On January 19, 2025, SBS's Inkigayo revealed the contenders for the top spot in the third week of January. SEVENTEEN's unit, BSS (부석순), has made the list with their lively title track '청바지' (Jeans), showcasing their signature energetic performance and solid vocals, earning them praise. Following them, Rosé continues to ride the global 'Apartment' phenomenon with her song '톡식 틸 디 엔드' (Toxic Till the End), securing her place as a top contender. Lastly, BOYNEXTDOOR rounds out the nominees with their relatable breakup song '오늘만 I LOVE YOU' (I LOVE YOU Just for Today), which resonates with the MZ generation. Fans are eagerly anticipating which of these three acts will take home the coveted first place trophy. Additionally, the episode features performances from various artists including Park Ji-hyun, Byeol Sarang, Bebe Girls, SEIVE, IVE, XLOV, N.SIGN, ODD YOUTH, Wansun & Seulgi, ONEUS, WEi, Lee Jin-yi, and Jung Seul (feat. Shin Dong), promising a diverse lineup of stages.

SEVENTEEN, Rosé, and BOYNEXTDOOR Compete for Top Spot on Inkigayo

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

In a recent episode of SBS's 'Curious Story Y' aired on January 17, 2025, a distressing tale unfolded about an elderly woman, referred to as 최순남 (Choi Soon-nam), who was left in a nursing home on the brink of closure. The facility, struggling financially, was unable to assist residents in relocating, particularly Choi, whose family had lost contact with her. With over a year of unpaid nursing fees amounting to approximately 13.3 million won, her situation has drawn parallels to the historical practice of 고려장 (Goryeo Jang), a form of abandonment.

What adds to the shock is that Choi's son is a well-known actor who debuted as a talent in the early 1980s. He has appeared in numerous films and television dramas, yet he has seemingly severed ties with his mother, leaving her in this dire situation. The production team sought to uncover why this actor, who has enjoyed a successful career, would abandon his elderly mother.

Upon discovering his identity, the crew visited his home but found it deserted. Local shopkeepers reported that Choi had always been searching for her son, even when he lived with her. Choi had been writing down a series of numbers in the nursing home, which turned out to be her son's phone number. In her fading memory, she was trying to keep track of how to reach him. The nursing home director expressed sadness over her situation, noting that she often charged her phone fully, waiting for a call that never came.

The actor, who gained fame for his roles in historical dramas, later transitioned into business. Friends mentioned that while he initially found success, he now appears to be burdened with significant debt, having started a health supplement company. However, the company confirmed that he had not been involved for some time.

Adding to the complexity, the last known location from his phone was in Korea, not the United States, which raised further concerns. It was revealed that Choi's pension payments were likely being funneled to her son, leaving her without state protection due to her financial situation.

The production team connected Choi with a senior protection agency, as her case was viewed as one of neglect. During this time, her son finally reached out, explaining that he could not visit due to debts and citing his struggles with panic disorder and depression, promising to repay his obligations monthly.

The senior protection agency is now working to reissue Choi's bank card so she can receive her pension, and they plan to refer the case for police investigation regarding potential abuse.

"유명 배우, 요양원에 母방임" 현대판 '고려장' 만든 사극전문배우 누구? ('궁금Y')

Modern-Day Abandonment: The Shocking Story of a Veteran Actor's Neglect of His Mother

Actress Kim Min-hee (김민희) and director Hong Sang-soo (홍상수) are set to become parents after a decade-long affair. Reports from Dispatch on January 17 revealed that the couple is six months pregnant, having discovered the news last summer while maintaining their relationship. 

On January 15, the couple was seen together at a gynecological check-up, seemingly unfazed by public scrutiny. They have been living together for the past ten years, with Hong having moved out of his home in Apgujeong, Seoul, to reside with Kim in Hanam, Gyeonggi Province. They previously acquired a new home in Hanam, where Kim's parents also live.

Since Hong has not finalized his divorce from his wife, any child born to Kim will be registered as an illegitimate child in Hong's family registry, with Kim's child being recognized as the child of Hong's legal spouse. However, Kim can independently register the child under her own family registry.

Despite their love and the news of the pregnancy, public sentiment towards the couple remains largely negative, a sentiment echoed by fans. While Kim's supporters had quietly backed her relationship with Hong for years, reactions shifted dramatically following the pregnancy announcement. Many fans expressed feelings of disappointment, stating things like, "It's time to say goodbye to Kim Min-hee," and "I can no longer support her now that she is pregnant."

Kim and Hong's relationship began while working on the film "Right Now, Wrong Then" (지금은 맞고 그때는 틀리다), which was released in 2015. Their affair became public in 2016, and they openly acknowledged their relationship in 2017. Throughout their time together, they have collaborated on various film projects, including "On the Beach at Night Alone," which earned Kim the Best Actress award at the 67th Berlin International Film Festival, making her the first Korean actress to achieve this honor.

The couple has maintained a low profile in South Korea, avoiding public appearances but occasionally attending international film festivals together, showcasing their enduring affection. As they navigate their lives together, they have been spotted enjoying casual outings, such as dining at popular restaurants in Seoul and shopping at local markets in Hanam.

김민희 홍상수, 올해 부모되는 10년차 불륜커플..팬들도 등 돌렸다 “이젠 안녕”[Oh!쎈 이슈]

Kim Min-hee and Hong Sang-soo Expecting a Child After 10 Years of Affair

On January 19, 2025, actress Ku Hye-sun addressed the recent controversy surrounding her attitude towards wearing hats and shared insights into her artistic endeavors and IQ test results. She explained, "The reason I took the IQ test for fun is that it primarily consists of patterns, and I have a keen interest in pattern research." She added, "All of my artwork is pattern-based. Art and science are interconnected. I will also share my recent work with 'Mr. Y' and my pattern paintings." 

Ku Hye-sun, who graduated from Sungkyunkwan University and later enrolled at KAIST, sparked curiosity about her academic choices, which she believes link art and science. Notably, her IQ test results revealed an impressive score of 167, qualifying her for Mensa, placing her in the top 0.26% percentile. She noted, "The test is paid." 

Recently, after appearing on MBC's 'Radio Star,' Ku Hye-sun found herself at the center of a debate regarding her attitude. She stated, "The choice to accept various opinions about me, whether they are positive or negative, is mine alone. In that sense, I consider myself 'free.' I sincerely appreciate the encouragement, advice, and guidance from those who offer it. I understand that my way of life may not be sufficient for others, and I know I must live as myself. Therefore, I welcome any absurd debates that may arise in the future and look forward to them."

'태도 논란' 구혜선, 모자 기싸움 일단락…아이큐 167 '상위 0.2%' 자랑

K-Drama Star Ku Hye-sun Addresses Controversy and Shares Insights on Her Artistic Journey

On January 17, the comedy show THE 맛있는 녀석들 (THE Delicious Guys) aired a special episode featuring a food challenge centered around 옻오리백숙 (herbal duck soup) and 생골뱅이 (live whelk). During the segment, cast members Kim Jun-hyun, Moon Se-yoon, Hwang Je-sung, and Kim Hae-jun participated in a game to determine who would be the 'one bite' member. 

The game involved a claw machine containing five balls, each with different images. The person who picked a different image would be selected as the 'one bite' member. If all four members drew the same image, they would all enjoy the food benefits. Hwang Je-sung expressed confidence, saying, "I really picked well," but ended up drawing three balls at once, leading to playful teasing from the others. 

As the first image revealed was Kim Jun-hyun's face, it sparked curiosity among the group. Following that, several images of pigs were shown, prompting Kim Jun-hyun to comment, "This feels a bit strange," with a puzzled expression. 

Eventually, the results displayed three pig images, one of Kim Jun-hyun, and one of whelk. Realizing the situation, Kim Jun-hyun jumped up and requested a meeting with the production team, humorously stating, "Come out! You know I've never lost a fight with a woman, right?" which elicited laughter from the cast. 

In the opening segment, despite the members' attempts to dissuade him, Kim Jun-hyun complied with the production team's requests, earning the title of 'the obedient older brother.' However, his sudden change in demeanor during the game provided comedic relief for viewers.

김준현, ‘맛녀석’ 합류 6개월만에 제작진과 불화설 터졌다

Kim Jun-hyun Requests Meeting with Production Team on 'THE Delicious Guys'

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'

In the latest episode of SBS's Running Man, which aired on January 19, 2025, Jeon So-min's jealousy took center stage, bringing plenty of laughs. After a 14-month hiatus, Jeon made her much-anticipated return, with the cast welcoming her back enthusiastically, exclaiming, "The lost So-min has returned!"

Upon seeing the new cast member, Ji Ye-eun, Jeon expressed her excitement, saying, "I wanted to meet Ji Ye-eun because I'm a fan of SNL," showcasing her admiration. However, she humorously noted, "But she seems to have low stamina," to which Ji Ye-eun agreed, eliciting laughter from the group. Fellow member Choi Daniel chimed in with a surprise compliment, stating, "But Ji Ye-eun is really tall!"

As the games commenced, Jeon So-min began to warm up, prompting the others to joke, "So-min is warming up, but there's still some leftover energy!" When she remarked, "I haven't used my brain in a while," the members playfully retorted, "When did you ever use it?" This banter continued as they faced a quiz challenge, with Haha expressing his hopes for Ji Ye-eun to showcase Jeon So-min's skills, only for Jeon to impress everyone by answering questions correctly.

In a surprising twist, Yang Se-chan declared, "I want to team up with Ji Ye-eun," which visibly upset Jeon So-min. Yang then teased her, saying, "You should be jealous!" and asked, "Why are you jealous?" Jeon playfully responded, "I saw on the show that you treat Ye-eun really well. Do you really like her that much?" This sparked a humorous skit that had everyone laughing.

Later, Jeon So-min and Ji Ye-eun teamed up. Ji Ye-eun, reflecting on her own stamina issues, apologized to Jeon, who humorously took on a mentor role, asking, "Why are you so weak?" Ji Ye-eun then declared, "I won't fill up on tasteless food; I'd rather starve!" She successfully charmed Yang Se-chan into giving her food with her acting skills. Jeon So-min, feeling left out, exclaimed, "Why is only Ye-eun getting food?" to which Haha quipped, "It's because I only love Ye-eun!" Jeon then shouted, "Do you love her? Do you really love this girl?" adding to the comedic atmosphere.

SEVENTEEN, Rosé, and BOYNEXTDOOR Compete for Top Spot on Inkigayo

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'

Jealousy Sparks Laughter on Running Man as Jeon So-min Returns

More

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

Modern-Day Abandonment: The Shocking Story of a Veteran Actor's Neglect of His Mother

Kim Min-hee and Hong Sang-soo Expecting a Child After 10 Years of Affair

K-Drama Star Ku Hye-sun Addresses Controversy and Shares Insights on Her Artistic Journey

Kim Jun-hyun Requests Meeting with Production Team on 'THE Delicious Guys'

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