Categories
FEATURES LATEST STORIES

Park Sung Hoon Returns to Social Media After Controversy

Park Sung Hoon has ended his hiatus from social media. The “Squid Game” actor has finally posted on Instagram, this time to promote his upcoming W Korea cover.

Park Sung Hoon Shares Stunning Gucci Photos Amid Post-Controversy Comeback

On January 17, actor Park Sung Hoon posted three striking photos on his social media, captioned simply, “W. GUCCI.” The images feature the actor dressed in elegant attire from luxury brand Gucci, taken for the special “Squid Game” cover editions of W Korea. The magazine spotlights the cast members of Netflix’s “Squid Game 2”, each showcasing their unique allure.

Park Sung Hoon’s post immediately drew significant attention, marking his first social media activity since his recent controversy involving an explicit parody poster.

Back on December 30, Park Sung Hoon inadvertently uploaded a porn parody poster of “Squid Game 2” to his Instagram. The post was swiftly deleted after sparking intense backlash. In a later interview for “Squid Game 2”, the actor explained that the upload was accidental. Nevertheless, the controversy created waves, with criticism lingering despite his efforts to clarify the situation.

On January 8, Park Sung Hoon appeared at an official “Squid Game 2” interview event, where he delivered an emotional apology. Addressing the press, he stated, “I am deeply sorry for causing discomfort with such a huge mistake. I will accept any criticism.” His heartfelt acknowledgment and tearful demeanor moved some fans, but public opinion remained divided.

In the aftermath, the actor stepped down from his lead role in tvN’s highly anticipated drama “The Tyrant’s Chef,” signaling the gravity of the situation.

Despite the setbacks, his recent collaboration with Gucci and W Korea indicates his determination to regain his footing in the industry. Fans are watching closely to see how Park Sung Hoon navigates this challenging period in his career while continuing his involvement in “Squid Game 2” and other projects.

Categories
FEATURES K-DRAMA LATEST STORIES

T.O.P Confirms Surprising Injury While Filming ‘Squid Game 2’

He may be playing the fan-favorite character but T.O.P didn’t have it easy on the set of “Squid Game” Season 2. The former BIGBANG member revealed that he was injured while filming for the Netflix series.

T.O.P Reveals Unexpected Injury on ‘Squid Game 2’ Set

Choi Seung Hyun recently sat down for an interview to promote “Squid Game 2”. The idol, who played the rapper Thanos in the show, opened up about breaking his ribs while filming a fight scene with co-star Im Siwan.

I received simple treatment, and since it was a scene with many actors, I felt a sense of responsibility and did it all the way through,” Choi said. He also praised the ZE:A member for handling the scene well.

“Im Si-wan also has a lot of experience in action scenes, so I felt good while relying on him while filming together,” he said.

In the second season of “Squid Game”, Thanos (Choi) is forced to join the game after losing millions for investing in a crypto scam that also involves Lee Myung Gi (Im). The rapper continuously harasses Lee during the game, culminating in a fight in the men’s bathroom.

Despite the character’s cocky ways, Thanos has become a fan favorite among viewers. Some believe that the character’s popularity was pushed by T.O.P’s performance, which he attributes to serious research.

I learned that if you depend on that kind of drug, your teeth will be damaged, you will be anxious, you will feel extreme anxiety and lethargy, and you will also show ADHD symptoms, so I tried to act differently before and after taking the drug,” Choi shared. “I intentionally made my speech rhythm and pronunciation slurred like those of hip-hop rappers in the American South who use drugs.”

Needless to say, all the research paid off as Thanos became the most popular character this season.

“Squid Game” Season 2 is still streaming on Netflix.

Categories
KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

T.O.P Opens Up About BIGBANG Departure

T.O.P has broken his silence about his departure from BIGBANG. The “Squid Game” Season 2 star also revealed the reason why he chooses not to reach out to the other members.

T.O.P Speaks Up About Leaving BIGBANG

On January 15, T.O.P finally granted an interview while promoting the second season of “Squid Game”. The former BIGBANG member discussed his departure from the group. He confirmed that his decision was an effort to protect the other members from backlash over his controversy.

“To be honest, I caused so much damage to the team called Big Bang and my former company because of my mistakes,” T.O.P said. “That’s why I decided to leave the team several years ago because I couldn’t cause any more damage to the agency and the members.”

“Now, I have to do something on my own, and I have to endure the criticism that comes afterward,” he continued. Choi Seung Hyun also spoke about possibly returning to BIGBANG but chooses not to do so to protect the other members.

If I go back to the team that I caused damage to, I would feel ashamed that my mistakes would be applied to the members, and it would be very painful for me,” he said.

When I saw fans who wanted a reunion or posts like this, my heart ached. Because I wanted to make it clear, but I had no outlet to talk about it,” Choi continued. “When I saw posts from fans who wanted a reunion and photos of the members, I felt guilty, and it felt like I was looking at photos of a family that had broken up. It was reckless to choose that method, but that’s how it is now. I don’t even contact the members. I feel so sorry, so I can’t contact them easily.

Although T.O.P is no longer a member of BIGBANG, it is clear he still cares about the other members and continues to support them.

“Squid Game” Season 2 is currently streaming on Netflix.

Categories
FEATURES LATEST STORIES

Squid Game’ Star T.O.P Discusses Netflix Show Casting

Former BIGBANG member T.O.P has broken his long silence and finally participated in an interview to talk about his role in the hit series “Squid Game” Season 2. Interestingly, Choi Seung Hyun revealed how he dealt with the controversies associated with his casting in the Netflix series.

T.O.P Addresses ‘Squid Game’ Season 2 Casting

After 11 years of silence, Choi Seung Hyun has granted interviews to promote his latest project. T.O.P opened up about being cast as Thanos, a down-on-his-luck rapper who lost millions and ended up participating in the dangerous Squid Game.

So how did Choi end up being offered the role in the Netflix show? “I first received an audition offer through the production company,” he revealed. “Frankly speaking, I had a lot of concerns when I saw the character of Thanos.”

T.O.P then shared, “It was because of my past mistakes and the parts where I had to confront my own shame. I worried a lot, thinking that my image might become permanently associated with this. But somehow, I felt that being given such a role, almost like it was fate, might have a deeper meaning. So, I filmed an audition video and sent it to the production company. The director liked it and arranged a meeting with me.”

Choi also pointed out that he became aware of the controversies surrounding his casting. “Rather than feeling wronged, I was more sad by the thought that I might be causing harm to such a big and remarkable project,” he said. “I also felt incredibly apologetic to the senior actors who were misunderstood because of me.”

Despite the controversies, Choi’s performance in “Squid Game” Season 2 proved to be a standout as viewers lauded the former idol for stealing the show. Unfortunately, the season concluded with Thanos being one of the casualties of the dangerous games. Nevertheless, we’re expecting to see more of T.O.P in other projects in the future.

“Squid Game” Season 2 is currently streaming on Netflix.

Categories
FEATURES K-DRAMA LATEST STORIES

Park Sung Hoon Leaves ‘The Tyrant’s Chef’ Cast

Park Sung Hoon has officially stepped down from the cast of the upcoming drama “The Tyrant’s Chef” (literal translation).

‘Squid Game’ Season 2 Star Bows Out of Upcoming Drama

In December 2024, it was reported that Park Sung Hoon was in talks to star as the male lead opposite Girls’ Generation’s YoonA in the drama. The project, produced by Studio Dragon, had garnered significant anticipation due to its intriguing premise and star-studded potential cast.

However, later that month, Park Sung Hoon became embroiled in controversy after sharing the cover image of a “Squid Game”-themed AV (adult video) on his Instagram Stories. Though the actor quickly deleted the post, it sparked backlash online. His agency, BH Entertainment, clarified that Park Sung Hoon had saved the image to notify agency staff after receiving it via DM but accidentally uploaded it. Despite the explanation, criticism persisted, with many calling for him to withdraw from “The Tyrant’s Chef”.

On January 12, Studio Dragon confirmed the actor’s departure, stating, “After thorough discussions between the production team and Park Sung Hoon’s representatives, it has been decided that his participation in the project will not proceed.”

They added, “Both the actor and his agency have expressed their apologies regarding the incident, and all parties engaged in in-depth discussions. Ultimately, we agreed to part ways.”

Studio Dragon further explained that new casting decisions and the schedule for the first script reading are yet to be finalized. Meanwhile, fans are eagerly awaiting updates on the production, as the drama remains one of the most anticipated projects of the year.

Park Sung Hoon’s departure highlights the increasing scrutiny faced by public figures in today’s digital age, emphasizing the importance of responsible online behavior for celebrities.

Meanwhile, Park Sung Hoon is expected to return in the third season of “Squid Game”, which airs on Netflix later this year.

Categories
FEATURES K-DRAMA LATEST STORIES

‘Squid Game’ 2 Star Lee Jung Jae in Talks For New Rom-Com Drama

Lee Jung Jae and Lim Ji Yeon might be sharing the screen in a new rom-com drama! The “Squid Game” Season 2 actor and the star of “The Glory” are currently in negotiations to work on “Petty Love” (literal title).

Lee Jung Jae Considering Lead Role in New Rom-Com Drama

On November 20, reports emerged that the two stars were cast as the leads in the project. Both actors’ agency, Artist Company, responded, “They have received offers for the project and are currently reviewing them.” Meanwhile, the production company Studio &NEW confirmed, “It’s true we have extended offers to the two actors. The project is currently in pre-production.”

“Petty Love” is set to explore the humor and tension in a love-hate relationship between two distinctly different individuals. The drama follows a veteran actor, celebrated for his detective roles, who dreams of becoming a romantic comedy star, and a former award-winning political journalist, now navigating life in the entertainment world after an unexpected demotion. Written by Jung Yeo Rang of “Doctor Cha” fame and directed by Kim Ga Ram of “Good Partner”, the series promises a blend of witty dialogue, heartfelt moments, and comedic tension.

A Talented Cast

Lee Jung Jae has been offered the role of Im Hyun Joon, an iconic actor celebrated for his portrayal of the righteous detective Kang Pil Gu in the fictional hit series “Good Cop Kang Pil Gu”. Despite his fame, Im Hyun Joon dreams of shedding his “detective king” image and carving a new path as a romantic comedy lead. Struggling with creative burnout, he’s desperate for a career reinvention.

Lim Ji Yeon is considering the role of Wi Jung Sook, a fiercely intelligent journalist whose life takes a surprising turn when her corruption investigation leads to a demotion. Thrust into the entertainment department, she also encounters Im Hyun Joon, a celebrity she has long admired. As her professional and personal worlds collide, Jung Sook must also navigate newfound fandom and unexpected romance.

“Petty Love” is also slated to begin filming in 2024, with fans eagerly awaiting confirmation of its star-studded cast. Stay tuned for updates on this promising romantic comedy!

Categories
FEATURES K-DRAMA LATEST STORIES

‘Squid Game’ Season 2 Trailer Brings Back Familiar Games

The “Squid Game” Season 2 trailer is finally here, and it looks like the players will be involved in some familiar games!

‘Squid Game’ Season 2 Trailer Reveals Gi Hun’s Return

On November 1 KST, Netflix released a thrilling teaser trailer and posters for “Squid Game” Season 2, reigniting excitement among fans worldwide. The new teaser hints at the return to the deadly game but introduces an intriguing twist that raises the stakes. While in Season 1, players had only one chance to vote to end the game after the first round, Season 2 will allow the players to vote after each round. If a majority agrees to end the game, they will be allowed to leave with whatever prize money has been accumulated up to that point.

The teaser opens with familiar tension as Seong Gi Hun (played by Lee Jung Jae), the Season 1 protagonist, steps back into the game, this time bringing his hard-won knowledge and experience. During the infamous “Red Light, Green Light” game, he tries to guide the players, shouting “Freeze!” to help them avoid detection. But tension mounts as a bee lands on a fellow player, causing her to panic and move, jeopardizing everyone’s chances.

A later scene shows players taking part in the crucial vote on whether to continue. Seong Gi Hun passionately argues for them to leave, appealing to their shared survival instincts. However, some players begin to suspect his motives, questioning if he might be working for the game organizers. In frustration, he reveals, “I’ve played these games before!” stirring a mixture of disbelief and suspicion.

Skeptical of his claim, another player challenges him, questioning why a previous winner would return, and soon leads the group in a chant of, “One more round! One more round!”—a chilling testament to the addictive, manipulative pull of the game.

The New Posters

Accompanying the trailer, new posters capture the stark imagery of the game’s environment, with eerie shots of masked guards and cryptic symbols hinting at the deeper, sinister layers to come. These visuals suggest that Season 2 will delve further into the psychological manipulation and complex relationships among players, exploring themes of desperation, survival, and the relentless allure of wealth.

Set to premiere on December 26, “Squid Game” Season 2 promises to build upon the intense themes of its first season while expanding the narrative in new directions.

Categories
FEATURES K-DRAMA LATEST STORIES

‘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.

Categories
FEATURES K-DRAMA LATEST STORIES

Squid Game Season 2 Premier Date Announced

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Categories
FEATURES K-DRAMA LATEST STORIES

‘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.

Exit mobile version