https://en.fannstar.tf.co.kr FANNSTAR RSS Service - All Articles copyright (c) FANNSTAR fannstar@tf.co.kr Jang Hanbyul, Solo Concert Additional Dates Sell Out in Under a MinuteWednesday, October 7, Military Exemption/ BTS/ Jang Hanbyul/ Assassin(s)/ Park Wi The controversy over military exemptions for the Asian Games football team has ultimately led to a national petition to abolish military exemptions for arts and sports. The controversy began when some players made remarks emphasizing military benefits immediately after winning the gold medal, and one player even posted a photo on social media wearing a "discharge cap." Photo: Park Seung-su SNS[THE FACT|Reporter Kang Il-hong] "Aren't BTS more deserving?" The controversy over military exemptions for the Asian Games football team has ultimately led to a national petition to abolish military exemptions for arts and sports.The football team set a record of four consecutive Asian Games championships by defeating Japan. However, the excitement of the gold medal did not last long. The controversy began when some players made remarks emphasizing military benefits immediately after winning the gold medal, and one player even posted a photo on social media wearing a "discharge cap."In particular, player Yang Min-hyuk made remarks suggesting that military exemption was an important motivation for the game, and captain Lee Ki-hyuk also said, "I'm not going to the military" while holding the gold medal. Coupled with the photo of Park Seung-su, who played only 16 minutes in the tournament, wearing a discharge cap, an uncomfortable question arose: "Did the national team play for the country, or did they play for military benefits?"Of course, it is impossible for outsiders to definitively determine what the players were truly thinking when they competed. The problem was the expression and attitude towards military benefits. This is because it can give the impression that the youth and time of those who have completed their military service are being treated as a trivial reward.In the end, the players apologized one after another, and the Korea Football Association also apologized, stating that they had disappointed and hurt active military personnel and the public. BTS was also brought up in this context. A national petition was filed in the National Assembly for the "abolition of the military exemption system for entertainers and athletes."The petitioner raised the issue of whether granting military benefits to winners of certain competitions for enhancing national prestige still holds public persuasion, and questioned why young people like BTS, who have contributed to the global spread of Hallyu, were not eligible for military exemptions.This petition received 100 pre-agreements on the day of registration and is currently under review for public disclosure. However, what is important here is not to argue who is more deserving between BTS and the football players.The core issue is whether the current system, which allows exceptions to military service based on "enhancing national prestige," is fair and persuasive enough in this era. And this controversy is unlikely to end as a mere online public opinion battle.On the 6th, the Ministry of National Defense announced that it would reflect and pursue the reduction or abolition of supplementary service personnel, including arts and sports personnel, in the basic plan for defense reform. This is to comprehensively consider factors such as the decrease in military manpower, fairness and equity among those subject to military service, and public consensus.Currently, policy research services on the arts and sports personnel system are underway, and once the results are released, the direction of system reform is expected to be discussed in earnest. Ultimately, the essence of this controversy is not the gold medal itself.It is the relative sense of deprivation that arises when some people accept military service as a natural duty, while others are exempted from that duty with a single medal, and the question of whether military exemptions based on "enhancing national prestige" should be redesigned as times have changed.It remains to be seen whether this Asian Games controversy will be a one-time happening or a decisive turning point that changes the arts and sports military exemption system itself. Attention is now shifting from the players' apologies to the government's discussions on system reform."A Concert a Generation Has Waited For"... Peru Erupts as BTS ArrivesAmidst comparisons with BTS, the fervor of BTS sweeping South America is beyond our imagination. Peru's capital, Lima, is heating up with BTS fever. A so-called 'BTS Street' has even appeared in downtown Lima.BTS will hold their world tour 'Arirang' concerts at Estadio San Marcos in Lima, Peru, on October 7, 9, and 10. This is the first time BTS is visiting Peru since their debut in 2013.Special welcome events are continuing in Lima ahead of the concerts. From the 5th to the 11th of the month, the district of Santiago de Surco has temporarily named Sacramento Street in the Surco area 'BTS Street' and installed signs to announce it.Various parts of the city have also been dyed purple. The Arco Morisco, a representative architectural structure in Surco Friendship Park, is brightly lit in purple, symbolizing BTS, and a light show for BTS is held daily. At the Fantasia Fountain in Fountain Park, another famous spot, a BTS-themed event using music, lights, and water screens is taking place.Peru's official tourism website has also recognized this concert as an opportunity to boost tourism. It is expected that fans visiting Lima to see BTS will experience Peru's gastronomy, history, and nature, and continue their travels to other regions such as Paracas and Machu Picchu.The start of the South American tour was also hot. BTS previously kicked off their concert in Bogota, Colombia, drawing an audience of about 100,000 people. Local media described the concert as "the most anticipated concert of a generation."BTS, which has become a cultural phenomenon beyond K-pop, is now heating up the streets, tourist attractions, and fans' hearts in South America with its fervor in Lima.First Concert Additional Performance Sells Out at Lightning Speed, What's the Secret to Their Popularity?Yesterday, the 6th, tickets for the additional dates of singer Jang Hanbyul's first solo concert were on sale. As expected, they all sold out in under a minute. Following the initial two performances that sold out immediately upon ticket opening, the additional performance tickets, prepared due to fan requests, also sold out instantly.Notably, with all seats sold out in less than a minute from the start of sales, Jang Hanbyul's immense popularity was once again confirmed. Jang Hanbyul's first solo concert, 'THE STAR IS BORN,' was originally scheduled for two performances on October 31st at 1 PM and 6 PM.However, all seats were sold out in just 2 minutes after tickets opened, and premium tickets were being traded for as much as 900,000 won on online resale sites, indicating the intense fan demand.Consequently, the agency decided to add one more performance on November 1st at 3 PM in response to fan requests. And the ticket sales for the additional performance, which began at 7 PM on the 6th, also resulted in a sell-out.This time, with tickets selling out in less than a minute, it demonstrated that fans' interest in Jang Hanbyul is translating into actual ticket power beyond mere anticipation. This brings the total number of performances for Jang Hanbyul's first solo concert to three.So, what is Jang Hanbyul's charm? The first thing that comes to mind is their broad stage presence that transcends genres.At this concert, Jang Hanbyul is scheduled to perform a variety of music genres, from ballads to trot and pop, with a live band. Their solid recognition built through broadcasting is also a significant factor.After ranking in the TOP3 on the MBM entertainment show 'Myeongjeon,' they recently won first place on KBS 2TV's 'Immortal Songs,' showcasing both their talent and presence. They are also making their presence felt by competing for top spots on various charts.In particular, the analysis suggests that the anticipation of fans wanting to directly experience the image they showed on broadcast and the live performances they will deliver on stage has led to this ticket frenzy.With Jang Hanbyul's first solo concert expanding to three performances, and consecutive sell-out records, fans' attention is naturally shifting to what kind of stage they will present at the concert.With a diverse stage with a live band, and special communication and unreleased stages exclusively for the fandom 'Eunhasu' (Milky Way), it is expected to see what new star Jang Hanbyul will reveal through this performance, true to the concert title 'THE STAR IS BORN.'Historical Distortion Controversy: Actor's Life Threatened, BIFF AffectedThe repercussions of the historical distortion controversy surrounding the film 'Assassin(s)' have extended to the Busan International Film Festival (BIFF). The film 'Assassin(s),' released on the 23rd of last month, continues to be debated regarding the boundary between historical fact and cinematic imagination, with its fictional settings based on actual events.The controversy has spread beyond the film itself to the political sphere, and eventually affected the actors involved. In particular, actor Yoo Hae-jin faced protests in front of his home, and threatening messages appeared online, raising concerns about his personal safety.The Seoul Seongbuk Police Station, at the request of Yoo Hae-jin's agency, has strengthened patrols around his residence and implemented safety measures. As a result, scheduled events at the Busan International Film Festival were successively canceled. The 'Actor's House,' which actor Lee Min-ho was scheduled to attend, was canceled, followed by the cancellation of the opening ceremony red carpet and outdoor stage greetings, which director Hur Jin-ho and the actors were to attend.The production company stated that the schedule was canceled considering the recent situation surrounding the film and the safety of the audience and attendees. Furthermore, Yoo Hae-jin also did not attend the Buil Film Awards ceremony held on the 7th, making it difficult to meet the director and main actors of 'Assassin(s)' at the official events of the Busan International Film Festival.The film festival also expressed its regret. Jeong Han-seok, the executive programmer of the Busan International Film Festival, stated that the cancellation of these events was "regrettable for the film festival."However, he explained that the decision was made to respect the requests of the production company and guests for the safety of the audience and guests, and for the smooth progress of the event. He also drew a line, stating that this controversy is not causing major disruptions to the overall operation of the film festival.The question left by this situation is clear. In films dealing with actual history, what is the realm of creation, and where does historical distortion begin? And is it justifiable for criticism of a work to extend to the invasion of privacy and threats to the personal safety of the creative team and actors?While evaluating a film is the audience's prerogative, a balance must be maintained between safety, freedom of expression, and responsibility for historical facts in that process. As the controversy surrounding 'Assassin(s)' affects not only a single film but also the film festival and actors, attention is focused on what discussions and social debates this situation will leave behind in the future.A Single Word Caused Trouble?" On-Screen Candor Leads to Controversy... Who is TPOP7?"Which star is known for causing controversy with every word they speak?" In a unique survey that posed this somewhat provocative question, the top spot was taken by Park Wi. A total of 29,962 people participated in this poll conducted by DC Inside. Park Wi received 4,961 votes, about 17%, to secure first place.Park Wi, who has been honestly showing his life with a disability through YouTube and communicating with the public with a positive and uninhibited attitude, recently faced controversy over his decision to release CCTV footage of the KTX wheelchair fall accident. He eventually deleted the video and apologized, admitting that he did not fully consider the position of the social service worker who helped him.However, he was only one vote ahead of the second-place finisher. Second place went to Baek Jong-won, who received 4,960 votes. On television, he has built an image as an "expert who knows business well" with his characteristic direct speaking style and realistic advice. However, following various controversies related to Theborn Korea, he suspended his broadcasting activities and focused on his business, resuming YouTube activities in June of this year.Third place went to Jeon Hyun-moo with 3,764 votes. He is a representative MC beloved for his witty remarks and quick thinking on various entertainment shows.However, he caused controversy in the past for using inappropriate language when mentioning the cause of death of a fallen police officer. More recently, suspicions of broadcast manipulation surrounding the Kazakhstan trip on 'I Live Alone' led to the production team issuing explanations and apologies.Following them, Kian84, Han So-hee, NewJeans MINJI, and others were listed. Notably, Kian84 is known for his uninhibited expressions on broadcast, and Han So-hee became a topic of discussion when a video of her telling people around her to "Please be quiet" at an overseas event was released.Minji also experienced her past remarks about 'kal-guksu' (knife-cut noodles) unexpectedly turning into a controversy. Ultimately, what this survey shows is not simply "stars who make many verbal mistakes," but rather that the honest and uninhibited image often portrayed on broadcast can sometimes lead to controversy.eel@tf.co.kr]]> FANNSTAR Wed, 07 Oct 2026 00:00:00 +0900 Today (7th), a press conference for the gala presentation of 'Everything Everywhere All at Once' was held.Actress Michelle Yeoh visited the Busan International Film Festival for the first time in 15 years and received the Asian Filmmaker of the Year award. The photo shows her walking the red carpet at the '31st Busan International Film Festival (BIFF)' held at the Busan Cinema Center in Haeundae-gu, Busan on the afternoon of the 6th. /Busan=Park Heon-woo Reporter[THE FACT|Busan=Park Ji-yoon Reporter] Hong Kong actress Michelle Yeoh, who visited Busan after a long time, looked back on her steadfast acting career and expressed her special love for Korea. She also revealed her enduring passion for acting. This is why her future endeavors are even more anticipated.The gala presentation press conference for 'Everything Everywhere All at Once' (Director Daniels), starring Michelle Yeoh, who received the Asian Filmmaker of the Year award, was held at the BIFF Hill of the Cinema Center on the morning of the 7th. Arriving in Busan for the first time in 15 years since 'The Lady' (2011), she began by saying, "It's a really wonderful city. I arrived three days ago, and a double rainbow appeared. It's a good omen," and then answered questions from reporters.First, Michelle Yeoh once again shared her feelings about receiving the Asian Filmmaker of the Year award at the opening ceremony the previous day.She said, "Thank you for this award. It means a great deal. Like the Busan International Film Festival, I have walked this path for a long time," and expressed her overwhelming emotions, "I had the goal of starting in Asia and going global, sharing our culture with the world, and I am grateful that I was able to achieve this."Regarding 'Everything Everywhere All at Once,' Michelle Yeoh said, "It contains a message of never giving up. It also allows us to think about family love, unwavering support, and friendship." The photo shows her walking the red carpet at the opening ceremony of the '31st Busan International Film Festival (BIFF)' held at the Busan Cinema Center in Haeundae-gu, Busan on the afternoon of the 6th. /Busan=Kim Sung-ryeol Reporter'Everything Everywhere All at Once' is a story about an elderly woman living in a nursing home after losing her home due to fraud charges, who learns to solve a magic cube from a young former world champion.Michelle Yeoh honestly shared, "The character I play is 80 years old. It was difficult because it's a role older than me," but added, "It contains a message of never giving up. It also allows us to think about family love, unwavering support, and friendship."Born in 1962, Michelle Yeoh began her acting career in earnest with the film 'Yes, Madam' (1985). Through films like 'Police Story 3: Supercop' and 'Wing Chun,' she broke the mold of male-dominated genres and emerged as a unique presence in Asian cinema.She continued to build a solid filmography with active works such as 'Tomorrow Never Dies,' 'Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon,' 'Crazy Rich Asians,' and 'Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings.'Michelle Yeoh, who graced Busan with her presence after a long time, expressed her special affection, saying, "Korean films are doing really well. I think they are a good role model for us to learn from. I hope Asian cinema continues to move forward with pride."She mentioned Korean directors Lee Chang-dong, Park Chan-wook, and Bong Joon-ho as directors she would like to work with, adding, "I also love K-pop, K-dramas, and Korean food. Most of all, I love Korean people."The 31st Busan International Film Festival, which Michelle Yeoh attended, will be held until the 15th at the Cinema Center and various locations in Busan. The photo shows her walking the red carpet at the opening ceremony of the '31st Busan International Film Festival (BIFF)' held at the Busan Cinema Center in Haeundae-gu, Busan on the afternoon of the 6th. /Busan=Kim Sung-ryeol ReporterBuilding on this success, she swept the Best Actress awards at major North American film awards such as the Oscars, SAG Awards, and Golden Globe Awards for 'Everything Everywhere All at Once' (2022). In 2026, she became the first Asian woman to receive an Honorary Golden Bear at the Berlin International Film Festival, once again cementing her great achievements in the film industry on the world stage.Reflecting on this, Michelle Yeoh said, "Youn Yuh-jung showed the status of Asian actors by becoming the first Asian to win the Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress in 2021. It was a great fortune for me to be able to participate in the Oscar race," and added, "At the time, it felt like a dream. Such achievements can inspire many people to think 'I can do it too,' and I gained the strength to continue moving forward."Despite achieving numerous accomplishments and proving her wide acting spectrum by showcasing new faces in every project throughout her long career, Michelle Yeoh's passion for acting still burns brightly.Michelle Yeoh stated, "I have love and passion for my work. I dream of new challenges every day and enjoy things that make my heart beat faster. I am very curious and like new experiences. You can see this from my filmography," and emphasized, "Every role I play is different, and these things excite me. I want to make not just the audience, but everyone feel that."She also expressed her dream of venturing into Europe, saying, "Thank you for the warm welcome. I hope to be able to come again before another 15 years have passed."Meanwhile, the 31st Busan International Film Festival will be held until the 15th at the Cinema Center and various locations in Busan.[Entertainment Department | ssent@tf.co.kr]jiyoon-1031@tf.co.kr]]> FANNSTAR Wed, 07 Oct 2026 00:00:00 +0900 Two people entangled by electricity... stills revealedFirst released on the 9th at 5 PMNetflix's new original series 'Charge Me Up', starring actors Kim Young-kwang (above) and Chae Soo-bin, will be released for the first time on the 9th. /Netflix[THE FACT | Reporter Moon Chae-young] Actors Kim Young-kwang and Chae Soo-bin are getting closer through 'electric charging'.On the 7th, the production team of Netflix's new original series 'Charge Me Up' (written by Song Yu-chae, directed by Park Soo-won) released stills capturing the thrilling chemistry between Kim Young-kwang and Chae Soo-bin.'Charge Me Up' is a romantic comedy drama that depicts the romance between Baek Ho-rang (played by Kim Young-kwang), whose artificial heart battery is drained, and Na Bo-bae (played by Chae Soo-bin), who has electric abilities.The 'Romance Charge' stills capture the electrifying moments of Baek Ho-rang and Na Bo-bae. The sight of Baek Ho-rang and Na Bo-bae, both wearing patient gowns side by side, signals the beginning of an unusual relationship. In particular, curiosity is drawn to what story is hidden when Na Bo-bae stares intently at Baek Ho-rang and then blocks his approaching lips.Netflix's new original series 'Charge Me Up' has released stills containing the romance and excitement of actors Kim Young-kwang and Chae Soo-bin. /NetflixThere is a 'charging contract' between Baek Ho-rang, who is trying to charge his depleted artificial heart, and Na Bo-bae, who is trying to complete a romance script. As they get closer, the 'romance gauge' between the two rises, just like the battery gets charged. Baek Ho-rang's gaze towards Na Bo-bae deepens, and her expression and smile as she looks at him are filled with fluttering excitement.Stills capturing the couple's sweet date scenes also catch the eye. Baek Ho-rang, who is holding Na Bo-bae in his arms, and their birthday party and amusement park date, where they fulfill their desires, are captured, foreshadowing excitement.Director Park Soo-won said, "The key point to watch in 'Charge Me Up' is the emotional line of Baek Ho-rang and Na Bo-bae, who go through a severe period of denial of their feelings for each other," adding, "It will be a romantic comedy that rapidly charges the viewers' enjoyment by deliciously oscillating between sweetness and thrill."'Charge Me Up', consisting of a total of 10 episodes, will be released on the 9th at 5 PM.mcy21@tf.co.kr[Entertainment Department | ssent@tf.co.kr]]]> FANNSTAR Wed, 07 Oct 2026 00:00:00 +0900 First Lineup of 12 Teams AnnouncedTo be held at KINTEX on December 31The year-end festival 'Countdown Fantasy 2026~2027' has announced its first lineup of 12 teams. / Mint Paper[THE FACT|Reporter Choi Hyun-jung] The festival 'Countdown Fantasy,' which marks the end and beginning of the year, has confirmed its holding this year.The organizer, Mint Paper, announced the news of 'Countdown Fantasy 2026~2027' and its first lineup of 12 teams on the 7th.The first lineup includes Hyukoh, who released their new song 'Godspeed!' for the first time in about six years, and Silica Gel, who successfully concluded their first solo concert at KSPO Dome, along with FTISLAND, The Solutions, ONEWE, Kardi, Far East Tiger, Idiotape, Low High Low, AxMxP, Oysters, and Forgers.Notably, Silica Gel continues their special connection by participating in 'Countdown Fantasy' again this year, following last year.A Mint Paper official said, "In addition to the performances, on-site content and programs that can only be found at 'Countdown Fantasy' will also be prepared," and added, "As it will be held for only one day this year, we plan to bring together artists and programs so that you can enjoy every moment without worry/dilemma."'Countdown Fantasy 2026~2027' will be held at KINTEX Halls 7 and 8 in Ilsan on December 31. More details can be found on the official social media.laugardagr@tf.co.kr[Entertainment Department | ssent@tf.co.kr]]]> FANNSTAR Wed, 07 Oct 2026 00:00:00 +0900 A Detective's Observation of a Murder SuspectFirst broadcast on the 19th at 8:50 PMStill images of actors Seol In-ah (top) and Im Si-wan, who are appearing in tvN's new Monday-Tuesday drama 'My Guilty Person,' have been released. /tvN[THE FACT|Reporter Choi Soo-bin] Actor Seol In-ah breaks into a cold sweat over Im Si-wan's true nature.The production team of tvN's new Monday-Tuesday drama 'My Guilty Person' (written by Moon Soo-jung, directed by Park Dan-hee) released stills of Yoon Yi-joon (played by Im Si-wan) and Kang Jae-hee (played by Seol In-ah), who are entangled in the drama.'My Guilty Person' is a close-thriller romance about Yoon Yi-joon, an arrogant third-generation chaebol accused of murder, and Kang Jae-hee, a former special forces detective who infiltrates his life as his personal assistant.Yoon Yi-joon is a person who is meticulous about managing his public image. As the likely heir to the Taekang Group, he cannot afford to show even the slightest flaw. Therefore, he always maintains a neat appearance and a poker face, and consistently upholds a proper image with an unwavering attitude even in official settings where numerous eyes are on him.His personal assistant, Kang Jae-hee, also cannot let her guard down for a moment. Even a minor mistake could tarnish her employer's image, so she needs to be extremely careful with every word and action around Yoon Yi-joon.However, in private, Yoon Yi-joon shows a completely different side. While he maintained a dignified demeanor outside, he relaxes considerably and reveals his demanding and sensitive nature without filter. Furthermore, he emphasizes to Kang Jae-hee, who must protect him, that he should always be his top priority, causing his personal assistant to break into a cold sweat.As such, Kang Jae-hee's life as a personal assistant is expected to be far from smooth due to Yoon Yi-joon's contrasting personalities, clearly distinguishing between his public and private lives. It remains to be seen whether Kang Jae-hee can successfully assist the demanding employer Yoon Yi-joon while also completing her original mission of investigation.'My Guilty Person,' consisting of a total of 12 episodes, will premiere on the 19th at 8:50 PM.subin7134@tf.co.kr[Entertainment Department | ssent@tf.co.kr]]]> FANNSTAR Wed, 07 Oct 2026 00:00:00 +0900 Today (7th), a press conference for the competition jury was held.The 'Busan Award' will be presented in five categories for 13 Asian films.Director Zhang Yimou, who served as the head of the competition jury for the 31st Busan International Film Festival, said, "I hope that all Asian film festivals, including Busan, Tokyo, and Beijing, will continue to develop and succeed so that the world can recognize our excellence." / Busan International Film Festival Secretariat[THE FACT|Reporter Park Ji-yoon] A jury of seven, led by director Zhang Yimou, is ready to discover great films at the 31st Busan International Film Festival (BIFF), Asia's largest film festival.The press conference for the competition jury of the 31st Busan International Film Festival was held on the morning of the 7th at the BIFF Hill of the Busan Cinema Center. The jury, consisting of director Zhang Yimou, who attended the event as the jury president, director Byun Sung-hyun, director Ishikawa Kei, director Jung Ju-ri, and Kazakh actress Samal Yeslyamova and Choi Hee-seo, answered questions from reporters and shared various stories.This year, the Busan International Film Festival achieved a remarkable feat by being selected as an 'A-list film festival' by the International Federation of Film Producers Associations (FIAPF), placing it alongside world-renowned festivals such as Cannes, Berlin, and Venice.Meanwhile, the competition section of the Busan International Film Festival, now in its second year, boasts an even more robust lineup based on its first year's success. This year, they will present the 'Busan Award' in five categories for 13 Asian films that exhibit both completeness and individuality. The winner of the 'Busan Award Grand Prize' will be eligible to submit for the Academy Award for Best International Feature Film, drawing significant attention to the results.Regarding this, Director Zhang Yimou stated, "The Busan International Film Festival is already an important film festival in Asia, and I believe it is becoming increasingly important. The international influence of Korean cinema is growing, and films from various Asian countries are also making strides. Therefore, I hope that all Asian film festivals, including Busan, Tokyo, and Beijing, will continue to develop and succeed so that the world can recognize our excellence."The 31st Busan International Film Festival will be held until the 15th at the Busan Cinema Center and various locations in Busan. / Busan = Reporter Park Heon-wooDirector Jung Ju-ri, who also became a jury member, shared her thoughts, saying, "Around this time last year, I was filming and hoping I could attend the Busan International Film Festival next year, and now I get to judge the competition section. It is an honor to watch films with such distinguished individuals."She added, "I believe the Busan International Film Festival is already a world-class festival. It is a unique festival for introducing Asian cinema to the world and discovering talent." She expressed her curiosity, "It is already world-class, but I wonder how it will develop and advance in the future."Choi Hee-seo, who will be presenting her film 'Bad Fork Park,' co-starring Son Suk-ku, and is now a jury member, has a particularly special meaning for this Busan International Film Festival.She confessed, "I wondered if I could even do it, but I felt that even if it were difficult, I could gain great learning experiences by working with the competition jury members." She expressed her firm determination, "I will approach this with a sense of responsibility, engage in active and in-depth discussions, and conduct a thorough evaluation."The jury members, who pledged to "find good films" at the opening ceremony held the previous day, are now ready to share their insights. So, what exactly do they consider a good film?Director Byun Sung-hyun explained, "There are various kinds of good films, and you can intuitively feel a bad film. Based on my experience, I will focus on films that are guaranteed to be impactful. I believe films that make it into the competition have overcome something that was blocking them, express themselves without reservation, and broaden human emotions."Choi Hee-seo stated, "A good film is one that doesn't provide answers but poses questions, and becomes another beginning when the audience leaves the theater. Recently, after watching 'Love Without a Cause,' I talked with my father for about five minutes in front of the theater. Through this, I learned about myself and my father, and what we think love is. While there are many aesthetically and technically excellent films, I believe a good film is one that helps you understand yourself and inspires a desire to become a better person."Director Jung Ju-ri, Tran Thi Bich Ngoc, Choi Hee-seo, Ishikawa Kei, Samal Yeslyamova, and Byun Sung-hyun (from top left, clockwise) will serve as jury members for the competition section along with director Zhang Yimou. / Busan International Film Festival SecretariatA question also arose regarding 'The Assassins.' This film traces the suspicions and behind-the-scenes of the assassination of the First Lady that shocked South Korea on August 15, 1974.'The Assassins' dominated the Chuseok holiday box office upon its release. However, some later raised concerns about historical distortion, citing scenes suggesting the involvement of former President Park Chung-hee or the Central Intelligence Agency in the incident. The film became the center of various controversies, with allegations of Chinese capital involvement also surfacing.As the controversy surrounding the film intensified, the production company eventually canceled its stage greetings and official schedule at the 31st Busan International Film Festival. They added that this decision was made after careful consideration of the potential impact not only on the film's participants but also on the audience and theater staff.Regarding this, Director Zhang Yimou commented, "It is difficult to find a definitive answer regarding the relationship between historical truth and creation in a short period. Creation is creation, and sometimes it is not based on truth or facts." He added, "In the film industry, we often say, 'Be based on life, but go beyond life.'"He continued, "However, I think we need to consider it from the audience's perspective. The question of whether historical truth itself is truly true is something to ponder. In a way, this might be the most interesting and attractive aspect of cinema."Director Jung Ju-ri, who has solidified her unique directorial style with films like 'A Girl at My Door' and 'Next Sohee,' also shared her thoughts. She said, "I have also met audiences with films based on real events, and films are made with fictional stories and characters, and this has never wavered for me. However, I feel intimidated even though it's not a film I made." She frankly admitted, "Even knowing that people can be hurt by films, I wonder what to do when such reactions occur."Director Jung emphasized, "Nevertheless, filmmakers must take full responsibility. We make films expecting criticism and seeking empathy from the audience, so I believe it is important to continue this work."The 31st Busan International Film Festival will be held until the 15th at the Busan Cinema Center and various locations in Busan.jiyoon-1031@tf.co.kr[Entertainment Desk | ssent@tf.co.kr]]]> FANNSTAR Wed, 07 Oct 2026 00:00:00 +0900 Includes 6 songs, including the title track 'All Of My Life'Released on the 19th at 6 PMSinger MAX released teaser content for their third mini-album 'All Of My Life.' / SM Entertainment[THE FACT|Reporter Choi Hyun-jung] MAX of group TVXQ! transforms into an energetic rocker.Agency SM Entertainment released teaser content for MAX's third mini-album 'All Of My Life' on TVXQ!'s official social media on the 7th.The teaser content features MAX enjoying a sense of liberation on a rooftop against a blue sky. MAX's third mini-album 'All Of My Life' includes 6 songs with diverse charms, including the title track 'All Of My Life,' 'Hot Blood,' and 'Yeah We Go.'The included song 'Hot Blood' is a powerful pop-rock song centered around intense distortion guitar and driving stadium drums, delivering excitement with MAX's strong vocals and chants. The lyrics depict the process of breaking through the impossible and surpassing a new self.Another included song, 'Yeah We Go,' is an energetic rock song featuring impressive rough drums and distortion guitar sounds, and MAX solely wrote the lyrics. It conveys the will to push through to the end and move forward with a refreshing vocal style.With this 'All Of My Life,' filled with rock genre songs, MAX is determined to more clearly show their unique musical color and authenticity.MAX will release 'All Of My Life' on various music sites on the 19th at 6 PM.laugardagr@tf.co.kr[Entertainment Department | ssent@tf.co.kr]]]> FANNSTAR Wed, 07 Oct 2026 00:00:00 +0900 A mother and son reunite after 9 years... chilling tensionScheduled for theatrical release on October 21Actors Kim Hyun-joo (left) and Bae Hyun-sung will appear in the film 'Paradise' directed by Yeon Sang-ho. /CJ ENM[THE FACT | Reporter Moon Chae-young] Actors Kim Hyun-joo and Bae Hyun-sung reveal the depths of their characters.Distributor CJ ENM released two character posters on the 7th, featuring the mother and son duo Ryu So-young (played by Kim Hyun-joo) and Ryu Seon-woo (played by Bae Hyun-sung), who lead the story of the film 'Paradise' (directed by Yeon Sang-ho).'Paradise' is a psychological thriller that begins when Ryu Seon-woo, who was presumed dead, miraculously returns to his mother Ryu So-young, who lost her son in a camping school bus disappearance incident 9 years ago. It is the new film from director Yeon Sang-ho, who directed 'Train to Busan' and 'The Host'.Ryu So-young's poster features an intense gaze that evokes a chilling tension. The 9 years Ryu So-young has lived after losing her beloved son are condensed into a single expression. The caption, "Whatever you've done, you're my son," reveals a maternal instinct that refuses to give up on her son.Ryu Seon-woo's poster shows an expressionless face that is difficult to read. Behind his disheveled hair and weary appearance, his unrevealed emotions hint at the 9 years he has endured. The caption, "You wouldn't accept a son who's become a monster like this, would you?" heightens curiosity about his story, which has led him to call himself a monster.The two lines spoken by the mother, who tries to hold on but wavers, and the unfamiliar son who returns after 9 years, hint at the desperate truth they will face.'Paradise,' a collaboration between Kim Hyun-joo, Bae Hyun-sung, and director Yeon Sang-ho, will be released on October 21.mcy21@tf.co.kr[Entertainment Department | ssent@tf.co.kr]]]> FANNSTAR Wed, 07 Oct 2026 00:00:00 +0900 Singer SUNG HANBIN released the third concept photo of their first solo EP ’DEAD:ALIVE’ on the afternoon of the 6th through their official SNS. In this concept photo, SUNG HANBIN attracted attention with black clothing, bandaged hands, and makeup depicting wounds on various parts of the face. The black-and-white photo created a heavy atmosphere with a clear profile line, while the close-up shot of the eyes featured small red flowers blooming along the wounds, creating a unique contrast. In front of a red background, SUNG HANBIN raised a bandaged hand close to their head, emphasizing a sharp gaze and stylish poses in various shots that highlighted their captivating visuals. Additionally, photos featuring both bandaged hands close together, a back view with wing-shaped objects on the back, and small white flowers placed on soil with footprints were also revealed, utilizing unique objects and compositions. SUNG HANBIN showcased concept photos with three different atmospheres, revealing various charms through changes in gaze, facial expressions, and poses that matched the clothing and objects. According to The Live Label, SUNG HANBIN’s first solo EP ’DEAD:ALIVE’ is an album that captures the process of ’self-transcendence,’ growing into a new self by breaking through the limits that once confined them without stopping in the face of fear. The album is scheduled to be released on various music platforms at 6 PM on the 12th.]]> FANNSTAR Wed, 07 Oct 2026 00:00:00 +0900 TWS will release their second single album, ’TO US,’ on November 2nd at 6 PM. Producer Han Seong-su and MYAMYA were in charge of production for this album, with direction by DAEHEE HAN. Assistant directors MYUNGGWON CHOI and MINJE JIN, and post assistant director EUNJI RYU participated. Producer HEEYEON HONG, line producer GYEONGNYEON KIM, and post producer DAHYEON KWON also contributed to the production. The filming team included ANDY IERE KIM as director of photography, 1st JUYOUNG AN, 2nd YOUNJI CHOI, DIT YUSUN YUN, and 3rd JONGHWAN JEON. The grip team had SANGJUN LEE as key grip, JUNHEE LEE as best boy, and BAEWON JEON and DONGROK HAN worked together on FPV drone shooting. Lighting was led by JUNSEOK OH, and show lights were managed by J SHOW COMPANY. Sound mixing was handled by MINCHEOL KIM. The stunt team BIBEOM included director Shin Yusik and stunt crew Park Gapjin and Park Jincheol. Art direction was by YOONU LEE, with SUMIN HA as art team PD. Editing was done by DAEHEE HAN and EUNJI RYU, with collaboration from experts in mixed media art, typography, color, sound design, and 2D/AI VFX. TWS members mentioned their routine of tying their shoelaces tightly before going on stage, saying that the most nerve-wracking moment is when they reveal something for the first time. They also expressed that being able to feel emotions means being alive. To gain energy before the stage, members shared their own methods such as taking supplements or talking with each other. Some expressed that it doesn’t have to be perfect in the practice room, which actually makes it feel more beautiful. One member spoke about the feelings when others have what they do not, saying, ″I think when it comes to axes, I can beat all five of them combined.″ Another member honestly shared, ″I just try to believe in myself. It’s still a bit difficult though.″ They also expressed a desire to see more than just happy expressions from the members. Fans can connect with TWS through various channels including their official website, YouTube, X (Twitter), Instagram, TikTok, Facebook, and Weverse.]]> FANNSTAR Wed, 07 Oct 2026 00:00:00 +0900 Teaming up with Park Myung-soo&Kang So-raUnpredictable trip announcedActors Chun Woo-hee, broadcaster Park Myung-soo, and EXO SEHUN KAI (from top left, clockwise) will appear on ENA's new variety show 'The Great Escape World Tour 4'. /THE FACT DB[THE FACT|Reporter Choi Soo-bin] Actors Chun Woo-hee&Kang So-ra, broadcaster Park Myung-soo, and EXO KAI&SEHUN will join 'The Great Escape World Tour 4'.ENA announced on the 7th, "The new variety show 'The Great Escape World Tour' Season 4 (hereinafter referred to as 'The Great Escape 4') will premiere on the 17th at 7:50 PM."'The Great Escape', which started with Season 1 in 2023, is a program where travel creators Pani Bottle, Kwak Tube, and Wonji participate in a world travel game designed by PD Kim Tae-ho. Season 4 returns with an expanded scale, adding a new concept called 'The Great Escape Travel Film Festival' set across the globe.New travel partners will also join this season. Chun Woo-hee, Kang So-ra, EXO KAI&SEHUN, and veteran entertainer Park Myung-soo, all active in different fields, will embark on a journey with Pani Bottle, Kwak Tube, and Wonji.In addition, travel partners from other fields are expected to be revealed. Attention is focused on who the still-veiled partners will be and what new chemistry they will show when they meet the members.'The Great Escape 4' will premiere on the 17th at 7:50 PM.subin7134@tf.co.kr[Entertainment Department | ssent@tf.co.kr]]]> FANNSTAR Wed, 07 Oct 2026 00:00:00 +0900 Officially released on November 2ndGroup TWS will release their second single 'TO US' on November 2nd. / Pledis Entertainment[THE FACT|Reporter Choi Hyun-jung] Group TWS is back with 'the most honest music right now.'Pledis Entertainment announced on the 7th, " TWS (SHINYU DOHOON YOUNGJAE HANJIN JIHOON KYUNGMIN) will release their second single 'TO US' on November 2nd."The new single 'TO US,' which shares the same name and pronunciation as the group's name, contains the honest stories that TWS wants to tell right now. The six members will share their various emotions and concerns, offering courage and comfort to those living in the same era.On the 7th, TWS also released 'TWS Being Together : TO US' on their official YouTube channel. The video captured interviews with the members before going on stage with a raw, textured visual style.When asked about a moment of intense competitiveness, TWS replied, "When I realize someone else has something I don't," and regarding their biggest source of support, they shared, "The '42 (fandom name)' who cheer me on from up close," and "I try to believe in myself. It's still difficult," revealing their inner thoughts.At the end of the video, TWS is shown throwing themselves into bright lights, heightening anticipation for their new leap forward and energy to be showcased through the new release.This year, TWS has had a dazzling run. They led the 'angtal challenge' trend with the title track 'OVERDRIVE' from their fourth mini-album, and their fifth mini-album 'NO TRAGEDY' became a 'million-seller' just four days after its release.Regarding the single 'TO US,' which is expected to continue this momentum, Pledis Entertainment stated, "This new work allows you to experience the sincere stories of TWS, who have become even stronger by running non-stop since 2026," and requested, "We ask for your great anticipation to see how the experiences and growth accumulated by the six members are reflected in this single."laugardagr@tf.co.kr[Entertainment Department | ssent@tf.co.kr]]]> FANNSTAR Wed, 07 Oct 2026 00:00:00 +0900 Joining as MC for Season 3, following Season 2First released on October 9th at 7 PMActor Lee Yi-kyung has been selected as the MC for Season 3 of E Channel's web variety show 'Hyung-suda'. /THE FACT DB[THE FACT | Reporter Moon Chae-young] Actor Lee Yi-kyung will join 'Hyung-suda 3' as MC.The production team of E Channel's web variety show 'Hyung-suda' Season 3 (hereinafter referred to as 'Hyung-suda 3') announced on the 7th that "Lee Yi-kyung is scheduled to be active as the MC for 'Hyung-suda 3', which will be released on the 9th following Season 2," and added, "Based on a long-standing trust, the production team made the offer first."'Hyung-suda' is a spin-off program of E Channel's entertainment show 'Brave Detectives', and it is a web variety show that unravels the behind-the-scenes stories of criminal cases through free talk. It started in April 2025 with Season 1 and has confirmed Season 3 due to its steady popularity.Lee Yi-kyung, who was active as an MC in the previous Season 2, will be joining for Season 3 as well. With his witty speaking skills and quick wit, he will lead 'Hyung-suda 3' along with profiler Kwon Il-yong.In particular, this Season 3 is expected to feature experts from various fields to discuss in-depth crime stories. This raises anticipation for Lee Yi-kyung's performance.'Hyung-suda 3' will be released every Friday at 7 PM starting from the 9th on the YouTube channel 'Hyungsa-deul-ui Suda'.mcy21@tf.co.kr[Entertainment Department | ssent@tf.co.kr]]]> FANNSTAR Wed, 07 Oct 2026 00:00:00 +0900 Concerts in Lima, Peru on the 7th, 9th, and 10thVarious commemorative events to be heldVarious events are underway in Lima, Peru, ahead of the concert by group BTS. The photo shows BTS performing in Bogota, Colombia. / Big Hit Music[THE FACT|Reporter Choi Hyun-jung] Group BTS is painting Lima, Peru purple.According to agency Big Hit Music on the 7th, BTS (RM SUGA Jin V J-HOPE JUNG KOOK JIMIN) will hold 'BTS WORLD TOUR ARIRANG IN LIMA' at Estadio San Marcos in Lima, Peru on the 7th, 9th, and 10th local time.This is the first time BTS is holding a concert in Lima, Peru since their debut. As a result, Lima is buzzing with 'Welcome BTS' across the entire city.First, 'Avenida BTS' appeared in Lima. The district of Santiago de Surco has decided to temporarily call Calle Sacramento in the Surco area 'Avenida BTS' from the 5th to the 11th for one week and has installed signs to announce this.Various attractions to welcome them have also been prepared throughout the city. The Arco Morisco, a representative landmark of Parque de la Amistad in Surco, was lit up in purple on the 5th and will have a light show for BTS every day until the 11th.At the Fuente de la Fantasía in the Circuito Mágico del Agua, another representative tourist attraction in Lima, a BTS themed event using music, light, and water screens will be held during the same period.BTS's visit is also being highlighted on 'Peru Travel,' Peru's official tourism website. 'Peru Travel' is spotlighting the Lima concert as an opportunity to introduce the country's gastronomy, culture, and natural landscapes, and is encouraging visitors from all over the world to explore various regions of Peru.Prior to the Lima concert, BTS kicked off their South American tour at Estadio El Campín in Bogota, Colombia on the 2nd and 3rd, performing for approximately 100,000 fans over two days.Rolling Stone en Español commented on the concert, stating, "BTS met expectations and delivered more than expected at many moments," and called it "the concert an entire generation has been waiting for."laugardagr@tf.co.kr[Entertainment Department | ssent@tf.co.kr]]]> FANNSTAR Wed, 07 Oct 2026 00:00:00 +0900 'Sky Land Star Land' Achieves Group's Best PerformanceCited as an example of the difficult K-pop production environmentGroup UNIS's 'Sky Land Star Land,' released on September 8, is achieving higher results after announcing its disbandment./F&F Entertainment[THE FACT|Reporter Choi Hyun-jung] Group UNIS is causing much regret with its 'late achievement.'UNIS (JIN HYEONJU NANA GEHLEE KOTOKO BANG YUNHA ELISIA OH YOONA LIM SEOWON)'s single 'Sky Land Star Land,' released on September 8, is receiving a positive response on major music charts, including Melon HOT 100 (30 days) at 20th place and HOT 100 (100 days) at 33rd place, as well as YouTube Music Weekly Popular Songs Chart at 33rd place and Weekly Shorts Popular Songs Chart at 20th place.While direct comparison is difficult as it is a digital single without a physical album release, in terms of digital sales alone, this is a 'career-high' achievement for UNIS.While this is a situation that should clearly bring joy based on performance alone, the reality is the opposite. This is because UNIS concluded their project and all activities on September 26.The halt of UNIS's activities leaves significant regret in two main aspects. The first is that it was 'too sudden.'Of course, UNIS was formed through the SBS survival audition 'Universe Ticket,' and it is true that a 2-year and 6-month activity period was set from the time of their debut. However, the termination of UNIS's activities was a shock because it occurred without prior notice while they were actively engaged in promotions right up until then.In fact, UNIS released their first Japanese mini-album 'UNI☆Sparkle!' in July and was actively promoting in Japan until September. Furthermore, they released 'Sky Land Star Land' on September 8, engaged in domestic music show promotions, and even released a new single 'Milky Way' on September 23.Given this, announcing the end of their activities just three days later was enough for fans to feel like the group was suddenly disbanding.The second aspect is, of course, the success of 'Sky Land Star Land.' As explained earlier, 'Sky Land Star Land' is the song that recorded the best start among all the songs UNIS has released so far, and it also received praise for 'finally finding their fitting color.''Sky Land Star Land' was already generating a lot of buzz before the disbandment announcement. Analysis suggests that the announcement of disbandment, combined with its original popularity, led to even greater popularity./F&F EntertainmentJust as they seemed to be truly shining, their wings were clipped before they could fully spread, leaving no choice but to feel regret.Some analyze the success of 'Sky Land Star Land' as a kind of 'scarcity effect.' The argument is that interest surged due to the psychology that they could no longer be seen after disbandment. The 'scarcity effect' is an analysis that is gaining considerable traction in the industry.However, even taking that into account, the popularity of 'Sky Land Star Land' was undeniably at a level that could not be easily overlooked. Even before the announcement of the end of activities, the song had already reached 28th place on Melon HOT 100 (30 days) on September 12, and videos comparing the original artist Bibi's stage with UNIS's stage were also gaining significant traction on short-form platforms.The performance industry was the most direct recipient of the increased interest in UNIS. A representative from the performance industry told , "After the release of 'Sky Land Star Land,' inquiries for UNIS significantly increased, but we could not proceed with bookings due to the end of their activities. It is truly regrettable."While regret is unavoidable, what is now intriguing is the future whereabouts of the UNIS members. As of now, the only member whose future whereabouts have been precisely revealed is GEHLEE. GEHLEE announced a contract with a local management company in her home country of the Philippines on September 29 and has already begun her solo activities.For others, there are speculations about re-debuts for members like Kotoko, who enjoyed relatively high popularity in Japan, and LIM SEOWON, who, at 12 years old, still possesses significant age competitiveness. However, nothing has been officially confirmed yet. Furthermore, with members like Jin Hyun-ju and BANG YUNHA no longer having agencies, their future whereabouts are even more uncertain.A music industry official, identified as A, stated, "From what I hear, it seems like they will be fending for themselves." He added, "It hasn't been a long time since the end of activities was announced, and the individual members' recognition or popularity is not so high that there would be intense recruitment competition immediately after the announcement. Therefore, their final whereabouts will likely become clear after some more time has passed."Currently, GEHLEE is the only member of UNIS whose future whereabouts have been confirmed. The activity status of the other members remains uncertain./F&F EntertainmentAdditionally, A pointed to the case of UNIS as an example illustrating the increasingly difficult reality of the K-pop industry.A commented, "Recently, there are more cases of teams formed through audition programs extending their contracts or activities. However, UNIS chose to end their activities despite having the opportunity. Ultimately, I believe they judged that it would be difficult to cover production costs no matter what." He added, "It feels bitter, like a case showing the reality of the K-pop industry where production costs are constantly increasing, while achieving results is becoming even more difficult."laugardagr@tf.co.kr[Entertainment Department | ssent@tf.co.kr]]]> FANNSTAR Wed, 07 Oct 2026 00:00:00 +0900 Singer Hwasa shared a photo capturing her relaxed daily life, updating fans on her recent status. Recently, Hwasa posted a photo on her SNS showing her leaning against a door wearing a white t-shirt and jeans. Her natural pose and direct gaze created a simple yet sophisticated atmosphere. In another photo, she wore a black sleeveless t-shirt paired with a skirt, wearing sunglasses under dim indoor lighting, looking straight ahead with a moody expression. A photo with a beautiful riverside night view also caught attention. Hwasa, dressed in a white t-shirt and jeans, leaned on a railing looking at the city lights, adding a sense of calmness. The post included a brief phrase, ″月亮代表我的心 (The moon represents my heart),″ drawing fans’ interest. Hwasa has been actively engaged in winter season campaigns and continues to share small moments from her daily life with fans, showcasing her approachable charm. She plans to communicate with fans through various music and activities in the future.]]> FANNSTAR Wed, 07 Oct 2026 00:00:00 +0900 Today (7th), a press conference for the Gala Presentation was held.The film, based on the popular manga of the same name,Director Hirokazu Kore-eda's "After the Storm" was selected for the Gala Presentation at the 31st Busan International Film Festival. The photo shows Ruka Okada, Furi Nanase, Natsuki Deguchi, and Aju Makita, and director Hirokazu Kore-eda (from left) walking the red carpet at the opening ceremony of the "31st Busan International Film Festival (BIFF)" held at the Busan Cinema Center in Haeundae-gu, Busan on the 6th. /Busan=Reporter Kim Sung-ryeol[THE FACT|Busan=Reporter Park Ji-yoon] Director Hirokazu Kore-eda has returned to Busan with "After the Storm." He, who cannot forget the shock he felt when he first read the original work, unravels a beautiful story with his unique sensibility, posing another question to the audience.The Gala Presentation of the film "After the Storm" (directed by Hirokazu Kore-eda) was held at the BIFF Hill of the Cinema Center on the morning of the 7th. Director Hirokazu Kore-eda, who directed the film, along with actors Natsuki Deguchi, Aju Makita, Furi Nanase, and Ruka Okada, attended the event and had various conversations with reporters."After the Storm," based on the manga of the same name by Japanese genius manga artist Tatsuki Fujimoto, is a story about the beautiful friendship between two girls connected by their passion for drawing. Following its animation adaptation, which grossed 2.04 billion yen worldwide, it is now meeting audiences again as a live-action film.The Gala Presentation, where "After the Storm" was featured, is a representative section of the film festival that carefully selects and introduces new works by world-renowned directors or the most talked-about films of the year, and allows directors and lead actors to meet the audience directly.Director Hirokazu Kore-eda, who visited Korea for this event, said, "I am happy to be able to come to the film festival with the actors with whom I have shared my work for a long time. The opening ceremony was spectacular, and I was happy that they even made a song with my name." He added, "I have always been invited to the Busan International Film Festival since my debut, so I have a special affection for it, and I am very happy to be able to come back with my work.""After the Storm," which opens on the 8th, is a story about the beautiful friendship between two girls connected by their passion for drawing. /Megabox JoongAng(주)Furi Nanase, who plays the young Fujino, said, "I walked the red carpet at the Venice International Film Festival, but the atmosphere of the Busan International Film Festival red carpet was different. I was nervous because so many people gathered, but it was fun because people waved their hands. It was also nice to see famous people."Aju Makita, who plays Kyomoto, added, "This is my first time at the Busan International Film Festival, and so many people came to the opening ceremony. I had a valuable experience attending the opening ceremony."Director Hirokazu Kore-eda recalled the reason for adapting the popular manga "After the Storm" into a film, drawing attention.He explained, "I can't forget the shock I felt when I accidentally found and read it at a bookstore. It made me question why people write stories, create, and make films, and I thought it was a story about what creators bear." He added, "Through the original work, I was able to face cinema again, and I wanted to express the shock I received at that time through the film."In particular, Director Hirokazu Kore-eda filmed on location for a year in Nikaho City, Akita Prefecture, the hometown of the original author Tatsuki Fujimoto, and beautifully captured the beloved story with his unique sensibility.Regarding this, he recalled, "The four actors were like my daughters, and the atmosphere on set was comfortable and peaceful." He continued, "Rather than directing in detail, I wanted to carefully capture the moments of the four seasons and the changes in light. I spent happy times living like the people who live in that town."The 31st Busan International Film Festival (BIFF), which opened on the 6th, will be held until the 15th at the Cinema Center and various locations in Busan. /Busan=Reporter Park Heon-wooHe then explained why he filmed the story of the two girls with a film camera. Director Hirokazu Kore-eda said, "Because it allows me to focus my consciousness on the moment that is happening only here and now." He added, "Although it may increase the tension for the actors, I believe that the tension that is only possible in this moment, when gathered, creates something on set. I believe this is captured in the work and conveyed to the audience. I am making the film with the thought that this is what cinema is."So, what about the actors who participated in the film? Natsuki Deguchi, who plays Fujino, explained the focus of her performance: "As the title of the movie 'After the Storm' suggests, there were many scenes where backs were shown, and emotions had to be expressed solely through the back. At the end, I was told to feel Kyomoto." She continued, "I filmed a lot with Aju Makita, but when I was alone, I felt lonely and desolate. It felt empty, as if we were together but not. I filmed while feeling those emotions."Finally, Director Hirokazu Kore-eda mentioned that he is still writing new works and expressed his special affection for Korea by saying, "I want to come back to the Busan International Film Festival with this.""After the Storm," which was officially invited to the competition section of the 83rd Venice International Film Festival and the Gala Presentation section of the 31st Busan International Film Festival, will be released nationwide in theaters on the 8th.Meanwhile, the 31st Busan International Film Festival will be held until the 15th at the Cinema Center and various locations in Busan.jiyoon-1031@tf.co.kr[Entertainment Department | ssent@tf.co.kr]]]> FANNSTAR Wed, 07 Oct 2026 00:00:00 +0900 'Solo Leveling' Additional Casting Lineup RevealedActors Han So-hee, Kang Yoo-seok, Jung Ji-hoon, Lee Sung-min, and Sung Joon (from top left, clockwise) will appear in Netflix's new original series, 'Solo Leveling.' /THE FACT DB[THE FACT | Reporter Moon Chae-young] Actors Han So-hee, Kang Yoo-seok, Sung Joon, Lee Sung-min, and Jung Ji-hoon have confirmed their participation in 'Solo Leveling.'On the 7th, Netflix released the additional casting lineup for its new original series 'Solo Leveling' (written by Kang San&Lee Hae-jun, directed by Lee Hae-jun&Han Dong-wook), which includes Han So-hee, Kang Yoo-seok, Sung Joon, Lee Sung-min, and Jung Ji-hoon. They will enrich the story of the work alongside another lead actor, Byeon Wooseok, whose casting was previously announced.'Solo Leveling' tells the story of Sung Jin-woo (Byeon Wooseok), who is called the weakest among the hunters protecting the real world from monsters beyond the gates, an 'E-class hunter.' He awakens in the face of death and levels up to become the 'strongest hunter' who will save the world. It is based on a popular web novel.Han So-hee will play Cha Hae-in, Korea's 9th S-class hunter and the only female S-class hunter. Her trademark is a long sword, and she protects the real world from monsters. Kang Yoo-seok will portray Yoo Jin-ho, the second son of Yoo Jin Group, who follows and helps Sung Jin-woo like an older brother after participating in a dungeon quest with him.Sung Joon will play Woo Jin-cheol, the head of the Hunter Association's surveillance department, who monitors and tracks the movements of hunters. He is also an A-class hunter and the first person to suspect Sung Jin-woo's reawakening.Lee Sung-min and Jung Ji-hoon will make special appearances in 'Solo Leveling.' Lee Sung-min will transform into Go Gun-hee, the chairman of the Hunter Association, who manages all hunters in Korea and can activate the hunter mobilization order in emergencies. Jung Ji-hoon will play Baek Yoon-ho, the head of the Baekho Guild, an S-class hunter who can transform into a beast.Director Han Dong-wook has joined as a co-director. Known for his stylish noir direction in the film 'For Love or Money' and the Disney+ series 'The Worst of Evil,' he is expected to further enhance the action and story completion of 'Solo Leveling.'The release date for 'Solo Leveling' has not yet been confirmed.mcy21@tf.co.kr[Entertainment Department | ssent@tf.co.kr]]]> FANNSTAR Wed, 07 Oct 2026 00:00:00 +0900 'The Silla Army Itself' Kim Yu-sin Role... Stills RevealedFirst Broadcast on November 14Character stills of actor Park Sung-woong, who appears in KBS2's new historical drama 'Moomoo', have been released. /KBS2[THE FACT|Reporter Choi Soo-bin] Actor Park Sung-woong will protect Silla with the spirit of a general burning fiercely on the brutal battlefield.The production team of KBS2's new historical drama 'Moomoo' (written by Kim Ri-heon&Hong Jin-yi, directed by Kim Young-jo&Gu Seong-jun) released character stills of actor Park Sung-woong, who plays Kim Yu-sin, on the 7th.'Moomoo' is a work that depicts the desperate and lonely epic of leaders who risked everything for a single victory amidst 600 years of continuous warfare and internal upheavals in the Three Kingdoms.In the drama, Park Sung-woong plays Kim Yu-sin, 'the Silla Army itself,' who defends the battlefield without wavering through numerous crises. He is a humble individual who mingles freely with anyone regardless of their status, but the moment he answers the call of his country and dons his armor, he becomes Silla's greatest general, advancing only towards victory.He is also a loyal figure who, while sometimes exchanging sharp opinions with his family and political allies Kim Beop-min (played by Lee Hyun-wook) and Kim Chun-chu (played by Kim Kang-woo), is the first to step forward when they are in danger. Joining forces with them to rectify a world devastated by war, he boldly advances towards the grand task of unifying the Three Kingdoms.The stills capture Kim Yu-sin's demeanor, oscillating between the majesty of a great general roaming the battlefield and his human charm. Clad in armor, he overwhelms the battlefield with his firm gaze and unwavering presence, revealing the dignity of a general.In contrast, in his civilian attire, he displays a softer side with his hearty laughter and gentle smile, exuding humble humanity. Attention is focused on how Park Sung-woong will complete Kim Yu-sin, oscillating between the charisma of a strong general and approachable humanity.'Moomoo', consisting of a total of 28 episodes, will premiere on November 14.subin7134@tf.co.kr[Entertainment Department | ssent@tf.co.kr]]]> FANNSTAR Wed, 07 Oct 2026 00:00:00 +0900 Tomorrow X Together (TXT) Yeonjun continued his fashion journey by attending the Miu Miu 2027 Spring/Summer fashion show held in Paris. Yeonjun completed a sophisticated look by pairing an olive jacket with checkered pants and a white shirt, drawing attention with a pose facing forward in front of a solid purple background while holding a bag in one hand. In early October, Yeonjun received consistent attention in the fashion world by participating in a luxury brand event in Seoul. In particular, this attendance at the Miu Miu fashion show is regarded as an opportunity to continue his connection with global luxury brands. Yeonjun has established himself as a versatile entertainer, actively working not only in music but also as an MC, in variety shows, and in fashion. At this event, Yeonjun captured the attention of local fans and industry insiders with his sharp gaze and sophisticated styling, and he also shared attendance verification photos through Miu Miu’s official SNS, receiving a warm response. Yeonjun plans to expand his unique style by collaborating with various fashion brands in the future.]]> FANNSTAR Wed, 07 Oct 2026 00:00:00 +0900 MAX, a member of TVXQ! and a solo artist, is making a comeback with a new mini album after about 4 years and 9 months. On October 19 at 6 PM, he will release his third mini album, ″All Of My Life,″ showcasing a new side of himself as a solo singer. This album, ″All Of My Life,″ is composed of pop tracks that blend emotional electric guitar sounds with powerful drums to deliver rich energy. Featuring a total of six songs, this work is expected to expand MAX’s musical spectrum even further. Additionally, MAX will hold his first solo concert in Korea titled ″MAX CHANGMIN LIVE SESSION: RESONANCE″ at Yes24 Live Hall from November 6 to 8. The concert has received a warm response, selling out all three shows. Following this, he plans to continue his Asia tour in Macau and Taipei in January 2027. Since debuting as a member of TVXQ!, MAX has been recognized for his outstanding vocal skills and stage presence through his solo activities. Recently, he has been actively engaging with fans by sharing his daily life and musical communication on social media. In the photoshoot, wearing a yellow jacket, black T-shirt, and shorts, he caught attention with his diverse charms, posing naturally by jumping or waving a paper airplane against a clear blue sky background. Moving forward, MAX is expected to continue his active promotions centered on the album release and concerts. ″All Of My Life,″ which will be released on October 19, will be available at music stores and various online music platforms. Fans have high expectations for the new songs he will present after a long time through this comeback.]]> FANNSTAR Wed, 07 Oct 2026 00:00:00 +0900 Broadcaster Baek Jong-won revealed an ultra-simple way to eat radish rice. Recently, Baek Jong-won posted a photo on his SNS showing a bowl of radish and rice on a wooden table, accompanied by the short phrase, ″Eat ultra-simple ’radish’ rice like this.″ The neatly presented radish rice in the photo caught the viewers’ attention. Baek Jong-won introduced a radish rice recipe that can be enjoyed easily without any complicated cooking process, emphasizing a cooking method that can be easily followed in daily life. He is well-known for presenting simple yet delicious dishes that highlight the natural flavors of the ingredients, earning great responses from many people. Meanwhile, Baek Jong-won has recently reduced his broadcasting activities and is focusing on overseas expansion through The Born Korea. Nevertheless, he continues to engage with fans by sharing cooking tips and simple recipes regularly via SNS.]]> FANNSTAR Wed, 07 Oct 2026 00:00:00 +0900 Comedian Park Myung-soo expressed his affection for his family through SNS, sharing heartwarming news. Along with a post marking the stroke of midnight, Park Myung-soo revealed messages saying, ″First of all, happy birthday to my father,″ and ″Congratulations Park Myung-soo! Stay healthy Park Myung-soo! I love you Park Myung-soo!″ Unlike his usual cheerful image, this post caught attention with a photo of him looking seriously straight at the camera and wearing a pink crown. Park Myung-soo stood in front of a plain dark background wearing a gray long-sleeve T-shirt and jeans, sharing encouragement for his family and himself with his fans. Meanwhile, Park Myung-soo was recently selected as the model for GS Shop’s biggest shopping event of the second half of the year, ’Fantasy S,’ and has been actively promoting it. Based on his friendly and cheerful image as a comedian, he continues to engage in various activities by presenting content that announces brand discounts and events. His sincere feelings for his family and efforts to strengthen communication with the public stand out.]]> FANNSTAR Wed, 07 Oct 2026 00:00:00 +0900 IVE member Ahn Yujin posted several photos on her social media (SNS) account on the 6th with the caption ″I love Paris.″ The released photos show Ahn Yujin posing with the night view of the Eiffel Tower in the background while attending Paris Fashion Week. Ahn Yujin wore a brown leather jumper and denim hot pants, showcasing a sophisticated and trendy style, and also posed as if pinching the Eiffel Tower with her fingers using perspective. Ahn Yujin attracted attention with her tall height of 173cm and slender legs, smiling with dimples. Fans left various comments such as ″Parisian,″ ″What’s up with those long legs?″, ″Yujin capturing romance,″ and ″As beautiful as the view from Sein Gang.″ Meanwhile, IVE is set to release a new mini-album titled Looks Can Kill on the 26th. This album includes a total of six tracks: the title track ″Looks Can Kill,″ ″Mirror Mirror,″ ″SNAKESKIN,″ ″CRUMBS,″ ″Girls Girls Girls,″ and ″Glow Motion.″]]> FANNSTAR Wed, 07 Oct 2026 00:00:00 +0900 Sunja, a contestant from the 31st season of ″I Am Solo,″ revealed plans to go on dates every Friday after finishing filming ″Senior’s Interference″ with Kyungsoo. On October 5th, Sunja shared multiple photos on her social media along with the message, ″The 6 weeks of filming are all done.″ The photos showed Sunja and Kyungsoo together. Sunja stated, ″Every Friday, I went to work at 8 a.m., finished my morning shift, went to the shop, and continued filming late into the night. It was a kind of relentless schedule, but the excitement of meeting the 33rd season’s single special a week early, the kind looks from the SPLS production team who always laughed and responded behind the camera, and the warm comments supporting us in every video filled me with gratitude instead of fatigue.″ She added, ″Watching and supporting someone’s heart through the screen was much more immersive than I expected, and sometimes it made me reflect on my past. My interference might have been lacking, but I sincerely thank everyone who empathized and stood by me. Now, I will enjoy the dates I couldn’t have on Fridays!″ Sunja and Kyungsoo became the final couple on ENA and SBS Plus variety show ″I Am SOLO″ Season 31 and revealed their real-life relationship through a live broadcast on ″Chonjang Entertainment TV″ after the show. Currently, they share their dating life on social media. The two appeared together on SBS Plus’s official YouTube content ″Senior’s Interference,″ reviewing the ″I Am Solo″ Season 33 single special and having a conversation. Sunja revealed that she filmed late into the night every Friday after finishing her morning shift for six weeks. The photos she shared included moments of the two taking close-up selfies outdoors and posing side by side. Sunja and Kyungsoo styled themselves in similar looks, with a transparent box containing flowers placed between them. Previously, Sunja disclosed that due to heavy work responsibilities, she stepped down from her team leader position, voluntarily cut her salary by nearly half, and started working shortened hours, leaving work two hours early. After finishing filming ″Senior’s Interference,″ the two plan to go on dates every Friday.]]> FANNSTAR Wed, 07 Oct 2026 00:00:00 +0900 Koyote member Kim Jong-min is going to become a father. On the 6th, his agency JG Star announced, ″Kim Jong-min and his wife are preparing to have their second child.″ Specific details such as the gender of the second child will be revealed on the KBS 2TV variety show ″The Return of Superman,″ which airs on the 7th. Kim Jong-min recently shared the pregnancy news during the recording of ″The Return of Superman,″ saying, ″My wife is 17 weeks pregnant.″ He also said, ″I abstained from alcohol and took care of my health for a year to have a child,″ adding, ″Thanks to that, the baby came quickly.″ He spoke about the gender of the baby in the womb, the pregnancy dream, and the moment he first learned about the pregnancy, sharing his feelings as an expectant father. Kim Jong-min married a businesswoman 11 years his junior in April last year and started a family. He has expressed his desire for children several times on various variety shows. Koyote member Shin Ji shared on her personal account, ″One day in July. The pregnancy news that was first told to us!″ along with photos and videos taken with Kim Jong-min and Baekga. Shin Ji said, ″Now that the news is out, I’m taking out the videos and photos I had carefully kept. Congratulations, Leader Kim and new sister-in-law.″]]> FANNSTAR Wed, 07 Oct 2026 00:00:00 +0900 Seventeen Jeonghan and Joshua appeared on episode 158 of the web variety show TEO ’Salon Drip’ and talked about member Mingyu’s live broadcast mistake and the couple Ferrari news of unit V8 (Vernon, THE 8). During the broadcast, Jang Do-yeon asked if there was anything to be careful about among the Seventeen members. Jeonghan replied, ″When we were young, we had to be careful about this and that, but 12 years have passed. If we still have to talk about that now, isn’t that wrong? They’ll handle it well on their own,″ showing trust in the members. When Jang Do-yeon mentioned Mingyu’s live broadcast accident, Jeonghan explained the situation to Joshua, saying, ″He was eating, and the house was fully reflected in the bowl.″ Joshua said, ″If it’s that much, maybe he wanted to show off. You shouldn’t make it too obvious. You should do it with the bowl.″ Jeonghan added, ″Mingyu is smart, so that could be it. He might want some compliments on the interior, right?″ Meanwhile, Jang Do-yeon expressed surprise about the couple Ferrari news of Seventeen unit V8 (Vernon, THE 8). Jeonghan also showed surprise, saying, ″How much money did they make?″ and Joshua agreed. Then Jang Do-yeon suggested that Jeonghan and Joshua also get matching couple items. Jeonghan said, ″Joshua said he would give me a watch when the album comes out. To make up for the day we fought.″ Joshua shared an anecdote about giving Jeonghan a sofa when he moved, explaining, ″When Jeonghan moved, I asked, ’What should I give you? Give me the sofa. Today? Tell me your day off.’″ Jeonghan clarified, ″No, you sent it saying you would give it as a military service gift,″ and added, ″You said it was an unused sofa, so I accepted it.″ Joshua expressed frustration, saying Jeonghan has more watches than he does. Jeonghan argued, ″If we do a couple watch for the album, there’s a reason for it,″ and when Joshua suggested, ″Then let’s trade your watch with mine,″ Jeonghan replied, ″That’s trading, not giving. I just want to receive, not give.″ Later, Jeonghan revealed that he mainly asks for products that Joshua is promoting as an ambassador and said, ″If Joshua gives it, the fans like it too.″ When Joshua mentioned the issue of paying for meals, Jang Do-yeon suggested to the two, ″Make a date fund.″]]> FANNSTAR Wed, 07 Oct 2026 00:00:00 +0900 Various welcoming events were held in downtown Lima ahead of BTS’s first concert in Peru. From October 5 to 11, the Santiago de Surco district installed a temporary sign named ″BTS Avenue″ on Sacramento Street in the Surco area. Additionally, at the Arco Morisco in Surco Friendship Park, a purple light and light show will be held daily during the same period. At the Fountain Park’s Fantasy Fountain, a music, light, and water screen show themed around BTS is also scheduled. BTS will meet Peruvian fans through the ″BTS WORLD TOUR ’ARIRANG’ IN LIMA″ concerts at Estadio San Marcos in Lima on October 7, 9, and 10. This concert marks BTS’s debut stage in Peru. The official Peruvian tourism site, Peru Travel, stated that the Lima concert presents an opportunity to introduce Peru’s food, culture, and natural scenery. Meanwhile, BTS began their South American tour on October 2 and 3 at Estadio El Campín in Bogotá, Colombia, attracting about 100,000 attendees over two days. In Rolling Stone, aespan described the concert as ″the concert an entire generation has been waiting for,″ saying ″BTS met expectations and exceeded them in many moments.″]]> FANNSTAR Wed, 07 Oct 2026 00:00:00 +0900 BTS Jungkook continued his record as the Asian solo artist with the longest consecutive entries on Spotify’s Weekly Top Albums Global chart, entering for 151 consecutive weeks with his first solo album ’GOLDEN.’ Jungkook’s ’GOLDEN’ ranked 187th on the chart compiled from September 25 to October 1. Since its release in 2023, this album has surpassed 7.5 billion cumulative streams among Asian artists’ full-length albums. Streaming records for individual tracks were also revealed. ’Seven’ exceeded 3.1 billion streams, ’Standing Next to You’ surpassed 1.53 billion, and ’3D’ went beyond 1.21 billion streams. ’Yes or No’ reached 390 million, ’Please Don’t Change’ hit 253 million, ’Hate You’ recorded 237 million, and ’Closer to You’ exceeded 210 million streams. Additionally, ’Somebody’ achieved 200 million, ’Shot Glass of Tears’ 183 million, and ’Too Sad To Dance’ 178 million streams. ’Seven’ entered the top 10 of Korea’s Spotify Daily Top Songs for 1,000 days. Meanwhile, Jungkook’s personal Spotify account has achieved a total of 11.578 billion streams across all credits.]]> FANNSTAR Wed, 07 Oct 2026 00:00:00 +0900 ATEEZ member San recently addressed the dating rumors that arose in Milan, Italy. On the 6th, San shared an update in the preview of the web variety show ″Salon Drip″ on the YouTube channel ″TEO Teo,″ saying, ″I just got back from Milan today.″ When host Jang Do-yeon mentioned the recent news headline ″Direct clarification on dating rumors″ and brought up the Milan dating rumors, San calmly replied, ″If it happens, then so be it.″ Wooyoung teased San, saying, ″Now he goes around saying, ’Don’t you know me?’″ to which San responded, ″Even if Wooyoung mocks me like this, I don’t feel bad.″ Earlier, on the 26th of last month, photos and videos showing San walking with a woman on the streets of Milan during Fashion Week circulated online, sparking dating rumors. In response, San clarified on his fan communication platform, ″There are dating rumors going around, but they are not true.″ He added, ″Anyway, thank you for the interest. (Someone secretly following me outside of schedule) That’s not the case. Secretly filming is wrong too. Let’s not commit crimes. Before getting caught.″ His agency, KQ Entertainment, also released an official statement explaining that the woman is a local brand representative in Milan and was moving to purchase items needed for the schedule. They also stated that a manager and local security personnel were accompanying them. Meanwhile, the full episode of ″Salon Drip,″ featuring San and Wooyoung, will be released at a later date.]]> FANNSTAR Wed, 07 Oct 2026 00:00:00 +0900 xikers has revealed the tracklist for their mini 8th album ’ROUTE ZERO : The CALLING.’ This album includes a total of six songs: ’DIENAMITE,’ ’Go,’ ’Mask off,’ ’One,’ ’DUMB,’ and ’Sanctuary.’ The tracklist image released on the official SNS featured unique objects and staging, such as a bone guitar placed on a hospital bed and an electrocardiogram monitor screen. Each song title was expressed in a different font, and the ’HR 10’ displayed on the ECG monitor represented the number of members, ’EtCO2 26’ indicated the release year 2026, while ’PR 11’ and ’PI 02’ signified the release month and date, hinting at the new album’s release date of November 2. Additionally, the graphic passing beneath the logo was reportedly created using an actual Morse code marker. Various elements such as the ECG waveform, numbers, Morse code, and bone guitar heightened curiosity about the concept and story of the new release. xikers previously released a comeback trailer featuring a mysterious narration, continuing the enigmatic atmosphere with this tracklist. xikers’s mini 8th album ’ROUTE ZERO : The CALLING’ will be released on November 2 at 6 PM on various online music platforms.]]> FANNSTAR Wed, 07 Oct 2026 00:00:00 +0900 &TEAM(&TEAM) achieved its highest-ever position at number 20 on the US Billboard main album chart, the Billboard 200. According to the latest chart dated October 10, released by Billboard on the 7th, &TEAM’s new Korean mini-album ″Mark on Me″ achieved this result. This marks &TEAM’s second entry on the Billboard 200 and a significant rise from the previous EP ″We on Fire,″ which peaked at number 52. ″Mark on Me″ topped the World Albums chart, earning &TEAM its first number one on that chart. It also ranked third on the Top Album Sales chart and 18th on the Artist 100. Meanwhile, on the main singles chart Hot 100, Jennie collaborated with Tame Impala on ″Dracula,″ which ranked 10th this week. ″Dracula″ has remained in the Hot 100 top 10 for 19 consecutive weeks, continuing the longest record for a K-pop artist. On the US all-genre radio songs chart, it recorded 62.5 million listeners, holding the number one spot for two consecutive weeks. ″Dracula″ has maintained number one for 39 weeks on the Hot Dance/Electronic Songs chart and 21 weeks on the Hot Rock & Alternative Songs chart. HYBE global girl group KATSEYE’s single ″Animal″ ranked 31st on the Hot 100. Black Pink member ROSÉ’s solo track ″newtrick″ placed 25th on the Bubbling Under Hot 100 chart. On the Billboard 200, Stray Kids’ ″THIS AND THAT″ held steady at number 34 for eight consecutive weeks. KATSEYE’s mini-album ″WILD″ ranked 39th, and the Netflix animation ″K-Pop Demon Hunters″ OST ranked 40th. BTS’s ″ARIRANG″ charted at number 43, marking 28 consecutive weeks on the chart, while Enhypen (ENHYPEN)’s mini 8th album ″THE SIN : BLISS″ remained on the chart for six weeks at number 161.]]> FANNSTAR Wed, 07 Oct 2026 00:00:00 +0900 A ’BTS Forest’ has been established at Machu Picchu, a UNESCO World Heritage site in Peru. BTS (BTS: RM, Jin, Suga, J-HOPE, Jimin, V, Jungkook) is preparing for their first concert in Peru, and local fans have organized various welcoming events, including planting 2,000 trees. Peruvian ARMY participated in the ″One Million Trees for the Machu Picchu Historical Sanctuary″ campaign held in Cusco on March 31, planting about 2,000 native trees such as Aliso, Queñua, and Chachacomo. This forest was named the ″BTS Forest,″ and the National Natural Protected Areas Service introduced their activities in a press release titled ″From Fans to Guardians of Machu Picchu.″ José Carlos Nieto Navarrete, the director, stated, ″We are seeing new participants joining conservation efforts.″ Dayana Cordova, the representative of the Peruvian fan club, said that BTS is a group that has shown commitment to environmental protection, adding, ″As Peruvian ARMY, we wanted to put that message into action. We want to show that together we can create positive change.″ The tree-planting video received over 174,000 likes on TikTok. BTS will hold their world tour ″Arirang″ concerts on the 7th, 9th, and 10th (local time) at Estadio San Marcos in Lima, Peru. This is their first full seven-member concert in Peru, and all three shows are sold out. The members arrived at Jorge Chávez International Airport in Lima on the afternoon of the 5th after finishing their concert in Bogotá, Colombia. Peruvian ARMY will host a free drone show for BTS at 8 p.m. on the 8th over Costa Verde, the coastal area of Lima, between the first and second concerts. 150 drones will create images including the BTS logo, and on the same day, paragliders will be flown to send messages to the members. This is the first time a BTS drone show has been held in Latin America. The city of Lima is also creating a welcoming atmosphere. From the 5th to the 11th, the Surco district temporarily renamed Sacramento Street to ″Avenida BTS,″ and the district’s landmark, Arco Morisco, was illuminated in purple, the symbolic color of BTS. Carlos Bruce, mayor of Surco, stated, ″We will declare BTS as honored guests of our district. We will welcome them with open arms.″ Video screenings and workshops themed around BTS are also being held at the Fountain Park and the Museum of Contemporary Art in Lima. At the concert venue, fans plan to use their phone lights to create the red and white colors of the Peruvian flag for each song. Banners with phrases such as ″Peru will follow BTS into the sun″ will be distributed at the entrance. On the last concert day, the 10th, 30,000 hearts will be distributed in celebration of Jimin’s birthday on the 13th. The Peruvian fan club also conducted the ″ROAD TO 7″ program with local governments and museums before the concerts. Machu Picchu, an ancient Inca city located at an altitude of 2,400 meters, holds special meaning for the BTS members. V has expressed his wish to visit Machu Picchu since 2020, and recently responded on Weverse that ″the place I most want to see is Machu Picchu.″ Jimin has also mentioned Machu Picchu several times.]]> FANNSTAR Wed, 07 Oct 2026 00:00:00 +0900 The stage video of ″Beautiful″ performed by Lim Young Woong has surpassed 12 million views. The video, released on Lim Young Woong’s official YouTube channel on November 13, 2020, recorded 12 million views as of October 6. This video features Lim Young Woong’s performance of ″Beautiful″ on TV Chosun’s ″Sing the Requested Song - Love Call Center.″ Lim Young Woong reinterpreted ″Beautiful,″ the OST of the drama ″Goblin″ originally sung by Crush, with their own sensibility and vocals. At the time of the broadcast, Lim Young Woong received a strong response from viewers for their clear and emotional tone and delicate expression. Lim Young Woong is recognized for showing presence not only in trot but also on emotional ballad stages.]]> FANNSTAR Wed, 07 Oct 2026 00:00:00 +0900 TXT (Soobin, Yeonjun, Beomgyu, Taehyun, Hueningkai) proved their ticket power by selling out all seats for the fifth world tour’s Seoul concert. BigHit Music announced on the 7th that tickets for ’TOMORROW X TOGETHER WORLD TOUR IN SEOUL’ sold out quickly during the general sale on October 6. The concert will be held for three days from November 13 to 15 at the KSPO DOME in Olympic Park, Songpa-gu, Seoul. Online live streaming will also be provided along with the on-site performance. The world tour will continue from Seoul to Asia, Japan, North America, and Europe. After the Seoul concert, TXT will meet local audiences at the Galaxy Arena in Macau from November 20 to 22. The Macau shows also sold out the initially scheduled two performances, leading to the addition of a first show, which also sold out. The tour name ’STEAL THE WIND’ means ’to make the flow one’s own,’ expressing the members’ determination to lead the flow and move forward in any situation. Meanwhile, TXT will release their 9th mini-album ’PERFECT STORM’ on November 16.]]> FANNSTAR Wed, 07 Oct 2026 00:00:00 +0900 Group TWS will release their second single album, ″TO US,″ on November 2nd. This new release comes about six months after their previous work, ″NO TRAGEDY.″ Their agency, Pledis Entertainment, stated, ″This new album showcases the more solid and sincere stories of TWS, who have been running tirelessly through 2026,″ and added, ″Please look forward to how the experiences and growth accumulated by the six members are reflected in this single.″ ″TO US,″ which shares the same pronunciation as the team name, contains honest stories that the six members want to convey to their fans now. The members express various emotions and concerns, offering courage and comfort to those living in the same era. TWS named fandom 42 as their most relied-upon presence and said, ″I try to believe in myself. It’s still difficult.″ Regarding the members who jumped on stage together, they said, ″I hope it’s an expression I don’t know. It will be more than a happy expression.″ Along with the comeback news, on October 7th, the ″TWS Being Together: TO US″ video was released on TWS’s official YouTube channel. The video includes interviews with the members before their performance and their unfiltered sincerity. In the latter part of the video, the members are shown throwing themselves into the stage under bright lights. Last year, TWS led the ″Angtal Challenge″ craze with the title track ″OVERDRIVE″ from their fourth mini-album ″play hard,″ and this year, their fifth mini-album ″NO TRAGEDY″ became a million-seller within four days of its release. They also expanded their overseas activities through their first Asia tour ″24/7:FOR:YOU,″ which covered 15 shows in 8 cities, as well as various festival stages.]]> FANNSTAR Wed, 07 Oct 2026 00:00:00 +0900 The new unit Jeonghan X Joshua of Seventeen is making a comeback with their first mini-album ″DREAMSCAPE.″ On the 7th, Pledis Entertainment revealed the tracklist for Jeonghan X Joshua’s first unit album through the official Seventeen channels and official SNS. This album includes a total of seven tracks: the title track ″12 o’clock,″ ″Like you,″ ″Outside,″ ″One plus one,″ ″Not personal (JOSHUA Solo),″ ″Coloring (JEONGHAN Solo),″ and ″No looking back.″ The title track ″12 o’clock″ tells a story of chasing a figure in a dream, crossing between noon and midnight. Producer BUMZU, who has worked closely with Seventeen for a long time, participated in writing and composing the song. The previously released album trailer repeatedly featured a clock pointing to 12, hinting at the connection to the new song. Jeonghan and Joshua each have solo tracks on the album. Jeonghan personally participated in writing the lyrics for ″Coloring (JEONGHAN Solo),″ and Joshua took charge of writing and composing ″Not personal (JOSHUA Solo).″ Both members are also credited on the final track, ″No looking back.″ ″DREAMSCAPE″ is an album that captures the moment when unconscious fantasies that arise while sleeping meet the ideals one wants to achieve in reality. Inspired by the Ouroboros from ancient mythology, it musically expresses the process of two dreams intersecting and colliding. Jeonghan X Joshua’s first mini-album ″DREAMSCAPE″ will be officially released on the 19th. After the album release, they will begin their solo tour ″JEONGHAN X JOSHUA JOURNEY INTO [DREAMING]″ visiting six cities. The tour will start on the 31st and the 1st of next month at Incheon Inspire Arena and continue to Saitama, Macau, Taipei, Busan, and Hong Kong.]]> FANNSTAR Wed, 07 Oct 2026 00:00:00 +0900 Lee Kwang-soo's paid communication platform messages spark controversyActor Lee Kwang-soo received rude messages, leading fans to express concern for him. The photo shows him attending the press conference for the Disney+ series 'Gridland' in April. /Reporter Kim Sung-ryeol[THE FACT | Reporter Moon Chae-young] Some messages received by actor Lee Kwang-soo on the paid communication platform Bubble are causing concern.Recently, some of the messages Lee Kwang-soo received from fans on Bubble were shared on social media and online communities. The chat logs included messages such as "Do you know me? Why are you messaging me?" and "You're disturbing me while I'm looking at my phone. I'm turning off the alarm."Lee Kwang-soo responded wittily to these messages. He replied with phrases like "I mistook you for someone I know" and "I'm addicted to my phone."However, voices of concern emerged among fans. Opinions such as "Just because Lee Kwang-soo takes it well doesn't mean you can say rude things" and "You should draw the line, even if it's a joke" followed.Bubble is a platform where users pay a monthly subscription fee to select their desired celebrity and exchange messages. It is characterized by providing an experience akin to conversing with a celebrity via personal messenger.Lee Kwang-soo launched his Bubble account on the first of this month. From day one, he garnered attention for his witty profile and background image changes, as well as his exceptional communication skills, creating a cheerful atmosphere that became a daily topic of conversation.Lee Kwang-soo, who debuted in the 2008 MBC sitcom 'That Person Is Coming', has been active in both acting and variety shows. After gaining recognition for his roles in the MBC sitcom 'High Kick Through the Roof' and the SBS variety show 'Running Man', he appeared in the Disney+ series 'Gridland', the Netflix variety show 'Yoo Jae-suk Camp', and the tvN variety show 'Where the Beans Are Sown, Melons Grow: Animal Farm' this year.mcy21@tf.co.kr[Entertainment Department | ssent@tf.co.kr]]]> FANNSTAR Wed, 07 Oct 2026 00:00:00 +0900 Key figure who led the twist in 'The Rat'... Driving force behind No. 1 box office hit in non-English speaking countries"I like the saying that good and evil coexist... I want to show new sides of myself step by step."Actor Park Yoon-ho poses for a photo before an interview at the building in Sangam-dong, Mapo-gu, Seoul, on the 30th. /Reporter Park Heon-woo[THE FACT|Reporter Kim Saet-byul] 'The Rat' is definitely special for actor Park Yoon-ho. He broke away from playing a student in a school uniform and, for the first time, portrayed an adult character, appearing as a pivotal figure in the work's major twist. Although his screen time was short, the burden was significant as he had to overturn the narrative. However, Park Yoon-ho did not shy away from this pressure and confronted it head-on. Through 'The Rat,' he gained confidence in his growth.Park Yoon-ho recently met with reporters at the building in Sangam-dong, Mapo-gu, Seoul, for an interview regarding the release of the Netflix original series 'The Rat' (written by Lee Jae-gon, directed by Kim Hong-sun). He played Seo Yu-min, a college friend of Moon-jae (played by Ryu Jun-yeol) and the central figure of the incident, and shared various stories about the work and his character.'The Rat,' which released all 10 episodes on August 10th, tells the story of novelist Moon-jae, whose name, face, and life were stolen by a mysterious entity known as 'The Rat.' He teams up with loan shark No-ja (played by Sol Kyung-gu) and detective Sun-yong (played by Lee Kyu-hyung) to track down the identity of 'The Rat' as he tries to recover the stolen money.Speaking at an interview held some time after the work's release, he shared his thoughts, "Filming ended much earlier, didn't it? Perhaps because of that, memories I had forgotten were brought back, giving me a chance to reflect."Park Yoon-ho is still amazed by the attention he has received since the work's release. He found it particularly meaningful to play an important role in the work, despite his short appearance. "I didn't expect to receive so much attention," he said, adding, "I heard it ranked No. 1 in non-English speaking countries, which feels very special."A particularly memorable reaction was the assessment that he had matured significantly compared to his previous works. Park Yoon-ho said, "People who saw me in my previous works told me I had become more adult-like, that I seemed to have shed my youthful image." In this work, unlike his previous roles where he wore a school uniform, he showed the face of an adult character. When asked about this, Park Yoon-ho chuckled, saying, "I was a college student when I wore a school uniform, and I'm still a college student now. So, I finally got to play a role at my actual age."Yu-min was more than just an adult character challenge for Park Yoon-ho. Above all, he played a crucial role that connected to the identity of 'The Rat' in the latter half of the drama. Recalling when he first received the scripts for episodes 9 and 10, Park Yoon-ho confessed, "I realized I had to play such an important role. I ended up leaving class, saying I was going to the restroom. I was consumed by worry and contemplation alone and couldn't escape it for a while."The first emotion he grasped while portraying Yu-min was 'sadness.' He believed that the sadness of losing a loved one led to anger and revenge. Park Yoon-ho explained, "Because he lost everything, that sadness seemed to be the beginning of all his emotions. While carrying that sadness, he suppressed it and harbored a wicked anger to retaliate, and he also had the composure to plan it all out."Therefore, he did not view Yu-min's revenge as an unconditionally righteous act. Park Yoon-ho pointed out, "In the end, I don't think he truly overcame anything. 'The Rat' didn't have a happy ending. I think it led him down a path of further destruction, making one question whether that revenge was the right course of action."Actor Park Yoon-ho poses for a photo before an interview at the building in Sangam-dong, Mapo-gu, Seoul, on the 30th. /Reporter Park Heon-wooWhile Yu-min's revenge is extreme, Park Yoon-ho's process of understanding the character started from realistic relationships. He particularly imagined Yu-min's relationship with his girlfriend. Since they had no one else to rely on, Yu-min's girlfriend was his sole existence, and thus, the void he felt upon losing her must have been immense. Park Yoon-ho recalled, "I tried to build Yu-min's emotions by imagining the details of their relationship."Another important task was to differentiate the tone of his performance in the early and later parts of the drama, rather than revealing Yu-min's emotions all at once. Park Yoon-ho said, "There were times when I had to appear as a bad person for the sake of the plot, and times when I didn't. There were many elements that required ambiguity. Personally, I felt that showing too much emotion would be disadvantageous." To achieve this, he expressed only what was written in the script but added subtle clues by putting effort into even passing lines.The scene where he finally reveals the truth was a valuable experience for Park Yoon-ho. Initially, he thought Yu-min's lines would be delivered as narration, but before filming, he was told that the scene would be shot live, capturing both his face and voice. Ultimately, he had to deliver the approximately 5-6 minute scene in one breath."For a rookie like me, getting an opportunity to carry a long scene with my own breath isn't easy. Through this experience, I felt the pressure, but I believe I'll be able to do well if another opportunity arises, based on the experience from 'The Rat.'"Actor Park Yoon-ho poses for a photo before an interview at the building in Sangam-dong, Mapo-gu, Seoul, on the 30th. /Reporter Park Heon-wooUpon seeing the completed scene, he understood the director's choice. As past scenes were intercut with a montage, Park Yoon-ho's present self carried the emotional continuity. He remarked, "If it had been just narration, I don't think the same level of emotion would have come through. Because it was my voice, delivered with actual breathing and expressions, it seemed to connect well with the scenes. I was surprised myself."However, the pressure was natural, given it was his first and most significant opportunity, and the support from the set was crucial in overcoming it. Director Kim Hong-sun and Ryu Jun-yeol revisited the emotional intensity Yu-min needed to convey after rehearsals, and Ryu Jun-yeol further explained it in a way that Park Yoon-ho could easily understand.Ryu Jun-yeol's advice, as well as his mere presence, helped ease Park Yoon-ho's tension. Park Yoon-ho expressed his gratitude, saying, "The senior actor made me feel very comfortable and often initiated playful interactions. He also gave me many small tips. As someone who gets very nervous, I was stiff, but he showed me various ways to approach it and told me, 'You can do whatever you want comfortably.'"How will 'The Rat,' a work that left such a strong impression and presented a new challenge, be remembered by Park Yoon-ho? He described it as "a work that served as a running start to move on to the next stage.""It was a good turning point, like gathering momentum on a staircase before taking the next step. It was my first adult role, and I was able to handle difficult scenes based on my past experiences. These experiences feel like I've fought the first round for what's to come. (Laughs)"Actor Park Yoon-ho poses for a photo before an interview at the building in Sangam-dong, Mapo-gu, Seoul, on the 30th. /Reporter Park Heon-wooNow, Park Yoon-ho is heading towards new faces. In his next project, 'Proxy College Entrance Exam,' he will wear a school uniform again, but it's not the same uniform for him. He plans to show different sides of himself through various other works, including 'Great Bang Ok-sook' and 'Promoter.'Park Yoon-ho is preparing for another step up after 'The Rat.' He said, "I feel that my upcoming projects all have diverse aspects. As those works will be released one by one, I hope you will watch them with anticipation for my new transformations. There are still many sides of me that I haven't shown, so I will work hard to present them to you in a good light.""I want to continue showing new sides of myself, step by step, for a long time, without rushing. Rather than envisioning a distant future, my priority right now is to quietly fulfill my role within the given projects. There are still many aspects of myself that I haven't revealed, so I hope you will watch with anticipation for Park Yoon-ho's new transformations as I reveal them one by one."sstar1204@tf.co.kr[Entertainment Department | ssent@tf.co.kr]]]> FANNSTAR Wed, 07 Oct 2026 00:00:00 +0900 Producer Baek Kyung-sook and actors Kim Dong-hwi, Jeon So-young, Lee Hee-joon, Shim Eun-kyung, Jang Ryul, Han Sun-hwa, Joo Jong-hyuk, Kim Min-ha, and director Kim Jong-kwan (from left) of the film 'Day and Night for Each Other' walk the red carpet at the opening ceremony of the '31st Busan International Film Festival (BIFF)' held at the Busan Cinema Center in Haeundae-gu, Busan on the afternoon of the 6th. /Busan=Reporter Kim Sung-ryeol[THE FACT | Busan=Reporter Kim Sung-ryeol] Producer Baek Kyung-sook and actors Kim Dong-hwi, Jeon So-young, Lee Hee-joon, Shim Eun-kyung, Jang Ryul, Han Sun-hwa, Joo Jong-hyuk, Kim Min-ha, and director Kim Jong-kwan (from left) of the film 'Day and Night for Each Other' walk the red carpet at the opening ceremony of the '31st Busan International Film Festival (BIFF)' held at the Busan Cinema Center in Haeundae-gu, Busan on the afternoon of the 6th. ksr@tf.co.krphoto@tf.co.kr]]> FANNSTAR Tue, 06 Oct 2026 00:00:00 +0900 Director Lee Chang-dong and actors Jo Yeo-jeong, Jeon Do-yeon, and Sol Kyung-gu (from left) walk the red carpet at the '31st Busan International Film Festival (BIFF)' held at the Busan Cinema Center in Haeundae-gu, Busan on the afternoon of the 6th. /Busan=Reporter Park Heon-woo[THE FACT|Busan=Reporter Park Heon-woo] Director Lee Chang-dong of Netflix film 'Love and Other Drugs' and actors Jo Yeo-jeong, Jeon Do-yeon, and Sol Kyung-gu (from left) walk the red carpet at the '31st Busan International Film Festival (BIFF)' held at the Busan Cinema Center in Haeundae-gu, Busan on the afternoon of the 6th.The '31st Busan International Film Festival (BIFF)' will be held from today until the 15th for ten days at the Busan Cinema Center and various locations in Busan.A total of 315 films, including 246 official invitations from 59 countries, will be screened on 31 screens in 8 theaters in the Haeundae area.The opening film, Director Kim Jong-kwan's 'Day and Night Are for Each Other,' will be shown for the first time, and 14 films have been invited to compete in the competition section. cjg05023@tf.co.krPhoto Video Planning Department photo@tf.co.kr]]> FANNSTAR Tue, 06 Oct 2026 00:00:00 +0900 Director Hirokazu Kore-eda (right) and the lead actors of the film "After the Storm" walk the red carpet at the opening ceremony of the 31st Busan International Film Festival (BIFF) held at the Busan Cinema Center in Haeundae-gu, Busan on the afternoon of the 6th. /Busan=Kim Sung-ryeol, Reporter[THE FACT | Busan=Kim Sung-ryeol, Reporter] Director Hirokazu Kore-eda (right) and the lead actors of the film "After the Storm" walk the red carpet at the opening ceremony of the 31st Busan International Film Festival (BIFF) held at the Busan Cinema Center in Haeundae-gu, Busan on the afternoon of the 6th. ksr@tf.co.krphoto@tf.co.kr]]> FANNSTAR Tue, 06 Oct 2026 00:00:00 +0900 Actress Michelle Yeoh walks the red carpet at the '31st Busan International Film Festival (BIFF)' held at the Busan Cinema Center in Haeundae-gu, Busan on the afternoon of the 6th. /Busan=Reporter Park Heon-woo[THE FACT|Busan=Reporter Park Heon-woo] Actress Michelle Yeoh walks the red carpet at the '31st Busan International Film Festival (BIFF)' held at the Busan Cinema Center in Haeundae-gu, Busan on the afternoon of the 6th.The '31st Busan International Film Festival (BIFF)' will be held from today until the 15th for ten days at the Busan Cinema Center and various locations in Busan.A total of 315 films, including 246 official selections from 59 countries, will be screened on 31 screens across 8 theaters in the Haeundae area.The opening film, Director Kim Jong-kwan's 'Night and Day', will be shown for the first time, and 14 films have been invited to compete for awards in the competition section. cjg05023@tf.co.krPhoto Video Planning Department photo@tf.co.kr]]> FANNSTAR Tue, 06 Oct 2026 00:00:00 +0900 Actors Zo In-sung&Eum Moon-suk, director Na Hong-jin, and actor Hwang Jung-min (from left) walk the red carpet at the '31st Busan International Film Festival (BIFF)' held at the Busan Cinema Center in Haeundae-gu, Busan on the afternoon of the 6th. /Busan=Park Heon-woo reporter[THE FACT|Busan=Park Heon-woo reporter] Actors Zo In-sung&Eum Moon-suk, director Na Hong-jin, and actor Hwang Jung-min (from left) walk the red carpet at the '31st Busan International Film Festival (BIFF)' held at the Busan Cinema Center in Haeundae-gu, Busan on the afternoon of the 6th.The '31st Busan International Film Festival (BIFF)' will be held for ten days from today until the 15th at various locations in Busan, including the Busan Cinema Center.A total of 315 films, including 246 official invitations from 59 countries, will be screened on 31 screens in 8 theaters in the Haeundae area.The opening film, 'Day and Night for Each Other' by director Kim Jong-kwan, will be shown for the first time, and 14 films have been invited to compete for awards. cjg05023@tf.co.krPhoto Video Planning Department photo@tf.co.kr]]> FANNSTAR Tue, 06 Oct 2026 00:00:00 +0900 Actors Moon Sung-hyun&Choi Ju-eun, Kim Hye-ja, Park Seo-kyung, and director Song Il-gon (from left) walk the red carpet at the opening ceremony of the '31st Busan International Film Festival (BIFF)' held at the Busan Cinema Center in Haeundae-gu, Busan on the afternoon of the 6th. /Busan=Kim Sung-ryeol reporter[THE FACT | Busan=Kim Sung-ryeol reporter] Actors Moon Sung-hyun&Choi Ju-eun, Kim Hye-ja, Park Seo-kyung, and director Song Il-gon (from left) walk the red carpet at the opening ceremony of the '31st Busan International Film Festival (BIFF)' held at the Busan Cinema Center in Haeundae-gu, Busan on the afternoon of the 6th. ksr@tf.co.krphoto@tf.co.kr]]> FANNSTAR Tue, 06 Oct 2026 00:00:00 +0900 Kim Min-ha's solo hosting as it opens today (6th)Stars including Kim Hye-ja, Jeon Do-yeon, Sol Kyung-gu, and Yang Ja-kyung all appeared.Actors Kim Hye-ja, Fan Bingbing, Hwang Jung-min, Hyun Bin, Jung Woo-sung, Woo Do-hwan, Hsieh Yu-chieh, and Son Suk-ku (from top left, clockwise) graced the red carpet at the '31st Busan International Film Festival (BIFF)' held at the Busan Cinema Center in Haeundae-gu, Busan on the afternoon of October 6. /Busan=Reporter Park Heon-woo, Reporter Kim Sung-ryeol[THE FACT|Busan=Park Ji-yoon Reporter] The 31st Busan International Film Festival (BIFF) kicked off on a Tuesday for the first time in its history. Having successfully established its international standing by introducing a competition section last year, the festival is now ready to welcome more audiences along with numerous film industry stars.The opening ceremony of the 31st Busan International Film Festival was held on the evening of October 6 at the Outdoor Theater of the Busan Cinema Center in U-dong, Haeundae-gu, Busan. The event was broadcast live through Naver Chiizik, and Korean actors including Kim Min-ha, who was the sole host, and actors Kim Hye-ja, Jeon Do-yeon, Sol Kyung-gu, Jo In-sung, Jo Yeo-jeong, Hwang Jung-min, Hyun Bin, Jung Woo-sung, Woo Do-hwan, and Son Suk-ku, as well as Asian stars such as Fan Bingbing and Michelle Yeoh, graced the red carpet, heating up the atmosphere.The Busan International Film Festival has become a major global film festival, standing shoulder-to-shoulder with Cannes, Berlin, and Venice, after being selected as an 'A-list film festival' by the International Federation of Film Producers Associations (FIAPF). Among these, this year's event is expected to allow the public to choose and enjoy a wider variety of films, as the opening day, originally a Wednesday, has been moved up one day, taking into account the concentration of audience visits and viewings in the first week of the festival.Kim Min-ha, who hosted the event, said powerfully, "Last year, the Busan International Film Festival turned thirty and became stronger, and this year, we are not staying put but taking a step forward towards the world." The photo shows attendees walking the red carpet at the '31st Busan International Film Festival (BIFF)' held at the Busan Cinema Center in Haeundae-gu, Busan on the afternoon of October 6. /Busan=Park Heon-woo reporterActor Kim Min-ha, who took the stage as the sole host for the meaningful occasion, mentioned her acting projects "Pachinko" and "Gyeongseong Creature," saying, "I was really scared to be on this stage today, but I suddenly thought, 'The protagonists of those two works must have been just as scared of the path they were taking for the first time.' However, they walked, and their stories remained. When I think about it, making a movie is like venturing down an unknown path, so I don't think it's any different for everyone here today," she began.He then declared, "This time last year, on this very stage, senior Lee Byung-hun said, 'Every story has a beginning,' and ten days later, at the closing ceremony, Su-hyun replied, 'This is not the end, but another beginning.' Today, I pick up the story from that other beginning. Last year, the Busan International Film Festival turned thirty and became stronger, and this year, we are not staying put but taking a step forward into the world."The Busan International Film Festival (BIFF) has achieved a remarkable feat by being selected as an 'A-list film festival' by the International Federation of Film Producers Associations (FIAPF) this year, placing it alongside major world film festivals such as Cannes, Berlin, and Venice. The photo shows actors Jo In-sung, Jo Yeo-jeong, Sol Kyung-gu, and Jeon Do-yeon, and director Lee Chang-dong walking the red carpet at the opening ceremony of the '31st Busan International Film Festival (BIFF)' held at the Busan Cinema Center in Haeundae-gu, Busan on the afternoon of October 6. /Busan=Reporter Kim Sung-ryeolThe Busan International Film Festival's competition section, now in its second year, boasts an even more robust lineup based on its inaugural success. This year, they will present the 'Busan Award' in five categories to 13 Asian films that demonstrate both high quality and unique individuality. As the winner of the 'Busan Award Grand Prize' will be eligible to submit for the Academy Award for Best International Feature Film, the results are highly anticipated.In this atmosphere, the seven-member jury, including jury president director Zhang Yimou, director Vigano, director Ishikawa Kei, director Jung Ju-ri, and Kazakh actress Samal Yeslyamova and Choi Hee-seo, took the stage and captured attention.Director Jung July said, "I felt the weight of responsibility and a sense of frustration as a jury member, but as I came down today, I thought, 'Let's judge with the anticipation and excitement that there will be films that shake me.' I will be moved by each film, just like the passionate and serious audience of Busan, the most enthusiastic and serious in the world."Additionally, Maggie Gyllenhaal, an actress and director who will serve as the jury president for the competition section of this year's Venice International Film Festival, will visit Korea for the first time. Academy Award-winning director Alfonso Cuarón, and French actresses Isabelle Huppert and Charlotte Gainsbourg will also visit Busan. Furthermore, prominent filmmakers from Korea and abroad who have been active in the global film industry, such as Lee Chang-dong, Na Hong-jin, Kim Jee-woon, and Hirokazu Kore-eda, will grace the film festival.Michelle Yeoh, who became the recipient of this year's Asian Filmmaker of the Year award, said, "It is very meaningful to return to Busan after so many years. Looking back on my film career, one thing is clear: no one can do this job alone." The photo shows her walking the red carpet at the '31st Busan International Film Festival (BIFF)' held at the Busan Cinema Center in Haeundae-gu, Busan on the afternoon of October 6. /Busan=Reporter Kim Sung-ryeolThis year's Asian Film Maker of the Year award goes to Hong Kong actress Michelle Yeoh. This award is presented annually to an Asian filmmaker or organization that has demonstrated the most outstanding achievements in the development of the Asian film industry and culture.After 15 years since "The Lady" (2011), Michelle Yeoh, who visited Busan, began by saying "Thank you" in Korean. She continued, "It is very meaningful to return to Busan after so many years. Looking back at my film career, one thing is clear: no one can do this alone," she said, attributing the success to "the people behind every film who believe in you, encourage you to take on challenges, and stand by you."Kim Dong-ho, former chairman of the Busan International Film Festival, who laid the foundation for the festival, received the Korean Cinema Award. He revealed his unwavering passion, stating, "I plan to continue working to promote Korean cinema," and the audience, including Korean actors, stood up and gave a standing ovation to express their respect. Ann Hui, a Chinese director, screenwriter, and producer, lifted the Camellia Award.In addition to "Beautiful Days, Ahn Sung-ki," which commemorates the legacy of the late Ahn Sung-ki, who passed away last January, in Korean cinema, and "Japanese Animation Special Exhibition: Masterpieces of Madness, 12+1 Anticipated Works of Thrills," which covers the past and present of Japanese animation, and "Michelle Yeoh: All the Time, Everywhere," which highlights the cinematic world of Michelle Yeoh, various special programs are set to enrich the film festival.The finale of the opening ceremony was decorated by the team of the opening film 'Day and Night' (Director Kim Jong-kwan). Director Kim Jong-kwan, who took the megaphone, along with actors Kim Min-ha&Joo Jong-hyuk&Han Sun-hwa&Jang Ryul&Lee Hee-joon&Shim Eun-kyung&Jeon So-young&Kim Dong-hwi, took the stage to greet the audience.Director Kim expressed his excitement, saying, "I'm very excited to stand before the audience who will see the film I worked hard on for the first time, and before the lovely and respected filmmakers who create a wonderful welcome based on many realities. 'Day and Night to Each Other' is a work that aims to talk about the beauty of small and trivial things. As it deals with various aspects of life with a fleeting cross-section, I hope that as the audience discusses the story on their way home after watching the movie, it will lead to another movie."The 31st Busan International Film Festival, which kicked off today, will be held at the Busan Cinema Center and various locations in Busan until October 15. This year's festival will screen a total of 316 diverse films from 59 countries, including 69 films from Community BIFF, across 31 screens in 8 theaters, including the Busan Cinema Center, throughout Busan.[Entertainment Department | ssent@tf.co.kr]jiyoon-1031@tf.co.kr]]> FANNSTAR Tue, 06 Oct 2026 00:00:00 +0900 Actress Kim Hye-ja walks the red carpet at the '31st Busan International Film Festival (BIFF)' held at the Busan Cinema Center in Haeundae-gu, Busan on the afternoon of the 6th. /Busan=Reporter Park Heon-woo[THE FACT|Busan=Reporter Park Heon-woo] Actress Kim Hye-ja walks the red carpet at the '31st Busan International Film Festival (BIFF)' held at the Busan Cinema Center in Haeundae-gu, Busan on the afternoon of the 6th.The '31st Busan International Film Festival (BIFF)' will be held from today until the 15th for ten days at the Busan Cinema Center and various locations in Busan.A total of 315 films, including 246 official invited films from 59 countries, will be screened on 31 screens at 8 theaters in the Haeundae area.Director Kim Jong-kwan's 'Day and Night Are For Each Other' will be premiered as the opening film, and 14 films have been invited to compete for awards.cjg05023@tf.co.krPhoto&Video Planning Department photo@tf.co.kr]]> FANNSTAR Tue, 06 Oct 2026 00:00:00 +0900 Actor Yoon Kyung-ho walks the red carpet at the opening ceremony of the '31st Busan International Film Festival (BIFF)' held at the Busan Cinema Center in Haeundae-gu, Busan on the afternoon of the 6th. /Busan=Reporter Kim Sung-ryeol[THE FACT | Busan=Reporter Kim Sung-ryeol] Actor Yoon Kyung-ho walks the red carpet at the opening ceremony of the '31st Busan International Film Festival (BIFF)' held at the Busan Cinema Center in Haeundae-gu, Busan on the afternoon of the 6th. ksr@tf.co.krphoto@tf.co.kr]]> FANNSTAR Tue, 06 Oct 2026 00:00:00 +0900 Actors Lee Hee-joon and Kim Min-ha, director Kim Da-min, and actor Yoon Kyung-ho (from left) walk the red carpet at the '31st Busan International Film Festival (BIFF)' held at the Busan Cinema Center in Haeundae-gu, Busan on the afternoon of the 6th. /Busan=Reporter Park Heon-woo[THE FACT|Busan=Reporter Park Heon-woo] Actors Lee Hee-joon and Kim Min-ha, director Kim Da-min, and actor Yoon Kyung-ho (from left) of the new Netflix series 'Honey Job' walk the red carpet at the '31st Busan International Film Festival (BIFF)' held at the Busan Cinema Center in Haeundae-gu, Busan on the afternoon of the 6th.The '31st Busan International Film Festival (BIFF)' will be held from today until the 15th for ten days at various locations in Busan, including the Busan Cinema Center.A total of 315 films, including 246 official invitations from 59 countries, will be screened on 31 screens at 8 theaters in the Haeundae area.The opening film, director Kim Jong-kwan's 'Day and Night Are for Each Other,' will be shown for the first time, and 14 films have been invited to the competition section to vie for awards. cjg05023@tf.co.krPhoto Video Planning Department photo@tf.co.kr]]> FANNSTAR Tue, 06 Oct 2026 00:00:00 +0900 Actors Park Mi-so, Kwon Hae-hyo, and Shin Seok-ho (from left) of director Hong Sang-soo's new film "The Novelist's Film" walk the red carpet at the "31st Busan International Film Festival (BIFF)" held at the Busan Cinema Center in Haeundae-gu, Busan on the afternoon of the 6th. /Busan=Reporter Park Heon-woo[THE FACT|Busan=Reporter Park Heon-woo] Actors Park Mi-so, Kwon Hae-hyo, and Shin Seok-ho (from left) of director Hong Sang-soo's new film "The Novelist's Film" walk the red carpet at the "31st Busan International Film Festival (BIFF)" held at the Busan Cinema Center in Haeundae-gu, Busan on the afternoon of the 6th.The "31st Busan International Film Festival (BIFF)" will be held for ten days from today until the 15th at various locations in Busan, including the Busan Cinema Center.A total of 315 films, including 246 official invitations from 59 countries, will be screened on 31 screens across 8 theaters in the Haeundae area.Director Kim Jong-kwan's "The Day the Sun Rises" will be screened as the opening film, and 14 films have been invited to compete for awards.cjg05023@tf.co.krphoto@tf.co.kr]]> FANNSTAR Tue, 06 Oct 2026 00:00:00 +0900 Actors Woo Do-hwan&Jung Woo-sung&Hyun Bin (from left) walk the red carpet at the '31st Busan International Film Festival (BIFF)' held at the Busan Cinema Center in Haeundae-gu, Busan on the afternoon of the 6th. /Busan=Park Heon-woo reporter[THE FACT|Busan=Park Heon-woo reporter] Actors Woo Do-hwan&Jung Woo-sung&Hyun Bin (from left) walk the red carpet at the '31st Busan International Film Festival (BIFF)' held at the Busan Cinema Center in Haeundae-gu, Busan on the afternoon of the 6th.The '31st Busan International Film Festival (BIFF)' will be held for ten days from today until the 15th at various locations in Busan, including the Busan Cinema Center.A total of 315 films, including 246 official selections from 59 countries, will be screened on 31 screens in 8 theaters in the Haeundae area for this film festival.The opening film, Director Kim Jong-kwan's 'Day and Night Are Each Other', will be shown for the first time, and 14 films have been invited to the competition section to vie for awards. cjg05023@tf.co.krPhoto Video Planning Department photo@tf.co.kr]]> FANNSTAR Tue, 06 Oct 2026 00:00:00 +0900 Actor Hwang Jung-min walks the red carpet at the opening ceremony of the '31st Busan International Film Festival (BIFF)' held at the Busan Cinema Center in Haeundae-gu, Busan on the afternoon of the 6th. /Busan=Reporter Kim Sung-ryeol[THE FACT | Busan=Reporter Kim Sung-ryeol] Actor Hwang Jung-min walks the red carpet at the opening ceremony of the '31st Busan International Film Festival (BIFF)' held at the Busan Cinema Center in Haeundae-gu, Busan on the afternoon of the 6th.ksr@tf.co.krphoto@tf.co.kr]]> FANNSTAR Tue, 06 Oct 2026 00:00:00 +0900 Actors Jo In-sung&Cho Yeo-jeong, Sol Kyung-gu, Jeon Do-yeon, and director Lee Chang-dong (from left) walk the red carpet at the opening ceremony of the '31st Busan International Film Festival (BIFF)' held at the Busan Cinema Center in Haeundae-gu, Busan on the afternoon of the 6th. /Busan=Kim Seong-ryeol reporter[THE FACT | Busan=Kim Seong-ryeol reporter] Actors Jo In-sung&Cho Yeo-jeong, Sol Kyung-gu, Jeon Do-yeon, and director Lee Chang-dong attend the opening ceremony of the '31st Busan International Film Festival (BIFF)' held at the Busan Cinema Center in Haeundae-gu, Busan on the afternoon of the 6th and walk the red carpet. ksr@tf.co.krphoto@tf.co.kr]]> FANNSTAR Tue, 06 Oct 2026 00:00:00 +0900 Actress Michelle Yeoh walks the red carpet at the opening ceremony of the '31st Busan International Film Festival (BIFF)' held at the Busan Cinema Center in Haeundae-gu, Busan on the afternoon of the 6th. /Busan=Reporter Kim Sung-ryeol[THE FACT | Busan=Reporter Kim Sung-ryeol] Actress Michelle Yeoh walks the red carpet at the opening ceremony of the '31st Busan International Film Festival (BIFF)' held at the Busan Cinema Center in Haeundae-gu, Busan on the afternoon of the 6th. ksr@tf.co.krphoto@tf.co.kr]]> FANNSTAR Tue, 06 Oct 2026 00:00:00 +0900 Actor Son Suk-ku walks the red carpet at the '31st Busan International Film Festival (BIFF)' held at the Busan Cinema Center in Haeundae-gu, Busan on the afternoon of the 6th. /Busan=Reporter Park Heon-woo[THE FACT|Busan=Reporter Park Heon-woo] Actor Son Suk-ku walks the red carpet at the '31st Busan International Film Festival (BIFF)' held at the Busan Cinema Center in Haeundae-gu, Busan on the afternoon of the 6th.The '31st Busan International Film Festival (BIFF)' will be held from today until the 15th for ten days at the Busan Cinema Center and various locations in Busan.A total of 315 films, including 246 official invited films from 59 countries, will be screened on 31 screens in 8 theaters in the Haeundae area.The opening film, Director Kim Jong-kwan's 'Night and Day', will be shown for the first time, and 14 films have been invited to compete for awards in the competition section.cjg05023@tf.co.krPhoto Video Planning Department photo@tf.co.kr]]> FANNSTAR Tue, 06 Oct 2026 00:00:00 +0900 Actor KIM DOYEON walks the red carpet at the opening ceremony of the '31st Busan International Film Festival (BIFF)' held at the Busan Cinema Center in Haeundae-gu, Busan on the afternoon of the 6th. /Busan=Reporter Kim Sung-ryeol[THE FACT | Busan=Reporter Kim Sung-ryeol] Actor KIM DOYEON walks the red carpet at the opening ceremony of the '31st Busan International Film Festival (BIFF)' held at the Busan Cinema Center in Haeundae-gu, Busan on the afternoon of the 6th. ksr@tf.co.krphoto@tf.co.kr]]> FANNSTAR Tue, 06 Oct 2026 00:00:00 +0900 Actor KIM DOYEON walks the red carpet at the '31st Busan International Film Festival (BIFF)' held at the Busan Cinema Center in Haeundae-gu, Busan on the afternoon of the 6th. /Busan=Reporter Park Heon-woo[THE FACT|Busan=Reporter Park Heon-woo] Actor KIM DOYEON walks the red carpet at the '31st Busan International Film Festival (BIFF)' held at the Busan Cinema Center in Haeundae-gu, Busan on the afternoon of the 6th.The '31st Busan International Film Festival (BIFF)' will be held from today until the 15th for ten days at various locations in Busan, including the Busan Cinema Center.A total of 315 films, including 246 officially invited films from 59 countries, will be screened on 31 screens in 8 theaters in the Haeundae area.The opening film, Director Kim Jong-kwan's 'Day and Night Are to Each Other,' will be shown for the first time, and 14 films have been invited to compete for awards in the competition section.cjg05023@tf.co.krPhoto Video Planning Department photo@tf.co.kr]]> FANNSTAR Tue, 06 Oct 2026 00:00:00 +0900 Actors Yoo Jae-myung (left) and Ryu Hyun-kyung walk the red carpet at the '31st Busan International Film Festival (BIFF)' held at the Busan Cinema Center in Haeundae-gu, Busan on the afternoon of the 6th. /Busan=Reporter Park Heon-woo[THE FACT|Busan=Reporter Park Heon-woo] Actors Yoo Jae-myung (left) and Ryu Hyun-kyung walk the red carpet at the '31st Busan International Film Festival (BIFF)' held at the Busan Cinema Center in Haeundae-gu, Busan on the afternoon of the 6th.The '31st Busan International Film Festival (BIFF)' will be held from today until the 15th for ten days at various locations in Busan, including the Busan Cinema Center.A total of 315 films, including 246 official invitations from 59 countries, will be screened on 31 screens at 8 theaters in the Haeundae area.The opening film, Director Kim Jong-kwan's 'Day and Night Are for Each Other', will be shown for the first time, and 14 films have been invited to compete for awards.cjg05023@tf.co.krphoto@tf.co.kr]]> FANNSTAR Tue, 06 Oct 2026 00:00:00 +0900 Busan Mayor Jeon Jae-soo walks the red carpet at the '31st Busan International Film Festival (BIFF)' held at the Busan Cinema Center in Haeundae-gu, Busan on the afternoon of the 6th. /Busan=Reporter Park Heon-woo[THE FACT|Busan=Reporter Park Heon-woo] Busan Mayor Jeon Jae-soo walks the red carpet at the '31st Busan International Film Festival (BIFF)' held at the Busan Cinema Center in Haeundae-gu, Busan on the afternoon of the 6th.The '31st Busan International Film Festival (BIFF)' will be held from today until the 15th for ten days at the Busan Cinema Center and various locations in Busan.A total of 315 films, including 246 official invitations from 59 countries, will be screened on 31 screens at 8 theaters in the Haeundae area.The opening film, 'Day and Night Are For Each Other' by director Kim Jong-kwan, will be shown for the first time, and 14 films have been invited to compete for awards.cjg05023@tf.co.krPhoto&Video Planning Department photo@tf.co.kr]]> FANNSTAR Tue, 06 Oct 2026 00:00:00 +0900 (G)I-DLE SHUHUA walks the red carpet at the opening ceremony of the '31st Busan International Film Festival (BIFF)' held at the Busan Cinema Center in Haeundae-gu, Busan on the afternoon of the 6th. /Busan=Reporter Kim Sung-ryeol[THE FACT | Busan=Reporter Kim Sung-ryeol] (G)I-DLE SHUHUA walks the red carpet at the opening ceremony of the '31st Busan International Film Festival (BIFF)' held at the Busan Cinema Center in Haeundae-gu, Busan on the afternoon of the 6th. ksr@tf.co.krphoto@tf.co.kr]]> FANNSTAR Tue, 06 Oct 2026 00:00:00 +0900 Actress Fan Bingbing walks the red carpet at the opening ceremony of the '31st Busan International Film Festival (BIFF)' held at the Busan Cinema Center in Haeundae-gu, Busan on the afternoon of the 6th. /Busan=Reporter Kim Sung-ryeol[THE FACT | Busan=Reporter Kim Sung-ryeol] Actress Fan Bingbing walks the red carpet at the opening ceremony of the '31st Busan International Film Festival (BIFF)' held at the Busan Cinema Center in Haeundae-gu, Busan on the afternoon of the 6th. ksr@tf.co.krphoto@tf.co.kr]]> FANNSTAR Tue, 06 Oct 2026 00:00:00 +0900 Kim Tae-ho PD walks the red carpet at the '31st Busan International Film Festival (BIFF)' held at the Busan Cinema Center in Haeundae-gu, Busan on the afternoon of the 6th. /Busan=Reporter Park Heon-woo[THE FACT|Busan=Reporter Park Heon-woo] Kim Tae-ho PD walks the red carpet at the '31st Busan International Film Festival (BIFF)' held at the Busan Cinema Center in Haeundae-gu, Busan on the afternoon of the 6th.The '31st Busan International Film Festival (BIFF)' will be held from today until the 15th for ten days at the Busan Cinema Center and various locations in Busan.A total of 315 films, including 246 official invited films from 59 countries, will be screened on 31 screens in 8 theaters in the Haeundae area for this film festival.Kim Jong-kwan's 'Day and Night Are for Each Other' will be premiered as the opening film, and 14 films have been invited to compete for awards.cjg05023@tf.co.krPhoto Video Planning Department photo@tf.co.kr]]> FANNSTAR Tue, 06 Oct 2026 00:00:00 +0900 (G)I-DLE SHUHUA walks the red carpet at the '31st Busan International Film Festival (BIFF)' held at the Busan Cinema Center in Haeundae-gu, Busan on the afternoon of the 6th. /Busan=Reporter Park Heon-woo[THE FACT|Busan=Reporter Park Heon-woo] (G)I-DLE SHUHUA walks the red carpet at the '31st Busan International Film Festival (BIFF)' held at the Busan Cinema Center in Haeundae-gu, Busan on the afternoon of the 6th.The '31st Busan International Film Festival (BIFF)' will be held from today until the 15th for ten days at various locations in Busan, including the Busan Cinema Center.A total of 315 films, including 246 official invited films from 59 countries, will be screened at 31 screens in 8 theaters in the Haeundae area for this film festival.The opening film, Director Kim Jong-kwan's 'Night and Day', will be shown for the first time, and 14 works have been invited to the competition section to compete for awards.cjg05023@tf.co.krPhoto Video Planning Team photo@tf.co.kr]]> FANNSTAR Tue, 06 Oct 2026 00:00:00 +0900 Actress Fan Bingbing walks the red carpet at the '31st Busan International Film Festival (BIFF)' held at the Busan Cinema Center in Haeundae-gu, Busan on the afternoon of the 6th. /Busan=Reporter Park Heon-woo[THE FACT|Busan=Reporter Park Heon-woo] Actress Fan Bingbing walks the red carpet at the '31st Busan International Film Festival (BIFF)' held at the Busan Cinema Center in Haeundae-gu, Busan on the afternoon of the 6th.The '31st Busan International Film Festival (BIFF)' will be held from today until the 15th for ten days at the Busan Cinema Center and various other locations in Busan.A total of 315 films, including 246 official selections from 59 countries, will be screened on 31 screens across 8 theaters in the Haeundae area.Director Kim Jong-kwan's 'Day and Night Are for Each Other' will be unveiled as the opening film, and 14 films have been invited to compete in the competition section. cjg05023@tf.co.krPhoto Video Planning Department photo@tf.co.kr]]> FANNSTAR Tue, 06 Oct 2026 00:00:00 +0900 Actress Ye Ji-won walks the red carpet at the '31st Busan International Film Festival (BIFF)' held at the Busan Cinema Center in Haeundae-gu, Busan on the afternoon of the 6th. /Busan=Reporter Park Heon-woo[THE FACT|Busan=Reporter Park Heon-woo] Actress Ye Ji-won walks the red carpet at the '31st Busan International Film Festival (BIFF)' held at the Busan Cinema Center in Haeundae-gu, Busan on the afternoon of the 6th.The '31st Busan International Film Festival (BIFF)' will be held from today until the 15th for ten days at the Busan Cinema Center and various locations in Busan.A total of 315 films, including 246 official selections from 59 countries, will be screened on 31 screens across 8 theaters in the Haeundae area.Director Kim Jong-kwan's 'Night and Day' will be the opening film, and 14 films have been invited to compete for awards.cjg05023@tf.co.krPhoto Video Planning Department photo@tf.co.kr]]> FANNSTAR Tue, 06 Oct 2026 00:00:00 +0900 Actor Shin Hyun-jun walks the red carpet at the '31st Busan International Film Festival (BIFF)' held at the Busan Cinema Center in Haeundae-gu, Busan on the afternoon of the 6th. /Busan=Reporter Park Heon-woo[THE FACT|Busan=Reporter Park Heon-woo] Actor Shin Hyun-jun walks the red carpet at the '31st Busan International Film Festival (BIFF)' held at the Busan Cinema Center in Haeundae-gu, Busan on the afternoon of the 6th.The '31st Busan International Film Festival (BIFF)' will be held from today until the 15th for ten days at the Busan Cinema Center and various locations in Busan.A total of 315 films, including 246 official selections from 59 countries, will be screened on 31 screens in 8 theaters in the Haeundae area.Director Kim Jong-kwan's 'Day and Night Are for Each Other' will premiere as the opening film, and 14 films have been invited to compete for awards.cjg05023@tf.co.krPhoto Video Planning Team photo@tf.co.kr]]> FANNSTAR Tue, 06 Oct 2026 00:00:00 +0900 Singer Eric Nam walks the red carpet at the opening ceremony of the '31st Busan International Film Festival (BIFF)' held at the Busan Cinema Center in Haeundae-gu, Busan on the afternoon of the 6th. /Busan=Reporter Kim Sung-ryeol [THE FACT | Busan=Reporter Kim Sung-ryeol] Singer Eric Nam walks the red carpet at the opening ceremony of the '31st Busan International Film Festival (BIFF)' held at the Busan Cinema Center in Haeundae-gu, Busan on the afternoon of the 6th.ksr@tf.co.krphoto@tf.co.kr]]> FANNSTAR Tue, 06 Oct 2026 00:00:00 +0900 Actor Park Sung-woong walks the red carpet at the '31st Busan International Film Festival (BIFF)' held at the Busan Cinema Center in Haeundae-gu, Busan on the afternoon of the 6th. /Busan=Reporter Park Heon-woo[THE FACT|Busan=Reporter Park Heon-woo] Actor Park Sung-woong walks the red carpet at the '31st Busan International Film Festival (BIFF)' held at the Busan Cinema Center in Haeundae-gu, Busan on the afternoon of the 6th.The '31st Busan International Film Festival (BIFF)' will be held from today until the 15th for ten days at the Busan Cinema Center and various locations in Busan.A total of 315 films, including 246 official selections from 59 countries, will be screened on 31 screens across 8 theaters in the Haeundae area.The opening film, Director Kim Jong-kwan's 'Day and Night', will be shown for the first time, and 14 films have been invited to compete in the competition section.cjg05023@tf.co.krPhoto Video Planning Department photo@tf.co.kr]]> FANNSTAR Tue, 06 Oct 2026 00:00:00 +0900 Singer Kim Da-hyun walks the red carpet at the opening ceremony of the '31st Busan International Film Festival (BIFF)' held at the Busan Cinema Center in Haeundae-gu, Busan on the afternoon of the 6th. /Busan=Reporter Kim Sung-ryeol[THE FACT | Busan=Reporter Kim Sung-ryeol] Singer Kim Da-hyun walks the red carpet at the opening ceremony of the '31st Busan International Film Festival (BIFF)' held at the Busan Cinema Center in Haeundae-gu, Busan on the afternoon of the 6th. ksr@tf.co.krphoto@tf.co.kr]]> FANNSTAR Tue, 06 Oct 2026 00:00:00 +0900 Singer Eric Nam walks the red carpet at the '31st Busan International Film Festival (BIFF)' held at the Busan Cinema Center in Haeundae-gu, Busan on the afternoon of the 6th. /Busan=Reporter Park Heon-woo[THE FACT|Busan=Reporter Park Heon-woo] Singer Eric Nam walks the red carpet at the '31st Busan International Film Festival (BIFF)' held at the Busan Cinema Center in Haeundae-gu, Busan on the afternoon of the 6th.The '31st Busan International Film Festival (BIFF)' will be held from today until the 15th for ten days at the Busan Cinema Center and various locations in Busan.A total of 315 films, including 246 official selections from 59 countries, will be screened on 31 screens in 8 theaters in the Haeundae area.The opening film, Director Kim Jong-kwan's 'Day and Night Are to Each Other', will be shown for the first time, and 14 films have been invited to the competition section to vie for awards. cjg05023@tf.co.krPhoto Video Planning Department photo@tf.co.kr]]> FANNSTAR Tue, 06 Oct 2026 00:00:00 +0900 Singer Kim Da-hyun walks the red carpet at the '31st Busan International Film Festival (BIFF)' held at the Busan Cinema Center in Haeundae-gu, Busan on the afternoon of the 6th. /Busan=Reporter Park Heon-woo[THE FACT|Busan=Reporter Park Heon-woo] Singer Kim Da-hyun walks the red carpet at the '31st Busan International Film Festival (BIFF)' held at the Busan Cinema Center in Haeundae-gu, Busan on the afternoon of the 6th.The '31st Busan International Film Festival (BIFF)' will be held from today until the 15th for ten days at the Busan Cinema Center and various locations in Busan.A total of 315 films, including 246 official selections from 59 countries, will be screened on 31 screens in 8 theaters in the Haeundae area.The opening film, Director Kim Jong-kwan's 'Day and Night Are to Each Other,' will be shown for the first time, and 14 films have been invited to compete for awards in the competition section.cjg05023@tf.co.krPhoto Video Planning Department photo@tf.co.kr]]> FANNSTAR Tue, 06 Oct 2026 00:00:00 +0900 iApp Studio CEO Im Sung-bin (Beenzino) walks the red carpet at the opening ceremony of the '31st Busan International Film Festival (BIFF)' held at the Busan Cinema Center in Haeundae-gu, Busan on the afternoon of the 6th. /Busan=Reporter Kim Sung-ryeol[THE FACT | Busan=Reporter Kim Sung-ryeol] iApp Studio CEO Im Sung-bin (Beenzino) walks the red carpet at the opening ceremony of the '31st Busan International Film Festival (BIFF)' held at the Busan Cinema Center in Haeundae-gu, Busan on the afternoon of the 6th. ksr@tf.co.krPhoto Video Planning Department photo@tf.co.kr]]> FANNSTAR Tue, 06 Oct 2026 00:00:00 +0900 Actor Moon Sung-keun walks the red carpet at the '31st Busan International Film Festival (BIFF)' held at the Busan Cinema Center in Haeundae-gu, Busan on the afternoon of the 6th. /Busan=Reporter Park Heon-woo[THE FACT|Busan=Reporter Park Heon-woo] Actor Moon Sung-keun walks the red carpet at the '31st Busan International Film Festival (BIFF)' held at the Busan Cinema Center in Haeundae-gu, Busan on the afternoon of the 6th.The '31st Busan International Film Festival (BIFF)' will be held from today until the 15th for ten days at the Busan Cinema Center and various locations in Busan.A total of 315 films, including 246 official selections from 59 countries, will be screened on 31 screens in 8 theaters in the Haeundae area.The opening film, Director Kim Jong-kwan's 'Day and Night Are to Each Other', will be shown for the first time, and 14 films have been invited to compete for awards in the competition section.cjg05023@tf.co.krPhoto Video Planning Department photo@tf.co.kr]]> FANNSTAR Tue, 06 Oct 2026 00:00:00 +0900 Im Seong-min, CEO of i-App Studio (singer Beenzino), walks the red carpet at the '31st Busan International Film Festival (BIFF)' held at the Busan Cinema Center in Haeundae-gu, Busan on the afternoon of the 6th. /Busan=Park Heon-woo reporter[THE FACT|Busan=Park Heon-woo reporter] Im Seong-min, CEO of i-App Studio (singer Beenzino), walks the red carpet at the '31st Busan International Film Festival (BIFF)' held at the Busan Cinema Center in Haeundae-gu, Busan on the afternoon of the 6th.The '31st Busan International Film Festival (BIFF)' will be held from today until the 15th for ten days at the Busan Cinema Center and various locations in Busan.This year's festival will screen a total of 315 films, including 246 official selections from 59 countries, across 31 screens in 8 theaters in the Haeundae area.The opening film, 'Day and Night Are for Each Other' by director Kim Jong-kwan, will be shown for the first time, and 14 films have been invited to compete for awards in the competition section.cjg05023@tf.co.krPhoto Video Planning Department photo@tf.co.kr]]> FANNSTAR Tue, 06 Oct 2026 00:00:00 +0900 The appearance of genius surgeon Gye Soo-jung, who confronts absurdity... Episode 1 preview releasedSBS's new Friday-Saturday drama 'Doctor X: The Era of the White Mafia,' starring actress Kim Ji-won, will premiere on the 9th. /SBS[THE FACT | Reporter Moon Chae-won] Actress Kim Ji-won leaves a strong first impression at Guseo University Hospital.The production team of SBS's new Friday-Saturday drama 'Doctor X: The Era of the White Mafia' (written by Pyeon Seong-geun, directed by Lee Jeong-rim, hereinafter referred to as 'Doctor X') released a preview of episode 1 on the 6th, featuring the performance of Gye Soo-jeong (played by Kim Ji-won), who will cause a great stir at Guseo University Hospital.'Doctor-X' depicts the activities of Ke Su-jeong, also known as 'Doctor-X', who shatters great absurdities with her genius surgical skills, knowing no failure or compromise. It is based on the Japanese 'Doctor-X' series, which was a mega-hit when aired on TV Asahi.The first episode preview begins with Gye Su-jeong entering the operating room. It then shows Gye Su-jeong, who encounters Park Tae-kyung (Kim WooSeok) outside the hospital and is asked for her name, drawing a large 'X'. This raises questions about the meaning of their first meeting and the 'X'.SBS's new Friday-Saturday drama 'Doctor X: Era of the White Mafia' has released its first preview video. /SBSThe arrival of freelance doctor Gye Su-jeong, dispatched from a doctor-for-hire agency, causes a huge stir at Guseo University Hospital. Gye Su-jeong doesn't compromise with the existing hierarchy and authority, opting for a bold, head-on approach.He confidently questions, "Why on earth are we opening this up?" in a packed auditorium full of doctors, and walks against the tide of white coats without hesitation. His resolute declaration, "Everyone, absolutely not," is striking.Also, the desperate voice of Park Tae-kyung, who is left alone in the operating room and shouts, "What do I do if everyone leaves? There's no one here," and the heavy charisma of the hospital director, Boo Seung-kwon (Son Hyun-joo), who throws the meaningful words, "It's just a tail that can be cut off anyway," intersect.Then, with a strange smile from Jang Hee-sook (played by Lee Jung-eun), the head of the doctor referral agency, a confident voice says, "She's the top ace of our agency." Finally, the scene is decorated with the 'Doctor X' logo being sharply engraved."Doctor X," consisting of a total of 12 episodes, will premiere on October 9th at 9:50 PM.[Entertainment Department | ssent@tf.co.kr]mcy21@tf.co.kr]]> FANNSTAR Tue, 06 Oct 2026 00:00:00 +0900 [THE FACT | Busan=Reporter Kim Sung-ryeol] Actor Kim Min-ha attends the press conference for the opening film 'Day and Night for Each Other' at the '31st Busan International Film Festival (BIFF)' held at the Busan Cinema Center in Haeundae-gu, Busan on the afternoon of the 6th.ksr@tf.co.krphoto@tf.co.kr]]> FANNSTAR Tue, 06 Oct 2026 00:00:00 +0900 [THE FACT | Busan=Reporter Kim Seong-ryeol] Director Kim Jong-kwan attends the press conference for the opening film 'Day and Night for Each Other' at the Cinematheque of Haeundae-gu, Busan, on the afternoon of the 6th, answering reporters' questions.ksr@tf.co.krphoto@tf.co.kr]]> FANNSTAR Tue, 06 Oct 2026 00:00:00 +0900 Director Kim Jong-kwan and actors Kim Min-ha, Ju Jong-hyuk, Han Sun-hwa, Jang Ryul, Shim Eun-kyung, Jeon So-young, and Kim Dong-hwi (from left) pose for a commemorative photo at a press conference for the opening film 'Different Dreams' at the '31st Busan International Film Festival (BIFF)' held at the Busan Cinema Center in Haeundae-gu, Busan on the afternoon of the 6th. /Busan=Reporter Kim Sung-ryeol[THE FACT | Busan=Reporter Kim Sung-ryeol] Director Kim Jong-kwan and actors Kim Min-ha, Ju Jong-hyuk, Han Sun-hwa, Jang Ryul, Shim Eun-kyung, Jeon So-young, and Kim Dong-hwi (from left) pose for a commemorative photo at a press conference for the opening film 'Different Dreams' at the '31st Busan International Film Festival (BIFF)' held at the Busan Cinema Center in Haeundae-gu, Busan on the afternoon of the 6th.'Different Dreams', which was unveiled for the first time at this film festival, deals with the relationships of people who stay in the same cafe at different times.The film unfolds with the chance encounter between Eugene and Hyun-oh, the unexpected reunion of high school friends Sang-mi and Young-min, the laughter-filled, fiery first meeting between web novel writer Hye-jin and film director Dong-nam, and the poignant moment between idol trainee Na-kyung and her lover Jong-soo.Director Kim Jong-kwan was recognized as a talented newcomer with a knack for delicate emotional direction when he received the Special Jury Prize at the Mise-en-scène Short Film Festival for his debut short film 'How to Operate a Polaroid' (2004).Meanwhile, the '31st Busan International Film Festival (BIFF)' will be held from today until the 15th for ten days at the Busan Cinema Center and various locations throughout Busan. This year's film festival will screen a total of 315 films, including 246 officially invited films from 59 countries, across 31 screens in 8 theaters in the Haeundae area, with 14 films competing in the competition section.This year's film festival will screen a total of 315 films, including 246 officially invited films from 59 countries, across 31 screens in 8 theaters in the Haeundae area, with 14 films competing in the competition section. ksr@tf.co.krphoto@tf.co.kr]]> FANNSTAR Tue, 06 Oct 2026 00:00:00 +0900 Selected as the opening film... Premiere and press conference held today (6th)Starring Kim Min-ha, Ju Jong-hyuk, Han Sun-hwa, Jang Ryul, Shim Eun-kyung, etc.Director Kim Jong-kwan and actors Kim Min-ha, Ju Jong-hyuk, Han Sun-hwa, Jang Ryul, Shim Eun-kyung, Jeon So-young, and Kim Dong-hwi (from left) pose for a commemorative photo at the press conference for the opening film 'Night and Day' at the '31st Busan International Film Festival (BIFF)' held at the Busan Cinema Center in Haeundae-gu, Busan on the 6th. /Busan=Reporter Kim Sung-ryeol[THE FACT|Busan=Reporter Park Ji-yoon] 'Night and Day' powerfully opened the 31st Busan International Film Festival (BIFF). Director Kim Jong-kwan expressed his determination to convey the importance of small and trivial things to global audiences with actors of diverse charms.The premiere and press conference for 'Night and Day' (directed by Kim Jong-kwan), the opening film of the 31st Busan International Film Festival, was held at the main theater of the Busan Cinema Center on the afternoon of the 6th. Director Kim Jong-kwan, programmer Jung Ji-hye, and actors Kim Min-ha, Ju Jong-hyuk, Han Sun-hwa, Jang Ryul, Shim Eun-kyung, Jeon So-young, and Kim Dong-hwi attended the event, answering reporters' questions and sharing various stories.'Night and Day' unfolds a total of four stories: the chance encounter between Yujin (played by Kim Min-ha) and Hyeon-oh (played by Ju Jong-hyuk), who stay at the same cafe at different times; the quirky and sudden reunion of middle school friends Sang-mi (played by Han Sun-hwa) and Young-min (played by Jang Ryul); the laughter-filled, fiery first meeting between web novel writer Hye-jin (played by Shim Eun-kyung) and film director Dong-nam (played by Lee Hee-joon); and the poignant moment between idol trainee Na-kyung (played by Jeon So-young) and her lover Jong-su (played by Kim Dong-hwi).Director Kim Jong-kwan, who took the megaphone, quickly gained attention by winning the Special Jury Prize at the Mise-en-scène Short Film Festival for his debut short film 'How to Operate a Polaroid' (2004), and has since built a unique cinematic world through films like 'Worst Woman,' 'The Table,' and 'Josée.'In this film, he utilizes the characteristic of a cafe, where many people come and go and stay for a while, to depict each character's narrative, personality, atmosphere, and nuances with a light touch and a thoughtful gaze.Director Kim Jong-kwan, through 'Night and Day,' utilizes the characteristic of a cafe, where many people come and go and stay for a while, to depict each character's narrative, personality, atmosphere, and nuances with a light touch and a thoughtful gaze. /Busan=Reporter Kim Sung-ryeolDirector Kim said, "I am happy to be able to show the film in the honorable position of the opening film," adding, "I am grateful that the Busan International Film Festival, with its global standing, has recognized the importance of the small and trivial things that 'Night and Day' aims to convey."Programmer Jung Ji-hye said, "The selection criterion for the opening film is that many audiences can enjoy the work comfortably for nearly three hours in an outdoor theater," adding, "'Night and Day' fully meets this standard. It is a film where the harmony between the director and the actors, and their acting prowess, are fully conveyed."Director Kim Jong-kwan further explained the planning intention, "While typical films build up events within a general narrative structure spanning days to years to create a single story, we have only four conversations. Through this single facet of conversation, we wanted to create a film that allows the audience to imagine where the characters come from and where they are going, and then to draw something from that, hoping it would foster a deep connection with the audience."Regarding the film's title, he explained, "I thought of it as a story connecting people, one of whom is in the day and the other in the night. Since the last episode is about people in the same space becoming day and night for each other, things related to both sides are constantly exchanged. Each person has their own story, and their dreams and reality, which they are trying to create, are contrasted like day and night, yet also connected. Through this, I hoped it would be a film that fosters understanding of others."Kim Min-ha, who plays Yujin, recalled, "I received the script from Director Kim, whom I had admired for a long time, and the day we filmed my episode was my birthday. It was a gift in itself." /Busan=Reporter Kim Sung-ryeolKim Min-ha plays Yujin, a woman who has a strange dream, exuding a mysterious and dreamy charm, while Ju Jong-hyuk plays Hyeon-oh, who dreams of becoming a watchmaker, conveying anticipation and excitement for a fateful encounter.Kim Min-ha, who received the script from Director Kim, whom she had long admired, and whose episode filming day was her birthday, felt she received two gifts from the film.She emphasized, "Countless stories are exchanged in one space, and these can come together to form a letter, a novel, or a film. It can also be a wave in a larger flow, and I realized that perhaps we have only considered major events as the sole narrative. This time, I was able to think about small happiness."Ju Jong-hyuk recalled, "The director said that Kim Min-ha acts as naturally as she breathes, and I wanted to try acting with that kind of tone. We researched together and had fun filming."Shim Eun-kyung plays Hye-jin, a popular novelist with a prim and proper demeanor, and shares a page of the film with Lee Hee-joon, who plays independent film director Dong-nam.Regarding this, she said, "It was a character I had never played before, and she had a personality completely different from mine, so the character Hye-jin was difficult for me to approach. Therefore, I was very curious as to why the director offered me the role. It is a meaningful work because I took on the challenge."Han Sun-hwa, who attended the press conference for the opening film 'Night and Day' at the Busan Cinema Center in Haeundae-gu, Busan on the 6th, said, "Today is my birthday," receiving many congratulations. /Busan=Reporter Kim Sung-ryeolHan Sun-hwa, who plays Sang-mi, revealed that it was her birthday on this day and created a warm atmosphere with congratulations from her colleagues. She beamed, saying, "It is an honor to meet the audience with Director Kim Jong-kwan's film as the opening film at the Busan International Film Festival, which I love so much and which is held in my hometown, Busan."Jang Ryul, playing Young-min, creates a thrilling and peculiar reunion with Han Sun-hwa. He expressed his deep trust, saying, "Our scene was unique, and the plausibility of the dialogue was unconventional, which made it feel distinctive and more enjoyable. I pondered how to express it well cinematically. Han Sun-hwa was excellent. I would like to work with her again on future projects."Jeon So-young, who plays Na-kyung, defined 'Night and Day' as a "learning opportunity," recalling, "It was my second film in my life. I knew nothing, but the seniors and the director patiently taught me everything from A to Z."Kim Dong-hwi, attending his first official event since his discharge from the military in March, plays Jong-su and portrays a couple going through a bittersweet and poignant final moment with Jeon So-young. He added, "I had watched all of Director Kim Jong-kwan's films, and when I received the offer to appear, I felt so proud that I thought, 'This is why being an actor is so great.'"The 31st Busan International Film Festival will be held until the 15th at the Busan Cinema Center and various locations in Busan. /Busan=Reporter Park Heon-wooFinally, Director Kim Jong-kwan said, "I wanted to tell a story that looks into the beauty of the small, microscopic world, and the effort involved is by no means small. It requires a lot of commitment and many battles, but I was able to undertake this work and challenge thanks to the passion of the staff and actors who worked with me," attributing the success to them and expressing his special affection for the film.'Night and Day,' selected as the opening film of the 31st Busan International Film Festival, will be released in theaters nationwide in November.Meanwhile, the 31st Busan International Film Festival, which has moved its opening day forward by one day from the usual Wednesday, will be held until the 15th at the Busan Cinema Center and various locations in Busan. This year's official selections include 246 films from 59 countries, an increase of 5 films from last year, along with 69 films for Community BIFF.jiyoon-1031@tf.co.kr[Entertainment Department | ssent@tf.co.kr]]]> FANNSTAR Tue, 06 Oct 2026 00:00:00 +0900 Character Posters RevealedFirst broadcast on the 19th at 8:50 PMCharacter posters have been released for Im Si-wan, Seol In-ah, Yeon Woo, and Kim Jung-hyun (from top left, clockwise), who are appearing in tvN's new Monday-Tuesday drama 'My Man is Guilty'. /tvN[THE FACT|Reporter Choi Soo-bin] Actors Im Si-wan and Seol In-ah will form a precarious relationship.The production team of tvN's new Monday-Tuesday drama 'My Man is Guilty' (written by Moon Su-jeong, directed by Park Dan-hee) released character posters for Yoon Yi-jun (Im Si-wan), Kang Jae-hee (Seol In-ah), Kim Si-hyun (Kim Jung-hyun), and Lee Hye-jeong (Yeon Woo) on the 6th.'My Man is Guilty' is a close-knit thriller romance between Yoon Yi-jun, an arrogant third-generation chaebol accused of murder, and Kang Jae-hee, a former special forces detective who infiltrates as his personal assistant.In the poster, Yoon Yi-jun sits before a lavishly set banquet, exuding a relaxed atmosphere. The accompanying phrase, "This may sound presumptuous, but I've come to like you," reveals Yoon Yi-jun's high self-esteem.Kang Jae-hee, who is undercover as Yoon Yi-jun's personal assistant, captivates the viewer with a neat suit and tidy tie. However, her hand behind her neck and her expression suggest a sense of bewilderment. Notably, the phrase, "Please don't confess, I'm a man right now," hints at Kang Jae-hee's future, where she receives a confession while disguised as a male assistant.Kim Si-hyun, Yoon Yi-jun's longtime friend and a lawyer in the legal team of Tae-gang Group, smiles while holding two cups of coffee. The phrase, "From now on, I intend to intrude upon your life," raises curiosity about the relationships he will forge.Lee Hye-jeong shows a confident demeanor with her arms crossed. The phrase, "At work, I'm a shadow; after work, I'm the protagonist," reveals Lee Hye-jeong's personality, who minimizes her presence at work and enjoys her own life after hours.'My Man is Guilty,' a 12-episode series, will premiere on the 19th at 8:50 PM.subin7134@tf.co.kr[Entertainment Department | ssent@tf.co.kr]]]> FANNSTAR Tue, 06 Oct 2026 00:00:00 +0900 King Kim Chunchu, the 29th king of Silla, role... stills releasedActor Kim Kang-woo will play Kim Chun-chu, King Taejong Muyeol, in KBS2's new historical drama 'Moomoo'. /KBS2[THE FACT | Reporter Moon Chae-young] Actor Kim Kang-woo protects Silla with his extraordinary political sense.The production team of KBS2's new historical drama 'Moonmu' (written by Kim Ri-heon&Hong Jin-yi, directed by Kim Young-jo&Gu Seong-jun) released stills of Kim Kang-woo, who plays Kim Choon-chu, a strategist with outstanding diplomatic skills and savoir-faire, on the 6th.'The Great Battle' is a work that deals with the desperate and lonely epic of leaders who risked everything for a single victory amidst 600 years of war and internal turmoil in the Three Kingdoms.In the drama, Kim Chun-chu, played by Kim Kang-woo, is the grandson of the deposed King Jinji and is ostracized by the Seonggol (sacred bone) lineage. When Daeya Castle falls to Baekje, putting Silla in a desperate crisis, he steps into the center of politics.Kim Chun-chu seeks to protect the country in his own way. As the first person of the Jin-gol rank to ascend to the throne (King Taejong Muyeol, the 29th ruler of Silla), he moves toward the greater goal of unifying the Three Kingdoms.In the stills, Kim Kang-woo portrays the fervent passion of Kim Chun-chu with his firm gaze and spirit. From chaotic battles to precarious diplomatic situations where a sword is at his throat, Kim Chun-chu's unyielding strength can be seen even in extreme circumstances.Kim Chun-chu was a strategist who stood at the forefront of diplomacy, staking the fate of Silla. He hid his cool-headed decisiveness and indomitable will, instead showcasing his exceptional eloquence and communication skills. Kim Kang-woo's delicate acting brings to life the fierce journey of Kim Chun-chu, who steadfastly forged his own path amidst the storms of the era.The production team said, "Kim Kang-woo is portraying the character Kim Chun-chu, who oscillates between sharpness and gentleness, in his own unique style. We hope that the anguish and moments of choice that Kim Chun-chu faced while striving towards the goal of unifying the Three Kingdoms will deeply resonate with viewers."'Moonmu', consisting of a total of 28 episodes, will premiere on November 14.[Entertainment Department | ssent@tf.co.kr]mcy21@tf.co.kr]]> FANNSTAR Tue, 06 Oct 2026 00:00:00 +0900 The funeral will be held at 9 AM on the 8th.Broadcaster Lee Hwi-jae's father passed away on the 6th. /THE FACT DB[THE FACT | Reporter Moon Chae-young] Broadcaster Lee Hwi-jae has lost his father.According to a report by Spotv News on the 6th, Lee Hwi-jae's father, the late Lee Kang-il, passed away at the age of 87 early this morning. The funeral hall is set up in Room 9 of the Hanyang University Hospital Funeral Hall in Seoul. The funeral procession will be held at 9 AM on the 8th, and the burial site is Seoul Memorial Park.During his life, the deceased appeared with his son on various broadcasts. In the KBS2 entertainment program 'The Return of Superman,' he revealed his affectionate daily life with Lee Hwi-jae and his twin grandchildren. In the SBS entertainment program 'Healing Camp,' Lee Hwi-jae was cited as a filial son for taking care of family trips every year.Lee Hwi-jae experienced his mother's passing in 2023. A wave of condolences is continuing for him, who has faced sad news again after three years.Debuting as an MBC 3rd special recruit comedian in 1992, Lee Hwi-jae was active as a host for programs such as 'Sunday Sunday Night,' 'Sponge,' and 'Sebakwi.' He took a break while living in Canada with his family since 2022, and this year he appeared on KBS2's 'Immortal Songs,' marking his return after about four years.mcy21@tf.co.kr[Entertainment Department | ssent@tf.co.kr]]]> FANNSTAR Tue, 06 Oct 2026 00:00:00 +0900 Samick Cultural Foundation's 'Invitation from a Master' SelectionLive on the 24th at 5 PM at M HallKim Chang-hoon (far right in photo), bassist of the band Sanullim, has formed a new band called Kkamang and will hold his first performance on the 24th. / Sweet Music[THE FACT|Choi Hyun-jung] Kim Chang-hoon, a member of the band Sanullim, is returning with a new band project.Performance planning company Sweet Music announced on the 6th, "Kim Chang-hoon of Sanullim has formed a new band called Kkamang and will hold a concert on the 24th at Samick Instrument's M Hall in Gangnam-gu, Seoul."Kim Chang-hoon, who formed the band Sanullim with his brothers Kim Chang-wan and Kim Chang-ik in 1973 and worked as a bassist, has also been active as a composer, creating many famous songs. His works include Sanullim's representative songs 'Reminiscence', 'My Heart is a Wasteland', 'Choya', 'Grandfather Mountain', Sand Pebbles' 'What Should I Do', and Kim Wan-sun's 'Tonight'.Later, in 2009, he released his first full-length album 'The Love' and debuted as a solo artist. In 2017, he formed and performed with the band Blackstones, along with Yoo Byung-yeol, Seo Min-seok, and Choi Won-hyuk.About 10 years later, Kkamang, the new band project that Kim Chang-hoon is presenting again, is a team formed with the intention of 'encompassing all generations, just as all colors combine to become black'.In Kkamang, Kim Chang-hoon aims to deliver fresh and groundbreaking music, as well as a message of overcoming discrimination and prejudice, understanding and embracing differences and diversity to the world.Along with Kim Chang-hoon, Kkamang includes Kim Sun (drums), Jo Yi-min (guitar), Jeong Ga (bass), and Yeo Ji-soo (piano), who are renowned for their skills in the indie scene. Selected as the 52nd guest for the brand performance 'Invitation from a Master' hosted by the Samick Cultural Foundation, they will reveal their solid musical foundation and harmony for the first time.At this concert, the band Kkamang plans to perform live renditions of songs created by Kim Chang-hoon during his Sanullim days, such as 'Grandfather Mountain', 'Reminiscence', 'Monologue', and 'My Heart is a Wasteland', as well as Sand Pebbles' 'What Should I Do', and Kim Chang-hoon's hidden solo masterpieces.'Invitation from a Master', featuring Kkamang, will take place on the 24th at 5 PM. Further details can be found on the official social media of the Samick Cultural Foundation.laugardagr@tf.co.kr[Entertainment Department | ssent@tf.co.kr]]]> FANNSTAR Tue, 06 Oct 2026 00:00:00 +0900 Working with Hyunseok&Kim Min-kiFilming begins with a target release in 2027Actors Hong Ye-ji (left) and (G)I-DLE's MIYEON will work together in the new drama 'Cheongdam International High School: Royal Camp'. /THE FACT DB[THE FACT|Reporter Choi Soo-bin] Actors Hong Ye-ji and group (G)I-DLE's MIYEON will continue the world of 'Cheongdam International High School'.Production company Whynot Media announced on the 6th, "The new drama 'Cheongdam International High School: Royal Camp' (written by Oh Je-ra, directed by Park Bong-seop) has begun filming with a target release in 2027."'Cheongdam International High School: Royal Camp' is a teen psychological thriller that depicts the fierce competition, desires, and hidden secrets behind the students gathered at the 'Royal Camp' for admission to Cheongdam International High School, an elite school envied by all. It expands the universe of 'Cheongdam International High School' Season 1, released in 2023, and Season 2, aired in 2025.Hong Ye-ji plays Moon Ji-won, who enters the 'Royal Camp' after having everything taken away overnight. Moon Ji-won, who is good at studying and has a meticulous personality, possesses strong survival skills. Triggered by an incident that completely overturns her life, she decides to take revenge and enters Cheongdam International High School's 'Royal Camp'.Miyeon plays Cha Se-mi, the new queen of Cheongdam International High School, who is in a tense confrontation with Moon Ji-won. Cha Se-mi, the only daughter of the Taehan Group, is a character who has quickly learned the logic of class and power since childhood. However, her position begins to shake with the appearance of Moon Ji-won, who threatens her place.Hyunseok plays So Yi-jun, the heir to a conglomerate. So Yi-jun, the eldest son of Sel Holdings, a rival company to the Taehan Group, possesses a brilliant mind and a gentle demeanor, but views even love and friendship in terms of interests. He later becomes interested in Moon Ji-won, who does not bow to class, and undergoes a change.Kim Min-ki meets viewers as Seo Dong-hwa, Moon Ji-won's childhood friend and former national tennis player. Seo Dong-hwa, who has a loyal and positive personality, sees admission to Cheongdam International High School as a life-changing opportunity and enters the 'Royal Camp'. He is then faced with constant choices to protect what is precious to him.'Cheongdam International High School: Royal Camp' has officially begun filming with a target release in 2027.subin7134@tf.co.kr[Entertainment Department | ssent@tf.co.kr]]]> FANNSTAR Tue, 06 Oct 2026 00:00:00 +0900 Introduction to the long-running real variety entertainment programs of the three major terrestrial broadcasters'Ratings' and 'Popularity' have declined, but still a distinct 'Identity'The real variety entertainment programs '1 Night 2 Days', 'Running Man', and 'How Do You Play?' (from left) are meeting viewers in their living rooms every weekend. /Each Production Company[THE FACT | Reporter Moon Chae-young] Real variety programs on terrestrial channels have been a cornerstone of entertainment for a long time, accompanying viewers. Weekend variety shows, in particular, were once called 'National Entertainment' due to their high ratings and buzz, enjoying immense public popularity.With the emergence of various platforms such as OTT (Online Video Service) and YouTube, TV viewing methods have changed significantly, and it is true that it is difficult to achieve the overwhelming ratings or buzz of the past. Nevertheless, there are programs that deliver small joys to weekend viewers based on the know-how and symbolism accumulated over years and decades.KBS2 has been broadcasting '1 Night 2 Days' for 19 years since its first broadcast in 2007, and SBS's 'Running Man' has been meeting viewers for 16 years since 2010. MBC is also continuing 'How Do You Play?', which started as a successor to 'Infinite Challenge', for 7 years, playing its part as each company's representative entertainment program.KBS2's entertainment program '1 Night 2 Days' has been consistently delivering fun to weekend living rooms since 2007. It is currently broadcasting Season 4, composed of Moon Se-yoon, Lee Yong-jin, Lee Jun, DinDin, and Lee Ki-taek. /KBS2◆ KBS2's '1 Night 2 Days', Soon to Be 20th Anniversary, A History of Travel VarietyIn the travel real variety genre, '1 Night 2 Days' cannot be left out.KBS2's entertainment program '1 Night 2 Days' is a program that captures the journey of six cheerful men traveling to beautiful places across Korea for one night and two days. It provides fun with various missions and luck-based games and has high recognition among domestic travel programs.Since its first broadcast in 2007, the program has consistently continued its seasons. After proceeding with Season 2 in 2012 and Season 3 in 2013, Season 4 began in 2019. Across all seasons, approximately 1,000 episodes have been broadcast, and it is soon approaching its 20th anniversary.'1 Night 2 Days' also played a significant role in elevating popular entertainment PD Na Young-seok to his current position. Na Young-seok was the main PD for Season 1, which ran from 2007 to 2012. He gained viewer support for his approachable demeanor with the cast members and led '1 Night 2 Days' to success with his witty games.As it is a long-running program, there have been many changes in the cast. Season 1, which established the identity of '1 Night 2 Days', featured Kang Ho-dong, Lee Soo-geun, Eun Ji-won, Noh Hong-chul, Lee Seung-gi, and others. Season 2 included Kim Seung-woo, Yoo Hae-jin, Cha Tae-hyun, Sung Si-Kyung, Joo Won. Season 3 featured Kim Joon-ho, Defconn, Lee Yong-jin, Yoon Si-yoon. Season 4 has seen Yeon Jung-hoon, Jo Se-ho, Kim Seonho, Na In-woo, and Yoo Seon-ho, and currently Moon Se-yoon, Lee Yong-jin, Lee Jun, DinDin, and Lee Ki-taek are active.However, Kim Jong-min is an exception. Despite numerous cast changes, Kim Jong-min is the only cast member who has been with '1 Night 2 Days' for its 20-year history, from Season 1 to the present.'1 Night 2 Days' airs every Sunday at 6:10 PM.SBS's entertainment program 'Running Man' continues with a 7-member system, including original members Yoo Jae-suk, Ji Suk-jin, Kim Jong Kook, Haha, Song Ji-hyo, and new members Yang Se-chan and Ji Ye-eun. It provides fun with various missions and games. /SBS◆ SBS's 'Running Man', the 'Longest-Running Variety Show' in Korea with a Single SeriesSBS has 'Running Man', a real variety show that has been running for 16 years.SBS's entertainment program 'Running Man' is a program where members and star guests make a lot of effort to create laughter. In the early days, there were chase games, so-called 'name tag ripping', fitting the program's title 'Running Man', but recently, the format has expanded to various concepts of games.'Running Man' began its first broadcast in July 2010 and is celebrating its 16th anniversary this year. As of the 13th, it has surpassed 820 episodes and is the longest-running variety entertainment show in Korea with a single season.A notable point is the appropriate balance between original and new members. In addition to Yoo Jae-suk, Ji Suk-jin, Kim Jong Kook, Haha, and Song Ji-hyo, who have been fixed cast members since 2010, Yang Se-chan joined in 2017 and Ji Ye-eun in 2024, continuing the broadcast with the current 7-member system.It is also broadcast to viewers in over 100 countries, enjoying great global popularity. In particular, China officially imported the rights to 'Running Man' and is broadcasting a program titled 'Keep Running'. YUQI, a Chinese member of the group (G)I-DLE, familiar to us, has been the MC since 2019.'Running Man' airs every Sunday at 6:10 PM.MBC's entertainment program 'How Do You Play?' captures viewers' laughter with its consistently novel concept corners. Yoo Jae-suk, Haha, Heo Kyung-hwan, and Joo Woo-jae are fixed cast members. /MBC◆ MBC's 'How Do You Play?', A Master of 'Concept Immersion' Including Sub-CharactersMBC's real variety show 'How Do You Play?', a successor to 'Infinite Challenge', has also reached its 7th anniversary.MBC's entertainment program 'How Do You Play?' is an open-ended variety program with no limits, where entertainers deliver fun and emotion. It creates a cheerful atmosphere with members who become immersed in different concepts each time.The program, which first aired in July 2019, garnered much attention as the new work of Kim Tae-ho PD, who directed MBC's flagship entertainment program 'Infinite Challenge' from 2006 to 2019. In particular, the news of working with Yoo Jae-suk, the main MC of 'Infinite Challenge', excited many fans.The early broadcast started with Yoo Jae-suk as a solo cast member. It pursued unique fun by continuously introducing Yoo Jae-suk's sub-characters such as Yoo Star, Yoo San-seul, Yoo Ra-se, and Yoo Eur-pheus. However, from 2021, it transitioned to a group entertainment show by recruiting Jung Joon-ha, Haha, Shin Bong-sun, LEE MI-JOO, and others.Furthermore, with Kim Tae-ho PD leaving the program in 2022, the entertainment show took on a completely different atmosphere. The current 'How Do You Play?' invites various guests and unfolds with members enjoying different challenges under various concepts. As a result of continuous changes in the cast lineup, Yoo Jae-suk, Haha, Heo Kyung-hwan, and Joo Woo-jae have solidified their positions.The program consistently records ratings in the 3-4% range, not showing remarkable performance, but it continues to garner attention by consistently presenting corners that pique viewers' interest with Yoo Jae-suk, a popular broadcaster. In particular, the '80s Seoul Music Festival' presented this year gained much popularity.'How Do You Play?' airs every Saturday at 6:30 PM.mcy21@tf.co.kr[Entertainment Desk | ssent@tf.co.kr]]]> FANNSTAR Tue, 06 Oct 2026 00:00:00 +0900 Still Cuts and Making-Of Video ReleasedExplanation of the Film's Theme and CharactersGlobal OTT service Netflix has released still cuts and a making-of video for the film 'A Kind of Kindness.' / Netflix[THE FACT|Choi Hyun-jung, Reporter] Film director Lee Chang-dong revealed the meaning embedded in his new film, 'A Kind of Kindness.'Global OTT service Netflix released character stills and a making-of video for the film 'A Kind of Kindness' (directed by Lee Chang-dong) on the 6th.The released character stills clearly capture the narratives and psychology of the film's protagonists, Mi-ok (played by Jeon Do-yeon), Ho-seok (played by Sol Kyung-gu), Sang-woo (played by Jo In-sung), and Ye-ji (played by Cho Yeo-jeong), sparking curiosity.First, Mi-ok's appearance, seemingly struggling to hold back tears at the villa of the couple Sang-woo and Ye-ji, shows how the summer vacation has caused ripples within her. The stills then continue to show Ho-seok undergoing psychotherapy, Sang-woo in a relaxed state, Ye-ji engrossed in the other person's story while sitting next to the camera, and Mi-ok, Ho-seok, Sang-woo, and Ye-ji gathered together for a meal, depicting the emotional changes of the four protagonists.The making-of video, released alongside the stills, contains more detailed information about the theme of 'A Kind of Kindness' and each character. Director Lee Chang-dong stated, "I only make a work when I have conviction about its cinematic meaning," and added, "'A Kind of Kindness' is a story that asks what kind of love is possible, what that possible love means."He further explained the theme of 'A Kind of Kindness,' saying, "The issue of labor has brought about decisive changes in our human lives, and I had the idea to combine this with the story of a documentary director. It's not just the story of laborers; the story of filmmakers is also intertwined."The actors' introductions to their characters also garnered attention. Jeon Do-yeon described Mi-ok as, "I thought of her as a character living with a ticking time bomb in her chest. She's constantly worried and restless, not knowing when her husband's wound might explode, yet she doesn't give up on him until the end."Sol Kyung-gu, who plays Ho-seok, said, "Being laid off can feel like one's own failure. I tried to portray his attempt not to show that in his daily life." Director Lee Chang-dong also commented on Ye-ji and Sang-woo, saying, "Ye-ji is a role that cannot be understood through intellectual analysis. She needs to be understood physically, and Cho Yeo-jeong is an actress who understood that. Jo In-sung was interesting in the way he simply lived in front of the camera as the character himself."Director Lee Chang-dong explains the meaning of 'A Kind of Kindness' in the making-of video. / Netflix'A Kind of Kindness,' the seventh feature film directed by Lee Chang-dong, is a story about Ho-seok, a laid-off worker, his wife Mi-ok, and the documentary director Ye-ji and her husband Sang-woo, who meet to produce a documentary and confront their different lives and hidden desires. The film stars Jeon Do-yeon, Sol Kyung-gu, Jo In-sung, and Cho Yeo-jeong.The film has received critical acclaim both domestically and internationally, winning the Grand Jury Prize at the Venice International Film Festival and the TIFF Ebert Director's Award at the Toronto International Film Festival, among other accolades, making it the first Korean film to do so.'A Kind of Kindness' is currently available in theaters and will be released on Netflix on November 6th.laugardagr@tf.co.kr[Entertainment Desk | ssent@tf.co.kr]]]> FANNSTAR Tue, 06 Oct 2026 00:00:00 +0900 Held an online press conference on the 6th"A trip that reminds you of neighborhood friends"PD Hwang In-mok, broadcaster Choo Sung-hoon, and singer Zico Kim Jong Kook, and PD Kim Jin-ho (from left) shared various stories at the online press conference for SBS Plus·MBN's new entertainment program 'Man's Travel Style in Taiwan,' held on the 6th. /SBS Plus, MBN[THE FACT | Reporter Moon Chae-young] The second story of 'Man's Travel Style,' which depicts the travelogue of real men, unfolds in Taiwan. Broadcaster Choo Sung-hoon and singer Kim Jong Kook are joined by the new maknae, Zico. Expectations are high for the "manly" chemistry they will show.A press conference for SBS Plus·MBN's new entertainment program 'Man's Travel Style in Taiwan' (hereinafter referred to as 'Man's Travel Style') was held online on the morning of the 6th. PD Kim Jin-ho, Choo Sung-hoon, Kim Jong Kook, and Zico attended and encouraged viewership by highlighting the unique differentiators of 'Man's Travel Style.''Man's Travel Style' is a program that tells the story of the impromptu travels of men who enjoy life following their instincts: Choo Sung-hoon, Kim Jong Kook, and Zico. It is the follow-up to the 'Man's Travel Style in Kyushu' episode aired in April of this year.PD Kim Jin-ho, who is directing the Taiwan episode following the Kyushu episode, said, "We plan to present a bromance travelogue that combines even more uninhibited competitiveness and tikitaka," and introduced it as "a travel entertainment program that captures the vividness of current trends."Broadcaster Choo Sung-hoon, singer Kim Jong Kook, and Zico (from left) will appear together in SBS Plus·MBN's new entertainment program 'Man's Travel Style in Taiwan.' /SBS Plus, MBNChoo Sung-hoon, the eldest brother returning to 'Man's Travel Style,' said, "We filmed it enjoyably with a manly spirit," and confidently stated, "I can confidently say that viewers will also enjoy watching it."It was a healing time for him, especially as he was preparing for his retirement match at the time of filming. Choo Sung-hoon said, "I was cast for the program before deciding on my retirement match," adding, "Although many things overlapped, the production team was very considerate. It felt like I was traveling, exercising, and resting, which was great."Kim Jong Kook, who is traveling to Taiwan with Choo Sung-hoon following Kyushu, also reflected, "'Man's Travel Style' is an entertainment program where we don't fear and we take on challenges," and "If there's a stage set, I don't avoid it."Furthermore, Kim Jong Kook expressed gratitude to the thorough production team. He said, "It was also a pleasure to meet the production team," and explained, "I didn't always follow the production team's words, but they prepared so much that I'm always looking forward to it. We have good chemistry."Zico, who joined as the new maknae, said, "I gained many precious experiences traveling Taiwan with Choo Sung-hoon and Kim Jong Kook," and added, "It was nice that the two hyungs treated me comfortably. It was amazing that Choo Sung-hoon and Kim Jong Kook were just like they are on broadcast, without any pretense."He is returning as a regular cast member of a travel entertainment show for the first time in about three years since the SBS entertainment program 'Math Without Travel' aired in 2023. He emphasized, "'Man's Travel Style' doesn't feel like just a travel entertainment show," and "Travel is merely a means to capture our conversations and episodes. That's why it aligns well with me."SBS Plus·MBN's new entertainment program 'Man's Travel Style in Taiwan' will premiere on the 6th at 9:40 PM. /SBS Plus, MBNThe most noteworthy aspect of 'Man's Travel Style' is undoubtedly their unpredictable manly moments. As the show returns with a new lineup, curiosity is growing about the chemistry that will bring laughter to viewers.Choo Sung-hoon and Kim Jong Kook have increased the fun of their tikitaka due to their familiarity. Choo Sung-hoon said, "I feel a sense of camaraderie with Kim Jong Kook, like with a fellow athlete, so our conversations are more interesting than with other celebrities." Kim Jong Kook also said, "He feels like a neighborhood hyung hanging out, so it's comfortable," and added, "I like that he's not putting on a show for broadcast."In addition, the maknae Zico's performance is also significant. Choo Sung-hoon explained, "Zico is so manly," and "We had many conversations while drinking together in the evening." Kim Jong Kook said, "Zico's demeanor changes a lot from the beginning to the end," and "It will be fun to watch him let go."Zico cited the atmosphere of them working together, both separately and as a group, as a strength. Zico confessed, "For me, being left alone is more attentive care than being constantly attended to," and "Choo Sung-hoon and Kim Jong Kook do their best in their respective roles when we are together, but they are fiercely individualistic after filming. I benefited greatly from that."Finally, they revealed the viewing points of 'Man's Travel Style.' First, PD Kim Jin-ho said, "It's a travel program that faithfully introduces hidden gems," and "We will deliver laughter and information to the viewers."Zico confidently stated, "It's a program where you'll feel like you can smell and taste with your nose, not just see and hear with your eyes," and "It will stimulate all five senses." Kim Jong Kook said, "It's like close friends casually joking around and traveling comfortably," and added, "It will be a program that reminds you of neighborhood friends."SBS Plus·MBN's new entertainment program 'Man's Travel Style' will premiere on the 6th at 9:40 PM.mcy21@tf.co.kr[Entertainment Department | ssent@tf.co.kr]]]> FANNSTAR Tue, 06 Oct 2026 00:00:00 +0900 Man who speaks facts vs. Woman who claims truthFirst broadcast on the 30th at 9:50 PMThe main poster for MBC's new Friday-Saturday drama 'Liar,' starring actors Yoo Yeon-seok (left) and Seo Hyun-jin, has been released. /MBC[THE FACT|Reporter Choi Soo-bin] Actors Yoo Yeon-seok and Seo Hyun-jin will face off over a single truth.The production team of MBC's new Friday-Saturday drama 'Liar' (written by Baek Jae-young, directed by Jo Young-min) released the main poster on the 6th, which depicts the sharp confrontation between Yoo Yeon-seok and Seo Hyun-jin.'Liar' is a story about a man and a woman who make completely opposite claims about a single memory, clashing fiercely in pursuit of the truth. The drama is also drawing attention as Yoo Yeon-seok and Seo Hyun-jin, who previously starred together in the 2016 SBS drama 'Dr. Romantic,' are reuniting after 10 years.Yoo Yeon-seok plays Min Joon-ho, a cardiothoracic surgeon and 'the man who speaks facts.' Seo Hyun-jin takes on the role of Kang Ji-sun, an elementary school librarian and 'the woman who claims truth.'In the poster, Min Joon-ho and Kang Ji-sun stand facing each other. Their unwavering gazes foreshadow the intense clash between the facts and the truth each of them claims.Adding to this, the phrase 'You are the one who lied' heightens curiosity about the hidden truth between the two individuals confronting each other over a single memory.'Liar,' consisting of a total of 12 episodes, will premiere on the 30th at 9:50 PM.subin7134@tf.co.kr[Entertainment Department | ssent@tf.co.kr]]]> FANNSTAR Tue, 06 Oct 2026 00:00:00 +0900 6 songs, including the title track of the same name, filled with positive energyOfficially released on the 12th at 6 PMGroup NCT WISH will release their fourth mini-album 'I SPY' on the 12th. / SM Entertainment[THE FACT|Reporter Choi Hyun-jung] Group NCT WISH transforms into a messenger of positive energy.According to their agency SM Entertainment on the 6th, NCT WISH's (SION RIKU YUSHI JAEHEE Ryo Sakuyama) fourth mini-album 'I SPY' includes 6 songs with various charms, including the title track 'I SPY' of the same name, 'We Own This Street', 'UPGRADE', 'Super Major', 'Hubble Time', and 'Like A Dream'.The included song 'We Own This Street' is a hip-hop-based alternative pop genre song that stands out for its unique harmony of contrasting sounds with a heavy beat, expressing NCT WISH's bright and confident energy. The lyrics contain the ambition to take over this street and change the tiring and repetitive urban landscape in a new way.'UPGRADE' is an electronic-based uptempo song and a sequel to the third mini-album's included song 'Videohood'. You can feel NCT WISH's bold will to open a new world by becoming a 'bug' in a game world.Another included song, 'Super Major', is a pop dance song with impressive sparkling synths and a cheerful tempo, delivering a 'super positive message' to move forward believing in our potential even for an unpredictable tomorrow.NCT WISH will release their fourth mini-album 'I SPY' on music sites on the 12th at 6 PM.laugardagr@tf.co.kr[Entertainment Department | ssent@tf.co.kr]]]> FANNSTAR Tue, 06 Oct 2026 00:00:00 +0900 "The person who made the impossible possible"Actor and director Lee Yoo-jin (right) and actress Cha Kyung-eun are tying the knot. /Lee Yoo-jin's representative[THE FACT|Reporter Choi Soo-bin] Actor and director Lee Yoo-jin and actress Cha Kyung-eun will be getting married in November.Lee Yoo-jin's representative stated in an official announcement on the 6th, "Lee Yoo-jin will be holding his wedding ceremony with actress Cha Kyung-eun on November 14th at a location in Seoul." They added, "We ask for your understanding that specific details such as the exact venue will not be disclosed out of consideration for family and guests."Lee Yoo-jin also personally announced the wedding news through his social media on the same day. He shared, "Kyung-eun is the first person I want to talk to after a busy day. She has made the impossible possible for me several times with just a word, even when I couldn't believe in myself," and "That's why I decided to become family with this person."He continued, "You might be surprised by this sudden news. I wanted to convey my feelings directly to those who have watched and supported me," and promised, "We will cherish each other and live well. I will continue my work diligently as an actor and as a director."The two first met through Lee Yoo-jin's directorial debut, 'If You See a Road, Cast Me!'. They developed feelings for each other during the preparation process for filming and naturally grew closer while working on the project. Since then, based on their certainty in each other, they officially began dating in June with marriage in mind.Lee Yoo-jin is the son of actress Lee Hyo-jeong. He debuted in 2013 with the drama 'Goddess of Fire' and has since built his filmography with appearances in 'Age of Youth 2', 'Familiar Wife', 'Be Melodramatic', 'Do You Like Brahms?', and more. In May, he expanded his career into directing by participating in ENA's short drama directing competition program 'Director's Arena', where he ranked second.Cha Kyung-eun debuted in 2021 with the short film 'Peach' and gained recognition for her role in the web drama 'PICKGO'. She later became a regular cast member on Coupang Play's 'SNL Korea Reboot Season 7'.[Entertainment Department | ssent@tf.co.kr]subin7134@tf.co.kr]]> FANNSTAR Tue, 06 Oct 2026 00:00:00 +0900 Jang Hanbyul's First Solo Concert Sells Out Instantly, Leading to "900,000 Won Scalped Tickets"Tuesday, October 6, BTS/ BLACKPINK/ Jang Hanbyul/ Kim Da-hyun/ Joo Byung-jin[THE FACT|Reporter Kang Il-hong] BTS, who have been making global strides after all members completed their military service, "It is natural for any Korean man to serve in the military." These words, spoken by BTS members before their enlistment, resonate particularly strongly when looked back upon today. Is it due to the recent resurgence of a sensitive debate?The remarks and a single photo from some members of the national football team, who won a gold medal at the Asian Games, have reignited the dormant debate over military service exemptions."I will not go to the military." And a photo wearing a discharge cap. The athletes immediately apologized, but the public's questions did not end there."Why do some people receive an exemption from military service for winning medals, while others do not?" The current system, strictly speaking, is not a 'complete military exemption.' Those who place 3rd or higher in the Olympics or win a gold medal at the Asian Games are incorporated as arts and sports personnel, undergoing military training, serving for 34 months in their specialized field, and performing public service.However, for professional athletes in sports like soccer and baseball, it is a significant benefit in practice, as they can continue their athletic careers instead of enlisting for active duty. The problem lies precisely here. If military service is a 'sacred duty' to the nation, is it truly fair to offer it as a reward for athletic achievement?Someone has been brought up again in this controversy. It is BTS. If the criterion is "promoting national prestige," have there been any other young people who have made Korea's name known to the world as much as BTS? Yet, all members of BTS eventually completed their military service.BTS's attitude during the military service controversy is also being re-examined. "It is natural for any Korean man to serve in the military." They did not view their military obligation as a subject for special treatment, despite their immense economic and cultural achievements and global popularity.This is why BTS is being compared again. Soccer players receive military benefits for winning an Asian Games gold medal, while BTS, who elevated Korea's status on the global stage, had to complete their military service.The question, then, is simple. It is not about arguing 'who contributed more to the nation.' It is about whether it is right in the first place to calculate military service as compensation for national contribution.Former lawmaker Yoo Seong-min pointed out this very issue. "If we consider only the effect of promoting national prestige, there are no young people like BTS, but is it fair that BTS has to serve in the military while Asian Games gold medalists are exempted?" In fact, a closer look at the system makes it difficult to draw a clear line."Why is an Asian Games gold medal acceptable but a silver medal is not? Why are the Olympics included but other international competitions are not? In the arts, which competitions are accepted and which are not? And if another global pop culture star like BTS emerges in the future, what criteria will be applied to them?"Ultimately, any line drawn will inevitably lead to further fairness debates. Of course, there are reasons to argue for supporting sports and arts. National support is particularly necessary to maintain the international competitiveness of less popular sports.However, 'exemption from military service' is not necessarily the only way to support sports and arts. Outstanding achievements can be adequately compensated through other means such as prize money, pensions, national team support, and training support. Perhaps the core question this controversy poses to us is this:Can the logic that "those who have brought honor to the nation do not have to serve in the military" be persuasive to future generations? For young men who have completed their military service, it represents a gap of 18 months or more in their careers and lives. If this military obligation is erased for some as a 'reward' for their achievements, it can lead to a sense of relative deprivation.Therefore, this controversy should not end with just a few players' misspoken words. The key is not the players, but the system. And this is why BTS has been brought up again. The image of BTS, who were stars that promoted Korea on the world's biggest stages but ultimately accepted their military obligations, is sending a stronger message to our society today.Is a country that exempts military service for those who have brought honor to the nation a fair country? Or is a country that can say, "No one is exempt from military service, no matter how great their success," a fairer country? This military service exemption debate is once again posing that question before us.First K-pop Debut Song in History, Global Status of Debut Song from 10 Years Ago ReaffirmedBlack Pink's debut song "BOOMBAYAH" music video has surpassed 1.9 billion views on YouTube. This record was set approximately 10 years after its release in August 2016. What makes it particularly significant is that "BOOMBAYAH" is the first debut music video by a K-pop group to reach 1.9 billion views."BOOMBAYAH" is a track from Black Pink's first single album 'SQUARE ONE,' and along with "WHISTLE," it marked Black Pink's official debut. The fact that a song released at the time of their debut continues to accumulate views on YouTube even after 10 years and is setting new records is drawing attention."BOOMBAYAH" had already surpassed 300 million views in March 2018, followed by 600, 700, 800, and 900 million views sequentially. In 2020, it became the first K-pop group debut music video to exceed 1 billion views. And now, it has finally reached the 1.9 billion view milestone.In addition, Black Pink's other representative songs, "DDU-DU DDU-DU" and "Kill This Love," have also surpassed 1.9 billion views, making Black Pink the first K-pop artist to have three music videos with over 1.9 billion views.This record goes beyond simply adding another number to the view count. YouTube is a representative global platform where fans worldwide consume music.The fact that a song released at the time of debut, like "BOOMBAYAH," continues to be consumed consistently for nearly 10 years can be interpreted as Black Pink's music and performances not being a fleeting phenomenon but being continuously discovered by new generations of fans.Since their debut, Black Pink has established itself as a representative group showcasing the global expansion of K-pop through various activities in music, fashion, and performances.And this 1.9 billion view count for "BOOMBAYAH" has become another number that symbolically represents that journey. Black Pink, whose 2016 debut song is setting new records even 10 years later, "BOOMBAYAH's" 1.9 billion views are more than just a view count; they represent the longevity and influence K-pop has gained in the global music market.Fans are also keenly watching to see if "BOOMBAYAH" will surpass another milestone of 2 billion views.On the 5th, at the pre-festival event of the 31st Busan International Film Festival held at BIFF Square in Jung-gu, Busan, Kim Da-hyun, wearing a pink dress, took the stage with Cho Won-hee, the community BIFF organizing committee chairman, to host the pre-festival event. Her bright expression and interaction with the audience drew attention. /Newsis"Shaken, but Not Stopped," Shim Soo-bong's Controversy Fades as Kim Da-hyun's Smile Shines in BusanThe controversy was brief, and Kim Da-hyun's smile bloomed brightly again. Singer and actress Kim Da-hyun met with fans in Busan with a bright demeanor, undeterred by the controversy involving singer Shim Soo-bong's critical remarks.On the 5th, at the pre-festival event of the 31st Busan International Film Festival held at BIFF Square in Jung-gu, Busan, Kim Da-hyun, wearing a pink dress, took the stage with Cho Won-hee, the community BIFF organizing committee chairman, to host the pre-festival event. Her bright expression and interaction with the audience drew attention. However, until just a short while ago, Kim Da-hyun was at the center of an unexpected controversy.The incident began on September 20th at a trot festival in Jinan, Jeonbuk, where Shim Soo-bong made remarks that seemed to disrespect Kim Da-hyun as a singer and as a person, referring to Kim Da-hyun's preceding performance.Shim Soo-bong specifically criticized Kim Da-hyun's songs and life experiences on stage, and the controversy escalated as the video spread online. Criticism followed regarding the appropriateness of the way and the language used to mention a junior artist in a public setting.Shim Soo-bong eventually issued a public apology the next day, admitting her remarks were a 'slip of the tongue.' She also directly conveyed her apologies to Kim Da-hyun and her family. Kim Da-hyun also revealed that she had received direct apologies and comfort from Shim Soo-bong afterward.And Kim Da-hyun did not dwell on the controversy. Instead, she continued her activities diligently in her own position.On the 5th, she led the stage as an MC at the Busan International Film Festival pre-festival event and even performed a celebratory stage, receiving enthusiastic responses from the audience. Kim Da-hyun's fans came dressed in deep pink, holding cheering sticks and fans, and Kim Da-hyun expressed her gratitude by making heart shapes with her arms and waving to them.Behind the stage, her father, Kim Bong-gon, a master of traditional Korean culture, watched his daughter's performance. What garnered more attention than the controversy was Kim Da-hyun's bright smile and confident demeanor.Kim Da-hyun's journey does not end here. On the 6th, she is scheduled to attend the opening ceremony red carpet of the Busan International Film Festival as an actress, not a singer. She recently took on the role of Ji-yoon, the daughter of actor Kim Jong-min, in the movie 'Florence,' venturing into acting. She is expanding her career from singer to actress, forging a new path.A past controversy cannot define everything about a person. What matters is the image they present afterward. Kim Da-hyun once again stood brightly before her fans on the Busan stage. She is focused on her stage, her music, and her new challenges, rather than being swayed by controversies.Perhaps the most fitting words for Kim Da-hyun right now are these: "I may be shaken, but I will not stop." Fans are eagerly anticipating Kim Da-hyun's next move as she heads towards a broader stage after overcoming controversy."Rags to Riches Legend" Emerged Like a Comet... First Concert Sold Out, Scalped Tickets AppearSinger Jang Hanbyul's first solo concert has sold out, proving his immense popularity. Notably, tickets were sold out within just 2 minutes of their release, and scalped tickets, priced at a staggering 900,000 won, more than five times the face value, have appeared, igniting fan interest.Jang Hanbyul will hold his first solo concert, 'THE STAR IS BORN,' on October 31st at the Daehan Hall of Sejong University in Seoul. The concert will have two shows, one at 1 PM and another at 6 PM. As soon as tickets were released, all seats for all shows were sold out in just 2 minutes.However, reflecting the fervent enthusiasm of fans awaiting the concert, ticket prices on online used goods marketplaces and social media soared to over five times the face value, reaching up to 900,000 won.Jang Hanbyul had already sold out all seats for his fan meeting in July within 1 minute of ticket opening. With his first solo concert also selling out at lightning speed, he is now recognized as a leading artist with undeniable 'ticket power.'Jang Hanbyul's rising popularity is not limited to ticket sales alone. After emerging like a comet by ranking in the TOP 3 of MBN's 'Rags to Riches Legend,' Jang Hanbyul went on to win KBS2's 'Immortal Songs,' securing a broad fan base.At this concert, he is set to deliver a special performance for his fans, showcasing a diverse range of genres from ballads to trot and pop, accompanied by a live band.Amidst the overheated scalping market, his agency, Leon Works, has urged fans to exercise extreme caution. They requested that fans refrain from purchasing tickets through premium resale or illegal transfers, not from official ticketing sites, and stated they would do their best to ensure fans could enjoy the concert safely and legitimately.From his powerful debut on 'Rags to Riches Legend' to the instant sell-out and the 900,000 won scalped tickets, Jang Hanbyul's first solo concert is expected to once again prove why he is currently one of the most anticipated artists."Thought it Ended with an Acquittal"... The Scars of That Day Still Lingering After 26 Years"The court ruled him innocent, so why does the incident not end in people's memories?" Broadcaster Joo Byung-jin has revisited the sexual assault case that surrounded him 26 years ago.Joo Byung-jin was arrested on charges of sexual assault in 2000, leading to a halt in his broadcasting activities and causing significant public controversy. The case went through legal battles for about two years, and Joo Byung-jin was ultimately acquitted. Legally, the conclusion was 'not guilty.'However, the story Joo Byung-jin shared on a recent broadcast was closer to his life after the verdict than the court's decision. He stated that the scars from that time had not disappeared."The wounds in my heart are never erased. They will continue to trouble me until the day I die." So why is he unable to completely escape this incident even after being acquitted?First, the way a court's judgment and public memory operate are different. While courts determine guilt or innocence based on evidence and law, the public may retain lasting memories of the media coverage at the time, the images, and the fact that he was a 'celebrity involved in a case.'Second, the social relationships and the collapse of daily life experienced during the process, rather than the incident itself, can leave a more lasting impact. Joo Byung-jin did not describe the suffering of that time as simply a single incident. He spoke of the pain as if his life had been trapped in darkness.And there is one scene that deserves attention here. During his difficult times, he went to the Han River, discovered a person in a dangerous situation, approached them, listened to their story, and handed them over to the police. Perhaps it was a moment when someone carrying their own wounds encountered another person's pain.Ultimately, the biggest question left by this incident is this: "If a case is legally over, is it truly over in the affected person's life?"An acquittal is a legally significant conclusion. However, a single verdict does not erase a person's reputation, relationships, or the lingering traces in their heart. Joo Byung-jin's confession, 26 years later, illustrates precisely that gap.The incident may be over, but the memory may not be, and perhaps that is why some wounds do not disappear with time but become a process of learning to live with them.eel@tf.co.kr]]> FANNSTAR Tue, 06 Oct 2026 00:00:00 +0900 Attended an online press conference on the 6th"Traveling as my true self, without pretense"Zico attended the online production presentation of SBS Plus·MBN's new entertainment program 'The Way of the Manly Man in Taiwan' held on the 6th and said, "Thanks to Choo Sung-hoon Kim Jong Kook, I traveled as my true self." /SBS Plus·MBN[THE FACT | Reporter Moon Chae-young] Singer Zico revealed that he approached the trip with a genuine and unpretentious attitude.Zico attended the press conference for SBS Plus·MBN's new entertainment program 'The Way of the Manly Man in Taiwan' (hereinafter referred to as 'The Way of the Manly Man'), which was held online on the morning of the 6th, and said, "I let go of everything," adding, "My true self will be revealed."'The Way of the Manly Man' is a program that tells the story of the impromptu travels of 'macho man' broadcaster Choo Sung-hoon and singer Kim Jong Kook Zico, who enjoy life following their instincts. It is a follow-up to the 'The Way of the Manly Man in Kyushu' episode aired in April of this year.Zico, who became the new maknae for this season of 'The Way of the Manly Man', shared his thoughts on approaching the trip with honesty. He said, "I took off all the pretense," and added, "You can see me letting go a lot. I'm constantly losing my composure."He reflected on the good chemistry he had with Choo Sung-hoon Kim Jong Kook. Zico emphasized, "My true self is revealed in the hands of these two hyungs," and "I'm completely stripped bare."He also revealed that his hidden "ajusshi" moments would be expressed. Zico explained, "My inner 'ajusshi' power, which I've been barely suppressing, is coming out," and "When organizing my luggage, I go beyond talking to myself and start singing. I end up imitating Kim Jong Kook."SBS Plus·MBN's new entertainment program 'The Way of the Manly Man' will premiere on the 6th at 9:40 PM.mcy21@tf.co.kr[Entertainment Department | ssent@tf.co.kr]]]> FANNSTAR Tue, 06 Oct 2026 00:00:00 +0900 "Funeral held quietly according to the deceased's wishes"It was belatedly revealed that actor Lee Jung-jae's father had passed away. /THE FACT DB[THE FACT|Reporter Choi Soo-bin] Actor Lee Jung-jae's father has passed away.An official from his agency, Artist Company, told on the 6th, "According to the wishes of the deceased, who was always quiet and humble, Lee Jung-jae's funeral was held quietly as a family service."He added, "We ask for your understanding that it is difficult to confirm specific details as it is a private family matter."Earlier today, My Daily reported that Lee Jung-jae held a quiet funeral with his family without informing those around him of the news of his father's passing. Agency officials were also reportedly informed of the funeral belatedly.Meanwhile, Lee Jung-jae debuted in 1993 with the drama 'Dinosaur Teacher' and has met viewers through various works such as 'Chief of Staff', 'Squid Game', and the films 'The Face Reader' and 'Assassination'. He is currently considering his next project.subin7134@tf.co.kr[Entertainment Department | ssent@tf.co.kr]]]> FANNSTAR Tue, 06 Oct 2026 00:00:00 +0900 The dreams of girls spanning 60 years are captured... to be released on the 21stThe main posters for the movie 'Still Shining' have been released. Kim Hye-ja's bright smile, imbued with the passage of time, evokes the dreams and passion of her youth, creating a sense of nostalgia. /Plus M Entertainment[THE FACT | Reporter Jung Byung-geun] The movie 'Still Shining' (directed by Song Il-gon) captures the dreams and passion of girls that remain brilliant even as time passes, in its posters.Distributor Plus M Entertainment released two main posters for 'Still Shining' on the 6th. The posters feature the brilliant appearances of Soon-ok (played by Kim Hye-ja) and Jeong-im (played by Cha Mi-kyung), who remain unchanged by the passage of time. Kim Hye-ja's bright smile, imbued with the passage of time, evokes the dreams and passion of her youth, creating a sense of nostalgia.'Still Shining' is a film about Soon-ok, who reunites with her best friend after 60 years, having shared the most brilliant moments of her life. The poster captures the bright smile of Kim Hye-ja, who plays Soon-ok, as she reunites with her best friend Jeong-im after 60 years, along with images of young Soon-ok and Jeong-im, drawing the viewer's attention.Below Soon-ok's bright smile, the images of the two young girls, who created brilliant moments while striving together towards their dreams, unfold, interweaving the most precious times they shared with each other.The second poster features Soon-ok and Jeong-im from their childhood to the present. From their childhood days with flowers in their hair to their current appearance with red scarves, the relationship between the two, unchanged despite the long 60-year span, is vividly conveyed.The addition of the caption, "Our story you must remember," further sparks curiosity about their brilliant story, cherished for so long. Anticipation is building for the special story that Soon-ok and Jeong-im, who shared each other's most luminous moments, will encounter as they reunite after 60 years, and the resonance it will bring.The movie 'Still Shining', featuring an ensemble of veteran actors with solid acting skills, including Kim Hye-ja, Park Seo-kyung, Choi Ju-eun, Moon Sung-hyun, Cha Mi-kyung, Jo Sung-ha, and next-generation actors with fresh charm, will be released on the 21st.[Entertainment Department | ssent@tf.co.kr]kafka@tf.co.kr]]> FANNSTAR Tue, 06 Oct 2026 00:00:00 +0900 Ryu Seung-ryong&Park Hae-joon Ong Seong-wu capture charactersOpening December 2The movie 'Jeonggane' has released its first stills featuring lead actors Ryu Seung-ryong&Park Hae-joon Ong Seong-wu. / Yong Film[THE FACT|Reporter Choi Hyun-jung] The "brotherly chemistry" between actors Ryu Seung-ryong and Park Hae-joon has finally been revealed.Production company Yong Film released the first stills of the movie 'Jeonggane' (directed by Kim Ji-hyun) on the 6th, featuring Ryu Seung-ryong, Park Hae-joon, and Ong Seong-wu.'Jeonggane' is a film about two enemies, brothers Mansu (played by Ryu Seung-ryong) and Byungsu (played by Park Hae-joon), who have lived without speaking a word to each other for 30 years, joining forces to protect a calf named Jangsu, who was born like fate amidst a crisis that has befallen the village.This is the screen debut film of director Kim Ji-hyun, who wrote the drama 'Romantic Anonymous' and directed 'Splash Splash Love'. The cast includes Ryu Seung-ryong, Park Hae-joon, Ong Seong-wu, and Jung Suk-yong, and Lee Sang-hee.Ryu Seung-ryong, who has showcased a wide acting spectrum across genres, will play Mansu, who is "only gruff with his younger brother," and plans to show a charm that is even more delightful because it is serious. Park Hae-joon plays Byungsu, who is "only prickly with his older brother," completing the brotherly chemistry with Ryu Seung-ryong. In addition, Ong Seong-wu joins as Jeonghun, a new veterinarian in Hoengsan-gun, who is busy watching his back between the brothers, adding vitality to the drama.The first stills of 'Jeonggane' released today capture the characteristics of the characters Ryu Seung-ryong, Park Hae-joon, and Ong Seong-wu at a glance. First, Ryu Seung-ryong expresses Mansu, who has been running 'Jeonggane Ranch,' with a deep gaze and interaction with the cows inside the cowshed.On the other hand, Park Hae-joon, as Byungsu, seems to be conscious of his older brother Mansu, setting up the "original Jeonggane" sign and revealing his prickly side, amplifying curiosity about the events that unfold between the brothers. Lastly, Ong Seong-wu, as Jeonghun, sits next to the calf with a bright expression befitting a new veterinarian, adding to the anticipation of his performance.'Jeonggane' is scheduled to be released on December 2nd.laugardagr@tf.co.kr[Entertainment Department | ssent@tf.co.kr]]]> FANNSTAR Tue, 06 Oct 2026 00:00:00 +0900 12th, Mini 5th Album 'HYPERDRIVE' RevealedPLAVE revealed the tracklist for their mini 5th album 'HYPERDRIVE'. A total of 5 songs are included, including the title track 'Star Trace'. /Blast[THE FACT | Reporter Jung Byung-geun] Virtual idol group PLAVE has announced a colorful new album with its tracklist.PLAVE released an image of the tracklist for their mini 5th album 'HYPERDRIVE' on their official social media on the 6th. The titles of each song included in the new album are displayed on a scoreboard screen, continuing the racing mood previously showcased through concept photos and visual samplers.This album includes a total of five songs: the title track 'Star Trace', 'Kkun', 'A Drizzle on a Blue Sky', 'The Answer Is Yes', and 'Rewind'.Notably, PLAVE continues their self-production capabilities by participating in the creation of the included songs for this album as well. Among them, the last track 'Rewind' features hitmaker Kenzie and his songwriting team KZLAB, creating a different atmosphere. They have expanded their scope to include collaborations with external artists alongside their existing self-production process.This album is a new release approximately 6 months after their fourth mini-album 'Caligo Pt.2', released in April. The title track 'Star Trace' was unexpectedly pre-released during the encore stage at their first world tour 'KEEP IT MANIC', held at Incheon Munhak Stadium on the 12th and 13th of last month, raising expectations.PLAVE will release all songs from their new mini-album 'HYPERDRIVE' at 6 PM on the 12th. The physical album will be released on the 13th.kafka@tf.co.kr[Entertainment Department | ssent@tf.co.kr]]]> FANNSTAR Tue, 06 Oct 2026 00:00:00 +0900 Sneak peek of all songs on the albumOfficially released on the 26th at 6 PMGroup ILLIT has released a teaser video containing parts of the music from their fifth mini-album, 'BREAK EVEN'. The photo shows ILLIT YUNAH WONHEE MINJU IROHA (from left) on the blue carpet at the '2026 THE FACT MUSIC AWARDS(2026 THE FACT MUSIC AWARDS, TMA)' held on September 19th. /Reporter Kim Sung-ryeol, Busan Asiad Main Stadium[THE FACT|Reporter Choi Hyun-jung] The new music of group ILLIT has been unveiled.On the 5th, at 5 PM, their agency Belift Lab released a teaser video for ILLIT's fifth mini-album, 'BREAK EVEN', on the HYBE LABELS YouTube channel.The video, which begins with the warning "Annoyance comes faster than you think," depicts the members' emotional changes in everyday life that doesn't go as planned, along with the new album's tracks.The track that has drawn listeners' attention is the title song 'I'll Catch You'. This electro-pop song features a cheerful whistle sound that exudes strong addiction and explosive energy.The fun is amplified by the playful tug-of-war between ILLIT, who are playing while blowing whistles, and the enforcement officers holding signs that say 'TOO LOUD'.The charm of the B-side tracks is also diverse. 'Super in Love' is an indie dance genre that blends dreamy emotions over a calm beat, expressing ILLIT's lovely charm. In the video, Minju is on the phone with a fluttering heart, and after the call, she is amused by the heart-shaped phone cord.'Pop' is a Baile Funk genre that combines a fresh melody with a groovy rhythm, characterized by its exciting sound and the repetitive 'Pop Pop' lyrics. The 'Pop Pop' sound, which pops out like hiccups at the moment the pancake tower meticulously built by Yuna and Wonhee collapses, adds quirky fun.In 'More', an episode of IROHA playing tag with the members while blindfolded is depicted. When the members secretly disappear to play a prank, IROHA, who has been wandering alone for a long time, notices the strange atmosphere and takes off the blindfold, getting angry. 'More' is a Speed Garage genre song with dynamic rhythms and rough sounds, leaving a strong impact with its straightforward lyrics.ILLIT will release their fifth mini-album 'BREAK EVEN' on various music sites on the 26th at 6 PM. / Belift LabHaving raised anticipation for their new album with the teaser video, ILLIT will release their fifth mini-album 'BREAK EVEN' on various music sites on the 26th at 6 PM. They will then hold their encore tour 'ILLIT LIVE PRESS START♥︎ ENCORE in KOREA' at the Inspire Arena in Incheon on the 17th and 18th.laugardagr@tf.co.kr[Entertainment Department | ssent@tf.co.kr]]]> FANNSTAR Tue, 06 Oct 2026 00:00:00 +0900 The scene of BTS and J-HOPE performing the Arirang World Tour has been revealed. J-HOPE recently took the stage at the ’BTS WORLD TOUR ARIRANG’ concert held in Bogotá, Colombia, wearing a white jacket and necklace, passionately delivering a performance while holding the microphone. Even with sunglasses on, the focused eyes and relaxed expression combined to exude a strong charisma. During the performance, J-HOPE pointed at the audience with their finger, delivering an energetic performance that heated up the atmosphere. Amidst dazzling lights and fireworks decorating the stage, J-HOPE immersed themselves in the song, continuing heartfelt communication with fans. Offstage, scenes of J-HOPE sitting comfortably on a sofa and resting were also captured, and when taking a selfie in front of a gray background, they pursed their lips and stared straight ahead, revealing a swag-filled street vibe. This Arirang World Tour is an opportunity to meet fans worldwide, and J-HOPE leaves a deep impression at every performance by conveying their unique bright and positive energy. With diverse stage productions and boundless passion, they are receiving passionate love from music fans around the world.]]> FANNSTAR Tue, 06 Oct 2026 00:00:00 +0900 Stray Kids’ FELIX has recently attracted attention by sharing a relaxed daily life in Paris. He wore a blue denim jacket, a white T-shirt, white pants, and a black beanie, posing with his hand touching the hat against the iconic Parisian backdrop overlooking the Seine River and the Eiffel Tower. Looking straight ahead with his lips closed, he exuded a stylish mood, creating a sophisticated atmosphere with a natural presentation using headphones and a smartphone, conveying comfort in everyday life. He also shared scenes of strolling through the streets and roads of Paris while looking at his smartphone, showing that he was enjoying a leisurely and free time. FELIX posted on SNS, ″Paris like home, Louis my family,″ tagging artists who collaborated with the brand such as Nicolas Ghesquière, Marie-Amélie Sauvé, and Florent Buono, revealing his close relationship with Louis Vuitton. He expressed various moments from Louis Vuitton’s current season collection event with his own sensibility, attracting much attention from fans. Meanwhile, FELIX has demonstrated a strong presence on stage as Stray Kids’ main dancer and rapper with his unique tone and deep rap voice. Recently, he has been actively engaging with his global fandom through continuous activities both domestically and internationally. Additionally, with his calm gaze and profound expressions, he has established himself as a versatile artist who showcases diverse charms across fashion and music.]]> FANNSTAR Tue, 06 Oct 2026 00:00:00 +0900 On Jooheon’s birthday, a warm congratulatory message was delivered through the official SNS account. The official Monsta X account posted a message saying ″HAPPY BIRTHDAY JOOHONEY 🐯♥️″ along with a post celebrating Jooheon, sharing the fans’ enthusiasm for the celebration. The post included a photo of Jooheon wearing a striped t-shirt, smiling while covering his face with both hands. Behind the solid-colored background, a cute character doll was placed, adding a warm atmosphere. Jooheon’s bright expression looking straight ahead conveys warm energy to the fans. Fans are leaving various supportive messages celebrating Jooheon’s special day through this post. The Monsta X members are also drawing attention by showing strong teamwork as they celebrate each other’s birthdays. Meanwhile, besides their musical activities, Monsta X members Shownu and Hyungwon have recently appeared on the global fashion stage, showing active involvement in various fields. Attention continues to focus on the diverse activities of Monsta X members, including Jooheon.]]> FANNSTAR Tue, 06 Oct 2026 00:00:00 +0900