On January 18, during the broadcast of KBS2's 'Salim Nam 2' (살림하는 남자들2), child prodigy Kim Tae-yeon shared exciting updates about her life. When asked by Baek Ji-young if it had been two years since they last met, Kim confirmed, stating that she is now 14 years old and entering the first year of middle school. Baek Ji-young playfully remarked that she heard Kim would be a junior to a remarkable figure. Kim responded, 'I will be a junior to G-Dragon (지드래곤). I am set to enroll in the National Traditional Arts Middle School, specifically in the pansori department, as I have been practicing pansori since I was young.' Kim also revealed that she had performed at prestigious venues like the Kennedy Center and Carnegie Hall in the U.S. when she was just seven years old. To the delight of the audience, she showcased her audition piece, 'Sugungga' (수궁가), upon Baek Ji-young's request, leaving everyone in awe.

Kim Tae-yeon Announces Transition to Middle School on 'Salim Nam 2'

Lee Min-woo, a member of the legendary K-pop group Shinhwa, received concerning health news during a recent checkup. On the January 18 episode of KBS2's 'Salim Nam 2' (살림하는 남자들2), Lee Min-woo and his family visited a health screening center together. 

Accompanied by his worried parents, Lee Min-woo opted for a health examination. After the initial consultation, the doctor advised that due to their age, a non-sedated endoscopy would be safer for his parents. Lee Min-woo volunteered to undergo the same procedure, despite his mother's insistence that he should choose sedation for comfort. He responded, "Since Mom is nervous, I will also go for the non-sedated option," which touched many viewers. 

Lee Min-woo's parents expressed their fears about the checkup, admitting that they always feel anxious about potential health issues. After the lengthy examination, the family returned to the consultation room. 

The doctor first shared the results with Lee Min-woo's mother, noting a small nodule in her lung that was not a significant concern given her age. However, the news for his father was less reassuring. The doctor revealed signs of arteriosclerosis, explaining that a score of 100 typically indicates advanced arteriosclerosis, while his father's score was 136. The doctor also mentioned a concerning finding of a potential ulcer, which could be cancerous, necessitating a biopsy with results expected in a week. 

Finally, it was Lee Min-woo's turn. Surprised by the findings after not having a checkup for ten years, he learned that he also showed signs of arteriosclerosis. The doctor remarked that it is uncommon for someone his age to have such issues, suggesting a possible family history. Additionally, Lee Min-woo was informed of high blood pressure, indicating he might need medication, and there were traces of an ulcer as well. 

As the family awaited the results, Baek Ji-young, who was present in the studio, later reassured viewers that fortunately, both Lee Min-woo and his father's biopsy results came back negative for cancer, providing a sigh of relief for fans and family alike.

'46세' 이민우, 10년 만에 건강 검진한 결과 "동맥경화에 고혈압까지" ('살림남') [종합]

Shinhwa's Lee Min-woo Faces Health Concerns After Checkup

In a groundbreaking event for South Korea, President Yoon Seok-yeol has become the first sitting president to be arrested. On January 19, 2025, Chief Judge Cha Eun-kyung of the Seoul Western District Court issued a detention warrant for Yoon, citing concerns over potential evidence tampering following a pre-arrest interrogation regarding charges of insurrection and abuse of power.

Yoon is accused of conspiring with former Defense Minister Kim Yong-hyun to incite a riot in the National Assembly on December 3, 2024. The allegations include declaring an unconstitutional state of emergency without any signs of a national crisis, issuing an illegal martial law proclamation that prohibited political activities in the National Assembly, and deploying military and police forces to block the Assembly and obstruct the vote to lift the emergency.

The period from the declaration of the emergency to Yoon's arrest has seen intense protests and rallies, with citizens both condemning and supporting the president. Among those voicing their opinions are notable figures from the entertainment industry, who have expressed their views despite not being directly involved.

Writer Heo Ji-woong sharply criticized the situation following Yoon's arrest, pointing out the presence of specific religious groups among the president's supporters during protests near the courthouse. He emphasized the need for thorough investigations into these affiliations.

He further elaborated on the political climate, stating, "The moment the ruling party embraced the far-right instead of seeking repentance and reform, the decline began. The far-right cannot be controlled once it enters the system; it will burn everything down until it becomes its own kindling."

Conversely, celebrities who previously opposed impeachment have shown their discontent. Singer JK Kim Dong-wook lamented, "The rule of law in South Korea has collapsed. Cry later, but be angry now," while actor Choi Jun-yong expressed strong support for Yoon, claiming that all actions taken against him were illegal.

Amidst the turmoil, MBC anchor Park So-young clarified her absence from any protests, addressing the spread of false information online that implicated her in the demonstrations. This clarification came after reports indicated that some of Yoon's supporters had threatened MBC reporters during the court proceedings.

President Yoon will remain in custody for up to 20 days while investigations continue, marking a significant moment in South Korean history.

'비판' 허지웅, '옹호' JK김동욱, '해명' 박소영…윤석열 대통령 구속에 연예계도 들썩 [종합]

Historic Arrest: South Korean President Yoon Seok-yeol Detained

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

On January 17, Kwon Eun-bi visited the online channel 'Kino' for a candid discussion with Pentagon member Kino. During the episode titled 'Why Do You Only Talk to Me About Work?', Kino humorously introduced Kwon Eun-bi as 'a beautiful woman whom I've never seen in a romantic light, my leader, the great rabbit.' Kwon Eun-bi responded, admitting she had never felt excited about meeting Kino, stating, 'I felt we were really similar at our first meeting. When people are too similar, there's no attraction; it needs to be a bit opposite.' 

Kino reminisced about a past conversation with Kwon Eun-bi, recalling how he expressed his happiness for her success with 'Waterbomb,' to which she replied that she felt disappointed that people only remembered her for that event. He shared, 'About three months before 'Waterbomb,' I candidly told her, 'I’m just hanging in there,' and she encouraged me, saying, 'Let’s not give up. In the end, those who endure will win.' She proved that three months later.' 

Kwon Eun-bi reflected on her journey, acknowledging that while 'Waterbomb' helped her gain recognition, she felt some people were unaware of her other efforts. 'I wanted to engage in various activities to show that I can do more than just that. I believe that’s why I’ve been able to maintain consistent activity rather than just a fleeting moment of fame,' she shared, hinting at her personal growth throughout her career.

'워터밤 여신' 권은비, 무명 아이돌 멤버에 '참'조언 "버티면 이긴다" ('키노')

Kwon Eun-bi and Kino Share Heartfelt Conversation on YouTube

In the latest episodes of SBS's global boy group audition program, Universe League, aired on January 17 and 18, a total of 15 contestants were eliminated, confirming that 21 participants will move on to the finals. 

The eighth episode showcased the performances of the second unit following the first unit's stage in the third round of the league. Team Groove performed 'Butterfly', Team Beat presented 'ON&ON', and Team Rhythm prepared 'Don't Hit The Brakes'. 

Team Groove revamped their lineup for 'Butterfly', replacing Kim Juhyung, who struggled with high notes, with Seo Jeongwoo, who had previously been eliminated in 'I Am You'. Despite the challenges, Team Groove's performance received positive feedback. 

Team Beat maintained their seven main members from the first unit, receiving special lessons from Punch Nello at their agency's practice room and vocal advice from the vocal director of Venders Production, founded by El Capitan. Thanks to the directors' efforts, Team Beat delivered an almost flawless performance of 'ON&ON'. 

Similar to Team Groove, Team Beat also restructured their elite lineup. Notably, Kim Dongyoon, who was excluded from the first unit, faced elimination again in the second unit, losing another chance to perform. Instead, the directors selected strong performers for the elite lineup, a strategy that proved successful. Team Rhythm's stage also garnered enthusiastic applause. 

As the third round progressed, the scores and rankings from the live voting were revealed. Team Groove, who had topped the first two rounds, scored 3,362 points, securing first place in the live voting once again. Team Beat recorded 3,204 points, avoiding last place for the first time, while Team Rhythm ranked third with 3,036 points, shocking the contestants. 

However, a twist occurred when the final scores, including online votes, were tallied. Team Rhythm dominated the online voting with 59,898 points, claiming the top spot in the third round. Consequently, Team Groove took second place, and Team Beat faced the embarrassment of finishing last for the third consecutive time. 

With the announcement of individual rankings, eliminations followed. Team Beat received six yellow cards, leading to the elimination of Jin Ziming, Li Ziwei, and Kim Hyotaek, who already had yellow cards. Additionally, in the final trade of the league, Kim Dongyoon and Hiroto from Team Rhythm were released, while Seo Jeongwoo and Park Juwon from Team Groove joined Team Rhythm. Kim Daeyun moved from Team Groove to Team Beat, and An Yul from Team Beat to Team Groove, resulting in emotional farewells among the contestants. 

The eliminations did not stop there. In the ninth episode, as the finalists were determined, an additional 13 contestants left Universe League. The criteria for receiving a direct ticket to the finals included 'fan selection' and 'director selection'. A total of 21 contestants, including the top fan-voted players and those chosen by the directors, will take the stage in the finals. 

From the top-ranked Team Rhythm, five players advanced to the finals based on fan votes: JL, Steven, Zhang Shuai Bo, Zeun, and Park Juwon. Notably, JL garnered over one million votes, ranking first overall and surprising everyone. From the second-ranked Team Groove, Park Han, Kim Juhyung, and Kenta were selected, while Team Beat's sole representative chosen by fans was Cha Woong Ki. 

The remaining spots were filled by two from Team Rhythm, four from Team Groove, and six from Team Beat, with the directors making their selections regardless of team affiliation. Team Rhythm's directors, NCT and WayV's Ten and Yangyang, chose Daisuke and Seo Jeongwoo for the finals. Team Groove's director Lee Changseob selected Jang Kyungho, Koo Hanseo, Kwon Heejun, and Kim Gijung. 

With 19 contestants remaining, Team Beat's directors, Yugyeom and El Capitan, faced the challenge of filling the last six spots. Their choices included Kairi, Geum Jin Ho, Yuito, Shirin, Zenzen, and Kim Dongyoon. Geum Jin Ho and Yuito, who ranked 22nd and 30th respectively, were outside the top 21 based on team votes but earned a chance to advance due to the directors' selections. Additionally, Shirin, Zenzen, and Kim Dongyoon, who were not originally from Team Beat, will compete as members of Team Beat in the finals. 

Thus, the final lineups for each team have been established. Team Rhythm will feature JL, Steven, Zhang Shuai Bo, Zeun, Park Juwon, Daisuke, and Seo Jeongwoo; Team Groove will include Park Han, Kim Juhyung, Kenta, Jang Kyungho, Koo Hanseo, Kwon Heejun, and Kim Gijung; and Team Beat will consist of Cha Woong Ki, Kairi, Geum Jin Ho, Yuito, Shirin, Zenzen, and Kim Dongyoon. The remaining 13 contestants in the locker room faced their final eliminations with tears. 

Meanwhile, Universe League is a global boy group audition program co-produced by SBS and F&F Entertainment. The finale of Universe League will be broadcast live on January 24 at 11:20 PM.

'유니버스 리그' 제이엘, 100만 표로 전체 1위..파이널 진출 21人 확정

21 Contestants Advance to the Finals of Universe League

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.

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

Ailee and Choi Si-hoon recently expressed their deep affection for each other on MBC's 'How Do You Play?' as they prepare for their wedding in April. During the January 18 broadcast, Ailee shared her thoughts on proposals, stating, "I was already preparing for the wedding, so receiving a proposal felt strange and I didn't like it. But my boyfriend had everything planned after a trip, and we ended up keeping it simple."

She continued, "I was monitoring some YouTube content, and it turned into a video letter. My family and friends from the U.S. appeared, and my boyfriend thanked me for agreeing to marry him. It was so my style that I cried. My single life is officially over," proudly showing off her diamond ring.

Ailee and Choi Si-hoon, who gained fame from the Netflix reality show 'Single's Inferno' (솔로지옥), will tie the knot on April 20 after a year of dating. While Choi Si-hoon has previously acted, he is currently focused on his F&B and MCN businesses.

As a wedding gift, Yoo Jae-suk and the 'How Do You Play?' team presented the couple with matching mugs, slippers, and pajamas. Ailee expressed her heartfelt gratitude, saying she was deeply moved by the gifts, especially as she joined the Winter Song project.

However, the biggest surprise came from her fiancé, Choi Si-hoon, who shared a heartfelt video message: "I’m happy to have the chance to do a small event. As we start our second chapter in life, I promise to protect you forever and be by your side. No matter who bothers you, I’ll take care of it. You know I’m a real man, right? Thank you for starting this new life with me, I love you."

In an impromptu call, he added, "I’m sending our dog to puppy kindergarten. I’m nervous but happy. My wife is an amazing person. I want to protect her and start a life together. I hope we can be happy for a long time while taking care of our health."

Hearing Choi Si-hoon’s sincere words brought Ailee to tears.

Ailee and Choi Si-hoon Showcase Their Love on MBC's 'How Do You Play?' Ahead of Their Wedding

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 SBS's Friday-Saturday drama 'My Perfect Secretary' (나의 완벽한 비서), which aired on January 18, 2025, the relationship between 강지윤 (Han Ji-min) and 유은호 (Lee Jun-hyuk) deepens significantly. 

During the episode, 강지윤 finds herself falling asleep at 유은호's home, where she dreams of her late father and wakes up in tears. In a moment of comfort, 유은호 holds her hand tightly. After spending the night, 강지윤 hurriedly packs her things and leaves. 

The two characters are also seen trying to resolve a conflict at work regarding a controversy over counterfeit luxury bags presented by a luxury appraiser from Careerway. Amidst this chaos, 유은호's daughter 별 (기소유) has an accident after meeting 강지윤, leading to her hospitalization. 

As the story unfolds, 강지윤 begins to develop feelings for 유은호, displaying unusual curiosity about him by asking 서미애 (이상희) about his character. She also shows a willingness to trust people rather than just relying on cold logic when addressing workplace issues. 

Her change in demeanor does not go unnoticed by 우정훈 (김도훈), who teasingly remarks on their apparent closeness and encourages 강지윤 to ask him anything about 유은호, whom he claims to know well. Although 강지윤 dismisses the notion by saying, "What do you mean, what kind of person? He’s my secretary," her gaze betrays her true feelings. 

Ultimately, during a date where they attend a performance together, 강지윤 realizes her feelings when she spots 유은호 among a crowd. In a preview for the next episode, she is seen trying to avoid him but ultimately confesses, "I have a problem. I like you, 유은호."

Han Ji-min Realizes Her Feelings for Lee Jun-hyuk in 'My Perfect Secretary'

On January 17, an episode titled 'Welcome to the Mukbang [Jang Wooyoung & Young K] | Fried 2 ep.06' was released on the online channel '9700 STUDIO'. During the episode, Jang Wooyoung and Young K enjoyed a trip to Gangwon-do, spending their day participating in various events with the money they had prepared. 

Young K expressed his desire to name his bass guitar and visited a fortune teller to receive his New Year's fortune along with the naming request. The fortune teller informed Young K that he would experience a significant fortune at the age of 34, with luck opening up after the winter solstice next year, lasting for five years. Excited, Young K asked if this meant an even greater fortune was on the way. 

The fortune teller suggested names for the bass, including 국락 (Gukrak), 각렬 (Gakryeol), and 국룡 (Gukryong), to which Young K decided on 국룡, stating it sounded strong. The fortune teller then humorously suggested the name 강국룡 (Kang Gukryong), adding that it sounded presidential. 

Additionally, the fortune teller provided insights into Young K's marital prospects, advising him to marry later in life, humorously warning that marrying early could lead to three marriages. Meanwhile, Young K's band, DAY6, held their special concert '2024 DAY6 Special Concert 'The Present'' at the Gocheok Sky Dome in Seoul on December 20 and 21, 2024.

Kim Tae-yeon Announces Transition to Middle School on 'Salim Nam 2'

What do you think?

Trending

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

Ailee and Choi Si-hoon Showcase Their Love on MBC's 'How Do You Play?' Ahead of Their Wedding

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

Han Ji-min Realizes Her Feelings for Lee Jun-hyuk in 'My Perfect Secretary'

DAY6's Young K Gets His New Year's Fortune Told

More

Shinhwa's Lee Min-woo Faces Health Concerns After Checkup

Historic Arrest: South Korean President Yoon Seok-yeol Detained

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

Kwon Eun-bi and Kino Share Heartfelt Conversation on YouTube

21 Contestants Advance to the Finals of Universe League

Korea Guides

Common Visas for Foreigners in South Korea

Working Holiday visa in South Korea

K-ETA visa in South Korea

E-7 visa in South Korea

E-2 visa in South Korea