Western Seoul November 2013 | Page 4

Editors Note H ello Readers! In this special edition of Western Seoul, we explore the world of K-pop through western eyes and see how western societies view Korean Pop Culture. Reports particularly in Western media show great concern regarding the cold stark reality that goes unseen behind the bright lights of K-pop stardom. South Korea with its many advancing technologies has now over taken Brazil and the USA to become the worlds Cosmetic Surgery capital. The rise in procedures has had unfortunate influences over K-pop stars and consequently their adoring fans. This months issue looks at the moneymaking machines and the processes that contribute to the successes of the K-pop industry and its starlets. It will reveal the good, the bad and the ‘temporarily’ ugly features of the K-pop culture, its links with cosmetic surgery and the effects upon South Korean society and it’s fashion and beauty industries. We hope you enjoy this special edition of Western Seoul and its accompanying tracks from your favourite K-pop stars. Yours, Gemma Hagan EDITOR IN CHIEF 3