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ADOR CEO Min Hee Jin Faces Police Investigations For Embezzlement Allegations

Min Hee Jin

Min Hee Jin, CEO of ADOR, arrived at the Yongsan Police Station to face questioning over embezzlement allegations made by HYBE. When questioned about her focus during the statement, she responded firmly, “I will speak the truth. The embezzlement claim is baseless.”

HYBE lodged the complaint on April 26, accusing Min Hee Jin of attempting to seize control of its subsidiary, ADOR, through embezzlement. The police interrogation marks the first formal step in an investigation spurred by these accusations. The allegations, which surfaced last month, claim that she misappropriated company funds for personal use.

Sources close to the investigation revealed that she was questioned extensively about her financial management practices and specific transactions flagged by HYBE’s internal audit team. Dressed in a simple, professional outfit, she appeared composed as she addressed reporters outside the police station. Her representatives argue that, given the company’s share structure, a takeover is impossible and that she has never committed embezzlement.

Brief history of Min Hee Jin vs. HYBE dispute

The controversy began when Hybe Labels announced on April 22 that it would audit its subsidiary label, ADOR, and its executives. This announcement included requesting ADOR’s CEO, Min Hee Jin, the creative force behind NewJeans, to step down.

Hybe claimed they had evidence that she was attempting to gain complete control of ADOR and had leaked private information to lure investors. Min Hee Jin owns 18% of ADOR, top executives hold 2%, and Hybe Labels controls 80%.

In response, ADOR released an official statement accusing Hybe’s new girl group, Illit, of plagiarizing NewJeans. According to ADOR, they had raised the plagiarism issue internally, but no action was taken, leading to the audit instead. “It’s not me who betrayed Hybe. It’s Hybe that betrayed me,” she stated.

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Lee Kyu Han Joins Fantasy Drama “The Judge From Hell”

Actor Lee Kyu Han is set to star in the highly anticipated SBS drama “The Judge From Hell,” joining renowned actors Park Shin Hye and Kim Jae Young. The drama, which will air in the latter half of this year, promises a captivating mix of fantasy and romance.

Lee Kyu Han will complicate Park Shin Hye and Kim Jae Young’s romance in new fantasy drama

“The Judge From Hell” tells the story of Kang Bit Na, portrayed by Park Shin Hye, a demon from hell who inhabits a judge’s body. She encounters Han Da On, played by Kim Jae Young, a dedicated detective known for his fierce pursuit of justice. Together, they navigate a world where the lines between good and evil blur, exploring themes of redemption and true justice.

Lee Kyu Han will take on the role of Jeong Tae Gyu, the eldest son of a prominent construction CEO. Tae Gyu is a perfectionist with striking looks and a polished personality. His character adds an intriguing layer to the drama as he becomes engaged to Kang Bit Na under his father’s influence.

With a compelling cast and an intriguing storyline, “The Judge From Hell” is expected to be a standout drama in 2024. Fans eagerly await its release, anticipating a thrilling blend of fantasy, romance, and drama.

Lee Kyu Han’s success over the years

Born on August 4, 1980, Lee Kyu Han made his acting debut in 1998 with “Love and Success.” He gained fame through the 2005 romantic comedy “My Lovely Sam Soon” and has since appeared in various popular TV series, including “Smile, You,” “Can You Hear My Heart?” “I Have a Lover,” and “The Rich Son.” His versatility has been showcased in variety shows and intense villain roles, earning him acclaim for performances in “Battle for Happiness” and “Longing for You.”

With the support of his agency, Blade Entertainment, they are set to venture into different projects that will showcase his acting power.

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Whee in Unveils Second Concept Photos for “Cocowater”

MAMAMOO’s exceptional vocalist, Whee In, is gearing up for the release of her latest digital single titled “Cocowater.”

In the newly unveiled second set of concept photos for “Cocowater,” Whee In exudes charm against the serene backdrop of a tranquil seaside. These images not only emphasize Whee In’s artistic flair and innovative spirit but also showcase her distinct charisma, skillfully juxtaposed with the cool and icy scenery of the beach.

The concept photos capture Whee In’s ability to convey emotion and style effortlessly, hinting at the aesthetic and mood of her upcoming music release. Fans eagerly anticipate “Cocowater” as Whee In continues to impress with her musical talent and captivating visual presence.

Wheein, whose birth name is Jung Whee In, is a member of the renowned South Korean girl group MAMAMOO, celebrated for her dynamic vocals which have significantly contributed to the group’s achievements.

Born on May 30, 1995, Wheein embarked on her musical journey as a trainee under MBK Entertainment. Initially slated to debut with Moonbyul, who led the group, Wheein was to be the youngest member. However, the group disbanded shortly after its formation. Subsequently, she joined Rainbow Bridge World (RBW) and officially debuted with MAMAMOO in 2014.

Wheein ventured into solo activities by debuting on April 17, 2018, with her digital single “Magnolia.” She further showcased her vocal prowess on the reality show “King of Masked Singer” under the pseudonym Half moon.

In her personal life, Wheein is known for her affection for her cat named Ggomo/Kkomo, who frequently appears in her photo and video diaries. Additionally, she shares two matching tattoos with fellow MAMAMOO member Hwasa, featuring the words “caddo” on the neck and “resonance” on the ankle. Wheein’s Baptismal name is Gabriella.

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Love Next Door Script Reading Highlights Jung Hae In and Jung So Min

The upcoming rom-com drama “Love Next Door” is already generating buzz with the recent release of its first script reading session. On July 10, fans were treated to an exciting glimpse of what’s to come as the production team shared photos from the event.

‘Love Next Door’ cast kicks off successful first script reading

In attendance were Director Yoo Je Won and Writer Shin Ha Eun, along with the talented cast, which includes Jung Hae In, Jung So Min, Kim Ji Eun, Yun Ji On, Park Ji Young, Jo Han Chul, Jang Young Nam, Lee Seung Joon, Kim Geum Soon, Han Ye Joo, Jeon Suk Ho, N.Flying’s Lee Seung Hyub, and Shim So Young. The gathering was energetic as the cast and crew came together to bring their characters to life.

“Love Next Door” tells the story of Bae Seok Ryu, portrayed by Jung So Min, a woman looking to restart her troubled life, and Choi Seung Hyo, played by Jung Hae In, who is the son of her mother’s friend and a significant figure from her past. With Yoo Je Won, known for “Hometown Cha-Cha-Cha,” directing and Shin Ha Eun penning the script, the drama promises to deliver a captivating tale set in the Hyereung Neighborhood.

The production team reacted positively to the script reading, noting the warm and friendly atmosphere. “It was a pleasant and heartwarming first script reading as if old friends and neighbors had gathered together,” they said. They encouraged viewers to look forward to the chemistry between the actors and the engaging stories of the characters. “Please watch the passionate acting and synergy of the actors who will immerse you in Choi Seung Hyo and Bae Seok Ryu’s romance around the neighborhood as well as the life stories of the people of Hyereung Neighborhood.”

Love Next Door is scheduled to premiere on August 17 on tvN. There will be 16 episodes in total which will air every Saturday and Sunday.

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Kim Go Eun Will Appear as the First Guest of “Three Meals a Day”

Actress Kim Go Eun is set to appear as the first guest on the highly anticipated tvN variety show “Three Meals A Day: Fishing Village Edition 6,” which will air in the second half of this year. Kim Go Eun recently joined the cast for the recording, where she met with Cha Seung Won, Yoo Hae Jin, and other show members.

After four long years, ‘Three Meals A Day’ will come back for a new edition with exciting guest stars

This season of “Three Meals A Day: Fishing Village Edition” will feature a rotating lineup of new guests in each episode. But unfortunately, the youngest member, Son Ho Jun, will not return. Notably, singer Lim Young Woong has also been confirmed as a guest, although his recording is scheduled for later in July.

Both tvN and Kim Go Eun’s agency remain quiet about the details, and urged fans to tune in for the broadcast.

“Three Meals A Day” is an outdoor variety program that challenges its cast to live a self-sufficient, organic lifestyle by preparing simple meals in a remote fishing village, a contrast to the convenience of city life. Since its Jeongseon edition in 2014, the show has explored various locations, including fishing villages, sea ranches, and mountain villages, with celebrities taking on the challenge of preparing three meals a day.

The new season marks the return of the series after a four-year hiatus, following the conclusion of season 5 in July 2020. Fans eagerly anticipate the dynamic combination of “Chef Cha” Cha Seung Won, “Fishing Expert” Yoo Hae Jin, and the weekly celebrity guests.

In addition to her upcoming variety show appearance, Kim Go Eun recently impressed audiences with her performance as shaman Lee Hwa Rim in the movie “Exhuma,” released last February. The film attracted 11.91 million viewers, earning Kim Go Eun the prestigious title of a “ten-million” actress for the first time in her career.

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Jung Joon Young Exposed in Night Club Footages and Messages

Former singer and convicted rapist Jung Joon Young is once again making headlines after night club footage and direct messages have come to light following his prison release. Recently, video footage showed Jung Joon Young at a nightclub in Lyon, France, where he was seen flirting with women and discussing his plans to open a Korean restaurant in the city.

This controversy arises just months after his release in March. He was sentenced to 5 years for his sex crimes,  including the group rape of an intoxicated woman and the distribution of illegally filmed videos of sexual acts. The footage shows Jung Joon Young dancing and getting intimate with various women, which has sparked public outrage.

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Additionally, direct messages from Jung Joon Young to a woman who later exposed him have also been revealed. In these messages, he claimed to be a writer and composer planning to open a Korean restaurant in Lyon. He expressed disappointment after his messages were public, further fueling the controversy.

Jung Joon Young’s recent actions have ignited widespread criticism and highlighted the ongoing scrutiny of public figures’ behavior, especially those previously convicted of serious crimes. The footage and messages have raised questions about the rehabilitation and accountability of celebrities in the spotlight.

The reality behind the innocence of idols onscreen

The reality behind the idols onscreen is often much darker than it appears. While these celebrities project images of purity and wholesomeness, some are hiding severe misconduct and criminal activities. A big example is the “Burning Sun” scandal, which exposed the involvement of several high-profile K-pop idols in a nightclub in Seoul associated with drug trafficking, sexual assault, and police corruption.

The incident, which came to light in 2019, implicated Seungri, a member of the popular boy band BIGBANG, in allegations of arranging prostitution services and embezzling funds. The scandal shocked fans and highlighted the severe issues lurking behind the polished facades of the entertainment industry.

Moreover, the “Burning Sun” incident is not an isolated case. Over the years, there have been multiple reports of idols involved in sex crimes and assault, contradicting their public personas. For instance, singer Jung Joon-young and former FT Island member Choi Jong-hoon were sentenced to prison for their involvement in the distribution of illicit sex videos and participation in gang rapes.

These revelations have prompted a broader conversation about the pressures and unethical practices within the industry that can drive idols to engage in such heinous acts. As these stories emerge, they challenge the perception of the idol industry’s innocence and call for stricter regulations and oversight to protect the public and the victims of these crimes.

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Jae Casually Reiterates DAY6 Departure

Jae is keeping his cool despite regular intrusive messages from netizens. Park Jae Hyung has casually reiterated his DAY6 departure.

Jae Speaks Up About DAY6 Departure

In 2022, singer Jae left the group DAY6 and JYP Entertainment. Although the departure was a sad moment for many, fans have supported his move to the U.S. and his burgeoning solo career.

Most fans have shown respect by not demanding answers from him about his departure or his current relationship with former bandmates. However, some have continued to probe into these sensitive areas. Last month, during an interview, Jae was asked if he still kept in contact with the members of DAY6. Although he responded politely, many fans felt the question was intrusive and disrespectful, considering his efforts to move forward in his solo career.

The topic resurfaced recently when Jae’s response to a similar question gained attention online. Despite fans’ hopes that with the release of DAY6’s most recent eighth EP titled ‘Fourever’, people would stop asking Jae about his association with the group, the inquiries persisted. This led Jae to address the matter more directly.

He made a post on X expressing his desire for closure on this issue. His message was clear: he wished for respect and understanding from fans and hoped that this would help everyone move on.

Jae’s journey as a solo artist has been met with enthusiasm and support from his dedicated fanbase. His talent and passion for music continue to shine through in his solo projects, and fans are eager to see what he will achieve next. The continued curiosity about his past, however, highlights the challenge many artists face in separating their solo careers from their history with popular groups.

In addressing these questions openly, Jae has shown maturity and a strong desire to focus on his future endeavors. His candidness and the support from his fans create a positive environment for his growth as an artist.

Wishing Jae all the best on his solo career. May he find success and happiness in his new ventures, and may his fans continue to respect his journey and support his artistic evolution.

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Song Joong Ki and Wife Expecting Second Child

Song Joong Ki and his wife are preparing to welcome a new member to their family! It has been revealed that the couple are expecting their second child!

Song Joong Ki and Katy Louise Saunders Expecting Second Child

On July 8, Song Joong Ki’s agency HighZium Studio confirmed the exciting news. “Actor Song Joong Ki is becoming a father of two,” the agency revealed. This announcement has thrilled fans worldwide who have been following the beloved actor’s personal and professional journey.

Despite focusing on his growing family, Song Joong Ki made time for a surprise cameo in “Queen of Tears” Episode 8 earlier this year. His unexpected appearance generated waves of excitement and anticipation among viewers, adding yet another star-studded highlight to the drama’s lineup of special guest appearances.

Song Joong Ki’s cameo in “Queen of Tears” is particularly noteworthy due to his reunion with director Kim Hee Won, who previously worked with him on the hit drama “Vincenzo.” This collaboration underscores the strong rapport and mutual respect between the actor and director, promising a memorable performance in his brief but impactful appearance.

Song Joong Ki’s personal life has also been a source of joy for his fans. He announced his marriage to British actress Katy Louise Saunders in January 2023. The couple welcomed their first child, a son, in June 2023. Their journey from marriage to parenthood has been closely followed and celebrated by fans who admire the couple’s warmth and devotion to each other.

As Song Joong Ki prepares to embrace fatherhood once again, his fans eagerly await further updates on his growing family. His ability to balance a flourishing career with his personal life continues to inspire many. His recent cameo and upcoming projects also keep his admirers engaged, ensuring that his star continues to shine brightly both on-screen and off.

Congratulations to Song Joong Ki and Katy Louise Saunders on their wonderful news! The arrival of their second child will undoubtedly bring even more joy and happiness to their lives.

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Park Seo Joon Considering New Romance Drama by Lim Hyun Wook

Park Seo Joon may soon be making a return to the small screen with a new romance drama!

Park Seo Joon’s Next Project Might Be A New Romance Drama

On July 8, it was reported that Park Seo Joon is in talks to star in the upcoming drama “Waiting for Gyeongdo”, with an offer to play the titular male lead named Gyeongdo.

In response to the report, Park Seo Joon’s agency Awesome ENT commented, “It is true that he has received an offer for the new drama ‘Waiting for Gyeongdo.’ However, it is just one of the [many] dramas he has been offered, and nothing has been finalized yet.”

“Waiting for Gyeongdo” is a romance drama directed by Lim Hyun Wook, who is known for his work on popular series such as “King the Land,” “Flower Crew: Joseon Marriage Agency,” and “Life.” The script is penned by Yoo Young Ah, who has a solid track record with dramas like “Thirty-Nine” and “Divorce Attorney Shin.” The project is currently in discussions to air on JTBC.

Park Seon Joon’s Busy Career

Park Seo Joon has been a prominent figure in the entertainment industry, known for his versatility and charm in various roles. He is currently appearing on the tvN variety show “Jinny’s Kitchen 2,” where fans have warmly received his presence. Additionally, he is gearing up for the release of Netflix’s original series “Gyeongseong Creature 2” later this year, which is highly anticipated by his global fanbase.

His potential involvement in “Waiting for Gyeongdo” has already generated significant excitement among fans and industry watchers alike. Park Seo Joon’s previous works in romantic dramas, such as “What’s Wrong with Secretary Kim” and “Fight for My Way,” have cemented his status as a leading actor in the genre, and a new romance drama would certainly be a welcome addition to his impressive portfolio.

As fans eagerly await confirmation of his participation in “Waiting for Gyeongdo,” there is much anticipation about how Park Seo Joon will bring the character of Gyeongdo to life and what new dimensions he will explore in this promising project.

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Ok Taecyeon Discusses His First BL Role in Netflix’s ‘Soul Mate’

Ok Taecyeon is set to star in a new Netflix production titled Soul Mate. On June 27, an industry insider revealed that Taecyeon is currently filming this series, which tells the story of a Japanese man, Narutaki Ryu, and a Korean boxer, Hwang Yo Han. Over the course of a decade, the two meet in Seoul, Berlin, and Tokyo, forming a close bond as they heal each other’s wounds.

Japanese actor Isomura Hayato will play Ryu to Taecyeon’s Yo Han. Hayato is known for starring in shows like Alice in Borderland, Kamen Rider Ghost, Kinou nani tabeta?, and many more. Meanwhile, Taecyeon, best known as a member of the K-pop boy group 2PM under JYP Entertainment, has also made a name for himself as an actor in various K-dramas, including Dream High and Vincenzo.

Soul Mate was initially described as a “bromance,” but recent updates confirm that the relationship between Ryu and Yo Han goes beyond mere friendship. Netflix’s official X account posted a photo of Taecyeon and Hayato sitting side-by-side. The photo’s caption referred to the series as “a 10-year-long love story between two young men.” As if that wasn’t confirmation enough, Netflix also uploaded the tags for Soul Mate, filing it under their “LGBTQ+ TV Shows” category. They also described the show as bittersweet, sentimental, and emotional.

The X post went viral, amassing 1.8 million views as of this writing. This is understandable, as Soul Mate will be Taecyeon’s first BL drama. While Taecyeon has taken on many mainstream roles over the years, this project represents a new and exciting challenge for him.

Taecyeon speaks

Taecyeon expressed his excitement about the role, saying, “I’m extremely delighted to be appearing in Soul Mate. Because there were so many types of characters and genres that I hadn’t tried yet, I’d been wanting to gradually broaden my spectrum [as an actor] and discover new sides of myself, and right at that time, I received the offer to star in Soul Mate.”

He added, “While reading the script, I was intrigued by the character of Hwang Yo Han, and even after I’d finished the script, Yo Han’s inner pain and struggles stayed with me for a long time, which is why I chose the project. Even during filming, I’m continuing the diet and boxing training that I started before filming; that’s how hard I’m working to portray the character of Yo Han with sincerity, so I hope viewers will also look forward to the drama.”

Despite Netflix’s post and Taecyeon’s words, fans are still worried that the show won’t live up to their expectations. They have reason to worry, as mainstream dramas usually have unhappy endings in store for queer love stories. But here’s hoping Soul Mate won’t disappoint! – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: Who’s excited to see this fine specimen cozy up to another man? Source: Naver.

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