purchases: 10%, Popularity Vote: 20%, Global Vote: 5%, M! Countdown Points: 10% and SNS Votes: 5%
Hanteo is usually reflected in daily, weekly and monthly charts and is typically the chart used by music shows to calculate the weekly music wins.
KBS Music Bank (Airs Fridays: 6.10pm KST) Digital Music Chart: 65%, Album Sales: 5%, Broadcast Points: 20% and Viewers’ Choice Charts: 10%
provided by web-based music outlets; Bugs,
Weekly Music Shows There are five weekly music shows; Show Champion, M! Countdown, Music Bank, Show!
MBC Show! Music Core! (Airs Saturdays: 4pm KST) Digital and Physical Sales: 60%, Music Video Views: 10%, Pre-vote: 10% and Live Vote: 20% SBS Inkigayo (Airs Sundays: 3.30pm KST) Digital Sales: 60%, SNS: 35%, Advance Viewer Votes: 5% and Live Votes: 10%
Album Chart: This chart ranks the physical sales of an album. The information it uses to gather these figures are compiled from a number of different offline data sources. Examples would be record labels and distributors such as SM Ent., Loen Ent., Mnet Media and Universal Music Korea. Single Chart: This chart ranks the best selling digital music sales. Interestingly, this information is listed under several different sections; Streaming Content, Downloads, Background Music, Ringtones, Karaoke and a combination of overall singles charts. The Gaon Single Chart excludes radio airplay and different versions of a song that has been listed as separate entries. Unlike the Album Chart, this chart is compiled through online data which has been
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special guide
How Can International Fans Help f(x)?
The only views that are counted are the ones on the official video released by SM. So you know those people that re-upload the videos to their own account? Avoid those if you want to contribute to f(x)’s official view count!
Physical Purchases: It is important to buy your album from a site/shop that states their sales contribute towards the Hanteo chart. I’ve noticed, that prices vary across the different sites (not by much) across the different sites, so don’t be afraid to shop around! YesAsia, DVD Heaven, Kpoptown, Kpopmart,
Searching: The more searches the better! These are viewed as a reflection of the public’s interest and by searching “에프엑스” , “Pink Tape” or “f(x)” on the major sites (Naver, Nate, Melon, etc) you are helping to increase interest. These are also taken into account by the weekly music shows.
Syrnnara -- sales from these five sites contribute towards Hanteo, they ship internationally and prices are reasonable. It should be noted that Syrnara is a Korean site and although they take international sales, it can be a fiddly process. Ebay users: Grapemusicland (they no longer ship to South America), kpopplus, ajoutool are also options worth considering. Digital Purchases: Another way fans can help f(x) out is by buying the song and album digitally and streaming the single. If fans are interested in contributing towards Gaon sales, then it’s important to purchase and stream from the online outlets that contribute to these sales. Quite a few music outlets require Korean registration, so I would advise using Soribada when downloading the album. Soribada has an English version which is very accommodating to fans and also contributes towards Gaon. Fans can also help out with streaming points by listening to the single on Bugs, Cyworld, Dosirak, Melon, Mnet, Naver and Soribada. Streaming and downloading activity is reflected in the digital charts which are updated hourly. Music Video Views: Last year, Electric Shock was one of the most viewed K-Pop releases and this year, we need to be even more on it!
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Likewise, trending “에프엑스” , “Pink Tape” or “f(x)” on Twitter and posting on different social media platforms such as Me2day and Youtube can also contribute to Inkigayo SNS section. International fans can also vote for f(x) on Mnet’s Global Site! It takes a couple of minutes to register and you can vote once a day. Votes from this section contribute 5% towards the weekly winner calculations.
Want up-to-date info about f(x) and their Pink Tape comeback? Check out iheartfx. com for all your f(x) needs!
f(nation) q&a f(nation): Who is Kaito Kid 1412? Are you a big fan? 1412: Kaito Kid is a character who appeared in the comic, Detective Conan. He is someone like ‘Arsène Lupin’ and a very fantastic character. It just crossed my mind when I made a DC account, so I chose that. f(nation): Is it difficult to record and upload HD videos of f(x)? 1412: It isn’t difficult, but you have to use some money (laughs). But I’m happy when I think that some people can become a fan by watching my data. f(nation): Do you have a favorite f(x) MV, variety show, or drama?
q/A with: 1412@DC f(nation): When did you become an f(x) fan? Why? 1412: That was the day when their first teaser came out. Even though there are many idol girl groups in Korea, I wanted a more unique girl group than the others. In August 2009, I finally met that kind of girl group! I think their unique characters in terms of song, fashion, and performance establish f(x)’s identity. That makes me a fan of f(x). f(x) is the one and only group that has this all. f(nation): What do you like about each member? 1412: I saw Victoria first when she appeared in SHINee’s MV. I thought that Victoria was more beautiful than any other idol member at that time. I think that Amber is the member who completes “f(x)’s identity,” because there is no one in any other group who is like Amber’s character.
Luna is the first member I saw in person. I saw her first in a musical, and I love her singing. I like “해뜰날” (“The Day Sun Rises”), which she sang in Immortal Song. Her voice has the power to heal people. Sulli has beautiful smile which makes me happy. Moreover her adorable face, has many points of attraction, so I expect to see her more as an actress in the future. Krystal is good at all things, like singing, dancing, acting and exercising. Most of all, I was really moved when she won in “Kiss & Cry.” Although she is younger than me, I think there are lots of things to learn from her.
1412: My favorite music video is “Hot Summer” because that is the most beautiful and fancy MV of f(x). “Actress House” was my favorite one, but it may change to “Amazing f(x)”. I love “Kiss & Cry”, too! I don’t watch Korean dramas a lot, but I watched our girls’ dramas regularly. My favorite one is Victoria’s “When Love Walked In”. f(nation): Have you ever seen f(x) perform in person?
f(nation): How do you keep up-todate with everything about f(x)? 1412: It’s nothing special. Just use bookmarks and set an alarm...and use more time than other people (laughs). That’s why some fans call me “surplus” (a person who has a lot of free time).
1412: I’ve seen the f(x) members six times. I saw Luna’s musical four times, and I went to Victoria and Sulli’s Smoothie King fan signing event. Another one [I went to] is Krystal’s Ice Show event. Unfortunately, I have never seen Amber or f(x)’s live performances. So, I really want to see their performance. f(nation): What are your wishes for f(x)? 1412: I have three wishes. The first one is for f(x) to have a fanclub name, the second one is that f(x)’s second album will be a big hit, and the last one is that they have their first concert. I might not be able to be in fan communities next year, so I want to see my wishes come true this year. Lastly, thanks for requesting to interview me. Good luck to f(x) and all fans.
Thanks, 1412, for taking the time to answer our questions and for all your contributions to the fandom!
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f(nation) spotlight
c i r T C ele ArT! When we first started to find content for this issue, one of the first things we sought after was fan art. And we were lucky enough to find a whole bunch of artists willing to let us feature their f(x) fan art in f(nation)! Check out the following pages for their gorgeous art! Please do not use any of the fanart images without first asking the artist.
PHOTO: Digital Drawing - Victoria by eonnichan
PHOTO: (Clockwise from top) Sulli f(x) Electric Shock by Mel-01 Sulliiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiii by 827772 Sulli [f(x)] by DENITSED
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PHOTO: f(x) Hot Summer by IntraVires
PHOTO: (left to right) f(x) Victoria by Reitrou f(x) Luna + Sulli by Reitrou
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f(nation) spotlight
PHOTO: (Clockwise from top) Electric Victoria by SUPERNEOON Electric Sulli by SUPERNEOON Electric Amber by SUPERNEOON Krystal f(x) by TrueKemistry Raining Stars by _cloverhearts f(x) Electric Shock: Amber by LaDiablesse
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PHOTO: (clockwise from top left) Luna by MRAQ Marie Claire Krystal by MRAQ Electric Shock Amber by MRAQ
PHOTO: f(x) Sulli - Electric Shock by IntraVires
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language corner
S mUl ’ O r o TIlingual por Style
By spiceshoe (iheartfx.com)
Thanks to the release of the Pink Tape teaser, we are all waiting for f(x)’s comeback that is just around the corner! As someone who wants to be updated with all the latest news, you’ll surely come across these words as the D-day approaches. Let’s gear up for f(x)’s comeback, shall we? Format: Word in Korean - Romanized Word Translation (Extra information)
The Basics Frequent Phrases
Describing the Song/Album
많이 관심십 부탁드려요 manhi gwanshim butakdeuryeoyo - [we hope] you have a lot of interest [in it] 많이 기대해주세요 - manhi gidaehaejuseyo please look forward to it (lit: please anticipate it a lot) 사랑해주세요 [give it] love
-
saranghaejuseyo
-
please
소리질러 - sorijilleo - make some noise (one of Amber’s favorite phrases to use when performing) 하나 둘 셋 에프엑스! - hana, dul, set, f(x)! 1, 2, 3 f(x)! 화이팅 - hwaiting - fighting
Side Activites 대기실 - daegishil - waiting room (n.) 라디오 - radio - radio (n.) 엠씨 - emssi - MC (n.)
인터뷰 - inteobyu - interview (n.) 화보 - hwabo - pictorial (n.)
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가사 - gasa - lyrics (n.) 강렬한 - kangryeolhan - strong (adj.) 곡 - gok - song (n.) 노래 - norae - song (n.) 느낌 - neukkim - feel (n.)
1위 - ir-wi - 1st place (n.) 무대 - mudae - stage (n.) or performance (n.) 뮤직비디오 - myujik bidio - music video (n.) 박수 - paksu - clap (v.) 방송 - bangsong - broadcast (n.)
랩 - raep - rap (n.)
생방송 - saengbangsong - live broadcast (n.)
멜로디 - mellodi - melody (n.)
수상 - susang - award
모습 - moseub - image (n.) 미니 - mini - mini (adj./n.) 사운드 - saundeu - sound (n.) 새러운 - saereoun - new (adj.) 안무 - anmu - choreography (n.)
영상 - yeongsang - video (n.) 재킷 - jaekit - jacket (n., as in “album jacket”) 첫방 - cheot bang - first (adj.) broadcast (n., short for 방송 “broadcast”)
앨범 - aelbeom - album (n.)
촬영 - chwalyeong - record (v.)
춤 - chum - dance (n.) 타이틀 곡 - taiteul gok - main single (lit: title song)
촬영장 - chwalyeongjang - recording set (n., 장 means “place”)
파워풀 - pawopul - powerful (adj.)
컴백 - keombaek - comeback (n.)
팝 - pap - pop (adj.) 퍼포먼스 - peopomeonseu - performance (n.) 포인트 - pointeu - point (n.)
티저 - tijeo - teaser (n.)
fan guide: show champion
Fan Guide to. .
Every week, fans from around the world tune in to music shows to see their favorite idols perform their latest singles, special stages and (if fans are lucky) encore stages. Although music programs are primarily recorded in Korea, their audiences (in-person and online) are international. While most K-pop fans are familiar with video streaming on the Internet, not everyone knows how to attend a music show in Korea. Since our very own Amber is the emcee of a music program, this guide is specifically meant to help f(x) fans wishing to attend MBC Music Show Champion. Step 1 – Checking the Notice First thing’s first: before going to Show Champion, you need to check the notice board on f(x)’s Official Website. If there is an event that’s welcome to fans, SM will provide information about what time to meet and what you need to bring. MC Amber fans usually need to meet at 4:00PM on Wednesday and bring their Electric Shock album to Show Champion. Step 2 – Going to UNIQLO-AX Hall Show Champion is recorded at UNIQLO-AX Hall, 319-33 Gwangjang-dong, Gwangjin-gu, Seoul. If you’re travelling by subway, take Line 5 (purple) to Gwangnaru Station and go out Exit 2. Cross the street toward a giant sphereshaped sculpture that’s attached to the Gwangjin-gu Residents’ Sports Center. The UNIQLO-AX building is directly behind the Sports Center. Step 3 – Finding f(x) Fans & Meeting the SM Support Staff Before fans can go inside, they have to get organized. When you arrive at the UNIQLOAX building, you should try to find other MC Amber fans who are carrying the Electric Shock albums. At the designated time (4:00PM on most days) a representative from SM will come, check your CD, and give you an entry number. You can recognize an SM staff member by the badge around their neck that says “SM Support Staff”. On some days, however, the SM representative won’t show up, so fans have to organize themselves. In this case, one fan will be designated as the “first” and act like an SM staff member. The “first” fan will check your CD, give you a number, and communicate with other staff on behalf of MC Amber fans. Please be aware that if the “first” fan arrives early, they might post a message somewhere with instructions telling you to call/text a phone number in order to determine your entry number. Or...they might not. Unfortunately, you won’t know exactly how fans will organize until you get there. If you can’t find MC Amber fans or an SM staff member when you arrive, try asking any other staff for help.
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Attending Show Champion to eat at the nearby coffee shop/bakery, talk to other fans or play on your smartphone. You shouldn’t wander too far, however, because you might miss your turn to go in.
By darkesteyes (iheartfx.com)
Step 5 – Entering the Studio After waiting outside, you’ll have to do a little more waiting in the lobby before finally entering the studio. Emcee fans are lucky because they generally get to enter first. Once inside the studio, MC Amber fans and MC Eunjung fans will stand together beside the emcee stage. Step 6 – Enjoy! Cheer loudly for our Amber and enjoy the show! Notes: Every music program is different, so don’t expect this guide to apply to them all. f you arrive late to Show Champion (between 5:30 - 6:00PM), it might be possible to watch the show from the second floor. On days when there is a live broadcast followed by a pre-recording for next week’s show, listen to the SM staff to find out where and at what time to meet. The UNIQLO-AX building has gigantic windows on the first and second floor, so you can easily see artists walking by their dressing rooms from the outside.
Step 4 – The Wait Show Champion airs at 6:00PM so be prepared to wait. While you’re waiting, you can get something
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f(nation) editorial
whAT’S iN A NAme? By sparklypoga (iheartfx.com)
It’s hard not to have a name. We go through our lives seemingly defined by our names - they label us, they identify us and they shape us. So, it’s no wonder that fans of f(x) have grown increasingly weary and angered in the face of a “nameless” existence. It can be frustrating and disappointing, reflecting so much of what fans see in f(x)’s treatment in general. In just a few months, it will be four years without an official name. Another year gone, and with it, another flash of hope. In response to this, it’s no surprise that many fans have turned to another side: the reasons why a name is not, and will never be, important. It makes perfect sense the fandom wants a name, of course. In many ways, the naming of a fandom is a right of passage. It’s a symbolic event and to many f(x) fans, it feels as though every other group has been given that blessing. It has to be noted, that f(x)’s company seniors all have their own named fandoms and the majority of their 2009 contemporaries have also been named. Adding salt to the wound is how even newly debuted artists’ fandoms seem to be named faster than f(x)’s. f(x) is widely considered to be one of the more popular K-pop girl groups and they have worked incredibly hard to reach that position. So, how do their fans not even have the most basic and simplistic form of recognition? I get it; it’s understandable why fans want a name. My question is, however, do f(x) fans really need one? After all, what can fans accomplish with a
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name that they cannot do without one? So far, having a name has not stopped f(x) fans. In fact, f(x) continues to draw in fans from all over the world, despite their seeming lack of identity they are rewarded with. These fans - you all - are encouraging, giving, and loving. Not having a name has not prevented you from doing this all. In fact, not having a name has often become a point of bonding. f(x) fans do it, and they do it amazingly. Adding a name to them would change nothing. Not to mention, adding a name would kill off most of the jokes that have sustained us through the years!
Would a name solidify the fandom; would a label really stop fans from fighting and suddenly act as a force pushing international fandom cooperation and agency? The reality is, a name will not act as a magical cure to any of the problems underlying the f(x) fandom. As is obvious throughout the K-pop world, problems that exist will continue to exist, with or without a name. On occasion, it seems as though fans view the prospect of acquiring a name to be the first step in solving “the problem” (which in itself differs among fans), but ultimately, a name is just a name. Yes, it’s disappointing if there isn’t one. There are valid reasons for wanting a name. The group deserves it. f(x) deserves deserve a lot, in fact. But fans have never been and never will be in control of what f(x) receives from their company, nor what they receive from
their domestic public. Inevitably, this lack of control and this dissatisfaction often leads to complaints about the fandom itself and a name becomes just one negative aspect of many, which causes us to lose sight of something important.
A fandom is not just a name. It’s when like-minded people band together to support a talented group in whatever they do, whenever they do it. It’s not a once-yearly celebration or one-man show; no, a fandom is a community. A fandom is something built up by the dedication of all the fans, who work to be recognized even as their idols work to be recognized. Of course, this means that it’s unavoidable when we throw the occasional envious glances at other fandoms and wish that we could be more like them. Be honest; how many times have you wished for faster subs like that subbing team? Expected such and such release like that site? Been impatient to see HQ pictures like that fangroup? Our thirst and desires never seem to truly quenched, and that’s expected of fans. However, that expectation should not be a one-way street. Contrary to popular belief, a fandom is not a one-sided relationship where one side does all the work and another does all the receiving. In other words, a fandom is not a K-drama. There is no “magic” to other groups that might give them faster subs and photographs. Even as we look at other fandoms with envious eyes, we should be asking ourselves
what it took for them to get there. See, a fandom isn’t just freely taking and watching. A fandom is where people choose to take time out of their studies, careers and lives to spend hours each day translating, encoding and uploading videos. A fandom is when a fansite spends an endless amount of time and money to take and edit photographs for others to enjoy. A fandom is when members work together to get you this magazine each month. There’s no way to truly “name” this kind of community. How do you put a name to this dedication, this respect and this love? You can’t. You also can’t forget to appreciate how this loves comes to be, but it’s something we all (I admit to doing it often) forget to do. See, part of this love also means thanking the people who manage to give you your subbed videos and gorgeous photos by using hours of their own time. It means not editing fansite photographs when they request that you do not, knowing how they spend hours at the event and then hours more editing. A fandom is balanced mix between appreciation and hard work, giving and receiving. You caught me red handed - I confess to being mildly frustrated, but it’s not just because of the work I do and the lack of response I see. I think that sometimes, as a fandom we spend so much time wanting for something we lack that that we forget to appreciate what we actually hold. If I was given the choice between having a fandom name or having an actively participating fandom that unites throughout the year, I would, without hesitation choose the latter. I think that we are not defined by our names, and I think we can be stronger in our bond when we face the disadvantages we hold. We are defined by our actions and the support we have created for five awesome young women. If we want this fandom to be something as great as these five, and if we want this fandom to reflect everything we want, we need to personally invest something into achieving that. A name is great, but all it really is, is a pretty little bow on top of the neatly wrapped present. We need to get down to the present itself - the substance.
The f(x) fandom has five backbones. f(x) is defined by five unique, beautiful and talented young women. f(x) is Victoria, courageous and loving, able to adapt and make the best of the most foreign circumstances. f(x) is Amber, friendly and strong, able to bounce back and succeed from the lowest of lows. f(x) is Luna, hard-working and positive, never quitting in the face of a challenge. f(x) is Sulli, considerate and bright, always trying to be that much better.
f(x) is Krystal, reserved yet brave, working hard even in the most uncomfortable situations. f(x) fans are all of this, as well. We are determined, we are loving, and we are strong. We support these five through thick and thin and we do so without expecting anything in return. And that’s what fandom is. It’s an idea, an abstraction that unites different people with the same love. It’s not a name. Whether you desperately feel the need for one or you couldn’t care less for one is up to you. What I wanted to ultimately say is that what is greater than a name is an action. Feel the urge to make a name for yourself, to help f(x)? Then do something actively do something! Do a charity fan support to show others just how amazing f(x) and their fans are. Join a subbing group so that more people around the world can experience and fall in love with f(x).
Buy their albums, stream their songs, watch their videos to support their sales and encourage their exposure. Go visit a forum and leave a message of thanks and encouragement, acknowledging those that already actively try to nurture our fandom. Even the smallest of actions helps to let others know that f(x) has the active support of their fans all around the world. At the end of the day, it’s not about how much you participate in fandom. It’s hard to dedicate any substatial amount of time to show support or to help make the fandom a more fun, special thing to be a part of. What I’m, again, hoping I convey in all of this is that we already have a wonderful fandom with hundreds (if not, thousands) of active participants who find a way to band together to create fanworks, sub videos, and run fansites. And they did all of this without a fandom name. Will there always be the debate about the need for a fandom name? Of course! You can debate all day, and I know some of you do, but how can we expect SM, as a company, to pay attention to our wish for a fandom name if they don’t see as much fandom activity as possible? Doing everything you can to help the fandom move forward is our best option to help us go from the “nameless” fandom to a fandom with a name we can be proud of. And who knows? Maybe with this comeback we’ll finally get that fandom wish.
Wanna write for us? f(nation) is always looking for enthusiastic fans to contribute to our magazine! We’d need writers for our Fan Guides and Meeting f(ans) columns, f(nation) editorial section, as well as anything else you can think of! If you would like to write for any of these sections, or if you have an idea for a piece, please contact us at fnation.magazine@gmail.com.
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I Wish... When we announced that we were creating this issue, one of the things we asked you, the fans, about was if you had any wishes for f(x). We got some great responses and we compiled them all on this wish tree.
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my style
get THIS LoOk! f(victoria)
Top: River Island Lime Textured Zip Back Turtle Neck Crop Top, £16.00 Skirt: River Island Yellow Textured Mini Tube Skirt, £15.00 Shoes: River Island Bright Blue Pointed Sling Back Court Shoes, £50 Belt: American Apparel Wide Elastic Clasp Belt, £12.00 Earrings: Accessorize Sparkle Neon Stud Earring, £5.00 Bangle: Claires Matte Frosted Bangle £2.50
f(krystal)
Top: New Look White USA Tiger Face Tank Top, £9.99 Skirt: Boohoo Talia Stretch Cotton Jersey Mini Skirt, £6.00 Shoes: New Look Limited Black and Neon Green Embellished Platform Sandals, £34.99 Bracelet: Accessorize 2x Wrapped Neon Stud Bangles, £12.00
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my style
f(luna)
Top: H&M Dress: Lipsy Lace Sequin Bodycon Dress, £45.00 Shoes: DKNY Gourmet Sneaker, £147.25 Rings: New Look Red Oversized Bow Ring, £2.50 New Look Red and Gold Lips Double Ring £3.99
f(amber) Top: Miinto Oversized Banana Print T shirt, £65.00 Jeans: New Look Superskinny Shaper Jeans, £15.00 Bracelet: Claire’s Wide Studded Cuff, £2.50 Ring: Claire’s Neon Glitter Heart Ring, £4.50 Necklace: Banana Republic Milly Collection Bib Necklace, £39.50
f(sulli)
Top: H&M Top, £12.99 Skirt: Polyvore Diamond Pink Tutu Skirt, $19 Shoes: Boohoo Hester Patent Flat Lace Up Shoes, £20.00 Ring: New Look Neon Green Perspex Ring, £2.99 Bracelets: Claire’s Bead Stretch Bracelet, £3.00 each Belt: American Apparel Webbing Belt, £10.00
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maknae corner
! Y a L P lEt’S
Sulli and Krystal are taking a break from Pink Tape promos to play some games, but they can’t figure out the answers! They need your help!
word search
Word Scramble Unscramble the words to see a “Pink Tape” message! Answers are below (and upside down). HINT: Look at the phrases in parenthesis for a hint to each word!
1. IAHCPPS (The kiss) 2. LTHREEEA (Otherworldly) 3. INGAULLR (Legs) 4. LCAAIMG (Platform 9¾) 5. TOGEAFO (This creates an Art Film)
6. TEOBYNULDDU (No longer unknown!) 7. ADSCEELR (The announcement is up!) 8. NTIPDATCIEA (After a long wait...) 9. ITEMIMNN (Next week~) 10. OKEMACCB (7.25)
8) anticipated, 9) imminent, 10) comeback Answers: 1) sapphic, 2) ethereal, 3) alluring, 4) magical, 5) footage, 6) undoubtedly, 7) declares,
This was a lot harder than we thought...
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