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Nail-Biting Drama with Kim Hee-ae and Seol Kyung-gu in “The Whirlwind”

Veteran actors Kim Hee Ae and Seol Kyung Gu are set to captivate audiences with their intense character portrayals in Netflix’s new series, “The Whirlwind.” During the production presentation held at JW Marriott Dongdaemun Square Seoul, Kim Hee Ae promised, “We will show you a new character like no other.”

The Whirlwind is a gripping drama inside the Bluehouse

“The Whirlwind,” set for Netflix release on June 28, depicts the fierce clash between a Prime Minister intent on eradicating corruption and a Deputy Prime Minister who opposes him. This series marks the third collaboration between Kim Hee Ae and Seol Kyung Gu, following their previous works “The Moon” and “Ordinary Family.”

Seol Kyung Gu plays Park Dong-ho, a Prime Minister determined to bring down a president colluding with conglomerates and transform the political landscape. Kim Hee Ae takes on the role of Jung Soo-jin, the Deputy Prime Minister fiercely opposing Park Dong-ho. “This time, we meet as arch-enemies, which allowed us to fully explore our acting potential together,” she outlines their dynamic. She describes her character as someone who begins to be righteous but becomes corrupt through compromises with reality.

Kim Hee Ae shared, “I usually don’t watch my works, but surprisingly, I’ve watched ‘The Whirlwind’ three times already. Even though I memorized and acted out the scenes, they feel different every time I watch them. It made me wonder if I had acted incorrectly.”

The series is scripted by Park Kyung-soo, known for his political drama trilogy “The Chaser,” “Empire of Gold,” and “Punch.” This marks his return after seven years since “Whisper.” Park expressed his confidence, saying, “I did my best to create a work that I’m not ashamed of, and I believe I achieved that.” He aimed to create characters embodying impossible ideals, reflecting the frustrations of reality.

Seol Kyung Gu returns to the small screen

Seol Kyung Gu, returning to drama after 30 years since “Big Sister,” said, “If the script is good, there’s no reason not to do it. I got to read ‘The Whirlwind’ script through Kim Hee Ae’s recommendation and felt the immense power of the script after reading five episodes.” He humorously mentioned the challenge of frequently portraying high-ranking officials while considering Park Dong-ho a fantasy character.

“The story develops powerfully with relentless twists and turns,” emphasized by the actor. With the combined talents of Kim Hee Ae and Seol Kyung Gu, “The Whirlwind” promises to deliver a gripping and unprecedented drama experience.

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Go Kyung Pyo Discusses His Mental Health and Public Image

In a heartfelt interview with Esquire Korea, actor Go Kyung Pyo delved into his personal battles with mental health, the complexities of maintaining his public image, and his newfound experiences in the world of variety shows. From managing the pressures of fitness and self-care to navigating his authentic self and public persona, Go Kyung Pyo opens up about the challenges and rewards of his journey both on and off the screen.

Go Kyung Pyo opens up on his current state

Actor Go Kyung Pyo recently opened up in an interview with Esquire Korea about his overall well-being. Reflecting on his efforts to stay fit, he shared, “I used to manage [my weight] better. I could gain or lose as I intended. However, lately, there are areas where I struggle to achieve my goals, which has left me feeling slightly stressed.”

When asked about the source of these challenges, he acknowledged that it’s partly due to less effective exercise routines. He also mentioned, “I find it harder to put actions into practice these days than I did in the past. I still know in my head that exercise and meal plans are important, but I often weigh the opportunity cost. Life is short, and I increasingly feel drawn to immediate enjoyment.”

Regarding burnout, Go Kyung Pyo admitted, “I’m definitely feeling burnt out. Lately, I’ve been trying new things like YouTube and variety shows, expending a lot of energy that I don’t usually use.” Despite his current happiness and enjoyment, he also confessed to feeling exhausted from these new activities.

Navigating his true self and public persona

The actor also discussed his struggle to balance his true self with his public image. Known for his enthusiastic reaction to Zico’s “Any Song” during an awards show, he remarked, “There’s an image of me that reflects that vibe, but it’s actually a bit different from how I see myself. People really like that side of me, so I feel like I have to adapt and fit into it. However, sometimes I can’t help but feel a sense of emptiness.”

@2177933a Chúa Hề 😂😂#xh #xuhuong #xuhuongtiktok #zico #gokyungpyo ♬ 아무노래 – ZICO

He elaborated on how he feels most free when alone and how spontaneous moments of excitement often lead to public scrutiny. “When I get excited, I enjoy the moment without caring about others’ opinions. Then, when I notice others looking at me, I feel very small,” he explained.

Discussing his involvement in “The Backpacker Chef 2,” Go Kyung Pyo shared, “The show demands more variety show energy than I initially anticipated. However, filming it feels like a healing time for me. During filming, I’m fully focused, and it’s straightforward work detached from other concerns.”

He expressed his appreciation for the program’s format, which doesn’t focus on putting him in the spotlight. “I haven’t participated much in variety shows until now because I didn’t want people to have a fixed perception of me,” he said. “Now, as an actor, I aspire to be recognized for my roles in good productions and as a character.”

Go Kyung Pyo’s full interview is available in the June issue of Esquire Korea.

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NewJeans Joins Billie Eilish for Charming ‘Music Station’ Debut

NewJeans recently made a much-anticipated debut in Japan with their latest single “Supernatural,” marking a significant moment in their career as they continue to expand their presence internationally. The girl group showcased their talent on June 21st when they appeared on Japan’s popular TV Asahi music program ‘Music Station,’ performing both “Supernatural” and “OMG.” Their performances were met with high praise, highlighting their captivating stage presence and musical prowess.

During their appearance, NewJeans had the opportunity to interact with global pop sensation Billie Eilish, further solidifying their growing popularity and influence in the music industry. The members not only delivered a stellar performance but also took memorable photos with Billie Eilish, showcasing their excitement and gratitude for the experience.

 

Following their performances, NewJeans participated in a greeting interview for the station, where their endearing charm and nervous excitement were on full display for fans and netizens alike. This interview provided a glimpse into their personalities off-stage, further endearing them to their audience.

The success of their Japanese debut and their appearance on ‘Music Station’ underscore NewJeans rising trajectory in the music scene. With their dynamic performances and infectious charm, they continue to capture the hearts of fans both in Japan and globally. As they navigate new opportunities and milestones, NewJeans is poised to make even greater waves in the music industry, solidifying their position as a group to watch.

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Speculations Swirl: Is a 2NE1 Reunion on the Horizon?

As 2NE1 approaches their 15th debut anniversary, speculation and excitement are mounting among fans and the media alike regarding a potential reunion of the iconic K-pop girl group.

On June 25 KST, YG Entertainment confirmed that Yang Hyun Suk, the executive producer, is scheduled to meet with the members. However, they emphasized, “There is nothing else we can confirm at this time,” leaving fans eagerly anticipating any updates.

According to a recent media report, discussions during this meeting are expected to revolve around a possible reunion and plans for a special project to commemorate their 15th anniversary. This news comes amid ongoing rumors and hints suggesting a reunion might be in the works.

Last month, reports surfaced of a meeting between Yang Hyun Suk and 2NE1’s leader, CL. YG Entertainment clarified that it was not an official company meeting and refrained from disclosing further details, adding to the intrigue surrounding the group’s future.

In May, fans’ hopes were reignited when 2NE1 shared a group photo in celebration of their 15th anniversary. The nostalgic gesture sparked widespread speculation and renewed calls for a comeback among their dedicated fanbase.

Debuting in 2009 under YG Entertainment, 2NE1 quickly rose to prominence with their groundbreaking music and unique style. Hits like “Fire,” “I Don’t Care,” “Clap Your Hands,” “Lonely,” “I Am the Best,” and “Missing You” solidified their status as one of K-pop’s most influential acts before their disbandment in November 2016.

The group made headlines once again in April 2022 with a surprise reunion performance at the prestigious Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival in the United States. Their electrifying stage presence and enduring popularity showcased the lasting impact of their music on a global scale.

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Aespa Breaks Melon Weekly Chart Record With Supernova

Aespa has made history on the Melon weekly chart this year with their hit “Supernova,” breaking the record for the longest-running number one song. The track, released on May 13 as a pre-release from their first full-length album, held the top spot for five consecutive weeks (June 17-23), marking the longest streak for any song released in 2024.

 

 

In addition to its success on Melon, “Supernova” maintained the number one position on the Bugs and Genie weekly charts for six and five consecutive weeks, respectively. Another title track from their album, “Armageddon,” also performed well, consistently ranking in the top 10.

aespa’s digital dominance translated into multiple accolades, including triple crowns on Mnet’s ‘M Countdown’ and SBS’s ‘Inkigayo,’ where they secured a total of 12 music show trophies. Their popularity extended globally as well, topping Tencent Music’s integrated K-pop chart in China for six straight weeks, solidifying their status as international hitmakers.

The group is now gearing up for their second solo concert, ‘2024 aespa LIVE TOUR – SYNK: PARALLEL LINE,’ scheduled for June 29-30 at Seoul’s Jamsil Indoor Stadium. Following this, they will make their Japanese debut with the single ‘Hot Mess,’ set for release on July 3, furthering their active promotional activities abroad.

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Calvin Klein Debuts Monogram Tee Campaign With Seventeen’s Mingyu

Calvin Klein recently unveiled a captivating new campaign starring Mingyu from Seventeen, spotlighting their iconic Monogram Tee in the scenic backdrop of Paris. Titled “Three looks, all ready to love,” the campaign video, released on June 24 via Calvin Klein’s official YouTube channel, features Mingyu effortlessly styling the versatile tee in different urban settings across the French capital.

In the video, Mingyu showcases his fashion-forward approach as he explores the streets of Paris, blending the timeless appeal of Calvin Klein’s Monogram Tee with contemporary urban aesthetics. Each scene captures Mingyu’s charisma and the tee’s adaptability, illustrating how it effortlessly complements various styles and occasions.

Calvin Klein’s choice of Paris as the backdrop adds a sophisticated flair to the campaign, aligning with the brand’s global reputation for timeless elegance and modern style. Mingyu’s presence further enhances the campaign’s appeal, bridging Calvin Klein’s iconic fashion with the global influence of K-pop with his own widespread popularity as a member of Seventeen.

The Monogram Tee itself serves as a focal point, celebrated for its classic design and universal appeal. Mingyu’s interpretation of the tee in different looks highlights its versatility and reinforces its status as a wardrobe staple for fashion enthusiasts worldwide.

This collaboration not only underscores Calvin Klein’s commitment to merging fashion with cultural relevance but also celebrates Mingyu’s role as a style influencer and global ambassador for the brand. As the campaign continues to garner attention, it reaffirms Calvin Klein’s position at the forefront of contemporary fashion and Mingyu’s impact in the global fashion landscape.

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ATEEZ Members Launch Their Own Individual Instagram Accounts

All eight members of ATEEZ have recently joined Instagram! Despite already having a collective official account, each of the group’s eight members has launched their own individual profiles on the platform.

To mark this milestone, the ATEEZ members debuted their personal accounts by posting a unified black-and-white group photograph as their inaugural post. Additionally, Hongjoong, Yunho, Yeosang, Wooyoung, and Jongho took it a step further by sharing an additional post to give followers a glimpse into their individual styles and interests.

This move not only strengthens ATEEZ’s presence on social media but also allows fans to connect more intimately with each member. By maintaining both a group and personal accounts, ATEEZ aims to interact more directly with their global fanbase, offering behind-the-scenes glimpses, personal updates, and unique content that reflects their individual personalities.

The decision to establish personal Instagram accounts underscores ATEEZ’s commitment to engaging with fans on a deeper level while showcasing their diverse talents and passions beyond their collective identity. This initiative is expected to foster even stronger bonds between the members and their supporters, creating a vibrant community on social media that celebrates their journey as individuals and as a cohesive group.

Overall, ATEEZ’s expansion onto Instagram with individual accounts marks an exciting new chapter for both the group and their fans, promising more personal insights and interactive experiences in the days to come.

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NewJeans’ Supernatural Tops Japanese Charts

NewJeans’ recent debut single in Japan, titled ‘Supernatural,’ has soared to the pinnacle of several music charts, marking a highly successful entry into the Japanese market for the group.

Released on June 20, ‘Supernatural’ immediately claimed the top position on Japan’s prestigious Oricon music chart and Line Music’s top 100 chart. Since then, it has steadfastly maintained its #1 status, affirming NewJeans’ strong start in Japan.

Additionally, NewJeans has secured the #3 spot on Japan’s Top Artists chart, establishing them as the highest-ranked foreign artist currently on the chart. Their other tracks, such as ‘How Sweet,’ ‘Right Now,’ ‘OMG,’ ‘Ditto,’ and ‘Bubblegum,’ are also enjoying considerable popularity across Japanese music charts.

The success of ‘Supernatural’ extends beyond Japan, as the song, along with ‘Right Now,’ is performing well on South Korea’s major music platforms including Melon, Genie, Bugs, and Vibe. ‘Supernatural’ remains prominently featured at the top of Apple Music’s Top 100 charts in both Korea and Japan, underscoring its widespread appeal and enduring popularity.

Overall, NewJeans’ debut with ‘Supernatural’ has not only captured the hearts of Japanese listeners but has also solidified their position as rising stars in both the Japanese and South Korean music scenes. Their rapid rise on international charts reflects their growing influence and promises further success in the global music industry.

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Taeyeon Leaves a Mystery Guy in ‘Heaven’ Clip

Taeyeon has an awesome treat for fans. The Girls’ Generation member has just dropped a “Heaven” clip, hyping up the release of her upcoming single.

Girls Generation Member Taeyeon Leaves a Mystery Guy in ‘Heaven’ Clip

On June 24, Taeyeon’s official SNS accounts released a clip video of “Heaven,” giving fans a preview of the new song’s mood and increasing anticipation. The teaser, featuring Taeyeon’s enchanting visuals and a snippet of the song, has quickly garnered attention, building excitement for the full release.

Taeyeon has received great love for her refreshing and cool vocal color in her summer releases like “Starlight,” “Why,” and “Weekend,” also showcasing her reputation as a reliable artist. Expectations are high for her new upbeat dance-pop track, which is set to dominate this summer. The initial reactions to the teaser also suggest that “Heaven” will be another hit, continuing Taeyeon’s streak of successful summer anthems.

Taeyeon’s Busy Year

Previously, Taeyeon demonstrated her strength by securing top spots on major music charts and achieving first place on terrestrial music shows with her track “To. X” several months after its release. Her consistent ability to captivate audiences and maintain her presence on the charts also highlights her enduring popularity and the high quality of her music.

Taeyeon also has a lot of surprises for fans this year. A statement from a broadcasting insider previously revealed that Taeyeon has already completed filming her part in “Zombieverse 2”, also adding to the mounting excitement surrounding the release of the new season. While details about Taeyeon’s role in the series remain shrouded in mystery, her inclusion also adds an extra layer of intrigue and anticipation. As one of K-pop’s most iconic figures, Taeyeon’s foray into the world of acting is sure to draw attention and excitement from fans worldwide.

Taeyeon will release her single “Heaven” on July 8 at 6 PM on various music platforms, including Melon, Flo, Genie, iTunes, Apple Music, Spotify, QQ Music, Kugou Music, and Kuwo Music. This highly anticipated release is also expected to further solidify her status as a versatile and influential artist in the K-pop industry.

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Fair Trade Commission Launches Official Investigation Against HYBE

It looks like the Fair Trade Commission has its eye on HYBE Labels. The FTC has decided to launch an official investigation into whether the company falsified important documents.

Fair Trade Commission Suspects HYBE of Submitting False Data

On June 24, 2024, Korean media reported that the FTC has launched an official investigation into HYBE. The investigation aims to scrutinize the company for potentially omitting or falsifying data regarding the relatives of its founder and chairman, Bang Si Hyuk.

As HYBE recently achieved conglomerate status, it is legally obligated to disclose information about the family members and their associated companies of its executives. The FTC’s concerns center on whether HYBE failed to accurately report the scope of Bang Si Hyuk’s relatives, the companies they own, and other affiliates. An official from the FTC stated that discrepancies were noted when comparing publicly available data on the HYBE shares held by these relatives.

The FTC’s investigation will delve into the accuracy and completeness of the information submitted by HYBE. The omission or falsification of such data is considered a serious offense, particularly for conglomerates, as it can obscure the true financial and operational scope of the company. The scrutiny includes a detailed examination of the familial connections and business interests of Bang Si Hyuk’s relatives to ensure full compliance with regulatory requirements.

HYBE’s designation as a conglomerate in May 2024 underscores its substantial influence and reach within the entertainment industry. This status also brings increased regulatory oversight, aimed at maintaining transparency and fair competition. The investigation by the FTC highlights the importance of accountability and accurate reporting for large corporations.

As the investigation progresses, HYBE will need to cooperate fully with the authorities to clarify any misunderstandings or inaccuracies. The outcome of this probe could also have significant implications for the company’s governance practices and its public image. Observers within the industry and the financial sector will also be closely monitoring developments, given HYBE’s prominent position and the potential repercussions of the investigation’s findings.

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