...7.24.2017

HallyuCircle: Netizens are going crazy as female wearing Choi Daniel's clothes is spotted in his neighborhood

Yesterday, a random SNS user posted a photo of an unidentifiable female was spotted in a G25 located inside Jamsil-dong. The reason, the photo went viral and was reposted to several Naver forums, was the comment left under the photo. "? Choi Daniel's Girlfriend?" Several netizens were quick to point out that the convenience store shown, was a five minute walk from the Lake Palace Apartments where very few celebrities reside. 

The apartments while expensive, are known for being near the Jamsil Arena and Stadium; making it the perfect residence for wealthier athletes. Some of the notable residents are the Nation's Husband Daniel, along with Ryu Hyunjin during the winter. 

With these facts in mind, the reason this female drew the attention of the poster, was the matching white givenchy cap and black hoodie. In more than a few photos, Daniel Choi can be seen entering the stadium as well as walking along the streets in the same exact outfit. Some netizens even analyzed the photo, pointing out the exact sizing of both sweaters. Also adding that the cap's brill seems to have the same small indention in the left-hand side, likely from falling onto the ground. Within hours, many netizens calculated the height of the female, comparing her with the height of the product shelves and began creating their own suspect lists. 

[+27,593, -8,583] "The girl is obviously slim and wearing a mask, she must be a celebrity. If she's about 168-171cm, is it possible it's Nara from his CF? She's tall and beautiful, and I wouldn't be surprised if they are dating."

[+10,538, - 9,492] "Twice Tzuyu is also a suspect, she must be around that height, and given her apparent fanship of him, I wouldn't be suprised. Daetzu fighting! They would look so good together."

[+8,053, - 2,042] "What about Sowon? She usually wears oversized jeans like that, she's very tall as well. But to be honest, it's probably a cheerleader or an actress, it would be dangerous for him to date an idol." 

What are your thoughts? Do you think the girl pictured is really Choi Daniel's Girlfriend? 

/////////////

--> "These Knets are fuxxing crazy. Any girl could literally buy the same outfit, and maybe she's just a fan. As for the mask, she might just be barefaced and embarrased to go without it. I'm once again blown away by the stalking culture that this reveals."

--> "I can't believe that this article didn't even mention Jiyeon. I looked it up myself, and saw that the reason she didn't make it on the list was the comment was downvoted 32,305 times. Are Knets insane? Who are netizens to judge who best fits besides Daniel oppa?"

--> "It certainly looks suspicious that she's wearing a mask and the same outfit Daniel often wears. Props to the netizens who uncovered this, it makes me so curious now!"

--> "Why do we even care? Pro athletes date all the time in America, and even go through multiple girlfriends. Why should he be any different?"

... 7.26.2017

Daniel followed his agent, completely unaware of what was going on. He knew about the article that had set the entire Hallyu world on fire. 

That was why, he and his agent had quickly agreed, that despite leaving soon for New York soon. It would be beneficial to sign with an entertainment agency to maintain his image. 

They had already visited BH Entertainment, and while being completely blown away by the large names that the agency dealt with. Daniel didn't quite feel a complete match. The next meeting was at a considerably smaller office, yet looked oddly familiar at the same time.

The two entered into the main meeting room, and Daniel almost fainted. If there was a hint of attraction to men inside of him, it must've finally revealed itself. Because he swore he could hear the OST being played in his head.

Oh everytime I see you, Geudae nuneul bol ttaemyeon

Daniel finally knew that people this handsome existed in real life, as he stared at the face of an angel. Literally, this guy was like otherworldly. 

"Hello, nice to meet you." The voice of captain Yoo Sijin spoke.

"Nice to meet you as well." Daniel barely squeaked out. 

The other handsome man beside him was Cha Taehyun, someone who seemed to defy aging with his young face. A man who perfectly embodied the image of a successful celebrity father. 

"Daniel-si, let's speak comfortably. Shall we?" The middle aged celebrity offered.

"Of course, it's an honor, my mother is a big fan of yours." Daniel responded with a grin.

The meeting didn't last long, because they didn't even sell their agency to him. Instead, they talked about the friendship between each of their actors and actresses, which was something that they mentioned could improve his image further. 

With variety shows offers stacked up to the roof of his apartment, Daniel figured that having someone who he could get advice from would be beneficial. 

There was a lot to learn about Korea, and it certainly wouldn't hurt him to at least have the support of an official agency.

... 8.1.2017

SOOMPI: Choi Daniel signs with Blossom Entertainment as an entertainer, speculations about his upcoming career decision looms

With his upcoming contract with the SK Knights yet to be confirmed, rumors have exploded over these past few weeks. Ranging from his visit to California and then to New York, or the recent netizen photo's about his alleged girl friend. The "Nation's Husband" looks to be making several big career moves. With the announcement to sign with Blossom Entertainment, many look forward to more Variety Show appearances which could signify a return to the KBL. 

… 8.5.2017

ESPN Report: Daniel Choi agrees to 1 year 10 million USD contract with New York Knicks with incentives. Makes him second Asian American to play with the Knicks after Jeremy Lin.

... 8.6.2017

KoreaHerald: Choi Daniel to return to the NBA after two years of unparalled success in Korea

After dominating both the KBL and the entertainment industry with his charm and skill, the basketball idol will finally return to playing in the NBA. He signed a roughly 11 billlion won contract with the New York Knicks, a team with little expectations until this signing. After dominating the KBL for the past 2 seasons averaging 34.4 points and  35 points, winning two championships back to back. The dubbed Basketball Idol has showcased his immense talent across a league. While some criticize his competition, citing that he is playing in a weaker league, yet others defend him saying his talent is undeniable wherever he plays.

This exodus definitely contains mixed feelings as well, the athlete bringing much national pride to Korea as a whole. Renewing Korea's interest in the KBL as well as bringing billions of wons of revenue. Drawing an international audience among both China and the rest of East Asia to tune into his games. 

... 8.14.2017

Korea Dispatch: Choi Daniel spotted filming for Running Man episode to air likely in September

... 8.21.2017

Jiyeon glanced towards the clock. It was morning, and that fuxxing alarm had gone off again. Screw working out, there was only 10 days left until he left. 

Looking back she never should've said ok in New York. She was starting to really regret that decision. 

Was their relationship really going to survive the distance? It was 82 games, 21 days for training camp, 10 days for preseason, 180 days for the season, and up to 45 more days for the playoffs. Almost an entire year they would be seperated. No wonder those really famous American celebrities never lasted in relationships with NBA players... what were they called again? The Ka Da Shi Ons. Jiyeon had researched if celebrity relationships with NBA players usually lasted... they rarely did.

But there it was again. That gentle smile he wore whenever he was sleeping. The sameone that flashed in her face and prevented her from protesting any of their decisions. 

This was his dream, and she really did support him. 

"Daniel. The alarm." She shook his shoulder lightly. 

Slowly, his eyes opened towards her. A warm gaze that made her feel loved no matter the situation.

"Want to come with me?" 

"What?" Jiyeon unintentionally placed a great amount of attitude into the statement.

He chuckled, as he tugged on her nightgown sleeve, "come on, it'll just be us today, I'll tell my trainer not to come." 

Jiyeon had strangely never actually played basketball with him before. She figured with it being his profession, he could careless about doing it outside of his games and practices.

"It'll be fun, I'll teach you." 

Jiyeon feebly nodded her head. 

It wasn't like she had any better ideas, and the more time they had together the better.

...

"The left hand is only for support." Jiyeon repeated the phrase that was the extent of every Korean's knowledge of basketball.

She launched the ball into the air and watched it helplessly knock off the side of the backboard.

"The left hand should get paid overtime for doing all that supporting." Daniel teased as he beckoned to how she had unknowingly flicked the ball with her left thumb.

"Just breathe." He whispered as he circle behind her, "first, close your eyes."

Jiyeon followed his instructions, holding out her hands in front of her. Slowly, she felt the leather ball fall into her grip.

"First, center the ball on your right finger tips." He ordered.

Jiyeon felt his fingers push hers to the center of the ball.

"Look for the grooves."

Jiyeon finally found the small grooves that were imprinted on the ball, and kept her fingertips on them.

"Now, bend your elbow and tuck it against your side." 

Jiyeon tried her best, to tuck it tightly against the side of her body. 

"Now open your eyes, and keep the left hand on the side of the ball."

Jiyeon opened her eyes and could see the hoop in front of her. The large rectangular glass behind it, with a small square directly behind the hoop.

"Do you see the rim?"

She nodded, still focusing on the hoop.

"Aim for the back of the rim." He whispered in a deep voice, "make sure to flick your wrist when you shoot, and release your left hand when you get close to your eyebrows."

It was a lot to process at once, but after watching him shoot and shoot and shoot. She swore she somehow understood his words.

She could feel him back away, as he watched from the side. "Shoot."

Jiyeon launched the ball once again, and somehow it felt like butter as it flowed off her fingertips and began revolving up towards her target. It bounced off the center of the backboard, and into the hoop. 

"OPPA!" Jiyeon screamed in delight as she began jumping up and down. "Did you see that?"

"Wow, you're really no joke." Daniel answered, clearly struggling to keep a straight face.

"Are you making fun of me?" Jiyeon immediately frowned. 

"No, why don't you do it again?" He offered, almost like a challenge.

"Let's make a bet then." 

"Alright, if you make three out of the next five, I'll buy lunch." 

"Call." Jiyeon grinned, a competitive spirit launching inside of her, "I'm craving something super super expensive, like sashimi."

Like her previous shot, the first easily entered the basket, bouncing off the backboard into the net.

He was still applauding as the second shot also entered the basket. "That's two!" she taunted happily.

He wasn't smiling anymore as she prepared to shoot the next shot.

"Do you know how much the bill came out to on our last date?" Daniel inquired slightly sarcastically.

Jiyeon narrowed her eyes on her target, as she prepared to shoot.

The ball rolled around the hoop, before falling out.

She could hear the loud sigh of relief as Daniel took a step forward. 

"You better not bother me." Jiyeon scolded him, as she prepared to shoot again.

"Wait!" Daniel suddenly sprang forward as she launched the ball into the air, flinching slightly at his interruption.

...

Daniel swiped his card, as he glanced at the receipt for the japanese restaurant. Private rooms weren't cheap to start with, but factor in another 250,000 won (245$) worth of fresh sashimi... 

"Thank you." Jiyeon expressed locking an arm around his as they left the restaurant.

There was very little people out, as there was still another 30 minutes before lunch hour started for most companies. 

"We have the rest of the day free? What do you want to do?" She inquired glancing up towards him.

Daniel shrugged his shoulders, there wasn't much to do. Especially with the paparazzi lurking around seemingly every corner.

"Want to go to my place?" Jiyeon offered, "there's only ten days left, let's spend it together however we can."

Daniel leaned down and stole a quick kiss from her lips, "let's do that." 

"I want to watch your running man episode, when is it airing?" Jiyeon inquired.

Daniel chuckled and shook his head recalling the variety show filming. "You shouldn't be too excited. I'm not that entertaining." 

Jiyeon squeezed his arm with her hand, "really? Did you get fooled? I'm not surprised, sometimes you're a little too cocky."

"Ya!" 

"Did you win then? You didn't mention any prizes when you got back." She seemed to ponder a second, as a charming grin filled her face. "You got a punishment didn't you?"

"Did not." 

"You totally did."

... 9.1.2017

Korea Today: Daniel Choi sent off at Incheon International Airport by thousands of fans as he leaves to attend Training camp for Knicks

--> "Go show Americans, Korea's Pride!"

--> "Daniel oppa fighting! I'm always cheering for you <3"

-->  "Shine bright Daniel oppa!!" 

--> "I was there and I only got a glance at him, it was insane how many people showed up, I heard the young lady next to me crying."

... 9.3.2017

"That's your apartment?"

Daniel held up the phone around the nice apartment, as he walked through each room. Thankfully it had come already furnished, and was equipped for a professional athlete.

"You're renting right?" 

"Yes." Daniel answered then wondering why her tone sounded so hesitant, "why?"

"It's nice, but I don't think I can see you living there." 

Daniel chuckled as he sat back against the sofa. It was certainly a different feeling then when he had moved into his apartment in Korea. It felt so natural now, like he was just having an extended stay at an AirBNB. 

"Really? It's totally my style." He countered holding the phone towards the exposed brick walls and industrious lighting.

"The apartment or me?" He could see on the screen that she was holding her hands by her cheeks adorably. 

"Both, but I guess it is missing something important." He answered in a flirtacious way.

"If you say 'you' I'll seriously be mad." 

Daniel shook his head as he gazed into the screen at her reflection, imagining her in front of him. "The thing I miss the most is probably..."

"My Cuckoo rice cooker. Always fresh, always fast..." 

He couldn't even finish the punchline as Jiyeon had already burst out laughing. The cute sound of her laughter ringing over the speakers.

When he heard her finally quiet down, he was lying on the sofa, staring up at the ceiling. Internally planning how he was going to survive so many days without her.

"Did you meet any of your teammates yet?"

"Not yet, but I'll go in to the start of bootcamp tomorrow." He answered with a sigh, "Mike said that the coach sounded excited to start working with me though."

"Will they let you play then? The team in Dallas barely let you play at all." 

"Ya, I thought you said you didn't follow my career at all after we broke up in Seoul." Daniel teased as he held up the phone to sneak another look at her.

"When did I say that?" She giggled. 

"Well, Mike said in the contract we negotiated, he'd start setting my minutes after he watched me at practice."

"Ah, so you have to play well, and then the coach will let you play longer." 

Daniel leaned back into the sofa. "I'm not worried at all. As long as you support me, I'll do my best and have no regrets." 

"It sure must be nice, having that much confidence in yourself." She whispered somewhat wistfully.

"No, I just know that I already accomplished my first dream, so I don't feel too much pressure anymore. By the way, you're going to start filming soon as well."

For almost a minute there was complete silence, as he wondered if she had gone to the restroom.

He lazily climbed off the sofa, and went to the kitchen to get some water when he finally heard a noise.

"Yes." Her response was meek. 

It was probably to be expected after all, they had somehow almost completely avoided the topic for the past two weeks.

"Did you start packing?" Daniel wondered as he was reminded of his untouched suitcase he still had to get to.

"Not yet, but Jooyoung unnie gave me a packing list. She still didn't tell me who it will be, but I'm starting to get excited."

"Ah really?" Daniel almost choked on the water he was sipping on. He had promised himself he would accept things no matter what. 

But, he couldn't lie he was dying of curiousity at who it might be.

"I probably won't be able to call you for the next week or so oppa. Is that ok?"

"I'll be busy with training camp anyways, so I guess it works out." Daniel knew from his previous years, that the first week of training camp was mostly about getting back in physical shape. Especially ever since he had started dating, he knew he had lost some muscle and gained a little weight.

"Alright, let's both do our best then." She sounded confident the way she said it. It seemed almost reminiscent of the Park Jiyeon he had encountered in Vegas. 

"I miss you already." 

Suddenly there was the sound of her apartment intercom ringing and he could see her eyes perk up towards the entrance.

"That's Jieun, we're going to hangout today. I'll call you later oppa." 

Daniel smiled as he waived goodbye towards the phone. "Ok, I love you." He said the final three words in English, and was glad to hear her reciprocate them as well.

"I love you."

... 9.3.2017

Kpopnews: Most recent Running Man teaser features Basketball player Daniel Choi

A large anticipation is building for next week's Running Man episode, ever since the filming was confirmed. This marks the Basketball Idol's first appearance on Running Man, and has taken almost a month to air. Ratings for the episode are expected to soar, especially now that he is confirmed to be playing for the NBA team New York Knicks.

The teaser while brief, was quite surprising, as very little of Daniel's missions were shown. Instead the teaser simply drew audiences in with his introduction and the member's reactions. The trailer also revealed that female guests include Sunmi and Lee Elijah.

…10.4.2017

KOREABOO: Jiyeon and Oh Changsuk are power roommates in Insolent Housemates

October 4th, 2017

On this weeks episode of Insolent Housemates, a new roommate pair was introduced as Hong Jinyoung and Ikon announced an end to their roommate ship. Though some have commented that the pairing is a little similar in terms of age to her previous publicly ended relationship with another experienced actor Lee Dong Gun. It is a refreshing sight to see her cuteness and innocents that is often forgotten due to her appearance that is apparent whenever you see her. 

Other Netizens found it interesting how she seemed very comfortable with Changsuk despite showing great chemistry with Daniel Choi in their Knowing Bros episode. One forum message complaining that she seemed to so easily show interest in anyone “tall and handsome”. 

I personally am happy to see more exposure for our often forgotten star Maknae. T-ara is likely not to continue after their final concerts in Japan and Vietnam. I hope that the pretty idol continues to do more solo, because of her amazing talent and visuals.

Fighting Jiyeon!

///////////////////

“I personally was a little upset to see her talking so comfortably with Changsuk after shipping her with Daniel. Nevertheless the visuals for both are there and I was happy to see her smile like that. Always cheering for T-ara!” 

“Hope that you end up with Changsuk. Because I think it’s clear that you have tastes for older men. As always T-ara fighting!”

...10.17.2017

ESPN Report: 2017-2018 NBA season kicks off

Schedule: October 18: New York Knicks vs. Oklahoma City Thunder on TNT