TXT is officially the new face of Yoajung!

The popular premium dessert franchise has announced that TXT has been chosen as the brand’s first-ever global models.

The Korean Business Research Institute has revealed this month’s brand reputation rankings for individual girl group members!

The rankings were determined through a...]]>

The Korean Business Research Institute has revealed this month’s brand reputation rankings for individual girl group members!

The rankings were determined through an analysis of the consumer participation, media coverage, communication, and community awareness indexes of 730 girl group members, using big data collected from April 17 to May 17.

IVE’s Jang Won Young held onto her spot at the top of the list with a brand reputation index of 6,715,647 for May. High-ranking phrases in her keyword analysis included “BANG BANG,” “Lucky Vicky,” and “Wonyoung-esque mindset,” while her highest-ranking related terms included “sexy,” “advertise,” and “model.” Jang Won Young’s positivity-negativity analysis also revealed a score of 91.53 percent positive reactions.

BLACKPINK’s Jennie maintained her position at second place with a brand reputation index of 4,745,164, while aespa’s Karina held steady at third place with a score of 4,487,074.

IVE’s An Yu Jin rose to fourth place with a brand reputation index of 3,359,321, marking a 1.58 percent increase in her score since April.

Finally, BLACKPINK’s Lisa rounded out the top five for May with a brand reputation index of 3,142,015.

1. IVE’s Jang Won Young
2. BLACKPINK’s Jennie
3. aespa’s Karina
4. IVE’s An Yu Jin
5. BLACKPINK’s Lisa
6. aespa’s Winter
7. ILLIT’s Wonhee
8. BLACKPINK’s Jisoo
9. BLACKPINK’s Rosé
10. MAMAMOO’s Hwasa
11. aespa’s Ningning
12. KISS OF LIFE’s Natty
13. Red Velvet’s Joy
14. TWICE’s Jeongyeon
15. IVE’s Rei
16. LE SSERAFIM’s Kim Chaewon
17. NMIXX’s Sullyoon
18. IVE’s Liz
19. Red Velvet’s Seulgi
20. IVE’s Gaeul
21. Red Velvet’s Irene
22. TWICE’s Jihyo
23. aespa’s Giselle
24. IVE’s Leeseo
25. Girls’ Generation’s Taeyeon
26. Red Velvet’s Wendy
27. TWICE’s Dahyun
28. TWICE’s Mina
29. ITZY’s Yuna
30. ILLIT’s Moka

The food in the military mess isn’t exactly Michelin cuisine. But what happens when an innovative soldier with a knack of creating his own dishes turns the tables in the ba...]]>

The food in the military mess isn’t exactly Michelin cuisine. But what happens when an innovative soldier with a knack of creating his own dishes turns the tables in the barracks and has his hangry comrades feeling satiated for once? The mission could be a recipe for disaster, or not, as Private Kang Sung Jae (Park Ji Hoon) discovers.

Sung Jae has been certified as the best trainee in bootcamp and is assigned to the Gangrim outpost. He finds himself not only at the center of attention amongst his superiors but also discovers a mysterious quest window. This is just the beginning of his adventures in the military, not as a soldier, but possibly as a Masterchef.

“The Legend of Kitchen Soldier” is a feel good military comedy which serves up humor, heart and a dash of fantasy. Here is what you can expect in the premiere episodes.

Warning: spoilers ahead!

The premiere episode opens with an introduction to the new military recruit, Private Kang Sung Jae. On the way to his new posting, the newly minted trainee tells us he hopes it is the beginning of his new innings as a loyal and brave soldier of the Republic of South Korea.

However, he receives unexpected attention when Master Sergeant Park Jae Young (Yoon Kyung Ho) asks him to fill in his details in the dossier.

Sung Jae is quiet and reserved and is a bit skeptical about divulging his personal details. We learn his father recently passed away, and Sung Jae was enlisted soon after. His mother runs a food stall to support the family. Sung Jae, who has so far done odd jobs, hopes to find his mission during the course of his enlistment.

Reviewing the documents, Sergeant Park certifies him as an “S Class” recruit. He is flagged off as a candidate with potential mental health issues, and a smiley badge is pinned to his uniform so that his comrades take notice. Ironically, despite being viewed as unstable, Sung Jae appears to be far more perceptive than those around him, which becomes increasingly clear as the story progresses.

Soon, Sung Jae starts hallucinating as a virtual reality console, complete with voice-over instructions and solutions, opens up before him. He’s the only one who can see it, so his unit has all the more reason to believe he needs help since he appears to be staring into space. The seniors tells him it is a condition that befalls many, but he regards the VR console as a guardian watching over him.

Company Commander Hwang Seok Ho (Lee Sang Yi) decides to assign Sung Jae to kitchen duty. He tells Sung Jae that he would like him to cook the meals like his father did at the diner he ran. Though the moment may feel as if he has just been assigned to a department, it is one that carries weight.

We get a glimpse into Sung Jae’s past. Though the family lived humbly, surviving off “Sung Jae’s Diner,” which was run by his father, they were happy. Grappling with grief and putting up a brave front to the world, Seok Ho assigning him to the kitchen could be just what Sung Jae needs to heal.

The unit counsellor, on the other hand, rates Sung Jae as a sensitive young man, who is highly perceptive towards people’s feelings and not someone who can harm others or inflict harm on himself. But his supervisors are convinced he needs to be observed and not assigned dangerous duties.

Still, navigating the kitchen is like marking enemy lines. Run under Yoon Dong Hyun (Lee Hong Nae), known for his dreadful culinary skills, the meals that are served are not only tasteless, but downright inedible. Every bite of Dong Hyun’s cooking is a cry for help, so much so that even Sung Jae, on his first bite, feels he could possibly not survive the meal.

When Dong Hyun gives Sung Jae the herculean task of rearranging the pantry, the VR console guides him, and he handles it meticulously, even surprising the inspecting officer. However, despite the kitchen being like a battlefield and the food served doing little for morale, Dong Hyun remains unfazed. So much so that he walks away during mess hours, leaving Sung Jae to prep a meal for the Sergeant Major.

The VR forewarns him that the first meal is rarely ever a success, but he should pursue it. The object of the game, as he is told, is to become a legendary soldier chef and prepare innovative dishes. He also gets notifications from the console on the freshness of ingredients as well as skills in kitchen organization.

He recalls his father’s recipe and the secret ingredient which could help improvise the seaweed soup. As he is prepping, you see the first glimpse of happiness on his face. It is clear he is feeling close to his father.

However, it backfires since the Major gets an allergy attack due to the perilla seeds used and is hospitalized.

Is this the end for Sung Jae? The VR shows that he is rating high on the dislike meter. Dong Hyun hates him for messing up the kitchen, and Seok Ho is livid while the rest of the unit is gossiping that the new Private tried to kill the Major.

However, it is First Lieutenant Cho Ye Rin (Han Dong Hee), the supervisor of the kitchen, who stands up for him. She says she had tasted the soup, and there was nothing wrong with it. She seems like a person with a spine, but finds herself in a minority and unheard in the testosterone-driven unit.

Seok Ho is adamant and wants to transfer Sung Jae to another department called TOD (the thermal operation device). Sung Jae is not keen, since he has his heart set on being in the kitchen. Cooking is the mission he was seeking, and it’s something that makes him feel close to his family.

Sung Jae once again saves the day for Dong Hyun in the kitchen by removing the staleness from the rice as well as making refreshing bean sprout soup. The mood in the dining hall changes, and it is a first for the soldiers to be served a delicious meal. Though Dong Hyun is grateful for being bailed out by Sung Jae, it seems he is still getting transferred. The unit, on the other hand, cannot stop talking about the delicious breakfast. Has Dong Hyun had an awakening? Because it certainly couldn’t have been the strange new fellow.

Dong Hyun’s dislike meter becomes negligible now, and we see the first inkling of a bromance as he credits Sung Jae, telling the unit that he was the one who had cooked the rice and soup. But it seems Seok Ho remains unmovable and is going to transfer Sung Jae.

The mission to bring Private Sung Jae to the kitchen begins. Both Dong Hyun and Sung Jae devise a plan to serve a meal to Seok Ho, who only rejects their efforts. Ye Rin also decides to stand up and takes on Seok Ho. It’s a show of strength from the only woman in the battalion.

Sung Jae, for the first time, musters courage and says he wants to stay in the kitchen. He recalls what his father said: a meal cooked with sincerity will always bring happiness. Cooking is perhaps the task which makes him feel closest to his family as well as bringing happiness to those around him. This is what he wants to do. Sung Jae’s earnestness makes him an endearing character, someone you want to protect. You cannot help but root for this young boy, who finds expression through his cooking.

Usually, the depiction of military life on screen is one of harsh hierarchy, toxicity, and bullying in the foreground, showcasing the rigidity of the establishment. However, with “The Legend of the Kitchen Soldier,” humanism seems to be at the core, as does compassion despite the competitive environment. The quirky idea of the video game console is a clever execution and almost feels like a metaphor for Sung Jae’s father guiding him, or could also be his own subconscious installing confidence in himself. The drama also uses food not merely as comfort, but as memory, healing, and emotional connection.

“The Legend of Kitchen Soldier” is enjoyable fare, with its strong emotional core. Park Ji Hoon hits the ball out of the park with his earnest and natural performance, backed by strong chemistry amongst the ensemble cast. It’ll be fun to see how he cooks up a storm in the kitchen and serves the unit.

Start watching “The Legend of Kitchen Soldier”:

Puja Talwar is a Soompi writer with a strong Yoo Yeon Seok and Lee Junho bias. A long time K-drama fan, she loves devising alternate scenarios to the narratives. She has interviewed Lee Min Ho, Gong Yoo, Cha Eun Woo, and Ji Chang Wook to name a few. You can follow her on @puja_talwar7 on Instagram.

MBC’s “Perfect Crown” ended on a new personal record!

On May 16, the romance drama earned the highest viewership ratings of its entire run for its series finale. Ac...]]>

MBC’s “Perfect Crown” ended on a new personal record!

On May 16, the romance drama earned the highest viewership ratings of its entire run for its series finale. According to Nielsen Korea, the final episode of “Perfect Crown” scored an average nationwide rating of 13.8 percent, making it the most-watched program of any kind to air on Saturday.

Despite facing stiff competition from the “Perfect Crown” finale, SBS’s new drama “My Royal Nemesis” also rose to its highest ratings yet for its fourth episode, which earned a nationwide average of 6.0 percent.

tvN’s “Filing for Love” kicked off the second half of its run at first place in its time slot across all cable channels, scoring an average nationwide rating of 5.8 percent.

Meanwhile, JTBC’s “We Are All Trying Here” achieved its highest ratings to date for a Saturday (when its ratings have typically been lower compared to Sundays). The latest episode of the drama earned an average nationwide rating of 3.3 percent.

Finally, KBS 2TV’s “Recipe for Love” scored an average nationwide rating of 12.5 percent for its  latest episode.

The Asia Star Entertainer Awards (ASEA) 2026 kicked off tonight!

On May 16, the third annual Asia Star Entertainer Awards held the first night of its ceremony at th...]]>

The Asia Star Entertainer Awards (ASEA) 2026 kicked off tonight!

On May 16, the third annual Asia Star Entertainer Awards held the first night of its ceremony at the Belluna Dome in Japan.

ENHYPEN won a total of three awards, including two Daesangs (Grand Prizes). In addition to winning Artist of the Year and Album of the Year (for “DESIRE : UNLEASH”), the group also won The Platinum (a Bonsang).

Artist of the Year: ENHYPEN
Song of the Year: BLACKPINK (“JUMP”)
Album of the Year: ENHYPEN (“DESIRE : UNLEASH”)
Performance of the Year: &TEAM

The Platinum Award: ALPHA DRIVE ONE, ENHYPEN, IVE, &TEAM, CUTIE STREET, FRUITS ZIPPER

Top Touring Artist: MONSTA X

The Best Artist (Actor): 2PM’s Lee Junho, Kim Hye Yoon
The Best OTT Artist: Go Youn Jung
The Best Character (Actor): Lee Junho, Go Youn Jung

The Great Legacy Artist: Sato Atsuhiro

The Best New Artist: ALPHA DRIVE ONE
The Best Solo: Lim Young Woong, i-dle’s Yuqi
The Best Trot: Lim Young Woong

Producer Award: Kimura Misa

The Best Performance: KYOKA

Hot Trend: IDID, VVUP, CANDY TUNE, SWEET STEADY
Hot Icon: DXTEEN, CUTIE STREET, FRUITS ZIPPER

Congratulations to all of the winners! Stay tuned for the list of winners from Day 2, which will take place on May 17.

NEXZ’s Yu will not be attending the group’s upcoming fan signing event in Japan.

On May 17 KST, JYP Entertainment announced that Yu would be sitting out NEXZ’s “Mmc...]]>

NEXZ’s Yu will not be attending the group’s upcoming fan signing event in Japan.

On May 17 KST, JYP Entertainment announced that Yu would be sitting out NEXZ’s “Mmchk Special Japan Fan Sign Event” scheduled to take place that day.

The agency explained, “Due to an unexpected administrative issue, Yu encountered difficulties with entry procedures and, unfortunately, will not be able to participate in the event. Accordingly, the upcoming event will proceed with the remaining six members excluding Yu.”

JYP Entertainment’s full English statement is as follows:

Hello, this is JYPE.

We regret to inform you that Yu will be unable to attend the NEXZ – Mmchk Special Japan Fan Sign Event scheduled to take place in Japan on Sunday, May 17.

Due to an unexpected administrative issue, Yu encountered difficulties with entry procedures and, unfortunately, will not be able to participate in the event.

Accordingly, the upcoming event will proceed with the remaining 6 members excluding Yu.

We sincerely apologize to all the fans who were looking forward to the event.

We kindly ask for your understanding and support.

Thank you.

CORTIS has snagged a sixth trophy for their hit song “REDRED”!

On the May 16 episode of MBC’s “Music Core,” the candidates for first place were ILLIT’s “It’s Me,” AK...]]>

CORTIS has snagged a sixth trophy for their hit song “REDRED”!

On the May 16 episode of MBC’s “Music Core,” the candidates for first place were ILLIT’s “It’s Me,” AKMU’s “Paradise of Rumors,” and CORTIS’s “REDRED.” CORTIS ultimately took the win with a total of 6,830 points.

Congratulations to CORTIS! Watch their performance, win, and full encore below:

Other performers on today’s show included aespa, NMIXX, BOYNEXTDOOR, ILLIT, BABYMONSTER, TWS, Billlie, DRIPPIN’s ChaDongHyeop, FLARE U, YOUNITE, XngHan&Xoul, 82MAJOR, UNCHILD, H//PE Princess, KIIRAS, NAZE, and CrazAngel.

NMIXX – “Crescendo” and “Heavy Serenade”

BOYNEXTDOOR – “ddok ddok ddok”

ILLIT – “It’s Me”

BABYMONSTER – “CHOOM”

TWS – “You, You”

Billlie – “WORK”

DRIPPIN’s ChaDongHyeop – “Doogeundae”

FLARE U – “WAY 2 U”

YOUNITE – “POSE!”

XngHan&Xoul – “Glow”

82MAJOR – “Sign”

UNCHILD – “UNCHILD”

H//PE Princess – “Stolen” (Korean version)

NAZE – “People Talk”

KIIRAS – “TA TA”

CrazAngel – “Picasso”

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=flfAP1_hR1g

Get ready for an eventful company workshop on tvN’s “Filing for Love”!

“Filing for Love” is a new romantic comedy that tells the story of Noh Ki Jun (Gong Myoung), ...]]>

Get ready for an eventful company workshop on tvN’s “Filing for Love”!

“Filing for Love” is a new romantic comedy that tells the story of Noh Ki Jun (Gong Myoung), the ace of a major corporation’s audit department, who is suddenly demoted to the team that handles internal misconduct. As a result, he winds up getting entangled with Joo In Ah (Shin Hae Sun), a tough and eccentric team leader who is hiding a secret.

Spoilers

On the previous episode of “Filing for Love,” Noh Ki Jun boldly confessed his feelings to Joo In Ah, who was swayed by his unabashed honesty. Although Joo In Ah firmly pushed him away by comparing their relationship to a seemingly unattainable stuffed bear inside a claw machine, Noh Ki Jun refused to give up. After winning the bear in question, Noh Ki Jun made viewers’ hearts flutter by bringing Joo In Ah the stuffed toy and declaring, “See? It’s not impossible.”

In newly released stills from the drama’s next episode, Joo In Ah wears a worried expression as she tends to an injured Noh Ki Jun. While Noh Ki Jun has always steadfastly remained by her side, it is now Joo In Ah who is reaching out first to help him, and Noh Ki Jun’s comically wide eyes reveal just how surprised he is by Joo In Ah’s unexpectedly caring side.

However, this shift in the would-be couple’s dynamic isn’t the only thing that happens during Haemu Group’s team building workshop. While the workshop was originally intended to foster company unity, a massive scandal breaks out due to an unfortunate incident that leads to Audit Team 3 being summoned. Joo In Ah’s inability to hide her shock and Noh Ki Jun’s barely contained anger hint at the gravity of the situation.

The “Filing for Love” production team teased, “In Episode 7, which airs tonight, an opportunity arises for Joo In Ah and Noh Ki Jun to peek inside one another’s hearts and grow closer. You can also safely look forward to seeing how Noh Ki Jun and Joo In Ah navigate this scandal, which turned Haemu Group’s workshop upside down.”

They went on to add, “Please also keep an eye on what sort of choice Noh Ki Jun makes after learning about Joo In Ah and Jeon Jae Yeol’s past.”

The next episode of “Filing for Love” will air on May 16 at 9:10 p.m. KST.

Get ready for some sisterly bonding between Go Youn Jung and Han Sun Hwa in “We Are All Trying Here”!

JTBC’s “We Are All Trying Here” tells the story of Hwang Dong ...]]>

Get ready for some sisterly bonding between Go Youn Jung and Han Sun Hwa in “We Are All Trying Here”!

JTBC’s “We Are All Trying Here” tells the story of Hwang Dong Man (Koo Kyo Hwan), an aspiring film director who, surrounded by successful friends, believes he is the only one whose life isn’t working out. Consumed by anguish, envy, and jealousy, he sets out on a journey in search of peace.

Spoilers

Previously on “We Are All Trying Here,” Byun Eun Ah (Go Youn Jung)’s blunt words left a deep impression on Jang Mi Ran (Han Sun Hwa), who was offended by her sharp feedback but also moved by the undeniable truth within it.

In newly released stills from the drama’s next episode, Jang Mi Ran’s newfound trust in Byun Eun Ah leads her to open up to the other woman about things she’s never told anyone before. Beneath the glamorous facade of her life as a star, Jang Mi Ran is hiding a loneliness and an emotional hunger that has left her drifting aimlessly within a void.

As a visibly upset Jang Mi Ran has a drink and candidly shares her feelings, Byun Eun Ah silently watches her with a look of compassion.

“In tonight’s episode, Byun Eun Ah and Jang Mi Ran will share a heartfelt conversation during a ‘girls night,’” said the drama’s production team. “Please keep an eye on what sort of relationship will be built by these two characters, each of whom has shared their respective wounds with the other, under the common denominator of their shared mother Oh Jung Hee.”

The next episode of “We Are All Trying Here” is May 16 at 10:40 p.m. KST!

MBC’s “Perfect Crown” is heading into its series finale on a new all-time high in viewership!

On May 16, the hit romance drama achieved the highest viewership ratin...]]>

MBC’s “Perfect Crown” is heading into its series finale on a new all-time high in viewership!

On May 16, the hit romance drama achieved the highest viewership ratings of its run thus far ahead of its final episode. According to Nielsen Korea, “Perfect Crown” was the most-watched show of any kind to air on Friday, when it rose to an average nationwide rating of 13.5 percent for its penultimate episode.

SBS’s new rom-com “My Royal Nemesis,” which airs in the same time slot, also continued its upward trend in viewership. Despite facing stiff competition from “Perfect Crown,” the drama climbed to an average nationwide rating of 5.8 percent for its third episode, marking a new personal record for the show.

Are you excited for the finale of “Perfect Crown”?

Upcoming film “Wild Sing” has unveiled new stills of Park Ji Hyun!

“Wild Sing” is a comedy movie that follows the story of TRIANGLE, a once-popular co-ed trio that ...]]>

Upcoming film “Wild Sing” has unveiled new stills of Park Ji Hyun!

“Wild Sing” is a comedy movie that follows the story of TRIANGLE, a once-popular co-ed trio that fell into obscurity after an unfortunate incident. The film depicts their chaotic journey as they attempt to reunite and make a comeback.

Park Ji Hyun plays Do Mi, the center of the co-ed group TRIANGLE. The newly released stills show Do Mi’s everyday life as a chaebol daughter-in-law after retiring from her singing career, as well as her original personality, which reemerges after 20 years.

In one still, Do Mi sits inside a luxury car, wearing a stylish tweed jacket and dark sunglasses while giving off an untouchable aura. Her aloof expression as she looks out the window reflects her current status in high society.

In another image, Do Mi points finger guns to her head and rapidly vents in frustration against the backdrop of a reed field. This is the moment when Do Mi’s girl-crush instincts from her TRIANGLE days, long hidden behind an elegant mask, finally return to the surface.

Park Ji Hyun will bring vitality to the film with her energy and bold performance as Do Mi, who once held the power in TRIANGLE and dominated the group’s waiting room during her days as an idol. Her transformation into Do Mi, an “undisputed center” with undeniable charm, included not only a tan and well-defined abs, but also a fearless willingness to appear unglamorous for the comedic role.

“Wild Sing” is set to hit theaters on June 3.

The Korean Business Research Institute has revealed this month’s brand reputation rankings for individual boy group members!

The rankings were determined through an...]]>

The Korean Business Research Institute has revealed this month’s brand reputation rankings for individual boy group members!

The rankings were determined through an analysis of the consumer participation, media coverage, communication, and community awareness indexes of 755 boy group members, using big data collected from April 16 to May 16.

BTS’s Jimin topped this month’s list with a brand reputation index of 6,447,417. High-ranking phrases in his keyword analysis included “ARMY,” “world tour,” and “Mexico,” while his highest-ranking related terms included “flawless,” “get excited for,” and “surpass.” Jimin’s positivity-negativity analysis also revealed a score of 92.97 percent positive reactions.

Wanna One’s Park Ji Hoon took second place with a brand reputation index of 5,510,360, while BTS’s Jungkook came in at a close third with a score of 5,494,822.

BTS’s Jin held onto his spot at fourth place with a brand reputation index of 3,782,172, and his bandmate V rounded out the top five for May with a score of 3,673,361.

1. BTS’s Jimin
2. Wanna One’s Park Ji Hoon
3. BTS’s Jungkook
4. BTS’s Jin
5. BTS’s V
6. BIGBANG’s G-Dragon
7. BTS’s RM
8. TVXQ’s Yunho
9. BTS’s j-hope
10. BTS’ Suga
11. Wanna One’s Kim Jae Hwan
12. NU’EST and Wanna One’s Hwang Minhyun
13. EXO’s Baekhyun
14. CORTIS’s Keonho
15. Super Junior’s Kim Heechul
16. Wanna One’s Lai Kuanlin
17. HIGHLIGHT’s Yoon Doojoon
18. Wanna One’s Ong Seong Wu
19. Wanna One’s Bae Jin Young
20. Super Junior’s Choi Siwon
21. WINNER’s Lee Seung Hoon
22. SHINee’s Minho
23. Super Junior’s Kyuhyun
24. RIIZE’s Wonbin
25. TWS’s Dohoon
26. CORTIS’s Seonghyeon
27. SHINee’s Key
28. BIGBANG’s Daesung
29. Wanna One’s Yoon Ji Sung
30. EXO’s Kai

Meet the official characters for MEOVV!

On May 16 KST, MEOVV released an animated announcement video introducing new characters that represent each of the group’s f...]]>

Meet the official characters for MEOVV!

On May 16 KST, MEOVV released an animated announcement video introducing new characters that represent each of the group’s five members.

MEOVV is currently gearing up to make a comeback with their new EP “BITE NOW” on June 1 at 6 p.m. KST. Check out their latest teasers here!

Before tying the knot today, Apink’s Yoon Bomi and Rado have shared a glimpse of their unique wedding photo shoot!

The couple, who have been dating for nine years, ...]]>

Before tying the knot today, Apink’s Yoon Bomi and Rado have shared a glimpse of their unique wedding photo shoot!

The couple, who have been dating for nine years, will be getting married today in a wedding that will feature congratulatory performances by Yoon Bomi’s group Apink, along with STAYC and UNCHILD, both of whom belong to Rado’s agency High Up Entertainment.

Ahead of today’s wedding, the couple’s wedding photographer Lee Kyung Ho took to Instagram to share several beautiful pictures from their photo shoot.

Highlighting the special connection between singer Yoon Bomi and hit producer Rado, who are said to have met back when Rado’s former producing duo Black Eyed Pilseung wrote Apink’s 2016 title track “Only one,” some of the photos were shot inside a recording studio.

Once again, congratulations to the happy couple!

The weekend has gotten so much more entertaining now that “Filing for Love” is raising the bar for what any office romance should be. Gong Myoung as the puppy-like Noh Ki J...]]>

The weekend has gotten so much more entertaining now that “Filing for Love” is raising the bar for what any office romance should be. Gong Myoung as the puppy-like Noh Ki Jun and Shin Hae Sun as the charismatic Joo In Ah are making viewers obsessed with their intense chemistry and unique charm. Especially this week, things start to heat up for real for this couple. Here are some moments that rivaled between the intimacy and the tension in the latest episodes of this K-drama! 

Warning: spoilers from Episodes 5-6 ahead. 

Tense: In Ah and Ki Jun facing the aftermath of their kiss

Nobody could act in a normal way after an explosion of feelings, such as the mind-blowing kiss that In Ah and Ki Jun shared in last week’s episodes. So it is no surprise that they find themselves in an awkward position that only accentuates when In Ah tries to brush aside the issue with a simple apology. In that sense, Ki Jun has every right to feel hurt by her attitude. Nonetheless, In Ah also has valid reasons to act in the way she does, but we don’t know about them yet. 

Things only turn even more uncomfortable after they have to investigate a case of an employee who uses inappropriate methods to ease his business deals and ends up creating a mess on his wedding day. This situation again brings out the unspoken question that hangs around In Ah and Ki Jun: Is their kiss really not that big of a deal? Especially given their respective positions as boss and subordinate.  

This is why In Ah immediately draws the line between them, even if it looks like she is reluctant to do so. Fortunately, Ki Jun is aware of her intentions and isn’t afraid to point it out plainly. While his words increase the tension, it also makes his character all the more attractive. There’s nothing hotter than a man who isn’t afraid to talk about his feelings. And surely, In Ah could see this too, one way or another. 

Intimate: Ki Jun learning about In Ah’s family life 

It seems that the more In Ah tries to push Ki Jun away, the more the circumstances turn against her. By accident, he ends up finding out about the story of her family when her father, old and sick, appears out of nowhere looking for In Ah. And not only is she cold towards the man, but she bluntly asks him to never come back. As it turns out, he was married when he met In Ah’s mother, and she suffered through her life for being born out of an affair. The most poignant thing about this is that her mother, in an attempt to find new freedom in the world, was the one who started to nude model for art classes before tragically passing away, leaving a big scar on a young In Ah. 

Strangely enough, this moment of vulnerability seems more intimate than when Ki Jun saw her completely naked, as she is exposing a deeper side of her heart. And Ki Jun has, in his own way, the perfect answer for this. He not only understands her feelings but also sympathizes without making it look like he pities her. He even cries in her place, since it seems like she isn’t the type to let her tears run easily. 

As cliché as this moment might be, it isn’t cringy at all; on the contrary, it feels like a turning point for both of them, where In Ah is finally letting down some of her walls. At least, until he passes out completely drunk and she has to virtually carry him to his place. This is where, of course, she discovers that Park Ah Jeong (Hong Hwa Yeon) is living with him and used to date him, completely ruining the moment. 

Tense: discovering the affair of Jeon Jae Yeol’s wife 

Like many other popular shows, this K-drama follows the trend in combining several different subplots at the same time while the main one slowly develops. This format not only allows for the story to be more dynamic, but it also focuses the spotlight on other characters in an easy way. So while In Ah is fed up with Ki Jun after knowing about his housing situation, they have no choice but to work together on a new case after one of their most popular company’s models gets involved in a scandal. And everything starts to point out to one of the higher ups at the Haemu, making things more complicated. 

So far, Jeon Jae Yeol (Kim Jae Wook) hasn’t stood out much outside of his image as the distant and ambitious vice chairman whose only concern is to win the power race against his younger stepbrother. But in these couple of episodes, we find out that, aside from the piece of work that his father is, his wife is also pretty much his worst nightmare. Jae Yeol seems to be completely uninterested in whatever his wife does as long as it doesn’t affect him. But when In Ah, alongside Ki Jun, discovers the underhanded scheme to cover up his wife’s affair with one of the company’s models, that’s when he finally snaps, and we start to see the man behind his mask. 

Intimate: Ki Jun confessing his feelings for In Ah 

Throughout these couple of episodes, tension never ceased to exist between In Ah and Ki Jun. Somehow, they master the fine art of inadvertently flirting in the office. Though she insists on keeping her distance, arguing that their relationship simply could never work, his sincere efforts slowly pierce at her walls. As straightforward as he is in his work, Ki Jun shoots his shot and admits his feelings for In Ah. With such a simple yet powerful attack, how could her heart remain unaffected? There’s not a chance. Furthermore, the camera work and the setting give us a perfectly romantic scene that is heart-fluttering as well. 

There’s a point when In Ah even seems hopeful about the possibility of them being together, but she soon gives up before even having the chance to try. And that might have something to do with Jeon Jae Yeol. Although there were hints about a mysterious past between them, we can now see how much deeper their relationship runs. With this sudden love triangle showing up, it can only mean that things are about to get messier moving forward. Find out who is ready to steal In Ah’s heart in the next episodes of “Filing for Love”!

Keep up with “Filing for Love” here: 

Andy zar is an avid drama watcher, from K-dramas to C-dramas, she believes any weekend is a good weekend to enjoy 12 hours of binge-watching dramas. She loves romance, web comics, and K-pop. Find her on Instagram @wuaitboni. 

Currently watching: “Filing for Love” and “Yumi’s Cells 3“
Plans to watch: “A Splendid Match”

Kim Do Hoon may be taking on the lead role in a new Netflix film!

On May 15, News1 reported that Kim Do Hoon has been cast as the lead of Netflix’s upcoming movie “...]]>

Kim Do Hoon may be taking on the lead role in a new Netflix film!

On May 15, News1 reported that Kim Do Hoon has been cast as the lead of Netflix’s upcoming movie “Dochabi” (literal title).

In response to the report, his agency Peak J Entertainment stated, “Kim Do Hoon is positively reviewing the offer to star in the Netflix film ‘Dochabi.’”

“Dochabi,” whose title refers to goblins, is reportedly a historical action film.

The movie will be directed by Ahn Tae Jin, known for helming “The Night Owl” and Season 2 of “Signal.”

Kim Do Hoon is currently filming the upcoming tvN drama “Retired Agent + Management Team” (literal translation), which is scheduled to premiere in the second half of the year.

“Dochabi” is currently preparing to begin filming in August. Stay tuned for more updates on the movie!

“We Are All Trying Here” has unveiled new stills ahead of its upcoming episode!

“We Are All Trying Here” tells the story of Hwang Dong Man (Koo Kyo Hwan), an aspiri...]]>

“We Are All Trying Here” has unveiled new stills ahead of its upcoming episode!

“We Are All Trying Here” tells the story of Hwang Dong Man (Koo Kyo Hwan), an aspiring film director who, surrounded by successful friends, believes he is the only one whose life isn’t working out. Consumed by anguish, envy, and jealousy, he sets out on a journey in search of peace.

Spoilers

The upcoming Episode 9 will depict Hwang Dong Man finally landing the opportunity of a lifetime—his long-awaited directorial debut—after spending years dreaming of brighter days amid overwhelming feelings of worthlessness.

The newly released stills capture the pivotal moment when Hwang Dong Man visits the Film Promotion Association alongside Go Bak Film CEO Go Hye Jin (Kang Mal Geum) to sign his contract. Previously, Go Hye Jin boldly cut ties with the greed-driven Choi Dong Hyun (Choi Won Young) and Ma Jae Young (Kim Jong Hoon), choosing Hwang Dong Man’s screenplay “We Create the Weather For You” despite the risk of losing billions of won.

For Hwang Dong Man, who spent years alone in his room repeatedly practicing imaginary acceptance speeches for Best New Director awards, the selection of his script marks the beginning of his “fantasy” finally becoming reality. However, the “real ring” proves far from easy. His visibly tense expression in the stills sharply contrasts with Go Hye Jin’s steady and commanding gaze, hinting at the turbulent production journey ahead.

One of the key points to watch will be whether Hwang Dong Man—once merely a loud critic—can successfully lead over 200 difficult cast and crew members as a first-time director. As Go Hye Jin coldly warns him, “You have to step into the ring and take the hits yourself,” can he prove his worth in the far harsher reality of the film industry?

The production team shared, “Episode 9 will serve as an important turning point as Hwang Dong Man finally steps out of his world of imagination and into the real ‘ring.’ Please look forward to seeing how his unusual partnership with Go Hye Jin, made possible by her bold decision, navigates the challenges ahead, as well as Hwang Dong Man’s growth as a director.”

The next episode of “We Are All Trying Here” airs on May 18 at 10:40 p.m. KST!

MBC’s “Perfect Crown” is heading toward its conclusion!

Set in an alternate universe where modern-day Korea is a constitutional monarchy, MBC’s “Perfect Crown” tell...]]>

MBC’s “Perfect Crown” is heading toward its conclusion!

Set in an alternate universe where modern-day Korea is a constitutional monarchy, MBC’s “Perfect Crown” tells the love story of Seong Hui Ju (IU), a chaebol heiress who has everything but is only a commoner in status, and Grand Prince Ian (Byeon Woo Seok), a prince who has nothing despite being the son of the king.

With just two episodes remaining, here are three key points to look forward to in the finale:

How Seong Hui Ju and Grand Prince Ian’s love story will conclude

Expectations are high for how the relationship between Seong Hui Ju and Grand Prince Ian, who have overcome countless crises together, will conclude. Although the two began with a contract marriage, they gradually came to sincerely understand and support one another, eventually proudly declaring themselves husband and wife before the nation.

However, tension has risen again after Grand Prince Ian, who resolved to bear the weight of the crown, becomes caught up in another incident. Can the two protect each other and enjoy ordinary happiness? And how will their fated love story ultimately end?

How the collaboration between Prime Minister Min Jeong Woo and Queen Dowager Yoon Irang will end

The politics and power struggles within the royal family are among the main points viewers should focus on in the final episodes. After realizing that Seong Hui Ju has truly fallen in love with Grand Prince Ian instead of him, Prime Minister Min Jeong Woo (Noh Sang Hyun) begins turning against Grand Prince Ian, who was once his close friend. What choices will his obsession with Seong Hui Ju and his desire for power ultimately lead him to make?

On the other hand, Queen Dowager Yoon Irang (Gong Seung Yeon) has started reflecting on a past defined solely by the pursuit of power. Hoping that at least her son Lee Yoon (Kim Eun Ho) will not suffer the same wounds she endured, she is trying to correct her past mistakes. Although Min Jeong Woo and Yoon Irang once joined hands for the same goal, they are now heading down different paths, raising curiosity about what kind of endings await them both.

Choi Hyun and Do Hye Jung’s relationship, and Seong Hui Ju’s relationship with her family

The contract marriage between Grand Prince Ian and Seong Hui Ju is also bringing changes to the relationships of those around them. Grand Prince Ian’s aide Choi Hyun (Yoo Su Bin) and Seong Hui Ju’s chief secretary Do Hye Jung (Lee Yeon) are gradually opening their hearts to one another, hinting at the formation of a new love line. Their chemistry is another highlight to look forward to.

Changes in family relationships are also drawing attention. Seong Hui Ju and her family, who were always distant, have slowly grown closer since the contract marriage. As she continues to face danger, her father Chairman Seong Hyun Guk (Jo Seung Yeon), older brother Seong Tae Ju (Lee Jae Won), and sister in law Han Da Young (Chae Seo An) sincerely worry about her. Whether Seong Hui Ju’s family will achieve a happy ending is also a key point viewers should pay attention to.

The next episode of “Perfect Crown” airs on May 15 at 9:50 p.m. KST.

CORTIS has won their fifth music show trophy for “REDRED”!

On the May 15 episode of “Music Bank,” the candidates for first place were CORTIS’s “REDRED” and&nbs...]]>

CORTIS has won their fifth music show trophy for “REDRED”!

On the May 15 episode of “Music Bank,” the candidates for first place were CORTIS’s “REDRED” and ILLIT’s “It’s Me.” CORTIS ultimately took the prize with a total of 12,244 points.

Performers on today’s show included CORTIS, aespa, NMIXX, BOYNEXTDOOR, Billlie, ILLIT, TWS, FLARE U, NAZE, XngHan&Xoul, UNCHILD, 82MAJOR, YOUNITE, YUHZ, ChaDongHyeop, Forestella, and H//PE PRINCESS.

CORTIS – “REDRED”

aespa – “WDA (Whole Different Animal)”

NMIXX – “Heavy Serenade” and “Crescendo”

BOYNEXTDOOR – “ddok ddok ddok”

Billlie – “ZAP”

ILLIT – “It’s Me”

TWS – “You, You”

FLARE U – “WAY 2 U”

NAZE – “People Talk”

XngHan&Xoul – “Glow”

UNCHILD – “UNCHILD”

82MAJOR – “Sign”

YOUNITE – “POSE!”

YUHZ – “Rush Rush”

ChaDongHyeop – “Doogeundae”

Forestella – “Armageddon”

H//PE PRINCESS – “Stolen” (Korean Version)

The upcoming film “Strange Snack Shop Jeoncheondang” has unveiled new character posters highlighting the strikingly contrasting atmospheres of Ra Mi Ran and Lee Re!