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KBS World launches English K-pop show

By Park Sung-hee

KBS World, the international satellite channel of the Korean Broadcasting System, has launched an English entertainment show, "K-WAVE STATION".

The weekly 30-minute show airs Fridays at 7:30 p.m. and consists of three sections — K-wave News, K-pop No. 1, and Idol Adventures — with each addressing the latest Korean music, TV drama, film, celebrity news or trends.

The show hosts are KBS anchorwoman Park Ji-hyun and Jae-won of up-and-coming K-pop group Code V. The two are said to have good chemistry.

"Jae-won has lived most of his life in the U.K. and was cast because we thought he would appeal to our diverse audience", said producer Kim Il-hoon.

The first section, K-wave News, updates viewers on the general activities of celebrities including behind-the-scene footages of recent movies, TV dramas and concerts. Rather than focusing on gossip, it highlights good deeds of stars, such as their volunteer work, donations and other public services.

This week's main news items were the 2011 Dream Concert by singer-turned-actress Jang Nara and K-pop star Lee Hyori.

The next section, K-pop No. 1, selects one Korean singer or group and analyzes each of the stars' talents to investigate how they remain at the top. The "No. 1" spot this week was given to 2PM. The segment pinpointed the members' diverse talents and consisted of interviews.

Idol Adventures is the last section in which young K-pop artists visit different historical sites and experience traditional culture. Pop group Dalmatian was the first star guest. The members, who are relatively new to Korea, struggled to learn particular Korean mannerisms and the folk song, "Arirang".

The half-hour show is particularly catered to overseas hallyu, or Korean wave, fans and further targets a correct understanding of the country's history and culture.

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