On February 19, Park Na-rae provided updates about her relationship with actor Lee Hyun-wook following her unexpected confession during a previous episode of her YouTube channel, 'Na-rae's Meal' (나래식). In a newly released video titled, "I Don't Think I Need to Go Home~ Let's Take a Shot! | Dance Initiation, Love in the Big City, Kissing Scenes, Ideal Types, Milan Fashion Show," Park Na-rae expressed her excitement while preparing food for guest Nam Yoon-soo, stating, "I feel a bit nervous. It's been three years since I last saw some of these people, and some I haven't seen in 20 years." 

She then mentioned her frequent communication with Lee Hyun-wook, who had previously appeared on 'Na-rae's Meal.' During that episode, Park Na-rae surprised everyone by revealing, "I had a crush on you back in high school," which left Lee Hyun-wook astonished. He responded, saying, "I never imagined Na-rae would say something like that." 

Reflecting on their renewed friendship, Park Na-rae shared, "We've been talking a lot since then. We catch up on how we're doing, discuss acting, and share stories. It's been 20 years since we last met as friends," highlighting the rekindled connection between them.

Park Na-rae Shares Updates on Lee Hyun-wook After Surprise Confession

NewJeans has encountered difficulties in their initial activities as NJZ. On February 19, five major music organizations in South Korea, including the Korea Management Federation and the Korea Entertainment Producers Association, issued a statement calling for policy support to eradicate tampering in the K-pop industry. They claimed that the actions of former Ador CEO Min Hee-jin and NewJeans are causing significant harm to the industry and urged the government and National Assembly to establish anti-tampering legislation.

In response, NewJeans took a stand. A lengthy rebuttal was posted on accounts managed by the members' parents, asserting that HYBE and the organizations involved are engaging in misleading media play. They stated that their exclusive contract with HYBE has been terminated due to unfair treatment.

The group specifically claimed that HYBE's Chairman Bang Si-hyuk personally pressured U.S. contacts to cancel NJZ members' performances, as relayed by a representative from ComplexCon, who is assisting with the event preparations.

Ador countered this by stating, "We have never pressured the cancellation of NewJeans' Hong Kong performance. Chairman Bang has confirmed that he has had no contact regarding the Hong Kong concert."

Ador further explained that they requested the event organizers to use the official team name NewJeans, as previously requested by domestic media, and to conduct the performance through Ador based on the exclusive contract.

NewJeans maintains that their exclusive contract with Ador was terminated in November of last year and has declared 'NJZ' as their new team name. In response, Ador has filed a lawsuit to confirm the validity of the exclusive contract and has sought an injunction against the group's agency status and advertising contracts. They argue that the official team name is not NJZ but NewJeans, asserting that the exclusive contract remains valid. The first hearing related to the injunction is set for March, while the lawsuit regarding the exclusive contract will begin in April. If the court rules in favor of HYBE, NewJeans' independent activities may be jeopardized.

뉴진스, K팝 치명상 날린 NJZ의 분노 …"방시혁 공연방해"vs"사실무근"[종합]

NewJeans Faces Challenges in First Activities as NJZ

In the latest episode of KBS 2TV's popular variety show, Superman Returns (슈퍼맨이 돌아왔다), aired on February 19, Park Soo-hong expressed interest in Kim Jun-ho's sons, Eun-woo and Jung-woo, as potential suitors for his daughter, Jae-i. 

The episode featured Kim Jun-ho and his athletic second son, Jung-woo, visiting a gym for some exercise. The gym instructor introduced the children, who were all around 22 months old, as 'our representative athletes,' to which Kim Jun-ho humorously remarked, 'They are referred to as athletes.' 

Despite their young age, the children showcased impressive skills, with Jung-woo astonishing everyone by successfully holding a handstand for 10 seconds on his first attempt. The gym session progressed to a hanging competition on the horizontal bar, marking Jung-woo's first time hanging since his birth. Contrary to Kim Jun-ho's worries, Jung-woo managed to hang calmly, even surpassing a friend who fell earlier by hanging for an impressive 14 seconds without any support. Park Soo-hong was amazed, stating, 'He must have the DNA of a national athlete.' 

Jung-woo later faced off against his four-month-older sister in the finals, again achieving a time of 14 seconds to win the competition. The panelists noted Jung-woo's competitive spirit, attributing it to his resemblance to his father, which made Kim Jun-ho beam with pride. 

Park Soo-hong, impressed by Jung-woo's abilities, commented, 'I think my daughter Jae-i would get along well with Jung-woo. They look adorable together.' An Young-mi jokingly remarked that Park Soo-hong seems eager whenever the boys are around, to which he replied, 'I just think it would be nice for both families to meet for a meal.' 

As the episode continued, Park Soo-hong observed Eun-woo and Jung-woo celebrating the traditional Korean holiday, Jeongwol Daeboreum, and remarked, 'They are like angels. That's why I like that family.' When asked to choose between Eun-woo and Jung-woo, Park Soo-hong humorously noted, 'How can I know who my daughter will like? Everyone has their own preferences.'

박수홍, 김준호와 사돈 될듯..‘국대 DNA’ 뽐낸 子에 “딸 재이랑 잘 어울려” (‘슈돌’)

Park Soo-hong Eyes Kim Jun-ho's Sons as Potential Match for His Daughter

The K-pop group LE SSERAFIM (르세라핌), consisting of members Kim Chae-won (김채원), Sakura (사쿠라), Heo Yoon-jin (허윤진), Kazuha (카즈하), and Hong Eun-chae (홍은채), is set to release their fifth mini album titled 'HOT' on March 14 at 1 PM. This album will serve as the final installment in their trilogy, following the releases of their third mini album 'EASY' in February and their fourth mini album 'CRAZY' in August of last year.

Since their debut with 'FEARLESS', LE SSERAFIM has consistently infused their music with genuine thoughts and emotions, resonating with listeners. 'EASY' explored themes of inner struggles and anxieties, while 'CRAZY' encouraged embracing chaos rather than succumbing to fear. With 'HOT', the group aims to showcase a passionate attitude towards love, further illustrating their journey of inner strength throughout this trilogy.

The 'EASY', 'CRAZY', and 'HOT' trilogy has been in the works since 2023. During their performance at the 2023 MAMA Awards, they captivated audiences with the theme 'REVOLUTION ON THE STREET', where the phrases 'EASY', 'CRAZY', and 'HOT' were sequentially displayed on LED screens. Additionally, the track 'Good Bones' from their third mini album features the lyrics, "EASY, CRAZY, HOT I can make it," while the music video for 'Smart' also hints at the next album's title, 'CRAZY'. This has provided fans with numerous clues about the trilogy over the past year.

LE SSERAFIM will unveil the album trailer for 'HOT' on the 21st. Known for their stylish and impressive trailers, anticipation is high among K-pop fans for this upcoming release.

르세라핌 미니 5집 'HOT', 'EASY'·'CRAZY' 이은 3부작의 피날레

LE SSERAFIM to Conclude Trilogy with New Album 'HOT'

K-pop sensation IVE (안유진, 가을, 레이, 장원영, 리즈, 이서) has demonstrated their impressive ticketing power by selling out all seats for their upcoming fan concert. According to Starship Entertainment, the '2025 IVE THE 3RD FAN CONCERT 'IVE SCOUT'' will take place on April 5 and 6 at the KSPO Dome in Seoul, with both shows completely sold out due to overwhelming support from fans.

The fierce competition for tickets has highlighted IVE's popularity, marking their return to the KSPO Dome approximately eight months after their encore performance in Seoul last August. The group has been riding high on the success of their third mini-album 'IVE EMPATHY,' released on February 3, which has already earned them 12 music show wins and five consecutive million-seller titles. Their pre-release track 'REBEL HEART' achieved a 'Perfect All-Kill' on domestic charts, further fueling the ongoing 'IVE syndrome.' Fans can expect a diverse and rich setlist along with stunning performances that will heat up the KSPO Dome.

Additionally, IVE has showcased their musical prowess and solid performances through their first world tour 'SHOW WHAT I HAVE,' as well as major stages like Lollapalooza Chicago and Summer Sonic 2024. They are set to perform at Lollapalooza Paris in July and have recently been announced as headliners for Lollapalooza Berlin. With this momentum, IVE is poised to solidify their status as a powerhouse in live performances.

The third fan concert 'IVE SCOUT' will not only take place offline but will also be streamed live online via the global platform Beyond LIVE on April 6, allowing fans worldwide to join in the excitement.

아이브 팬콘서트 티켓 전석 매진…아이브 신드롬은 ing

IVE Proves Their Ticket Power with Sold-Out Fan Concerts

On February 19, actress Jeon Sung-ae appeared on TV Chosun's Perfect Life (퍼펙트 라이프), where she candidly discussed her health issues, including a family history of dementia, high cholesterol, and pre-diabetes. Jeon revealed that her mother was diagnosed with dementia in her early 80s and passed away at 84 after living with her for six months as her condition worsened. 

Jeon shared her own experiences, stating, "I've been experiencing memory lapses for the past two years. Forgetting phone numbers is common for me. While filming the movie Seven Queens (7인의 황후) last year, I would sometimes forget the names of my co-stars, even though I recognized their faces. This makes me worry that I might be developing dementia like my mother did." Medical experts on the show expressed concern, suggesting that her symptoms could indicate a higher risk of dementia rather than simple forgetfulness.

Later in the episode, Jeon visited her late mother's grave with her two sisters, reflecting on the time she spent caring for her mother during her illness. After paying their respects, the sisters went to a jjimjilbang (찜질방) where Jeon confided in her siblings about her fears regarding dementia, mentioning that she sometimes struggles to recognize her husband and has difficulty recalling recent events.

Jeon also expressed her worries to her daughter, Mi-ja, saying, "What scares me the most is losing control over my bodily functions. If that happens, I hope you can help me." Mi-ja reassured her mother, saying, "Don't say that, Mom. Even if it happens, I'll take care of it."

Towards the end of the broadcast, Jeon underwent her first dementia screening, voicing her concerns about her memory loss and family history. She noted instances of misdialing phone numbers and forgetting recent meetings. After undergoing various tests, the results showed that her brain activity was normal, and her MRI indicated age-related changes rather than dementia.

'미자母' 전성애, 치매 위험 어쩌나.."전화번호→지인 이름 까먹어" ('퍼펙트라이프')[종합]

Actress Jeon Sung-ae Opens Up About Dementia Fears and Health Concerns

Kihyun of MONSTA X has officially confirmed his return to civilian life. On February 21, he took to his social media account to announce, "I have become a civilian!!!!!" along with several photos. 

The images showcase Kihyun in military uniform, capturing a selfie while traveling in a car after his discharge ceremony. With a slightly longer hairstyle than when he enlisted, he looks more mature and striking than ever. Notably, Kihyun also shared a photo of his discharge certificate, marking the end of his military service.

Kihyun enlisted on August 22, 2023, and after completing basic military training, he was assigned to the Army's 25th Infantry Division, where he served in the division's military band. He completed approximately 1 year and 6 months of service and was discharged on the morning of February 21. With his return, Kihyun becomes the fourth member of MONSTA X to complete military service, following Shownu, Minhyuk, and Jooheon.

Fans have warmly welcomed Kihyun back, flooding social media with congratulatory messages as they eagerly anticipated his return.

MONSTA X's Kihyun Celebrates Return to Civilian Life

Actor Heo Jun-ho is set to deliver a remarkable performance as a villain in the new SBS drama 'Treasure Island' (보물섬), which premieres on February 21. The series follows Seo Dong-joo (Park Hyung-sik), who hacks into a political slush fund worth 2 trillion won and faces off against an ultimate evil that seeks to eliminate him. The intense rivalry between Park Hyung-sik and Heo Jun-ho is anticipated to be a highlight of the show.

Heo Jun-ho plays the role of Yeom Jang-seon, a ruthless figure wielding absolute power who will stop at nothing to protect his domain. Although Heo Jun-ho has previously portrayed strong antagonists, he describes this character as the "worst person" he has ever played, stating, "I wonder if someone could be this evil." He hints that Yeom Jang-seon will redefine the archetype of villains in dramas.

The demanding nature of the character has taken a toll on Heo Jun-ho during filming. He admitted, "During the script reading, I said I would speak less in this project, but as filming progressed, I ended up talking more." He revealed that the stress from embodying Yeom Jang-seon led to nightmares and even an increase in gray hair. To cope with the intensity of the role, he found himself joking and laughing on set, saying, "It was so tough that I felt like I was becoming an 'ajumma' (aunt)."

In the drama, Seo Dong-joo, played by Park Hyung-sik, is driven by ambition to take over the Daesan Group but finds himself cornered after hacking the political slush fund. His confrontation with Heo Jun-ho's Yeom Jang-seon promises to deliver high-stakes tension.

'Treasure Island' will also feature a cast of unique characters, including Lee Hae-young and Hong Hwa-yeon, enhancing the drama's immersive experience. The show is set to air at 10 PM on February 21.

Heo Jun-ho to Portray Unforgettable Villain in SBS's 'Treasure Island'

Popular Taiwanese actor Wang Dalu (왕대륙) has been arrested on charges of draft evasion. Local media, including the China Times, reported on February 20 that Wang was detained and later released on bail of 150,000 New Taiwan Dollars (approximately 6,590 USD) after undergoing a prosecutor's investigation.

Wang, along with nine others, is accused of obtaining forged medical certificates through three brokers, claiming to suffer from chronic conditions such as hypertension and heart disease to evade military service. The brokers charged between 100,000 to 1,000,000 New Taiwan Dollars (approximately 4,400 to 44,000 USD) for these fake diagnoses, with Wang being asked for the higher amount of 1,000,000 New Taiwan Dollars.

Taiwan has a mandatory conscription system requiring one year of military service. Those who conceal facts to evade service can face up to five years in prison. Wang, who turned 33 at the end of last year, received a notice to enlist on March 13. He is suspected of using the forged medical documents to avoid re-examination, but since he has not yet applied for a re-examination, he may face charges of document forgery instead of violating military service laws.

Born in 1991, Wang Dalu gained fame through films like "Our Times" (나의 소녀시대) and the drama "It Started with a Kiss" (장난스런 키스). He has previously been in the spotlight for his friendship with former BIGBANG member Seungri (승리), who was implicated in the Burning Sun scandal. Wang has publicly stated that he and Seungri are just ordinary friends and denied any involvement in immoral activities.

Taiwanese Star Wang Dalu Arrested for Draft Evasion

On February 21, actress Lee Ji Ah (이지아) released a statement through her agency, BH Entertainment, regarding the controversy surrounding her grandfather's pro-Japanese activities during the colonial period. She expressed that after much contemplation, she felt it was necessary to clarify the facts and take responsibility, despite the difficulty of the situation. Lee Ji Ah apologized for the delay in her response.

She clarified her family situation, stating, "Since becoming independent at 18, I have not received any financial support from my parents, and due to a complicated family history, I have been estranged from them for over ten years."

Regarding her grandfather's pro-Japanese actions, she noted, "My grandfather passed away when I was two years old, so I have no memories of him and grew up unaware of his pro-Japanese activities. I first learned about this issue through an article in 2011, which prompted me to visit the National Institute of Korean History multiple times to verify the facts and study the related materials."

Lee Ji Ah acknowledged discovering her grandfather's donation records during her research, stating, "Considering the historical context, such actions cannot be justified for any reason. If the land in Anyang, which is at the center of this controversy, was acquired during the Japanese occupation, it should be returned to the state."

She emphasized, "I have never made any statements regarding my grandfather in the past, nor have I used my family background for promotional articles. However, false claims have circulated online suggesting that I respect my grandfather, which is not true, and I wish to correct that."

In conclusion, she expressed her deep awareness of her grandfather's historical wrongdoings and sincerely apologized as a descendant. She committed to approaching the truth of history with humility and a sense of responsibility moving forward.

Recently, Lee Ji Ah has been embroiled in a legal dispute among her father's siblings over a land inheritance valued at approximately 35 billion won, left by her grandfather, who has been classified as a pro-Japanese figure.

Lee Ji Ah Addresses Controversy Surrounding Grandfather's Pro-Japanese Activities

Global artist Jennie (제니) is set to unveil her pre-release track 'ExtraL (feat. Doechii)' on February 21 at 2 PM KST. This song is part of her highly anticipated first solo studio album, 'Ruby' (루비), which will be released on March 7. To build excitement, Jennie has also shared a teaser video for the music video, showcasing a catchy, trendy beat that perfectly complements the unique rapping styles of both Jennie and Doechii (도이치). The teaser captures the duo enjoying the music, creating an infectious energy for viewers.

'ExtraL (feat. Doechii)' features the rising American rapper Doechii, who recently won the Grammy Award for Best Rap Album at the 67th Grammy Awards, making her one of the most talked-about artists in the hip-hop scene. The song embodies the beauty of living life confidently and fully, celebrating personal journeys and the determination to overcome challenges. It conveys a powerful message of self-assurance and the desire to make every moment count.

Jennie's album 'Ruby' is packed with 15 tracks, including 'Intro: JANE with FKJ', 'like JENNIE', 'start a war', 'Handlebars (feat. Dua Lipa)', 'with the IE (way up)', 'ExtraL (feat. Doechii)', 'Mantra', 'Love Hangover (feat. Dominic Fike)', 'ZEN', 'Damn Right (feat. Childish Gambino, Kali Uchis)', 'F.T.S.', 'Filter', 'Seoul City', 'Starlight', and 'twin'.

As the release date approaches, Jennie has been making headlines with bold promotional strategies, including the music video for 'ZEN' and the audio releases for 'Love Hangover (feat. Dominic Fike)' and 'ExtraL (feat. Doechii)'. Notably, 'Love Hangover (feat. Dominic Fike)' debuted at number 96 on the Billboard Hot 100, marking a new personal best for Jennie, and she recently secured the top spot on Mnet's 'M Countdown'.

Park Na-rae Shares Updates on Lee Hyun-wook After Surprise Confession

What do you think?

Trending

MONSTA X's Kihyun Celebrates Return to Civilian Life

Heo Jun-ho to Portray Unforgettable Villain in SBS's 'Treasure Island'

Taiwanese Star Wang Dalu Arrested for Draft Evasion

Lee Ji Ah Addresses Controversy Surrounding Grandfather's Pro-Japanese Activities

Jennie to Release Pre-Release Track 'ExtraL (feat. Doechii)' Ahead of Solo Album

More

NewJeans Faces Challenges in First Activities as NJZ

Park Soo-hong Eyes Kim Jun-ho's Sons as Potential Match for His Daughter

LE SSERAFIM to Conclude Trilogy with New Album 'HOT'

IVE Proves Their Ticket Power with Sold-Out Fan Concerts

Actress Jeon Sung-ae Opens Up About Dementia Fears and Health Concerns

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