'Culinary Class Wars 2' Chef Cheon Sanghyun reveals battle with cancer: "I've had two surgeries so far, currently on drugs"

SOURCE: '흑백2' 천상현 셰프, 암 투병 고백…"수술만 두 번, 항암제 먹는다"

Chef Cheon Sanghyun, who appeared on Netflix's 'Culinary Class Wars 2,' has opened up about his battle with cancer.

On the 21st, a video was released on the Youtube channel 'One Mic.' In the video, Chef Cheon said, "I was invited to join Season 1 and actually planned to participate, but I was sick." He added, "It was cancer. It had recurred. I was in a situation where I had to undergo a surgery again, which is why I couldn't join Season 1."

He confessed, "I've had 2 surgeries to remove parts of my lungs. Now I have to take one pill of drug a day," and added, "There's also a tumor in my head. They suspect it's a meningioma. I have received radiotherapy and undergone a surgery. I also have a difficulty hearing due to noise-induced hearing loss."

Regarding on how he came to work as a chef in the Blue House for 20 years, he said, "The person who recommended me to be the chef for the President was Master Hu Deok Juk."

He explained, "I heard that Master Hu Deok Juk was asked to recommend someone for the chef position in the Blue House. Two people were recommended. After submitting my resume, they reviewed it and forwarded it to President Kim Daejung's staff. I was finally selected after 2 months of background checks."

Chef Cheon recently drew attention by facing off against his own mentor, Chef Hu Deok Juk, in 'Culinary Class Wars 2.'

Regarding the match, he said, "I find Master Hu Deok Juk very intimidating. It's not because he scolds me, but because he has a soft charisma that makes him difficult to approach."

He added, "It was also the first time I ever competed alongside my Master on 'Culinary Class Wars 2.' Even though I'm known as the chef for President, the match was very difficult. I never imagined we would be competitors, so I felt overwhelmed at the time. I was worried about his health because he mentioned several times that it was physically demanding. Since I lost to him, I felt somewhat relieved."

Continue reading 'Culinary Class Wars 2' Chef Cheon Sanghyun reveals battle with cancer: "I've had two surgeries so far, currently on drugs"

Cha Eunwoo faces allegations of tax evasion through his mother's company ... 20 billion KRW in additional taxes imposed 'The highest amount ever for a celebrity'

SOURCE: 차은우, 母 회사로 탈세 의혹…200억 세금 추징 '역대 연예인 최고 금액'

Cha Eunwoo, a member of the group ASTRO and also an actor, has been notified by the National Tax Service of additional tax payments more than 20 billion KRW on charges of tax evasion.

In 2025, the Seoul Regional Tax Office conducted an investigation on Cha Eunwoo after suspecting tax evasion involving a one-person company created by his mother. After investigation, Cha Eunwoo was notified of additional income tax more than 20 billion KRW. This is the largest amount of tax ever imposed on a celebrity.

Cha Eunwoo carried his activities under a system where his agency, Fantagio and Company A, a corporation set up by mother, had a service contract for supporting his entertainment activities. The income he earned was then shared between Fantagio, Company A, and Cha Eunwoo himself.

The National Tax Service judged Company A to be a paper company that did not actually provide services. It concluded that Cha Eunwoo and his mother created the company to reduce income tax of up to 45% and instead paying a much lower corporate tax rate.

The National Tax Office also imposed an additional 8.2 billion KRW in extra taxes on Fantagio. They judged Fantagio processed false tax invoices for Company A, which is run by Cha Eunwoo's mother. Fantagio filed a request to review whether this decision was fair, but the amount stayed the same.

After receiving an additional tax assessment of more than 20 billion KRW, Cha Eunwoo's side also filed a request to review this decision.

Meanwhile, Cha Eunwoo enlisted in the military service in July last year as an active duty soldier and is currently serving his duty in the military band.

Continue reading Cha Eunwoo faces allegations of tax evasion through his mother's company ... 20 billion KRW in additional taxes imposed 'The highest amount ever for a celebrity'

'Gave up the dream of becoming an idol to come out' Taichi joins queer reality show… A bold move breaking prejudices.

SOURCE: '아이돌 꿈 접고 커밍아웃' 타이치, 퀴어 예능 등판…편견 깬 파격 행보

Taichi, a former JYP Entertainment trainee who gained recognition through audition programs, has chosen a bold journey to find his 'true self' instead of pursuing his dream of becoming an idol. By confirming his appearance on a queer dating reality show, he has proudly come out as a member of the LGBTQ+ community. He is currently drawing support from K-pop fandoms for his courageous decision.

According to Wavve on the 20th, Taichi will appear in the variety show 'His Man Season 4,' which is set to air on this 23rd. He is creating buzz as this decision marks his official coming out about his sexual identity.

Taichi is already a familiar face to K-pop fans. In 2023, he participated in JYP’s global group launch project 'Nizi Project Season 2' where he proved his skills. Last year, he also competed on 'Boys Planet 2.'

Known for his visuals and outstanding talent, he was dubbed a 'fully-formed idol' and reached the final rank of 33rd. The news of his sudden choice to join an LGBTQ+ dating show initially surprised many people, as it is often seen as breaking a taboo in the conservative idol industry.

However, contrary to concerns, the response has been overwhelmingly positive. What might once have sparked controversy has instead been met with encouragement rather than criticism from K-pop fans.

Fans are respecting his choice, commenting, "The courage to decide and reveal your own identity is incredible," and "I loved Taichi as an idol, but I support Taichi’s love even more." This reflects the MZ generation fandom, which values diversity and personal happiness, and serves as an example of how perceptions of LGBTQ+ individuals in the entertainment industry have shifted significantly.

With Taichi joining the cast, 'His Man Season 4' has secured record-breaking buzz. As the first queer dating show in South Korea, expectations are high to see what new narrative the series will create through the bold, straightforward romance of a former idol trainee.

Taichi's "true love story," breaking through prejudice to step out into the world, will be released on Wavve on the 23rd.

Continue reading 'Gave up the dream of becoming an idol to come out' Taichi joins queer reality show… A bold move breaking prejudices.

Im Sung-geun: Not just 3 DUI offenses but '5 prior convictions?' Fans are shocked

SOURCE: 임성근, 음주운전 3번 아닌 '전과 5범'이라고? 팬들 '충격

It has been confirmed that chef Im Sung-geun, who gained attention through Netflix's 'Culinary Class Wars 2,' has a more extensive history of drunk driving than previously known. Unlike his own confession, reports show that he was caught for drunk driving 4 times and has a total of 5 prior convictions according to court rulings.

On the 20th, Dong-A Ilbo reported that after reviewing court records, Im Sung-geun was sentenced to a fine of 5 million KRW for drunk driving on September 21, 1999. According to the report, he was caught driving about 3 km in Incheon at around 8.25 PM (KST) on August 15 that year with a blood alcohol concentration of 0.153%. This number far exceeded the limit for license revocation standard at the time (0.1%)

Notably, it was revealed that Im Sung-geun was driving without license at the time and was driving a motorcycle owned by his wife. As the result, he was detained for 37 days. Furthermore, the ruling states that this occurred while he was already serving a probation. Im Sung-geun had previously been sentenced to 8 months in prison, suspended for 2 years, and a fine of 300,000 KRW for violating the Road Traffic Act on March 25,1998.

Previouly, on the 18th, Im Sung-geun posted an apology on his Youtube channel, confessing, "I committed drunk driving about 3 times in the past 10 years." However, reports confirmed that he was actually caught for drunk driving 4 times. Combined with additional Road Traffic Act Violations, he has 5 prior convictions in total. Controversy is growing over the accuracy of his confession.

At the time of his confession, Im Sung-geun explained that he was apologizing preemptively, saying, "A wrong is a wrong." However, as difference between his statement and court records came to light, public sentiment has grown even colder. Some critics pointed out, "Was he downplaying it?" and "Trust is key, but the facts don't match."

The aftermath continues to escalate as his appearances on various variety shows and other broadcast activities are being canceled one after another. 

Continue reading Im Sung-geun: Not just 3 DUI offenses but '5 prior convictions?' Fans are shocked

Netflix: “Over 17,000 applicants for 'Better Late Than Single,' set to premiere in Q2 ... 'Culinary Class Wars 3' returns in Q4"

SOURCE: 넷플릭스 "2분기 공개 '모태솔로' 지원자만 1만7000명 넘어…→'흑백요리사3', 4분기에 돌아온다"

At the Next on Netflix 2026 Korea event held on the morning of January 21st at the Grand Ballroom of Conrad Seoul Hotel, Director of Variety Content, Yoo Gihwan, said, "Over 17,000 people applied when recruitment opened for Season 2 of 'Better Late Than Single.' The program is scheduled for release in the 2nd quarter of the year and will deliver warmth through the process of participants finding the first love of their lives."

'Better Late Than Single' is a makeover dating show that helps Motae Solos (NB: Those who have been single since birth) experience their very first romantic relationships. By sincerely portraying the clumsy yet honest and unpredictable first attempts at love, the show is expected to shift the genre of dating shows, raising anticipation for the new season. Previously, the show previously dominated global headlines and even ranked in the Netflix Global TOP 10 Non-English TV Shows immediately after its release.

The event also revealed the release timing for the next season of 'Culinary Class Wars,' which has recently become a phenomenon following the announcement of its winner. Director Yoo shared, "'Culinary Class Wars 3' will air in the 4th quarter of the year."

Following the success of Season 1 and 2, as both seasons ranked No. 1 in Netflix Global TOP 10 Non-English TV Shows, 'Culinary Class Wars' returns with season 3 with an evolved format, centered on restaurant vs restaurant battles, promising even more intense competition and thrilling entertainment.

Continue reading Netflix: “Over 17,000 applicants for 'Better Late Than Single,' set to premiere in Q2 ... 'Culinary Class Wars 3' returns in Q4"

"Hwang Hana exposed all her accomplices" ... Emergency alert for 'Celebrity Drug Gate'

SOURCE: "황하나가 공범 다 불었다"…'연예인 마약 게이트' 초비상 [RE:뷰]

Allegations have surfaced that Hwang Hana, the granddaughter of the founder of Namyang Dairy Products, who has been arrested and indicted on drug charges, has provided the names of celebrities she used drugs with to the police in hopes of receiving a reduced sentence.

On the 19th, a video titled 'Hwang Hana, Seungri, Park Yoochun: Reporter Oh Hyuk Jin's Exclusive Investigation Files Revealed' was posted on the channel 'Jirit Jirit.' In the video, reporter Oh Hyukjin said, "Hwang Hana claims she returned to Korea because of her child, but that is not true at all. According to information confirmed through intelligence authorities and the police, she coordinated her entry date with the police in advance to proceed with admitting to some of her criminal charges."

He pointed out, "She always claimed she had no money. Yet,someone who claimed to be broke suddenly entered the country wearing a padded jacket worth millions of KRW." He continued, "With that money, she could have easily provided her child with a good education system and private teachers in Cambodia. The fact that she came back to South Korea raises suspicion that there was something even more frightening to her than Interpol tracking her.”

Furthermore, he speculated, "Since her arrival, she has been making excuses, saying she did not personally use drugs or distribute them. However, it seems the police have clearly identified the exact times and locations of drug use, even if they don't have physical evidence yet." He added, "It is reported that Hwang Hana has mentioned several celebrities to the investigative authorities, both male and female. It seems she believes, 'I need to expose the criminal facts of others to this extent to receive a sentence reduction.'"

Hwang Hana was arrested and indicted on the 20th for violating the Narcotics Control Act. She is accused of injecting methamphetamine into two acquaintances, a man in his 40s and a woman in her 30s, at an acquaintance’s apartment in Gangnam, Seoul, around July 2023. After becoming the subject of a police investigation, she fled to Thailand in December of that year and was later known to be staying in Cambodia. However, in December of last year, she expressed her intention to voluntarily return to South Korea, saying that saying she would take responsibility for a child she gave birth to. She has since been investigated under detention.

Continue reading "Hwang Hana exposed all her accomplices" ... Emergency alert for 'Celebrity Drug Gate'

Who is the alleged 'mistress' dating show contestant? ... Starred with her mother and revealed her face, 'Match to Marry': "We'll edit her out"

SOURCE: 상간녀 '연프' 출연자 누구?…엄마랑 출연, 얼굴 공개했는데 '합숙 맞선' 측 "통편집" [엑's 이슈]

A contestant from a dating reality show has been swept up in allegations of adultery. The production team plans to completely edit out the contestant's footage.

On the episode of JTBC's 'Crime Chief' that aired on January 20, a woman in her 40s came forward claiming she divorced her husband 4 years ago due to his affair. She claimed to be shocked to see the woman involved in the affair appearing on a dating show.

The broadcast also reported that a court ruling found both the husband and the other woman responsible for the breakdown of the marriage.

Attorney Yang Jiyeol explained during the show, “The informant proceeded with the divorce and the mistress lawsuit at the same time. Originally, the husband filed for divorce first, and she countersued.” He added, “According to the court ruling, the husband was at fault. The court determined that after the woman joined the company in 2016, their relationship developed into an affair, and they even traveled abroad together. The court ruled that the responsibility for the breakdown of the marriage lies with the husband and the other woman."

According to the broadcast, the court ordered the husband and the mistress to jointly pay 30 million KRW in alimony. However, the informant stated, "I still haven't received the alimony, and the division of assets has not been finalized." She added, "I thought I had forgotten everything after the divorce, but I think the trauma remains. When I think about it, my heart starts racing again and I feel very anxious."

Meanwhile, the woman identified as the alleged mistress denied the claims, saying, "This has nothing to do with me, and I have never received any court ruling." She added, "I will take legal action against any groundless claims." It was reported that she also sent a formal legal notice through her lawyer. Regarding this, Attorney Yang commented, "It's difficult to accept that claim, given that a court ruling exists."

Amidst the controversy, the production team of the dating show 'Match to Marry,' in which the contestant appeared, decided to completely edit out her footage. During the broadcast, the production team also said they are considering filing a damages lawsuit.

On the 20th, a representative from 'Match to Marry' told Xports News, "The production team only recently became aware of these facts. Our contracts include clauses requiring contestants to guarantee that they have no history of social controversies such as crimes, affairs, or school violence. We also specify penalties for violations."

They further stated, "We plan to delete the contestant's footage as much as possible from the remaining episodes," and noted that they are currently discussing regarding further actions as they verify the facts with the contestant herself.

SBS' 'Match to Marry,' which premiered on January 1, is a dating show where 10 single men and women who want to get married live together with 10 mothers who want to see their children to marry for 6 days and 5 nights. As it is a parent-accompanied cohabitation matchmaking reality show, the contestant in question appeared on the program together with her mother, which has further fueled the controversy.

Continue reading Who is the alleged 'mistress' dating show contestant? ... Starred with her mother and revealed her face, 'Match to Marry': "We'll edit her out"