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Nominees Announced for the 3rd Blue Dragon Awards

The nominations for the 3rd Blue Dragon Series Awards 2024 have been announced. Presented by Sports Chosun, this ceremony is South Korea’s premier award event dedicated to streaming platforms. Since its inception in 2022, the Blue Dragon Series Awards have highlighted outstanding achievements in K-dramas, variety shows, and other streaming content. This year’s ceremony promises to be an exciting event, celebrating many talented actors, actresses, and entertainers.

Among the nominated K-dramas for the 2024 awards are popular titles such as “Mask Girl,” “Moving,” and “A Killer Paradox.” Renowned actors like Ryu Seung-Ryong and Ryu Jun-Yeol have secured nominations for their impressive performances. The actresses category features notable names such as Park Bo-Young and Ahn Eun-Jin. The ceremony will be held on Friday, July 19, 2024, at 8:50 p.m. KST on KBS2.

Complete list of nominees for the 3rd Blue Dragon Series Awards 2024

Best Drama

  • Mask Girl
  • Moving
  • A Killer Paradox
  • LTNS
  • Daily Dose of Sunshine

Best Actor

  • Ryu Seung Ryong – Moving
  • Ryu Jun Yeol – The 8 Show
  • Byun Yo Han – Uncle Samsik
  • Im Siwan – Boyhood
  • Choi Woo Shik – A Killer Paradox

Best Actress

  • Park Bo Young – Daily Dose of Sunshine
  • Ahn Eun Jin – Goodbye Earth
  • Esom – LTNS
  • Chun Woo Hee – The 8 Show
  • Han Hyo Joo – Moving

Best Supporting Actor

  • Kim Sung Kyun – Moving
  • Seo Hyun Woo – A Shop for Killers
  • Ahn Jae Hong – Mask Girl
  • Lee Kyu Hyung – Uncle Samsik
  • Lee Hee Joon – A Killer Paradox

Best Supporting Actress

  • Kwak Sun Young – Moving
  • Geum Hae Na – A Shop for Killers
  • Yeom Hye Ran – Mask Girl
  • Lee Joo Young – The 8 Show
  • Tiffany Young – Uncle Samsik

Best New Actor

  • Kim Woo Seok – Night Has Come
  • Noh Jae Won – Daily Dose of Sunshine
  • Lee Si Woo – Boyhood
  • Lee Jung Ha – Moving
  • Choi Hyun Wook – High Cookie

Best New Actress

  • Go Youn Jung – Moving
  • Kim Hye Joon – A Shop for Killers
  • Lee Yul Eum – The 8 Show
  • Jang Da Ah – Pyramid Game
  • Jeon So Nee – Parasyte: The Grey

Best Variety Show

  • The Devil’s Plan
  • The Community
  • SNL Korea Season 5
  • My Sibling’s Romance
  • Crime Scene Returns

Best Male Entertainer

  • Dex – Zombieverse
  • Shin Dong Yup – SNL Korea Season 5
  • Cho Sae Ho – Super Rich in Korea
  • Ji Suk Jin – Bro & Marble in Dubai
  • Code Kunst – My Sibling’s Romance

Best Female Entertainer

  • Park Ji Yoon – Crime Scene Returns
  • Lee Soo Ji – SNL Korea Season 5
  • Jang Do Yeon – High School Mystery Club 3
  • Joo Hyun Young – Crime Scene Returns
  • Pungja – Be My Side 3

Best New Male Entertainer

  • Kwak Joon Bin – The Devil’s Plan
  • Ahn Do Gyu – SNL Korea Season 5
  • Jeong Sewoon – 19/20
  • Jonathan – Zombieverse
  • Joo Woo Jae – Witch Hunt 2023

Best New Female Entertainer

  • Miyeon – My Sibling’s Romance
  • Uhm Ji Yoon – Comedy Royale
  • Yoon Gai – SNL Korea Season 5
  • Ji Ye Eun – SNL Korea Season 5
  • Patricia – My Sibling’s Romance

The nominees were selected through online voting between June 10 and June 25, with evaluations by Sports Chosun entertainment news reporters and industry experts. All original streaming shows, series, and dramas aired between June 1, 2023, and May 31, 2024, were eligible for nominations.

Viewers can look forward to an evening of celebration and entertainment as the 3rd Blue Dragon Series Awards honors the best in South Korean streaming content. 

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Um Tae Goo and Han Sun Hwa’s Kiss in My Sweet Mobster

JTBC’s hit drama “My Sweet Mobster” has unveiled new stills, offering a glimpse into the upcoming episode filled with romantic tension and awkward moments. The series stars Um Tae Goo as Seo Ji Hwan, a man striving to overcome his troubled past, and Han Sun Hwa as Go Eun Ha, a kids’ content creator facing her own set of challenges.

Um Tae Goo and Han Sun Wa’s first kiss in “My Sweet Mobster”

Previously in the drama, Seo Ji Hwan invited Go Eun Ha to become a tutor for his employees after she lost her job and had nowhere to stay. Welcoming her into his home, he even organized a welcome party. During the event, a burst of excitement led Eun Ha to accidentally kiss Ji Hwan in the garden, leaving him stunned as it was his first kiss at the age of 36. Eun Ha, overwhelmed by the incident, fell asleep without processing what had happened.

The new stills reveal the characters grappling with the aftermath of their kiss. Eun Ha, vividly recalling her mistake, hides under a blanket in remorse. Meanwhile, Ji Hwan maintains an awkward distance from her, reflecting his discomfort. Their awkward relationship faces further complications as they continue to distance themselves, leading to additional misunderstandings.

This unexpected incident raises questions about how it will affect Ji Hwan and Eun Ha’s feelings for each other moving forward.

Recently, the popularity of “My Sweet Mobster” has continued to soar, with the series hitting an all-time high in viewership. According to Nielsen Korea, the sixth episode achieved an average nationwide rating of 2.6%, setting a new personal record for the show. The romantic comedy, featuring Han Sun Hwa, Um Tae Goo, and Kwon Yool, has captivated audiences with its engaging plot and compelling characters.

Stay tuned to see how Seo Ji Hwan and Go Eun Ha navigate their complicated emotions in the upcoming episodes of “My Sweet Mobster.”

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“Jinny’s Kitchen 2” Excites Viewers For 3 Reasons

“Jinny’s Kitchen 2” is set to return with a fresh season that promises more excitement and heartwarming moments. This show will explore the inner workings of a Korean restaurant led by a dedicated boss and passionate employees. Here are three reasons to look forward to the new season:

An exciting taste of Korea in Iceland

This season, the restaurant opens its doors in the chilly climes of Iceland. Boss Lee Seo Jin, accompanied by Jung Yu Mi, Park Seo Joon, Choi Woo Shik, and new staff member Go Min Si, will serve up steaming hot gomtang, a traditional Korean beef bone soup. The aim is to not only warm the cold but also melt the hearts of their customers. Despite concerns about slow business due to the cold weather, the restaurant experiences a surprising influx of guests. The continuous flow of customers and long waiting lines astonish the staff, creating an impressive scene and setting the stage for record-breaking sales.

The cast welcomes Go Min Si as an intern

This season introduces major changes in employee roles. CEO Lee Seo Jin makes bold decisions, promoting Jung Yu Mi to managing director, Park Seo Joon to director, and longtime intern Choi Woo Shik to assistant manager. These changes spark curiosity about how they will adapt to their new roles. Additionally, a new intern, Go Min Si, adds to the excitement. Known for her diverse background and professional experience, Go Min Si quickly earns the respect of her colleagues with her proactive attitude and efficient work. Her interactions with the existing team promise to heighten viewer enjoyment with their fresh chemistry.

“Customer is King” is their new philosophy

Lee Seo Jin’s management approach undergoes a complete transformation in Iceland. Shifting from a “sales are king” philosophy to a “customer-first” approach, he treats guests with the utmost respect. This new management style is a key highlight of the season, showcasing his dedication to providing an exceptional dining experience. The rotating head chef system adds to the excitement, where Jung Yu Mi, Park Seo Joon, and Choi Woo Shik take turns leading the kitchen. Each chef brings unique style and secret culinary delights, ensuring a diverse and delightful dining experience.

“Jinny’s Kitchen 2” has new locations, roles, and flavors, promising a delightful viewing experience. Don’t miss out on the heartwarming and delicious adventures this season offers.

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Rain and Kim Ha Neul’s Hidden Feelings in Red Swan

Rain uncovers dark secrets with Kim Ha Neul

Disney+ has revealed new stills from its highly anticipated drama “Red Swan.” The show will follow the intriguing story of Oh Wan Soo (played by Kim Ha Neul), a former golfer who steps into the high-stakes world of high society by marrying the heir of Hwain Group. Her life takes a perilous turn as she becomes embroiled in a fierce succession battle, leading her to discover the family’s dark secrets with the help of her bodyguard, Seo Do Yoon (played by Rain).

Seo Do Yoon saves Wan Soo from a mysterious terrorist attack and then infiltrates the Hwain family as her bodyguard, determined to uncover their secrets. As they confront these hidden dangers together, their bond deepens, and they find themselves increasingly reliant on each other. The palpable tension between them heightens expectations for their captivating chemistry. Wan Soo stands firm in her beliefs amidst the greed and power struggles of the Hwain Group, while Do Yoon is prepared to risk everything to protect her. Their mutual effort to suppress their growing feelings adds a poignant layer to their relationship, leaving viewers eager to see how it will evolve.

What to expect in the season premiere

On June 14, 2024, Red Swan’s teaser was released, featuring lead actors Rain and Kim Ha Neul. In the teaser, Rain is shown as a cold and calculating bodyguard who takes his job seriously, going to great lengths to ensure his client’s safety. Meanwhile, Kim Ha Neul’s character portrays a bold and resilient woman trying to navigate the chaotic political landscape and deceit surrounding her. The teaser also hints at a dangerous accident involving Wan Soo, with Do Yoon determinedly bringing her to safety, showcasing the lengths he will go to protect her.

“Red Swan” promises an intense and emotional journey as Wan Soo and Do Yoon face life-threatening dangers and grapple with their hidden feelings. The drama’s intriguing plot and the undeniable chemistry between the leads are sure to captivate viewers.

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Kim Seon Ho and Go Youn Jung In New Netflix Rom-Com

Netflix has officially confirmed the production of their upcoming series “Can This Love Be Translated” and has revealed an exciting cast lineup. The series stars Kim Seon Ho and Go Youn Jung, alongside Sota Fukushi, Lee Yi Dam, and Choi Woo Sung. This romantic comedy promises to deliver a unique storyline featuring a multilingual interpreter and a global superstar.

On June 27, the cast gathered for their first script reading, showcasing an early glimpse of their chemistry. The show revolves around Joo Ho Jin, portrayed by Kim Seon Ho, a multilingual interpreter who becomes the translator for Cha Mu Hee, a global superstar played by Go Youn Jung.

New addition to the Hong Sisters’ masterpieces

The series is penned by the renowned Hong sisters, famous for their hit dramas such as “Alchemy of Souls,” “Hotel Del Luna,” “The Greatest Love,” and “Master’s Sun.” Yoo Young Eun, who is celebrated for her visually striking and sensitively directed “Bloody Heart,” takes the helm as the director.

Kim Seon Ho, who skyrocketed in popularity in “Start-Up,” “Hometown Cha-Cha-Cha,” and the film “The Childe,” brings his charm to the character of Joo Ho Jin. His character’s fluency in multiple languages, including English, Japanese, and Italian, is sure to add an intriguing layer to the storyline.

Go Youn Jung, who has made a name for herself in the K-drama world, stars as Cha Mu Hee, a global superstar navigating the complexities of fame and personal connections. Her dynamic with Kim Seon Ho’s character is expected to be a highlight of the series.

The production of “Can This Love Be Translated” has generated a buzz among fans and critics alike. With the combined talent of the Hong sisters and Yoo Young Eun, and a star-studded cast, the series is poised to become a hit.

Stay tuned for more updates on the release date and further developments.

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Jeon Do Yeon and Ji Chang Wook’s Intense “Revolver” Teaser

The upcoming movie “Revolver” has released a grippingly intense new teaser!

“Revolver” is a new film that tells the story of Ha Soo Young, a former police officer who goes to prison after being framed for a crime. Upon her release, she dedicates herself to a singular goal in life.

Jeon Do Yeon is an ex-police officer on a mission

Jeon Do Yeon stars as Ha Soo Young, the ex-police officer imprisoned due to false corruption charges. After her release, she sets out on a relentless quest for truth and vengeance. Ji Chang Wook is Andy, also known as “Mad Dog,” who promises Ha Soo Young money upon her release but ultimately betrays her.

Lim Ji Yeon plays Jung Yoon Sun, a mysterious woman who aligns herself with Ha Soo Young for her own undisclosed reasons. The dynamic between these three characters adds layers of intrigue to the plot.

The new posters for the movie feature the tagline “An abandoned promise, a single purpose,” depicting a figure carrying a revolver behind their back. Other posters highlight the intense expressions of Ha Soo Young, Andy, and Jung Yoon Sun, building anticipation for their chilling yet fiery narrative.

The teaser reveals that Ha Soo Young, after being framed and abandoned by everyone, including Andy, is reduced to a shadow of her former self. Determined to claim the price promised to her two years ago, she embarks on an unwavering pursuit of her goal, navigating a path fraught with betrayal and uncertainty. The appearance of Yoon Sun, whose true intentions are unclear, adds an additional layer of suspense to Soo Young’s journey.

The cast in their recent projects

Jeon Do Yeon recently captivated audiences with her role in the drama “Crash Course in Romance” and the film “Kill Bok Soon.” In “Crash Course in Romance,” she brought depth and nuance to her character, showcasing her versatility and emotional range. Meanwhile, her portrayal in “Kill Bok Soon” demonstrated her ability to excel in intense, action-packed narratives, solidifying her status as one of the industry’s most dynamic and compelling actresses today.

Meanwhile, Ji Chang Wook recently starred in Netflix’s “Welcome to Samdal-Ri” and Disney Plus’ “The Worst of Evil.” He will star in the upcoming “The Queen ‘Woo” series.”

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My Sweet Mobster Achieves Record-Breaking High

“My Sweet Mobster,” airing on JTBC, achieved its highest nationwide viewership rating with episode 5, hitting 2.4 percent, up from 2.3 percent for the previous episode, marking a new record.

The drama stars Han Sun Hwa and Um Tae Goo, who have garnered praise for their chemistry and performances. Critics and fans alike applaud the gripping plot and unexpected twists that keep viewers engaged.

The series unfolds with romance, suspense, and intrigue, drawing viewers in with each episode. Han Sun Hwa and Um Tae Goo’s captivating portrayals add depth to the storyline, contributing to the drama’s popularity.

Premiering on June 12, 2024, “My Sweet Mobster” is based on a Naver web novel by Bangulmama. It follows Seo Ji-hwan, a former gang member grappling with his past, and Go Eun-ha, a children’s content creator, whose paths intertwine unexpectedly.

The narrative explores themes of redemption and personal growth, unfolding through complex relationships and emotional dynamics. Viewers are drawn into Ji-hwan’s journey of reconciliation and Eun-ha’s transformative role in his life.

“My Sweet Mobster” promises an engaging mix of drama and romance, offering viewers compelling plot developments and heartfelt moments. As the series continues, audiences can anticipate more twists and revelations that deepen their connection to the characters and their evolving stories.

With rising ratings reflecting increasing interest, “My Sweet Mobster” continues to captivate audiences with its intriguing storyline and memorable performances. Stay tuned for more updates and emotional highlights as the drama unfolds its captivating tale.

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Project Silence Cast Confront Experimental Dogs

Character posters and a trailer for “Project Silence” have been released, introducing the film’s cast and their roles. The new CJENM movie depicts a gripping tale of survival amidst the chaos caused by military experimental dogs on a collapsing bridge.

‘Project Silence’ characters

The first character features Security Bureau Administrator Jung Won (played by Lee Sun Gyun) and his teenage daughter Kyung Min (Kim Soo Ahn). They find themselves trapped on an airport bridge about to collapse, cautiously maneuvering to evade an unseen threat. The urgency of their situation heightens as they rush to the airport for Kyung Min’s departure abroad, only to face a series of unforeseen disasters. This sparks curiosity about their chances of surviving what could be the worst disaster in history.

Tow truck driver Jo Bak, portrayed by Ju Ji Hoon, is introduced as he seizes a life-changing opportunity amidst the chaos. Learning of multiple collision accidents, he rushes to the airport bridge, his tense demeanor reflecting the unsettling atmosphere. Dr. Yang (Kim Hee Won), the senior researcher behind the secretive “Project Silence,” denies any intention of causing such outcomes, intensifying the tension as the military experimental dogs recognize all survivors as targets.

Professional golfer Yu Ra (Park Ju Hyun), struggling with a slump, is managed by her older sister Mi Ran (Park Hee Bon). Despite their usual differences, the crisis strengthens their bond, showcasing their unity and mutual support. This dynamic enhances audience engagement, making their story more immersive.

In the previous year, Project Silence was invited to the Midnight Screening selection during the Cannes Film Festival in 2023. This category was reserved for films that offer both popular appeal and artistic merit. It was also submitted to the Out of Competition category, which are nominated films that do not compete for the main prize.

“Project Silence” will hit theaters on July 12, promising a thrilling experience combining intense survival scenarios and complex character dynamics.

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Tiffany Shares Her Experience Filming First Kiss Scene in ‘Uncle Samsik’

On the afternoon of June 26, KST, Tiffany Young sat down for an interview at a café in Sogyeok-dong, Seoul. She shared various anecdotes about her experience working on the Disney+ original series ‘Uncle Samsik,’ which premiered on May 15.

‘Uncle Samsik’ is a 16-episode drama that tells the passionate story of Uncle Samsik, Park Doo Chil (played by Song Kang Ho), who ensures three meals a day even during wartime, and elite young man Kim San (played by Byun Yo Han), who dreams of building a prosperous nation where everyone can live well.

In the series, Tiffany Young plays Rachel Jung, a director at the Albright Foundation, who becomes intrigued by Kim San’s ambition to rebuild Korea. Reflecting on her role, Tiffany said, “Appearing in ‘Uncle Samsik’ still feels unreal and like a dream. Although this is my second project after ‘Reborn Rich,’ I still can’t quite believe it. I am just happy and grateful.”

Tiffany talks about her kiss with Byun Yo Han

Tiffany also mentioned her first on-screen kiss with Byun Yo Han, saying, “I experienced my first kiss scene in ‘Uncle Samsik.’” She recounted an amusing moment on set: “Senior actor Song Kang Ho kept joking around, saying, ‘The atmosphere is nice.’ Since I was the last to join the cast, I felt a lot of pressure and tried to stay focused, which made me quieter than usual.”

She humorously described the kiss scene as almost an action sequence. “It wasn’t just a kiss scene; it was practically an action scene. Byun Yo Han’s beard made my face swell up. We had to shoot many takes with different breaths, so my lips were quite swollen. It felt like filming a group dance scene or an action scene.”

Tiffany’s candid sharing of her experiences brings a relatable and human touch to her work in ‘Uncle Samsik,’ adding depth to her portrayal of Rachel Jung.

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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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