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‘Squid Game’ Season 2 Trailer Brings Gi Hun Back as 456

Netflix’s highly anticipated “Squid Game” Season 2 has released a special trailer, setting the stage for another intense round of deadly games. It confirms the return of Lee Jung Jae’s Seong Gi Hun as Player 456.

‘Squid Game’ Season 2 Trailer Features Seong Gi Hun’s Return to the Game

The first season of “Squid Game” took the world by storm, with its gripping portrayal of a mysterious survival game offering a massive reward of 45.6 billion won (approximately $33 million). Season 2 picks up where the first left off, following Seong Gi Hun (played by Lee Jung Jae), the winner of the brutal game, as he sets out on a new mission.

In the newly released trailer, viewers are immediately pulled into the tense atmosphere. It begins with the sound of an alert, and the camera focuses on Gi Hun, who appears to be grappling with inner turmoil. He wakes up with a look of intense frustration and seems determined to face whatever lies ahead. Armed with a gun, Gi Hun cautiously approaches a door, heightening the suspense. When the door opens to reveal the ominous Front Man, the tone becomes even more foreboding.

The trailer then shifts gears, introducing the familiar Pink Guards as they carry out their duties within the Squid Game world. A giant piggy bank fills with bundles of cash, a reminder of the deadly stakes at play. The caption “Are you ready?” flashes across the screen, signaling that the next round of the game is about to begin.

Dynamic shootout scenes are featured toward the end of the trailer, and Gi Hun, once again in his signature green tracksuit numbered 456, appears, hinting at the new dangers he will face. The trailer leaves viewers eagerly awaiting the dark and thrilling storylines that will unfold in “Squid Game” Season 2, as Gi Hun navigates a new set of challenges in this twisted world.

“Squid Game” Season 2 will premiere on Netflix on December 2. 2024.

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‘Gyeongseong Creature’ Season 2 Stills Introduce 2 New Characters

Netflix’s “Gyeongseong Creature” Season 2 has just unveiled exciting new stills of the cast, offering a glimpse into the thrilling storyline and new characters.

2 New Characters Confirmed for ‘Gyeongseong Creature’ Season 2

One of the most intriguing reveals is Jang Ho Jae (played by Park Seo Joon), the vice president of Bugang Sangsa, a private agency that takes on any task in exchange for money. His character bears a striking resemblance to Jang Tae Sang, the head of Gyeongseong’s top pawnshop, Geumokdang, from Season 1.

This similarity raises questions about Ho Jae’s connection to Tae Sang and his hidden past. In the stills, Ho Jae is seen in a detective-like outfit, complete with sunglasses and a leather jacket, exuding a mysterious aura as he searches for someone. Park Seo Joon’s portrayal of Ho Jae promises to bring new dimensions to the character, further immersing viewers in the complex narrative.

New ‘Gyeongseong Creature’ Characters

The stills also introduce Captain Kuroko, portrayed by Lee Moo Saeng. As the leader of the elite agents known as the Kurokos, Captain Kuroko operates within Jeonseung Pharmaceuticals, a shady organization involved in sinister activities. His character is depicted as ruthless, cold, and willing to commit brutal acts to achieve his goals. Kuroko’s commanding presence and strategic mind make him a formidable figure in the series. His decisions drive much of the action, and his ambitions will undoubtedly play a pivotal role in the story’s unfolding.

Another character to watch out for is Seung Jo, portrayed by Bae Hyeon Seong, a standout member of the Kurokos. Seung Jo is a highly skilled operative, but his sorrowful yet menacing gaze hints at a deeper emotional backstory. He recognizes Yoon Chae Ok (Han So Hee) immediately, sensing that she possesses similar abilities. His relentless pursuit of her adds an extra layer of tension, as viewers are left to wonder about the true nature of their connection and the mysteries surrounding both characters.

Season 1 of “Gyeongseong Creature” was set in the dark times of Spring 1945, following an entrepreneur and a sleuth battling a monster born of human greed. Season 2 picks up the story in modern-day Seoul, where Yoon Chae Ok, having survived the events of 1945, meets Ho Jae, further intertwining their fates.

“Gyeongseong Creature” Season 2 is set to premiere on September 27, promising more suspense and action.

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Ok Taecyeon Discusses His First BL Role in Netflix’s ‘Soul Mate’

Ok Taecyeon is set to star in a new Netflix production titled Soul Mate. On June 27, an industry insider revealed that Taecyeon is currently filming this series, which tells the story of a Japanese man, Narutaki Ryu, and a Korean boxer, Hwang Yo Han. Over the course of a decade, the two meet in Seoul, Berlin, and Tokyo, forming a close bond as they heal each other’s wounds.

Japanese actor Isomura Hayato will play Ryu to Taecyeon’s Yo Han. Hayato is known for starring in shows like Alice in Borderland, Kamen Rider Ghost, Kinou nani tabeta?, and many more. Meanwhile, Taecyeon, best known as a member of the K-pop boy group 2PM under JYP Entertainment, has also made a name for himself as an actor in various K-dramas, including Dream High and Vincenzo.

Soul Mate was initially described as a “bromance,” but recent updates confirm that the relationship between Ryu and Yo Han goes beyond mere friendship. Netflix’s official X account posted a photo of Taecyeon and Hayato sitting side-by-side. The photo’s caption referred to the series as “a 10-year-long love story between two young men.” As if that wasn’t confirmation enough, Netflix also uploaded the tags for Soul Mate, filing it under their “LGBTQ+ TV Shows” category. They also described the show as bittersweet, sentimental, and emotional.

The X post went viral, amassing 1.8 million views as of this writing. This is understandable, as Soul Mate will be Taecyeon’s first BL drama. While Taecyeon has taken on many mainstream roles over the years, this project represents a new and exciting challenge for him.

Taecyeon speaks

Taecyeon expressed his excitement about the role, saying, “I’m extremely delighted to be appearing in Soul Mate. Because there were so many types of characters and genres that I hadn’t tried yet, I’d been wanting to gradually broaden my spectrum [as an actor] and discover new sides of myself, and right at that time, I received the offer to star in Soul Mate.”

He added, “While reading the script, I was intrigued by the character of Hwang Yo Han, and even after I’d finished the script, Yo Han’s inner pain and struggles stayed with me for a long time, which is why I chose the project. Even during filming, I’m continuing the diet and boxing training that I started before filming; that’s how hard I’m working to portray the character of Yo Han with sincerity, so I hope viewers will also look forward to the drama.”

Despite Netflix’s post and Taecyeon’s words, fans are still worried that the show won’t live up to their expectations. They have reason to worry, as mainstream dramas usually have unhappy endings in store for queer love stories. But here’s hoping Soul Mate won’t disappoint! – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: Who’s excited to see this fine specimen cozy up to another man? Source: Naver.

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Sweet Home 3 Trailer Teases Epic Final Battle

The trailer hints at an intense showdown between humans and monsters

“Sweet Home” follows a high school loner, Hyun Soo, who moves into a new apartment complex just as monsters begin to emerge, trapping the residents inside. Sweet Home 3 promises to heighten the stakes as the world transitions from monsterization to a new human era, with humans in a brutal struggle for survival.

The new trailer and poster for “Sweet Home 3” captivate viewers with striking visuals. Hyun Soo (Song Kang) and Sang Wook (Lee Jin Wook) stand against the backdrop of a destroyed, flaming stadium. Hyun Soo, now with monstrous wings covered in sharp spikes, and Sang Wook, wielding long tentacles, stand back-to-back, ready for confrontation.

The trailer opens with: “From the very beginning, I was you. I was always a part of you. Another version of you,” suggesting a deep connection between Hyun Soo and the monsters. As Eun Yu (Go Min Si) urges him to join her, Hyun Soo feels the weight of his responsibility to bring closure to the chaos.

The teaser for Sweet Home 3 provides glimpses of Eun Hyuk’s (Lee Do Hyun) transformation. He cryptically states, “I was once human like you, but then I was reborn.” His revelation, “Neohuman. I’m on the last step of monsterization,” hints at the emergence of a new species. This raises anticipation for the season’s dramatic developments.

When Hyun Soo and Eun Hyuk meet again, they engage in a fierce battle, with Hyun Soo questioning, “Why did you even show up?” Tensions peak when Sang Wook arrives at the stadium, igniting further chaos. Hyun Soo and Eun Hyuk unite against him, with Hyun Soo vowing, “I’ll get him out and kill him for good no matter what. Giving up isn’t an option.”

Sweet Home solidifies success with previous seasons securing the top 10 spot on Netflix

“Sweet Home” Season 1 achieved remarkable success on Netflix. Upon its release, “Sweet Home” quickly climbed Netflix’s top 10 charts in numerous countries. This is all thanks to its unique blend of horror, drama, and stunning visual effects. The show’s success was supported by its strong ensemble cast. Actors Song Kang and Lee Jin-wook’s performances add depth and emotionality to the high-stakes narrative.

The success of “Sweet Home” paved the way for a highly anticipated second season, which continued to build on the thrilling foundation. Season 2 expanded the show’s universe, introducing new characters and even more terrifying creatures. The storyline delved deeper into the mysteries of the monster outbreak and the personal struggles of the survivors.

Fans praised the show for maintaining its high production values and delivering even more intense and imaginative horror sequences. With its compelling plot twists and pacing, “Sweet Home” Season 2 solidified the series’ status as a standout in the horror genre on Netflix, further cementing its global popularity and critical acclaim.

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Nominees Announced for the 3rd Blue Dragon Awards

The nominations for the 3rd Blue Dragon Series Awards 2024 have been announced. Presented by Sports Chosun, this ceremony is South Korea’s premier award event dedicated to streaming platforms. Since its inception in 2022, the Blue Dragon Series Awards have highlighted outstanding achievements in K-dramas, variety shows, and other streaming content. This year’s ceremony promises to be an exciting event, celebrating many talented actors, actresses, and entertainers.

Among the nominated K-dramas for the 2024 awards are popular titles such as “Mask Girl,” “Moving,” and “A Killer Paradox.” Renowned actors like Ryu Seung-Ryong and Ryu Jun-Yeol have secured nominations for their impressive performances. The actresses category features notable names such as Park Bo-Young and Ahn Eun-Jin. The ceremony will be held on Friday, July 19, 2024, at 8:50 p.m. KST on KBS2.

Complete list of nominees for the 3rd Blue Dragon Series Awards 2024

Best Drama

  • Mask Girl
  • Moving
  • A Killer Paradox
  • LTNS
  • Daily Dose of Sunshine

Best Actor

  • Ryu Seung Ryong – Moving
  • Ryu Jun Yeol – The 8 Show
  • Byun Yo Han – Uncle Samsik
  • Im Siwan – Boyhood
  • Choi Woo Shik – A Killer Paradox

Best Actress

  • Park Bo Young – Daily Dose of Sunshine
  • Ahn Eun Jin – Goodbye Earth
  • Esom – LTNS
  • Chun Woo Hee – The 8 Show
  • Han Hyo Joo – Moving

Best Supporting Actor

  • Kim Sung Kyun – Moving
  • Seo Hyun Woo – A Shop for Killers
  • Ahn Jae Hong – Mask Girl
  • Lee Kyu Hyung – Uncle Samsik
  • Lee Hee Joon – A Killer Paradox

Best Supporting Actress

  • Kwak Sun Young – Moving
  • Geum Hae Na – A Shop for Killers
  • Yeom Hye Ran – Mask Girl
  • Lee Joo Young – The 8 Show
  • Tiffany Young – Uncle Samsik

Best New Actor

  • Kim Woo Seok – Night Has Come
  • Noh Jae Won – Daily Dose of Sunshine
  • Lee Si Woo – Boyhood
  • Lee Jung Ha – Moving
  • Choi Hyun Wook – High Cookie

Best New Actress

  • Go Youn Jung – Moving
  • Kim Hye Joon – A Shop for Killers
  • Lee Yul Eum – The 8 Show
  • Jang Da Ah – Pyramid Game
  • Jeon So Nee – Parasyte: The Grey

Best Variety Show

  • The Devil’s Plan
  • The Community
  • SNL Korea Season 5
  • My Sibling’s Romance
  • Crime Scene Returns

Best Male Entertainer

  • Dex – Zombieverse
  • Shin Dong Yup – SNL Korea Season 5
  • Cho Sae Ho – Super Rich in Korea
  • Ji Suk Jin – Bro & Marble in Dubai
  • Code Kunst – My Sibling’s Romance

Best Female Entertainer

  • Park Ji Yoon – Crime Scene Returns
  • Lee Soo Ji – SNL Korea Season 5
  • Jang Do Yeon – High School Mystery Club 3
  • Joo Hyun Young – Crime Scene Returns
  • Pungja – Be My Side 3

Best New Male Entertainer

  • Kwak Joon Bin – The Devil’s Plan
  • Ahn Do Gyu – SNL Korea Season 5
  • Jeong Sewoon – 19/20
  • Jonathan – Zombieverse
  • Joo Woo Jae – Witch Hunt 2023

Best New Female Entertainer

  • Miyeon – My Sibling’s Romance
  • Uhm Ji Yoon – Comedy Royale
  • Yoon Gai – SNL Korea Season 5
  • Ji Ye Eun – SNL Korea Season 5
  • Patricia – My Sibling’s Romance

The nominees were selected through online voting between June 10 and June 25, with evaluations by Sports Chosun entertainment news reporters and industry experts. All original streaming shows, series, and dramas aired between June 1, 2023, and May 31, 2024, were eligible for nominations.

Viewers can look forward to an evening of celebration and entertainment as the 3rd Blue Dragon Series Awards honors the best in South Korean streaming content. 

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Kim Seon Ho and Go Youn Jung In New Netflix Rom-Com

Netflix has officially confirmed the production of their upcoming series “Can This Love Be Translated” and has revealed an exciting cast lineup. The series stars Kim Seon Ho and Go Youn Jung, alongside Sota Fukushi, Lee Yi Dam, and Choi Woo Sung. This romantic comedy promises to deliver a unique storyline featuring a multilingual interpreter and a global superstar.

On June 27, the cast gathered for their first script reading, showcasing an early glimpse of their chemistry. The show revolves around Joo Ho Jin, portrayed by Kim Seon Ho, a multilingual interpreter who becomes the translator for Cha Mu Hee, a global superstar played by Go Youn Jung.

New addition to the Hong Sisters’ masterpieces

The series is penned by the renowned Hong sisters, famous for their hit dramas such as “Alchemy of Souls,” “Hotel Del Luna,” “The Greatest Love,” and “Master’s Sun.” Yoo Young Eun, who is celebrated for her visually striking and sensitively directed “Bloody Heart,” takes the helm as the director.

Kim Seon Ho, who skyrocketed in popularity in “Start-Up,” “Hometown Cha-Cha-Cha,” and the film “The Childe,” brings his charm to the character of Joo Ho Jin. His character’s fluency in multiple languages, including English, Japanese, and Italian, is sure to add an intriguing layer to the storyline.

Go Youn Jung, who has made a name for herself in the K-drama world, stars as Cha Mu Hee, a global superstar navigating the complexities of fame and personal connections. Her dynamic with Kim Seon Ho’s character is expected to be a highlight of the series.

The production of “Can This Love Be Translated” has generated a buzz among fans and critics alike. With the combined talent of the Hong sisters and Yoo Young Eun, and a star-studded cast, the series is poised to become a hit.

Stay tuned for more updates on the release date and further developments.

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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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