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EXO’s D.O. Confirmed for Revenge Drama with Ji Chang Wook

EXO’s D.O. and Ji Chang Wook are in discussions to share the screen in an upcoming drama titled “Sculptured City” with a reported production cost of 35 billion won (approximately $26.4 million). The revenge drama is set to be Do Kyung Soo’s first project since signing with a new agency.

D.O. Gearing Up for New Revenge Drama with Ji Chang Wook

According to industry insiders on November 13, both actors are considering roles in the revenge-themed drama. D.O.’s agency, Company Soosoo, responded to the reports, stating, “‘Sculptured City’ is a project [D.O.] is positively reviewing.” Ji Chang Wook’s agency, Spring Company, also confirmed the offer and shared that he is actively reviewing the opportunity.

Directed by Kim Chang Joo of “Hard Hit” and written by Oh Sang Ho, known for the “Taxi Driver” series and “The Roundup: Punishment” (“The Outlaws 4”), the drama follows an ordinary man whose life is abruptly manipulated, leading to a journey of revenge.

Ji Chang Wook is expected to portray the character of the once ordinary man who seeks revenge against those responsible for his downfall. Meanwhile, D.O. is rumored to play the role of a designer manipulating people’s lives, creating real-life hell.

As Ji Chang Wook prepares for his upcoming drama “Welcome to Samdalri” alongside Shin Hye Sun, D.O. continues to captivate audiences with his appearances on the variety show “GBRB: Reap What You Sow.” The potential collaboration between these two talented actors in “Sculptured City” adds anticipation to what promises to be an intense and gripping drama.

https://youtu.be/tZUF6dNwSCY

In related news, D.O’s new agency Company Soosoo has issued a statement confirming they are taking legal action against malicious posts about the EXO member and their other affiliated artists. Do Kyung Soo previously left SM Entertainment but will continue promoting as a member of the group. His other activities will be represented by Company Soosoo.

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Hit K-Drama ‘Crash Landing on You’ to Be Adapted Into Japanese Musical

The South Korean media outlet Kstyle recently confirmed an exciting development for fans of the hit drama Crash Landing on You—it’s getting a musical adaptation in Japan.

Originally aired from December 2019 to February 2020, the series quickly became a fan favorite. It stars Kim Jung-hyun, Hyun Bin, Son Ye-jin, and Seo Ji-hye and is about a pretty South Korean businesswoman who, after a paragliding mishap, lands in North Korea and falls in love with an army captain.

Fans love Crash Landing on You, written by Park Ji-eun and directed by Lee Jeong-hyo, for its engaging narrative that beautifully navigates the complexities of love and conflict between two ideologically opposed nations. The original series was one of the most-watched shows of 2019, thanks largely in part to the chemistry of Hyun Bin and Son Ye-jin. In fact, they got along so well that they eventually fell in love, got married, and had a child together. 

뮤지컬 ‘사랑의 불시착'(Crash Landing On You) 2022년 프레스콜 중

The star-studded ‘Crash Landing on You’ cast

The drama’s finale earned a 21.683% viewership rating nationwide in South Korea, according to Nielsen Korea. The drama also earned international acclaim via Netflix. Its popularity led to the birth of a musical, which also earned praise from theatergoers. (You can watch a scene from it in the video above.)

The drama’s transition from screen to stage in Korea in 2022 was a resounding success. Now, the enchanting tale will captivate hearts in Japan. The Japanese musical adaptation of Crash Landing on You is scheduled to take place at Yurakucho Yomiuri Hall in Tokyo in February 2024. ASTRO‘s Sanha is set to portray Ri Jeong-hyeok, the North Korean soldier originally played by Hyun Bin. Despite his youth, Sanha brings a wealth of musical experience and his beautiful voice.

In a dual casting, ASTRO‘s JinJin and The BOYZ‘s Sangyeon will portray Gu Seung-jung, a character who flees to North Korea from South Korea due to unfortunate circumstances. While JinJin has prior experience in musicals, Sangyeon will be making his musical debut. Fans are eagerly anticipating his performance, confident in his strong vocals and stage presence. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: The musical’s star-studded cast includes ASTRO’s JinJin and Sanha. Source: X/@stanastro1602.

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BoA to Make Cameo in Drama ‘Marry My Husband’

Soloist BoA is set to make a comeback to the acting scene after an absence of approximately seven years! 

On Thursday, November 9, SM Entertainment confirmed that she has secured a role in tvN’s upcoming drama, Marry My Husband

Based on a web novel by Sung So Jak, Marry My Husband, revolves around the revenge plot of Kang Ji Won, portrayed by Park Min Young, who, after witnessing her best friend’s affair, is killed by her friend’s husband. Ji Won then time-travels a decade into the past to seek retribution alongside Yoo Ji Hyeok, played by Na In Woo.

Currently, there’s no details yet about BoA’s character in the drama. But the agency  has urged fans to anticipate her character’s details when the drama airs.

Moreover, Marry My Husband will mark the singer’s return to after a seven-year acting hiatus. To recall, her last acting project was the 2017 film Autumn Sonata. Prior to that, she participated in the KBS2 drama My Wife Is Having an Affair This Week in 2016.

As this is her acting comeback, BoA‘s participation in this drama is anticipated to bring a new dimension to her acting career. On top of that, fans are eagerly awaiting her character in the drama, given its intriguing narrative of revenge and second chances.

Marry My Husband, which also features  a stellar cast including Song Ha Yoon and Lee Yikyung, will premiere on January 1, 2024. 

BoA: a versatile artist

Although BoA took a break from acting, she continued to maintain her relevance as a singer. Despite having debuted in 2000, the singer kept on releasing hits after hits.

Throughout her career, she’s best known for her tracks Only One,” “Hurricane Venus,” “The Shadow,” andAtlantis Princess.” 

Since she had a long-lasting career, it’s also unsurprising how she’s always been tapped to become mentors and judges for variety shows.

Previously, she participated as a judge and mentor for shows for Street Man Fighter and Survival Audition K-pop Star. Recently, she also mentored the last NCT unit during NCT Universe: LASTART. 

In 2022, BoA also became part of SM Entertainment’s super girl group GOT THE BEAT.

Featured image: BoA updates fans with new photo. Credit: Instagram/BoA

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Lee Jong Suk to establish own production company

Lee Jong Suk is embarking on a new chapter in his career! The South Korean actor will be stepping into the realm of production with plans to establish his very own production company .

On Wednesday, November 8, Korean media reported that the star is currently in discussions with Ace Factory to become his new agency. Moreover, the two camp are also reportedly laying the groundwork for the actor’s upcoming production venture. 

Lee Jong Suk is preparing to establish a production company and he is in talks with Ace Factory to collaborate on production and sign an exclusive management contract,” a source from the agency was quoted as saying. 

According to reports, the actor has officially initiated preparations for the establishment of his production company. As of writing, other details about the production have yet to be disclosed. But it has a target launch date set for early 2024.

As Ace Factory is known for producing acclaimed works like Stranger and Greed, they’re expected to play a pivotal role in the actor’s new venture.

Lee Jong Suk and his career 

In September, Lee Jong Suk parted ways with HighZium Studio.

To recall, he actor’s A-Man Project signed a management partnership with HighZium Studio in April 2022. Notably, the agency manages huge South Korean stars such as Song Joong Ki and Kim Ji Won. 

Through this partnership between A-Man Project and HighZium Studio, the actor gained first hand production insights. 

According to industry insiders, the actor’s partnership with Ace Factory is anticipated to follow a similar trajectory. Moreover, he was reportedly exploring joint productions with established drama production companies for specific projects. Furthermore, the actor reportedly expressed his desire to build his company with the support of proficient production entities.

Having debuted in 2010, Lee Jong Suk has solidified his standing as a reliable drama actor. Among his popular works include School 2013, Pinocchio, W, While You Were Sleeping, Big Mouth, and more. 

As he ventures into the realm of production, Lee Jong Suk seeks to combine his extensive acting experience with a newfound passion for creating compelling content.

In December 2022, the actor confirmed his relationship with singer IU

Featured image: The ‘Pinocchio’ star shares a photo from his recent shoot. Credit: Instagram/Jong Suk

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Bae Suzy’s Thoughtful and Expensive Gifts to ‘Doona!’ Staff Revealed

Bae Suzy might be a huge star but she’s more than just a pretty face. Suzy’s “Doona!” co-star Yang Se Jong revealed that the former Miss A member also has a generous heart. Yang just revealed that Suzy provided thoughtful and expensive gifts for the staff of the Netflix series when they filmed during a difficult period!

Suzy Gave ‘Doona!’ Staff Expensive Gifts During Filming

Bae Suzy and Yang Se Jong recently made a guest appearance in an episode of “Salon Drip” where they discussed working on their hit show. At one point, the host asked Jang Do Yeon about Suzy’s generosity when they were filming for “Doona!” Not surprisingly, Yang had a delightful story to share.

He revealed that despite the show’s summer setting, the production faced the harshness of winter during filming. The dedicated staff endured challenging conditions, working tirelessly outdoors in the cold.

Suzy, who is known for her caring nature, decided to warm the hearts of the staff. She gifted each team member expensive gifts to combat the cold. Yang Se Jong revealed that Suzy “gave super expensive scarves to every one of the staff members.” Suzy went the extra mile, not only purchasing a collection of Acne Studio scarves, some priced as high as $420 USD each but also personally wrapping them.

Surprisingly, the substantial cost of these Christmas gifts didn’t faze Suzy in the least. What truly touched her was the staff’s happiness upon receiving the thoughtful tokens of appreciation. Suzy’s gesture warmed not only their bodies but their spirits as well.

“Doona!” is a romantic drama series based on a beloved webtoon. The story centers around the experiences of Lee Doona, a former idol as she encounters Lee Wonjun, a regular college student, in a shared living arrangement. The new series premiered on Netflix on October 20, 2023

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NCT DREAM Will Run Their Own Food Truck In New Reality Show

Prepare for an exciting new reality show featuring NCT DREAM! The idol group is set to run their own food truck in Los Angeles in the upcoming series “STARSTRUCK”!

NCT DREAM Runs a Food Truck in Los Angeles in New Reality Series

On November 8, SM Entertainment unveiled that NCT DREAM is set to star in their own reality program titled “STARSTRUCK”. The title is a clever play on words, combining “Starstruck” and “Star’s Truck.”

“STARSTRUCK” was filmed during NCT DREAM’s “THE DREAM SHOW2” world tour earlier this year. The show will revolve around the members as they embark on a special venture to open a food truck in Los Angeles as an expression of gratitude to their fans. In the series, Mark, Renjun, Jeno, Haechan, Chenle, Jaemin and Jisung will also encounter people from different walks of life.

To get their food truck up and running, the NCT DREAM members will embark on various entertaining quests and missions. The show will also accompany them on their adventures, including visits to Santa Monica Beach and other locations in the Los Angeles area, such as a college campus. Needless to say, “STARSTRUCK” is also set to be an entertaining look at how the idols tackle the challenges of running a food truck.

“STARSTRUCK” will be composed of five episodes and is scheduled to debut on December 1 at 6 p.m. KST exclusively on Weverse. New episodes will be released every Friday at 6 p.m. KST. Fans can also look forward to a special preview, which will be posted on NCT DREAM’s official YouTube channel on December 1 at 12 p.m. KST. Get ready for an entertaining journey with NCT DREAM in “STARSTRUCK.”

In related news, SM Entertainment previously alerted fans regarding TEDDY ISLAND’s unauthorized use of NCT DREAM for their upcoming events. The agency also stated that the clothing brand continued to use the idol group’s images for promotions after the partnership was terminated.

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Rowoon Opens Up About Leaving SF9 for the First Time

South Korean singer and actor Rowoon has opened up about his thoughts on his departure from the K-pop boy group SF9

During a press event for his new series The Matchmakers, Rowoon shed light on the reasons behind his decision to part ways with SF9 after seven years. 

In September, FNC Entertainment made the announcement that Rowoon would no longer be actively promoting with SF9. With this, the group would continue its activities with just eight members. This news took many fans by surprise, as Rowoon had been an integral part of the group since its debut in October 2016, having dedicated seven years to SF9.

“I left the group because I wanted to become more serious about acting, and I wanted to get better at it,” the idol-actor said, as per SBS Star. 

To date, Rowoon is one of the idols who successfully made a name in the acting industry. He made his acting debut in the 2017 series School 2017 and garnered significant attention with his role as Haru in Extraordinary You in May 2019. Since then, Kim Seok-woo, Rowoon‘s real name, actively participated in various series. The list includes She Would Never Know, The King’s Affection, Tomorrow, and Destined With You

During the press conference for The Matchmakers, Rowoon acknowledged that some fans might have been disappointed by his decision. But he stressed that these disappointments are part of the weight of his choice. Furthermore, he hoped that his dedication to acting will eventually make people understand his decision and see it as a significant step in his career.

“Please understand that it was not an easy decision for me,” he added. 

Rowoon continues to root for SF9

Despite his departure, Rowoon made it clear that he still has deep affection for SF9 and remains close to his former groupmates. 

In particular, he mentioned his camaraderie with Hwiyoung, who is also part of The Matchmakers alongside him. “Hwiyoung is also in the drama, but we don’t feel awkward around each other at all,” Rowoon said. “We chat and tell jokes to each other like we always have.”

However, it can be recalled that Youngbin, SF9‘s leader,  also addressed Rowoon’s exit from the group in a heartfelt letter to fans. At the time, he expressed feeling “conflicted” about Rowoon’s departure. But Youngbin also emphasized his continued support for Rowoon‘s individual activities. Moreover, Youngbin also extended his gratitude to the fans and provided comfort during this transitional period.

As of writing, there’s no details yet about SF9’s upcoming activities. The group last made a comeback with their 12th EP The Piece OF9 in January 2023.

Featured image: Rowoon in the concept photo for SF9’s ‘The Piece of 9’ album. Credit: Facebook/SF9

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Netflix’s ‘My Demon’ Trailer Showcases Kim Yoo Jung and Song Kang’s Undeniable Chemistry

Netflix has unveiled a teaser for the upcoming drama “My Demon” starring Kim Yoo Jung and Song Kang. In addition to that, the highly anticipated series dropped a gorgeous poster featuring its main players.

“My Demon” Teaser Dropped by Netflix

The teaser, released by Netflix on October 31, showcases the chemistry between the two actors as they portray a rich woman and her unexpected demon companion.

The teaser introduces the characters Do Do-hee and Jung Gu-won, highlighting their surprising chance encounter, which leads to a binding deal between the two. Although they aren’t initially pleased with the arrangement, they soon realize that it might not be as bad as they thought.

In addition to that, Netflix also shared a new poster featuring the main players. The poster also features the Do Do Hee and Jung Gu Won gazing into each others’ eyes.

“My Demon” is a fantasy romantic comedy that revolves around Do Do-hee, a demon-like chaebol heiress played by Kim Yoo Jung, and Jung Gu-won, portrayed by Song Kang, a demon who loses his powers and enters into a contractual marriage with her. Do Do-hee, the heiress to Mirae Group, is also known for her lack of trust in others but finds herself falling in love with a demon. Jung Gu-won is depicted as an absolutely perfect and charming demon who has made countless dangerous yet sweet deals with humans, holding their souls as collateral.

“My Demon” promises to be a captivating and unique tale, offering a blend of fantasy, romance, and comedy, with Kim Yoo Jung and Song Kang delivering compelling performances that have already garnered attention from fans and viewers alike.

The drama is set to premiere on November 24, taking over the Friday and Saturday time slot on SBS after “The Escape of the Seven”. It will also be available for streaming on Netflix on the same day.

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‘Persona: Sulli’ Trailer Finally Released by Netflix

It took a long time for an update but fans can finally look forward to experiencing Sulli’s final work. Netflix has dropped an official trailer for the late idol’s post-humous project “Persona: Sulli” featuring new footage from the special films “4: Clean Island” and “Dear Jin Ri”.

Netflix Unveils First ‘Persona: Sulli’ Trailer

The official trailer, launched by Netflix Korea on October 31, gives fans the opportunity to see and hear Sulli once more. In the trailer, Sulli narrates, “They say when you dream, it’s either in a first-person perspective or a third-person perspective. When I dream… I watch myself in a third-person perspective, just like watching a drama or a movie.”

‘Persona: Sulli’ is a two-part feature consisting of a short drama film titled “4: Clean Island” and a comprehensive documentary film titled “Dear Jinri”.

“4: Clean Island” presents an enchanting narrative centered around a unique pig at an unconventional immigration checkpoint. The short film revolves around a pig named 4, which aspires to move to Clean Island, known as the purest place on Earth. To achieve this dream, the pig must first confess its sins.

The film features Choi Jinri (Sulli), Hwang Miyoung, and Park Gabi, offering powerful performances that are sure to leave a lasting impression. The script for “4: Clean Island” is written by Kim Jihye, renowned for her work in the film “Wish” and the drama “Lost.” The co-direction is overseen by Hwang Soo-ah, a director with extensive experience in music videos and films, including “Why Did You Come to My House?”

The second part, “Dear Jinri,” delves into the life of Choi Jinri, exploring her journey as an actress and artist. It offers insights into her thoughts, contemplations, and experiences throughout her 20s, featuring interviews that provide a unique and intimate perspective on Sulli’s life. “Dear Jinri” is directed by Jung Yoon-suk.

“Persona: Sulli” will premiere on Netflix on November 13, 2023.

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‘Doona!’ Star Suzy Discusses Her Character’s Rebellious Behavior

Bae Suzy certainly understands the character she played in the hit Netflix series “Doona!”, and she defended the character’s rebellious behavior. According to Suzy, it is all tied to Doo Na’s true feelings!

In the Netflix hit series “Doona!”, Suzy portrayed a character that defied conventional expectations, giving viewers a fresh perspective on her acting abilities. Her character, Lee Doo Na, was emotionally unstable and yearned for love and attention from others. Despite her struggles, she found the burden of life as an idol too overwhelming to bear.

Through her portrayal of Lee Doo Na, Suzy unveiled many new and unfamiliar facets of her talent to the public. She surprised audiences with scenes featuring her character smoking, a departure from the usual roles associated with K-pop idols. Her fashion choices in the show also garnered attention, as she donned numerous stunning outfits, although some were short and uncomfortable.

Suzy Explains Doo Na’s Rebellious Behavior in Netflix Show

When asked about these unconventional elements of her character in an interview with TV Report, Suzy explained that they were essential to the role and carried significant symbolism. She embraced the opportunity to break the mold of a typical idol character, adding depth and authenticity to her performance.

I think smoking was a tool to express Doo Na’s loneliness,” Suzy said. “That’s why when she was dating Won Jun, she cut down on smoking, but started again when she got insecure. I think how Doona feels can be seen through her smoking.”

“As for her clothing, they are short, thin, and uncomfortable in general,” she continued. “This is another tool through which Doona’s unstable emotions are expressed. I thought that it hints at how lonely and cold she felt.”

“Doona!” achieved remarkable success on Netflix, topping the platform’s global charts during its launch week. It is considered one of the most successful Korean content offerings on the platform in 2023, further solidifying Suzy’s reputation as a versatile and accomplished actress. Her willingness to take on challenging roles and explore unconventional character traits resonated with audiences worldwide, contributing to the series’ popularity. Suzy’s performance in “Doona!” marked a significant milestone in her acting career and left a lasting impression on viewers.

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