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Netflix CEO Teases ‘Mindblowing’ Second Season of ‘Squid Game’

Netflix co-CEO Ted Sarandos recently made waves with his pronouncement about Squid Game season two. He stated it will “blow your mind.” This came after Sarandos’ visit to the show’s set in South Korea.

In a column on Netflix’s website, he wrote, “I couldn’t visit Korea without experiencing the production of one of our most anticipated shows of 2024—the second season of Squid Game. While I can’t share any spoilers, I can say the new games will blow your mind, and I was thrilled by the scale of the sets. Director Hwang’s vision is such a powerful example of how Korean—and non-English titles—can be locally authentic while finding new international audiences on Netflix.”

He praised the show’s director again at a press conference in Seoul. “We’re really excited about Mr. Hwang’s ability to push storytelling to new limits, more dynamic sets and more mind-blowing storylines that are going to thrill the entire world,” Sarandos said.

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Significant meetings

Sarandos’s trip was packed with significant meetings, including visits to the Seoul offices of Eyeline Studios and Scanline VFX. He also had productive discussions with Squid Game director Hwang Dong-hyuk, lead actor Lee Jung-jae, and President Yoon Suk Yeol.

“It was my honor to meet President Yoon, together with Squid Game star Lee Jung-jae, to reaffirm our commitment to the industry and to the next generation of Korean creatives,” Sarandos remarked. “We are investing significantly in Korea, and believe that working with best-in-class local industry partners is only the beginning.”

The commitment to nurturing new talent is evident in Netflix’s initiatives, such as the Netflix VFX Academy internship program in South Korea. This program funds VFX artists and points them to work opportunities with Netflix’s partner companies. Sarandos proudly noted, “Seventy percent of the graduates from the program’s first session have since been hired by Netflix partners.”

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Korean content on Netflix

Looking forward, Sarandos shared ambitious plans for Korean content on Netflix. “One in five Netflix titles in Korea will come from a first-time writer or director,” he wrote in his column. “Last year, that included the creators behind Black Knight, Doona!, Siren: Survive the Island, and Unlocked. This year, we’re providing a global stage for the first-time filmmakers behind Bandland Hunters, My Name is Loh Kiwan, The Bequeathed, and The Frog. 

He also took time to address speculation regarding an American remake of Squid Game, clarifying that no such remake is in the works.

As Netflix prepares to unveil season two of Squid Game, fans worldwide are eager to see if Sarandos is right. Because he called the storyline “mindblowing,” anticipation for the show’s return is higher than ever. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: Sarandos had fun interacting with young VFX artists at the new Eyeline Studios VFX Korea office. Source: Netflix.

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SHINee’s Key and IVE’s Yujin in Teasers for ‘Crime Scene Returns’

Key and Yunjin in the character teasers for 'Crime Scene Returns.' Credit: Twitter/TVING

Seven years since the release of the well-loved Crime Scene in 2014, the variety program is now set to make its highly-anticipated return as Crime Scene Returns. 

To recall, Crime Scene is the first-ever RPG (Role-Playing Game) show in South Korea. In this variety program, the guests take on different roles to solve a case. Its first season aired in May 2014, with JBTC launching its second season in April 2015 and third season in April 2017. 

In July 2023, TVING announced that the well-loved is making a comeback. But this time, it will feature a new version and new cast.  

For its new season, the dynamic lineup was revealed to have Key of SHINee and IVE’s Yujin. In the official posters, the two idols were seen striking a pose in a mug-shot-like setting.

The two will be joined by the show’s original cast members Jang Jin, Park Ji Yoon, and Jang Do Min. Meanwhile, actress Joo Hyun Young will also be a new addition to the program.

Aside from the cast, fans are also excited for the treatment in Crime Scene Returns. In a press release, the production team teased: “As the story gets closer to the truth, the story unfolds with twists and turns.”

Fans’ excitement for ‘Crime Scene Returns’

Since it was first announced, netizens have expressed their excitement in seeing how the three new additions will aid in solving the cases. Especially since Key, Hyun Young, and Yujin have already been acknowledged for their respective skills in variety shows.

First, the SHINee member is known to take part in several shows such as the long-running program Amazing Saturday and I Live Alone. Meanwhile, the IVE leader received attention for her fun personality in Na PD’s Earth Arcade series. As for Hyun Young, she has gained popularity for her SNL Korea stints. 

In a pre-released teaser of Crime Scene Returns, both Key and Yujin already showed a hint of their chemistry as the cast played a mafia game. In this clip, the two idols played as the mafias who needed to complete a given mission. Playing as a perfect duo, Yujin unintentionally helped Key in his mission. Although by doing so, she failed hers. 

Crime Scene Returns will premiere on TVING on February 9.

Featured image: Key and Yunjin in the character teasers for ‘Crime Scene Returns.’ Credit: Twitter/TVING

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GOT7’s Bambam to Host New Netflix Show ‘Super Rich in Korea’

Netflix Korea announces the new show 'Super Rich in Korea.' Credit: Twitter/Netflix Korea

Mark your calendars! A new variety show that will be hosted by BamBam is on the way!

On Tuesday, January 23, Netflix Korea announced that GOT7’s BamBam will be hosting Super Rich in Korea. Moreover, he will be joined by Oh My Girl member Mimi and comedian Jo Se Ho in the upcoming reality program.

In the teasers, viewers are given a glimpse of the luxurious lifestyle of the wealthiest people residing in South Korea. 

According to a press release, the show will feature prominent figures from different fields. Some of which are luxury brand ambassador Yoo Hee Ra, who has been dubbed as South Korea’s Paris Hilton, Singaporean billionaire David Yong, Arab’s social media sensation Noor Naim, and many more.

As teased by the streaming platform, Super Rich in Korea will show the glamorous reality of these people’s astonishing wealth. From extravagant parties, luxury cars, and haute coutures, the program will treat viewers with an exclusive insight of the super rich’s norm.

 Super Rich in Korea is slated to premiere this April. As of writing, a final premiere date has yet to be announced.

BamBam exhibiting his talent in hosting

Aside from Super Rich in Korea, the “Sour & Sweet” singer is set to host another upcoming show titled Siblings’ Relationship.

To note, Siblings’ Relationship, which will be out in March, is a dating reality show where siblings try to find romantic relationships for each other. Moreover, BamBam will be joined by (G)I-DLE’s Miyeon, and music producer Code Kunst. Also part of the hosting panel are TV personality Han Hye Jin and famous siblings Jonathan and Patricia.

Aside from the host lineup, Siblings’ Relationship has also raised viewers’ expectations as it is revealed to be led by producer Lee Jin Joo. Prior to this new show, Lee has already left a milestone in handling dating programs as she’s been in charge of the successful series Transit Love.

In Siblings’ Relationship, BamBam got the chance to work with producer Lee as one of the main hosts in its second season. 

Aside from variety programs, BamBam has also exhibited his hosting skills through other opportunities such as music shows and awarding ceremonies. Moreover, the GOT7 member also hosts his own Youtube program Bam’s House, where he invites friends and colleagues in the entertainment industry for a small talk.

Featured image: Netflix Korea announces the new show ‘Super Rich in Korea.’ Credit: Twitter/Netflix Korea

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S.Coups Blocks SEVENTEEN’s Access to His Credit Card on ‘NANA Tour’

On January 5, the first episode of NANA Tour with SEVENTEEN finally aired, bringing excitement to the group’s fans with its unique concept. The show is a spin-off of the Korean travel reality show Youth Over Flowers, which is known for its unique format where the production team surprises the cast with spontaneous trips, often with little to no prior notice. It has featured locations like Peru, Zimbabwe, and more. The trips involve the cast completing tasks and winning games to ensure their survival in an unfamiliar environment.

https://www.tiktok.com/@always_svt13/video/7320625610269707525?is_from_webapp=1&sender_device=pc&web_id=6908322787502065153

In SEVENTEEN’s case, the members were whisked away to Italy after playing two shows in Tokyo, Japan last September as part of their FOLLOW Tour. Unfortunately, their leader S.Coups couldn’t join the tour or the Italy trip due to a knee injury. Instead, he sent the members a letter through Na Young-seok, the producer behind NANA Tour with SEVENTEEN. 

Jeonghan read the letter out loud in the first episode. It said, “Thank you for picking up my letter. I feel so sorry for you guys going without any preparation. You can use this card however you want. I’ll be waiting for you well in Korea. Have fun. I love you!”

S.Coups’s love for SEVENTEEN knows no bounds

The members were both surprised and touched to find that S.Coups had sent his credit card along with the letter, giving them the freedom to use it however they liked. Dino, the group’s youngest member, was put in charge of the card. But after watching his members’ enthusiastic spending, S.Coups blocked their access to the card mid-show. 

@jeonrin_25

la lu semua apa-apa di beli haigo wkwkwk #seungcheol #seventeen

♬ the psycho intro gone wrong ㅠㅠ – Arielle

Fans and the members alike thought what S.Coups did was amusing. Some thought Seungkwan’s purchase of a funny t-shirt was the last straw. (For the record, the shirt featured the Mona Lisa doing the “dabbing” dance move, which involves dropping the head and raising one arm while bending the other at the elbow.) Others felt S.Coups stopped overseas payments on his credit card after seeing Mingyu showing off a long receipt for all the groceries he bought on the trip. Apparently, S.Coups’s love for SEVENTEEN knows no bounds—except maybe when it comes to money.

Fans can catch the NANA Tour with SEVENTEEN every Friday on tvN Asia at 8.40 PM KST. More exclusive footage from the show is available for fans on Weverse. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: It seems S.Coups instantly regretted his decision. Sources: X/@minghaocheol_, X/@moonhuiwons.

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Are the Final Couples from ‘Single’s Inferno’ 3 Dating?

Lee Gwan Hee shares a photo of Choi Hye Seon after the finale airing of 'Single's Inferno' 3. Credit: instagram/Lee Gwan Hee

The popular Netflix dating program Single’s Inferno recently concluded its third season and the final couples seemingly hinted at their dating status after the show!

 

To start off, contestants Lee Jin Seok and Ahn Min Young thrilled the viewers when they picked each other as partners at the finale episode. When asked about their current relationship, Jin Seok answered that he only focuses on one person and that’s what happened in the show.

However, Jin Seok revealed that due to their busy schedules, they are not dating but they occasionally meet to stay in touch. 

Next is the second couple who left the show together: Park Min Kyu and Kim Gyu Ri. Since matching in episode two, the two have remained close. Although it is unknown if they stayed hand-in-hand after the show. 

Moreover, Choi Min Woo and Yu Si Eun were the third formed couple in Single’s Inferno 3. While they do not post updates of each other on social media, Min Woo and Si Eun were seen resharing fan edits of the couple. With this, fans of the show are considering this as a hint that they formed a relationship. 

Meanwhile, the fourth and last couple for this season were Lee Gwan Hee and Choi Hye Seon. Although the couple have not shown hints about their actual score, Gwan Hee and Hye Seon were seen exchanging interactions on their personal Instagram accounts. With this, their fans became hopeful that their relationship worked outside the Inferno. 

However, Gwan Hee personally spoke up about the matter through his YouTube channel, revealing that they aren’t dating. According to the basketball player, he couldn’t maintain a long-distance relationship given the business of their schedule. “I only kept in touch with her from time to time,” he said.  

Is ‘Single’s Inferno’ 4 possible?

Following the conclusion of season three, the producers of the show revealed that it has been the most successful season as compared to the previous ones.

According to producer Kim Jae Won, the first two seasons garnered a total of about six million viewing hours each. Meanwhile, Single’s Inferno 3 surpassed this record with seven million viewing hours. 

With the show’s success, viewers have expressed their anticipation for another season on social media. However, the producers said that there are no confirmations yet for Single’s Inferno 4. 

“It is not confirmed yet. But I think Netflix is thinking positively about producing the fourth season,” Kim said. Moreover, he also mentioned that they are considering the possibility of creating spin-offs featuring the cast from previous seasons.

Featured image: Lee Gwan Hee shares a photo of Choi Hye Seon after the finale airing of ‘Single’s Inferno’ 3. Credit: instagram/Lee Gwan Hee

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aespa And THE BOYZ to Headline 2024 Krazy Super Concert In Los Angeles

aespa and THE BOYZ are headed for Los Angeles next year! The popular groups are the first acts confirmed to perform at the upcoming 2024 Krazy Super Concert in Los Angeles.

2024 Krazy Super Concert Unveils First Two Acts For Los Angeles Leg

The Krazy Super Concert series, a sensation that kicked off in New York over the summer, is set to captivate Los Angeles as it makes its way to the West Coast. Pulse Events, spearheaded by CEO Luffy Huang, announced the exciting news on December 22, local time, revealing plans for the first-ever Krazy Super Concert in LA to coincide with the Lunar New Year celebrations in February 2024.

The event promises a spectacular showcase featuring performances by popular K-pop groups aespa and THE BOYZ. The decision to bring the 2024 Krazy Super Concert to Los Angeles also underscores the global appeal and influence of K-pop, offering fans on the West Coast an opportunity to experience the energy and talent of their favorite artists in person.

 

Scheduled for February 10, 2024, the concert will unfold at the iconic BMO Stadium, providing a fitting backdrop for the Lunar New Year festivities. While aespa and THE BOYZ have been confirmed as headliners, the organizers have also teased that the full artist lineup will be unveiled in early January, adding an element of anticipation for fans eagerly awaiting the announcement.

Where to Get 2024 Krazy Super Concert Tickets

Fans will have the chance to secure their spots at the concert with the pre-sale of general admission tickets and VIP packages, commencing on Tuesday, January 9, from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. local time. The pre-sale will also be accessible through Krazy Super Concert’s official website, where enthusiasts can stay tuned for updates and details.

For those who miss out on the pre-sale, the public on-sale is set to kick off on Wednesday, January 10, at 10 a.m. local time via Ticketmaster. This dual-phase ticketing approach also ensures that dedicated fans have multiple opportunities to secure their tickets and make plans to be part of the K-pop extravaganza in Los Angeles.

The expansion of the Krazy Super Concert series to Los Angeles not only affirms the genre’s global popularity but also reflects the organizers’ commitment to providing fans across the United States with immersive live experiences. As the anticipation builds and the full artist lineup is revealed, K-pop enthusiasts in Los Angeles can also look forward to a memorable Lunar New Year celebration with their favorite acts on stage at the BMO Stadium in February 2024.

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‘Apartment 404’ Featuring BLACKPINK’s Jennie, Yoo Jae Suk Drops Teasers

tvN releases the first teaser for new variety show 'Apartment 404.' Credit: YouTube/tvN

Attention, tvN’s newest variety show Apartment 404 is getting ready for its much-awaited release!

In the 15-second trailer posted on Wednesday, December 20, the show’s full cast lineup has been unveiled.

Notably, the variety program will feature Jennie of girl group BLACKPINK, and veteran host Yoo Jae Suk. Moreover, Moving actors Cha Tae Hyun and Lee Jung Ha, Alchemy of Souls actress Oh Na Ra and Yang Se Chan of Running Man.

With Jennie confirmed to be a part of the show, fans, especially BLINKs, are even more excited! Especially as this will be the idol’s first variety show appearance as a mainstay in five years. In 2018, she was part of the show Village Survival, the Eight. 

In Apartment 404, the cast will play as the six residents of an apartment who will trace the truth behind extraordinary events. What makes the storyline more exciting is that these events are based on the real-life experiences of people.

Moreover, the program will also be led by director Jung Chul Min, known for his work Sixth Sense. Set in different locations and periods each episode, the viewers’ investigative skills and memory will be put into test as they try to solve mysteries with the cast.

Get to see the chemistry between the cast of ‘Apartment 404’

With the announcement of the final cast lineup, fans are anticipating how the members will work their way together.

Known as an entertainment show veteran, Yoo Jae Suk is expected to show his leadership and wisdom in solving cases in the show. As seen in his previous shows such as Busted! and The Zone: Survival Mission, Jae Suk proved that he also has an edge in mystery variety shows.

Meanwhile, Jennie, who’ll be having her return on variety programs, will act as the mascot for Apartment 404. Her fans are already looking forward to her adorable appearance in the show. 

They will be joined by actors Cha Tae Hyun and Lee Jung Ha who both gained recognition for the hit 2023 drama Moving. In particular, Tae Hyun who has two-decades experience in the industry is also expected to show his wits in the table. On the other hand, Jung Ha will be showing his charm as the youngest member in the group. 

And the chemistry between the cast is even made powerful with actress Oh Na Ra’s bubbly personality. But the lineup is made complete by comedian Yang Se Chan, who’s known for his unique and fun tactics.

Apartment 404 is set to premiere in the first half of 2024.

Featured image: tvN releases the first teaser for new variety show ‘Apartment 404.’ Credit: YouTube/tvN

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SEVENTEEN’s ‘Nana Tour’ With Na PD Gets a Release Date

Na PD releases a highlight teaser for SEVENTEEN's 'Nana Tour.' Credit: YouTube/Channel Fullmoon

Carats, you’re about to start the new year right! SEVENTEEN’s new variety program Nana Tour has finally been revealed to premiere on January 5, warmly welcoming the year 2024. 

For those unfamiliar, Let’s Go Together: Nana Tour with SEVENTEEN is an upcoming travel show where the members and famous South Korean producer Na Young Suk explore Italy together. 

To note, the program is SEVENTEEN’s own version of Na PD’s famous Youth Over Flowers series. Said show is known for its unique aspect of tricking the unprepared celebrities into overseas trips. In its previous seasons, boy group WINNER, and actors from the dramas Reply 1988 and Reply 1994 have visited different countries across the world.

Interestingly, numerous clips of the SEVENTEEN getting “kidnapped” surfaced online last September. The quick Carats, SEVENTEEN’s fans, spotted the group at an airport accompanied by Na PD and a filming crew. 

In October, the group’s performance team leader Hoshi mentioned in a Weverse Live that they went to shoot the show after their concert in Japan. Later, it was revealed that the filming took place someplace in Europe. 

With the confirmation of the program’s airing, fans can’t wait to see the group’s bond with Na PD, as both are well-known for their entertainment tactics.

SEVENTEEN’s bond with Na PD

Carats are even more excited for Nana Tour as this will be SEVENTEEN and Na PD’s fourth project together.

The “God of Music” singers and the famous producer first met on HYBE LABEL’s Game Caterers episodes. Although only members Joshua, Jun, Mingyu, Hoshi, Minghao, Seungkwan, and Dino made an appearance, SEVENTEEN showcased their variety skills alongside fellow artists under the agency.

After the HYBE series, SEVENTEEN finally appeared in complete attendance for their own Game Caterers series. With a total of eight episodes, the “theater kids of K-Pop” played a series of games where they showed their wits. Through this project, the group also gained their chance for the Youth Over Flowers program as the grand prize in the last episode.

In their latest work together, Na PD released two clips of his new program Wageul Wageul also known as Chattering with Na. There, the group and the producers of Nana Tour had a chit-chat over alcoholic drinks. In addition, the crew also celebrated SEVENTEEN’s comeback as well as Dino’s mixtape release.

What to expect for ‘Nana Tour’ 

On Friday, December 15, a five-minute highlight reel of Nana Tour was released. As this is the first look at the upcoming travel variety show, fans were definitely excited to see more of the group’s adventures in Italy. 

Notably, leader S.coups wasn’t able to participate in the show as he was already on a health-related hiatus when it was filmed. Despite being physically absent, the highlight revealed that the SEVENTEEN members made sure that they’ll include S.coups in the show. One clip showed the group calling him, while other clips featured standees of the rapper in several filming locations. 

As part of the variety show, Nana Tour will also be releasing official merchandise and photobooks that fans can avail.

Featured image: Na PD releases a highlight teaser for SEVENTEEN’s ‘Nana Tour.’ Credit: YouTube/Channel Fullmoon

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Look: MNET’s Survival Program ‘Build Up’ Reveals Judges

MNET introduces the lineup of judges for its upcoming survival vocal competition. Credit: Twitter/MNET

Get ready for an intense vocal battle! The official judging panel for MNET’s latest survival program Build Up: Vocal Boy Group Survival has finally been revealed!

On Tuesday, December 12, MNET Korea confirmed Build Up’s judging lineup consisting of renowned singers Lee Seok Hoon, Baekho, BTOB’s Eunkwang, MAMAMOO’s Solar, and Red Velvet’s Wendy. 

With the program’s aim to bring together passionate singers regardless of genre, MNET has brought together the all-star panel to critique the contestants. “The strongest vocalists in the entertainment industry gathered together! Please look forward to the luxury judgment,” they captioned their post. 

Furthermore, the show’s production team also shared their excitement with the lineup. “It is an honor to invite these five people who are undisputed in terms of skills. We will show not only the chemistry of participants, but also the legendary vocal stages under their high-quality judgment,” they stated.

Meet the judges for ‘Build Up’

One of the confirmed judges is SG Wannabe’s Lee Seok Hoon. Known as a “vocal teacher of vocalists”, the singer has garnered praise from viewers for his expertise as a mentor on popular survival programs including Boys Planet. Said show ultimately created the well-loved rookie group ZEROBASEONE or ZB1.

Next in the lineup is renowned singer Eunkwang of the boy group BTOB. Aside from his vocal prowess, Eunkwang has also gained recognition as a producer in the survival show Mega Karaoke Survival VS.

Meanwhile, soloist Baekho (formerly from NU’EST), MAMAMOO’s Solar and Red Velvet’s Wendy  have all proven their vocal abilities as main vocalists of their respective groups. In the show, they are also challenged to share their expertise and sound judgment in the program.

Moreover, it was revealed that the program will have the talented actress Lee Da Hee as the sole emcee, which raised anticipation among viewers. To note, Da Hee has already established a reputable relationship with MNET. Previously, she hosted a number of the network’s shows including Queendom in 2019 and Road to Kingdom in 2022.

As of writing, MNET has yet to introduce the contestants participating in the show.  Build Up is scheduled to air in the first half of 2024, but final dates have yet to be announced. Stay tuned!

Featured image: MNET introduces the lineup of judges for its upcoming survival vocal competition. Credit: Twitter/MNET

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Hyeri, aespa’s Karina Join Netflix Series ‘Agents of Mystery’

Netflix introduces the cast members for their new variety series 'Agents of Mystery.' Credit: Twitter/Netflix

The Devil’s Plan producer Jeong Jong Yeon is working on a new Netflix variety show titled Agents of Mystery, which will include Girl’s Day member Hyeri and aespa’s Karina. 

On Wednesday, November 22, Netflix announced their upcoming original series Agents of Mystery. In a press release, the upcoming show is described as a series that is set to deviate from the style of The Devil’s Plan. Moreover, it is posed to be a mystery adventure series wherein participants will tackle enigmatic cases that defy scientific explanation. 

“Expect a fusion of chemistry and thrilling suspense that’ll keep you on the edge of your seats,” Netflix wrote. Other details about Agents of Mystery, such as the number of episodes and target premiere date, have yet to be announced. 

Although further details about the series are still kept under wraps, fans are already looking forward to another masterpiece from Jeong. To note, the said PD is already renowned for his other mystery and survival shows such as Great Escape, The Genius, and High School Mystery Club. 

Moreover, Agents of Mystery will be his second collaboration with Netflix following the recently concluded The Devil’s Plan. Additionally, the announcement of the new show came weeks after Netflix announced that Jeong will also produce a second season for The Devil’s Plan. 

Who will participate in ‘Agents of Mystery’? 

First to be confirmed part of the series was Girl’s Day member Hyeri, who was announced to be part of the cast weeks ago. The idol-actress is also known for her variety chops after being part of shows HMLYCP and Amazing Saturday. 

Joining her in the series are Lee Yong Jin from Comedy Big League, No Math School Trip, and Wheeled Mouth, and Lee Eun Ji from Earth Arcade. Also part of the star-studded cast are Moving star Kim Do Hoon, John Park of The Time Hotel, and Karina from K-pop girl group aespa. 

From the cast alone, fans are already anticipating how they’ll showcase their skills and engage in an innovative experience for the series. 

Featured image: Netflix introduces the cast members for their new variety series ‘Agents of Mystery.’ Credit: Twitter/Netflix

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