글로벌 좀비 신드롬, 그 이후

2022년 1월 공개된 시즌1은 공개 3일 만에 1억 2천만 시간 이상 시청되며 59개국에서 넷플릭스 TV 부문 1위를 차지했다. 당시 비영어권 드라마로는 이례적으로 미국 넷플릭스 일간 순위 1위에 오르며 K-좀비 장르의 확장 가능성을 입증했다.

하지만 시즌2는 단지 과거의 영광을 반복하는 데 그치지 않는다. 기존 웹툰의 틀을 과감히 벗어나, 전혀 다른 이야기와 전혀 다른 위협이 시리즈의 중심으로 들어올 예정이다.

'그날 이후'를 그린 새로운 이야기

시즌2는 시즌1 생존자들이 격리소에 머무는 시점에서 시작된다. 바이러스가 잠잠해졌다는 사회의 표면 아래, 새로운 감염의 가능성과 ‘진화된 공포’가 서서히 고개를 들기 시작한다.

특히 전학생들과 기존 생존자들의 갈등과 협력이 주요 축이 될 전망이다. 단순한 좀비 생존기가 아닌, 공동체 안에서의 정체성과 신뢰, 책임이라는 무거운 질문을 던지는 작품으로 진화하고 있다.

이번 시즌에는 새로운 주연 이민재가 합류한다. '약한영웅2'에서 선보인 날카로운 연기력이 어떻게 좀비 세계관과 결합될지 팬들의 관심이 집중되고 있다. '오징어 게임2'에 출연 중인 김시은이 여성 주인공으로 등장하며, 윤가이와 노재원 등도 새로운 캐릭터로 가세했다.

이전 시즌의 배우들과 이들이 빚어낼 시너지는 시즌2의 감정 깊이를 더해줄 중요한 축으로 작용할 전망이다.

장르를 넘어선 감정의 확장

‘지금 우리 학교는’은 단순한 좀비물로 끝나지 않았다. 청소년기의 우정과 불안, 희생과 죄책감, 그리고 살아남은 자의 책임이라는 복합적 테마가 국내외 시청자에게 깊은 인상을 남겼다.

시즌2는 이 감정선을 유지하면서도, 감염 이후의 사회 시스템과 인간 본성에 대한 질문을 더욱 직접적으로 던질 것으로 보인다. 현재 시즌2는 2025년 말에서 2026년 상반기 공개를 목표로 7월 중 촬영에 돌입할 예정이다. 시즌1의 흥행 이후 확보한 자본과 인프라는 시즌2가 더 크고, 더 깊은 이야기를 시도할 수 있는 배경이 되고 있다.

K-콘텐츠의 세계화 흐름 속에서 ‘지금 우리 학교는’ 시즌2는 단순한 속편이 아닌, K-좀비 장르의 다음 진화를 상징하는 이정표가 될 수 있을지 귀추가 주목된다.

이번 작품에서 지성은 한때 권력에 기대어 판결을 내리던 지방 판사 ‘이한영’ 역을 맡았다. 하지만 10년 전 과거로 회귀하게 되면서, 전혀 다른 선택을 하게 되는 인물이다. 타협을 버리고 정의를 택한 그는, 스스로의 과오와 거대한 권력 구조에 맞서는 ‘변화된 인간’으로 다시 태어난다.

‘판사 이한영’은 누적 다운로드 1000만 회를 기록한 인기 웹소설과 웹툰을 원작으로 한다. 적폐 판사가 어느 날 갑자기 10년 전으로 돌아가 다시 법복을 입고, 과거의 자신과는 전혀 다른 인생을 선택한다는 설정.

작품은 과거를 고치고자 하는 회귀 설정과, 정의를 둘러싼 현실적 갈등을 치밀하게 엮어낸다.

지성과 대립하는 인물 ‘강신진’ 역은 박희순이 맡았다. 서울중앙지법 형사수석부장이자, 전직 대통령의 그림자 정부와 연결된 권력자다. 한 명은 정의를 위해 돌아온 판사, 다른 한 명은 정권과 손잡은 거악. 두 인물의 대립 구도는 이 드라마의 핵심 긴장축이다.

검사 김진아 역으로는 원진아가 출연한다. 그는 대기업 총수를 잡기 위해 고군분투하는 정의로운 검사로, 이한영과 협력하면서도 그를 향한 신뢰와 의심 사이에서 복잡한 내면을 보여줄 예정이다.

지성의 복귀, 그 자체가 화제

지성은 법정물, 스릴러, 멜로, 코미디를 넘나드는 ‘연기 스펙트럼의 끝판왕’으로 불린다. 지난해엔 SBS ‘커넥션’에서 마약수사대 형사로 분해 시청률 14.2%, 드라마 화제성 1위를 기록하며 다시 한번 입지를 증명했다.

이번 작품에서도 지성 특유의 디테일한 감정선과 몰입도 높은 연기가 기대된다. 특히, “과거의 자신과 싸운다”는 상징적인 설정은 그의 연기력을 더욱 돋보이게 할 것으로 보인다.

‘판사 이한영’은 단순한 법정 공방을 넘어, 한국 사회의 권력 구조와 사법 시스템에 대한 통찰을 담는다. 정의를 외면했던 자가 다시 돌아와 어떤 선택을 하느냐는 설정은, 시청자에게 묵직한 질문을 던진다.

과연 정의는 늦게라도 이뤄질 수 있을까? 아니면 또 다른 타협으로 끝날까?

방송사: MBC

편성: 2025년 하반기 금토드라마

연출: 이재진 감독, 박미연 감독

극본: 김광민 작가

출연: 지성, 박희순, 원진아 外

굿데이터코퍼레이션의 집계에 따르면, ‘굿보이’는 3주 연속 TV-OTT 통합 드라마 화제성 1위 자리를 지켰다. 흥미로운 점은 전주 대비 화제성 점수가 13.9% 하락했음에도 불구하고 여전히 선두를 유지하고 있다는 것. 드라마 화제성 점유율은 17.6%로, 바로 뒤를 쫓는 tvN ‘미지의 서울’(16.4%)과의 격차는 줄었지만 아슬아슬한 1위 수성에 성공했다.

박보검 효과 여전…출연자 화제성 3주 연속 1위

‘굿보이’의 상승세 중심에는 배우 박보검이 있다. 그는 3주 연속 드라마 출연자 부문 1위에 오르며 시청자들의 뜨거운 관심을 입증했다. 극 중 윤동주 역을 맡은 그는 섬세하면서도 강단 있는 감정 연기로 호평을 얻고 있다.

지난 6월 15일 방송된 6회에서는 시청률(닐슨코리아 유료플랫폼 전국 기준) 6.2%를 기록하며 자체 최고치를 경신했다. 5회가 기록한 5.9%를 뛰어넘는 수치로, 주말 안방극장을 장악한 저력을 다시금 확인시켰다.

특히 5회에서는 주인공 윤동주가 빌런 민주영에게 분노를 폭발시키며 무릎을 꿇는 장면 이후, 충격의 연속으로 본격적인 전개가 가속화됐다.

‘건강 적신호’ 윤동주, 본격 미스터리 속으로

6회에서는 극의 긴장감을 끌어올리는 장면들이 이어졌다. 체포된 민주영은 모든 혐의를 부인하고, 사건 자료는 김석현 검사에게 넘어가며 새로운 권력의 그림자가 드러났다. 한편 윤동주는 몸 상태가 급격히 나빠지는 모습을 보인다. 시야 흐림, 코피, 어지럼증 등 이상 증상이 이어지고, 병원에서는 "추가 검사가 필요하다"는 문자를 받으며 시청자들을 불안하게 만든다.

16부작 중 반환점을 돈 시점에서, 남은 10회 동안 전개될 이야기와 박보검의 감정선 연기가 얼마나 더 깊어질지 관심이 모인다.

경쟁작인 tvN ‘미지의 서울’은 상승세를 타고 2위에 올랐고, 아직 공개되지 않은 넷플릭스 ‘오징어 게임 시즌3’는 뉴스 화제성 1위를 기록하며 전체 화제성 4위에 이름을 올렸다. 굿데이터 원순우 PD는 “오징어 게임 시즌3가 공개되면 당분간 화제성 1위를 차지할 가능성이 높다”며 “미지의 서울에게는 다음 주가 마지막 기회가 될 수 있다”고 분석했다.

굿데이터의 화제성 순위는 뉴스 기사, 온라인 커뮤니티, SNS, 영상 등 다양한 데이터를 바탕으로 분석되며, 비정상적 반응은 제외하는 필터링 시스템을 통해 97% 이상의 정확도를 자랑한다.

주연 배우의 흡입력 있는 연기와 예측 불가한 전개, 시청자들과의 높은 상호작용까지 삼박자를 고루 갖춘 ‘굿보이’가 과연 4주 연속 정상을 지킬 수 있을지, 업계의 관심이 집중되고 있다.‘굿보이’는 매주 토·일 밤 JTBC에서 방송되며, 일부 OTT 플랫폼에서도 시청 가능하다.

📈 시청률은 낮았지만, 실시간 반응은 ‘폭발’

지난 6월 16일 첫 방송된 ‘살롱 드 홈즈’는 닐슨코리아 기준 유료가구 시청률 1.3%를 기록했다. 이는 전작 ‘당신의 맛’(강하늘 주연)의 첫 회(1.6%)보다도 낮은 수치. 하지만 정작 방송 직후 온라인은 뜨겁게 달아올랐다.

네이버 오픈톡과 각종 커뮤니티에는 “시즌 2 가자”, “요즘 본 드라마 중 최고”, “여자 마동석들 모인 느낌”, “진짜 몰입도 미쳤다”, “이시영 돌아왔다”, “줌벤져스 너무 웃겨요ㅋㅋ” 같은 긍정적 실시간 반응이 쏟아졌다.

🕵️‍♀️ 평범한 여성들, 아파트 사건 해결 나선다

‘살롱 드 홈즈’는 광선주공아파트라는 생활 밀착형 공간을 배경으로, 각자의 사연을 가진 여성 네 명이 힘을 합쳐 동네 사건을 해결하는 생활 밀착 추리극이다. 이시영: 셀프 추리력 만렙 입주민, 공미리, 정영주: 전직 형사 출신 추경자, 김다솜: 알바 고수 & 20대 싱글맘 박소희, 남기애: 슈퍼 사장 & 인맥왕 전지현.

이들은 사건을 계기로 의기투합해, 이른바 ‘줌벤져스’라는 이름의 여성 탐정단을 결성한다.

첫 회는 공미리가 어렵게 내 집 마련의 꿈을 이루고 입주하는 날로 시작된다. 하지만 곧 시댁 방문, 낯선 이웃, 예기치 못한 상황이 이어지고, 마트를 방문한 그녀는 우연히 벌어진 총기 인질극에 휘말린다.

외도를 폭로한 여성의 돌발 행동에, 공미리는 “이건 치정입니다”라고 외치며 사건의 핵심을 꿰뚫고, SNS·중고거래 기록 등을 토대로 불륜 상대를 추리해낸다.

이 과정에서 처음 만난 여성들과 팀워크가 형성되고, 사건을 마무리한 뒤 불륜남의 비자금 1억 원을 피해자에게 송금하며 통쾌한 복수극까지 펼쳐진다.

게다가, 미리가 이사 온 1004호에 얽힌 과거 변사 사건의 복선까지 얹어지며 서스펜스도 놓치지 않았다.

배우진 호흡, 코믹과 감정선 모두 살렸다

이시영은 결혼 8년 만의 이혼 후 첫 복귀작으로 이 작품을 택했다. “오랜만에 밝은 작품이라 기뻤고, 원래 코미디 좋아했다”며 남다른 애정을 드러냈다. 정영주는 “말하고 싶은 걸 직접 행동으로 보여주는 시원한 캐릭터”라며, “보는 분들이 대리만족을 느낄 수 있을 것”이라 전했다.

김다솜은 “알바왕 캐릭터지만 사실은 아이를 키우는 미혼모”라며, 연기에 진심을 담았다고 밝혔다. 남기애는 “시즌2가 있다면 꼭 다시 함께하고 싶다”며 따뜻한 팀워크에 대한 애정을 드러냈다.

연출을 맡은 민진기 감독은 군대 코믹물 ‘신병’ 시리즈로 호평을 받은 인물. 이번에는 전혀 다른 장르, 여성 중심의 생활형 미스터리 코믹극에 도전장을 내밀었다. 그는 “이 드라마는 작은 일상 속에서도 여성들이 얼마나 강하고 유쾌한지를 보여주는 작품”이라며, “생활 공감과 유머, 그리고 소소한 위로를 전하고 싶었다”고 연출 의도를 밝혔다.

1.3%라는 숫자보다 중요한 건, 실시간 입소문과 자발적 공유다. ‘살롱 드 홈즈’는 지금, 사람들의 이야기 안에서 자연스럽게 퍼지고 있다. 진짜 입소문 드라마는 이렇게 시작된다.

‘살롱 드 홈즈’는 ENA에서 매주 월·화 밤 10시에 방송된다.

충격과 설렘이 공존한 엔딩

5회 마지막 장면은 소위 ‘레전드’를 찍었다 박보검(윤동주 역)과 김소현(지한나 역)의 첫 입맞춤 직후, 동주가 돌연 의식을 잃고 쓰러졌다. 마치 무하마드 알리를 떠올리게 하는 내레이션과 함께, 이 장면은 아름다움과 불안함이 절묘하게 교차하며 시청자들의 심장을 두드렸다.

“펀치 드렁크 러브”라는 부제처럼, 사랑과 상처, 복싱 후유증의 중의적인 의미가 그대로 녹아든 회차였다.

극의 긴장감은 단순 멜로를 넘는다. 정치인 민주영(오정세)과 청일해운 사이의 비밀스러운 연결고리를 파고드는 강력특수팀의 수사, 그리고 그 틈을 파고든 악역들의 등장이 긴장감을 높였다. 6회에서는 ‘뽕필’ 박봉필(권동호)이 체포되며 새로운 국면이 열렸다. 그가 밀수한 명태 안에서 국내 최대 규모의 마약 원료가 발견됐고, 이로 인해 청일해운–TAE코퍼레이션–J9경비용역을 잇는 커넥션이 수면 위로 드러났다. 단순한 마약 수사를 넘어, 조직적인 범죄 네트워크를 그려내는 서사는 시청자에게 새로운 긴장감을 안겼다.

로맨스는 슬픔과 함께…“그 순간, 손이 떨려”

윤동주의 사랑은 직진형이었다. 지한나는 그를 부담스러워했지만, 따뜻한 배려와 진심 어린 행동에 조금씩 마음을 열기 시작했다. 그러나 키스 직후, 동주는 흐려진 시야와 함께 그대로 쓰러졌다. 파킨슨병을 떠오르게 하는 연출은 단순 충격을 넘어 감정적 여운을 남겼고, 이후 분노에 휩싸인 동주의 주먹은 민주영을 향했다.

방송 직후 시청자들은 “도파민 과다로 잠이 안 온다”, “박보검 인생작 각”, “레오 등장 장면 소름”, “오늘 엔딩 진짜 찢었다” 등 격한 반응을 쏟아냈다. “6% 넘겼으니 이제 쭉쭉 가자”는 기대 섞인 응원도 이어지고 있다.

굿보이는 매주 토요일 밤 10시 40분, 일요일 밤 10시 30분 JTBC에서 방송된다.

한 배우의 말 한마디가, 드라마 전체의 분위기를 바꿔놓았다. SBS 금토드라마 ‘우리, 영화’의 주연 배우 남궁민이 시청률 하락을 둘러싼 보도에 대해 직접 SNS로 입장을 전하며 화제를 모았다. 그는 지난 15일 인스타그램 스토리를 통해 “시청률 저조”라는 제목의 기사 화면을 캡처한 뒤, 짧지만 강한 메시지를 남긴 것.

“기자님, 자극적인 제목과 달리 내용을 보니 저희 드라마를 직접 봐주셨네요. 감사드립니다.”

그는 이어 “지금 시청률이 낮더라도 전 정말 자신 있습니다. 5화까지만 지켜봐 주세요”라며, 작품에 대한 흔들림 없는 믿음을 드러냈다. 특히 “그때도 반등이 없다면, 저를 향한 비판은 달게 받겠습니다. 책임은 제 몫입니다”라는 말은, 단순한 해명 이상의 무게감을 전했다.

통상 배우들이 시청률 관련 논란에 침묵하거나 소속사를 통해 우회적으로 입장을 내는 것과 달리, 남궁민은 자신의 채널을 통해 직접 응답하는 방식을 택했다. 일각에서는 “비판을 받아들이되 작품에 대한 자부심을 잃지 않는 태도”라며 그의 대응을 성숙하다고 평가한다.

실제로도 그는 기존 인터뷰에서 “드라마는 숫자보다 이야기로 평가받아야 한다”고 여러 차례 밝힌 바 있다. 그런 그가 이번엔 대중과 기자 모두에게 ‘한 번만 더 봐달라’고 말하고 있는 셈이다.

‘우리, 영화’는 어떤 작품?

지난 13일 첫 방송된 ‘우리, 영화’는 인생의 끝자락에 선 두 사람, 미래가 없는 영화감독 ‘제하’와 오늘만 살아가는 배우 ‘다음’의 감정을 섬세하게 그려낸 멜로 드라마다. 첫 회 시청률은 전국 기준 4.2%로 시작했으나, 2회는 3.0%로 하락했다.

하지만 시청률 수치만으로 작품의 성패를 판단하기엔 이르다는 시각도 있다. OTT 플랫폼과 온라인 다시보기 시청이 늘어난 현재, ‘재방문율’과 ‘SNS 화제성’ 등 새로운 평가 기준도 고려할 필요가 있다는 분석이다.

드라마는 남궁민 외에도 전여빈, 이설, 서현우, 서이서, 권해효, 서정연, 오경화, 이주승, 김은비 등 탄탄한 배우진이 함께하고 있다. 감정선 중심의 전개, 과감한 연출, 반복 시청을 유도하는 복선 구조 등은 향후 입소문을 탈 가능성이 있다는 평가다.

방송은 매주 금·토 밤 9시 50분 SBS에서 방영되며, 공식 홈페이지를 통해 등장인물 관계도와 줄거리 등을 확인할 수 있다.

겉보기엔 단순한 초록 들판처럼 보이지만, 이곳은 사실 드라마 팬, 사진가, 그리고 신혼부부들까지 사로잡고 있는 뜨거운 여행지다. 봄이 되면 바람에 일렁이는 청보리는 마치 에메랄드빛 파도처럼 물결치며, ‘꽃밭 이상의 감성’을 만들어낸다.

전북 고창의 ‘학원농장’은 그중 단연 돋보이는 청보리 명소다. 이곳은 넷플릭스 시리즈 **‘폭싹 속았수다(When Life Gives You Tangerines)’**의 주요 촬영지로 알려졌으며, tvN ‘도깨비’, ‘백일의 낭군님’ 등 인기 드라마 배경으로도 사랑받았다.

올해 열린 고창 청보리밭 축제는 단순한 자연 감상이 아닌, 포토존·의상 체험·현장 전시 등 체험형 콘텐츠까지 더해져 무려 51만 명이 다녀갔다. 단순한 SNS 명소가 아닌 **봄철 ‘문화형 관광지’**로서 입지를 굳힌 셈이다.

강원 정선의 덕우리 청보리밭은 감성 여행지에 ‘로맨스’를 더한다. 이곳은 실제로 원빈과 이나영 부부가 웨딩식을 올린 장소로 알려졌고, 최근에는 ‘셀프 웨딩’ 테마로도 주목받고 있다.

5월 말부터 6월 초까지 방문객은 현장에 마련된 웨딩 소품 바구니에서 부케, 베일, 넥타이 등을 골라 자유롭게 촬영을 즐길 수 있다. 평범한 여행이 특별한 기억으로 바뀌는 순간이다.

“마을이 직접 만든 축제” 강화도 교동의 새로운 실험

수도권 인근에서도 청보리의 매력은 통한다. 인천 강화군 교동도 난정저수지 일대에서는 올해 처음으로 ‘청보리 정원 축제’가 개최됐다.

놀라운 건 이 축제가 전부 지역 주민들 손으로 만들어졌다는 점이다. 청보리 심기부터 입장료, 체험 프로그램, 푸드트럭 운영까지 마을 공동체가 주도했다.

입장료는 1인 5천 원. 대신 3만㎡에 달하는 청보리밭을 여유롭게 거닐 수 있으며, 윷놀이·인절미 만들기 같은 전통 체험부터 주막 스타일의 먹거리 장터까지 다양하게 운영 중이다. 이 마을은 매년 여름 해바라기 정원 축제로도 유명해, 앞으로 사계절 내내 관광객을 맞을 수 있는 마을로 성장 중이다.

청보리는 언제, 어디가 가장 예쁠까?

청보리는 지역에 따라 절정 시기가 다르다.

전남 고창, 제주도는 4월 중순~5월 초

전북, 충남은 4월 말~5월 중순

강원도는 5월 중순~6월 초가 가장 아름답다.

꽃이 아닌 보리의 ‘어린 줄기’를 감상하는 독특한 경험으로, 시간이 지나면 이 초록빛 물결은 황금빛으로 변하며 수확기를 맞는다.

자연을 좋아하지 않아도, 드라마를 모른다고 해도 청보리밭은 특별한 감정을 남긴다. 어떤 이는 “내가 주인공이 된 듯한 풍경”, 또 어떤 이는 “소중한 사람과 걷고 싶은 길”이라 표현한다. 카메라를 들고 가든, 사랑하는 사람과 가든, 혹은 혼자 조용히 걷기 위해 가든. 청보리밭은 분명, '지금 가장 한국적인 계절 여행지'로 자리매김하고 있다.

‘우리 영화’는 시한부 선고를 받은 신인 여배우와, 자신만의 신념으로 영화를 완성하려는 감독이 만나, 함께 작품을 만들고 사랑에 빠지는 이야기다. 멜로라는 장르 안에서 가장 극단적이고 치열한 상황을 그리되, 그 안에 담긴 감정은 무척 섬세하다.

죽음을 앞둔 사람의 꿈과 사랑을 다룬다는 점에서 진부할 수 있지만, 이 드라마는 오히려 그런 설정을 뻔하지 않게 풀어낸다. 무엇보다, 이 이야기에는 “끝이 다가오는 순간에도, 우리는 무언가를 시작할 수 있을까”라는 묵직한 질문이 깔려 있다.

주연을 맡은 배우는 남궁민과 전여빈. 둘 다 멜로 장르에서는 의외의 선택이다. 그러나 이 낯선 조합이 오히려 신선하다. 두 사람은 대본을 읽자마자 출연을 결정했다고 한다. 남궁민은 “읽자마자 이틀 만에 결정을 내렸다”고 밝혔고, 전여빈은 “햇살처럼 따뜻한 캐릭터였다. 꼭 살아보고 싶었다”고 말했다.

이정흠 감독은 기존 드라마의 틀에서 벗어나, 감정에 ‘조명’을 비추는 방식으로 연출을 선택했다. 화려한 카메라 무빙 대신, 인물의 표정과 침묵을 길게 잡는 장면이 많다. 그는 이 작품을 “꾸밈없는 드라마”라고 스스로 표현했다.

영상 한 컷에 담긴 파국과 로맨스

최근 공개된 하이라이트 영상은 단 3분이지만, 이미 시청자들의 감정선을 건드리기 충분했다. 극 중 신인 배우 ‘이다음’이 “이 영화… 완성할 수 있을까요?”라고 묻자, 감독 ‘이제하’는 주저 없이 답한다. “완성할 거예요.” 대사의 길이보다 중요한 건 그 말이 전하는 감정의 깊이다.

시청자는 이들이 꿈을 좇는 이야기를 보는 동시에, 그 꿈을 향한 현실의 벽과 싸우는 과정을 목격하게 된다.

이들의 여정이 순탄할 리 없다. 제작자는 이다음의 가능성을 의심하고, 그녀의 아버지는 “시한부 환자에게 시한부 연기를 시키는 게 재밌습니까?”라고 이제하를 몰아붙인다. 여기에 톱배우 채서영(이설 분)까지 등장해 “미쳤다”는 대사로 갈등을 증폭시킨다.

그럼에도 이제하와 이다음은 서로를 바라보며, 현실과 영화, 삶과 죽음 사이에서 버텨낸다. 극 중과 현실을 넘나드는 감정이 이 드라마의 핵심이다.

전여빈, “7개월 동안 다음이로 살았다”

특히 시한부 캐릭터를 연기한 전여빈은 “7~8개월 동안 이 인물로 살아가며 제 마음이 더 건강해졌다”고 말했다. 단순한 연기를 넘어선, 배우 본인의 내면 성장까지 이어진 셈이다.

한편, 극 중 이다음과 채서영은 같은 영화를 연기하지만, 서로 다른 감정선으로 접근한다. 둘의 관계는 갈등과 긴장의 선상에 있지만, 실제 촬영장에서는 끈끈한 동료애를 보였다는 후문이다.

“남궁민, 전여빈, 이설, 권해효? 이건 무조건 본다”, “드디어 왔다… 연기 장인들의 조합”, “1년 기다렸다 남궁민 얼굴 본다고” 등 방송 전부터 드라마 관련 커뮤니티와 SNS에는 기대감을 드러내는 반응이 쏟아지고 있다.

벌써부터 “새드엔딩일까?”, “예쁘고 따뜻하고 슬픈… 영화 같은 드라마”, “1화도 안 봤는데 벌써 오열 중” 같은 감상도 올라오고 있다.

‘우리 영화’가 흥미로운 건 단순한 러브스토리도, 눈물 짜는 신파도 아니라는 점이다. 이 드라마는 “사랑할 시간도 얼마 남지 않았을 때, 그 사랑은 더 진짜일까?”라는 질문을 던진다. 한편 ‘우리 영화’는 오늘(13일) 금요일 밤 9시 50분 SBS에서 첫 방송된다.

요즘 드라마 커뮤니티에서 가장 자주 오가는 이름이 있다. 몇 달 전까지만 해도 이름조차 낯설었지만, 지금은 박보검, 강하늘 같은 톱스타들을 제치고 드라마 배우 브랜드평판 1위에 오른 인물. 예상치 못한 반전의 주인공은 바로 배우 정준원이다.

화려한 스타들 제치고 ‘1위’

한국기업평판연구소가 최근 발표한 6월 드라마 배우 브랜드평판 순위에서 정준원은 4,204,452점이라는 브랜드지수로 당당히 1위에 올랐다. 분석 대상은 5월 12일부터 6월 12일까지 방영 드라마 출연 배우 50명.

손석구, 강하늘, 안재욱, 고윤정 등 대중적 인지도가 높은 배우들을 제치고 그가 1위를 차지한 건 업계 안팎 모두에 신선한 충격을 안겼다.

정준원이 출연 중인 드라마 ''언젠가는 슬기로운 전공의 생활''은 화려한 설정이나 강한 갈등 구조 없이도 시청자들 사이에서 빠르게 입소문을 탔다. 극 중 그가 연기하는 ‘구도원’은 시끄럽지 않지만 묵직한 캐릭터다. 감정을 절제하면서도 미묘한 눈빛과 말투로 캐릭터에 생명력을 불어넣었다는 평가가 이어진다. 실제로 브랜드 키워드 분석에서도 ‘구도원’, ‘팬미팅’, ‘전공의 생활’이 주요 키워드로 꼽혔고, 링크 분석에서는 ‘안정적이다’, ‘친근하다’, ‘매진되다’ 같은 긍정적인 표현이 다수를 차지했다. 긍정 비율만 무려 91.72%.

팬덤 없이 시작했지만… 팬덤이 생겨

흥미로운 점은, 기존 팬덤 없이 시작했던 정준원의 활동이 이제는 자발적인 팬미팅까지 만들어냈다는 것이다. '입덕'의 순간이 방송이 끝난 뒤가 아니라, 극이 진행되는 중간에 벌어졌다는 점에서 그의 잠재력은 무시할 수 없다. 브랜드 소통지수와 커뮤니티 반응도 함께 상승하며, 단순한 인지도 이상의 파급력을 증명하고 있다. 이는 단지 인기 스타가 아니라, ‘지켜보게 만드는 배우’라는 평가로 이어진다.

이번 브랜드 분석에서 주목할 또 다른 지점은 전체 드라마 배우 관련 데이터 자체가 전월 대비 18.1% 증가했다는 점이다. 소비량, 화제성, 소통, 확산 지수 모두 상승세를 보였고, 이는 K-드라마 시장 자체에 대한 대중의 관심이 여전히 활발하다는 증거로 읽힌다.

상위권에는 박보검, 이재욱, 박보영, 박지훈, 고윤정, 이준영 등 기존 강자들도 이름을 올렸다.

하지만 그 틈바구니에서 단기간에 입지를 굳힌 신예가 있다는 건, 드라마 소비자의 시선이 ‘익숙함’보단 ‘새로움’에 더 반응하고 있다는 뜻이기도 하다.

콘텐츠 중심, 배우 중심, 그리고 진심 중심

기업평판연구소 관계자는 “정준원은 작품 속 캐릭터와의 높은 몰입도, 팬들과의 자연스러운 소통, 안정적인 이미지 등에서 강한 인상을 남겼다”며 “다양한 채널에서 긍정적인 반응이 쏟아지고 있다”고 전했다.

톱스타들의 이름이 줄지어 등장하는 브랜드 순위표에서, 생소한 이름 하나가 조용히, 그러나 단단히 1위 자리를 차지한 이번 결과는 분명 하나의 시사점을 던진다.

무대가 바뀌었다. 시청자의 눈도 바뀌었다. 그리고 그 변화의 중심에는 ‘이 배우 누구야?’라는 궁금증을 불러일으킨 한 배우가 있다.

이 모임은 단순한 명단 이상의 의미를 갖는다. 기부 금액이 1억 원 이상이라는 조건만큼이나, 사회적 울림을 주는 이름들이 모여 국가 재난 상황에서 실질적 지원을 이어가는 고액 기부자 네트워크다. 김준수는 지난 3월 경북·경남·울산 지역을 휩쓴 대형 산불 피해 복구를 위해 1억 원을 희망브리지 전국재해구호협회에 기탁하며 클럽에 공식 가입했다.

김준수의 위촉 소감은 짧지만 깊었다. “이런 뜻깊은 모임에 함께할 수 있어 감사하고, 누군가에게 힘이 되는 나눔을 이어가고 싶습니다.”

그러나 진짜 감동은 그 뒤에 이어졌다. 그의 팬덤 ‘코코넛’이 그를 따라 자발적으로 1,215만 원을 추가로 기부한 것. “준수님의 따뜻함을 함께 나누고 싶었다”는 팬들의 말처럼, 그가 무대 밖에서도 얼마나 강력한 영향력을 갖고 있는지를 보여주는 상징적 장면이다.

희망브리지 측도 김준수의 기부를 “재난 피해로 고통받는 이들에게 실질적 위로와 희망이 되었다”며, “앞으로도 함께 나눔의 길을 걸어주시길 기대한다”고 밝혔다.

아이돌을 넘어, 따뜻한 연대의 아이콘으로

2003년 동방신기의 메인보컬로 데뷔한 김준수는 특유의 고음과 독보적인 퍼포먼스로 K팝 2세대를 대표하는 아이콘이 되었다. ''Hug'', ''Rising Sun'', ''Mirotic'', ''풍선'', ''Tonight'' 등 수많은 히트곡을 통해 팀의 정체성을 이끌며 팬덤의 사랑을 받았다.

2009년에는 소속사와의 전속계약 분쟁으로 새로운 길을 선택했다. 김재중, 박유천과 함께 그룹 JYJ를 결성하고 독립 레이블을 통해 활동을 이어가며, K팝 산업 구조에도 작지 않은 충격을 남겼다.

2010년부터는 뮤지컬 배우로서의 행보도 본격화됐다. ''모차르트!'', ''엘리자벳'', ''드라큘라'', ''데스노트'' 등 대극장을 중심으로 한 무대에서 연기력과 티켓 파워를 모두 증명했다. 동시에 'XIA'라는 이름으로 발표한 ''Tarantallegra'', ''Incredible'', ''Flower'' 등을 통해 아티스트로서의 존재감도 놓치지 않았다.

현재 그는 자신이 직접 설립한 소속사 팜트리아일랜드를 통해 솔로 가수이자 뮤지컬 배우로 활발히 활동 중이다. 무대 위에서의 에너지뿐 아니라, 사회를 향한 메시지도 꾸준히 전하고 있다는 점에서 '지속가능한 스타'로서의 상징이 되고 있다.

기부는 숫자로 끝나는 행위가 아니다. 김준수의 행보가 특별한 이유는 그 나눔이 곧 팬덤의 실천으로 이어졌다는 데 있다. 단순히 돈을 냈다는 것이 아니라, ‘영향력’이 ‘연대’로 확장된다는 것을 증명한 사례다.

그가 기부한 1억 원과, 팬들이 자발적으로 모은 1,215만 원은 단순한 누적 금액을 넘어선다.

그건 “한 사람의 선한 의지가 얼마나 많은 이들을 움직일 수 있는가”에 대한 가장 분명한 증거다.

판타지오는 6월 2일, 아스트로 공식 팬카페를 통해 진진의 병역 관련 공식 입장을 밝혔다. 회사에 따르면 진진은 자가면역 질환 진단을 받은 뒤 병무청의 정밀 신체검사 결과, 군 복무가 어렵다는 판정을 받았다.

소속사는 “진진은 일상생활에는 큰 지장이 없지만, 지속적인 검사와 건강 관리를 요하는 상태”라며 “특히 단체생활 위주의 군 복무 환경에서는 무리가 따른다는 전문의의 판단에 따라 면제 판정을 받았다”고 설명했다.

이어 “당사는 아티스트의 건강을 최우선으로 고려해 활동을 이어갈 계획”이라며 “진진을 응원해주시는 팬 여러분께 진심으로 감사드리며, 앞으로의 활동에도 많은 관심 부탁드린다”고 덧붙였다.

진진의 면제 소식은 불과 며칠 전 차은우의 입대 일정이 발표된 이후 나왔다. 차은우는 오는 7월 28일 육군 군악대에 입대해 기초 군사훈련을 받은 뒤 복무를 시작할 예정이다.

한편, 아스트로의 또 다른 멤버 MJ는 지난해 2023년에 군 복무를 마쳤다. 2016년 아스트로로 데뷔한 진진은 리더로서 팀 내에서 중심 역할을 해왔으며, 솔로 활동에서도 뮤지션으로서의 다채로운 면모를 보여줬다.

군 입대는 많은 남성 K팝 아이돌에게 일종의 통과의례처럼 여겨지지만, 진진의 사례는 건강 문제에 대한 대중의 이해와 공감이 점차 확산되고 있음을 보여준다. 팬들 역시 비판보다는 지지와 위로의 메시지를 보내며 따뜻한 반응을 보이고 있다.

Netflix’s Squid Game is back—and it’s dominating again. Season 2 of the global hit series has officially ranked No. 1 in viewership across the United States, according to the 2024–2025 multi-platform ratings released by Nielsen and reported by Variety on May 30. The rankings cover both traditional television and major streaming platforms like Netflix, and the results were overwhelming.

Season 2 pulled in an average of 27.1 million views, far ahead of the second-place show Adolescence, which had 19 million. The massive gap—over 8 million views—highlights just how strong Squid Game’s return has been. Even more impressive, it reflects a trend where Korean dramas are not just competing with, but overtaking, Western TV in a global OTT landscape.

Among viewers aged 18 to 49, Squid Game racked up 17.4 million views, compared to Adolescence’s 9.2 million. The numbers show clear engagement from younger audiences—a key force in driving viewership today.

🎮 New Players, Higher Stakes: What Season 2 Brings

Season 2 kicks off right where Season 1 left off—with Gi-hun (Lee Jung-jae) turning back at the airport, choosing revenge over escape. As the only survivor of the deadly game, he sets out to uncover those behind it all, setting up a tense showdown with the Front Man (Lee Byung-hun).

The sequel introduces a wave of new faces including Im Si-wan, Kang Ha-neul, Park Sung-hoon, Yang Dong-geun, Jo Yuri, and T.O.P. Each character brings their own backstory—a reason why they’re forced into the game—which draws strong emotional responses from viewers. Themes of psychological warfare, betrayal, and unlikely alliances unfold as the players fight for survival.

The games themselves are even more intricate this time around. While still based on childhood games, Season 2 adds unexpected rules and structures that test not just physical ability, but psychological strategy.

💥 Survival, Society, and Symbolism

At its core, Squid Game taps into modern-day anxieties. All the players are drowning in debt and struggling with economic hardship—conditions that mirror real-life post-pandemic uncertainty. Its bold commentary on inequality has struck a chord worldwide, making it more than just a game of survival—it’s a societal reckoning.

Visually, the series is just as iconic. The green tracksuits, pink guard uniforms, and geometric masks have become instant pop culture symbols, spawning memes, fan art, and countless Halloween costumes.

Since its release, Season 2 has topped charts not only in Korea, but also in the U.S., Europe, and South America. It instantly claimed the No. 1 spot on Netflix’s global TV chart and has remained a top contender since. Critics praised its even sharper social commentary and intensified emotional impact.

Fans are already buzzing about Season 3, which is scheduled to drop on June 27. Ahead of the release, teaser breakdowns, cast interviews, and wild fan theories are flooding social media, building excitement to a fever pitch.

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The story centers on five characters who gain bizarre superpowers through organ transplants, leading to a wild mix of comedy and action. Even before its release, HI-FIVE managed to top the overall reservation charts on May 28, surpassing even the Hollywood giant Mission: Impossible – Dead Reckoning Part One. As of release day, it’s running second in ticketing share (19.7%) and boasts a stellar 9.98 rating on Naver Movies.

Although filming wrapped in 2021, the movie’s release was delayed due to a high-profile drug investigation involving lead actor Yoo Ah-in in early 2023. After a four-year hiatus, HI-FIVE has finally made it to screens.

One of the film’s most buzzed-about moments? A surprise kiss between Ahn Jae-hong and Yoo Ah-in. At a roundtable on May 29, Ahn clarified, “It’s more of a CPR scene.” In the film, he plays Ji-sung, a man who gains the ability to control air after receiving a lung transplant. “Ji-sung is extremely selfish at first,” Ahn said. “But during the story, as the team forms, this scene marks his first selfless act.”

Ahn explained that the moment was shot in a single take. “I haven’t heard reactions from friends yet, but during the premiere, the audience gasped and even applauded. I think it caught people off guard in a fun way.”

Veteran actor Shin Goo adds gravity to the film as the main villain, playing Yeong-chun, a sinister cult leader who gains youth-absorbing powers after a pancreas transplant. Director Kang called working with Shin “a privilege,” saying, “Everything he says feels like a cinematic moment.” Actor Park Jin-young, who plays Yeong-chun’s younger self, said, “I tried to mirror his posture, tone, and expressions—it was an honor.”

On social media, anticipation has been huge. A short featuring Lee Jae-in’s action scenes as the taekwondo girl Wan-seo (who gains super strength after a heart transplant) garnered over 9.47 million views. Viewers are also hyped about the father-daughter dynamic between Wan-seo and her dad Jong-min (Oh Jung-se), Ji-sung’s unique lung-powered beatboxing, and the villain Yeong-chun’s eerie aura.

Prominent directors are raving. Kim Sung-soo called it “a superhero movie redefined by Kang Hyoung-chul’s explosive imagination,” while Choi Dong-hoon said, “This was pure fun—Taekwondo rocks!” Other praise poured in: “Unreal joy with incredible music” (Kim Seong-hun), “Is this really made by humans? Mind-blowing!” (Min Kyu-dong), and “The birth of true Korean superheroes” (Lee Won-suk).

Actors were equally enthusiastic. Park Bo-young said, “Adorable superpowered beings—this movie gave me joy!” Lee Do-hyun shouted, “Let’s go, HI-FIVE!” Shim Eun-kyung praised it as “a love letter to cinema,” especially noting Lee Jae-in’s performance. Chun Woo-hee called it “time-flying, max-fun K-superhero content.” Park Jin-joo cheekily added, “Director Kang used superpowers again—you literally can’t not laugh.” Lee Hye-ri asked, “When’s Season 2? I need a rewatch already.” Park Se-wan joked, “Movie of the summer. Where’s my belly button?” and Lee Sun-bin declared, “My kind of hero? It’s you, HI-FIVE!” Kwak Sun-young raved, “You must see this. Full power recharged!” while TWICE’s Dahyun chimed in with, “Wishing you a refreshing, laughter-filled summer with HI-FIVE!”

HI-FIVE tells the story of five unlikely heroes fighting back against forces trying to steal their transplant-granted powers. With Kang’s signature wit (from hits like Scandal Makers, Sunny, Tazza: The Hidden Card, and Swing Kids) and a wildly unique cast, the film is carving out a new path for Korean-style superhero cinema.

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South Korea's 21st presidential election is underway with early voting held over two days, May 29 and 30. Across the country, excitement is high and even the entertainment industry is joining the democratic wave with a flood of star-studded voting photos.

J-Hope posted a single photo to his Instagram story on the 29th with no caption needed. Dressed head-to-toe in black—mask, cap, and outfit included—he posed in front of the polling station at Oksu Community Center.

His all-black look was widely interpreted as a conscious decision to stay politically neutral, avoiding any unwanted controversy over color symbolism. In South Korea, blue and red are associated with major political parties, so even a fashion choice can draw speculation during election season. Fans called J-Hope's choice smart and classy, applauding him for fulfilling his civic duty with understated flair. “World star energy,” one fan commented. “A proud citizen doing his part.”

Actress Kim Go-eun also quietly shared a photo of herself at her polling place via Instagram Story, offering no text but a clear message: she voted. Her calm and responsible post earned admiration for letting the action speak for itself.

Meanwhile, singer Lee Chae-yeon, formerly of IZ*ONE, added a playful twist to her voting style. She wore a blue wrist brace while holding a red cherry tomato in her voting proof photo. “Can’t remove the wrist brace, so I’m neutralizing it with this tomato,” she joked, cleverly sidestepping any political misinterpretation and drawing laughs.

On the same day, Haewon from girl group NMIXX posted a hand-stamped voting photo on fan platform Bubble, writing “I just voted!” Rookie girl group UDTT also posted, “We just finished early voting!” as three of the Korean members posed for a commemorative snap.

Early voting for the 21st presidential election is available on May 29 and 30 from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. at 3,568 polling stations across the country. On the first day alone, the turnout reached 19.58%, setting a record for the highest opening-day rate since early voting began in 2014. As of 9 a.m. on the 30th, the figure had already climbed to 22.14%.

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On May 29, the group posted, “The three Korean members just finished early voting!” alongside cheerful photos. Members Koo Han-na, Han Chae-hee, and Kwon Ye-jin were seen in casual outfits posing in front of the early voting center at Cheongdam Community Service Center in Gangnam, Seoul.

Early voting for South Korea’s 21st presidential election officially kicked off at 6 a.m. that day across 3,568 polling stations nationwide. It runs for two days, from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. each day.

During this period, eligible voters can cast their ballots at any early voting center without prior notice. However, they must bring a valid photo ID issued by a government agency, such as a resident registration card, passport, or driver’s license. If using a digital ID, it must be shown through an official app with photo, name, and date of birth clearly visible—screenshots or image files will not be accepted.

To find a nearby polling station, voters can check the official National Election Commission website or search on major portal sites.

Voters should also be aware of key dos and don’ts when taking election day photos. Taking pictures of the ballot or inside the voting booth is strictly prohibited and may result in legal consequences. Additionally, using hand gestures to display a candidate’s number could be seen as a violation of election laws and should be avoided.

Meanwhile, UDTT—whose lineup includes Risako, Chae-hee, Han-na, Ye-jin, and Woo-jung—recently proved their growing popularity when their debut single album School Rush sold out completely.

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According to a report by Ilgan Sports, Jisoo’s brother, referred to as Mr. A, responded on May 29 to a post that appeared on Blind, an anonymous online community for office workers in Korea.

In his statement, Mr. A strongly refuted the claims, calling them “completely false,” and revealed that he is planning legal action. “I am currently discussing the matter with a law firm and preparing to file a lawsuit,” he stated.

The controversy began when a user posted on Blind claiming that Mr. A had filmed their sexual encounter without consent, and that the user only discovered the existence of the video later. The post further alleged that Mr. A had shown the video to acquaintances, and was rumored to possess similar illegal videos involving other women. The writer said they were considering legal action.

As the post circulated and gained attention, a representative from Jisoo’s agency, BLISSOO, issued a brief response saying that the agency is “currently verifying the facts.”

Jisoo, who left YG Entertainment in 2023, is now both the CEO and artist under her own label, BLISSOO. She is expected to return with a new solo album this summer alongside BLACKPINK’s world tour.

Most recently, Jisoo appeared at a high-end fashion brand event at the Dongdaemun Design Plaza in Seoul on April 18.

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The video, released on May 28, features G-Dragon and Defconn visiting an indoor shooting range. Known to be a fan of target shooting, Defconn guided G-Dragon through a variety of firearms. G-Dragon, ever the fashion-forward artist, naturally gravitated toward the most unique-looking guns, showing off his signature flair—even when it comes to weaponry.

Defconn’s Gift Was Fire—Literally. G-Dragon Couldn’t Believe It

But the real moment came when Defconn pulled out a special airsoft pistol—his very first purchase, in fact.

“This was my first gun,” he explained. “It’s a gold-match, Mexican-style model. Like Chef Ahn Sung-jae’s first knife.” Then, opening another box, he handed G-Dragon a surprise gift: a brand-new airsoft gun. “It’s a gift for your world tour—good luck!” he said.

G-Dragon’s eyes widened in surprise. “I can’t bring this on a plane, but... I’ll use it well. Thank you so much,” he laughed.

As the two continued trying different guns, G-Dragon revealed that he prefers heavier models. Defconn introduced him to the Desert Eagle, prompting G-Dragon to say, “I like the big ones that go BANG.”

To which Defconn joked, “Jiyong is such a man,” before mimicking BIGBANG’s iconic BANG BANG BANG dance, drawing laughter all around.

G-Dragon couldn’t hide his excitement as he tested out various firearms, fully immersed in the experience. “This is insane,” he said with a smile, focusing intently on each shot. “It’s been a while since I’ve felt this kind of adrenaline.”

Dressed in colorful nail art and styled to perfection, G-Dragon brought his own unique vibe to the shooting range, firing off rounds with gleeful energy. “This is amazing,” he said, visibly thrilled.

The two stars also chatted about behind-the-scenes stories from Good Day, their stage performances, and more, sharing genuine friendship and lighthearted moments. Fans were especially touched by G-Dragon’s gesture—making time during his packed world tour to appear on Defconn’s YouTube channel, following appearances with other longtime friends like Jung Hyung-don and Park Myung-soo.

Comments poured in praising G-Dragon’s warm personality and loyalty to old friends:

“He’s humble, even at the top,” “We love this friendship!,” “Defconn giving him a gun is peak bromance.”

With good vibes, real laughter, and a little adrenaline, it was a day neither of them—or their fans—will forget.

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The cast lineup alone is enough to generate serious anticipation: alongside Choi, the series features Huh Joon-ho, Kim Yun-jin, and Jin Kyung.

Notes from the Last Row is based on a Spanish stage play of the same name. It centers on Heo Moon-oh, a disillusioned middle-aged literature professor who once dreamed of becoming a writer. One day, he encounters a mysterious student sitting in the very back row of his classroom—and everything begins to change.

Lost in a life stripped of purpose and passion, Heo is unexpectedly pulled back into the world of writing through this intriguing young man.

Complex Characters, Heavy Layers

Choi Min-sik will portray Heo Moon-oh, a man with a sharp tongue and withdrawn demeanor who masks his past failures and lingering insecurities. His tense dynamic with his more successful college peer Kim Soo-hoon, his emotionally distant wife, and his strange student builds a layered psychological portrait.

Choi Hyun-wook plays Lee Kang, a science major with a rare literary talent. Though expressionless on the surface, his sharp observations and writing subtly challenge and awaken his professor. The private writing sessions between the two become a core axis of the story.

Huh Joon-ho plays Kim Soo-hoon, the successful writer and college peer who once shared the same path as Heo, but took a drastically different route. Kim Yun-jin appears as Soo-hoon’s wife, Ahn Eun-joo, while Jin Kyung plays Jo Hyun-sook, Heo’s wife and a clinical psychologist, adding emotional texture to the narrative.

The series will be helmed by Kim Kyu-tae, acclaimed for emotionally nuanced hits like 'Our Blues', 'It’s Okay, That’s Love', and 'That Winter, the Wind Blows'. Known for his keen eye for emotional detail and lyrical storytelling, Kim’s involvement has only heightened expectations.

Netflix describes Notes from the Last Row as more than just a campus drama. It's a thoughtful exploration of literature, identity, mentorship, and fragile egos. With its heavy psychological themes and rich performances, the series is expected to resonate deeply with international audiences as well.

The release date has yet to be announced, but anticipation is already building. Following the global success of Korean originals like D.P., Hellbound, and Juvenile Justice, Notes from the Last Row might just be Netflix’s next big Korean breakout.

On May 29, his agency Fantagio posted an official notice to ASTRO's fan café, announcing the news of Cha’s upcoming military enlistment.

According to the statement, Cha Eun-woo recently applied to join the Army’s military band and has officially been accepted. He is set to enlist on July 28, where he will undergo basic training before serving with the military band.

“To prevent any safety issues due to crowding, the time and location of his enlistment will remain private,” the agency stated. “There will be no special events on the day of his entry. We ask fans to send Cha Eun-woo their warmest encouragement as he fulfills his military duty and returns in good health.”

Cha Eun-woo debuted in 2016 as a member of the boy group ASTRO and quickly rose to fame with his visuals and charm. He began acting a year later, earning attention through dramas like 'Hit the Top', 'My ID is Gangnam Beauty', 'Rookie Historian Goo Hae-ryung', 'True Beauty', 'Island', 'A Good Day to Be a Dog', and 'Wonderful World'.

He also appeared in the film 'Decibel' in 2022, and most recently co-starred with IU in her music video for 'A Beautiful Person'. With a steady mix of projects, he’s grown into one of Korea’s most globally recognized faces.

Before his enlistment, Cha Eun-woo is expected to continue connecting with fans through a series of activities. He’s currently filming the upcoming Netflix series 'The Wonderfuls' with Park Eun-bin, offering fans something to look forward to even after his temporary farewell.

It may be a goodbye for now—but fans are already counting the days until he returns.

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Jean Paul Gaultier officially announced a new era by unveiling Jennie as “The Ultimate Gaultier Muse.”

In a series of photos and videos from the Fall 2025 Pre-collection ready-to-wear campaign, Jennie radiates quiet confidence, fluid elegance, and avant-garde charm.

Before the reveal, Gaultier teased fans with a cryptic silhouette on their official account—an image that left everyone wondering, "Is that Jennie?"

It didn’t take long for fans to connect the dots. The silhouette, the attitude, the presence—it was unmistakably her. And just like that, the internet lit up.

This collaboration isn’t their first encounter. Earlier this year, Jennie attended the Jean Paul Gaultier Spring/Summer 2025 Couture Show in Paris, making waves in a rare 2008 vintage dress from the brand’s archives. Her bold yet graceful look was praised as a seamless blend of legacy and edge.

Now, as the face of one of the most rebellious and visionary fashion houses in history, Jennie is redefining what it means to be a global fashion icon. Her muse status doesn’t just reflect her beauty—it captures her power to move culture and bend the rules.

Jennie isn’t just wearing Gaultier.

She’s becoming part of its mythology.

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On May 26, his agency VARO Entertainment uploaded a video titled ‘[Va-log] Byeon Woo-seok, What Happened in Milan (Final Episode) #WooSeok’ to its official YouTube channel, VARO Playlist.

The video shows Byeon Woo-seok in Milan, Italy, on a work trip. While having a quiet conversation with his agency’s CEO, he reflected on the value of capturing moments on camera.

“I like that videos remain,” he said. “You can go back and watch them when times are tough.”

When the CEO agreed, saying, “That’s the power of video—it holds onto your life,” Woo-seok nodded and quietly took a moment to reflect.

A staff member then added, “You’ve left so many versions of your younger self on camera. Your fans love that, don’t they?”

Woo-seok simply replied, “That’s true,” and fell silent. A caption appeared on screen: “Woo-seok, suddenly overcome by the emotions and memories of his journey since debut.”

Moments later, Byeon Woo-seok teared up, asking, “Why am I crying?” After a pause, he smiled sheepishly and joked, “Maybe because the food’s too good.”

Byeon Woo-seok began his career as a model in the early 2010s, debuting in the fashion world with his tall frame and striking visuals. He made a name for himself in both domestic and international runways and photo shoots before transitioning into acting.

Though his early days as an actor were marked by relative obscurity, he slowly built a solid filmography. His appearances in dramas like 'Record of Youth' and 'Moonshine' helped him gain recognition.

In 2023, he landed the lead role of Ryu Sun-jae in the tvN drama 'Lovely Runner', which became a breakthrough hit and won him widespread love from fans.

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On May 28 at 4 p.m. KST, episodes 7–9 were released. Just one week after its May 21 premiere, 'Nine Puzzle' reached the No.1 spot in South Korea, Japan, and Hong Kong. According to global streaming chart tracker FlixPatrol, the drama is the only non-English-language title to enter the Global Top 10 as of May 27—once again proving the global power of K-dramas.

In Good Data Corporation's weekly TV-OTT buzz index (Week 4 of May), 'Nine Puzzle' debuted at No.2 among all dramas in its first week, signaling its explosive impact.

Viewers Worldwide Are Hooked

Audiences are calling it a masterpiece. On IMDb, episode 6 has earned a stellar 9.4 rating, and drama review platforms like MyDramaList are filled with rave reviews praising its quality. Fans describe it as “a masterfully crafted series on every level,” calling it “thrilling, gripping, and wildly immersive,” with “brilliant symbolism and a shocking opening—it’s addictive.” Viewers also note that “every character feels alive and unique,” and appreciate that “the story makes you figure it out. No shortcuts.”

The series follows profiler Yoon I-na (played by Kim Da-mi), the sole witness to an unsolved case from 10 years ago, and detective Kim Han-sam (Son Suk-ku), who still suspects her. Together, they investigate a new string of serial murders—unraveling clues hidden in puzzles sent by the killer.

The tension between I-na and Han-sam forms the core of the story as they chase the truth through a chilling and symbolic mystery.

Behind the show’s success is a high-caliber creative team.

Kakao Entertainment participated from the planning stage, laying the foundation for a tightly woven story.

Director Yoon Jong-bin—known for films like 'Nameless Gangster', 'Kundo', 'The Spy Gone North', and Netflix’s 'Narco-Saints'—brings a masterful eye to the production. With imaginative visuals, stylized camerawork, and surreal, comic-book-like tones layered over gritty realism, 'Nine Puzzle' elevates the mystery-thriller genre into something truly unique.

The Stakes Are Rising

In episodes 7–9, the story takes a darker turn. Yoon I-na begins to unlock memories of the past—including the murder of her only remaining family, Police Chief Yoon Dong-hoon (played by Ji Jin-hee). The connection between that case and the current murders is revealed, setting the stage for I-na to fully embrace her genius as a profiler.

But suspicion creeps back in. I-na becomes a suspect herself, threatening her fragile alliance with Han-sam.

The ominous lines “Officer Yoon I-na is a murder suspect” and “Do you really know everything about her?” hint at a major rift to come.

'Nine Puzzle' episodes are released every Wednesday at midnight PST (4 p.m. KST during daylight savings). The finale—episodes 10 and 11—will be released on June 4, concluding the high-stakes puzzle.

With both genre excellence and international appeal, 'Nine Puzzle' is poised to leave a lasting impression. All eyes are on how the series will wrap up—with what twist, and what truth.

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Known for her signature off-duty style wherever she travels, the so-called “queen of casual fashion” once again brought her unique vibe to life—this time against the sunny backdrop of LA. The photoshoot radiates the laid-back, vibrant energy of a California summer, spotlighting her refreshing and healthy charm.

A long-time fan of pilates and Korean traditional dance, Son Na-eun showed off her toned physique through dynamic yet stylish sporty looks. Against sun-drenched beaches, downtown streets, and iconic LA sceneries, she pulled off a wide range of easygoing, energy-filled outfits with natural confidence.

In addition to sporty pieces, she balanced romantic details—like a white frilled dress—with stylish Descent sneakers, completing a look that was both trendy and effortlessly wearable. Her fashion choices have already gained major attention on Instagram and fashion communities online, where fans are praising her ability to combine comfort and cutting-edge style.

In the featured pictorial, Son wears Descent’s “Urban T450 Sandal V2,” styling it with both sporty and feminine looks. She also wears the “Terrain-D,” a model known for its ripstop upper and lightweight feel with strong traction—an essential part of her functional yet fashionable LA wardrobe.

Son Na-eun’s full LA summer editorial can be found in the June 2025 issue of Cosmopolitan Korea.

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On May 29, theVenti released a Q&A interview video on theVenti’s official YouTube channel, showcasing a cuter side of their new brand model, G-DRAGON. In the interview, G-DRAGON first shared that he enjoys drinking theVenti’s Iced Americano on a regular basis.

“theVenti is all about iced americanos. I enjoy them,” he said, revealing his personal taste. When asked about the Dragon Smoothie—named after his own identity—he responded: “The vibrant color really caught my eye at first. And the refreshing taste of dragon fruit blends so well… I think I’ll be ordering this often as well,” he added, promoting the drink with his signature charm.

Still, G-DRAGON had another personal recommendation: “I’d like to recommend the Vanilla Deep Latte,” he said. “You really have to try it,” he added, piquing curiosity.

At the end of the interview, he shared a heartfelt message with fans. “Today, have a tastier day with me, G-DRAGON, and theVenti. See you at the store—with your dragon,”

he said with a smile, adding a friendly goodbye.

A representative from The Venti commented, “We plan to continue engaging with more people through content that reflects the brand’s story and values.”

Previously, The Venti had launched four signature Dragon Smoothie flavors inspired by G-DRAGON’s identity: Dragon Smoothie Soda, Mango Dragon Smoothie, Lemon Dragon Smoothie, and Yogurt Dragon Smoothie.

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The visual dream team of IU and Cha Eun-woo just came to life.

On May 29, EDAM Entertainment released the music video for ''A Beautiful Person'', a track from IU’s third remake album ''Flower Bookmark 3'', via her official YouTube channel.

Following the title track ''Never Ending Story'', this is the second music video from the album—and it’s filled with witty direction and a symbolic narrative.

A Legendary Rock Song, Reimagined for Today

''A Beautiful Person'' is a modern reinterpretation of the legendary Korean rock song by Shin Joong-hyun, blending a nostalgic sentiment with a contemporary twist.

The arrangement was handled by alternative K-pop collective Balming Tiger, with member sogumm also contributing to the outro’s lyrics and composition.

The video begins with the familiar melody and lyrics. It features a luminous-faced boy and a shadowed girl as protagonists, following their journey from childhood to adulthood.

As the boy grows older, he begins to hide his glow behind a mask, burdened by the discomfort that his “light” brings.

One day, he encounters a girl who also wears a mask—and is inexplicably drawn to her.

In a rooftop scene where IU and Cha Eun-woo finally appear together, the two characters remove their masks and meet face to face, embracing each other's true selves.

The video ends with a twist, and both IU and Cha Eun-woo add narration, giving it an extra emotional layer. Compared to the previously released ''Never Ending Story'' MV, this one captivates with a completely different style—fresh storytelling and striking visuals.

Fans are loving the unexpected pairing, commenting: “Approved chemistry!,” “Visuals beyond legendary!,” and “We need them in a K-drama, like now!”

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Titled “This Is Not a Clarification—It’s a Rebuttal to False Accusations,” the post begins with A expressing fear and shock at the situation. “This is absurd and terrifying, but what’s not true is simply not true,” A wrote. “I will be checking every single comment related to the spread of my photo, business, and Instagram handle—and I will be taking legal action.”

A also thanked friends, family, and clients for their support, adding, “I’ll continue living with honesty and health.” “I’ve Never Been Ashamed of My School Days” A included a photo summarizing their statement.

“I studied hair design in vocational school because I loved it, got a job right after graduation, and now I run my own shop,” A said. “Hand on heart—I have nothing to be ashamed of from my school days.”

This person firmly denied ever being involved in bullying during middle or high school and challenged accusers to present evidence, “If there is any, bring it. Otherwise, stop.”

A even invited people to visit their now-publicized shop in person. “Come talk to me directly if you’re curious. I’ll grind the beans and serve you a coffee myself. I’ve lived my life honestly and I stand proud in front of my customers," and “I’m Tracking Everyone Who Sent DMs or Left Comments.”

A also addressed the wave of online attacks. “You know messing with a regular person won’t end well. I’m tracking everyone who left DMs or comments. Call me to apologize—I’ll take it kindly.” A continued, “Whether I change my username or close the comment section, that’s my right.”

Toward the end, A added, “The most pathetic thing is insulting someone after they make their account private. Go work out. Go to your job.” Still, the person concluded with “If you want a hair appointment, I’ll gladly give you one—with care.”

On May 26, a post titled “We Are Victims of Go ○○’s School Bullying” was uploaded to an online community.

The writer claimed to be a former classmate from Jungri Middle School in Daejeon and said actress Go Min-si, who previously went by the name Go Hye-ji, verbally abused classmates, extorted money, and mocked students with disabilities.

Though the identity of A wasn’t revealed, the post included a photo of them with Go Min-si—leading to A being named as another alleged perpetrator.

As the controversy spread, Go Min-si’s agency issued a statement the same day. “The allegations are completely false and baseless. We have appointed legal counsel and will pursue both civil and criminal legal action.”

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On May 27, ''Our Unwritten Seoul'', starring Park Bo-young, claimed the top spot—beating out heavy-hitters like SBS's big-budget drama ''The Haunted Palace", Netflix original ''Dear Hongrang'', KBS's ''Tastefully Yours'' with Kang Ha-neul and Go Min-si, and tvN's recently concluded hit ''Heavenly Ever After''.

In ''Our Unwritten Seoul'', Park Bo-young takes on the intense challenge of playing twin sisters with opposite lives and personalities. The drama premiered on May 24 with a 3.6% nationwide rating (Nielsen Korea), but episode 2, aired on May 25, soared to a 5.0% average (peaking at 5.8%), and a 5.6% rating in the Seoul metropolitan area (peaking at 6.5%).

The story begins when Yumi-ji, a country girl from Do-son-ri, visits her twin sister Yu-mi-ra in Seoul—only to find her on the verge of suicide. Shocked to learn that her seemingly “successful” sister is suffering from severe workplace bullying, Yumi-ji proposes they swap lives. Mi-ra, exhausted and broken, agrees.

Park Bo-young’s Four-in-One Acting Challenge

Park’s performance is being praised for its stunning nuance. Not only does she portray two different characters, she also plays those characters pretending to be each other—essentially pulling off four personas at once. From speech patterns to body language and emotional subtleties, her transformation has viewers saying, “This isn’t just dual acting—it’s quad acting, and she nails it.”

Yumi-ji, now posing as her sister in Seoul, tries to survive corporate life using a cheat sheet Mi-ra left behind. But she’s soon duped into taking on a major project and gets rejected by a key client, building owner Kim Rosa (played by veteran actress Won Mi-kyung).

Old Flame, New Suspicion

A bigger threat emerges in the form of Yumi-ji’s first love, Lee Ho-soo (played by Jinyoung), who has an uncanny ability to recognize her. Despite her act, he starts calling her “Yumi-ji” repeatedly—and by the end of episode 2, he looks her in the eye and says: “You’re Yumi-ji, aren’t you?” Cue cliffhanger. Meanwhile, in Do-son-ri, Yu-mi-ra, now living as her sister, arouses suspicion among villagers for her unfamiliar behavior. But she gets a part-time gig at Changhwa Farm, working under farmer Han Se-jin (played by Ryu Kyung-soo). Through the experience, she begins to understand the isolation and emotional burden her sister carried for years.

Rather than relying on flashy twists, ''Our Unwritten Seoul'' explores deeper emotional questions, asking “Who am I, really?”

Penned by Lee Kang, known for the intergenerational empathy of ''Youth of May'', the drama marks the writer’s return after four years. Directed by Park Shin-woo (''Our Beloved Summer'', ''Romance Is a Bonus Book''), the show leans into poetic visuals and lyrical atmosphere.

Episode 3 of ‘Our Unwritten Seoul’ airs May 31 at 9:20 PM KST.

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On May 27, Karina posted a photo on Instagram, wearing a black jacket with bold red stripes and the number 2 printed in red—colors and symbols that coincidentally align with a major political party and its candidate in the election. She also added a red rose emoji, which some interpreted as a further nod toward the same political figure.

The post came right after a televised presidential debate, and despite being taken down shortly after, it quickly went viral—leading to intense speculation: was it intentional? Or just an unfortunate coincidence?

In Korea’s entertainment landscape, K-pop idols are generally expected to steer clear of political expression. Especially during election seasons, agencies and artists alike tend to stay extremely cautious to avoid controversy.

Against this backdrop, the online discussion surrounding Karina grew louder. Many questioned whether idols should be able to express themselves more freely, while others urged the public not to politicize everything.

SM Entertainment Responds

On May 28, SM Entertainment issued a statement: “We apologize for causing concern through Karina’s social media post.”

“Karina had no intention whatsoever to express any political message. It was simply a casual post,” the agency added. “Once she realized the potential for misunderstanding, she immediately deleted it. We sincerely apologize for causing unintentional distress.”

The agency further emphasized, “We’ll take extra precautions in the future to prevent similar issues. We hope her actions won’t be misinterpreted or consumed with specific intentions, and we will do our best to protect Karina and all our artists.”

Karina herself addressed the controversy on the fan platform Bubble the same day.

“MY (aespa's fandom), I’m really sorry for making you worry,” she wrote. “I didn’t mean anything by it. But when I saw how the misunderstanding kept growing, I felt like I had to speak up. I’ll be more mindful in the future. Again, I’m sorry.”

While some dismissed the situation as a simple fashion choice gone wrong, others saw it as a reflection of how even the smallest actions by K-pop stars can get politicized. This incident has sparked a broader conversation:

Should idols be allowed to express their views more openly? Or are they forever expected to remain neutral figures, shaped and censored by public scrutiny?

Whatever the intent, one thing is clear: Karina’s outfit made her one of the most talked-about names on social media and news outlets alike—reminding us how tightly entertainment and public discourse are intertwined in K-pop.

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UAA announced, “We’re thrilled to welcome Woo Davi as a new member of our family. She’s an actress with unmatched charm, an uplifting energy that brings joy to everyone around her, and endless potential.”

The agency added, “We’ll fully support her so she can continue to grow, shine, and show her true value as an actress.”

Woo Davi made her debut in 2019 and has steadily built a strong filmography, appearing in buzzworthy titles such as the Netflix series ''Extracurricular'', JTBC’s ''Live On'', KBS2’s ''At A Distance, Spring is Green'', tvN’s ''Melancholia'', ''Poong, the Joseon Psychiatrist 2'', and ''Maestra''.

However, her breakout role came in last year’s widely loved tvN drama ''Jeongnyeon: The Star is Born''.

Playing Hong Juran, a passionate trainee at the Mae-ran Gugak Theater Company, Woo Davi captivated viewers with her portrayal of a young woman chasing her dreams in difficult circumstances. She delivered a performance that was both powerful and tender, leaving a deep impression on audiences.

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On June 8, YG posted a video titled ''YG NEXT MONSTER | EVELLI – 'Nosebleeds''' on its official blog, marking EVELLI’s first public appearance. The video was part of YG’s monthly trainee evaluation series, and EVELLI performed a cover of Doechii’s ''Nosebleeds''—showcasing her fierce stage presence and unmistakable YG flair.

EVELLI is a 15-year-old trainee born in 2010, originally from Australia. Impressively, she speaks three languages: English, Korean, and Spanish. Since the release, fans have been buzzing with excitement, leaving comments like “She looks like Jennie,” “So YG-coded,” and “She has serious star power.”

Earlier, YG’s founder Yang Hyun-suk confirmed via YouTube that the next girl group will be a 4-member team. A promotional campaign has been launched to introduce each member one by one. However, he also hinted that a new boy group might debut before the girl group officially launches—meaning fans may have to wait a little longer for their full debut.

Still, anticipation is already building around both the remaining female trainees and potential male group members. With the spotlight now shifting to EVELLI, all eyes are on YG once again.

Will this be the start of YG’s next girl group era? And could EVELLI lead a new wave in K-pop?

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According to the Week 4 May Fundex Chart from Good Data Corporation, ''Heart Pairing'' ranked second in “TV Non-Drama Buzz,” fourth in “TV-OTT Non-Drama Buzz,” and second in “TV-OTT Search Response”—sweeping nearly every metric.

Most notably, in the ultra-competitive Friday night TV slot, ''Heart Pairing'' has held onto its crown for three consecutive weeks, proving it’s not just popular—it’s irreplaceable. The show also came in first in “Female Search Interest” and second in “Male Search Interest,” highlighting its wide-reaching appeal.

And the love triangle that has everyone talking—between Jeyeon, Jimin, and Sangyoon—is peaking. All three placed in the “TV Non-Drama Cast Buzz” rankings: Jeyeon at No.6, Jimin at No.7, and Sangyoon at No.13, reflecting the viewers’ passionate interest in their unfolding story.

As the show continues to generate buzz, episode 12—airing on May 30—will dive into the “Ultimate Chaos” of its ever-shifting love lines. After ending their “second contract dating phase,” the housemates will begin a new chapter: postcard-style dates with potential matches from Italy.

''Heart Pairing'' isn’t your typical dating show. It follows young men and women who are no longer just playing the field—they’re seriously searching for life partners. The goal? Finding someone truly compatible for marriage.

A standout element is the show’s unique “Pairing Book,” which features each cast member’s answers to 33 deep questions about love and marriage, adding thoughtful depth to the usual romantic tension.

At the heart of this success is the legendary production team behind ''Heart Signal''—a name viewers trust. From the very beginning, the show has attracted attention as the next must-watch romance series.

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First aired in 2015, ''The Brainiacs'' quickly stood out from other Korean variety shows with its unique problem-solving format and brainy cast. Unlike typical reality shows focused on situational humor, it earned a cult following by challenging viewers’ logic and reasoning skills in an entertaining way.

This reboot revolves around the concept of restoring “math confidence.” Leading the pack is original cast member Jun Hyun-moo, who returns to team up with celebrity math instructor Jung Seung-je. Known for his previous role as a “math dropout,” Jun is now set to evolve into a “growth character,” aiming to boost his math skills with guidance from the expert — a dynamic that already has viewers intrigued.

The newly revealed cast lineup adds even more excitement. Broadcaster Bae Sung-jae joins as the show’s "Brain Caster," while singer John Park, who scored a perfect math score on the U.S. SAT, brings his academic chops. Also joining the show are multi-talented idol Suho and prodigy Kim Kyu-min, who entered Korea’s top science high school early and took first place in the Korean Math Olympiad. These so-called “problematic students” (a pun in Korean meaning both ‘students with problems’ and ‘students solving problems’) promise to shake things up.

A teaser video released on May 27 features Jung Seung-je himself presenting an original math problem, cleverly disguised as a question about the show’s airing schedule. “If you think mathematically, it’s easy,” he teased, sparking curiosity among viewers. In another clip, Jung browses the cast lineup and repeatedly says, “I’m really excited,” drawing laughs.

Originally aired from 2015 to 2020, ''The Brainiacs'' carved out a unique niche in Korea’s entertainment scene. At a time when slapstick humor and dramatic reality formats were the norm, the show challenged audiences to engage their minds through logic puzzles and lateral thinking.

Fans didn’t just passively watch — they actively solved problems alongside the cast, heightening immersion and enjoyment. The mix of intellectual satisfaction and emotional storytelling gave the show a loyal fanbase and a reputation as Korea’s leading “brainy variety show.”

Another key to its success was the chemistry among the cast. From arts majors to STEM geniuses, from math-averse personalities to competitive prodigies — each brought something different to the table. Watching them help each other, stumble, or shine in unexpected ways added heart and humor to the cerebral fun.

In particular, Jun Hyun-moo’s portrayal of a relatable “math struggler” endeared him to viewers. His moments of breakthrough — solving a tough problem or simply trying his best — resonated with audiences, making his journey both hilarious and heartfelt.

With its new cast, upgraded format, and the ever-relatable fear of math, ''The Brainiacs Reboot: Math Edition'' is poised to be one of this summer’s most anticipated and entertaining intellectual challenges.

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According to PLEDIS Entertainment, the title track ‘THUNDER’ debuted at No. 7 on Melon’s highly competitive “Top 100” chart and soared to No. 1 by midnight on May 27. The “concrete chart” — so called for its low volatility — rarely sees such dramatic jumps, showcasing SEVENTEEN’s enduring popularity and digital strength.

The group’s momentum didn’t stop with just the title track. Songs like ‘HBD’, ‘Bad Influence (prod. Pharrell Williams)’, and more ranked within the Top 10, with all 10 solo member tracks entering the Top 30. On other major platforms like Genie and Bugs, every track from the album also charted, marking a clean sweep.

💿 Record-Breaking Album Sales

On the physical side, HAPPY BURSTDAY sold a staggering 2,269,401 copies on its first day, according to Hanteo Chart, securing the No. 1 spot on the daily album chart.

The response overseas has been equally explosive. The album topped the iTunes Top Albums chart in 15 countries and regions, including Japan, Thailand, and the Philippines, and hit No. 1 on the Worldwide iTunes Albums chart. The title track ‘THUNDER’ also reached No. 1 on the iTunes Top Songs chart in 13 countries, and entered the Worldwide iTunes Songs chart at No. 7 — proving SEVENTEEN’s strong global reach.

The music video for ‘THUNDER’, with its intense and electrifying party vibe, shot up to No. 2 on YouTube Korea’s Trending Videos for music. It also ranked highly in other countries like the U.S., Canada, the UK, Thailand, and Singapore.

In a surprising twist, SEVENTEEN’s 2018 B-side track ‘I’m Finding You’ from their DIRECTOR’S CUT album made a reentry into Melon’s Top 100 at No. 38 — seven years after its original release. This resurgence was sparked by member Hoshi, who expressed his wish for the song to chart again during the group’s recent “B-DAY PARTY: BURST Stage @Jamsu Bridge” event. The summer breeze, the emotional performance, and fan nostalgia all came together to revive the track.

📅 What’s Next: Going Seventeen, Music Shows, and a New Variety Show

SEVENTEEN plans to keep the momentum going with a lineup of content and promotions. On May 28, the group will release Part 2 of their comeback special for GOING SEVENTEEN. Then, starting May 29, they will begin music show promotions with M Countdown.

Coming up on June 2, fans can also catch the premiere of their variety show ‘Nana bnb with SEVENTEEN’, a collaboration with famed producer Na Young-seok, airing on Weverse, tvN, and Disney+.

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The emotional moment came during a press screening at CGV Yongsan, where she was surrounded by family, friends, and co-stars after waiting four years for the movie to finally be released. "My mom, dad, and little brother are all here,” Lee said, before being overwhelmed with tears. “I’m just so grateful to finally show them this film. Please enjoy it — we worked so hard.”

Lee, who filmed the movie as a high school student, now returns as a grown-up to witness her long-delayed debut reach the public. In ‘HI-FIVE’, she plays Wan-seo, a taekwondo teen gifted with superhuman strength — and she’s at the heart of the story.

💥 A $12–15M Korean Action-Comedy with Superpowers and Heart

‘HI-FIVE’ is a 150–200 billion KRW blockbuster about five ordinary people who gain extraordinary powers after receiving different organ transplants. Wan-seo (Lee Jae-in), aspiring writer Ji-sung (Ahn Jae-hong), a yogurt delivery woman Sun-nyeo (Ra Mi-ran), a construction site boss Yak-seon (Kim Hee-won), and an unemployed hipster Ki-dong (Yoo Ah-in) suddenly develop superpowers tied to the heart, lungs, kidneys, liver, and cornea, respectively.

Their unique skills — super strength, speed, healing, breath control, and even electromagnetic powers — manifest through mysterious tattoos and lead them into conflict with a cult leader who wants to absorb all of their powers.

Director Kang Hyoung-chul, known for megahits like ‘Scandal Makers’ (8.2M admissions) and ‘Sunny’ (7.4M), returns after seven years with this high-energy action-comedy. He explained that although ‘HI-FIVE’ is built on fantasy powers, it’s ultimately a story about friendship and family.

“Real strength doesn’t come from superpowers,” Kang said. “It comes from love, trust, and the people around us.”

Filmed across familiar Korean landscapes like neighborhood alleys and chicken shops, the film leans into B-movie-style humor blended with A-tier action. There’s even a wild same-gender kiss scene between Ahn Jae-hong and Yoo Ah-in, which Ahn described as a symbolic moment of team unity.

“It was the turning point where rival team members finally became one,” he said with a laugh.

Fans of Reply 1988 will also appreciate the reunion of Ra Mi-ran and Ahn Jae-hong, who once played mother and son. Ahn called working with Ra “a dream come true again,” praising her unmatched energy on set.

Despite completing filming back in 2021, ‘HI-FIVE’ was shelved due to post-production delays, the COVID-19 pandemic, and the high-profile drug scandal involving Yoo Ah-in, one of its main cast members.

Director Kang addressed the controversy with measured optimism, “This film is not about just one actor. So many people poured their hearts into it,” he said. “If there’s any concern, I truly believe the joy and talent of the cast will more than outweigh it.”

Before its official release, ‘HI-FIVE’ already climbed to the #1 spot among Korean films in pre-sales, reaching a 20.2% reservation rate as of May 27. It ranks #2 overall, just behind Mission: Impossible – Dead Reckoning.

‘HI-FIVE’ hits theaters across Korea on May 30, running 119 minutes and rated 15+.

A wild, action-packed ride with laughs, love, and literal heart — this is the Korean superhero film you didn’t know you needed.

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On May 27, the K-pop icon’s agency Galaxy Corporation announced the release of the second collaboration between G-DRAGON’s fashion brand PEACEMINUSONE and beverage company Brewguru: the PEACEMINUSONE Red Highball.

Unlike the previous black can, which was white wine-based, this new version features red wine as its base — making it Korea’s first fresh fruit red wine highball. The new formula emphasizes deep tannins, a bold red color, and a perfectly structured fruit aroma, offering a richer and more refined drinking experience.

And the launch date isn’t random. It’s set to drop on May 27, Korea’s very first official "Aerospace Day." Why? The drink’s theme is all about space — a cosmic journey in both flavor and story.

“This launch merges PEACEMINUSONE’s creative spirit with a futuristic space concept,” Brewguru stated. “It’s not just a drink — it’s an experience.”

🚀 Limited Release, Out-of-This-World Concept

Forget typical retail. The Red Highball will be available only for 88 days, and only in specially themed ‘space station’ stores. The first location? CU Olympic Park Store, completely revamped into a sci-fi-inspired space station.

There, only 8,888 red cans per day will be sold (in 6-pack bundles), and once they’re gone, they’re gone.

🛸 Vol.2 Red Can Exclusive Pre-Sale

🌸 AR photo zone featuring a pink space suit and PEACEMINUSONE’s iconic daisy with one petal missing

🚀 A red spaceship emblazoned with the brand’s logo that looks like it came straight out of another dimension

G-DRAGON’s first highball — the black can — shattered expectations, selling 5 million cans in less than a month. With this new Red Highball promising a deeper flavor and a bolder concept, fans and collectors are already buzzing with anticipation.

-Red wine meets red-hot style.

-Limited. Space-themed. Pure G-DRAGON.

Will you grab a can before it sells out?

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According to her agency Starship Entertainment, Gaeul will appear as the honorary pitcher for the LG Twins vs. Hanwha Eagles game on May 27 at 6:30 PM KST at Jamsil Baseball Stadium, part of the 2025 KBO League.

Ahead of the big moment, Gaeul shared her excitement. “Throwing the first pitch has always been on my post-debut bucket list, so I’m truly honored and thrilled to make it happen. I’m very thankful to the LG Twins for this opportunity.”

She added, “I’m nervous, but also very excited. I’ll do my best to bring positive energy to the team and hopefully help them get that win. Let’s go, LG Twins!”

Since debuting with IVE in 2021, Gaeul has gained recognition as a true all-rounder artist — known for her chic visuals, unique voice tone, crisp rapping, and sharp performances. Her cold-but-cool charisma has earned her the nickname “Gaeul sunbae( Korean term used to refer to someone who is your senior — typically in school, work, or a shared profession. It doesn’t just mean someone older; it means someone who started earlier or has more experience in a certain context.)” from fans, and her standout line “You know what my strength is? Honesty.” during After LIKE promotions became an instant fan favorite.

Now, all eyes are on how she’ll perform in her first-ever pitch on the baseball field.

Meanwhile, as of now, the LG Twins are dominating the 2025 KBO standings with 33 wins, 1 draw, and 1 loss, sitting comfortably at first place. They’re followed by Hanwha (31-21), Lotte (30-3-21), KT (26-3-24), and a three-way tie for fifth between Samsung (26-1-26), SSG (25-1-25), and NC (23-2-23). KIA (24-26), Doosan (21-3-28), and Kiwoom (14-41) round out the rest of the league.

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To celebrate the launch, Bshop held a pre-opening event on May 22 that drew a stylish crowd from Korea’s fashion and lifestyle scene — including none other than actor Lee Dong-wook, actress Choi Soo-young, and TWICE’s Dahyun. Each star showed off their take on Bshop’s signature concept: “Everyday Classic.”

Lee Dong-wook paired an embroidered work jacket with a striped tee from French marinewear brand ORCIVAL, giving classic sailor vibes a modern twist. Choi Soo-young layered a DANTON work jacket over a feminine dress and carried a sleek BRADY bag, while Dahyun styled a cropped cardigan with a knit skirt, effortlessly chic with a hint of playfulness.

Founded in Kobe in 1992, Bshop now runs 43 stores across Japan. Known for mixing traditional design with modern heritage aesthetics, the brand chose Seoul as the starting point of its international journey in celebration of its 31st anniversary.

The Hannam flagship is Bshop’s largest store yet, designed by renowned Kyoto-based firm Kooo Architects. The two-story space blends Japanese minimalism with raw textures, hand-finished details, and thoughtful lighting to express the brand’s core identity — Everyday Classic.

On the first floor, British lifestyle brand Labour and Wait sets the tone with a curated collection of timeless items. Upstairs, a wide balcony and full-glass façade let in natural light, connecting the space with Hannam’s vibrant street life — creating a serene shopping hideaway in the middle of the city.

Alongside staple brands like DANTON, ORCIVAL, BRADY, GYMPHLEX, and Labour and Wait, Bshop also showcases a rotating selection of fashion and lifestyle goods curated from both Japan and Korea. The goal? To deliver what the brand calls “the best kind of ordinary” — items that transcend trends and stay relevant for years.

To mark the grand opening, Bshop also launched a special campaign themed “From KOBE to KOREA.” Shot against port city backdrops, the visuals connect Bshop’s roots in Kobe with its new home in Seoul — blending two lifestyles through classic items like sailor shirts and striped pieces.

With its new Seoul flagship, Bshop is set to become a must-visit destination for fashion lovers, design enthusiasts, and yes — even K-celebs.

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But beyond the numbers, the story is heating up.

Following a kiss, the reactions between Mo Yeon-joo (played by Go Min-si) and Han Beom-woo (played by Kang Ha-neul) couldn’t be more different. Beom-woo goes to work with butterflies, while Yeon-joo insists it was a mistake and tries to draw a line. Unable to hide his disappointment, Beom-woo shows up drunk and pleads, “Let’s go on just one real date — then decide.” Yeon-joo refuses in words but her eyes say otherwise.

The two decide to officially start dating after hosting an international in-law meeting between a Korean and French couple. But their budding romance is interrupted by the sudden appearance of Yeon-joo’s ex — and former colleague — Jeon Min (played by Yoo Yeon-seok), who walks into their restaurant, Jeongje. Now the head chef of Le Murie in Sapporo, Jeon Min apologizes for past mistakes and asks her to come back. But Yeon-joo firmly refuses, saying it was her decision to walk away.

Watching from the shadows, Jin Myeong-sook (Kim Shin-rok) gives Han Beom-woo Yeon-joo’s culinary school diploma and photos from her time at Le Murie. Only then does Beom-woo realize the impressive background she’s been hiding.

On the day of the in-law gathering, the couple impresses everyone with their food and hospitality. Thanks to the full support of Jin Myeong-sook and Shin Chun-seung, the event wraps up successfully. The two then enjoy a quiet date with a stroll through a hanok village and a late-night movie.

Later, Yeon-joo asks Jeon Min to meet. She tells him they’ve both changed and that it's time to let go. Though he struggles to accept it, Yeon-joo makes it clear she’s moved on — and heads straight to Beom-woo, who’s been anxiously waiting.

Wanting to be honest, Yeon-joo opens up about her past to Beom-woo: her time at a prestigious culinary school, her relationship with Jeon Min, and how he asked her to come back. She reassures Beom-woo that she has no intention of returning to that life.

But then comes the twist: the next day, she disappears — leaving behind only a short letter. She's gone to Sapporo. Her departure stuns both the staff at Jeongje and viewers. Why did she really leave after revealing everything? Does she truly plan to return?

All eyes are now on Han Beom-woo. Can he bring her back and protect their fragile love — despite Jeon Min’s interference?

After the episode aired, viewers flooded online communities with reactions, praising the heightened drama brought by Yoo Yeon-seok’s arrival, calling Go Min-si’s emotional acting “next level,” and expressing full support for Kang Ha-neul. The shocking cliffhanger at the end of episode 5 left fans stunned, with comments like “That cliffhanger? Brutal.” and “I need the next one now.”

Episode 6 of 'Tastefully Yours' airs on ENA at 10 PM (KST) on May 27 and will be available as a free VOD on Genie TV right after. It’s also currently streaming on Netflix.

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On May 25 and 26, G-Dragon continued his 2025 WORLD TOUR [Übermensch] with back-to-back sold-out performances at the Kyocera Dome in Osaka, drawing over 80,000 fans. Despite one of the shows landing on a weekday, every seat — including those with restricted views — was filled, proving once again why he remains the solo powerhouse of K-pop.

Following his Tokyo Dome tour opener earlier this month — his first time back there in eight years — This tour wasn’t just about the music. It was also a fashion masterclass.

Each show came with a fresh wardrobe change, but one standout look had everyone talking: a vibrant red jacket adorned with white roses details added. At his previous concert, G-Dragon had gone full red — but this time, the addition of a white flower added a striking contrast and elevated the look even further.

It wasn’t just a fashion choice; it was a bold twist on classic romance and a clear message — G-Dragon doesn’t just perform, he curates the stage.

To celebrate the show, legendary Japanese artist Takashi Murakami gifted him a daisy-shaped floral wreath. But the ultimate style moment came in leather: a custom jacket designed by Yohji Yamamoto, featuring the designer's signature art. It wasn’t just fashion — it was wearable modern art, cementing G-Dragon’s place not only in music but also in global avant-garde culture.

From shredding imaginary guitar riffs during “TOO BAD” (featuring Anderson .Paak) to a groove-heavy dance break that mixed mime with swagger, G-Dragon filled the entire stage — alone — with energy, movement, and pure charisma. Visual events inspired by AI and the Übermensch theme added another layer of conceptual artistry to the performance.

And he’s not done. The Übermensch tour is headed next to Macau, Taipei, Kuala Lumpur, Jakarta, Hong Kong, and Bangkok, before touching down in Sydney and Melbourne.

Fashion. Art. Music. G-Dragon’s back — and he’s bigger, bolder, and more brilliant than ever.

On May 26, her agency Mystic Story issued an official statement calling the claims “clearly false and groundless.” The agency added, “We have appointed a legal representative today and have begun reviewing and proceeding with both civil and criminal legal measures.”

The controversy began earlier that day when a post titled “We are the victims of actress Go ○○’s school bullying” appeared on an online community. Though the post didn’t explicitly name the actress, it revealed details such as her former name and age, leading many netizens to speculate that the subject was Go Min-si.

The post accused the actress of bullying several classmates during her middle school years and quickly spread across various online communities and social media platforms.

This is not the first time 'Go Min-si' has faced controversy. In March 2021, a photo of her drinking alcohol as a minor resurfaced online. She apologized at the time via her personal social media, stating, “I recognize that my past behavior was wrong and take full responsibility for my actions.”

Mystic Story concluded their statement by urging the public to refrain from spreading unverified claims. “Speculative reports and indiscriminate sharing of false information can deeply hurt not only the actor but also their family,” they said.

Hello, this is Mystic Story.

We would like to address the recent claims made anonymously on certain online communities regarding our artist. The content in question is entirely false and groundless.

We express deep concern and regret over the damage to our artist’s reputation caused by malicious posts based on false information. Today, we have appointed legal representation and have begun reviewing and proceeding with both civil and criminal legal action.

We respectfully ask the public to refrain from spreading unverified and speculative claims. Such actions can cause significant harm not only to the artist but also to their family.

Thank you.

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On May 25, the group held a special concert titled 'B-DAY PARTY: BURST Stage @Jamsu Bridge' as part of their larger anniversary celebration, which took place from May 23 to 25 around Sebitseom, a set of floating islands on the Han River. The festival-style event—dubbed 'B-DAY PARTY'—featured pop-ups highlighting SEVENTEEN’s 10-year journey, interactive fan zones, and a look into the future of their fandom, CARAT.

The grand finale? A one-of-a-kind live show on Jamsu Bridge, where a stage was constructed directly over the Han River. Approximately 6,000 fans watched the performance live on-site, while another 60,000 gathered in the surrounding Hangang Park area, watching the concert via large LED screens. The moment wasn’t just massive—it was monumental.

SEVENTEEN opened the show with ‘THUNDER’, the title track of their fifth full-length album 'HAPPY BURSTDAY', which dropped on May 26. The track’s intense electronic sound was amplified by pyrotechnics and fountain effects, sending fans into a frenzy of cheers and excitement.

During the show, members shared their thoughts on the milestone. Hoshi said, “When I first heard we’d be performing on Jamsu Bridge, I kept imagining things—would there be a yacht, a sunset? In the end, it turned out to be absolutely perfect.” Mingyu added, “Performing here just feels right.”

Seungkwan reflected, “As an artist performing in Korea, I’ve never felt this nervous or excited—knowing that we’re doing a show on the Han River and Jamsu Bridge, two of Korea’s most iconic landmarks.”

Hoshi also expressed his gratitude to fans, saying, “We’ve headlined festivals and big stages—but for us, the real headliners are our CARATs.”

🎉 10th Anniversary, New Album, and K-Food Collab

SEVENTEEN’s 10th anniversary celebrations continue with the release of their fifth studio album 'HAPPY BURSTDAY', marking not just a look back—but a new beginning.

In conjunction with the milestone, CJ CheilJedang is launching a marketing collaboration under the theme of SEVENTEEN’s “birthday party,” including a 'bibigo Hotel' pop-up at Olive Young. Running until June 8 at the Myeong-dong Station flagship and from May 30 to June 29 at “Trendpot by Olive Young” in Hongdae, the pop-up showcases bibigo K-food products (like seaweed snacks, cup tteok-bok-ki, gochujang, and ssamjang) in special SEVENTEEN-themed packaging. It’s a collaboration between one of Korea’s top K-pop groups and its leading food brand.

In addition, a special ‘SEVENTEEN with bibigo Cooking Class’ is scheduled for foreign fans next month. Participants will get hands-on experience cooking and tasting a variety of Korean dishes. The classes will be held six times at ‘CJ The Kitchen’, located on the first floor of CJ CheilJedang’s headquarters in Jung-gu, Seoul.

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On May 25, Dayoung shared a screenshot of Starship Entertainment’s official Instagram account on her personal story, accompanied by a single, sarcastic letter: “ㅎ” (a Korean character often used to imply dry laughter or irony). The screenshot showed a birthday post dedicated to Jiwoo, a member of Starship’s newly debuted girl group KiiiKiii.

However, there was no birthday post for Dayoung from the same account, despite her being a more senior artist under the same agency. This led fans to raise the issue of preferential treatment, suggesting that Dayoung was subtly calling out Starship for the blatant discrepancy.

To add more weight to the speculation, Dayoung later posted an image of a hamster dressed in a green tracksuit referencing 'Squid Game', along with the Chinese idiom "兔死狗烹" (To-sa-gu-paeng)—which translates to “Once the rabbit is dead, the dog is boiled.” The phrase is a harsh metaphor for being discarded after one’s usefulness has expired, implying feelings of betrayal or abandonment. Given the visual and textual context, many fans interpreted this as a veiled jab at her agency.

The posts have since been deleted from her Instagram, but not before they had already gone viral across online communities—spreading concern and frustration among fans. Many pointed to WJSN’s ongoing three-year hiatus since the group last released a special single, ‘Sequence’, in 2022. With no full-group comeback since then, fans have expressed growing disappointment and concern over the group’s future, and Dayoung’s subtle but pointed messages have only fueled the discussion.

Despite the drama, Dayoung is currently appearing on KBS 1TV’s variety program ‘Scout 6: Early Adapter’, where she is receiving praise for her warm and curious approach. During a press conference, according to News1, she reflected on her experience, saying:

“Since I was young, all I knew was singing and dancing. But through this program, I realized how many different kinds of work exist in the world. Going to schools and seeing what these kids are capable of really made me admire them. I think my role is to highlight how incredible they are.”

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According to Nielsen Korea, the second episode, which aired on May 25, reached an average of 5.6% and a peak of 6.5% in the Seoul metropolitan area. Nationwide, it recorded an average of 5.0% and a peak of 5.8%, marking a significant jump of 1.4 points from its premiere episode’s 3.6%. The rapid climb in ratings reflects growing attention and word-of-mouth buzz, with the show claiming No. 1 in its time slot across all paid platforms (cable, IPTV, satellite). Among tvN’s target demographic of 20- to 49-year-olds, it also ranked first.

'Our Unwritten Seoul' follows the story of identical twin sisters who share the same face but live completely different lives. When they decide to switch places, they begin a journey of rediscovering love, identity, and the meaning of life. The drama explores the universal wish: "What if someone could live my life for me just for a while?"—a theme that has resonated deeply with viewers.

Leading actress Park Bo-young delivers a remarkable performance, portraying four personas: Yumi-rae, Yumi-ji, and each pretending to be the other. From the emotionally restrained and subdued Yumi-rae to the lively and spirited Yumi-ji, Park’s portrayal captures the nuances of dual identity with incredible precision. Viewers are already praising her work: “The twin detail acting is insane,” and “She made it easy to tell them apart without confusion. That’s impressive acting.”

The drama is the latest work from screenwriter Lee Kang, known for 'Youth of May', and marks his return after four years. This time, he delves into themes of family and self-discovery. With direction by Park Shin-woo—celebrated for his emotional finesse—the series seamlessly blends visual storytelling with deep character arcs. Together, the duo builds a world filled with healing, reflection, and quiet emotional resonance.

Produced by Studio Dragon, Monster Union, and High Ground, the series boasts a strong cast including Park Jin-young, Ryu Kyung-soo, Won Mi-kyung, and Kim Young-ok alongside Park Bo-young.

In Episode 2, the sisters officially begin their new lives. Yumi-ji starts working in Seoul as Yumi-rae but quickly faces harsh realities. After being tricked by her boss into handling a massive project, she seeks help from building owner Kim Rosa (played by Won Mi-kyung), only to be coldly turned away—signaling just how unforgiving this new world can be.

Meanwhile, Yumi-rae heads to the countryside to live as Yumi-ji and takes up farm work in a remote village. Clashing with locals due to her stiff demeanor, she gradually begins to experience the isolation and hardship her sister has long endured. Through their swapped lives, the sisters start to uncover truths about themselves and each other—bringing poignant depth to their shared journey.

Back in Seoul, Yumi-ji also encounters her first love, Lee Ho-soo (played by Park Jin-young), who immediately senses something is off. Recalling Yumi-ji clearly from their school days, he confronts her with the line, “You’re Yumi-ji… aren’t you?”

Leaving viewers on edge about whether her true identity will be exposed.

A Story of Self, Family, and Healing

At its heart, 'Our Unwritten Seoul' delivers a warm and healing message for anyone feeling lost in the hustle of modern life. As the twin sisters trade lives, they reconnect with forgotten parts of themselves—reminding viewers of the power of identity, empathy, and emotional growth. The response from audiences has been overwhelmingly positive, with viewers saying, “I don’t remember the last time I watched a drama live. It’s that good,” and “It’s fun, emotional, and I even cried. It has everything.” Praise continued to pour in: “Park Bo-young deserves the Baeksang Award next year,” “If it hits 10%, I won’t be surprised—this is that good,” and “It felt so personal, I cried from how much I related.”

Many called it “a life-changing drama from Episode 1,” and others were moved by the cast and crew’s work: “Everything is perfect—the script, direction, acting,” “Four roles? Park Bo-young is unreal,” and “How does she always choose such amazing projects?” Some even added, “Watching this made my heart feel warm. It’s healing,” and “Please publish the script—so many lines were unforgettable.” With its graceful blend of emotion, storytelling, performance, and direction, 'Our Unwritten Seoul' is quickly emerging as a word-of-mouth favorite—especially among younger viewers in the 2049 demographic.

Episode 3 of 'Our Unwritten Seoul' airs on Saturday, May 31 at 9:20 PM KST.

As the sisters continue to live each other’s lives, what truths, healing, and emotional growth will await them?

※ Viewership Trend for 'Our Unwritten Seoul' (Nielsen Korea, nationwide)

Ep.1 (May 24): 3.6%

Ep.2 (May 25): 5.0%

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According to Nielsen Korea, Episode 12 of 'Heavenly Ever After' achieved a nationwide rating of 8.3%, a sharp rise from the previous episode’s 7.0%. In the Seoul metropolitan area, it scored an even higher 8.9%, setting a new personal record for the show. Compared to its premiere episode’s 5.8%, the finale marked a notable 2.5-point increase, earning the series the top spot among all non-terrestrial broadcasts in its time slot.

The drama follows the story of Lee Hae-sook (played by Kim Hye-ja), an 80-year-old woman who finds herself in the afterlife where she reunites with her late husband, Go Nak-joon (Son Suk-ku), who now appears as his 30-something younger self. What unfolds is a beautiful, otherworldly romance set in the world beyond death.

The final episode opened with Nak-joon asking Hae-sook to be reincarnated with him—a gesture born from his guilt for keeping her in the afterlife. The couple decided to start a new life together as husband and wife once again. However, the director of the afterlife center (played by Chun Ho-jin) ominously commented that “a married couple is like prisoners bound by the same chain,” leaving an air of mystery.

On the day of their reincarnation, the two walked hand-in-hand down a forest path, receiving a warm send-off from staff at the afterlife center. As they walked, Hae-sook reflected on their lost son Eun-ho and admitted that while her journey to the afterlife had been lonely, the path to reincarnation felt reassuring with her husband by her side.

At the gate of reincarnation, Nak-joon revealed a secret—this would be their 23rd life together as a married couple. He realized that it was his lingering attachment that had bound Hae-sook in a chain of repeated lives. “This time, I want you to live a completely different life—without me,” he said. In a tearful goodbye, he let her go.

Understanding his sincerity, Hae-sook accepted the separation with grace. Nak-joon bid her farewell with the words, “You’ve done so well. I’m so glad it was you.” She passed through the gate alone, stepping into her next life.

In the final scene, the roles were reversed. After living a full life without Nak-joon, Hae-sook returned to the afterlife and was met once again by her husband, now a guide for souls. When she asked, “How did I do?” he responded with tears, “You were more than I ever imagined. You did great in this life, too.”

His closing narration echoed the show’s core message. “Now I understand. All the days we spent together weren’t hell—they were heaven. If I could return to that life again, I would, without hesitation. Because living with you was a heaven more beautiful than heaven itself.”

'Heavenly Ever After' has been praised for its heartfelt and imaginative take on the afterlife—an unknown world everyone wonders about but no one has experienced. The show crafted a compelling and original universe that bridged heaven and earth, life and death, offering a comforting message: “Death is not the end, but the beginning of another life.”

In this story, heaven was portrayed as a transitional space to wrap up the previous life and prepare for the next. Through the lens of reincarnation, the drama explored the emotional bonds and unfinished business people carry with them, prompting viewers to reflect on the true meaning of life, love, and destiny.

Viewer reactions poured in with praise, with many expressing deep emotional resonance. “I sobbed during the final episode—truly a well-made drama with lasting impact.” Others admired the cast, saying, “Kim Hye-ja in her 80s—absolutely admirable.” One viewer shared, “It wasn’t overly dramatic, but I found myself in tears. The calm emotion, the chemistry between Son Suk-ku and Kim Hye-ja... it transcended age and was so beautiful.” Another added, “Honestly, I wondered if Son Suk-ku could pull off being her husband, but their chemistry was natural and touching—he was the perfect gentle soul.”

Following 'Heavenly Ever After', JTBC’s next weekend drama 'Good Boy' starring Park Bo-gum is set to premiere on May 31 at 10:30 p.m. KST.

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On May 23, Jung took to her Instagram Stories to publicly address the situation, sharing screenshots of direct messages (DMs) and comments she had received. The messages falsely accused her of being connected to the scandal that has shaken headlines in Korea.

Alongside the screenshots, Jung wrote, “It’s not me. Who is spreading this? Please stop messaging, following, and commenting,” expressing clear frustration over the baseless speculation.

The DMs included accusations such as “Are you the woman who blackmailed Son Heung-min?,” “Were you really Son Heung-min’s ex-girlfriend?,” “People are saying your Instagram belongs to his ex—is it true?”

These messages came in the wake of a major controversy involving Son Heung-min. Two individuals were recently arrested on charges of blackmailing the footballer by claiming pregnancy and demanding large sums of money.

According to Seoul’s Gangnam Police, a woman in her 20s (identified as Ms. A) and a man in his 40s (Mr. B) were formally detained and charged on May 22. Ms. A allegedly sent ultrasound images to Son’s representatives last June, claiming she was pregnant and received ₩300 million in exchange for keeping the matter private. Mr. B, said to be her boyfriend, reportedly demanded an additional ₩70 million in March but was unsuccessful.

Amid the investigation, online speculation wrongly identified Jung Min-hee as the ex-girlfriend involved. The rumors quickly spread across internet forums and reached her personal social media accounts.

Jung Min-hee made her musical debut in 2016 with 'Aida'. Most recently, she appeared on the tvN variety show 'Fresh off the Sea', where she performed the viral ‘like JENNIE’ dance inspired by BLACKPINK’s Jennie.

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In Episode 12, which aired on May 24, viewers watched as Kang Cheol (played by Yook Sung-jae), Yeori (Kim Ji-yeon), and Lee Jeong (Kim Ji-hoon) got their hands on the mysterious 'Gwangam Collection'—a book containing the truth behind the vengeful Palcheokgwi spirit and records of a war from a century ago. The trio inches closer to uncovering the terrifying origins of the royal family’s haunting curse.

The episode ended on a jaw-dropping note, as the Palcheokgwi was shown expelling the spirit of Yoon Gap (also played by Yook Sung-jae), escalating the suspense and making it impossible to predict what’s next.

Thanks to its intense plot and twists, 'The Haunted Palace' hit impressive ratings—10.6% peak viewership, 9.7% nationwide, 9.1% in Seoul’s metropolitan area, and 2.5% in the 2049 demographic. It not only topped its time slot but also ranked No. 1 among all miniseries aired that week.

'The Haunted Palace' is a fantasy romance drama about a reluctant shaman named Yeori and a mythical serpent, Kang Cheol, who is trapped in the body of Yeori’s first love, Yoon Gap. Together, they face off against the ancient spirit Palcheokgwi, who harbors a deep grudge against the royal family—leading to a chaotic entanglement of bodies and souls.

The drama stars Yook Sung-jae, Kim Ji-yeon, Kim Ji-hoon, Kim Sang-ho, Ahn Nae-sang, Kil Hae-yeon, Kim In-kwon, Cha Jung-hwa, Son Byung-ho, Han Soo-yeon, Han So-eun, and Shin Seul-ki.

With just four episodes left, fans are eager to see how this 16-episode drama will conclude. Character charts and cast details can be found on the drama’s official website. 'The Haunted Palace' airs every Friday and Saturday at 9:50 PM KST on SBS.

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On May 26, global spirits brand Suntory Global Spirits unveiled a new campaign for its popular bourbon whiskey 'Jim Beam', announcing Jang Wonyoung as the official model for its latest product, Jim Beam Highball Plain. The drink, known for its clean and refreshing taste, is now paired with Wonyoung’s youthful and zesty image to connect with a vibrant 20-something audience.

Even before the official announcement, teaser clips featuring Jang Wonyoung had already gone viral through Jim Beam’s social media channels. Her cheerful, radiant energy is set to bring relatable and light-hearted highball moments to life—something global fans are already looking forward to.

At one point, fans speculated that Jang Wonyoung might be making her acting debut after a dramatic clip surfaced online. But as it turns out, the buzzworthy footage was actually part of a new commercial for 'Jim Beam'.

Shot like a cinematic mystery thriller, the ad has the look and feel of a real film. According to Jim Beam’s official YouTube channel, the full version will be released on June 9 under the title 'Shadow of Lost Time'. The stylishly filmed piece has sparked major anticipation among viewers.

Jang Wonyoung stars alongside actor Park Jung-min, and the two are set to deliver performances that blur the line between commercial and cinema—adding to the excitement around this high-production campaign.

A Jim Beam brand representative expressed high hopes, stating, “Through this campaign with our new model Jang Wonyoung, we aim to convey a bright, playful, yet sincere brand identity.”

From beauty and fashion to food and finance—and now even alcohol endorsements—Jang Wonyoung has officially checked off one of the most coveted roles for a top-tier celebrity: alcohol brand ambassador. Her participation in the campaign is expected to further cement her status as one of Korea’s reigning "advertising queens."

Jang Wonyoung first rose to fame in 2018 when she placed first on Mnet’s survival show 'Produce 48', debuting as a member of the project group 'IZ*ONE'. After the group’s disbandment, she re-debuted as the center of 'IVE' in 2021, quickly becoming a defining icon of the K-pop fourth generation thanks to her striking visuals and magnetic presence.

'IVE' has won fans both domestically and globally with hits like 'ELEVEN', 'LOVE DIVE', 'After LIKE', 'I AM', and 'Baddie'. Beyond music, Wonyoung has taken the advertising, variety, and fashion worlds by storm—further solidifying her reputation as the ultimate "MZ wannabe" star.

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On May 26 at midnight KST, Yang Hyun-suk, executive producer of YG Entertainment, shared a video through the company’s official YouTube channel outlining the upcoming plans for YG artists—including 'BLACKPINK', 'BABYMONSTER', and 'TREASURE'.

“BLACKPINK will finally be meeting fans again after a long time,” Yang said in the video. “While the official date hasn’t been finalized yet, we expect to announce BLACKPINK’s comeback with new music very soon.”

But BLACKPINK wasn't the only group mentioned.

Yang also unveiled YG’s broader roadmap, introducing comeback and debut plans for several artists under the label. He confirmed that 'BABYMONSTER' will release their new track titled 'Hot Sauce' on July 1. Describing the song as “simple, upbeat, fun, and addictive,” Yang added, “I hope this becomes the kind of song that people say, ‘This is so fun!’ or ‘This is perfect for summer!’”

Following the release of 'Hot Sauce', BABYMONSTER will drop a mini-album with four tracks on October 1. Meanwhile, 'TREASURE' is gearing up to release a new mini-album on September 1, followed by the start of a new world tour in October.

Yang also touched on plans to debut new K-pop groups. According to him, two boy groups are currently in development—one with an average age of 18 (Team A), and another made up of younger trainees around 15–16 years old (Team B). On the girl group side, he confirmed that a new four-member girl group is being prepared. While BABYMONSTER is still in their rookie year, Yang stated that it's more likely for a boy group to debut first, possibly next year. The new girl group is expected to unveil solo tracks for each member next year, with their training process to be revealed soon.

Reflecting on his return to YG, Yang said, “It’s been just over a year since I came back. A lot has changed, and from this year’s second half into next year, we’ll be showing you what the new system looks like.” He wrapped up the announcement with a heartfelt message: “Please support BABYMONSTER’s new song, TREASURE’s new mini-album, and BLACKPINK’s world tour and upcoming comeback.”

And as a teaser, he revealed that the first member of YG’s new girl group will be revealed at 12AM KST on May 28. The message at the end of the video? “STAY TUNED!”

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On May 25, JYP Entertainment shared an official statement through Stray Kids’ official channels, saying, “Felix has been undergoing rehabilitation and treatment for his back for some time now. While there have been no major issues in daily life, he has recently been experiencing pain when his back is strained, and is now receiving additional care.”

They continued, “After thorough discussions between the artist, medical staff, and the company, and considering the medical opinion that minimizing strain is best along with Felix’s strong desire to be on stage, all eight members of Stray Kids came to a joint decision. The upcoming performances will go on as scheduled, but some parts of the choreography may be adjusted depending on Felix’s condition.”

The company added, “We are working closely with professional medical staff both in Korea and overseas to manage the artist’s health. Even during the tour, we are prioritizing his well-being by securing as much treatment time as possible. We will do everything we can to support Felix’s speedy recovery. We ask for fans’ understanding.”

Stray Kids are currently in the middle of their world tour 'DOMINATE', which began in August last year and spans 34 cities around the globe.

Notice Regarding Felix.

Hello, this is JYP Entertainment. We would like to provide an update regarding Stray Kids member Felix.

Felix has been consistently undergoing rehabilitation and treatment to manage his back condition. There have been no significant issues with his daily life, but recently, he has been experiencing pain when his back is under strain. As a result, he is currently receiving additional treatment.

After extensive discussions between the artist, medical staff, and our company, and taking into account the medical opinion that minimizing back strain is ideal, along with Felix’s strong desire to perform, all eight members of Stray Kids have thoughtfully considered the matter. As a result, the upcoming performances will proceed as scheduled, but some choreography may be adjusted depending on Felix’s physical condition.

Our company works with professional medical staff to support the health of our artists both domestically and abroad. During the tour, we are doing our utmost to prioritize Felix’s health by securing as much time for treatment as possible. We will continue to do everything we can to support his recovery.

We appreciate our fans’ understanding and support. Thank you.

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Titled ‘2025 LEE DO HYUN FANMEETING [Re DO HYUN]’, the tour reflects the actor’s heartfelt commitment to reconnect with fans before taking on new projects. The name ‘Re DO HYUN’ symbolizes the resumption of Lee Do-hyun’s journey as an actor after a pause for mandatory military service, a poetic nod to pressing “play” on his career once again.

The Seoul shows will be followed by stops in Jakarta (June 28), Osaka (July 4), Tokyo (July 6), Taipei (July 12), Bangkok (July 19), Hong Kong (July 26), and Manila (August 2)—bringing the actor to eight cities across Asia.

Lee Do-hyun enlisted in August 2023 and served in the Air Force military band. He was officially discharged on May 13, 2025. The fan meeting tour is seen as his first major public activity post-discharge, and fans are eagerly anticipating his next steps.

Lee has also made headlines for his ongoing relationship with actress Lim Ji-yeon, his co-star from the hit Netflix series The Glory. The couple went public with their romance in 2023 and continue to receive warm support from fans both in Korea and internationally.

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On May 25, SHINee will release their new digital single ‘Poet | Artist’ across major music platforms. The release includes two tracks: the title song ‘Poet | Artist’ and the B-side ‘Starlight’. The single not only celebrates SHINee’s 17-year journey in K-pop but also honors the enduring legacy of Jonghyun, who tragically passed away in December 2017.

The title track ‘Poet | Artist’ is an electro-pop number featuring vocal riffs layered with snappy snares and reggae rhythms, delivering a unique blend of texture and energy. What makes the song especially significant is that Jonghyun wrote and composed it himself—as a heartfelt message to SHINee and their fans.

The second track ‘Starlight’ is a medium-tempo dance-pop song combining funky electric guitar riffs with bright synth pads, creating a breezy and uplifting vibe perfect for early summer.

SHINee is also set to unveil both songs live for the first time during their upcoming solo concert ‘SHINee WORLD Ⅶ [E.S.S.A.Y] (Every Stage Shines Around You)’, which will be held from May 23 to 25 at KSPO Dome in Olympic Park, Seoul.

All tracks from the new single will be released digitally at midnight KST on May 25, and the physical album will follow on May 26.

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On May 23, The Walt Disney Company Korea hosted its “Disney+ Open House” at its headquarters in Gangnam, Seoul. The event brought together key figures from the Korean entertainment industry and was led by Choi Yeon-woo, Head of Local Content at Disney+ Korea. During the presentation, Disney+ reflected on its milestone of having released over 40 Korean original productions and revealed its upcoming slate of dramas.

Among the new titles, Made in Korea stood out as the most highly anticipated project. The drama stars Hyun Bin and Jung Woo-sung, and marks the first-ever series direction by filmmaker Woo Min-ho, best known for political thrillers like Inside Men and The Man Standing Next. Set in the turbulent 1970s, the story follows Baek Ki-tae, the ambitious son of a chaebol family (played by Hyun Bin), who is determined to secure power and wealth. Opposing him is prosecutor Jang Geon-young (played by Jung Woo-sung), a man willing to sacrifice everything to stop him. The series delves into themes of corruption, ambition, and justice amid a backdrop of rapid industrialization and political upheaval in Korea.

Kim Won-kook, CEO of HIVE Media Corp, the production company behind the show, expressed strong confidence in the project, saying, “With Disney’s support and HIVE’s production capabilities, we’ve created something truly powerful.” He added that the show retains the weighty narratives, psychological tension, and complex character dynamics that defined Woo Min-ho’s previous films, predicting, “Once this airs, it will shake the foundations of the K-drama industry.”

Made in Korea is already drawing attention not just for its A-list cast and blockbuster director, but for its bold thematic direction. Tackling issues of power, morality, and institutional corruption head-on, the drama aims to spotlight the darker corners of 1970s Korea—territory rarely explored in mainstream K-dramas. It’s being recognized as a project that could significantly deepen the genre’s narrative scope.

The event also introduced several other Korean originals set to debut on Disney+ later this year. These include Tempest starring Jun Ji-hyun and Kang Dong-won, Low Life featuring Ryu Seung-ryong and Yang Se-jong, Turbid Stream, a period piece led by Rowoon and Shin Ye-eun, and The Manipulated, starring Ji Chang-wook and Do Kyung-soo (D.O.). In addition, The Killers’ Shopping Mall Season 2 is returning with a more dynamic and action-packed storyline that promises a significant shift in tone from its first season.

Marking four years since its launch in Korea, Disney+ continues to expand its investment in local content, aiming to strengthen its competitive edge in the global streaming market. Following successful titles like Big Bet and Moving, the platform is now betting big on series like Made in Korea to further showcase the depth and diversity of modern Korean storytelling.

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According to News1, The remarks came during the “Disney+ Open House” event held on May 23 at the Gangnam Finance Center in Seoul, where Choi Yeon-woo, Head of Local Content at The Walt Disney Company Korea, spoke about the platform’s upcoming content strategy and future direction for Korean originals.

Initially positioned as a major tentpole project with a reported production budget of ₩60 billion, Knock Off had generated significant anticipation among viewers. The series was expected to follow the story of Kim Sung-jun, portrayed by Kim Soo-hyun, whose life is upended by the 1997 Asian financial crisis and who later rises to become a global figure in the counterfeit goods trade. However, the drama became mired in controversy when issues surrounding Kim Soo-hyun and the late actress Kim Sae-ron surfaced, leading to an indefinite delay in the show's release.

When asked about the current status of the project, Choi explained that the decision to suspend the release was made after careful internal review and remains unchanged. “That is our official position,” she stated, adding, “There have been no new developments since our initial announcement.” Regarding speculation over potential penalty fees—which some industry insiders estimate to be anywhere from ₩10 billion to ₩100 billion—Choi declined to comment, saying only, “We’re unable to respond to that.”

Significantly, Knock Off was noticeably absent from Disney+ Korea’s newly unveiled content lineup for the latter half of the year. Instead, the platform highlighted several high-profile titles that signal a renewed push for premium Korean content. Among the upcoming series are Tempest starring Jun Ji-hyun and Kang Dong-won, Made in Korea featuring Hyun Bin and Jung Woo-sung, Low Life with Ryu Seung-ryong, Yang Se-jong, and Lim Soo-jung, and The Manipulated, starring Ji Chang-wook and Do Kyung-soo.

Choi emphasized that Disney+ Korea will continue to focus on high-impact, carefully curated titles that blend star power, strong IPs, and genre diversity. She also highlighted the company’s interest in developing franchise-worthy content and experimenting with emerging formats such as mid-form series. “We plan to actively discover and invest in stories with expansion potential, across a range of genres and formats, backed by proven creators and top-tier talent,” she noted.

With Knock Off still in limbo and no further updates on the horizon, attention now turns to how Disney+ will navigate both audience expectations and internal challenges as it continues its investment in the Korean content space.

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As more international visitors explore Korea’s fashion scene, one Seoul neighborhood is quickly rising in the ranks: Hannam-dong, located in Yongsan District. Known for its curated boutiques and trendy pop-up stores, Hannam-dong—especially Embassy Road 5-gil, just down from the Hannam Community Center—is drawing serious attention.

The area is lined with stores from rising Korean brands popular among younger shoppers, including the bag label Minuit Mut, womenswear lines like MUSEE, EMIS, Mardi Mercredi, and Lartigent. You’ll also find stylish showrooms exhibiting collections from up-and-coming local designers, giving the entire neighborhood a street-style runway vibe.

One of the standout success stories is Depound, a domestic womenswear brand that opened its Hannam location in 2020. The shop quickly went viral among tourists as an “Instagram spot,” and that popularity translated into major sales. From January to April this year, 70% of Depound’s sales came from international customers, with the number of overseas visitors increasing by 33% and revenue growing by 45% compared to the same period last year.

But Hannam-dong isn’t just about shopping. The neighborhood is packed with sleek cafes, concept stores, and must-try restaurants. It’s the perfect blend of modern Korean culture and global taste, which explains why it’s become such a hit with foreign tourists.

Another advantage? Location. Hannam-dong is nestled between Seoul’s key districts—Gangnam, Jongno, and Myeongdong—and is close to popular green spaces like Hangang Park and Namsan Park. In particular, Banpo Hangang Park (home to Sebitseom and the Moonlight Rainbow Fountain) and Ichon Hangang Park are just a short ride away. Even Ttukseom Hangang Park is relatively nearby.

Adding to its appeal is the neighborhood’s diplomatic and international flavor—Hannam-dong is home to many foreign embassies and hosts a variety of world cuisines, from traditional Korean to Italian, French, and Mexican. It’s also famous as one of Seoul’s most luxurious residential areas, favored by celebrities and business elites.

Top-tier residences like Nine One Hannam and The Hill (Hannam The Hill) are heavily guarded and highly private, featuring high-end villas, penthouses, and state-of-the-art security. K-pop icons like G-Dragon and BTS members Jimin and RM have reportedly made Hannam their home. In fact, G-Dragon currently resides in Nine One Hannam, and according to South Korea’s Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport, a 273㎡ unit in that building sold in February for 25 billion KRW—the highest apartment sale in Korea this year.

Meanwhile, The Hill continues to be another celebrity hotspot, with actor So Ji-sub, actress Han Hyo-joo, and several major industry leaders reportedly living there. Now in its 14th year, the massive complex includes 600 units across 32 buildings, and just this past March, a 243㎡ apartment sold for 17.5 billion KRW.

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This isn’t just a nostalgic nod to early-2000s emo or 90s alt-rock. Instead, it's a new wave of rock expression, filtered through the lens of modern K-pop, where vulnerability, edge, and theatricality collide.

Take BTS’s Jin, for example. With his second solo mini album Echo, Jin completes his transformation into a full-fledged rocker. In newly released concept photos, he appears with heavily layered long hair cascading past his neckline, and jet-black nail polish.

Adding to the edgy look are subtle wound-like makeup accents that instantly break away from his previously tidy, boy-next-door image. It’s a striking reinvention—raw, intense, and styled with precision.

His wardrobe embraces classic rock staples like leather and faux fur, punctuated with bold, oversized accessories. Details like star tattoos on his hands and artistic black nails give the look a rebellious yet curated energy. Jin isn’t just wearing rock—he’s embodying it, crafting a visual identity that feels both unexpected and undeniably powerful.

Kim Jaejoong, a longtime vocal powerhouse, has also fully embraced rock with the release of his new EP Beauty in Chaos on the 19th. In the concept visuals, he grabs a stand microphone in a cropped leather jacket, exhales smoke in dramatic profile, and glitters with ornate accessories—every image a deliberate embrace of glam-infused rock aesthetics. The styling is bold, fearless, and unmistakably loud.

The album centers on the theme of starting anew from the heart of chaos. The title track “Rock Star” delivers explosive energy through heavy guitar riffs and unfiltered emotion. Lyrically, it carries a fiery message: even the imperfect, masked parts of oneself are worth embracing, and when shared with someone else, that truth becomes a personal form of stardom. "You can be your own rock star," the song seems to say, "especially when you’re not alone."

Jaejoong’s styling—complete with statement headpieces, leather, Guitar in the MV, and attitude—mirrors this liberation. Explaining why he chose rock, Jaejoong said, “Rock gives me freedom. No matter what sound or emotion I layer on, the spirit of the music never loses its sense of freedom.”

It’s a genre, he suggests, that refuses to be tamed—and now, so does he.

NCT’s Yuta Channels High-Drama Rock Style

Meanwhile, NCT’s Yuta is pushing boundaries with “Twisted Paradise”, his recent Japanese single. The visual concept fuses elements of glam rock blending metallic accessories, dramatic makeup, and high-drama outfits.

Musically and visually, Yuta taps into chaotic glam and reinterprets it through a K-pop idol lens—part rebellion, part elegance. It's experimental, theatrical, and undeniably magnetic.

What these artists have in common is not just a sound, but a full-concept approach to rock. This includes fashion—leather, mesh, chains, and smoky makeup—crafted not as decoration but as narrative. Their performances embody tension, rawness, and confidence, revealing a desire to express deeper emotions and a broader range of masculinity. Rock gives these idols room to be messy, vulnerable, and loud in ways that feel fresh and authentic.

Fans are loving it and fans are celebrating this “rock boyfriend” era. Instead of seeing rock as outdated or niche, younger audiences are embracing it as cool again. In the hands of these idols, rock is being remixed for a new generation—not as a throwback, but as an evolution.

Ultimately, this isn’t just a trend. It’s a signal of K-pop’s continued expansion and a reflection of how artists are carving out new lanes to express themselves. For K-pop idols, rock isn’t just about rebellion—it’s about reinvention.

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According to Nielsen Korea, the episode achieved a 3.8% average and 5.0% peak rating in the Seoul metro area, and a 3.7% average and 4.5% peak rating nationwide, making it the No.1 show on paid platforms during its timeslot.

One of the most talked-about scenes involves Han Geum-joo discovering that her ex-fiancé Kim Joo-yeop (Yoo Eui-tae), who cheated on her, never canceled the wedding venue he originally booked with her—for his new bride, Lee Hana. She initially feels relieved after receiving the deposit refund, only to later learn that the money came from Joo-yeop himself, deepening her sense of betrayal.

Overwhelmed, Geum-joo attends a sobriety retreat but ends up drinking and disappearing. Seo Eui-jun finds her and gently says, “Let’s go. Don’t stay here like this.” She tries to stand, replying, “Yeah, let’s go,” but stumbles. As she collapses, Seo rushes to her side.

Rain suddenly pours down, and Seo takes off his coat and covers her head—a small gesture that speaks volumes.

Meanwhile, when the wedding shuttle bus arrives in her hometown, Geum-joo’s mother, Kim Kwang-ok (Kim Sung-ryung), turns her back. “Get on and leave. Don’t come back. I’ll pretend I never had a daughter,” she says coldly. Geum-joo mutters, “I’m sorry, Mom,” only to be met with, “I don’t want to hear it. Just go.” Stepping in, Seo Eui-jun diffuses the tension, pretending the bus wasn’t for the wedding, “I told them not to cancel the trip. It’s for the local elders. Hey, weren’t you supposed to explain? Did you forget?” He then helps Geum-joo onto the bus. “Come on. You promised to come too. Let’s go.”

But the bus makes a stop—right in front of Kim Joo-yeop’s wedding. Geum-joo steps off and walks into the venue but ultimately can’t bring herself to take any action. Seo, following her inside, witnesses the ceremony and is consumed by rage. In silent protest, he blocks Joo-yeop’s car with his own and refuses to answer his calls.

Later, Seo finds Geum-joo alone on a bridge and holds an umbrella over her. “What are you doing out here?” She replies, “I didn’t think anyone would be my umbrella in life… but it was you. I remember now. That’s why you tried so hard, wasn’t it?” In a past flashback, a drunk Geum-joo had said, “Eui-jun… I want to quit drinking. I thought I could do it if I just tried, but I was wrong. I’m so ashamed of how I live.” Seo replied, “Yeah. I wanted to help you. It felt like you truly meant it.” “You’re right. I want to stop drinking and start over. Help me,” she pleads.

In the episode’s epilogue, a mysterious man watches Seo Eui-jun’s lecture video, sipping alcohol and muttering, “Found you, Seo Eui-jun,” adding tension for the upcoming episodes.

Viewers have praised the drama for its emotional depth and performances. Comments include, “Choi Soo-young’s crying scenes are incredibly moving,” and “Gong Myung’s quiet warmth is so comforting.” One viewer wrote, “It’s the first time I’ve seen a drama explore addiction this honestly.”

Among Gen Z viewers, reactions on social media have been especially passionate:

“It hits hard because it feels real,”“Seo Eui-jun is dangerously sweet,” “This is supposed to be about quitting alcohol, but I’m the one emotionally intoxicated.” Lines from the show and its nuanced direction continue to go viral online, generating strong engagement and empathy.

'Second Shot at Love' airs Mondays and Tuesdays at 8:50 PM KST on tvN.

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According to Gallup Korea’s survey conducted from May 13 to 15 among 1,004 Korean adults, 'When Life Gives You Tangerines' ranked No.1 in the “Favorite TV Program” category for the third consecutive month, securing 5.2% of the vote.

The drama, a massive production with a reported ₩60 billion budget, tells the life story of a girl and a boy from Jeju Island over several decades. Starring IU and Park Bo-gum in their youth roles, with Moon So-ri and Park Hae-joon portraying their older selves, the series received critical acclaim for its nuanced emotional storytelling and a plot that weaves together personal and historical narratives with a poetic sensibility.

Initially released in March 2025 in a format of four episodes per week across four weeks (16 total episodes), the drama lingered in viewers’ minds long after it ended. With its emotionally delicate direction, lyrical visuals, and authentic Jeju dialect, it gained momentum on social media, prompting many fans to revisit the series. That growing word-of-mouth helped 'When Life Gives You Tangerines' return to the No.1 spot in Gallup’s rankings—an impressive feat considering it had already concluded.

The show's success isn’t just due to star power or production scale. By following the lives of protagonists Oh Ae-soon and Kang Gwan-sik, both born and raised in Jeju, the drama realistically explores key elements of Korea’s modern history: industrialization, military service, rural-to-urban migration, and the pressure of education. Viewers praised the way it tied individual stories to collective memory. Combined with thoughtful cinematography and a hauntingly beautiful score, the result is a piece of television that feels deeply lived-in.

Among Netflix original series, 'When Life Gives You Tangerines' is now the fifth to top Gallup Korea’s monthly TV popularity survey. Previous chart-topping titles include 'The Glory', 'Culinary Class War', 'Squid Game Season 2', and 'The Trauma Code: Heroes on Call'. Even before its release, 'When Life Gives You Tangerines' generated buzz as a “₩60 billion epic,” and it has now delivered on that promise, becoming a benchmark for how expectations can translate into impact.

What’s especially notable is how the series has also influenced how audiences consume content. With each batch of episodes, the show quickly dominated Netflix Korea’s domestic rankings. Its success suggests that Korean dramas don’t necessarily need season-based structures to have longevity—a single, well-told narrative can continue to resonate long after its release.

In Gallup Korea’s same survey, the runner-up was tvN’s weekend drama 'Resident Playbook' (3.8%), a spin-off of 'Hospital Playlist', which centers on the lives of OB-GYN residents and maintains a loyal fanbase. Following closely were KBS2’s 'For Eagles Brothers' (3.6%) at No.3, SBS’s fantasy sageuk 'The Haunted Palace' (2.8%) at No.4, and JTBC’s afterlife-themed 'Heavenly Ever After' (2.0%) at No.5.

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Jimmy Fallon greeted Jin warmly with a cheerful, “Welcome back!” The two quickly launched into a friendly and natural conversation, touching on topics like Jin’s recent encounter with Tom Cruise during his own variety show, Run BTS: Seokjin Edition.

At one point, Fallon playfully handed over hosting duties to Jin. Without missing a beat, Jin switched seats with Fallon and took over the show with ease and humor, steering the conversation with his trademark charm. He even tossed out a riddle-like question that sent the studio into laughter, showing off his quick wit and comedic timing.

The conversation then shifted to Jin’s upcoming first solo fan concert tour, which begins this June. When asked what fans could expect, Jin delivered a signature line:

“You can expect my not-so-bad vocals, but on top of that, you can look forward to seeing my handsome face up close.” The audience burst into cheers, and even Fallon couldn’t hold back his laughter.

Jin also took the stage for a performance of his new single, “Don’t Say You Love Me,” leaving no doubt about his global star power and stage presence.

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The series will mark the first drama featured in SBT's new Asia-focused programming block—an initiative that has sparked excitement among local fans of Korean entertainment. Supporters of Kim Soo-hyun have responded enthusiastically, flooding SBT’s website and social media with celebratory comments and even creating and sharing promotional content on their own.

This news comes at a time when Kim Soo-hyun has been under public scrutiny due to controversy surrounding the late actress Kim Sae-ron.

Ongoing Dispute Regarding Relationship Timeline

A report published on May 21 by Money Today claimed that Kim Sae-ron was romantically involved with a well-known older male idol, referred to as “A,” beginning around 2018. According to the report, the two separated briefly in early 2019 before reuniting in mid-2022. It was during this latter period—around the time of Kim Sae-ron’s DUI incident—that “A” allegedly lent her a large sum of money to help with financial difficulties.

Meanwhile, Kim Sae-ron’s family has alleged through the YouTube channel Garo Sero Institute that she and Kim Soo-hyun were in a romantic relationship from 2016, when she was just 15, until 2022. They have demanded a public apology from the actor.

Kim Soo-hyun’s representatives have denied these claims, stating that their relationship began only in the summer of 2019, after Kim had reached adulthood, and ended in the fall of 2020.

Impact on Kim Soo-hyun’s Current Projects

Due to the ongoing public debate and legal sensitivities, Kim Soo-hyun’s upcoming Disney+ drama Knock Off, in which he stars alongside Cho Bo-ah, has been put on indefinite hold. As conflicting narratives continue to emerge, the global entertainment industry is watching closely to see how the situation unfolds and how it might affect Kim’s career trajectory moving forward.

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Sprite is known for its bold, trendy campaigns each summer, and this year is no different. The focus of 2025’s campaign is to capture the exhilarating freshness and sharp cooling effect that Sprite Zero Chill brings, making it the perfect drink to beat the heat.

The new ad opens with Karina looking overwhelmed by the blazing summer sun. As she cracks open a can of Sprite Zero Chill, a rush of carbonated fizz fills the screen—and in a flash, the scene transforms into a high-energy music festival drenched in refreshing water sprays. On stage, Karina delivers a powerful performance, exuding confidence and coolness while enjoying the crisp, chill taste of the product.

Karina shared her thoughts on the shoot, saying, “The energy on set was intense because we filmed with real fans, but one sip of Sprite Zero Chill really cooled me down. If you ever need a moment to feel chill like me, I definitely recommend trying it.”

A Sprite brand representative added, “We designed the commercial to let viewers feel the rush of coolness and freshness that comes from drinking Sprite Zero Chill—through Karina’s performance and expression.”

They also emphasized the brand’s intention to further strengthen its identity as the ultimate soda of summer through expanded online and offline engagement, with Karina as the face of the campaign.

The full ad is available starting today (May 22) on Coca-Cola’s official YouTube channel and Instagram.

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Son came on in the 67th minute, replacing Richarlison, and remained on the pitch until the final whistle, playing a vital role in securing the historic win. This marks the first major title of his professional club career.

While Son previously claimed gold with South Korea at the 2018 Asian Games, his senior-level career—both with the national team and Spurs—had been marked by a string of near-misses. He had reached the final in three major tournaments with Tottenham, only to fall short each time. This long-awaited victory is therefore all the more meaningful.

A Shout-Out to a Legendary Partner: Harry Kane

This unforgettable night wouldn’t be complete without a nod to Son’s longtime strike partner and close friend, Harry Kane, now playing for Bayern Munich. Though they’ve gone their separate ways on the field, their bond remains strong off of it.

In a post-match interview with German outlet RTL, Son sent an emotional message directly to Kane: “Harry, we finally won!” Kane, in turn, congratulated his former club with an Instagram Story.

Ironically, Kane also celebrated his own first major league title this season, leading Bayern Munich to the top of the Bundesliga and finishing as the league’s top scorer with 24 goals. Though he missed out on the title in his debut year, his comeback was nothing short of poetic.

Son and Kane formed what is widely considered the most prolific attacking duo in Premier League history. Together, they combined for 47 goals in the EPL, breaking the long-standing record held by Didier Drogba and Frank Lampard. Their goal conversion rate—1.29 goals per 90 minutes—is a stat that stands unmatched in league history.

Across all competitions, the pair recorded a staggering 192 goals in 401 matches, accounting for 48% of Spurs’ total goals during their time together. That’s an average of 1.78 goals per game.

Son’s strength lay in his explosive speed and ability to break into space, while Kane excelled in link-up play and distribution. Under José Mourinho, they orchestrated Tottenham’s entire attack—like they were connected by telepathy.

Kane once called Son “the most underrated player in the world’s top league”, describing their partnership as something close to psychic.

Both Son Heung-min and Harry Kane are already cemented in Tottenham Hotspur’s history books. The "Son-Kane duo" will forever be remembered as one of the most iconic partnerships in both Premier League and Spurs history.

Though they never lifted a trophy together, their legacy continues to grow. And now, in the same season—on different teams, in different leagues—they each finally raised a long-awaited trophy. Their names are once again spoken side by side.

Son Heung-min's close friend, actor Park Seo-joon, also drew attention by showing up at the stadium. After the victory, fans were delighted to spot Park making a surprise appearance in a photo Son posted to celebrate the win.

Recently, ''My Mister'' was honored once again—this time by the employees of CJ ENM, who voted it No. 1 in a special “All-Time Favorites” poll. As part of CJ ENM’s “Visionary” project celebrating 30 years of cultural content, the company hosted an internal campaign called the “Visionary Fans’ Choice Edition,” and ''My Mister'' came out on top. On May 20, CJ ENM held a special “My Mister Homecoming Fan Meeting” at its headquarters in Sangam, Seoul, bringing together the drama’s creators and devoted fans.

Director Kim Won-seok and screenwriter Park Hae-young attended in person, sharing insights into why the series continues to resonate. Speaking to an audience of over 80 CJ ENM staff members, they reflected on the creative journey, the enduring power of content, and the philosophy behind its emotional storytelling.

Director Kim said, “There were many challenges before we could bring this series to life, but I’m so thankful that it still receives so much love seven years later. I think it stands out as a ‘real’ drama—something that feels more truthful than flashy or cinematic.”

He emphasized that distinctiveness is the most important quality in content, and that ''My Mister'' is a prime example of this principle at work.

Writer Park Hae-young added, “This project was only possible because hundreds of staff members worked with one heart and one purpose. It reminded me again how essential perseverance and the power of collective creativity really are.”

''My Mister'' aired from March 21 to May 17, 2018, for a total of 16 episodes. The story follows three middle-aged brothers, weighed down by life, and a young woman hardened by loneliness and struggle, as they begin to heal through each other’s presence.

Lee Sun-kyun played Park Dong-hoon, a quietly enduring man carrying emotional wounds, while IU (Lee Ji-eun) portrayed Lee Ji-an, a young woman weathered by trauma. The drama’s ensemble cast—featuring Park Ho-san, Song Sae-byeok, and Go Doo-shim—delivered a powerful and immersive viewing experience.

Lee Sun-kyun’s restrained, nuanced performance earned him praise as “a man who lives like a life-sentenced prisoner,” embodying the image of the kind of adult the world desperately needs. IU, in a complete departure from her typically bubbly persona, offered a heartbreaking, layered portrayal of Ji-an that many consider her best work to date.

Park Ho-san stood out as the warm but troubled eldest brother, Park Sang-hoon, while Song Sae-byeok impressed as the irritable yet deeply thoughtful Park Ki-hoon.

Critical and Commercial Success

''My Mister'' was not only a critical darling—it was a ratings powerhouse. The finale achieved a nationwide household rating of 7.4%, peaking at 8.8% across cable, satellite, and IPTV platforms (according to Nielsen Korea). It ranked No. 1 across all channels in its time slot, including terrestrial networks, and dominated the 2049 demographic, with ratings as high as 5.0%.

Remarkably, the show topped its time slot across every age group—from teens to those in their 50s—proving its wide appeal and lasting emotional grip.

What sets ''My Mister'' apart is its focus on people—not events. Rather than relying on extravagant plot twists, the drama offers a raw, sensitive portrayal of everyday struggles: humiliation at work, tension at home, loneliness, and quiet despair. Park Hae-young’s empathetic dialogue and Kim Won-seok’s warm direction gave the series a tender emotional texture that struck a chord with viewers.

Week after week, the drama delivered sincere comfort to its audience—something rare and precious in today’s crowded media landscape.

A now-iconic quote from the finale, spoken by the character Bong-ae (played by Son Sook), still lingers in viewers’ hearts: “It’s a beautiful connection. A precious one. When you look closely, all relationships are miraculous and valuable.”

Few dramas stand the test of time. Even fewer maintain their cultural relevance seven years later. ''My Mister'' has done both. Its depth, compassion, and unwavering focus on the human experience prove that stories rooted in sincerity will always endure.

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The video captures the vibrant atmosphere of the ad shoot for theVenti’s latest campaign, which launched on May 13. Much like the brand’s new menu item—‘Dragon Smoothie’—the set was filled with bright, lively energy.

In the video, G-DRAGON shows off his natural charm in front of the camera, presenting a friendly and playful side. Between takes, he also offered creative input and worked closely with the crew to fine-tune details of the shoot, demonstrating his professional side and artistic sensibility.

The campaign film has garnered attention for its sleek aesthetic and emotional appeal. The trendy café interior paired with the visually striking ‘Dragon Smoothie’ effectively showcases the brand’s identity and highlights the appeal of its newest offering.

The behind-the-scenes video is now available on theVenti’s official YouTube channel and social media platforms.

A representative from theVenti stated, “This first campaign video was created to blend our brand identity with the model’s one-of-a-kind style and creative energy. Starting with this making film, we plan to continue sharing engaging brand stories and content that connect with our customers.”

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Shortly after tvN’s new drama ''Resident Playbook'' premiered on April 12, viewer numbers for both Season 1 and Season 2 of ''Hospital Playlist'' skyrocketed. According to Tving, Season 1 saw a 278% increase in viewership, while Season 2 rose by 219%. The new release effectively drove audiences back to previous seasons, showcasing the measurable impact of strong franchise IPs on content consumption.

TVING shared plans to double down on this strategy—building a system that encourages viewers to watch both new and existing content in a connected way, to stand out in an increasingly competitive OTT market.

'Hospital Playlist' Reinforces the Power of Seasonal Dramas

The first season of ''Hospital Playlist'' aired in 2020 and quickly became a weekly ritual for Korean viewers every Thursday. Unlike conventional medical dramas, it charmed audiences with its warm storytelling, human-centered narratives, and emotionally rich direction. While set in a hospital, the show avoided dark or overly dramatic tropes, instead focusing on the lives and relationships of five friends who graduated from Seoul National University Medical School in 1999.

The main characters—Lee Ik-jun (hepato-pancreato-biliary surgery), An Jeong-won (pediatric surgery), Yang Seok-hyeong (obstetrics and gynecology), Kim Jun-wan (cardiothoracic surgery), and Chae Song-hwa (neurosurgery)—reunite at the same hospital, navigating life, work, and friendship together.

Though medical themes are present, the core of the series lies in the emotional choices and bonds between characters. It delicately portrays ethical dilemmas, life-and-death decisions, and moving stories of patients and their families—all while maintaining a soothing and hopeful tone.

A standout element beloved by fans was the band scenes. After work, the main characters would gather to play instruments and sing together, adding emotional depth to the series. Actress Jeon Mi-do’s performance of “I Knew I Love” became a chart-topping hit, extending the show’s influence beyond TV.

Spin-Off Success Validates the Franchise Model

The second season, released in 2021, continued to generate buzz and high ratings—its finale surpassed 14% nationwide viewership. Over the course of both seasons, ''Hospital Playlist'' proved that seasonal dramas could be both commercially successful and culturally resonant.

Nearly four years later, the newly launched ''Resident Playbook'' serves as a spin-off. While the cast changed, the story remained within the familiar universe of the original series, immediately attracting interest. Ratings climbed steadily throughout its run, with the final episode reaching 8.1%.

This trend reflects a broader shift in the OTT landscape. Platforms like Tving are moving beyond the race to secure flashy new content and are instead building long-term engagement through legacy IPs and interconnected viewing models.

TVING also recently found success with another franchise—ENA’s military-themed series ''The New Recruit 3''. Its release reignited interest in Seasons 1 and 2, demonstrating once again the power of seasonal and franchise-based content in Korea’s evolving streaming market.

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In the final episode of the Netflix reality show released on May 20, Jung Hyun-kyu made a dramatic comeback after being on the brink of elimination. The episode also featured an unexpected reshuffling of alliances that led to mixed reactions among fans. Some viewers questioned the actions of Jung, Yoon So-hee, and Kyuhyun, leaving harsh comments online. Many argued that Yoon and Kyuhyun played a decisive role in Jung’s victory.

One particularly heated moment was when Yoon So-hee, despite having a strong chance of defeating Jung, appeared to give up the match. This led to outrage, with some calling it “unprecedented” and accusing her of abandoning the core idea of a survival game. Critics commented, “Is this a survival show or a dating program?”, and “I’ve never seen someone cry while pushing someone else to first place.” Other reactions included “Most boring season ever” and questions like “Why is Hyun-kyu always the one winning in that alliance?” sparked by castmate Sevenhigh’s pointed remarks.

That said, some viewers also defended the outcome. Comments like “It’s just a game,” “We should respect personal choices,” and “Hyun-kyu made the best moves he could” offered a more understanding perspective, showing that not all feedback was negative.

Kyuhyun addressed the controversy on May 21 through a fan communication platform, saying, “The production team couldn’t show everything on air. I have my own regrets, but it is what it is.” He added, “I’ll share the behind-the-scenes stories another time. Just know that among the cast, we’re really close and understanding of each other, so I hope viewers can see us in a positive light. Everyone had their own reasons.”

While Kyuhyun’s comments reassured some fans, the controversy continues to stir discussion online.

''The Devil’s Plan: Death Room'' is a brain survival game where contestants from diverse professional backgrounds live together for seven days and compete to prove who’s the smartest. This season featured players like Lee Sedol, Kyuhyun, Kang Ji-young, Yoon So-hee, Sevenhigh, Lee Seung-hyun, Jung Hyun-kyu, Choi Hyun-joon, Chuu, Kim Harin, Park Sang-yeon, Son Eun-yoo, and Tino.

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On May 21, his agency Beat Interactive released an official statement saying, “Kim Taeyang recently experienced chest pain during practice and visited the hospital. After undergoing tests, he was diagnosed with a minor rib fracture.”

Doctors advised the artist to minimize physical movement for the time being. As a result, Kim will not be able to participate in performances involving intense choreography. However, he is determined to join scheduled events, including the opening stage at Chung-Ang University’s festival on May 21, by remaining seated on stage without performing choreography.

The agency added, “Out of respect for the artist’s strong will to appear, he will take part in performances while seated, without dancing.”

Future participation in group schedules will be determined based on medical advice and Kim Taeyang’s condition. Should he be unable to attend certain events, the agency will notify fans in advance.

📝 Official Statement from Beat Interactive

Hello, this is Beat Interactive.

We would like to provide an update regarding NEWBEAT member Kim Taeyang’s health and future schedule. Kim Taeyang recently felt chest pain during practice and was diagnosed with a minor rib fracture. Following medical advice, he is required to avoid strenuous movement for the time being.

Although he cannot participate in performances involving intense choreography, he will still attend all currently scheduled events, including today’s opening stage at Chung-Ang University, in a seated position without choreography, as per his wishes.

His future activities will be adjusted depending on his health condition and doctors’ guidance. We will inform fans in advance of any changes.

We sincerely apologize for causing concern and thank you for your understanding. The artist’s health remains our top priority, and we are doing our best to support his recovery.

Thank you.

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On May 19, JYP Entertainment officially announced via social media that ‘THIS IS FOR’, TWICE’s long-awaited new album, will be released on July 11 at 1 PM KST. Alongside the announcement, the agency also dropped an intro film, showcasing all nine members in a one-take concept centered around the keyword “FOUR.” The group’s charisma immediately sent fans into a frenzy worldwide.

Then, at midnight on May 21, the album’s title, release date, and online cover art were revealed, confirming the comeback that fans have been anticipating for nearly three years and eight months since their last studio album, ‘Formula of Love: O+T=<3’ in November 2021.

In celebration of their 10th anniversary, TWICE members have begun opening up about their journey. On the May 20 broadcast of SBS variety show ‘Whenever Possible’, members Jihyo and Sana appeared as guests alongside MC Yoo Jae-suk, who asked, “What does it feel like to be a group in your 10th year?”

The response? Both Jihyo and Sana let out a long “Ooh~” and sighed — a candid reaction that immediately drew laughter.

Jihyo went on to share a surprisingly honest thought. “It feels like time flew by… and now that it’s been 10 years, I wonder how I should spend the next 10.” She added that she loves coffee so much that she has a professional extractor at home. “I’d love to keep being an idol, but honestly, in our line of work, we never really know. Maybe I’ll open a café someday — who knows?”

🌍 Summer of TWICE: Global Festival Stage Confirmed

Beyond the album drop, TWICE is also set to heat up the global stage. On August 2 (local time), the group will take the spotlight as a headliner at Lollapalooza Chicago, one of the biggest music festivals in the world, held in Grant Park, Illinois.

With this major performance, TWICE continues to prove their global status as a stadium-level act, setting the stage for a red-hot summer.

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On May 21, WAVVE announced the upcoming release of its new original drama 'ONE: High School Heroes', based on the massively popular Kakao Webtoon ‘ONE’, which has racked up over 65 million views. The series will premiere exclusively on WAVVE on May 30.

‘ONE: High School Heroes’ follows the story of Ui-gyeom (played by Lee Jung-ha), a top student living under his authoritarian father’s shadow, and Yoon-gi (played by Kim Do-wan), who sees through Ui-gyeom’s hidden fighting potential. Together, they form the masked vigilante group High School Heroes, aiming to shatter the brutal school violence hierarchy and unleash their long-suppressed rage.

The newly released main trailer teases just that. Viewers watch as seemingly model student Ui-gyeom awakens his inner fighter, challenged and manipulated by Yoon-gi to confront rising bullies one by one.

A War Against Violence

One of the most gripping scenes shows Ui-gyeom’s father flicking his forehead with domineering cruelty — a stark contrast to the explosive rage that later erupts from Ui-gyeom. Meanwhile, Yoon-gi plays the dark strategist, orchestrating fights from the shadows and drawing out Ui-gyeom’s dormant aggression.

The trailer ends with a chilling line: “If you can’t escape it, break it.”

What follows is a barrage of high-impact fight scenes as Ui-gyeom and Yoon-gi take down violent students and rise as the school's masked enforcers.

Adding to the intrigue are two key characters. Lee Geol-jae (played by Yook Jun-seo), a mysterious transfer student and Choi Ki-soo (played by Yoo Hee-je), the undefeated top fighter on campus.

Both captivate with intense gazes and electrifying action sequences, promising to heighten the show’s tension and energy.

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On May 20, Chinese high-end fashion magazine Feng Shang Zhi (F 风尚志) previewed its upcoming June issue via official social media channels, announcing Hyeri as the cover star. In the teaser photo, Hyeri captivates with doll-like visuals — full bangs, rosy cheeks, and a dreamy expression surrounded by lush green leaves, radiating fairy-tale vibes in just one shot.

But this isn't just another magazine cover.

The upcoming issue is a special birthday edition celebrating Hyeri’s birthday on June 9, making her the first Korean celebrity to ever receive a birthday-themed issue, and the first Korean actress to appear on the cover of Feng Shang Zhi. The magazine is known for featuring global icons such as Fan Bingbing, Angelababy, Joan Chen, and Isabelle Huppert, making Hyeri’s appearance all the more remarkable.

🌟 From K-pop Star to Acting Sensation

Hyeri debuted in 2010 when she joined the girl group Girl’s Day, helping lead the group through its golden era.

Her acting breakthrough came in 2015 with the beloved tvN drama ‘Reply 1988’, where she played the iconic role of Sung Deok-sun. The role cemented her status as a bona fide actress. She continued to receive love through numerous projects.

Hyeri is also gearing up for her upcoming solo fan meeting: ‘2025 HYERI FANMEETING TOUR: Welcome to HYERI’s STUDIO IN SEOUL’, which will be held on Saturday, June 7 at Ewha Womans University Samsung Hall.

With her international influence growing stronger than ever, Hyeri is proving she’s more than a K-pop idol — she’s a global force.

Even more impressively, it has soared to No.2 globally among non-English Netflix series, according to Netflix’s official stats site Tudum. From May 12 to 18, the drama recorded 6.6 million global viewing hours, placing it 5th overall across all languages and platforms.

The series has taken the No.1 spot in 17 countries including South Korea, the Philippines, Vietnam, Thailand, Taiwan, Hong Kong, and Indonesia, and ranked in the Top 10 in 53 countries worldwide.

💥 A Recipe for Romance and Rivalry

‘Tastefully Yours’ tells the story of Han Beom-woo (Kang Ha-neul), a chaebol heir with an eye on the throne of his family’s food conglomerate, and Mo Yeon-joo (Go Min-si), a headstrong chef who runs a one-table restaurant in Jeonju. What starts as a culinary clash soon simmers into an unlikely romance — with high-stakes cooking competitions and power struggles on the side.

In episode 4, aired recently, Beom-woo goes head-to-head with his older brother Han Sun-woo (played by Bae Na-ra) at a food festival sponsored last-minute by their family company. Despite Beom-woo’s efforts to support Yeon-joo — from sourcing ingredients himself to revamping the menu — sabotage from Sun-woo and Jang Young-hye (Hong Hwa-yeon) leads to their defeat.

But that setback sparks something deeper: Beom-woo finally admits his feelings for Yeon-joo, leading to their first kiss and a fast-moving shift in their relationship. Yeon-joo, who initially dismissed him as arrogant, begins to see a different side of him.

The show cleverly mixes K-drama’s classic chaebol fantasy with fresh elements like gourmet cooking and an inheritance battle. Strong performances and sizzling chemistry between the leads, especially Kang Ha-neul and Go Min-si, are also credited for captivating international viewers.

Other Korean dramas are also performing well: 'Dear Hongrang' starring Lee Jae-wook and Cho Bo-ah debuted at No.6 globally with 2.2 million views in just three days. tvN’s 'Resident Playbook' also hit No.9 with 1.9 million views.

🔥 What’s Next?

Episode 4 ends with a mysterious twist — Yeon-joo finds a strange lighter in a burnt kitchen. And the preview for episode 5 teases a surprise appearance by actor Yoo Yeon-seok, hinting at more intrigue ahead.

'Tastefully Yours' airs every Monday and Tuesday at 10 PM KST on the ENA channel and is available as free VOD on Genie TV immediately after. Global viewers can stream it on Netflix.

Ep. 1 (May 12): 1.5%

Ep. 2 (May 13): 2.0%

Ep. 3 (May 19): 2.4%

Ep. 4 (May 20): 3.1%

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According to a recent big data analysis by the Korea Corporate Reputation Research Institute (KCRRI), BLACKPINK’s Jennie ranked No. 1 in the individual girl group member brand rankings for May 2025.

The data, collected between April 18 and May 18, analyzed the online activity and engagement of 725 female K-pop idols, with over 103 million data points gathered to calculate what’s known as the “brand reputation index.”

Trailing just behind Jennie were IVE’s Jang Wonyoung in second place, and BLACKPINK’s Rosé in third.

The top 30 rankings also included some of the most beloved names in K-pop right now:

Jennie (BLACKPINK), Jang Wonyoung (IVE), Rosé (BLACKPINK), Karina (aespa), An Yujin (IVE), Winter (aespa), Joy (Red Velvet), Rei (IVE), Seulgi (Red Velvet), Yuna (ITZY), Kim Chaewon (LE SSERAFIM), and Sana (TWICE).

What is the “Brand Reputation Index”?

This index is derived from big data analysis that reflects how consumers interact with and talk about idols online — from media coverage and social buzz to fan engagement and community response. The index comprises four key scores:

Participation, Media, Communication, and Community.

KCRRI’s May data saw a 5.05% increase in overall activity compared to April, highlighting growing online engagement with female idols.

🥇 Jennie (BLACKPINK)

Total Brand Index: 9.47 million

Participation: 1.98M

Media: 1.88M

Communication: 2.40M

Community: 3.21M

⬆️ Up 42.78% from April

Jennie’s name trended strongly with keywords like “Like Jennie,” “Met Gala,” and “You Quiz,” and received a 90.43% positive sentiment score. Link analysis revealed descriptors like “confident,” “iconic,” and “authentic.”

Total Brand Index: 6.21 million

⬆️ Slight increase of 1.95% from April

Total Brand Index: 5.49 million

⬆️ Jumped 13.51% from April

With powerhouse idols like Jennie and Jang Wonyoung leading the charge, it’s clear that girl group members are dominating online conversations and shaping cultural trends beyond just music. Who’s your No.1 this month?

The surprise encounter happened on YouTube’s 'Run BTS Jin', where Cruise made a guest appearance to chat with the K-pop superstar. The episode was packed with behind-the-scenes stories, personal confessions, and unexpected chemistry between the two global icons.

Jin kicked off the interview with his signature wit, asking, “Do you know BTS?” Cruise didn’t hesitate: “YES,” he replied, instantly setting the tone for a relaxed and fun conversation.

Jin shared a touching memory, revealing that the first film he watched after turning 15 was from the 'Mission: Impossible' series — a franchise led by Cruise himself. Jin spoke with genuine admiration for the actor, and Cruise returned the affection with warm words about Korea.

Coming to Korea 12 times, Cruise said. “The culture is amazing, the people are incredibly warm, the history is fascinating, and the food is absolutely delicious.”

Jin was delighted and asked Cruise which Korean dishes he liked. Cruise’s answer? “I love samgyeopsal (grilled pork belly).”

Jin, ever the proud Korean foodie, had another recommendation up his sleeve: Mulhwe. “I like bold flavors,” he said. “There’s a dish in Korea called mulhwe. It’s raw fish sliced up with vegetables and seafood, all mixed with a spicy gochujang-based sauce. It’s very spicy and really good. You should definitely try it before you leave.”

Cruise smiled and responded enthusiastically, saying he loves spicy food and anything with fish and vegetables — promising to try mulhwe next time, much to fans’ delight.

Meanwhile, 'Mission: Impossible – Dead Reckoning' is currently thrilling audiences worldwide. The film follows Ethan Hunt (played by Cruise) and his IMF team as they dive into a life-or-death mission to stop a global catastrophe. It's being screened to rave reviews in Korea and beyond.

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In the photo, Su-hyun is seen wearing a checkered top and showing off her bare, makeup-free face. What stood out most was the bright red sunburn on her forehead and around her eyes—seemingly caused by wearing a mask while cycling under the Jeju sun. Her dazed expression, staring off into space as if stunned by the unexpected burn, made fans laugh.

AKMU (formerly known as Akdong Musician) is a sibling duo that won first place on SBS’s K-pop Star Season 2 in 2012.

They made their official debut in 2014 under YG Entertainment. Their debut album PLAY, entirely written by Lee Chan-hyuk, included hits like “200%,” “Give Love,” and “Melted,” which quickly topped Korean music charts and showcased their unique musical identity.

Since then, AKMU has continued to gain massive love from fans with a long list of hit tracks including “Reality,” “DINOSAUR,” “Last Goodbye,” “NAKKA” (with IU), and “How Can I Love the Heartbreak.

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According to an exclusive report by Edaily on May 20, Lee recently gave birth to a healthy baby girl. Both the mother and newborn are reported to be in good health and are currently resting and recovering well.

Her agency, KX Entertainment, confirmed the news on the same day, stating, “Lee Si-won gave birth to a daughter last month. Both mother and baby are doing well.”

Lee made her acting debut in 2012 through the historical drama Dream of the Emperor, and has since built a steady career with roles in hit series like Misaeng, All About My Mom, Queen of Mystery, Suits, and Maestra. Known for her solid performances, she’s been praised for her versatility and emotional depth on screen.

A graduate of Seoul National University’s Business School, Lee is also widely recognized as one of Korea’s top “brainy beauties.” In 2023, she drew widespread attention with her appearance on Netflix’s The Devil’s Plan, where she charmed audiences with her intelligence, sincerity, and strategic gameplay.

Lee stood out for her sharp tactics and fair gameplay, earning the nickname “Kingmaker” after significantly contributing to Ha Seok-jin’s ultimate victory. The show’s popularity soared globally, leading to the production of a second season.

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Originally formed through Mnet’s 2017 girl group survival show Idol School, fromis_9 has gone through significant changes over the years. In 2022, Jang Gyuri left the group to pursue an acting career. Then in 2023, Lee Saerom, Lee Seoyeon, and Roh Jisun departed the group following the expiration of their contracts with Pledis Entertainment.

The remaining five members—Song Hayoung, Park Jiwon, Lee Nagyung, Lee Chaeyoung, and Baek Jiheon—signed exclusive contracts with a new agency, Ascend, in January this year and confirmed they would continue group activities.

fromis_9, known for hits like “LOVE BOMB,” “DM,” “Stay This Way,” and “Supersonic,” has consistently captivated fans with their catchy music and bright energy. With the group now restructured into a five-member lineup, fans are eager to see what kind of sound and concept they will bring to the stage this time.

Their upcoming release will be their first since the emotional farewell performance as an eight-member group at the 2024 MBC Gayo Daejejeon, where members tearfully said goodbye—leaving fans both touched and heartbroken.

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This achievement is particularly meaningful given Indonesia’s growing reputation as a new battleground for Hallyu (the Korean Wave), and the dominance of Vidio as a leading content platform. Outperforming numerous other K-dramas, Spring of Youth is proving its impact far beyond Korea’s borders.

Spring of Youth tells the story of Sa-gye, a former superstar from a top K-pop band who is unexpectedly kicked out of the group. As he begins a new chapter in college, he meets Kim Bom—a fateful encounter that leads to love, growth, and a bold comeback. It’s a fresh blend of youthful energy, emotional beats, and musical charm.

Starring rising talents Ha Yujun, Park Jihoo, and Lee Seunghyub, the show’s cast chemistry and refreshing vibe have captured both domestic and international viewers. Fans on social media have been flooding comment sections with messages like “Drama name please!” and “Who’s the idol actor?”—a clear sign of global curiosity.

The production team shared, “We’re thrilled by the enthusiastic response from Indonesia’s top OTT platform, especially as the country becomes a new hub for Korean content. From episodes 4 to 10, expect even more exciting stories that transcend generations, borders, and cultures. Please stay tuned!”

Spring of Youth airs every Wednesday at 10:40 PM KST. Episode 4 is scheduled to air on May 21.

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Actress Kim Go-eun attended the festival as a brand ambassador for Nespresso, an official partner of the Cannes Film Festival. On May 15 (local time), she appeared on the red carpet in a chic short haircut styled with waves, wearing a tweed jumpsuit by luxury brand Chanel.

She layered the outfit with a black chiffon cape, creating a sleek and elegant all-black ensemble. Silver earrings and rings added a touch of glamour to her refined look.

On May 18, TWICE member Mina stepped onto the Cannes red carpet as the Japanese ambassador for French high jewelry brand Boucheron. She wore a strapless black dress with an asymmetrical hemline, paired with a low bun hairstyle that highlighted her graceful neck and shoulders.

Her jewelry, including a necklace and earrings inspired by delicate leaves, immediately captured the spotlight.

Actress Han So-hee returned to Cannes for the second year in a row, this time once again as a global ambassador for Boucheron. Attending the red carpet event held at the Palais des Festivals in Cannes, she wore a softly shimmering off-white dress complemented by a dazzling statement necklace.

Her elegant figure and charismatic gaze matched the glamour of the film festival, drawing a flurry of camera flashes from global press. Han radiated overwhelming presence, living up to her role as a global ambassador.

Whether it was Kim Go-eun’s effortless chic, Mina’s refined simplicity, or Han So-hee’s bold sophistication, Korean stars brought a powerful blend of fashion and presence to the global stage. Their appearances at Cannes not only showcased individual elegance but also highlighted the global influence of K-culture in the world of film and fashion.

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Lee Jae-wook reflects on personal topics during press interview. On May 19, Lee Jae-wook sat down for a media interview at a café in Samcheong-dong, Seoul, to talk about his latest Netflix drama, 'Dear Hongrang'. During the session, he addressed everything from past dating with aespa’s Karina to his views on marriage.

According to News1, Lee was asked how he handled the situation when his relationship with Karina became public while filming the drama. He replied carefully, “The dating news didn’t really affect my focus on acting. But if I go too deep into it, it could get too personal, so I’d prefer if we stick to questions about Hongrang.”

Back in 2024, Lee and Karina first met at a luxury fashion show in Milan. Shortly after, dating rumors surfaced, and the two confirmed they were in a relationship. However, they announced their breakup just five weeks later.

When asked about his co-star Cho Bo-ah, who recently tied the knot, Lee opened up about his own views on marriage. “I talked about this once on a variety show—I’ve always had this romantic idea of what marriage should be,” he shared. “Maybe it’s because I grew up missing that sense of family. So yes, I definitely want to get married someday. I’m not sure when exactly, but I know it’s something I want in the future.”

Lee also revealed that he underwent a strict physical transformation for 'Dear Hongrang', focusing intensely on action scenes and bringing his body fat percentage down to around 5–6%. He said the role pushed him both physically and emotionally, setting it apart from his previous work.

The story follows Hongrang (played by Lee Jae-wook), the long-lost son of Joseon’s largest merchant group, who returns after 12 years with no memory of his past. Only his half-sister Jae-yi (played by Cho Bo-ah) suspects something is off. As tension grows between them, an unexpected emotional connection begins to form.

Lee’s character, Hongrang, may look, speak, and act exactly like the real son of the merchant group, but doubts linger—especially for Jae-yi, who is convinced he’s an imposter. The drama explores mystery, identity, and forbidden feelings in a historical melodrama setting.

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On May 16, the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism unveiled a new promotional video titled ‘Dubai, Who’s Ready?’, featuring the three beloved Korean stars. The video is a continuation of last year’s campaign and begins with a lighthearted scene where a falcon swoops in and snatches the phone of a heartbroken friend. In an effort to cheer him up, Park Seo-jun, Choi Woo-shik, and Park Hyung-sik set off on a vibrant adventure through Dubai.

From the majestic sand dunes of Al Qudra Desert to a serene yoga session in Mina A’Salam, a walk through the traditional alleys of Al Seef, and a playful round of Topgolf, the video captures Dubai’s diverse charm in a visually unique way.

The campaign stands out not only for its stunning visuals, but also for the chemistry between the three stars, who are known to be real-life friends. Their effortless banter and quirky energy add a warm, authentic touch to the campaign as they explore every corner of the city.

Shahab Shayan, Director of Asia Pacific for Dubai Tourism, stated, “Through the actors’ global popularity, we aim to convey Dubai’s vibrant energy and diverse experiences to audiences not just in Korea but around the world. This campaign reflects our broader marketing strategy and our vision to position Dubai as not only a top travel destination but also an ideal place to live and work.”

Park Hyung-sik shared, “I’m really grateful to visit Dubai again this year. It was such a joy to show my friends the breathtaking views and lively spirit of the city, which made filming even more fun.”

Park Seo-jun added, “This was my first time in Dubai, and I was honestly blown away by the city’s beauty and energy. I’m also very thankful to all the local fans for the warm welcome.”

Choi Woo-shik expressed his excitement as well: “Even though the shoot was short, it was an incredible opportunity to experience so many sides of Dubai firsthand.”

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High Zium Studio is a comprehensive entertainment company that operates across drama production and talent management, actively shaping new trends in the industry. The studio has produced numerous hit dramas, including Mr. Plankton, A Virtuous Business, Family By Choice, Doctor Slump, and Money Heist: Korea – Joint Economic Area.

Its artist roster features many well-known actors, including Song Joong-ki, Go Bo-gyeol, Kwon Seung-woo, Kim Ji-won, Ryu Hae-jun, Seo Eun-soo, Yang Kyung-won, Oh Eui-shik, Im Chul-soo, Jung Jae-kwang, and Han Ji-won—adding credibility and prestige to the audition program.

The open call is available to aspiring male and female actors of South Korean nationality born between 2000 and 2007. Applications will be accepted via email from May 19 to June 8. The audition process includes three rounds: a first-round online document screening, a second-round in-person audition, and a final in-person callback.

Additional details about the audition can be found on the official High Zium Studio website and social media channels. The promotional poster also features the faces of current High Zium artists, adding a sense of trust and inspiration for potential applicants.

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Hyun Bin appeared relaxed with a beard, while Jang Dong-gun’s slightly flushed face gave the image a lighthearted and friendly feel. Despite their age difference, the two actors are known for their close friendship. In fact, Jang Dong-gun famously gave a congratulatory speech at Hyun Bin and Son Ye-jin’s wedding, highlighting their strong bond.

The trio reportedly spent the day together at a golf course. Hyun Bin is a well-known golf enthusiast and has often been seen enjoying golf dates with his wife, actress Son Ye-jin.

Jang Dong-gun also enjoys golf as a hobby and has been spotted playing with his wife, actress Ko So-young.

Fans loved the natural, unfiltered moment between the top stars. Comments flooded in saying things like, “They look so down-to-earth,” “Even without styling, they still look amazing,” and “Im Baek-cheon looks great even standing between two of Korea’s biggest stars.”

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According to FlixPatrol, the series also climbed to No.2 among all Netflix TV shows globally and became the most-watched show in 23 countries, including Hong Kong and Indonesia. What once failed to gain attention on traditional TV has now found a massive audience through streaming, highlighting the dramatic shift in viewer behavior from broadcast to OTT platforms like Netflix and YouTube.

Tastefully Yours centers around a blossoming romance between Han Beom-woo (played by Kang Ha-neul), a corporate heir who buys out small restaurants to inherit his family’s food company, and chef Mo Yeon-joo (played by Go Min-si), who runs a nameless, one-table restaurant in Jeonju.

Initially, expectations were low. The show struggled with dismal TV ratings during its broadcast run. But on Netflix, Tastefully Yours is getting a completely different reception. It’s now being praised as a case study in how underperforming content can thrive when given a second chance on the right platform—underscoring the ongoing transformation in how Korean viewers consume content.

Fans who discovered the show online left comments like, “No one plays a quirky character like Kang Ha-neul,” “Go Min-si’s acting is so flavorful,” and “If Kang Ha-neul’s in it, I’m watching.” Others praised it as “the kind of cozy drama we’ve been missing lately.”

Even older viewers are now shifting away from TV, preferring to binge dramas via OTT and YouTube. As a result, traditional network shows are facing record-low viewership. Recent examples include MBC’s Crushology 101, SBS’s Spring of Four Seasons, and KBS’s Kick Kick Kick Kick—all struggling around the 1% mark.

In the past, a drama that failed to cross 10% TV ratings would be considered a flop. But in today’s OTT-driven landscape, audiences are more ruthless and discerning. Uninteresting content is quickly abandoned, and the platform's strength often determines a show’s success.

With this shift in power, more Korean production companies are now focusing on Netflix over local platforms. Netflix currently boasts over 14 million monthly active users in South Korea—more than double the numbers for local services like Coupang Play and TVING.

Still, this growing dominance has raised concerns. If Netflix continues to consolidate its position, it could lead to an over-reliance on a single platform, weakening content diversity and giving Netflix excessive control over what gets seen.

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According to Consumer Insight’s OTT K-Original Content Viewer Evaluation Report for the third week of May 2025, the series recorded a 25% awareness rate and a 16% viewing intention rate—ranking No.1 among unreleased titles.

Mercy for None follows Gi-jun (played by So Ji-sub), a former gang member who returns to his old organization after the mysterious death of his younger brother Gi-seok (played by Lee Jun-hyuk). What unfolds is a noir-style revenge thriller, packed with high-stakes action and dark secrets. The drama is based on a popular Naver webtoon.

This marks So Ji-sub’s long-awaited return to action after 13 years since A Company Man. The preview video released back in February has already garnered over 1.38 million views, while the official teaser, dropped on May 9, has surpassed 860,000 views. Due to its intense violence and graphic action scenes, the series has received a 19+ rating in Korea.

The world of Mercy for None is divided between two rival factions: Juwon and Bongsan. Recently released stills highlight the Juwon organization, beginning with a striking image of Juwon boss Lee Juwon (played by Huh Joon-ho) mourning at Gi-seok’s funeral. A father figure to the Gi-jun brothers, Juwon had once considered Gi-seok his successor, and his grief hints at complex decisions to come.

Veteran actor Huh Joon-ho, known for roles in Kingdom, Bloodhounds, and Escape from Mogadishu, is set to deliver another powerful performance as the layered, charismatic leader. His son, Lee Geum-son (played by Chu Young-woo), is a prosecutor who has distanced himself from the organization, pursuing a life of law over legacy. Chu brings cool ambition to the role of Geum-son, a character caught between blood ties and personal values.

Choi Sung-chul (played by Jo Han-chul) is Juwon’s right-hand man and the organization’s true strategist. As Gi-jun returns and tension rises, Sung-chul works behind the scenes to stabilize the group, taking on most of the operational risk. Jo Han-chul, known for his versatile performances in JeonRan, and Gyeongseong Creature, adds gravity as the figure quietly driving the narrative.

Meanwhile, Nam Gi-seok (played by Lee Jun-hyuk) was the one who transformed the gang into a corporate-style enterprise after Gi-jun’s departure. As Juwon’s de facto second-in-command, his unexpected and brutal death sparks the entire chain of events. Lee, praised for his nuanced performances in Love Scout, commands attention once again with quiet intensity and deep emotion.

Mercy for None will premiere globally on Netflix on June 6. With top-tier actors, dark storytelling, and intense action, this series is shaping up to be one of the most anticipated K-thrillers of the year.

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Host Mijoo highlighted tracks like Rosé’s APT., EXO’s Growl, and BTS’s Dynamite, calling them “mega-hits that brought in enormous profits.”

Rosé’s APT. shocked the cast when it was revealed to have earned 13.3 billion KRW in streaming revenue alone—just two weeks after its release. EXO’s Growl reportedly made 10.5 billion KRW in album sales, while BTS’s Dynamite topped the list with an estimated 200 billion KRW in total earnings.

Topping the all-time earnings chart, however, was Angel Who Lost Her Wings by Roo’Ra, a legendary hit released back in 1995.

Rosé’s APT., a pre-release track from her first full-length solo album rosie released on December 6 last year, became a global smash hit right after its debut. Blending sophisticated production with an emotional melody, the song showcases Rosé’s signature airy and expressive vocals, pulling listeners deep into its emotional core.

A key factor in the song’s success was its duet with global pop icon Bruno Mars. The collaboration sparked international buzz, and though their vocal styles are distinct, the two artists achieved a perfect harmony in APT., enhancing its lyrical sensitivity and musical depth. The track balances exotic soundscapes with K-pop’s emotional flair, drawing widespread attention from global fans.

Rosé, who rose to fame as a member of BLACKPINK, continues to shape her own musical identity as a solo artist with a distinct color and sound.

BLACKPINK, the four-member K-pop girl group under YG Entertainment, debuted on August 8, 2016, with members Jisoo, Jennie, Rosé, and Lisa. They gained explosive popularity with their debut singles Whistle and Boombayah, followed by hits like Playing with Fire, As If It’s Your Last, DDU-DU DDU-DU, Kill This Love, and How You Like That—solidifying their position as K-pop royalty.

Beyond music, BLACKPINK has built a powerful global fandom through YouTube, social media, and brand collaborations. Their official YouTube channel ranks among the most-subscribed worldwide, with music videos racking up hundreds of millions of views.

They also made major strides in international markets, becoming the first Korean girl group to perform at Coachella and embarking on the BORN PINK world tour, reaching fans across Europe, North America, and Asia. The group held sold-out solo concerts at major venues like Hyde Park in London and Stade de France in Paris.

BLACKPINK continues to expand its influence as global music icons, setting trends and redefining the K-pop landscape worldwide.

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Choi Yoon-ji, the breakout star, appeared in the May 17 episode as Lee Chae-ryeong, a newly assigned nurse in the OB-GYN delivery ward. On her very first day, Chae-ryeong unexpectedly catches OB-GYN residents Oh Yi-young (played by Go Youn-jung) and Koo Do-won (Jung Joon-won) in a secret romantic moment—instantly drawing attention with her wide-eyed reaction.

She quickly proves herself to be a dependable nurse, confidently assisting a senior professor through a high-stakes childbirth. But it was a deeper layer of her character that truly touched viewers—her emotional connection with Oh Yi-young.

The episode reveals that Chae-ryeong and Yi-young have a fated past. While they were working together in dermatology, Yi-young once bit a senior doctor’s hand to protect Chae-ryeong from sexual harassment. That incident led to rumors and ultimately forced Yi-young to leave the hospital. Chae-ryeong calmly recounts the event, delivering a heartfelt thank-you that left viewers moved.

Choi Yoon-ji delivered a nuanced performance, portraying a pure-hearted nurse who skillfully supports her patients while conveying deep emotional sincerity. Her clear visuals and calm yet expressive delivery helped her make a lasting impact.

She previously debuted in tvN’s Love Your Enemy and later showcased her emotional range in the Netflix series Trunk.

Choi will next appear in tvN’s upcoming drama Love, Take Two, where she plays Lee Hyo-ri—a bright med student turned rebellious free spirit, and the proud daughter of single mom Lee Ji-an (played by Yum Jung-ah). Viewers can look forward to seeing a different side of her as she takes on a more complex and youthful role.

Meanwhile, the finale of Resident Playbook soared to new heights, recording its highest ratings yet. According to Nielsen Korea, the drama earned an average of 8.6% and a peak of 10% in Seoul metropolitan households, and nationwide ratings of 8.1% average and 9.2% peak—ranking No.1 in its time slot across all channels, including terrestrial broadcasters.

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The new Netflix original Dear Hongrang was globally released on May 16 at 4 p.m. KST. The series follows the story of ‘Hongrang’, the long-lost heir to Joseon’s most powerful merchant clan, who returns 12 years after going missing—with no memory of his past. His half-sister ‘Jae-yi’ begins to question his identity, leading to a tense relationship that blurs the line between suspicion and forbidden emotion.

Combining mystery and melodrama in a historical setting, Dear Hongrang gained traction early on. According to Consumer Insight’s OTT K-Original Viewer Evaluation Report (2nd week of May), the show ranked No.1 among upcoming releases for two consecutive weeks with 19% awareness and 11% viewer intention. Its rich world-building, emotional tension, and strong cast all contributed to the hype.

Set in the Joseon era, the drama centers around the missing heir Hongrang, played by Lee Jae-wook. After disappearing 12 years ago, he returns with no recollection of his past. Though everything from his looks to his mannerisms match the old Hongrang, only his half-sister Jae-yi—played by Cho Bo-ah—senses something is off. Torn between doubt, confusion, and an unexplainable emotional pull, she becomes the emotional core of the story.

The suspense of the show lies in the complex bond between Hongrang and Jae-yi. Their dynamic weaves together layers of mystery surrounding Hongrang’s disappearance and a romance that feels forbidden. Lee Jae-wook delicately portrays a man torn by secrets and inner conflict, while Cho Bo-ah delivers a deeply nuanced performance as a woman caught between logic and emotion.

Supporting them is a strong ensemble cast including Jung Ga-ram, Uhm Ji-won, Park Byung-eun, and Kim Jae-wook, adding depth to the world. The series is directed by Kim Hong-sun, known for his visually striking and suspense-driven work in Money Heist: Korea – Joint Economic Area, The Guest, The Conspirators, and Project Wolf Hunting. The show is adapted from the novel Dear Hongrang, written by Jang Da-hye, and explores complex themes like memory, truth, and taboo love.

Despite its hype, reactions to the premiere have been sharply divided. Online forums and social media are flooded with both praise and criticism. Some viewers shared, “I binged it overnight—it’s haunting,” and “Lee Jae-wook was born for historical dramas.” Others noted, “Romance lovers will enjoy this. The second half really picks up, and the ending sticks with you.”

On the flip side, some were unimpressed. “I stopped at episode 2. Too boring,” one viewer wrote. Others called the editing disjointed and said the emotional beats fell flat. “Actors are crying but I felt nothing,” read one post. Some argued the directing lacked cohesion and failed to deliver emotionally.

Still, there were viewers who enjoyed following the emotional threads. “Watch it for the character dynamics. Lee Jae-wook carries the show,” said one comment. Many noted how Lee’s past works—including Memories of the Alhambra, Search: WWW, Extraordinary You, and Alchemy of Souls—have established him as a versatile actor. In Dear Hongrang, his blend of emotional subtlety and mystery once again proves why he’s one of Korea’s most trusted talents.

Cho Bo-ah also stretches her acting range here, portraying a woman torn between her instinctive love for her real brother and her confusing attraction to someone she believes isn’t him. She shared, “I tried to clearly separate the emotions toward the ‘real’ Hongrang and the ‘fake’ one,” emphasizing her intentional and layered performance.

Dear Hongrang is more than a romance in hanbok. With its experimental take on sibling dynamics, memory loss, and forbidden emotions, the drama dares to push boundaries rarely explored in traditional Korean period pieces. Whether audiences embrace this bold narrative may depend on word of mouth and ongoing viewership momentum.

As the first Netflix sageuk (Korean historical drama) in six years since Kingdom, and one that ranked No.1 in viewing interest for two weeks straight—it’s clear Dear Hongrang came in with sky-high expectations. But now, the real question is: Can it turn polarizing reactions into lasting success?

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On May 16, Jin released his new song Loser, featuring YENA, across major music platforms. The track playfully portrays the ups and downs of a couple’s relationship—sometimes sweet and romantic, other times full of bickering like a daily habit. YENA brings her signature vibrant charm to the duet, creating a fresh and delightful chemistry with Jin.

What makes this release even more special is that Loser marks YENA’s first-ever feature on a track. Her energetic vocals and unique tone blend seamlessly with the upbeat sound, amplifying the song’s mood and appeal.

Fans were treated to even more when the two artists dropped a live performance clip on May 18 via the YouTube channel 'dingo music'. Jin and YENA showcased their musical synergy dressed in stylish black and denim looks, their voices radiating warmth and joy in a performance that left fans smiling ear to ear.

To celebrate the release of Echo, Jin also hosted a special offline event on May 17 titled Don't Say You Love Me @Seongsu, held at Anderson C in Seongsu, Seoul. While some fans couldn’t attend in person, the event was streamed globally through the Weverse and TikTok live platforms.

At the end of the performance, Jin emotionally shared, “Your support stays in my heart as a lasting echo. This is the happiest time of my life. Thanks to ARMY, I get to be a singer, make music, and perform. I’m deeply grateful for your presence.”

According to his agency BIGHIT MUSIC, Echo topped the iTunes ‘Top Albums’ chart in 63 countries within hours of its release—including Germany, the UK, France, Japan, and Brazil—demonstrating Jin’s continued global impact.

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According to distributor Pancinema, Ballerina will hit theaters in North America this June, followed by a Korean release in August. Alongside the announcement, the studio unveiled striking new character posters featuring both the lead character Eve Makaro and the legendary assassin John Wick.

Ballerina follows Eve (played by Ana de Armas), a trained killer raised by the infamous assassin-making syndicate Ruska Roma. Fueled by vengeance after her father’s murder, she embarks on a blood-soaked mission, taking on both John Wick (Keanu Reeves) and a mysterious army of elite assassins. The film bridges the timeline between John Wick: Chapter 3 – Parabellum and John Wick: Chapter 4.

Sooyoung, credited as Katla Park, shared her own character poster via Instagram earlier this year. While her exact role remains under wraps, fans are already buzzing about her bold transformation and high-stakes performance in the film. In Korea, she’s currently starring in tvN’s Monday–Tuesday drama Second Shot at Love, where her nuanced acting has earned widespread praise.

Her leap into Hollywood—especially into such a globally beloved franchise—is drawing immense excitement from fans around the world, who are eager to see what kind of energy she brings to the action-heavy series.

The newly released character posters spotlight the film’s dark, stylish tone. Eve Makaro is introduced as a ballerina-turned-assassin whose steely glare and commanding presence promise intense, no-limits action. Trained in the same Ruska Roma organization that produced John Wick himself, Eve is poised to carry the torch—and possibly challenge his legend.

John Wick’s appearance meanwhile, serves as a nostalgic and thrilling teaser for longtime fans of the franchise. Ballerina is shaping up to be a high-octane expansion of the Wick-verse with fresh faces, deeper lore, and deadly elegance.

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The donation will be distributed across four charitable organizations—Hope Pebble, Korea Child Protection and Welfare Agency, Happy Giver, and Warm Companion—with each receiving 50 million KRW. The funds will be used to support low-income households and elderly individuals living alone, assist youths transitioning to independent living after leaving care facilities, cover living, medical, and education expenses for single-parent families, and expand welfare infrastructure and provide assistive technologies for people with disabilities.

IU has made it a tradition to donate on meaningful dates, including her birthday, debut anniversary, and during year-end holidays — always under the name “IUAENA,” a combination of her stage name and her fanbase “UAENA.”

Earlier this year, IU donated 200 million KRW to aid wildfire recovery in Korea’s Gyeongsang region and to improve working conditions for firefighters. She also donated 150 million KRW on Children’s Day in May to support underprivileged youth. With this birthday donation, her charitable contributions for 2025 alone now exceed 500 million KRW.

Meanwhile, IU is gearing up to release ‘Kkot-Galpi 3’, her first remake album in eight years, on May 27. She is also currently preparing for her next acting role in the upcoming K-drama 'The 21st Century Grand Prince's Wife.'

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The official soundtrack lineup for F1 The Movie, directed by Top Gun: Maverick's Joseph Kosinski and starring Brad Pitt, was recently unveiled, featuring a powerhouse list of global pop artists. Alongside Rosé, the OST includes Ed Sheeran, Burna Boy, Dom Dolla, Roddy Ricch, Mike Towers, Madison Beer, Doja Cat, Tate McRae, Raye, Chris Stapleton, Tiësto, Sexyy Red, and Peggy Gou — signaling a blockbuster-level musical spectacle to match the film’s high-octane thrills.

Rosé’s featured single, titled “Messy,” has already begun making waves. Released on May 9 KST with a striking music video, the track quickly captivated audiences worldwide. Set against the neon-lit streets and dazzling nightlife of Las Vegas, Rosé commands the screen with her haunting vocals and magnetic gaze. Interspersed with high-energy clips of Brad Pitt’s in-movie scenes. The video blends cinematic adrenaline with Rosé’s ethereal presence, hinting at the film’s emotional undercurrents.

Even before its release, F1 The Movie is generating serious buzz thanks to its adrenaline-fueled story and A-list soundtrack. Rosé’s involvement only heightens anticipation, especially as her solo career continues to break new ground internationally.

In fact, Rosé is currently making history on the Billboard Hot 100. Her duet “Apt.” with global pop icon Bruno Mars has held strong at No. 20 for the second consecutive week, according to the latest chart dated May13 (local time). The song originally debuted at No. 8 last October and has now spent 29 consecutive weeks on the chart — setting a new record for the longest-charting K-pop female soloist in Hot 100 history.

Meanwhile, F1: The Movie follows the story of veteran driver Sonny Hayes (played by Brad Pitt), who joins forces with rookie racer Joshua Pearce (played by Damson Idris) in a last-chance bid to lead a struggling F1 team to victory. The film is set to premiere in South Korea this June and is already turning heads — even before release — thanks to its explosive soundtrack.

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The much-anticipated sequel follows Yeon Si-eun (played by Park Ji-hoon), a once-ordinary high school student who carries deep emotional scars after failing to protect a close friend. Transferring to a new school, Eunjang High, he’s forced to confront violence once again. Determined not to repeat past mistakes, he embarks on a journey of survival and personal growth—this time, with new allies by his side.

Park Ji-hoon reprises his role with emotional depth, portraying Si-eun’s inner turmoil, guilt, and resilience with gripping nuance. Si-eun’s struggle to overcome his trauma is bolstered by new friendships with Park Hu-min (Ryeo Un), Seo Jun-tae (Choi Min-young), and Go Hyun-tak (Lee Min-jae). As he wrestles with guilt over failing to protect Ahn Soo-ho (Choi Hyun-wook) in the previous season, Si-eun slowly begins to heal.

The performances are especially sharp this season. Park Ji-hoon delivers a standout portrayal of emotional restraint and raw fury, while Lee Jun-young as Geum Seong-je and Bae Na-ra as Na Baek-jin bring intense conflict and high-stakes tension to the screen. Baek-jin’s presence, in particular, adds a layer of unpredictability every time he appears.

According to Netflix’s Tudum, Weak Hero Class 2 ranked No.1 globally in the Non-English TV Series category during its debut week (April 21–27) with 6.1 million views. In week two (April 28–May 4), it placed second with 6.4 million views, and in week three (May 5–11), it landed at fourth place with 2.4 million views.

Even after three weeks, the series remains in the Netflix Top 10 across 33 countries, raising hopes that it could match or exceed the success of Weak Hero Class 1, which stayed in the global rankings for six weeks.

Park Ji-hoon is currently filming a new movie titled The Man Who Lives With the King (working title). Meanwhile, Bae Na-ra, who played one of the season’s standout antagonists, is now appearing in Genie TV’s original drama Tastefully Yoursalongside Kang Ha-neul. He’s also joined the cast of SBS’s upcoming drama Would You Marry Me(Working Title), expanding his acting portfolio.

On May 9, the YouTube channel Cheonggye Mountain Dang-i Records released a behind-the-scenes reunion video titled "Dragged to the Rooftop by the Weak Hero?". The clip features YouTuber and actor Cho Jung-seok, Park Ji-hoon, Lee Jun-young, and Yoo Su-bin grilling meat on a rooftop and chatting about filming memories.

Cho Jung-seok jokingly commented, “These guys are next-level—one punch, three teeth gone. I called them up here with my heart ready.” The group shared laughs, inside jokes, and touching anecdotes from set. Lee Jun-young recalled, “It was freezing when we filmed the action scenes—we even had to hold ice in our mouths.” Yoo Su-bin added, “The energy on set was just overwhelming. Everyone was laser-focused.”

Lee also shared that it was his birthday during filming, and the staff surprised him with a party. The video ended with the cast receiving a symbolic “graduation certificate” from the production team, prompting Cho to ask, “Does this mean no Season 3?” The cast playfully replied, “It’s just a graduation from filming,” leaving the door open and fans hopeful.

In reflecting on the season, Park Ji-hoon said, “This story is anything but weak. I hope viewers feel free to laugh, cry, and experience it with us.”

Weak Hero Class 2, a Netflix original, is now streaming worldwide.

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According to Netflix’s official Top 10 site on May 14, the show recorded 1.7 million views in just one week (calculated by total watch hours divided by the show’s runtime), landing at No. 9 on the Global Top 10 Non-English Series list.

Domestically, the response has been even stronger. The Devil’s Plan 2 shot to No. 1 in Netflix Korea’s Top 10 series and entered the Top 10 lists in six countries, including Hong Kong, Singapore, Taiwan, Thailand, and Morocco.

The buzz extended beyond Netflix rankings. According to Good Data Corporation’s FUNdex (Week 2 of May), the show ranked No. 1 in non-drama TV/OTT content buzz, surpassing popular titles like SNL Korea Season 7 on Coupang Play. Notably, The Devil’s Plan 2 earned more than double the buzz score compared to Season 1.

Directed by Jung Jong-yeon, the mastermind behind The Genius and Great Escape, this latest season brings together participants from various professional backgrounds in an intense, week-long brain survival camp. Each contestant competes for the title of the ultimate strategist.

Among the most talked-about cast members is legendary Go player Lee Sedol, whose strategic prowess and no-nonsense gameplay have impressed viewers. While his performance in the first main match, "Corrupt Cops," was met with mixed reactions, he bounced back with a strong showing in the next round, “Unknown,” making bold decisions even when others hesitated. His aggressive tactics signaled that he’s not just playing to survive—he’s playing to win. Lee also ranked 6th in non-drama celebrity buzz.

The show’s high-tension matches and sharp eliminations have fueled strong reactions online. Comments from viewers include: “The cast balance is perfect,” “Way better than Season 1,” “Lee Sedol is a natural-born competitor,” “I started watching and stayed up all night,” “Love that they reveal eliminations all at once,” “It’s nonstop excitement,” and “Even the cast has great variety-show instincts!”

The final three episodes (10–12) of The Devil’s Plan: Deathroom are set to premiere on May 20 on Netflix.

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The newly revealed images include individual shots of each member and a group photo, all set against the warm, nostalgic backdrop of a train interior. Styled in classic school uniforms featuring button-up shirts, ties, tailored shorts, and knee-high socks, PLAVE channels a charming high-teen aesthetic with a cozy, sentimental twist. The polished yet youthful look immediately caught the attention of fans and fashion watchers alike.

The styling is simple but striking—sharp collars, layered textures, and subtle accessories give off a fresh prep-school vibe reminiscent of vintage anime meets modern editorial. The neutral tones of their outfits blend seamlessly with the warm lighting and sunset hues in the background, creating a soft, cinematic feel.

A mood teaser video released on PLAVE’s official YouTube channel added to the anticipation. Set inside a moving train, the clip shows the members gazing out the window with a mysterious, reflective energy. The dreamy visuals and delicate color grading, paired with a soft, melodic soundtrack, suggest that this concept is as much about emotion and atmosphere as it is about visuals.

The title of the single, “Kakurenbo” (Japanese for “Hide and Seek”), hints at a theme of longing, memory, or possibly a romantic pursuit—further complemented by the wistful styling. It marks PLAVE’s first foray into the Japanese market, and their fashion-forward concept suggests they’re ready to make a strong impression on the global stage.

PLAVE also launched their official Japanese fan club earlier this month and began physical album pre-orders on June 8. The album is set to release on July 9, with shipping to follow.

With multiple wins on fan-voting platform Giftree and strong pre-debut buzz, PLAVE is proving that their appeal isn’t just virtual—it’s stylish, emotional, and ready for the world.

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On May 14, Vogue Korea revealed the two versions of its June cover featuring all five members of ILLIT — Yunah, Minju, Moka, Wonhee, and Iroha — through its official social media channels.

In one cover, the girls flaunt a soft, romantic vibe in pastel-toned outfits, radiating a bubbly charm. On the flip side, the black-and-white version captures their transformation into cool, sophisticated style icons, proving they can effortlessly pull off both looks.

During the accompanying interview, the members opened up about their identity. “Our on-stage concept may be cute or sometimes intense, but off-stage we’re just playful high school girls,” they said.

“That’s who we are — that’s ILLIT.” They added, “At the heart of our music is honesty.”

Since their debut, ILLIT has been meeting fans through a wide range of activities. Their March 2024 debut single “Magnetic” dominated Japan’s music charts and short-form platforms alike, quickly establishing their presence overseas.

The group’s impact was recognized at major Japanese music awards. They won the Rookie of the Year award at the 66th Japan Record Awards and were the most-awarded female K-pop act at the 39th Japan Gold Disc Awards, taking home three trophies.

Coming up, ILLIT is set to perform at the Rock in Japan Festival 2025 in September, having secured a spot in the first official lineup. They’ve made history as the first-ever K-pop girl group invited to the festival. Celebrating its 26th year, the Rock in Japan Festival is one of Japan’s “Big Four” rock festivals, drawing over 275,000 attendees in 2024 alone.

In Korea, ILLIT will also appear at several university festivals as well as the 2025 Weverse Con Festival in May. In June, they’ll meet fans in person at 2025 ILLIT GLITTER DAY IN SEOUL, taking place at Olympic Hall on June 7 and 8.

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“I sincerely apologize for causing concern with such a disgraceful matter,” she began.

Hwang clarified that the company involved in the case was her own private entertainment agency, which she personally established and fully owned. She emphasized that she was the sole shareholder and that no other artists were affiliated with the company.

“All company earnings came from my own work,” she explained. “In 2021, I started investing in cryptocurrency on the advice of people around me, hoping to grow the business. I used funds under the company’s name, believing they were essentially my own income. In hindsight, it was an immature decision.”

Although she suffered losses from the investment, Hwang stated that no third parties were harmed as she was the only stakeholder. “I’ve since severed all business ties with the company. I’ve sold off personal assets to repay a significant portion of the funds and am in the process of settling the remainder,” she added.

She concluded her statement by saying, “Once again, I’m deeply sorry. I will take full responsibility for my actions.”

According to prosecutors, Hwang allegedly withdrew about 700 million KRW from a company loan in 2022 under the guise of temporary payments, and then invested those funds in cryptocurrency. In total, she is accused of embezzling roughly 4.34 billion KRW, with about 4.2 billion KRW reportedly spent on crypto investments.

In court, Hwang admitted to the charges. Her legal team explained that she intended to use the investments to grow the company and noted that corporate crypto investments had to be made in her personal name due to legal restrictions. “Since the company’s revenue came entirely from her work, much of it could be considered her own income,” they argued. They also noted that some of the losses had already been repaid through cryptocurrency sales, and that she plans to repay the rest by liquidating real estate assets.

It was confirmed that the company involved in the embezzlement case was a family-owned corporation in which Hwang held 100% of the shares. It is unrelated to Y.ONE Entertainment, her current management agency. Y.ONE stated that they are “currently verifying the facts.”

Meanwhile, Hwang’s legal team has requested a continuation of the trial to allow time for additional repayment, and the court has reportedly accepted the request.

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Centered around the theme of “NCT WISH’s Summer Vacation,” the exhibition captures six members enjoying a peaceful rural village and spending relaxing moments at home. The exhibit is designed to feel like you're spending a refreshing summer holiday alongside the members—natural, candid, and full of youthful charm.

Visitors will receive a special ticket upon booking, and can also participate in ‘WISH FOR YOUR WISH,’ an interactive event where fans fold paper stars to share their own wishes—perfectly reflecting NCT WISH’s dreamy identity.

In addition, the group’s first photobook, also titled ONE SUMMER WISH, will be available for purchase at the exhibition starting May 15. With just the teaser images alone sparking excitement, pre-orders will also be open through online retailers starting May 23. A variety of exclusive merchandise (MD) will also be released in tandem with the event.

Meanwhile, NCT WISH recently celebrated a major milestone—their first million-seller with their second mini-album POPOP, released in April. Their steady growth has been impressive: from their debut single WISH (280,000 first-week sales), to SONGBIRD (530,000), then STEADY (790,000), and now surpassing one million copies sold with POPOP, proving their rising momentum and solidifying their place in K-pop’s next generation.

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A press conference for The Nine Puzzles was held on May 14 at JW Marriott Dongdaemun Square in Seoul, where director Yoon and lead actors Kim Da-mi, Son Suk-ku, Kim Sung-kyun, and Hyun Bong-sik gathered to discuss the highly anticipated series.

Set against the backdrop of an unresolved serial murder case from a decade ago, The Nine Puzzles follows a profiler—once the only witness to the crimes—who teams up with a detective that suspects her involvement. Together, they chase down a dark mystery in this stylish crime thriller.

Known for hits like Nameless Gangster, The Spy Gone North, and Netflix’s Narco-Saints, director Yoon Jong-bin took a different approach this time. He skipped scriptwriting entirely to focus solely on directing.

“I always strive to try something new, but my style inevitably seeps in,” Yoon said. “When I first read the script, I thought, ‘This is a story I’ve never told before.’” He added that instead of his usual grounded realism, he aimed for a heightened, almost comic book–like tone, incorporating surreal set pieces and stylized character expressions.

At the center of the story is ‘Yoon Ena,’ played by Kim Da-mi, the traumatized niece of the first victim who lost her memory after witnessing the murder. “She’s honest with her emotions and childlike in some ways, but I wanted to portray the pain and vulnerability beneath,” Kim shared.

Son Suk-ku plays ‘Kim Han-saem,’ the relentless detective with doubts about Ena’s past. “The word that best defines Han-saem is persistence,” he said. “I wanted to go beyond the typical detective mold and show something unpredictable.”

He emphasized that his relationship with Ena was the most complex and vital. “It’s a vague dynamic—not quite friends, not siblings, not enemies. I had to rely on imagination to fill in the blanks,” he explained.

Their on-screen chemistry has already drawn attention. Son noted, “We have similar personalities, which helped us connect without misunderstandings. It made us good partners on set.” Kim added, “Thanks to him, we were able to talk a lot and rely on each other throughout filming.”

The main trailer for The Nine Puzzles, released on May 7, has already surpassed 1 million views in just a week. Viewers flooded the comments with excitement: “The cast AND director? This can’t fail,” “Finally, a must-watch thriller,” “I’ve been waiting for this forever,” “Kim Da-mi as a genius character and Son Suk-ku as a detective? Say no more,” and “I kept my Disney+ subscription just for this.”

Disney+ previously faced a major setback with its drama Knock Off, which had a production budget of 60 billion KRW. The project was indefinitely postponed after lead actor Kim Soo-hyun became embroiled in a controversy over an alleged past relationship with actress Kim Sae-ron when she was a minor. Despite season 2 already entering production, the entire series was shelved, causing widespread fallout in the industry.

Now, all eyes are on The Nine Puzzles, which many view as Disney+ Korea’s comeback swing.

The series will consist of 11 episodes. The first six will drop on May 21, followed by three more episodes a week later, and the final two episodes a week after that.

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In an industry where longevity is rare, these artists have proven their star power, resilience, and evolution. Here's a look at five standout acts that debuted in 2015 and are still leading the K-pop wave ten years on.

🎤TWICE: The K-pop Queens Who Turned Stadium Dreams Into Reality

Debut Date: October 20, 2015 (JYP Entertainment)

Still going strong as a 9-member group, TWICE has continued to raise the bar for global K-pop. In 2024, they became the first foreign female act to headline a solo concert at Japan’s Nissan Stadium. Their fifth world tour, READY TO BE, spanned 51 shows across 27 cities, drawing 1.5 million fans.

TWICE also made history as the first K-pop act to headline Amazon Music Live, attracting record-breaking viewership. Their spectacular opening performances at Coldplay’s Seoul concerts and their upcoming appearance as a Lollapalooza Chicago headliner cement their status as true stadium artists. All eyes are now on their 10th-anniversary album.

🎤SEVENTEEN: The Self-Made Idols Redefining Fan Connection

Debut Date: May 26, 2015 (Pledis Entertainment)

Celebrating their 10th year, SEVENTEEN is connecting with fans in heartfelt ways. They've teamed up with Airbnb for a fan-hosted experience in Seoul and will hold a special birthday concert B-DAY PARTY: BURST Stage livestreamed globally.

Their Upcoming 5th studio album, HAPPY BURSTDAY, is a powerful mix of rebirth and energy, previewed through immersive teasers and visuals. In May 2025, they're also meeting fans in Japan at their HOLIDAY fan meeting. Despite some members serving in the military, the group's energy and creative output remain strong.

🎤MONSTA X: The Powerhouse Group Reuniting to Make 10 Years Count

Debut Date: May 14, 2015 (Starship Entertainment)

After a staggered military hiatus, MONSTA X has officially reunited as a full group with the release of NOW PROJECT vol.1—their first full-member comeback in four years.

Released just one day after Hyungwon’s discharge, the album includes 10 re-recorded tracks showcasing the group's musical journey and growth. It also marks their 10th anniversary, reflecting both nostalgia and new beginnings. As I.M prepares for enlistment, this comeback feels especially meaningful—a gift to fans before another temporary farewell.

🎤DAY6: The K-pop Band That Rewrote the Comeback Rulebook

Debut Date: September 7, 2015 (JYP Entertainment)

The K-pop band has returned in full force post-military service. Their third world tour FOREVER YOUNG concluded with a grand finale at the KSPO DOME—one of Korea's most iconic venues.

All shows sold out instantly, reaffirming their loyal fanbase and undeniable musical charm. On May 7, DAY6 dropped their new digital single Maybe Tomorrow, which they're now performing live during their Seoul concerts. With their seamless blend of idol energy and authentic band sound, DAY6 continues to capture hearts around the globe.

🎤OH MY GIRL: The K-pop Fairies Who Grew Into Timeless Storytellers

Debut Date: April 21, 2015 (WM Entertainment)

Despite lineup changes and label transitions, Oh My Girl is still standing tall. In April, they released a 10th-anniversary single Oh My and held their first offline solo concert in 6.5 years titled Milky Way.

Members YooA and Arin have also launched acting careers under new agencies, while group activities remain ongoing. Their nostalgic setlist and dual-streamed shows (offline and online) brought fans together across generations, celebrating a decade of dreamy, fairy-tale pop.

Over the past decade, countless K-pop acts have come and gone, but these five groups have continued to evolve, inspire, and shine. Their journeys prove that true artistry endures—and fans around the world are here for it.

Are there any 2015-debut groups you think should have made this list? Or a group you’re especially excited to see more from in the future? Share your thoughts and celebrate this amazing K-pop decade with us!

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On May 14, G-Dragon appeared on comedian Park Myung-soo’s YouTube show HalMyungSoo. The episode marked a long-awaited meeting after Park had publicly asked G-Dragon for years to be a guest. The twist? Park didn’t know G-Dragon would be on the show—making their reunion all the more dramatic and heartwarming.

The two stars, who go way back to their Infinite Challenge days, greeted each other warmly and caught up on recent life updates. Park expressed his admiration by saying he always includes G-Dragon or BIGBANG songs in his DJ setlists. He even amused G-Dragon with an impromptu impression of him.

The topic soon turned to concerts. Park shared that he’s planning his own concert, and the two bonded over G-Dragon’s recent world tour preparations. Then Park asked, “When artists like IU show up as guests, how do you thank them?”

G-Dragon, who’s known to have a close friendship with IU—having performed duets and appeared on shows together—revealed a memorable gift she gave him before his military enlistment.

“IU always takes good care of other people. Before I enlisted, I found a fridge delivered to my place, completely filled with the alcohol brand she was promoting at the time. I went off to the military totally completely drunk ,” he laughed. At that time, IU was a model for a popular soju brand.

When asked if he drinks often, G-Dragon admitted, “I like alcohol, but I don’t really drink that much soju,” smiling.

Meanwhile, G-Dragon recently made waves in the beverage world by launching his own drink brand in collaboration with Korean convenience store chain CU. His new product, Peaceminusone Highball, sold out its entire first batch of 880,000 cans, proving his star power extends far beyond music.

Crafted to match G-Dragon’s refined tastes, the highball is made with French Burgundy Sauvignon Blanc as its base. It boasts a crisp, fruity flavor profile and includes fresh lemon for an extra refreshing twist. On April 30, the limited edition of 888 pre-order units available through Pocket CU sold out in less than a second, even crashing the server due to the overwhelming traffic.

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This high-glam collaboration features elegant takes on Crocs' iconic silhouettes: the Classic Clog, the Bae Clog, and a line of limited-edition Jibbitz™ charms. The pieces effortlessly blend the signature comfort of Crocs with the refined craftsmanship of Swarovski®, offering a crossover that redefines both function and fashion.

In the fashion world, cross-category collaborations are more than a trend—they're a movement. Today’s MZ generation craves storytelling, symbolism, and exclusivity over simple practicality. This collection captures that spirit, combining laid-back comfort with luxurious detail in a way that resonates with a wide audience.

One of the highlights? K-pop star Kim Chaewon of LE SSERAFIM, a global ambassador for Crocs, was recently spotted at the airport rocking the new collection. Her polished, fashion-forward airport look—featuring the dazzling Bae Clog—set social media abuzz, with fans and fashionistas alike praising the bold statement.

The Bae Clog features a show-stopping black lace pattern made entirely of Swarovski® crystals, sprawled like constellations across its iconic platform silhouette. Limited-edition Jibbitz™ charms, including glittering lunar moths and captivating florals, add a fantasy-like vibe. Metallic thorn details wrap around the back strap, giving it the aura of wearable art.

The Classic Clog, in a pearlescent ivory finish, features delicately crafted crystal dragonfly wings, adding a whisper of elegance to every step. The plush cushioned footbed ensures all-day comfort while elevating the silhouette with a subdued yet unmistakable luxury.

The standout among the Jibbitz™ charms? A rare edition inspired by the elusive 'Queen of the Night' flower, which blooms just once a year. This floral charm transforms each pair into a jewelry-level statement piece, perfect for expressing both individuality and sophistication.

According to a Crocs representative, “This global collection elevates our most iconic silhouettes with precision craftsmanship, further cementing our place in the fashion industry.”

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