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Nail-Biting Drama with Kim Hee-ae and Seol Kyung-gu in “The Whirlwind”

Veteran actors Kim Hee Ae and Seol Kyung Gu are set to captivate audiences with their intense character portrayals in Netflix’s new series, “The Whirlwind.” During the production presentation held at JW Marriott Dongdaemun Square Seoul, Kim Hee Ae promised, “We will show you a new character like no other.”

The Whirlwind is a gripping drama inside the Bluehouse

“The Whirlwind,” set for Netflix release on June 28, depicts the fierce clash between a Prime Minister intent on eradicating corruption and a Deputy Prime Minister who opposes him. This series marks the third collaboration between Kim Hee Ae and Seol Kyung Gu, following their previous works “The Moon” and “Ordinary Family.”

Seol Kyung Gu plays Park Dong-ho, a Prime Minister determined to bring down a president colluding with conglomerates and transform the political landscape. Kim Hee Ae takes on the role of Jung Soo-jin, the Deputy Prime Minister fiercely opposing Park Dong-ho. “This time, we meet as arch-enemies, which allowed us to fully explore our acting potential together,” she outlines their dynamic. She describes her character as someone who begins to be righteous but becomes corrupt through compromises with reality.

Kim Hee Ae shared, “I usually don’t watch my works, but surprisingly, I’ve watched ‘The Whirlwind’ three times already. Even though I memorized and acted out the scenes, they feel different every time I watch them. It made me wonder if I had acted incorrectly.”

The series is scripted by Park Kyung-soo, known for his political drama trilogy “The Chaser,” “Empire of Gold,” and “Punch.” This marks his return after seven years since “Whisper.” Park expressed his confidence, saying, “I did my best to create a work that I’m not ashamed of, and I believe I achieved that.” He aimed to create characters embodying impossible ideals, reflecting the frustrations of reality.

Seol Kyung Gu returns to the small screen

Seol Kyung Gu, returning to drama after 30 years since “Big Sister,” said, “If the script is good, there’s no reason not to do it. I got to read ‘The Whirlwind’ script through Kim Hee Ae’s recommendation and felt the immense power of the script after reading five episodes.” He humorously mentioned the challenge of frequently portraying high-ranking officials while considering Park Dong-ho a fantasy character.

“The story develops powerfully with relentless twists and turns,” emphasized by the actor. With the combined talents of Kim Hee Ae and Seol Kyung Gu, “The Whirlwind” promises to deliver a gripping and unprecedented drama experience.

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‘Sweet Home 3’ First Teaser Hints at Shocking Finale

Netflix has unveiled the first teaser trailer for ‘Sweet Home’ Season 3, sparking excitement among fans of the hit series. Not surprisingly, the small glimpse at the third season also promises a truly shocking finale for the survivors!

‘Sweet Home’ Season 3 Hypes up Shocking Finale

The final season promises to escalate the tension and drama as survivors navigate a world divided between those who embrace the dawn of a new humanity and those who still fear the infected. Central to this conflict is Hyun Soo, portrayed by Song Kang, who is also set to confront his most formidable adversary yet.

The anticipation for “Sweet Home” Season 3 is palpable, with fans eagerly awaiting the continuation of the story. The series has garnered acclaim for its unique blend of horror, suspense, and emotional depth, distinguishing it within the genre. Viewers can also look forward to more intense battles, surprising alliances, and profound character development as the survivors face both internal and external threats.

What To Expect in ‘Sweet Home 3’

Returning to reprise their roles are Song Kang, Lee Jin Wook, Lee Si Young, Go Min Si, Lee Do Hyun, and Jinyoung, who will continue to bring their characters to life in the concluding chapter of the series. The teaser trailer hints at the high stakes and emotional turmoil that lie ahead, promising a gripping and satisfying conclusion to the beloved series.

Fans can expect “Sweet Home” Season 3 to delve deeper into the psyches of the characters, exploring their fears, motivations, and the lengths they are willing to go to survive. The series’ hallmark has been its ability to combine thrilling action with heartfelt moments, and the final season aims to deliver on both fronts. The clash between those who see the infected as the future and those who see them as a threat will drive the narrative to new heights, also offering a compelling exploration of humanity’s resilience and adaptability in the face of unimaginable horror.

“Sweet Home” Season 3 is set to premiere on July 19, exclusively on Netflix, concluding the epic saga that has captivated audiences worldwide. With the teaser trailer raising expectations, fans are also counting down the days to see how the story of Hyun Soo and his fellow survivors will come to an end.

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‘Hierarchy’ Leads Global Non-english TV Series on Netflix

The Korean drama series ‘Hierarchy’ has swiftly risen to prominence, claiming the top position in Netflix’s Global Non-English TV category. According to Netflix’s latest data, ‘Hierarchy’ achieved remarkable success in its second week, accumulating 6.3 million views globally from June 10 to 16. This impressive viewership reflects its growing popularity and strong viewer engagement since its debut.

Set in the prestigious Jooshin High School, ‘Hierarchy’ unfolds as a high-teen scandal drama where the elite 0.01% of students reign supreme with strict rules and order. The narrative takes a compelling turn with the arrival of a mysterious new student whose hidden past disrupts the established hierarchy, setting off a chain reaction of conflicts and revelations within the school’s rigid social structure.

The series has garnered praise for its visual aesthetics and gripping soundtrack, elements that have resonated deeply with domestic audiences. Viewers have eagerly voiced their anticipation for a potential second season, buoyed by the show’s ability to intricately weave together themes of youth, power dynamics, and personal growth.

Central to the acclaim are the performances of the young ensemble cast, featuring rising talents such as Roh Jeong Eui, Lee Chae Min, Kim Jae Won, Ji Hye Won, and Lee Won Jung. Their nuanced portrayals of characters navigating through chaos and personal evolution have been particularly lauded, adding layers of depth to the unfolding drama.

Internationally, ‘Hierarchy’ has not only secured the top spot in nine countries but has also secured a place in the Top 10 lists of 72 countries, underscoring its global appeal and widespread popularity beyond its home audience. This success highlights the series’ ability to resonate with diverse viewership’s worldwide, transcending cultural boundaries with its universal themes and compelling storytelling.

With its success paving the way for more diverse narratives and fresh talent in the industry, ‘Hierarchy’ emerges not only as a hit series but also as a cultural phenomenon that underscores the evolving landscape of global television consumption. As the series continues to unfold, its impact promises to leave a lasting impression on viewers worldwide, further solidifying its place as a standout in the realm of contemporary television dramas.

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‘Squid Game’ Season 2 and 3 Reportedly Wraps Filming

Fans of the global phenomenon have exciting news to look forward to: “Squid Game” Season 2 and 3 may be released in close succession! A new report claims that the next two seasons of the Netflix series have already wrapped filming.

Were ‘Squid Game’ Season 2 and 3 Filmed Back to Back?

On June 14, OSEN reported that the cast and crew of “Squid Game” recently wrapped up filming for both seasons and celebrated with a two-day wrap party in Gapyeong on June 11 and 12. According to a source quoted in the report, “It’s true that Seasons 2 and 3 were filmed at the same time. To be precise, a long story was filmed, which will be split and released as Seasons 2 and 3.”

This filming strategy means that fans won’t have to endure long waits between seasons. Season 2 is set to consist of six episodes, while Season 3 will feature around six to seven episodes. This approach is similar to Netflix’s other hit series “The Glory,” which also released its seasons with a short gap between them.

Netflix has confirmed that preparations for the release of “Squid Game” Season 2 are in the final stages. However, they have not yet provided definitive details about Season 3. The staggered release strategy ensures that the intense suspense and narrative momentum are maintained, keeping viewers on the edge of their seats.

What We Know So Far

“Squid Game” has captivated audiences worldwide with its gripping storyline centered around a mysterious survival game with a reward of 45.6 billion won (approximately $33 million) on the line. Season 2 picks up with Sung Ki Hoon (played by Lee Jung Jae), who chose not to go to the United States, pursuing his own goals linked to the deadly game he won in Season 1.

The cast of “Squid Game 2” includes returning stars Lee Jung Jae, Lee Byung Hun, and Wi Ha Joon. Additionally, new cast members 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 will join the series. This ensemble of talented actors is expected to bring fresh dynamics and exciting new storylines to the already thrilling plot.

With the simultaneous filming of both seasons, the production has managed to capture a continuous and coherent narrative arc, promising an uninterrupted and immersive viewing experience for fans. As anticipation builds, the close release of Seasons 2 and 3 is sure to keep the momentum going, ensuring that “Squid Game” continues to dominate conversations and captivate audiences around the globe.

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‘Sweet Home’ Season 3 Gets July Premiere Date

It’s official! “Sweet Home” Season 3 is coming this year and a new poster has just confirmed its July premiere date!

‘Sweet Home’ 3 Set for July Premiere Date

The newly released poster sets a chilling tone for “Sweet Home” Season 3. It features the protagonist, Hyun Soo (played by Song Kang), navigating through a desolate cityscape ravaged by the monsterization crisis. His single wing is spread ominously, sparking intrigue about his fate and whether he can reclaim his humanity after succumbing to his monstrous side in the Season 2 finale.

The poster also showcases a series of enigmatic cages suspended from the ceiling, glowing with an eerie light, hinting at the dawn of a new era for humanity. The haunting caption, “The end of all evolution,” adds to the suspense and raises questions about the direction of the Season 3 plot.

Is ‘Sweet Home’ Season 3 Worth the Wait?

“Sweet Home,” based on the popular webtoon of the same name, follows the harrowing journey of a reclusive high school student who relocates to a new apartment complex just as monsters start to emerge among humanity, trapping the residents inside. The series gained a massive following for its gripping storyline and intense action sequences.

Season 3 of “Sweet Home” promises to up the ante, delving deeper into the struggle between monsters and humans as the world transitions from a phase of monstrous transformations to a potential new era for humanity. The returning cast includes fan favorites Song Kang, Lee Si Young, Lee Do Hyun, Lee Jin Wook, and Go Min Si, among others, each reprising their roles and adding depth to the evolving narrative.

The anticipation for “Sweet Home” Season 3 is palpable as fans eagerly await to see how the story unfolds. The series is known for its masterful blend of horror, suspense, and emotional depth, making it a standout in the genre. With the new season, viewers can expect more intense battles, unexpected alliances, and deeper explorations of the characters’ psyches as they confront both internal and external monsters.

Netflix’s confirmation of the broadcast schedule has only fueled the excitement, with fans speculating about the possible twists and turns that Season 3 might take. The creative team behind “Sweet Home” has consistently delivered a high-quality, edge-of-your-seat experience, and the upcoming season looks set to continue that tradition.

As the release date approaches, the buzz around “Sweet Home” Season 3 continues to grow, promising a thrilling continuation of the story that has captivated audiences worldwide. Whether you’re a longtime fan or new to the series, this season is shaping up to be a must-watch event.

“Sweet Home” Season 3 will premiere on Netflix on July 19, 2024.

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Taeyeon Confirmed for ‘Zombieverse 2’

Fans of both K-dramas and Taeyeon are in for a thrilling treat as news spreads of the beloved singer’s upcoming appearance in the highly anticipated Netflix original series, ‘Zombieverse 2’.

Taeyeon Joins ‘Zombieverse 2’ Cast

A statement from a broadcasting insider on April 30 KST revealed that Taeyeon has already completed filming her part, adding to the mounting excitement surrounding the release of the new season.

‘Zombieverse’ first burst onto the scene in August of the previous year, captivating audiences with its gripping narrative set in a world overrun by zombies. Against the backdrop of a transformed Seoul, the series plunges viewers into a thrilling tale of survival and human resilience. Its debut was nothing short of a sensation, not only dominating the charts in Korea but also capturing the hearts of viewers across the globe.

The success of the first season on Netflix laid a solid foundation for ‘Zombieverse 2’, which promises to up the ante with a fresh cast and an expanded storyline. As anticipation for the new season reaches fever pitch, the announcement of Taeyeon’s involvement has sent ripples of excitement through the fan community.

What Happens in The Second Season?

While details about Taeyeon’s role in the series remain shrouded in mystery, her inclusion undoubtedly adds an extra layer of intrigue and anticipation. As one of K-pop’s most iconic figures, Taeyeon’s foray into the world of acting is sure to draw attention and excitement from fans worldwide.

As fans eagerly await the release of ‘Zombieverse 2’, they can look forward to seeing Taeyeon bring her unique talents to the screen, adding depth and nuance to an already captivating storyline. With filming already wrapped up, it won’t be long before viewers can immerse themselves once again in the adrenaline-pumping world of ‘Zombieverse’, with Taeyeon leading the charge into uncharted territory.

As the countdown to the release date begins, the excitement continues to build, fueled by the promise of new adventures, unexpected twists, and the electrifying presence of Taeyeon herself. Get ready to embark on another thrilling journey into the heart of the zombie apocalypse with ‘Zombieverse 2’ and Taeyeon at the helm.

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Netflix’s ‘Physical 100’ to Return with ‘Season 2: Underground’ in March

Netflix’s popular reality series Physical 100 is preparing for its highly anticipated second season, set to premiere on March 19. After the first season’s significant success, Netflix has revealed a poster for the next installment of this extreme physical competition.

What is ‘Physical 100’ all about?

Physical 100 tests contestants’ physical strength to crown the strongest from hundreds. A diverse cast of athletes, diplomats, performers, police officers, and more will battle it out to see who will take the top spot. The first season captivated audiences worldwide, clinching the No. 1 spot on Netflix’s Global Top 10 TV Shows (Non-English) category in over 82 countries. Just six weeks after its release, it amassed an impressive 192.63 million viewing hours on Netflix.

The second season, Physical 100: Underground, promises to delve deeper into the competitive spirit of its participants. Set against the backdrop of underground mines, the season is expected to push contestants to their limits with more complex challenges. Director Jang Ho-gi hinted at the heightened intensity of the new season, stating, “If season one was based on ancient Greece, season two is based on the underworld.”

This season will see more former and current national athletes among the contestants, with a 30 percent rise compared to the first season. The production team has been preparing for over a year to make Physical 100: Underground bigger and better than its predecessor.

Contestant Reveal #1: THE WARRIORS

A truly thrilling season

The cast of Physical 100: Underground includes Kim Dong-hyun, the first Korean athlete to enter the UFC. South Korean national athletes Jeong Ji-hyun (wrestling) and Lee Won-hee (judo) are also taking part in the show. Jang Ho-gi praised the cast, saying, “All of the participants are in the top positions in their respective fields. But in the underworld, they are rank leaders.”

Inspired by ancient Greek culture, the first season featured challenges that pushed the contestants to their limits. Won Jin-young, a CrossFit athlete and snowboarder, emerged victorious among 99 participants. He won a cash prize of 300 million KRW (approximately 230,000 USD).

As Physical 100: Underground prepares to premiere on Netflix on Tuesday, March 19, fans and newcomers alike can look forward to a truly thrilling season. – K-Pop News Writer

Contestant Reveal #2: NATIONAL ATHLETES

Featured Image: Will you tune in to this new season of the hit show? Source: X/@netflixkcontent.

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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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IU, Park Bo Gum to Star in Netflix’s ‘When Life Gives You Tangerines’

IU and Park Bo Gum will headline a new Netflix drama. Credit: Twitter/Netflix

Buckle up, K-drama fans! South Korean stars IU and Bo Gum will soon be appearing in a series together! On January 30, Netflix confirmed that singer-actress IU and renowned actor Park Bo Gum will be teaming up for the upcoming romance drama When Life Gives You Tangerines.

According to Netflix, the series will follow the story of Ae Sun (IU), an unyielding rebel and Gwan Sik (Bo Gum), a reliable guy who’s been keeping feelings for Ae Sun since childhood. Set in Jeju Island, the drama’s title is a play on the Jeju dialect which literally translates to “Thank You for Your Hard Work.” 

Aside from the appealing storyline, fans are also excited to see the chemistry between the two stars. Since both of them are known to have made several hit dramas, supporters are looking forward to seeing them in one project. 

To note, IU, whose real name is Lee Ji Eun, is considered as one of the most esteemed lead actresses in the industry. Aside from her astonishing career as a singer, her stellar performances as an artist also extends to film.

Some of her most notable works include Scarlet Heart Ryeo and My Mister. Meanwhile, When Life Gives You Tangerines will also be IU’s comeback drama after Hotel del Luna, which was released way back in 2019.

On the other hand, Park Bo Gum has established himself as one of the highly admired actors of his generation. Among his works that gained him popularity are the hit dramas Reply 1988, Encounter, and Record of Youth. 

What we know so far about ‘When Life Gives You Tangerines’

In the series, the older versions of the two lead characters will later be played by veteran actors Moon So Ri  and Park Hae Joon. To note, Moon is known for her role in The Queenmaker while Park starred in The World of the Married.

Moreover, the upcoming romance drama will be helmed by the experienced director Kim Won Seok. His filmography includes Misaeng, Signal, and My Mister, where he first worked with IU.

Furthermore, director Kim will work alongside writer Lim Sang Chun. To note, Lim previously made the hits Fight for My Way and When the Camellia Blooms. 

Although there is no official date yet, When Life Gives You Tangerines  is expected to premiere on Netflix this 2024.

Featured image: IU and Park Bo Gum will headline a new Netflix drama. Credit: Twitter/Netflix

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EXO Chanyeol Confirmed To Star in Netflix Series ‘The Frog’

EXO-Ls are criticizing the producers of 'Travel The World On A Ladder' for endangering Chanyeol
Excitement is in the air for fans of EXO’s Chanyeol as he gears up to make his highly anticipated return to the small screen in the upcoming Netflix series “The Frog.”

EXO Member Chanyeol Prepares for Acting Comeback in Netflix Series ‘The Frog’

On February 7, news broke that Chanyeol had been cast in a pivotal role in the mystery thriller, marking his first television drama appearance in six years.

In “The Frog,” Chanyeol will portray a mysterious character whose presence is integral to the storyline. As details about his character remain under wraps, anticipation builds among fans eager to see Chanyeol showcase his acting prowess once again.

The drama follows the intertwining stories of two pension owners living in different timelines: Gu Sang Jun, played by Yoon Kye Sang, who manages a motel in the past, and Jeon Yeong Ha, portrayed by Kim Yun Seok, who oversees a pension in the present. When similar incidents occur to each man, they make vastly different decisions, setting off a chain of events that will keep viewers on the edge of their seats. Joining the stellar cast are talented actresses Go Min Si and Lee Jung Eun, adding further intrigue to the series.

For Chanyeol, “The Frog” marks a significant milestone in his acting career. Since his acting debut in the film “Salut d’Amour” in 2015, Chanyeol has impressed audiences with his performances in various projects, including dramas like “Missing 9” and “Memories of the Alhambra,” as well as films like “The Box” and the Chinese adaptation of “So I Married My Anti-Fan.” Now, with his return to television, fans eagerly anticipate seeing Chanyeol’s portrayal of this enigmatic character and witnessing his growth as an actor.

As Chanyeol embarks on this new acting venture, expectations are high for “The Frog.” With its intriguing premise, talented cast, and Chanyeol’s involvement, the series promises to deliver a captivating viewing experience that will keep audiences guessing until the very end. Stay tuned for more updates on “The Frog” as excitement continues to build for its release on Netflix.

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