Rain’s Beijing Olympics Participation Kept Secret

China is well known to clamp down on the free flow of information. Apparently, the country’s Olympic committee was effective in silencing Korean megastar Rain.

It was initially reported through the Chinese media that Rain was being considered as a possible guest and had been invited to take part in the closing event of the 2008 Beijing Olympics. This made a lot of fans curious as to whether Rain will really perform or not. However, Rain’s management, JTune Entertainment, refused to confirm only saying: “We do not know anything about it.”

It was later revealed that according to the Chinese media, the Olympic Committee had concluded a contract with Rain but stipulated that if Rain or his management reveals the fact that he will take part in the Beijing Olympics’ closing ceremony, he won’t be allowed to participate in the event. Hence, the secrecy. Such is the power of China these days.

Rain’s management broke their silence a day after the Olympics stating: “Rain signed a contract to perform at the closing ceremony some three months ago when the International Olympic Committee made an official request. But the contract required us to keep it confidential.”

Rain sang the closing theme song “Beijing, Beijing, I Love Beijing” with other Chinese stars, including Hong Kong-based Kelly Chen, Taiwanese singer Wang Lee hom, and Chinese star Cecelia Han. A total of 68 celebrites shared the stage and some of those captured on film were Andy Lau and Hallyuwood ambassador and movie star Jackie Chan.

Before going onstage, Rain said he felt honored and excited when first asked to perform, as though he had been chosen for the national squad. He also seemed overwhelmed with joy after the ceremony. “I have never felt this nervous since my debut,” he said. “I was very moved to see people around the world gather and enjoy this occasion of harmony and festival.”

Hmmm, some say that the gag order may have been a bit too severe but at least compared to the SBS’ Olympic Opening Ceremony leak, Rain kept his promise.

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