Transgender news from Korea

Left: 'Manufactured Transgender Pop Group' , 'Lady', Right: Arguably manufactured transgender celebrity, Harisu (Hari-Su) is pimping feminine hygiene products.

'Lady' is preparing for the launch of their debut album (this is all rather old news, but fun anyway). Apparently, they had to compete with nearly 400 other transgendered individuals at the audition in what must be the coolest spinoff of Pop Idol/American Idol ever. I only hope they post-produce a television show out of it and put it on their ultrafast broadband connections for the rest of us to enjoy. Full article here at chosun.com.

Hari-su is probably the most famous of the Korean trannies, probably the one you've heard of. In this article dated sometime last year, it was announced that she is/was set to promote feminine hygiene products in TV and print ads.

The selection of Harisu, a transsexual, as the model for menstrual pads is setting the advertising world on fire. Up till now, male stars like Go Su and Gam U-seong have appeared in sanitary napkin ads, but never has a transgender individual appeared in an ad for such a feminine product. The Taiwanese firm UFT really tried hard to cast Harisu in its ads. In fact, when the singer first learned what the company wanted her to market, she was quite hesitant to agree to the project.

UFT, however, explained that the sanitary pads are a cutting-edge product that not only gives women that spring-fresh feeling, but also prevents menstrual cramps. Hearing this, the singer eventually accepted the offer.

I'm more shocked by the revelation that Korean men regularly appear in ads for women's products than I am about Hari-su doing one. At least, at first glance, she might seem to have some connection to the product. But what do the men do? Play mini dramatic roles against girlfriend characters suddenly in an urgent situation? Do they... produce the necessary products from their coat pockets and save the day?

I'm also interested in the spring-fresh feeling and cramp-prevention features. It sounds suspiciously as if they're infusing the sanitary pads with menthol and novacaine. Please let me know if you find anything out.

Technorati: korea transgender lady harisu transsexual
[via KFCcinema.com]