The Netflix series Squid Game (오징어 게임) Season 2 has clinched the award for Best Foreign Language Series at the 37th Critics Choice Awards held in California on February 7, 2025. The show triumphed over notable competitors including Apple TV+'s Acapulco and Pachinko, Prime Video's Citadel: Honey Bunny, Hulu's La Maquina, Netflix's Lydia Poet's Law Season 2 and Senna, as well as HBO's My Brilliant Friend Season 4, showcasing its immense popularity.

Previously, the first season of Squid Game received accolades at the 27th Critics Choice Awards, winning the Best Foreign Language Drama and Best Actor in a Drama Series for Lee Jung-jae (이정재).

Released in December 2024, Squid Game Season 2 continues the gripping narrative of Gi-hun (이정재), who returns to the deadly games seeking revenge, and his intense rivalry with the Frontman (이병헌). The series has maintained its position at the top of Netflix's Global Top 10 Series for three consecutive weeks, amassing 152.5 million views in its third week alone, making it the third most-watched title in Netflix history, following Squid Game Season 1 and Wednesday.

Squid Game Season 2 Wins Best Foreign Language Series at Critics Choice Awards

On February 9, comedian Shin Bong-sun took to social media to share her latest updates, posting two photos with the caption 'Goodnight.' In the images, she is seen wearing pajamas and gazing at the camera, showcasing her successful weight loss and radiant beauty. Her sharp jawline and distinct facial features have captured the attention of many. Fans reacted enthusiastically, with comments like 'She looks like IU' and 'This is a new peak for her.' Fellow entertainers Kim Ho-young and Jo Hye-ryun also chimed in, complimenting her looks with remarks such as 'Why are you so pretty?' and 'You look great, Bong-sun.' Shin Bong-sun debuted as a comedian in 2005 through KBS's 20th public recruitment and recently appeared in the musical 'Menopause,' which concluded on August 25 of last year.

"조혜련X김호영도 놀란 미모"…신봉선, 11kg 감량한 유지어터

Comedian Shin Bong-sun Shares Recent Photos and Stunning Transformation

The Netflix series Squid Game 2 (오징어 게임2) has won the award for Best Foreign Language Series at the 30th Critics Choice Awards held in Santa Monica, California, on February 7. The show triumphed over other nominees including Acapulco (Apple TV+), Citadel: Honey Bunny (Prime Video), La Maquina (Hulu), Lydia Poet's Law Season 2 (Netflix), My Brilliant Friend Season 4 (HBO), Pachinko (Apple TV+), and Sena (Netflix).

The first season of Squid Game (오징어 게임) previously made history at the 2022 Critics Choice Awards, winning three awards including Best Action Series, Best Actor, and Best Actress in the TV category.

In the film category, the Best Picture award went to Sean Baker's Anora, while Demi Moore won Best Actress for Substance, and Adrien Brody took home Best Actor for The Pianist. In the TV category, FX's Shogun won Best Series, with Hiroyuki Sanada winning Best Actor, Tadanobu Asano winning Best Supporting Actor, and Moeka Hoshi winning Best Supporting Actress.

Squid Game 2 premiered on December 26, 2024, and fans can look forward to Squid Game 3 (오징어 게임3), which is set to be released on June 27, 2025. The Critics Choice Awards are organized by the Broadcast Film Critics Association (BFCA).

‘오징어게임2’ 크리틱스초이스 외국어 시리즈 상 받았다

Squid Game 2 Wins Foreign Language Series at Critics Choice Awards

On February 9, 2025, the funeral service for the late singer Song Dae-kwan was held at the Seoul National University Hospital in Jongno, Seoul. Fellow artists gathered to pay their respects, singing his hit song '해뜰날' (The Day the Sun Rises) as a tribute. Among those present were singers Yang Ji-won, Seol Woon-do, Kang Jin, Moon Hee-ok, Park Sang-cheol, Lee Ja-yeon, and Tae Jin-ah. Tae Jin-ah, who shared a close bond with Song, delivered an emotional eulogy, saying, "Rest well, my eternal rival!" 

The service began at 9:30 AM and lasted for about an hour and a half, attended by around 70 family members and fellow artists. Despite the hopeful lyrics of '해뜰날,' the atmosphere was filled with sorrow as attendees sang along, their faces reflecting their grief. 

Emotional tributes continued throughout the ceremony. Lee Ja-yeon, co-chair of the funeral committee alongside Tae Jin-ah, expressed that future generations would remember Song's humor, warm smile, and timeless songs. Seol Woon-do reminisced about Song's dedication, stating, "He was destined to be the best in his field. A singer's life begins and ends on stage, and he left us doing what he loved. Though it hurts, I find comfort in that." Kang Jin described Song as a friendly and approachable figure, expressing his longing for the late artist. 

The service also highlighted the struggles Song faced in recent years, as he continued to perform actively despite financial difficulties. Tae Jin-ah shared that they had planned a rival dinner show for May and had even discussed the setlist the day before Song's passing. 

Song Dae-kwan, who rose to fame with hits like '해뜰날' (1975), '차표 한 장' (One Train Ticket), and '네 박자' (Four Beats), faced significant challenges in 2013 due to a fraud case linked to his wife's failed real estate investment. He revealed in 2021 that his debts had reached 28 billion won, yet he persevered, often eating simple meals in his car while performing up to five events a day. By 2020, he announced that he had cleared most of his debts and continued to grace the stage until his passing. 

During the two-day mourning period, his two sons and wife, Lee Jeong-sim, were present, along with fellow artists and celebrities who came to pay their respects. Notable attendees included singers Na Hoon-a, Jo Yong-pil, and Lim Young-woong, who sent floral tributes. 

Following the service, Song was laid to rest at the Utopia Memorial Hall in Anseong, Gyeonggi Province, a burial site arranged by his close friend and fellow artist Kim Seong-hwan.

“아내 빚 280억 갚으려 하루 5개 행사... 그래도 원망 안한다며 감싸”

Farewell to Song Dae-kwan: A Heartfelt Goodbye from Fellow Artists

On February 9, 2025, the Korea Creative Opera Globalization Promotion Committee, led by Chairperson Lee Geung-hee, held a ceremony in the lobby of the Haeoreum Theater at the National Theater of Korea in Jung-gu, Seoul, to commemorate the 10th anniversary of the Korea Creative Opera Festival. Notable attendees included former Minister of Justice Kim Sung-ho and Choi Seung-woo, Chairman of the Korea Creative Opera Producers Association. During the event, Chairperson Lee emphasized that "the revitalization of Korean creative opera is the only path to enhance the K-opera wave" and pledged to promote the globalization of Korean creative opera.

‘한국창작오페라페스티벌’ 창립 10주년 기념식 열어

10th Anniversary Celebration of the Korea Creative Opera Festival

The Libertines, the iconic Britpop band known as the 'rebels of British rock,' will hold their first solo concert in South Korea on April 9, 2025, at 8 PM at the YES24 Live Hall in Gwangjin-gu, Seoul. This announcement was made by the event organizers, WeAlive and MPMG, on February 10. 

The band, often credited as pioneers of the post-punk revival, debuted in 2002 with the single 'What a Waster / I Get Along.' Their first studio album, 'Up The Bracket,' released the same year, earned them the NME Award for Best New Band. 

In 2004, they released their second album, 'The Libertines,' which topped the UK Albums Chart and received widespread acclaim from both fans and critics. However, shortly after its release, the band announced their sudden breakup. 

After years of anticipation from devoted fans, The Libertines reunited and released their third album, 'Anthems for Doomed Youth,' in 2015, which reached number three on the UK Albums Chart, reaffirming their enduring popularity. Last year, they released their fourth album, 'All Quiet On The Eastern Esplanade,' which marked their return to the top of the UK Albums Chart for the first time in 20 years. 

Carl Barât, the band's frontman, previously performed in South Korea in 2019 with his solo band, Carl Barât & The Jackals. This concert was organized by former editor of 'The Musical,' Baek Kyung-hee, who has been a long-time fan of The Libertines. She has also showcased a work inspired by the band's dynamic between Barât and co-frontman Pete Doherty. 

Tickets for The Libertines' concert will be available for pre-sale from noon on February 17 to noon on February 18 through the pop music platform ualive. General sales will begin at 6 PM on February 18 via YES24 Ticket and Interpark Ticket.

‘英 록의 반항아’ 리버틴스, 데뷔 23년 만에 첫 내한공연  

The Libertines to Perform in South Korea for the First Time in 23 Years

On the February 9 episode of SBS's Running Man, Yoo Jae-suk took on a big brother role as he discussed setting up Ji Ye-eun on a date. The cast members were on a mission to help Ji Ye-eun find a boyfriend. Despite dressing up in a beggar costume, Ji Ye-eun showcased her stunning beauty, particularly when she smiled, revealing her bright white teeth. When asked about her smile, she humorously mentioned it was due to her fake teeth. Yoo Jae-suk jokingly expressed his desire to introduce her to a younger acquaintance, while Kim Jong-kook also chimed in, saying he wanted to send Ji Ye-eun's photo to potential suitors.

Ji Ye-eun has previously sparked rumors of a romantic connection with actor Kang Hoon on Running Man, and the two recently won the Rising Star Award together at an awards ceremony. During the episode, Haha brought up chef Yoon Nam-no, known for his role in the cooking show 'Black and White Chef,' who had previously named Ji Ye-eun as his ideal type.

In a past appearance on Radio Star, Yoon Nam-no expressed his admiration for Ji Ye-eun, stating, 'I’m a fan of Ji Ye-eun. She often plays quirky roles, but in person, she is incredibly beautiful. I was impressed by how she practiced her lines in the waiting room.' Ji Ye-eun responded with a shout-out to Yoon Nam-no, thanking him for his kind words, which brought laughter to the set. Haha jokingly suggested that other male cast members, including Mickey Kwang-soo, Yoo Hee-kwan, and Yang Se-chan, should compete for Ji Ye-eun's affection, while Yoo Jae-suk humorously noted that everyone around them seemed to be on their side.

Yoo Jae-suk Plays Matchmaker for Ji Ye-eun on Running Man

In a remarkable achievement, 16-year-old ballerino Park Yoon-jae (박윤재) from Seoul Arts High School won first place at the Prix de Lausanne ballet competition held in Lausanne, Switzerland, on February 8. This victory marks him as the first Korean male dancer to win this prestigious title. Park expressed his disbelief and gratitude, stating, "It is an honor to perform on the 'Prix de Lausanne' stage that I have dreamed of since childhood, and I can't believe I made it to the finals and received such a significant award." 

Previously, Korean ballerinas Kang Soo-jin (강수진) and Park Se-eun (박세은) won the competition in 1985 and 2007, respectively. The Prix de Lausanne is recognized as one of the top five ballet competitions in the world, alongside the Varna, Jackson, Moscow, and Paris competitions, and is open to dancers aged 15 to 18. This year, the 53rd edition of the competition featured 85 participants, with 20 advancing to the finals. Among the Korean dancers, Kim Bo-kyung (김보경), 17, from Busan Arts High School, secured 8th place.

Park's victory opens doors for him to grow as an internationally recognized ballerino, as winners are often offered opportunities to join affiliated ballet companies or schools abroad.

16-Year-Old Ballerino Park Yoon-jae Makes History at Prix de Lausanne

Kai of EXO has completed his alternative military service and is set to reunite with his fans. He enlisted in May 2023, undergoing basic military training before transitioning to social service. At the time of his enlistment, Kai expressed his disappointment, stating, "I had a lot prepared, and it's unfortunate. I'm upset, but I can show you everything when I return." After serving for 1 year and 9 months, he is now gearing up for EXO's full group comeback. Fellow member Sehun, who enlisted in December 2023, is also expected to be discharged soon, raising fans' anticipation. Other EXO members have consistently mentioned their plans for a full group return. Suho and Chanyeol shared during an SM Town concert, "Kai will be back, and Sehun will join us soon. We are preparing to gather again for even better performances, so please look forward to it." In a recent interview, D.O. reassured fans, saying, "We are getting ready now, and I want to say you don’t need to worry. You will see the full group soon. We have been preparing since this year. EXO is still going strong." Kai debuted with EXO in 2012 and gained global popularity with his mini solo album 'ROVER' released before his enlistment.

EXO's Kai Completes Alternative Military Service and Returns to Fans

On February 10, Netflix confirmed the production of a new series tentatively titled <천천히 강렬하게> (Slowly but Intensely) and revealed its star-studded cast, including Song Hye-kyo, Gong Yoo, Kim Seol-hyun, Cha Seung-won, and Lee Ha-nee. Set against the backdrop of the tumultuous Korean entertainment industry during the 1960s to 1980s, the series will explore the growth stories of individuals who, despite having little, dared to dream of shining success.

The series is penned by renowned writer Noh Hee-kyung, known for her emotionally resonant works such as <우리들의 블루스> (Our Blues), <디어 마이 프렌즈> (Dear My Friends), and <그 겨울, 바람이 분다> (That Winter, the Wind Blows). Her involvement has already generated significant anticipation for <천천히 강렬하게> (Slowly but Intensely). The direction will be handled by Lee Yoon-jung, celebrated for her high-quality productions in dramas like <커피프린스 1호점> (Coffee Prince) and <치즈인더트랩> (Cheese in the Trap).

The casting is equally impressive. Song Hye-kyo, who has captivated audiences with her performances in <태양의 후예> (Descendants of the Sun) and <그 겨울, 바람이 분다>, will portray the character Min-ja, a resilient woman shaped by her challenging childhood. As she navigates life, she seizes opportunities in the Korean music industry, showcasing her evolution in this role.

Gong Yoo, known for his impactful roles in <도깨비> (Goblin) and <오징어 게임> (Squid Game) Season 2, will play Dong-goo, Min-ja's childhood friend who shares her journey into the music industry. His character is unpredictable yet devoted to Min-ja.

Kim Seol-hyun, who has built a diverse filmography with roles in <살인자의 쇼핑목록> (Shopping List of a Killer) and <조명가게> (Lighting Store), will take on the role of Min-hee, a character intertwined with Min-ja through a complex relationship.

Cha Seung-won, recognized for his charismatic performances in <최고의 사랑> (The Greatest Love) and <부산행> (Train to Busan), will portray the legendary composer Gil-yeo, a pivotal figure in the music industry who has helped many artists achieve success.

Lastly, Lee Ha-nee, known for her roles in <극한직업> (Extreme Job) and <유령> (Ghost), will play Yang-ja, Min-hee's mother, who dreams of becoming a singer despite facing harsh realities.

With the collaboration of the trusted writer Noh Hee-kyung and director Lee Yoon-jung, along with a powerful cast, <천천히 강렬하게> (Slowly but Intensely) is set to premiere exclusively on Netflix.

Song Hye-kyo, Gong Yoo, and Writer Noh Hee-kyung Team Up for New Netflix Series

The popular K-pop group NewJeans has announced their independent activities under the new name NJZ. On February 9, they shared a group selfie on their official account, stating, "It's been a while since we took a group selfie." The photo features members Minji, Hani, Danielle, Haerin, and Hyein striking V poses and smiling brightly.

The members expressed their satisfaction with their day, saying, "We feel like we had a very fulfilling day. We hope our fans, Bunnies (the official fan club), are enjoying good music and staying warm."

On February 7, NewJeans revealed their new team name, NJZ, and changed their previously established account 'Jins for Free' to 'NJZ Official.' They also announced plans for their upcoming activities, including a performance at the 'Complex Live' event at AsiaWorld-Expo in Hong Kong in March. They will debut their new song on March 23, the last day of ComplexCon, and mentioned that they will soon have an agent.

In response, Ador expressed disappointment over the members' unilateral decision to pursue this path before any legal judgment was made. Last November, NewJeans declared the termination of their exclusive contract with Ador, citing contract violations. They stated that they would not be liable for any penalties and would continue to use the NewJeans name. However, due to potential trademark issues, they have refrained from using the name since then.

Ador, on the other hand, maintains that the contract with NewJeans is valid until July 2029 and has filed a lawsuit to confirm the validity of the contract, along with a request for a temporary injunction to prevent the group from entering into advertising contracts.

As NJZ embarks on their independent journey, they face challenges ahead. A legal battle with Ador is set to begin in March, with a hearing scheduled for March 7 regarding the injunction. The first hearing for the contract validity lawsuit will take place on April 3.

Additionally, member Hani faces visa issues. As a dual citizen of Australia and Vietnam, she has been working under an E-6 (Artistic Performance) visa issued through Ador, which is set to expire soon. To renew this visa, she needs to submit various documents, including an exclusive contract, a business registration certificate, and a recommendation letter from the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism. Ador has stated they are preparing the necessary documents for Hani's visa extension, but if she does not return to Ador, they are unlikely to assist her.

Moreover, NewJeans must navigate public fatigue outside their core fandom, Bunnyz, allegations against former Ador CEO Min Hee-jin, and industry backlash.

The future of NewJeans as NJZ remains a topic of great interest as they chart their new course.

Squid Game Season 2 Wins Best Foreign Language Series at Critics Choice Awards

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Yoo Jae-suk Plays Matchmaker for Ji Ye-eun on Running Man

16-Year-Old Ballerino Park Yoon-jae Makes History at Prix de Lausanne

EXO's Kai Completes Alternative Military Service and Returns to Fans

Song Hye-kyo, Gong Yoo, and Writer Noh Hee-kyung Team Up for New Netflix Series

NewJeans Launches Independent Activities as NJZ

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Squid Game 2 Wins Foreign Language Series at Critics Choice Awards

Farewell to Song Dae-kwan: A Heartfelt Goodbye from Fellow Artists

10th Anniversary Celebration of the Korea Creative Opera Festival

The Libertines to Perform in South Korea for the First Time in 23 Years

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