Friday, March 6, 2026

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Seo Youngeun leaves Kep1er ... "Will continue as a 6-member team."

SOURCE: 케플러 서영은, 팀 탈퇴 "앞으로 6인 체제 전환"

Seo Youngeun has decided to leave Kep1er after an 8-month hiatus.

On the 6th, WakeOne and KLAP Entertainment announced through their official social media, stating, "rom now on, the group will continue activities as a six-member team consisting of Choi Yujin, Xiaoting, Kim Chaehyun, Kim Dayeon, Hikaru, and Huening Bahiyyih. Along with this, Seo Young-eun, who has been part of Kep1er’s precious journey since their debut in 2022, has concluded her activities with the team."

They continued, "The company and Seo Youngeun have had long discussions about the direction of her future activities. This decision was reached after careful discussion. The Kep1er members also respect Seo Youngeun’s wishes based on their mutual trust and are sending her their support."

Furthermore, they added, "We would like to express our deep gratitude to Seo Youngeun, who showed more sincerity and passion than anyone as a member of the team, and we will wholeheartedly support her future endeavors. Kep1er will open a new chapter as a six-member group and will do their best to repay Kep1ian with even better music and performances. We ask for fans’ warm encouragement and unwavering love for Seo Youngeun, who will walk a new path, and for Kep1er, whowill continue its activities as six members."

Meanwhile, Kep1er is a girl group formed through the Mnet survival program 'Girls Planet 999.'

Continue reading Seo Youngeun leaves Kep1er ... "Will continue as a 6-member team."
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'Everyone is Fighting Their Own Worthlessness'... Go Younjung seen with blood dripping from her nose

SOURCE: '무가치함과 싸우는' 고윤정, 코피 뚝뚝

Go Younjung is transforming into a new character in 'Everyone is Fighting Their Own Worthlessness.'

On the 6th, JTBC released still cuts of Go Younjung, the lead of the new weekend drama 'Everyone is Fighting Their Own Worthlessness.'

'Everyone is Fighting Their Own Worthlessness' follows the story of a person's journey to find peace after being consumed by jealousy and envy because they're the only one struggling while surrounded by successful friends. Go Younjung will show her new side as she plays the role of Byun Eun-ah, a character with clear, innocent-looking face and sharp, piercing eyes.

Byun Eun-ah is a producer at the film company 'Choi Film' and is known in the industry by the intense nickname 'The Axe.' She earned this nickname because of her sharp reviews that snap people to attention instantly as if they were hit in the head with an axe. Although she shows firm confidence and never feels intimidated, even in front of her sly CEO, she has a sense of emptiness and anxiety that she can't tell anyone is hidden behind that sharp edge. In particular, her sudden nosebleeds that appear without warning are expected to spark viewers’ curiosity about her hidden story.

In the drama, Go Younjung appears with a simple look with plain clothing and bare face, realistically portraying the daily life of a film producer. Her eyes, which seem calm yet shine sharply, capture the insight of the 'Axe PD' who views the world critically, while also transparently reflecting the complex emotions hidden beneath the surface.

The production team stated, "Go Younjung is holding the center of the drama by stably portraying the character’s complex traits. Her delicate acting, which deeply captures the character’s inner self, will leave a lasting impression on viewers."

The drama is scheduled to premiere in April.

Continue reading 'Everyone is Fighting Their Own Worthlessness'... Go Younjung seen with blood dripping from her nose

"Eyeing YouTube's Territory" ... HYBE and Spotify join forces

SOURCE: “유튜브 넘본다” 하이브·스포티파이 맞손

Entertainment group HYBE is entering the video podcast market through a partnership with the global audio and music streaming platform Spotify.

On the 6th, HYBE announced that it has signed a global content partnership with Spotify and will launch a dedicated video podcast channel. Under this partnership, HYBE will plan and produce the video content while Spotify will distribute it to a global audience.

HYBE noted the growing influence of video podcasts in the global music market. Through Spotify’s platform, which has over 751 million users worldwide, the company plans to naturally introduce K-pop to users as they explore and discover content.

HYBE will launch the official channel and reveal the channel name on March 23. The content will operate in an omnibus format where artists from HYBE’s labels and creators from various fields discuss about music and everyday life. The first videos are scheduled to be released starting in April.

The production of the content will be handled by HYBE Media Studio (HMS), HYBE’s internal video production team. Using its accumulated video production system and professional staff, HYBE plans to cover the broader culture of K-pop through the video podcast format.

Gautam Talwar, General Manager for Spotify’s Asia-Pacific region, said, "Through this partnership with HYBE, we aim to bring audiences closer to artists’ personalities and creative processes." A HYBE representative added, "Through this new format, we will continue expanding our points of connection with fans."

Continue reading "Eyeing YouTube's Territory" ... HYBE and Spotify join forces
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'Pickpocket' Kim Yoojung x 'Adopted son of the minister of administrative affairs' Park Jinyoung to star in a spy romance ... Confirmed to star in '100 Days of Lies'

SOURCE: '소매치기' 김유정X '조선총독 양자' 박진영, 첩보 로맨스 그린다...'100일의 거짓말' 출연 확정

Drama '100 Days of Lies' has completed its brilliant cast lineup, featuring Kim Yoojung, Park Jinyoung, Kim Hyunjoo, Lee Moosaeng, and Jin Sunkyu.

Scheduled to air in the secoond half of this year, tvN's upcoming drama '100 Days of Lies' is a spy romance drama that tells the story of a dangerous and thrilling love between the best pickpocket in Gyeongseong who goes undercover as an interpreter for the Japanese general government and the newly appointed elite interpreter who is also the adopted son of the minister of administrative affairs. The drama will portray both their romance and passionate longing for independence. Through the concept of an 'interpreter' who can see through truths and hidden secrets of people, the drama aims to provide a new kind of suspense and fun.

Most of all, the collaboration of a hit-maker production team raises expectations from the viewers. Director Yoo Inshik, who earned praise for his warm and excellent directing in hit series like 'Dr. Romantic' and 'Extraordinary Attorney Woo,' will lead the project. He will be joined by writer Ryu Bori, who is known for her delicate storytelling in 'Do You Like Brahms?'

Attention is also focused on the synergy between the leads. Kim Yoojung transforms into Lee Gakyung, the greatest pickpocket in Gyeongseong who goes undercover as an interpreter for the Japanese general government for 100 days. While desperately saving money to achieve her dream of going to the United States, she accepts an irresistible offer from anti-Japanese organization and becomes a spy to infiltrate the Japanese Government-General of Korea.

Kim Yoojung shared her thoughts, "It's an honor to be part of such a meaningful project. I will work hard with the hope that this becomes a warm drama that comforts many people and allows them to reflect on history and life. Please look forward to it and give us your support."

Park Jinyoung will play as Kim Taewoong (also known as Hideo Sato), the adopted son of the minister of administrative affairs and also a newly appointed elite interpreter of the Japanese general government. During a dark era when Japan needed propaganda to justify its rule over Korea to the League of Nations investigation team, he stands out as a rare expert who is fluent in English, Japanese, and Korean. After more than 10 years, he returns to Korea to take an important mission as an interpreter.

Park Jinyoung stated, "Since this drama is set in a painful period of the history, I am filming with an even more cautious and sincere heart. I will do my best until the end to repay viewers with a meaningful project."

Kim Hyunjoo plays as Yoo Soran, a sniper from the anti-Japanese organization who takes up a gun for revenge. Having a dark past with Shinichi Sato, she returns to Korea after more than 10 years under a fake Chinese identity and entered a fake marriage with Yoo Philip. While carrying out an assassination plot against Shinichi Sato, she proposes a life-risking deal to Lee Gakyung.

Kim Hyunjoo said, "I find it very meaningful to participate in a project set in the 1930s. From the script reading onward, the actors have shown great chemistry, and I hope we can complete a meaningful work together. Please look forward to it."

Lee Moosaeng plays as Philip Yoo, a Gyeongseong correspondent for an American media company. As a member of the anti-Japanese organization and a Korean-American journalist, he uses his identity to shake the minister of administrative affairs, who is sensitive to international politics.

Lee Moosaeng said, "I am thinking deeply about how to truthfully portray '100 Days of Lies,' but my desire to meet viewers is even stronger. I go to the set each day with that feeling. Please give us lots of anticipation and love."

Jin Sunkyu plays as Shinichi Sato, the newly appointed minister of administrative affairs and also Hideo Sato's father, an ambitious man skilled in schemes and manipulation. As the second most powerful figure in the colonial government who is willing to do anything for success, he is the main target of the anti-Japanese organization.

Jin Sunkyu shared, "I’m excited to work with such great actors and build good chemistry together. I hope it becomes a drama that leaves a deep impression on the hearts of the viewers. I will work hard in my role, so please show lots of interest and anticipation."

'100 Days of Lies,' which follows the breathtaking spy war infiltrating the heart of Japanese colonial rule and the brilliant journey of independence fighters who willingly risk their lives for independence and love during dark times, is scheduled to air in the second half of 2026.

Continue reading 'Pickpocket' Kim Yoojung x 'Adopted son of the minister of administrative affairs' Park Jinyoung to star in a spy romance ... Confirmed to star in '100 Days of Lies'
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Jung Yumi to play Lee Dongwook's wife ... Cast as female lead in new drama by the director of 'The World of Married'

SOURCE: [단독] 정유미, 이동욱 아내 된다..'부부의 세계' 감독 신작 여주 낙점

Actress Jung Yumi will star in the new Netflix series 'Love Affair' (working title).

According to OSEN's report on the 6th, Jung Yumi recently received the script proposal for Netflix's 'Love Affair.' After reviewing it positively, she has decided to join the project.

'Love Affair' is the latest work by Director Mo Wan-il, who directed the drama with the highest ratings in the history of Korean cable channels, 'The World of the Married.' The story follows a couple with stable jobs and a happy marriage whose lives collapse after facing a fatal love that hits them suddenly like a car accident. While some settings seem similar to 'The World of the Married,' it is said that the expression and plot developments will be even more provocative.

In particular, the male lead Kim Jihoon, a man in his early 40s, falls into a passionate love affair with another woman, driving his happy family toward destruction. Jung Yumi is set to play Kim Jihoon's wife in the drama.

Previously, Jung Yumi left Management SOOP after nine years and signed an exclusive contract with Noon Company. 'Love Affair' is expected to be her first project since the move. It will also mark the first time Jung Yumi and Lee Dongwook act together.

'Love Affair' is scheduled to begin filming in the first half of this year, possibly starting as early as this month. It is also reported that some scenes will be filmed in Spain. The script is written by Ha Sujin, who wrote KBS2's 'The Matchmakers,' while Director Mo Wan-il will direct. It is produced by FNC Story and will be released on the global platform Netflix.

Continue reading Jung Yumi to play Lee Dongwook's wife ... Cast as female lead in new drama by the director of 'The World of Married'
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Lee Byunghun, Han Jimin, and Lee Heejun confirmed for 'Koreans' ... Filming begins next week

SOURCE: [단독] '코리언즈' 이병헌·한지민·이희준 출연 확정…다음주 촬영 시작

Lee Byunghun, Han Jimin, and Lee Heejun have confirmed their appearances in the drama 'Koreans' (working title) and will begin their first filming next week.

According to a report by IZE on the 6th, 'Koreans' (produced by Studio AA), directed by Ahn Gilho, has finalized its lead cast with Lee Byunghun, Han Jimin, and Lee Heejun and will begin filming next week.

Lee Byunghun and Han Jimin, who will play as married couple in the drama, are working together for the third time through this project. Although the two previously starred in the dramas 'All In' (2003) and 'Our Blues' (2022), but they never actually acted in the same scene together, making this the first time they will actually act opposite each other.

'Koreans,' which Ahn Gilho has been preparing since last year, is a spy drama that reimagines the popular US FX series 'The Americans' in a Korean setting. It will adapt the original story about Soviet spies undercover in the United States during the Cold War in the 1980s into the era of military dictatorship in South Korea.

As it is a large-scale production with a high budget, the series is expected to be released on the major OTT platform Disney+.

'Koreans' is drawing attention as a large-scale project combining a grand historical setting with a spy narrative. In particular, the collaboration between Director Ahn Gilho (previously directed 'The Glory,' 'Happiness,' and 'Stranger) and acclaimed actors Lee Byunghun, Han Jimin, and Lee Heejun are raising anticipations.

Expectations are high to see what kind of spy drama 'Koreans' will be, given that some of the biggest names in K-drama have come together for this masterpiece.


Continue reading Lee Byunghun, Han Jimin, and Lee Heejun confirmed for 'Koreans' ... Filming begins next week

'Youngest flight attendant at 19' ... The surprising past of an actress now in her 30s


SOURCE: "19살에 최연소 승무원"…30대 여배우의 반전 과거 모습

On the episode of MBN's 'Jeon Hyunmoo's Plan 3' that will air on the 6th, Jeon Hyunmoo and Kwak Joobin are enjoying a foodie trip in Jeju Island with Pyo Yejin. They visit the Daejeong Five-Day Market near Moseulpo Port in Jeju Island, exploring local restaurants and sharing various stories.

On this day, they visit a restaurant that used to sell Okdom (Red Tilefish) but gained popularity after switching its menu to Bomal Kalguksu (Knife-cut noodles with brown turban shell). The Bomal Kalguksu they orderede is known for capturing the rich flavors of the Jeju sea. After tasting the food, Kwak Joobin exclaimed, "It really tastes like a luxurious, rich seaweed soup." Pyo Yejin also enjoyed the meal with a satisfied look, saying, "It was recently both of our birthdays, so this feels like the perfect birthday feast~" lightening the mood.

During the episode, Jeon Hyunmoo mentions Pyo Yejin's past work experience. He asked, "Actually, I didn't know you used to be a flight attendant. And the youngest at that?" Pyo Yejin replied, "I started working as a flight attendant at the age of 19 and worked for about a year and a half."

Regarding why she left a relatively stable job to pursue acting, she explained, "When I thought about myself 10 years later, I wanted to try something more challenging." She added, "When I first debuted, I went around handing out my profile to ten different places every single day," revealing that her start as an actress was not easy.

Pyo Yejin debuted as an actress in 2012 through MBC's drama 'Here Comes Mr. Oh."

The 'Jeju Seafood Special' will air at 9.10 PM (KST) on March 6 on 'Jeon Hyunmoo's Plan 3'

Continue reading 'Youngest flight attendant at 19' ... The surprising past of an actress now in her 30s

'Earns 500 million KRW from TikTok' Park Sihoo becomes a 'natural TikToker,' even doing roasted sweet potato mukbang ... "Looks delicious, right?"

SOURCE: '틱톡 5억 수익' 박시후, 군고구마 먹방까지 '천연덕 틱톡커'…"맛있겠다 그죠?" [스타이슈]

On the 4th, Park Sihoo posted a video from his TikTok account on his social media with the caption "#ParkSihoo #DailyLife"

In the video, Park Sihoo was seen peeling and eating roasted sweet potatoes in a place that appeared to be a pension.

He joked around, saying, "I put the sweet potatoes in the fireplace. Look, the sweet potatoes are ready," and added, "I have that roasted chestnut seller's hat, I should've brought it."

Park Sihoo then split open a sweet potato and blew on it to cool it down. He continued the broadcast, saying, "Looks delicious, right? I wonder how tasty Japanese sweet potatoes are. You need to have this kind of fun, right?"

Recently, rumors have surfaced online that Park Sihoo has been earning hundreds of millions of KRW, up to about 500 million KRW, through donations from fans overseas on TikTok Live.

TikTok Live generates revenue when viewers purchase virtual gifts and send them to creators. In Park Sihoo's case, donations accumulate quickly because he has a large fan base in the Chinese-speaking region.

Previously, Park Sihoo was swept up in allegations that he introduced a woman to a married acquaintance, which allegedly destroyed that acquaintance's marriage. Regarding this, Park Sihoo stated through a legal representative, "These are clearly false claims and completely groundless." Furthermore, he also filed a complain against the person who made these claims for defamation under the Information and Communications Network Act, and an investigation is currently underway.

COMMENTS:

1. [+535][-9] His face looks strange now.

2. [+529][-14] He seriously doesn't look like a nice personㅋㅋ

3. [+382][-6] So this guy is just making money through TikTok nowㅋ

4. [+41][-1] Life sure is easy for him, huh?

5. [+40][-0] So cringey.

Continue reading 'Earns 500 million KRW from TikTok' Park Sihoo becomes a 'natural TikToker,' even doing roasted sweet potato mukbang ... "Looks delicious, right?"

Data of celebrity major donors exposed ... Community Chest of Korea leaks personal information

SOURCE: 연예인 고액 기부자 다 털렸다···사랑의열매, 개인정보 유출

A data leak occurred at the Community Chest of Korea's Fruit of Love charity organization, exposing the real names and resident registration numbers of high-value donors, including celebrities and other famous figures.

According to Yonhap News on the 5th, while posting its '2024 Financial Statement' on its official website last April, Fruit of Love posted the original files containing personal information such as the names and resident registration numbers of major donors without any redaction or editing.

Fruit of Love failed to notice the issue for nearly a year and only deleted the files on the 4th. Since these sensitive data had been exposed on the internet for a long time, there are concerns about secondary damage, including identity theft and voice-phishing scams.

The list reportedly included 600 people, including major figures in politics and business, as well as famous celebrities who donated over 20 million KRW.

According to the report, Fruit of Love stated, "We will send a notice and apology letter to those whose information was leaked and provide guidance over the phone regarding the incident."

Following Fruit of Love, there are also worries after it was revealed that Hope Bridge Korea Disaster Relief Association had also posted its '2022-2024 Financial Statement' on its website on the 5th of last month without redacting the real names, resident registration numbers, and donation amounts of about 1,000 donors.

COMMENTS:

1. [+365][-11] Are there still fools who donate to Fruit of Love? I heard the employees were buying yachts, playing around, and traveling. It was crazy. They’re probably still doing it. It's just that they haven’t been caught again.

2. [+248][-3] Fruit of Leak.

3. [+209][-2] I can't believe there are still organizations this careless with personal information… Donation foundations already struggle to gain trust, and they can’t even handle basic administrative procedures properly? Tsk tsk.

4. [+14][-1] What's really funny is that these charity organizations give themselves year-end bonuses. It's ridiculous. People don’t donate just to fill your pockets.

5. [+12][-1] If you donate 1 million KRW, how much actually goes to the beneficiaries after operating costs, management fees, and staff salaries are taken out? Even 30–50%? Some places reportedly spend 90% on themselves and only 10% actually goes to the actual beneficiaries. Donating directly to the beneficiaries is much more effective, so let's not be fooled by these fundraising organizations.

Continue reading Data of celebrity major donors exposed ... Community Chest of Korea leaks personal information

Thursday, March 5, 2026

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The line from Han Jimin's new drama that's currently gaining a lot of backlash

'Isn't tea supposed to get richer in flavor the longer it ages?'

'The aroma fades, the taste weakens, and fresh young leaves sprout every year. So, why bother keeping them to use later? Whether it's tea or anything else, you can just say that things lose their value as they age.

'I thought I could date or love whenever I wanted as long as I made up my mind. But I was wrong. I just let the best years for love pass me by'

For the record, the female lead is 34 years old.

COMMENTS: 

-This is actually kind of true… It’s not that women in their 30s are the problem… It's that there are no decent men in their 30s left. They are already married or dating women in their late 20s.

-In an era where people live to 100, the 30s isn't an old age.

-Are you kidding me?

-Someone could think that way, I guess... It's natural to feel regret about the time that has passed. But hearing that line coming out from Han Jimin's face is a bit unrealistic.

-I can’t believe dramas these days still use such outdated ideas.

-That's not entirely wrong, but they always give these kinds of lines only to female characters. The issue of delayed marriage applies to both women and men.

-This makes me angry.

-Is this a drama from 20 years ago or something?

-People with that mindset must be quite unhappy with their lives.

-It's a fact that dating and marriage are harder for a woman at that age. Why deny it?

-It sounds realistic to me, though...

-If this makes you angry, it means you’re old.

-These lines don't feel like they belong in 2026.

-Who’s the writer?

Continue reading The line from Han Jimin's new drama that's currently gaining a lot of backlash
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I don't know what HYBE is aiming for with their April plan

SOURCE: 뭔 생각인지 모르겠는 하이브 4월 플랜

TXT, Cortis, TWS, and LE SSERAFIM are all making comebacks in April.

TXT has confirmed their comeback on April 13, so if the others release after that, there won't even be a one-week gap between them.

For reference, TXT and Cortis are both under Big Hit Music.

TWS and LE SSERAFIM have officially confirmed their April comebacks today.

COMMENTS: 

-Are they releasing one team per week?

-I wonder if their plans got messed up because they were trying to avoid the Olympics?

-? Do they urgently need money or something?

-Well, they are under different labels, anyway.

-Isn’t it fine as long as they’re not having comebacks in the same week?

-Isn't HYBE low on cash lately?

-Cortis is a rookie, but I feel like the gap between their releases is really long.

-As long as they’re not releasing on the same day, what's the problem? They’ve debuted so many idol groups, they just have to deal with it.

-Maybe they’re trying to avoid the World Cup.

-Maybe it ended up like that because they were trying to avoid both the Olympics and the World Cup.

-I guess they can't release in March because BTS is having a comeback then.

-Well, they’ve got to make money...

-It’s not the first time this has happened. HYBE just has so many idols that they often make comebacks all at once.

-It's because the World Cup is happening this year.

-It's because they have to go on world tours~

Continue reading I don't know what HYBE is aiming for with their April plan
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Wi Hajoon had only done three kiss scenes ... Park Minyoung flustered: "He practically devoured my lips"

SOURCE: 위하준, 키스신 3번째였는데…박민영 “내 입술 잡아먹더라” 당황

Park Minyoung shared a funny behind-the-scenes story about her kiss scene with Wi Hajoon.

On the 4th, a video titled 'The appearance of romance masters whose specialty is kissing' was posted on Youtube. In the video, the main cast of the drama 'Siren's Kiss' Park Minyoung, Wi Hajoon, and Kim Junghyun appeared as guests and shared various stories about the show.

First, when asked how he felt about the project, Wi Hajoon said, "I'm not usually the type to read a script all the way through at once, but I finished this one right away. The character was also very charming." Park Minyoung praised him, "He suits the role very well. He also handles action scenes perfectly."

The conversation naturally shifted to the romance scenes. Park Minyoung started by saying, "I heard Wi Hajoon hasn't done many romance roles. He told me it was only his second or third time doing a kiss scene." She laughed, "Since I've done a lot of romance dramas, I teased him saying, 'If this is only your third time, you're basically a newborn. A kiss newborn.'"

However, once filming started, the atmosphere changed. Park Minyoung said, "Once we started rolling, he practically devoured my lips. I was supposed to look surprised in the scene, but I was genuinely surprised." She joked, "How can someone with only three attempts at kiss scenes do it like that? At that point, it was basically 'suction.'"

When the host joked, "Did he study on Youtube beforehand?" Park Minyoung added, "Hajun has pretty thick lips and a fairly big mouth. You'll see if you watch. For a moment, my lips felt like they were being sucked all the way into his cheeks."

Continue reading Wi Hajoon had only done three kiss scenes ... Park Minyoung flustered: "He practically devoured my lips"

'I thought this was a Japanese variety show' ... Mayonnaise-squeezing game with butts, SBS 'AGJ' sparks controversy over excessive slapstick


SOURCE: "일본 예능인 줄"…엉덩이로 마요네즈 짜기 게임, SBS '아근진' 무리수 몸개그 논란

SBS variety show 'AGJ' is under fire for being 'uncultured' after featuring scenes playing with food and excessive slapstick comedy.

In the episode of 'AGJ' released on the 2nd, Seo Janghoon appeared as a guest while the members participated in 'Early Morning Basketball Team Test.'

The controversial scene occurred during a game called 'Mayonnaise Bread Shooting.' In the game, the members had to open mayonnaise bottles placed on the floor using their buttocks to squeeze the contents out, and then try to knock over slices of bread placed at a distance using the shooting mayonnaise.





Notably, Lee Suji pointed to her buttocks and said, "My nickname is the Korean Kim Kardashian," before shaking them toward the camera. The scene showed her sitting hard on the mayonnaise to shoot the content out and knock over the bread.

After the broadcast, criticism poured in online. Some comments expressed discomfort, including, "Why play around with food like that?", "I thought I was watching a low-quality Japanese show," "That is disgusting. Are the producers perverts?", "This is embarrassing to watch on public TV," and "Are they relying on provocative setups just for ratings?"

In particular, many pointed out that using food for slapstick was going too far. Even if it was meant to be funny, viewers felt uncomfortable to see food being played around like that.

As viewers continue to argue that 'even comedy should have limits,' the debate over the show continues.

COMMENTS:

1. [+698][-27] Ugh, look at the quality.. So uncultured.

2. [+556][-25] Ugh, this makes me want to throw up.

3. [+416][-21] A copy of Japanese shows.

4. [+39][-2] These days variety show PDs really seem to be taking the easy way out. Maybe it's because all the creative ones left for Netflix.. Dramas are the same too. They just take web novels or webtoons and simply adapt them into dramas without any original ideas.

5. [+37][-7] Please kick Lee Sangmin and Tak Jaehoon out.

Continue reading 'I thought this was a Japanese variety show' ... Mayonnaise-squeezing game with butts, SBS 'AGJ' sparks controversy over excessive slapstick
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SM Entertainment Center Director: "We escorted Wonbin at Seoul Station with a mask in case another agency snatched him"

SOURCE: SM 센터장 "라이즈 원빈, 다른 기획사서 채갈까 봐 서울역서 마스크 동행" [유퀴즈]

On the episode of 'You Quiz on the Block' that aired on the 4th, Director of SM Entertainment's Idol Development Center Yoon Heejun, who has produced numerous stars including Super Junior, SNSD, EXO, and Aespa for over 20 years, shared stories about her keen eye for talent and behind-the-scenes of casting.

Director Yoon recalled, "I personally cast EXO's Chanyeol. Back then, we scouted people in front of schools or even jumped out of moving taxis to cast someone on the street."

However, casting methods have evolved as the time passes by. She explained, "These days we do things differently. We also cast via social media too. In RIIZE Wonbin's case, we casted them through DM."

Director Yoon's determination to secure Wonbin was incredibly strong. She explained, "When Wonbin was coming from Ulsan to Seoul for his audition, I went to Seoul Station myself to pick him up because I was worried another agency might snatch him first."

Wonbin recalled, "I got the DM on my way home from school like any other day. But for some reason, I felt drawn into it." He added, "As soon as I arrived at Seoul Station for the audition, they put a mask on me and took me away. They even told me to cover my name tag," drawing laughter from everyone in the studio.

A video from Wonbin's trainee days in 2019 was also revealed for the first time in the episode, sparking admiration from the viewers.

Director Yoon praised Wonbin's talent, saying, "Since we cast him through social media, we had never seen him dance or sing before, but his skills improved incredibly fast."

She continued, "In his early trainee videos, you can see him watching the older trainees from the corner of the practice room, but then he moves forward to the front. That's not something that's easy to do." He named Wonbin as a 'fiercely driven idol,' following in the footsteps of EXO's Kai and NCT's Doyoung, raising expectations for his future.

Continue reading SM Entertainment Center Director: "We escorted Wonbin at Seoul Station with a mask in case another agency snatched him"

WOODZ shares sad news: "My father passed away overseas ... I carried his ashes and brought him back to South Korea"

SOURCE: 우즈, 안타까운 비보 "父 해외서 돌아가셔…내가 납골함 들고 한국으로 모셔와" ('유퀴즈')

WOODZ opened up about his family history for the first time.

At the end of the 'You Quiz on the Block' episode released on the 4th, a preview featuring WOODZ was released.

In the preview, WOODZ shared his updates on life, including how he wrote the 'chart reversal' song with a song he sang while serving in the military.

Even though he was discharged last July, WOODZ appeared with his hair still short. He smiled brightly and said, "I wanted to appear with the look that fans want to see me the most."

WOODZ moved to Brazil at the age of 13 to pursue soccer, but he revealed that he had dreamed of becoming a singer even then. He said, "I told my mom, 'There's actually a reason why I want to stay in South Korea. I want to become a singer,' but she replied, 'Go play soccer while I'm still asking nicely.'"

He continued, "Many people think I come from a wealthy family," and shared a story he had kept in his heart, saying, "I got a call saying, 'Your father passed away overseas.' After the cremation, I carried his ashes and brought him back to South Korea myself."

Meanwhile, WOODZ released his first full-length album 'Archive. 1' on March 4, 13 years after his debut.

'Archive. 1' is WOODZ's first full-length album in his 13-year career that represents a new start. With a total of 17 tracks, the album covers a wide range of genres including rock ballads, pop-punk, jazz, and alternative R&B, showcasing his diverse music.

COMMENTS:

1. [+104][-2] So he knows what fans want to see the most lolㅋㅋㅋㅋ That’s cuteㅋㅋㅋ

2. [+61][-0] Every household is the same. ('While I’m still speaking nicely…)ㅋ

3. [+59][-6] Yeah, that hairstyle looks the best on him..

Continue reading WOODZ shares sad news: "My father passed away overseas ... I carried his ashes and brought him back to South Korea"

Trump: 'When crazy people have nuclear weapons, bad things happen'

SOURCE: 트럼프 “미친 사람이 핵무기 가지면 나쁜 일이 일어나”

COMMENTS: 

-He's introducing himself.

-Is he talking about himself?

-That crazy person is you!!!

-I can't believe the craziest guy on Earth is saying something like that.

-Does this bastard have dementia?

-You are the craziest person in the world right now.

-This crazy bastard has a reserved seat in hellfire.

-It sounds like a warning... This makes me nervous.

-You're a crazy bastard even without nuclear weapons, you crazy bastard.

-Is he threatening the world right now?

-That's a very creative way to introduce yourself.

-Is that a threat?

-When a crazy person becomes president, bad things happen.

-What is this? A confession?

Continue reading Trump: 'When crazy people have nuclear weapons, bad things happen'
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Nam Jihyun exposes shocking remarks made by a director

SOURCE: 포미닛 남지현이 폭로한 충격적인 감독

During the filming of my first drama, the camera director said, 'You ugly b*tch, stand in front!' But I stayed bright. I thought, 'I should handle this with the power of positivity,' and said, 'The ugly b*tch is coming~' and he responded, 'Haha, look at her.' After we finished, he apologized to me, saying he didn't know I was from 4Minute.

COMMENTS: 

-Reveal that director's faceㅡㅡ Wanted: Ugly camera director.

-What a f*cking jerk.

-So if she wasn't from 4Minute, it would've been okay to say that...?

-Even his apology is ridiculous. Does that mean he wouldn't have apologized if she wasn't from 4Minute?? who does he think he is to say something so carelessly like that?

-That's insane. That basically means if she wasn't an idol, he wouldn't have apologized.

-Her mental strength is amazingㅠ

-There really seem to be so many trash in that industry.

-?????? So it's okay to say that if she wasn't from 4Minute?ㅋㅋㅋ Th reason he apologized is so ridiculousㅋㅋㅋ He's crazy.

-Like his own face is so great...?

-?? Wasn't Nam Jihyun known for being the prettiest member of 4Minute in person? Which part of her is ugly??

-I mean... Is it okay to say that if she was a nugu actress then?? Life must be so f*cking hard for nugus thenㅠㅠ

-Ah... He apologized because 4Minute has fans...

-I guess you need to have that level of mental strength in order to survive in the industry.

-Whether she's in 4Minute or not, talking to a human being like that is the problem. That's seriously crazy.

-Is he insane? Hul.

Continue reading Nam Jihyun exposes shocking remarks made by a director

Wednesday, March 4, 2026

70% of women in Japan's broadcasting industry experience sexual harassment ... Unwanted physical contact is also common

SOURCE: 日 방송계 여성 70% "성희롱 피해"…불필요 신체 접촉도 만연

A survey shows that 7 out of 10 women working in the Japanese broadcasting industry have experienced sexual harassment at work, with some suffering severe distress that they considered taking their own lives.

According to the report on the 4th, a research team led by Professor Togo Tanaka of the University of Tokyo Graduate School surveyed183 former and current broadcasting professionals (62 men, 119 women) between May last year and January this year. Among female respondents, 70.6% (84 people) answered that they had experienced sexual harassment.

The types of abuse varied. 44.5% (53 women) said they experienced 'unwanted physical contact,' while 14.3% (17 women) said they were 'mobilized as companions for sexual hospitality.'

Notably, about 10% of female respondents said they had been forced to have sexual relations.

Among male respondents, 32.3% (20 people) said they had heard sexual harassment remarks, and 6.5% (4 people) reported being forced into unwanted physical contact.

Specifically, there are also cases of individuals being asked about their body shape in studios and then being forcibly hugged, or were brought to the executives' drinking parties as 'companions' and exposed to sexual conversations.

The aftermath was severe. 39 respondents said they had 'thought about suicide,' and 30 reported changing their workplace or profession because they could no longer endure the harassment.

The survey was conducted to understand the reality of the industry following issues of sexual exploitation in the entertainment world last year, including those surrounding former SMAP leader, Masahiro Nakai.

The research team pointed out, "Broadcasting stations, which are supposed to serve the public interest, hold a contradiction in that they neglect human rights violations within their own walls."

Continue reading 70% of women in Japan's broadcasting industry experience sexual harassment ... Unwanted physical contact is also common
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BIGBANG is coming back ... YG Ent. unveils 'mega lineup' for its 30th anniversary

SOURCE: 빅뱅 돌아온다…YG, 30주년 맞아 ‘초대형 라인업’ 공개

Celebrating its 30th anniversary this year, YG Entertainment has revealed its plan featuring a powerful lineup of artists. The roadmap includes a global tour by the legendary group BIGBANG, comebacks from BABYMONSTER and TREASURE, and even the debut of a new group.

On the 4th, YG Entertainment posted a video on its official blog in which Executive Producer Yang Hyunsuk explains the major projects prepared for this year.

Marking their 20th debut anniversary this year, BIGBANG had preciously raised expectations by hinting at a return. Yang Hyunsuk stated, "We have reached an agreement with BIGBANG's members to hold concerts," adding, "Since we've been together for a long time, all YG staff is doing their best to create a perfect and outstanding show." The stage is expected to be a place where the group and the company, who wrote K-pop history together, confirm their 'YG Family' bond.

BABYMONSTER will continue their activities this year with two album releases and a world tour. They plan to release a mini-album in May, followed by the second full-length album in the fall. Starting in June, they will go on their second world tour, including stops in South America, Europe, and Oceania.

TREASURE will start the 'second chapter' of their career with a mini album in June. Yang Hyunsuk stated, "The members suggested they want to do hip-hop," and added, "You can look forward to the cool, YG-style music that they haven't shown before."

A new rookie debut will also make their debut. A new boy group is being prepared with the goal of debuting this fall. Additionally, the remaining two members of a four-member girl group tentatively named 'Next Monster,' following Evelli and Chanya, will be revealed soon.

Yang Hyunsuk concluded, "We will be back with good news all year long," and added, "We will work hard to make music here without losing our roots, even through our 40th and 50th anniversaries."

Continue reading BIGBANG is coming back ... YG Ent. unveils 'mega lineup' for its 30th anniversary

The chance of becoming a trainee at SM Entertainment is 0.00867% ... "Even celebrities need to be scolded"

SOURCE: SM 아이돌 연습생 확률이 0.00867%인데…"스타도 혼나야 해" 팩폭

On the 4th, tvN 'You Quiz on the Block' announced its guests, including a historian who studied the Joseon Dynasty for 30 years, Shin Byungjoo; SM Entertainment Center Director who was produced idols for 22 years, Yoon Heejun; singer celebrating his 36th debut anniversary, Yoon Jongshin, and a 17-year-old gold medalist who overcame a bone fracture, Choi Gaon.

Yoon Heejun, who has spent 22 years producing idols at the heart of the K-pop industry, SM Entertainment, is now currently leading SM Artist's Development Center.

She oversees the entire process of artist development, from casting and training to selecting final debut members. Yoon Heejun also directly clarifies myths and truths about the casting system in SM Entertainment.

Yoon Heejun stated, "Out of about 150,000 applicants per year, only 10 survive to become trainees," pointing out the 0.00867% chance of being selected.

She also shares the story of going all the way to Seoul Station to personally pick up RIIZE's Wonbin, as well as stories about EJae, a key figure behind 'Golden.'

In particular, Yoon Heejun leaves a memorable quote, "Even celebrities need to be scolded."

The episode will be released tonight (the 4th) at 8:45 PM (KST).

Continue reading The chance of becoming a trainee at SM Entertainment is 0.00867% ... "Even celebrities need to be scolded"