Three members of the KBS drama production team have been referred to the prosecution for allegedly damaging the cultural heritage site, Byeongsan Seowon, located in Andong, Gyeongsangbuk-do. The Andong police announced on February 10, 2025, that the individuals, including a member identified as A, were charged with violating laws related to the preservation and utilization of cultural heritage. The incident occurred on December 30, 2024, when they reportedly hammered nails into various structures within Byeongsan Seowon, including the pavilion known as Mandae-ru (晩對樓) and the pillars of Dongjae (東齋), which served as dormitories for scholars.

The crew's actions were intended to hang lanterns, a lighting prop for their filming. A passing tourist witnessed the act and reported it to the city of Andong, which subsequently filed a complaint against the production team with the police. Following the incident, KBS issued an apology and announced the complete destruction of all footage filmed at Byeongsan Seowon.

Byeongsan Seowon was established in 1575 by the scholar Ryu Seong-ryong (서애 류성룡), who played a significant role during the Imjin War and authored the reflective work 'Jingbirok' (징비록). After Ryu's death, the site was renamed Byeongsan Seowon in 1614 when his spirit tablet was enshrined there. It was designated as a Confucian academy by royal decree in 1863 and was recognized as Historic Site No. 260 in 1978. In 2010, it became part of Hahoe Folk Village, and in 2019, it was inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site under 'Korean Seowon.'

KBS Drama Crew Faces Legal Action for Damaging Cultural Heritage Site

K-pop group INFINITE is set to make a full group comeback. Their agency, INFINITE Company, revealed the exciting news on their official social media at midnight on February 10, 2025, by sharing a teaser image for their upcoming mini album titled 'LIKE INFINITE' (라이크 인피니트). 

The teaser features a striking metallic design with INFINITE's logo (∞) prominently displayed, instantly capturing attention. Notably, the Roman numeral 'XV', representing the group's 15th anniversary, is featured alongside the logo, hinting at the infinite charm they plan to showcase to their global fanbase. 

INFINITE is currently engaging with fans worldwide through their 15th-anniversary concert series titled 'LIMITED EDITION' (리미티드 에디션). During their spectacular concert in Seoul last December, they teased their full group comeback for March, which has fans buzzing with excitement. The confirmed comeback date is set for March 6, 2025, promising a monumental return to the K-pop scene this spring. 

In addition to the concert tour, the members are actively pursuing solo projects across various fields, including music, musicals, dramas, variety shows, and radio. As they celebrate their 15th anniversary, fans are eager to see what kind of music and performances INFINITE will bring to the industry with their new album. 

'LIKE INFINITE' will be released on March 6 at 6 PM KST across all major music platforms.

[공식] 인피니트, 3월 6일 미니 8집 발매확정…데뷔 15주년 완전체 컴백

INFINITE Announces Full Group Comeback with New Mini Album

Broadcaster Jang Seong-kyu has taken to social media to address accusations that he ignored workplace bullying incidents involving the late Oh Yoanna. Following a wave of negative comments, he directly replied to critics on the YouTube channel 'Garo Sero Research Institute' on February 8. In his comment, he expressed frustration, stating, "Thanks to my brother Se-yi (Kim Se-yi, the head of Garo Sero Research Institute), I've been called a murderer and have received messages telling my sons to take their own lives." He added a thumbs-up emoji, sarcastically acknowledging the influence of Se-yi.

Jang emphasized his respect for Se-yi's lifestyle but requested corrections to the facts once they are clarified. He also wished everyone a happy new year and asked for information about an MBC employee who allegedly provided false information during a phone call.

The controversy began after the channel released a recording of a conversation with an MBC official on January 31, suggesting that Jang had overlooked the bullying suffered by Oh. Although he initially denied the allegations, the ongoing backlash prompted him to respond to comments on the channel.

In response to a question about why he did not attend Oh's funeral, Jang explained that it was intentionally kept private, which upset him. He also mentioned that he would resolve issues with the MBC employee over drinks and clarified that the criticism directed at him was not solely due to Kim Se-yi but also because his name was mentioned in a group chat among weathercasters.

When a netizen targeted weathercaster Kim Ga-young, who was implicated in the bullying allegations, Jang retorted, warning that spreading falsehoods could lead to serious consequences.

On February 5, Jang had previously denied the allegations on his Instagram, stating that while he was hurt by the initial mention of his name, he chose to remain silent out of respect for the deceased and their family. However, as negative comments escalated, including those targeting his family, he felt compelled to limit his engagement with the comments.

He shared screenshots of some of the hateful messages he received, which included accusations of murder and threats against his children. Jang expressed that seeking to clear his name before addressing the late Oh's injustices was misguided and pleaded for restraint regarding comments about his family until the situation is resolved.

“살인마 소리에, 아들들 죽으라고”…장성규, ‘오요안나 방관’ 악플에 남긴 글

Jang Seong-kyu Responds to Allegations of Ignoring Workplace Bullying Related to Late Oh Yoanna

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

On February 8, Yulhee took to her social media to share an exciting update about her acting career, posting a photo with the caption, "My partner is a devil. Coming soon. Please look forward to it!" The image features Yulhee in the midst of filming the short-form drama 'My Partner is a Devil' (내 파트너는 악마), showcasing her intense gaze while holding a gun, highlighting her transformation into an actress. 

'My Partner is a Devil' tells the story of a woman whose life has fallen apart, seeking revenge on her betraying fiancé through a contract with a devil. The drama is set to be released in March on 'Always' (올웨이즈). 

Yulhee debuted in 2014 as a member of the girl group LABOUM and married Choi Min-hwan in 2018, with whom she has one son and two daughters. After stepping back from the entertainment industry to focus on parenting, she made occasional appearances alongside her husband on variety shows. However, the couple announced their divorce in December 2023, shocking fans after five years of marriage.

'최민환과 이혼' 율희, 새출발 후...독기 가득 찬 얼굴

Yulhee Shares Exciting Update on Her Acting Career

On February 10, 2025, Ador emphasized that the K-pop group NewJeans is not changing its name to NJZ. An Ador representative stated that the exclusive contracts with the members are legally valid and that claims of termination are unilateral. The company has filed for a court ruling to confirm the validity of the contracts and is awaiting the court's decision.

On February 7, members Minji, Hani, Danielle, Haerin, and Hyein announced their new name 'NJZ' through their official social media channels, following an emergency press conference in November where they declared the termination of their contracts with Ador. Former Ador CEO Min Hee-jin showed support by liking their announcement.

The social media account used for this announcement was previously managed informally by the five members. With the name change, they also updated their profile logo to reflect their new identity as NJZ. Their first activity as NJZ is scheduled for March 21-23 at ComplexCon Hong Kong, held at AsiaWorld-Expo.

In response, Ador has taken legal action to assert that the exclusive contracts remain in effect. They filed for a preliminary injunction to maintain their management rights and prevent the members from entering into new contracts. The members have also appointed a law firm to represent them.

Amid this turmoil, Ador reiterated its request for the group to continue using the official name 'NewJeans' based on valid contracts.

"NJZ 아닌 뉴진스입니다"..어도어, 전속계약 유효 재차 강조 (종합)

Ador Confirms NewJeans Name Amidst Group's Rebranding

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.'

Remembering Jeong Da-bin: 18 Years Since Her Untimely Passing

The general ticket sales for 2NE1's 15th anniversary encore concert in Seoul will begin today, February 10, at 8 PM through Interpark Ticket. The concert, titled '2025 2NE1 CONCERT [WELCOME BACK] ENCORE IN SEOUL', is set to take place on April 12 and 13 at the KSPO DOME in Olympic Park, Bangi-dong, Seoul.

This event marks the group's reunion with domestic fans approximately six months after their last performance in Seoul last October, which saw overwhelming demand with all tickets selling out. Many fans who missed out on tickets have been eagerly requesting additional shows, making the competition for tickets this time around expected to be fierce.

Unlike the pre-sale for temporary fan club members, this general sale will be open to everyone. Fans can look forward to a comprehensive showcase of 2NE1's musical journey, as this concert will serve as the grand finale of their tour.

In a video released today, 2NE1 expressed their excitement, stating, "We are coming back to Seoul. We will meet you at the much larger KSPO DOME. The first concert in Seoul was truly moving, so we are even more thrilled for this encore performance. Let's all jump together one last time!"

Currently, 2NE1 is successfully navigating their 15th anniversary Asia tour, '2024-25 2NE1 ASIA TOUR [WELCOME BACK]', having already completed concerts in cities such as Seoul, Manila, Jakarta, Kobe, Hong Kong, Tokyo, Singapore, Bangkok, Kuala Lumpur, and Taipei. They are now set to perform in Ho Chi Minh City and Macau, aiming to achieve a record of 27 shows across 12 cities, attracting a total audience of 220,000, including the Seoul encore.

2NE1 to Hold Encore Concert in Seoul for 15th Anniversary

Recent changes to TOP's (최승현) social media and official YouTube profiles have led to speculation about his potential return to BIGBANG. However, a representative for TOP clarified on February 11 that the name 'TOP' on his social media has not been altered and has always been listed that way. The representative also stated that TOP's stance regarding BIGBANG remains unchanged from what he expressed in a recent interview.

The speculation arose after fans noticed that the official BIGBANG YouTube account listed the members in the order of G-Dragon, Taeyang, TOP, and Daesung, and that TOP's profile referred to him as 'TOP 최승현' instead of 'Actor 최승현'. Despite these observations, the information is not new; the YouTube profile has been consistent since the release of their song '봄, 여름, 가을, 겨울' (Spring, Summer, Fall, Winter).

TOP, who was sentenced to 20 months in prison with a two-year probation in 2016 for marijuana use, officially left YG Entertainment in 2022 and subsequently announced his departure from BIGBANG the following year. In a recent interview regarding his role as Thanos in the Netflix original series 'Squid Game Season 2', he reflected on the possibility of reuniting with BIGBANG, stating, 'I considered '봄 여름 가을 겨울' to be my last project.' He expressed that while fans still hope for a reunion, he feels a sense of guilt towards the other members and believes he will carry that regret for life.

TOP's Profile Update Sparks Speculation About BIGBANG Return

On February 11, KBS2's show Celebrity Soldier's Secret (셀럽 병사의 비밀) aired its eighth episode, delving into the identity of the 'Purple Killer,' a figure that instilled fear in many celebrities, including Kim Gu (김구), Walt Disney, and Edvard Munch (에드바르 뭉크). The episode explored the mysterious deaths surrounding the famous painter Gustav Klimt, known for his iconic kiss scene, who passed away suddenly in 1918 shortly before his hospital discharge due to a stroke. Following his death, his protégé and rival, Egon Schiele (에곤 실레), also died, leading to a series of unexplained deaths where victims exhibited a purple discoloration of the face and pneumonia symptoms before dying within days. This led to rumors in Europe that the German army had released poison gas during World War I.

The fear of death spread rapidly beyond Europe, reaching Korea during the Japanese occupation in 1918, where notable figures like Kim Gu, Walt Disney, Mahatma Gandhi, and Edvard Munch also contracted the Spanish flu.

Interestingly, the first recorded outbreak of the Spanish flu was reported in the United States, not Spain. This led to a heated discussion on the show, with guest Jang Do-yeon expressing outrage over the naming of the virus, comparing it to being unjustly labeled as the 'Jang Do-yeon virus.'

ENT specialist Lee Nak-jun (이낙준), known for his work on the Trauma Center, provided medical insights into the various rumors and treatments surrounding the flu at that time. Lee Chan-won (이찬원) humorously questioned whether mixing soju with chili powder could actually cure a cold, leading to a light-hearted moment where he publicly apologized to friends who had tried this remedy instead of taking proper medication.

The episode also featured Professor Song Dae-seop (송대섭) from Seoul National University, who developed the world's first MERS diagnostic kit in 2015. He emphasized the importance of the broadcast, revealing shocking facts about the Spanish flu and its current implications, including research suggesting that up to 300 new viruses could emerge each year over the next 50 years, equating to a new infectious disease potentially appearing almost every day.

The secrets of the 'Purple Killer' that swept the globe in 1918 will be revealed in the Spanish flu episode of Celebrity Soldier's Secret, airing on Tuesday, February 11, at 8:30 PM. Meanwhile, Lee Chan-won has disclosed that he has over 30 events scheduled in a month, with his fee reportedly around 28 million won.

The Rise of Lee Chan-won's Popularity Amidst Historical Revelations

Choi Byeong-hak, a renowned voice actor and actor, has sadly passed away. According to his family, he died from acute myocardial infarction on February 8, at the age of 85. Choi began his career in 1961 with Korean Broadcasting (now EBS) and joined the MBC Voice Acting Troupe in 1965. He lent his voice to popular animations such as 'Mazinger Z' and 'Ultra Exploration Team.' Additionally, he portrayed Professor Kingsfield in the foreign film 'Harvard's Study Bugs' and served as a narrator for the radio drama 'Following the Legend Across the Land.' In 1992, he received the Male Voice Actor Award at the 19th Korean Broadcasting Awards and appeared in dramas including 'The Third Republic,' 'Love and Ambition,' 'Reeds,' and 'Love and War.' His funeral is being held at the Seoul Catholic University Seoul St. Mary's Hospital Funeral Hall, with the burial scheduled for 7 AM on February 11.

KBS Drama Crew Faces Legal Action for Damaging Cultural Heritage Site

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Remembering Jeong Da-bin: 18 Years Since Her Untimely Passing

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