Recently, speculation has arisen regarding Choi Seung-hyun (최승현), known as TOP, potentially rejoining BIGBANG. Discussions on various online communities have highlighted that his name has appeared on BIGBANG's official YouTube account, where 'TOP' is listed. Fans are buzzing with excitement, asking, 'Is the full BIGBANG lineup coming back?' alongside the names of G-Dragon (지드래곤), Taeyang (태양), and Daesung (대성). 

Adding to the speculation, TOP's personal social media also features the name 'TOP,' reminiscent of his rapper persona from his BIGBANG days, which has delighted fans. This comes nearly two years after he officially announced his departure from the group. 

In 2016, TOP was sentenced to 20 months in prison, suspended for two years, due to charges related to marijuana use. After his exclusive contract with YG Entertainment ended in 2022, he confirmed his exit from BIGBANG in 2023. 

Recently, TOP has been active on his personal social media, sharing a series of stylish profile photos showcasing various suit styles. Notably, these black-and-white images were revealed during an interview with domestic media last month, where he expressed his desire to continue acting. With his name appearing on both BIGBANG's official channel and his own social media, fans are eagerly awaiting confirmation of his status. 

Additionally, TOP recently made an appearance as Thanos in the Netflix original series Squid Game Season 2.

TOP's Possible Return to BIGBANG Sparks Excitement Among Fans

Yeji of ITZY is set to make her solo debut with the release of her first mini album titled 'AIR' on March 10. JYP Entertainment surprised fans by announcing the news at midnight on their official social media channels, unveiling a trailer video and a promotional schedule. 

The opening trailer captivates viewers with a cinematic, sci-fi movie vibe, showcasing Yeji's stunning visuals and dynamic expressions, heightening anticipation for her solo debut. 

Fans can look forward to a variety of promotional content leading up to the release, including the official trailer on February 10, the tracklist on February 14, concept photos and short films on February 24, 26, and 28, an album spoiler on March 3, and music video teasers and photos on March 5 and 7. On the release day, the album cover will be revealed at midnight, followed by a countdown live event at 5 PM to celebrate her solo debut with fans. 

Last year, Yeji showcased her first solo track 'Crown on My Head (예지)' through ITZY's album 'BORN TO BE', demonstrating her passionate aura as a performer. With her impressive performances and confident demeanor, Yeji is expected to bring a unique charm to the music scene as a solo artist.

[공식] ITZY 예지, 3월 10일 솔로 데뷔…'퍼포먼스 퀸' 출격

ITZY's Yeji to Make Solo Debut with Mini Album 'AIR' on March 10

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.

16세 박윤재, 한국인 발레리노 첫 로잔콩쿠르 우승

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

On February 11, a press conference for the new Channel A drama 'Witch' was held at D-Cube City in Guro, Seoul. The event featured the main cast, including Park Jin-young (박진영), Noh Jung-ui (노정의), Lim Jae-hyeok (임재혁), and Jang Hee-ryeong (장희령), along with director Kim Tae-kyun (김태균). 

'Witch' tells the story of Mi-jeong (노정의), a woman who is ostracized from her village after the men who fall for her suffer injuries or death, leading her to be labeled a witch. The male lead, Dong-jin (박진영), embarks on a dangerous mission to save her from the laws of death in this thrilling romantic mystery. 

Park Jin-young and Noh Jung-ui previously starred together in the 2012 KBS 2TV drama 'Dream High 2' and expressed their surprise at reuniting after 13 years. Park remarked, "Time has flown by. 2012 was the year I debuted. It feels refreshing to think that fate can bring us back together." He humorously added, "It's a bit unfair because I was 19 back then, and while my heart feels the same, I've aged since then." When host Park Kyung-rim (박경림) joked about her own age, Park Jin-young apologized with a smile. 

He also noted that due to the nature of the drama, the male and female leads do not have many dialogues. He suggested they should take on roles with more interaction in their next project. 

Noh Jung-ui responded, "He made me feel so comfortable that I didn’t feel hesitant or unable to approach him. Since we didn’t really meet during 'Dream High 2', I acted as if it was our first meeting." 

'Witch' is set to premiere on February 15 at 9:10 PM.

'마녀' 노정의 "박진영 '드림하이2' 13년 만에 재회, 첫만남처럼 연기해" [Oh!쎈 현장]

Park Jin-young and Noh Jung-ui Reunite After 13 Years in 'Witch'

SBS is gearing up for the highly anticipated return of its dating reality show, 신들린 연애2 (Love is in the Air 2), which promises to deliver a thrilling experience for viewers. The show, set to premiere on February 25, features a group of skilled MZ generation fortune tellers who will explore their own and others' destinies in search of true love. 

The recently released teaser showcases the fortune tellers engaging in various forms of divination, capturing the audience's attention with their unique approaches to love. Romantic date scenes filled with a vibrant atmosphere hint at an intriguing blend of excitement and mystery, raising curiosity about the unusual romances that will unfold.

The show is expected to feature memorable lines that set it apart from traditional dating programs. The fortune teller participants are seen playfully flirting, with comments like, "You're so cute, it’s like you’re a fairy," and, "When I’m with you, my heart races like crazy," promising a fresh and entertaining twist on the dating genre.

Having debuted its first season in June of last year, 신들린 연애 (Love is in the Air) received a warm reception for its innovative format that combines fortune-telling with romance, paving the way for a new era in dating shows. With the second season on the horizon, viewers are eager to see how the show will elevate the experience of romantic encounters.

신들린 연애2 (Love is in the Air 2) will premiere on February 25 at 10:20 PM, bringing even bolder romantic adventures to the screen.

“애기씨들이 좋다 그런다”..‘신들린 연애’ 도파민 터지는 시즌2 온다 [공식]

SBS's '신들린 연애2' Set to Ignite Romantic Excitement

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.

카이, 오늘(10일) 소집해제..엑소 완전체 컴백 기대감

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

Jeon Hyun-moo (전현무) and Hong Joo-yeon (홍주연) have found themselves at the center of marriage rumors, following a recent episode of KBS2's 'Boss's Ears Are Donkey Ears' (사장님 귀는 당나귀 귀) aired on February 9, 2025. The speculation about their potential wedding was reignited after a previous episode on February 2, where chef Jung Ji-sun (정지선) mentioned Jeon Hyun-moo's rumored marriage in March.

During the show, Jung Ji-sun was recording a segment for the popular program 'Gag Concert' (개그콘서트) with comedians Jo Soo-yeon (조수연) and Shin Yoon-seung (신윤승). In a playful moment, Jo Soo-yeon jokingly claimed that Jeon Hyun-moo and Hong Joo-yeon would be getting married in May, which left the young fan, Woo-hyung, surprised.

This playful banter led to further jokes in the studio, with Kim Byung-hyun (김병현) and other cast members teasing Jeon Hyun-moo about his supposed upcoming nuptials. Jeon Hyun-moo even humorously admitted to dating Hong Joo-yeon for a month, prompting laughter from the audience.

In a segment of the show, Um Ji-in (엄지인) shared photos of Jeon Hyun-moo and Hong Joo-yeon dining together, showcasing their apparent happiness. Jeon Hyun-moo defended Hong Joo-yeon when Um Ji-in playfully scolded her, and he expressed a sense of nostalgia when he saw her wearing headphones, drawing parallels to his past.

As the rumors continued, the initial March wedding speculation was pushed to May. With the addition of chef Shin Jong-cheol (신종철) to the panel, who praised the buffet's offerings, Park Myung-soo (박명수) chimed in, suggesting that Jeon Hyun-moo might have good news next month. Jeon Hyun-moo responded with disbelief, stating that his mother had even inquired about the marriage rumors.

In a light-hearted exchange, Park Myung-soo suggested moving the wedding date to May, to which Jeon Hyun-moo agreed but quickly noted that this would only lead to more articles about the change. The conversation took a humorous turn when Shin Jong-cheol offered to help plan the wedding, mentioning various events he could assist with, which left Jeon Hyun-moo visibly flustered.

Jeon Hyun-moo and Hong Joo-yeon Spark Marriage Rumors

On February 11, KBS2's show Celebrity Soldier's Secret (셀럽 병사의 비밀) aired its eighth episode, delving into the identity of the 'Purple Killer,' a figure that instilled fear in many celebrities, including Kim Gu (김구), Walt Disney, and Edvard Munch (에드바르 뭉크). The episode explored the mysterious deaths surrounding the famous painter Gustav Klimt, known for his iconic kiss scene, who passed away suddenly in 1918 shortly before his hospital discharge due to a stroke. Following his death, his protégé and rival, Egon Schiele (에곤 실레), also died, leading to a series of unexplained deaths where victims exhibited a purple discoloration of the face and pneumonia symptoms before dying within days. This led to rumors in Europe that the German army had released poison gas during World War I.

The fear of death spread rapidly beyond Europe, reaching Korea during the Japanese occupation in 1918, where notable figures like Kim Gu, Walt Disney, Mahatma Gandhi, and Edvard Munch also contracted the Spanish flu.

Interestingly, the first recorded outbreak of the Spanish flu was reported in the United States, not Spain. This led to a heated discussion on the show, with guest Jang Do-yeon expressing outrage over the naming of the virus, comparing it to being unjustly labeled as the 'Jang Do-yeon virus.'

ENT specialist Lee Nak-jun (이낙준), known for his work on the Trauma Center, provided medical insights into the various rumors and treatments surrounding the flu at that time. Lee Chan-won (이찬원) humorously questioned whether mixing soju with chili powder could actually cure a cold, leading to a light-hearted moment where he publicly apologized to friends who had tried this remedy instead of taking proper medication.

The episode also featured Professor Song Dae-seop (송대섭) from Seoul National University, who developed the world's first MERS diagnostic kit in 2015. He emphasized the importance of the broadcast, revealing shocking facts about the Spanish flu and its current implications, including research suggesting that up to 300 new viruses could emerge each year over the next 50 years, equating to a new infectious disease potentially appearing almost every day.

The secrets of the 'Purple Killer' that swept the globe in 1918 will be revealed in the Spanish flu episode of Celebrity Soldier's Secret, airing on Tuesday, February 11, at 8:30 PM. Meanwhile, Lee Chan-won has disclosed that he has over 30 events scheduled in a month, with his fee reportedly around 28 million won.

The Rise of Lee Chan-won's Popularity Amidst Historical Revelations

In the upcoming episode of Current King of Trot 2 (현역가왕2), set to air on February 11, Shin Seung-tae will deliver a unique reinterpretation of the late Song Dae-kwan's song. Alongside Kang Moon-kyung, who previously captivated audiences with her emotional performance of 'Mangmo,' the duo is expected to showcase an extraordinary stage that lives up to their reputations as 'Pongsin' and 'Trot Maniac.' 

Kang Moon-kyung, who was the star of the last episode with the highest ratings, will take on the song 'Woman' with a bold commitment to embody the essence of a female singer. Her performance is anticipated to leave the celebrity judging panel in awe, especially after her previous emotional rendition that brought tears to Seol Woon-do. 

Meanwhile, Shin Seung-tae will reinterpret 'Ne Park Ja' in his own style, igniting excitement in the audience. After finishing fifth in the first round of the semifinals, he revealed, 'I was originally a gwenggwari (traditional Korean percussion instrument) player,' and will incorporate this instrument into his performance. His electrifying rendition of 'Ne Park Ja' is expected to showcase his true talent as a 'Trot Maniac,' leaving viewers eager to see the outcome of his performance. 

The production team has teased that viewers can expect a 'crazy stage' that will truly embody the phrase 'it’s time to shine.' They also expressed anticipation for the camaraderie among the 14 contestants, who continue to support each other amid fierce competition. 

Current King of Trot 2 (현역가왕2) is a survival entertainment program aimed at selecting the top seven male singers to represent South Korea in the upcoming Korea-Japan King of Trot competition, commemorating the 60th anniversary of Korea-Japan diplomatic relations. The 11th episode will air on February 11, 2025. 

Tragically, Song Dae-kwan passed away suddenly from a heart attack on February 7.

Shin Seung-tae Reinterprets Song by Late Song Dae-kwan on 'Current King of Trot 2'

The cast of the action film 'Paradox' (파과), directed by Min Kyu-dong and produced by Supfilm, is set to attend the 75th Berlin International Film Festival, where they will participate in official events. Invited to the Berlinale Special section, 'Paradox' will kick off its schedule with a red carpet appearance at the opening ceremony on February 13 at 6 PM local time, featuring director Min Kyu-dong and actress Lee Hye-young.

Following this, on February 16 at 9 PM local time, Min Kyu-dong, Lee Hye-young, and Kim Sung-cheol will greet global film fans before the world premiere screening of 'Paradox.' This premiere marks the first opportunity for audiences to see the film before its official release, generating significant interest from international media and industry professionals attending the festival.

This marks Min Kyu-dong's second invitation to the Berlin International Film Festival, following his previous work 'Antique.' The event promises to showcase his seasoned directorial skills alongside the explosive synergy of top domestic actors. The film's unique premise features a female killer in her 60s, raising curiosity about the characters' intricate emotional arcs and captivating action sequences.

Based on the novel by Gu Byeong-mo, 'Paradox' tells the gripping story of a legendary killer who has spent 40 years eliminating 'cockroach-like' humans and the mysterious killer pursuing him. The film stars Lee Hye-young, Kim Sung-cheol, Yoon Woo-jin, Kim Mu-yeol, and Cynthia, with Min Kyu-dong at the helm, known for directing the 'Scary Stories' series, 'The Con Artists,' and 'Herstory.' The film is slated for release in the first half of this year.

Action Film 'Paradox' to Premiere at 75th Berlin International Film Festival

The upcoming Academy Awards, set for February 2, 2025, are facing significant controversy, with critics labeling it as the "most chaotic Oscars in recent history" (Wall Street Journal) and a "historic nightmare" (LA Times). The spotlight is particularly on the Best Actress category, ignited by the first transgender nominee, Karla Sofia Gascon, who plays a transgender drug lord in 'Emilia Perez'. Just a week after her nomination, past tweets resurfaced, revealing her controversial statements that included derogatory remarks about Muslims and comments on George Floyd, which have severely impacted the film's chances, dropping it from a top contender to sixth place in predictions.

In another controversy, Mikey Madison, nominated for the Palme d'Or for 'Anora', faced backlash for not using an intimacy coordinator during sensitive scenes. Madison stated her desire to fully immerse herself in her performance as the reason for this decision, prompting industry professionals to criticize her for undermining years of efforts to establish the role of intimacy coordinators in film.

Fernanda Torres, also a strong contender for Best Actress for 'I'm Still Here', found herself in hot water after a 17-year-old video surfaced showing her in blackface during a Brazilian comedy show. She quickly apologized, explaining that awareness of Black rights was not well established in Brazil at the time. The Wall Street Journal noted that this year's Oscars raise questions about the separation of art from the artist and the role of AI in the industry.

TOP's Possible Return to BIGBANG Sparks Excitement Among Fans

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Jeon Hyun-moo and Hong Joo-yeon Spark Marriage Rumors

The Rise of Lee Chan-won's Popularity Amidst Historical Revelations

Shin Seung-tae Reinterprets Song by Late Song Dae-kwan on 'Current King of Trot 2'

Action Film 'Paradox' to Premiere at 75th Berlin International Film Festival

Oscars Controversy: Transgender Nominee and Industry Practices Under Fire

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ITZY's Yeji to Make Solo Debut with Mini Album 'AIR' on March 10

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

Park Jin-young and Noh Jung-ui Reunite After 13 Years in 'Witch'

SBS's '신들린 연애2' Set to Ignite Romantic Excitement

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

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