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

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’

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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Kim Ji Hoon Discusses Steamy ‘Money Heist’ Sex Scene

Back in 2022, Netflix premiered “Money Heist: Korea – Joint Economic Area,” the Korean adaptation of the popular Spanish thriller series “Money Heist”. The show featured a passionate sex scene involving actors Kim Ji Hoon and Lee Joo Bin, portraying the characters Oh Taek Su (Denver) and Yoon Mi Sun. Now, Kim Ji Hoon has shared behind-the-scenes details of the infamous “Money Heist” sex scene during an appearance on Jang Sung Kyu’s “Don’t Forget Your Breakfast” Episode 8.

Kim Ji Hoon Reveals Behind-the-Scenes of “Money Heist: Korea” Sex Scene

During the interview, Jang Sung Kyu mentioned watching “Money Heist: Korea” and brought up the steamy sex scene featuring Kim Ji Hoon. The actor revealed that it was not only his first but also his last sex scene that audiences would see. He went on to share interesting details about the filming process, shedding light on how such scenes are managed in the industry.

Kim Ji Hoon clarified that during the filming, he and co-star Lee Joo Bin were not fully naked but were wearing protective coverings that resembled diapers. This is a common practice in the industry to ensure the comfort and privacy of the actors involved. He emphasized that the use of body coverings is part of the professional approach to intimate scenes, providing a level of modesty for the actors.

One notable revelation was that the set did not have an intimacy director during the filming of the scene. Intimacy directors have become more common in the industry to guide actors through sensitive and intimate scenes, ensuring a safe and consensual working environment. Kim Ji Hoon’s mention of the absence of an intimacy director highlights the evolving practices within the Korean entertainment industry.

Despite the unique circumstances surrounding the scene, Kim Ji Hoon praised the collaborative effort between him and Lee Joo Bin, emphasizing that they managed to pull off the passionate scene successfully.

Kim Ji Hoon’s insights into the behind-the-scenes aspects of the “Money Heist: Korea” sex scene provide viewers with a glimpse into the considerations and practices followed during the filming of intimate moments in the entertainment industry. As the industry continues to evolve, discussions around consent, comfort, and professionalism in such scenes become increasingly important.

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‘Squid Game’ Season 2 Drops First Look at Lee Jung Jae, Lee Byung Hun, Gong Yoo, And More

Netflix’s mega-hit series “Squid Game” has given fans an exciting sneak peek into its highly-anticipated second season with the release of a set of intriguing stills featuring Lee Jung Jae, Lee Byung Hun, and more. The reveal has sparked a wave of anticipation as viewers eagerly await the continuation of the suspenseful and deadly games that captivated audiences worldwide.

“Squid Game” Season 2 Offers First Glimpse at Lee Jung Jae, Gong Yoo, and More

The first stills from “Squid Game 2” offer glimpses into the evolving storyline and the fate of familiar characters. Protagonist Sung Ki Hoon, portrayed by Lee Jung Jae, takes center stage as he opts not to join his daughter in the United States. Instead, he embarks on a new journey, entwined with the deadly games that defined the first season. The decision also sets the stage for a deeper exploration of Ki Hoon’s character and his motivations.

One of the striking images reveals the enigmatic Front Man, portrayed by Lee Byung Hun, with his mask off. The enigma surrounding the character is also set to unravel, providing fans with a closer look at the person behind the orchestrator of the brutal games. Additionally, the mysterious Salesman, played by Gong Yoo, who played a pivotal role in recruiting Ki Hoon in Season 1, adds another layer of intrigue.

The first look into Season 2 also introduces a new character, portrayed by Park Gyu Young. This fresh addition to the cast is seen as a new Squid Game contestant, raising questions about her role and the challenges that lie ahead for the characters.

Who is in “Squid Game 2”?

The upcoming season promises to continue the intense and suspenseful narrative that made “Squid Game” a global phenomenon. The addition of new cast members, including T.O.P (Cho Seung-hyun) from BIGBANG and Jo Yuri from IZ*ONE, also adds further excitement to the mix.

With the revelation of these captivating stills, the anticipation for “Squid Game 2” has reached new heights. As fans eagerly await the release, the first glimpses hint at a continuation of the intricate storyline, character developments, and the high-stakes games that have become synonymous with the series. “Squid Game” Season 2 is also poised to captivate audiences once again with its unique blend of suspense, drama, and social commentary.

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Lee Byung Hun Denies Noh Hee Kyung Project Casting

Renowned actor Lee Byung Hun has refuted reports linking him to the upcoming project by writer Noh Hee Kyung, dismissing the claims as “unfounded.”

Lee Byung Hun Denies Involvement in Noh Hee Kyung Project, Focuses on ‘Squid Game Season 2’

Initial reports had suggested that Lee Byung Hun was in talks to join the next project by Noh Hee Kyung. However, his agency, BH Entertainment, has officially denied his participation in the untitled project.

Although he won’t be collaborating with Noh Hee Kyung in the near future, Lee Byung Hun is far from idle. His agency confirmed that the actor will be dedicating his time exclusively to “Squid Game” Season 2 throughout the year. Following the immense success of the first season, Netflix is gearing up for the release of the second season, featuring a stellar cast that includes Lee Jung-jae, Wi Ha-jun, Kang Ha-neul, and others.

In ‘Squid Game – Season 2’, Lee Byung Hun’s character is unveiled as the brother of Jun-ho, portrayed by Wi Ha-jun, and the initial victor of the intense survival game. This revelation adds an extra layer of anticipation for fans eagerly awaiting the continuation of the globally acclaimed series.

Despite refuting involvement in Noh Hee Kyung’s project, Lee Byung Hun has been actively recognized for his outstanding contributions to the entertainment industry. At the 44th Blue Dragon Film Awards, he clinched the Best Actor accolade for his role in ‘Concrete Utopia.’ This achievement marks his second win at the prestigious awards ceremony, following his earlier triumph for ‘Inside Men’ in 2016.

Lee Byung Hun’s continuous success and dedication to high-profile projects, such as ‘Squid Game – Season 2,’ reaffirm his status as a leading figure in the Korean entertainment scene. Fans can eagerly anticipate his compelling performances and contributions to the industry in the coming year.

“Squid Game” Season 2 has not yet been given an official release date.

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GOT7’s Bambam to Host New Netflix Show ‘Super Rich in 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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Are the Final Couples from ‘Single’s Inferno’ 3 Dating?

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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Han So Hee Discusses Similarities With “Gyeongseong Creature” Character

ELLE Korea has unveiled a captivating new pictorial featuring the talented actress Han So Hee. In an accompanying interview, she offered insights into her experience filming her latest period drama and shared reflections on her “Gyeongseong Creature” character Chae Ok.

Han So Hee on her ‘Gyeongseong Creature’ Character

Han expressed her dedication to portraying the historical context in “Gyeongseong Creature,” highlighting that it marks her return to the small screen after a two-year hiatus. The period drama required her to immerse herself in the intricacies of the era, and she admitted to being so engrossed during filming that she found it challenging to divert her attention from the intense scenes unfolding on set.

Speaking about her “Gyeongseong Creature” character Chae Ok, Han So Hee drew parallels between herself and the determined protagonist. She revealed, “We’re similar in the way that when we both decide to do something, we must see it through to the end in order to feel at ease.” This dedication to follow through with decisions resonates with the strong-willed nature of her character.

Han So Hee further delved into Chae Ok’s motivations in the drama, emphasizing that the character’s decade-long search for her mother wasn’t solely driven by a longing for familial connection. Instead, it was motivated by the need to personally confront and confirm certain truths. This insight adds layers to Chae Ok’s character, suggesting a depth of purpose and determination that fuels her journey in the narrative.

What Happened in ‘Gyeongseong Creature’?

Set against the backdrop of spring 1945, “Gyeongseong Creature” unfolds a tale of survival and intrigue, involving an entrepreneur (Park Seo Joon) and a sleuth (Han So Hee) grappling with a monster born out of human greed. The historical context, combined with the complex characters, promises a compelling storyline that transcends typical period dramas.

Notably, “Gyeongseong Creature” marks Han So Hee’s return to the action drama genre since her previous project “My Name.” Her involvement in such diverse genres showcases her versatility as an actress, and fans eagerly anticipate witnessing her captivating performance in this historical thriller. The ELLE Korea pictorial and interview offer a glimpse into Han So Hee’s multifaceted talents and the immersive world of “Gyeongseong Creature.”

“Gyeongseong Creature” has been renewed for a second season. In the meantime, Han So Hee’s full interview can be found in the February issue of ELLE Korea.

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Netflix’s ‘Gyeongseong Creature’ to Return for Season 2

On Monday, January 8, Netflix announced that the hit original South Korean series Gyeongseong Creature will be back for a second season.

In a one-minute teaser, the show appears to be hinting at how the second season is set to unfold in Contemporary Seoul. At the end of the clip, Park Seo Joon makes an appearance while looking over the buildings outside his place.

Interestingly, the new season is expected to extend its narrative to the modern day. To recall, the first season of Gyeongseong Creature told the tale of Imperial Japan and their experiments in creating a monster in the year 1945. 

Moreover, the drama’s director Chung Dong Yoon, said that the second season will have a completely different charm. “The change in space and time period will provide a clear distinction, offering an expanded universe feel,” he said in a press release.

What to expect in ‘Gyeongseong Creature’ season 2

Released in late 2023, the first part of the historical  thriller series revolved around the story of Jang Sae Tang, which was played by actor Park Seo Joon. In the series, he gets caught up infiltrating a hospital where the experiments are made. At this hospital, he meets Han So Hee’s character Yoon Chae Ok, who happens to sneak into the hospital as well. Then, the two had to fight for survival as they battled a man-made monster.

Following the suspenseful plot, the first season captivated worldwide audiences and garnered millions of views. According to reports, the drama even placed a spot in Netflix’s Top 10 list of 69 countries across the globe. 

Now that the show is confirmed to make its highly anticipated sequel, fans can’t wait to see how the story will unfold. Moreover, it was revealed in the teaser that Seo Joon will play a different role by the name of Ho Jae, who resembles Tae Sang of the first season. 

Furthermore, Seo Joon and So Hee will also be joined by actor Lee Moo Saeng in the second season. He is best known for his roles in  39, The Glory and Maestra: Strings of Truth. However, details about his character in the sequel have yet to be announced.

Although there is no official date yet, Gyeongseong Creature Season 2 is expected to be released this 2024.

Featured image: Netflix releases still images from filming of ‘Gyeongseong Creature.’ Credit: Twitter/Netflix Korea

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Han So Hee Discusses Shocking Injury During ‘Gyeongseong Creature’ Filming

During a press conference for the upcoming Netflix series “Gyeongseong Creature,” actress Han So Hee shared a behind-the-scenes story that involved her sustaining a shocking injury while filming for the show. The press conference, held on December 19, brought together the director and cast members to discuss the highly anticipated series.

Han So Hee Opens Up About Shocking Injury on ‘Gyeongseong Creature’ Set

Han So Hee revealed that the injury occurred last August while she was on set for “Gyeongseong Creature.” The incident resulted in a facial injury around her eye, prompting her to seek immediate medical attention at the emergency room. At the time, there was concern that the injury might require surgery, but her agency 9ATO Entertainment later clarified that the injury was not as severe as initially feared and did not necessitate surgical intervention.

I got hurt because I was being too greedy. In action scenes, injuries are not exclusive to me; the stunt team and all actors participating in the action scenes get hurt… It’s fortunate if you don’t get hurt, but it’s an environment where you can’t do action without getting hurt. Everyone approaches the filming with sincerity,” she said.

“One thing I overlooked was not distinguishing between what I could and couldn’t do. I think if I had made that distinction, I could have avoided the injury,” Han continued. “Risking everything doesn’t mean I could do it. I feel regret that I interrupted the filming… Now, I’m okay. I got hurt because I was too ambitious to do well, so I hope you don’t worry too much.”

Despite the setback, Han So Hee displayed resilience and continued with her commitment to the project. The incident highlights the physical challenges and risks that actors often face during the filming of action-packed or intense scenes.

What is ‘Gyeongseong Creature’ About?

“Gyeongseong Creature” is a Netflix thriller that revolves around the struggles of two young individuals as they confront a monster spawned by human greed. The series also stars Park Seo Joon. It is set to be released in two parts, with the first part premiering on December 22 and the second part scheduled for release on January 5 of the following year.

The actress’s dedication to her role, even in the face of adversity, showcases the professionalism and determination of Han So Hee. As the series gears up for its premiere, fans are eagerly anticipating the unfolding of the thrilling narrative and the performances of the cast, including Han So Hee, in this Netflix original production.

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