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BTS’ V Opens Up About Filming ‘Jinny’s Kitchen’ Abroad

V is opening up about his time working on a reality show. The BTS member spoke about filming for “Jinny’s Kitchen”. Interestingly, the idol revealed that the cameras were always rolling on the set. This meant that Kim Taehyung was being filmed even while he was sleeping!

BTS Member V Opens Up About Working on ‘Jinny’s Kitchen’

The 210th episode of tvN’s “You Quiz on the Block,” broadcast on September 6, showcased a unique theme, “Shaking the World.” This special episode brought in remarkable guests, including a crime prediction alert site developer and a climbing gold medalist, each with impressive backgrounds that have made waves in their respective fields.

Adding to the star-studded lineup, V made a special appearance as a guest. The episode featured engaging and dynamic discussions, with V actively participating in a relay conversation with the hosts, Yoo Jae Suk and Jo Se Ho.

When asked about working with “boss” Lee Seo Jin who described him as “diligent but slow”, Kim Taehyung replied, “I did my best to be as fast as possible.” He also praised Lee for his youthful spirit.

“He’s very honest and extremely funny,” V said. “I’ve never met anyone like him before. He has the heart of someone in their 20s.

He also revealed that the cameras were always rolling on the set of “Jinny’s Kitchen”.

“To be honest, I thought you would be able to rest here and there while filming variety shows. But it wasn’t like that. The cameras rolled even when sleeping,” Kim said. He then added that important belongings were with producer Na Young Seok while he was working.

“The only time they cut the cameras was when I was on an airplane,” V said. “I wanted to go back to Korea, but my passport was with Na PD.”

We’re certainly glad that the BTS member decided against going home before production was over. With that in mind, V proved he has what it takes to be an important intern in the series.

“Jinny’s Kitchen” was shot in a snack bar in Bacalar, Mexico. The cast included Lee Seo Jin of “Love Forecast”, “Train To Busan” actress Jung Yu Mi, “The Marvels” actor Park Seo Joon, and “Parasite” star Choi Woo Shik.

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EXO’s Xiumin And MONSTA X’s Hyungwon Star In ‘CEO-Dol Mart’ Teaser

TVING has unveiled an exclusive sneak peek of its highly-anticipated drama “CEO-dol Mart” starring EXO’s Xiumin and MONSTA X’s Hyungwon. The captivating series delves into the unexpected journey of Thunder Boys, an idol group whose dreams are shattered when an unforeseen incident compels them to disband abruptly. Stripped of their aspirations and careers in the blink of an eye, the members of Thunder Boys find themselves in an unlikely role—co-owners of a struggling supermarket.

TVING Shares First ‘CEO-Dol Mart’ Featuring EXO’s Xiumin and MONSTA X’s Hyungwon

The drama’s latest teaser transports viewers back to Thunder Boys’ humble beginnings during their rookie days, as a music show MC excitedly introduces the fresh-faced group. Fast forward five years, and Thunder Boys’ leader Choi Ho Rang (Lee Shin Young) receives an astonishing revelation from a police officer. He is now the proprietor of a supermarket known as “Boram Mart.” What’s more, his supermarket partners are none other than his former bandmates. This includes Shin Tae Ho (EXO’s Xiumin), Jo Yi Joon (MONSTA X’s Hyungwon), Eun Young Min (Choi Won Myeong), and Yoon Sang Woo (Lee Sae On).

Amidst the bewildering situation, each member responds to their names in unison, confirming their ownership. When the perplexed police officer questions their identities, Shin Tae Ho and Choi Ho Rang exchange glances before proudly declaring, “Thunder Boys.”

“CEO-dol Mart” promises to deliver a heartwarming and humorous tale of resilience and camaraderie as these former idols navigate the challenges of running a supermarket together.

TVING had previously released the poster for “CEO-Dol Mart”. Alongside the Thunder Boys, the poster also features the experienced part-timer Oh Ye Rim (played by Choi Jung Woon). As they navigate this new venture, the Thunder Boys members will also uncover their hidden talents while working at the supermarket, adding depth and excitement to the series. “CEO-dol Mart” is set to be a must-watch drama filled with unexpected twists and heartwarming moments.

“CEO-dol Mart” has not yet been given an official release date. However, the new supermarket drama is set to premiere on TVING.

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First Look: Cha Eun Woo in ‘A Good Day to Be a Dog’ Series

ASTRO’s Cha Eun Woo is set to grace the screens again! He’ll be taking the lead role in the upcoming fantasy-romance drama series A Good Day to be a Dog.

Actress Park Gyu Young will star alongside Eun Woo. She’s popularly known for projects It’s Okay to Not be Okay, Sweet Home, and Celebrity.

On Tuesday, September 5, MBC unveiled teasers of both Eun Woo and Gyu Young in the highly-anticipated drama.

The television network also released cute posters of dogs, perfectly encapsulating the lighthearted tone of the drama. “Attention cuteness, Ready to dangle!” the post’s translation said.

 

To make things more exciting, the drama’s first trailer was released on Wednesday, September 6. Aside from the two main stars, it also featured appearances of adorable dogs.

 

What is the drama about?

A Good Day to be a Dog will revolve around Park Gyu Young’s character, Han Hae Na, a high school teacher who is cursed to transform into a dog with a single kiss. Whenever she kisses a man, she turns into a dog at midnight and reverts back to her normal appearance at dawn.

Meanwhile, Cha Eun Woo will play the role of Jin Seo-Won, a high school teacher who conceals a trauma for dogs due to his painful past. Interestingly, Seo-Won turns out to be the only cure to undo Hae Na’s curse.

With Hae Na and Seo-Won’s encounter, both of their lives take an unexpected turn and form a potential love interest.

The series is based on the Naven webtoon of the same name, which was written by Lee Hye. The author also wrote the recently adapted series See You In My 19th Life, starring Shin Hye-Sun and Ahn Bo Hyun.

As per reports, the series will air once a week with its premiere on October 11. It will run a total of 14 episodes.

Additionally, drama fans are even more excited for A Good Day to be a Dog since this marks the actors’ reunion project in four years. Eun Woo and Gyu Young have previously showed their chemistry in Urban Zakapa’s “You’re the Reason music video. There, the two played the roles of office lovers.

 

Actor Cha Eun Woo is back!

As an actor, Cha Eun Woo made his debut through a minor role in the 2014 drama My Brilliant Life. Meanwhile, hhe made his debut as an idol in the K-pop boy group ASTRO in February 2016.

Given the title “Genius Face”, he rose to popularity with the romantic comedy series My ID is Gangnam Beauty in 2018. Since then he has been casted in multiple dramas including True Beauty, Rookie Historian Goo Hae-ryung and Island.

Throughout his acting career, Eun Woo was able to bag two MBC Drama Awards in 2019. These were Excellent Actor and Best Couple awards, both for his role in Rookie Historian Goo Hae-ryung.

Featured image: Cha Eun Woo stars in ‘A Good Day To Be A Dog’ series. Credit: Twitter/MBC Drama

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Look: ‘Hospital Playlist’ Cast Reunites at Yoo Yeon Seok’s Fan Meet

The cast members of Hospital Playlist recently had a mini-reunion, almost two years after the second season ended. 

On Saturday, September 2, South Korean actor Yoo Yeon Seok held his Mr. Sunshine fan meeting. Said event is in commemorations of his 20th year in the industry. 

In his career, Yeon Seok was known for starring in projects Dr. Romantic, The Interest of Love, Mr. Sunshine, and My Heart Puppy. 

Among his most notable roles, though, was portraying Ahn Jeong Won in Hospital Playlist. Which is why many of the attendees of his fan meeting were pleasantly surprised when Yeon Seok invited his cast members for the show. 

 

Present were Jo Jung Suk, Jung Kyung Ho, Kim Dae Myung, and Jeon Mi Do. Together with Yeon Seok, the group of five was collectively known as Mido and Falasol in the hit series. 

But not only did they attend the event, the cast members also treated fans with a performance of the drama’s OST Me To You, You To Me.” 

Given that all cast members are also talented in both acting and singing, they also sang songs for the drama’s OST. This comes off as no surprise given that they also acted as members of a band in the drama. 

 

Mido and Falasol reunion 

Videos of the performance quickly circulated on social media and many fans of the drama were delighted to see the group’s reunion. Most of the comments were variations of “I miss them so much” and “Season three of Hospital Playlist please.” 

Aside from the actual performances, fans were also ecstatic when Yeon Seok shared a group photo taken after the show. Director Shin Won Ho was also present in the fan meeting.

 

In his post, the actor expressed his gratitude to his Hospital Playlist co-stars for coming despite their individual busy schedules. 

Will there be a ‘Hospital Playlist’ season 3?

Hospital Playlist follows a tight-knit group of five best friends, who are now in their 40s and working in the same hospital. All five met each other in medical school in 1999.

Its first season aired in March 2020, while the second season premiered in June 2021. Both seasons earned global popularity.

 

As for the possibility of a third season, the drama’s production team has earlier said that there’s no specific plans yet. 

However, there are rumors that there will be a prequel but that has yet to be confirmed. 

Featured image: Cast of ‘Hospital Playlist’ attended Yoo Yeon Seok’s fan meeting. Credit: Instagram/Yoo Yeon Seok

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EXO’s Xiumin, MONSTA X’s Hyungwon Join New Supermarket Drama

Get ready to dive into the excitement of the upcoming supermarket drama “CEO-dol Mart” (working title), which promises an intriguing storyline and a talented ensemble cast. The upcoming supermarket drama will feature EXO’s Xiumin and MONSTA X’s Hyungwon!

New Supermarket Drama ‘CEO-dol Mart’ Drops First Poster

On the 5th of September, “CEO-dol Mart” unveiled an eye-catching group poster, featuring the lead actors, including Lee Shin Young, EXO’s Xiumin, MONSTA X’s Hyungwon, Choi Jung Woon, Choi Won Myeong, and Lee Sae On.

The series unfolds the captivating narrative that follows the aftermath of Thunder Boys, an idol group, disbanding due to an unexpected incident. These former idols embark on an unexpected journey as they take over the reins of a struggling supermarket.

The newly released poster introduces the five Thunder Boys members: the leader Choi Ho Rang (played by Lee Shin Young), the main dancer Shin Tae Ho (portrayed by Xiumin), the rapper Jo Yi Joon (brought to life by Hyungwon), the vocalist Eun Young Min (played by Choi Won Myeong), and the charismatic youngest member Yoon Sang Woo (portrayed by Lee Sae On). Despite reaching the pinnacle of their careers, they are forced to disband abruptly due to an unforeseen accident. Five years later, they discover the astonishing truth that, on paper, they are the owners of a supermarket.

This captivating storyline follows the journey of these former idols as they transition from living aimlessly to becoming supermarket owners, igniting a remarkable adventure. Alongside the Thunder Boys, the poster also features the experienced part-timer Oh Ye Rim (played by Choi Jung Woon), who brings her wealth of supermarket experience to the table, showcasing remarkable leadership skills. As they navigate this new venture, the Thunder Boys members will also uncover their hidden talents while working at the supermarket, adding depth and excitement to the series. “CEO-dol Mart” is set to be a must-watch drama filled with unexpected twists and heartwarming moments.

“CEO-dol Mart” has not yet been given an official release date. However, the new supermarket drama is set to premiere on TVING.

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The ‘Uncanny Counter’ Cast Delivers Their Closing Remarks

On September 3, the second season of a popular supernatural drama came to its highly-anticipated end—and it wrapped up on the highest viewership ratings of the entire season. According to Nielsen Korea, the final episode of The Uncanny Counter 2: Counter Punch scored an average nationwide rating of 6.1 percent, nearly doubling the show’s ratings from the previous night and setting a new record for season two.

On the last day of filming, the cast didn’t hold back their emotions. Jo Byeong Gyu (who played the titular character So Mun) expressed, “We filmed season two with the same passion and enjoyment as season one. Despite the cold, everyone overcame it well with burning passion, and I’m thankful we wrapped up filming without any major injuries. All the actors who played evil spirits delivered more intense and powerful evil performances this time, so I think it became a more exciting experience than season one. To the actors who shared this journey with us, I extend my respect. Thank you for watching The Uncanny Counter 2 until the end.”

최종화 비하인드&종영소감 #경이로운소문2:카운터펀치 EP.12

The mainstays say goodbye

Yoo Joon Sang (Ga Mo Tak) shared sentiments echoing the bittersweet feeling of parting, stating, “It’s really a pity that it’s come to an end. I really hope I can meet them again soon. I have a sense of both regret and happiness, wondering how time passed so quickly. I was very happy, I love you.”

Kim Sejeong (Do Ha Na) reminisced about their time spent on set, saying, “At first, it didn’t quite sink in, but we did a lot and so much time has passed. During the seven months we spent together, it was comforting because we shared both happy and tough times. Thank you for loving The Uncanny Counter 2.”

For her part, Yeom Hye Ran (Chu Mae Ok) said, “It’s been quite a journey, and I’m grateful that we wrapped it up safely. To all the viewers and our team members, thank you from the bottom of my heart. Thanks to all of you by my side, I was able to get through difficult times. Thank you so much, I love you all.” She playfully hinted, “I’ll see you again in season three!”

The Uncanny Counter Season 2 Episode 12 Preview

‘Uncanny Counter’ reflections

Ahn Suk Hwan (Choi Jangmul) reflected on the experience of filming The Uncanny Counter 2. He mentioned, “Despite numerous challenges, it was a project I thoroughly enjoyed filming. If I were Choi Jangmul, I’d give myself a round of applause. I hope we see more characters like him in this world—those willing to sacrifice themselves to save the world. Thank you to everyone for your hard work. I truly wish we could all meet again. When I think about how rare it is to find a project where everyone can work together enjoyably and happily with one heart, this will be one that I’ll remember for a long time in my life. Thank you, my juniors.”

Yoo In Soo (Na Jeok Bong) expressed, “I had many worries and concerns before joining, and now that it’s over, it doesn’t feel real. I’m left with mixed feelings of regret and happiness. I hope this isn’t the last time. I’m grateful for everyone who always warmly welcomed me and provided me with tremendous help to adapt well.”

[SPOILER] So-mun is full of surprise 😍 | The Uncanny Counter 2

The villains speak

Jin Sun Kyu (Ma Ju Seok) commented, “There’s a feeling of happiness that comes when something ends, but I also feel empty and sad.” Expressing his gratitude to Jo Byeong Gyu, he affectionately said, “So Mun, it was fun because I did it with you. We were in sync with our acting, and I’ve gained a fantastic colleague, junior, and little brother, so it was a very meaningful experience for me..”

Kang Ki Young (Hwang Pil Gwang) added, “No one filmed with a single frown, everyone had a blast filming. I’m glad we were able to conclude well until the last episode. Please remember this drama fondly for a long time.”

Kim Hieora (Gelly Berherd) concluded by saying, “The staff and actors were all so warm, and I had so much fun filming, so it’s such a pity that it has come to an end. Everyone put in a huge effort. All the staff and actors supported each other and maintained smiles throughout filming. My heartfelt thanks to all. I’m also thankful to the viewers who watched the drama.”

Is this foreshadowing that there is season 3? | The Uncanny Counter 2

Will the ‘Uncanny Counter’ cast be back?

The burning question remains: Will there be a season three? 

It has been well-received by audiences. One review gave season two of The Uncanny Counter a 4/5 rating, praising its tight script, colorful visuals, and adept acting performances. With its consistent presence in Netflix’s global top ten and over a million weekly views, well. Season three doesn’t seem like a remote possibility. But no announcements have been made yet.

The Uncanny Counter 2 left an indelible mark on viewers, and the cast’s emotional goodbyes only amplified the anticipation for what’s next. As we close the book on this season, we remain hopeful for another thrilling ride with our beloved counters. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: The show ended on a high note and high ratings. Source: Netflix.

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BLACKPINK’s Jisoo in Talks To Star in New Zombie Drama

Get ready for the return of Actress Jisoo! The BLACKPINK member is reportedly in negotiations to play the female lead in a new zombie thriller. If Kim Jisoo takes on the role, she will be starring alongside “Deliver Us From Evil” actor Park Jung Min.

Jisoo of BLACKPINK To Take On New Lead Role in Zombie Drama

In an exclusive revelation by YTN, it has been disclosed that the renowned actress Jisoo is set to take on the female lead role in the upcoming K-Drama “Influenza” on Coupang Play. This thrilling series revolves around a couple who, after parting ways, find themselves in a desperate battle for survival against hordes of menacing zombies.

Jisoo is poised to embody the character of Young Joo, the female protagonist, a somewhat sheltered individual who is navigating the complexities of society. Her life takes a tumultuous turn following her breakup with Jae Yoon, portrayed by Park Jung Min. Jae Yoon remains oblivious to her emotional turmoil, leaving Young Joo in disarray. Determined to reunite with Jae Yoon, she ventures outside, only to find herself entangled in the gruesome world of zombies. The harrowing encounter also triggers a profound transformation within her. It also compels Young Joo to confront not only the undead but also her own inner demons.

“Influenza” promises to deliver a gripping narrative filled with suspense and emotional depth. Needless to say, fans are eagerly anticipating Jisoo’s remarkable portrayal of Young Joo in this enthralling K-Drama.

The new drama is set to be Jisoo’s second starring role. She previously had a cameo in the 2015 series “The Producers.” Kim Jisoo then took on her first leading role in the drama “Snowdrop”. Her performance as Eun Yeong Ro was loved by viewers. It also helped her win the Best Actress Award at the 2022 Seoul International Drama Awards.

In March 2023, Jisoo released her solo debut album ‘Me’ with its lead single “Flower”.

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Actor Lee Jung-Ha Gained 66 Pounds for Disney+ Series ‘Moving’

Once again, actor Lee Jung Ha demonstrated his unparalleled commitment to his craft in Disney+’s Moving. In this series, he takes on the role of Kim Bong-Seok, a high school senior endowed with the power of flight. However, he hides this extraordinary ability because he wants to live a normal life. His mother, Mihyeon, lives in perpetual anxiety, fearing the world will discover her son’s secret. To counteract his power and remain grounded, Kim Bong-Seok carries weight plates in his backpack.

Lee Jung Ha put on 30 kilograms (about 66 pounds) for the role. This wasn’t a superficial change; it was a deep dive into his character’s essence. It allowed him to get into character. “Casting for the role of Bong-Seok was challenging given the preconceived image that fans of the original webtoon had in mind. Despite this being Jung Ha’s first time working with wire stunts, I believe he’s among the best in Korea at it,” remarked Moving director Park In-Je.

봉석이 하고 싶은 거 다 해!ㅣ[무빙] 정원고 NEW 히어로즈 영상ㅣ디즈니+

Kang Do Young (aka Kang Full), the writer behind the webtoon and screenplay, also lauded Jung Ha‘s dedication. He expressed his immense satisfaction with the casting, describing Lee as “an actor who is burning with enthusiasm. He worked hard to digest the character.”

In a previous interview, Jung Ha talked about how much he enjoyed the whole process. He said, “I was happy to be able to eat. As I gradually gained weight, I wanted to become Bong Seok as soon as possible, and the more I gained, the more I could see him.”

How Jung Ha gained and lost the weight

Jung Ha’s approach to gaining weight was methodical. He said, “Before starting the filming, I gained around thirty kilograms. I ate various types of instant noodles, including fried and soup-based ones. Even though I didn’t have a specific number of meals planned for each day, I made an effort not to feel hungry.” This dedication to his role showcased his commitment to authenticity and his craft.

As challenging as it was for him to put on weight, shedding it was no mean feat. Jung Ha said in an interview on August 21 that it took him almost a year after filming to return to his original weight. But all his efforts paid off. When the show aired, the feedback was overwhelmingly positive. People suggested he keep the weight on, which Jung Ha found heartening. “I feel happy because it seems they appreciated the way I portrayed Bong-Seok,” he shared.

This contestant is kind of awkward, but we can’t help but smile! [The Unit/2017.12.07]

Born in 1998, audiences first met Jung Ha when he auditioned for the KBS2 idol rebooting project, The Unit, in 2017. Since then, he has done a number of dramas, such as Nevertheless, Run On, and more. Moving premiered on August 9, and fans eagerly await the finale on September 20. 

Meanwhile, Jung Ha is set to play the lead in a drama called, One High School Heroes. Joining him in the cast are actors Kim Joo Ryoung and Lim Hyun Tae. The drama is based on the webtoon ONE. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: Jung Ha cut a dashing figure on the red carpet at a recent promotional event for ‘Moving.’ Source: Instagram/@jungha.km.

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Kim Dong Wook to Marry Non-celebrity Girlfriend

Wedding bells are soon to ring for South Korean actor Kim Dong Wook as he announced that he’s tying the knot with his non-celebrity fiancée at the end of 2023! 

KEYEAST, the actor’s agency, released a statement on Wednesday, August 30, to confirm the news. 

According to the label, Kim’s fiancée is a “non-celebrity with outstanding beauty.” Given her private stature, as well as in consideration of their families, the wedding ceremony will be held privately. 

 

“The two of them have been continuing their sincere relationship based on trust and faith and are soon to bring [their relationship] to fruition with a beautiful marriage,” they added. 

Additionally, KEYEAST also didn’t disclose the exact date and location to respect the couple’s privacy. However, they hinted that it will be held during the winter in Seoul. 

With this, the agency asked fans for their understanding as to why they couldn’t provide the exact information. 

 

Moreover, KEYEAST also took the chance to express their gratitude for the fans who showed their support and love for Kim

In turn, the agency assured fans that Kim will continue to “do his best as an actor” and show “better activities in the future.” 

Kim Dong Wook’s career

Kim made his acting debut in 2004 with the film A Crimson Mark. 

Since then, he starred in several dramas, including Coffee Prince, Find Me In Your Memory, and Maids. Some of his recent works include My Perfect Stranger, and Delightfully Deceitful. 

 

Aside from the series, Kim also starred in films National Representative and Along with the Gods movie series. 

Following the news, several fans of his works took to social media to congratulate the star. 

“He’s such an amazing actor and I’m so happy for him and his future wife,” one comment read. Meanwhile, another wrote: “Happy for him! Wishing him and his beautiful wife a happy married life ahead.” 

Featured image: Kim Dong Wook renews contract with KEYEAST. Credit: Website/SM Entertainment

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Jo Yuri Grateful For ‘Squid Game’ Season 2 Casting

Jo Yuri is truly happy about her latest project. The former IZ*ONE member was recently cast as one of the new actors joining “Squid Game” Season 2. Not surprisingly, the idol spoke about the casting process and admitted she was grateful for the project.

Jo Yuri Admits Being Grateful For ‘Squid Game’ Season 2 Casting

Back in June, it was confirmed that Jo Yuri is one of the new cast members joining “Squid Game” Season 2. She will be joined by former BIGBANG member T.O.P., who will be returning to acting after a six-year hiatus. The rest of the new cast includes Park Gyu-young, Kang Ae-sim, Lee David, Lee Jin-uk, Roh Jae-won, and Won Ji-an.

Although their roles have not been announced, Jo Yuri has opened up about the casting in the Netflix series. In a new interview with Allkpop, the “Glassy” singer admitted she was thrilled to be chosen for the show.

“I was fortunate to have the opportunity to audition for this role, and being able to participate in such an incredible project alongside respected seniors is truly an honor,” Jo said. “I’m fully committed to giving my utmost to deliver my best, so I kindly ask for your ongoing support throughout the journey!”

Jo participated in Mnet’s reality television show “Idol School” where the nine final participants would debut with the newly formed girl group Fromis 9. Unfortunately, she finished in 15th place but Jo didn’t give up hope. She later Mnet’s reality television show “Produce 48” where she finished in 3rd place. As one of twelve successful participants, she went on to be a part of the newly formed girl group IZ*ONE.

Jo Yuri debuted as a solo artist with the single album ‘Glassy’ in October 2021. Since IZ*ONE’s disbandment, she also pursued acting, appearing in the web shows “Mimicus” and “Work Later, Drink Now”. She recently dropped her new album ‘LOVE ALL’ and the title track “TAXI.” The second mini-album was released on August 9, 2023.

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