Disney+ 'Battle of Fates 49' faces controversy over fortune-reading of a fallen firefighter ... Bereaved family claims, "It's different from what they had explained"

SOURCE: [SC이슈] 디즈니+ '운명전쟁49' 순직 소방관 사주풀이 논란…유가족 주장 "설명과 달라" 반발

Disney+ 'Battle of Fates 49' is currently facing a controversy for airing a fortune-reading mission about a firefighter who passed away in the line of duty. The bereaved family claims that the production team's initial explanation was different from what was actually broadcasted on TV.

On the 11th, 'Battle of Fates 49' released the first four episodes, featuring 49 fortune tellers including shamans, saju experts, tarot readers, and face readers, as they carry out various missions in a survival show format. The controversial scene itself appeared in Episode 2.

The production team provided only the photo, time of birth, and time of death of the late firefighter Kim Cheolhong and asked the contestants to guess the cause of death. Firefighter Kim Cheolhong is known to have passed away in the line of duty during the Hongje-dong fire that happened in Seoul back in 2001. He is also known as the firefighter who popularized the poem 'A Firefighter's Prayer.'

During the broadcast, some participants guessed the details of his death as if telling a fortune. One shaman presumed he died in a fire, while another participant mentioned the possibility of a building collapse or being crushed. In reality, firefighter Kim Cheolhong passed away after being trapped under a structure that collapsed due to the fire.

As the scene spread through social media, the backlash grew. A person claiming to be the deceased's nephew questioned, "Did they truly obtain the family's consent to use his photo and birth time like this?" and claimed, "From what I know, the family agreed because the production team explained it was going to be used for a documentary about heroes and patriots."

The person also stated, "We were never told it was a shaman-themed survival variety show. If we had known it was this kind of show, we wouldn't have agreed," and added that fellow firefighters have expressed discomfort over the broadcast.

As the controversy spread, online criticism followed, with people saying, "This is disrespectful to the deceased," and "Is it appropriate to have people guess the cause of his death?"

So far, the production company has not released an official statement yet. The public is now watching closely to see how the controversy will unfold.

Continue reading Disney+ 'Battle of Fates 49' faces controversy over fortune-reading of a fallen firefighter ... Bereaved family claims, "It's different from what they had explained"

Even after receiving an apology ... Choi Mina Sue: "I deserved Hong Jinkyung's 'tone it down' comment"

SOURCE: [단독]사과받았지만..최미나수 "홍진경 '작작 하세요' 지적받을만해" [인터뷰③]

Choi Mina Sue has a unique name that is hard to forget. She said, "My parents were in Australia when they had me. They wanted to name me Mina, but my grandmother insisted that adding 'Sue' would help me grow up beautifully. So, the name Mina Sue was born." She added, "When we registered my name in South Korea, they used Chinese characters meaning ‘beautiful’ (美), ‘graceful’ (娜), and ‘outstanding’ (秀)."

Her life seemed to follow her name. In 2021, when she was in her early 20s, she competed in the Miss Korea pageant and won second place. The following year, she represented South Korea in the international beauty pageant Miss Earth and became the first Korean to ever win. After starring in a few dramas, she made a strong impression and gained recognition through 'Single's Inferno 5.'

She revealed that she had previously declined offers to appear in 'Single's Inferno 5,' saying, "I was shy about showing my personal side on a show about love. I also had a lot of concerns. But then I thought, 'I want to show more of the different sides of myself,' and finally found the courage to join."

-The panelists' reactions to your behavior (Hong Jinkyung saying 'Tone it down' and Lee Dahee saying 'You did that too') became a hot topic. Were you hurt by that?

▶I didn't look for them on purpose, but I came across clips of it on Shorts or news. I thought it was better not to watch because I already knew about it.

-Many people are curious about the behind-the-scenes of the 'Single's Inferno 5' wrap party, especially your meeting with Hong Jinkyung.

▶I wasn't hurt even if the panels said bad things about me. Of course, if I watched it every day and kept it in my head, it would hurt more, but the panels have to react honestly for the viewers to relate to the show. Even I thought I acted strangely at times. (Laughs) I think I deserved those comments. I'm actually grateful they wrapped things up well.

– The 'apology photo' you took with Hong Jinkyung also went viral.

▶Actually, that was my very first time going to a wrap party like that. While I was eating, Hong Jinkyung approached me brightly, apologized immediately, and suggested we take a photo together. I was so thankful that she handled it in such a cheerful way.

-Did Hong Jinkyung suggest the 'apology photo' concept?

▶Yes. At first, I worried, "What if I get more hate because of this photo?" Luckily, she was very professional, and I was very grateful. In fact, the panelists apologized to all the cast members. We felt more thankful than anything. It was a very warm and friendly meeting.

– Some people are calling you 'the second Dex.'

▶ Rather than being 'the second Dex,' I want to be 'the first Choi Mina Sue.' Not just me, but everyone has their own unique story. I want to show the side of me that only I can show.

-What are your plans for the future?

▶I want to do many different activities if I get the chance. I think there are many sides of me I haven't shown yet. I want to show a more grown version of myself. I only have three years left in my 20s, so I want to fill them up and create many shining moments.

-Do you have specific goals like acting, variety shows, or modeling?

▶ I’m still thinking about it. If opportunities come, I want to work hard at anything. I like standing in front of the camera and feel confident on stage. I want to try many things. Variety shows like 'SNL Korea' would be great, as well as YouTube web variety programs. I’d also like to share more of my daily life. I think I would really enjoy being an MC or acting.

– Do you have a role model?

▶ Rather than having one, I actually want to be someone who becomes a role model for others. I want to show a side of me that breaks old stereotypes. Even during Miss Korea, I worked very hard to break away from the polished image people expect. I want to continue showing myself taking on new challenges.

Continue reading Even after receiving an apology ... Choi Mina Sue: "I deserved Hong Jinkyung's 'tone it down' comment"

Jang Hyunseung faces his past 'attitude controversy' head-on with 'A/S Fansign' ... "Back then, people around me did everything for me"

SOURCE: 장현승, 'A/S 팬싸'로 태도 논란 정면 돌파…"주변서 다 해주던 시기" [RE:뷰]

On the 16th, Episode 2 of Jang Hyunseung's A/S Fansign was released on the Youtube channel 'MMTG.'

That day, Jang Hyunseung held an A/S Fansign. it was an event arranged for Jang Hyunseung to apologize to fans who had been hurt by his insincere attitude during his time as a member of the group BEAST.

The main stars of this event were not Jang Hyunseung, but the fans receiving the A/S. Fans walked down the red carpet and took their seats, sharing the stories of how they were hurt at past fan signing events. At the same time, they also confessed moments when they felt comforted by Jang Hyunseung and wished him happiness in the future, creating a touching atmosphere. Watching this, Jaejae commented, "The fans are all so kind. I feel a sense of unconditional love."

Specifically, a fan who works as a pâtissier shared a story about a strawberry cake. She said she often made strawberry cakes for Jang Hyunseung because he likes them. In September, which is the month of his birthday, she asked what kind of cake he wanted. Even though she told him strawberries were not in season, he insisted on a strawberry cake. Jaejae reacted in disbelief, saying, "It's not like you're a pregnant wife or something. Why did you demand strawberries no matter what?"

The fan eventually managed to get strawberries after much effort and gifted him the cake. She said, "He was really happy when he received it. But at the time, I asked him to write 'Look only at me forever,' and he just wrote the abbreviation for it, 'L.O.M.F.'" Everyone in the room was shocked, and Jang Hyunseung couldn't even lift his head in shame. The fan added, "I was very hurt, but I kept bringing cakes after that." Jaejae commented sympathetically, "She brought you the stars and the moon, and all she got was 'L.O.M.F.'? That is a truly heartbreaking story."

The fan jokingly asked, "Does he think strawberries are in season all year round?" drawing laughter from everyone. Jang Hyunseung, who remembered the fan, sighed and honestly confessed, "I was so thoughtless and took it for granted. Back then, I was doing so well that people around me made impossible things happen. I thought if I said, ‘Bring strawberries,’ they would just appear." He apologized and hugged the fan. Afterward, he fulfilled fans’ wishes and read the handwritten letters he prepared himself. Finally, he touched the fans' hearts by unfolding a banner with the fans' names on it.

Continue reading Jang Hyunseung faces his past 'attitude controversy' head-on with 'A/S Fansign' ... "Back then, people around me did everything for me"

"He helped resolve our hospital bills and asked us not to publicize this but ... Thank you, Yoo Seungho" An amazing heartwarming story has been revealed

SOURCE: "허덕이는 병원비 해결, 알리지 말라 했지만…유승호 님 고맙습니다" 역대급 미담 터졌다 [스타이슈]

Another heartwarming story about actor Yoo Seungho (33) has been revealed.

The animal protection group 'Dear Ray' recently shared on their official social media account, "On a very cold weekend in January, actor Yoo Seungho came to visit the animals at Dear Ray," calling him a 'beautiful person.'

The photos shared in the post show Yoo Seungho warmly interacting with rescued cats and diligently cleaning the area.

Dear Ray added, "He cleaned the litter boxes, prepared food, and cleaned up dust in every corner. The animals at Dear Ray were rescued after suffering from abuse, accidents, and illnesses. He offered them warm looks, touches and voice. The babies were very happy. Last year, he gifted them food. We always struggle with hospital bills because of our low budget, and he even helped settle part of the payments with the hospital," revealing Yoo Seungho's remarkable kindness.

They continued, "He told us not to let people know about this, but we wanted to share the good deed of this beautiful young man. Thank you, Yoo Seungho-nim. We wish you a Happy New Year 2026."

Yoo Seungho has become a 'cat dad' after adopting two rescued cats in 2019. In 2022 while participating in a photoshoot to encourage adopting rescued cats, he said, "If you're going to abandon a cat, I hope you wouldn't raise one in the first place. If you can't take responsibility until the end, it would be wiser not to adopt at all. Still, for those who really want to raise one, it would be good to try volunteering first. You will definitely feel something there."

Yoo Seungho has been consistently volunteering for rescued cats for several years. Last year, he donated 2.5 tons of cat food. 

Continue reading "He helped resolve our hospital bills and asked us not to publicize this but ... Thank you, Yoo Seungho" An amazing heartwarming story has been revealed

Another pink romance rumor in the entertainment world ... The main character is Lee Mijoo, one year after breakup: "He begged me in tears to date him"

SOURCE: 연예계 ♥핑크빛 또 터졌다…주인공은 이미주, 결별 1년 만에 "울며불며 사귀어 달라고" ('아근진')

On the recent episode of SBS' 'AGJ,' Jo Hyunah surprised everyone with her unique 'investment-style' flirting. She boasted, "I once turned 30 million KRW that a friend gave me into 100 million KRW and gave it back," showing off her exceptional investment skills. In response, the men commented, "I want to entrust you with my money too," and "My stocks are down 98%, please help me."

Next, Mijoo and Jo Hyunah revealed that they were asked out by the same man, shocking everyone. Mijoo shared, "A man once cried and begged me to date him, but it turned out that he actually had just asked Jo Hyunah out at the same time." The members reacted in shock, saying, "Isn't this something that should be on a late-night horror story show?" It was also revealed that Mijoo had prepared a three-way meeting to confront him, making the atmosphere even more intense. Viewers can check out the full story of this 'bad guy' on the broadcast.

Meanwhile, a 'dance battle' took place or the men and women to show off their charms. The scene got very hot with a bold dance from a new male guest. Especially, EXO's main dancer, Kai, took over the stage and stole the women's hearts, raising anticipation.

Previously, Lee Mijoo confirmed her relationship with soccer player Song Bumkeun, who is 3 years younger than her, back in April 2024. However, they broke up about 9 months later in early 2025. Recently, she moved from Antenna to AOMG to start fresh.

The 3rd episode of new SBS' show 'AGJ' airs on the 16th at 9.30 PM (KST).

Continue reading Another pink romance rumor in the entertainment world ... The main character is Lee Mijoo, one year after breakup: "He begged me in tears to date him"

'Single's Inferno 5' Kim Mingee's expression turns cold while watching Choi Mina Sue's 'backtalk' scene: "I can't say anything good"

SOURCE: '솔로지옥5' 김민지, 최미나수 '뒷담' 장면에 표정 싸늘 "좋은 말 안 나와"

On the 14th, Netflix released 'Single's Inferno: Reunion,' where the cast members reunited about six months after filming. They watched footage from the show together and talked honestly about how their relationships and lives have changed since then.

The VCR shown that day featured a scene where Choi Mina Sue told Sunghun about her concerns. At the same time, she talked about her conflict with Mingee, saying that she felt she was being made into a 'bad person' for no reason. Choi Mina Sue said, "I was really nice to the girls. I event lent them my bikini and always tried to help. I felt like the girls were keeping their distance just because the person I liked showed interest in me."

In the footage, Choi Mina Sue said, "I think Mingee doesn't like it when Seungil talks to me." Watching this, Kim Mingee looked surprised and clarified, "No. I was just staying still. I think I was just a bit tired."

In the footage, Choi Mina Sue said, "If other girls talk to that guy, I just leave them alone," and Kim Mingee responded directly, "Mina-ya, you can't control your facial expressions either." When Choi Mina Sue added, "I was really nice to the girls. I even lent my bikini," Kim Mingee reacted, "That's me. She's talking about me. If you're going to talk like that, you didn't have to lend it to me."

Throughout the video, Choi Mina Sue appeared uneasy. Embarrassed by her own words, she said, "Wow, why did you include this footage? Did I actually say that?" She eventually admitted, "I have nothing to say. I was wrong." In response, Kim Mingee said, "I'll say 'no comment.' I'll talk to Mina about this matter separately later."

At one point, Choi Mina Sue even asked for a brief pause, saying, "Can I take a short break?"

Later, in an interview with the production team, Choi Mina Sue reflected, "I think I was arrogant and not humble. I tend to be very honest and there have been times when that caused friction with others. I felt embarrassed thinking that someone might have been hurt because of my actions."

Kim Mingee also shared, "The moment I saw that, I felt like nothing good would come out of my mouth if I spoke. I thought it would be better to hear an explanation from Mina separately later."

Continue reading 'Single's Inferno 5' Kim Mingee's expression turns cold while watching Choi Mina Sue's 'backtalk' scene: "I can't say anything good"

1st anniversary of the late Kim Saeron's passing ... 'Best friend' Lee Youngyoo's sad tribute: "I don't forget you for even a day"

SOURCE: 故 김새론 1주기, '절친' 이영유 먹먹 추모 "하루도 잊지 않아" [MD★스타]

On the 16th, Lee Youngyoo posted photos and a message of her memories with Kim Saeron on her social media. The photos showed the two of them smiling brightly as they raise their drinks in a cafe for a toast.

In particular, she wrote, "Our Ron-ie, I don't forget yo for even a single day. I will love you forever," showing her unchanging love and moving many to tears. Another photo showed a memorial space dedicated to Kim Saeron and her cats, further touching viewers' hearts.

The two were known to have been very close since they were child actors. Even during Kim Saeron's lifetime, they often shared their daily lives together on social media to show their friendship.

Meanwhile, Kim Saeron was found dead at her home in Seongdong-gu, Seoul, on February 16th last year. She was 25 years old. Her final works are now being release one by one. The movie 'Guitarman' was released in May last year and 'Everyday, We' is set to be released next month.

Continue reading 1st anniversary of the late Kim Saeron's passing ... 'Best friend' Lee Youngyoo's sad tribute: "I don't forget you for even a day"