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Lee Chae Min Possibly Replacing Park Sung Hoon in ‘The Tyrant’s Chef’

Lee Chae Min may be joining YoonA in the upcoming romance drama “The Tyrant’s Chef”! The casting update comes shortly after “Squid Game” actor Park Sung Hoon was confirmed to leave the drama.

‘The Tyrant’s Chef’ Possibly Casts Lee Chae Min as Park Sung Hoon Replacement

On January 13, media reports revealed that Lee Chae Min is currently in discussions to star in the tvN drama “The Tyrant’s Chef” (literal title). Following the report, Lee Chae Min’s agency, GOLDMEDALIST, confirmed, “Lee Chae Min received an offer [to star in] ‘The Tyrant’s Chef’ and is reviewing the offer positively.”

“The Tyrant’s Chef” centers around a talented chef who, at the peak of her career, unexpectedly travels back in time. In the past, she encounters a king infamous as the worst tyrant in history, yet surprisingly passionate about fine cuisine. Their unlikely connection unfolds in a blend of romance, comedy, and drama. The project will be directed by Jang Tae Yoo, known for iconic dramas such as “My Love from the Star,” “Lovers of the Red Sky,” and “Knight Flower.”

Previously, Girls’ Generation’s YoonA was offered the role of the chef, while Park Sung Hoon was in talks to portray the king. However, after a controversy in late December led to backlash, Park Sung Hoon ultimately stepped down from the project, leaving room for new casting.

Lee Chae Min’s rising popularity adds excitement to the casting news. After gaining attention in tvN’s hit drama “Crash Course in Romance,” he quickly solidified his position in the industry, landing the lead role in the Netflix original series “Hierarchy.” This year, he is also set to star in MBC’s upcoming Friday-Saturday drama “Bunny and the Boys” as the main character.

If confirmed, “The Tyrant’s Chef” would mark another major milestone for Lee Chae Min’s flourishing career, with fans eagerly anticipating his potential chemistry with YoonA and his performance in this unique time-travel romance.

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Park Hyung Sik is Lost in a Maze in First ‘Buried Hearts’ Poster

SBS’s highly anticipated drama “Buried Hearts” has unveiled its striking first teaser poster, setting the stage for a suspenseful and high-stakes narrative!

Park Hyung Sik is Surrounded in Mystery in First ‘Buried Hearts’ Poster

“Buried Hearts” follows the gripping story of a man who successfully hacks into a political slush fund account containing a staggering 2 trillion won (approximately $1.36 billion). However, the situation takes a deadly turn when another man, unaware of the hack, kills him—accidentally losing the entire fortune in the process. This sets the stage for a tense money game filled with ambition, betrayal, and danger.

The teaser poster features Park Hyung Sik, who portrays the ambitious protagonist Seo Dong Joo, standing at the entrance of an enormous and seemingly inescapable maze. The caption, “A high-stakes money game to join the top 1%,” hints at the cutthroat challenges and intense ambition that will drive the drama’s storyline. The maze symbolizes not only the intricate web of lies and schemes Seo Dong Joo must navigate but also the elusive nature of power and wealth.

Park Hyung Sik’s transformation is front and center in the poster. Dressed in a sharp suit, his piercing gaze and resolute expression convey a newfound intensity and charisma. The black-and-white backdrop accentuates his commanding presence, teasing a performance that promises to be both nuanced and riveting.

The production team shared their excitement, stating, “Park Hyung Sik will showcase a completely new side of himself through the character of Seo Dong Joo, a man who risks everything in a high-stakes game for power and wealth. Writer Lee Myung Hee’s sharp storytelling, director Jin Chang Gyu’s stylish vision, and Park Hyung Sik’s bold transformation will create an unforgettable viewing experience.”

“Buried Hearts” is set to premiere on February 14 at 10 p.m. KST, taking over the time slot currently occupied by “Love Scout.” Fans are eagerly awaiting this thrilling drama filled with ambition and intrigue!

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EXO Baekhyun Joins Go Kyung Pyo and Yeo Jin Goo in ‘The Great Escape: The Story’

Go Kyung Pyo, Yeo Jin Goo, EXO’s Baekhyun, Kang Ho Dong, Kim Dong Hyun, and Yoo Byung Jae are confirmed to star in the highly anticipated reboot of the popular adventure variety show “The Great Escape”!

‘The Great Escape’ Reboot Adds Baekyun, Go Kyung Pyo, Yeo Jin Goo, and More

On January 13, TVING announced that the reboot, titled “The Great Escape: The Story” (literal title), will premiere in the first half of 2025. The show will reunite original cast members Kang Ho Dong, Kim Dong Hyun, and Yoo Byung Jae, while welcoming new additions Go Kyung Pyo, Yeo Jin Goo, and Baekhyun, bringing a fresh dynamic to the beloved series.

“The Great Escape” is known for its innovative concept, where cast members tackle elaborate escape room-style challenges, solving complex puzzles while navigating immersive, story-driven stages. The reboot, “The Great Escape: The Story,” promises to elevate the experience with a stage design that transcends time and space, combining engaging storylines and intricate puzzles to captivate both the cast and viewers.

The production team shared their excitement about the reboot, emphasizing the opportunity to fully utilize the strengths of a streaming platform like TVING. Fans can look forward to more intricate and advanced challenges, immersive storytelling, and an enhanced viewing experience. The mix of veteran cast members and fresh faces will add a new layer of camaraderie and excitement, as the group works together to solve each thrilling escape.

With Kang Ho Dong’s comedic wit, Kim Dong Hyun’s reliable presence, Yoo Byung Jae’s sharp humor, Yeo Jin Goo’s quick thinking, Go Kyung Pyo’s charm, and Baekhyun’s unique energy, the reboot is set to deliver unforgettable moments.

“The Great Escape: The Story” is set to premiere in the first half of 2025. Stay tuned for more updates and get ready for an epic adventure filled with laughter, suspense, and mind-bending puzzles!

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GOT7 Jinyoung Follows a Mysterious Girl in ‘The Witch’ Teaser

Channel A‘s upcoming Saturday-Sunday drama, “The Witch,” has released its first teaser, giving viewers a glimpse into its gripping mystery-romance storyline! The teaser also offers our first glimpse at GOT7 member Park Jinyoung and Roh Jeong Eui!

‘The Witch’ Teaser Shares First Look at Park Jinyoung and Roh Jeong Eui

Based on a webtoon by Kang Full, the acclaimed author of “Moving,” “The Witch” follows the tale of Mi Jung (played by Roh Jeong Eui), a woman ostracized by her village after a tragic pattern emerges—every man who falls in love with her meets an untimely death. Her life takes a turn when Dong Jin (played by GOT7’s Jinyoung), a man determined to uncover the truth and protect her, enters her world.

The teaser begins on a snowy day, where high school student Dong Jin spots Mi Jung standing in the distance, her expression filled with sorrow. Tragedy strikes when a male student is suddenly hit by lightning, sparking rumors that Mi Jung is behind the bizarre accidents. Mi Jung, resigned to her fate, admits, “Since I was young, strange things have always happened around me,” and eventually decides to leave school to escape the malicious whispers.

Years later, Dong Jin, now a successful data miner, hears her name on a subway. He’s stunned to see Mi Jung standing nearby, listening to a man confess his feelings to her. Mi Jung, visibly guarded, responds coldly, saying, “What do you even know about me?” This encounter reignites Dong Jin’s determination to rescue her from the mysterious curse that has defined her life.

The teaser hints at an emotional and suspenseful journey as Dong Jin works to unravel the mystery surrounding Mi Jung, who has been labeled a “witch” by those around her. Will he succeed in saving her from her tragic fate?

“The Witch” is set to premiere on February 15 at 9:15 p.m. KST, promising a captivating blend of mystery, romance, and suspense. Don’t miss it!

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Park Sung Hoon Leaves ‘The Tyrant’s Chef’ Cast

Park Sung Hoon has officially stepped down from the cast of the upcoming drama “The Tyrant’s Chef” (literal translation).

‘Squid Game’ Season 2 Star Bows Out of Upcoming Drama

In December 2024, it was reported that Park Sung Hoon was in talks to star as the male lead opposite Girls’ Generation’s YoonA in the drama. The project, produced by Studio Dragon, had garnered significant anticipation due to its intriguing premise and star-studded potential cast.

However, later that month, Park Sung Hoon became embroiled in controversy after sharing the cover image of a “Squid Game”-themed AV (adult video) on his Instagram Stories. Though the actor quickly deleted the post, it sparked backlash online. His agency, BH Entertainment, clarified that Park Sung Hoon had saved the image to notify agency staff after receiving it via DM but accidentally uploaded it. Despite the explanation, criticism persisted, with many calling for him to withdraw from “The Tyrant’s Chef”.

On January 12, Studio Dragon confirmed the actor’s departure, stating, “After thorough discussions between the production team and Park Sung Hoon’s representatives, it has been decided that his participation in the project will not proceed.”

They added, “Both the actor and his agency have expressed their apologies regarding the incident, and all parties engaged in in-depth discussions. Ultimately, we agreed to part ways.”

Studio Dragon further explained that new casting decisions and the schedule for the first script reading are yet to be finalized. Meanwhile, fans are eagerly awaiting updates on the production, as the drama remains one of the most anticipated projects of the year.

Park Sung Hoon’s departure highlights the increasing scrutiny faced by public figures in today’s digital age, emphasizing the importance of responsible online behavior for celebrities.

Meanwhile, Park Sung Hoon is expected to return in the third season of “Squid Game”, which airs on Netflix later this year.

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Disney+ Addresses ‘A Shop for Killers’ Season 2 Reports

Excitement is building as Kim Hye Joon and Lee Dong Wook’s action-packed Disney+ series “A Shop for Killers” is reportedly in positive discussions for a much-anticipated second season.

Kim Hye Joon and Lee Dong Wook Possibly Returning for “A Shop for Killers” Season 2

On December 31, it was reported that “A Shop for Killers” has been tentatively confirmed to return for Season 2, with filming slated to kick off in April 2025. However, on January 2, a Disney+ representative clarified, “Discussions are ongoing in a positive direction, but nothing has been finalized yet.”

The gripping series is based on a novel by Kang Ji Young, the acclaimed author of “The Killer’s Shopping List. A Shop for Killers” follows Jung Ji An (Kim Hye Joon), a resilient young woman who moves in with her uncle Jin Man (Lee Dong Wook) after the tragic death of her parents. Jin Man, who operates a bustling shopping mall, becomes an unwitting player in a web of danger. Following his mysterious death, Jung Ji An unexpectedly inherits a perilous legacy, making her the target of ruthless killers.

Since its premiere on Disney+ in January 2024, the series has captivated audiences with its intriguing plot, high-stakes action, and compelling performances. Discussions of a sequel had already surfaced during the 2024 Disney+ Content Lineup Media Day in March, hinting at the potential for more thrilling adventures.

Fans are eagerly awaiting official confirmation, hoping for the return of Jung Ji An’s gripping journey in “A Shop for Killers” Season 2. With a blend of suspense, drama, and action, the second installment promises to deliver even more intense storytelling and character development. Stay tuned for updates as Disney+ prepares to make its final decision.

Are you looking forward to the second season of “A Shop for Killers”? Let us know all about your Season 2 expectations in the comments below.

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Park Min Young Leaves Hook Entertainment

Park Min Young has officially ended her relationship with Hook Entertainment after three years. The announcement comes only a day after reports insinuated the “Marry My Husband” star is leaving the agency.

Park Min Young Parts Ways With Agency

On January 1, it was reported that her exclusive contract with the agency concluded on December 31, 2024. Following discussions, both parties reached a mutual decision to part ways amicably.

A representative from Hook Entertainment confirmed the news, stating, “It is true that Park Min Young’s contract has ended. We will continue to support her until the completion of her current drama. We wish her the best in her future endeavors.” The agency’s statement reflects its commitment to maintaining a positive relationship with the actress even after her departure.

Park Min Young initially joined Hook Entertainment in 2021 and has remained a prominent figure in the Korean entertainment industry, known for her exceptional performances in popular dramas like “What’s Wrong with Secretary Kim,” “Her Private Life,” and “Forecasting Love and Weather.”

Currently, Park Min Young is focused on filming her upcoming drama, “The Confidence Man KR” (working title), a Korean adaptation of the acclaimed Japanese comedy series “The Confidence Man JP.” The project has generated significant buzz as fans eagerly await her portrayal of a cunning con artist navigating thrilling schemes.

Her departure from Hook Entertainment also signals a new chapter in her career. Fans are also curious about her next move, with many anticipating a fresh agency announcement that aligns with her vision for growth and artistic pursuits.

As Park Min Young transitions to a new phase in her journey, she also continues to be one of South Korea’s most versatile and beloved actresses. Fans and industry professionals alike also wish her success in both her current and future endeavors, eagerly awaiting her next steps.

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‘Squid Game 3’ Confirmed Amidst Leonardo DiCaprio Casting Rumors

Netflix has officially shut down swirling rumors about a Hollywood star appearing in a beloved series. Amidst the Leonardo DiCaprio casting rumors, the streaming service confirmed that “Squid Game 3” is coming this year!

Leonardo DiCaprio Casting Rumors in ‘Squid Game 3’ Debunked

On January 1, a report by OSEN alleged that Leonardo DiCaprio had secretly completed a cameo for the hit Netflix series. According to the claims, his role was said to be minor, with all details kept under wraps to maintain secrecy and prevent spoilers. The report suggested that filming had taken place last year under highly confidential conditions.

However, Netflix wasted no time in addressing the speculation. A representative firmly denied the rumors, stating, “The rumors are completely false. Reports of Leonardo DiCaprio’s involvement in ‘Squid Game’ Season 3 are entirely unfounded.” This clear response from Netflix puts an end to the buzz surrounding DiCaprio’s supposed connection to the global phenomenon.

Meanwhile, the anticipation for “Squid Game 3” remains high, with its premiere slated for 2025. Netflix also shared exciting updates regarding the series. On January 1, the platform announced that “Squid Game 2” had achieved a record-breaking 68 million views in its first week, making it the most-watched first week in Netflix history. To build on the momentum, Netflix unveiled a teaser poster for the third season, fueling fans’ excitement.

The poster prominently features Young Hee, the chilling mascot from the “Red Light, Green Light” game, alongside a new robot character, Cheol Su, who made a surprise debut in the post-credits scene of Season 2’s finale. Fans are also speculating about Cheol Su’s role and the challenges he may bring to the upcoming season.

While Leonardo DiCaprio won’t be gracing “Squid Game 3,” the series also continues to captivate audiences worldwide with its gripping storyline and unforgettable characters.

“Squid Game 3” has not yet been given an official release date. Stay tuned for more updates on this story.

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‘2024 KBS Drama Awards’ to Air at Later Date

In the aftermath of the heartbreaking Jeju Air Flight 7C2216 crash on December 29, KBS has made the decision to cancel the live broadcast of the 2024 KBS Drama Awards to honor the victims and their families.

2024 KBS Drama Awards Moved to Later Broadcast Date

In a statement released on December 30, KBS shared, “To mourn the victims of the Jeju Air disaster, we have decided to cancel the live broadcast of the 2024 KBS Drama Awards, which was scheduled for December 31 at 7 p.m. KST on KBS2.” The network further explained that the event will now transition to a pre-recorded format, with both the live broadcast and the photo wall red carpet event canceled.

KBS assured viewers that they will announce further details regarding the revised schedule and the winners at a later time. This decision reflects the somber mood of the nation, which is currently observing a national mourning period from December 29 to January 4, declared by the government following the tragic incident.

On the morning of December 29, Jeju Air Flight 7C2216, traveling from Thailand, crashed into the outer wall of Muan International Airport during its approach. The tragedy claimed 179 lives out of the 181 passengers aboard, leaving just two survivors, both with severe injuries. This devastating loss has plunged the nation into grief, prompting widespread cancellations and adjustments to scheduled events as a sign of respect. Several special shows and events, including the KBS Drama Awards, have chosen to re-schedule at a later date.

The 2024 KBS Drama Awards had been one of the most anticipated year-end events for fans of Korean dramas, but the decision to shift to a pre-recorded format underscores the gravity of the situation. KBS and the Korean entertainment industry join the nation in extending heartfelt condolences and prayers to the victims, their families, and everyone impacted by this unspeakable tragedy.

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BLACKPINK Jisoo Shines in ‘Newtopia’ Stills

Coupang Play’s highly anticipated drama has unveiled a captivating new set of photos featuring Jisoo, showcasing her transformation into the dynamic character Yeong Joo. The “Newtopia” stills feature the BLACKPINK member as a young woman searching her beloved amidst a zombie outbreak.

‘Newtopia’ Stills Offer Intriguing Glimpse at Jisoo’s Character

The series follows the gripping story of Jae Yoon (Park Jung Min), a soldier stationed in Seoul, and his girlfriend Yeong Joo, as they struggle to reunite amidst a zombie outbreak that has thrown the city into chaos.

Jisoo’s Yeong Joo is introduced as a radiant college student and the “goddess” of her university’s engineering department. One still captures her cheerful and confident demeanor, surrounded by admiring male classmates, one of whom kneels with a flower in hand, symbolizing her popularity and charm.

However, the tone also shifts dramatically in other stills, revealing Yeong Joo in a drastically different light—terrified yet determined. With a golf club clenched in her hands, she exudes a fierce resilience, embodying her unwavering drive to find her boyfriend, Jae Yoon, despite the relentless threat of zombies.

A Truly Exciting New Project for Jisoo

Jisoo expressed her excitement for the role, commenting, “Yeong Joo’s charm captivated me from the start. I worked hard to portray her authentically and hope audiences enjoy witnessing her growth throughout the series.” Her dedication to the role is evident, with Director Yoon Sung Hyun praising her performance, saying, “Jisoo perfectly captured Yeong Joo’s quirky and humorous traits, bringing the character to life in ways I hadn’t imagined.”

The blend of romance, horror, and Jisoo’s compelling performance has also heightened anticipation for “Newtopia,” set to premiere on February 7 at 8 p.m. KST. Fans also eagerly await this emotionally charged and action-packed drama that promises to deliver a unique zombie thriller with heart.

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