'Universe League' is gearing up for an exciting finale as the global boy group audition program prepares to announce its finalists. Scheduled to air today (January 18) at 6 PM on SBS, the final contestants will be determined through a combination of fan votes and the directors' selections. Out of the 34 contestants who survived the league rounds, only 21 will advance to the final stage. Nine of these finalists will be chosen based on their rankings in global fan voting, while the remaining 12 will be selected by the directors. The selection process is expected to bring surprises, as contestants ranked outside the top 21, such as those in 22nd, 25th, and 30th places, may still have a chance to perform in the finale. Additionally, directors have the freedom to select contestants from any team, leading to unexpected choices that could leave fans and participants astonished. For instance, Team Beat's Kim Jin-ho expressed his shock when a name from another team was called, exclaiming, 'Wow, I didn't see this coming.' Some contestants who did not make the fan-voted list were moved to tears upon hearing their names called by the directors. One participant, who has previous survival show experience, reportedly said, 'This is my last chance,' after securing a spot in the final. Ultimately, 21 finalists will be confirmed, with each team contributing seven members, as they prepare for fierce competition in hopes of debuting.

Exciting Twists Ahead of 'Universe League' Final

Former announcer and current broadcaster Jeon Hyun-moo speculated on Kim Dae-ho's potential transition to freelancing during the latest episode of MBC's variety show, 'Knowing Bros' (전지적 참견 시점), which aired on January 18, 2025. The episode featured the daily life of Kim Su-ji, an anchor for MBC's 'News Desk'. 

During the show, Yoo Byung-jae asked Jeon Hyun-moo if he sensed that Kim Su-ji might be considering freelancing, given her roles as an MBC announcer, lyricist, and writer. Jeon responded, looking directly at Kim Su-ji, "She certainly has the looks for it. MBC supports external activities well, so I don't think there would be any issues with her songwriting."

However, Jeon added a twist, suggesting that Kim Su-ji's appearances on shows like 'Knowing Bros' and 'You Quiz on the Block' indicate a desire for more freelance opportunities. He remarked, "There’s a spark there. If someone fans the flames, it could ignite."

In contrast, fellow guests Song Eun-i and Hong Hyun-hee expressed their belief that Kim Su-ji is managing her career carefully, ensuring that her news duties remain unaffected. They noted, "She’s maintaining a good balance and is likely to keep her promises."

When Yoo Byung-jae inquired about who he thought was a typical freelancer, Jeon Hyun-moo quickly replied, "Kim Dae-ho," eliciting laughter. He quickly clarified that this was just his personal opinion and not a confirmed fact.

전현무, 당사자도 조용한데 '폭탄' 폭로? "전형적인 프리상? 김대호!" ('전참시')

Jeon Hyun-moo Predicts Kim Dae-ho's Shift to Freelancing

"저의 마지막 도전"'유니버스 리그', 파이널 진출 확정에 눈물

The popular MBC variety show 'How Do You Play?' (놀면 뭐하니?) was unexpectedly interrupted by a breaking news segment on January 18, 2025. The episode featured a project about the release of a winter song remake, where the 14 members voted to select Loveholics' 'Butterfly' as their group song. They expressed excitement about going on a retreat to discuss part distribution. However, during the broadcast, a news alert was triggered, informing viewers that the warrant review for President Yoon Suk-yeol had just concluded earlier than anticipated, lasting just under five hours. A reporter noted that the session ended at 6:50 PM, taking 4 hours and 43 minutes, compared to the 8 hours and 45 minutes it took during former President Park Geun-hye's case. The president's legal representative briefly stated they were hopeful for a positive outcome. This comes amid ongoing political turmoil following President Yoon's declaration of martial law on December 3, which has led to over a month of impeachment discussions. The Corruption Investigation Office for High-ranking Officials (공수처) arrested President Yoon on January 15 on charges related to insurrection and has requested a detention warrant.

[속보] '놀면뭐하니' 방송 중단..윤석열 대통령 구속심사 종료 '뉴스특보' 방송

MBC's 'How Do You Play?' Interrupted by Breaking News

In the latest episode of tvN's weekend drama 'Ask the Stars' (별들에게 물어봐), Lee Min-ho's character, Gong-ryong, openly reveals his feelings for Eve Kim, played by Gong Hyo-jin. During the episode aired on January 18, Gong-ryong receives a call from Choi Go-eun (Han Ji-eun), where he informs her of his decision to break off their engagement. After confessing his love to Eve, Gong-ryong expresses regret to Choi Go-eun, who apologizes for announcing their engagement. He responds, 'I'm sorry. I'm a foolish man,' to which she reassures him, 'Why do you think you're foolish? You're doing well, even succeeding in surgery. I feel unworthy to face you.' Gong-ryong then states, 'I don't deserve you. It's not because of Kang Kang-soo (Oh Jung-se), but because of me. I won't marry you. I'm sorry,' before ending the call. Choi Go-eun is left in shock, seemingly unable to process the news.

이민호, 한지은에 결국 파혼 통보 “너랑 약혼 안 해”(별들에게 물어봐)

Lee Min-ho Confesses His Feelings for Gong Hyo-jin in 'Ask the Stars'

Hong Jin-kyung is making waves in the entertainment industry with her diverse roles across various genres, from talk shows to observational reality programs. Recently, she attended the production presentation for MBC Every1 and MBN's new show, '다 컸는데 안 나가요' (Grown Up but Not Leaving), held at the Stanford Hotel in Sangam-dong, Seoul on January 17, 2025.

Hong first burst onto the modeling scene in 1993, winning the Best Pose award at the 2nd Super Elite Model Contest while in her first year of high school. She later transitioned to television, gaining popularity through her collaboration with Lee Young-ja on SBS's '기쁜 우리 토요일' (Happy Saturday).

Her unique sense of humor and quick wit have made her a standout figure in various entertainment programs. She solidified her status as a leading entertainer with appearances on MBC's '무한도전' (Infinite Challenge) in 2015 and KBS's '언니들의 슬램덩크' (Sister's Slam Dunk) in 2016. Known for her distinctive character, she earned nicknames like 'Desire Giraffe' and 'God Kimchi' and showcased her versatility as a member of the project girl group '언니쓰' (Unnies), topping music charts.

Currently, Hong is serving as the MC for Netflix's popular dating reality show, '솔로지옥4' (Single's Inferno 4). The 'Single's Inferno' series has gained consistent global popularity, becoming the first non-English Netflix show from Korea to break into the top 10.

Throughout all four seasons, Hong has maintained her role as MC, enhancing the show's appeal with her sharp insights and humor. She captivates viewers with her intuitive understanding of unpredictable relationships while also providing heartfelt empathy and practical advice.

At the production presentation for 'Grown Up but Not Leaving,' Hong expressed her desire to portray the positive aspects of the 'Kangaroo Generation' phenomenon, where adult children live with their parents due to rising living costs. She emphasized the importance of showcasing warm moments between parents and children rather than viewing this trend negatively.

As an MC, Hong excels not just in reacting to the cast's stories but also in sharing her own experiences to foster genuine connections with the audience. Her ability to blend in with participants allows her to present relatable perspectives.

Hong Jin-kyung continues to thrive across various genres, establishing herself as a trendsetting MC who understands the pulse of contemporary society. Fans are eager to see what new ventures she will embark on next.

[SC줌人] “솔로지옥·캥거루족도 품어” 홍진경, CEO→유튜버 넘어 예능 MC까지 전방위 점령ing[종합]

Hong Jin-kyung Shines as a Versatile MC in Korean Entertainment

Actor Robert Pattinson has made his first trip to South Korea, arriving at Incheon International Airport on January 19, 2025. The visit is part of the promotional activities for Bong Joon-ho's upcoming film, 'Mickey 17'. Sporting sunglasses and a casual outfit, Pattinson drew attention as he greeted numerous fans at the airport. He warmly interacted with them, offering autographs and handshakes, showcasing his appreciation for their support.

Despite a busy filming schedule for his next project, Pattinson expressed a strong desire to visit South Korea, the home country of director Bong Joon-ho. His arrival marks the beginning of global promotional efforts for 'Mickey 17'. On January 20, he will participate in a footage screening of the film, followed by a press conference with Korean media, where he will discuss various aspects of 'Mickey 17' and engage with fans during a stage greeting.

'Mickey 17' is Bong Joon-ho's first directorial project since the acclaimed 'Parasite'. The film follows a disposable character named Mickey, who is sent on dangerous missions and is printed anew each time he dies. The story unfolds as Mickey faces his 17th death, leading to the unexpected emergence of Mickey 18. Pattinson plays two contrasting versions of Mickey, showcasing his versatility as an actor.

Originally, 'Mickey 17' began production in the summer of 2022, with a release date set for March 29, 2023. However, Warner Bros. shifted the release of 'Godzilla x Kong: The New Empire' to that date, resulting in 'Mickey 17' being rescheduled for a Korean release on January 28, 2025, and a global release on January 31, 2025. Following further adjustments, the North American release has been moved up to March 7, 2025, with a worldwide premiere in South Korea on February 28, 2025.

Robert Pattinson Makes His First Visit to South Korea to Meet Fans

In the latest episode of tvN's weekend drama 'Ask the Stars' (별들에게 물어봐), Lee Min-ho's character, Gong-ryong, successfully creates an embryo in secret from Eve Kim, played by Gong Hyo-jin. Earlier, Kang Kang-soo (played by Oh Jung-se) had informed Choi Jae-ryong (Kim Eung-soo) about the successful embryo fertilization, but Eve Kim caught wind of it. Kang Kang-soo lied, claiming he had obtained the eggs from a frozen egg center for experimental purposes, but Eve Kim declared, 'I will dispose of it immediately and report it to the MCC.' 

Gong-ryong argued, 'That is a life. From the moment the sperm and egg meet, it is life. Morula is a person. It is already a created life form.' However, Eve Kim countered, 'Even if it is a life, no one knows how its cell division will proceed. How can we predict if it will become a tumor? It is exposed to unpredictable risks. It must be discarded. There is no buffer like a mother's womb.' 

Gong-ryong insisted that facing such risks is part of the life’s destiny, stating, 'We should not decide this.' Yet, Eve Kim maintained, 'Obsession has violated the ethics of the universe. This morula will soon become a blastocyst, and an unverified blastocyst can never enter Earth,' before disposing of it in a shredder. 

Furious, Gong-ryong exclaimed, 'You murderer! I regret ever feeling excited and thrilled about you. I should have just let it die. I will never save you again. I didn’t know you were this heartless. My question about whether I could like you is canceled.' He further expressed his disillusionment, saying, 'I believed the universe was like a womb, but it turns out it’s a grave. Is it a place to return to after death, not where we are born?' 

Meanwhile, Gong-ryong decided to create an embryo without Eve Kim's knowledge, enlisting the help of Lee Seung-jun (Heo Nam-jun), Santi (Alex Haffner), and Mina Lee (Lee Cho-hee). After two failed attempts, they began their final challenge, but Eve Kim started searching for Gong-ryong, putting them at risk of being discovered. Fortunately, thanks to Mina Lee, they managed to avoid the crisis and worked together to create the last embryo. Gong-ryong successfully inserted the sperm into the center of the egg, declaring, 'I will definitely save you.' Mina Lee was impressed, saying, 'You are really amazing,' to which Gong-ryong replied, 'Now it’s up to you. Hang in there.' 

After the embryo's success, Gong-ryong sought out Eve Kim. When the combination of the lab mice he recommended worked, a thrilled Eve Kim asked, 'Shall we have sex now?' leaving Gong-ryong stunned. Once again captivated by her, he couldn't take his eyes off her.

Lee Min-ho's Character Faces Off Against Gong Hyo-jin in 'Ask the Stars'

In a recent episode of SBS's variety show My Little Old Boy (미운우리새끼), Lee Sang-min shared his ongoing battle with panic disorder. During the broadcast on January 19, 2025, he expressed his concerns, stating, "I need to sleep well tonight," revealing that his condition often disrupts his sleep. He mentioned, "I find it more comfortable at home or in the car due to my panic disorder," and noted that while medication helps, he is currently trying to reduce his reliance on it after over a decade of use due to high dependency. His close friends, Shin Dong-yup and Seo Jang-hoon, acknowledged his struggles, saying, "He has suffered from panic disorder for more than ten years." 

The episode depicted Lee visiting a mental health clinic, where he shared his efforts to minimize his use of sleeping pills. He recounted that his panic disorder began after a breakup in late 2013, compounded by financial pressures from wage garnishments that led to increased anxiety. Initially starting with two pills, he now finds himself taking eight to ten pills before bed. Lee explained, "I drink two cups of coffee before going on air because the medication makes me drowsy," which in turn exacerbates his condition, leading him to take more medication. He expressed a desire to venture outside without relying on medication, to which the hosts remarked, "Panic is a warning alarm system for danger," as they discussed the various aspects of his mental health challenges.

Lee Sang-min Opens Up About His Struggles with Panic Disorder on 'My Little Old Boy'

In the latest episode of SBS's Running Man, which aired on January 19, 2025, Jeon So-min's jealousy took center stage, bringing plenty of laughs. After a 14-month hiatus, Jeon made her much-anticipated return, with the cast welcoming her back enthusiastically, exclaiming, "The lost So-min has returned!"

Upon seeing the new cast member, Ji Ye-eun, Jeon expressed her excitement, saying, "I wanted to meet Ji Ye-eun because I'm a fan of SNL," showcasing her admiration. However, she humorously noted, "But she seems to have low stamina," to which Ji Ye-eun agreed, eliciting laughter from the group. Fellow member Choi Daniel chimed in with a surprise compliment, stating, "But Ji Ye-eun is really tall!"

As the games commenced, Jeon So-min began to warm up, prompting the others to joke, "So-min is warming up, but there's still some leftover energy!" When she remarked, "I haven't used my brain in a while," the members playfully retorted, "When did you ever use it?" This banter continued as they faced a quiz challenge, with Haha expressing his hopes for Ji Ye-eun to showcase Jeon So-min's skills, only for Jeon to impress everyone by answering questions correctly.

In a surprising twist, Yang Se-chan declared, "I want to team up with Ji Ye-eun," which visibly upset Jeon So-min. Yang then teased her, saying, "You should be jealous!" and asked, "Why are you jealous?" Jeon playfully responded, "I saw on the show that you treat Ye-eun really well. Do you really like her that much?" This sparked a humorous skit that had everyone laughing.

Later, Jeon So-min and Ji Ye-eun teamed up. Ji Ye-eun, reflecting on her own stamina issues, apologized to Jeon, who humorously took on a mentor role, asking, "Why are you so weak?" Ji Ye-eun then declared, "I won't fill up on tasteless food; I'd rather starve!" She successfully charmed Yang Se-chan into giving her food with her acting skills. Jeon So-min, feeling left out, exclaimed, "Why is only Ye-eun getting food?" to which Haha quipped, "It's because I only love Ye-eun!" Jeon then shouted, "Do you love her? Do you really love this girl?" adding to the comedic atmosphere.

Jealousy Sparks Laughter on Running Man as Jeon So-min Returns

On January 19, following the issuance of an arrest warrant for President Yoon Suk-yeol, pro-Yoon supporters gathered in front of the Constitutional Court in Jongno-gu, Seoul, holding an unauthorized rally and chanting slogans. The police announced plans to significantly enhance security at the Constitutional Court, as well as at other judicial and correctional facilities, due to concerns that the recent disturbances at the Western District Court were not isolated incidents. A police official stated, "If there are attempts to disrupt the impeachment trial and related proceedings with violence, we will respond strictly according to the law." 

Around 1,300 protesters gathered near the Constitutional Court, displaying signs that read "Invalidate the Impeachment, Arrest Lee Jae-myung" and "Verify Election Fraud," while chanting for President Yoon's immediate release. The gathering was deemed illegal, and police warned that participants could face penalties. 

During the protests, one man was apprehended for trespassing after climbing the court's wall, and another was caught with a crowbar, suspected of carrying a concealed weapon. Earlier in the day, approximately 1,500 people clashed with police outside the Western District Court in Mapo-gu, with some holding photos of Chief Judge Cha Eun-kyung, who issued the arrest warrant for President Yoon. One man was arrested for obstructing police duties during the scuffle. 

A document titled "Declaration of the 1.19 Democratic Uprising" circulated rapidly on social media, authored by a group identifying themselves as "Citizens of Free Republic of Korea." They claimed that the judiciary and constitutional institutions could no longer represent the people after the arrest of the sitting president and declared the start of the "1.19 Democratic Uprising" to eradicate what they termed as treasonous forces. 

The police expressed concern that such declarations signify a direct challenge to state authority, raising the possibility of further disturbances similar to those at the Western District Court. In response, the National Police Agency convened an emergency meeting to reinforce security measures at key public institutions and prepare for a strict response to any future illegal gatherings. The Southern Gyeonggi Police Agency has deployed additional riot police units to the Seoul Detention Center, where President Yoon is held, and plans to double the personnel starting January 20.

Exciting Twists Ahead of 'Universe League' Final

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Robert Pattinson Makes His First Visit to South Korea to Meet Fans

Lee Min-ho's Character Faces Off Against Gong Hyo-jin in 'Ask the Stars'

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Jealousy Sparks Laughter on Running Man as Jeon So-min Returns

Police Increase Security Amid Protests Related to President Yoon's Impeachment

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