Category: K-DRAMA

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Kim Woo Bin, Kim Sung Kyun to Star in Netflix’s “Officer Black Belt”

South Korean actors Kim Woo Bin and Kim Sung Kyun are teaming up for the first time for the upcoming action-comedy film from Netflix titled Officer Black Belt. 

In a press release on Wednesday, July 26, Netflix shared that the film will follow the lives of a probation officer and a martial arts officer as they attempt to fight crimes together. 

Woo Bin, who is best known for his roles in Black Knight and The Heirs, will portray Lee Jung Do, an easygoing and ordinary man who is also a martial arts prodigy. His character has nine dans (or ranks) in taekwondo, kendo, and judo. 

Meanwhile,  Sung Kyun, who starred in D.P. and Reply 1998, will play probation officer Kim Seon Min. 

The story will kick off with Woo Bin’s character saving a martial arts officer from being attacked by a criminal. As a result of his heroic behavior, he was made to become a substitute martial arts officer for five weeks. 

The film will be helmed by Jason Kim, whose works also include Midnight Runners and Bloodhounds. 

Netflix has yet to announce a release date for Officer Black Belt. 

Meanwhile, aside from Officer Black Belt, Woo Bin is also confirmed to star in a new variety show from renowned PD Na Young Seok, alongside Lee Kwang Soo, EXO’s DO, and Kim Ki Bang. 

Featured image: Netflix Korea’s Twitter

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Kim Seon Ho Charms Filipino Fans in Manila Visit

Actor Kim Seon Ho, known for starring in K-dramas Start-Up and Hometown Cha-Cha-Cha, was in Manila recently for a fan meet. This visit marked his second time in the country, strengthening his connection with his Filipino fans, known as Seonhohadas.

Kim Seon Ho first visited the Philippines in January 2023. His return to Manila for BENCH’s Love to Meet Our Good Boy, was met with enthusiasm from his fans.

Before the fan meet, Kim Seon Ho engaged with the local media at a press conference in Bonifacio Global City, Taguig. He talked about his acting career, hobbies, and role as a global ambassador for the Filipino clothing brand BENCH.

The actor, who rose to fame for his role as Han Ji-Pyeong in Start-Up and later as handyman Hong Du-Sik in Hometown Cha-Cha-Cha, shared his process of preparing for his roles. He told the media he spends one to two months understanding his character, having conversations with directors, and looking through various references.

Kim Seon Ho also expressed his affinity for portraying ordinary characters that resonate with the audience. He enjoys working on scenes where he can show his ordinary side, making his characters more relatable to viewers.

The actor also discussed his personal interests during the press conference. He revealed that he enjoys taking walks and reflecting on his day. He even rides the subway train to stay connected with everyday life and society.

Despite his popularity, Kim Seon Ho remains humble. He called himself a “lazy actor” with room for improvement. However, he’s optimistic about his growth as an actor and asked fans to look forward to his future performances.

Kim Seon Ho wore a “couple bracelet”

Kim Seon Ho‘s visit to Manila was about more than just meeting fans. He also took the opportunity to pose in front of his billboards for BENCH in Makati City. In his photos on Instagram, the actor was spotted wearing a black bracelet given by a fan. The fan, who goes by the handle @shasha_ily on Twitter, took to Twitter, expressing her disbelief and happiness that Kim Seon Ho actually wore the bracelet she had given him.

The bracelet was part of a set, with the fan keeping the white one and giving the black one to Kim Seon Ho. She shared photos of the bracelets and her letter to the actor on Twitter. In her tweets, she expressed joy and disbelief at the unexpected turn of events.

Kim Seon Ho‘s gesture of wearing the gift was a fashion statement and a testament to how much he values his fans. It showed his appreciation and desire to acknowledge them.

This heartwarming moment added a special touch to the actor’s visit. It highlighted the actor’s humility and deep connection with his Filipino fans, who are eagerly awaiting his future projects and potential visits. — K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: The “Start-Up” star modeled a BENCH shirt made from 12 recyclable PET bottles. Source: Twitter/BENCH’s official Twitter account.

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Look: Lee Joon Ki at “Arthdal Chronicles 2” Script Reading

tvN has shared photos from the script reading of Arthdal Chronicles: The Sword of Aramoon, the highly-anticipated sequel of the 2019 hit fantasy drama series Arthdal Chronicles. 

Arthdal Chronicles follows the story of warring kingdoms and ancient tribes in the fictional land of Arth during the ancient civilization during the Bronze Age. Its first season had a total of 18 episodes but was released in three parts. 

Song Joong Ki played the twins Eun Seom and Sa Ya in the first season, with Kim Ji Won acting as Tanya. 

However, in the second season, Lee Joon Gi and Shin Se Kyung will be taking over as the older versions of the original characters of Joong Ki and Ji Won, respectively. 

In the photos shared by tvN, only Joon Gi was present in the table reading as Se Kyung had COVID-19 at the time. 

 

Joon Gi was joined by Jang Dong Gun and Kim Ok Bin, who will be reprising their roles as Ta Gon and Tae Al Ha from the first season. 

The upcoming season will reportedly take place roughly a decade after the ending of the first season, wherein Ta Gon remains to be the ruler of the Arthdal Kingdom. 

“The Sword of Aramoon will depict the unavoidable battle between the hero Ta Gon and Eun Seom, who has become a mighty adversary, as well as the entertaining stories that stem from the diverse array of relationships between the characters,” the producers said about the sequel.

“Please look forward to a fierce and desperate war, as well as finding out who will claim Arthdal and become the hero of a new legend in the final act,” they added, as quoted by Soompi. 

Writers Kim Young Hyun and Park Sang Yeon, who both worked in the first season, have returned to write the second season. Meanwhile, Kim Kwang Sik of the movie The Great Battle will be directing. 

Season two of Arthdal Chronicles will premiere in September and will have a total of 12 episodes.

Featured image: tvN’s Twitter

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Park Seoham: From Military Service to Historical Drama?

Ex-KNK member and actor Park Seoham is reportedly planning to star in a historical drama upon his return from the military. He gained fame for his star turn in the Boys’ Love drama Semantic Error, alongside DKZ member Park Jaechan. His military service is due to end by December 2023.

However, NPIO Entertainment, Seoham‘s agency, said the actor hasn’t decided what to do after he returns. According to an agency representative, everything remains uncertain at this point.

Seoham started his military service as a public service worker on March 10, 2022. This was shortly after Semantic Error‘s success. In the series, Seoham played Jang Jae Yong, a university senior who initially annoys Park Jaechan‘s character, Cho Sang Woo, but eventually falls in love with him. The drama gained global attention and opened many opportunities for the lead actors. Regrettably, Seoham had to join the military just as his career was taking off.

Seoham and Rowoon in one drama

Takryu, the drama Seoham will reportedly join, is a sageuk set in the Joseon Dynasty. It is penned by Cheon Sung Il, known for The Slave Hunters. The drama revolves around a gangster at the Han River’s Mapo Port, a significant economic and logistics hub in the Joseon Dynasty. He later becomes famous for his body. SF9 member and actor Rowoon is also reportedly in talks to star in the drama.

The role offered to Seoham remains unclear, but fans are excited about his potential return to the screen. His performance in Semantic Error received wide appreciation and the show went viral. The stars also gained a massive fan following after the premiere.

Fans are eagerly waiting for news of Seoham‘s next project. They continue to celebrate Semantic Error‘s success and the opportunities it created for its lead actors. Despite his military service, Seoham‘s popularity remains high, and fans eagerly anticipate his return to acting.

Stay tuned for more updates on Park Seoham’s post-service plans and the latest Hallyu news.

— K-pop News Writer

Featured Image: When “Semantic Error” became a success, Seoham began receiving more invitations to events. Source: Instagram/Park Seoham’s personal Instagram account.

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Jo Byung Kyu Addressed Unresolved Bullying Accusations at Press Conference

Jo Byung Kyu, the actor known for his breakout role in The Uncanny Counter, is still embroiled in a lawsuit against an individual who accused him of school bullying. The case remains unresolved as the accuser, residing in New Zealand, refuses to cooperate with South Korean police for questioning.

The actor reportedly considered filing a lawsuit in New Zealand, even if it meant incurring costs of around 1.2 billion KRW or 940,000 USD. However, due to the lengthy process and lack of guarantee that the lawsuit would prove his innocence in South Korea, he decided against it.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ixQmeFe62VU&pp=ygUhSm8gQnl1bmcgS3l1IGJ1bGx5aW5nIGFsbGVnYXRpb25z

Jo Byung Kyu has faced school violence allegations four times, one in 2018 and three times in 2021. The first accuser, who claimed to have attended the same school he did in New Zealand, accused him of verbal abuse. This accuser later deleted their post. In 2021, two others accused him of school violence, but one admitted their claim was fake.

Despite these allegations, Jo Byung Kyu maintains that he’s innocent. He expressed his frustration on social media once. “Why did I become a target every time there was a school violence accusation and have to explain myself over and over again?” he wrote.

Jo Byung Kyu returns as So Mun

Amidst these controversies, Jo Byung Kyu is making a comeback through The Uncanny Counter 2: Counter Punch. On July 21, the show’s cast held a press conference before its premiere. Jo Byung Kyu took this opportunity to address the allegations again.

“I’m careful in addressing this issue, but I’d like to say that I put in effort for vindication, that it’s not true. I’m still continuing my efforts now. It has taken much time, as it involves an individual who is overseas, and so I’m now returning with a new project before a conclusion has been reached,” the actor stated.

“I also believe that I approached the filming of this project with that much desperate resolve and gave my best efforts. Please pay attention to The Uncanny Counter 2: Counter Punch,” he added.

The Uncanny Counter 2: Counter Punch will premiere on July 29 at 9:20 PM KST. — K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: The actor looked dapper at the press conference. Source: Naver/Kairos’ Naver photo blog.

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Song Hye Kyo Wins Daesang at the 2023 Blue Dragon Series Awards

South Korean actress Song Hye Kyo won the Grand Prize at the 2023 Blue Dragon Series Awards held at Incheon Paradise City on Wednesday, July 19. 

Song was recognized for her portrayal as Moon Dong-eun in the hit Netflix series The Glory. 

“I can’t believe I’d receive this award. I want to praise myself for the first time. Good job, Hye Kyo,” she said in her acceptance speech. 

 

This served as her third Daesang (Grand Prize) in her acting career. Her previous Daesang were from the 2013 series That Winter, The Wind Blows and the 2016 series Descendants of the Sun. 

Meanwhile, Ha Jung Woo of Narco-Saints and Anna’s Bae Suzy won the Best Actor and Best Actress, respectively. 

The Disney+ series Big Bet won the Best Drama award, beating nominees The Glory, Narco-Saints, Weak Hero Class 1, and Bargain. 

The rest of the winners in the drama category are: 

  • Best Supporting Actor: Lee Dong Hwi, Big Bet 
  • Best Supporting Actress: Lim Ji Yeon, The Glory 
  • Best Rookie Actor: Park Ji Hoon, Weak Hero Class 1
  • Best Rookie Actress: Shin Ye Eun, Revenge of Others 
  • OST Popularity Award: Jaechan of DKZ, Our Season 
  • Why Not Award: Choi Hyun Wook, Weak Hero Class 1

For the variety category, Siren: Survive the Island took home the Best Variety Program award. 

Yoo Jae Suk was named Best Male Entertainer for his show PLAYou Level Up, while Joo Hyung Young of  SNL Korea was named Best Female Entertainer. 

The 2023 ceremony marked the second edition of the Blue Dragon Series Awards. This year, the award-giving body added new awards: a Daesang (grand prize), OST Popularity Award, and Why Not Award. 

Blue Dragon Series Awards honors the excellent individuals and projects produced by streaming services. 

Featured image: Song Hye Kyo’s Instagram

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IZ*ONE’s Kim Min Ju Considering Role in “Hear Me”

Rising star Kim Min Ju is reportedly considering a role in an upcoming movie. Industry insiders said on July 19 that she might join Hong Kyung and Roh Yoon Seo in a Korean remake of the Taiwanese film Hear Me.

Kim Min Ju‘s agency, Management SOOP, confirmed the news, stating that the actress received an offer to star in the film and was currently reviewing it positively. The role offered to Kim Min Ju is said to be the younger sister of the female lead character, a part Roh Yoon Seo is also in talks for. In the Taiwanese original, this character is Xiao Peng, the older of two sisters. However, in the Korean remake, the character is the younger sister.

Hear Me is a 2009 Taiwanese romantic comedy featuring Eddie Peng, Ivy Chen, and Michelle Chen. The story is about a hearing man who falls in love with a deaf woman. The original movie was popular in Korea, earning a substantial Korean fan base.

Kim Min Ju’s Career

Kim Min Ju debuted in the project group IZ*ONE through Mnet’s Produce 48 in 2018. She signed with Management SOOP in September 2022 and showcased her acting prowess in The Forbidden Marriage. Her potential involvement in the Hear Me remake could boost her acting career.

Also read: The Power and Legacy of IZ*ONE

The Korean remake of Hear Me is set to start filming in August 2023. Fans of the original film and the actors eagerly await more updates on the project. With the talented trio of Kim Min Ju, Hong Kyung, and Roh Yoon Seo potentially in the cast, the remake promises to be an exciting addition to the Korean film industry. –K-pop News Writer

Featured Image: When IZ*ONE disbanded, Kim Min Ju was among the first to post photos like this on SNS. Source: Instagram/Kim Min Ju’s personal Instagram account.)

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Song Hye Kyo Donates 10 Million KRW Following Ice Bucket Challenge

Renowned actress Song Hye Kyo recently participated in the Ice Bucket Challenge, a relay donation campaign aimed at supporting patients with Lou Gehrig’s disease. This participation came after her nomination by former co-star Lee Do Hyun.

On July 14, Song Hye Kyo took to her Instagram Stories to share a heartfelt message alongside a photo of her donation certificate. The certificate showed that the actress donated 10 million KRW (approximately 7,878.17 USD) to the Seungil Hope Foundation.

In her Instagram Story, Song Hye Kyo talked about what’s needed to establish South Korea’s first Lou Gehrig convalescent hospital. She expressed commitment to this cause and encouraged others to join in, saying, “We need the affectionate interest and support of many people. I’ll also take part and give my support so each individual’s precious heart can gather together to achieve meaningful work, and so that this warmth can continue.”

Song Hye Kyo also conveyed her heartfelt wishes for the happiness and good health of Lou Gehrig patients and their families. Her message was not only a call to action but also a show of empathy and solidarity with those affected by the disease.

As part of the Ice Bucket Challenge, Song Hye Kyo nominated actor Kim Min Seok, actress Han So Hee, and model Shin Hyun Ji to continue the challenge. Participants are expected to donate or pour ice water all over themselves, then nominate three more individuals to continue the challenge.

So far, plenty of notable K-pop artists and Korean celebrities have participated in the Ice Bucket Challenge. IU, Lee Joo Young, Lee Young Jee, Mimi from Oh My Girl, Park Bo Gum, and Sean from the group Jinusean have done it. Their involvement is proof of the challenge’s positive impact and its ability to gather support for a worthy cause.

Song Hye Kyo‘s participation in the Ice Bucket Challenge and her generous donation highlights her commitment to social causes. Her donation and message have undoubtedly made a significant impact, and it’s hoped that her actions will inspire others to follow in her footsteps. –K-pop News Writer

Featured Image: Song Hye Kyo wears high-end jewelry from Chaumet in her recent Instagram post. Source: Instagram/Song Hye Kyo’s personal Instagram account.

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Here Are the K-Drama and K-Pop Documentaries Coming to Disney+ for the Rest of 2023

Hallyu fans have a lot of things to look forward to in Disney+ as the streaming platform unveiled on Tuesday, July 11, its slate of Asia-Pacific originals for the remaining half of 2023. 

The Korean projects included in Disney’s lineup are: 

  • Moving, a fantasy-action series which follows a group of superpowered individuals as they attempt to run away from government personnel and a mysterious assassin. It is based on the hit webtoon of author Kangfull, and stars Ryu Seungryong, Han Hyojoo and Jo In Sung. Moving will premiere in Disney+ on August 9. 
  • Worst of Evil, an action series starring Ji Chang Wook, Wi Ha Jun, and Lim Semi. It is set in 1990s Seoul where a rural police officer is recruited to track a gang that pushes a new drug in the city’s nightclubs. 
  • Vigilante, a crime drama series that follows a star student at the police academy who uses his knowledge to exact revenge on non-repentant offenders. 
  • Han River Police, a comedy action series starring Kwone Sangwoo and Kim Hiiewon, revolves around the works and antics of Seoul’s Han River Police Force. 
  • Soundtrack #2, a sequel to the 2022 series Soundtrack #1, will feature a new storyline between an ex-couple who got reconnected again after ending their six-year relationship. It stars Keum Saerok and Steve Sanghyun Noh. 

Disney+ has yet to announce the release dates for the other titles. 

Meanwhile, Disney+ also confirmed that they’ll be releasing the much-anticipated BTS Monuments: Beyond The Star in the second half of 2023. Although a final release date has yet to be announced, the docu-series was first teased by Disney+ in November 2022. 

 

BTS Monuments: Beyond The Star will chronicle the idol group’s journey to being pop icons through “unprecedented access to a vast library of music and footage over the past nine years.” 

In the series’ teaser, V teased that it will “share candid stories that have never been told.” “I hope you find new sides of us that are previously unseen,” Jungkook added. 

While BTS Monuments: Beyond The Star is their first docu-series as a full group under Disney+, the streaming platform has previously released several content related to BTS, including Permission to Dance LA stage movie, Suga’s Road to D-Day,and  j-hope’s Jack in the Box documentaries. 

Aside from BTS, Disney+ will also be releasing documentaries for K-pop groups Tomorrow X Together and NCT 127. 

BTS also recently released the memoir Beyond The Story: 10-year record of BTS.

Featured image: BTS’ Facebook

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Look: Rowoon, Jo BO Ah, Yura, and Ha Jun at ‘Destined With You’ Script Reading

JBTC has shared photos from the script reading of its upcoming drama Destined With You, starring SF9’s Rowoon, Jo Bo Ah, Girl’s Day’s Yura, and Ha Jun. 

Destined With You is a fantasy-romance series that revolves around a forbidden book that was thoroughly sealed 300 years ago.

Jo Bo Ah will portray Lee Hong Jo, a civil servant who solves the complaints of Onju City Hall and the one who will obtain the forbidden book and try to solve its curse. The actress has previously starred in Tale of the Nine-Tailed, My Strange Hero, Missing Noir M, and Forest. 

Meanwhile, Rowoon will act as lawyer Jang Shin Yu, who’s under a curse that has been passed down for generations in his family. The idol-actor is best known for his roles in Extraordinary You, The King’s Affection, and Tomorrow. 

Ha Jun will play Kwon Jae Kyung, Lee Hong Jo’s crush, while Yura’s character will be Yoon Na Yeon, Kwon Jae Kyung’s lover and Lee Hong Jo’s former bully. 

Other cast members include Song Young Kyu, Jung Hye Young, Lee Pil Mo, Park Kyung Hye, Lee Tae Ri, Hyun Bong Sik, among others. 

The series will be directed by Nam Ki Hoon, whose previous works include Oh My Baby and Voice 3, and will be written by No Ji Sul of 100 Days My Prince. 

In a press release, the production team teased viewers on what they can expect for the series: “The fate-like narrative and special relationship between Lee Hong Jo and Jang Shin Yu, who are intertwined through the sealed book, is interesting.” 

Destined With You will premiere on August 23.

Featured image: JTBC Drama’s Facebook

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