On January 17, 2025, during a new episode of the YouTube channel '할명수' (Hal Myung-soo), comedian Park Myung-soo shared the reason for his absence from the KBS Entertainment Awards. As he greeted the production team, he began counting the number of people present and pulled out a 20th-anniversary calendar for '무한도전' (Infinite Challenge). However, he humorously remarked, "The person I like didn’t come. Let’s pretend this didn’t happen," causing laughter among those around him.

That day, Park Myung-soo embarked on a winter snack tour, sampling the famous 호떡 (hotteok) from Namdaemun. He expressed his desire to give the shop owner a hug, which added to the lighthearted atmosphere.

Next, he visited a dumpling shop. When asked by the crew if he enjoyed the DAY6 concert, he replied, "It was enjoyable because it was band music. I was never bored."

The production team then inquired why he chose to attend the DAY6 concert instead of the awards ceremony. Park Myung-soo candidly explained, "I had a prior engagement. Young K invited me, but unfortunately, it coincided with the awards night. I felt I wouldn’t win an award anyway, so I decided to go."

When asked how he would have reacted if he had been nominated for an award, he coolly stated, "I probably still wouldn’t have gone. I didn’t think I would win anyway."

Park Myung-soo Explains Absence from KBS Entertainment Awards

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

Despite the South Korean government's recent announcement to lift the two-bottle limit on duty-free alcohol imports starting in the first quarter of 2025, reactions from the public, alcohol importers, and the duty-free industry have been largely lukewarm. Critics argue that without an increase in overall volume and monetary limits, the change lacks real impact. The Ministry of Economy and Finance stated on December 23 that the two-bottle restriction would be removed to stimulate duty-free shopping. Currently, travelers can bring in up to 2 liters of alcohol valued under $400, limited to two bottles. The government plans to ease the bottle limit by March 2025.

However, many consumers express frustration, noting that most alcohol purchased abroad is over 700ml, meaning the effective limit remains at two bottles. A frequent business traveler, Mr. Kim (63), shared, "I usually buy wine, whiskey, or vodka, which are typically 700ml to 1L. I would only bring back two bottles for personal use or gifts, so this announcement feels meaningless since the two-bottle limit still applies in practice." Discussions in alcohol enthusiast communities reflect similar sentiments, with users stating that increasing volume limits is necessary for the change to be meaningful.

The duty-free industry shares these concerns. An industry insider commented, "While the government is trying to support us, without lifting the volume restrictions, the removal of the bottle limit will have minimal impact on sales."

There are also worries that the removal of the bottle limit could exacerbate existing smuggling issues. An alcohol importer noted, "There are already individuals bringing in ten bottles at a time. If the two-bottle limit is lifted, we fear illegal activities will increase. Instead, we need a fundamental change in how alcohol taxes are structured, shifting from value-based to volume-based taxation."

Data from the National Assembly's Planning and Finance Committee reveals that the amount of alcohol tax evasion reached 6.34 billion won as of October last year, a staggering 136.7% increase from 2.68 billion won in 2023, and a thirtyfold increase from 278 million won in 2020.

While the majority of opinions lean towards dissatisfaction with the government's policy, some see potential benefits. Ms. Lee (29), who travels abroad once or twice a year, remarked, "I usually bring back two bottles of whiskey and several miniatures, but I always felt uneasy about the limits. Now, I can buy a few more without worrying too much about the bottle count." Some in the alcohol community also noted that they could now bring back more 500ml Chinese liquor (바이주) or miniatures without the previous restrictions.

‘주류 면세 2병 폐지’ 소식에도 애주가, 주류 수입업계는 와글와글...왜?

Korean Government Lifts Duty-Free Alcohol Limit, But Consumers Remain Skeptical

Two individuals, including the CEO of a Chinese company identified as A and a design team leader, have been indicted for allegedly attempting to export semiconductor cleaning equipment made using stolen technology from Samsung Electronics' subsidiary, Semes. The Suwon District Prosecutors' Office announced on January 19, 2025, that they are facing charges of violating the Industrial Technology Protection Act and the Unfair Competition Prevention and Trade Secret Protection Act. 

According to prosecutors, from October 2021 to April 2022, the accused obtained blueprints and process recipes for cleaning equipment from former employees of Semes and attempted to manufacture and export the equipment to China. They allegedly used the designs for the cleaning equipment's chamber and a transfer robot, creating new versions based on these stolen blueprints. They are also accused of drafting a new process recipe using Samsung's proprietary cleaning process documentation.

The technology in question is considered a critical national technology, capable of precisely removing contaminants as fine as one ten-thousandth the width of a human hair during semiconductor manufacturing processes. Prosecutors emphasized that the technology, developed over 30 years with an investment of approximately 218.8 billion won, could have caused irreparable damage to South Korea's semiconductor industry if it had been successfully exported.

The investigation began in January 2024 after receiving a tip-off from the National Intelligence Service. It was revealed that the CEO had recruited engineers from various semiconductor companies, including Samsung, to establish a business focused on cleaning equipment. They had signed a contract worth 7.82 billion won for direct investment from a Chinese semiconductor equipment company and planned to transfer all personnel and technology to this Chinese entity.

One prototype was successfully exported to China, but production of two additional units was halted following a police raid. The accused denied the allegations, claiming the technology was developed independently. However, forensic analysis revealed digital fingerprints confirming the theft of technology.

The suspects reportedly took precautions against investigations by using aliases, operating without signage, and deleting documents after copying them. They even changed their mobile phones after hearing rumors that industry insiders had witnessed the exported prototype and were planning to report it.

Prosecutors noted that while previous technology leaks often involved foreign companies luring engineers with high salaries, this case marks a shift where a foreign entity established a base in South Korea to directly facilitate the theft of critical national technology.

삼성전자 반도체 세정장비 기술 중국에 유출 시도한 일당 구속기소

Former Samsung Engineer Arrested for Attempting to Export Stolen Semiconductor Cleaning Technology to China

The dating rumors between Jeon Hyun-moo and announcer Hong Joo-yeon have reignited. On the January 19 episode of KBS2's 'Boss's Ears Are Donkey Ears', announcer Eom Ji-in made a reappearance and shared insights about the two's secret meetings.

During the episode, Lee Soon-sil prepared a cooking show featuring North Korean cuisine to celebrate the successful sale of a new dumpling product. After overcoming various challenges, the cooking show concluded successfully, and the dumplings sold out. To celebrate, Lee held a staff dinner, but the menu consisted only of leftover dumplings and a side of squid sausage, which drew some jeers from the staff.

Lee shared her experiences as a defector, saying, "We come here without parents or siblings, living alone until we find a partner. But I have in-laws. I once brought cold noodles to my father-in-law, and he asked how to eat them properly. I told him to dip them in soy sauce and sprinkle some chili powder. But how can I tell my father-in-law to eat like that?" She reflected on the cultural differences, explaining that in North Korea, respect is only given to leaders, not to elders or family members.

Na Min-hee, another guest, expressed her curiosity about having in-laws, noting that her husband is from Pyongyang and that she has nowhere to go during holidays. Lee invited her to her home, creating a warm atmosphere. Min-hee also shared her experience of defecting in just ten hours, highlighting the fierce competition she faced to become a foreign currency worker abroad.

She recounted, "I made an excuse to leave for a restaurant job and first went to Germany. I wanted to come to Korea, but North Korea could make anyone disappear in Europe, while they could use family as leverage in Korea or the U.S. to punish or deport you. I avoided that by going to Germany, but the North Korean embassy was still pursuing me. I thought no one would protect me if they caught me, so I decided to go to the safest place, which was Korea. I called the consulate, and they flew me out in just ten hours. It was shocking when I arrived, and they greeted me with, 'Ms. Na Min-hee, you’ve worked hard.' I realized the class of South Korea is no joke. I felt I had come here so easily."

Lee Soon-sil remarked on the hardships faced by defectors, noting her own ten-year journey to reach South Korea, starting her attempts in 1997. She mentioned that in South Korea, events are held where North and South Koreans meet, often resulting in many couples forming.

As the conversation shifted, Jeon Hyun-moo humorously commented on the dating rumors surrounding him, saying, "There are already so many dating articles out there. If I participate, it might even include North Korean women!" This prompted laughter from the group.

Later, when Eom Ji-in entered the studio, Jeon congratulated her on her recent award from the Announcer Association for her work in the entertainment sector. Eom expressed her joy, stating she received two awards this year.

However, Kim Sook raised suspicions about Jeon’s sudden interest in the show's outfits, leading to a video reveal. In the clip, Eom presented a cake to Hong Joo-yeon on Christmas Eve, saying it was from Jeon Hyun-moo. This revelation caused a stir in the studio, with Park Myung-soo jokingly calling it trash.

Eom explained that she had been contacted by the production team to deliver the cake, knowing Hong was on duty that night. Jeon Hyun-moo cheekily suggested that Hong must have informed her about it. Lee Soon-sil added that in North Korea, giving food like cake to a woman signifies a marriage proposal, to which Jeon humorously replied, "This is the South."

The cake also came with a handwritten note from Jeon, which surprised everyone. The note read, "Working late on Christmas Eve? Enjoy this cake to lighten the mood." Eom was astonished that Jeon had written a letter by hand, while Lee expressed her disappointment at not receiving similar gestures during their long shoots.

When asked if he and Hong had been dating, Jeon clarified that he had also worked late on Christmas Eve and wanted to cheer her up, recalling how lonely it felt to be on duty without any messages from friends.

Hong Joo-yeon later sent a video message thanking Jeon for the sweet cake, wishing him a warm end to the year. Kim Sook jokingly asked if there was a ring involved, while announcer Heo Yoo-won expressed his surprise at the note, leading Jeon to worry about potential controversies arising from the situation.

Eom Ji-in thanked everyone for the cake, and Kim Sook remarked on Jeon’s warm side, while Park Myung-soo teased him about being seen on TV. Jeon dismissed the dating rumors, stating that he had been checking in on Hong to see if the rumors were stressing her out, but she assured him it was not a concern.

'열애설' 전현무, ♥홍주연에 케이크+손편지 선물.."이건 청혼, 결혼 각" 초토화('사당귀')[종합]

Rumors of Jeon Hyun-moo and Hong Joo-yeon’s Relationship Resurface

On January 17, actress Jang Shin-young took to her personal social media to share updates for the first time in five months. Accompanied by a variety of emojis, she posted several photos, including one where she holds a bouquet of flowers in celebration of her birthday. Another photo features her taking a mirror selfie without the bouquet.

Notably, the last image in her post includes a handwritten letter from her second son, who wrote, "Happy birthday, Mom! I love you." This heartfelt message showcases the affection her son has for her, adding a warm touch to her birthday celebration.

This post marks Jang Shin-young's first update since the conclusion of her husband Kang Kyung-jun's legal troubles in August 2023. Kang was embroiled in a lawsuit after being accused of having an affair, which led to a claim for 50 million won in damages. The accuser alleged that Kang had an extramarital relationship with a woman identified as A.

While Kang denied the allegations, he chose to settle the lawsuit, indicating that the emotional toll of the situation was too great for him to endure a prolonged legal battle. He expressed his desire to address any misunderstandings through legal means but ultimately accepted the situation as a consequence of his actions.

About a month after the case was resolved, Jang Shin-young reflected on her experiences in a social media post, stating, "I spent time in what felt like a dark tunnel, unaware of how quickly time was passing. When I wished for time to stop, I heard my child calling me 'Mom,' which snapped me back to reality. I realized I couldn't give up; I needed to protect my children."

She also discussed her relationship with Kang, mentioning, "We had many conversations. I have reflected and felt remorse countless times. I am trying to rebuild our family for the sake of our children." Jang requested that the public refrain from excessive criticism of her husband, expressing concern about how it might affect their children.

In October 2023, Jang Shin-young appeared on SBS's 'My Little Old Boy' (미운 우리 새끼), where she candidly shared, "Honestly, it would be a lie to say it wasn't difficult. I went through a tough time and worked hard to regain my daily life. I lost my center and have been trying to return to my true self. Time has passed, and I can't change what has already happened, but I am taking steps to figure out how to maintain my family."

Despite the challenges she faced, Jang Shin-young has decided to stay with her family. When asked if her decision was influenced by her children, she affirmed, "Yes, it is for my children," emphasizing her desire to be a strong support for them. She concluded by stating, "Looking back, I have no regrets about my choice."


장신영, ‘불륜’ ♥강경준 용서 후 5개월만 근황..“엄마 사랑해요” 子 손편지 [Oh!쎈 이슈]

Jang Shin-young Shares Heartwarming Birthday Moments After Recent Challenges

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'

Former announcer and current broadcaster Jeon Hyun-moo speculated on Kim Dae-ho's potential transition to freelancing during the latest episode of MBC's variety show, 'Knowing Bros' (전지적 참견 시점), which aired on January 18, 2025. The episode featured the daily life of Kim Su-ji, an anchor for MBC's 'News Desk'. 

During the show, Yoo Byung-jae asked Jeon Hyun-moo if he sensed that Kim Su-ji might be considering freelancing, given her roles as an MBC announcer, lyricist, and writer. Jeon responded, looking directly at Kim Su-ji, "She certainly has the looks for it. MBC supports external activities well, so I don't think there would be any issues with her songwriting."

However, Jeon added a twist, suggesting that Kim Su-ji's appearances on shows like 'Knowing Bros' and 'You Quiz on the Block' indicate a desire for more freelance opportunities. He remarked, "There’s a spark there. If someone fans the flames, it could ignite."

In contrast, fellow guests Song Eun-i and Hong Hyun-hee expressed their belief that Kim Su-ji is managing her career carefully, ensuring that her news duties remain unaffected. They noted, "She’s maintaining a good balance and is likely to keep her promises."

When Yoo Byung-jae inquired about who he thought was a typical freelancer, Jeon Hyun-moo quickly replied, "Kim Dae-ho," eliciting laughter. He quickly clarified that this was just his personal opinion and not a confirmed fact.

Park Myung-soo Explains Absence from KBS Entertainment Awards

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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'

Jeon Hyun-moo Predicts Kim Dae-ho's Shift to Freelancing

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Kwon Eun-bi and Kino Share Heartfelt Conversation on YouTube

Korean Government Lifts Duty-Free Alcohol Limit, But Consumers Remain Skeptical

Former Samsung Engineer Arrested for Attempting to Export Stolen Semiconductor Cleaning Technology to China

Rumors of Jeon Hyun-moo and Hong Joo-yeon’s Relationship Resurface

Jang Shin-young Shares Heartwarming Birthday Moments After Recent Challenges

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