The drama 'Undercover High School' (언더커버 하이스쿨), marking Sung Kang-jun's first project after his military service, has garnered significant attention from international viewers, securing a top position on the Viu charts. According to the weekly chart released by Viu, Asia's largest regional OTT platform, for the week of February 24 to March 2, the MBC drama achieved second place in Indonesia, Thailand, and Malaysia, while ranking fourth in Singapore and fifth in Hong Kong, showcasing its strong performance across five major Southeast Asian countries.

Starring Sung Kang-jun and Jin Ki-joo, 'Undercover High School' follows the chaotic adventures of a National Intelligence Service agent who goes undercover as a high school student to locate the missing gold bars of Emperor Gojong. The unique blend of spy action and school drama has captured the attention of global audiences, reflecting the K-drama industry's willingness to experiment with diverse genres.

With previous school-themed dramas like 'Study Group' and 'Assembled Family' achieving success, there is growing anticipation for 'Undercover High School' to establish itself as another standout title in the ongoing K-school drama boom.

Additionally, Viu, a Hong Kong-based PCCW regional OTT platform, is set to showcase popular Korean content across 16 countries in Asia, the Middle East, and Africa, with upcoming launches including 'Study Group', 'Eagle Five', and 'Witch', among other K-content.

Sung Kang-jun's Return in 'Undercover High School' Captivates International Audiences

Actor Kim Kwang-kyu's recent surgery news has come to light during an episode of the show 'Tteun Tteun' aired on March 8, 2025. In the episode, host Yoo Jae-suk was surprised to see Kim Kwang-kyu enter with a large cushion, jokingly asking if he was selling it. Kim explained that he brought the cushion for himself, leading Yoo to cautiously inquire if he had undergone hemorrhoid surgery. Kim confirmed, revealing that the condition had recurred from his military service days. 

Yoo Jae-suk then asked about Kim's recovery, to which Kim responded that it had been nearly a month since the surgery, and sitting for long periods was still painful. Yoo shared that he had been considering inviting Kim to the show, but was informed by the production team that Kim was undergoing surgery, which raised his concern. 

Kim expressed his hesitation about discussing the surgery, while Yoo recalled his initial worry, only to find out it was a hemorrhoid operation, which made them both laugh. Kim explained that he developed the condition during winter training in the military, describing the pain as severe, especially in the first two weeks post-surgery. 

Yoo noted that many people around him have had similar surgeries, and he humorously recounted how he had been worried about Kim's health, only to realize the reason behind the cushion was the surgery. This light-hearted exchange provided a glimpse into Kim's experience and recovery process.

'57세' 김광규, 병 재발로 수술..소속사도 말 아껴, 유재석 '오열'(핑계고)

Kim Kwang-kyu Reveals Surgery News on 'Tteun Tteun'

The film Mickey 17, directed by Bong Joon-ho, has maintained its position at the top of the box office for eight consecutive days, surpassing 1.6 million viewers as of March 8. On Friday, the film was shown in 1,849 theaters, capturing a remarkable 65.3% of the box office revenue.

According to daily box office statistics from the Korean Film Council, Mickey 17 added approximately 110,000 viewers on March 7, bringing its total audience count to 1.64 million.

This marks Bong Joon-ho's first film in six years since the critically acclaimed Parasite, which made history as the third film to win both the Palme d'Or at the Cannes Film Festival and the Academy Award for Best Picture. Set in a future where space colonization is a reality, the story follows Mickey Barnes (played by Robert Pattinson), who, after going bankrupt from a macaroon business, becomes embroiled in dangerous tasks as an 'expendable' human, capable of being recreated by a 3D bioprinter even after death. The plot thickens when the 17th Mickey is presumed dead, leading to the emergence of the 18th Mickey, resulting in a unique coexistence.

In the box office rankings, the animated film Exorcist (퇴마록), based on the original novel considered the pioneer of K-Occult, secured the third spot with 13,012 viewers (totaling 338,815). The fourth position was taken by Conclave, an Oscar-winning adaptation that depicts astonishing events during a papal conclave.

The second place was held by Playb's Playb Dash in Cinema, a film showcasing the music videos and performances of the five-member virtual idol group. Despite being screened in only 68 theaters, it attracted over 22,000 viewers, demonstrating the group's strong fanbase.

Upcoming releases include the Oscar-winning film Emilia Perez, which won Best Supporting Actress and Best Original Song, set to premiere on March 12, and the Latvian animated film Flow, which won Best Animated Feature, scheduled for March 19.

봉준호 ‘미키 17’ 독주 속 ‘퇴마록’ ‘콘클라베’ 주목 

Mickey 17 Dominates Box Office with Over 1.6 Million Viewers

The Netflix original series '폭싹 속았수다' (Poksak Sogassuda) has garnered an impressive response just one day after its release on March 7, 2025. The drama unfolds the adventurous life of a spirited rebel named 애순이 (Aesoon) and a bumbling yet lovable character named 관식이 (Gwan-sik), set against the picturesque backdrop of Jeju Island through the changing seasons.

Created by the talented writer 임춘상 (Im Chun-sang) of '동백꽃 필 무렵' (When the Camellia Blooms) and directed by 김원석 (Kim Won-seok), known for '나의 아저씨' (My Mister) and '미생' (Misaeng), the series features a stellar cast including 박보검 (Park Bo-gum), 아이유 (IU), 박해준 (Park Hae-joon), and 문소리 (Moon So-ri), generating significant anticipation prior to its debut.

Upon its release, 'Poksak Sogassuda' captivated audiences with its vibrant characters brought to life by the cast, alongside its meticulous direction. The narrative compellingly portrays the tumultuous journey of its characters, spanning their middle-aged years and the adventures they encounter in a rapidly changing world, appealing to viewers of all ages.

As a result of this positive reception, 'Poksak Sogassuda' has quickly climbed to the top of Netflix's 'Top 10 Series in South Korea' rankings within just one day of its release.

International buzz is also beginning to emerge, with overseas critics praising the series on Rotten Tomatoes for its "bittersweet narrative," "uplifting messages in desperate situations," and its "beautifully written, well-acted, and vividly realized" storytelling.

The first four episodes of 'Poksak Sogassuda' were released simultaneously, with a total of 16 episodes set to be released in batches of four over the next four weeks.

박보검X아이유 케미 먹혔다..'폭싹 속았수다', 공개 직후 1위+호평 세례

Netflix's 'Poksak Sogassuda' Receives Enthusiastic Reception After Launch

On March 7, the five former members of NewJeans, now known as NJZ, attended a court hearing regarding an activity ban requested by their former agency, Ador. The hearing took place at 10:30 AM at the Seoul Central District Court, presided over by Judge Kim Sang-hoon. The members had announced their contract termination with Ador due to alleged breaches on November 29, 2024, and subsequently rebranded as NJZ to pursue independent activities. In January, Ador filed for a temporary injunction to prohibit NJZ's activities. Initially, the agency sought to prevent NJZ from signing independent advertising contracts, but later expanded their request to include all music and entertainment activities. Additionally, Ador has filed a lawsuit in December 2024, seeking confirmation that their contract with NewJeans remains valid. NJZ's representatives argued that Ador's claims are a facade, stating that the agency is attempting to restrict all entertainment activities, which undermines NJZ's core identity as a music group. In contrast, Ador contends that NJZ's recent announcements of new music and major overseas performances prompted their legal actions. The court session is expected to address the validity of the contract termination and the legality of NJZ's ongoing activities.

뉴진스(NJZ) 5명, ‘어도어 가처분’ 심문 위해 법원 직접 출석

Former NewJeans Members Appear in Court for Activity Ban Hearing

The release of SEVENTEEN's new special unit, Hoshi X Woozi, and their debut single album 'BEAM' is just three days away. The duo expressed their excitement, stating, "It feels like we returned to our childhood while preparing for this album."

On March 7, Pledis Entertainment shared nine interview clips titled 'BEAM: Spotlight on HxW' on SEVENTEEN's official YouTube channel and social media. These videos feature Hoshi and Woozi's candid thoughts ahead of their new release, along with messages from their fellow members.

In the interview, Hoshi and Woozi reminisced about their childhood, saying, "We used to watch GD X TAEYANG and say, 'We want to perform like that too.' It brings back memories and fuels our ambition." They also mentioned, "This album was fun to prepare. It felt like we returned to the days when we enjoyed following our favorite performances. We believe that if we continue to enjoy ourselves, more good things will come in the future."

The title 'BEAM' symbolizes the light that Hoshi and Woozi radiate. Hoshi shared, "To me, 'BEAM' was a dream, and now it has become a reality with our fans, CARAT. I want to do well and create a great album that meets their expectations." Woozi added, "I feel like my inner light shines whenever I realize I am needed by others," showcasing his strong role as a producer for SEVENTEEN's albums.

The close friendship between Hoshi and Woozi, who were born in 1996, was also evident. Hoshi expressed his desire to continue making music and having fun together, while Woozi praised Hoshi as the ideal superstar and promised to be a supportive friend whenever he finds himself.

Their fellow SEVENTEEN members praised Hoshi and Woozi, calling them "the spark of passion" (Wonwoo), "indispensable to SEVENTEEN" (Dokyeom), and "the energy of the team" (Dino). Choreographer Choi Young-jun and producer Bumzu, who have worked with SEVENTEEN since their debut, also commended them, with Bumzu likening Hoshi to a comic character who grows stronger in adversity and noting Woozi's constant creative thinking.

Hoshi X Woozi will release 'BEAM' on March 10, marking their rise as representatives of the '96 line. The album includes three tracks, featuring the title song '동갑내기' (Same Age), which they both wrote and composed. They will release two music video teasers today (March 8) and tomorrow (March 9) to build anticipation.

They are set to perform their new song on music shows, including Mnet's 'M Countdown' on March 13 and KBS2's 'Music Bank' on March 14. Additionally, various content will be available for fans, including special video teasers and the main video on March 11 and 12. A pop-up store celebrating the release of 'BEAM' will also be held from March 11 to 16 on the 5th floor of Hyundai Department Store in Yeongdeungpo, Seoul.

"누군가의 꿈이 되는 앨범이길" 세븐틴 호시X우지가 말하는 'BEAM'

SEVENTEEN's New Unit Hoshi X Woozi Set to Release 'BEAM'

Actor Lee Dong-gun has found a new home with the recently established entertainment agency, W+ (더블유플러스). On March 7, W+ announced their partnership, expressing excitement about working with Lee, who has garnered public affection for his extensive acting skills and charm over the years. The agency pledged to support Lee in expanding his acting repertoire and encouraged fans to look forward to his upcoming activities.

Since his debut in 1998, Lee Dong-gun has built an impressive filmography, starring in popular dramas such as Paris Lovers (파리의 연인), Smile Again (스마일 어게인), and Gentlemen of the Moonlight Tailor Shop (월계수 양복점 신사들), as well as films like Boyfriend Type B (B형 남자친구) and Are You Living with the Person You Love? (지금 사랑하는 사람과 살고 있습니까). Recently, he appeared in the film Useless Love (아무짝에 쓸모 없는 사랑), directed by Lee Jeong-seob, and has also been active in the SBS variety show My Little Old Boy (미운 우리 새끼). 

W+, which launched in January of this year, is eager to support Lee's career as he embarks on this new chapter.

Lee Dong-gun Signs with New Agency W+

On March 7, a new video titled "More Spicy Soup than Catfish" was released on the 'DoJang TV' channel featuring the couple Jang Yoon-jung (장윤정) and Do Kyung-wan (도경완). During their visit to a spicy soup restaurant, Jang revealed, "I had never tried Pyongyang cold noodles before marriage. After marrying, I started eating it because my spouse loves it. But he never lets me have things like chicken feet. Just the other day, I ate chicken feet by myself." 

Do Kyung-wan responded, "But why did you eat it during our dating? Let’s have a little inquiry here. You never called me 'oppa' (older brother). When I asked, 'What food do you like the most, Yoon-jung?' you said, 'I love chicken feet and gopchang (grilled intestines).' I thought we really clicked. You used to eat it a lot, and I thought you were cool and laid-back, so I wanted to impress you. On our wedding night, instead of going on our honeymoon, I ordered chicken feet at the hotel to be cool and relaxed. But you were disappointed by that," he shared, drawing attention. 

Do Kyung-wan recounted their wedding night, saying, "We stayed at a hotel in front of Seoul City Hall after the ceremony. Jang Yoon-jung said, 'Of course we sleep together; we are a couple.' After the ceremony, we fell asleep, and I woke up around 9 PM. I was looking at the room service menu, thinking about ordering cheese plates and wine. I was going to ask you what you wanted, but you came out and said, 'I slept well; I ordered what I wanted.'" 

Jang Yoon-jung defended herself, saying, "I really wanted to look good, like 'the same old girl.'" Do Kyung-wan humorously added, "Then, a little later, the chicken feet delivery guy came to the hotel. We almost had chicken feet with him on our wedding night!" 

Jang Yoon-jung questioned, "But why did you pretend to like it during our dating? Shouldn’t you have continued to show interest after we got married? You never did once!" 

Do Kyung-wan cheekily replied, "Well, I got you, didn’t I?" To which Jang Yoon-jung advised, "Ladies, be careful!" eliciting laughter.

Jang Yoon-jung and Do Kyung-wan Share Disappointments in Their Marriage

Jimin of BTS (방탄소년단) has made history by achieving the longest chart run for a K-pop solo artist on the UK Official Singles Chart with his title track 'Who' from his second solo album 'MUSE'. As of March 7, 2025, 'Who' climbed 21 spots to reach number 23. Jimin has now spent a total of 27 weeks on this chart, breaking his own record for the longest chart run by a Korean solo artist since the chart's revamp in 2014. The longest-charting K-pop song remains BTS's 'Dynamite', which held the record for 27 weeks. This accomplishment solidifies Jimin's status as an artist with the longest charting records in both group and solo activities.

On the world's largest music streaming platform, Spotify, the solo works of BTS members continue to perform strongly. J-Hope's collaboration with Don Toliver on 'LV Bag (feat. j-hope of BTS & Pharrell Williams)' reached number 165 and has been on the 'Weekly Top Songs Global' chart for two consecutive weeks. Jimin's 'Who' also made a comeback on this chart, landing at number 10. Other notable entries include Jungkook's first solo single 'Seven (feat. Latto)' at number 102, Jin's title track 'Running Wild' from his solo album 'Happy' at number 107, and V's duet with Park Hyo Shin, 'Winter Ahead (with PARK HYO SHIN)', at number 126.

The success continued on the 'Weekly Top Albums Global' chart, where Jimin's 'MUSE' secured the 21st position, Jungkook's debut solo album 'GOLDEN' reached number 57, and Jin's 'Happy - :') (Remixes)' landed at number 188. BTS's anthology album 'Proof', released in June 2022, and the repackaged album 'LOVE YOURSELF 結 'Answer'', released in 2018, also showcased their enduring popularity, ranking at 48 and 179, respectively.

In other news, J-Hope released his digital single 'Sweet Dreams (feat. Miguel)' on March 7, which has garnered enthusiastic responses from fans worldwide. As of March 8, the track has topped the iTunes 'Top Songs' chart in 66 countries/regions, including the United States, Japan, France, Canada, Australia, and Brazil. J-Hope is set to perform 'Sweet Dreams' alongside Miguel on NBC's 'The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon' on March 11, promising to captivate global audiences.

Jimin Achieves Record-Breaking Chart Success with 'Who' in the UK

On the March 8 episode of MBC's entertainment show Point of Omniscient Interference (전지적 참견 시점), hosts Jeon Hyun-moo and Lee Young-ja shared their thoughts on marriage. The episode featured YouTuber Shim Eui-ddeum and comedian Shin Gi-ru. Shim Eui-ddeum, showcasing her athletic physique, humorously claimed she could lift Shin Gi-ru but noted that she couldn't do the same for Lee Young-ja due to her brother-in-law, Hwang Dong-joo, being present, which elicited laughter from the audience.

Shim Eui-ddeum's husband and manager, Kim Hyung-cheol, expressed his happiness in being her partner, stating, "Living as Shim Eui-ddeum's husband is fulfilling. We work out together every day, and I've become healthier because of her." He humorously added that they do laundry three to four times a day, with Shim Eui-ddeum accounting for 90% of the laundry, and boasted about her extensive knowledge of leggings from various brands.

Shim Eui-ddeum's day was packed; she started with intense stretching before going for a 10km run with Sean and Ko Han-min. Comedian Yang Se-hyung praised her performance, noting that while he aimed to complete the run in 50 minutes but fell short by 30 seconds, Shim Eui-ddeum finished in an impressive 49 minutes during her first competition.

Later, Shim Eui-ddeum returned to her company, which manages five different brands related to diet foods, products, applications, and YouTube content. Her manager mentioned that they have 30 employees, each representing different aspects of the business. Shim Eui-ddeum shared her journey, stating, "Since entering college in 2009, I've read every book on dieting and tried all the products to provide valuable insights as a creator."

Shin Gi-ru consulted a fortune teller about her prospects for the year, who indicated that she would experience significant changes in her living and working environments, suggesting that she would thrive in a water-energy location.

Upon hearing this, Jeon Hyun-moo remarked, "I believe in fortune-telling. It even predicted my win at last year's entertainment awards." When Hong Hyun-hee asked if that meant he had no luck in marriage, Jeon Hyun-moo replied, "That's why I believe in it; no one has ever told me I would marry soon." He then turned to Lee Young-ja, asking if she had any marriage luck. Lee Young-ja playfully responded, "It's all up to my mindset. When someone I like appears, my feelings change."

[Photo] Captured from MBC's Point of Omniscient Interference broadcast.

Jeon Hyun-moo and Lee Young-ja Discuss Marriage on 'Point of Omniscient Interference'

In a competitive lineup featuring IVE's 'ATTITUDE', ZEROBASEONE's 'BLUE', and G-Dragon's 'TOO BAD (feat. Anderson .Paak)', G-Dragon emerged victorious on MBC's Show! Music Core, securing the number one trophy on March 8. Although G-Dragon did not perform on the show, the MCs assured viewers that they would ensure the trophy is delivered to him.

The broadcast also showcased captivating comeback stages. Infinite kicked off with their performance of 'Dangerous', a track that combines lively disco-punk sounds with an energetic rhythm. The song's emotional yet rhythmic melody, paired with passionate lyrics about love, highlighted Infinite's refreshing style.

BTOB performed their album track 'Be Alright' alongside their title song 'LOVE TODAY'. The latter is a pop track rooted in modern rock band sounds, featuring acoustic guitar elements that enhance the members' emotional delivery.

ONEWE presented their title track 'The Starry Night', a rock piece characterized by bright and exciting guitar sounds. The song expresses a pure dream of being together forever while gazing at the stars, complemented by powerful vocals and a dazzling band performance.

Additionally, 8TURN brought a free-spirited energy and powerful performance with 'LEGGO', while GENBLUE captivated the audience with their stage for 'ACT LIKE THAT', among other diverse performances that kept viewers engaged.

The episode also featured appearances from artists including Infinite, BTOB, ONEWE, ZEROBASEONE, 8TURN, GENBLUE, Hearts2Hearts, KiiiKiii, XODIAC, MADEIN, KyuBin, NouerA, BoraMiyu, and 3WAY.

Sung Kang-jun's Return in 'Undercover High School' Captivates International Audiences

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Lee Dong-gun Signs with New Agency W+

Jang Yoon-jung and Do Kyung-wan Share Disappointments in Their Marriage

Jimin Achieves Record-Breaking Chart Success with 'Who' in the UK

Jeon Hyun-moo and Lee Young-ja Discuss Marriage on 'Point of Omniscient Interference'

G-Dragon Takes the Top Spot on Show! Music Core

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Kim Kwang-kyu Reveals Surgery News on 'Tteun Tteun'

Mickey 17 Dominates Box Office with Over 1.6 Million Viewers

Netflix's 'Poksak Sogassuda' Receives Enthusiastic Reception After Launch

Former NewJeans Members Appear in Court for Activity Ban Hearing

SEVENTEEN's New Unit Hoshi X Woozi Set to Release 'BEAM'

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