On March 5, a press conference was held at Stanford Hall in Stanford Hotel Korea, located in Mapo-gu, Seoul, to discuss the upcoming traditional music tribute concert titled '맥을 이음' (Connecting the Pulse) by renowned singer Imija (이미자). The event will take place on April 26 and 27 at the Sejong Center for the Performing Arts in Jongno-gu, Seoul, where fans will have the opportunity to experience Imija's classic hits live, celebrating her 66-year career in music.

This concert is particularly special as it reflects Imija's deep respect and affection for traditional Korean music. She will share the stage with younger artists, aiming to pass on the legacy of traditional songs. The concert will feature unique collaborative performances, including renditions of her iconic tracks such as '동백 아가씨' (Camellia Lady), '여자의 일생' (A Woman's Life), and '섬마을 선생님' (Teacher of the Island Village). The duet performances and emotional segments across generations are expected to be highlights of this tribute concert.

Imija expressed her joy, stating, "This year marks my 66th year of singing, and it is the happiest day for me. I am thrilled to perform with supportive younger artists and to continue the legacy of traditional music with them."

Imija to Host Traditional Music Tribute Concert

In the latest episode of KBS2TV's cooking variety show, 신상출시 편스토랑 (New Menu Launch Restaurant), actress Nam Bora was left in awe of Jang Min Ho's cooking abilities. The episode aired on March 7, 2025, featuring Jang Min Ho's unique 'homakase' style. Trot singers Kim Yong Pil and Kim Yang also made appearances. Jang Min Ho showcased his skills by lightly steaming fresh crabs sent by Kim Yang before setting up a two-burner stove with a griddle. Nam Bora expressed her admiration, stating, "Jang Min Ho's equipment is truly impressive." He prepared a crab dish by combining minced garlic, butter, and sugar, creating a delicious crab griddle dish. After finishing the crabs, he cleverly stir-fried the crab innards and roe, which were steamed separately, with instant rice and the crab sauce, showcasing his culinary creativity. Jang Min Ho also crafted a spicy crab stir-fry, further impressing Nam Bora, who eagerly asked, "When can I make my next reservation?" Host Boom jokingly suggested they could even hold a meeting for their families there, to which Nam Bora enthusiastically replied that she would love to do so. Jang Min Ho, however, reacted with surprise, asking, "Are we really having a family meeting at my place?"

'예비 신부' 남보라, 상견례 장소 잡았다 "장민호 집 이용할 것"('편스토랑')

Nam Bora Amazed by Jang Min Ho's Culinary Skills on New Show

On March 7, 2025, a court hearing took place at the Seoul Central District Court regarding a case filed by Adore against the five members of NewJeans (NJZ) for a 'provisional injunction to maintain agency status and prohibit advertising contracts.' All members—Minji, Hani, Danielle, Haerin, and Hyein—attended the hearing in person.

Adore countered claims from NewJeans that the agency was attempting to limit their entertainment activities, asserting that there were no valid reasons for terminating their exclusive contracts. In particular, Adore addressed the so-called 'ignore' incident by releasing video evidence. This incident involved allegations that an Ailite manager instructed members not to greet Hani, saying 'ignore her,' and that Hive deleted CCTV footage of the encounter. NewJeans claimed that some Ailite members mocked them through words and actions.

The released CCTV footage showed Ailite members bowing at a 90-degree angle to Hani and Danielle as they passed by. Adore argued that the 'ignore' comment originated from former representative Min and presented a KakaoTalk conversation between Min and Hani as evidence. In the chat, Hani mentioned hearing a manager tell her to ignore the Ailite members but could not recall the exact words, stating, 'I don't remember if those were the exact words, just something like that.' Min then questioned her multiple times about whether everyone ignored her, to which Hani replied, 'I don't know.'

Adore's lawyer pointed out that Hani herself did not consider the incident a significant issue, suggesting that Min had exaggerated it into a larger problem. They argued that the issue was being misrepresented as a reason for contract termination.

Additionally, NewJeans claimed that Hive, Adore's parent company, harbored feelings of inferiority or jealousy towards the success of NewJeans, leading to intentional discrimination and attacks against them. In response, Adore stated that Hive had invested a total of 21 billion KRW into Adore, covering all training and educational expenses for NewJeans, which they claimed was unprecedented for a single group.

During the hearing, Kim Joo-young, a representative from Adore, expressed that the sole reason for filing the injunction was to continue working with the NewJeans members.

On the other hand, the legal representatives for Minji, Hani, Danielle, Haerin, and Hyein argued that Adore had admitted to lacking the intention and ability to protect and nurture the members, instead damaging their career foundations. They claimed that the members' termination notices were legitimate and effective immediately, asserting that the injunction should be dismissed.

At the end of the hearing, Danielle raised her hand and expressed her concerns, stating, 'The managers, representatives, and stylists I trusted are no longer with Adore. I don’t know who will protect us if we go back. I’m 21 years old, and I don’t want to experience the next five years like this again. So, regardless of the outcome, I want to emphasize that I have no desire to return to Adore,' as she broke down in tears.

어도어 "뉴진스 '무시해' 논란=허위 명분"..CCTV+카톡 공개로 반박 [종합]

NewJeans Members Claim Adore is Restricting Their Activities, Adore Responds

Actress Ahn Yoo-jung has officially signed an exclusive contract with K-Plus. In a press release on March 7, K-Plus expressed their excitement about welcoming Ahn, stating, "We are thrilled to have Ahn Yoo-jung, who possesses an exotic appearance and a unique aura, join our family. We will provide full support to help her showcase diverse performances that transcend genres, and we ask for your continued interest and love for her." 

Ahn gained significant attention for her stunning looks reminiscent of popular actresses Song Hye-kyo, Han So-hee, and Kim Tae-ri while participating in the dating reality show Love Catcher in Bali, where she ultimately emerged as the winner, solidifying her presence in the public eye. With her distinct features and trendy vibe, she has captured the hearts of the Gen Z audience. 

Known as the girlfriend of comedian Yoo Byung-jae, Ahn Yoo-jung plans to continue her career under her new name after changing it from Lee Yoo-jung. 

As an influencer with over 110,000 followers, Ahn has established herself as a blue-chip talent in the advertising and fashion industries, thanks to her striking visuals and ability to embody various concepts. She has been active as a model for a well-known cosmetic brand, showcasing a photogenic style, and is now set to expand her career by taking on acting challenges. 

Expressing her thoughts on joining K-Plus, Ahn stated, "It feels refreshing to become part of the K-Plus family. I will do my best to deliver impressive performances as I take on various challenges, so I appreciate your interest and support." 

K-Plus, which has also signed top models like Bae Yoon-young and Lee Seung-chan, as well as actors Park Hyung-seob, Kang Hee, and Yu Ji-ae, is dedicated to providing diverse support for its artists to showcase their talents across multiple fields.

'유병재♥' 안유정, 배우 활동 본격화..케이플러스와 전속계약 [공식]

Actress Ahn Yoo-jung Signs Exclusive Contract with K-Plus

In the latest episode of MBC's reality show 나혼자산다 (I Live Alone), BTS's j-hope introduced his global friend, renowned producer Benny Blanco, whose home resembles a museum. The episode aired on March 7, 2025, featuring j-hope in the recording studio working on his new song. Before starting, he engaged in discussions with the producer, although he felt a bit embarrassed about his limited English skills, stating, "I feel awkward about my English gaps." 

Once in the studio, j-hope drew inspiration from his experiences in L.A. and began recording, showcasing his professional rap skills. However, the producer repeatedly called for retakes, leading to some frustration as they spent six hours perfecting the chorus. 

The episode also highlighted j-hope's meeting with Benny Blanco, whom he described as a "very precious friend" and noted that Blanco is engaged to Selena Gomez. Benny Blanco is a celebrated songwriter and producer known for his collaborations with global pop stars like Britney Spears, Katy Perry, Maroon 5, Anne-Marie, and Ed Sheeran. He first worked with BTS on the 2022 single "Bad Decisions" and has since contributed to j-hope's solo album. 

Viewers were amazed by Blanco's spacious two-story home, which j-hope described as the epitome of an American party house. Upon visiting, j-hope was astonished by Blanco's impressive art collection, featuring works by Andy Warhol, Picasso, and Basquiat. When asked if the pieces were authentic, j-hope confirmed, "I asked too, and they said yes," leading everyone to exclaim, "This is like a museum!"

"집에 '피카소 작품' 실화"..BTS 제이홉, 박물관 수준 '글로벌 인맥家' 공개 ('나혼산')

BTS's j-hope Showcases Global Connections and Visits Benny Blanco's Museum-Like Home

The K-pop group INFINITE (김성규, 장동우, 남우현, 이성열, 엘, 이성종) has made a full-group comeback to celebrate their 15th anniversary. On March 6, they released their eighth mini album, 'LIKE INFINITE', marking their return to fans worldwide.

The title track, 'Dangerous (데인저러스)', features an upbeat disco-punk sound paired with an energetic rhythm that captivates listeners. Its emotional yet rhythmic melody, combined with passionate and honest lyrics about love, showcases INFINITE's signature refreshing style.

In addition to 'Dangerous', the album 'LIKE INFINITE' includes a total of seven tracks, such as the intro 'Heat it Up (히트 잇 업)', 'I Love Everything About You (너의 모든 게 다 좋아)', 'Umbrella (엄브렐러)', 'Sad Loop (볼 수 있어)', 'Where U R (여전히 아름다워)', and an instrumental version of 'Dangerous'. Each song highlights INFINITE's unique vocal colors and endless charm.

With upgraded music and performances, INFINITE is set to infuse the K-pop scene with their distinctive 'refreshing sexy' energy, heralding a successful return for the 'K-pop legends'. The group shared insights about their new album 'LIKE INFINITE' through a Q&A session.

**Q&A Highlights from INFINITE's 'LIKE INFINITE'**

**Q: How do you feel about returning with a new album on your 15th anniversary?**  
**A:** (김성규) I’m thrilled to release an album to commemorate our 15th anniversary. I’m happy to have been active for such a long time.

**Q: What can you tell us about the title track 'Dangerous'?**  
**A:** (남우현) As the title suggests, it’s a dangerous song that you’ll want to listen to repeatedly. I’ve been listening to it for over two months and still can’t get enough.

**Q: What are the highlights of the 'Dangerous' performance?**  
**A:** (장동우) Personally, I love the part in the second verse where 성규 hyung expresses inner excitement outwardly! The key choreography includes hand gestures representing 100 degrees and the 'say ohh' moves in the chorus.

**Q: What reactions or goals do you hope to achieve with 'LIKE INFINITE'?**  
**A:** (엘) I want to hear people say, 'This is definitely INFINITE.' I hope we continue to showcase our infinite possibilities as a group.

**Q: What do you think sets INFINITE apart from other groups?**  
**A:** (이성종) Each member has a distinct personality, but when we come together, the synergy shines even brighter. Like our name suggests, we are continuously growing and evolving.

**Q: How do you feel after completing the 'LIMITED EDITION' concert tour, and what can fans expect from the encore concert in April?**  
**A:** (이성열) Our tour concluded in Hong Kong after four months. We visited countries we hadn’t been to in about ten years, and I’m grateful to those who remembered us. We created unforgettable memories on stage, and we’ll channel the passion and energy from our fans, INSPIRIT, into our album activities. The encore concert in April will feature new songs from the album, so please look forward to it!

**Q: Any message for INSPIRIT who have been waiting for your full-group comeback?**  
**A:** (김성규) Thank you so much for waiting for INFINITE. Please stay healthy.
**A:** (장동우) This song expresses our love for INSPIRIT infinitely, so please listen to it a lot. Let’s cross the line~
**A:** (남우현) Thank you for waiting for our comeback. Enjoy our 15th anniversary together, and we appreciate your continued support.
**A:** (이성열) I’m so happy to greet INSPIRIT often these days. We’ll put in extra effort to deliver exciting performances after such a long wait.
**A:** (엘) It’s already been 15 years. I hope you listen to our music as much as we’ve prepared for it. Thank you and love you, INSPIRIT.
**A:** (이성종) INSPIRIT! You’ve waited a long time for our 15th anniversary, right? I’m so happy to greet you with a great album. Thank you for always being by our side, and let’s stay healthy together in the future.

인피니트 "인스피릿의 사랑 무한대로 표현"…15주년 완전체 컴백 [일문일답]

INFINITE Makes a Triumphant Return for Their 15th Anniversary with 'LIKE INFINITE'

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.

Imija to Host Traditional Music Tribute Concert

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