Dankuk

[NDH04]

Thousands of Businesses Start in Dankuk
November 23, 4977

With the economic upsurge, it appears that many Dranians are no longer holding back on their business dreams. All across the nation, businesses are opening their doors, with the aim of jump-starting the usually stagnant market.

With loan policies practically out the window, banks are too happy to help aspiring men get their fix in return for practically nothing. Though this has occasionally raised eyebrows; supporters of the loan policy argue that the economic upturn and rapid growth is just what Dankuk’s middle class needs to rise further in the world.

This coasts on the new real estate acquisitions, investments, and renovations ongoing throughout Dankuk, and will undoubtedly help the market.

[NDH04]

Hyeokjin's Kyoryu Industry Increases Dranian Tourism
July 22, 4978

Despite the O-San Group’s stock surge this year, reports indicate that the company actually lost money in real restate last year. Pricey buys simply yielded profits too low to come close to recouping the business, which has shaken some confidence in the company. Renovation and tourism efforts seem to be failing in objective; with little increases in tourism being seen. Despite the massive and costly efforts; most Dranian tourism appears to be drawn primarily to the bright lights and loud raves of southern Hyeokjin, the birthplace of the Kyoryu, which many view practically as the nation’s de facto economic capital.

O-San Spokesman Kang Young-Chae spoke on the matter at a press conference last week, to reassure stock-holders.

Have the efforts paid off yet? Admittedly no, at least not at this time. But just because we took a couple of Ls at a bad time doesn’t mean that the investment isn’t good. We’re still in the green from basic sales and leases, so what’s wrong with living a bit dangerously? Sure, we may have erred here and there, but it’s all part of innovative business – the future of business. We guarantee that it’ll all pay off in the end.

[NDH04]

VICTA and AXIS Disbands
November 25, 4979

Two of the one of the most well-known groups of the current age comes to an end.


Top: VICTA, Bottom: AXIS

After a good 14-year run, DEF's successor group VICTA have agreed to part ways, leading to the group's dissolution. The platinum-certified artist has been a force to be reckoned with within the idol subculture of the country, being able to establish mainstream popularity and cultural significance in the same way as DEF did. Moreover, the members have stated their intentions to still pursue music and wish to venture more into the different aspects of the entertainment industry.

Idol Nation X 101 winners AXIS ends its 3-year promotion with a farewell concert tour, giving fans statements of gratitude and love. The group has made stellar achievements, such as being the only musical act to achieve a gold certification for every release consecutively. The group is the last to be formed in the Idol Nation 101 trilogy, a famous idol audition program that was aired under RBC in collaboration with RSE and various participating entertainment agencies. The said show also gave birth to rising acts like Dynasty and Dream Girls.

[NDH04]

Kyoryu Market Flourishes in Aloria
January 21, 4983

A growing interest on Dranian cultural exports is seen in Aloria as local cinema and music has made its way into the Alorian mainstream and has been the talk of the town lately.

An article for Aloria Entertainment Weekly reports about the blockbuster hit "The Crew" — a Dranian heist film starring Kang Jisung, Lee Jongsuk, Roger Smith, and Kim Yoojung among others. The show's stellar ensemble and impeccable cinematography caught the attention of movie critics and the general public.


The star-studded cast of The Crew

In the field of music, Kyo-pop fan communities grew larger in response to the engagement of Kyo-pop idols into the international side of social media.

The expansion of Kyo-pop outside Dankuk and the Dovanian music market has resulted to a number of various fan communities being formed across Terra, nearing to its possibility of being a global phenomenon that would put Dankuk higher in the international pedestal.

These efforts have caused a surge of Alorian tourists visiting the country, boosting the economy by a considerable percentage.


A Kyo-pop dance crew performing on the streets of Aloria's capital

The tourism sector, both public and private, have been developing strategies to cater to the huge influx of foreign tourists visiting Dankuk.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has opened up to allowing Aloria establish relations and businesses with Dankuk, seeing the situation as a agreeable economic opportunity.

Moreover, the Ministries of Finance and Education and Culture requested the Congress to enact a budget proposal that would prioritizing the sectors of tourism and culture, in order to maximize the opportunities.

[NDH04]

Former President,
Internal Affairs Minister Yoon Taejin Dies at 64
June 20, 4985

A report from the official website of the Party of Labour of Dankuk states the passing of former President and current Internal Affairs Minister Yoon Taejin due to a heart attack last night on June 19, 4985 at his residence in Seongtaek at the age of 64.

He has been the President of the Free Republic of Dankuk for 12 years, serving 3 terms. His administration has been attributed for the blooming of the Kyoryu wave, further expanding the reach of the country's cultural exports by enhancing support for performing arts schools and the country's music and film industry. The prominence and self-determination of Dranian workers in both the workplace and society has also been attributed with his policies of workplace representation, management, profit sharing, and the like.

Prior to being the president, Taejin has been the founding Secretary General of the Party of Labour of Dankuk, a position that he still holds up until now. Taejin has been an influential figure of the post-Rowiet Dranian left, strongly opposing the dogmatic nostalgia towards the UCCR that a lot of socialists in the country hold, to which he sees as a hindrance to the progress of the new Dranian proletariat.

Taejin has also been the leading figurehead of the Red Front, an electoral alliance of prominent leftist parties in Dankuk which include the UPP-CPRU and the CSL.


Taejin's body displayed at the PLD Plenary Hall as party members pay their respects

His body is currently in display at the PLD Plenary House at Seongtaek. Though the first day of the wake will be limited to relatives and close colleagues only, next day would be open access.

President Gim Chaeng-ir expresses sympathy and condolences to the family and colleagues of Taejin. Various political figures, activists, celebrities, and other dignitaries have also sent their condolences.

All national flags in schools, government buildings, and public facilities in the country will be raised half-mast for 3 days to pay respect for his passing.

PLD's report also state that Central Committee Member Kang Jinhyuk shall be promoted as the Second General Secretary of the Party of Labour of Dankuk, by a unanimous vote by the Central Committee.

[NDH04]

Kyo-Pop 5000: So... What Now?
January 26, 4999

In January 25, 4999, a press conference named the RS Congress 5000 was hosted by CEO Jang Hyejin as an opportunity to unveil several important business decisions and achivements that the RS Group that has achieved years before reaching the Year 5000. The press conference revealed various ventures that will be hugely anticipated by the general public.

It has been known that the RS Group was formed after officially venturing into other industries beside music and entertainment, which includes retail, cinema, theater arts, shopping, and leisure.

Officially, RS Group now consists of 4 subsidiaries consisting of different entities.

RS Media
• Red Star Entertainment
• Dynamic Music
• KK Music
• D Label
• DnD Studio
• Drania Contents Media
RS Retail
• Drania Mart
• D Shopping
• Kyo Retail
RS Cinema
• Skywave Studio
• Red Star Films
• Red Tide Animation
• Mirae Movies
RS Theater
• Hyeokjin Metropolitan Theater
• Hyeokjin New Arts Theater
• Seongtaek People's Theater
RS Leisure
• JoyFoods Inc.

In the field of entertainment and music, the RS Congress also unveil future shows to be aired in RBC, including an upcoming idol survival show "Hello World 303", band reality show "The Superband", and more.


The RS Group

Following the absence of the RS Group in the Kyo-pop idol scene, people are convinced that they are now making a strong comeback in the industry. For the past years, the Dranian music scene has been dominated by rising soloists and bands. While idols still make a stir in the mainstream, it's not the same as it always been.

The question is then raised: what would Kyo-pop 5000 be like? Before predicting what would come, let's take a look back at its history.

Due to the friendship of the Dranian Federation with Yingdala and Seko, the musical acts of each countries easily made its way within the Dranian mainstream with its idol groups. With the local corporations taking an interest into this, record labels specializing into managing idol groups were established. The rigorous idol system was implemented, giving birth to the earliest attempts of the Dranian idol model. The acts commercially became successful, but did it not gain the attention of the public eye for a very long time due to its lack of "local authenticity".

The entire production of the Dranian idols are heavily dependent off of Yingdalan and Seko producers, making the process of creating an idol group very expensive. A few groups have reached sustainable success and were able to carry on into the entertainment industry, but it still can't be denied that the idol subculture is still a new phenomenon that is estranged from the mainstream.

Under the early rule of the UCCR, the idol model was halted, as it was frowned upon by the communists due to its hypercapitalistic roots, that was until the 4950 Fourth Five-Year Plan of the UCCR was implemented, which capitalized on the development and expansion of cultural influence of the country, calling for a return to form of the people's democratic dictatorship with emphasis on creating a new, unique, socialist soft power and cultural wave.

The idol system was completely reformed as in contrast with the the growth of idols under the capitalist economic system, the idol subculture under state support flourished, being able to expand outside into foreign markets along with other cultural exports.

DEF, the biggest group during the era, provided the standard for the upcoming Dranian idol groups to come. DEF effectively became the leading group of the Kyoryu wave along with other idol groups under RSE, the state-owned music enterprise. The group managed to have domestic and international feats that made them a force to be reckoned with.


Legendary idol group DEF

The social and cultural significance of the Kyoryu idols became prevalent during wartime era, being effective tools to boost morale and promote anti-fascist propaganda.

Right after the dissolution of the UCCR and DEF, successor idol group VICTA debuts, providing a transition to the next generation of Dranian idols. VICTA immediately established itself as a musical act due to its role as DEF's successor group while striving to create an individual identity as time goes on.

As time goes on, the general public's interest on idols decrease. In an effort to curb the decline, RSE launches the Idol Nation 101 trilogy, a reality show wherein an 11-member group is formed from a pool of 101 trainees from various companies chosen through public voting. The show became effective on boosting the interest of the people, effectively creating a resurgence of popularity among idols.


Idol Nation 101

In this era the two most influential groups, VICTA and Dynasty, enter a "Note War", as both artists have been neck-to-neck on chart competition and in music awards. To keep up with rising trends and technology, a comprehensive national music chart was established, allowing the way to assess the commercial performance of an artist and allowing competition within the industry.


11-member girl group Dream Girls

The second season of the Idol Nation 101 series created the 11-member girl group Dream Girls, who made its debut in a male-dominated industry with a distinct musical identity. The lovable and marketable personality has catapulted them to stardom, earning the title of "Nation's Girl Group".

Ever since VICTA's disbandment, the idol industry has been stagnant as soloists and bands dominate to the mainstream scene. Despite this, there are still a few acts that manage the catch the attention of many and still have an international reach. Needless to say in comparison, current conditions aren't doing that good.

Music critics and analysts suggest that another type of evolution must happen, and that it's a good sign that the RS Group, the top enterprise of music and entertainment in the country, is suggesting the same as they have unveiled new plans. However, that simply isn't enough, as the market exponentially grows with the help of the international fan communities. Companies must go back into being creative and keeping up with the times in order to actually have progress.

But then again, everyone is not sure of what is bound to happen, as one can only wish the best for Year 5000.

[NDH04]

HYEOKJIN — Newly-established in 5130, the Reform Party of Dankuk has mobilized its campaign machineries optimistically eyeing for the presidential position and the majority of the country's legislature.

The secretary-general and party's presidential nominee Junpyeong Kim, addresses the crowd of Hyeokjin in his proclamation rally, declaring the party's platform of comprehensive national reconstruction through democratic reform and renovation in front of 23,700 people in attendace at Hyeokjin Main Boulevard.

Prior to his appointment as founding head of the party, he is the incumbent member of the Hyeokjin Metropolitan Council for 24 years. During his term as part of the mayoral council, he has been credited for the renovation and cultivation of the city's sociopolitical state by prioritizing citizens' input, thanks to the establishment of Hyeokjin People's Councils, a non-partisan consultative body aiming to gather opinions and suggestions from the grassroots.

Since the creation of this project, Hyeokjin saw a new era of progressive development, cultivating an environment conducive for drastic but sustainable changes. Through intersectional policies, the city has been able to tackle the issues of decrepit public infrastructure, decline of the local market, and the stagnancy of culture and education.

RPD Secretary-General and Presidential Nominee Junpyeong Kim says:
We are not entirely sure of what it is to happen. However, there are two things that I am certain of: the path will not be peaceful and flowery, and that any adversity against our quest to give our country its rightful rebirth will be conquered through our unity and solidarity. Everyone, let us make this happen!

[NDH04]

SEONGTAEK — At a surprising turn of events, the Reform Party of Dankuk has gained a 99% victory, both achieving the presidency and the entirety of the country's legislature. With a huge election turnout of 90.7%, around 63 million Dranians took to the polling places, with pretty much all of them having voted for RPD.

According to the RPD Spokesperson Na Jaehee, it was all thanks to the arduous efforts done by full-time workers and volunteers and the people-centric strategy employed during the campaign period.

RPD Spokesperson Na Jaehee says:
Never have I see such strong mobility among the masses when we started campaigning in March. With constituents this enthusiastic for the quest of progress and change, surely this administration will be able to achieve anything of the people's best interests.

A victory rally at Hyeokjin Metropolitan Stadium is currently set to happen at October 13, with President-Elect Junpyeong Kim and the 100 representative-elects of the Popular Assembly, along with a star-studded lineup of celebrities and performers.

Hours after the proclamation of results, President-Elect Junpyeong Kim posted a video address thanking everyone for the support, the effort, and the vote.

President-Elect of the Union Junpyeong Kim says:
I would like to thank everyone who have given us this momentous win, and for giving our beloved Union of Dankuk an opportunity to reach and soar higher. All of what this administration will bring will always be on the people's best interests. This is simply the start of something great for all of us...

[NDH04]

After the pageant's three editions broadcasted via paywalled streaming services, the 4th annual Mister and Miss Dankuk pageant set to be held in November 21, 5141, will now be televised in live public television for the very first time.

Every year, 26 male and female delegates each representing the 13 basic divisions of the country compete to win the title, the crown, an elusive prize package, and an enourmous platform to enact and push their advocacies. Prior to the national competition, local preliminary contests were conducted to determine their representatives. At this point of writing, all 26 delegates set to compete in the national pageant for this year have now been selected.

Weeks before the grand coronation ceremony, a preliminary assessment of the delegates, which includes catwalk, fashion, and closed-door interviews, are conducted and overseen by a selection committee. Come finals night, the 26 would be narrowed down to 12 semifinalists (6 male, 6 female) who would compete in the final rounds of the pageant, based on their performance in previously-mentioned preliminary assessment.

The entire duration of the national beauty pageant will be done in Seongtaek Capital City, with both stages of the competition done and aired in the Metropolitan Auditorium.

Seongtaek City Mayor Kwon Kim is thankful for the privilege to be able to host the national competition, as it would boost the local tourism of the city.

Sunny Jang, Chairperson of the Union Pageant Circle and former beauty queen, encourages viewers and fans to anticipate for surprising twists that would happen in the pageant's fourth edition.

In the pageant's 3-year existence, it has produced 6 winners:
• Mister Dankuk 5138: Junhee Kim of North Hyeonggi
• Miss Dankuk 5138: Kang Jina of Seongtaek
• Mister Dankuk 5139: Juanito Carreon of South Ulbraca
• Miss Dankuk 5139: Olivia Jones of East Rhynach
• Mister Dankuk 5140: Raymond Iglesias of Iglesia Mayor
• Miss Dankuk 5140: Park Mina of West Myeoggi

[NDH04]

A night of glamor and pulchritude happened in the capital city when the grand coronation gala of the 4th Annual Mister and Miss Dankuk commenced on November 21, 5141 at 8PM in the evening. 26 contestants from North Ulbraca, South Ulbraca, Iglesia Mayor, West Myeoggi, East Myeoggi, North Hyeonggi, South Hyeonggi, Seongtaek, North Eljang, South Eljang, Llwbyr Hawl, West Rhynach, and East Rhynach, each with their own male and female representative, competed for the titles of Mister and Miss Dankuk.

Months of preparation were put to test in a preliminary assessment, which challenged the 26 delegates in their catwalk performance in the traditional wear and active wear contests, and their personality, wit, and charisma in the closed-door interviews with the selection committee. Their performance in the preliminary assessment determined their eligibility to be part of the semifinals.

After a flashy production number in which the 26 contestants participated in, the first cut of the evening was announced: the Top 10. As each delegate was called, they address the audience with an opening statement: a 20-second speech detailing something about themselves and their advocacies.

In the male group, the 5 delegates from Seongtaek, Llwbyr Hawl, North Eljang, East Rhynach, and Iglesia Mayor were called.

Eventual male winner, Julio Sanchez of Iglesia Mayor (27), opened up about his struggle with depression to the audience, and how he has overcome it thanks to a strong support system from his loved ones and friends.

As a person vulnerable to weakness, I have experienced what it's like to succumb into the darkness. Eventually, I knew to myself that I wouldn't let anything get in my way, and that I wouldn't continue sulking in the shadows. I derived courage from the people whom I love and love me, which made me able to fight my own demons, and conquer every adversity I faced. I stand here tonight to tell you that you are capable of winning your inner battles. Always remember that you are loved and people support you. You are a fighter, and you are destined for victories.
— Mister Dankuk 5141, Julio Sanchez of Iglesia Mayor, in his opening statement

In the female group, the 5 delegates from Iglesia Mayor, West Rhynach, North Ulbraca, South Ulbraca, and Seongtaek were called.

Eventual female winner, Joanna Guevarra of Iglesia Mayor (29), took pride on her work as an elementary teacher, and and talked about how she intends to use her platform as a Miss Dankuk to bring forth educational reform and encourage more people to get into teaching.

All my life, I have admired teachers to the point that I've studied to be one. It's a noble profession that is often overlooked. There's nothing more fulfilling than instilling children with knowledge and wisdom to shape our country for the better. I stand here on this stage to rally people to join me in the fight for educational reform, and to call upon educators and future educators to go beyond the call of duty and always cross the extra mile, for the sake that our children will be the strongest foundation for our future.
Miss Dankuk 5141, Joanna Guevarra of Iglesia Mayor, in her opening statement

The Top 10 would then participate in the catwalk portion of the competition: fashion wear, and formal wear.

The fashion wear consisted of the Top 10 strutting their stuff as they wear sleek and uniform streetwear designed by well-known local designers of Seongtaek, while the formal wear consisted of the Top 10 walking the ramp, exuding charisma, wearing glamorous suits and evening gowns.

Prior to the second cut of the show, special awards were given to the following delegates:
• Best in Traditional Wear: Ms. South Ulbraca
• Best in Active Wear: Mr. Seongtaek
• Best in Interview: Ms. Seongtaek
• Best in Fashion Wear: Mr. North Eljang
• Best in Formal Wear: Ms. Iglesia Mayor

Then came the announcement of the Final Four, who would compete in the final question, and the closing statement. Both male and female delegates of Iglesia Mayor moved on, along with Mr. Seongtaek and Ms. West Rhynach.

A full transcript of the pageant's opening statements and final question round can be found here.

Mr. Seongtaek and Ms. West Rhynach were hailed as runners-up, with both male and female delegate of Iglesia Mayor clinching the two titles, documenting two monumental milestones: a back-to-back win for Mister Dankuk, and for the first time that a single delegation won the two crowns at the same time.

The two winners express their gratitude to their avid supporters, and the Iglesia Mayor Pageant Organization for their utmost, unconditional, and unwavering support, and to the Union Pageant Circle for being given the opportunity as titleholders to bring forth their messages and advocacies to a wider audience.