Thursday, January 8, 2026

'Two employees attempted taking their own lives in just 2 months?' ... Signs of workplace harassment

Claims have emerged that 2 employees at a factory in Daeso-myeon, Eumseong-gun, North Chungcheong Province, attempted to take their own lives one after another.

According the a family member 'A' on the 7th, the two employees who worked at Factory B attempted suicide between November and December last year, and one of them passed away.

A is reported to have discovered call recordings on the deceased's phone that contain indications of workplace harassment.

These employees working at Factory B are said to be affiliated with Company C, an outsourcing company that supplies labor to the factory.

A representative from Factory B said, "The employee who attempted suicide was a dispatched worker, so personnel management is handled by Company C. Please direct your inquiries to them."

In response, a representative from Company C replied, "There was one case where an employee attempted suicide in late November, but there has been no additional case. We are taken aback."

However, A countered that they had met with the family of another employee who attempted suicide to discuss a response. A also claimed that they have evidence that another employee also attempted suicide.

A stated, "There are 4 perpetrators and there is evidence that they harassed my family member and the other employee. We are planning to report this to the Ministry of Employment and Labor soon."

An official from the Korean Confederation of Trade Unions (KCTU) stated, "If the allegations are true, we suspect there is a habitual abuse of power or violations of workplace safety laws. If the family agrees, we will also consider a union-level response."

Factory B produces IV fluids, finished and raw cephalosporin products, and general pharmaceutical raw materials to domestic and overseas markets.

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1. [+122][-1] I just can't understand people who bully others even after becoming adults. What is wrong with them? Is playing Iljin at that age really fun? It's so patheticㅜ

2. [+92][-0] It's already hard enough for grown adults to get through a day because of work... And yet they're still out there bullying each other. Their futures must be in the gutter. They aren't kids anymore... Seeing adults act like this is just so pathetic. You'd only understand how it feels if it happened to you.

3. [+85][-2] This is so frustrating. Instead of taking their own lives, they should be taking the perpetrators' lives and turn themselves in to the police. Did they really think the perpetrators even blink an eye when they die? Killing the perpetrators first and confessing to the crime would be a better help to themselves, their families, the society, and the country.

4. [+10][-1] Human trash….

5. [+6][-1] You can just change jobs~ Why die? Even if you want to die, you should at least see it through so there's no injustice left. That company isn't the only place in the world for you to work~ They could've just quit!!

Continue reading 'Two employees attempted taking their own lives in just 2 months?' ... Signs of workplace harassment

"Is this really South Korea?" ... A woman in her 30s shocked by the overly open restroom in a shopping area

On the afternoon of the 6th, a woman in her 30s, identified as 'A,' who lives in Mapo, Seoul, visited a cafe in Mangwon-dong with a friend.

Before moving to another location, A went to the restroom on the 2nd floor of the cafe building, but she ended up unable to use it and hurriedly returned home.

According to the photos submitted by A, when you open the iron door of the restroom, there is a sink and men's urinal on the left, and two toilets on the right. However, the two toilets are only separated by a translucent glass wall, making it possible to see the figures on the other sides clearly.

Most shocking of all, the toilets are not in separate stalls, but are placed completely out in the open without any partitions or screens. It is just an open space where the two toilets and a men's urinal are placed together.

A said, "The moment I opened the restroom door and stepped in, I couldn't believe my eyes. Is this really a restroom in our country? I have no idea what they were thinking when they designed this."

A added, "The door requires a passcode to enter, but I still felt extremely anxious that someone would suddenly come in while I was sitting on the toilet, so I couldn't bring myself to use it and just left."

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1. [+1,402][-73] The owner must be Chinese, or it's for Chinese people only.

2. [+1,051][-56] Judging by how they're stealing Chinese styles, it seems like the building owner must be Chinese...?

3. [+963][-25] What on earth were they thinking when they built that?

4. [+56][-0] Even 30 years ago, restrooms like that didn't exist. Even old-fashioned pit toilets had partitions and doors. The person who made this can't be Korean, right??

5. [+55][-0] If you report this to the sanitation department of the local district office, they will issue an order to correct the restroom~

Continue reading "Is this really South Korea?" ... A woman in her 30s shocked by the overly open restroom in a shopping area
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Hani returns after 3 years… Cast as lead role in KBS’s new weekend drama

According to MyDaily's report on the 8th, Hani has been confirmed as the female lead of KBS 2TV's weekend drama 'Love is Coming,' set to air this August.

In the drama, Hani plays Han Gyurim, the owner of a side-dish shop at a traditional market. Since childhood, her nickname has been 'Chief Han (NB: Han Banjang).' There's even a movie with the long title 'Mr. Handy, Mr. Hong (Literal translation: If something happens somewhere, Hong Banjang will definitely show up)' that perfectly mirrors her own life. If something bad or sad happens to someone, she drops everything to run and help, trying to make things a little less painful and a little less sad. If something good happens, she celebrates it as if it were her own. She's nosy in a heartwarming way, easily swayed by others, and acts like a human litmus test who can't hide her emotions.

'Love is Coming' tells the story of a family that sometimes makes you wish they weren't your own, that you could just throw them away, but you can't because they're still your family. It's about a family who fight every morning before heading out, but act as if nothing happened by evening. They snap, 'Why are you crawling back home?' while secretly worrying if someone doesn't come home. They torment each other, but would go to war for a family member who comes home in tears after being bullied elsewhere. The script is written by Lee Kyunghee ('I'm Sorry, I Love You' and 'Uncontrollably Fond') directed by Hong Seokgoo.

This marks Hani's first drama appearance in three years since Disney+’s 'Call It Love' in 2023. It is her first return to a major public broadcast network in 6 years since MBC's 'XX' in 2020. Furthermore, this is her first-ever KBS drama and also her debut in KBS Weekend Drama, a slot that once was considered as a guarantee for high rankings, even though its influence has faded over time.

'Love is Coming' will air in August as the follow-up to 'Recipe for Love', which begins airing on January 31st.

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1. [+712][-9] There are so many well-prepared, talented actors out there. I don't understand why on earth would they cast an idol-turned-actress who can't even act as the lead role, not even a supporting role?ㅡㅡ

2. [+580][-6] Wow... That's impressive. I guess she's got powerful connections.

3. [+477][-5] First of all, she can't even act. And yet she's playing the lead role?

4. [+29][-0] The lead role???? Why????????

5. [+29][-0] What on earth did they see to cast her? Is she a good actress? She’s not popular and she doesn't even look the same as before...? What's the reason? Did she give the KBS president a little gift pouch or something?

Continue reading Hani returns after 3 years… Cast as lead role in KBS’s new weekend drama
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Shindong fires back at a female junior who looks down on him: "You only make 100 million KRW a month?"

Super Junior member Shindong addressed the income of model and influencer Lee Sian.

Recently, a video was uploaded to the Youtube Channel 'Ch.TheRoots.' In the video, Shindong shows off his candid, straightforward talk while drinking with Lee Sian.

Lee Sian asked Shindong, “Aren’t you married?” Shindong replied with a serious face, "I'm divorced now. I even lost custody, so I’m paying child support every month," which shocked her. He then immediately added, “Actually, I’m single. I had a girlfriend I wanted to marry, but we broke up. It seems people still believe I’m married," drawing attention.

Previously, in 2010, Shindong appeared on SBS’s 'Strong Heart' and revealed he was in a public relationship. He surprised everyone by making an on-air proposal to his girlfriend by saying, "Will you stay happy with me forever? Please marry me." However, it was later reported that the two broke up in 2013.

On this day, Shindong asked Lee Sian, "Your income must have changed a lot since your appearance on 'Single’s Inferno.' I can't ask you to reveal the exact amount, but by how many times did it increase?" Lee Sian surprised him by responding, "I probably earn more than you, Sunbae-nim." Shindong reacted, saying, “You’re completely looking down on me."

Laughing it off as a joke, Lee Sian added, "An extra zero was added to the end of my earnings." Shindong responded, "Then you must’ve been making good money even before, too. So, you went from making 10 million KRW a month to 100 million KRW? You only make 100 million KRW a month?" jokingly, which made viewers laugh.

Meanwhile, Shindong previously revealed on a broadcast that he made a huge profit by selling his SM Entertainment stocks at their peak. In 2020, he made headlines for living in a luxury villa in UN Village, Hannam-dong, Yongsan District, Seoul. It is reported that he recently moved into a luxury apartment with a Han River view worth around 3 billion KRW, previously owned by TVXQ's Max Changmin.

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1. [+201][-13] Bragging about money in front of Shindong is just ridiculousㅋㅋㅋㅋㅋㅋㅋㅋㅋㅋㅋㅋㅋㅋ

2. [+148][-4] You must be kidding me... You don’t have to write these pointless, draining articles.

3. [+114][-8] Hey, no matter what, Shindong is in Super Junior. Just based on his past earnings and fame alone, he definitely has more than you. I had no idea who this Lee Sian person even wasㅋㅋ

4. [+24][-0] I watched the video. Lee Sian was so full of herself...ㅋ She really was looking down on Shindong. I can tell she’s not going to last long~

5. [+22][-1] That girl... Isn't she being a bit thoughtless?;; Shindong has been in the entertainment industry for years... Bragging about money to Shindong of all people…;;

Continue reading Shindong fires back at a female junior who looks down on him: "You only make 100 million KRW a month?"

3 years after breaking up with Hyuna ... Dawn states he wants to live alone forever: "I love single life so much"

Singer Dawn expressed his satisfaction with single life.

On the January 7 broadcast of MBC’s variety show Radio Star (Episode 948) featured Kim Donghyun, Kwanghee, Dawn, and Amotti as guest stars.

On this day, Dawn said that he dreams of living alone forever, stating, "I really love living by myself. Honestly, I live alone about two-thirds of the year. I feel like I absolutely need to be alone."

When asked if he realized how comfortable living alone is, Dawn confessed, "Since I have to handle business and do social activities, I invite friends or guests over to my place. It's great to have delicious food and talk with them after a long time, but there's exactly one thing that really bothers me." He continued, "I pee sitting down. It really bothers me when people pee standing up."

Dawn added, "I tell my close friends, 'That's the rule in my house. Please do it while sitting down.' But I can't really say that if someone comes over for a business meeting. I really hate hearing the splashing sound of urine when I'm talking. It bothers me. When you pee while standing up, it splashes everywhere. That stresses me out so much that I came up with a solution. I have bathrooms on the 1st and 2nd floors. I only use the bathroom in the 1st floor, so I put up a sign saying it's broken. I make the guests go to the bathroom in the 2nd floor instead."

When asked what happens if a guest is in a hurry, Dawn said, "Recently, my manager said he was in a rush. Since we're friends, I told him, 'If you're going to pee, you have to do it while sitting down.' But he said he absolutely has to pee standing up. There are people like that. In the end, he left without using the bathroom even though he was really desperate." He then sent a message to people who learning about this through the show, "I just really hate having urine splashed everywhere. I'm really sorry. If you don't want to pee while sitting down, please just don't come over."

Meanwhile, Dawn (Real name: Kim Hyojong) debuted as a member of PENTAGON in 2016 but left the group in 2018 following the aftermath of his dating news with Hyuna. The two later appeared together at official events and on various variety shows while openly showing their affection. However, the two of them announced their breakup in December 2022 after 6 years of public dating. Dawn eventually deleted photos with Hyuna from his social media, which he had kept up even after the breakup, following her marriage announcement to former BEAST member, Yong Junhyung. Hyuna married Yong Junhyung in October 2024.

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1. [+1,050][-19] He looks so much more lovely and good now. At first, I didn't realize he was handsome, but after finishing his military service, his looks really improved.

2. [+1,045][-12] It's been ages since she got married. Why are people still linking him to Hyuna? You trash journalists, just stop it already.

3. [+883][-33] I guess it must've been hard for him to keep up with Hyuna all that timeㅋㅋ Anyway~ Living alone means freedom. It's absolutely the best^^

4. [+92][-1] Dawn is just Dawn. Please leave Hyuna's name out of the headlines~

5. [+87][-1] You guys definitely have to watch Dawn's Youtube. He has a nice lifestyle, great mindset, and outstanding artistic sense. I feel like he hid his own colors to let others shine back then. But this makes me realize that someone who truly shines will eventually be revealed like this. I support him for staying positive and bravely endured the breakup well!

Continue reading 3 years after breaking up with Hyuna ... Dawn states he wants to live alone forever: "I love single life so much"

Wednesday, January 7, 2026

'Exempted from military service due to epilepsy' Chae Jonghyeop donates 50 million KRW to epilepsy patients

Actor Chae Jonghyeop has donated 50 million KRW to help people who are living with epilepsy.

On the 7th, the Korea Epilepsy Association announced, "Actor Chae Jonghyeop made a donation with the request that it be used for medical expenses for epilepsy patients with low income and for projects aimed to raise public awareness."

On this day, Chae Jonghyeop stated, "I understand well the pain of people living with epilepsy, so I hope this can be of some small help. I hope my small contribution this year provides strength to those children and to the people who care for them."

Kim Heungdong, Chairman of the Korea Epilepsy Association, stated, "Understanding the difficulties faced by epilepsy patients and their families and providing help gives us great strength and encouragement. It is important for people with epilepsy to step forward and overcome the negative perceptions and prejudices from the society."

Previously, Chae Jonghyeop revealed that he was exempted from the mandatory military service due to epilepsy and has been taking medication for about 10 years.

Chae Jonghyeop received praise for his role as Yoo Minho in the 2019 SBS drama 'Stove League,' and has since been actively appearing in various dramas and variety shows. This year, he is set to star in MBC’s new Friday-Saturday drama 'In Your Brilliant Season.'

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1. [+315][-8] I had a junior in the military who had epilepsy. He suddenly collapsed and started foaming at the mouth. He was discharged from the military right away. Military life would definitely be difficult for those with epilepsy.

2. [+226][-5] After 2 years of working, I suddenly developed epilepsy of unknown cause. I had 2 mild episodes at work, but with medication and management, I'm living a normal daily life. I hope society becomes free of prejudices against people with epilepsy. Fighting, everyone:)

3. [+24][-94] I ask that he be re-examined. There have been many cases of illegal exemptions using epilepsy as an excuse.

4. [+17][-2] A coworker of mine has epilepsy but is living well with two children. I heard he has to take medication for life, though. I hope Chae Jonghyeop-nim also lives a happy life.

5. [+16][-3] This reminds me of a friend from middle school who also has epilepsy. I remember tilting their head back so they wouldn't choke and looking for the medicineㅜ It’s so heartbreaking.

Continue reading 'Exempted from military service due to epilepsy' Chae Jonghyeop donates 50 million KRW to epilepsy patients
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SBS drama breaks ratings records again with just two episodes left before finale


With only 2 episodes remaining until its finale, an SBS drama has once again surpassed its own records. The main character's revenge on the villains has perfectly satisfied viewers' frustrations.

SBS' Friday-Saturday drama 'Taxi Driver 3' (Written by Oh Sangho, directed by Kang Boseung, produced by Studio S, Group Eight, and BA Entertainment) follows the story of a mysterious taxi company and taxi driver Kim Do-gi as they carry out revenge on behalf of wronged victims.

Returning after 2 years since Season 2, 'Taxi Driver 3' has gained praise for its cinematic direction, the even stronger chemistry of 'Rainbow Dark Heroes,' its solid world-building that bridges the seasons, and the great villain lineup. As a result, the drama swept various domestic and international box office indicators from its first week of broadcast. In its second week, it broke through the double-digit viewership ratings and has been on a roll ever since. Furthermore, at the 2025 SBS Drama Awards, lead actor Lee Jehoon (as Kim Do-gi) won his second Daesang for the 'Taxi Driver' series.

With just 2 episodes left until the finale, 'Taxi Driver 3' is once again breaking various records as it reaches its climax. The most recent episode peaked at 18.5% with averages of 15.1% in the Seoul Metropolitan Area and 14.2% nationwide, setting its new personal best for nationwide ratings. Notably, the ratings of viewers aged 20-49 soared to 4.8% and peaked at 5.75%, easily taking first place among all broadcasts in the new year.

According to the 'FUNdex' rankings released by Good Data Corporation for the first week of January (29/12/2025 - 04/01/2026), 'Taxi Driver 3' ranked #1 in the TV-OTT drama category, while Lee Jehoon took the #1 spot in the TV-OTT integrated cast buzz rankings.

It's performance on streaming platforms is just as overwhelming. In the first week of January rankings released by KinoLights, 'Taxi Driver 3' ranked #1 across all content, including dramas, movies, and variety shows. According to FlixPatrol, it also held the #1 spot on Netflix's Korea TOP 10 series category released on 5th of January. Additionally, the drama recorded an average rating of 9.2 (as of 6 January) on the global database IMDb, proving its irreplaceable presence in the competitive content market.

Meanwhile, viewers are expressing their regret as the show is near its ending. The final episodes set to air this coming Friday (9th) and Saturday (10th), expected to feature a revenge service set against a military base background. Expectations are rising as 41-year veteran actor Kim Jongsoo (as Oh Wonsang) confirmed as the final villain and a special appearance by Jeon Sonee (as Yoo Seonah) also announced. 

Continue reading SBS drama breaks ratings records again with just two episodes left before finale