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Hyeri Shares Personal Challenges in New Film “Victory”

On August 5th, a press screening for the film Victory took place at CGV Yongsan I’Park Mall in Seoul. The event saw the attendance of director Park Beom-soo and cast members Lee Hyeri, Park Se-wan, Lee Jung-ha, and Jo Ah-ram, who shared their thoughts about the film.

Hyeri opens up about her journey and the demands of her role in the nostalgic cheerleading drama

Victory tells the story of the “Millennium Girls,” a passionate rookie cheerleading club. Set against the nostalgic backdrop of 1999, the film uniquely blends cheerleading with girl’s hip-hop, broadcast dance, and soccer, creating a new visual experience.

Lee Hyeri, who stars as Pil-seon, an aspiring dancer, took on significant challenges for this role. Known for her dancing and acting, she learned hip-hop dance, cheerleading, and a regional dialect to portray Pil-seon accurately.

At the press event, she was moved to tears by the positive reception of the film. She spoke about her deep connection to Pil-seon, describing the role as particularly challenging. The actress credited the director and production team for helping her embrace Pil-seon’s passion and innocence.

Reflecting on her experience, Lee Hyeri said that Victory allowed her to return to dance after a long time. However, she found the hip-hop style and cheerleading physically demanding, likening cheerleading more to a sport than a dance. Despite these challenges, she felt proud of performing all the scenes with her co-stars without using doubles.

Additionally, co-star Lee Jung Ha, who plays a pivotal role in the film, recently won Best Rookie Actor at the Blue Dragon Series Awards. The actor is quickly emerging as one of the most promising actors in the industry. His dedication to his craft and ability to bring depth to his characters have garnered him a growing fan base and critical acclaim.

Victory is scheduled for release in theaters on August 14th.

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Baek Sung Chul and Shin Do Hyun Join Kim Sejeong in “Drunk Romance”

Actors Shin Do Hyun and Baek Sung Chul will star alongside Kim Sejeong and Lee Jong Won in the highly anticipated drama “Drunk Romance.” ENA announced the additional cast members on August 5, creating excitement for the upcoming romantic comedy.

“Drunken Romance” reveals additional cast

“Drunk Romance” revolves around the lives of a liquor sales representative and a local brewer. Kim Sejeong plays Chae Yong Joo, a legendary sales champion known for her passion and dedication. Determined to protect her sales branch of six years, Chae Yong Joo embarks on a special mission, encountering a man who understands her heart better than she does, significantly impacting her life.

Lee Jong Won portrays Yoon Min Joo, a brewery owner and brewmaster who has revolutionized the liquor industry. As an empath, Yoon Min Joo is highly attuned to others’ emotions, often blocking them out to avoid overload. Living a tranquil life in a rural village, he becomes increasingly drawn to Chae Yong Joo, who continually captures his attention.

Shin Do Hyun takes on the role of Bang Ah Reum, a pragmatic planning team manager competing with Chae Yong Joo over Yoon Min Joo’s brewery. Bang Ah Reum, driven by a strong desire for recognition, faces a formidable challenge from the determined Chae Yong Joo.

Baek Sung Chul stars as Oh Chan Hwi, Chae Yong Joo’s best friend. Oh Chan Hwi, a free spirit, roams the country in a toast truck, adding a unique dynamic to the story.

“Drunk Romance” promises a captivating mix of humor, competition, and heartfelt moments, showcasing the strong acting talents of its cast. With its intriguing plot and dynamic characters, the drama is set to be a must-watch when it premieres in November.

Stay tuned for more updates on “Drunk Romance”, and prepare to be charmed by this delightful new series!

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Go Min Si and Lee Jung Eun Are Mysterious Guests in “The Frog”

Netflix’s original series “The Frog” has unveiled eerie and mysterious posters featuring Kim Yun Seok, Yoon Kye Sang, Go Min Si, and Lee Jung Eun!

The thriller series introduces suspenseful storylines and intriguing characters of Go Min Si and Lee Jung Eun

“The Frog” is a mystery thriller that weaves together the lives of two pension owners living in different timelines. Yoon Kye Sang plays Gu Sang Jun, who runs a motel in the past, while Kim Yun Seok portrays Jeon Young Ha, who operates a pension in the present. Both characters face similar incidents but make vastly different decisions.

The series’ posters highlight the tagline “On a peaceful day” for Sang Jun and Young Ha, while introducing Seong A (Go Min Si) and Bo Min (Lee Jung Eun) with “An unwelcome guest has arrived.” These lines tease the tangled relationships among the characters, sparking curiosity about their interactions.

The visual contrast in the posters is striking. Young Ha’s reflective expression set against a sunlit forest backdrop contrasts sharply with Seong A’s intense gaze in a rain-soaked forest. This imagery builds tension as Young Ha, who runs a remote guesthouse, encounters the unexpected Seong A, foreshadowing potential conflicts.

Sang Jun, depicted with a dazed look, manages a lakeside motel and becomes embroiled in a mysterious incident following an unexpected guest’s arrival one summer day. Meanwhile, Bo Min, a former ace detective now serving as a local police chief, peers through a slightly open door, adding to the intrigue.

Go Min Si’s portrayal of Seong A stands out, promising a whirlwind of emotions and intensity. Her powerful presence and expressive intensity suggest a deeply layered character. Fans eagerly anticipate how Seong A’s arrival.

“The Frog” is set to premiere on August 23.

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SEVENTEEN Mingyu Named as New Dior Ambassador

French luxury brand Dior has officially appointed SEVENTEEN Mingyu as its new ambassador. The announcement, made on August 1, confirmed rumors about his potential new role.

Dior officially announces SEVENTEEN Mingyu as their new ambassador

In their statement, Dior expressed their excitement: “A K-Pop icon and member of SEVENTEEN, Mingyu has joined us as a Dior ambassador. Mingyu fully embodies Dior House’s unique creativity, which Kim Jones, the artistic director of Dior’s menswear collection, continuously reinterprets. Please look forward to the special collaboration between Dior and Mingyu, where boldness and creativity merge seamlessly.”

Mingyu frequently dazzles fans and fashion enthusiasts with his appearances at various award shows and fashion events, often dressed in Dior. His recent appearance at Paris Fashion Week highlighted his connection to the brand, showcasing his ability to embody Dior’s style and elegance.

To celebrate his new role, Dior released stunning photos of his latest campaign with the brand. The images capture Mingyu’s charismatic presence and fashion-forward sensibility, highlighting why he is a perfect fit for the Dior family.

The ambassadorship marks another milestone in his career, reinforcing his influence both as a member of SEVENTEEN and as a fashion icon. Fans eagerly anticipate the upcoming collaborations and campaigns that will showcase the synergy between Mingyu and Dior.

This partnership promises to bring innovative and exciting projects, blending his strong presence with Dior’s timeless sophistication. The announcement has already generated buzz in the fashion and K-Pop communities, setting high expectations for future endeavors.

Korean entertainment has significantly impacted global brands, driving a surge in international popularity and market influence. With the rise of K-Pop, K-Dramas, and Korean cinema, celebrities from these industries have become powerful brand ambassadors, enhancing global reach and visibility. Brands like Dior, Samsung, and LG leverage the immense fanbase and influence of stars like BTS, BLACKPINK, and Parasite’s cast to connect with younger, diverse audiences.

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Jeon Do Yeon Recalls Cannes Airport Photos

On a recent episode of Jung Jae Hyung’s YouTube show, “Fairy Jung Jae Hyung,” renowned actress Jeon Do Yeon shared memories of her unexpected airport appearance after returning from the Cannes Film Festival in 2007.

The actress reminisces about her surprising airport appearance following her prestigious win

Jeon Do Yeon won the Best Actress award at Cannes for her role in “Secret Sunshine,” directed by Lee Chang-Dong and co-starring Song Kang Ho. The win marked a significant achievement in her career, but her airport appearance became equally memorable.

Jeon Do Yeon reminisced about her surprise at the airport, recalling that she wore a red checkered shirt and carried a large backpack. Director Lee asked if she planned to put on makeup before leaving the plane, but she chose to remain bare-faced.

When she arrived at the airport, she was greeted by a large crowd of reporters. Despite being bare-faced, Jeon Do Yeon smiled widely at the cameras, showcasing her natural beauty, which captivated everyone present. The images of her simple attire and radiant smile were quickly immortalized on the internet.

During the show, Jeon Do Yeon laughed with Jung Jae Hyung as she remembered her mother unexpectedly appearing at the airport, surprising her more than the reporters. Reflecting on this moment, Jeon Do Yeon’s genuine charm and unaffected grace left a lasting impression, proving that true beauty transcends makeup and glamour.

Jeon Do Yeon’s recent projects

Jeon Do Yeon starred in the critically acclaimed film “Beasts Clawing at Straws” (2020), a noir thriller that garnered significant attention. Her performance was praised for its intensity and depth, further solidifying her status as one of Korea’s top actresses. She also appeared in the Netflix series “Crash Course in Romance” (2023), where her portrayal of a single mother navigating life’s challenges earned her widespread acclaim.

She stars in the very recent film “Revolver” with Ji Chang Wook and Lim Ji Yeon.

Her impressive list of awards continues to grow. In addition to her Cannes victory, she won Best Actress at the Blue Dragon Film Awards for her role in “Birthday” (2019). Her consistent performances have earned her numerous accolades, reflecting her versatility and dedication to her craft.

Reflecting on this moment, Jeon Do Yeon’s genuine charm and unaffected grace left a lasting impression, proving that true beauty transcends makeup and glamour.

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Cho Jin Woong Reflects on Late Lee Sun Gyun’s Influence

Actor Cho Jin Woong recently shared his thoughts and feelings about his former colleague Lee Sun Gyun during an interview at a café in Jongno-gu, Seoul. The occasion was to celebrate the release of Disney+ and STUDIO X+U’s drama “No Way Out: The Roulette.”

Actor Cho Jin Woong shares heartfelt memories of his colleague Lee Sun Gyun during an interview about his new drama series

“No Way Out” tells the story of a public assassination contract worth 20 billion KRW (~14.7 million USD) placed on the life of a heinous criminal, Kim Guk Ho, portrayed by Yoo Jae Myung. The drama delves into the intense struggle of various individuals caught in this deadly game. Cho Jin Woong takes on the role of Baek Joong Sik, a detective from the Hosang Police Station, tasked with protecting the notorious criminal from citizens.

Originally, the role of Baek Joong Sik was meant for Lee Sun Gyun. However, he had to withdraw from the project just two weeks before filming began due to an ongoing police investigation related to drug use allegations.

Cho Jin Woong expressed his feelings about this change, saying, “Sun Gyun is like an older brother to me, so I felt a great sense of sadness. The production company’s representative called me, saying the situation was urgent and that I needed to read all eight scripts in two days. After hearing this, I read the scripts, and they were very engaging.”

He continued, “I decided to participate in the project, and the next day, I met the representative and the producer at a Chinese restaurant. I jokingly said, ‘I’m Joong Sik (the character’s name), and we are meeting at a Chinese restaurant. Don’t expect too much, I’ll just have fun.’ At that time, Sun Gyun also texted me, saying, ‘Thank you for taking on this role, I feel reassured. Let’s meet soon and have a drink.'”

“No Way Out,” consisting of eight episodes, will be released every Wednesday with two episodes on Disney+ and U+ Mobile TV. Cho Jin Woong’s heartfelt performance, coupled with the intense storyline, promises to captivate viewers.

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ASTRO Sanha Reveals His Ambition to Catch up With Cha Eunwoo’s Career

On August 1, 2024, ASTRO Sanha made a special appearance on Paul Kim’s YouTube talk show, “Paul Kim’s Remaining Chestnut Peeling.” The rising star is currently preparing for his solo debut with his first mini album, “Dusk.” During the episode, he shared some unexpected and ambitious personal goals.

ASTRO Sanha shares his ambitions and plans for his solo debut

Sanha revealed his admiration for fellow ASTRO member Cha Eunwoo, saying, “You see, I have a lot of faith in myself. I have a very clear goal. It’s to catch up to Eunwoo hyung.” His candid aspiration to match or surpass Eunwoo’s success left host Paul Kim impressed. Sanha continued, “Since I see him all the time, I always say to him, ‘Hyung, watch out because I’m catching up to you soon.’”

He determination was evident as he expressed his desire to be recognized and known by the public even more in the next two to three years. Paul Kim noted the special quality in Sanha’s ambition, remarking, “When I heard you say that, I thought, ‘When was the last time I saw someone with so much ambition in their eyes?’”

Meanwhile, Yoon Sanha, best known as Sanha, is set to step into the spotlight with his highly anticipated solo debut. He will release his first mini album, “Dusk,” on August 6, 2024, marking a new chapter in his career. The title, which translates to twilight, reflects his aspiration for growth and self-discovery during this transformative period.

His musical journey has seen him showcase his talents through solo covers and previous releases, including the track “24 Hours” from ASTRO’s “Drive to the Starry Road.” With “Dusk,” he aims to reveal a deeper, more personal side of his artistry.

Fans can look forward to a blend of heartfelt melodies and introspective lyrics as he explores new musical dimensions. His debut is set to be a significant milestone, highlighting his evolution from a beloved boy band member to a distinguished solo artist.

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Jeon Jong Seo Faces Survival in “Queen Woo”

TVING’s highly anticipated historical drama “Queen Woo” promises to be a thrilling addition to the genre, featuring the talented Jeon Jong Seo in the titular role. The series delves into the intense power struggles that ensue following the sudden death of the king, leaving the throne vacant and up for grabs.

The new historical drama showcases Jeon Jong Seo as Queen Woo, navigating a deadly power struggle

In “Queen Woo,” Jeon Jong Seo portrays Woo Hee, the queen of Goguryeo, who must find a new king within 24 hours to maintain her position and protect her clan. Known as the most beautiful woman in Goguryeo and a member of the prestigious Woo clan, Woo Hee has always been a pawn in the clan’s ambitions despite her intelligence and strength. However, with the king’s death, she faces a perilous challenge from five tribes and several princes vying for power.

In addition, Jeon Jong Seo’s new character, Woo Hee, undergoes a dramatic transformation as she steps up to the challenge of the power struggle. The newly released stills from the drama showcase Woo Hee’s dual nature: her grace and dignity as a queen within the palace and her fierce, warrior spirit on the battlefield. Donning armor and wielding a bow, Woo Hee reveals a different kind of charisma, one that is both commanding and resilient.

The story highlights Woo Hee’s journey as she navigates the treacherous landscape of power and survival. Her intelligent aura and determination shine through in every scene, making her a captivating and formidable character. Fans are eager to see if Woo Hee can protect herself and her clan amidst the chaos and emerge victorious.

With the series’ gripping teaser, “Queen Woo” is set to captivate audiences with its historical action narrative. Jeon Jong Seo’s portrayal of a queen fighting against all odds to secure her place in a male-dominated world is sure to resonate with viewers.

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Fair Trade Commission to Investigate HYBE Further

The Fair Trade Commission (FTC) will further investigate HYBE despite the company’s claim that the omission of designated data was unintentional. This follows a correction report filed by HYBE, which described the omission as a “simple mistake.” The FTC’s investigation, if it uncovers intentionality and significant omission of data, could lead to criminal charges against HYBE Chairman Bang Si-hyuk.

The probe continues despite HYBE’s claims of a “simple omission” in data disclosure

On July 2, HYBE filed a correction report with the Financial Supervisory Service’s Electronic Disclosure System (DART). The report addressed the status of overseas affiliates in which the CEO’s family holds shares, citing a “simple omission.” HYBE disclosed ‘BEL AIR STRADELLA, LLC,’ a U.S. real estate company owned entirely by Bang Si-hyuk. Reports indicate that Bang Si-hyuk purchased a luxury mansion worth approximately 36.5 billion won (26.4 million dollars) through this company.

HYBE explained, “With the designation of large corporate groups subject to disclosure, the corporation also has an obligation to disclose. In practice, there was a simple omission, so we made a corrective disclosure.”

The FTC conducted an on-site investigation into HYBE on June 24, suspecting data omission for large corporations. Despite HYBE’s voluntary correction, the FTC plans to continue its investigation. An FTC official stated, “We plan to continuously uncover whether this was a simple omission, as HYBE claims, or a deliberate concealment.”

If the investigation reveals that HYBE omitted additional affiliates, excluding their assets from calculations, it could mean avoidance of corporate group designation and engagement in unfair practices. Significant omissions could result in punishment.

HYBE’s voluntary correction came over two months late, beyond the 10-day window for such actions. A retroactive application is unlikely, as the enforcement decree takes effect on the 7th of next month. According to the Monopoly Regulation and Fair Trade Act, large corporate groups can face criminal charges for omissions or errors in data related to disclosure obligations. The FTC will review the missing data and HYBE’s explanations in their ongoing investigation.

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KBS Suspends Lee Gi Ho for Sexual Harassment Remarks

KBS N Sports suspended caster Lee Gi Ho after he made inappropriate comments during the Hanwha-KT baseball game broadcast on August 1. The broadcaster issued a statement on August 2, addressing the incident and detailing the actions taken against Lee Gi Ho.

The suspension follows inappropriate comments made during a live baseball game broadcast

“We recognize the seriousness of the caster’s problematic comments during the broadcast and have taken immediate suspension measures against him. We have also initiated procedures to refer the matter to the personnel committee and have suspended him from all assigned baseball broadcasting duties,” the statement read.

The controversy erupted when Lee Gi Ho commented on a Hanwha fan holding a poster that read, “If I were a woman, Choi Jae Hoon,” suggesting the fan could date the baseball player if he were a woman. He then made a pun, stating, “I want to eat ‘woman ramen.’ Isn’t it the most delicious ramen?” This remark, based on the Korean grammar pun ‘Yeo Ja Ra Myun’ (which can mean ‘woman ramyun’), faced widespread condemnation as a sexual harassment comment.

Following the backlash, Lee Gi Ho issued an apology for his “inappropriate comment,” but it did little to quell the criticism from viewers and fans.

In response to the incident, the fan referenced in Lee Gi Ho’s comment posted on an online community, sharing that they had received apologies from both the program director and the caster. The fan also mentioned that the segment would be edited out of the TVing video and that an acknowledgment and apology would appear in the next broadcast.

KBS N Sports concluded their statement by apologizing to their viewers and baseball fans for the incident.

This suspension reflects KBS N Sports’ commitment to maintaining professionalism and respect in their broadcasts. The network’s swift action demonstrates their zero-tolerance policy towards inappropriate behavior.

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