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Han Ji Min and Choi Jung Hoon Confirm Relationship

Han Ji Min shares mirror selfie on Instagram.

Actress Han Ji Min and Jannabi’s lead vocalist, Choi Jung Hoon, have officially confirmed their romantic relationship. The news comes after much speculation, and it has now been validated by both of their agencies.

Han Ji Min and Choi Jung Hoon are officially a couple, according to their respective agencies

On August 8, a media outlet reported that Han Ji Min and Choi Jung Hoon began their relationship after meeting on KBS2’s music talk show The Seasons: Choi Jung Hoon’s Night Park. The report suggested that the two had continued their relationship and recently started dating.

Shortly after the news broke, her agency, BH Entertainment, confirmed the relationship. The agency stated, “It is true that Han Ji Min and Jannabi’s Choi Jung Hoon are dating. The two recently developed into a romantic relationship.”

Similarly, Choi Jung Hoon’s agency, Peponi Music, also verified the news. They shared, “After checking, it is true that the two first met through ‘The Seasons: Choi Jung Hoon’s Night Park’ and that they recently developed into a romantic relationship.”

The pair first crossed paths publicly in August 2023 when the actress appeared on The Seasons: Choi Jung Hoon’s Night Park. During the show, they performed Jannabi’s “A Thought on an Autumn Night” and 10CM’s “Spring to Love,” the latter being a soundtrack from Han Ji Min’s drama Our Blues. This duet performance is where their connection reportedly began.

Han Ji Min, born in 1982, and Choi Jung Hoon, born in 1992, have garnered significant attention due to their ten-year age difference, but fans are overwhelmingly supportive of this new relationship. As the couple embarks on this new chapter together, fans have offered their congratulations to the happy pair.

In other news, the actress will be returning to the small screens with the upcoming drama More Beautiful Than Heaven. 

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Kakao Chairman Indicted for Stock Manipulation in SM Entertainment Acquisition

Kakao Chairman Kim Beom Soo is facing charges for manipulating SM Entertainment's stock prices. Photo via Wikimedia Commons.

On August 8, KST, the Seoul Southern District Prosecutor’s Office, indicted Kim Beom Soo, the founder and chairman of Kakao, for violating the Capital Market Act. This indictment marks a significant turn in the ongoing legal drama, as Kim will face trial while in detainment.

The Kakao Chairman faces trial for allegedly manipulating SM Entertainment stock prices during a high-profile acquisition battle

Moreover, charges against Kim Beom Soo are severe, centering around allegations that he manipulated the stock prices of SM Entertainment in February 2023. At that time, HYBE Labels, a major competitor, had issued a tender offer at 120,000 KRW per share in a bid to acquire SM Entertainment.

In a bold move to thwart HYBE’s acquisition, Kim Beom Soo, alongside Kakao, allegedly conspired with the private equity firm One Asia Partners. Together, they reportedly mobilized over 240 billion KRW (approximately $175 million USD), purchasing a significant amount of SM stocks at inflated prices. This strategic action was intended to fix SM’s stock prices above HYBE’s offer, effectively blocking HYBE from securing a controlling stake in the company.

In addition to Kim Beom Soo, former Kakao CEOs Hong Eun Taek and Kim Sung Soo were also implicated in the scheme. Both were indicted on the same charges, although they will face trial without detainment.

The indictment of such high-profile figures has sent shockwaves through the business community and beyond. With the trial looming, the outcome could have far-reaching implications for corporate governance and market practices in South Korea.

As the case unfolds, many are watching closely to see how this legal battle will impact not only Kakao and SM Entertainment but also the broader entertainment and tech industries.

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Big Hit Music Apologizes Again for BTS Suga DUI Incident

Big Hit Music has apologized again following the controversy surrounding the recent DUI incident of BTS Suga. The agency directly addressed public concerns and clarified details about the vehicle involved, responding to criticism over how they initially communicated the situation.

Big Hit clarifies concerns over downplaying BTS Suga DUI incident and provides more details about the vehicle involved

On August 8, KST, Big Hit Music posted an updated statement on Weverse, saying, “We did not intend to scale down the issue at hand, and we later confirmed that the vehicle was not a kickboard.” This response came after fans and the public perceived the initial statement, which described the vehicle as an “electric kickboard,” as an attempt to minimize the severity of the situation.

BTS Suga fell off his scooter after drinking outside. The public expresses strong criticisms of this incident, emphasizing that it’s illegal. Photo via Instagram @agustd.

The agency continued, “We initially described the vehicle as an ‘electric kickboard’ because we believed it was a foldable kickboard with a seat attachment. However, after thoroughly reviewing the facts, we realized that vehicle models vary by performance and specifications, which can affect the severity of the crime.”

The controversy began on August 7, KST, when news of Suga’s DUI charges emerged. Big Hit Music’s initial response faced backlash, as critics accused the agency of downplaying the incident by emphasizing specific details about the vehicle—referring to it as a scooter, emphasizing that Suga was “wearing a helmet,” “only travelled a short distance,” and “fell while parking the scooter.”

Further investigation revealed that the vehicle Suga was riding on the evening of August 6, KST, was an electric scooter capable of reaching speeds of up to 30 km per hour. Under South Korea’s Vehicle Administration Laws, this type of scooter is classified as a motorbicycle. If someone operates this type of vehicle with a blood alcohol concentration over 0.08% and under 0.2%, they could face fines between 5 million and 10 million KRW or, in severe cases, 1 to 2 years in prison.

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Kim Sae Ron Deletes Instagram Photos With Lee Jae Wook and Other Co-Actors

Actress Kim Sae Ron, who has been keeping a low profile following her DUI controversy, posted and then quickly deleted photos on her Instagram. These photos included images with her male co-stars, stirring curiosity and rumor among fans.

Kim Sae Ron sparked speculation after deleting several photos, including one with Lee Jae Wook, from her Instagram account

On August 7, Kim Sae Ron uploaded several photos on her Instagram account without any captions. These pictures varied from recent snapshots of herself to moments captured during projects she was involved in. However, the post was short-lived, as she immediately deleted the images after sharing them.

One of the photos that drew significant attention was from the filming of Netflix’s Bloodhounds. In this image, she was seen posing with her co-stars Woo Do Hwan and Lee Sang Yi. Despite completing her work on the show, most of her scenes were edited out following her DUI incident, leading some to wonder if this post could signal her intent to return to acting.

The final image she shared showed her holding a book, looking deeply engaged and exuding a more mature vibe.

Another intriguing photo featured Kim Sae Ron and Lee Jae Wook during the filming of the drama Kiss Sixth Sense. The two actors were seen sitting together, reviewing their performance on screen. This led to further speculation among fans about the nature of their relationship or professional collaborations.

The actress was recently involved in a controversy for driving under the influence. She’s currently keeping a low profile but hints at a possible return to acting. Photo via Instagram @ron_sae.

Kim Sae Ron has been under public scrutiny since May 2022, when she was involved in a drunk driving accident in Gangnam, Seoul, and fled the scene without taking responsibility. With a blood alcohol level of approximately 0.2%, she faced serious consequences, including the cancellation of her driver’s license and a fine of 20 million KRW (around 15,000 USD). Following this, she has mostly remained out of the public eye.

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Hyeri Worried About Recent Love Triangle Affecting Her New Movie

On the morning of August 7, KST, actress Hyeri, the lead in the film “Victory,” sat down for an interview at a café in Palpan-dong, Jongno-gu, Seoul. “Victory,” set in 1999, tells the story of an amateur cheerleading club called “Millennium Girls,” who uplift everyone with their energetic dances and songs fueled by pure passion.

Hyeri is concerned as personal life controversies may impact her professional career

Recently, Hyeri garnered attention not only for her film but also for her personal life. Hyeri and Ryu Joon Yeol, who became a couple after starring together in “Reply 1988,” went public with their relationship in 2017. However, they broke up in November last year after seven years of dating. During this time, it was revealed that Ryu Joon Yeol and Han So Hee were dating. Finding out about the news, she posted a message on her social media saying, “Interesting.” This incident dubbed the “Interesting Clash,” led to intense public interest and speculation.

Lee Hyeri expresses concerns about her upcoming movie “Victory.” The actress recently gained the spotlight after expressing disappointment over Ryu Ju Yeol finding a new one not long after their break up. Photo via Instagram @hyeri_0609.

In the interview, Hyeri said, “I will briefly address this. Although I don’t have much more to say, I’ll take just two minutes to speak on this matter.” She continued, “My main concern is that these personal matters might overshadow my film ‘Victory,’ which I truly love and even shed tears for during the press screening. I’m worried that these discussions might gain more attention than the film itself.”

She added, “However, if I think back to that time, as a person, Hyeri, I believe that was how I genuinely felt, and that’s why I acted the way I did,” briefly but candidly expressing her feelings.

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Cho Seung Woo Express Support to Go Jun Hee Amidst ‘Burning Sun’ Scandal

On August 7, KST, Go Jun Hee shared a supportive message she received from actor Cho Seung Woo on Instagram. He sent the message through a mutual acquaintance to express his encouragement as she prepared for her first stage performance.

Cho Seung Woo stands by Go Jun Hee during the ongoing controversy

Cho Seung Woo wrote, “Although we’ve never met, I want to send my heartfelt congratulations and support for your first performance tomorrow. I hope that the precious moments you’ll create on stage will become beautiful memories and that this project will lead to many opportunities in great works where we might meet often. Please tell her to keep fighting.”

He continued, “Let her release all the struggles she’s been through on stage. Even if she feels anxious or nervous, remind her that someone who has endured such unfair and difficult times will find this to be nothing. Tell her to stand proudly and deliver her performance. The energy and applause from the audience will compensate for the lost time.”

Go Jun Hee replied, “Thank you.”

Previously, Go Jun Hee appeared on the YouTube channel ‘Don’t Forget Your Breakfast2′ to address rumors linking her to the Burning Sun scandal. She stated, “I don’t even know where Burning Sun is located, and I’ve never been there. I kept saying it wasn’t true, but no one would listen,” expressing her frustration.

Cho Seung Woo makes fans fall in love with his charismatic presence. Photo via Instagram @goodmanstory_official.

She added, “I told my agency that it wasn’t me, and I thought everything would be cleared up if the agency made a statement, but they neglected it. For an actor, image is everything, and I couldn’t understand why they wouldn’t clear this up. So I left the agency and hired a lawyer on my own to clarify the situation.”

Lastly, she recalled, “Even after I made a clarification, my name continued to be mentioned, which made it seem like I was admitting to something. As a result, projects and work I had planned were cancelled, and I wasn’t able to continue with them.”

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BTS Suga Apologizes for Electric Scooter Accident After Drinking

Seoul Yongsan Police Station booked BTS Suga on August 6, KST, for violating the Road Traffic Act due to drunk driving. Police found him after he fell off an electric scooter in Hannam-dong. A breathalyzer test showed his blood alcohol concentration was high enough to cancel his license. Police fined him immediately and revoked his license.

Suga addresses fans after an electric scooter mishap while under the influence

Big Hit Music, Suga’s agency, apologized, explaining, “Suga rode an electric scooter home after drinking on the night of August 6 KST. After traveling about 500 meters, he fell while parking the scooter. A breathalyzer test conducted by nearby police resulted in a fine and the revocation of his license. No injuries or property damage occurred, and police escorted Suga home.”

The agency added, “We apologize for the disappointment caused by our artist’s inappropriate behavior. Suga will accept any disciplinary action from his workplace as a social service agent for causing public concern.”

Suga also apologized to fans on the Weverse platform, stating, “After drinking at a dinner last night, I rode an electric scooter home. I failed to recognize the danger and illegality of using an electric scooter while intoxicated and violated the Road Traffic Act. Although no one was harmed and no property was damaged, I take full responsibility for my actions and sincerely apologize to everyone.”

Many are concerned about whether this incident will affect Suga’s service as a social service agent, potentially extending his service days or leading to additional disciplinary measures. However, it appears his status and service days as a social service agent will not be affected since the incident occurred outside official working hours.

BTS Suga is recently involved in an electric scooter accident after drinking. The BTS member issues an apology.

A Military Manpower Administration official noted, “Disciplinary actions are taken for negligence during working hours, but incidents outside working hours are subject to general criminal law.”

The Military Manpower Administration’s regulations state that activities such as drinking, gambling, or indecency during working hours result in an extension of service by five days for each warning. However, this only applies to incidents that occur during working hours.

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Yoo Ah In Mourns Father’s Passing

Actor Yoo Ah In is grieving the loss of his father, who passed away on August 7 after a long struggle with a chronic illness. Yoo Ah In and his family are now navigating this difficult time as they prepare for the funeral at the Daegu Catholic University Hospital Funeral Home. They have scheduled the burial for August 9 at Myeongbok Park.

Yoo Ah In mourns the loss of his father following a prolonged illness

United Artists Agency, Yoo Ah In’s agency, announced they are gathering further details and have requested privacy for the family. Recognized for his standout performances in films like “Burning” and TV dramas such as “Secret Love Affair,” the actor has previously opened up about his family life. He has shared heartfelt stories about his relationship with his parents, especially his close bond with his mother and his effort to reconnect with his father.

In a touching revelation, Yoo Ah In described how his relationship with his father had evolved over time. He recounted, “I’ve always been closer to my mother. Even as a child, I’d choose her over my dad without hesitation. It’s only recently that I’ve started to think about my father more. For the first time, I called him and said, ‘I love you.’ Gathering the courage to tell him I love him felt strange and good at the same time.”

Yoo Ah In via Instagram @hongsick. The actor has been dealing, for the past several months, legal cases regarding drug abuse charges.

This emotional revelation proves the actor’s growing affection and appreciation for his father. As Yoo Ah In and his family mourn this significant loss, fans and colleagues are extending their heartfelt condolences and support.

However, amid this personal tragedy, Yoo Ah In is also facing intense public scrutiny due to ongoing investigations into illegal narcotics use and sexual assault allegations. Authorities have accused him of consuming large amounts of propofol and other controlled substances across multiple hospitals. He also allegedly coerced a YouTuber into drug use. However, he has strongly denied the sexual assault charges.

Despite over two decades of career, with notable works like “Burning“ and “Hellbound,“ these serious allegations cast a shadow over his reputation. As he endures this period of personal and public challenges, the support from his fans and colleagues remains crucial.

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(G)I-DLE Soyeon Address Rumors and Controversial Lyrics

Soyeon clarifies recent rumors and explains the context of her controversial performance

On August 6, (G)I-DLE’s leader Soyeon used social media to address rumors about her contract renewal and explain her recent controversial performance. Soyeon began her statement by emphasizing her commitment to making people happy and her team happier. She admitted that this sometimes leads to moments that might seem too provocative or works that don’t receive positive reactions.

However, she asserted that she has never lied, intended to harm anyone, or done anything that would trouble her conscience. “The performance in question did not involve any lies, nor did I hide it from the company,” she clarified.

Soyeon also expressed her feelings towards her agency, CUBE Entertainment, stating that despite the challenges faced over the past decade, she doesn’t hold negative feelings towards the company based on media reports. “However, this has been an opportunity to once again feel the shortcomings in how our company handles certain situations. I will also do my best so that we can grow together, and I hope any worries or uncomfortable feelings will subside,” she stated.

(G)I-DLE Soyeon poses for a photo backstage during the 2024 (G)I-DLE World Tour in Seoul KSPO Dome. Via Instagram @tiny.pretty.j.

She concluded her message by expressing gratitude to her fans. “I’ll work harder so you don’t have to worry. I’m always sorry, thankful, and I love you, Neverland.” This heartfelt message directly responded to the rumors sparked by her performance on August 3-4, where she rapped lines such as “Contract ends in November. Who can stop me?” and “Do I have to care about this sh*t?” These lyrics led to speculation that she was criticizing her agency.

CUBE Entertainment responded to the controversy by stating that the members’ contract renewal is scheduled for next year and that Soyeon’s lyrics were simply part of the performance.

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Jeon Hye Jin Embraces a Slower Pace After the Loss of Husband Lee Sun Gyun

Jeon Hye Jin is gradually resuming her activities after the loss of her husband, Lee Sun Gyun. While she has not yet made a public appearance, she is reconnecting with the audience through her work.

Jeon Hye Jin gradually reconnects with her audience through her work while navigating her grief

On August 9 KST, Jeon Hye Jin will appear in the action-comedy film ‘Cross,’ which will be released on Netflix. In the film, she plays the third main role after Hwang Jung Min and Yum Jung Ah, who portray a married couple. Her character, Hee-Joo, will catalyze the story’s events. She is the junior of Hwang Jung Min’s character, Kang-moo, a former special agent of the Defense Security Command. When Kang-moo learns that Hee-joo is in trouble, he tries to help her, only to be caught up in a larger conspiracy.

Jeon Hye Jin showcases a wide acting spectrum, portraying both vulnerable and fierce expressions, adding tension to the film. Hwang Jung Min, speaking at a press conference, praised their on-screen chemistry, saying, “It was great. We’ve known each other since our theater days, so we didn’t have to work hard to sync up.”

Jeon Hye Jin also makes a surprise appearance in the crime-action film ‘Revolver,’ released on August 7 KST. She has a special cameo as Grace, a mysterious and powerful figure. Her enigmatic and intense presence heightens the film’s tension. Director Oh Seung Wook expressed his gratitude, saying, “She gave the film the wings it needed to soar,” and thanked her and other actors for their special appearances. Despite her busy schedule, she willingly participated in the filming.

While Jeon Hye Jin has not yet made any public appearances after their husband, Lee Sun Gyun’s passing, we are slowly seeing her again onscreen in her recent works. The photo shows the actress’ still cut for the movie “Revolver.’ Photo via @plusm_entertainment.

She completed filming ‘Cross’ and ‘Revolver’ before her husband’s passing in December of last year. Currently, she is not participating in any promotional activities related to these works. According to insiders, she may still find it challenging and burdensome to face the public directly.

Additionally, she has been cast in the drama ‘Riding Life,’ set to air next year. In this family-centered drama, she will play the lead role of Lee Jung Eun, navigating the complexities of familial relationships.

After taking a six-month break following Lee Sun Gyun’s passing, the actress is gradually returning to her routine.

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