넷플릭스 리뷰 플랫폼과 해외 커뮤니티, 트위터(X)에서는 공개 직후부터 다음과 같은 반응이 쏟아졌다:

- “마지막 회까지 진짜 ‘한숨도 못 쉰다’. 너무 몰입된다.”

- “The Night Of 한국판 같음. 무게감, 템포, 연출 다 미쳤다.”

- “액션은 폭력적이고 리얼한데, 정작 심장은 조용히 무너진다.”

- “한 회 끝나면 잠시 쉬고 싶을 만큼 감정 소모가 크다.”

해외 시청자들이 가장 많이 언급하는 단어는 “slow burn”과 “unpredictable tension”이다. 1~2화는 차분하지만, 인물의 심리와 과거 복선이 켜켜이 쌓이며 중반 이후 감정선이 폭발한다는 평이다.

특히 소지섭이 연기한 주인공 ‘기준’에 대해선 다음과 같은 평가가 많다: “He says nothing, but I can hear everything through his eyes,” “So Ji-sub deserves a global spotlight. Period.”

‘광장’은 느와르 장르 특유의 건조한 대사와 폭력성을 유지하면서도, 심리전과 가족 서사라는 내면적 요소가 강하게 작동한다. 이 때문에 “단순히 총 맞고 끝나는 액션극”이 아니라는 인식이 퍼지고 있다.

미국의 드라마 리뷰 블로그 StreamCurious는 이렇게 평했다: “Mercy for None gives you the pace of Ozark, the atmosphere of My Name, and the character grief of Breaking Bad. It’s a slow-cooked tragedy.”

기준과 최인의 무언 대면 (Episode 6)

– 대사 없이 1분간 이어지는 눈빛 대결… “영화 같다”

기석의 마지막 음성 메시지 (Episode 2)

– 가족, 조직, 과거가 동시에 흔들리는 순간

지하 밀실 격투 장면 (Episode 8)

– “CG가 아닌 생생한 현실감”으로 회자

로컬색보다는 장르적 정통성

– 조직, 복수, 침묵, 팽팽한 구도… 한국적 디테일보다 글로벌 코드에 충실한 구성이 강점

웹툰 기반이지만 과도한 연출 없음

– 원작 웹툰 팬도, 드라마만 본 이들도 납득 가능한 서사 구도

서브컬처 팬덤 유입

– The Night Comes for Us, My Name, Extracurricular 등을 좋아했던 글로벌 팬덤들이 몰입

흥미롭게도, *‘광장’*은 국내보다 해외에서 먼저 입소문을 타며 순위를 끌어올린 케이스다. 국내 커뮤니티에서는 오히려 “뒤늦게 정주행 시작한다”는 반응이 잇따른다.

“처음엔 좀 무거워서 망설였는데, 지금 7화 정주행 중. 소름.”

“외국 친구가 추천해서 보기 시작했는데 이거 진짜 몰입감 미쳤다.”

‘광장’의 성공은 단순히 "몇 위를 했다"가 아니라, 시청자들이 그 감정에 어떻게 반응했는지에 있다. 대사가 없어도 긴장하게 만들고, 폭력 장면 사이로 감정을 던지는 이 한국형 느와르에 대해, 전 세계가 지금 공감하고 있다.

앞으로 남은 건 단 하나.

하지만 이 드라마의 실패를 단순히 ‘저조한 시청률’로 말하기는 어렵다. 무엇보다 이 작품은 한국 드라마 문법에서 보기 드문 ‘금주(禁酒)’를 메인 키워드로 삼았기 때문이다. 치유와 회복, 자기 제어라는 주제는 드라마적 흥미보다 현실적인 피로감으로 받아들여졌을 수도 있다.

16일 방송된 11회는 극적 반전의 연속이었다. 주인공 서의준(공명)이 수간호사 백혜미(배해선)의 아들이라는 사실, 그리고 그의 아버지가 요양원 지하 밀실에 갇혀 있었다는 설정은 충격적이었다. 술병을 든 채 등장한 아버지와, 쓰러지는 백혜미의 장면은 강한 몰입을 유도했지만, 3.1%라는 시청률은 변함없었다.

결국 이야기의 흥미나 전개와는 무관하게, 이 드라마는 대중과의 교감 지점에서 벽을 넘지 못했다.

*‘금주를 부탁해’*의 인물들은 모두 어떤 식으로든 ‘회복’의 서사를 지녔다. 한금주(최수영)는 알코올 의존 가족 속에서 자기 삶을 다잡고, 김광옥(김성령)은 가족 전체에 금주령을 선포한다. 갈등은 있었지만 자극은 없었다. 이는 의도된 선택이었다.

작품성 면에서 이 드라마는 “느리지만 깊은 울림”이 있는 작품이라는 평을 받았다. 그러나 현재 한국 드라마의 소비 시장에서 '정통 감성극'은 더 이상 안전한 선택지가 아니었는지도 모른다.

드라마가 끝나고, 출연진들은 각자의 방식으로 작별을 고했다.

최수영(한금주 역): “고등학생 시절부터 30대까지 한 사람의 인생을 연기하며 아주 특별한 시간을 보냈습니다. 이 이야기를 함께 완성한 공명 배우에게도 감사드립니다.”

공명(서의준 역): “이번 작품을 통해 배우로서 성장할 수 있었습니다. 촬영이 엊그제 같은데 벌써 마지막이라니 믿기지 않아요.”

김성령(김광옥 역): “건강을 해치는 음주 문화, 이제는 바뀌어야 합니다. 이 이야기가 그 출발점이 되기를 바랍니다.”

김상호(한정수 역): “소소한 일상을 다룬 작품이라 현장도 늘 따뜻했습니다.”

조윤희(한현주 역): “진심으로 연기에 몰입할 수 있었던 작품이었고, 그만큼 시청자분들께도 감사드립니다.”

‘금주를 부탁해’는 회차 수가 짧고 시청률은 낮았지만, 분명한 주제를 관통하며 끝까지 흔들리지 않은 드라마였다. 회복, 용서, 성장이라는 어쩌면 낯설고 느린 키워드들. 시청률이라는 냉정한 잣대는 이 드라마를 '실패작'으로 기록하겠지만, 어떤 시청자에게는 이 한 줄이 남을 것이다.

“그때 나는, 이 드라마 덕분에 내 가족을 돌아봤다.”

1회 (5/12): 3.4%

2회 (5/13): 3.0%

3회 (5/19): 3.2%

4회 (5/20): 3.7% ← 자체 최고 시청률

5회 (5/26): 3.2%

6회 (5/27): 2.8%

7회 (6/2): 3.1%

8회 (6/3): 2.7%

9회 (6/9): 3.1%

10회 (6/10): 3.0%

11회 (6/16): 3.1%

tvN은 6월 23일부터 추영우, 조이현 주연의 ‘견우와 선녀’를 후속 월화드라마로 방영한다.

최근 극장가에서 관객 150만 명을 넘어선 영화의 주연 배우로 주목받는 그가, 동시에 중대한 마약 관련 혐의에 대한 최고 법원의 판단을 앞두고 있다.

배우 유아인(본명 엄홍식)은 지금, 가장 극적인 갈림길에 서 있다. 흥행 성과를 이어가는 신작 **〈하이파이브〉**를 통해 일부 관객들로부터 “역시 유아인”이라는 찬사를 받는 동시에, 3년에 걸쳐 반복된 마약 투약 의혹에 대한 사법적 심판을 기다리는 처지다.

다음 달 초, 대법원은 그에 대한 최종 결론을 내릴 예정이다. 혐의 내용은 결코 가볍지 않다. 의료용 향정신성 약물을 장기간 투약하고, 타인의 신원을 도용해 불법 처방을 받은 정황이 포착됐으며, 해외에서의 대마 흡연과 권유 혐의까지 더해졌다.

영미권에서는 오래전부터 다음과 같은 논쟁이 있어 왔다. “Can we separate the art from the artist?” 작품은 예술 그 자체로 감상해야 하는가, 아니면 그 창작자의 도덕성 역시 판단의 일부가 되어야 하는가? 이 물음은 우디 앨런, 로만 폴란스키, J.K. 롤링 등의 예에서도 반복되었고, 지금 한국 사회에서도 유사한 고민이 소환되고 있다. 유아인은 그 중심에 놓여 있다.

그의 최근작 〈하이파이브〉는 현재도 상영 중이며, 흥행 순위 상위권을 유지하고 있다. 각종 포털과 커뮤니티에서는 여전히 “연기력만큼은 따라올 자 없다”는 평가가 올라오는 반면, “사법적 결과가 나오기 전까지는 조심스러워야 한다”는 반론 역시 만만치 않다.

그는 과거에도 〈성균관 스캔들〉, 〈육룡이 나르샤〉, 〈베테랑〉, 〈사도〉 등을 통해 감정선이 깊은 연기로 주목받았다. 그러나 이제 그의 연기가 아닌 ‘삶 자체’가 더 큰 이슈가 된 지금, 대중은 그를 어떻게 대면해야 할까?

단순히 “마약을 했는가”가 아닌, “어떤 예술가는 용서받고 어떤 예술가는 퇴장당하는가?”라는 보다 본질적인 질문이 던져지고 있다. 그리고 그 질문의 방향은, 유아인의 유죄 혹은 무죄 여부를 넘어 사회의 윤리 기준과 문화 소비 방식에까지 영향을 미친다.

오는 선고는 그의 법적 책임을 규명하게 될 것이다. 하지만 그 이후, 대중이 그를 예술가로서 받아들일지는 여전히 미지수다.

우리는 과연 그의 연기에 박수를 보낼 수 있을까? 그의 이름이 다시 스크린에 뜰 때, 아무렇지 않게 입장할 수 있을까? 혹은, 예전처럼 그의 복귀를 진심으로 기다릴 수 있을까? 우리가 던져야 할 질문은 하나일지도 모른다.

그런데 반전은 여기서 끝나지 않는다. “소지섭 역주행 열풍”은 넷플릭스 안팎으로 확장되며, 그의 2004년 대표작 <미안하다 사랑한다>(이하 미사)까지 다시 떠오르고 있는 상황이다.

<회사원>은 금속회사로 위장한 청부살인조직의 과장 ‘지형도’(소지섭)를 중심으로 전개된다. 냉정한 킬러로 살아가던 그는 점차 인간적인 감정을 깨닫고, 조직을 등지며 치열한 싸움에 나선다.

이 영화는 단순한 액션영화가 아니다. 빠른 승진 경쟁, 낙하산 임원, 중년의 해고 압박 등 현대 오피스 라이프의 잔혹한 현실을 은유적으로 담아낸 작품이다.

넷플릭스 한국 영화 순위 4위까지 다시 올라서며, "존 윅을 연상케 한다", “출근 전 보면 묘하게 위안된다”는 평들이 줄을 잇고 있다. 13년 만의 역주행은 '추억팔이'를 넘어 새로운 감정적 타이밍을 맞이한 셈이다.

소지섭의 레전드 멜로 드라마 <미안하다 사랑한다> 역시 최근 다시 언급되고 있다.

tvN 예능 <지구오락실>에서 코미디언 이은지가 소지섭의 명대사 “미안하다… 사랑한다…”를 리얼하게 성대모사하며 웃음을 터뜨린 것이 시발점. 짧은 방송 클립 하나가 SNS를 타고 퍼지면서 Z세대에게는 새롭게, 올드팬에겐 향수 자극으로 번졌다.

이에 따라 웨이브, 티빙, 왓챠 등 국내 OTT에서 <미사> 다시 보기 조회수가 급상승 중이다. 감정의 골이 깊고, 표현은 절제된 ‘소지섭 멜로’의 진수는 지금 봐도 울림을 준다.

현재 <광장>을 중심으로 형성된 소지섭 콘텐츠 붐은 단발성이 아니다. 액션에선 <회사원>, 멜로에선 <미사>, 그리고 차기작까지 이어지는 관심으로 소지섭 브랜드 자체가 다시 유통되고 있는 셈이다.

특히 <회사원>의 재발견은 단순한 "과거의 향수"를 넘어, 지금 이 시대 직장인들의 마음을 대변하는 영화로 평가받으며 키워드 노출에서도 강세를 보이고 있다.

“회사 가기 싫은 아침”에 볼 만한 영화로 <회사원>이 다시 소환

넷플릭스 <광장> 흥행에 힘입어 13년 전 19금 액션 누아르 역주행

예능 <지구오락실> 이은지 성대모사로 <미안하다 사랑한다>도 재조명

소지섭의 멜로·액션 양면 캐릭터가 다시금 새롭게 소비되는 중

<전지적 독자 시점>의 메인 예고편이 공개된 직후, 가장 많이 회자된 반응 중 하나다. 실제로 1분 18초 분량의 예고편은 블랙핑크 특유의 하이엔드 스타일과 서사적 무드를 연상시키며, 눈과 귀를 사로잡았다.

하지만 그 안에서 단연 눈에 띈 건 지수의 변신이다. 뮤직비디오 속 신비롭고 몽환적인 이미지를 벗고, 극도로 현실적이면서도 생존적인 고등학생 '이지혜'로 돌아온 지수는 짧은 등장만으로 예고편의 흐름을 뒤흔든다.

“지수 맞아?” “표정이 진짜 달라졌어요.”

예고편 속 지수는 기존 이미지와 확연히 다른 얼굴을 보여준다. 교복을 입고 칼을 쥔 모습은 단순한 액션을 넘어, 캐릭터의 감정 서사까지 담고 있었다.

특히 눈빛과 움직임에서 전해지는 날카로움은 “무조건적인 생존”이라는 이지혜의 서사를 단숨에 관객에게 각인시킨다.

지수가 맡은 이지혜는 원작에서도 팬덤 내에서 존재감이 컸던 캐릭터. 예고편에서 등장한 단 몇 초의 장면만으로도 팬들은 “원작의 이지혜가 살아 움직인다”며 감탄을 쏟아냈다.

지수 외에도 예고편은 이민호와 안효섭의 강렬한 캐릭터 체화로 주목받았다.

이민호는 ‘유중혁’이라는 인물을 통해 다시 한번 ‘운명을 거스르는 남자’의 이미지를 입체적으로 풀어냈다. 회귀 능력을 가진 전설의 전사는 흔한 액션 히어로가 아니라, 고독과 책임의 무게를 안고 싸우는 존재로 표현된다.

그에 맞서는, 혹은 함께 걷는 ‘김독자’ 역의 안효섭은 ‘관찰자이자 생존자’로서의 내면을 섬세하게 연기하며 깊은 몰입을 끌어낸다.

팬들은 “CG도 멋졌지만 결국 사람(캐릭터)이 영화의 중심임을 다시 느꼈다”고 평했다.

지수의 활약은 단순히 화려한 캐스팅 리스트에 이름을 올린 것에 그치지 않는다.

이번 예고편을 통해 지수는 ‘아이돌 출신 배우’라는 수식어에서 벗어나, 서사에 기여하는 입체적 캐릭터로 자리매김하고 있다.

특히 CG와 액션이 가득한 판타지물 안에서 지수의 감정 밀도와 현실적인 존재감은 오히려 더 돋보인다. 팬들뿐 아니라 일반 관객들도 “지금까지 본 지수 중 가장 배우 같았다”며 연기 변신을 긍정적으로 평가하고 있다.

<전지적 독자 시점> 예고편은 단지 스케일을 보여주는 것이 아닌, 배우들이 얼마나 캐릭터에 몰입했는지를 보여주는 압축적 예고였다.

특수효과나 배경만으로는 설명할 수 없는 몰입감의 비결은 바로 캐릭터 중심의 설득력.

“이민호가 유중혁 그 자체였다”는 반응부터 “지수의 이지혜는 올해 최고의 씬스틸러 될 듯”이라는 기대까지, <전지적 독자 시점>은 인물 중심의 블록버스터로서 입지를 다지고 있다.

관객은 이제 단순히 화려한 영상미나 IP 명성을 보지 않는다. 이번 예고편은 보여줬다—이 영화가 캐릭터로 움직일 것임을.

전지적 독자 시점은 7월 23일, 전국 극장에서 개봉한다.

지난 6월 16일, 삼양식품은 자사 불닭 글로벌 틱톡 계정의 팔로워 수가 100만 명을 돌파했다고 밝혔다. 이는 불과 6개월 만에 2배 가까이 성장한 수치로, 삼성전자(512만), 현대자동차(112만)에 이어 한국 브랜드 계정 중 3위에 해당하는 기록이다.

더 놀라운 점은 이 모든 성과가 연예인 모델이나 K-팝 마케팅 없이도 이뤄졌다는 사실이다. 이는 BTS 진을 모델로 앞세운 오뚜기 진라면과는 전혀 다른 전략이다.

오뚜기는 BTS 진이라는 글로벌 슈퍼스타를 브랜드 모델로 기용해 팬덤 마케팅을 전개했다. 반면 삼양은 불닭을 제품 그 자체가 놀이가 되고, 이야기로 확장되는 콘텐츠로 만들었다.

그 대표적인 사례가 불닭 소스를 활용한 글로벌 숏폼 캠페인이다. 직장, 학교, 연애 등 일상 속 스트레스 상황에서 불닭을 먹고 감정을 해방하는 14편의 영상 시리즈는 유튜브, 틱톡, 인스타그램 등에 게시돼 누적 1억 회 이상의 조회수를 기록했다.

단순한 제품 광고를 넘어, “매운맛 = 감정 해방”이라는 강력한 메시지를 담은 내러티브형 콘텐츠가 전 세계 팬들에게 통했다.

불닭은 자연스럽게 팬 주도의 콘텐츠 생태계를 형성하고 있다. 미국, 필리핀, 태국 등지에서 유행 중인 ‘불닭 챌린지’는 “얼마나 맵게 버틸 수 있느냐”는 형식의 참여형 놀이 콘텐츠로 발전했다.

뿐만 아니라, tvN <지구오락실 시즌3>에 참여한 최재영 작가의 불닭 리믹스 레시피는 MZ세대 사이에서 빠르게 입소문을 탔다. 이 레시피는 기존 라면 조리법을 탈피해 비주얼과 풍미를 모두 잡은 새로운 방식으로 재구성됐으며, 수많은 SNS 인증 콘텐츠로 이어지며 브랜드의 자산으로 축적되고 있다.

이와 함께 한국 편의점 콘텐츠 자체가 하나의 관광 콘텐츠로 부상하고 있다는 점도 주목할 만하다. 전통적인 명소보다 한국 편의점에서 불닭을 끓여 먹는 경험이 외국인 틱톡커들에게 더 매력적으로 다가가고 있다.

해외 인플루언서들은 삼각김밥, 컵빙수, 캐릭터 패키지, 라면 자동 조리기 등 한국만의 편의점 문화에 반응하며 "일상이 곧 콘텐츠가 되는 나라"로서의 한국 이미지를 확산시키고 있다. 불닭은 그 중심에서 ‘바로 먹을 수 있는 K-푸드’로서의 위상을 굳히고 있다.

삼양식품 관계자는 “이번 캠페인은 불닭의 매운맛을 ‘해방감’이라는 감정 키워드로 시각화한 콘텐츠였다”며, “Z세대가 자발적으로 반응하면서 불닭을 하나의 문화 아이콘으로 만든 것”이라고 평가했다.

이어 “올 하반기에도 SNS 기반 참여형 마케팅을 강화해, 브랜드 중심이 아닌 콘텐츠 중심의 확장 전략을 지속할 계획”이라고 밝혔다. 단순한 제품 판매가 아닌, 브랜드 세계관에 소비자를 초대하는 구조를 지향한다는 설명이다.

현재 불닭볶음면은 전 세계 80여 개국에 수출, 누적 판매량 40억 개를 돌파하며 명실상부한 글로벌 K-푸드 대표 브랜드로 자리 잡았다.

이는 K-팝 스타 없이도 브랜드 스토리와 소비자 주도형 콘텐츠로 세계적 팬덤을 구축할 수 있다는 가능성을 보여준다. 삼양의 불닭은 “브랜드를 파는 것이 아니라, 경험을 판다”는 현대 마케팅 트렌드를 가장 잘 반영한 사례다.

“저는 에겐녀인데요, 외모는 청순한데 성격은 완전 테토에 가깝죠.”

요즘 10·20대가 서로의 성격이나 분위기를 소개할 때 종종 사용하는 이 말. 생소하게 들릴 수 있지만, Z세대 사이에서는 이미 ‘MBTI보다 실용적인 테스트’로 회자되고 있다. 바로 ‘에겐–테토 테스트’, 성격 유형을 여성·남성 호르몬인 에스트로겐(Estrogen)과 테스토스테론(Testosterone) 기준으로 나누는 놀이형 성향 테스트다.

이 테스트는 과학적 분석보다는 ‘분위기’와 ‘감성’에 가까운 자기 표현 방식이다. 에겐은 감성적이고 부드러운 이미지, 테토는 활동적이고 자기주장이 강한 이미지로 해석된다. 본인의 성격을 짧고 재치 있게 요약할 수 있어 밸런스 게임처럼 SNS에서 빠르게 확산됐다.

무엇보다 MBTI처럼 유형이 너무 세분화되지 않고, Egen(에겐)–Teto(테토) 두 축 안에서 자기를 정의할 수 있다는 점이 가볍고 직관적이다.

테토남은 활동적이고 자신감 넘치며 존재감이 확실한 인물로, 신체적 에너지가 크고 리더 기질이 강한 스타일이다. 대표적인 셀럽으로는 옥택연, 손석구, 공유, 이민호, 그리고 NCT의 재현이 있다.

에겐녀는 부드럽고 조용한 분위기를 가진 전통적인 여성성의 대표 이미지다. 차분한 성격, 긴 머리, 우아한 이미지가 특징이며, 박보영, 수지, 문가영 등이 그 예다.

에겐남은 감정 표현이 풍부하고 예술적이며, 사람의 감정을 잘 읽는 따뜻한 성격을 가졌다. 감성과 스타일을 중요시하며, BTS의 지민, 지드래곤, 에이티즈의 성화, 스트레이 키즈의 필릭스 등이 대표적이다.

테토녀는 리더십과 에너지가 강한 주도적인 여성상을 보여준다. 당당하고 솔직한 태도, 강렬한 카리스마가 특징이며, 한소희, CL, (여자)아이들의 소연이 여기에 해당된다.

자신의 유형을 보고 “나 이거네!” 하며 주변 사람들과 공유하는 것이 이 테스트의 핵심 재미다.

재미로 시작한 테스트지만, 이제는 연애 성향 파악 도구로까지 활용되고 있다. “에겐남과 테토녀는 찰떡궁합”, “테토남과 에겐녀는 이상형 조합”이라는 밈이 인스타그램, 틱톡에서 수없이 등장한다. 단순히 성별이 아닌 ‘에너지 조합’을 중심으로 한 매칭이 새로운 트렌드가 된 것이다.

서울대 심리학과 곽금주 교수는 “이러한 유형 테스트는 재미있고 유행이 될 수 있지만, 남녀 고정관념을 무비판적으로 받아들일 우려가 있다”고 경고한다. 사람은 누구나 복합적인 성향을 지니고 있고, 이를 단일 축으로 판단하는 것은 자칫 정체성을 지나치게 단순화할 수 있다는 것.

하지만 동시에 전문가들도 Z세대가 이러한 놀이형 테스트를 통해 정체성에 대한 탐색을 시작하고, 자신과 타인을 이해하는 ‘언어’를 찾고 있다는 점에서 긍정적인 신호로 본다.

틱톡이나 인스타그램에서 “#테토테스트” 또는 “#에겐테스트”를 검색하면 다양한 유형 테스트가 떠오른다. 가볍게 즐기며 나만의 언어를 찾아보는 건 어떨까?

2024년 5월, ‘가정의 달’을 맞아 실시된 전국 문화수요조사에서, 국민들은 세대 간 공감을 이끌어낸 콘텐츠로 4개의 작품을 직접 선택했다. 이 작품들의 공통점은 단순하다: 웃기고, 울리고, 기억하게 만든다.

콘텐츠가 남기는 건 정보보다 감정이다. 그리고 그 감정은 세대를 초월해 공유된다.

총 308표를 획득하며 압도적 1위를 차지한 폭싹 속았수다는 제주도 배경, 아이유·박보검 주연, 그리고 60년에 걸친 연대기적 서사라는 키워드를 갖춘 작품이다. 요망지고 반항적인 애순과 팔불출 관식이의 삶이 시대와 감정을 넘나들며, MZ세대부터 장년층까지 폭넓은 공감을 이끌어냈다.

해외에서는 “로컬이면서도 보편적인 감정선이 훌륭하다”는 평을 받았고, 국내 시청자들은 “엄마와 같이 울었다”는 후기를 남겼다.

18년째 방영 중인 1박 2일은 단순한 예능이 아니다. 대한민국의 풍경, 사람, 순간을 체험하는 기록이자, 주말 저녁 가족을 하나로 모이게 하는 문화적 의식이 되었다.

163표를 받은 이 프로그램은 여전히 “우리가 잊고 있던 한국의 아름다움”을 유쾌한 방식으로 되살려낸다.

응답하라 1997, 1994, 1988로 이어지는 ‘응답하라 시리즈’는 단순한 복고극이 아니다. 그것은 기억을 디테일하게 복원한 감정극이다.

127표를 얻은 이 시리즈는 쌍문동 골목과 다섯 가족의 일상을 통해 ‘그때 그 시절’의 공기, 냄새, 정서를 완벽하게 되살린다. 세대를 불문하고 “우리 집 얘기 같다”는 반응이 나오는 이유다.

74표를 받은 무한도전은 끝나도 끝나지 않는 예능이다. ‘평균 이하’ 남자들이 도전하는 과정을 통해 불완전한 우리 모두의 서사를 만들어냈다. 수많은 유행어와 명장면, 그리고 때로는 예능을 넘어선 사회적 메시지까지—무한도전은 한국형 공감 콘텐츠의 기준이 되었다.

현재의 콘텐츠 소비 환경은 넘치는 자극과 빠른 피로 속에서 ‘감정의 지속력’을 가진 콘텐츠를 갈망하게 만든다. 누군가와 같은 장면에서 울고 웃는 경험, 그 경험이 콘텐츠의 가치를 높이고 있다.

공감형 콘텐츠는 단순한 재미 이상의 것—정체성과 연대, 그리고 사람 사이의 다리 역할을 한다.

문화포털의 ‘공감리포트’는 매주 국민의 감정 반응을 반영한 콘텐츠를 큐레이션하여 소개하고 있다. 여기에는 공연, 전시, 영화 등도 포함되며, 문화릴레이티켓 및 문화초대이벤트 등의 프로그램으로 국민의 문화 접근성을 높이고 있다.

‘공감은 기록될 수 있다’는 전제 아래, 문화포털은 오늘도 대한민국의 감정선을 관찰하고 있다.

자세한 내용은 문화포털 공식 홈페이지와 SNS에서 확인할 수 있다.

“감정을 해체하고 다시 조립하는 따뜻한 작품”, “작은 기적 같은 공연”이라는 찬사가 이어졌고, 주요 매체들도 앞다투어 극찬을 쏟아냈습니다. 공연이 끝난 뒤 관객들은 뜨거운 기립 박수로 응답했습니다.

처음엔 모두가 놀랐지만, 이 성공은 어쩌면 이미 예고된 일이었는지도 모릅니다.

어쩌면 해피엔딩은 2016년, 서울 대학로의 작은 소극장에서 시작됐습니다. 로봇이 주인공이고, 그 로봇이 사랑하고 이별하는 이야기. 누구도 흔히 상상하지 못할 소재였지만, 공연은 전석 매진을 기록하며 관객들의 눈물과 박수를 동시에 얻었습니다. 박천휴 작가와 작곡가 윌 애런슨은 말합니다.

“이 이야기는 사람의 감정을 가장 순수하게 보여줄 수 있는 방법이었어요.”

그 말처럼, 인간보다 더 인간적인 로봇들의 사랑 이야기는 국적과 언어를 초월해 통했다는 게 미국의 반응이었습니다.

2017년부터 제작진은 영어 버전을 준비하며 브로드웨이 진출을 꿈꿨습니다. 쉽지 않은 과정이었죠. 언어뿐만 아니라 감정의 결, 문화 코드까지 바꿔야 했기 때문입니다. 그런데도 포기하지 않았고, 2024년 11월 마침내 뉴욕 브로드웨이 벨라스코 극장에서 정식 공연을 올렸습니다.

2주 연속 매출 100만 달러 돌파, 전회차 기립 박수, 그리고 한국 창작 뮤지컬 최초의 토니어워즈 작품상 수상. 주연을 맡은 대런 크리스(‘글리’ 출신 배우)와 헬렌 J. 셴의 호흡도 인상적이었고, ‘Maybe Love’, ‘Goodbye My Room’ 같은 넘버들은 관객들의 플레이리스트에 오르기 시작했습니다.

많은 전문가들은 이렇게 말합니다. “한국 정서로 출발했지만, 사랑과 이별, 기억과 존재라는 보편적인 주제를 다뤘기 때문에 가능했다.”

또 하나, 단순히 번역한 게 아니라 미국 정서에 맞게 대사와 흐름을 수차례 수정하며 진짜 미국 관객의 마음을 사로잡은 현지화 전략도 큰 역할을 했습니다. 박천휴 작가는 수상 소감에서 이렇게 말했습니다.

“한국 인디팝, 미국 재즈, 현대 클래식, 브로드웨이 스타일을 섞어 누구든 감정적으로 공감할 수 있는 음악을 만들고 싶었어요.”

이번 수상은 단지 한 작품의 성공이 아닙니다. 그동안 대학로에서 차곡차곡 실력을 쌓아온 창작 뮤지컬들이 세계 무대에서도 통할 수 있다는 걸 보여준 결정적 사례입니다. 지난해에는 신춘수 프로듀서가 참여한 위대한 개츠비가 브로드웨이에 진출했고, 한국계 디자이너 린다 조, 김하나가 각각 의상·조명 부문에서 토니상을 받기도 했습니다. 이제 ‘K-뮤지컬’이라는 말이 더 이상 낯설지 않습니다. 어쩌면 해피엔딩은 한국 창작 뮤지컬이 수입이 아닌 ‘수출’될 수 있는 콘텐츠라는 것을 증명했죠.

한국의 작은 소극장에서 태어난 이야기가 세계 공연 예술의 중심에서 울림을 줬습니다. 그리고 관객은 알게 됐습니다.

“이게 한국 뮤지컬이라고? 그런데… 너무 좋다.”

앞으로 얼마나 더 많은 한국 창작 뮤지컬이 브로드웨이에 입성할 수 있을까요? 이번 6관왕은 그 가능성의 문을 활짝 열어젖힌 순간이었습니다.

OTT 시청자 평가 리포트(컨슈머인사이트)에 따르면, 시즌3는 85% 인지율, 55% 시청 의향률로 2주 연속 기대작 1위에 올랐다. 하지만 국내 반응은 의외로 조용하다. SNS, 댓글 여론은 과거 시즌1~2에 비해 눈에 띄게 낮은 반응을 보인다.

시즌3는 반란 실패 이후 미국행을 포기한 성기훈이 조직을 향해 정면으로 맞서는 이야기다.

감독 황동혁은 이 이야기를 “죄책감과 절망 속에서 바닥까지 떨어진 성기훈이 어떻게 다시 일어서는가”에 관한 이야기라고 밝혔다.

하지만 성기훈은 단지 주인공이 아니다.

그는 지금의 한국 사회를 살아가는 수많은 사람들의 불안, 좌절, 무력감, 그리고 분노를 상징한다.

청년 실업, 계층 고착, 자산 격차, 양극화... 기훈은 이 모든 것을 떠안고 ‘어디서부터 잘못됐는지’ 질문하는 인물이다.

시즌3의 중심은 화려한 게임보다, 인간의 세계관 충돌에 있다. 성기훈과 프론트맨 황인호(이병헌)의 대결은 단순한 선악 구도가 아니다.

“인간은 믿을 수 있는가?”

“시스템은 바뀔 수 있는가?”

그 질문은 곧 지금의 대한민국 유권자들이 선거철마다 마주하는 고민이기도 하다.

임시완과 조유리는 연인에서 적으로 변화한다. 이진욱은 죽은 줄 알았던 캐릭터로 귀환하고, 박성훈은 더 강한 트랜스젠더 캐릭터로 돌아온다. 조유리(준희)는 임신한 채로 게임에 참가하며 윤리적 딜레마를 만들어낸다.

하지만 가장 극적인 변화는 여전히 성기훈이라는 사람의 선택이다.

“내가 무엇을 해야 하는가”라는 질문에 대한 답은, 어쩌면 우리 모두가 내려야 할 답이기도 하다.

시즌1은 ‘살아남기 위한 경쟁’을 보여줬고, 시즌2는 ‘불공정한 구조’를, 시즌3는 ‘그 구조를 부수려는 자의 심리’를 조명한다.

이병헌은 “문화와 언어가 달라도 이 드라마는 시대적 공감대를 건드렸다”고 했고, 황동혁 감독은 “자본주의의 경쟁 속에서 인간은 더 나은 미래를 만들 수 있는가?”라고 말했다.

오징어 게임은 더 이상 한국 드라마의 성공작이 아니다. 지금 이 시대를 살아가는 사람들의 감정을 대변하는 세계적 서사다.

황동혁 감독은 시즌4 계획은 없다고 밝혔다. 하지만 “완전히 끝낸다는 건 아니다. 스핀오프는 가능하다”는 말도 덧붙였다. 시즌3는 분명 마지막이다. 하지만 동시에, 지금 우리 사회에 던져진 거대한 질문의 시작이 될지도 모른다.

오징어 게임 시즌3는 누가 살아남는지를 보여주는 이야기가 아니다. 우리가 어떤 시스템 안에 살고 있는지를 묻는 이야기다. 그리고 그 안에서, 성기훈이 우리에게 묻는다.

“당신은 그 게임을 계속할 것인가?”

그 질문에 대한 마지막 답은 6월 27일, 전 세계 공개에서 확인할 수 있다.

According to the university’s development fund committee, Jennie’s donation was made “with the hope of helping nurture warm-hearted talents who will heal the world.” The funds will go toward improving education and research infrastructure, with the goal of building a more inclusive, socially responsible generation of medical practitioners.

This isn’t Jennie’s first donation to the university. In 2023, her self-established agency, ODDATELIER (OA Entertainment), donated the same amount—₩100 million—to Seoul National University’s medical school. These contributions highlight Jennie’s ongoing dedication to education and public health, causes often overlooked by mainstream celebrity philanthropy.

Since launching her solo agency, Jennie has not only found her footing as an independent artist, but she has also strengthened her identity as a socially conscious public figure. Her first full-length solo album, Ruby, released in 2024, made a splash across global charts including Billboard, and positioned her as a force to be reckoned with outside of BLACKPINK.

While the motivation behind Jennie’s donation appears rooted in genuine goodwill, it also comes with a significant tax benefit under South Korean law. According to the National Tax Service (NTS), charitable donations to government-designated institutions, such as public universities, are eligible for tax deductions—either from taxable income or directly from the amount of tax owed.

Here’s how the numbers break down:

Jennie’s donation of ₩100 million to a recognized public institution qualifies for an income deduction of up to 30% of her total annual income.

If the donation surpasses that threshold, the excess can be carried forward for up to 10 years and applied in future filings.

Alternatively, for smaller donors, tax credits of 15–30% of the donation amount are available, depending on the individual’s taxable income.

Assuming Jennie earned more than ₩300 million in taxable income for the year—very likely given her endorsements, music sales, brand collaborations, and international activities—the entire ₩100 million donation would be deductible under the 30% rule.

In plain terms:

If she owes ₩300 million in income tax, and she deducts ₩100 million of taxable income, she could reduce her tax bill by tens of millions of won.

However, the benefit is not dollar-for-dollar. It reduces taxable income, not tax owed directly, unless applied as a tax credit.

This structure is designed to encourage high-income earners, like celebrities and corporate leaders, to contribute more to public causes—education, disaster relief, healthcare, and welfare programs—by rewarding them with financial incentives.

Jennie’s donation isn’t just a financial gesture—it’s a cultural one. In a country where celebrities often walk a fine line between artistry and responsibility, philanthropy has become an expected part of public life. Donations are carefully tracked by fans, the press, and the public, with both praise and criticism depending on how genuine—or performative—the act appears.

In Jennie’s case, the consistency and relative quietness of her donations add to her credibility. Rather than attaching her name to public campaigns or press-heavy fundraisers, she and her agency have made targeted, repeat contributions to specific institutions that align with long-term social impact.

As Hallyu (the Korean Wave) continues to spread across global media, celebrities like Jennie are not just ambassadors of culture, but also role models of influence, shaping the way fans and future stars think about giving, success, and social responsibility.

BLACKPINK’s Jennie, with her independent agency, chart-topping solo debut, and quiet philanthropy, is proving that celebrity influence can extend far beyond the stage—and sometimes, into the future of medicine. In the meantime, fans can catch Jennie joining her BLACKPINK members, Jisoo, Rosé and Lisa, for their comeback world tour Deadline.

Beginning July 13 and running through December 31, Wild Wild will be staged at its dedicated venue in the B1 level of Myeongbo Art Hall in Seoul. The musical originally debuted in Korea but quickly gained popularity across Asia, selling out in cities like Taipei, Hong Kong, Manila, Kaohsiung, Tokyo, and Singapore. Its ability to transcend language and cultural barriers is a testament to its universal appeal and artistic ambition.

Following this overwhelming reception, the production team at W2 Company initiated a complete overhaul of the show. The revamped Wild Wild promises an even more immersive and intense sensory experience, incorporating feedback and insights gained during its six-month international run.

The renewal isn’t just cosmetic. The show’s signature edgy concept has been enhanced with deeper emotional beats, upgraded set design, and brand-new tracks. Leading the charge is the new title number, “Boiler Room,” a pulsating Bass Tech House track that embodies heat, desire, and tension—perfectly aligning with the show’s high-energy identity.

The song was officially released on June 13 across major music platforms including Melon, Genie, and Spotify, offering a preview of the revamped show's soundscape.

According to W2 Company, all elements—from lighting and stage effects to costumes and props—have been redesigned to deliver a more immersive and visually striking experience. The goal? To draw audiences into a world that’s intimate, raw, and powerfully expressive.

Wild Wild breaks away from conventional musical formats. There is no dialogue—only music and physical performance. This 75-minute production offers a pure sensory experience, freeing the audience from language barriers and pulling them into a world ruled by rhythm, movement, and emotion.

Performances are scheduled to accommodate a variety of viewers, including working professionals and weekend audiences:

Tues–Thurs: 8:00 PM

Fri & Sat: 5:00 PM and 8:00 PM

Sun: 3:00 PM and 6:00 PM

Tickets are available via Interpark and international booking channels to meet the demand from overseas fans. This reflects the show’s growing reputation as a premium Hallyu (K-wave) content export.

Wild Event Seats (₩125,000): Premium front-row seats offering up-close intensity

Wild Seats (₩99,000)

General Seats (₩77,000)

W2 Company describes Wild Wild not just as a hit show, but as a new genre—an experimental yet accessible form of performance art. With a distinctive appeal to female audiences, the show has carved out a unique position in the live entertainment market, where such targeted experiences are rare.

A W2 Company representative stated:

“The success of Wild Wild stems not only from its provocative buzz but from its artistic integrity and originality. As a production designed for adult viewers, it offers a sensorial journey unlike anything currently available in the theater scene.”

The show’s upcoming Korean run will test whether its artistic reinvention can continue to win hearts at home—just as it did across Asia.

Launched on the 22nd, the My Seoul, Our Unwritten Seoul contest is a promotional event created in collaboration between Our Unwritten Seoul and the city of Seoul. Much like how the characters Yoo Mi-ji, Yoo Mi-rae, and Lee Ho-su encounter today's Seoul in their own ways, the contest invites participants to share their version of the city.

It's easy to participate—simply upload your own photo of a Seoul landscape to the official contest website or on social media with the hashtags:

#나의서울미지의서울, #미지의서울, #서울마이소울

(#MySeoulOurUnwrittenSeoul, #OurUnwrittenSeoul, #SeoulMySoul)

The contest, which opened on the 22nd, runs until June 14. Winning entries will be featured on various outdoor billboards across Seoul.

A range of exciting prizes is up for grabs.

Grand Prize (1 winner): Ricoh GR# HDF Camera

Excellence Award (1 winner): Marshall Headphones

Merit Award (1 winner): Britz LP Turntable

Best of Seoul Award (2 winners): SIMGOT Earphones

Honorable Mention (3 winners): Fujifilm Camera

Additionally, the Seoul city government will launch collaborative merchandise with tvN’s Our Unwritten Seoul, bringing elements of the drama into fans’ everyday lives.

tvN’s Our Unwritten Seoul is a romantic coming-of-age drama about twin sisters who are identical in appearance but live entirely different lives. After switching places under false pretenses, they begin a journey to discover real love and purpose. The drama gained attention right from its premiere, surpassing 5% in viewership ratings and topping its time slot among cable and general programming channels.

At the heart of the series is actress Park Bo-young, who plays both Yoo Mi-ji and Yoo Mi-rae. Her nuanced performance and emotional range have been key to the show's strong ratings and online buzz.

Our Unwritten Seoul is an original tvN series, not based on a webtoon. You can learn more about the plot and character relationships on the official website. New episodes air every Saturday and Sunday at 9:20 PM KST, and the show is also available on streaming platforms like TVING and Netflix.

On May 29, his agency Galaxy Corporation revealed the reason behind the heartfelt gesture. According to the official statement, the invitation was a response to a letter from Japanese Paralympian Kota Kubota, who expressed deep gratitude to G-Dragon for the inspiration and strength he gained from the artist’s music—crediting it for helping him achieve success at the Paralympics.

The invitation was extended through the Just Peace Foundation, a nonprofit organization founded and chaired by G-Dragon himself. During the Übermensch concert in Osaka, the Paralympic athletes were honored not only with music but with a strong message of support and solidarity.

Galaxy Corporation added, “The artist plans to continue making meaningful invitations like this throughout the rest of the tour.”

G-Dragon continues to prove to the world—and to his loyal fanbase—that he is a true multihyphenate talent, seamlessly blending his roles as a global fashion icon, visionary musician, cultural scholar, and savvy entrepreneur. Long praised for his artistic genius and trendsetting influence in both K-pop and the global fashion scene, G-Dragon is once again showing that his impact reaches far beyond entertainment and aesthetics.

With his recent gesture—inviting Japanese Paralympic athletes to his Übermensch concert in Osaka—he extends his influence into the realm of humanitarian leadership, proving that his success is matched by his compassion. This heartfelt act not only reinforces his reputation as a generous and socially conscious artist, but also highlights how he uses his platform to uplift marginalized communities and foster inclusion.

G-Dragon’s quiet yet powerful brand of activism reflects a growing trend among K-pop idols with global influence, where artistry and empathy intersect. Whether it's through his music, fashion collaborations, or philanthropic actions, G-Dragon continues to inspire fans around the world—not just as an artist, but as a role model.

Nongshim recently partnered with Korean-American food franchise CUPBOP to host Cupbop Day and Cupbop in High School events in Utah. The spotlight dish? A hybrid creation called Shin Ramyun Toowoomba, blending two familiar Korean comfort foods into a creamy, spicy, and satisfying mashup—one that’s now gaining popularity across the States.

Literally meaning “rice in a cup,” cupbop is a Korean-style rice bowl served in a paper container, and it's the signature offering of the CUPBOP brand. Launched as a food truck in 2013, CUPBOP has grown into a Korean fusion powerhouse with 260 stores across the U.S. and Indonesia.

Their menu takes classics like bulgogi, spicy pork, and japchae, and reimagines them for American palates. Cupbop is often described as a “Korean burrito bowl,” where rice, meat, vegetables, and sauce are all mixed together for a fast, flavorful meal.

The featured item at the events—Shin Ramyun Toowoomba—originated from a viral recipe shared by Korean netizens in 2016. Inspired by Outback Steakhouse’s Toowoomba Pasta, the DIY dish added ingredients like milk, garlic, onions, shrimp, butter, and cheese to classic Shin Ramyun, transforming it into a creamy, spicy fusion dish.

The trend gained even more attention after celebrities like Sung Si-kyung cooked it on their own shows. Eventually, Nongshim turned this into an official product. Unlike the original powder soup base, Shin Ramyun Toowoomba uses a liquid sauce that creates a rich, creamy broth with less water—bringing indulgent flavor in a ramen format.

At Cupbop Day on May 21, held at CUPBOP’s Saratoga Springs store in Utah, over 500 visitors came to try this bold K-food combination: cupbop rice bowls topped with Shin Ramyun Toowoomba and loaded with bulgogi, spicy pork, and japchae.

The following day, Cupbop in High School took place at Corner Canyon High School, exposing even more young American consumers to the next wave of Korean fusion comfort food.

A representative from Nongshim stated, “This collaboration with CUPBOP helped Shin Ramyun feel more familiar to U.S. consumers. We’ll continue exploring synergistic marketing that connects different K-foods.”

This is just one of several global campaigns by the company. In April, Nongshim co-hosted the Seoul in the City pop-up with a Korean restaurant in New York, and even launched a Shin Ramyun street food experience in Machu Picchu, Peru—proving their ambitions to globalize Korean flavors through creative, location-specific events.

When BLACKPINK’s Jennie appeared on The Jennifer Hudson Show and shared her favorite Korean snacks—from Banana Kick and Whale Snacks to classic shrimp chips—the video instantly went viral, amassing millions of views across platforms. The unexpected spotlight triggered a global snack craze, even influencing the stock prices of Korean food giant Nongshim.

Jennie’s segment introduced a new wave of American viewers to iconic Korean treats, leading to spikes in Google searches, Amazon sales, and investor buzz. Industry watchers dubbed it the “Jennie Effect”—proof that K-pop influence now extends far beyond music and fashion.

Fellow BLACKPINK member Rosé added fuel to the trend during her appearance on LADbible, where she revealed her love for spicy shrimp chips. Her relaxed, relatable food picks resonated with fans, prompting a flood of taste-test videos and social media chatter.

Together, Jennie and Rosé helped turn Korean convenience snacks into global cultural exports—solidifying their role not just as K-pop idols, but as powerful drivers of the Hallyu wave.

Known for her strict self-care and wellness habits, Jun was recently mentioned on veteran actress Lee Mi-sook’s YouTube show. According to Lee, Jun not only prepares all her meals herself but also brings healthy food to filming locations. “She even added dashima yeomjang to her soft tofu at the shoot,” Lee shared.

Though it may sound unfamiliar, dashima yeomjang—salted and aged kelp—has long existed in Korean cuisine as a naturally fermented food rich in both health and flavor benefits.

It’s made by slicing thick pieces of high-quality kelp (harvested from Korea’s coastal regions) and layering them with sea salt for a period of fermentation. Over time, the tough texture softens, and the kelp develops a savory umami taste with a touch of brininess. Often called “kelp jangajji” or “kelp pickle,” it’s used to enhance the flavor of rice dishes and mixed grain bowls.

What makes dashima yeomjang such a powerful health food is its high content of minerals, dietary fiber, and antioxidants. Kelp is particularly rich in iodine, calcium, magnesium, and iron—nutrients modern diets often lack. These help regulate thyroid function, maintain bone density, and support healthy blood pressure.

The kelp’s sticky polysaccharide compounds—alginic acid and fucoidan—act as prebiotics that promote gut health and help detoxify the body by removing heavy metals and waste. These benefits make it a go-to choice for those interested in weight management or detoxing naturally.

Pairing dashima yeomjang with soft tofu, as Jun Ji-hyun does, is considered a perfect nutritional match. Soft tofu is a high-protein, low-calorie food that’s gentle on the stomach and keeps you full longer. When combined with the mineral-rich kelp, it creates a well-balanced, gut-friendly, and detox-supporting meal.

Plus, the saltiness of the kelp enhances the flavor of the tofu without the need for added seasoning, making it ideal for low-sodium diets.

Dashima yeomjang is surprisingly simple to prepare:

- Cut dried kelp into manageable pieces.

- Layer the pieces in a container with sea salt.

- Store it in a cool place for 3–5 days until moisture is released and absorbed.

- After about a week, the kelp will be properly fermented and ready to eat.

For longer storage, you can turn it into jangajji (pickles) by adding soy sauce, plum extract, or vinegar and keeping it in the fridge—it’ll stay flavorful for months.

Because it’s salt-preserved, dashima yeomjang can be quite salty. Those watching their sodium intake (such as people with high blood pressure) should rinse it lightly or eat it in small amounts. On the other hand, it’s a great electrolyte source for those who sweat a lot or need more sodium in hot weather.

With growing interest in clean eating, natural ingredients like kelp are gaining attention. For modern people dealing with chronic stress or endless dieting cycles, building a diet around “what your body actually wants” is more important than ever.

Jun Ji-hyun’s simple, nutrient-focused meals may not be flashy, but they reflect a philosophy of mindful eating—honoring balance, nourishment, and long-term health.

Dashima yeomjang is a time-tested health food, more than just a side dish. When paired with soft tofu, it becomes an easy, accessible way to boost nutrition—perfect for anyone looking for a wholesome, traditional Korean meal with a modern wellness twist.

As Jun Ji-hyun continues to stay healthy and youthful, the actress is set to return in the long-awaited Disney+ K-drama Tempest. Co-starring Kang Dong-won, Tempest is an action melodrama about spies who have lost their identities.

CJ CheilJedang’s Bibigo Mandu (Korean-style dumplings) has exploded in popularity abroad, building on its domestic success to become a global phenomenon. Thanks to aggressive overseas expansion, localized recipes, and smart distribution strategies, Bibigo’s dumplings are now stocked in major supermarkets worldwide—and selling fast.

Bibigo is proving its global influence, recently announcing worldwide K-pop superstars SEVENTEEN as their official global brand ambassador. Through strategic partnerships with popular idol groups like SEVENTEEN, the brand is successfully connecting with Gen Z consumers—further accelerating the global spread of Korean food and consumer products.

Unlike traditional Chinese-style dumplings that tend to be heavy and meat-focused, Bibigo Mandu features a thin wrapper and a lighter, veggie-forward filling. The result is a healthier, more convenient dumpling experience—perfectly bite-sized for today’s on-the-go lifestyles. For international markets, CJ even tailored the product to suit local tastes. In the U.S., for instance, the company introduced a Chicken & Cilantro version to better align with regional flavor preferences.

The turning point came in 2019 when CJ acquired Schwan’s Company, the second-largest frozen food company in the U.S. With access to over 60,000 retail outlets, CJ quickly built a robust B2C distribution network. By 2020, Bibigo Mandu had already surpassed 1 trillion KRW (approx. $700M USD) in global annual sales. In 2023, Bibigo captured 41% of the U.S. dumpling market share, ranking No.1 among competitors.

In Europe, CJ purchased Germany’s Mainfrost in 2018 and established a UK office in 2022, expanding its reach to France, Spain, and beyond. As a result, European sales topped 100 billion KRW last year alone.

Down under, Bibigo products are now available at major Australian retailers including Woolworths, Coles, and IGA—securing shelf space in over 80% of major outlets.

CJ is also keeping pace with health-conscious consumers. In late 2021, it launched a plant-based PlanTable Mandu, which tripled its export volume year-over-year by Q3 2023.

The product is now exported to 40 countries, a tenfold increase from its initial 10-market launch. Since April last year, Bibigo has also supplied products to U.S. military bases in Korea.

The company is actively targeting the halal food market as well. In January 2023, CJ introduced halal-certified versions of Bibigo Chicken, Spicy Chicken, and Bulgogi dumplings in Malaysia, with plans to expand across Muslim-majority regions to reach a potential audience of 2 billion consumers worldwide.

CJ CheilJedang aims to establish Bibigo as the go-to global HMR (home meal replacement) brand for Korean frozen foods, by localizing recipes and adapting to regional food cultures.

Compared to his previous role as the sweet and tender Gwansik in Netflix’s When Life Gives You Tangerines, Park Bo-gum’s new character is gritty, macho, and reveals a bold new side of him that fans have never seen before.

Directed by Shim Na-yeon (Beyond Evil, The Good Bad Mother) and written by Lee Dae-il (Life on Mars, Chief of Staff), Good Boy follows a squad of former national athletes recruited as police officers through a special task force program. Swapping medals for badges, these elite ex-athletes now fight crime—and corruption—in a comic action thriller that dives deep into justice, teamwork, and second chances.

Park Bo-gum plays Yoon Dong-joo, a hot-blooded rookie cop and former Olympic boxing gold medalist. With lines like “The righteous will always catch the wicked—nothing is impossible,” Bo-gum’s explosive emotional acting and fight scenes in the teasers are already going viral.

Kim So-hyun stars as Ji Han-na, a calm, razor-sharp former shooting champion turned officer. Her quote, “Justice is on the side of truth,” sets the tone for her character’s quiet strength and precision.

Lee Sang-yi takes on the role of Kim Jong-hyun, a fencing silver medalist known for his unwavering pursuit of justice. His line—“Don’t even think about running!”—signals his intense, no-nonsense attitude.

Heo Sung-tae plays team leader Go Man-sik, a bronze medal-winning wrestler. His cold yet righteous worldview is captured in his line: “If you make others bleed, you’ll pay for it with blood.”

Tae Won-seok rounds out the team as Shin Jae-hong, a former discus medalist with few words but ironclad resolve: “Justice will be served.”

Together, they form the Goodvengers, a squad built on passion, pain, and purpose—each fighting for justice in their own way.

The recently released “Fighting” version of the main poster shows the five leads in national athlete tracksuits, holding symbolic props: Bo-gum with a boxing belt, So-hyun with a rifle, Sang-yi with a fencing saber, Heo with a wrestler’s towel, and Tae with a discus—all poised for battle.

And the teaser? Instant hit. Fans are flooding online communities with comments like:

“Bo-gum’s acting is insane… Good Boy is my weekend plan.”

“This character might top even Taek and Crown Prince Lee Yeong!”

“Bo-gum + action + thriller + comedy? It’s over. I’m in.”

“This teaser gave me chills—finally, a drama that moves.”

“Been waiting 2 years. Worth it.”

Good Boy premieres Saturday, May 31 at 10:40 PM KST on JTBC.

International viewers can stream it via Amazon Prime Video, and Korean audiences can also catch it on Wavve.

With its unprecedented team-up of award-winning creatives and a genre-blending plot, Good Boy is shaping up to be one of the most talked-about dramas of 2025—before it’s even aired. Will it live up to the hype? All signs point to yes.

The drama follows the unusual connection between Matthew Lee (aka “Mechuri”), a farmer juggling three jobs, and Dam Ye-jin, a top-tier home shopping host battling chronic insomnia. Their oddball, round-the-clock encounters blossom into a sweet-and-sour, dream-like romance.

Top actor Ahn Hyo-seop, beloved for hit dramas like Dr. Romantic, Lovers of the Red Sky, and Business Proposal, will star as Matthew Lee. He plays a one-of-a-kind farmer who produces miracle ingredients at the world’s only farm of its kind. On top of that, he’s also the CEO of a natural cosmetics company and a product developer. Behind his tightly scheduled, high-performance lifestyle lies a mysterious secret no one knows.

Rising star Chae Won-bin—fresh off her Best New Actress win at the 61st Baeksang Arts Awards for An Intimate Betrayal—will portray Dam Ye-jin. As a top home shopping host known for selling out everything from health supplements to fashion and appliances, Ye-jin has become a nonstop work machine. After cutting back sleep to boost productivity, she now suffers from severe insomnia.

Actor Kim Bum joins the cast as Seo Eric, an executive at a global French skincare brand. With a charming yet composed presence, Eric is someone who approaches both love and work head-on. Kim Bum is expected to deliver dynamic chemistry with the leads as his character’s ties to theirs slowly unfold.

Boasting one of the strongest lineups of the year, SBS’s Sold Out Again Today is set to premiere early next year—and it's already generating serious buzz.

In the meantime, fans can expect to see Ahn Hyo-seop in the highly anticipated big-budget movie 'Omniscient Reader: The Prophet' (Korean title: Omniscient Reader's Viewpoint) premiering in July. The film includes a star-studded cast, from BLACKPINK's Jisoo, to Lee Min-ho, and Chae Soo-bin.

During the episode, Park turned to host Park Na-rae and said, “I hope you meet someone great—someone who really loves you,” drawing laughter with his unexpected heartfelt comment. When he asked Na-rae about her own ideal type, she responded with a smile, “Someone handsome and humorous.”

Lee Sang-yi also opened up about his ideal type, saying, “I resemble my mom in many ways. She has more Western features and is quite tall—over 170 cm.” Park, who met Lee’s parents during filming, added, “They’re really stylish.”

As for his own preferences, Park Bo-gum shared, “I want to meet someone who feels like a friend.” He elaborated, “Someone who’s passionate about their work, full of love, treats their family well, and has a warm heart.”

Lee Sang-yi went on to praise Park Bo-gum’s thoughtful personality and unique habits, saying, “He really understands boundaries. Even as a friend or colleague, he always speaks with kindness and never makes people feel uncomfortable.”

Lee also shared a humorous detail: “He doesn’t make any spelling mistakes in his texts. I honestly thought they were written by an AI.” Heo Sung-tae agreed, saying Park’s texts are so well-composed, they’re instantly recognizable—even without a sender ID.

Heo added a playful note about their castmates, saying, “Bo-gum writes like that, but the slowest to reply is So-hyun (Kim So-hyun), and the fastest is Wonsuk (Tae Won-seok). I’m somewhere in between—I give off more of a ‘middle-aged man’ vibe, while Sang-yi talks about totally different things. It’s hilarious.”

The Good Boy team’s strong bond and cheerful chemistry are raising excitement for the upcoming drama. Following Park Bo-gum’s global success in Netflix’s When Life Gives You Tangerines with IU, fans are eager to see him in his next big role.

Good Boy is a thriller that follows the story of a former Olympic boxer who becomes a special crime detective and navigates the fine line between justice and vengeance. The series stars Park Bo-gum, Kim So-hyun, Lee Sang-yi, Squid Game’s Heo Sung-tae, and Oh Jung-se.

With just days to go until its premiere, the Good Boy cast has been promoting the drama in fun and creative ways—including appearing as weather forecasters on JTBC’s newsroom. Recently, fans got to see Park Bo-gum transform into a charming weather anchor, showcasing yet another side of his talent.

JTBC’s Good Boy premieres on May 31 at 10:40 PM KST.

In the episode, the idol—now in his eighth year of solo living—gives viewers a rare look into his personal lifestyle and aesthetic choices, offering a dramatic contrast to his polished on-stage persona.

Known for his versatility across singing, acting, and variety shows, Yook has long lived up to his “Hexagon Idol” nickname. His latest appearance further proves his individuality, as he throws open the doors to a space that’s entirely dark and black-toned—captivating fans with its unexpected cave-like vibe.

“Since I usually finish work late and sleep in the morning, I’ve always liked darker surroundings,” he explains. “So I thought, why not just make the whole house dark?”

True to his words, everything in the house—from the floors and sofa to the dining table, chairs, and even the fridge, trash can, and coffee machine—is custom-made in black. The only spot in the house where sunlight enters is a special area soon to be revealed in the episode.

Yook also shares his preference for warm-toned lighting over white. “Even in caves, you bring a torch, and that’s orange,” he says with a laugh, fully leaning into his identity as a self-proclaimed “black maniac.”

Viewers will also get to see his “caveman” morning routine. Yook refers to himself as “a bear living in a cave,” as he zones out in front of the TV and reaches into a small jar of mystery food, reminiscent of a bear digging for honey.

Later in the show, he unveils his ultimate soul food, teasing, “For lunch, I have to eat this.” He hints that it’s something he loves so much, he could eat it six days a week—leaving viewers curious to find out what it is.

Home Alone (I Live Alone) airs at 11:10 p.m. KST on the 30th.

Off-screen, Yook Sung-jae is currently starring in the SBS drama The Haunted Palace alongside Kim Ji-yeon. With only four episodes remaining in the 16-episode series, the show continues to draw strong ratings and maintain its competitive edge.

On top of acting, Yook Sung-jae has also been actively expanding his solo music career. He released the emotional rock-infused single “Lie” in May and is preparing for his first mini-album All About Blue, set to drop on June 19.

To celebrate the release, he will hold a solo concert titled The Blue Journey at Jangchung Arena in Seoul on June 21 and 22. He was recently confirmed as the next host of SNL Korea. As always, Yook Sung-jae proves himself to be a true “Hexagon Idol”—constantly evolving and expanding his entertainment repertoire.

The story follows Han Beom-woo (Kang Ha-neul), an heir trying to secure his place in a food conglomerate by acquiring small restaurants, and Mo Yeon-joo (Go Min-si), a chef running a one-table restaurant in Jeonju. Their lives collide in a complex narrative of conflict, personal growth, and evolving relationships—all told through the lens of Korean cuisine.

The show has garnered widespread praise for its fresh concept, well-written dialogue, and remarkable cast synergy. It has ranked in the Top 10 in 42 countries, including Malaysia, Vietnam, Singapore, and Indonesia—highlighting its broad global appeal.

Kim Shin-rok, as Jin Myeong-sook, a seasoned restaurant worker with 15 years of experience, becomes an indispensable member of Jeongje’s kitchen staff. Scouted personally by Yeon-joo for her skills, Jin quickly becomes the backbone of the kitchen. Kim’s grounded and warm performance—complete with regional dialect and nuanced expressions—adds emotional weight and authenticity to the ensemble.

Yoo Su-bin, playing Shin Chun-seung, begins as the insecure son of a bean sprout soup restaurant owner. Initially misunderstood, he slowly earns his place in the team, helping restore the kitchen after a fire and forming close bonds with his co-workers. Yoo convincingly captures the character’s emotional arc, shifting from prickly and reserved to charming and loyal—especially in moments like family gatherings and food truck events.

While Kang Ha-neul and Go Min-si anchor the narrative as head chef and strategic planner, Kim Shin-rok and Yoo Su-bin provide essential balance and emotional depth. Each character has a clear role, yet their stories and relationships are interwoven in a way that naturally drives the drama forward.

Unlike many ensemble dramas, Tastefully Yours succeeds without relying heavily on secondary characters. The focused storytelling, supported by restrained but powerful performances, keeps viewers engaged and immersed.

Episode 7 of Tastefully Yours airs on June 2 at 10 PM KST. The episode features a cameo appearance by Yoo Yeon-seok, who plays the CEO and head chef of a French restaurant. Viewers can expect some romance and chaos between Kang Ha-neul, Yoo Yeon-seok and Go Min-si in the following episodes, which will be available to stream on Netflix.

Episode 1: 1.5%

Episode 2: 2.0%

Episode 3: 2.4%

Episode 4: 3.1%

Episode 5: 3.4%

Episode 6: 3.2%

With its heartfelt storytelling, standout cast, and global popularity, Tastefully Yours proves that sometimes, the way to viewers’ hearts is through their taste buds.

Secret Idol introduces a strikingly original concept—undercover spies disguised as K-pop trainees—blending idol culture with the spy thriller genre. Designed as a transmedia franchise, the project is set to expand into web novels, webtoons, dramas, and films.

Shortly after its founding in August 2023, Kapes Planet signed a co-production and investment deal with Artist Studio for Secret Idol and a noir black comedy drama titled Morning Riding Club, which follows the twisted lives of “goose dads” (fathers who live apart from their families for their children’s overseas education). Secret Idol has since evolved into a Korea–UK co-produced film, targeting the global market with an ambitious IP strategy.

Kapes Planet, led by Yoo—also known creatively as Yoo Chi-cock—is backed by impressive credentials. A former CJ ENM (Mnet) producer, Yoo helmed some of Korea’s most iconic music shows including Superstar K3, Show Me the Money 4, MAMA, and Beatles Code 2, as well as UV’s viral music videos Sorry I’m Not Cool and Itaewon Freedom.

In 2024, Kapes Planet launched its in-house creative brand Planet of Monkeys, producing experimental content such as short-form dramas through YouTube channels like Sibang Solbi and Planet of Monkeys. The company is also developing an AI-driven content automation system, and continues to focus on IP development across genres and platforms.

A company spokesperson described Secret Idol as “a bold global experiment where fiction and reality intersect,” adding, “ Kapes Planet is proving the power of Korean storytelling on the world stage.”

Lee Jung-jae’s involvement in Secret Idol is a natural extension of his deepening role behind the camera. In 2016, he co-founded Artist Company with fellow actor Jung Woo-sung, building a full-scale management and production agency committed to artist-led storytelling.

Through Artist Studio, Lee has taken bold steps into globally-minded content ventures. By partnering with Kapes Planet to develop Secret Idol, he’s furthering his mission to nurture original IP and emerging talent in Korea’s fast-evolving entertainment landscape.

His active role in projects like Secret Idol signals a broader ambition: to be not only a star on screen, but also a strategic investor and visionary shaping the next wave of K-content through transmedia storytelling and global collaboration.

As Lee invests in the future of K-pop storytelling, he’s also preparing for the global premiere of Squid Game Season 3, the final chapter of Netflix’s record-breaking series. Set to release on June 27, the finale is already fueling global anticipation, with fans speculating about major plot twists, returning characters, and how the series will conclude its high-stakes narrative. As the show that redefined K-drama on the global stage reaches its end, expectations couldn’t be higher.

On May 28, Alien Company, representing Jung Joon-won, stated: “They became close while working on the film Believer. They’re just friends.” Kang Seung-hyun’s agency, Kang Entertainment, echoed the sentiment, adding, “They’ve been friends for a long time,” and firmly denied any romantic involvement.

The rumors gained traction after users on major online communities and social media platforms speculated that the two stars had been dating for quite some time. Some even claimed they were dropping subtle couple hints on Instagram—what fans like to call "lovestagram" posts.

Further fueling the flames, some netizens asserted that Jung and Kang had dated in the past, broken up, and had recently rekindled their romance. However, both agencies swiftly dismissed the claims, calling them untrue and bringing the rumor mill to a temporary halt.

Jung Joon-won made his acting debut in the 2015 film The Birdman and has since appeared in dramas like Neighborhood Lawyer Jo Deul-ho 2, VIP, and films such as Believer and Escape. Most recently, he played OB-GYN resident Goo Do-won in tvN’s Resident Playbook (a spin-off of Hospital Playlist), where he charmed viewers with his sweet on-screen chemistry with rising star Go Youn-jung.

Kang Seung-hyun, who first rose to fame as a model in 2007, later transitioned into acting. She has appeared in dramas like Partners for Justice 2 and The Cursed, as well as films including Believer. It was on the set of Believer in 2018 where she and Jung Joon-won first met—playing the roles of So-yeon and Deok-cheon, respectively.

While both stars insist they're nothing more than close friends, the speculation continues to stir interest among fans—especially given their long-standing connection and frequent online interactions. For now, though, it looks like the headlines may have outpaced reality.

According to the FUNdex report released by K-content competitiveness analyst Good Data Corporation, Our Unwritten Seoul ranked #3 in the 4th week of May 2025 in the TV-OTT drama buzz chart—just one week into its premiere. Even more impressive, Park Bo-young topped the individual buzz rankings, with co-star Park Jin-young (who plays Lee Ho-soo) also landing on the list, confirming the drama’s soaring popularity. Viewership ratings have also skyrocketed, breaking records by episode 2.

Our Unwritten Seoul tells the compelling story of twin sisters who are identical in face but opposite in every other way. Their life-swapping deception sets off a journey of tangled lies, personal growth, and unexpected love. In the series, Park Bo-young plays not two, but four personas: the original sisters Yoo Mi-ji and Yoo Mi-rae, plus Mi-ji pretending to be Mi-rae, and Mi-rae pretending to be Mi-ji—marking her first-ever multi-role performance since debut.

Following its premiere, viewers praised Park’s transformation with comments like, “I forgot she’s playing dual roles—it feels like completely different people,” and “Same actress, but totally different vibes.” Her immersive acting has drawn viewers into the complex identities and emotional rollercoasters of each character.

The tvN series, which has no webtoon source material, is a fully original drama. Its character relationships and plot breakdowns can be found on the official site. Our Unwritten Seoul airs every Saturday and Sunday at 9:20 PM (KST), and is also available on TVING, Netflix, and other OTT platforms.

Park Bo-young began her acting career in 2006 with the drama Secret Campus. She gained recognition in The King and I and made her big-screen breakthrough in 2008’s Scandal Makers, earning her multiple Best New Actress awards.

Since then, she has won hearts through numerous dramas and films including Oh My Ghost, Strong Girl Do Bong-soon, Abyss, Doom at Your Service, Daily Dose of Sunshine, Lighting Shop, Melo Movie, On Your Wedding Day, Hot Young Bloods, You Call It Passion, and Concrete Utopia. Whether on television or the big screen, Park Bo-young continues to showcase her versatility and emotional depth—now reaching new heights in Our Unwritten Seoul.

Before her standout performance in Our Unwritten Seoul, Park Bo-young starred alongside Choi Woo-shik in Netflix’s Melo Movie—a much-hyped romance drama that ultimately failed to make a global impact. Despite strong anticipation and a star-studded cast, the series struggled to connect with audiences.

Viewers cited its slow pacing and lack of emotional depth as key drawbacks. While visually appealing, Melo Movie quickly faded from public buzz, especially on the global stage. For Park Bo-young, it marked a rare stumble. But with Our Unwritten Seoul, she has clearly bounced back—showcasing her versatility and reclaiming her place in the spotlight.

On May 27, Karina uploaded a series of casual snapshots to her personal social media account, one of which showed her posing in a street in Japan. She captioned the post with a red rose emoji "🌹". What caught everyone’s attention, however, was her outfit—a red and black jacket prominently displaying the number “2” in red. The photo was swiftly circulated across online communities under titles such as “Karina’s latest update,” with speculation mounting over whether she was subtly endorsing a political candidate.

The timing couldn’t have been more sensitive. South Korea’s presidential election is set for June 3, and the nation remains sharply polarized politically. The race centers on whether a conservative president will be re-elected or replaced by a liberal candidate—making any hint of partisan expression by public figures a potential flashpoint.

In South Korea, the number “2” is assigned to the conservative party candidate on official ballots, and the color red is closely associated with the People Power Party, the country’s leading conservative political group. For this reason, Karina’s jacket—featuring both the red coloring and the number 2—was interpreted by some as a quiet show of support.

Though Karina deleted the photo almost immediately after posting it, screenshots spread rapidly and the debate was already in full swing. Comments ranged from lighthearted to intense: “Karina the patriotic conservative,” “She’s definitely for number 2,” and “I just became a fan,” read some of the early responses. Critics argued that regardless of her intentions, the post could be construed as a political message, especially during such a politically charged period.

“She should’ve known better—especially this close to the election,” wrote one commenter. “There’s no way you wear a red jacket with a big number 2 on it without expecting questions.”

However, a significant number of fans and observers came to her defense. “It’s exhausting to politicize everything, even fashion,” one person wrote. Others added, “She deleted it right away, obviously it wasn’t on purpose,” and “This is way overblown—stop turning everything into a controversy.”

What began as an online flare-up soon gained traction in political circles. Baek Ji-won, spokesperson for the People Power Party’s central campaign, publicly expressed admiration for Karina by sharing a screenshot of aespa’s hit Supernova music video on Instagram with the phrase “SHOUT OUT TO”—a popular phrase among Gen Z that signifies public support or respect.

Baek also shared the album cover for aespa’s latest release Armageddon, reinforcing the gesture. Lee Soo-jung, head of the party’s Suwon Jeong district, posted a photo of Karina with the caption: “Ignore the witch hunt by hypocrites—stay strong,” adding the striking hashtag “Touch Karina and you’re all done for.”

On May 28, Karina’s fans released an official statement, decrying the politicization of her post. They asserted that “a female celebrity should not be made a scapegoat for ongoing political debates,” emphasizing that her photo was “unfairly framed through a political lens and misinterpreted, leading to a controversy that never should have existed.”

Ironically, the jacket at the center of the controversy has become a hot commodity. Priced at over 700,000 KRW (around $700 USD), the item quickly sold out online after fans identified the brand. It’s a label Karina has been seen wearing before and is reportedly unrelated to any political affiliation. The jacket features the number as part of its design motif alongside the brand name—yet the symbolism, in the current political climate, turned a fashion choice into a national debate.

This incident highlights the longstanding tension between celebrity expression and political interpretation in South Korea. During election seasons, it’s common for celebrities to avoid potential controversy by wearing neutral colors, avoiding politically suggestive poses, and steering clear of ambiguous messaging.

During the broadcast, the duo discussed their upcoming Disney+ thriller drama Nine Puzzle (written by Lee Eun-mi, directed by Yoon Jong-bin), drawing attention for their on-screen chemistry. In the midst of the conversation, MC Yoo Yeon-seok revealed that he had visited the set of Nine Puzzle to show his support—prompting curiosity and amusement.

MC Yoo Jae-suk couldn’t resist teasing Yoo Yeon-seok, joking, “Did you go just to suck up to the director?” causing the studio to erupt in laughter. Yoo Yeon-seok defended himself with a grin, saying, “You know how it is—we visit directors we’re close to and cheer them on,” as he looked to Son Suk-ku for backup.

But Son Suk-ku wasn’t about to let him off the hook. With a sly smile, he replied, “I usually don’t go myself—I might send a coffee truck at most. But he actually showed up in person.” He then added, “It seems like he had quite the motive,” and joined forces with Yoo Jae-suk to light-heartedly corner Yoo Yeon-seok, turning the moment into one of the show’s most entertaining highlights.

Actress Kim Da-mi, meanwhile, marked a milestone in her career with her very first appearance on a variety show, delighting fans and fellow cast members alike.

On the same episode, Nine Puzzle co-stars Kim Da-mi and Son Suk-ku appeared as “gap-time friends,” taking on the show’s unique mission of discovering overlooked places in Dogok-dong.

Kim Da-mi surprised everyone by candidly revealing, “This is my first time appearing on a TV variety show.” When asked why she hadn’t ventured into variety before, she bashfully admitted, “It felt awkward.” Despite her initial nerves, she exuded positive energy and shared that she had managed to sleep well the night before filming.

During a candid conversation while moving between filming locations, Son Suk-ku and Yoo Yeon-seok discussed the challenges of shooting in different seasons. Yoo Yeon-seok, recalling cold-weather shoots, joked, “My mouth doesn’t work—I just want to go home.” Son Suk-ku chimed in, “I always want to go home, whether it’s summer or winter,” before adding, “At some point, I started wondering if my passion had faded. After just one scene, I want to leave.” Kim Da-mi joined in the humor, saying, “Honestly, I wanted to go home from the moment I started makeup today,” causing the group to burst out laughing. Yoo Yeon-seok empathized with her first-time variety jitters, adding a warm moment of solidarity.

Despite her initial apprehension, Kim Da-mi quickly found her rhythm on the show. MC Yoo Jae-suk complimented her, saying, “She listens really well and has great reactions,” and encouraged her to do more variety. When Kim Da-mi modestly replied, “I’m not good at talking,” Yoo Jae-suk reassured her with, “Empathy, listening, and reacting—that’s all you need.” Son Suk-ku added his praise as well, saying, “She’s a great listener on set and always offers good solutions.” He also revealed that it was actually Kim Da-mi who first suggested appearing on the program, surprising everyone.

Nine Puzzle is a Disney+ original thriller starring Kim Da-mi and Son Suk-ku. The series follows a brilliant criminal profiler and a mysterious figure from her past as they join forces to unravel a chilling series of murders—only to discover the cases may be connected to a traumatic incident from her own childhood. Written by Lee Eun-mi and directed by Yoon Jong-bin, Nine Puzzle has already generated significant buzz for its gripping storyline and star-studded cast.

SBS’s Whenever Possible is a “gap-time strategy” variety show that offers surprises and unexpected fun during the brief in-between moments of daily life.

On May 27, JTBC confirmed that starting this July, it will launch a new “Friday Series” airing every Friday at 8:50 PM KST. This will operate alongside its existing Saturday-Sunday dramas, establishing a “double weekend drama” system. The strategic programming move aims to dominate both ratings and buzz from Friday evening through Sunday night.

Kicking off the Friday Series is “The Good Man”, starring Lee Dong-wook and Lee Sung-kyung. Lee plays Park Seok-chul, the heir to a notorious gangster family who surprisingly harbors a pure heart. He reunites with his first love, aspiring singer Kang Mi-young (Lee Sung-kyung), in a noir-style emotional romance.

Next up is “My Youth”, headlined by Song Joong-ki and Chun Woo-hee. Song plays a florist — an unconventional role — while Chun, known for her emotional depth, joins him in crafting a layered, sensitive narrative.

The third Friday drama will mark Seo Hyun-jin’s long-awaited return in “Love Me”, a melodrama that explores the emotional intricacies of everyday family life. Seo is expected to deliver her signature immersive performance.

JTBC’s Saturday-Sunday dramas also remain strong. Following critically praised titles like The Lady of the Jade, The Art of Negotiation, and Heavenly Ever After, this weekend will see the premiere of “Good Boy”, starring Park Bo-gum and Kim So-hyun. The series blends comedy and action in a youth-driven crime investigation format.

The network’s second-half lineup is equally impressive with upcoming series that include: “Esquire”, a legal psychological drama with Lee Jin-wook and Jung Chae-yeon, “A Hundred Memories”, a 1980s bus conductor love triangle, “The Story of Mr. Kim”, a heartfelt human drama led by Ryu Seung-ryong, and “Waiting for Gyeong-do”, a stylish new drama starring Park Seo-joon and Won Ji-an.

JTBC continues to ride a strong wave in 2025, with its drama ratings up 56% compared to the same period last year. Known for major hits like The World of the Married, Reborn Rich, and Itaewon Class, JTBC is aiming to cement its status as the go-to “drama powerhouse” with the launch of its Friday Series.

The channel has also been ranked No.1 among general programming channels for 11 consecutive years in the Viewer Evaluation Index by the Korea Information Society Development Institute. JTBC received top marks in categories such as originality, diversity, and entertainment value — proving its strength in content innovation.

JTBC stated that it plans to fully dominate prime weekend slots with bold, genre-crossing storytelling. The Friday Series will air two back-to-back episodes every Friday at 8:50 PM KST, while Saturday-Sunday dramas will broadcast at 10:40 PM on Saturdays and 10:30 PM on Sundays.

The ceremony was held on May 26 (local time) at the Fontainebleau Hotel in Las Vegas, bringing together some of the biggest names in global music. RM was awarded “Favorite K-Pop Artist”, a category first introduced in 2022. Other nominees included fellow BTS member Jimin, ATEEZ, Stray Kids, and Rosé — making this the first time RM and Jimin were nominated as solo artists at the AMAs.

RM’s win adds to BTS’s storied history at the AMAs. The group made their U.S. debut performance at the show in 2017, followed by multiple wins across subsequent years, including “Favorite Social Artist,” “Favorite Pop Duo/Group,” “Tour of the Year,” and the coveted “Artist of the Year” in 2021.

Meanwhile, Rosé had been considered a strong contender in the “Collaboration of the Year” category for her duet “APT.” with Bruno Mars. However, the award ultimately went to Lady Gaga and Bruno Mars for their global hit “Die With a Smile.”

Though “APT.” generated buzz and anticipation, it fell short in the final selection — a disappointing outcome for fans who had hoped to see Rosé earn her first AMA solo accolade.

Since its launch in 1974, the American Music Awards has been recognized as one of the "big three" music award shows in the U.S., alongside the Grammys and the Billboard Music Awards, honoring the most influential artists of the year across genres and continents.

However, whether you're a fan of RM or Rosé, there's exciting news on the horizon for K-pop fans. BLACKPINK has officially announced their upcoming ‘Deadline’ World Tour — the group’s third global tour and their first as a full quartet following individual solo projects. This marks a highly anticipated reunion on stage, celebrating their return as a group after months of solo achievements.

At the same time, BTS fans are counting down to RM’s military discharge on June 10, sparking speculation about a potential full-group BTS reunion in the near future. With both artists entering major new chapters, the second half of 2025 is shaping up to be a monumental season for K-pop.

The cast was packed with high-profile names: former Go champion Lee Sedol — the only human to ever defeat AI AlphaGo, Hollywood actor Justin H. Min, KAIST graduate and actress Yoon So-hee, news anchor Kang Ji-young, entertainer and K-pop's known “brain” Kyuhyun, professional poker player Seven High, KAIST alum and model Choi Hyun-jun, and influencer Jung Hyun-kyu, who reportedly has an IQ exceeding Mensa’s measurable limit of 156.

After 12 intense episodes of mental warfare, Jung Hyun-kyu emerged as the winner. However, his gameplay received some harsh criticism in online communities.

On May 27, PD Jung Jong-yeon and Jung Hyun-kyu sat down for a joint interview at a café in Bukchon, Jongno-gu, Seoul, to share behind-the-scenes stories and reflect on the outcome of The Devil’s Plan 2.

The interview opened with a behind-the-scenes look from the production team, as the producer addressed media criticism and concerns surrounding the show’s contestants. The latter half shifted focus to prize winner Jung Hyun-kyu, who was asked about his gameplay, the backlash over his perceived poor sportsmanship, and his reflections on winning and competing in such a high-pressure environment.

However, much of the public attention centered on his relationship with rumored ex-girlfriend Seong Hae-eun — and for the first time, Jung offered a direct response after months of online speculation.

When asked how he planned to use the prize money, Jung Hyun-kyu shared,

"I received the prize after the show ended. I haven’t made any specific plans yet, but I’d like to treat the other contestants to a nice meal. Also, since my actions may have caused discomfort to viewers, I plan to donate a portion of it."

He also reflected on his personal growth throughout the experience, saying,

"This experience made me reflect a lot. I realized I’m still immature and imperfect. I want to take some time to heal on my own."

Finally, when asked about his relationship with Transit Love 2’s Song Hae-eun, Jung offered a candid response:

"Hae-eun and I have been supporting each other and staying on good terms since Transit Love 2. Even though we received attention as a couple through the show, we didn’t want our relationship itself to become a product. That’s why we chose to protect it and keep it private. We never officially announced we were dating — we only hinted at it. Even now, all I can say is that we continue to support each other."

Jung Hyun-kyu and Song Hae-eun quickly rose to fame as one of the standout couples from the dating reality show Transit Love 2. Their natural chemistry and emotional journey on the show captivated viewers, turning them into not just influencers, but a full-fledged celebrity couple. They confirmed their relationship during the show’s run and gained massive popularity — both individually and as a pair. However, in recent months, the couple made headlines once again, sparking renewed interest and speculation about where things stand now.

The Devil’s Plan: Death Room has proven once again that reality television can be more than just spectacle — it can be a battle of wit, strategy, and psychological endurance. With its intense group dynamics, clever twists like the “Death Room” format, and a diverse cast of thinkers from across disciplines, Season 2 pushed its players to the edge and gave audiences a front-row seat to cerebral chaos.

At its core, the show isn’t just about winning — it’s about navigating alliances, reading people, and confronting one’s own flaws under pressure. For Jung Hyun-kyu, that meant not only walking away with the prize, but also with personal lessons in growth, humility, and self-reflection.

As viewers continue to debate the gameplay, characters, and moral choices made throughout the series, one thing is clear: The Devil’s Plan has carved out a space for intelligent competition in the realm of reality TV — and fans are already eager to see what mind-bending twists future seasons may bring.