Singer An Yeseul is set to spread warmth through her new single, '웃어봐' (Smile), which will be released on March 9 at noon across various online music platforms. The track embodies the belief that with the love of 'you,' anything is possible, featuring an upbeat sound that radiates positivity. The infectious melody is sure to get listeners moving, complemented by lyrics that evoke smiles: 'Time is given equally, and even if sweet temptations come and shake my heart, I don’t mind / With you in this thrilling day, my heart flutters and runs towards you with vigor.' An Yeseul plans to resonate deeply with her audience through her clear, bright voice and expressive energy that perfectly matches the song. The single has been enhanced by the contributions of renowned composers including 필승불패 (Philseungbulpae), 안솔희 (An Solhee), and 장석원 (Jang Seokwon), ensuring high quality. An Yeseul gained public attention through her appearances on Mnet's '슈퍼스타 K4' (Superstar K4) and '프로듀스 101' (Produce 101), and she continues to actively release original songs across various genres. Fans can look forward to '웃어봐' (Smile) on March 9 at noon on all major music platforms.

An Yeseul to Release Heartwarming New Single 'Smile' on March 9

In the latest episode of KBS2's '사장님 귀는 당나귀 귀' (Boss's Ears Are Donkey Ears), North Korean defector and musician Park Seong-jin made headlines by stating that admission to North Korean arts schools is based more on appearance than musical talent. The show, which aims to foster self-reflection among South Korean bosses, has maintained a strong viewership, achieving a nationwide rating of 5.3% and a peak of 6.9%, making it the top-rated entertainment program in its time slot for 144 consecutive weeks according to Nielsen Korea.

In the upcoming episode airing on March 9, viewers will see Lee Soon-sil struggling to perform with the '통일 메아리 악단' (Unification Echo Orchestra). During this segment, Park Seong-jin, who plays the sohaegeum, jokingly tells Lee, "If you were in a North Korean arts school, you would be assigned to play the tuba (왕나팔)," which sparks her anger.

Park Seong-jin shared a surprising reason for his defection, revealing that he was detained after singing the capitalist song 'Chilgapsan' at a wedding when guests requested it. He further explained the admission criteria for North Korean arts universities, stating, "The selection is not based on musical skill but rather on looks. If a student is not attractive, they are said to have gotten in through connections, while those who are pretty but lack talent are not questioned."

This revelation prompted Lee Soon-sil to humorously ask, "If I went to that school, would I be able to enroll?" Park responded affirmatively but added, "However, you would be assigned to the tuba because of your large face," which only fueled her frustration. The host Jeon Hyun-moo chimed in, saying, "That instrument completely hides your face," leading to laughter, while Lee added, "It's also known as the pig horn," causing everyone to burst into laughter. Comedian Park Myung-soo even suggested that Lee should use Photoshop to enhance her looks, joking that it might help her chances of admission.

Additionally, Lee Soon-sil organized her own cheering squad to energize the '통일 메아리 악단' stage. She creatively incorporated various reactions to the lyrics of Park Myung-soo's song 'Prince of the Sea,' and beamed with pride when her squad shouted, "Long live, long live, long live!" Fellow cast member Kim Sook was so impressed by the cheering that she spontaneously joined in, chanting, "Long live Lee Soon-sil!"

The video of the performance created by Lee Soon-sil for the '통일 메아리 악단' will be aired during the live broadcast of '사장님 귀는 당나귀 귀.' The show airs every Sunday at 4:40 PM on KBS2.

'탈북음악인' 박성진 “북한 예술학교 악기 못해도 예쁘면 합격” 충격 (사당귀)

North Korean Defector Reveals Shocking Admission About Arts School Admissions

On the March 8 episode of MBC's How Do You Play? (놀면 뭐하니?), the legendary entertainer Lee Kyung-kyu made a special appearance, reviving the popular segment 'Conscience Refrigerator.' The production team introduced him as a 'legend of MBC,' prompting fellow cast member Lee Yi-kyung to lift him in excitement. In a humorous exchange, Haha remarked, 'If it were the old days, you would have gotten slapped,' to which Lee Kyung-kyu responded, 'I dislike excessive physical contact.' 

Yoo Jae-suk commented that he only knows Lee Kyung-kyu as a gentler version of himself, while Lee Kyung-kyu warned, 'Even dogs have their biting moments. I was known as a non-biting dog back then, but I can bite.' Yoo Jae-suk then revealed that during Lee Kyung-kyu's peak years in the late 90s and early 2000s, he often found himself alone, with writers sticking to the walls when he walked down the MBC corridors. Haha added, 'It was fair; anyone, regardless of gender, would have been in trouble.' 

Lee Kyung-kyu shared his feelings about moving from Jeongdong MBC to Yeouido, then to Sangam and Ilsan, sensing that something was off and predicting his exit. He expressed that Sangam felt right, recalling that he filmed 'Maritel' there. 

After a long absence from MBC since 'Hojakmate' in 2023, Yoo Jae-suk mentioned that Lee Kyung-kyu had previously appeared on How Do You Play? and humorously noted that he had searched for any good deeds associated with him but found none. Lee Kyung-kyu candidly admitted, 'If I had any good deeds, I would have appeared on the show, but I couldn't find any, so let's fabricate something.' 

Yoo Jae-suk remarked on Lee Kyung-kyu's clean lifestyle, while Im Ji-kyung bluntly stated, 'Only me,' which provoked a reaction from Lee Kyung-kyu. Yoo Jae-suk recalled that Lee Kyung-kyu had once predicted that entertainment would evolve into documentaries, but when asked about current trends, Lee Kyung-kyu admitted he was unsure due to the emergence of new platforms. 

When asked if he watches How Do You Play?, Lee Kyung-kyu jokingly retorted, 'Who are you to ask if I watch TV? You were told not to appear. You are the one I removed from the lineup.' He humorously referred to a 'blacklist' of entertainers. 

Lee Kyung-kyu expressed his desire to return to How Do You Play? as it is his only connection to the industry, while Haha noted that Lee Kyung-kyu is now open to being a guest as well. Joo Woo-jae joked about a potential membership, to which Lee Kyung-kyu playfully warned him to stay quiet, declaring a 'strike' until Joo Woo-jae leaves the show, adding to the lighthearted atmosphere.

이경규, '블랙리스트' 주우재에 "네가 뭔데..쟤 나가기 전까진 안해" 극대노(놀뭐)

Lee Kyung-kyu Showcases Chemistry with 'How Do You Play?' Members

Park Ji-yeon, the wife of comedian Lee Soo-geun, recently provided an update on her life through her personal channel. On March 7, she posted a message saying, "It's been a while! These days, I'm focusing entirely on myself! Wishing everyone a beautiful day," along with a photo. 

In the shared image, Park Ji-yeon is seen dressed casually while out and about, her relaxed expression adding a sense of warmth to the post. 

Previously, she had shared her feelings while preparing a birthday celebration for Lee Soo-geun, expressing her concerns about the future and her health. She wrote, "Lately, I've been having dark thoughts about how long I can keep celebrating him without being a burden. My swelling veins and enlarging heart are becoming increasingly difficult to manage, but I am grateful for completing my dialysis today and for the little moments in my daily life." 

Park Ji-yeon has faced significant health challenges since her second pregnancy in 2008, which led to kidney issues due to pregnancy-induced hypertension. She received a kidney transplant from her father in 2011 and revealed in 2021 that she was advised to consider a second kidney transplant.

‘이수근♥’ 박지연, 건강 악화 고백 후 어떻게 지내나 “온전히 나에게 집중”

Park Ji-yeon Shares Update on Life Amid Health Challenges

The five members of NewJeans, now performing under the name NJZ, made a notable appearance in court to participate in a hearing regarding a preliminary injunction filed by their agency, Ador. The Seoul Central District Court's Civil Division 50, presided over by Chief Judge Kim Sang-hoon, held the hearing on March 7, 2025, concerning Ador's request to prevent the members from engaging in independent activities and signing advertising contracts.

Although attendance at the hearing was not mandatory, the members chose to be present in person. The hearing serves as a procedure to gather testimonies from parties involved, including stakeholders and witnesses, prior to the court's decision on the injunction.

During the proceedings, Ador argued that the reasons cited for the termination of the exclusive contract, which included claims that HYBE, the parent company, harbors animosity towards NewJeans, are unfounded. They contended that it is illogical for a profit-driven private company to undermine its primary source of revenue and accused NewJeans of accumulating breaches of contract.

In response, the members asserted that the core issue lies in the discrimination and exclusion they faced from both HYBE and Ador, who allegedly sought to replace and discard them for another group. They claimed that instead of acknowledging their grievances, Ador is attempting to bind them in a manner akin to slavery, stifling their careers.

Previously, the five members announced their independent activities in November 2024 after their contracts with Ador were terminated due to alleged breaches. Following this, Ador filed a lawsuit in December 2024 to confirm the validity of the exclusive contracts and sought an injunction in January 2025 to prevent the members from independently signing advertising contracts.

In February 2025, the members changed their activity name to NJZ and announced upcoming performances in Hong Kong scheduled for March 21-23. On February 11, Ador expanded its injunction request to include a ban on all music-related activities of NewJeans, including songwriting, composing, and singing.

[SC이슈]뉴진스 멤버 5명, '어도어 가처분' 심문에 직접 법원 출석

NewJeans Members Attend Court Hearing Under New Name NJZ

Singer Song Ga-in is set to reconnect with her fans through a long-anticipated fan meeting, generating immense excitement among her supporters. The event, titled '2025 송가인 팬미팅 "평생" - The 차오르다', will take place on April 19 at 6 PM at the KBS Arena in Gangseo-gu, Seoul. This fan meeting marks her first official event since her new beginning, making it particularly meaningful for fans who cherish her music and performances.

Fans have already begun expressing their enthusiasm on official fan cafes and social media platforms. A recently released promotional video revealed that Song Ga-in is preparing special events and gifts for her fans, further heightening their anticipation. Comments such as "I’m so curious about the gifts prepared by Ga-in" and "It’s touching to see her always giving her best for her fans" reflect the excitement surrounding the event.

Song Ga-in plans to showcase a unique performance that fans have never seen before, promising an unforgettable experience. Her agency has stated that she is preparing various events to foster closer communication with her fans, hinting at a fan meeting that will be unlike any other.

[공식] '트로트 퀸' 송가인, 역대급 팬미팅 예고… "특별한 선물+무대 준비 중"

Song Ga-in to Host Long-Awaited Fan Meeting in April

Actor Lee Dong-gun has found a new home with the recently established entertainment agency, W+ (더블유플러스). On March 7, W+ announced their partnership, expressing excitement about working with Lee, who has garnered public affection for his extensive acting skills and charm over the years. The agency pledged to support Lee in expanding his acting repertoire and encouraged fans to look forward to his upcoming activities.

Since his debut in 1998, Lee Dong-gun has built an impressive filmography, starring in popular dramas such as Paris Lovers (파리의 연인), Smile Again (스마일 어게인), and Gentlemen of the Moonlight Tailor Shop (월계수 양복점 신사들), as well as films like Boyfriend Type B (B형 남자친구) and Are You Living with the Person You Love? (지금 사랑하는 사람과 살고 있습니까). Recently, he appeared in the film Useless Love (아무짝에 쓸모 없는 사랑), directed by Lee Jeong-seob, and has also been active in the SBS variety show My Little Old Boy (미운 우리 새끼). 

W+, which launched in January of this year, is eager to support Lee's career as he embarks on this new chapter.

Lee Dong-gun Signs with New Agency W+

On March 7, a new video titled "More Spicy Soup than Catfish" was released on the 'DoJang TV' channel featuring the couple Jang Yoon-jung (장윤정) and Do Kyung-wan (도경완). During their visit to a spicy soup restaurant, Jang revealed, "I had never tried Pyongyang cold noodles before marriage. After marrying, I started eating it because my spouse loves it. But he never lets me have things like chicken feet. Just the other day, I ate chicken feet by myself." 

Do Kyung-wan responded, "But why did you eat it during our dating? Let’s have a little inquiry here. You never called me 'oppa' (older brother). When I asked, 'What food do you like the most, Yoon-jung?' you said, 'I love chicken feet and gopchang (grilled intestines).' I thought we really clicked. You used to eat it a lot, and I thought you were cool and laid-back, so I wanted to impress you. On our wedding night, instead of going on our honeymoon, I ordered chicken feet at the hotel to be cool and relaxed. But you were disappointed by that," he shared, drawing attention. 

Do Kyung-wan recounted their wedding night, saying, "We stayed at a hotel in front of Seoul City Hall after the ceremony. Jang Yoon-jung said, 'Of course we sleep together; we are a couple.' After the ceremony, we fell asleep, and I woke up around 9 PM. I was looking at the room service menu, thinking about ordering cheese plates and wine. I was going to ask you what you wanted, but you came out and said, 'I slept well; I ordered what I wanted.'" 

Jang Yoon-jung defended herself, saying, "I really wanted to look good, like 'the same old girl.'" Do Kyung-wan humorously added, "Then, a little later, the chicken feet delivery guy came to the hotel. We almost had chicken feet with him on our wedding night!" 

Jang Yoon-jung questioned, "But why did you pretend to like it during our dating? Shouldn’t you have continued to show interest after we got married? You never did once!" 

Do Kyung-wan cheekily replied, "Well, I got you, didn’t I?" To which Jang Yoon-jung advised, "Ladies, be careful!" eliciting laughter.

Jang Yoon-jung and Do Kyung-wan Share Disappointments in Their Marriage

Jimin of BTS (방탄소년단) has made history by achieving the longest chart run for a K-pop solo artist on the UK Official Singles Chart with his title track 'Who' from his second solo album 'MUSE'. As of March 7, 2025, 'Who' climbed 21 spots to reach number 23. Jimin has now spent a total of 27 weeks on this chart, breaking his own record for the longest chart run by a Korean solo artist since the chart's revamp in 2014. The longest-charting K-pop song remains BTS's 'Dynamite', which held the record for 27 weeks. This accomplishment solidifies Jimin's status as an artist with the longest charting records in both group and solo activities.

On the world's largest music streaming platform, Spotify, the solo works of BTS members continue to perform strongly. J-Hope's collaboration with Don Toliver on 'LV Bag (feat. j-hope of BTS & Pharrell Williams)' reached number 165 and has been on the 'Weekly Top Songs Global' chart for two consecutive weeks. Jimin's 'Who' also made a comeback on this chart, landing at number 10. Other notable entries include Jungkook's first solo single 'Seven (feat. Latto)' at number 102, Jin's title track 'Running Wild' from his solo album 'Happy' at number 107, and V's duet with Park Hyo Shin, 'Winter Ahead (with PARK HYO SHIN)', at number 126.

The success continued on the 'Weekly Top Albums Global' chart, where Jimin's 'MUSE' secured the 21st position, Jungkook's debut solo album 'GOLDEN' reached number 57, and Jin's 'Happy - :') (Remixes)' landed at number 188. BTS's anthology album 'Proof', released in June 2022, and the repackaged album 'LOVE YOURSELF 結 'Answer'', released in 2018, also showcased their enduring popularity, ranking at 48 and 179, respectively.

In other news, J-Hope released his digital single 'Sweet Dreams (feat. Miguel)' on March 7, which has garnered enthusiastic responses from fans worldwide. As of March 8, the track has topped the iTunes 'Top Songs' chart in 66 countries/regions, including the United States, Japan, France, Canada, Australia, and Brazil. J-Hope is set to perform 'Sweet Dreams' alongside Miguel on NBC's 'The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon' on March 11, promising to captivate global audiences.

Jimin Achieves Record-Breaking Chart Success with 'Who' in the UK

On the March 8 episode of MBC's entertainment show Point of Omniscient Interference (전지적 참견 시점), hosts Jeon Hyun-moo and Lee Young-ja shared their thoughts on marriage. The episode featured YouTuber Shim Eui-ddeum and comedian Shin Gi-ru. Shim Eui-ddeum, showcasing her athletic physique, humorously claimed she could lift Shin Gi-ru but noted that she couldn't do the same for Lee Young-ja due to her brother-in-law, Hwang Dong-joo, being present, which elicited laughter from the audience.

Shim Eui-ddeum's husband and manager, Kim Hyung-cheol, expressed his happiness in being her partner, stating, "Living as Shim Eui-ddeum's husband is fulfilling. We work out together every day, and I've become healthier because of her." He humorously added that they do laundry three to four times a day, with Shim Eui-ddeum accounting for 90% of the laundry, and boasted about her extensive knowledge of leggings from various brands.

Shim Eui-ddeum's day was packed; she started with intense stretching before going for a 10km run with Sean and Ko Han-min. Comedian Yang Se-hyung praised her performance, noting that while he aimed to complete the run in 50 minutes but fell short by 30 seconds, Shim Eui-ddeum finished in an impressive 49 minutes during her first competition.

Later, Shim Eui-ddeum returned to her company, which manages five different brands related to diet foods, products, applications, and YouTube content. Her manager mentioned that they have 30 employees, each representing different aspects of the business. Shim Eui-ddeum shared her journey, stating, "Since entering college in 2009, I've read every book on dieting and tried all the products to provide valuable insights as a creator."

Shin Gi-ru consulted a fortune teller about her prospects for the year, who indicated that she would experience significant changes in her living and working environments, suggesting that she would thrive in a water-energy location.

Upon hearing this, Jeon Hyun-moo remarked, "I believe in fortune-telling. It even predicted my win at last year's entertainment awards." When Hong Hyun-hee asked if that meant he had no luck in marriage, Jeon Hyun-moo replied, "That's why I believe in it; no one has ever told me I would marry soon." He then turned to Lee Young-ja, asking if she had any marriage luck. Lee Young-ja playfully responded, "It's all up to my mindset. When someone I like appears, my feelings change."

[Photo] Captured from MBC's Point of Omniscient Interference broadcast.

Jeon Hyun-moo and Lee Young-ja Discuss Marriage on 'Point of Omniscient Interference'

In a competitive lineup featuring IVE's 'ATTITUDE', ZEROBASEONE's 'BLUE', and G-Dragon's 'TOO BAD (feat. Anderson .Paak)', G-Dragon emerged victorious on MBC's Show! Music Core, securing the number one trophy on March 8. Although G-Dragon did not perform on the show, the MCs assured viewers that they would ensure the trophy is delivered to him.

The broadcast also showcased captivating comeback stages. Infinite kicked off with their performance of 'Dangerous', a track that combines lively disco-punk sounds with an energetic rhythm. The song's emotional yet rhythmic melody, paired with passionate lyrics about love, highlighted Infinite's refreshing style.

BTOB performed their album track 'Be Alright' alongside their title song 'LOVE TODAY'. The latter is a pop track rooted in modern rock band sounds, featuring acoustic guitar elements that enhance the members' emotional delivery.

ONEWE presented their title track 'The Starry Night', a rock piece characterized by bright and exciting guitar sounds. The song expresses a pure dream of being together forever while gazing at the stars, complemented by powerful vocals and a dazzling band performance.

Additionally, 8TURN brought a free-spirited energy and powerful performance with 'LEGGO', while GENBLUE captivated the audience with their stage for 'ACT LIKE THAT', among other diverse performances that kept viewers engaged.

The episode also featured appearances from artists including Infinite, BTOB, ONEWE, ZEROBASEONE, 8TURN, GENBLUE, Hearts2Hearts, KiiiKiii, XODIAC, MADEIN, KyuBin, NouerA, BoraMiyu, and 3WAY.

An Yeseul to Release Heartwarming New Single 'Smile' on March 9

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Lee Dong-gun Signs with New Agency W+

Jang Yoon-jung and Do Kyung-wan Share Disappointments in Their Marriage

Jimin Achieves Record-Breaking Chart Success with 'Who' in the UK

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G-Dragon Takes the Top Spot on Show! Music Core

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NewJeans Members Attend Court Hearing Under New Name NJZ

Song Ga-in to Host Long-Awaited Fan Meeting in April

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