In the latest episode of SBS's drama 'My Perfect Secretary' aired on January 10, 2025, the character Kang Ji-yoon (played by Han Ji-min) showed concern for Yoo Eun-ho (played by Lee Jun-hyuk). During their conversation, Kang Ji-yoon asked Yoo Eun-ho about his experiences in the HR department, to which he humorously replied that he had encountered various genres of drama, including love triangles, schemes, and betrayals. When Kang Ji-yoon inquired about his own genre, Yoo Eun-ho quipped that he was facing a predictable outcome of being dismissed due to betrayal and conspiracy. Kang Ji-yoon playfully responded, claiming that betrayal was her specialty. 

As Yoo Eun-ho nodded in agreement, Kang Ji-yoon questioned whether he thought she would betray him. Yoo Eun-ho's noncommittal response led her to tease him about being the villain in his story from the start. 

Yoo Eun-ho then expressed his intention to get to know her better, stating that while he was still learning about her, he was certain of one thing: she takes care of others but neglects her own well-being. He urged her to take care of herself as well, while he gently applied a bandage to his finger that he had cut on paper, offering her comfort.

Lee Jun-hyuk Comforts Han Ji-min in 'My Perfect Secretary'

The latest episode of SBS Plus and ENA's reality show 'I Am Solo' aired on January 8, 2025, featuring the self-introductions of the female participants from the 24th season. Among them, Ok-soon (a pseudonym), born in 1988, caught significant attention as she claimed to work in the brand strategy department of a major corporation, K Company, and stated that her goal was marriage. Her bold admissions, including having undergone plastic surgery to enhance her appearance and her desire to freeze eggs for having more than two children, surprised many viewers.

However, claims have emerged suggesting that Ok-soon exaggerated her job status. Employees from K Company have alleged that she is not a full-time employee but rather a contracted secretary, a fact she reportedly concealed. They expressed frustration that the production team was aware of this discrepancy yet chose to overlook it.

Viewers have voiced their concerns, emphasizing that since 'I Am Solo' is a program centered around marriage, participants should accurately disclose their employment details. Nonetheless, some defended Ok-soon, arguing that it may not be necessary to disclose the specifics of her employment type on the show.

In response to the controversy, the production team confirmed that Ok-soon does indeed work in K Company's brand strategy department but did not provide further comments on the other allegations.

"정규직 아닌 파견직 비서"…'나는솔로' 24기 옥순, 직업 뻥튀기 논란→제작진 "K사 근무는 사실"[종합]

Controversy Surrounds 'I Am Solo' Participant Ok-soon Over Job Misrepresentation

Actor Hyun Bong-sik made a delightful impression at the recent '84 Gathering' held on January 8. He shared several photos on his personal account, captioning them, "Friends, are you all showing your faces? #84모임". The images featured a star-studded lineup of 1984-born celebrities, including Yoo Yeon-seok, Lee Joon-hyuk, SG Wannabe's Kim Yong-jun, Seven, and Simon Dominic, all posing together. Hyun Bong-sik stood out with his unique charm, bringing laughter to netizens. 

A banner in the background with the name of the popular webtoon artist Giann84 added to the fun, prompting comments like "Bong-sik84 center power lol" and "They’re naturally grouping together lol". Notably, Lee Joon-hyuk, who expressed his desire to join the '84 Gathering' on the SBS variety show 'Tteum Man Nameun', was also present, drawing attention. 

Born in 1984, Hyun Bong-sik is currently 41 years old and made his acting debut in 2014. He has since solidified his career with notable roles in hit series such as Netflix's 'D.P.', 'Gyeongseong Creature' Season 1, and 'Murderer is a Bit Complicated'.

[SCin스타] "현봉식 센터력 무엇" 유연석·이준혁·사이먼 도미닉까지 모인 모임 정체는?

Hyun Bong-sik Shines at '84 Gathering with Fellow Stars

The Japanese film 'Grand Maison Paris,' featuring 2PM member and actor Ok Taecyeon, is achieving remarkable success at the local box office, a rare feat for live-action films in Japan. Since its release on December 30, the movie debuted at third place and quickly climbed to second, signaling a strong box office performance. In its opening week alone, it attracted over 960,000 viewers and has grossed approximately 1.39 billion yen (around 128 million KRW). This makes it the highest-grossing live-action film released in Japan during this period.

Historically, animated films have dominated the Japanese box office, with only three live-action films making it into the top 20 of all-time box office rankings. Therefore, the success of 'Grand Maison Paris' stands out in a market typically ruled by animation.

Industry insiders predict that if this trend continues, the film could surpass 3 billion yen (approximately 276 million KRW) in total revenue.

'Grand Maison Paris' is based on the popular 2019 TBS drama 'Grand Maison Tokyo' and features key cast members from the series, including Takuya Kimura, Kyoka Suzuki, Ikki Sawamura, and Mitsuhiro Oikawa.

The film tells the story of genius chef Natsuki Obana (played by Takuya Kimura) and Rinko Hayami (Kyoka Suzuki), who, after earning a Michelin three-star rating in Japan, open 'Grand Maison Paris' in France, aiming to achieve the same prestigious recognition as the first Asian restaurant. Ok Taecyeon plays the role of Rick Yuan, a Canadian pastry chef of Korean descent, who serves as a rival to Kimura's character.

Following its premiere in Paris on January 8, 'Grand Maison Paris' is set to release in Hong Kong, Taiwan, and South Korea later this year.

옥택연X기무라 타쿠야, 日박스오피스 대박..'그랑메종 파리' 개봉 첫주 128억 흥행 [Oh!재팬]

2PM's Ok Taecyeon Shines in Japanese Film 'Grand Maison Paris' with Impressive Box Office Performance

The Korean entertainment community is mourning the loss of voice actor and actor Yoo Ho-han, who passed away from a heart attack on January 7 at the age of 52. Known for his work in popular series such as 짱구는 못 말려 (Crayon Shin-chan) and the Avengers franchise, Yoo's contributions to the industry were significant. His funeral is scheduled for January 11, with burial at the Hambeoksan Memorial Park in Hwaseong.

Yoo Ho-han joined KBS as a voice actor in 2002 and lent his voice to numerous animated series including 명탐정 코난 (Detective Conan), 원피스 (One Piece), and 유희왕 GX (Yu-Gi-Oh! GX). He also appeared in films like 청년경찰 (Midnight Runners) and the Netflix series 사냥개들 (The Hunt). 

In addition to his voice acting, Yoo was a strong advocate for the rights of fellow voice actors. He served as the 31st president of the KBS Voice Actors Association for three years, promoting unity among colleagues. As the senior vice president of the Korean Voice Actors Association and a delegate for the Korean Broadcasting Actors Labor Union, he actively participated in negotiations to protect voice actors' rights.

Lee Yeon-hee, director of the Korean Voice Actors Association, expressed deep sorrow over Yoo's passing, stating, "He was an irreplaceable voice actor who showed strong camaraderie with all his colleagues. Losing him feels like losing my right arm. His absence will be profoundly felt."

Yoo's death follows the recent passing of entrepreneur and influencer Lee Hee-cheol, who also died on January 7. Lee's close friend, broadcaster Pungja, shared the news on social media, expressing disbelief and sadness over the sudden loss. Lee Hee-cheol was known for his role on KBS2's 살림하는 남자들2 (Salim Nam) and was a prominent figure in the influencer and restaurant industry.

The unexpected deaths of both Yoo and Lee have left fans and colleagues in shock, with many taking to social media to express their condolences and share memories of the beloved figures.

‘살림남’ 이희철→’짱구’ 성우 유호한, 심근경색 사망..새해부터 이틀째 비보 충격 [종합]

Beloved Voice Actor Yoo Ho-han Passes Away at 52

한지민, 반하겠어..이준혁 “본인도 잘 챙겨주세요” 꿀 뚝뚝 (‘나완비’)[순간포착]

The rising girl group aespa has reaffirmed its status as a powerhouse in the music industry, according to the 2024 year-end results from the Circle Chart (formerly known as Gaon Chart), operated by the Korea Music Content Association. On January 10, Circle Chart announced that aespa's pre-release track 'Supernova' from their first full album 'Armageddon' topped both the annual digital and streaming charts, earning them two prestigious titles.

In addition to 'Supernova', aespa placed eight songs on the annual digital chart, including 'Drama' at 20th, 'Armageddon' at 29th, 'Spicy' at 52nd, 'Whiplash' at 60th, 'UP' (KARINA Solo) at 66th, 'Next Level' at 169th, and 'Live My Life' at 183rd, showcasing their dominance in the public's playlists this year.

On the album chart, SEVENTEEN's mini album 'SPILL THE FEELS' achieved remarkable success with 3,183,338 copies sold, securing the top spot. SEVENTEEN also claimed second place with their best album '17 IS RIGHT HERE', which sold 3,153,616 copies, marking them as the top artist on the annual album chart for two consecutive years. In the Circle Certified Album category, their mini album 'SEVENTEENTH HEAVEN', released in 2023, reached 5 million certifications.

Stray Kids also made waves with their mini album 'ATE', released in July last year, which recorded retail sales of 859,437 copies, earning them the top position on the annual retail album chart. They achieved four weekly number ones and a total of 2,880,052 album sales for 'ATE' on the annual album chart. Their mini album '樂-STAR', released in 2023, also reached 4 million certifications this year.

BLACKPINK member and solo artist Rosé's pre-release single 'APT.' featuring American pop star Bruno Mars topped both the global K-pop chart and the V Color Ring chart, making her a double winner.

Top artist Im Young-woong dominated the download chart with 'Warmth' at number one and 'Home' at number two, maintaining his position at the top of the annual download chart for four consecutive years since 2021.

Girl group FIFTY FIFTY continued their success by securing the number one spot on the Social Chart 2.0 for two years in a row, following their achievement last year.

aespa Dominates Circle Chart's 2024 Year-End Rankings

Former Big Bang member TOP is set to break his silence as he prepares for an interview on January 15 regarding his role in Netflix's Squid Game 2 (오징어게임2). The series continues the intense rivalry between Seong Gi-hun (이정재) and the Front Man (이병헌), with TOP portraying Thanos, a retired drug-addicted rapper. 

While other cast members, including director Hwang Dong-hyuk, Lee Jung-jae, Park Gyu-young, Yang Dong-geun, Lee Seo-hwan, Wi Ha-jun, Lee Byung-hun, Im Si-wan, Jo Yu-ri, and Park Sung-hoon, have actively promoted the show through interviews, TOP has remained largely silent. 

His silence is understandable given his controversial past, which began in 2016 when he was sentenced to two years of probation for marijuana use with trainee Han Seo-hee. Following this, he lost his position as a police officer and served as a social service worker, facing allegations of receiving preferential treatment. He was discharged in July 2019 but faced backlash for parking in a disabled spot on his last day. 

Afterward, he publicly stated he had no intention of returning to the entertainment scene, even declaring he would not make a comeback in Korea. This led to his departure from Big Bang, leaving many fans disappointed by his lack of remorse. 

Recently, without any explanation or apology, TOP announced his return through Squid Game 2, erasing all references to Big Bang from his profile and adopting his real name, Choi Seung-hyun. While fellow Big Bang members celebrated their 18th anniversary with fans, TOP blocked those who mentioned the group, further fueling public discontent. 

As speculation arises about whether his casting in Squid Game 2 is due to connections with Lee Jung-jae and Lee Byung-hun, concerns about his acting skills have also emerged, with critics pointing to his unclear pronunciation and exaggerated expressions. 

TOP's upcoming interview is highly anticipated, as many wonder whether his attempt to re-enter the spotlight will be beneficial or detrimental to his career.

TOP from Big Bang to Speak Out Ahead of Squid Game 2 Release

Hani of NewJeans has recently been reported for illegal residency, sparking speculation about her potential departure to Australia. On January 10, the Seoul Immigration Office confirmed that a report had been filed through the National Petition System regarding Hani's status. They stated that appropriate actions would be taken once the employment relationship is resolved.

As a dual citizen of Australia and Vietnam, Hani requires an extension of her E-6 visa to continue her activities in South Korea. The report stems from NewJeans' announcement at the end of November that they were no longer affiliated with their agency, Ador. Following this declaration, they were expected to return their foreign registration cards by December 13, leading to the suspicion that Hani may not have complied.

Hani's visa, issued through Ador, is set to expire in January 2025. Although there are concerns about her residency status, it appears that she has been fulfilling her commitments with Ador until recently, suggesting that she may not be in violation of immigration laws yet.

However, rumors have circulated among fans that Hani has already left for Australia, intensifying the controversy. YouTuber Lee Jin-ho reached out to Ador for clarification on Hani's whereabouts but was informed that they could not confirm the members' locations as they had completed their scheduled activities.

Despite the uncertainty, Ador has reportedly prepared all necessary documentation for Hani's visa renewal, although they have not been able to contact her. Additionally, there are rumors that NewJeans' advertising deals are drying up, but Ador has remained tight-lipped, citing the need to protect their artists.

For Hani, the urgency of renewing her visa complicates her situation, especially after declaring her split from Ador. If she has indeed left the country, obtaining a new visa through a different agency could take 2-3 months, leaving her future activities in limbo.

Meanwhile, NewJeans announced their independent activities following the termination of their contract with Ador on November 29, while Ador maintains that the contract is still valid and is preparing the necessary paperwork for visa extension.

NewJeans' Hani Faces Immigration Controversy Amid Departure Rumors

On January 10, 2025, KBS2TV's 'The Seasons - Lee Young-ji's Rainbow' featured the long-awaited reunion of GFRIEND, marking their first full group performance in four years. The members opened the show with their hit song 'From Today On,' expressing their excitement about reuniting. Lee Young-ji remarked that hearing the group greeting was an emotional moment. 

This year also marks GFRIEND's 10th anniversary since their debut, making their reunion even more special. The members clarified that despite rumors of disbandment, they had simply completed their contract and emphasized, 'We have never disbanded.' 

GFRIEND has released a total of 93 songs, and when asked about their most meaningful tracks, they highlighted 'Glass Bead,' 'From Today On,' and 'Time for the Moon Night,' referring to them as their signature songs. 

Additionally, they announced a special project song titled 'In Our Gentle Season,' inspired by their fans, known as Buddies. The members expressed their eagerness to connect with fans during their upcoming Asia tour, stating, 'We want to see our fans' faces and communicate with them.'

GFRIEND Reunites After Four Years on 'The Seasons - Lee Young-ji's Rainbow'

(G)I-DLE has made a significant impact on the 2024 music charts, according to the annual rankings released by South Korean streaming platforms Genie Music and Melon. The track '나는 아픈 건 딱 질색이니까' (Fate) from their second studio album '2' (Two) secured the top two spots on the charts, reaffirming the group's powerful presence in the K-pop scene. 

In addition to 'Fate', other songs from the album, including '퀸카' (Queencard), '클락션' (Klaxon), 'Super Lady', and 'Wife', also made it into the top 100 of the annual charts, marking a successful end to 2024 for the group. 

'Fate' features a refreshing band sound reminiscent of an anime soundtrack. Despite being a B-side track, it gained popularity through word of mouth, showcasing (G)I-DLE's diverse musical range. 

Earlier, (G)I-DLE received the Digital Song Award at the 39th Golden Disc Awards for 'Fate'. They also won the Best Album Award for their million-selling album '2' and were honored with the Grand Record Award at the 2024 KGMA, along with the prestigious 'Record of the Year' at the 2024 MMA.

Lee Jun-hyuk Comforts Han Ji-min in 'My Perfect Secretary'

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aespa Dominates Circle Chart's 2024 Year-End Rankings

TOP from Big Bang to Speak Out Ahead of Squid Game 2 Release

NewJeans' Hani Faces Immigration Controversy Amid Departure Rumors

GFRIEND Reunites After Four Years on 'The Seasons - Lee Young-ji's Rainbow'

(G)I-DLE Dominates 2024 Music Charts with 'Fate'

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Controversy Surrounds 'I Am Solo' Participant Ok-soon Over Job Misrepresentation

Hyun Bong-sik Shines at '84 Gathering with Fellow Stars

2PM's Ok Taecyeon Shines in Japanese Film 'Grand Maison Paris' with Impressive Box Office Performance

Beloved Voice Actor Yoo Ho-han Passes Away at 52

Lee Jun-hyuk Comforts Han Ji-min in 'My Perfect Secretary'

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