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Song Joong Ki Shares Career Ambitions to Act in Hollywood

Despite being one of the biggest names in South Korean cinema, actor Song Joong Ki shared his ambitions to still try new and diverse genres.

Song Joong Ki, who is currently in the middle of promotions for his new film Hopeless, opened up about his career in a recent group interview with Korean media. 

Interestingly, the actor said that the film served as a new challenge in his acting career. He also mentioned that his appearance in Hopeless is an example of how he still wants to try different genres. “I have a strong desire for it… There is still room for improvement, I’m just giving it a try,” the actor humbly said.

Known for his impressive portfolio including popular dramas Descendants of the Sun, Vincenzo, Reborn Rich, he’s undeniably one of the biggest actors in Korea from his generation. However, Joong Ki mentioned that he still dreams of stepping into the global scene.

“I’ve been going to global auditions for many years to try out more genres in different cultures and styles,” he stated. The actor also shared that his wife, Katy Louise Saunders, shows her support by arranging meetings and auditions for him. Although the results for the actor were unfavorable.

Song Joong Ki in ‘Hopeless’

Directed by Kim Chang Hoon, Hopeless is a neo-noir thriller drama starring Song Joong Ki. He will be joined by singer Bibi and actor Hong Xa-bin

In the film, Joong Ki will play the role of Chi-Geon, a big boss of a criminal gang. Chi-Geon encounters the young boy Yeon-Gyu (played by Xa-bin), who wishes to escape his hellish reality of being a domestic violence and school bullying victim. With the big boss’ sympathy for the teenager, he ends up taking Yeon-Gyu into the world of crime.

With the intriguing plot, Joong Ki stated that the grim subject may have captured European audiences, but he was unsure whether the film would be well-accepted in his home country.

Hopeless is not a kind movie. I am wondering how general audiences would view it, whether it is a compliment or criticism, I am ready to take it,” Joong Ki said

While promoting the film, Joong Ki earned the opportunity to walk in the red carpet of this year’s Cannes Film Festival for the first time in his 15-year career. Such film was screened in the prestigious event’s Un Certain Regard, which is the official selection’s largest sidebar of new films. 

Hopeless is set to hit theaters on October 11.

After that, Song Joong Ki is also set to star in two more films. First is the Netflix original My Name is Loh Kiwan,  and another crime drama Bogota: City of the Lost. As of writing, the release date for both films have yet to be announced.

Featured image: Song Joong Ki updates fans with new set of photos. Credit: Instagram/Song Joong Ki

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Son Ye Jin Opens up About Marriage Life With Husband Hyun Bin

Fans are delighted to see Son Ye Jin again as she made her first guesting appearance since getting married and giving birth. 

The actress appeared in the vlog series of South Korean professional golfer Lim Ji Han, which aired on Thursday, September 20. There, Ye Jin talked about playing golf and her family life with husband, actor Hyun Bin. 

Son Ye Jin and how she’s doing lately 

Previously, Ye Jin hinted that she is currently preparing for a project where she has to play golf. “I’m nervous to meet you after a long time. But I’m filming something where I have to play golf in front of the camera,” she said earlier.

https://twitter.com/sonyejinpics/status/1700346345838788669

Fans speculated it was for her comeback drama. But it turns out, the project the actress was referring to was the vlog series Lim Jin Han Class. In the episode, she happily shared about her marriage life with Hyun Bin.

To start off, host Lim Jin Han opened up about the couple’s marriage two years ago. Being one of the guests in the wedding, the host Lim Jin Han shared how the other attendees thought of how lucky Ye Jin and Hyun Bin are to get married to one another. Upon hearing this, Ye Jin jokingly said “Didn’t they say that he is a tad luckier than I am?”

A glimpse of the couple’s golfing life

As most fans would know, Son Ye Jin and Hyun Bin are avid golf players. Prior to her recent appearance, Ye Jin has already been a guest of Lim Jinhan Class two years ago.

After tying the knot, she came back on the show, still with her alluring beauty. When the host asked if the couple played golf together, Ye Jin answered that she asked Hyun Bin to play and give advice to her after deciding she wanted to be on the show again. 

The actress also shared that she encouraged Hyun Bin to appear on the vlog series but the actor refused as he wanted to practice more. “You know he is a perfectionist. He said that he would practice hard and get better,”  she said.

On her personal Instagram account, Ye Jin has also been sharing photos of her in golf outfits. The actress’s captions also entertainingly highlights Hyun Bin’s photography skills.

The couple who developed real-life romance after starring in the globally admired drama Crash Landing On You, welcomed their firstborn in November 2022.

Featured image: Son Ye Jin and Hyun Bin tied the knot. Credit: VAST Entertainment

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Lee Sang Yeob to Marry Non-celebrity Girlfriend

South Korean actor Lee Sang Yeob  is set to marry his non-celebrity fiancée in March 2024. 

On Monday, September 25, Korean outlet Sports Seoul reported that the Eve star will tie the knot with his non-celebrity girlfriend. Moreover, the outlet also included in the report that the actor’s fiancée is younger than him and is known for her beautiful visuals. 

Additionally, the report claimed that the actor initially kept his relationship private since his partner is not a public individual, but has been slowly opening up and letting those around him know of his marriage plans. 

In response to the wedding rumors, Sang Yeob’s agency UB Management Group released a statement to confirm the news. 

“It is true that Lee Sang Yeob is currently preparing for a wedding with his non-celebrity bride-to-be in March of next year,” the label said. 

However, UB Management Group emphasized that the couple have just started their preparations for the wedding. Hence, the agency couldn’t provide more details about the couple’s upcoming marriage. But they assured the media and fans that they’ll notify the public once a specific schedule has been confirmed. 

Following the news, fans on social media have expressed their happiness for the actor. Many of his supporters are congratulating him, while others are wishing for his happiness with his partner. 

The career of Lee Sang Yeob

Sang Yeob made his acting debut in the 2007 series A Happy Woman. Since then, he starred on several hit dramas including The Innocent Man, Jang Ok-jung, Living by Love, and A Little Love Never Hurts. Some of his recent works include While You Were Sleeping, Once Again, Sh**ting Stars, Eve, and My Lovely Boxer. 

The 40-year-old actor also has several acting awards under his belt. Some of his award-winning performances are in Love Affairs in the Afternoon, On the Verge of Insanity, and Good Acting. 

Aside from acting, Sang Yeob also showed his comedic chops in several variety shows. He previously appeared in Law of the Jungle in Samoa, Prison Life of Fools, Three Idiots, and Sixth Sense.

Featured image: Lee Sang Yeob updates fans with new photo. Credit: Instagram/Sang Yeob

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Look: Rowoon, Cho Yi Hyun at ‘The Matchmaker’ Script Reading

KBS2 has shared photos from the script reading of its upcoming historical romantic drama The Matchmaker starring Rowoon and Cho Yi Hyun. 

What we know so far about The Matchmaker

Set in the Joseon dynasty, the series will follow the lead cast members as they struggle to marry off the young maidens in their town. 

Rowoon will play Shim Jung Woo, a brilliant scholar who was the youngest person to pass the Civil Service Exam. However, his life was turned upside down when his bride, a princess, suddenly died during their wedding ceremony.  

Meanwhile, Cho Yi Hyun will portray Jung Soon Deok, a daughter-in-law of the first vice-premiere’s family. But, she also pretends as Mrs. Yeo Joo to serve as a matchmaker in Hanyang City. 

The two will be joined by Park Ji Young as the powerful Mrs. Park and Jo Han Chul as the King. Other cast members also include Jung Shin Hye and Park Ji Won.  

In a statement, the producers of The Matchmaker promised the viewers that it will bring “comfortable laughter.” Additionally, they shared that the series will be “enjoyed by people of all ages and genders.” 

“It’s a unique historical rom-com that will transform the vibes of late fall when the cold wind begins to blow into heart-fluttering excitement,” they added. 

The Matchmaker is set to premiere on October 30. 

Actor Rowoon

The announcement about the premiere date of The Matchmaker came days after lead star Rowoon announced his departure from K-pop boy group SF9

On September 18, Rowoon announced that he’s stepping back from his role as member of SF9, his group of seven years. Additionally, he explained that he’d rather focus on his acting career since he’s having a hard time juggling both. 

Since Rowoon’s announcement, only leader Youngbin has spoken about it. He said that he’s “conflicted” about Rowoon’s exit but asked their fans to continue to support his former bandmate. 

Currently, Rowoon stars in the fantasy-romance series Destined With You alongside Jo Bo Ah. Moreover, he also made a special guest appearance in the Netflix series A Time Called You. 

The 27- year-old is best known for starring in Extraordinary You, The King’s Affection, and Tomorrow.

Featured image: Rowoon and Cho Yi Hyun will lead the series ‘The Matchmaker.’ Credit: Twitter/KBS Drama

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EXO’s Suho in Negotiations For Historical Drama ‘The Crown Prince Has Disappeared’

Suho could be gearing up for his next dramatic role. The EXO member is reportedly in negotiations to appear in a new historical drama. If Kim Jun-myeon accepts the role, he is set to play a missing Crown Prince from the Joseon era!

EXO Member Suho in Talks To Take on Lead Role in New Historical Drama

EXO’s Suho has reportedly received an enticing offer for a new role in a fictional historical romance drama. The show’s working title is “The Crown Prince Has Disappeared” and it is going to be set in the Joseon era.

The new series is penned by the acclaimed duo Kim Ji Soo and Park Chul who are known for their work on MBN’s “Bossam: Steal the Fate.” It will also explore the serendipitous encounter between a crown prince and a young woman who was originally intended to be his bride. “The Crown Prince Has Disappeared” is set against the backdrop of the traditional Joseon era marriage custom known as “bossam”.

This practice involves the clandestine abduction of brides or grooms by wrapping them in a blanket and spiriting them away in the dead of night. Considering that the title refers to the prince, there is a good chance that the future ruler will be the one who is kidnapped.

But will Suho work on the show? The EXO member is currently in the stage of “positive consideration” for the lead role of the story. Should he accept the role of the crown prince of Joseon, it will also mark Suho’s debut in a historical drama series.

In the meantime, Suho is actively engaged with viewers in his portrayal of Kim Seon Woo in the JTBC drama “Behind Your Touch”. He has also been confirmed to attend the Asia Artist Awards 2023, which will be held in the Philippines at the Philippine Arena on December 14, 2023.

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Look: Go Yoon Jung, Shin Si Ah to Star in ‘Hospital Playlist’ Spin-off

K-Drama lovers, you’re in for a treat! Hit drama Hospital Playlist is getting a spin-off series and actresses Go Yoon Jung and Shin Si Ah are the first actors confirmed to be part of it. 

On Thursday, September 21, TVN announced that both Go Yoon Jung and Shin Si Ah will play the role of a first-year Obstetrics and Gynecology resident in Yulje Medical Center. 

Titled A Life of a Resident That Will be Wise Someday, the spin-off will depict the relatable lives and exciting friendships of doctors and residents at a university hospital. 

For those unfamiliar, the Hospital Playlist series was well-loved by local and international fans that it spawned a second season. Starring Jo Jung Suk, Yoo Yeon Seok, Jung Kyung Ho, Kim Dae Myung and Jeon Mi Do, it followed the day-to-day lives of a group of doctors. 

Moreover, Hospital Playlist  won the Best Drama at the 2020 Brand of the Year Awards. Additionally, its second season also set the highest premiere ratings in TVN’s history with its pilot episode scoring a solid 10% viewership.

With the series’ success’, fans until now are still clamoring for a third season. But with the confirmation of a spin-off series, viewers are thrilled to see a set of new faces to play the story of the original five characters in the prequel.

Furthermore, director Shin Won Ho, the creator behind the Hospital Playlist and Reply series, will still be participating in the drama.

Meanwhile, A Life of a Resident That Will be Wise Someday is set to be released in the first half of 2024. As of writing, a final release date has yet to be announced. 

Go Yoon Jung and Shin Si Ah’s previous dramas

With the confirmation of Go Yoon Jung and Shin Si Ah’s appearance in the spin-off, fans are even more thrilled to watch the show.

Currently, breakthrough star Go Yoon Jung has gained worldwide recognition through her portrayal of Jang Hui Soo in the recently concluded hit drama Moving. Before that, the 27-year old actress also showed her versatility in the 2022 drama Alchemy of Souls and its second season Light and Shadow. Additionally, she also played notable roles in the dramas Law School, Sweet Home, and He Is Psychometric.

On the other hand, rookie actress Shin Si Ah wrote her name in the film industry with her role in the 2022 movie The Witch: Part 2. The Other OneA Life of a Resident That Will be Wise Someday will be her first lead role in a drama project.

Featured imag: Go Yoon Jung updates fans with new photos from recent shoot. Credit: Instagram/Go Yoon Jung

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First Look: Blackpink’s Jisoo in the Film ‘Dr. Cheon and Lost Talisman’

Watch out, BLINKs! Jisoo of the global girl group BLACKPINK attracts attention once again but this time, for her special appearance in the film Dr. Cheon and Lost Talisman. 

Directed by Kim Sung Sik, the film will tell the story of Dr. Cheon, played by actor Kang Dong Won, and his fake exorcism rituals. Here, Jisoo appears as a traditional fairy, captivating the viewers with her exceptional beauty.

During the film’s press conference, the director shared that while looking for an actress who would fit the image of a fairy, he thought of Jisoo after watching her in Snowdrop. Notably, the action-romance series marked Jisoo’s acting debut. There, she gained recognition for her performance in her first ever main role.

Meanwhile, her cameo appearance in Dr. Cheon and Lost Talisman would serve as her first participating in a movie. Despite it only being a brief stint, fans are eager to see Jisoo  for her acting comeback. 

The Dr. Cheon and Lost Talisman  is set to hit theaters on September 27.

All praises for actress Jisoo in Dr. Cheon and Lost Talisman

Since the news of Jisoo’s cameo was revealed, she has since earned praises from numerous big names in the industry.

Upon watching the special premiere, award-winning director Park Chan Wook gained attention for his remarks on Jisoo. The director was quite impressed with the singer. He is known to have created the masterpieces Oldboy, The Handmaiden, and Decision to Leave,

According to Park Chan Wook, he was shocked by the singer’s appearance. “Since it’s a small role, I thought a minor actor would take on the role. But while watching, I thought, “Was there such a beautiful minor actor?” and was shocked for a second, he said.

Meanwhile, Esom, Jisoo’s fellow co-star in the Snowdrop drama,  also expressed approval of the idol. “I wondered who could portray the fairy character if it were not Jisoo. That’s how beautiful she was,” the actress said in an interview. 

Other reviews from several Korean media outlets also showered Jisoo with positive comments.

Jisoo is a character that cannot help but catch your attention, and the moment you meet her, the atmosphere in the theater is buzzing, raising expectations”, television network JTBC mentioned.

 

To no surprise, BLINKs, BLACKPINK’s fandom, also complimented Jisoo for her work as well. 

While the group is in the midst of their contract renewal process, fans are speculating that Jisoo will sign with an acting agency. As of writing,YG Entertainment reiterates that there’s still no final details about the group’s contract renewal.

Featured image: BLACKPINK’s Jisoo will portray a fairy in ‘Dr. Cheon and Lost Talisman’ movie. Credit: Article/Naver

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Watch: Netflix Releases Trailer For ‘Doona’ Starring Bae Suzy

The long wait is over, K-Drama fans! Actress Bae Suzy is making her acting comeback with the Netflix series Doona. 

On Thursday, September 21, Netflix released the official trailer for its upcoming romance drama, which stars Bae Suzy and Yang Se Jong

In the one-minute trailer, Suzy captivated the viewers’ attention with her jaw-dropping visuals. For this drama, Suzy will be playing the role of Doona, a former K-pop idol who left her glamorous celebrity life. 

Meanwhile, Yang Se Jong will play the role of an ordinary college student named Won Jun. His simple life will then change as he ends up sharing a house and falling in love with the mysterious Doona.

As seen in the preview teaser, Won Jun immediately gets starstruck upon seeing Doona as she enjoys the morning sun. Falling head over heels for her, Won Jun exclaims: “It’s my fault. Overstepping the mark without the conviction to do so”.

Then, things begin to escalate as the characters spend time together and the tension between them gets higher. The teaser ends with the two closing in for a kiss and Doona saying: “I’m telling you this just in case, but don’t fall for me either”.

Moreover, Netflix also released the drama’s posters with the characters’ intriguing lines. In the couple’s poster, it read:  “What will you do if I actually end up falling for you?”

Doona is set to be released on October 20.

Doona: Suzy and Se Jong’s comeback drama

Interestingly, the upcoming series directed by Crash Landing On You creator Lee Jeong-Hyo, will be Suzy’s first TV appearance in over a year. Her last project was the 2022 psychological thriller Anna. For that drama, Suzy gained recognition as she proved her versatility with the distinct role.

Suzy, who was given the title Nation’s First Love”, has also etched her name as one of the most promising leading actresses in South Korea. Among her highly-acclaimed dramas include Start-Up, While You Were Sleeping, and Uncontrollably Fond

Notably, the former Miss A member made her acting debut in the high school drama Dream High. In the 2012 drama, she starred alongside singer-actors IU, Kim Soo Hyun, 2PM’s Taecyeon and Wooyoung, and Hahm Eun Jung.

On the other hand, Doona will also be the comeback drama for actor Yang Se Jong. His last TV appearance was when he made a cameo in the popular medical series Dr. Romantic in 2020.

Prior to that, Se Jong has starred as the main lead in the dramas Temperature of Love, Thirty But Seventeen, and My Country: The New Age.

Featured image: Bae Suzy in the teaser of romance drama series ‘Doona.’ Credit: Twitter/Netflix

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‘Single’s Inferno’ Star Kim Jin Young Finally Meets TWICE’s Sana

Kim Jin Young finally got the chance of a lifetime. The “Single’s Inferno” star, who repeatedly admitted to being a fan of TWICE, ultimately got to meet Sana. Not surprisingly, “Dex” was flustered during his conversation with the idol.

TWICE’s Sana Gets Kim Jin Young All Flustered In His Own Interview Program

In a recent appearance on Kim Jin Young’s YouTube program “Dex’s Fridge Interview”, TWICE’s Sana had a delightful and somewhat flustering impact on the host throughout the episode. Kim, who is a self-proclaimed TWICE fan who has often shared his admiration for Sana and his crush on her, couldn’t contain his excitement when she appeared on his show.

From the moment Sana joined the interview, it was evident that Kim was starstruck and overwhelmed by her presence. He even described it as the best moment of his life and marveled at her beauty, suggesting it transcended the capabilities of even the most advanced cameras to capture.

During their conversation, Kim mustered the courage to ask Sana about her ideal type. Sana playfully revealed that she is attracted to a manly person who may appear cold but has an endearing smile when he laughs. Kim couldn’t help but blush and smile, making the TWICE member notice his reaction and teasing him about it.

Sana went on to describe her preference for sharp features, whether it’s in the eyes, nose, or jawline. Kim took this as an opportunity to showcase his jawline, which elicited laughter from Sana.

Playfully, Kim Jin-young tried to win her over by highlighting his sense of humor and ability to joke with others. Sana, in good spirits, pointed out how he had previously flirted with Kwon Eun Bi and seemingly flirts with all the guests on his show. The lighthearted banter added charm to their interaction, leaving fans entertained by their chemistry.

It’s safe to say that Kim Jin Young managed to leave a lasting impression on Sana. With that in mind, he is truly living any ONCE’s dream life.

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B1A4’s Gongchan, cignature’s Jeewon, and Weki Meki’s Sei Set Web Drama Premiere Date

The web drama Our Love Triangle, starring B1A4‘s Gongchan, Weki Meki‘s Sei, and cignature‘s Jeewon, has officially confirmed its premiere date. Scheduled for a November release on B-PLAY, the drama promises to deliver a heartwarming youth romance that many fans are eagerly awaiting. The three idol stars, along with Ahn Semin and Kim Sikyung, recently concluded a table reading of the script. B-PLAY teased fans with photos from the reading.

About ‘Our Love Triangle’

B1A4’s Gongchan will play the male lead, Cha Eunhwan. This character, a rising star, became renowned for his tsundere role in a film before his military enlistment. On the other hand, Ahn Semin will play Ji Woojin, a once-promising athlete whose career-ending injury forced him to chase a new dream. 

The drama’s central plot revolves around the female lead, Yoo Haerin, played by actress Kim Sikyung. She finds herself torn between these two men while pursuing her dream of becoming an actress after quitting ballet. Meanwhile, cignature’s Jiwon plays influencer Park Seoa, Yoo Haerin’s rival. Finally, Weki Meki‘s Sei brings to life the character of Son Minju, Yoo Haerin’s friend and roommate.

The drama’s primary allure is the love triangle involving Yoo Haerin, who has been in love with her childhood friend Cha Eunhwan for years, and Ji Woojin, who is smitten with her. With the two male leads exuding contrasting charms, fans of the original novel are on the edge of their seats, eager to see how the story will unfold. Moreover, the series promises to capture the vibrant campus life of budding talents in the film and theater industries.

Fans are in for a treat this November

Gongchan is no stranger to the acting world. Earlier this year, he showcased his acting prowess in the BL drama Unintentional Love Story. His performance was met with widespread acclaim, as he effortlessly conveyed a bright and lovely energy.

Creative content powerhouse Bamboo Network is behind Our Love Triangle. This company offers many services, from original web content to digital advertisements. Bamboo Network is the 12th-ranked domestic web drama production company, boasting its own YouTube channel, B-PLAY. Through B-PLAY, Bamboo Network schedules content and distributes content domestically and globally. B-PLAY has garnered over 188,000 YouTube subscribers, with its top content reaching a staggering 3,000,000 views and an average watch time of 5 minutes and 58 seconds.

With Our Love Triangle set to commence full-scale filming in July, fans are in for a treat this November. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: After completing the reading, the cast posed for a group photo. Source: Twitter/@BPLAYOFFICIAL.

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