Category: K-DRAMA

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K-DRAMA LATEST STORIES

Song Hye Kyo to Star in Comeback Film ‘Dark Nuns’

Song Hye Kyo shares photo from fashion shoot. Credit: Instagram/Song Hye Kyo

Get ready to see Song Hye Kyo return to the big screen! On February 16, South Korean news outlets announced that veteran actress Hye Kyo will be leading the upcoming thriller film Dark Nuns. 

According to reports, the film will be a spin-off of Kang Dong Win’s hit 2015 movie The Priests.

Moreover, Dark Nuns will be Hye Kyo’s first appearance on the big screen in 10 years. Although she starred in multiple dramas over the past decade, her last film, My Brilliant Life, was released in 2014.

Since she set high records for her stellar performance in the 2022 revenge drama The Glory, Hye Kyo is expected to show her remarkable acting skills in the new project. Moreover, said drama, which also falls under the psychological thriller genre, earned her multiple awards. 

For the Dark Nuns, she will be joined by fellow actress Jeon Yeo Been, who is best known for her roles in Vincenzo and Be Melodramatic. Meanwhile, Sweet Home actor Lee Jin Wook has also been confirmed to be a part of the cast.

What we know so far about Dark Nuns

According to the film’s production team, Dark Nuns will tell the story of nuns who perform exorcisms.

In the movie, Hye Kyo will play the role of Sister Junia, a brave nun who saves a young boy’s life. Although no method seems to help the little boy, Sister Junia makes it her mission to relieve the child’s pain.

Meanwhile, Sister Michaela, who will be played by Yeo Been, becomes curious about Sister Junia’s plans and later decides to help her save the boy.

On the other hand, actor Lee Jin Wook will take on the character of Father Paolo. Both a priest and a psychiatrist, Father Paolo believes that medicine can cure the boy.

In addition, the cast lineup will be completed by veteran actor Hee Joon Ho and child actor Moon Woo Jin. Joon Ho will play Father Andrea, the priest who performs an exorcism to save the young boy. Meanwhile, Woo Jin will take on the role of the little boy possessed by a powerful evil spirit.

Led by director Kwon Hyeok Jae, the shooting for Dark Nuns will begin in late February. As of writing, there’s no schedule yet for its release. 

Featured image: Song Hye Kyo shares photo from fashion shoot. Credit: Instagram/Song Hye Kyo

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BTS K-DRAMA LATEST STORIES

‘Sweet Home’ Star Might Replace BTS V in ‘Jinny’s Kitchen’ Season 2

TvN’s popular variety show “Jinny’s Kitchen” has been confirmed for a highly anticipated second season, bringing back the charm of its culinary adventures. The series, helmed by renowned PD Na Young Suk, promises another delightful exploration of international cuisine, this time set in Iceland. But who is replacing BTS’ V who is currently serving in the military? There are reports suggesting a”Sweet Home” star is taking over as the new intern!

‘Sweet Home’ Star Joining ‘Jinny’s Kitchen’ Season 2?

While the majority of the original cast is set to return for Season 2, including Lee Seo Jin, Choi Woo Shik, Park Seo Joon, and Jung Yu Mi, BTS member V, who participated in the first season, will be unable to join due to his ongoing military service. With V’s absence, fans eagerly awaited news of his replacement, and recent reports suggest that “Sweet Home” star Go Min Si is being considered for the role.

It is reported that filming for Season 2 is scheduled to commence in mid-March, with the cast embarking on a culinary journey to Iceland. However, amidst the excitement for the upcoming season, the absence of V left fans curious about his replacement. Enter Go Min Si, known for her captivating performance in the popular K-Drama “Sweet Home.”

Reports indicate that Go Min Si has been offered a role as an intern on “Jinny’s Kitchen,” adding her youthful energy and talent to the mix. While negotiations are still ongoing regarding her schedule, her potential addition to the cast has generated significant interest among fans.

Although TvN has not yet confirmed the casting decision, if Go Min Si joins the cast, she would bring a fresh perspective and dynamic presence to the show. As discussions continue, viewers eagerly await further updates on the lineup for “Jinny’s Kitchen” Season 2 and anticipate another season filled with culinary delights and heartwarming moments.

The first season of “Jinny’s Kitchen” captivated audiences with its unique concept of a Korean restaurant in Mexico, overseen by Lee Seo Jin and his team of talented interns. V, known for his infectious personality and passion for cooking, endeared himself to viewers as one of the interns alongside his fellow cast members.

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K-DRAMA LATEST STORIES

iKON’s Junhoe and Jo Byeong Gyu Co-Star in Time Travel Movie ‘Again 1997’

The highly anticipated movie Again 1997, starring iKON‘s Junhoe and Jo Byeong Gyu, recently unveiled its first set of posters. Again 1997 is a youth-oriented fantasy movie that revolves around a middle-aged man filled with regret. Moments before his death, he obtains five talismans that allow him to go back in time to 1997—the days when he was in high school, which is the time of his life he cherishes the most.

At the same time the posters dropped, the team behind Again 1997 confirmed that it will hit theaters in March. Accompanying the confirmation were the posters and their thought-provoking captions. One read, “I want to go back.” The other read, “If you could go back, are you sure you’d do better?” These captions and the posters hint at the movie’s central themes, which are time travel and second chances. The movie also asks moviegoers this poignant question: “If you could live your life again, would you change your past?”

X/@KpopChartNet

Beyond its time-travel premise, the film weaves together elements of action, fantasy, friendship, and romance. It also includes unexpected plot twists, creating a rich, multifaceted narrative.

Who else will star in ‘Again 1997’?

Jo Byeong Gyu of Uncanny Counter fame plays Woo Seok, a mischievous high school student whose body is inhabited by the soul of his 40-year-old self. iKON’s Junhoe signed on to play Bong Gyun, Woo Seok’s closest friend and a massive fan of Slam Dunk. Their friend group is completed by Choi Hee Seung, who plays the cheerful and loyal Ji Sung, who’s known for his playful antics. Rookie actress Han Eun Soo stars as Ji Min, a pivotal character in Woo Seok’s future. She was his junior in the theater club and his first love.

Veteran actors Park Cheol Min, Lee Mi Do, and Kim Da Hyun round out the talented cast. Their characters add depth and richness to the movie.

X/@KpopChartNet

Again 1997 promises to be an emotional and thrilling ride from start to finish. As such, fans can hardly wait for March. They’re eager for the chance to embark on this nostalgic journey back to the late 1990s. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: The posters piqued fans’ interest. Now they’re excited to watch the movie next month! Source: X/@wowjunhoe.

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Song Seung-hyun Retires From the Entertainment Industry

Song Seung-hyun, known for being an actor and a member of the band F.T. Island has announced his retirement from the entertainment industry. On February 15, Seung-hyun shared the news in a heartfelt letter on Instagram.

What did Seung-hyun say?

Seung-hyun began by apologizing for being radio silent after leaving his agency. “First, I’d like to express my apologies to my fans who have been waiting during my long break, as I’m not really good at using social media, and it has been a while since I left the company. I deeply regret that I wasn’t able to communicate smoothly and for the long period of silence,” he wrote.

He then confirmed his retirement and reflected on the challenges he faced after leaving the band to go into acting. “After much thought, I’ve decided to leave the entertainment industry and probably leave Korea to start a new life. Four years have passed since I left F.T. Island and started working as an actor. But what was more difficult than adapting to a new job and environment were the uncertain waiting periods and interpersonal relationships that I didn’t see coming,” he added.

Seung-hyun ended his message with a note to fans, thanking them for everything and wishing them well. “No matter what I do, there’ll never be an easy job or an easy relationship with people, but for me, I’ll try to live a new healthy and regular life that I can tackle every day. I really wanted to say that I’m more grateful than anyone else to the fans who have waited, and I hope that you too will always live a healthy and happy life without getting sick physically or mentally.”

Oh! My Assistant | Official Trailer | He’s devoting his heart, body and soul to this man.

The end of an era

Seung-hyun joined F.T. Island in 2009 as a guitarist and vocalist, contributing to the band’s success with hits like “Love Sick,” “I Hope,” and “Severely.” After his contract expired in 2019, he left the group and starred in films, musicals, and web dramas. In 2022, he ventured into the Boys’ Love (BL) genre through an adaptation of webtoon Oh! My Assistant. It turned out to be his last project before announcing his retirement.

Seung-hyun‘s retirement marks the end of an era for his fans, who have followed his journey from music to acting. His contributions to both fields have left a lasting impact, and his decision to retire has been met with support and well-wishes from fans around the world. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: His sudden retirement threw his fans for a loop. Nevertheless, they supported his decision. Source: Instagram/@soow456.

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BTS K-DRAMA KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

Will BTS V Return in ‘Jinny’s Kitchen’ Season 2?

Kim Taehyung discussed what it was like filming in a different country for the reality TV show 'Jinny's Kitchen'

The anticipation for “Jinny’s Kitchen” Season 2 is mounting, with fans eagerly awaiting news about the cast lineup and filming details. As reports indicate that the show will begin filming in Iceland in mid-March, viewers are curious to know whether BTS member V will return for the highly anticipated second season.

‘Jinny’s Kitchen’ Season 2 Officially Announced

“Jinny’s Kitchen” is a spin-off of the hit reality show “Youn’s Kitchen,” featuring a new restaurant venture led by Lee Seo Jin. The first season of “Jinny’s Kitchen” garnered widespread acclaim, thanks to its engaging storyline and star-studded cast, which included Park Seo Joon, Jung Yu Mi, Choi Woo Shik, and BTS’s V as restaurant employees.

While details about the cast for Season 2 have been shrouded in secrecy, fans have been eager to learn whether V will reprise his role in the upcoming season. However, with V currently fulfilling his mandatory military service obligations, speculation has been rife about his potential involvement in the show’s second installment.

In response to inquiries about the cast lineup for Season 2, a representative from tvN confirmed that Park Seo Joon, Jung Yu Mi, and Choi Woo Shik will indeed be returning for the new season. This announcement delighted fans who have grown fond of the chemistry and camaraderie among the cast members.

Will Kim Taehyung Return in ‘Jinny’s Kitchen’?

However, V’s absence from the confirmed cast list has left fans wondering about his participation in the upcoming season. As the only other cast member from the first season, V’s potential return would undoubtedly add to the excitement surrounding the show’s return.

Despite V’s current military service commitments, fans remain hopeful that he may still make a surprise appearance in “Jinny’s Kitchen” Season 2. The dynamic interactions and entertaining antics of the original cast contributed significantly to the show’s success, and V’s presence would undoubtedly be warmly welcomed by viewers.

As anticipation continues to build for the release of “Jinny’s Kitchen” Season 2, fans eagerly await further updates on the cast lineup and any potential surprises that may be in store for the upcoming season. Until then, viewers can look forward to enjoying the culinary adventures and heartwarming moments that “Jinny’s Kitchen” is known for, with or without BTS’s V.

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K-DRAMA LATEST STORIES

Hyeri May Star in Upcoming Girls’ Love Drama ‘Friendly Competition’

Hyeri, known for tackling dynamic roles in K-dramas, is considering an offer to appear in TVING’s upcoming Girls’ Love (GL) drama, Friendly Competition. This drama, inspired by the webtoon of the same name, tells the compelling story of Woo Seul-gi. She’s the new kid at an elite girls’ high school in Seoul who crosses paths with Yoo Jae-yee, the school’s top student.

Friendly Competition isn’t just about the budding romance between two girls from different backgrounds. It’s a narrative rich with complexity and depth. Woo Seul-gi, having been the top student at her old school, faces a whole new set of challenges at the prestigious Chaehwa Girls’ High School. Here, she meets Yoo Jae-yee, who’s blessed with a high IQ and exceptional talents. Unlike Woo Seul-gi, who’s targeted by bullies, Yoo Jae-yee is admired and envied by everyone around her. The drama unfolds as these two young ladies gradually develop feelings for each other.

However, Friendly Competition is set to be more than a typical GL drama. It will touch on topics like  substance abuse, self-harm, and masturbation. These will be portrayed in such a way that will push the boundaries of what is usually aired on television. This bold portrayal of teenagers grappling with various addictions adds a layer of depth and realism to the show. It’s one part love story, one part mystery, and one part psychological thriller. Screenwriter Kim Tae-hee penned the script.

@.kessiia

Jay x Seulgi❤️ #webtoonofficial #fy #foryou #추천 #naver #webtoon #recommendation #fypシ #fyp #friendlycompetition

♬ original sound – yxacutie – sopi

Hyeri is ‘considering’ the role

Hyeri‘s agency, Creative Group ING, has confirmed that the actress is seriously thinking about taking the role in Friendly Competition. If the reports are accurate, this role will mark her return to the small screen since the MBC drama May I Help You? which ended in December 2022. Additionally, Hyeri is preparing for the release of her film Victory.

The announcement of Hyeri‘s involvement in Friendly Competition has sparked excitement and surprise among Korean netizens. Many expressed anticipation for the drama and wondered how the webtoon would translate to television. Some were particularly eager to see how a well-known actress like Hyeri will do in a drama featuring a same-sex romance.

As Friendly Competition currently has no set premiere date, fans are awaiting further announcements. This drama promises to be a groundbreaking addition to the K-drama scene, offering a fresh perspective on girls’ love stories and the complexities of teenage life. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: Will Hyeri accept the offer or not? Source: X/@iconickdramatweets.

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Ji Chang Wook’s Agency Issues Apology For Indoor Smoking Incident

Ji Chang Wook‘s agency, Spring Company, addressed the controversy surrounding the actor’s indoor smoking incident with a formal apology. The incident occurred during the filming of his recent drama “Welcome to Samdalri,” where footage captured him using an electronic cigarette indoors.

Spring Company Issues Official Apology Regarding Jing Chang Wook Indoor Smoking Incident

The release of the behind-the-scenes video showcasing Ji Chang Wook smoking indoors sparked public outcry due to the illegality of smoking or vaping in public spaces in South Korea, except for designated smoking areas. Consequently, the “Welcome to Samdalri” production team removed the scene from the video in response to the controversy.

In their statement issued on February 11, Spring Company expressed regret over the incident and extended their sincere apologies to the public and fans of Ji Chang Wook. They also acknowledged the seriousness of the matter and emphasized that they take full responsibility for the actor’s actions.

“Actor Ji Chang Wook also recognizes that his behavior was improper, and he feels sorry for disappointing many people. Once again, we deeply apologize to those who watched the content, along with the staff on set, the rest of the cast, and the viewers who gave their love to the drama.”

Furthermore, Spring Company assured that they would take steps to ensure such incidents do not recur in the future. They also pledged to reinforce their monitoring and management protocols to uphold legal and ethical standards, both on and offset. Additionally, they promised to provide thorough guidance and education to Ji Chang Wook regarding his public conduct to prevent any similar controversies.

The agency concluded their statement by expressing their gratitude to fans for their ongoing support and understanding. They reiterated their commitment to maintaining Ji Chang Wook’s positive image and reputation as an actor, acknowledging the importance of responsible behavior in the public eye.

Overall, Spring Company’s apology reflects their acknowledgment of the seriousness of the situation and their commitment to addressing it responsibly. They have taken proactive measures to rectify the issue and prevent future occurrences, reaffirming their dedication to Ji Chang Wook’s career and public image.

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BTS K-DRAMA KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

BTS-Inspired K-Drama ‘Begins Youth’ Stirs Excitement With Full Trailer

Several years ago, HYBE’s Bang Si-hyuk broke the news that a K-drama inspired by the worldwide phenomenon BTS was in the works. “We are working with a famous Korean production company to produce a drama where the theme is based on the way BTS looks at the world,” he said at a press conference. At the time, HYBE Labels’ Chairman told reporters the drama—now titled Begins ≠ Youth—was slated for a 2020 release. However, due to circumstances beyond the agency’s control, it will premiere later this year instead.

Big Hit Corporate Briefing with the Community (2H 2019)

The inspiration for Begins ≠ Youth comes from the BTS Universe (BU). Created by HYBE when the agency was still called BigHit Music, the BU tells the stories of characters based on the BTS members. It was introduced in 2015 with the release of the “I NEED U” MV and has since expanded into a multi-platform narrative. It’s a complex fictional narrative that spans across some of BTS’s albums, books, short films, webtoons, and more.

BTS STORYLINE SUMMARY + EXPLAINED | 2020 UPDATE

The trailer references old BTS songs

The drama’s storyline follows seven boys through their tumultuous school years. Each boy faces their own set of challenges like abandonment, family obligations, loss, poverty, rejection, and violence.

Its full-length trailer dropped for the first time last November and resurfaced a few days ago, reigniting the ARMY’s excitement. The trailer is rich with references to BTS’s past work, including the “Spring Day” MV. It also shines a light on each character and the problems they face. Despite the dark tone of the trailer, it ends with a shot of the seven boys, highlighting their friendship. The BTS song “Mikrokosmos” can also be heard in the background of the trailer’s last frame.

Its full-length trailer dropped for the first time last November and resurfaced a few days ago, reigniting the ARMY’s excitement. The trailer is rich with references to BTS’s past work, including the “Spring Day” MV. It also shines a light on each character and the problems they face. Despite the dark tone of the trailer, it ends with a shot of the seven boys, highlighting their friendship. The BTS song “Mikrokosmos” can also be heard in the background of the trailer’s last frame.

Begins ≠ Youth (2024) Official Full Trailer | BTS UNIVERSE

While the exact release date remains unannounced, the anticipation for Begins ≠ Youth continues to build. As the members are still serving in the military, the drama will surely tide ARMYs over till all seven are officially discharged. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: Featured Image: Fans paid more attention to the trailer when it resurfaced because they miss the members. Source: YouTube/@KdramaZone.

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BTS K-DRAMA KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

‘Squid Game’ Star Admits Loving BTS Jungkook Latest Single

There is little doubt that everybody loves BTS. As it turns out, even “Squid Game” star Lee Jung Jae loves the boy group as he admits to having Jungkook latest single on repeat!

Lee Jung Jae Loves Listening to Jungkook Latest Single

The revelation that Lee Jung Jae, star of the hit series “Squid Game,” is a fan of BTS’s Jungkook’s latest single “Standing Next to You” has sparked excitement among both K-pop and K-drama enthusiasts. Lee Jung Jae’s admission adds another layer to the multifaceted relationship between the worlds of K-pop and K-dramas, showcasing the mutual admiration and support between industry legends.

In the greetings video released by Artist Company, Lee Jung Jae shared that Jungkook’s song is the one that gives him strength, emphasizing the emotional resonance and impact of the track. This endorsement not only highlights Jungkook’s musical prowess but also underscores the universality of BTS’s music, transcending genres and demographics to touch the hearts of diverse audiences.

Interestingly, despite his admiration for Jungkook’s music, Lee Jung Jae shares a personal connection with another BTS member, V. This revelation adds a personal touch to Lee Jung Jae’s appreciation for BTS, showcasing the interconnectedness of the entertainment industry and the genuine friendships that can form between artists.

‘Squid Game’ Season 2 Shares First Teaser

Meanwhile, as “Squid Game 2” gears up for its highly anticipated release, the first stills offer tantalizing glimpses into the continuation of the gripping storyline. Protagonist Sung Ki Hoon’s decision to remain in Korea sets the stage for a deeper exploration of his character and motivations, hinting at new challenges and revelations to come.

The unveiling of the enigmatic Front Man without his mask promises to peel back the layers of mystery surrounding the character, providing insight into his role in the deadly games. Additionally, the return of the Salesman, portrayed by Gong Yoo, adds intrigue and complexity to the narrative, signaling the continuation of the high-stakes drama that captivated audiences worldwide.

Overall, Lee Jung Jae’s endorsement of Jungkook’s music and the anticipation surrounding “Squid Game 2” serve as testaments to the enduring popularity and impact of both BTS and the groundbreaking Netflix series. As fans eagerly await the next chapters in these respective stories, the convergence of music and drama continues to captivate audiences and cement the legacy of these cultural phenomena.

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K-DRAMA LATEST STORIES

Lee Young Ae to Return as Dae Jang Geum in New Drama

Lee Young Ae stars in the 2003 hit drama 'Jewel in the Palace.' Credit: Twitter/Soompi

After two long decades, the iconic Dae Jang Geum is back! On January 30, entertainment company Fantagio confirmed that veteran actress Lee Young Ae will reprise her iconic role as Dae Jang Geum from the hit 2003 classic drama Jewel in the Palace.

According to Fantagio, the upcoming drama with the working title of  Uinyeo Dae Jang Geum, will follow the story of Jang Geum’s journey as the king’s first female physician. 

During the airing of Jewel in the Palace, the 54-part series became the top program and recorded a whopping average viewership rating of 45.8% in South Korea. Later, it was exported to 91 countries and became one of the primary components of the “Korean Wave”. 

After the drama ended, Young Ae won the Daesang grand prize at the 2003 MBC Drama Awards for her legendary performance as  Jang Geum.

Initially, many thought that the new drama would be a sequel to Jewel in the Palace. However, a few weeks after the project was first announced, it was clarified that the new drama is unrelated to the 2003 show. 

According to reports, Fantagio clarified that it is a “new fiction based on the historical figure Dae Jang Geum and her history.” Moreover, they noted that it “does not feature the return of the character from the previous drama.” 

Prior to this, scriptwriter Kim Young Hyun, the original creator of Jewel in the Palace, has clarified that she’s not involved in the new project. 

Nostalgic return of Jang Geum

With the confirmation of Jang Geum’s return, many K-drama fans who were avid watchers of Jewel in The Palace expressed their excitement for the new show.

On social media, fans said that the sequel will be a nostalgic treat and will bring old memories back. One even mentioned that “watching Dae Jang Geum as an adult is going to be emotional.”

Other fans are also thrilled to see Young Ae’s exceptional performance as an older version of Jang Geum. Some fans shared they are really looking forward to the sequel and will definitely tune in once it airs.

Aside from her role in Jewel in The Palace, Young Ae is also loved for her outstanding acting skills in the films One Fine Spring Day and Sympathy for Lady Vengeance. In 2023, her latest drama Maestra also achieved massive success.

According to the production crew, the series will begin filming in October 2024 and will air in the first half of 2025. Stay tuned for further details about the project! 

Featured image: Lee Young Ae stars in the 2003 hit drama ‘Jewel in the Palace.’ Credit: Twitter/Soompi

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