Sujeong, a member of the girl group Lovelyz, recently revealed that she has regretted her decision to debut as an idol at least once. This confession came during an episode of the online show 'Waaak!', where she and fellow member Kei spoke with host Ahn Ji-young from the duo Bolbbalgan4. The episode featured the two preparing strawberry-infused liquor together. When asked by Ahn about memorable moments from their decade-long career, Kei mentioned their 10th-anniversary concert, while Sujeong recalled their first concert after debuting. Ahn then inquired if they had experienced any unusual broadcasts, to which Sujeong surprised everyone by admitting her regret about debuting as an idol. She explained that while she enjoys the experiences, there was a particular show where she had to enter an abandoned military building with only four members and no staff, which terrified her to the point where she couldn't even cry. In celebration of their 10th anniversary, Lovelyz released a new song titled 'If We Meet Again' on November 12, 2024, marking their first new music in over four years, conveying a message about reuniting despite time apart.

Lovelyz's Sujeong Reflects on Regretting Her Idol Debut

YB Band, consisting of members Yoon Do-hyun, Park Tae-hee, Kim Jin-won, and Heo Jun, is set to release their new mini-album 'Odyssey' (오디세이) on February 26, marking their 30th anniversary since debuting in 1995. During a showcase held on February 17 at Rolling Hall in Hongdae, Seoul, the band described this album as 'the future of YB.' The EP features six tracks, including the title song 'Orchid' (오키드), showcasing a significant shift towards a modern metal sound, diverging from their previous hits that leaned more towards modern rock and rock ballads.

This album also marks the band's first official activity following member Yoon Do-hyun's battle with cancer. He revealed that he was diagnosed with a rare form of lymphoma and has since been declared cancer-free. Appearing healthy at the showcase, he shared, 'I drew a lot of strength from metal music during the pandemic and my illness. My doctor advised against alcohol and smoking but never told me to stop listening to metal, so I kept it up,' he joked. Yoon added, 'With this album, YB will continue to pursue metal music. It’s been 30 years of living each day to the fullest, and this year, we plan to prepare a meaningful best album and tour.' 

YB has been a cornerstone of the rock music scene in South Korea, with iconic tracks such as 'Sending You Off' (너를 보내고), 'Peppermint Candy' (박하사탕), 'I Am a Butterfly' (나는 나비), and 'I Will Love You' (사랑할거야). They gained immense popularity with their 2002 World Cup anthem 'Oh! Pilseung Korea' (오 필승 코리아).

The band will hold a solo concert on March 1-2 at Rolling Hall, which is also celebrating its 30th anniversary this year. Member Park Tae-hee stated, 'This concert will mark the first voyage of YB's hybrid metal sound.'

불꽃 메탈로 돌아온 YB의 30주년...윤도현, “메탈로 암 투병 힘 얻어” 

YB Band Celebrates 30 Years with New EP 'Odyssey'

On February 17, actress Go Hyun-jung revealed behind-the-scenes photos from the filming of her new SBS drama, '사마귀' (Praying Mantis), sparking curiosity among fans. In her post, she wrote, "Towards the end..." while sharing a striking image of herself lying on the ground with a bruised face, staring into the camera, which surprised many. Shortly after, she posted another photo of herself sitting in a chair on set, confirming that she was in the midst of filming. Actor Ha Jung-woo, who previously worked with Go Hyun-jung in the MBC drama '히트' (Hit), commented on her post, saying, "Thank you for your hard work," bringing a smile to her fans. Recently, Go Hyun-jung had to miss the press conference for her drama '나미브' (Namib) due to health issues, but she has since returned to work after undergoing major surgery. She is now fully dedicated to the final stages of filming for '사마귀'.

'수술 후 복귀' 고현정, 멍투성이 얼굴로 차가운 바닥에 무슨 일? "마지막을 향해"

Go Hyun-jung Shares Behind-the-Scenes Photos from 'Praying Mantis'

The K-pop group aespa has successfully wrapped up their second North American tour. Their latest world tour, titled '2024-25 aespa LIVE TOUR - SYNK : PARALLEL LINE', kicked off in Seattle and included stops in Oakland, Los Angeles, Mexico City, Orlando, Charlotte, Newark, Toronto, and Chicago. Each concert was a sold-out event, showcasing aespa's immense popularity in the region.

During the performances, aespa delighted fans with three of their major hits from 2024: 'Supernova' (슈퍼노바), 'Armageddon' (아마겟돈), and 'Whiplash' (위플래시), along with English tracks such as 'Better Things' (베터 띵스), 'Die Trying' (다이 트라잉), 'Hold On Tight' (홀드 온 타이트), and 'Life’s Too Short' (라이프스 투 쇼트). The group engaged closely with local fans, delivering high-quality performances.

The audience responded enthusiastically, cheering and singing along at every show. They also participated actively in a dance challenge segment, further highlighting aespa's strong local fanbase.

aespa is set to continue their world tour in London, UK, on March 2, 2025.

에스파, 미국멕시코캐나다 돌아 두 번째 북남미 공연 성료

aespa Concludes Successful Second North American Tour

On February 18, 2025, the police in Boeun, North Chungcheong Province, announced that they have applied for an arrest warrant for a woman, referred to as A, on charges of attempted murder through child abuse. A is accused of attempting suicide with her two elementary school-aged children and a friend, identified as B, in a vacant lot in Seongam-ri, Naebuk-myeon, at around 5:15 PM on February 16. The three were found unconscious and were transported to a hospital, where they received treatment and are reported to be out of danger. A was discharged from the hospital on February 17 and was subsequently arrested by the police. Investigations revealed that A and B, who were close friends, had accumulated a debt of 2 billion KRW (approximately $1.5 million) together, leading them to despair and attempt this tragic act. A had lent a significant amount of money to B over several years, who promised high interest rates, but B's financial situation deteriorated, making it impossible to repay the principal. A drove from Cheongju to Boeun with B and her children, administering three sleeping pills to each child before the incident. The police have charged A with attempted murder through child abuse rather than attempted murder, marking the first application of this charge in North Chungcheong Province since the introduction of the Special Act on the Punishment of Child Abuse Crimes in November of the previous year. The new charge carries harsher penalties, including the possibility of the death penalty or life imprisonment, or a minimum of seven years in prison. The police plan to arrest B as an accomplice once he is discharged from the hospital.

초등생 자녀와 극단 선택 시도 친모...경찰, 구속영장 신청

Police Seek Arrest Warrant for Mother Attempting Suicide with Children Due to Debt

Hello! Today, I want to introduce you to a remarkable film, 'The Spirit of the Beehive' (벌집의 정령), which has quietly made its debut amidst the noise of blockbusters like Captain America and Mickey 17. If you were a filmmaker tasked with creating a story that conveys the message 'The king's ears are donkey ears' without mentioning the king, ears, or donkeys, how would you approach it? This film provides an artistic response to such a challenge.

Originally released in 1973 in Spain, 'The Spirit of the Beehive' is now being screened in South Korea for the first time after 50 years. If my recommendation doesn't convince you, perhaps the endorsement from Ryusuke Hamaguchi, the director of 'Evil Does Not Exist,' will pique your interest. If 'The Spirit of the Beehive' significantly influenced 'Evil Does Not Exist,' you might be even more curious about its impact.

Do you remember the film 'Close Your Eyes,' which came out last year? It tells the story of a director searching for an actor who mysteriously disappeared during filming. Even if you haven't seen it, you might recall the poetic poster featuring a girl with closed eyes. This film was directed by Victor Erice (85), and 'The Spirit of the Beehive' is his debut work. Sometimes, we crave a mysterious film that awakens our dormant senses, and this is the perfect choice for such moments.

The poster for 'The Spirit of the Beehive' immediately captivates viewers, showcasing the face of six-year-old Ana, the film's protagonist. However, be warned: without prior knowledge of the historical context, you might find the film slow-paced. It’s not overly complex, but a basic understanding of Spanish history will enhance your viewing experience. Once you familiarize yourself with the background, allow yourself to be drawn into Ana's gaze, and you will discover moments that will leave you in awe of the film's artistry.

Set in rural Spain in the 1940s, the film takes place after the Spanish Civil War, during the oppressive regime of Franco. The civil war, which lasted from 1936 to 1939, saw the leftist Republicans clash with the right-wing military, culminating in Franco's victory and the establishment of a dictatorship that lasted until his death in 1975. Although 'The Spirit of the Beehive' was released in 1973, it was still under the shadow of Franco's regime, limiting the director's ability to express his thoughts directly.

Thus, through the innocent eyes of a six-year-old girl, the director conveys the messages he yearns to express. The film exemplifies the peak of metaphorical storytelling in an era where artists had to resort to subtlety. For instance, the 'beehive' symbolizes the repressive Spanish society, while the 'spirit' represents the souls of those who suffered and disappeared. Through Ana, the director communicates that although these individuals are gone, their spirits endure, and as long as hope remains, lost freedom can be reclaimed. This poetic and metaphorical narrative may lead to moments of drowsiness if you start watching without preparation.

As the film begins, a cart rolls down a rural road, and the village children cheer, "The movie is coming! Look at those boxes filled with film reels!" A traveling show announces a special screening of 'Frankenstein' at the village hall, claiming to present the most beautiful film in the world. After watching 'Frankenstein' with her sister Isabel, Ana asks her sister a crucial question that resonates throughout the film:

"Sister, why did the monster kill that girl? Why do people want to kill the monster?"

"The monster didn't die, and neither did the girl. Movies are all fake. It's a trick. I saw them alive, in a place near the village."

"So, they're ghosts?"

"No, they're spirits. Spirits don't have bodies, so they can't be killed. If you become friends, you can talk to them anytime. Just close your eyes and call them. 'It's me, Ana.'"

Ana wonders if the kind Frankenstein, who played with a girl by the lake in the film, really died. Her sister reassures her, saying, "He didn't die; just close your eyes and call him." This echoes the themes in Victor Erice's 'Close Your Eyes,' where the title itself suggests that closing your eyes leads to encountering true spirits. The belief that genuine value never disappears and can always be found is a steadfast theme in Erice's work over the past fifty years. Great artists often have a central theme that runs through their lives, and for Erice, it seems to be the unchanging, genuine values that reside deep within our hearts.

Ana's home features beehive-shaped windows, and her mother writes letters to an unknown recipient, expressing, "I have witnessed countless losses and sorrows. The ability to live life fully has vanished along with them." Ana's father, a beekeeper, observes the bees and writes at night about the relentless toil of the beehive, the frenzied activity of the bees, and their persistent yet trivial labor, which ultimately leads to the final rest of death. This too can be seen as a metaphor for the Spanish society symbolized by the beehive and the people trapped within it. The film is bathed in a honeybee-yellow hue, and in the final scenes, as Ana stands by the window, a blue light envelops her. At that moment, she closes her eyes and calls out to her friend, saying, "It's me, Ana."

The contrast of yellow and blue is reminiscent of the imagery in Hamaguchi Ryusuke's 'Evil Does Not Exist,' where the young protagonist's representative colors are also yellow and blue. Hamaguchi cites 'The Spirit of the Beehive' as one of the films that influenced him the most, stating, "I drew mental inspiration from it while making 'Evil Does Not Exist.'" It seems that both films share emotional resonance and turmoil, centered around a young girl.

Lastly, here's a delightful fact: the young Ana from Erice's debut film 'The Spirit of the Beehive' also appears in his latest work, 'Close Your Eyes,' as the daughter of the missing actor. I didn't recognize her at first, but take a look at the side-by-side photos I’ve included. Fifty years have passed for this actress.

I believe that if a film leaves a distinct impression on its viewers, it is complete in itself, regardless of the myriad interpretations it may invite. Both 'The Spirit of the Beehive' and 'Close Your Eyes' can be interpreted in countless simple yet beautiful ways, making them masterpieces. I've shared my thoughts on how to approach these films, so now it's your turn to watch and create your own interpretations. With a hundred viewers, there can be a hundred interpretations. 'The Spirit of the Beehive' is not available on OTT platforms, so I highly recommend finding a theater to experience it. Until next time, thank you!

[그 영화 어때] ‘벌집의 정령’이 50년 지나도 명작인 이유

Exploring the Poetic Depths of 'The Spirit of the Beehive'

Lee Changsub of BTOB has officially graduated from the web variety show '전과자' (Jeongwaja), signaling a new chapter in his career. On February 17, the YouTube channel 'ootb STUDIO' released a video titled 'Graduation and New Jeongwaja Student [Graduation Ceremony]', marking Changsub's departure after hosting the show through its fifth season.

In the video, he humorously shared, "I have some good news. I am finally graduating. I have transferred 66 times, and it has been very tough." He reflected on his two years of enjoyable experiences studying at various schools but explained that he needs to focus on his main career and take care of his vocal health, which is why he is stepping back. He added, "This isn’t the end of my relationship with ootb. There will be opportunities to meet again through new content, whether on an island or in a car."

Taking over the hosting duties for 'Jeongwaja' Season 6 is EXO's Kai. Changsub advised Kai to listen well to the professors, bond with the students, and get plenty of rest.

Kai, who joined the show after completing his military service, expressed surprise at being asked if he was considering going back to the army on his first day out.

'Jeongwaja' is a campus culture revival program that visits universities across the country to experience various academic departments firsthand. Season 6, hosted by Kai, is set to premiere on March 20 at 6 PM on the 'ootb STUDIO' YouTube channel.

BTOB's Lee Changsub Graduates from Web Variety Show 'Jeongwaja'

The sudden death of actress Kim Sae-ron has sent shockwaves not only through South Korea but also internationally. Major news outlets, including Reuters, AFP, CNN, and The New York Times, have reported on her passing, highlighting her impressive filmography and the intense competition within the Korean entertainment industry that places immense pressure on stars.

Kim Sae-ron, who gained recognition at a young age, was noted for her promising talent. She made her mark at the Cannes Film Festival in 2009 with the film 'The Traveler' and walked the red carpet again with 'Dohee-ya.' Her performances in films such as 'The Man from Nowhere' (아저씨), 'The Neighbors' (이웃사람), and 'The Village' (동네사람들) showcased her acting skills and star power. Recently, her role in the Netflix series 'Hunting Dogs' (사냥개들) garnered attention from international audiences.

However, her career faced a significant downturn following a drunk driving incident in 2022, where she crashed into a guardrail and a tree in Gangnam, Seoul, and fled the scene. A blood test revealed a blood alcohol concentration of 0.2%, leading to her departure from the SBS drama 'Trolley' and substantial edits to her scenes in 'Hunting Dogs.' Following these events, she received a suspension from broadcasting, effectively halting her entertainment activities.

International media have focused on the challenges Kim faced in her attempts to make a comeback amid severe public criticism. Reuters reported that Kim was one of South Korea's most promising actresses, but her career suffered a serious blow after the drunk driving incident. AFP noted that despite her versatility and the high expectations placed upon her, she struggled to secure new roles after the 2022 incident.

CNN and The New York Times viewed her situation as indicative of broader structural issues within the Korean entertainment industry. The NYT pointed out that while the industry is thriving, the pressure on stars is immense, with public expectations and criticism often at odds, leading many to experience significant mental strain. CNN echoed this sentiment, stating that the series of tragic events involving K-pop and K-drama stars has brought attention to mental health issues within the industry.

The media also referenced other stars who have tragically passed away, such as Sulli, Jonghyun, and Moonbin, highlighting the systemic problems faced by entertainers in Korea. They emphasized that the competitive nature of K-entertainment, combined with the demand for perfection in appearance and behavior, places severe burdens on stars.

Kim Sae-ron's efforts to revive her career were further complicated by malicious comments and public scrutiny. She had been intermittently updating her social media to signal her return. In May of last year, she was cast in the play 'Dongchimi' but withdrew after just one day due to health issues. She later expressed her desire to return with a role in the film 'Guitar Man,' which ultimately became her final project.

Fans have voiced their concerns over the harshness of the criticism directed at Kim, arguing that while she made mistakes, the atmosphere surrounding her comeback was excessively punitive. In online communities, many have expressed that the backlash she faced was beyond what any individual should endure. Supporters from the DC Inside Female Celebrity Gallery released a statement asserting that Kim acknowledged her mistakes and worked hard to make amends, but the level of criticism she faced was inhumane.

Kim Sae-ron's funeral is set to take place at the Asan Medical Center in Seoul, with the burial scheduled for 6:20 AM on February 19.

Tragic Passing of Actress Kim Sae-ron Shakes Korean Entertainment Industry

Shin Soohyun, the main vocalist of the group U-KISS, is embarking on a new musical journey. Recently, he shared a teaser image for his first single album titled 'i am' on his official social media channels, signaling his solo comeback.

In the released photo, Shin Soohyun's face remains shrouded in mystery, building anticipation for the music and performances he will unveil with 'i am'. This album marks his first single release since debuting, encapsulating his efforts to discover a new facet of his voice and the emotions he experienced throughout that process. It is expected to include his recently released remake single '또 다른 시작' (Another Beginning), showcasing his musical authenticity.

Shin Soohyun's first single album 'i am' will be available on various music platforms on March 11 at 6 PM. Following the release, he will hold his first solo concert titled 'SHIN SOOHYUN SOLO CONCERT 'I AM' IN SEOUL' on March 15 at the YES24 Wonderbox in Seodaemun-gu, Seoul, marking the official start of his solo activities.

U-KISS's Shin Soohyun Announces Solo Debut with 'i am'

The original series 'Study Group' (스터디그룹), produced by Studio Dragon, is receiving an enthusiastic response overseas. This comedy-action high school drama, available on domestic streaming service 티빙 and various global platforms like Rakuten Viki and Viu, follows the story of Yoon Ga-min (윤가민), played by Hwang Min-hyun (황민현), who, despite his talent for fighting, aspires to excel academically. As he navigates the challenges of a notoriously difficult school, he forms a study group to tackle the fierce competition of entrance exams.

According to Rakuten Viki, in its third week of airing, 'Study Group' ranked in the top two in 74 countries, including the United States, the United Kingdom, Brazil, Mexico, France, and the UAE, and made it to the top five in 147 countries. Additionally, it topped the weekly charts in Indonesia, Thailand, and Malaysia during the first week of February, as reported by Viu. The show's global success has led to its acquisition by Japan's OTT platform ABEMA, where it will premiere on February 21.

A representative from Rakuten Viki stated, 'Study Group' brings a fresh and intriguing change to the K-drama trend, captivating global fans with its unique approach.'

International media attention has also been drawn to the series. Forbes published an article on February 8 titled 'An Ordinary Hero on the Surface, Standing Up to Bullying in K-Drama Study Group,' praising it as a well-written show that appeals to a wide range of viewers.

Viewer reactions have been overwhelmingly positive, with 'Study Group' achieving an impressive rating of 9.8 on Rakuten Viki, nearing a perfect score. It also holds an 8.5 rating on IMDb and an 8.9 on MyDramaList, reflecting its strong reception among global audiences.

Study Group (스터디그룹) Gains International Popularity

Starship Entertainment has made a striking move by releasing the music video for Kiki's debut title track 'I Do Me' as the first content of their promotional campaign. Kiki, a five-member group, was introduced through this unexpected approach, skipping traditional teasers. On February 16, the music video was uploaded to Starship's official YouTube channel, creating a significant buzz without revealing any information about the group aside from their name.

The music video for 'I Do Me' quickly gained attention for its mysterious concept, catchy music, and the members' captivating performances. Within just 12 hours, it reached the top of the trending videos on YouTube in South Korea, amassing over 2.19 million views by 10 AM on February 18, showcasing Kiki's powerful debut.

Filmed in New Zealand, the music video beautifully captures the members' individuality against stunning natural backdrops. The video opens with sweeping shots of a vast landscape, reminiscent of an art film, and highlights the unique charm of each member, effectively showcasing Kiki's distinctive style.

The pre-released track 'I Do Me' is a pop dance song that emphasizes Kiki's confident and assertive spirit, expressing a girl's determination to trust her instincts and live boldly. The song features dreamy synthesizer sounds and a strong disco beat, creating a harmonious blend of emotional vocal melodies and groovy rhythms that resonate with listeners.

With its unprecedented promotional strategy and innovative concept, Kiki is poised to not just be another rookie group but to carve out a new path in the K-pop scene.

Following the music video release, Kiki's official website was launched on February 17, revealing member profiles and stage names in a unique format that sets them apart from existing idol groups. The website's design, themed around a 'Jam Factory,' creatively represents Kiki's identity in a way not previously seen in K-pop.

Kiki's groundbreaking debut and exceptional promotional efforts are expected to make a significant impact in the K-pop industry. They will release the audio for 'I Do Me' on February 24 and officially debut on March 24, with further promotional updates to be shared on their official social media channels.

Lovelyz's Sujeong Reflects on Regretting Her Idol Debut

What do you think?

Trending

BTOB's Lee Changsub Graduates from Web Variety Show 'Jeongwaja'

Tragic Passing of Actress Kim Sae-ron Shakes Korean Entertainment Industry

U-KISS's Shin Soohyun Announces Solo Debut with 'i am'

Study Group (스터디그룹) Gains International Popularity

Starship Entertainment Unveils New Group Kiki with Bold Debut Strategy

More

YB Band Celebrates 30 Years with New EP 'Odyssey'

Go Hyun-jung Shares Behind-the-Scenes Photos from 'Praying Mantis'

aespa Concludes Successful Second North American Tour

Police Seek Arrest Warrant for Mother Attempting Suicide with Children Due to Debt

Exploring the Poetic Depths of 'The Spirit of the Beehive'

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