Actor Ha Jung-woo has confirmed the release date for his directorial debut film, 'Lobby', which is set to hit theaters on April 2. The official trailer has also been unveiled, showcasing a star-studded cast that includes Ha Jung-woo, Kim Eui-sung, Kang Hae-rim, Lee Dong-hwi, Park Byeong-eun, Kang Mal-geum, Choi Si-won, Cha Joo-young, Park Hae-soo, and Kwak Sun-young. The trailer hints at an exciting ensemble performance, raising anticipation for the film.

The plot of 'Lobby' revolves around Chang-wook (played by Ha Jung-woo), who initially relies solely on technical skills. However, when he finds himself outmatched by his rival, Kwang-woo (Park Byeong-eun), who excels in lobbying, his company faces financial difficulties. Determined to fight back, Chang-wook decides to enter the world of lobbying golf for the first time. The trailer contrasts the different lobbying styles of a rookie team, inexperienced in entertaining, and a veteran team, accustomed to the lifestyle, promising a unique cinematic experience.

In summary, 'Lobby' tells the story of a startup CEO, Chang-wook, who embarks on his first lobbying golf venture to secure a 4 trillion won national project. The film features a talented cast, including Ha Jung-woo, Kim Eui-sung, Kang Hae-rim, Lee Dong-hwi, Park Byeong-eun, Kang Mal-geum, Choi Si-won, Cha Joo-young, Park Hae-soo, and Kwak Sun-young.

Ha Jung-woo's Directorial Debut 'Lobby' Set to Release on April 2

Director Hong Sang-soo, a frequent favorite at the Berlin International Film Festival, found himself without an award this year, as he and his partner, actress Kim Min-hee, focused on a prenatal trip rather than accolades. 

On February 22, 2025, the 75th Berlin International Film Festival held its awards ceremony just a day before the event's conclusion, recognizing the most impactful films of the year. The prestigious Golden Bear was awarded to Norwegian director Dag Johan Haugerud for his film 'Dreams,' which tells the story of a passionate teenage girl expressing her intense feelings for a teacher through a personal essay. The Jury Grand Prix Silver Bear went to Brazilian director Gabriel Mascaro for 'Blue Trail,' while Venezuelan director Ivan Fund's 'The Message' received the Silver Bear for Best Director.

This year, the festival notably lacked recognition for Hong Sang-soo, who has been a beloved figure at the event since his 2008 film 'Night and Day' was invited to compete. Over the years, he has been featured in the competition section multiple times, including films like 'Nobody's Daughter Haewon,' 'On the Beach at Night Alone,' 'The Woman Who Ran,' 'Introduction,' 'The Novelist's Film,' 'In the Water,' 'The Need for Travelers,' and this year's entry, 'What Does the Natural World Say to You?' This marks his ninth invitation, with eight of those being in the competitive category, showcasing his consistent presence in the festival.

Hong's impressive track record includes several awards at the Berlin International Film Festival, such as the Silver Bear for Best Actress (Kim Min-hee) for 'On the Beach at Night Alone,' the Best Director award for 'The Woman Who Ran,' and the Best Screenplay award for 'Introduction.' Last year, he won his second Jury Grand Prix with 'The Need for Travelers,' bringing his total Silver Bear wins to five. However, this year left him empty-handed, creating a bittersweet feeling.

Adding to the intrigue, Kim Min-hee, who is pregnant with Hong's child, garnered significant attention during her first international film festival appearance since her pregnancy announcement. The couple has been living together in Hanam, Gyeonggi Province, where Kim became pregnant last summer. As she approaches her due date this spring, photos of her and Hong departing for Germany from Incheon International Airport on February 19 sparked considerable media interest, especially given the risks associated with her advanced pregnancy.

At the festival, Hong was careful not to showcase Kim's pregnancy publicly, opting instead to walk the red carpet with the cast of 'What Does the Natural World Say to You?' During the official press conference, he mentioned Kim in relation to the film's budget, stating, "The staff needed to make the film includes myself, my assistant, and production manager Kim Min-hee," but refrained from discussing personal matters, including her pregnancy.

Thus, while the Berlin International Film Festival held special significance for Hong Sang-soo this year, it also brought a sense of disappointment with the lack of awards. Ultimately, Hong and the expectant Kim Min-hee had to settle for a 'prenatal trip' in Berlin rather than a trophy.

[종합] 홍상수, 베를린영화제 수상 불발..'만삭' 김민희와 '태교 여행'만 남았다

Hong Sang-soo and Kim Min-hee Attend Berlin International Film Festival Amid Personal Milestones

On February 23, during the KBS2 program 'Boss's Ears Are Donkeys' (사장님 귀는 당나귀 귀), announcer Um Ji-in brought up former MBC announcer Kim Dae-ho, who recently left the network. In the episode, she visited the home of Kim Sun-geun, a former announcer now working as a freelancer, to provide mental support to her colleagues Kim Jin-woong and Hong Joo-yeon.

Upon arrival, Kim Jin-woong stood up to greet them, humorously stating that he had 'planted his soul at KBS.' In response, Jeon Hyun-moo quipped, 'You can leave your body behind as long as your soul stays here. My soul is still here too,' which prompted nods of agreement from Um Ji-in and Kim Hyun-wook. They also mentioned Jo Woo-jong, joking that he had claimed he would become a boss but was the first to leave.

Um Ji-in explained her reason for bringing her juniors along, noting that with Kim Dae-ho's departure from MBC, the atmosphere among those still at the network has become uneasy, as they realize how cold the outside world can be.

Curious about Kim Sun-geun's true reasons for leaving after three years, Um Ji-in pointed out that while other freelancers like Jeon Hyun-moo and Jo Woo-jong have strong recognition, and Do Kyung-wan has the backing of his wife, singer Jang Yoon-jung, Kim Sun-geun seems to lack such advantages, calling it a 'mystery.'

Kim Sun-geun revealed that financial issues prompted his exit. While filming '6시 내고향' (6 O'Clock My Hometown), he received a call about a housing application that distracted him from his work. He explained that the burden of mortgage payments, children's education, and supporting his parents became overwhelming, stating, 'I couldn't manage it on my salary. I didn't know what would happen after leaving, but I thought I might earn more outside.' He also mentioned that he left just as the auditions for 'Mr. Trot 2' were announced but ended up getting eliminated quickly.

He shared that for a period, he had no income for about four to six months, expressing gratitude towards Jang Yoon-jung, who gave him 2 million won, saying, 'Sun-geun, you might need this when you go out.'

During that challenging time, he took on various jobs, including packing books and unloading packages, with his longest stint being in laundry work, earning around 100,000 won per day. He recounted a moment when he faced verbal abuse from a security guard while doing early morning deliveries. Reflecting on his career, Kim Sun-geun expressed a desire to return to KBS, advising, 'You should leave when you have a clear position. I was in a vague situation, both in timing and recognition, which made my departure feel uncertain. Think carefully, or rather, don’t think about freelancing.'

김대호 퇴사에 KBS도 들썩..“안에 있는 사람들은 싱숭생숭” (‘사당귀’)[순간포착]

Um Ji-in Discusses Former MBC Announcer Kim Dae-ho on KBS2 Show

Jeong Eun-hye, a talented actress and writer known for her role in the drama 'Our Blues' (우리들의 블루스), has announced her upcoming wedding set for May 3. In a recent video posted on the YouTube channel 'OpiQal', she shared her excitement about finding love, stating, "Hello, I am writer 'Eun-hye' and I played the role of Lee Young-hee, the older sister of Han Ji-min's character in 'Our Blues.' It's nice to meet you." Reflecting on her relationship, she recalled meeting her fiancé at work, where he expressed his feelings for her. "He confessed first, asking, 'Eun-hye, will you marry me?' I was happy because I love him," she said shyly. The couple recently held a meeting with their families to discuss their engagement, which they plan to celebrate this summer with friends and loved ones, including those with developmental disabilities. Jeong Eun-hye has touched many hearts with her performance in 'Our Blues,' which aired in 2022, and continues to maintain a close friendship with co-star Han Ji-min.

[SC이슈] '한지민 친언니' 정은혜 작가, 5월의 신부 된다 "오빠가 먼저 고백"

Actress and Writer Jeong Eun-hye to Marry in May

On February 23, V from BTS (방탄소년단) took to his social media to announce his well-being during military service. He wrote, "I’m here to report my survival, Sergeant Kim. D-17. The harsh winter is passing, and I will prepare healthily to meet you in the warm spring." Along with his message, he shared several photos showcasing his life in the military. 

In the images, V is seen in his military uniform, enjoying his leave while holding a bouquet at an exhibition and relaxing casually in the streets. His neatly fitted uniform, shorter hairstyle, and noticeable muscle gain reflect his everyday life. 

Additionally, V spent time with his close friend, singer Park Hyo-shin, capturing joyful moments together in a series of four photos. His commitment to fitness during his service is also evident, as he has transformed into a more muscular version of himself. 

V enlisted in December 2023 and is currently serving in the Military Police Special Operations Unit, with his discharge scheduled for June 2025.

방탄소년단 뷔, 김병장 생존신고..마동석급 팔근육 '벌크업'

BTS's V Shares Update from Military Service

Choi Jun-hee, the daughter of the late actress 최진실, has recently provided an update on her ongoing health battles. On February 21, she uploaded a video titled "Do You Want to Spend the Day with Me? Seongsu Popup / Daily Mirror / Diet / Night Routine / Working Bunny Owner" on her YouTube channel '준희'. In the video, she documented a day out with her boyfriend, enjoying a popup event and a café visit before heading to her office to work and then returning home.

For dinner, Choi Jun-hee prepared a diet meal consisting of stir-fried cabbage, tomatoes, and chicken breast. She expressed her determination, stating, "With the runway just a few days away, I want to make sure I look my best."

After her meal, she took her medication and lamented, "This annoying lupus... Everyone, please take care of your health, day and night." Choi Jun-hee has previously revealed that her battle with lupus caused her weight to rise to 96 kg, but through consistent treatment and dieting, she has managed to lose 49 kg, bringing her down to 47 kg.

Additionally, she raised concerns last August when she disclosed that during her lupus treatment, she had been taking 24 steroid pills and receiving high doses of injections. She also mentioned being diagnosed with stage 3 avascular necrosis of the pelvis as a complication of rheumatoid arthritis.

On the same day, she shared a photo on her social media in workout clothes, pleading, "Pelvis, please hold on today, please, please, please..." 

Choi Jun-hee, who initially signed with an agency to pursue acting, has since terminated her contract and is now focusing on her career as an influencer and entrepreneur.

'故최진실 딸' 최준희 "지긋지긋한 루푸스"→'괴사' 골반 "제발 버텨줘" 간절

Choi Jun-hee Shares Update on Her Health Struggles

The highly anticipated return of acclaimed director Bong Joon-ho (56) is here as he reconnects with domestic audiences through his new film 'Mickey 17'. Set to premiere in South Korea on February 28, 2025, 'Mickey 17' is based on Edward Ashton's novel 'Mickey 7'. The story follows Mickey, a disposable worker sent on dangerous missions, who faces his 17th death, only to have an 18th version of himself printed, leading to unexpected events.

This film marks Bong's comeback after his Oscar-winning success with 'Parasite' (2019), which won the Palme d'Or at the Cannes Film Festival and four Academy Awards. In a recent interview, Bong shared, "It took five years for this film to be released, but I only took a break for about 6-7 weeks right after the Oscar race ended in February 2020. I have been consistently working since then. I received the original novel in the summer of 2020 and became captivated, reading it chapter by chapter. I wrote the screenplay in 2021 and met Robert Pattinson for the first time that November. Fortunately, everything went smoothly, and we began filming in the fall of 2022, taking a bit longer for post-production throughout 2023."

Bong explained the delay in the film's release, stating, "If it had been released last year, it would have been perfectly timed. However, due to the actors' union strike and adjustments in distribution schedules, not just this film but all films were delayed by about 6-7 months. The strike was so significant that we couldn't film, do voiceovers, or promote the movie. That's why it is being released this year. 'Parasite' had a delayed release in Japan and the UK, with its final release date being February 2020. So, while it has been five years, calling this a six-year comeback would be disappointing. It feels like I haven't been working at all (laughs). I didn't take a vacation, and I've also been preparing an animated film alongside 'Mickey 17'."

Before its release, 'Mickey 17' was showcased at the London premiere and the 75th Berlin International Film Festival, receiving enthusiastic responses from local audiences. Following a screening, speculation arose that the character Kenneth Marshall, played by Mark Ruffalo, was a parody of former U.S. President Donald Trump.

Bong clarified, "I explained my timeline for a reason. As I mentioned, I completed the screenplay in September 2021 and started filming in the fall of 2022." At the Berlin International Film Festival, he noted, "Some journalists asked if I had a crystal ball hidden in my room. It seems they thought I was predicting political and social issues. Given the festival's sensitivity to such topics, the questions were quite interesting. I received many inquiries about specific politicians, and while I did draw from real-life figures, the character of Kenneth Marshall's wife, Ilpa Marshall, is not in the original novel. I thought a couple of dictators would be scarier and more cinematic."

He also referenced real-life figures, saying, "While I can't mention specific countries, there are the Marcos couple and the Ceaușescu couple from Romania, who were notorious in the late 1980s. Mark Ruffalo and I discussed historical politicians, and we aimed to blend the horrific with the absurd in portraying bad politicians. It seems audiences projected their local situations onto the film, which I can't control."

Mark Ruffalo takes on his first villain role in 'Mickey 17'. Bong recounted, "He was surprised when he heard about the casting. He asked, 'Why me? Do I have this side?' I explained, 'You're an actor; we want you to portray this character.' He quickly accepted, saying, 'You're right; I'm a professional.' This situation was quite endearing. Kenneth Marshall is not just a cold, charismatic character; he has many flaws."

Robert Pattinson, known for his good looks, portrays a character with a mix of madness and vulnerability. Bong remarked, "I feel like people see me as a pretty boy destroyer, which I don't want (laughs). During 'Mother', I tried not to make Won Bin look too handsome, which was quite a challenge. My cinematographer Hong Kyung-pyo and I ended up admiring how good-looking he was. I first saw Robert Pattinson in 'Twilight' and thought, 'How can someone be so pale?' His striking appearance is just the surface. He has a strong desire to act and has appeared in many American indie films. In 'The Lighthouse', he unleashed incredible energy. After watching that film, I felt he could also handle the role of Mickey 18. He expressed a wide range of emotions, making it seem like he played multiple roles rather than just one. It must have been difficult, but he did an excellent job."

When asked if he felt pressure due to the expectations following 'Parasite', Bong replied, "Honestly, I haven't felt that way. I was invited to the Berlin International Film Festival's competition section, which was fortunate, but I don't have any more expectations for awards. I would rather participate in the non-competitive section and enjoy screening the film. I remember Quentin Tarantino winning the Palme d'Or at Cannes for 'Pulp Fiction' and the Oscar for Best Original Screenplay. He was born in 1963 and had all that happen at 31. It was a chaotic time. In contrast, I was already in my 50s during 'Parasite'. While it was exciting and an honor, I developed a dual perspective, being able to observe from a distance."

The film industry has faced the loss of cherished colleagues in recent years. Bong expressed his regrets about the late Lee Seon-kyun during a recent appearance on MBC's 'Questions from Son Seok-hee'. He also spoke cautiously about Kim Sae-ron, who passed away unexpectedly after Lee, saying, "I saw her at the 'Traveler' screening, and it was very unfortunate."

Finally, Bong shared a message for the public who love popular culture: "Everyone makes mistakes. While it's right to be strict about wrongdoings, I hope we can also have a degree of tolerance. I wish for a balance between strictness and leniency."

Bong Joon-ho Returns with 'Mickey 17' After Five Years

On February 24, 2025, the family of the late 일본군 위안부 (Japanese military comfort woman) victim, 길원옥 (Gil Won-ok), presented a donation of 10 million won to the Incheon City Hall, aimed at assisting victims of sexual violence. The donation ceremony was attended by Gil's daughter-in-law, 조근순 (Cho Geun-soon), her son, 황선희 (Hwang Seon-hee), Incheon Mayor 유정복 (Yoo Jeong-bok), and 김석순 (Kim Seok-soon), the head of the Incheon Sexual Violence Counseling Center.

After the donation, Cho expressed her belief that her mother-in-law would be proud of this act, stating, "I think my mother-in-law would be smiling down and saying, 'Well done.'" She shared that the decision to donate came after discussions with her husband, reflecting on how her mother-in-law dedicated her life to advocating for the rights of comfort women and wanting to help women who have suffered from sexual violence.

Cho emphasized her desire to continue her mother-in-law's legacy of compassion and service, saying, "I wanted to practice the spirit of sharing and serving that my mother-in-law embodied. I hope she is happy in heaven, knowing we are doing good in her name."

The funds will be utilized by the Incheon Sexual Violence Counseling Center to create and operate a 'Mental and Physical Recovery Program Room' where victims can heal in a safe and comfortable environment. Kim Seok-soon announced that the program room will be named 'Gil' in honor of Gil Won-ok, to remember her noble efforts in addressing women's sexual violence issues and to provide courage and hope to victims.

Mayor Yoo remarked that the generous donation from Gil's family would greatly empower sexual violence victims and reaffirmed the city's commitment to respecting the human rights of comfort women and seeking just resolutions to their issues.

Gil Won-ok, who had been actively involved in advocating for the resolution of the Japanese military's sexual slavery issue, passed away at the age of 97 on February 16, 2025, after battling health issues.

Family of Late Comfort Woman Donates to Support Sexual Violence Victims

Netflix is set to unveil the latest work from director Yeon Sang-ho, titled 'Revelation' (계시록), on March 21, 2025. This gripping mystery thriller intertwines the lives of a pastor who blindly follows divine revelations, a detective haunted by the ghost of his deceased brother, and an ex-convict suspected in a missing persons case. The narrative promises a powerful clash between madness and faith.

'Revelation' marks a collaboration between Yeon Sang-ho, known for his unique storytelling in 'Train to Busan' (부산행) and 'Hellbound' (지옥), and writer Choi Gyu-seok, the creator of 'Hellbound'. The film's anticipation is further heightened by the involvement of acclaimed director Alfonso Cuarón, known for 'Roma' and 'Gravity', as an executive producer.

The recently released poster heightens the tension, featuring the three main characters gazing into different directions within a forest. Seong Min-chan (류준열) appears to be staring at something as if receiving a divine message, while detective Lee Yeon-hee (신현빈) pursues the truth amidst visions of her late brother. Meanwhile, the ex-convict Kwon Yang-rae (신민재) displays a precarious expression, raising questions about the fateful entanglements that await them.

The launch trailer introduces a shocking incident involving the disappearance of a middle school student, setting the stage for the unfolding drama. Seong Min-chan becomes convinced that Kwon Yang-rae is the culprit behind the missing person case after a chance encounter at church, leading him to follow the ex-convict. However, detective Lee Yeon-hee uncovers suspicious circumstances between the two, complicating the investigation further.

With a haunting line, "I was told to wait for you to save me," the detective's past is revealed, while the tagline, "Madness begins with twisted faith," amplifies the chilling atmosphere.

Yeon Sang-ho's signature psychological depth and immersive storytelling, combined with the powerful performances of 류준열, 신현빈, and 신민재, are expected to create a compelling blend of crime, mystery, and thriller in this upcoming film.

'Revelation' will be available to audiences worldwide on March 21, 2025.

Netflix to Release New Mystery Thriller 'Revelation' on March 21

K-pop group TOMORROW X TOGETHER (투모로우바이투게더), consisting of members Soobin (수빈), Yeonjun (연준), Beomgyu (범규), Taehyun (태현), and Huening Kai (휴닝카이), is set to celebrate their 6th anniversary with the '2025 DREAM WEEK' event. The group announced the commencement of this special week on their official social media channels on February 24 at midnight, revealing a detailed timetable for the festivities.

'DREAM WEEK' is an annual event where TOMORROW X TOGETHER commemorates their debut date, March 4, with fans around the globe. Each year features a different theme, generating enthusiastic responses from their fanbase.

This year's theme revolves around stars, with the timetable designed to evoke the beauty of a starry night sky, forming a constellation. The accompanying phrases 'STARGAZING' and 'Look up at the stars' were shared on social media, sparking curiosity among fans.

According to the released schedule, TOMORROW X TOGETHER has prepared a variety of content, including an intro, 'DREAMGRAPHY', 'Photo by TXT', and a segment titled 'T:TERVIEW by DREAM WEEK', which will feature candid stories and TMI from the members. Other highlights include '2025.txt', 'TXT Observation Journal', '365.txt', and an outro. The 'DREAM WEEK' festivities will take place from February 25 to March 4, offering fans a chance to discover new facets of the five members.

Additionally, TOMORROW X TOGETHER will embark on their world tour, 'TOMORROW X TOGETHER WORLD TOUR 'ACT: PROMISE' - EP. 2 -', connecting with their global fanbase, known as MOA. The tour will kick off with performances in Incheon from March 7 to 9, followed by stops in Barcelona, London, Berlin, Paris, Amsterdam, and various locations in Japan, concluding in Macau.

TOMORROW X TOGETHER Celebrates 6th Anniversary with '2025 DREAM WEEK' Event

K-pop girl group STAYC is set to make a comeback with their new single album titled 'S' after a five-month hiatus. Their agency, High Up Entertainment, announced on February 24 that the album will be released on March 18. Ahead of the release, the group shared a graphic video on their official social media channels. The video features the sound of a camera shutter, dynamic typography, and striking visuals of the members, creating a captivating experience for fans. The video also teases the album with phrases like 'SOPHISTICATED' and 'SENSUAL', along with the intriguing line 'S Magazine: DON'T WANNA BE A [ ]', heightening anticipation for the new music. Additionally, STAYC will begin pre-orders for the album on various online music platforms starting at noon on February 24. The new single album 'S' will be available on all major streaming services at 6 PM KST on March 18. Following the album release, STAYC will hold their 2025 tour 'STAY TUNED' at the Olympic Hall in Olympic Park, Seoul, on April 12 and 13, where they will meet with fans.

Ha Jung-woo's Directorial Debut 'Lobby' Set to Release on April 2

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Bong Joon-ho Returns with 'Mickey 17' After Five Years

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Netflix to Release New Mystery Thriller 'Revelation' on March 21

TOMORROW X TOGETHER Celebrates 6th Anniversary with '2025 DREAM WEEK' Event

STAYC to Release New Single Album 'S' on March 18

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Actress and Writer Jeong Eun-hye to Marry in May

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