The girl group COSMOSY (코스모시) is making a significant impact in the global music market. On February 7, they released their debut single 'zigy=zigy (지기지기)' across various music platforms and have been actively promoting it since. Notably, 'zigy=zigy' achieved an impressive fourth place on the TikTok music chart, announced on February 20, just two weeks after its official release, showcasing their global influence.

With striking visuals and a unique concept, COSMOSY's music is naturally spreading through short-form content. Their track 'zigy=zigy' has quickly become a viral trend on TikTok, and during its first week, it also entered the top 40 of Instagram's rising audio chart.

A representative from NTT Docomo Studio & Live commented, "Reaching fourth place on the TikTok chart demonstrates that global fans resonate with COSMOSY's music and performances. We plan to captivate listeners worldwide through various activities in the future."

COSMOSY, consisting of four members—A'mei (에이메이), De_hana (디하나), Himesha (히메샤), and Kamion (카미온)—is gaining popularity among Generation Z with their sophisticated sound. Recently, they signed a label contract with Sony Music Korea, drawing attention in the industry.

Building on their chart success, COSMOSY plans to ramp up their activities and expand their connection with global fans, solidifying their position as the next generation of rookies under the support of Sony Music Korea.

COSMOSY Makes Waves in the Global Music Scene with Debut Single

Kim Ga-young, a weathercaster, has officially announced her departure from the SBS show 'Goal Diggers' (골 때리는 그녀들). On February 21, SBS confirmed to OSEN that her exit is indeed accurate. 

Currently, Kim is facing allegations related to workplace bullying against the late Oh Yoo-anna. Reports surfaced last month revealing that a note expressing her distress over workplace harassment was found on Oh's phone, leading to scrutiny of senior weathercasters, including Kim, as potential perpetrators or bystanders. 

In light of these serious allegations, Kim decided to step down from 'Goal Diggers' and her group, Wonder Woman, stating that she did not want to cause further harm to the show or her colleagues. The production team accepted her decision. 

As the investigation continues, Kim is distancing herself from the broadcasting industry, having already left her web entertainment and radio segments. Additionally, she was removed from her role as a promotional ambassador for Paju City on February 6. 

Meanwhile, MBC is conducting an investigation into the workplace bullying allegations surrounding Oh Yoo-anna through a fact-finding committee.

'오요안나 괴롭힘 의혹' 김가영, 홍보대사 해촉 이어 '골때녀'도 하차 [공식]

Kim Ga-young Exits 'Goal Diggers' Amid Bullying Allegations

A loan shark, referred to as A, has largely admitted to charges in court after allegedly driving a single mother in her 30s to suicide through persistent harassment. During the first hearing on February 21 at the Seoul Northern District Court, A's lawyer stated, "We deny some of the charges but acknowledge the rest." However, the defense claimed that A had only received partial repayments from some victims and had never collected interest exceeding the legal rate. A also denied sending threatening images of knives to the mother of one debtor.

Between July and November of last year, A is accused of lending a total of 17.6 million won to six individuals without proper registration as a moneylender, subsequently sending threatening messages to their families and acquaintances. The annual interest rate reportedly exceeded the legal limit by a staggering 100 times, reaching between 2409% and 5214%.

One of the victims, a single mother identified as B, who was constantly threatened after borrowing money, tragically took her own life in September. A is also charged with sending derogatory messages about the victim to her family and friends and making threatening calls to her daughter's kindergarten.

Additionally, A faces allegations of using accounts and mobile phones registered under other people's names to operate the illegal lending business.

싱글맘 협박해 죽음 내몬 사채업자, 첫 재판서 혐의 대부분 인정

Loan Shark Admits to Charges in Court After Driving Single Mother to Suicide

Today marks the 20th anniversary of the tragic passing of actress 故이은주, who left this world on February 22, 2005, at the young age of 25. Her death, attributed to struggles with depression, occurred at her home in Seongnam, Gyeonggi Province.

Lee Eun-joo began her career in the entertainment industry after winning a silver medal at the 1996 Sun Kyung Smart Model Contest. She made her acting debut in the drama 'Start' the following year and gained recognition for her role as the young version of Shim Eun-ha in 'White Night 3.98'. In 1998, she expanded her career to film with her appearance in 'Trout'.

She solidified her status as a promising actress by starring in films directed by Hong Sang-soo, such as 'The Day a Pig Fell into the Well' and 'The Power of Gangwon Province', earning her the Best New Actress award at the Daejong Film Awards. Her filmography continued to grow with notable works like 'Bungee Jumping of Their Own', 'Love Story', and 'Tae Guk Gi: The Brotherhood of War'. Notably, 'Tae Guk Gi' surpassed 10 million viewers, making Lee Eun-joo the first Korean actress to achieve a '10 Million Career'.

In 2004, she maintained her popularity with roles in the drama 'Firebird' and the film 'The Scarlet Letter'. However, her sudden death shocked the nation, especially as it was revealed that she had been battling severe depression, insomnia, and loss of appetite, leading to medical treatment.

The unexpected loss of such a talented young actress in her twenties sent ripples through South Korean society, as it was the first time a young female celebrity had taken her own life. Many of her fellow actresses, including Kim Hye-soo, Jeon Do-yeon, Uhm Ji-won, Kim So-yeon, Son Ye-jin, and Kim Min-jung, expressed their grief and shock over her passing.

Even after two decades, fans continue to mourn her loss. The entertainment industry has seen similar tragedies since her death, amplifying the sorrow surrounding her memory. Just a week before this anniversary, actress Kim Sae-ron also passed away at the age of 24, reigniting waves of grief among fans and colleagues alike.

If you or someone you know is struggling with depression or suicidal thoughts, please reach out for help. In South Korea, you can contact the Suicide Prevention Hotline at ☎109, Mental Health Centre Crisis Counselling at ☎1577-0199, or the Hope Line at ☎129 for 24/7 support.

故이은주 사망, 25살에 떠난 청춘..20년째 반복되는 비극[Oh!쎈 이슈]

Remembering Lee Eun-joo: 20 Years Since Her Untimely Passing

Comedians Kim Jun-ho (김준호) and Kim Ji-min (김지민) are set to tie the knot. On February 20, Kim Ji-min shared a heartfelt handwritten letter on her Instagram, revealing, "I have some joyful news to share. Recently, we exchanged proposals, which led us to cherish each other and decide to live our lives joyfully together." The couple publicly confirmed their relationship in April 2022. Kim Ji-min reflected, "It has already been three years since we acknowledged our romance. Throughout this time, we have experienced many things that have allowed us to trust and rely on each other." She also announced that they plan to hold their wedding in July, stating, "As a comedian couple, we will be a marriage filled with laughter and fun. Please watch over us." Both Kim Jun-ho and Kim Ji-min are KBS (Korean Broadcasting System) comedians, belonging to the 14th and 21st classes, respectively. They have recently shared their wedding preparations on variety shows such as 'My Little Old Boy' (미운 우리 새끼) and 'Lovers of Joseon' (조선의 사랑꾼).

김준호·김지민, 7월 결혼… 손편지엔 “웃음 가득 부부 될 것”

Comedians Kim Jun-ho and Kim Ji-min Announce Their Engagement

Actress 김민희 has made the decision to travel to Germany while heavily pregnant, although she did not show her face in front of the cameras. Her presence coincided with the 75th Berlin International Film Festival, where director 홍상수's film '그 자연이 네게 뭐라고 하니' was invited to compete. A press conference took place on February 20, 2025, featuring 홍상수, along with actors 하성국, 권해효, 조윤희, and 강소이. Although 김민희 was reported to be in Germany as a production manager for the film, she did not engage with the press.

'그 자연이 네게 뭐라고 하니' tells the story of a 30-something poet named 동화 who unexpectedly visits his lover 준희's home, leading to a series of events. The film features actors who have previously collaborated with 홍상수, including 하성국, 권해효, and 조윤희.

Last month, it was revealed that 김민희 is expecting a child with 홍상수, with a due date set for this spring, which has drawn significant public interest regarding their attendance at the festival together. On February 19, the couple was spotted at Incheon International Airport boarding a flight to Munich. Despite her advanced pregnancy, 김민희 chose to accompany 홍상수 to the festival but opted to remain out of sight from the media.

김민희 and 홍상수 began their relationship in 2015 while working on the film '지금은 맞고 그때는 틀리다', and they have maintained a controversial affair for nearly a decade. 홍상수 had filed for divorce from his wife of 30 years, but she has shown no intention of accepting the divorce papers, leading to a prolonged legal battle. The court ultimately dismissed 홍상수's divorce petition, adhering to the principle that a spouse cannot file for divorce if they are deemed responsible for the marital breakdown. Despite these challenges, 김민희 and 홍상수 continue their relationship, and the news of their impending child has further shocked the public.

홀로 카메라 앞에 선 홍상수… ‘만삭 동행’ 김민희는 어디에

Kim Min-hee Attends Berlin Film Festival Amid Pregnancy Rumors

Kihyun of MONSTA X held a special live stream on February 21 to celebrate his military discharge, connecting with fans known as MONBEBE through the group's official YouTube channel. Dressed in his military uniform, Kihyun made a charming appearance that delighted fans. He greeted MONBEBE in the live chat, expressing his excitement to reunite with them after his service.

During the stream, Kihyun showcased his signature humor, responding to fans who referred to him as 'Muscle Man' and 'Captain Korea' by saying, "I'm not quite Captain Korea, but I have gained some muscle since then." When fans asked for proof, he playfully replied, "What proof do you need? You can see it!" 

Kihyun also took a moment to blow out the candles on a cake celebrating his discharge and reminisced about the 'KIKITRIP' series, which he filmed during his military service. He shared that he had worked hard to create content during his time away and felt proud to see the positive reactions from fans. He encouraged those who became fans while he was in the military, reassuring them that there’s no need to worry about missing out, as they can look forward to more content in the future.

The live stream included a fun segment where Kihyun answered various questions related to topics like 'chicken,' 'songs,' and 'members.' When asked about his feelings the night before his discharge, he shared, "I was busy thinking about how to safely guide MONBEBE who came to see me, as there were so many cars outside the base. I was worried someone might get hurt, but everything went well, and I’m grateful for their support."

As the stream came to a close, Kihyun participated in a challenge time prepared for MONBEBE, showcasing his talents with various fun challenges, including the 'Today I LOVE YOU' challenge from the group Boynextdoor, leaving fans smiling until the very end.

After about an hour of interaction, Kihyun expressed his gratitude, saying, "It felt like time flew by while talking to MONBEBE. Thank you for waiting for me. I’ve worked hard during my service, and you can be proud of me. I’ll continue to show you my best side moving forward. This was the live stream celebrating my discharge as MONSTA X's Kihyun! Goodbye!"

Kihyun completed his military service after enlisting on August 22, 2023, and has now returned to the music scene. He is set to hold a free fan event titled 'TRIP TO KIKITOWN!' on March 8 at the Myunghwa Live Hall in Yeongdeungpo, Seoul, where he will meet fans up close.

MONSTA X's Kihyun Celebrates Military Discharge with Fans in Special Live Stream

On the morning of February 22, 2025, families of the victims of the tragic fire at the Banyan Tree Resort in Busan gathered to hold a press conference, calling for a thorough investigation and accountability for those responsible. The event was organized by the bereaved families in collaboration with the Busan Movement for a World Without Serious Accidents.

During the press conference, a representative of the families criticized a joint briefing held by the Busan city government on February 20, describing it as a mere attempt to deflect responsibility without addressing the concerns of the victims' families. He stated, "We can no longer tolerate the deceitful actions and indifference of the Busan city government and responsible agencies towards the bereaved families."

The representative further expressed outrage at the city’s comments during the briefing, where officials suggested that a memorial space would only be established if there were ten or more fatalities or thirty or more injuries, which he deemed disrespectful.

The families are demanding a comprehensive investigation into the incident, punishment for those responsible for the serious accident, preventive measures from the city and the construction companies involved, an official apology from the companies, the establishment of memorials, and adequate compensation and support for the bereaved families.

After the press conference, the families were allowed to enter the resort for the first time since the fire, which occurred nine days earlier. Previously, police had restricted their access to preserve the scene. Some family members were seen weeping as they embraced photographs of their loved ones at the site.

In a statement released nine days after the fire, the construction companies involved, Samjeong Corporation and Samjeong E&C, expressed their condolences, stating, "We sincerely apologize to the deceased, their families, and the injured. We also extend our heartfelt apologies to the public for the distress caused."

They added that their employees had visited the mourning sites to offer support and that the delay in their official apology was regrettable due to the ongoing investigation and recovery efforts.

Families Demand Accountability Following Deadly Banyan Tree Resort Fire in Busan

Park Bom (박봄) of 2NE1 has once again stirred the pot regarding her relationship with Lee Min Ho (이민호). In a recent post, she expressed frustration, stating, "Someone keeps deleting my posts. I am single and we are not in a relationship. It wasn't self-promotion; Lee Min Ho asked me to write it. I will focus on my work." 

Since last year, Park Bom has been vocal about her feelings for Lee Min Ho. In September 2024, she referred to him as her 'husband' and shared photos of them together on social media, which led to speculation about a romantic relationship. Her agency clarified that it was merely a playful expression of her fan affection, and fans took it lightly. 

However, on February 12 and 13, she posted more photos of Lee Min Ho, calling him her 'real husband.' When a fan questioned the authenticity, she replied, "Yes," and when asked who was deleting her posts, she mentioned, "The company." 

On February 19, she reiterated her claims, stating, "Hello everyone. I have been working hard, and everything I wrote is true. I will continue to work hard with 2NE1." This led her to assert that her relationship with Lee Min Ho was not a joke but genuine. 

In response, Lee Min Ho's representatives stated on February 20 that there is no personal relationship between him and Park Bom, calling her claims baseless. Park Bom then addressed her fans, saying, "Hello, dear fans. I am Park Bom. I am actually single. I posted because Lee Min Ho asked me to, and I want to clarify that I am alone." 

On February 21, she continued to make contradictory statements about her relationship with Lee Min Ho, insisting it was not self-promotion. After causing a stir online for nine days, Park Bom departed for Hong Kong and Macau, where she will perform with her group during the '2024-25 2NE1 Asia Tour [Welcome Back] in Macau.'

Park Bom Sparks Controversy with Lee Min Ho Comments

A 23-year-old woman, identified as A, has been sentenced to 1 year and 6 months in prison by the Cheongju District Court for making a false rape accusation against her boyfriend after undergoing an abortion. The presiding judge, Jeong Woo-hyuk, stated that A had consensual sexual relations with her boyfriend in April 2021 but later claimed she was raped when he did not visit her following the procedure. A had previously been pregnant with her boyfriend's child and had an abortion. After he failed to contact her, she falsely reported that he had raped her and vandalized her home. Additionally, A faced charges for refusing a breathalyzer test while driving in July of the previous year. The judge noted that if the false rape claim had been proven true, the accused would have faced severe penalties, emphasizing A's repeated false statements and denial of responsibility as factors in determining her sentence.

Woman Sentenced for False Rape Allegation After Abortion

K-pop group ASTRO (아스트로), under Fantagio, is set to celebrate their 9th debut anniversary on February 23 by gifting fans a new single titled 'Twilight' (트와일라잇). The announcement was made on February 22 at midnight through Fantagio's official social media and YouTube channel, where they released a teaser video for the upcoming single.

The teaser showcases the members of ASTRO snapping their fingers, radiating refreshing energy that brings smiles to viewers. A snippet of 'Twilight's' warm and hopeful melody plays in the background, heightening anticipation for the full track. Additionally, the teaser features a group photo that has never been shared before, sparking excitement for new content.

Last year, on their debut anniversary, ASTRO also released a special single titled 'Circles' (서클스), expressing their heartfelt gratitude to fans. This year, in addition to the new music, the group will unveil original content featuring all the members, raising curiosity about the special messages they will convey through 'Twilight'.

Ahead of the single's release, ASTRO surprised fans by dropping a new content series titled 'Starry Table' (별둥이네 별빛식탁) on their official YouTube channel on February 21. In the video, the members celebrate their 9th anniversary with a cozy dinner featuring dishes they prepared themselves.

During the celebration, the members reminisced about their journey from trainee days to the present, sharing various stories that highlighted their enduring friendship and teamwork. They exchanged heartfelt messages to commemorate the occasion. The eldest member, MJ, expressed his hopes for a healthy and happy year ahead, while leader JinJin thanked the members for their support over the years. Cha Eun-woo shared his belief that they would still be together for their 20th anniversary, and youngest member Yoon San-ha reflected on the lessons he continues to learn from his older members.

After the video was released, Cha Eun-woo shared it on his Instagram, tagging the late Moonbin's account to honor the special day together.

ASTRO's new single 'Twilight' will be available on various online music platforms on February 23 at 6 PM KST.

COSMOSY Makes Waves in the Global Music Scene with Debut Single

What do you think?

Trending

MONSTA X's Kihyun Celebrates Military Discharge with Fans in Special Live Stream

Families Demand Accountability Following Deadly Banyan Tree Resort Fire in Busan

Park Bom Sparks Controversy with Lee Min Ho Comments

Woman Sentenced for False Rape Allegation After Abortion

ASTRO to Celebrate 9th Anniversary with New Single 'Twilight'

More

Kim Ga-young Exits 'Goal Diggers' Amid Bullying Allegations

Loan Shark Admits to Charges in Court After Driving Single Mother to Suicide

Remembering Lee Eun-joo: 20 Years Since Her Untimely Passing

Comedians Kim Jun-ho and Kim Ji-min Announce Their Engagement

Kim Min-hee Attends Berlin Film Festival Amid Pregnancy Rumors

Korea Guides

Common Visas for Foreigners in South Korea

Working Holiday visa in South Korea

K-ETA visa in South Korea

E-7 visa in South Korea

E-2 visa in South Korea