Category: K-DRAMA

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Squid Game Season 2 Premier Date Announced

On August 1, Director, Writer, and Executive Producer Hwang Dong Hyuk announced the release of Squid Game Season 2. The highly-anticipated Netflix hit series will premiere on December 26 of this year. This announcement came via a letter and included exciting news about a third season set to arrive in 2025.

The highly anticipated Squid Game Season 2 is set to return on December 26, with exciting new developments

“Squid Game” follows the gripping story of a mysterious survival game with a grand prize of 45.6 billion won (approximately $33 million). Season 2 will continue the journey of Seong Gi Hun, played by Lee Jung Jae. The last frame of the previous season’s finale shows him deciding whether to pursue the deadly game or not.

The new teaser released by Netflix features Seong Gi Hun, the sole surviving contestant from Season 1, donning the iconic green tracksuit once more. Fans are eager to discover why he has re-entered the game and what new challenges await him.

The teaser also introduces the return of key characters and some intriguing new faces. Lee Jung Jae, Lee Byung Hun, and Wi Ha Joon, will reprise their roles. The second season shows newcomers such as Im Siwan, Kang Ha Neul, Park Gyu Young, Jo Yu Ri, Won Ji An, Park Sung Hoon, Yang Dong Geun, T.O.P, Lee Jin Wook, David Lee, Noh Jae Won, Kang Ae Sim, and Oh Dal Soo.

In the teaser, the frontman poses a chilling question, “It’s been three years. Do you want to play again?” This line, coupled with the ominous statement, “The real game begins,” has fans buzzing with anticipation for the upcoming season.

As “Squid Game” continues to captivate audiences worldwide, the return of this thrilling series promises more intense drama. Season 2 is set to deepen the mystery and challenge the characters in new and unforeseen ways.

Stay tuned for more updates as the release date approaches, and prepare for another heart-pounding adventure in the world of “Squid Game.”

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Jung Hae In is a National Swimmer Turned Successful Architect in “Love Next Door”

tvN’s highly anticipated drama “Love Next Door” has unveiled new stills featuring Jung Hae In in his latest role. This romantic comedy brings together the creative talents of director Yoo Je Won and writer Shin Ha Eun, known for their previous collaboration on the hit series “Hometown Cha-Cha-Cha.”

Jung Hae In plays a former swimmer who finds success as an architect, navigating unexpected challenges

In the upcoming drama, Jung Hae In stars as Choi Seung Hyo, a former national swimmer who has transitioned into a successful career as an architect. Seung Hyo is portrayed as a man of exceptional qualities—handsome, kind-hearted, and highly skilled in his profession. As the head of an architectural firm, he seems to have it all, but his peaceful life takes an unexpected turn when Bae Seok Ryu, played by Jung So Min, reenters his world.

Bae Seok Ryu, depicted as a woman seeking to reboot her troubled life, brings chaos and new challenges to Seung Hyo’s well-ordered existence. The drama delves into their intertwined lives, exploring themes of growth, resilience, and unexpected romance.

In newly released photos, Choi Seung Hyo captivates viewers with his sharp suit and bright smile, exuding a sense of positivity and health. However, the character’s backstory reveals that he was once a promising swimmer selected for the national team. The drama leaves viewers curious about why he left his swimming career behind to become an architect.

Jung Hae In shared his reasons for choosing “Love Next Door,” expressing his enjoyment of the script and his admiration for Yoo Je Won’s work. He noted, “Choi Seung Hyo is a character with inner strength and a firm resolve. As I immersed myself in the script, I naturally built and imagined the character, which guided my performance.”

The actor also reflected on the experience of filming a romantic comedy, mentioning, “Whenever I take on a new project, there’s always a mix of excitement and fear. This time, since this is a romantic comedy, there were many moments of laughter on set, and I received a lot of positive energy, which I enjoyed.”

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BLACKPINK Jisoo and Park Jung Min Star as Separated Lovers in “Newtopia”

Coupang Play has officially confirmed the lead roles for the highly anticipated zombie drama “Newtopia.” The new series stars BLACKPINK Jisoo and acclaimed actor Park Jung Min. The two will portray a couple desperately trying to reunite in a zombie-ridden Seoul.

“Newtopia” stars BLACKPINK Jisoo and Park Jung Min as lovers trying to reunite in a zombie-infested Seoul

In the drama, Park Jung Min will play the role of Jae Yoon, a soldier struggling with insecurity about his future. As he serves in the military, a sudden zombie outbreak traps him and his comrades in the chaos. Known for films like “Deliver Us from Evil,” “Smugglers,” and “Start-Up,” the actor will once again grace the screens.

Jisoo from BLACKPINK is also venturing outside of her successful musical career. Previously, the idol actress delivered an impressive acting debut in “Snowdrop.” In this upcoming drama, she will take on the role of Kang Young Joo, Jae Yoon’s girlfriend. Young Joo is a recent engineering graduate who has just started her first job. The series explores her journey as she navigates the dangers of a zombie-infested city to reunite with Jae Yoon.

The newly released stills from “Newtopia” show Jae Yoon gasping for breath, shocked by the unfolding events. His subordinate, In Ho, portrayed by Im Sung Jae, looks equally terrified, hinting at the imminent dangers they are about to face.

“Newtopia” promises to deliver a thrilling narrative filled with suspense, action, and the emotional struggles of its characters. As both lead characters find each other amidst chaos, the drama excites viewers with the themes of love and survival.

Fans eagerly await the series premiere, excited to see Jisoo and Park Jung Min’s chemistry and the unique take on the zombie genre. The combination of a gripping storyline and a talented cast makes “Newtopia” one of the most anticipated dramas of the year.

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Song Ji Hyo Awaits $7.7 Million After Winning Unpaid Fees Lawsuit

Song Ji Hyo, known for her roles in popular dramas and her participation in the variety show “Running Man,” is currently facing a challenging situation. Despite winning a lawsuit against her former agency, Uzurocks, for unpaid advertising model fees, the actress has yet to receive approximately 10 billion KRW (around $7.7 million USD).

Actress Song Ji Hyo is still awaiting payment from her former agency, Uzurocks, despite winning a lawsuit for unpaid fees

The lawsuit, concluded in December last year, ruled in favor of Song Ji Hyo, awarding her 9.84 billion KRW plus some delayed interest. However, seven months have passed, and the actress has not received the owed amount. Her representative stated, “We have obtained a payment order through a civil lawsuit, but the payment has not been enforced.” They added that efforts to collect the debt from Uzurocks are ongoing through legal procedures.

The actress signed an exclusive contract with Uzurocks in October 2022. However, due to the agency’s failure to pay her fees, she terminated the contract in April of the following year. In May, she filed a criminal complaint against Uzurocks’ former CEO for embezzlement under the Act on the Aggravated Punishment of Specific Economic Crimes, alongside the civil lawsuit for her unpaid fees.

Despite the final verdict, as Uzurocks did not appeal within the two-week period, Song Ji Hyo’s payment has yet to be fulfilled. The CEO of Uzurocks has not provided any public comment regarding the situation.

Song Ji Hyo has since moved forward in her career, signing a new exclusive contract with Nexus ENM in October of last year. This chapter will mark a new beginning in her professional life.

“As an actor with global influence as well as domestic, we will do our best to support her happily on her acting activities in various areas and showing her charm,” Nexus ENM said in a statement in October 2023. The agency also promises to protect the actress and take legal actions against malicious activities towards the actress.

Post agency shift, her new management confirms her appearance in the upcoming movie “House of Meeting,” which is yet to provide details. Fans are eagerly waiting for her return to both the small and big screen.

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Jung Ga Eun Criticized Over Inappropriate Photo

Jung Ga Eun faces backlash after posting a controversial rehearsal photo on social media

Jung Ga Eun, a well-known actress and single mother, recently found herself at the center of controversy after posting a provocative photo on social media. The image, taken during a rehearsal for her upcoming play Boeing Boeing, shows her touching the buttocks of a male actor. Jung Ga Eun captioned the post with the comment: “Practicing for the play. My hands are living in luxury.”

The post quickly drew sharp criticism, with many netizens labelling it as “inappropriate” and even describing it as “sexual harassment.“ Critics argued that if the roles were reversed, the situation would likely lead to a police investigation. Comments flooded in, accusing Jung Ga Eun of seeking unnecessary attention on social media and urging her to delete the post immediately.

Furthermore, On July 27, two days after the incident, Jung Ga Eun issued a public apology. She stated, “I apologize for posting a scene from the play and writing a comment that made many people uncomfortable. I will be more careful from now on in both words and actions.” Despite her apology, the situation has already sparked significant debate about the boundaries of social media content and professional conduct.

The actress, who married in 2016 and divorced two years later, continues to navigate the challenges of her career while balancing her role as a mother. This latest incident, however, has cast a shadow on her public image and raised questions about what is deemed acceptable in the entertainment industry.

Sexual harassment remains a significant issue in South Korea, with societal and workplace pressures often preventing victims from coming forward. The #MeToo movement 2018 marked a turning point, as numerous survivors began publicly sharing their experiences, leading to high-profile cases and legal reforms.

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Suzy Considering New Mystery Thriller Drama

Suzy might be working on a new mystery thriller drama soon! The “Doona” star has been confirmed to be considering a role in a new series from “Emergency Declaration” director Han Jae Rim!

Suzy in Talks for New Mystery Thriller Drama

On July 30, it was reported that Suzy might be starring in the upcoming mystery thriller drama “Delusion” (literal title). In response, Suzy’s agency Management SOOP confirmed the news.

“It is true that Suzy received an offer to star in ‘Delusion’ and is currently reviewing the offer,” they said.

“Delusion” is based on a webtoon and is set in 1935 Gyeongseong and 1800s Shanghai. The drama follows the intriguing story of artist Yun Yi Ho, who is commissioned to paint a portrait of the enigmatic woman Song Jung Hwa and subsequently visits her hotel. The project is helmed by director Han Jae Rim, known for his work on films like “The Show Must Go On,” “The King,” and “Emergency Declaration.”

According to the report, Suzy was the first actress considered for the role during the planning stages of “Delusion.” However, her casting was initially canceled due to scheduling conflicts. With adjustments to the production timeline, Suzy once again received an offer to play the role of Song Jung Hwa, a mysterious vampire woman.

In March, it was revealed that Han So Hee and Ryu Jun Yeol had received casting offers for “Delusion.” However, both actors announced in the following month that they had discontinued discussions regarding their involvement in the project, following the news of their breakup.

If Suzy accepts the role, it will mark another significant addition to her growing portfolio of diverse and challenging roles. Known for her versatility, Suzy has previously impressed audiences with her performances in various dramas and films, including “While You Were Sleeping,” “Vagabond,” and “Start-Up.” Her potential involvement in “Delusion” is already generating excitement among fans, who are eager to see her take on the complex character of Song Jung Hwa.

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Kim Jaejoong Discusses Most Embarrassing Moment While Filming New Drama

JYJ’s Kim Jaejoong recently opened up about his experiences filming his upcoming drama “Bad Memory Eraser.” This includes his most embarrassing moment while working on the new MBN romance drama.

Kim Jaejoong Shares Most Embarrassing Moment from ‘Bad Memory Eraser’

“Bad Memory Eraser” revolves around a man whose life is altered by a memory eraser and the woman who holds his fate. Kim Jaejoong stars as Lee Kun, a former promising tennis player who lost his self-esteem and confidence after suffering an injury. Jin Se Yeon plays neuropsychiatrist Kyung Joo Yeon, who unintentionally becomes Lee Kun’s fake first love through memory manipulation.

“Bad Memory Eraser” is a significant project for Kim Jaejoong as it marks his first substantial foray into comic acting. Reflecting on this experience, he revealed that he had not one but several embarrassing moments on the set.

“There were many times when I suddenly became self-conscious and embarrassed while acting. I was especially embarrassed when I had to act while nearly nude in front of dozens of crew members,” Kim said.

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He also shared a humorous anecdote from the set, particularly about filming a scene with a dog named Cola. “While filming the scene where I talk to the dog Cola, I messed up a lot of takes because I kept bursting out laughing. However, I can confidently say that Cola is the main culprit who messed up more takes than I did,” he said.

Despite all this, Jaejoong pointed out that the funny moments are not the only scenes to look forward to. “There’s a strong comedy element, but there are also many serious sides to the drama, so it felt like I was playing multiple roles,” he explained.

Why You Should Watch ‘Bad Memory Eraser’

Kim Jaejoong hopes the drama will resonate with viewers on multiple levels. “I hope that ‘Bad Memory Eraser’ becomes a drama that is fun to watch while also touching viewers’ hearts,” he shared. He emphasized the emotional depth and variety within the storyline, aiming for the drama to be both entertaining and heartwarming.

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Describing “Bad Memory Eraser” as a story of growth, Kim Jaejoong concluded, “It’s a drama full of many different kinds of emotion: when you’re frustrated, it can give you a refreshing feeling, and when you feel empty, it can fill you up. I hope that you’ll tune in.” He expressed his hope that the series will provide a cathartic experience for viewers, offering both relief and emotional fulfillment.

“Bad Memory Eraser” premieres on August 2 at 9:40 p.m. KST and will be available with subtitles on Viki, allowing a broader audience to enjoy the anticipated series.

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Park Ju Hyun Talks About Her Role in “Perfect Family”

Park Ju Hyun has shared her thoughts on her role in the upcoming KBS drama “Perfect Family.” Based on a popular webtoon, the new series is a mystery drama that explores the dark secrets of a seemingly happy family. The plot thickens when their daughter becomes entangled in a murder, causing each family member to suspect the other.

In this series, Park Ju Hyun plays Choi Sun Hee, a model student who excels in school. Her adoptive parents, portrayed by Kim Byung Chul and Yoon Se Ah, add depth to the family dynamics as Choi Jin Hyuk and Ha Eun Joo, respectively.

Park Ju Hyun reflects on her challenging new role in the upcoming KBS drama “Perfect Family”

“Unlike the other characters I’ve played up until now, the character of Sun Hee has a passive side to her. So I really wanted to take on the challenge of playing her no matter what,” said the actress as she described her character.

“Sun Hee is an extremely nice and upright girl. She’s also a girl who has no choice but to be that way. However, she’s also a character who changes and grows because of the people and events around her,” she continued. “A passive character can sometimes come across as frustrating or unlikeable, so I tried to portray her emotions as deeply as possible.”

Park Ju Hyun revealed her approach to the new role. “I tried to focus on Sun Hee’s inner cry deep within her heart. I spent a lot of time pondering the reason she built a wall around her heart, what it would be like to live life like that, and whether Sun Hee is truly happy. Because my personality is on the easygoing side, I made efforts to restrain myself in order to portray Sun Hee, who isn’t like that at all.”

Regarding her on-screen parents, the actress shared, “Both of them were so fun and friendly during filming. Kim Byung Chul was really fun and sometimes felt like a friend of the same age, while Yoon Se Ah was overflowing with cheerful energy, so I was really happy throughout filming.”

The actress concluded, “I wound up playing a role that is very different from the characters I’ve played up until now. I was so happy and had so much fun during filming, and I hope that viewers will also be happy while watching the drama.”

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Kim Woo Seok and Kang Na Eun Star in “0 Period is Social Butterfly Time”

The upcoming teen romance drama features Kim Woo Seok and Kang Na Eun in leading roles as they navigate high school life and social challenges

Kim Woo Seok and Kang Na Eun will take on leading roles in the upcoming teen romance drama 0 Period is Social Butterfly Time. This new series, set to premiere in October, tells the story of high school life through the eyes of a loner who dreams of fitting in with a group of social butterflies. The plot centers around the main character becoming the manager of an anonymous social networking app called “Social Butterfly Time,” which brings unexpected twists to their life.

Kang Na Eun, known for her roles in Crash Course in Romance and Tale of the Nine-Tailed 1938, will portray Ji Eun, an outsider in high school who longs to be popular. Meanwhile, Kim Woo Seok, a popular student and trainee at a major entertainment agency, will play Kang Woo Bin. Despite his perfect image and the admiration of his peers, Woo Bin harbors a secret that could shatter his reputation.

0 Period is Social Butterfly Time promises to deliver a captivating story about the struggles of fitting in, the pressures of maintaining a flawless image, and the complexities of teenage life. With Kang Na Eun and Kim Woo Seok leading the cast, this drama is set to be a must-watch for fans of teen romance.

Get to know Kim Woo Seok

Kim Woo Seok, formerly known as Wooshin during his time with UP10TION, is a versatile South Korean artist. He debuted with UP10TION in 2015 and later gained wider recognition by finishing second on the reality show Produce X 101, which led to his involvement in the project group X1. In May 2020, he began his solo career with the EP 1st Desire (Greed), highlighting his individual talents.

Beyond his music career, he has served as a host on SBS MTV’s The Show and earned the New K-Wave Voice Award at the 2020 Soribada Best K-Music Awards. His solo endeavors continued with the release of his fourth EP Blank Page in April 2023, featuring the title track “Dawn.”

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Lim Ji Yeon Hopes to Try Mukbang Someday

Lim Ji Yeon reveals her love for food and desire to join the mukbang trend

During a recent appearance on Yoo Jae Suk’s YouTube talk show Just an Excuse, actress Lim Ji Yeon opened up about her love for food and her desire to try mukbang. Lim Ji Yeon, who stars alongside Jeon Do Yeon in the upcoming action film Revolver, admitted that she didn’t sleep well the night before the show because she was craving a late-night snack.

“I really wanted to eat gopchang,” she shared, referring to small intestines, a popular Korean dish. “So I ordered gopchang jeongol [stew] and ate it last night.” Her co-star Jeon Do Yeon, amused by the confession, commented, “She eats a lot. She really eats a lot.”

Yoo Jae Suk, intrigued by her appetite, asked about her family’s eating habits. She confirmed, “Yes. My mother cooks a ton of food,” and added that if she really sat down to eat, she could consume more than five bags of instant noodles in one sitting. This revelation left Yoo Jae Suk and Jeon Do Yeon in shock.

Lim Ji Yeon went on to express her interest in joining the mukbang trend, where hosts eat large amounts of food on camera. “To prove that I’m a big eater, I really want to show people one day,” she said. “These days, there are tons of mukbang contents. So someday, I also want to have all this food laid out in front of me and show people if I can eat it or not.”

The candid discussion revealed a lighter side of Lim Ji Yeon, who is usually known for her intense acting roles. Fans are now looking forward to seeing if the actress will indeed take on a mukbang challenge in the future.

Revolver will release on August 7th.

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