G-DRAGON (지드래곤) has heightened anticipation for his return by revealing the tracklist for his new album 'Übermensch (위버맨쉬)'. The singer shared the tracklist poster on his official fan SNS (@fanplusonedotcom) today, February 8, at 1 PM.

The poster features a striking silhouette of G-DRAGON, leaving a powerful impression. The unique aura emanating from the poster suggests the birth of yet another legendary album filled with his stylish and distinctive musicality.

The album will include pre-released tracks 'POWER' and 'HOME SWEET HOME', along with six additional songs: 'TOO BAD', 'DRAMA', 'IBELONGIIU', 'TAKE ME', 'BONAMANA', and 'GYRO-DROP', totaling eight tracks. This marks G-DRAGON's first full-length album in 11 years and 5 months, making the rich tracklist even more exciting for fans who have long awaited his comeback.

With the release of the tracklist poster, G-DRAGON is also gearing up for a world tour in 2025, named after the album, which has garnered a global response. Additionally, he is set to appear on the MBC variety show 'Good Day' (굿데이), premiering on February 16, and will participate in the new K-POP show 'K-STAR SPARK' in Bangkok, Thailand, as well as the major festival 'HEAD IN THE CLOUDS' in the United States.

G-DRAGON's third studio album 'Übermensch' is scheduled for release on February 25, 2025.

G-DRAGON Unveils Tracklist for Upcoming Album 'Übermensch'

HYBE Media Corp (하이브미디어코프), led by CEO Kim Won-guk, has been highlighted as a studio to watch in 2025 by industry professionals and experts in the Korean video content sector. On February 8, Cine21 released a list of notable figures, keywords, and platforms for 2025, based on responses from 52 industry insiders. Among the actors to watch are Lee Byung-hun (이병헌) and Kim Go-eun (김고은), while rising stars include Choo Young-woo (추영우) and Chae Won-bin (채원빈). Renowned director Park Chan-wook (박찬욱) was also mentioned as a key figure. HYBE Media Corp stood out as the top production company to watch this year, known for its successful films such as 'The Insider' (내부자들), 'Gonjiam: Haunted Asylum' (곤지암), 'Drug King' (마약왕), 'The Man Standing Next' (남산의 부장들), 'Save Me from Evil' (다만 악에서 구하소서), 'Seoul's Spring' (서울의 봄), and 'Harbin' (하얼빈). The studio created a sensation in 2023 with 'Seoul's Spring', attracting 13 million viewers. In 2024, it continued to dominate the film industry with releases like 'Handsome Guys' (핸섬가이즈), 'Ordinary Family' (보통의 가족), and 'Harbin'. Looking ahead to 2025, the studio is set to unveil a variety of projects, starting with 'Secret That Cannot Be Told' (말할 수 없는 비밀), followed by 'Opposition' (야당), 'To the Land of Happiness' (행복의 나라로), 'Tropical Night' (열대야), and a project tentatively titled 'Boss' (보스).

‘서울의 봄’·’하얼빈’ 제작 하이브미디어코프, 2025년 주목해야 할 스튜디오 선정

HYBE Media Corp Recognized as Key Studio to Watch in 2025

On February 10, 2025, SM Entertainment (SM, 대표: 장철혁·탁영준) announced its financial performance for the fourth quarter of 2024, reporting consolidated revenues of 273.8 billion KRW and an operating profit of 33.9 billion KRW. Compared to the same period last year, revenues increased by 9%, while operating profit surged by 275.6%. The net loss for the period was reduced to 24.1 billion KRW, less than half of the previous year's figure.

On a standalone basis, SM recorded fourth-quarter revenues of 181.8 billion KRW and an operating profit of 35.8 billion KRW, marking increases of 11% and 83.2%, respectively, from the previous year. The company also achieved a net profit of 8.3 billion KRW, marking a return to profitability.

Key drivers of SM's consolidated revenue growth in Q4 included increased sales from merchandise and licensing, as well as concert revenues. Additionally, the rise in artist activities in Japan and expanded drama production contributed to the revenue growth of major subsidiaries.

The significant increase in consolidated operating profit was attributed to higher sales from the headquarters and subsidiaries, changes in the sales mix, and the recognition of performance bonuses.

Celebrating its 30th anniversary this year, SM has launched a new slogan, 'THE CULTURE, THE FUTURE,' and has begun unveiling brand films. Following the successful SMTOWN LIVE concert in Seoul last January, the company plans to release the SMTOWN album on February 14, coinciding with its anniversary. Upcoming events include the K-pop orchestra concert 'SM Classics Live 2025 with the Seoul Philharmonic Orchestra' on February 14 and 15, and a global SMTOWN LIVE tour scheduled for the second quarter.

Notably, on February 24, SM will debut its new girl group, Hatz to Hatz, with their first single 'The Chase,' marking the company's first new girl group in five years since aespa. In March, solo mini-albums from Red Velvet's Seulgi and NCT's Ten, along with a single from Naivis, will be released.

In the second quarter, aespa will release a new mini-album, while RISE will drop their full album. NCT's Doyoung and Mark will also release solo albums, alongside mini-albums from EXO's Kai, Red Velvet's Irene & Seulgi, WayV, and NCT WISH.

Furthermore, aespa has been on a world tour, achieving sold-out shows in Seattle and LA, while NCT 127's world tour continues to gain momentum with a confirmed performance at Tokyo Dome. Other ongoing global performances include TVXQ's nationwide tour in Japan and Super Junior's Yesung and SHINee's Minho's Asia tours, with Taeyeon and NCT WISH also set to embark on their Asia tours.

Additionally, during the SMTOWN LIVE event held at Gocheok Sky Dome in January, SM unveiled SMTR25, a group of 25 male trainees, which received a warm response. The company is ramping up preparations for their debut through pre-promotion on social media and participation in the SMTOWN LIVE global tour, generating excitement for new intellectual properties.

Co-CEO 장철혁 stated, 'On our 30th anniversary, we have announced our new slogan, 'THE CULTURE, THE FUTURE.' SM will continue to be a company that remains committed to its cultural heritage while consistently striving for excellence. We will pursue continuous innovation and the expansion of our artist IP alongside our strong lineup of artists and rich content.'

'30주년' SM, 하츠투하츠 데뷔 전 겹경사..영업이익 339억 '대박' 났다

SM Entertainment Reports Strong Q4 2024 Financial Results

In the upcoming episode of tvN's weekend drama 'Ask the Stars' (별들에게 물어봐), airing on February 9, 2025, Lee Min-ho's character, Gongryong, finds himself in a precarious situation. While the romantic tension between Gongryong and Eve Kim (played by Gong Hyo-jin) begins to blossom, an unexpected visitor disrupts their moment. The doorbell rings, and it’s none other than Choi Go-eun (Han Ji-eun), who immediately takes Eve to a bar, questioning her drinking skills and suggesting a drinking game that leaves Eve bewildered.

As the night unfolds, Choi Go-eun expresses her frustrations, leading to a heated exchange where Eve apologizes for her feelings towards Gongryong. Choi Go-eun retorts that Gongryong is only interested in the glamorous life she represents, having risked everything to reach the stars, while Eve insists that her feelings are genuine.

The tension escalates as both women confront their feelings for Gongryong, with Choi Go-eun revealing her past with him, contrasting it with Eve's more recent connection. Their drunken escapades lead to a humorous scene where they both end up asleep in Gongryong's bed.

Meanwhile, Eve receives advice from Kang Tae-hee (Lee El), who warns her against pursuing a personal relationship with Gongryong, emphasizing the competitive nature of their environment. As the drama unfolds, Gongryong is questioned about his feelings, leading to a deeper discussion about love and life.

The episode also features a light-hearted date between Gongryong and Eve, where they share their thoughts on life and death, revealing their vulnerabilities. Gongryong expresses his desire to live a full life with Eve, while she contemplates the idea of dying happily in the moment.

As the plot thickens, Kang Kang-soo (Oh Jung-se) reveals Gongryong's feelings for Choi Go-eun, leading to a confrontation that puts Gongryong's career at risk. Despite the chaos, Choi Go-eun defends Gongryong, insisting that their relationship is not what it seems.

In a shocking twist, Kang Tae-hee discovers the truth about Eve and Gongryong's secret romance, raising the stakes for the couple as they navigate their feelings amidst external pressures.

이민호, 공효진과 ♥비밀열애+수정란 발각..인생 최대 위기 ('별들에게')[종합]

Lee Min-ho Faces Major Crisis in Latest Episode of 'Ask the Stars'

On the February 9th episode of KBS Joy and KBS2's Seeking Long-Lasting Relationships (오래된 만남 추구), Ji Sang-ryeol and actress Woo Hee-jin shared a charming date that hinted at a budding romance. The episode featured the pair embarking on their first date as part of a matchmaking journey, where the women had the first choice of partners while the men were blindfolded. Ji Sang-ryeol eagerly anticipated Woo Hee-jin's arrival, and to his delight, she chose him as well. Initially thinking he would receive no votes, Ji Sang-ryeol jokingly mentioned he might leave, only for Woo Hee-jin to call out, 'Don't go!' Upon realizing she had chosen him, he joyfully welcomed her.

As their date progressed, the chemistry between them deepened. Woo Hee-jin complimented Ji Sang-ryeol, saying, 'You look great in person,' which led him to suggest they create affectionate nicknames for each other. They settled on 'Yeol Oppa' (열오빠) for Ji Sang-ryeol and 'Woo Nangja' (우낭자) for Woo Hee-jin, marking a sweet moment in their interaction.

Curious about why she chose him, Ji Sang-ryeol asked directly, to which Woo Hee-jin responded that she had heard many good things about him and was pleasantly surprised by his looks. She also expressed her initial confusion about why he wasn't making eye contact, which he explained was due to shyness. Ji Sang-ryeol admitted, 'I’m the type who falls in love easily,' laughing off the awkwardness.

The two discovered they shared many similar interests, prompting Ji Sang-ryeol to exclaim, 'I might need to send out wedding invitations!' He was amazed at how well they matched, with subtitles on the screen noting, 'This could be a match made in heaven.' Recently, Ji Sang-ryeol's participation in the reality show 'Salim Nam' has hinted at a potential marriage in 2025, adding to the intrigue surrounding their connection.

"2025년 결혼" 지상렬, 진짜였나 "청첩장  돌릴 것" 깜짝 발언 ('오만추')

Ji Sang-ryeol and Woo Hee-jin Spark Romance on 'Seeking Long-Lasting Relationships'

On February 9, 2025, a funeral service was held for the late singer Song Dae-kwan (송대관), who passed away on February 7 at the age of 79. The service took place at the Seoul National University Hospital in Jongno-gu, Seoul, where fellow artists and friends gathered to pay their respects. Among those in attendance were Tae Jin-ah (태진아), Kang Jin (강진), Seol Woon-do (설운도), Kim Chang-yeol (김창열), Han Ji-il (한지일), Kim Sung-hwan (김성환), Lee Sook (이숙), and Park Sang-cheol (박상철). 

Tae Jin-ah delivered a heartfelt eulogy, recalling how Song Dae-kwan had always been a mentor to him, saying, "He would tell me, 'Just follow my path, and you will succeed.'" Overcome with emotion, Tae Jin-ah shared that he had not eaten for three days, reflecting on how difficult it was to imagine performing without his friend. He also mentioned his wife's struggle with dementia and how she reacted to the news of Song's passing, expressing disbelief and sorrow. 

Tae Jin-ah reminisced about their plans for a joint performance in May, stating, "We had just discussed doing a rival dinner show together, and he was excited about it. We were even finalizing the setlist the day before he passed." 

As he concluded his tribute, Tae Jin-ah expressed his hope that Song would find peace in the afterlife, saying, "Please create a good place for me to come to you one day. Goodbye, my eternal rival." 

Kang Jin also shared his thoughts, stating, "I already miss him and wonder why he had to leave so soon. He was a natural-born singer who brought joy to the people through his music. We will forever remember him shining on stage." He wished for Song to rest peacefully and continue watching over them from above. 

The funeral service concluded with Song Dae-kwan's burial at the Utopia Memorial Park in Anseong, Gyeonggi Province, following a brief ceremony at the Seoul Memorial Park. Song Dae-kwan had suffered from cholangiocarcinoma and had been undergoing treatment prior to his passing, which was due to a heart attack. He made his debut in 1967 with the hit song "Injeong Manheun Ajeossi" and was known for numerous hits including "Haetdeulnal," "Yuhyeongga," and "Ne Bakja." He was often referred to as one of the 'Four Kings of Trot' alongside Tae Jin-ah, Seol Woon-do, and the late Hyun Chul (현철).

“잘 가, 영원한 나의 라이벌이여”… 태진아, 송대관 영결식 추도사

Tributes Pour in for Late Singer Song Dae-kwan at His Funeral

On the February 9 episode of SBS's Running Man, Yoo Jae-suk took on a big brother role as he discussed setting up Ji Ye-eun on a date. The cast members were on a mission to help Ji Ye-eun find a boyfriend. Despite dressing up in a beggar costume, Ji Ye-eun showcased her stunning beauty, particularly when she smiled, revealing her bright white teeth. When asked about her smile, she humorously mentioned it was due to her fake teeth. Yoo Jae-suk jokingly expressed his desire to introduce her to a younger acquaintance, while Kim Jong-kook also chimed in, saying he wanted to send Ji Ye-eun's photo to potential suitors.

Ji Ye-eun has previously sparked rumors of a romantic connection with actor Kang Hoon on Running Man, and the two recently won the Rising Star Award together at an awards ceremony. During the episode, Haha brought up chef Yoon Nam-no, known for his role in the cooking show 'Black and White Chef,' who had previously named Ji Ye-eun as his ideal type.

In a past appearance on Radio Star, Yoon Nam-no expressed his admiration for Ji Ye-eun, stating, 'I’m a fan of Ji Ye-eun. She often plays quirky roles, but in person, she is incredibly beautiful. I was impressed by how she practiced her lines in the waiting room.' Ji Ye-eun responded with a shout-out to Yoon Nam-no, thanking him for his kind words, which brought laughter to the set. Haha jokingly suggested that other male cast members, including Mickey Kwang-soo, Yoo Hee-kwan, and Yang Se-chan, should compete for Ji Ye-eun's affection, while Yoo Jae-suk humorously noted that everyone around them seemed to be on their side.

Yoo Jae-suk Plays Matchmaker for Ji Ye-eun on Running Man

In a remarkable achievement, 16-year-old ballerino Park Yoon-jae (박윤재) from Seoul Arts High School won first place at the Prix de Lausanne ballet competition held in Lausanne, Switzerland, on February 8. This victory marks him as the first Korean male dancer to win this prestigious title. Park expressed his disbelief and gratitude, stating, "It is an honor to perform on the 'Prix de Lausanne' stage that I have dreamed of since childhood, and I can't believe I made it to the finals and received such a significant award." 

Previously, Korean ballerinas Kang Soo-jin (강수진) and Park Se-eun (박세은) won the competition in 1985 and 2007, respectively. The Prix de Lausanne is recognized as one of the top five ballet competitions in the world, alongside the Varna, Jackson, Moscow, and Paris competitions, and is open to dancers aged 15 to 18. This year, the 53rd edition of the competition featured 85 participants, with 20 advancing to the finals. Among the Korean dancers, Kim Bo-kyung (김보경), 17, from Busan Arts High School, secured 8th place.

Park's victory opens doors for him to grow as an internationally recognized ballerino, as winners are often offered opportunities to join affiliated ballet companies or schools abroad.

16-Year-Old Ballerino Park Yoon-jae Makes History at Prix de Lausanne

Kai of EXO has completed his alternative military service and is set to reunite with his fans. He enlisted in May 2023, undergoing basic military training before transitioning to social service. At the time of his enlistment, Kai expressed his disappointment, stating, "I had a lot prepared, and it's unfortunate. I'm upset, but I can show you everything when I return." After serving for 1 year and 9 months, he is now gearing up for EXO's full group comeback. Fellow member Sehun, who enlisted in December 2023, is also expected to be discharged soon, raising fans' anticipation. Other EXO members have consistently mentioned their plans for a full group return. Suho and Chanyeol shared during an SM Town concert, "Kai will be back, and Sehun will join us soon. We are preparing to gather again for even better performances, so please look forward to it." In a recent interview, D.O. reassured fans, saying, "We are getting ready now, and I want to say you don’t need to worry. You will see the full group soon. We have been preparing since this year. EXO is still going strong." Kai debuted with EXO in 2012 and gained global popularity with his mini solo album 'ROVER' released before his enlistment.

EXO's Kai Completes Alternative Military Service and Returns to Fans

On February 10, Netflix confirmed the production of a new series tentatively titled <천천히 강렬하게> (Slowly but Intensely) and revealed its star-studded cast, including Song Hye-kyo, Gong Yoo, Kim Seol-hyun, Cha Seung-won, and Lee Ha-nee. Set against the backdrop of the tumultuous Korean entertainment industry during the 1960s to 1980s, the series will explore the growth stories of individuals who, despite having little, dared to dream of shining success.

The series is penned by renowned writer Noh Hee-kyung, known for her emotionally resonant works such as <우리들의 블루스> (Our Blues), <디어 마이 프렌즈> (Dear My Friends), and <그 겨울, 바람이 분다> (That Winter, the Wind Blows). Her involvement has already generated significant anticipation for <천천히 강렬하게> (Slowly but Intensely). The direction will be handled by Lee Yoon-jung, celebrated for her high-quality productions in dramas like <커피프린스 1호점> (Coffee Prince) and <치즈인더트랩> (Cheese in the Trap).

The casting is equally impressive. Song Hye-kyo, who has captivated audiences with her performances in <태양의 후예> (Descendants of the Sun) and <그 겨울, 바람이 분다>, will portray the character Min-ja, a resilient woman shaped by her challenging childhood. As she navigates life, she seizes opportunities in the Korean music industry, showcasing her evolution in this role.

Gong Yoo, known for his impactful roles in <도깨비> (Goblin) and <오징어 게임> (Squid Game) Season 2, will play Dong-goo, Min-ja's childhood friend who shares her journey into the music industry. His character is unpredictable yet devoted to Min-ja.

Kim Seol-hyun, who has built a diverse filmography with roles in <살인자의 쇼핑목록> (Shopping List of a Killer) and <조명가게> (Lighting Store), will take on the role of Min-hee, a character intertwined with Min-ja through a complex relationship.

Cha Seung-won, recognized for his charismatic performances in <최고의 사랑> (The Greatest Love) and <부산행> (Train to Busan), will portray the legendary composer Gil-yeo, a pivotal figure in the music industry who has helped many artists achieve success.

Lastly, Lee Ha-nee, known for her roles in <극한직업> (Extreme Job) and <유령> (Ghost), will play Yang-ja, Min-hee's mother, who dreams of becoming a singer despite facing harsh realities.

With the collaboration of the trusted writer Noh Hee-kyung and director Lee Yoon-jung, along with a powerful cast, <천천히 강렬하게> (Slowly but Intensely) is set to premiere exclusively on Netflix.

Song Hye-kyo, Gong Yoo, and Writer Noh Hee-kyung Team Up for New Netflix Series

It has been 18 years since the beloved actress Jeong Da-bin, often referred to as the 'Second Choi Jin-sil' for her vibrant charm, tragically passed away. On February 10, 2007, she was found dead in her boyfriend's apartment in Samseong-dong, Gangnam, Seoul. While the police and the National Forensic Service concluded that her death was a suicide based on the autopsy, her family and agency have consistently argued that there was no reason for her to take her own life. To this day, the reasons behind Jeong Da-bin's death remain unclear.

Jeong Da-bin made her debut in 2000 with the SBS sitcom Don.com. She rose to fame with her role in the sitcom Nonstop 3 and showcased her adorable charm alongside Kim Rae-won in the 2003 drama Rooftop Room Cat. Her lovely visuals and refreshing acting style led many to anticipate her as the next 'Romantic Comedy Queen' following Choi Jin-sil.

However, after her appearance in the 2005 SBS drama The Summer's Hurricane, her career saw a decline. In 2007, she suddenly left her loved ones, shocking the entertainment industry. Even after 18 years, fans continue to remember her as a versatile actress capable of excelling in both comedy and romance.

Her colleagues share similar sentiments. In a 2018 MBC special titled 'Again, Twenty - New Nonstop,' Jo In-sung expressed his difficulty in attending her funeral, stating, 'It was hard to go to the mortuary. My heart was too pained. I felt so sorry that I wondered if I had the right to go. But I thought I should at least say goodbye on my way there.' 

Similarly, Jung Tae-woo reflected on the disbelief surrounding her death, saying, 'Everyone must have felt it was unbelievable. It was so hard to accept that Da-bin was gone. She had family and colleagues around her. We had good memories together. I still find myself talking to the air every time articles about her come out.'

G-DRAGON Unveils Tracklist for Upcoming Album 'Übermensch'

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