https://en.fannstar.tf.co.kr FANNSTAR RSS Service - All Articles copyright (c) FANNSTAR fannstar@tf.co.kr "I am ashamed of my past irresponsible choices."Sentenced to 1 year in prison, suspended for 2 years in the first trial.Song Min-ho, who is suspected of dereliction of duty as a social service worker, leaves the courtroom after attending a hearing at the Seoul Western District Court in Mapo-gu, Seoul on April 21. /Reporter Song Ho-young[THE FACT|Reporter Lee Seong-rak] Song Min-ho, a member of the group WINNER, has apologized for violating military service laws.On the 9th, Song Min-ho posted a handwritten letter on his social media service (SNS) Instagram, stating, "I bow my head and apologize for causing concern to many people because of me."He said, "I should have clarified my position as soon as possible, but it was too late. I am sorry for making you wait for so long," and "Above all, I am so sorry for disappointing the young men who are faithfully fulfilling their military service obligations, as well as my fans who cherish me more than anyone else."He added, "Regret has been long each day. I was ashamed and hated my past irresponsible choices," and "I will not avoid my foolish mistakes and will reflect on them. I will faithfully carry out the remaining procedures and obligations."Finally, he said, "I will not forget this incident, engrave it in my heart, and live with a more responsible attitude," and "I sincerely apologize once again."Song Min-ho is suspected of being absent without leave for 102 days while working as a social service worker. On the 1st, the Seoul Western District Court sentenced Song Min-ho, who was indicted on charges of violating military service laws, to one year in prison and a two-year suspended sentence.rocky@tf.co.kr]]> FANNSTAR Fri, 09 Oct 2026 00:00:00 +0900 It was supposed to be the epitome of a rom-com, but it turned out to be the epitome of an internet novel.Kim Young-kwang and Chae Soo-bin's chemistry and OST are a lifesaver.Netflix's 'My Sweet Dear,' starring Kim Young-kwang and Chae Soo-bin, will be released in its entirety on the 9th at 5 PM. /Netflix[THE FACT|Reporter Kim Saet-byul] A contract romance between a third-generation chaebol and an ordinary woman, with the added fantasy elements of an artificial heart and electric abilities. It seemed to be a "K-rom-com standard" with a unique twist on a familiar romantic comedy, but what we encountered was the standard of 2000s internet novels. While the overly old-fashioned dialogue and flimsy plot might make you pause, the heart-fluttering chemistry and lovable performances of the two lead actors, along with the captivating OST, bring the drama back to life.Netflix's new series 'My Sweet Dear' (written by Song Yu-chae, directed by Park Soo-won) will be released worldwide in its entirety today (9th) at 5 PM. Prior to its release, Netflix provided reporters with a preview of four out of ten episodes through a press screening.'My Sweet Dear' is a romantic comedy about 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 the ability to generate electricity, entering into a contract out of mutual necessity. Based on a web novel of the same name, the series consists of a total of 10 episodes.The story begins as the two protagonists, each with their own secrets, become entangled like characters in a shojo manga. A crowd gathers due to the top-star popularity of Ji Eun-ho (played by Cha Woo-min), and Baek Ho-rang and Na Bo-bae, pushed by the crowd, kiss. After that day, Na Bo-bae realizes that Baek Ho-rang is an "electric-proof rubber glove" to her electricity.The two then meet again in a hospital during a power outage. Baek Ho-rang is scheduled to undergo surgery to implant a high-performance battery for his artificial heart and prepare for his succession to TS Group. However, on the day of the crucial surgery, the hospital experiences a power outage, and his artificial heart battery drains. It is then that Baek Ho-rang returns from the brink of death thanks to Na Bo-bae, who was in the same hospital, and discovers that his heart recharges through skinship with her.As can be seen from the initial plot, 'My Sweet Dear' follows typical clichés. Setting aside the "contract romance between a third-generation chaebol and an ordinary woman," even the fantasy element of "charging upon touch and discharging upon separation" is predictable, but it can still work if viewed as a "rom-com standard."Netflix's new series 'My Sweet Dear' aimed to be a rom-com standard but filled its early episodes with somewhat old-fashioned settings and dialogue reminiscent of internet novels. /NetflixThe problem is that the way these elements are handled is overly familiar, and the dialogue is extremely dated. Situations like a hospital where a major corporation's executive is undergoing surgery losing even emergency power due to a lightning strike, the cliché power struggles surrounding a chaebol family, club brawls, and especially the secretaries' raid on the scene like investigators to uncover the general manager's corruption, feel like an internet novel sensibility with poor prior research.Furthermore, cheesy lines like Choi Do-yoon, Baek Ho-rang's cousin who is wary of him, saying to Na Bo-bae, "I'll treat you better than he does," and during the contract negotiation, exchanging large sums of money with lines like "Is this right? It looks like there's an extra zero" and "Heh. That's the correct amount. TS values you that much, and we can negotiate if you want," appear constantly.The lack of plausibility surrounding the entertainment and broadcasting industries further hinders immersion. Ji Eun-ho, who becomes acquainted with Na Bo-bae through her debut work, boasts top-star-level influence from the first episode, contrary to his vague "recycled rookie" setting. Despite this, he acts somewhat recklessly towards the third-generation chaebol Baek Ho-rang, walks around outside wearing only a mask, and the setting of him picking up Na Bo-bae, despite being a close writer, is difficult to accept.Of course, there's no need to apply overly realistic standards to a fantasy romantic comedy. However, not all plot holes can be overlooked simply because it's fantasy. When moments that seem detached from reality repeat, it eventually feels not like a fantasy romance but simply like sloppiness.Given that the drama centers around unrealistic settings like "electric abilities" and "artificial heart batteries," it makes one wonder if the surrounding world could have been built more solidly.Ultimately, the drama's excessive old-fashionedness demands viewers to have both "rubber gloves" and "batteries." Rubber gloves are needed for when your hands curl up at the predictable and familiar dialogue, and physical stamina is essential to endure the somewhat flimsy plot.Attention is focused on whether actresses Chae Soo-bin and Kim Young-kwang, with their individual charms and chemistry, can elevate 'My Sweet Dear' beyond its childishness and transform it into a romance that captivates the world. /NetflixNevertheless, the power that keeps viewers hooked is undeniably the actors' performances and chemistry. In particular, the two leads, Kim Young-kwang and Chae Soo-bin, who boast the perfect rom-com visuals with their height difference, create excitement just by their presence.Kim Young-kwang adds a playful charm to Baek Ho-rang, the seemingly cold and perfect third-generation chaebol. However, the romantic excitement is not yet fully ripe. Due to some overly sentimental lines and scenes, there are moments that are difficult to overcome solely through the actors' performances. Despite this, he portrays the character with his characteristic relaxed demeanor, showcasing a different charm from his previous roles and adding strength to the drama.Chae Soo-bin's presence is unparalleled. She brings the character to life with her unique loveliness, even within a setting that could easily become over-the-top. She naturally handles even childish lines or scenes that overtly try to be cute, making viewers smile.This is also due to Chae Soo-bin's accumulated experience. Having starred in works with fantasy elements like 'I'm Not a Robot' and 'Where Stars Land,' as well as works based on webtoons like 'The Call,' she is accustomed to making viewers accept unrealistic settings on screen. Therefore, Chae Soo-bin's performance is the biggest saving grace of 'My Sweet Dear.'The supporting actors' performances are also noteworthy. Heo Dong-won, as Baek Ho-rang's secretary Yoon Jae-ho, shows a different side from his usual roles, making viewers realize, "He can do this kind of role well too." He adds vitality to the drama with his witty secretary portrayal and chemistry with Kim Young-kwang. Yang Hyun-min also naturally elicits laughter as director Yeom Min-gyu, who demands Na Bo-bae to write romance. Even in scenes that could easily become childish, he maintains the drama's rhythm with appropriate tone control and realistic acting.The OST is also a major strength of the drama. The music, which appears from the beginning of the first episode, greatly enhances the romantic comedy's unique atmosphere. Each OST featured up to episode 4 is so good that sometimes you find yourself looking forward to the OST more. Especially when the leads' scenes are paired with the music, it makes you think, "Yes, this is what a rom-com should be like."Ultimately, 'My Sweet Dear,' despite its many flaws and awkward moments in the first four episodes, maintains a light and enjoyable framework thanks to the extraordinary chemistry between Kim Young-kwang and Chae Soo-bin, the strong performances of the supporting cast, and the emotional music. Viewers who are prepared to endure the cringeworthy sensibility of 2000s internet novels can enjoy getting lost in the charms of the actors in this lighthearted rom-com.sstar1204@tf.co.kr[Entertainment Department | ssent@tf.co.kr]]]> FANNSTAR Fri, 09 Oct 2026 00:00:00 +0900 Singer SUNG HANBIN will debut as a solo artist by releasing his first EP, ’DEAD:ALIVE,’ at 6 p.m. on the 12th. Based on his experience as the leader of the group ZEROBASEONE, SUNG HANBIN will showcase his solo stage with his own voice and performance this time. The album includes a total of eight tracks, including the title track ’UNDEAD.’ It features songs such as ’Killin’ Me,’ ’Insidious,’ ’3AM,’ ’Bloody Gravity,’ ’Other Side,’ ’Flash,’ and ’Steal the Thunder.’ In the pre-released performance video for ’Killin’ Me,’ SUNG HANBIN expressed a message of confronting inner pain and fear through a powerful transformation and performance. The title track ’UNDEAD’ combines intense guitar riffs, grand choir, and dazzling drum lines, drawing attention to how SUNG HANBIN’s vocals and performance will blend. ’DEAD:ALIVE’ captures the process of ’self-transcendence,’ growing by breaking the limits that confined oneself without stopping in the face of fear. The album expresses the moment of breaking limits and rebirth as a new self as ’beautiful destruction.’ In three concept photos, SUNG HANBIN presented different atmospheres through various images such as wound makeup, a red motorcycle, a white butterfly crown, and feather costumes. Notably, SUNG HANBIN personally participated in writing the lyrics for the track ’Flash,’ conveying a sincere message and promise to fans. The highlight medley previewed various moods, including tense sounds, stylish grooves, and emotionally rising feelings in each song. SUNG HANBIN’s first EP ’DEAD:ALIVE’ will be released on various music platforms at 6 p.m. on the 12th.]]> FANNSTAR Fri, 09 Oct 2026 00:00:00 +0900 The group izna (Mai, Bang Jimin, Coco, Yoo Sarang, Choi Jeongeun, Jung Sebi) is holding the concert tour ″2026-2027 izna Concert Tour: WHO DAT GIRL? in TAIPEI″ today (the 9th, local time) at ZEPP NEW TAIPEI in Taipei. izna successfully completed the first performance of the concert tour at Seoul Olympic Hall from the 19th to the 20th of last month. This tour is izna’s first concert tour since their debut, and the title ″WHO DAT GIRL?″ is inspired by the chorus lyrics of their debut song ″IZNA.″ The performance featured newly arranged versions of existing songs, including band, bossa nova, and house remix styles, and was presented in a three-act structure linked with stage design and VCR. izna expressed their ambition, saying, ″We will showcase the charm of the ’DAT GIRL’ who instantly captures attention even among countless people.″ Following the Seoul performance, starting with the Taipei stage, izna will continue the tour in 10 domestic and international locations including Manila on October 17, Hong Kong on October 24, Singapore on November 8, Kuala Lumpur on December 5, Fukuoka on March 12, 2027, Tokyo on March 14, Nagoya on March 27, and Osaka on March 28.]]> FANNSTAR Fri, 09 Oct 2026 00:00:00 +0900 The group Epik High held a celebration party at a campsite ahead of reaching 2 million subscribers on their YouTube channel. On the afternoon of the 8th, Epik High released a new episode titled ″Last Camping of This Life ft. Mitsura’s 3-Course Cooking″ on their official YouTube channel EPIKASE. The members went camping and spent a relaxing time outdoors, hanging a banner to celebrate surpassing 2 million subscribers. At the campsite, Mitsura set up equipment such as tables and chairs and personally prepared a 3-course meal consisting of jjajang ramen, pork ribs, and eggs in hell. Tablo and Tookut focused on setting up tents and camp beds, and Mitsura encouraged them by saying, ″It’s usually difficult. You’re doing better than expected.″ The members who tasted Mitsura’s cooking were full of admiration, and a suggestion to publish a recipe book together was even made. That day, Epik High celebrated reaching 2 million subscribers in advance and set their next goal at 5 million subscribers. Tablo said, ″My goal was 1 million subscribers, but I’ve already achieved that,″ and Tookut said, ″Twenty years ago, at our first concert, we hoped only a thousand people would come, but now we almost sell out venues with 10,000 people per show,″ adding, ″What you wish for comes true.″ He also promoted the concert scheduled for January next year. The members talked about what they want to do when they reach 3 million subscribers. Tablo said, ″I want to try serious acting,″ and added, ″I want to see Tookut act in a sad melodrama.″ Mitsura said, ″That’s the scene I least want to see, but I’m curious.″ They also encouraged Mitsura to try being a chef, with opinions saying, ″I want to see you learn step by step under the Tiger Chef.″ Throughout the camping trip, the three members showed nonstop conversation and cheerful chemistry. At the end, they emphasized their goal of reaching 5 million subscribers and asked for subscriptions, finishing the camping by sharing the food Mitsura prepared with the staff. Meanwhile, Epik High will hold the ″2027 Epik High Concert″ for three days from January 22 to 24, 2027, at the KSPO DOME in Olympic Park, Seoul.]]> FANNSTAR Fri, 09 Oct 2026 00:00:00 +0900 Lee Seung-gi mentioned his unwavering friendship with producer Na Young-seok. In the video ″Surprise Live in a High School Classroom (ft. Lee Seung-gi)″ released on the YouTube channel ’Green Umbrella’ on the 8th, Lee Seung-gi visited his alma mater, Sanggye High School, and had conversations with his juniors. He shared various stories about his school days and activities in the entertainment industry. Referring to his debut song ″Because I’m Your Woman,″ Lee Seung-gi said, ″I was a senior in high school. I debuted at your age,″ and recalled with a smile, ″I appeared singing ’Because I’m Your Woman.’ At that time, I suddenly appeared like a comet, being called the ’nation’s younger brother.’ It’s a bit embarrassing to say it myself.″ He also mentioned the variety show ″1 Night 2 Days,″ explaining, ″’Lee Seung-gi’ is a program that made my name known nationwide to more people.″ He asked the students, ″Are there still people who watch this? Is it worth watching? Is it fun?″ The students replied, ″We watch it every time we eat,″ and ″It’s very fun.″ When a student asked about his relationship with producer Na Young-seok, who worked with him on ″1 Night 2 Days,″ Lee Seung-gi expressed closeness, saying, ″Young-seok hyung? We’re still close. There’s no reason for us not to be. There’s no reason for me not to be close with Young-seok hyung.″ Lee Seung-gi revealed that despite the long time that has passed, his relationship with producer Na Young-seok, whom he connected with through ″1 Night 2 Days,″ continues.]]> FANNSTAR Fri, 09 Oct 2026 00:00:00 +0900 Singer Haha revealed his health concerns along with the reason he wears sunglasses on variety shows. In a video released on the YouTube channel ’Class of ’26 Jiwon’ on the 8th, Haha met with Ha Ji-won at a barbecue restaurant near Kyung Hee University and talked about health. When asked what made Ha Ji-won start paying attention to her health, Haha explained the reason he has recently become more conscious of his health by saying, ″Things that used to work have started not to.″ He also explained the reason he wears sunglasses during outdoor variety show shoots: ″It’s not to look cool. When I look at the light, I can’t see ahead because I can’t handle the reflection. That’s what I’m revealing here.″ He then shared his experience visiting an optician, saying, ″I thought I couldn’t put it off any longer, so I went to the optician, and they cautiously told me it was presbyopia.″ Along with this, Haha took out hair loss medicine and opened up about his concerns with hair loss. Finally, he told Ha Ji-won, ″Let’s stay healthy, noona.″]]> FANNSTAR Fri, 09 Oct 2026 00:00:00 +0900 Nam Hyun-hee recently posted the phrase ″Hatred does not find faults. It creates them″ on her SNS. The message, posted by Nam Hyun-hee on the 8th against a black background, reflected her thoughts on hatred and criticism. She did not mention the reason for posting this message or any specific target. Previously, Nam Hyun-hee was embroiled in allegations of conspiracy to commit fraud related to Jeon Cheong-jo but was cleared by the prosecution in December last year. Jeon Cheong-jo was prosecuted for defrauding investors of about 3 billion won by pretending to be the illegitimate child of a third-generation chaebol and was sentenced to 13 years in prison in November 2024. Nam Hyun-hee has suffered from criticism and malicious comments online in the past and has expressed her feelings about it directly. At that time, she emphasized that ″mocking and criticizing victims is not a simple opinion but another form of harm,″ mentioning the pain caused by malicious comments. Meanwhile, Mr. A, who was indicted for writing insulting comments on articles related to Nam Hyun-hee in October 2023, avoided punishment as Nam Hyun-hee’s side submitted a settlement agreement and a letter of no punishment during the appeal process. On July 26, the Criminal Division 4 of the Daejeon District Court (Chief Judge Gu Chang-mo) overturned the original ruling that sentenced him to a fine of 1.5 million won and dismissed the indictment.]]> FANNSTAR Fri, 09 Oct 2026 00:00:00 +0900 The couple, Do Kyung-wan and Jang Yun Jeong, revealed their newly moved-in duplex home on KBS 2TV variety show ″New Release Pyeonstorang.″ Do Kyung-wan returned to the program after 5 years and 8 months since declaring himself freelance and showcased the recently moved-in house. This house is a luxury penthouse located in Apere Hangang, a high-end residential complex in Seobinggo-dong, Yongsan-gu, Seoul. The couple, Jang Yun Jeong and Do Kyung-wan, attracted attention by purchasing it entirely in cash for 12 billion won in 2024. On the broadcast, Do Kyung-wan expressed his feelings about returning, saying, ″I’m back after 5 years,″ and showed a witty side by saying, ″I have a lot of free time.″ The interior was decorated in white and wood tones, creating a neat and warm atmosphere. Artworks encompassing both Eastern and Western styles and paintings drawn by their two children, Yeon-woo and Ha-young, were also displayed. Do Kyung-wan emphasized that the interior was a space filled with his wife Jang Yun Jeong’s sense of style, saying, ″Everything is entirely the objects and paintings that Yoon-jung wanted.″ Especially in the kitchen, there were five refrigerators, and Do Kyung-wan explained that each refrigerator was used for different purposes. The refrigerator dedicated to side dishes stored premium ingredients such as tomahawk steak and croaker fish, while the refrigerator for alcohol was stocked with various liquors including beer, soju, wine, and tequila. Do Kyung-wan shared their daily life, saying, ″I always have a drink with Yoon-jung in the evening.″ The couple, Jang Yun Jeong and Do Kyung-wan, married in 2013 and have one son and one daughter. They attracted fans’ attention by revealing their home decorated with a duplex space, artworks, and five refrigerators.]]> FANNSTAR Fri, 09 Oct 2026 00:00:00 +0900 Through the TVING original ″Transit Love 4,″ PARK JI HYUN and Jung Won-kyu, who hinted at marriage after reuniting, have decided to go their separate ways. On the 7th, PARK JI HYUN personally announced the breakup with Jung Won-kyu in a video titled ″Tokyo 2 Nights 3 Days Vlog and a Story I Want to Tell″ uploaded on the YouTube channel ″I’m Jihyun.″ PARK JI HYUN said, ″Won-kyu oppa and I have agreed not to see each other anymore,″ and mentioned that not revealing the reason for the breakup is a consideration for the other person and a respect for the time they loved each other. She added, ″Although our romantic relationship has ended, I hope oppa stays well and is happy.″ After the breakup announcement, most of their everyday couple photos were deleted from their SNS and YouTube, but some two-shot posts and YouTube date videos done for sponsorships and advertisements remain. They still follow each other’s accounts. Fans speculate that this is due to practical reasons such as fulfilling sponsorship contracts. PARK JI HYUN and Jung Won-kyu reunited as ex-lovers and became the final couple on ″Transit Love 4,″ which ended this January. During the broadcast, Car, the Garden’s ″You Became My Small World″ was used as the main theme song and topped the music charts, drawing great attention, with Car, the Garden promising to sing at their wedding. After the show ended, the two shared content on YouTube such as ″Semi-Meeting of Families″ and ″Preparing as Newlyweds,″ and answered fans’ questions by saying, ″Marriage is soon.″ However, recently, they posted videos like ″Is It Marriage or Breakup?″ and ″I Said I’m Okay, But Maybe I’m Not,″ signaling changes, and ultimately officially announced their breakup.]]> FANNSTAR Fri, 09 Oct 2026 00:00:00 +0900 Shin Young-il appeared on the ″Quiz Show! Ten Million Luck″ segment of KBS 1TV’s ″Morning Yard″ and explained his reasons for being a quiz program host. The segment, aired on October 9th in celebration of Hangul Day, invited Shin Young-il, who had served as MC for shows such as ″Quiz Korea″ and ″Quiz Exploration of the Mysterious World.″ Shin Young-il said, ″Every time I am under the spotlight, there is a warmth like a mother’s embrace. Whenever I come to KBS, I feel like I am back home, so it feels good. Also, if I win the prize money later, I will go to the announcer’s office and brag about it. I will just brag that I won.″ Having hosted quiz programs for 20 years, Shin Young-il responded to the question, ″Since you have hosted many quiz shows, you must have abundant general knowledge. Are you confident?″ by saying, ″Being a quiz program MC means you are chosen not to be the person who wins first place in the quiz, but for a trustworthy appearance. To be honest, you shouldn’t expect skill.″ During the broadcast, Jo Woo-jong remarked, ″I don’t really trust your appearance. But I think you will solve the quizzes well.″]]> FANNSTAR Fri, 09 Oct 2026 00:00:00 +0900 Comedian Kim In-seok personally revealed the fact of his divorce from broadcaster Angela Park after about two years. On the 9th, Kim In-seok announced through his SNS that they decided to end their relationship as a couple about two years ago and go their separate ways. Regarding why he did not disclose the divorce immediately, he explained, ″I have been thinking a lot about how to share this story,″ and ″It took time to accept this reality and come to terms with it. That’s why I am only now telling you.″ Kim In-seok also stated, ″Although our relationship as a couple ends here, I will continue to do my best and be a good parent for our children without change.″ He said that although there were difficult times, he has now overcome them well and is trying to start anew, promising to greet everyone with a better and happier appearance in the future. Kim In-seok married broadcaster Angela Park, a former Miss Korea Hawaii winner, in 2014, and they have two sons. He apologized for not informing close acquaintances earlier, saying, ″I sincerely apologize to family, relatives, and close acquaintances who are hearing this news for the first time through this post.″ Kim In-seok debuted in 2001 as a KBS 16th public recruitment comedian and became known through KBS 2TV’s ″Gag Concert″ and others.]]> FANNSTAR Fri, 09 Oct 2026 00:00:00 +0900 Actress Seo Ye-ji recently shared an update on her SNS, communicating with her fans. On the 4th, Seo Ye-ji posted several photos on her Instagram along with white and purple heart emojis. In the photos, Seo Ye-ji is wearing a gray top and jeans, posing affectionately while leaning shoulders with someone. Her smile as she looks straight ahead conveys a bright and calm atmosphere. The background features mid-tone curtains and lighting that create a cozy space, and a mirror hanging on the wall is also captured, adding a natural feel. Seo Ye-ji is holding a smartphone, and a bouquet decorated with balloons adds to the cheerful ambiance. This photo release came about two weeks after Seo Ye-ji signed an exclusive contract with a new agency, interpreted as a sign of a fresh start. Her stable appearance along with her natural and radiant charm attracted much attention.]]> FANNSTAR Fri, 09 Oct 2026 00:00:00 +0900 Actress and singer Yoon Eun-hye shared an update on her recent life while receiving a special birthday celebration. Recently, Yoon Eun-hye posted photos commemorating her birthday on her SNS, interacting with her fans. In the photos, Yoon Eun-hye exuded a sophisticated atmosphere, wearing a black dress, a crown, and sunglasses. She gazed directly ahead while adjusting the crown with one hand, with a cake and balloons in the background completing the celebratory mood. Another photo revealed her having a joyful time scattering pieces of colored paper in her hand. Along with this, a scene of her on a phone call was included, showing a natural moment from her daily life. The combination of her bold makeup and elegant outfit captivated her fans. Yoon Eun-hye debuted in 1999 as part of the group Baby V.O.X, and in addition to her singing career, she gained great love as an actress through dramas such as ″Coffee Prince″ and ″Princess Hours.″ Recently, her healthy appearance, shaped by intermittent fasting, has also attracted attention. Fans sent messages of support celebrating Yoon Eun-hye’s birthday and her unchanging beauty. Meanwhile, Yoon Eun-hye continues her activities steadily while paying attention to her health. Although she recently experienced aftereffects of allergies, she is currently recovering and sharing bright updates through communication with her fans. She continues to raise expectations for active endeavors in various fields.]]> FANNSTAR Fri, 09 Oct 2026 00:00:00 +0900 Trot singer Young Tak delivered a powerful performance on the stage of the solo concert ’TAK SHOW5’. Wearing a black t-shirt, jeans, and a black jacket, Young Tak appeared on stage with sunglasses on, raising one hand high and showing a charismatic presence. Behind the stage, dazzling lights and countless fans’ hands combined to create a heated atmosphere. At this concert, Young Tak continued to communicate with fans through a variety of performances, including the new song ’BANG BANG BANG’. Having participated in writing, composing, and arranging all the tracks on the third full-length album ’GOGO’, released after three years, Young Tak showed musical growth and filled the stage with diverse musical colors and performances. Additionally, Young Tak, who recently attracted attention by performing a precise dance routine with actress Ha Ji-won in the YouTube content ’Class of ’26 Supporter’, is actively engaging in various fields. Fans responded enthusiastically to the energetic stage shown at ’TAK SHOW5’ and expressed great expectations for Young Tak’s future activities.]]> FANNSTAR Fri, 09 Oct 2026 00:00:00 +0900 Singer YENA is expanding their activities by being selected as the new brand muse for the color contact lens brand LENSSIS. YENA will actively participate in the brand campaign with the new product ULTRA, showcasing their bright and lively charm. In recently released photos, YENA appears in a casual style, wearing a black long-sleeve T-shirt paired with jeans and a white hoodie. Smiling brightly while making a V sign with two fingers, they convey a friendly image to fans and consumers, receiving positive responses. Posing side by side holding microphones in a brightly lit indoor space emphasizes YENA’s diverse appeal. Meanwhile, YENA recently attracted music fans’ attention by releasing a new song, ″Something Only You Didn’t Know,″ which carries a cheerful and exciting vibe. They are actively working in various fields, showing their wit and quirky charm through appearances on the variety show Six Sense: B-Side. On social media, YENA is communicating with fans by sharing moments with Nam Woo Hyun. Consistently showing their presence through diverse content, anticipation is growing for their future activities.]]> FANNSTAR Fri, 09 Oct 2026 00:00:00 +0900 Singer Solar cheerfully shared a small everyday concern. Recently, Solar posted a photo on her SNS showing her sitting on a sofa wearing a gray off-shoulder sweatshirt and black shorts, holding a smartphone. In the photo, which features a gray tiled wall, a sofa, and a table with a bouquet of flowers in the background, Solar looks straight ahead with a focused expression. In particular, she attracted fans’ attention by writing a humorous concern along with the photo: ″How can I make it known that I went to the bathroom well?″ This post, revealing her bright and friendly image as well as her simple daily life, has resonated not only with fans but also with the public. Solar consistently communicates various aspects of her daily life and thoughts through SNS, actively engaging with her fans. Many are looking forward to her future updates and diverse content.]]> FANNSTAR Fri, 09 Oct 2026 00:00:00 +0900 The rookie group CORTIS continues its journey toward the global stage. CORTIS is scheduled to perform at the ’Formula One Singapore Grand Prix 2026’ on the 9th, expressing their determination to unleash explosive energy along with the intense excitement of the event. Recently, CORTIS has expanded their activities from NBA and Red Bull events to the F1 stage, placing themselves at the center of global sports festivals. This demonstrates that the group’s outstanding performance and powerful stage presence are gaining attention at various major events. One day before the performance, CORTIS communicated with fans through SNS by sharing moments of rest. From lowering their heads and closing their eyes while wearing a blue jacket and white T-shirt to lying asleep on a sofa in a black hoodie, they revealed a variety of daily life scenes showing their relaxed side. The upcoming F1 Singapore Grand Prix performance is a combination of a world-class sports festival and a music stage, and CORTIS is expected to leave a strong impression on the audience with their unique music and stage energy. The group stated, ″We will deliver a performance worthy of the intense heat,″ attracting great attention. CORTIS plans to continue active activities on various global stages and expand their encounters with the public. Fans are increasingly looking forward to their fresh music and explosive stage presence.]]> FANNSTAR Fri, 09 Oct 2026 00:00:00 +0900 Broadcaster Jang Young-ran is actively communicating with her fans by sharing positive energy through social media. Even during the early morning hours, she left an encouraging message saying, ″Let’s do our best today as well,″ and has built her own brand with hashtags such as ’#A-grade Jang Young-ran fighting’, ’#Youngran new fighting’, and ’#Dear girl fighting’, creating a unique fan culture. In recently released photos, she is seen smiling or holding a smartphone against a solid-colored background, styled in a sophisticated look with a gray suit, white shirt, and tie. She also revealed the process of getting her makeup done and natural poses pointing to her face, showcasing her diverse charm. Especially in a front-facing photo wearing earrings, a calm yet luxurious atmosphere stands out. Jang Young-ran is also well known for her bright and cheerful personality, and based on this, she is connecting with fans by presenting various content through her YouTube channel ’A-grade Jang Young-ran’. She has been active in broadcasting, entertainment, and radio, steadily expanding her positive image based on consistent fan love. Emphasizing the power of positivity in her daily life and encouraging each other with fans, Jang Young-ran supports herself and uplifts her fans through phrases like ″#A-grade Jang Young-ran fighting.″ This style of communication delivers energy and hope to those who see it in everyday life, earning much love. Along with her broadcasting activities, she focuses on a healthy lifestyle and self-care and plans to continue communicating with fans through her diverse charms. Fans are raising their voices in support of Jang Young-ran’s bright energy and steady activities, looking forward to her future endeavors.]]> FANNSTAR Fri, 09 Oct 2026 00:00:00 +0900 PLAVE released the highlight medley video of their fifth mini-album ’HYPERDRIVE’ on the 8th through their official YouTube channel. This album features a racing concept, with highlights of each track introduced in order through a video format reminiscent of retro TV screens and video games. The first track, ″Kkun,″ presents a drowsy and dreamy atmosphere with a smooth bossa nova rhythm. The second song, ″Raindrops on the Blue Sky,″ conveys a clear and warm feeling with acoustic guitar and the members’ straightforward vocals. The title track, ″Star Trace,″ is characterized by EDM sounds and a heavy beat and was previously pre-released through the world tour encore stage. The fourth track, ″The Answer Is Yes,″ stands out with refreshing vocals and bright energy, while the final song, ″Rewind,″ features participation from Kenzy and the composing team KZLAB, capturing a refreshing and romantic mood. PLAVE is a five-member virtual boy group under Blast that debuted in 2023. The team name combines ″Play″ and ″Rêve″ (dream), symbolizing the creation of a new world to achieve their dreams. This album is their new release about six months after their fourth mini-album, ″Caligo Pt.2,″ which was released last April. ’HYPERDRIVE’ consists of tracks spanning various genres such as bossa nova, acoustic, EDM, and pop. The digital album will be released on the 12th at 6 PM on various music platforms, and the physical album will be released on the 13th.]]> FANNSTAR Fri, 09 Oct 2026 00:00:00 +0900 As Epik High members went camping to celebrate reaching 2 million YouTube subscribers, they talked about the new song ’EPIKISM’ challenge. In the video titled ’Last Camping of This Life ft. Misra’s 3-Course Meal’ released on the YouTube channel ’Epik High’ on the 8th, the members enjoyed camping while having various conversations. Misra prepared a three-course meal for the members, including pork stir-fried jajangmyeon, charcoal-grilled pork ribs, and egg in hell. Tablo and Tookut praised Misra’s cooking, saying, ″As expected from Misra,″ ″The ribs are perfectly grilled,″ ″The seasoning is just right,″ and ″It’s delicious.″ Misra showed a satisfied smile in response. During the meal, a business idea utilizing Misra’s cooking skills came up. When Tablo suggested, ″Let’s publish a Misra recipe book,″ Tookut asked, ″What about the royalties?″ and Tablo replied, ″We’ll split them.″ The video also mentioned the difficulties faced by Tookut, who is serving as the temporary leader for six months. Tookut confessed, ″It’s frustrating that without becoming a leader, the work just increases and there are more things to take care of,″ and Tablo empathized, saying, ″I’ve lived like that for over 20 years.″ Then Tablo added, ″Seeing Tookut struggle like this, I hope he continues even after the six-month period ends,″ but Tookut responded, ″No.″ Later, Tookut suggested filming the new song ’EPIKISM’ challenge if there was time. Tablo showed signs of fatigue, saying, ″How long do we have to keep doing that? We’re doing the challenge only among ourselves, which is ridiculous,″ and Misra said, ″The challenge is about when to stop.″ Tookut set the condition for ending the challenge, saying, ″This challenge will end when the BTS members do it.″ Meanwhile, ’Tookut’s Thinking’ is a song reflecting Tookut’s personality, and after winning the ’Epikase Music Festival’ and becoming the new leader, Tookut decided to add the colors of Tablo and Misra, releasing it as ’EPIKISM’ at 6 p.m. on the 17th. The video also included opinions about the next content. Tablo asked, ″Is there anything you want to try until we reach 3 million subscribers?″ and said, ″I really want to learn serious acting.″ He added, ″I want to see Tookut do a sad melodrama. It would be so funny,″ and Misra said, ″Actually, it’s the scene I least want to see, but I’m curious too.″ Tablo listed bungee jumping and skydiving as content he absolutely does not want to do, emphasizing, ″I will never do that. The moment someone suggests it, I quit.″ On the other hand, Tookut said, ″I want to try skydiving,″ and Tablo warned, ″You have a kid and all, so don’t do dangerous things. At our age, we shouldn’t even ride elevators carelessly.″ Tookut retorted, ″Then do you walk up the stairs?″ and the members showed a playful bickering attitude.]]> FANNSTAR Fri, 09 Oct 2026 00:00:00 +0900 NCT WISH will hold a pop-up event called ″WISH LAND″ to celebrate the release of their fourth mini-album, ″I SPY.″ The pop-up will take place from October 14 to 24 at Trendpot by Olive YoungN Seongsu. The pop-up site will feature large-scale wrapping on the building’s exterior using visuals from the new album, and inside, there will be various photo zones, events for visitors, and a special MD space. Participation in the pop-up is available through online advance reservations and on-site reservations. After the Seoul pop-up, events will be held in Shanghai from November 27 to December 8, and in Tokyo from December 12 to 27. SM Entertainment stated that the pop-up events will start in Seoul and continue in Shanghai and Tokyo, allowing global fans to participate in their own countries. Detailed information can be found on the official NCT WISH SNS accounts and the pop-up SNS accounts. Meanwhile, NCT WISH will hold an offline event called ″I SPY YOU″ on October 10 and 11 at Korea University Hwajeong Gymnasium in Seoul, and the fourth mini-album ″I SPY″ will be released on various music sites at 6 PM on October 12.]]> FANNSTAR Fri, 09 Oct 2026 00:00:00 +0900 Black Pink member Jisoo revealed behind-the-scenes photos from the brand photoshoot on October 7, showcasing a new visual transformation. Jisoo posted images featuring various stylings along with the phrase ″LOVE.″ In the released photos, Jisoo wore a half-up hairstyle tied high, an off-shoulder top with feather decorations, and black pants. In the following shots, she displayed various hairstyles including full bangs with black hair, long pink straight hair, and blonde waves. Jisoo released the pre-release single ″CLICK″ from her first full album on the 4th of last month, and the song charted globally. She plans to sequentially release several singles to continue the momentum of her first full album. Additionally, Jisoo is active as an actress. In the Netflix series ″Monthly Boyfriend,″ released last March, she played the role of webtoon PD Seo Mirae, delivering a romantic comedy performance about a character exhausted by reality who subscribes to a virtual dating simulation.]]> FANNSTAR Fri, 09 Oct 2026 00:00:00 +0900 Through KBS2’s ″New Product Launch Pyeonstorang,″ Do Kyung-wan candidly shared the story behind his marriage to his wife Jang Yun Jeong and the emotions he felt after getting married. In the broadcast on the 8th, Do Kyung-wan made a special comeback as a Pyeon chef after 5 years and 8 months, preparing a red carpet himself for a special debut. On the day of his first shoot after returning, he was seen dressed in a suit, waiting for the production team. Do Kyung-wan mentioned the changes in his life after declaring himself a freelancer, saying, ″I mostly walked the kitchen path, not the flower path.″ The broadcast also revealed the marriage process of Do Kyung-wan and Jang Yun Jeong. The two announced their marriage after a short dating period of about four months. At the time, 34-year-old Do Kyung-wan recalled the moment he decided to marry Jang Yun Jeong, which was when she confided in him about her difficult family history. Jang Yun Jeong revealed that she had been struggling with issues such as her biological mother’s debt of about 1 billion won, her father’s cerebral infarction, and her parents’ divorce lawsuit. She was the first to share this with Do Kyung-wan, who comforted her by saying, ″Why would that be a problem?″ Do Kyung-wan said he felt Jang Yun Jeong’s situation was a ″SOS signal from his wife,″ and he thought she needed protection, which led him to decide to marry her. After marriage, Do Kyung-wan also confessed that he felt a sense of inferiority due to Jang Yun Jeong’s fame. Jang Yun Jeong expressed her apology toward her husband, saying, ″He is a good man who does everything well, but sometimes I feel like I made him stand behind someone else’s name because he is with me.″ In response, Do Kyung-wan honestly stated, ″Inferiority complex? Has that kind of feeling completely disappeared? No, it hasn’t.″ Jang Yun Jeong said that after marriage, thanks to her husband and children, she feels the warmth of a family she had wanted since childhood. She described their relationship by saying, ″The only family without blood ties is just the couple. We are an amazing team.″ Do Kyung-wan and Jang Yun Jeong married in 2013 and have one son and one daughter.]]> FANNSTAR Fri, 09 Oct 2026 00:00:00 +0900 Stray Kids will live stream the second show on November 7th of their ’Stray Kids World Tour -RUN IT-’ concert, held from November 6th to 8th at Tokyo Dome in Japan, as a live viewing event in theaters worldwide in collaboration with global event cinema distributor Trafalgar Releasing. This live viewing is designed to allow fans who cannot attend in person to watch the performance in real time on large theater screens. Ticket reservations will be available from 11 PM KST on the 14th through the official live viewing website (StraykidsLiveViewing). Trafalgar Releasing is also providing information about the official live viewing project for this concert. Stray Kids opened their world tour ’RUN IT’ with five sold-out solo concerts at KSPO DOME in Seoul in July and August, and on August 29th and 30th, they held solo concerts at Tokyo National Stadium as the first overseas male artist, attracting 140,000 spectators. In September, they continued their global activities with five performances across three Latin American regions, the new group-centered festival ’STRAYCITY,’ and as headliners at Brazil’s major music festival ’Rock in Rio.’ The ’RUN IT’ tour is a new world tour that started about eight months after the conclusion of the ’Stray Kids World Tour -dominATE-’ in October 2025. The title digital single, produced by the producing team 3RACHA consisting of Bang Chan, Changbin, and Han, was released on June 24th and is also included in the mini-album ’THIS & THAT,’ released in August. Before the Tokyo Dome concerts, Stray Kids will perform at Mizuho PayPay Dome Fukuoka on October 24th, and after the three Tokyo Dome shows in November, they plan to continue the tour across various parts of Asia. JYP Entertainment stated, ″The Tokyo Dome concerts held in November as part of the world tour will be shared with more fans in a special way. The second show on November 7th during the three-day Tokyo Dome concerts from November 6th to 8th will be live viewed in theaters worldwide in collaboration with global event cinema distributor Trafalgar Releasing.″]]> FANNSTAR Fri, 09 Oct 2026 00:00:00 +0900 YouTuber Park Wi has suspended his activities following the controversy over his fall accident on the KTX, amid allegations that he discriminated against Song Ji-eun, a former member of the group Secret, within his family. Recently, online communities and social media have revisited the video titled ″First Chuseok at the In-Laws’ House,″ which was posted on Park Wi’s YouTube channel ″WeeRacle″ in September 2024. The video shows Song Ji-eun visiting her in-laws’ house for the first time after marriage to celebrate the holiday. Park Wi’s father, director Park Chan-hong, a former freelance drama PD affiliated with KBS, and actress Yoon So-hee, Park Chan-hong’s adopted daughter, also appear in the video. Criticism arose over the differing attitudes of Park Wi’s family toward Song Ji-eun and Yoon So-hee, sparking a discrimination controversy. Some netizens pointed to several instances as evidence of Song Ji-eun being marginalized: she used different tableware at the meal, Park Wi mentioned Yoon So-hee before his wife during the pre-meal prayer, director Park Chan-hong praised Yoon So-hee, a KAIST graduate, in front of Song Ji-eun, and Park Wi’s younger brother greeted only Yoon So-hee during a video call. However, others responded that it is impossible to conclude family relations or discrimination based on just a few scenes. After the video was released, Yoon So-hee’s SNS was flooded with critical comments such as ″Is she your sister-in-law?″, ″Amazing,″ and ″Be more considerate.″ Attention also turned to the lineup of director Park Chan-hong’s adopted daughters. Park Chan-hong is a producer who directed numerous works including KBS 2TV’s ″Resurrection,″ ″The Devil,″ ″Shark,″ tvN’s ″Memory,″ JTBC’s ″Beautiful World,″ and ″Miracle Brothers.″ Actress Park Jin-hee is also known as his adopted daughter. Park Jin-hee has regarded director Park Chan-hong as a father figure and maintained a long-standing relationship with him, mentioning this connection in past appearances on ″WeeRacle″ and ″SBS Special.″ Meanwhile, Song Ji-eun previously appeared on MBC variety show ″Radio Star,″ where she shared anecdotes about her future mother-in-law preparing pajamas for her and gifting her cherished clothes. When she received the bouquet, she said, ″This is the daughter-in-law outfit personally handed down to me by my mother, who will become my mother-in-law. It really feels like a luxury brand.″ This sparked criticism asking, ″Wouldn’t new clothes be better?″ as well as support suggesting it could be a form of affection. On August 21, 2024, Park Wi experienced an accident where he fell along with his wheelchair after tripping over the foot of a social service worker while getting off the KTX. He released CCTV footage of the incident on his YouTube channel. Park Wi stated, ″Although the social service worker did not act with intent, I was angry that their foot was placed on the ramp.″ The social service worker apologized immediately after the accident, but Park Wi faced criticism for releasing an edited video of the apology. Following the controversy, Park Wi issued an apology and announced a suspension of his YouTube activities; scheduled lectures were canceled, and he voluntarily resigned from his position as a Seoul city ambassador. Park Wi married Song Ji-eun in October 2024.]]> FANNSTAR Fri, 09 Oct 2026 00:00:00 +0900 Singer Jeon Yu Jin will release his first full-length album, ″Adios,″ on the 10th through various music streaming platforms. This album is planned with a Bohemian concept centered on freedom, wandering, and art, and it captures Jeon Yu Jin’s story of growing up through love and heartbreak as an adult. It includes a total of 12 tracks, featuring double title songs ″Adios″ and ″Sarangmanhaso,″ as well as two instrumental tracks. The album showcases Jeon Yu Jin’s diverse charm with various genres such as adult ballads, semi-trot, traditional trot, and dance trot. Among the double title tracks, ″Adios″ combines harmonica and string melodies with Jeon Yu Jin’s calm vocals to convey the lingering feelings of parting, while ″Sarangmanhaso,″ written, composed, arranged for chorus, and directed in recording by Jang Yun Jeong, is an adult ballad expressing tender feelings toward a destined love. The high-pitched parts of the chorus highlight Jeon Yu Jin’s emotionally compelling voice. The tracks explore various emotions surrounding love. ″Gasi Kkot Sarang″ expresses the realization of deeply understanding love, and ″Gajireonhi″ sings about the feelings left after a breakup. ″Molla Molla″ and ″Heung Ttara Heung″ cheerfully depict unrequited love and excitement, while ″Utja″ and ″Jal Doel Geoya Uri Modu,″ written and composed by Sul Woon Do, offer comfort and encouragement to those who are weary. Jeon Yu Jin gained recognition through the Pohang Beach National Singing Contest and debuted in March 2020 with the digital single ″Sarang... Hasiryeopnikka?″ Since then, he has won first place in the MBN audition program ″Hyeonyeok Gawang,″ earning love from a wide range of generations.]]> FANNSTAR Fri, 09 Oct 2026 00:00:00 +0900 ATEEZ will release a new album, ’GOLDEN HOUR : Part.6,’ on November 13 at 2 PM. KQ Entertainment announced the release schedule through the official channel on the 8th by unveiling the comeback spoiler video ’CRASH TO BEGIN.’ The same schedule was also provided in the official content. This album is a new release about five months after the mini 14th album ’GOLDEN HOUR : Part.5,’ which was released last June. The previous work marked ATEEZ’s third overall No. 1 on the US Billboard 200 and became the team’s ninth top 10 entry. The title track ’BAD’ continued to achieve success on music shows even after official activities ended. It took first place for two consecutive weeks on SBS’s ’Inkigayo’ in September and achieved a total of seven music show wins as of the broadcast on September 20. The released comeback spoiler video centered around ATEEZ’s symbol, the ’ship.’ Scenes mixing reality and unreality followed, including a ship and skull appearing on a frozen monitor, and a massive vessel placed in an everyday location, signaling a different atmosphere from previous series. In the latter part of the video, a ship cutting through rough waves and traces after a collision appear. The phrase inserted in the video, ’CRASH TO BEGIN,’ carries the meaning of ’a new beginning through collision.’]]> FANNSTAR Fri, 09 Oct 2026 00:00:00 +0900 The group PLAVE released the highlight medley video for their 5th mini album ’HYPERDRIVE’ on their official YouTube channel on the 8th. The album is set to be released on the 12th. The highlight medley video begins with the album title appearing on a retro TV screen. Reflecting a racing concept, it is produced in a style reminiscent of a video game, with highlights of each track revealed in order. The first track, ″The Gambler,″ features a bossa nova rhythm and a dreamy atmosphere. The second song, ″Rainfall on the Blue Sky,″ combines acoustic guitar with the members’ calm vocals. The title track, ″Star Trace,″ is notable for its EDM sound and strong beat, and it was previously pre-released on the encore stage of their world tour. The fourth track, ″The Answer Is Yes,″ stands out with bright energy and refreshing vocals, while the final song, ″Rewind,″ involves Kenzy and the composing team KZLAB, capturing a refreshing yet romantic mood. PLAVE revealed the tracklist image through their official SNS channels on the 6th and pre-released the title track ″Star Trace″ at the encore stage of their first world tour ″KEEP IT MANIC,″ held at Incheon Munhak Stadium in September. The digital version of PLAVE’s 5th mini album ’HYPERDRIVE’ will be released on various music sites at 6 PM on the 12th, and the physical album will be released on the 13th.]]> FANNSTAR Fri, 09 Oct 2026 00:00:00 +0900 BTS leader RM requested fans to refrain from gathering in front of the hotel during their South America tour, as the members and staff are unable to sleep due to the fans. On Wednesday, the day of the first concert held at San Marcos Stadium in Lima, Peru, RM posted on the fan platform Weverse explaining the situation. He said, ″Because people are staying in front of the hotel where we are staying all day, the members and staff are really struggling,″ and added, ″The noise reaches our rooms, and no one can sleep well.″ RM began his post by saying, ″This is my first time in Peru, and I am really excited and happy.″ He then mentioned that the crowd gathered at the hotel is also causing inconvenience to other guests. He stated, ″It is causing great discomfort to other guests staying at the same hotel,″ and continued, ″We appreciate your warm welcome and passion, but if we cannot rest enough, it will affect the performance.″ RM emphasized that this request applies not only to Lima but also to other South American countries such as Chile, Brazil, and Argentina, as well as several Asian countries where the tour will continue. He urged, ″Please do not continue to stay in front of the hotel not only in Lima but also in Chile, Brazil, Argentina, and the various Asian countries we will visit later.″ Additionally, RM made a direct appeal to BTS’s fan club ARMY. He said, ″I believe ARMY, the most amazing fans in the world, will understand this request,″ and added, ″I hope we can build a more mature relationship that we can all be proud of.″ At the end of the post, he thanked the fans, saying, ″I will show you the best stage at today’s concert,″ and added in Spanish, ″Los amo″ (I love you all). BTS started their ’Arirang’ world tour in April. After two more performances in Lima on Friday and Saturday, they will continue with concerts in Santiago (Chile) from Wednesday until October 17, Buenos Aires (Argentina) from October 21 to 24, and São Paulo (Brazil) on October 28, 30, and 31.]]> FANNSTAR Fri, 09 Oct 2026 00:00:00 +0900 BTS held their first concert at Estadio San Marcos in Lima, Peru, receiving a warm welcome from local fans. The world tour ’Arirang’ concert held on the 7th marked BTS’s first performance in Peru. On the day of the concert, outside the stadium, a fan named Fabiana caught attention with a wedding veil, crown, and bouquet. She revealed that she prepared the veil herself for a symbolic wedding with the seven BTS members. Fabiana said she had planned to prepare a wedding dress and seven rings but chose comfort considering the long waiting time. She bought fabric in Lima’s Gamara district and made the veil with a tailor, saying, ″I put on makeup because today is the wedding day.″ Fabiana joked toward Jimin, saying, ″There are seven of them, but Jimin is the main husband,″ and told him, ″Get ready, we are getting married now.″ The concert showcased various ways local fans showed their support. The Surco district of Lima temporarily renamed a street to ’BTS Street’ during the concert period, fans created a ’BTS Forest’ at Machu Picchu, and the first BTS drone show in South America was prepared. As the concert began, RM, Jin, Suga, J-HOPE, Jimin, V, and Jungkook appeared walking down a long runway, and the stadium was filled with fans’ cheers. All seven members greeted the audience in Spanish, attracting attention from local media. The Peruvian daily El Comercio introduced the members’ greetings to ARMY in Spanish. Jungkook greeted, ″Buenas noches Lima,″ and said, ″I hope tonight will be special.″ Jimin said, ″Lima, it took us so long to come. We will put on a great show.″ Jin, J-HOPE, and V also greeted fans in Spanish. The Lima concerts held on the 7th, 9th, and 10th were all sold out. During the nearly three-hour first concert, fans sang along and filled Estadio San Marcos. BTS will continue their performances at the same venue on the 9th and 10th.]]> FANNSTAR Fri, 09 Oct 2026 00:00:00 +0900 ATEEZ has released a promotion map ahead of the release of their fifteenth mini-album, ’GOLDEN HOUR : Part.6’. KQ Entertainment announced the promotion schedule for this album through their official SNS on October 9. ATEEZ is set to release the new mini-album on November 13 at 2 PM. According to the revealed schedule, the first concept photos will be released from the 14th to the 16th, followed by a music video spoiler image on the 19th, a music video teaser on the 21st, and a pre-release music video on the 23rd. Then, on the 26th, a tracklist poster will be released, the second concept photos from the 27th to the 30th, and the third concept photo on the 31st. From November 2 to 4, the fourth concept photos will be revealed, a preview on the 6th, and additional music video teasers on the 10th and 12th. In June, ATEEZ achieved their third No. 1 on the US Billboard main album chart, the Billboard 200, with their 14th mini-album ’GOLDEN HOUR : Part.5’. The first-week album sales in the US reached 223,000 copies, setting a personal record, and the title track ″BAD″ won seven trophies, including a No. 1 spot, without any music show appearances.]]> FANNSTAR Fri, 09 Oct 2026 00:00:00 +0900 Jung Han and Joshua of the group Seventeen released the unit debut album ’DREAMSCAPE’ track sampler on the 9th through the official channel. This album is scheduled to be released at 6 PM on the 19th. The title track ″12 o’clock″ is a dance rock genre that modernly reinterprets the disco funk style of the 1970s and 1980s, characterized by bouncy bass and rhythmic guitar playing. Producer Beomgu, who has worked with Seventeen for a long time, participated in the lyrics and composition of this song. The included tracks ″No looking back″ and Joshua’s solo song ″Not Personal″ are based on band sounds. ″No looking back″ captures a raw atmosphere with electric guitar and bass, while ″Not Personal″ is a song that blends rock textures with punk and alternative pop sensibilities. Additionally, ″Like you″ adds various synthesizers to the house genre, and ″Outside″ features prominent electric piano sounds. ″One plus one″ adds sophistication with arpeggio guitar playing, and Jung Han’s solo song ″Coloringdo″ is characterized by a dreamy introduction and addictive synthesizers.]]> FANNSTAR Fri, 09 Oct 2026 00:00:00 +0900 Lim Young Woong topped the download, BGM, and ringtone charts in the September 2026 monthly Circle Chart with the new song ″Again and Again.″ In the September 2026 monthly Circle Chart announced by the Korea Popular Music Industry Association, Lim Young Woong’s 10th anniversary album ″IM HERO 10″ title track ″Again and Again″ achieved a triple crown. The song ranked first on the download chart, background music chart, and ringtone chart. Other tracks from the ″IM HERO 10″ album also ranked high on the charts. Previously, ″Again and Again″ had ranked first in six categories—digital, download, ringtone, call connection tone, V coloring, and BGM—on the 37th week of the 2026 Circle Chart.]]> FANNSTAR Fri, 09 Oct 2026 00:00:00 +0900 Kim Yong Bin will appear on KBS2’s ″The Boss Has Donkey Ears.″ According to broadcasting officials, Kim Yong Bin is scheduled to appear on the April 11th broadcast at 4:40 PM. Kim Yong Bin is known for strict self-management. He does not drink alcohol or smoke, and avoids salty foods when recording songs. Even when seeing foods that release dopamine, he says, ″I can’t eat that,″ and is said to mainly choose mild and healthy steamed vegetables. People around Kim Yong Bin describe him as a ″grumpy and stubborn boss.″ Additionally, Kim Yong Bin recommends green juices such as kudzu root juice and balloon flower root juice to those around him, and tells those who refuse, ″You’ll age,″ or ″Your skin will get worse.″ Born in 1992, Kim Yong Bin debuted as a trot singer in 2004. While attending middle school, he was offered a casting opportunity by Lee Soo-man, then CEO of SM Entertainment, to join an idol group, but he declined to pursue his dream of becoming a trot singer. In 2024, he appeared on ″Mr. Trot 3″ and won the final championship (Jin) amid a heated voting response.]]> FANNSTAR Fri, 09 Oct 2026 00:00:00 +0900 Photos of Jungkook (BTS) taken in Lima, Peru attracted attention from local media and fans. Jungkook shared on Instagram various scenes and daily moments from Lima, including the sunset at Miraflores, the natural landscape of Pantanos de Villa, and the Agua Dulce beach in Chorrillos. As of October 9, the post had received over 4.6 million likes. Peruvian broadcaster Latinape reported that Jungkook drew significant local interest by posting photos of Lima on Instagram. El Comercio Peru covered that Jungkook revealed travel photos ahead of his first concert in Lima, featuring diverse scenes such as the Pantanos de Villa wetlands, Chorrillos Moro Solar, traffic, street vendors, and Jorge Chavez International Airport. Additionally, Exitosa Noticias evaluated that Jungkook’s photos offered a new perspective on Lima, highlighting the attention given to images capturing various local aspects. After the first day of his concert in Lima, Jungkook ranked third on Peru’s real-time search trends on the social media platform X (formerly Twitter).]]> FANNSTAR Fri, 09 Oct 2026 00:00:00 +0900 TV Chosun’s ″Golden Friday″ will air on the 9th. This episode features golden star Kim Bum-ryong, and another legendary singer appears as the Super Megi, completing the lineup. The Super Megi is known as a former golden star who appeared on ″Golden Friday.″ Upon entering, he confidently declared, ″I want to compete against someone strong,″ and pointed to Jin Kim Yong Bin and Sun Son Bin Ah as his opponents. Kim Yong Bin and Son Bin Ah took the stage with their unique charms. Kim Yong Bin revealed their dating style, saying, ″When I like someone, I want to do everything for them. That’s why I get hurt a lot.″ Then, they chose Han Hye-jin’s ″Last Lover″ to express feelings toward a departed lover. Kim Bum-ryong commented on Kim Yong Bin’s performance, saying, ″It moved my heart.″ Son Bin Ah selected Kim Bum-ryong’s hit song ″Wind Wind Wind″ and said, ″I will try being a bad guy,″ showcasing intense costumes and dance moves. Colleagues praised Son Bin Ah’s stage by shouting ″100 points″ in admiration. Attention is focused on the outcome of the battle between the two and the upcoming face-off with the Super Megi.]]> FANNSTAR Fri, 09 Oct 2026 00:00:00 +0900 Genius surgeon Gye Su-jeong... A medical dark hero is bornBroadcast every Friday and Saturday at 9:50 PMActress Kim Ji-won challenges a new "life character" in SBS's new Friday-Saturday drama 'Doctor X: Age of the White Mafia'. /THE FACT DB[THE FACT|Reporter Choi Soo-bin] Actress Kim Ji-won, who creates "masterpieces" whenever she takes on a role, is now donning the costume of a medical dark hero. Having established herself as a "trustworthy actress" by completing characters with her unique color in every project, she is revealing a side of herself that has never been seen before. Attention is focused on whether she will create another "life character" with 'Doctor X'.Kim Ji-won meets viewers with SBS's new Friday-Saturday drama 'Doctor X: Age of the White Mafia' (written by Pyeon Seong-geun, directed by Lee Jung-rim, hereinafter referred to as 'Doctor X'), which airs its first episode today (9th). The drama is a "cider" medical noir that depicts the exploits of 'Doctor X' Gye Su-jeong (played by Kim Ji-won), who shatters immense absurdity with her genius surgical skills, knowing no failure or compromise. It is based on the Japanese drama 'Doctor X' series.Gye Su-jeong, played by Kim Ji-won, is a surgeon dispatched from a doctor staffing agency to fill the vacancy in the surgery department at Guseo University Hospital. She is a character obsessed only with surgery, and in the corrupt Guseo University Hospital, she plans to carve out the corrupt medical power with her overwhelming skills and shake up the power structure within the hospital.Given that Kim Ji-won has shown new faces in every project, viewers are eagerly anticipating what charms she will display this time, dressed as a medical dark hero. Debuting in 2010 with the CF 'Lollipop', she has consistently renewed her "life characters" by digesting diverse characters, from military doctors to ordinary youths and third-generation chaebols, in her own unique style.Notably, in KBS2's 'Descendants of the Sun', she played Lieutenant Yoon Myung-ju, a military surgeon, and imprinted her presence on the public. While completing the charismatic image of a soldier with her disciplined speech and posture befitting the only daughter of the Special Warfare Commander, she was also loved for delicately portraying her affectionate feelings for Seo Dae-young (played by Jin Goo).Kim Ji-won will passionately portray the genius surgeon Gye Su-jeong in 'Doctor X'. /SBSSubsequently, in KBS2's 'Fight for My Way', she showed another face as Choi Ae-ra, who dreams of becoming an announcer. She breathed life into the character with her unreserved honesty and charming appeal, and drew empathy by realistically portraying the struggles of youth between dreams and reality.Afterward, Kim Ji-won made a special appearance in tvN's 'Mr. Sunshine', leaving a strong impression despite her short screen time, and in tvN's 'Arthdal Chronicles', she played Tanya and led the drama with a completely different atmosphere from her previous roles. Even with different genres and character personalities, she expanded her acting spectrum by imbuing them with her unique color.In addition, KakaoTV's 'Lovestruck in the City' and JTBC's 'My Liberation Notes' are still being talked about as viewers' "life dramas" even after their broadcast. In 'Lovestruck in the City', she meticulously depicted the changes within a single character, from the past Lee Eun-oh to the free-spirited Yoon Sun-ah, and the present Lee Eun-oh finding herself again. In 'My Liberation Notes', she played Yeom Mi-jeong and received critical acclaim for expressing the character's loneliness and emptiness solely through subtle facial expressions and a calm voice.And through tvN's 'Queen of Tears', she once again renewed her "life character". Kim Ji-won played Hong Hae-in, the managing director of Queen's Group and president of Queen's Department Store, portraying a wide range of emotions from cold charisma to her vulnerability in love. She captured the fluttering and affectionate feelings for her husband Baek Hyun-woo (played by Kim Soo-hyun), as well as the fear of death and complex emotions towards her family, in her eyes and expressions. Furthermore, her precise diction and stable vocalization added to the character's charm.The passionate response also translated into ratings. The final episode of 'Queen of Tears' recorded a viewership rating of 24.9% (Nielsen Korea, nationwide paid households), setting a new record for the highest-rated drama in tvN history. Kim Ji-won also left Hong Hae-in as another representative character, enjoying syndrome-level popularity.'Doctor X', where Kim Ji-won will be active, will meet viewers every Friday and Saturday at 9:50 PM. /SBSThe work Kim Ji-won chose for her return to the small screen after about two years is 'Doctor X'. While she has shown her strengths in delicate emotional acting in romance and human dramas, she will now transform into Gye Su-jeong, a genius surgeon with unhesitating action.The previously released teasers also showed a different Kim Ji-won from her previous works. Gye Su-jeong acts in her own way, disregarding the opposition of surrounding doctors and the hospital hierarchy. While calmly eating ramen, she instantly commands the atmosphere upon entering the operating room and directs the surgery. As she says, "As long as I'm alive, I will save them," she shows no hesitation when it comes to saving patients.Kim Ji-won has put in a lot of effort to complete the character of a genius doctor with such outstanding skills. She stated, "I learned the surgical techniques needed for the surgery scenes from consulting doctors and spent time thoroughly familiarizing myself with them."Director Lee Jung-rim also expressed confidence, saying, "Kim Ji-won convincingly moved between the overwhelming presence in the operating room and the quirky, human side outside the operating room, which are the great contrasts of Gye Su-jeong." He added, "It was hard to imagine Gye Su-jeong without Kim Ji-won. The doctors who consulted on the surgery scenes even applauded."From Yoon Myung-ju to Choi Ae-ra, Yeom Mi-jeong, and Hong Hae-in, Kim Ji-won has erased the images of her previous roles and made new characters her own with every project she takes on. In the process, she has left not only her own "life characters" but also "life dramas" that viewers revisit for a long time.Now, Kim Ji-won has donned the new costume of a medical dark hero. Expectations are high for 'Doctor X' and what Kim Ji-won will show, whether she can once again renew her "life character."'Doctor X' will be broadcast every Friday and Saturday at 9:50 PM.subin7134@tf.co.kr[Entertainment Department | ssent@tf.co.kr]]]> FANNSTAR Fri, 09 Oct 2026 00:00:00 +0900 Hwang Jung-min appears at an official event for the first time in 3 months after a personal life controversyKim Hye-ja, rumors of health issues arise... Kim Da-hyun attends as an actor, not a singerThe cast of "Assassination(s)," led by actors Yoo Hae-jin, Park Hae-il, and Lee Min-ho (from left in the top photo), made their presence felt despite the full cancellation of official events for the 31st Busan International Film Festival due to various controversies surrounding the film. Meanwhile, actress Kim Hye-ja (from left in the bottom photo) caused concern among many with rumors of health issues, and Hwang Jung-min and Kim Da-hyun drew attention by appearing at official events after their respective controversies. /Reporter Seo Ye-won, Reporter Kim Sung-ryeol[THE FACT|Busan=Reporter Park Ji-yoon] As the 31st Busan International Film Festival (BIFF), Asia's largest film festival, opened on a Tuesday for the first time in its history and is meeting audiences, the aftermath of "Assassination(s)," which canceled its official schedule, is not subsiding.This year, the Busan International Film Festival became a major global film festival, ranking alongside Cannes, Berlin, and Venice, by being selected as an 'A-list film festival' by the International Federation of Film Producers Associations (FIAPF). While it is sailing smoothly by showcasing diverse films and building a star-studded lineup of guests, the controversy surrounding "Assassination(s)" continues to affect the film festival. Along with this, we also revisited various issues that have arisen surrounding several actors.◆ Questioning stopped, opinions expressed... Starkly different temperatures surrounding 'Assassination(s)'The film "Assassination(s)" (directed by Hur Jin-ho) canceled a series of official events for the 31st Busan International Film Festival due to ongoing controversies surrounding the film. Nevertheless, the film festival could not completely erase the related issues.Released on the 23rd of last month, "Assassination(s)" is a film that traces the suspicions and masterminds behind the assassination of the First Lady that shocked South Korea on August 15, 1974. It is based on the assassination of First Lady Yuk Young-soo, which occurred during the National Liberation Day ceremony in 1974, a topic that has never been covered in the Korean film industry.The film seemed to be on a box office spree, dominating the Chuseok holiday movie scene, but it encountered an unexpected issue. Some raised suspicions of historical distortion regarding scenes that suggested the possibility of former President Park Chung-hee's side or the Korean Central Intelligence Agency's involvement in the incident, and it became the center of various controversies, including allegations of Chinese capital investment.In response, the production company issued an official statement to distance itself from the allegations, but the controversy surrounding the film spilled beyond the screen, with protests taking place in front of the homes of actors involved in the film. Ultimately, "Assassination(s)" and the 31st Busan International Film Festival Secretariat canceled scheduled official events, including the opening ceremony, open talk, and Lee Min-ho's Actors House, citing "the protection of cast, audience, and staff."In this situation, related questions arose at the press conference and premiere of the opening film "Day and Night for Each Other" (directed by Kim Jong-kwan) held on the 6th. Of course, this was a natural progression. It was the first official appearance of Shim Eun-kyung, who made a special appearance in "Assassination(s)," after the various controversies.Questions related to "Assassination(s)" arose at the press conference for the opening film "Day and Night for Each Other." However, programmer Jung Ji-hye immediately took the microphone, preventing us from hearing Shim Eun-kyung's thoughts on the matter. The photo shows Shim Eun-kyung answering reporters' questions at the press conference for the opening film "Day and Night for Each Other" held at the Busan Cinema Center in Haeundae-gu, Busan, on the afternoon of the 6th. /Busan=Reporter Kim Sung-ryeolHowever, reporters could not hear her thoughts. Programmer Jung Ji-hye, who moderated the event, immediately took the microphone and replied, "I will speak on her behalf. As this is a press conference for the opening film, we would like to focus our discussion on that work. Regarding 'Assassination(s),' the Busan International Film Festival has issued an announcement, so please refer to that."The next day, a press conference was held for the 7-member competition jury, led by jury president Zhang Yimou, and a question was asked about filmmakers' thoughts on the "Assassination(s)" situation.In response, Director Zhang Yimou stated, "It is difficult to find an answer in a short time regarding the relationship between historical truth and creation, but I believe that creation is creation, and sometimes it is not based on truth or facts." He added, "Perhaps we should think from the audience's perspective. Is historical truth really the truth? In a way, this is the most interesting and attractive part of cinema."Director Jung Ju-ri, who has solidified her unique directorial style with films like "A Girl at My Door" and "Next Sohee," said, "I feel intimidated even though it's not a film I made. While I know that people are hurt by films, I wonder what we should do when such reactions occur." She emphasized, "Nevertheless, filmmakers must take full responsibility. Since we make films expecting criticism and empathy from the audience, I think it would be good to continue this work."Furthermore, Yoo Hae-jin became the recipient of the Best Actor award for the film "King and the Clown" at the 35th Buil Film Awards held on the 7th. However, he could not personally enjoy the joy of winning. He was scheduled to attend, but he decided not to attend due to concerns for his safety stemming from the controversy surrounding "Assassination(s)."While "Assassination(s)" canceled its official schedule due to various controversies, it continued to make its presence felt at the film festival, being mentioned whenever it seemed to be forgotten, and attention is focused on how long this impact will last.Actor Hwang Jung-min (right) 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 the 6th, along with actors Jo In-sung, Eum Moon-seok, and director Na Hong-jin (from left). /Busan=Reporter Park Heon-woo◆ Hwang Jung-min, first official appearance after personal life controversy... Bright smile catches the eyeMeanwhile, actor Hwang Jung-min, who is embroiled in a legal dispute over his personal life, garnered attention by walking the red carpet at the opening ceremony, making his first official appearance in about 3 months.He visited Busan for the film "Hope" (directed by Na Hong-jin), which was released in July. Although he appeared somewhat thinner than before, he showed a relaxed demeanor, smiling at the cameras and waving to the audience. Hwang Jung-min, dressed in a black suit, was also seen laughing heartily while talking with Director Na.Currently, Hwang Jung-min is engaged in a legal battle with a Ms. A, who claims to be his former girlfriend.Ms. A claimed that Hwang Jung-min had been continuously contacting her, releasing messenger conversations and call records, and added that he had called her or proposed meetings even while filming. In response, Hwang Jung-min's agency fully denied these claims, stating that Ms. A is a suspect in stalking who has continuously harassed Hwang Jung-min.Ms. A was indicted on charges including violation of the Act on the Punishment of Stalking Crimes, and was sentenced to a fine of 6 million won and ordered to complete 40 hours of stalking treatment program in the first trial. Subsequently, both the prosecution and Ms. A appealed, and the legal battle continues.Actress Kim Hye-ja (third from left), who was rumored to have health issues, attended the outdoor stage greeting event for "Still Shining" held on the 8th. The photo shows Director Song Il-gon and actors Park Seo-kyung, Kim Hye-ja, Choi Ju-eun, Moon Sung-hyun, and Lee Se-young (from left) posing at the event. /Busan=Reporter Park Heon-woo◆ Supported and even coughed... Kim Hye-ja, health issues raised but "just a cold"An incident also occurred where rumors of health issues arose for Kim Hye-ja, who is returning to the screen after 9 years with "Still Shining."She walked the red carpet at the opening ceremony on the 6th with director Song Il-gon of "Still Shining." However, during this process, Kim Hye-ja was seen being supported by Director Song as she moved, and she was captured coughing with her hand covering her mouth, leading to concerns about her health.In response, a representative from "Still Shining" stated, "It is just a simple cold, and there are no health issues." They added, "The schedule for the Busan International Film Festival was adjusted considering her age and condition, and she is scheduled to proceed with the planned events as is."Later, Kim Hye-ja attended the outdoor stage greeting for "Still Shining" as scheduled on the 8th, meeting with the audience and easing their concerns.Singer Kim Da-hyun, who hosted the prelude event, also attended the 31st Busan International Film Festival (BIFF) held at the Busan Cinema Center in Haeundae-gu, Busan, on the afternoon of the 6th, and walked the red carpet. /Busan=Reporter Park Heon-woo◆ Kim Da-hyun, enters BIFF as an actor after 'public criticism controversy with Shim Soo-bong'Singer Kim Da-hyun, who recently faced public criticism from singer Shim Soo-bong, also graced the 31st Busan International Film Festival as an actor.She hosted the prelude event and also attended the opening ceremony red carpet. As Kim Da-hyun has been steadily building her filmography with appearances in films such as "Florence," "Funggi," "Forbidden Love," and "The Accidental Detective," expectations are high that she will continue her career as a singer and actress through her participation in this film festival.Previously, Shim Soo-bong attended the "2026 Jinan Red Ginseng Festival" program "Jinan Plateau Trot Festival" held in Jinan-gun, Jeollabuk-do, last month on the 20th, and publicly criticized Kim Da-hyun, who performed just before her, saying, "The woman who sang before me made my head spin."She specifically pointed out, "It seems like a young lady doesn't know what singing is or what life is. Listening to her songs is very difficult." She added, "Please don't send the performer before me. I'm so dizzy right now that I feel like I'm going to collapse. Singing is not something to be done so carelessly."Afterward, a video containing these remarks spread through various online communities and social media, leading Shim Soo-bong to post a lengthy apology on her fan cafe and bow her head.In response, Kim Da-hyun stated, "I spoke directly with Shim Soo-bong. She personally apologized, encouraged me, and offered warm comfort." She added, "To my fans who must have been upset and worried about this incident, I will take care of my emotions, so please don't worry and let's meet with bright faces. Thank you."[Entertainment Department | THE FACT]jiyoon-1031@tf.co.krssent@tf.co.kr]]> FANNSTAR Fri, 09 Oct 2026 00:00:00 +0900 Alfonso Cuarón & Michelle Yeoh Among Global StarsFrom a tribute to the late Ahn Sung-ki to open talks and outdoor stage greetings... connecting with the audienceThe 31st Busan International Film Festival, which opened on the 6th, is bustling with moviegoers who have come to enjoy films near the Busan Cinema Center in Haeundae-gu, Busan. /Busan=Reporter Kim Sung-ryeol[THE FACT|Busan=Reporter Kim Saet-byeol] The 31st Busan International Film Festival (BIFF), which has raised its status as a world-class film festival, is heating up as it passes the halfway point of its ten-day run after a spectacular opening.The 31st Busan International Film Festival, which kicked off on the 6th with the unprecedented change of a 'Tuesday opening,' has been colored with a festive atmosphere around the Busan Cinema Center, with the attendance of world-renowned directors, a glamorous red carpet parade of stars, and a heartfelt tribute to the eternal 'national actor,' the late Ahn Sung-ki.In particular, a rich lineup of programs that directly communicate with the audience, including the performance of actress Kim Min-ha, who served as the sole host from the opening day, and various open talks and outdoor stage greetings for new films, are captivating the attention of film fans visiting Haeundae.Actress Kim Min-ha 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◆ First Tuesday Opening & First Solo Hosting by Kim Min-haThis year's Busan International Film Festival announced a new leap forward by being officially selected as an 'A-list film festival,' the highest grade from the International Federation of Film Producers Associations (FIAPF). Not only has it been placed alongside world-class film festivals such as Cannes, Berlin, and Venice, but its status has also been elevated by offering eligibility for the Academy Awards (Oscars) International Feature Film Award to the winner of the 'Busan Award-Grand Prize,' the top prize in the competition section.In line with this status, the festival attempted a 'Tuesday opening' for the first time on the 6th, breaking the tradition that has continued since 2002, in an effort to sustain the excitement for a longer period. The number of screenings per day has been expanded from Thursday to Sunday, and a total of 316 films, including 247 official selections from 59 countries, are being shown to audiences on 31 screens.Furthermore, actress Kim Min-ha set another new record by serving as the sole host of the opening ceremony.The Busan International Film Festival appointed Kim Min-ha as the sole MC, recognizing her consistent dedication to faithfully portraying the inner lives of characters through her profound interpretations in each of her works. As a result, Kim Min-ha, as the first-ever 'solo opening ceremony host,' delivered a sincere yet confident performance.Kim Min-ha is also the lead actress in the opening film 'Night and Day' and the On Screen selection 'Honey Job.' She has become the undisputed star of this film festival, having handled everything from the opening film press conference, red carpet, and opening ceremony hosting to the film's open talk, Actors' House, and 'Honey Job' open talk.The '31st Busan International Film Festival (BIFF)' is being held at the Busan Cinema Center in Haeundae-gu, Busan on the afternoon of the 6th, with actors walking the red carpet. /Busan=Reporter Park Heon-woo◆ Alfonso Cuarón's First Visit to Korea & Michelle Yeoh's Return to Busan After 15 Years... Global Stars GatherThe attendance of world-renowned filmmakers in Busan was also a major highlight of this year's festival. From the opening ceremony, the names of international masters and stars continued to appear, making the status of the festival as an international film festival palpable.Michelle Yeoh visited Busan for the first time in 15 years. As the recipient of the '2026 Asian Filmmaker of the Year Award,' she personally received the trophy at the opening ceremony. A special program, 'Michelle Yeoh: All of Time, All of Everything,' was also prepared to illuminate her film career, which began with 'Yes, Madam' and continued through 'Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon,' 'Tomorrow Never Dies,' and 'Everything Everywhere All at Once,' establishing her as a global actress.Director Alfonso Cuarón visited Korea for the first time. He, who has won the Academy Award for Best Director twice for 'Gravity' and 'Roma,' met with audiences through a special talk after the IMAX screening of 'Gravity' and a masterclass, following his attendance at the opening ceremony.In addition, world-renowned masters such as French actress Isabelle Huppert, actress and director Maggie Gyllenhaal, and director Hirokazu Kore-eda visited Busan. Japanese actors Kento Yamazaki and Shunsuke Michieda, Chinese star Fan Bingbing, as well as Charlotte Gainsbourg, Erika Sawajiri, and the group (G)I-DLE SHUHUA also appeared at the festival, adding to its global appeal.The 31st Busan International Film Festival is honoring a great star of Korean cinema with the special program 'Beautiful Days, Ahn Sung-ki,' allowing many audiences to reminisce about him. The photo shows a scene from the retrospective exhibition. /Korean Film Archive◆ Tribute to the Late Ahn Sung-ki... A Chapter of Korean Cinema Revisited Through 'Beautiful Days'This year's Busan International Film Festival is also a place to honor a great star of the Korean film industry. Through the special program 'Beautiful Days, Ahn Sung-ki,' a time and space has been created to look back at the film career of the late Ahn Sung-ki, who passed away in September, and the works he left behind.Ahn Sung-ki debuted as a child actor in 'The Twilight Train' in 1957 and began his full-fledged career as an adult actor with 'A Fine, Windy Day' in 1980. For over 60 years, he remained active in the Korean film industry, acting in numerous films and being loved as a representative actor of Korean cinema. After being diagnosed with leukemia in 2020 and undergoing treatment, he passed away on September 20th at the age of 75.This special program is particularly meaningful as it focuses on the films personally recommended by Ahn Sung-ki during his lifetime. Through six films, including 'A Fine, Windy Day' (1980), 'Whale Hunting' (1984), 'Chilsu and Mansu' (1988), 'The Gag Man' (1989), 'White War' (1992), and 'The Festival' (1996), the program revisits the acting of Ahn Sung-ki and a chapter of Korean cinema in the 1980s and 1990s.Special audience Q&A sessions were also held alongside the screenings. Directors Lee Jang-ho, Bae Chang-ho, Park Kwang-su, Lee Myung-se, and Chung Ji-young, who worked with Ahn Sung-ki, as well as actors Kim Bo-yeon, Kim Soo-chul, and Bae Jong-ok, attended to reminisce about him. Additionally, directors Jang Kun-jae, Kim Cho-hee, Park Yi-woong, Yoon Dan-bi, and Oh Jung-min, along with film critic Jung Sung-il and political scientist Kim Ji-yoon, served as moderators to discuss Ahn Sung-ki's film and acting career.Numerous actors appearing in various films met with prospective viewers and audiences up close on the outdoor stage of the 31st Busan International Film Festival. /Busan=Reporter Park Heon-woo, Reporter Kim Sung-ryeol◆ Open Talks & Outdoor Stage Greetings... Meeting Films and Series Before the AudienceThe open talks and outdoor stage greetings, where audiences attending the festival could experience the films up close, exploded with anticipation from prospective viewers and audiences. This is because the actors and directors of films scheduled for release or premiere took to the stage to talk about their works.First, the open talk for director Lee Chang-dong's 'Possible Love,' which won the Silver Lion at the Venice International Film Festival, featured Jeon Do-yeon, Sol Kyung-gu, Jo In-sung, and Jo Yeo-jeong, who received great cheers and applause in a warm atmosphere.Renowned stars such as Ryu Seung-ryong and Park Hae-joon of 'The Family' Ong Seong-wu, Jung Sung-il, Yoo Jae-myung, and Ryu Hyun-kyung of 'Sapiens,' director Stephanie Ahn and Choi Hee-seo, Son Suk-ku of 'Bedford Park,' director Woo Min-ho of 'Made in Korea Season 2,' and Hyun Bin, Jung Woo-sung, and Do-wan Kwak also took the stage, drawing a massive crowd around the Busan Cinema Center.The opening film 'Night and Day' also met the audience again. Director Kim Jong-kwan, along with Kim Min-ha, Joo Jong-hyuk, Han Sun-hwa, Shim Eun-kyung, Jeon So-young, and Kim Dong-hwi, attended the open talk to discuss the love story created by four pairs of men and women.For 'Honey Job,' director Kim Da-min, director Han Jun-hee, Kim Min-ha, and Choi Hyun-wook attended to introduce the film. Notably, during the 'Honey Job' open talk, Lee Jae-wook, who is currently serving in the military, made a surprise appearance from the audience and greeted them on stage, adding an unexpected element of fun.The Disney+ original series 'The Second Husband' will also be unveiled in Busan. Ahead of its release on November 4th, director Jo Soo-won, Shin Min-a, Joo Ji-hoon, Lee Jong-suk, and Lee Se-young are scheduled to promote the series through outdoor stage greetings.The greatest charm of a film festival is the direct interaction between films, filmmakers, and audiences in one space. This year's Busan International Film Festival is also heading towards its midpoint, with an expanded screening scale, the visit of global filmmakers, and a blend of tributes and encounters.Attention is focused on what films and filmmakers will once again set Busan ablaze during the festival, which continues until the 15th.[Entertainment Department | Ong Seong-wu]sstar1204@tf.co.krssent@tf.co.kr]]> FANNSTAR Fri, 09 Oct 2026 00:00:00 +0900 Actress Kim Min-ha poses at the Actors' House event held at the Culture Hall of Shinsegae Department Store Centum City Branch in Haeundae-gu, Busan on the afternoon of the 8th. /Busan=Reporter Kim Sung-ryeol[THE FACT | Busan=Reporter Kim Sung-ryeol] Actress Kim Min-ha poses at the Actors' House event held at the Culture Hall of Shinsegae Department Store Centum City Branch in Haeundae-gu, Busan on the afternoon of the 8th.'Actors' House,' one of the main programs of the Busan International Film Festival, is a venue where actors share honest and in-depth stories about their acting and works.Kim Min-ha plays the role of Yoo-jin, a woman who had a strange dream the night before, in the opening film of this film festival, 'Day and Night for Each Other.'The Busan International Film Festival, now in its 31st year, will be held until the 15th at 8 theaters and 31 screens in the Haeundae area, including the Busan Cinema Center.This year's film festival will feature a total of 315 diverse films, including 246 official invited films from 59 countries around the world.Notably, this year, it was selected as an 'A-list film festival' by the International Federation of Film Producers Associations (FIAPF), recognized as a film festival eligible for the Academy Awards' International Feature Film Award, alongside Cannes, Venice, Berlin, Sundance, and Toronto film festivals.ksr@tf.co.krPhoto Video Planning Department photo@tf.co.kr]]> FANNSTAR Thu, 08 Oct 2026 00:00:00 +0900 Broadcast on the 11th'LOVE ATTACK' reverse run impressions revealedGroup RESCENE will appear on a terrestrial main news program for the first time since their debut. The photo shows RESCENE LIV ZENA MAY Minami WONI (from left) receiving the 'Today's Choice' award at the '2026 THE FACT MUSIC AWARDS(THE FACT MUSIC AWARDS, TMA)' held at the Busan Asiad Main Stadium on September 19th. /Busan Asiad Main Stadium = Reporter Nam Yoon-ho[THE FACT|Reporter Choi Soo-bin] Group RESCENE will appear on a terrestrial main news program for the first time since their debut and share special stories.SBS announced on the 8th, " RESCENE (WONI LIV Minami MAY ZENA) will appear on 'SBS 8 News' on the 11th."The five members of RESCENE will look back on their activities since their debut in 2024 with anchor Lee Hyun-young. In particular, they will reveal their honest feelings about their representative song 'LOVE ATTACK' successfully achieving a reverse run and continuing to be loved.They will also share the reason why they desperately needed a stage and the driving force that allowed them to endure difficult times. In addition, they will reveal the secret to maintaining strong teamwork and the preparation process for their fourth mini-album 'PULSE', scheduled to be released on the 3rd of next month.RESCENE, who debuted in March 2024, gained attention this year with the 'Geoje Yahoo' meme. Since then, 'LOVE ATTACK' achieved a reverse run and topped major music charts this summer. The remake song 'Pretty Girl', released in August, and 'Deja Vu', a B-side track from their second single album released in July last year, also gained popularity one after another.Thanks to this popularity, RESCENE won two awards at the '2026 THE FACT MUSIC AWARDS(THE FACT MUSIC AWARDS, TMA)' held at the Busan Asiad Main Stadium on the 19th of last month, receiving 'Artist of the Year' and 'Today's Choice', which is decided by on-site voting.'SBS 8 News', featuring RESCENE, will be broadcast at 8 PM on the 11th.subin7134@tf.co.kr[Entertainment Department | ssent@tf.co.kr]]]> FANNSTAR Thu, 08 Oct 2026 00:00:00 +0900 'Looks Can Kill' Individual Concept Photos RevealedJang Won-young of group IVE Leeseo Liz (from top) has released concept photos for their fifth mini-album 'Looks Can Kill.' / Starship Entertainment[THE FACT|Reporter Choi Hyun-jung] Jang Won-young Leeseo Liz of group IVE has transformed into a 'girl hero.'On the 7th, their agency Starship Entertainment officially released individual concept photos for Jang Won-young Leeseo Liz for their fifth mini-album 'Looks Can Kill' on the group's IVE (An Yu-jin Gaeul Rei Jang Won-young Liz Leeseo) official social media.The members transformed into 'girl heroes' showcasing their individual personalities and charms, drawing attention. They added wit with various 'hero poses' and expressions, foreshadowing a different charm for IVE than before.Jang Won-young presented a variety of concepts, from posing with her hand in a gun shape to taking off a mask and winking. Her running pose, in particular, added a playful touch, sparking curiosity about her 'heroic abilities.' Lee Seo revealed her characteristic bright and lovely atmosphere with poses using a doll, while Liz exuded her presence with intense eyes and silhouettes.Along with the concept photos, character illustrations for each member were also released. Attention is focused on what kind of performance these characters, who fully embody their respective vibes, will showcase in the new album.IVE's fifth mini-album 'Looks Can Kill' is an album that unfolds new characters and stories through the expansion of music and visuals. While maintaining IVE's unique 'self-confidence,' they plan to show new changes with more diverse music, visuals, and content.IVE will pre-release the title track 'Looks Can Kill' on the 19th and release the mini-album 'Looks Can Kill' on music sites on the 26th.laugardagr@tf.co.kr[Entertainment Department | ssent@tf.co.kr]]]> FANNSTAR Thu, 08 Oct 2026 00:00:00 +0900 Singer Lyn announced that she will once again sing a congratulatory song at Seo In-young’s wedding. In a video released on the 7th on Seo In-young’s YouTube channel ″Reformation Seo In-young,″ stories involving Baek Ji-young, Lyn, and Seo In-young were discussed. In the video, Baek Ji-young mentioned the reason why she had negative feelings toward Seo In-young in the past. Baek Ji-young explained that as her close acquaintance grew distant from Seo In-young, she also came to dislike Seo In-young. Baek Ji-young also recalled an incident when Seo In-young and Lyn were sharing the same waiting room, and upon seeing the two laughing, she said, ″It’s too noisy,″ targeting Seo In-young by saying, ″Seo In-young, be quiet!″ Baek Ji-young expressed regret over this remark, acknowledging it was wrong, but said that Seo In-young was popular at the time but not humble. The video also revealed a phone call with Lyn. Seo In-young said she felt embarrassed and did not contact Lyn after Lyn sang a congratulatory song at her first wedding. When Seo In-young mentioned remarriage, Lyn responded, ″Then I’ll sing again. Because I feel really bad.″ Meanwhile, Seo In-young married an older businessman in 2023 but divorced after one year. She is currently dating Choi Ji-hoon, CEO of the content creative company NP, and is preparing to remarry at the end of this year.]]> FANNSTAR Thu, 08 Oct 2026 00:00:00 +0900 Broadcaster Kim So-young revealed that her health changed after giving birth to her second child. On October 7, Kim So-young shared on her social media that she received a notice for a re-examination for the first time during a health checkup. She said, ″I got a re-exam notice. For the first time ever. As I entered my late 30s, I started paying close attention to my health checkup results, and this is the first time I got a re-exam notice. It was for triglycerides. I realized that losing weight doesn’t mean I’m free from triglyceride issues.″ Additionally, Kim So-young showed that she was taking care of her health by taking supplements during a trip to Japan with Oh Sang-jin. When a netizen commented, ″Let’s have a third child today, sister,″ Kim So-young replied, ″The elder is already asleep.″ She then added, ″Wow, I’m playing alone now. I’m excited. Is this the first time in months that I’m sleeping comfortably?″ expressing her feelings about being free from childcare. Kim So-young married fellow announcer Oh Sang-jin in 2017, and they have one daughter and one son. It was also revealed that she returned to work three weeks after giving birth to her second child on April 3.]]> FANNSTAR Thu, 08 Oct 2026 00:00:00 +0900 The group CORTIS is heating up the global sports festival. CORTIS is set to deliver a special performance at the ″Formula One Singapore Grand Prix 2026,″ held on the 9th at the Marina Bay Street Circuit in Singapore. This event, attracting attention from fans and sports enthusiasts worldwide, will be filled with CORTIS’s explosive energy and diverse performances. According to their agency, CORTIS has made thorough preparations for this performance and is determined to leave a strong impression on global fans by showcasing their unique music and performances on stage. They plan to elevate the festival’s excitement by creating a dynamic and sensory stage within the unique environment of the race track. In recently released photos, CORTIS members captivated attention with relaxed and confident expressions, sporting various styles such as jeans and shirts, checkered jackets, and black coats. Their natural poses and direct gazes reveal their serious attitude and passion toward the performance. Meanwhile, CORTIS, a rapidly growing rookie group gaining attention for their distinctive concept and musicality, is expected to expand their global influence even further through their stage at the F1 Singapore Grand Prix.]]> FANNSTAR Thu, 08 Oct 2026 00:00:00 +0900 IVE member Jang Wonyoung recently shared several photos taken at home on her social media. On October 7, Jang Wonyoung posted ″my place, my peace″ along with glimpses of her daily life. In the photos, Jang Wonyoung posed in a space that appears to be her residence in Hannam-dong. She showcased a comfortable yet sporty style with a sheer off-shoulder top exposing her shoulders, training pants, and a thin gray top. She also caught attention with glamorous makeup and doll-like visuals. The photos included her posing with a lip-shaped decoration in front of a mirror and lying on a sofa with a playful expression. Jang Wonyoung’s home interior also attracted interest. The photos featured audio equipment from an Italian design brand, known to be priced domestically between approximately 25.9 million won and 41.9 million won, or around 30 million won. Next to the audio was a German vase (about 220,000 won), a red sofa in the living room costing about 10 million won per module and totaling around 200 million won, a pink lamp worth about 7 million won, a sheep sculpture priced around 5 million won, and a cherry object on a black table above the sofa valued at approximately 130,000 won, among various other high-end interior items. In March of last year, Jang Wonyoung purchased a 244m2 single unit at Lucid House in Hannam-dong, Yongsan-gu, Seoul, for 13.7 billion won in full cash payment, and completed the ownership registration in October of the same year. Meanwhile, IVE, to which Jang Wonyoung belongs, is scheduled to release a new mini-album titled Looks Can Kill on October 26. Ahead of the album release, the title track Looks Can Kill will be pre-released on the 19th.]]> FANNSTAR Thu, 08 Oct 2026 00:00:00 +0900 [THE FACT | Busan=Reporter Kim Seong-ryeol] Actor Kim Go-eun attends the Actors House event held at the Shinsegae Department Store Centum City branch's Culture Hall in Haeundae-gu, Busan on the afternoon of the 8th.ksr@tf.co.krphoto@tf.co.kr]]> FANNSTAR Thu, 08 Oct 2026 00:00:00 +0900 Actress Kim Go-eun is interacting with the audience at the Actors' House event held at the Shinsegae Department Store Centum City Branch Culture Hall in Haeundae-gu, Busan on the afternoon of the 8th. /Busan=Reporter Kim Sung-ryeol[THE FACT | Busan=Reporter Kim Sung-ryeol] Actress Kim Go-eun is interacting with the audience at the Actors' House event held at the Shinsegae Department Store Centum City Branch Culture Hall in Haeundae-gu, Busan on the afternoon of the 8th.'Actors' House,' one of the main programs of the Busan International Film Festival, is a venue where actors share honest and in-depth stories about their acting and works.The Busan International Film Festival, now in its 31st year, will be held until the 15th at eight theaters and 31 screens in the Haeundae area, including the Busan Cinema Center.This year's festival will feature a total of 315 diverse films, including 246 official invited films from 59 countries around the world.Notably, this year's Busan International Film Festival was selected as an 'A-list film festival' by the International Federation of Film Producers Associations (FIAPF), recognizing it as a film festival eligible for the Academy Award-designated International Feature Film competition, alongside the Cannes, Venice, Berlin, Sundance, and Toronto film festivals.ksr@tf.co.krphoto@tf.co.kr]]> FANNSTAR Thu, 08 Oct 2026 00:00:00 +0900 Director Kim Da-min's First Series Challenge...Open Talk Held with Kim Min-ha&Choi Hyun-wookSurprise Visit from Lee Jae-wook During Military ServiceActor Lee Jae-wook waves as he attends the 'Honey Job' open talk event held at the Busan Cinema Center's Roof Theater in Haeundae-gu, Busan on the afternoon of the 8th. /Busan=Reporter Park Heon-woo[THE FACT|Reporter Kim Saet-byeol] Actor Lee Jae-wook, currently serving in the military, made a surprise appearance at the Busan International Film Festival, raising expectations for 'Honey Job.'An open talk for the new Netflix original series 'Honey Job' (written by Kyung Min-sun&Lee Shin-ji, directed by Kim Da-min), invited to the Busan International Film Festival's On Screen section, was held on the outdoor stage of the Busan Cinema Center in Haeundae-gu, Busan on the afternoon of the 8th. Director Kim Da-min, Han Jun-hee, the chief producer, and actors Kim Min-ha and Choi Hyun-wook attended and shared various stories about the work.The protagonist, Lee Jae-wook, was unable to attend the event due to his current military service, but he appeared in the audience at the end of the open talk. He briefly took the stage and said, "I am serving well in the military. I apologize for not being able to be here," and "I hope you enjoy it."'Honey Job' tells the story of a young man, Hyuk-joon (played by Lee Jae-wook), who is deployed to a nightmarish work environment at a strange employment agency that only introduces 'honey jobs' starting at 50 times the hourly wage. It depicts a work environment never seen before by adding horror, fantasy, and black comedy to realistic livelihood-related themes.Director Kim Da-min first shared her feelings after the first screening held the previous day. She said, "Even though I watched the work countless times while editing, it was a new experience to watch it with the audience," and "It was a great experience to feel the audience's reactions directly."This work is also the first series directed by Kim Da-min, who gained attention for the film 'Makgeolli Shall Tell You.' Director Kim said, "My debut film was an independent film with less than 30 shooting days, but a series physically has many times more shooting days, which was difficult," and "After overcoming that hurdle, I saw the fun and learning points. I took on new challenges, and the process of gathering ideas was also enjoyable."'Honey Job' also left a strong impression on Han Jun-hee, the chief producer, who encountered the work for the first time. He said, "I was shocked when I first read the script given by the writer," and "I felt the ambition to create such a story as a series." He added, "The director kindly explained it so that many people could understand it, but the story itself is profound. However, the way it's told is light," explaining the unique charm of 'Honey Job.'Director Kim Da-min, actors Choi Hyun-wook, Kim Min-ha, and chief producer Han Jun-hee (from left) pose at the 'Honey Job' open talk event held at the Busan Cinema Center's Roof Theater in Haeundae-gu, Busan on the afternoon of the 8th. /Busan=Reporter Park Heon-wooKim Min-ha plays Ji-yoon, Hyuk-joon's younger sister, for whom poverty is scarier than ghosts. After watching the completed work, she said, "When I first saw it, I was so scared and surprised that I covered my eyes with my hands," and "I was curious how the things I had imagined for the past few months would be realized, and I was grateful that it was depicted with such high quality and tension."Ji-yoon is a character who views the situation with a realistic perspective even amidst fantastical events. Kim Min-ha explained, "Ji-yoon is the most normal person in this work. I thought she was a child who loved her family so much that she could endure because of them," and "She is so realistic that she finds her brother Hyuk-joon frustrating. She was attractive because she is a character who makes the fantastical elements of the work more realistic."The reason for choosing the work was also special. Kim Min-ha said, "The script for 'Honey Job' was different from anything I had seen before, so I really wanted to do it," and "I was filming 'Taepung Sangsa' at the time, but Director Han Jun-hee said he would adjust the schedule for me. I was so touched and grateful that he seemed to discover a new side of me."Regarding Kim Min-ha's casting, chief producer Han Jun-hee said, "She is the opposite of Sunja in 'Pachinko,' so I thought she would be curious because she had never played such a role," and "I thought about actors who would be a good fit while having the most conversations with the director."Kim Min-ha and Lee Jae-wook are expected to show off their chemistry as realistic siblings in the drama. Kim Min-ha said, "I naturally became close with actor Jae-wook on set. I was grateful that he treated me so comfortably," and "I think many fun scenes were created," raising expectations.Director Kim Da-min, chief producer Han Jun-hee, and actors Kim Min-ha and Choi Hyun-wook (from left) attend the 'Honey Job' open talk event held at the Busan Cinema Center's Roof Theater in Haeundae-gu, Busan on the afternoon of the 8th. /Busan=Reporter Park Heon-wooThe casting behind Choi Hyun-wook, who opens the work, was also revealed. Choi Hyun-wook plays Choi Hee-dong, who makes a special appearance to open the series.Choi Hyun-wook, who visited the Busan International Film Festival four years ago with 'Weak Hero,' said, "Back then, it was my first BIFF, so I came with a more nervous and stiff heart than now," and "Today, I feel more at ease than then. It feels like I came to chat comfortably. I think it's because the reliable directors are here."Chief producer Han Jun-hee said with a laugh, "I asked Choi Hyun-wook if he could just appear three times. I asked him not to ask if he had to read the script, but if he could just appear three times and help me." He added, "He plays the role of kicking off this work, and I'm grateful that he came all the way to Busan. Please help me again next time," he joked.'Honey Job,' which also features Gong Min-si and Lee Hee-joon in addition to Lee Jae-wook, Kim Min-ha, and Choi Hyun-wook, will be released on Netflix on the 30th.sstar1204@tf.co.kr[Entertainment Department | ssent@tf.co.kr]]]> FANNSTAR Thu, 08 Oct 2026 00:00:00 +0900 On the 8th, a production presentation was held... Kim Yeon-Koung → Boo Seung-kwan attends"No thought of failure, a big picture... an aggressive stance"Boo Seung-kwan of group Seventeen, former volleyball player Kim Yeon-Koung Yang Hyo-jin, and Director Lee Jae-woo Kwon Rak-hee (from left) attended the production presentation for MBC's new entertainment program 'Rookie Director Kim Yeon-Koung' Season 2, held at MBC Golden Mouse Hall in Mapo-gu, Seoul on the 8th and shared various stories. / Reporter LEE SAEROM[THE FACT | Reporter Moon Chae-young] The second directorial journey of former volleyball player Kim Yeon-Koung unfolds. As he returns as a seasoned director, he expresses a strong will to not continue to the next season if he cannot prove the possibility of becoming a professional team. It is curious to see what conclusion 'Rookie Director Kim Yeon-Koung2' will reach.The production presentation for MBC's new entertainment program 'Rookie Director Kim Yeon-Koung' Season 2 (hereinafter referred to as 'Rookie Director Kim Yeon-Koung2') was held at MBC Golden Mouse Hall in Mapo-gu, Seoul on the afternoon of the 8th. Directors Kwon Rak-hee and Lee Jae-woo, former volleyball player Kim Yeon-Koung Yang Hyo-jin, and Boo Seung-kwan of group Seventeen attended the event and encouraged viewers by highlighting the unique differentiators of 'Rookie Director Kim Yeon-Koung2'.'Rookie Director Kim Yeon-Koung2' is a club founding project where Kim Yeon-Koung, who has become a second-year veteran director, and the team 'Filseung Wonderdogs' move from UNDER to WONDER. While Season 1, which aired last September, depicted Kim Yeon-Koung's challenge as a director, this season captures the team's journey into a fiercer competition.Director Kwon Rak-hee said, "I am truly happy to be in the second season," and added, "We did our best to deliver profound sincerity with the passion of veteran director Kim Yeon-Koung, the grown manager Boo Seung-kwan, the new commentator Yang Hyo-jin, and all the directors, players, and staff."Director Lee Jae-woo, who is credited as a co-director, said, "Our program is raw and real," and added, "In Season 1, I was excited thinking, 'I'm grateful I can edit these scenes,' but in Season 2, everyone was so sincere that there were many scenes where I wondered, 'Is this okay to broadcast?' Please look forward to the rich stories."Former volleyball player Kim Yeon-Koung shows the aspect of a veteran director in MBC's new entertainment program 'Rookie Director Kim Yeon-Koung' Season 2. /MBCThis time again, Kim Yeon-Koung is the commander leading the 'Filseung Wonderdogs' team. Having shed the rookie label and become a veteran director, he said, "I told the production team last season, 'I was tricked. There won't be a Season 2,' but it turned into a funny situation," creating a cheerful atmosphere. He also added, "I've returned after complementing the shortcomings of last season," and confidently stated, "I've definitely grown."Boo Seung-kwan will once again serve as the team manager for 'Filseung Wonderdogs' following last season. Notably, this season, he will also concurrently serve as the head of the public relations team through a rapid promotion. He said, "I was planning my schedule with enlistment in mind since last year, but fortunately, I was able to participate in Season 2," and added, "I've adjusted my schedule to be able to participate in all the match schedules this season."Yang Hyo-jin, who is newly joining as a commentator, reflected, "I was nervous and awkward, but I enjoyed being with the 'Filseung Wonderdogs' team." As a former national team player and V-League middle blocker, and also a long-time close friend of Kim Yeon-Koung, she shared, with a mix of humor and sincerity, "Kim Yeon-Koung's passion for directing is amazing," and "I'm glad we met as fellow players."MBC's new entertainment program 'Rookie Director Kim Yeon-Koung2' will begin airing on the 11th. /MBCThe key to this 'Rookie Director Kim Yeon-Koung2' is the even stronger pledge. With the goal of 'founding the 8th professional volleyball team,' they have set a condition: if a corporate owner who will lead them to a professional team does not appear during the broadcast, the team will be disbanded, and Season 3 will not be produced.When asked about the feasibility, Director Kwon Rak-hee explained, "Since the end of Season 1 until now, there has been considerable interest from many companies," and "I realized the possibility of 'founding the 8th professional volleyball team.' We are making a last stand to seize the opportunity."Director Lee Jae-woo also views the 'founding of the 8th professional volleyball team' positively. He added, "We had discussions with various companies during the preparation process," and "I felt confident that we could draw up a big picture without thinking of failure. I decided to go aggressively with the director's mindset."Finally, Kim Yeon-Koung, Boo Seung-kwan, and Yang Hyo-jin touched upon the meaning of 'Rookie Director Kim Yeon-Koung2'. Kim Yeon-Koung emphasized, "'Growth' is the keyword," and said, "It's a program where players who lacked opportunities and I, a rookie director, grow together."Boo Seung-kwan confessed, "It's a program that makes you think, 'I can do it'," and "It's my favorite among all the variety shows I've appeared in since my debut." Yang Hyo-jin said, "I was able to feel the passion for volleyball again after retirement. There were many overwhelming moments," and "It has value in being able to see the skills of the players who were in the background."MBC's new entertainment program 'Rookie Director Kim Yeon-Koung2' will premiere on the 11th at 9:10 PM.mcy21@tf.co.kr[Entertainment Department | ssent@tf.co.kr]]]> FANNSTAR Thu, 08 Oct 2026 00:00:00 +0900 Additional building purchase planned in Songnae-dong, where the current headquarters is locatedBird's-eye view of the new headquarters JYP Entertainment planned to build in Godeok-dong, Seoul. / Yoo Hyun-joon Architecture[THE FACT|Reporter Choi Hyun-jung] JYP Entertainment has ultimately withdrawn its plan to build a new headquarters in Godeok.JYP Entertainment announced in a statement on the 8th, "We have finally decided to withdraw the Godeok new headquarters construction project."Previously, JYP Entertainment purchased land for approximately 75.5 billion won in October 2023 to build a new headquarters in Godeok Biz Valley, located in Godeok-dong, Gangdong-gu, Seoul. JYP Entertainment, with architect Professor Yoo Hyun-joon in charge of the design, planned for the new headquarters to be a 5-story basement and 17-story building, including not only office space and practice rooms but also a performance hall with about 800 seats and a space open to the public.However, JYP Entertainment began to reconsider the construction of the new headquarters due to concerns about the invasion of privacy of its artists and damage to the landscape, as the park that was planned to be created in front of the new headquarters at the time of land purchase was changed to a self-sufficient facility zone that could accommodate buildings up to 19 stories high.JYP Entertainment explained, "Although we have made numerous efforts to continue the project through multiple consultations with SH Corporation and Gangdong-gu Office since April 2026, when we first became aware of the change in land use in front of the Godeok new headquarters site, we received an official response from SH Corporation on August 31, 2026, stating that 'there are no procedural issues with the change in land use in front of the new headquarters site, and restoration to a park is also impossible.'"They added, "Based on our standards, as the core environment of this project has changed, we have concluded that it is no longer possible to proceed with the project. We have established a plan to secure and reinforce our work environment by purchasing a building near our current headquarters in Seongnae-dong. We will continue to achieve sustainable growth by closely cooperating with the local government, with the Seongnae-dong headquarters as our base."The following is the full statement from JYP Entertainment.JYP Entertainment (hereinafter referred to as "the Company") has made numerous efforts to continue the project through multiple consultations with SH Corporation and Gangdong-gu Office since April 2026, when it first became aware of the change in land use in front of the Godeok new headquarters site, but has ultimately decided to withdraw the Godeok new headquarters construction project.On August 31, 2026, the Company received an official response from SH Corporation stating that "there are no procedural issues with the change in land use in front of the new headquarters site, and restoration to a park is also impossible." As the core environment for the promotion of this project, according to our standards, has changed, we have extensively reviewed various circumstances, including the situation with leased buildings in addition to our current headquarters, and have reached the final conclusion that it is no longer possible to proceed with the project.Therefore, the Company has established a plan to secure and reinforce a stable work environment for its members by purchasing a building near the current headquarters in Seongnae-dong. We kindly ask for your broad understanding and consideration, as this decision was made after extensive review and careful consultation.Since relocating to Gangdong-gu in June 2018, the Company has continued to grow and will cooperate closely with the local government, with the Seongnae-dong headquarters as its base, and will continue to achieve sustainable growth in the future.laugardagr@tf.co.kr[Entertainment Department | ssent@tf.co.kr]]]> FANNSTAR Thu, 08 Oct 2026 00:00:00 +0900 8 Production Presentation Attendance... First Broadcast on the 11th"Appealing for my spot since the end of Season 1"Boo Seung-kwan of group Seventeen attended the production presentation for MBC's new entertainment program 'Rookie Director Kim Yeon-Koung' Season 2, held at MBC Golden Mouse Hall in Mapo-gu, Seoul on the 8th, and said, "I'm proud to be able to film Season 2." / Reporter LEE SAEROM[THE FACT | Reporter Moon Chae-young] Boo Seung-kwan of group Seventeen (SEVENTEEN) expressed his gratitude for being able to join 'Rookie Director Kim Yeon-Koung2' before his military enlistment.Boo Seung-kwan attended the production presentation for MBC's new entertainment program 'Rookie Director Kim Yeon-Koung' Season 2 (hereinafter referred to as 'Rookie Director Kim Yeon-Koung2'), held at MBC Golden Mouse Hall in Mapo-gu, Seoul on the 8th, and said, "Fortunately, I was able to finish filming before my enlistment," adding, "I'm happy to be able to appear in Season 2 of a program that received so much love."'Rookie Director Kim Yeon-Koung2' is a club founding project where Kim Yeon-Koung, who has become a director with two years of experience, and the team 'Fil Seung Wonderdogs' move from UNDER to WONDER. While Season 1, which aired in September last year, depicted Kim Yeon-Koung's challenge as a director, this season captures the team's journey into fiercer competition.Boo Seung-kwan, who was active as a team manager in the last season, will also serve as the head of the PR team this season. He said, "I wanted to participate in Season 2 right after Season 1 ended. I kept appealing for my spot," and added, "My affection for the program has grown even stronger."Notably, 'Rookie Director Kim Yeon-Koung2' is his last fixed entertainment program before his military enlistment. Boo Seung-kwan, who was finally accepted into the Army Band and is scheduled to enlist this year, explained, "I was organizing my schedule thinking about my enlistment this year since last year, and I'm fortunate to be able to do 'Rookie Director Kim Yeon-Koung2' before I go."Although he does not wish for a successor, he also expressed his opinion that he would take a mock manager exam if Season 3 were to be produced during his absence. Boo Seung-kwan emphasized, "It's not enough to just like it. I will use my vacation to test my affection and knowledge for the players and our program."He did not recommend any members of Seventeen. Boo Seung-kwan said, "My members absolutely cannot be my successor. I can't stand to see other members succeed. It's a mean thought," making the audience burst into laughter.He debuted as a member of Seventeen in 2015 and has received much love for songs such as 'Very NICE', 'Don't Wanna Cry', 'Super', 'Pretty U', and 'CLAP'. He has also actively participated in entertainment programs as a regular cast member, including MBC's 'Unexpected Q', tvN's 'Hogul's Chamber of Secrets', JTBC's 'Odd Brothers', tvN's 'Racket Boys', and Netflix's 'Devil's Plan'.MBC's new entertainment program 'Rookie Director Kim Yeon-Koung2' will premiere on the 11th at 9:10 PM.mcy21@tf.co.kr[Entertainment Department | ssent@tf.co.kr]]]> FANNSTAR Thu, 08 Oct 2026 00:00:00 +0900 The highest government award in the field of popular culture and arts, hosted by the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism and organized by the Korea Creative Content Agency.The '2026 Korea Popular Culture and Arts Awards,' hosted by the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism and organized by the Korea Creative Content Agency, will be held on the 29th. / Korea Creative Content Agency[THE FACT|Reporter Choi Hyun-jung] The '2026 Korea Popular Culture and Arts Awards,' hosted by the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism and organized by the Korea Creative Content Agency, has confirmed its event date.The Korea Creative Content Agency announced on the 8th, "The '2026 Korea Popular Culture and Arts Awards' will be held on October 29th at the Haeoreum Theater of the National Theater in Jung-gu, Seoul. The MCs will be announcer Kang Ji-young and actor Hwang In-youp."Now in its 17th year, the 'Korea Popular Culture and Arts Awards' is the 'highest government award in the field of popular culture and arts' to honor individuals who have enhanced the social status of popular culture and contributed to its development and dissemination in various fields, including actors, singers, comedians, directors, writers, voice actors, and producers.Candidates were selected through a public call and expert recommendations, and the final awardees will be determined through a comprehensive review of their service period, career achievements, and social contributions. This year's ceremony will present the Cultural Merit, Presidential Commendation, Prime Minister's Commendation, and Minister of Culture, Sports and Tourism Commendation.Kang Ji-young, who will host the ceremony, is a former JTBC announcer who has consistently been loved by viewers for her innate sense and stable hosting skills across various genres, including entertainment, culture, and news. Her partner, Hwang In-youp, is a rising star who gained popularity through appearances in KBS 2TV's 'The Tale of Nokdu,' JTBC's '18 Again,' and tvN's 'True Beauty.' The red carpet event, held prior to the ceremony, will be hosted by comedian Yoo Jae-pil.The final awardees of the '2026 Korea Popular Culture and Arts Awards' and detailed information will be announced later through the official channels of the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism and the Korea Creative Content Agency.laugardagr@tf.co.kr[Entertainment Desk | ssent@tf.co.kr]]]> FANNSTAR Thu, 08 Oct 2026 00:00:00 +0900 'Sapiens' Open Talk Held at BIFF Outdoor Stage on the 8thJeong Seong-il, who took on multiple roles, and Yoo Jae-myung and Ryu Hyun-kyung, who embraced the challengeDirector Lee Ho-bin and actors Jeong Seong-il, Ryu Hyun-kyung, and Yoo Jae-myung (from left) attend the 'Sapiens' open talk event held at the Busan Cinema Center's Loop Theater in Haeundae-gu, Busan on the 8th. /Busan=Park Heon-woo Reporter[THE FACT|Busan=Kim Saet-byeol Reporter] One suspect, but a different person sits in the interrogation room each time. 'Sapiens' adds the setting of multiple personalities to a familiar crime mystery, posing questions about 'a person's identity' beyond the identity of the culprit.The open talk for the film 'Sapiens' (directed by Lee Ho-bin), invited to the 'Today's Korean Cinema - Special Premiere Section' at the 31st Busan International Film Festival (BIFF), was held on the outdoor stage of the Busan Cinema Center in Haeundae-gu, Busan on the afternoon of the 8th. Director Lee Ho-bin and actors Jeong Seong-il, Yoo Jae-myung, and Ryu Hyun-kyung attended the event to share various stories about the film.'Sapiens' tells the story of a multiple-personality individual, Na Do-han (played by Jeong Seong-il), who becomes the prime suspect in the kidnapping of a third-generation chaebol heir, and lawyer Seo Hee-jae (played by Yoo Jae-myung), who must find the missing heir, beginning a suspicious collaboration. There is only one suspect, but the personality entering the interrogation room is different each time. The film poses another question, 'Who is Na Do-han?', in the process of finding the real culprit.Director Kim Ji-hyun, who visited BIFF with his first feature film, first shared his feelings after the first screening the previous day. He said, "Yesterday was the first screening, so I watched it with the audience, and I was so nervous. It only felt real after the movie ended," adding, "I was grateful that many audience members liked it and asked many meaningful questions."Director Lee's reason for choosing the mystery thriller genre for his first feature film was also clear. He said, "I've been interested in genre films since I was young, and among them, I was particularly interested in mystery thrillers. I also gained experience in similar genres while working as an assistant director," and "When I decided to make my first film, I thought I wanted to work in a genre I liked and found interesting, and that's when I came across this project."He continued, "The point that goes one step further from 'Who is the culprit?' to 'Who is that person?' was the biggest charm," and "Through the setting of dissociative identity disorder, a multiple-personality disorder, I thought I could create tension about whether the protagonist is unable to speak because they know, or because they truly don't know."Actor Jeong Seong-il attends the 'Sapiens' open talk event held at the Busan Cinema Center's Loop Theater in Haeundae-gu, Busan on the 8th to introduce the film. /Busan=Park Heon-woo ReporterJeong Seong-il played Na Do-han, the suspect who has no memory of the incident. It was a difficult challenge for the actor, as he had to portray multiple personalities with different genders, ages, and personalities.Jeong Seong-il confessed, "At first, it was a very burdensome project. Expressing multiple personalities, and the fact that there are excellent references in existing works, made me constantly question whether I could achieve more than that."However, he added, "Despite that, it was a great project, and I had strong pillars of support to lean on," and "I decided to participate because I felt like it was something I wanted to challenge myself with at least once in my life."Actor Yoo Jae-myung attends the 'Sapiens' open talk event held at the Busan Cinema Center's Loop Theater in Haeundae-gu, Busan on the 8th to give greetings. /Busan=Park Heon-woo ReporterYoo Jae-myung played Seo Hee-jae, the legal team leader of Sanghyun Construction, who must cover up the incident. He is a lawyer exclusively for a chaebol family who must distinguish the real culprit among Na Do-han's various personalities.He said, "Actors have their own reasons for choosing a project, and for me, it was a challenge. There were difficult parts, and it was different from existing works, so it required courage," adding, "It was possible because of the other actors."He continued, "I have a desire to work on fresh and cool projects, but I also have a desire to solve difficult puzzles," and "Ultimately, I think it was a good experience as I learned how to film and communicate through another process."Ryu Hyun-kyung transformed into a detective team leader. Notably, Director Lee changed the gender of this role, which was originally male, for Ryu Hyun-kyung.Ryu Hyun-kyung said, "The script was good, and when I heard the senior actors were participating, I thought I could just tag along," and "There aren't many films where a woman is a detective team leader. This role was originally male, but the director changed it to a female role so I could participate."She added, "I wanted to express how she has lived well as a woman in a male-dominated society, and on the other hand, what negative thoughts she has lived with."Director Lee Ho-bin and actors Jeong Seong-il, Yoo Jae-myung, and Ryu Hyun-kyung (from left) attend the 'Sapiens' open talk event held at the Busan Cinema Center's Loop Theater in Haeundae-gu, Busan on the 8th. /Busan=Park Heon-woo ReporterAs the film deals with the subject of multiple personalities, there were also concerns about portraying mental disorders. Director Lee emphasized that he did not want to simply exploit Na Do-han as a 'character with a disorder.'He said, "The term 'disorder' is often attached to dissociative identity disorder. However, when developing the character of Na Do-han, I wanted to portray him not just as someone with a disorder, but as a product of the trauma and narrative he experienced in his childhood."He continued, "I wanted him to be a character that evokes empathy through his past, rather than being a foreign presence, and to be able to sympathize with his pain and trauma."The actors also posed their own questions to the audience through the film. Jeong Seong-il said, "'Sapiens' is the film that is closest to the questions I always want to ask," and "I hope the audience will tell me many answers to the question, 'What would I have done if I were in that situation?'"Finally, Yoo Jae-myung requested, "Please remember our film 'Sapiens' and also watch many other films, and I hope you leave with many good memories."Ryu Hyun-kyung also emphasized, "The film is scheduled to be released early next year, and I hope many people will watch it," adding, "I heard that all screenings at the Busan Film Festival are sold out. Please enjoy it."For Director Lee, who premiered his first feature film in Busan, this film festival held special significance. He said, "I am deeply moved myself," and "Everyone worked hard on the project with one heart and one mind during filming. So, please watch it with a warm heart."sstar1204@tf.co.kr[Entertainment Department | ssent@tf.co.kr]]]> FANNSTAR Thu, 08 Oct 2026 00:00:00 +0900 [THE FACT|Busan=Reporter Park Hun-woo] Actor Lee Jae-wook (first from right) attends the 'Honey Job' open talk event held at the Cinema Center's Roof Theater in Haeundae-gu, Busan on the afternoon of the 8th and is giving a greeting.'Honey Job' is a horror series that depicts the story of a young man, Hyuk-jun (played by Lee Jae-wook), being deployed to a nightmarish labor site, set against the backdrop of a strange employment agency that only introduces 'honey jobs' starting at 50 times the hourly wage.The Busan International Film Festival, now in its 31st year, will be held for ten days until the 15th at eight theaters and 31 screens in the Haeundae area, including the Cinema Center.Meanwhile, Lee Jae-wook enlisted in the Army as an active-duty soldier in May and is currently serving, with his discharge scheduled for around November 2027.cjg05023@tf.co.krPhoto Video Planning Department photo@tf.co.kr]]> FANNSTAR Thu, 08 Oct 2026 00:00:00 +0900 Actor Lee Jae-wook (right) is giving a greeting at the 'Honey Job' open talk event held at the Roof Cinema of the Busan Cinema Center in Haeundae-gu, Busan on the afternoon of the 8th. /Busan=Reporter Park Heon-woo[THE FACT|Busan=Reporter Park Heon-woo] Actor Lee Jae-wook (right) is giving a greeting at the 'Honey Job' open talk event held at the Roof Cinema of the Busan Cinema Center in Haeundae-gu, Busan on the afternoon of the 8th.'Honey Job' is a horror series that depicts the story of a young man, Hyeok-jun (played by Lee Jae-wook), being deployed to a nightmarish workplace, set in a peculiar employment agency that only introduces 'honey jobs' starting from 50 times the hourly wage.The Busan International Film Festival, celebrating its 31st anniversary this year, will be held for ten days until the 15th at eight theaters in the Haeundae area and 31 screens, including the Busan Cinema Center.Meanwhile, Lee Jae-wook enlisted in the active military service in May and is currently serving, with his discharge scheduled for around November 2027. cjg05023@tf.co.krPhoto Video Planning Department photo@tf.co.kr]]> FANNSTAR Thu, 08 Oct 2026 00:00:00 +0900 Director Kim Da-min and actors Choi Hyun-wook, Kim Min-ha, and Han Jun-hee (from left), the general planner, pose at the 'Honey Job' open talk event held at the Cinema Center's Roof Cinema in Haeundae-gu, Busan on the afternoon of the 8th. /Busan=Reporter Park Heon-woo Lee Jae-wook takes the stage to give a greeting.[THE FACT|Busan=Reporter Park Heon-woo] Director Kim Da-min and actors Choi Hyun-wook, Kim Min-ha, and Han Jun-hee (from left), the general planner, pose at the 'Honey Job' open talk event held at the Cinema Center's Roof Cinema in Haeundae-gu, Busan on the afternoon of the 8th.'Honey Job' is a horror series that depicts the story of a young man, Hyuk-jun (played by Lee Jae-wook), being deployed to a nightmarish work environment and the unfolding events, set against the backdrop of a strange employment agency that only introduces 'honey jobs' starting from 50 times the hourly wage.The Busan International Film Festival, now in its 31st year, will be held for ten days until the 15th at eight theaters in the Haeundae area, including the Cinema Center, on 31 screens.Meanwhile, Lee Jae-wook enlisted in active duty in the Army in May and is currently serving, with his discharge scheduled for around November 2027. cjg05023@tf.co.krPhoto Video Planning Department photo@tf.co.kr]]> FANNSTAR Thu, 08 Oct 2026 00:00:00 +0900 Actor Lee Jae-wook attends the 'Honey Job' open talk event held at the Cinema Center's Rooftop Theater in Haeundae-gu, Busan on the afternoon of the 8th. /Busan=Reporter Park Heon-woo[THE FACT|Busan=Reporter Park Heon-woo] Actor Lee Jae-wook attends the 'Honey Job' open talk event held at the Cinema Center's Rooftop Theater in Haeundae-gu, Busan on the afternoon of the 8th.Lee Jae-wook enlisted in the army as an active duty soldier in May and is currently serving, with his discharge scheduled for around November 2027. cjg05023@tf.co.krPhoto Video Planning Department photo@tf.co.kr]]> FANNSTAR Thu, 08 Oct 2026 00:00:00 +0900 Yang Hyo-jin and Kim Yeon-Koung, Boo Seung-kwan (from left) pose at the production presentation of MBC's new entertainment program 'Rookie Director Kim Yeon-Koung' Season 2 (hereinafter referred to as 'Rookie Director Kim Yeon-Koung2') held at MBC Golden Mouse Hall in Sangam-dong, Mapo-gu, Seoul on the afternoon of the 8th. / Reporter LEE SAEROM[THE FACT|Reporter LEE SAEROM] At the production presentation of MBC's new entertainment program 'Rookie Director Kim Yeon-Koung' Season 2 (hereinafter referred to as 'Rookie Director Kim Yeon-Koung2') held at MBC Golden Mouse Hall in Sangam-dong, Mapo-gu, Seoul on the afternoon of the 8th, Kim Yeon-Koung, Yang Hyo-jin, Boo Seung-kwan, and PD Kwon Rak-hee, along with the production crew, are posing.'Rookie Director Kim Yeon-Koung2' is a club founding project where Kim Yeon-Koung, who has become a 'director with two years of experience', and 'Fil Seung Wonderdogs' move from UNDER to WONDER.Volleyball Emperor Kim Yeon-Koung, who took his first step as a 'rookie director' in Season 1, which aired last September, now leads 'Fil Seung Wonderdogs' as a 'director with two years of experience' and challenges a bigger goal of 'founding the 8th professional club'.'Rookie Director Kim Yeon-Koung2' will premiere on the 11th at 9:10 PM. saeromli@tf.co.krPhoto Video Planning Department photo@tf.co.kr]]> FANNSTAR Thu, 08 Oct 2026 00:00:00 +0900 Director Lee Hoo-bin and actors Jung Sung-il, Ryu Hyun-kyung, and Yoo Jae-myung (from left) attend the 'Sapiens' open talk event held at the Roof Cinema of the Busan Cinema Center in Haeundae-gu, Busan on the afternoon of the 8th. /Busan=Park Heon-woo reporter[THE FACT|Busan=Park Heon-woo reporter] Director Lee Hoo-bin and actors Jung Sung-il, Ryu Hyun-kyung, and Yoo Jae-myung (from left) attend the 'Sapiens' open talk event held at the Roof Cinema of the Busan Cinema Center in Haeundae-gu, Busan on the afternoon of the 8th.The Busan International Film Festival, now in its 31st year, will be held for ten days until the 15th at eight theaters and 31 screens in the Haeundae area, including the Busan Cinema Center. cjg05023@tf.co.krPhoto Video Planning Department photo@tf.co.kr]]> FANNSTAR Thu, 08 Oct 2026 00:00:00 +0900 'Volleyball Empress' Kim Yeon-Koung (left) and Boo Seung-kwan of SEVENTEEN are posing at the production presentation of MBC's new entertainment program 'Rookie Director Kim Yeon-Koung' Season 2 (hereinafter referred to as 'Rookie Director Kim Yeon-Koung2') held at MBC Golden Mouse Hall in Sangam-dong, Mapo-gu, Seoul on the afternoon of the 8th. / Reporter LEE SAEROM[THE FACT|Reporter LEE SAEROM] Boo Seung-kwan of SEVENTEEN is posing and jumping with Kim Yeon-Koung at the production presentation of MBC's new entertainment program 'Rookie Director Kim Yeon-Koung' Season 2 (hereinafter referred to as 'Rookie Director Kim Yeon-Koung2') held at MBC Golden Mouse Hall in Sangam-dong, Mapo-gu, Seoul on the afternoon of the 8th.'Rookie Director Kim Yeon-Koung2' is a club founding project where Kim Yeon-Koung, who has become a 'veteran director' in his second year, and 'Winning Wonderdogs' move from UNDER to WONDER.Volleyball Emperor Kim Yeon-Koung, who took his first step as a 'rookie director' in Season 1, which aired last September, now leads 'Winning Wonderdogs' as a 'veteran director' in his second year and challenges the bigger goal of 'founding the 8th professional club.''Rookie Director Kim Yeon-Koung2' will premiere on the 11th at 9:10 PM. saeromli@tf.co.krPhoto Video Planning Department photo@tf.co.kr]]> FANNSTAR Thu, 08 Oct 2026 00:00:00 +0900 Former national volleyball player Kim Yeon-Koung poses at the production presentation of MBC's new entertainment program 'Rookie Director Kim Yeon-Koung' Season 2 (hereinafter referred to as 'Rookie Director Kim Yeon-Koung2') held at MBC Golden Mouse Hall in Sangam-dong, Mapo-gu, Seoul on the afternoon of the 8th. / LEE SAEROM Reporter[THE FACT|LEE SAEROM Reporter] Former national volleyball player Kim Yeon-Koung poses at the production presentation of MBC's new entertainment program 'Rookie Director Kim Yeon-Koung' Season 2 (hereinafter referred to as 'Rookie Director Kim Yeon-Koung2') held at MBC Golden Mouse Hall in Sangam-dong, Mapo-gu, Seoul on the afternoon of the 8th.'Rookie Director Kim Yeon-Koung2' is a club founding project where Kim Yeon-Koung, who has become a 'veteran director' in his second year, and 'Winning Wonderdogs' move from UNDER to WONDER.Volleyball emperor Kim Yeon-Koung, who took his first step as a 'rookie director' in Season 1, which aired last September, now leads 'Winning Wonderdogs' as a 'veteran director' in his second year and challenges a bigger goal of 'founding the 8th professional club'.'Rookie Director Kim Yeon-Koung2' will premiere on the 11th at 9:10 PM. saeromli@tf.co.krPhoto Video Planning Department photo@tf.co.kr]]> FANNSTAR Thu, 08 Oct 2026 00:00:00 +0900 'FANNSTAR' Theme Ranking Commemorates 1st Place in 'Star I Want to Spend a Bountiful Chuseok With'... 150kg of Rice DeliveredA rice donation for elderly people living alone was made in the name of BTS Jin's fandom. /FANNSTAR[THE FACT | Reporter Son Hae-ri] Weekly idol ranking site 'FANNSTAR' practiced warm sharing for elderly people living alone in the name of group BTS Jin's fandom.This donation was prepared to commemorate Jin's 1st place in the 'FANNSTAR' theme ranking for 'Star I Want to Spend a Bountiful Chuseok With'. The results, created through enthusiastic fan voting, led to neighborly sharing ahead of the holiday, adding a heartwarming meaning. As a special benefit, 'FANNSTAR' donated 150kg of rice in the name of Jin's fandom through the social welfare organization 'The Together Hope'. The donated rice is expected to be used as a precious item for a warm meal, delivered to neighbors in need, such as elderly people living alone.Previously, 'FANNSTAR' conducted a theme ranking vote from August 15 to September 12 on the theme of 'Star I Want to Spend a Bountiful Chuseok With'. Jin overwhelmingly took first place in the vote, receiving a whopping 26,999,507 votes. Lee Chan-won came in second with 8,565,421 votes, and Lim Young Woong ranked third with 1,401,211 votes. Jin proved the immense support power of his global fandom once again by reaching the top with an unrivaled number of votes.This sharing took place during the Chuseok holiday, in line with the theme of 'Star I Want to Spend a Bountiful Chuseok With'. /FANNSTARIn particular, this donation, made in the name of Jin's fandom, serves as a good example of how fan participation voting can lead to meaningful social value beyond simple ranking competition. Fans enthusiastically supported Jin through the theme ranking vote, and the meaningful results translated into practical support for elderly people living alone in need.The 'FANNSTAR' theme ranking is a fan participation voting content conducted with a new theme each month, allowing fans to directly highlight the diverse charms of the stars they support. The 1st place star receives a congratulatory article and special benefits tailored to the theme.150kg of rice was donated through the social welfare organization 'The Together Hope'. /FANNSTAR Meanwhile, 'FANNSTAR' is a weekly idol ranking site operated by , serving as a participatory platform where fans can directly support artists through idol voting and billboard support. The theme ranking vote begins on the 15th of each month, and anyone who likes idols can participate.arulhr@tf.co.kr]]> FANNSTAR Thu, 08 Oct 2026 00:00:00 +0900 Director Kenta Takemura and actors Shunsuke Michieda and Seira Anzai (from left) attend the press conference for "Beautiful Evening Moon" at the BIFF Hill of the Busan Cinema Center in Haeundae-gu, Busan on the afternoon of the 8th, as Shunsuke Michieda answers questions from reporters. /Busan=Reporter Kim Sung-ryeol[THE FACT | Busan=Reporter Kim Sung-ryeol] Director Kenta Takemura and actors Shunsuke Michieda and Seira Anzai attend the press conference for "Beautiful Evening Moon" at the BIFF Hill of the Busan Cinema Center in Haeundae-gu, Busan on the afternoon of the 8th, as Shunsuke Michieda answers questions from reporters.The movie "Beautiful Evening Moon" tells the story of Yoichi, a high school girl who is called a 'prince' by everyone but is treated as a 'cool guy' by boys rather than girls, and Kohaku, a senior who is another 'prince', meeting and finding true love through each other.The Busan International Film Festival, now in its 31st year, will be held for ten days until the 15th at eight theaters in the Haeundae area and 31 screens, including the Busan Cinema Center.This year's festival will feature a total of 315 diverse films, including 246 official selections invited from 59 countries around the world, meeting with audiences.In particular, this year's Busan International Film Festival was selected as an 'A-list film festival' by the International Federation of Film Producers Associations (FIAPF), and was recognized as a film festival eligible for the Academy Awards' International Feature Film award, along with the Cannes, Venice, Berlin, Sundance, and Toronto film festivals.ksr@tf.co.krphoto@tf.co.kr]]> FANNSTAR Thu, 08 Oct 2026 00:00:00 +0900 CORTIS is set to take the stage at the Formula 1 Singapore Grand Prix 2026, held at the Marina Bay Street Circuit in Singapore. CORTIS (Martin, James, Juhun, Seonghyun, Gunho) will perform for about 50 minutes on the 9th (local time) at the Padang Stage. The Padang Stage is a large outdoor venue with a capacity of approximately 60,000 people. This event will also feature global artists such as JJ Lin from Singapore, Janet Jackson, Lana Del Rey, and Zara Larsson. CORTIS is the only K-pop group included in this year’s lineup. The F1 Singapore Grand Prix is Asia’s largest motorsport and entertainment event, combining a city night race with large-scale music performances. Last year, the total global audience for F1 Grand Prix events reached approximately 6.7 million. On the 8th, through their agency BigHit Music, CORTIS expressed, ″This is our first visit to Singapore, and we are very excited to showcase CORTIS’s music and performance at this grand festival gathering audiences from around the world. We will pour out explosive energy worthy of the intense heat of F1.″ They have been performing at various global sports and cultural events this year. In February, they took the stage for the halftime show at the NBA All-Star Celebrity Game, and they headlined the Crossover Concert Series. In June, based on a global partnership with the energy drink brand Red Bull, they also participated in the Red Bull Dance Your Style Korea stage. Their music achievements are also remarkable. Their second mini-album, GREENGREEN, released in May, surpassed 4.3 million cumulative sales as of the Circle Chart tally on September 26. The title track, REDRED, ranked number one on major domestic and international music platforms such as YouTube, Spotify, Apple Music, and Melon. It also maintained its position on the Billboard Global (excluding U.S.) chart at number 122 for 23 consecutive weeks as of the October 10 issue.]]> FANNSTAR Thu, 08 Oct 2026 00:00:00 +0900 Stray Kids will live stream the 7th day of their November Tokyo Dome concert to theaters worldwide through live viewing. This live viewing is being conducted in collaboration with the global event cinema distributor Trafalgar Releasing and targets the 7th day performance out of the three Tokyo Dome shows held from November 6 to 8. Trafalgar Releasing is also officially promoting the live viewing project. Fans who cannot attend in person can watch the concert live on theater screens. Live viewing tickets will be available for reservation on the official ’StraykidsLiveViewing’ website starting at 11 PM KST on the 14th. Stray Kids began their new world tour, Stray Kids World Tour , this year. The tour kicked off with five sold-out solo shows at KSPO DOME in Songpa-gu, Seoul in July, and then expanded to Japan, Latin America, and other regions. On August 29 and 30, they held solo concerts at the Tokyo National Stadium, becoming the first overseas male artist to do so, attracting a total audience of 140,000. In September, they performed five shows across three Latin American locations and headlined the large-scale music festival Rock in Rio in Brazil. ’RUN IT’ is a world tour that started about eight months after Stray Kids concluded their Stray Kids World Tour -dominATE- in October 2025. The digital single of the same name, ’RUN IT,’ was released on June 24. The song was produced by the producing team 3RACHA, consisting of Bang Chan, Changbin, and Han, and is also included in the mini-album THIS & THAT, released in August. Before the Tokyo Dome concerts, Stray Kids will perform at the Mizuho PayPay Dome in Fukuoka on the 24th and plan to continue their Asia tour after the three Tokyo Dome shows in November.]]> FANNSTAR Thu, 08 Oct 2026 00:00:00 +0900 ZEROBASEONE is expanding its activities beyond team performances to include individual and unit activities for each member. SUNG HANBIN is active as an MC on various programs such as Mnet’s Street World Fighter: Director’s War and is set to release their first solo album on the 12th. KIM JIWOONG has been releasing solo singles every month and has confirmed an acting role in the film Siren (working title). KIM TAE RAE has participated in various OSTs and the 50th anniversary project of Sanulrim’s debut, and serves as the MC of the music podcast Su-seok Research Society and DJ of MBC FM4U’s ZEROBASEONE’s Close Friend. SEOK MATTHEW runs a personal YouTube channel called Hey Bye Thew and is also active as a promotional ambassador for the Seoul Tourism Foundation’s Visit Seoul. PARK GUNWOOK works as an MC on Mnet’s M Countdown and included their first self-composed song, Customize, on the sixth mini-album Ascend-. SEOK MATTHEW and PARK GUNWOOK also formed ZEROBASEONE’s first unit, EMP. ZEROBASEONE released their sixth mini-album Ascend- in May and promoted the title track TOP 5. Recently, they released their second Japanese EP and carried out various promotions including local live performances and broadcasts. Meanwhile, ZEROBASEONE was formed through Mnet’s Boys Planet and debuted in 2023. The team name symbolizes the members’ beginning from zero (0) to one (1), representing their journey from an unfinished zero to one, which they intend to share with their fans.]]> FANNSTAR Thu, 08 Oct 2026 00:00:00 +0900 BTS RM expressed difficulties regarding some fans waiting in front of the hotel and emphasized a mature fan culture. On the 8th, RM shared through the fan community Weverse, ″We are currently in Peru. It’s my first time coming to Peru, so I’m very excited and happy.″ He went on to say that the members and staff are all feeling fatigued due to fans continuously staying in front of the hotel, and that noise is reaching inside the rooms, making it difficult to get a good night’s sleep. He also mentioned that it is causing inconvenience to other guests staying at the same hotel. He said, ″We appreciate the warm welcome and passion, but if we cannot rest and get enough sleep, it will affect our performances with you. Therefore, we ask that you please do not wait in front of the hotel not only in Lima but also in Chile, Brazil, Argentina, and several Asian countries afterward.″ RM concluded his message by saying, ″Since ARMYs are the coolest fans in the world, I believe you will understand and will not do this. I hope we can have a more mature and proud relationship with each other. We will do our best at today’s performance as well. Always thankful and love you.″ BTS members have repeatedly requested fans not to wait in front of hotels. V and Jungkook mentioned their experience last August after a U.S. concert when they encountered about 20 fans at the hotel late at night and asked for privacy protection. Meanwhile, BTS is currently holding their world tour concert ’ARIRANG’ and will hold the ’BTS WORLD TOUR ’ARIRANG’ IN LIMA’ at Estadio San Marcos in Lima, Peru on the 7th and 9th-10th (local time).]]> FANNSTAR Thu, 08 Oct 2026 00:00:00 +0900 'Today's Korean Cinema - Panorama' Section Official InvitationOutdoor stage greeting to be held today (8th)... Opening on the 21stActress Kim Hye-ja attends the outdoor stage greeting event for 'Still Shining' held at the Outdoor Theater of the Busan Cinema Center in Haeundae-gu, Busan on the afternoon of the 8th, and is giving a greeting. /Busan=Park Heon-woo Reporter[THE FACT|Busan=Park Ji-yoon Reporter] Actress Kim Hye-ja not only returns to the screen after a long time but also graced the 31st Busan International Film Festival (BIFF) with her presence. Now, she touches the hearts of the audience with 'Still Shining,' which has changed her mind about wanting to take a break from her activities.An outdoor stage greeting for the film 'Still Shining' (Director Song Il-gon), which was officially invited to the 'Today's Korean Cinema - Panorama' section of the 31st Busan International Film Festival, was held at the Outdoor Theater of the Busan Cinema Center on the afternoon of the 8th. Director Song Il-gon, along with actors Kim Hye-ja, Park Seo-kyung, Choi Ju-eun, Moon Sung-hyun, and Lee Se-young, attended the event and had various conversations with the audience.'Still Shining' is the latest work by director Song Il-gon, who gained global attention by winning the Grand Prix for Short Film at the Cannes Film Festival for his short film 'Picnic' and the Young Critics Award at the Venice International Film Festival for his feature debut 'Flower Island.'Director Song described 'Still Shining' as "a film about longing and memory." He added, "It captures how much one person can miss another through the eyes of Kim Hye-ja, how they endure this time, and how they try not to forget those memories filled with love."Director Song Il-gon, who had previously written and directed films himself, is now bringing a rough script in the form of a reading play to the screen. He explained his directorial approach, saying, "The play's script was so upright, beautiful, and moving. I started with the desire for this to be made into a film so that many audience members could empathize with that upright heart."The film 'Still Shining,' featuring director Song Il-gon and actors Park Seo-kyung, Kim Hye-ja, Choi Ju-eun, Moon Sung-hyun, and Lee Se-young (from left), met with audiences at the 31st Busan International Film Festival and will be released nationwide on the 21st. The photo shows them posing at the outdoor stage greeting event for 'Still Shining' held at the Outdoor Theater of the Busan Cinema Center in Haeundae-gu, Busan on the afternoon of the 8th. /Busan=Park Heon-woo ReporterAbove all, 'Still Shining' is drawing significant attention as it marks the return to the screen of Kim Hye-ja, who is celebrating her 65th year in acting, after 9 years since 'The Road' (2017). She plays Soon-ok, who cherishes the special friendship with a friend she can never forget, and delivers a passionate performance.Earlier, at the opening ceremony on the 6th, concerns about Kim Hye-ja's health arose as she was seen being assisted by director Song Il-gon and covering her mouth with her hand while coughing multiple times. In response, a film official dismissed the health concerns, stating it was merely a cold. Kim Hye-ja then appeared on stage as scheduled that day, meeting the audience and easing their worries.Kim Hye-ja expressed confidence in the unique charm of 'Still Shining,' saying, "I hesitated a lot because I don't do films often, but I decided to appear. The work is so good. I hope this film touches your hearts."Indeed, director Song Il-gon had a difficult time casting Kim Hye-ja. He had to persuade Kim Hye-ja, who had finished the drama 'More Beautiful Than Heaven' in 2025 and wanted to live like an unnamed flower, blooming in front of her house, to change her mind about taking a break from her activities.Recalling that time, Director Song said, "I visited her home about six times, had meals, and talked with her to convey why she had to do this project. Fortunately, it moved her heart. She said she would appear if the resonance of the work could be conveyed to the audience through her. It was the most difficult but dramatic casting, so I was very grateful, happy, and honored. Being able to capture her close-ups was a wonderful thing."The 31st Busan International Film Festival, attended by director Song Il-gon and actors Kim Hye-ja, Park Seo-kyung, Choi Ju-eun, Moon Sung-hyun, and Lee Se-young (from left), will be held until the 15th at the Busan Cinema Center and various locations in Busan. /Busan=Park Heon-woo ReporterIn addition, Park Seo-kyung plays the 17-year-old Soon-ok, Choi Ju-eun plays the 17-year-old Jeong-im, and Moon Sung-hyun plays the young boy Doo-young, who becomes friends with Soon-ok and Jeong-im in their childhood, adding vitality to the film.Park Seo-kyung explained her acting focus, saying, "Our film deals with the story of comfort women, but it's not the main focus. It shows how beautiful the shining girls were. So, I tried to exist in a way that the characters don't live with the burden of history."Choi Ju-eun added, "The director told me that Jeong-im is a country girl, so I shouldn't wear makeup and should get tanned. I felt that the character's heart ached because of that. We talked a lot about how Jeong-im should be portrayed."Moon Sung-hyun, who recently successfully completed the play 'Dead Poets Society,' is now appearing on screen, continuing his busy schedule. He recalled the working process, saying, "Since the setting is Gyeongsang Province, I tried to capture the emotions and dialect of a man from Gyeongsang Province. I also tried to create a reliable atmosphere among the actresses."Lee Se-young plays Soon-ok's granddaughter Jian, adding strength to the film. She described working with Kim Hye-ja as a Christmas gift, saying, "I was a fan of hers and really wanted to appear in a project together and learn a lot. So, when I received the casting offer, I was very grateful to the director. We had fun filming."'Still Shining' will be released in theaters nationwide on the 21st after meeting audiences at the 31st Busan International Film Festival.Finally, Director Song said, "This film had many miraculous moments where things that seemed impossible came true. All the staff worked with tears, and we worked together until the end, so I hope our sincerity reaches you." Choi Ju-eun said, "I was happy while filming this movie. I think the audience can fully feel this emotion." Park Seo-kyung encouraged many to watch, saying, "It's a brilliant work by the 17-year-old girls who were so pure and the incredibly beautiful Kim Hye-ja."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 Department | ssent@tf.co.kr]]]> FANNSTAR Thu, 08 Oct 2026 00:00:00 +0900 [THE FACT|Busan=Reporter Park Hun-ku] Actress Kim Hye-ja is giving a speech at the outdoor stage greeting event for 'Still Shining' held at the Cinema Center's Rooftop Theater in Haeundae-gu, Busan on the afternoon of the 8th.The film depicts the story of Sun-ok (played by Kim Hye-ja), who reunites with her best friend with whom she shared the most brilliant moments of her life after 60 years.The Busan International Film Festival, now in its 31st year, will be held for ten days until the 15th at eight theaters and 31 screens in the Haeundae area, including the Cinema Center.cjg05023@tf.co.krPhoto&Video Planning Department photo@tf.co.kr]]> FANNSTAR Thu, 08 Oct 2026 00:00:00 +0900 Director Song Il-gon and actors Park Seo-kyung, Kim Hye-ja, Choi Ju-eun, Moon Sung-hyun, and Lee Se-young (from left) pose at the outdoor stage greeting event for 'Still Shining' held at the Roof Cinema of the Busan Cinema Center in Haeundae-gu, Busan on the afternoon of the 8th. /Busan=Reporter Park Heon-woo Director Song Il-gon and actors Kim Hye-ja, Park Seo-kyung, Lee Se-young, Moon Sung-hyun, and Choi Ju-eun (from top left, clockwise)[THE FACT|Busan=Reporter Park Heon-woo] Director Song Il-gon and actors Park Seo-kyung, Kim Hye-ja, Choi Ju-eun, Moon Sung-hyun, and Lee Se-young pose at the outdoor stage greeting event for 'Still Shining' held at the Roof Cinema of the Busan Cinema Center in Haeundae-gu, Busan on the afternoon of the 8th.The film depicts the story of Sun-ok (played by Kim Hye-ja), who reunites with her best friend, with whom she shared the most brilliant moments of her life, after 60 years.The Busan International Film Festival, now in its 31st year, will be held for ten days until the 15th at eight theaters and 31 screens in the Haeundae area, including the Busan Cinema Center. cjg05023@tf.co.krPhoto Video Planning Department photo@tf.co.kr]]> FANNSTAR Thu, 08 Oct 2026 00:00:00 +0900 Director Hong SungMin (left) and actor Jung Sung-il pose at the outdoor stage greeting event for 'Handwritten' held at the Cinema Center's Roof Cinema in Haeundae-gu, Busan on the afternoon of the 8th. /Busan=Reporter Park Heon-woo[THE FACT|Busan=Reporter Park Heon-woo] Director Hong SungMin (left) and actor Jung Sung-il pose at the outdoor stage greeting event for 'Handwritten' held at the Cinema Center's Roof Cinema in Haeundae-gu, Busan on the afternoon of the 8th.The film depicts the story of Seok-gyu (played by Jung Sung-il), a candidate for Minister of Justice, as he approaches the truth by unraveling a past incident related to the letters of Sun-hwa (played by PARK JI HYUN), the last death row inmate in Korea, while preparing for a hearing.The Busan International Film Festival, now in its 31st year, will be held for ten days until the 15th at eight theaters and 31 screens in the Haeundae area, including the Cinema Center. cjg05023@tf.co.krPhoto Video Planning Department photo@tf.co.kr]]> FANNSTAR Thu, 08 Oct 2026 00:00:00 +0900 They are maintaining a good colleague relationship.Actors Yoo Seung-ho (left) and Lim Se-joo, who were embroiled in dating rumors, revealed that they were a couple in the past but have since broken up. /THE FACTDB, Moving Pictures Company[THE FACT|Reporter Choi Hyun-jung] Actors Yoo Seung-ho and Lim Se-joo have released their statements regarding dating rumors.A representative from Yoo Seung-ho's agency, 333 Entertainment, told on the 8th, "It is true that Yoo Seung-ho and Lim Se-joo were in a relationship in the past, but they have since broken up."Earlier, Edaily reported on the morning of the 8th that Yoo Seung-ho and Lim Se-joo met through the tvN drama 'Memorist,' which aired in March 2020, developed into a relationship, and have been dating for six years.In response, an agency representative stated, "They are not in a romantic relationship now and are maintaining a good colleague relationship," indicating that the dating rumors were from the past.Yoo Seung-ho, who debuted in the 2000 MBC drama 'Gashigogi,' gained widespread recognition for his leading role in the 2002 film 'The Way Home.' He has since continued a solid career, appearing in dramas such as 'Warrior Baek Dong-soo,' 'My Strange Hero,' and 'When Flowers Bloom, I Think of the Moon,' and films like 'The Magician' and 'Seondal: The Man Who Sells the River.'Lim Se-joo first debuted as a singer under the stage name Haeora in 2011 but transitioned to acting in 2014. Since her acting debut, she has appeared in numerous works, including the films 'Salut d'Amour' and 'Watching,' and the dramas 'The Return of the Lucky,' 'Woman with a Suitcase,' 'Our Gap-soon,' 'My Golden Life,' 'A Killer Paradox,' and 'Riding Life.'laugardagr@tf.co.kr[Entertainment Department | ssent@tf.co.kr]]]> FANNSTAR Thu, 08 Oct 2026 00:00:00 +0900 Alfonso Cuarón&Jonás Cuarón Hold Press Conference Today (8th)From Explaining Film Philosophy to Introducing New WorksDirector Alfonso Cuarón (left) and Director Jonás Cuarón attend a press conference held at the BIFF Hill of the Busan Cinema Center in Haeundae-gu, Busan on the 8th and pose for photos. /Busan=Reporter Kim Sung-ryeol[THE FACT|Busan=Reporter Park Ji-yoon] World-renowned director Alfonso Cuarón and his son, director Jonás Cuarón, are gracing the 31st Busan International Film Festival (BIFF). Visiting Korea for the first time, they, as father and son and colleagues, showed each other infinite support and justified trust.A press conference with director Alfonso Cuarón and his son, director Jonás Cuarón, was held on the morning of the 8th at the BIFF Hill of the Busan Cinema Center. Alfonso Cuarón, visiting Korea for the first time, opened the conversation by saying, "I'm so happy to be in Busan and glad to be able to talk here," and shared various stories with reporters.Alfonso Cuarón, who cemented his name at the pinnacle of world cinema by winning the Best Screenplay Award at the 2001 Venice International Film Festival for 'Y Tu Mamá También' (2001) and the Golden Lion at the 2018 Venice International Film Festival for 'Roma' (2018). Furthermore, he achieved a legendary feat by winning the Academy Award for Best Director twice for 'Gravity' (2013) and 'Roma,' etching his name in history.Director Alfonso Cuarón, who attended the opening ceremony of the 31st Busan International Film Festival on the 6th to greet the audience, held a special talk after the IMAX screening of his representative work 'Gravity.' He is also scheduled to conduct a separate master class and fulfill various other engagements.Director Alfonso Cuarón, visiting Korea for the first time, explained his film philosophy: "So I always think about what kind of film I want to watch and what I can make." /Busan=Reporter Kim Sung-ryeolFirst, director Alfonso Cuarón revealed his film philosophy. He said, "Before I made films, I was a cinephile, and I still have moments when I become an audience member," adding, "I make the films I want to watch, but sometimes I feel that the films I want to watch are not suitable for me to make. So I always think about what kind of film I want to watch and what I can make."Director Jonás Cuarón, who accompanied director Alfonso Cuarón to Busan, is his son and participated in the screenplay for 'Gravity.' Subsequently, director Jonás Cuarón has built his own filmography by directing films such as 'Desierto' (2015) and 'Chupa' (2023), and his film 'The Garbage Champion' was selected for the World Cinema section of the 31st Busan International Film Festival.Regarding his new film, director Jonás Cuarón said, "It was a project that inspired me a lot. Unlike typical immigrant stories, I wanted to show the appearance and faces of immigrants," and added, "Although there is hardship, adversity, and violence, I wanted to convey that there are poetic aspects like desire, dreams, and love."Director Jonás Cuarón (right) said about 'The Garbage Champion,' "It was a project that inspired me a lot. Unlike typical immigrant stories, I wanted to show the appearance and faces of immigrants." /Busan=Reporter Kim Sung-ryeolHowever, director Alfonso Cuarón candidly confessed that he had opposed his son becoming a director, despite watching many films together, drawing attention.In this regard, director Alfonso Cuarón recalled, "I wanted him to have a broad perspective on the world. I wanted him to be someone who could observe life, not just live it." He continued, "As I walked the path of a director myself, I experienced moments of failure and having my dreams crushed, yet I had to keep moving forward. Perhaps as a father, I didn't want my son to go through such feelings."Nevertheless, he praised, "Jonás Cuarón is a director who values the audience. He makes films that focus on themes and excels at visualizing them. He is moving forward as a director with his own unique language. There are aspects that influence my own films."Upon hearing this, Jonás Cuarón recalled, "Thanks to my father, film has always been a part of my life, and it was naturally absorbed. As a child, I watched various films from classics to action, and found the genres I liked, which led to 'Gravity.' It's no exaggeration to say that my father was the nourishment for everything I am and the foundation of my principles."He added with a smile, "However, my father didn't want me to study film, so at first, I focused on photography instead of film. I even shot stills for French films, but in the end, because I loved film so much, I became a film director."The 31st Busan International Film Festival, attended by director Alfonso Cuarón (left) and director Jonás Cuarón, will be held until the 15th at the Busan Cinema Center and various locations in Busan. /Busan=Reporter Kim Sung-ryeolIn particular, director Jonás Cuarón finds elements he wants to incorporate into his films in Korean cinema. Mentioning films such as 'The Host,' 'Parasite,' 'Hope,' and 'The Day I Died,' he emphasized, "The reason I love Korean films is that they maintain a strong thematic consciousness and don't lose humor while connecting with the audience. I respect Korean works because many of them excel at storytelling through genre devices and incorporating humor."Finally, news about the duo's next projects was also shared. Director Jonás Cuarón, who just finished 'The Garbage Champion,' replied, "I think this film is about connecting with the audience, so I want to communicate with them. I have several potential projects in mind and am considering the approach." To this, director Alfonso Cuarón hinted, "To speak cautiously, there is a horror story that (Jonás Cuarón) is slowly writing," raising anticipation.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 Department | ssent@tf.co.kr]]]> FANNSTAR Thu, 08 Oct 2026 00:00:00 +0900 Actor KIM DOYEON waves as he attends the 'Discovery of BIFF, Shining Newcomer' outdoor stage greeting event held at the Cinema Center's Roof Cinema in Haeundae-gu, Busan on the afternoon of the 8th. /Busan=Park Heon-woo Reporter[THE FACT|Busan=Park Heon-woo Reporter] Actor KIM DOYEON waves as he attends the 'Discovery of BIFF, Shining Newcomer' outdoor stage greeting event held at the Cinema Center's Roof Cinema in Haeundae-gu, Busan on the afternoon of the 8th.The Busan International Film Festival, now in its 31st year, will be held for ten days until the 15th at eight theaters and 31 screens in the Haeundae area, including the Cinema Center. cjg05023@tf.co.krPhoto Video Planning Department photo@tf.co.kr]]> FANNSTAR Thu, 08 Oct 2026 00:00:00 +0900 [THE FACT | Busan=Reporter Kim Seong-ryeol] Director Alfonso Cuarón attends a press conference held at BIFF Hill, Cinematheque Busan, Haeundae-gu, Busan on the morning of the 8th, and points to the Busan International Film Festival logo with his hand while taking a commemorative photo.ksr@tf.co.krphoto@tf.co.kr]]> FANNSTAR Thu, 08 Oct 2026 00:00:00 +0900 A time-attack thriller by the internet broadcasting crew 'Killing Time'The movie 'Killing Time', starring actors Ryu Hye-young (left) and Nam Yun-su, will be released on the 21st. / The Title Co., Ltd.[THE FACT | Reporter Moon Chae-young] Actors Ryu Hye-young and Nam Yun-su struggle to survive in a closed hospital.Distributor The Title Co., Ltd. released 8 stills from the movie 'Killing Time' (directed by Jang Jun-yeop) on the 8th. The stills capture the moment the crew 'Killing Time' faces an unexpected incident and their desperate struggle for survival.'Killing Time' is a time-attack thriller film that depicts the process of the internet broadcasting crew 'Killing Time', who lost everything in an instant accident, struggling to survive the ruthless attacks of a mysterious entity after being attacked in a closed hospital they visited to make a comeback.The movie 'Killing Time' has released 8 stills containing thriller suspense. / The Title Co., Ltd.The stills show streamer Yeon-woo (played by Ryu Hye-young) receiving a phone call with an anxious expression, and PD and leader Joo-won (played by Nam Yun-su) looking at the monitor. The tense atmosphere heightens curiosity about the events the two will face.The stills of Yeon-woo hiding in the dark and Joo-won, injured and tied up, explain the extreme situation the two are in. Also, a two-shot of Yeon-woo and Joo-won sitting side-by-side reveals the tense relationship they will create.Finally, Yeon-woo's desperate run towards somewhere foreshadows the suspense that cannot be missed even for a moment in this life-or-death survival game.Ryu Hye-young and Nam Yun-su's time-attack thriller 'Killing Time' will be released on the 21st.mcy21@tf.co.kr[Entertainment Department | ssent@tf.co.kr]]]> FANNSTAR Thu, 08 Oct 2026 00:00:00 +0900 Director Kim Jeong-hoon and actors Cho Yi-hyun, Kim Jaewon, Kang Yu-seok, and Bae Kang-hee (from left) pose at the outdoor stage greeting event for 'The Final Interview' held at the Roof Cinema of the Busan Cinema Center in Haeundae-gu, Busan on the morning of the 8th. /Busan=Reporter Park Heon-woo[THE FACT|Busan=Reporter Park Heon-woo] Director Kim Jeong-hoon and actors Cho Yi-hyun, Kim Jaewon, Kang Yu-seok, and Bae Kang-hee (from left) pose at the outdoor stage greeting event for 'The Final Interview' held at the Roof Cinema of the Busan Cinema Center in Haeundae-gu, Busan on the morning of the 8th.'The Final Interview' is a film that depicts the story of six applicants gathered for a final interview who discover mysterious envelopes containing their own revelations, leading them to suspect each other and fall into confusion.The Busan International Film Festival, now in its 31st year, will be held for ten days until the 15th at eight theaters and 31 screens in the Haeundae area, including the Busan Cinema Center. cjg05023@tf.co.krPhoto Video Planning Department photo@tf.co.kr]]> FANNSTAR Thu, 08 Oct 2026 00:00:00 +0900 Director Alfonso Cuarón (left) and Director Jonás Cuarón pose at a press conference held at the BIFF Hill of the Busan Cinema Center in Haeundae-gu, Busan on the morning of the 8th. /Busan=Reporter Kim Seong-ryeol[THE FACT | Busan=Reporter Kim Seong-ryeol] Director Alfonso Cuarón (left) and Director Jonás Cuarón pose at a press conference held at the BIFF Hill of the Busan Cinema Center in Haeundae-gu, Busan on the morning of the 8th.Director Alfonso Cuarón, who has twice received the Academy Award for Best Director for the films 'Gravity' and 'Roma', visited Korea for the first time through the Busan International Film Festival.Meanwhile, this year's film festival, celebrating its 31st edition, will be held for ten days until the 15th at eight theaters in the Haeundae area and 31 screens, including the Busan Cinema Center.A total of 315 diverse films, including 246 official invited films from 59 countries around the world, will meet with audiences at this film festival.Notably, this year's Busan International Film Festival was selected as an 'A-list film festival' by the International Federation of Film Producers Associations (FIAPF), recognizing it as a film festival eligible for submission for the Academy Award-designated International Feature Film Award, alongside the Cannes, Venice, Berlin, Sundance, and Toronto film festivals. ksr@tf.co.krphoto@tf.co.kr]]> FANNSTAR Thu, 08 Oct 2026 00:00:00 +0900 Director Jung Ju-ri (left) and actor KIM DOYEON pose at the outdoor stage greeting event for 'Dora' held at the Busan Cinema Center's Roof Cinema in Haeundae-gu, Busan on the morning of the 8th. /Busan=Reporter Park Heon-woo[THE FACT|Busan=Reporter Park Heon-woo] Director Jung Ju-ri (left) and actor KIM DOYEON pose at the outdoor stage greeting event for 'Dora' held at the Busan Cinema Center's Roof Cinema in Haeundae-gu, Busan on the morning of the 8th.The film depicts the story of a family who leaves Seoul for a summer beach villa, and as they stay there, Dora (KIM DOYEON), who had been suffering from an unknown illness, experiences love for the first time, and everything begins to slowly unravel.The Busan International Film Festival, now in its 31st year, will be held for ten days until the 15th at eight theaters and 31 screens in the Haeundae area, including the Busan Cinema Center. cjg05023@tf.co.krPhoto Video Planning Department photo@tf.co.kr]]> FANNSTAR Thu, 08 Oct 2026 00:00:00 +0900 Second solo concert in Korea held at Goyang Stadium on the 7thApproximately 54,000 attendees per showShowcased 'unprecedented scale' from live performance to stage productionCanadian singer-songwriter The Weeknd held his second concert in Korea on the evening of the 7th at the main stadium of Goyang Stadium in Ilsanseo-gu, Goyang-si, Gyeonggi Province. / Sebastian Nagy[THE FACT|Reporter Choi Hyun-jung] The Weeknd, the artist behind 'the most hit song in the history of popular music,' delivered a performance that will go down in history in South Korea as well.On the evening of the 7th, The Weeknd's concert in Korea, 'Hyundai Card Super Concert 28 The Weeknd,' was held at the main stadium of Goyang Stadium in Ilsanseo-gu, Goyang-si, Gyeonggi Province.This marks The Weeknd's second concert in Korea, with his first held at Guro-gu, Seoul's Gocheok Sky Dome in December 2018.Even during his first concert, The Weeknd was already immensely popular worldwide, and the show was a complete sell-out, achieving great success. However, this second concert has escalated several times in scale compared to the previous one.The reason for this is, of course, his fourth studio album, 'After Hours.' Released on March 20, 2020, this album garnered approximately 220 million streams in its first week, breaking his own record for 'most streamed R&B album in a single week' set with his third studio album, 'Starboy,' in 2016.Furthermore, the album topped the list of best-selling albums in the U.S. in the first half of 2020, produced three No. 1 hits on the Billboard Hot 100 chart, and all 14 songs on the original version charted on the same list.Notably, 'Blinding Lights,' featured on this album, ranked first on the 'All-Time Charts,' which ranks all songs that have entered the Hot 100 from its inception in August 1958 up to 2021. This made The Weeknd the artist behind 'the most hit song in the history of American popular music.'Given that The Weeknd is arguably the most popular singer globally in the 2020s, the response from domestic music fans was fervent as soon as the news of his concert was announced.According to Hyundai Card's estimates, 'Hyundai Card Super Concert 28 The Weeknd' attracted approximately 54,000 attendees per show, totaling 108,000 over two days. This is considered an unprecedented scale for a single concert since the Korea Performing Arts Box Office Information System (KOPIS) began its comprehensive survey on June 25, 2019.While the exact attendance figures will be known after the final tally, the numbers are substantial enough to potentially surpass Coldplay's record (54,378 attendees) for the highest single-show attendance recorded by KOPIS.Approximately 54,000 fans attended each performance of The Weeknd's concert in Korea, according to the organizer's estimate. This is a crowd size that could contend for the 'all-time ranking' since the Korea Performing Arts Box Office Information System began its comprehensive data collection in 2019. / Sebastien NagyThe subsequent performance also showcased an immense scale. The Weeknd, with his signature falsetto, continuously moved between a cross-shaped extended stage reaching out from the main stage and a B-stage, captivating over 50,000 attendees single-handedly. In response, the audience erupted in cheers and sang along, creating a truly majestic spectacle.What particularly caught the eye was the lavish stage production. The show could be described as a 'feast of light and fire.' LEDs and lasers installed not only on the stage but also on the sides of Goyang Stadium illuminated the venue in sync with the music, creating a fantastical scene. Flames and fireworks erupted from various parts of the stage, transforming Goyang Stadium into an entirely different space.The highlight was undoubtedly 'Blinding Lights.' After all the lasers and LEDs that had been firing non-stop were turned off, the performance began with lights blinking to the synthesizer's melody. As the intro kicked in, the sequential lighting of the LEDs at a rapid pace was a production that reached the pinnacle of artistry.The use of backup dancers was also intriguing. Typically, backup dancers perform around the main artist to highlight them. However, on this night, dozens of backup dancers, clad in red robes, moved independently, creating a unique aesthetic.This made the entire performance feel like a meticulously crafted variety show, not just focusing on The Weeknd and his live vocals.Also captivating was the presence of the 'Golden Sexy Robot' installed at the center of the cross-shaped extended stage. Designed by renowned Japanese illustrator Hajime Sorayama, this sculpture stands 12 meters tall and featured various gimmicks, such as rotating, emitting lasers from its eyes, and releasing steam from its hands, playing a significant role as a highlight of this 'grand show.'The Weeknd's concert in Korea offered a wealth of visual spectacles, not only through his live performance but also through stage production. The photo shows The Weeknd singing in front of the concert mascot, the 'Golden Sexy Robot.' / Sebastien NagyFurthermore, the numerous lasers reflecting chaotically off the golden surface of the 'Golden Sexy Robot' created the illusion that it was dancing in the center of the stage.Watching The Weeknd's performance that day, the phrase 'overwhelmed by sheer scale' came to mind. 'Unprecedented live performance,' 'unprecedented stage production,' 'unprecedented performance,' and 'unprecedented scale' all converged in one place, delivering an experience that overwhelmed the eyes, ears, and all senses. It was so magnificent that anyone, even those unfamiliar with The Weeknd or not his fans, could immediately recognize its greatness.The approximately 54,000 attendees present that day gained a 'memory they will never forget.'laugardagr@tf.co.kr[Entertainment Department | ssent@tf.co.kr]]]> FANNSTAR Thu, 08 Oct 2026 00:00:00 +0900 "Seoul Performance D-2" Singer Haru, Fan Concert Sold Out... Speeding Up Expansion into Japan and TaiwanBTS's Power Reconfirmed Worldwide... The 'Class' Shown by Jimin and Jungkook"Why Did It Get So Small?" The Real Reason Behind the Reduced Fan Event Size for Black Pink&TWICE[THE FACT|Reporter Kang Il-hong] This week's hottest entertainment issue is undoubtedly the historical distortion controversy surrounding the movie 'Assassins'. The controversy surrounding 'Assassins', released on the 23rd of last month, has spread beyond the popular culture scene to political and social debates. The controversy has intensified, especially with the opening of the Busan International Film Festival.Initially, director Huh Jin-ho and the cast of 'Assassins' were scheduled to meet audiences at the opening ceremony of the Busan International Film Festival and outdoor stage greetings. However, as the controversy spread, all official schedules were completely canceled. Nevertheless, discussions surrounding 'Assassins' continued among the audience who visited the film festival.Chinese master director Zhang Yimou was also asked about the matter. When asked how to view the boundary between creative freedom and truth in films dealing with historical facts, director Zhang Yimou cautiously stated, "Creation is creation, and it may not be exactly the same as the truth."He added that he had not yet seen the film but had heard about the situation, and that it was difficult to answer in a short time about the relationship between historical truth and creation. Director Jung Ju-ri also expressed her dismay, saying, "I feel so intimidated" by the situation where the controversy extends beyond the film itself to threats.The repercussions of the controversy also extended to the actors. 'Assassins' completely canceled the stage greetings scheduled for the third week of its release this week. The production company stated that the decision was made with the utmost consideration for the safety of the audience.Actor Yoo Hae-jin also did not appear in public. Although he won the Best Actor award at the Buil Film Awards, he did not attend the ceremony, and the production company representative accepted the award on his behalf. Furthermore, the controversy intensified with the suspension of movie screenings in some regions.So, what are the reactions of ordinary viewers who have actually seen the movie? Audience reviews are mixed. While there are positive responses regarding the film's artistic completeness and the actors' performances, there are also voices pointing out discomfort with the content and expression, as it is a work dealing with historical facts.Ultimately, the debate surrounding 'Assassins' goes beyond a simple like or dislike of a movie, extending to questions of how much historical facts can be reinterpreted by film, and how to balance creative freedom with historical responsibility.Attention is focused on what repercussions this controversy will leave in the film industry and how audience reviews will continue in the future."Finally, the first meeting with fans" Anticipation for the first fan concert... Launching overseas expansionSinger Haru's first solo fan concert is just two days away. This concert, where he will meet fans directly in two cities, Seoul and Busan, has already recorded sold-out tickets, proving the immense interest.In particular, starting with the first fan concert, movements to expand the scope of activities beyond domestic activities to overseas markets such as Japan and Taiwan are also accelerating, drawing even more attention.Singer Haru will hold his first solo fan concert under his name on the 10th at 5 PM at the Daehan Hall, Sejong University, Seoul. The concert is titled '2026 Haru First Fan Concert - Today, Haru: Stories Told for the First Time'. A week later, on the 17th, he will meet fans again at the Busan BEXCO Auditorium.The Seoul and Busan concerts are already completely sold out, and the anticipation of fans who have been waiting for the first solo fan concert is reaching its peak two days before the performance. This stage is not just a simple concert. It is a place where Haru's stories, which could not be fully shown on broadcast, will be told to fans for the first time.In addition to live performances of his representative songs, there will be unreleased stages, stories from his trainee days to his debut, and behind-the-scenes stories from backstage. In particular, there is a stage that cannot be missed at this concert. It is the stage for an unreleased new song that will be heard by fans for the first time before its official release. To be precise, it is a remake song.The first stage of the special remake song 'Winter Sonata' OST, which has not yet been officially released as a sound source, is also scheduled. 'Winter Sonata', the best drama that pioneered K-dramas, is an immortal masterpiece that everyone knows when they hear it. Since the recording, it has already garnered keen interest in Southeast Asian countries, including Japan. Above all, this song is considered the core stage of this concert as it will be the first song to be performed for the fans.Haru also expressed his intention, "I have always greeted fans with songs on stage, but this time I wanted to tell my story from beginning to end." This is considered the core stage of this concert, signifying the creation of the first moment with the fans. However, the reason why Haru's first fan concert is drawing attention is not only due to the concert itself.Recently, it is known that Taiwanese promoters visited Korea, followed by Japanese entertainment investment officials. In particular, interest is growing as Japanese entertainment industry investment officials are expected to visit the fan concert venue in person to present specific directions for Haru's overseas expansion.Above all, while preparing for the first fan concert, movements to expand the next stage both domestically and internationally are also gaining momentum. Haru's first fan concert, starting in Seoul and continuing to Busan, and his next move could extend beyond Korea to Japan, Taiwan, and Southeast Asia, drawing attention.Singer Haru, who is telling his story in front of fans for the first time since his debut, will be the focus of fans' attention on the first scene that will unfold on October 10th at Sejong University's Daehan Hall.From 'PERU LOVES JIMIN' to Platinum in the UK... Power ReconfirmedOne of this week's big issues is BTS, whose global influence continues to expand. BTS is currently on their South American tour, and fans' interest in the members is growing as much as the group's tour fervor.First, ahead of Jimin's first visit to Peru, local fans' birthday celebration projects are unfolding on a massive scale. BTS will hold world tour concerts at the San Marcos Stadium in Lima, Peru, on the 7th, 9th, and 10th local time. This is the first time BTS will perform in Peru since their debut in 2013.In particular, this concert is of even greater interest to local fans as it marks Jimin's first visit to Peru and his upcoming birthday on the 13th. LED advertisements celebrating Jimin's birthday have already begun in various parts of Lima, with wrapping trains decorated with photos and messages, large billboards, and street lamp banners appearing.During the concert period, LED trucks displaying videos of Jimin will be operated, and birthday celebration banners using paragliders will also appear in the sky. Notably, on the 9th, as many as 350 drones will be mobilized to adorn the night sky of the Costa Verde coast with images symbolizing Jimin.On the 10th, the final concert, an event is planned where 40,000 fans will sing together while holding birthday celebration slogans. Meanwhile, Jungkook's solo song 'Seven' has set another record in the UK music market.'Seven' has sold over 600,000 copies in the UK and received Platinum certification from the British Phonographic Industry (BPI) in the single category. Following the Gold certification received after its release in 2023, it has now reached Platinum.It debuted at number 3 on the UK Official Singles Chart and remained on the chart for 14 weeks, and debuted at number 1 on the US Billboard Hot 100. It has also continued its global influence with over 3.1 billion cumulative streams on Spotify.In this way, on one hand, Peruvian fans are making the entire city buzz to welcome Jimin, and on the other hand, Jungkook is steadily accumulating records in the global music market, including the UK, as a solo artist.In addition, with the recent controversy surrounding the careless remarks and actions of some players on the Asian Games men's football national team escalating into a debate over the abolition of military service exemptions, the presence of BTS, whose members have all completed their military service, is being newly highlighted. Of course, discussions about the military service system and the evaluation of contributions to the popular culture scene are separate matters, but the fact that all members of BTS have fulfilled their military obligations while enjoying global popularity is once again drawing attention.BTS, who have responded with music on the global stage, sincerity to their fans, and responsibility for their duties, JIMIN and JUNG KOOK's latest news once again demonstrate BTS's ongoing global presence.Blackpink 40 people · TWICE 750 people... What happened at the global group's fan event?These are representative K-pop girl groups with global fandoms. Black Pink and TWICE, but for both groups celebrating their debut anniversaries this year, fans are expressing common disappointment. The reason is the 'scale of the meeting with fans'.First, TWICE. TWICE will hold a fan party on the 17th to celebrate their 11th debut anniversary. However, it will be held three times a day, with 250 people per session, for a total of 750 people. Last year, for their 10th anniversary, they held a fan meeting that could accommodate about 6,500 people, and even then, there were discussions that the venue was too small for the size of the fandom. But this year, the scale has actually decreased significantly.It was even more so for Black Pink. Only 40 fans were invited to the 10th-anniversary event in August. The event announcement came out only two days in advance, and it was not clear whether the full group would attend at first.From the fans' perspective, it's natural to have questions. Why do teams that fill stadiums on world tours meet only a small number of fans on their debut anniversary? The biggest reason cited is that the 'structure of full group activities' has changed for both groups compared to the past.For Black Pink, members are pursuing individual activities at their respective agencies. TWICE is also entering a phase of balancing group and individual activities as members' individual activities have become more active. In other words, it has become much more difficult to align the schedules of nine or four members as before.Another important factor is the analysis that the nature of debut anniversary events itself has changed. Large-scale concerts can be planned considering ticket sales, tour schedules, and revenue structures, but debut anniversary events are relatively symbolic and event-oriented.Therefore, it is possible that they chose small-scale invitation events or special fan events. In fact, not all long-running groups choose small events.Seventeen met about 58,000 fans over two days at the Incheon Asiad Main Stadium this year to celebrate their 11th anniversary, and BTS met 4,000 fans directly during their 11th debut anniversary. Ultimately, what fans are disappointed about is not just 'how many people were admitted'. This is because the debut anniversary is a special day for fans as well.Although the entertainment industry is strictly driven by business logic on a daily basis, the debut anniversary is the day when the sentiment of "We were able to come this far thanks to the fans" can be most directly expressed.That's why fans feel disappointed when global superstars who fill stadiums meet only 40 or 750 fans on their debut anniversary.Ultimately, the core of this controversy is not that the fandom has shrunk, but that the way top stars and fans meet is changing. And how K-pop's representative long-running groups will maintain their distance from fans in this era of 'together yet apart' will also be an important task going forward.eel@tf.co.kr]]> FANNSTAR Thu, 08 Oct 2026 00:00:00 +0900 Funeral hall set up at Korea University Anam Hospital Funeral HallFilm director Cho Cheol-hyeon passed away on the 8th./THE FACTDB[THE FACT|Reporter Choi Hyun-jung] Director Cho Cheol-hyeon, who directed the movie 'Malmo: The Secret Mission', has passed away. He was 67 years old.According to the Korea University Anam Hospital Funeral Hall on the 8th, Director Cho Cheol-hyeon passed away this morning, and his funeral hall was set up in Room 303 of the funeral hall. The deceased had been battling bile duct cancer since being diagnosed in February of this year.Born in 1959, Director Cho Cheol-hyeon worked as the CEO of film production and import company Tiger Pictures, producing films such as 'Hwangsanbul', 'Pyongyangseong', 'Dalma, Let's Go to Seoul', 'The Happy Life', 'Sado', and 'The World of Us'. He also imported foreign films like 'Seven Swords', 'Perfect Wedding', and 'Crash'.In 2019, he debuted as a film director by writing and directing the movie 'Malmo: The Secret Mission', starring Song Kang-ho and Park Hae-il.Director Cho Cheol-hyeon's funeral procession will be held at 7 AM on the 10th, and his burial site will be at the Seoul Memorial Park.laugardagr@tf.co.kr[Entertainment Department | ssent@tf.co.kr]]]> FANNSTAR Thu, 08 Oct 2026 00:00:00 +0900 New album 'Still' to be released at 6 PM on the 8thIncludes 7 songs, including the title track 'Still'Band N.Flying will release their ninth mini-album 'Still' at 6 PM on the 8th. / FNC Entertainment[THE FACT|Choi Hyun-jung Reporter] Band N.Flying is back with deeper and richer emotions.Their agency FNC Entertainment announced on the 8th that N.Flying (Lee Seung-hyub, Cha Hun, Kim Jae-hyun, Yoo Hwe-seung, Seo Dong-sung) will officially release their ninth mini-album 'Still' at 6 PM on various music sites.'Still' is an album that tells the story of what remains even as time passes. It features a total of 7 songs, led by the title track 'Still', followed by 'My Dearest', 'Wake Up', 'The Way We Were', 'Hongsil', 'Our Ending', and 'Fading Away'.Lee Seung-hyub participated in writing and composing all songs, and Yoo Hwe-seung is credited on 'Wake Up'.The title track 'Still' is a rock song that stands out with its lyrical sensibility, heavy rhythm section, and guitar riffs. The lyrics convey the message of holding onto an unchanging, burning heart. This content, which began with a real conversation between Lee Seung-hyub and Seo Dong-sung, embodies the sincere feelings of N.Flying.The following is the full Q&A with N.Flying.Q. How do you feel about making a comeback with 'Still'?Lee Seung-hyub: "We're making a comeback with a mini-album after a long time. I'm happy to be promoting with our N.Fia (fandom name)."Cha Hun: "We've come back with warm songs that will comfort you in your daily lives, so please look forward to it."Kim Jae-hyun: "It feels great. I'm so nervous to be promoting on music shows again after a long time. I hope many people can rediscover their forgotten passion by listening to N.Flying's 'Still'."Yoo Hwe-seung: "I'm happy to be able to share good music with our N.Fia and everyone else."Seo Dong-sung: "This is an album that expresses things everyone can relate to with N.Flying's sensibility. I'm so happy to be back. I hope you listen to it a lot."Q. What are the highlights of this album?Cha Hun: "Since each track has its own charm, I think you'll enjoy listening to each song."Kim Jae-hyun: "The 'message' is one of N.Flying's greatest strengths. I hope you'll reconfirm your own small embers, especially in the title track 'Still'. Also, please feel the messages of each of the B-side tracks."Yoo Hwe-seung: "This album could be our story, or it could be stories that anyone can experience at least once. I think it's an album that people can relate to."The new album 'Still' includes 7 songs, including the title track 'Still'. / FNC EntertainmentQ. Please introduce the title track 'Still'.Lee Seung-hyub: "There's a line in the lyrics that says, 'The sky is red today.' I wrote the lyrics with the thought that after the moment you're feeling now passes, the hottest moment will come. I hope you fully feel the present, just like these lyrics."Cha Hun: "I'm particularly attached to 'Still' because it opens and closes with guitar solos. At first, it felt a bit melancholic, but in the end, the guitar expresses the embers reigniting. I hope it resonates well with you."Seo Dong-sung: "I hope the song 'Still' can be a catalyst for reigniting passions that have cooled down without you realizing it."Q. We're also curious about your favorite B-side tracks besides the title track.Lee Seung-hyub: "I like 'Fading Away' and 'My Dearest'. I like 'Fading Away' because of the energy the song itself gives, and 'My Dearest' because it feels like it's comforting me."Cha Hun: "'Fading Away' is my favorite song on this album. The chord progression and melody line in the chorus make it feel undeniably like a N.Flying song, which is why I like it even more."Kim Jae-hyun: "It's really hard to choose between 'Fading Away' and 'My Dearest'. This is the hardest question."Yoo Hwe-seung: "'Wake Up'. I wrote it myself, but the entire process, from working with Seung-hyub hyung to the song's release, was so much fun. The message to myself, who doesn't love myself, to snap out of it, could be empowering to me and to anyone listening to this song."Seo Dong-sung: "'Fading Away'. I love the part where Hwe-seung hyung sings alone at the beginning of the song."Q. You pre-released the title track 'Still' and the B-side track 'Fading Away' during your tour. What were your thoughts and the audience's reactions?Lee Seung-hyub: "I always get nervous when I first reveal new songs. As I sing both songs more, I feel my emotions deepening. I feel a particularly precious connection to these songs this time."Kim Jae-hyun: "There's a part in 'Still' where Hwe-seung sings 'It's embers.' When we first played it for N.Fia, even after the song ended, the silence that followed felt like everyone was holding their breath for a long time. In that moment, I thought, 'Ah, our sincerity has reached them.'"Yoo Hwe-seung: "When I sang and showed the emotions I put into the song in front of N.Fia, I felt even more overwhelmed and emotional."Q. Are there any memorable episodes from the album production process?Lee Seung-hyub: "During the production, 'Fading Away' was particularly difficult to arrange. The sounds in my head and the sounds we created kept not matching. I left it for a long time, then revisited it, and I was so happy to come up with a great idea."Cha Hun: "As always, I paid a lot of attention to the recording tone. I was especially invested in 'Fading Away' because it's my favorite song. I remember trying hard to express floating dust in space with the guitar."Kim Jae-hyun: "There were many beautiful spontaneous moments during the music video shoot. The director quickly captured them and suggested, 'Let's try to use this,' which led to the final video. I feel like this music video is a work of art created by everyone burning their own embers brightly."Yoo Hwe-seung: "For the music production, recording, and music video, all the members felt like, 'Yes, this is it. This is what we love.' So, we proceeded happily. We have many beautiful memories of the filming locations with the members."Seo Dong-sung: "During the music video shoot, there was a scene where Seung-hyub hyung was driving a classic car, and he kept failing to start it, which was funny."N.Flying plans to engage in various activities with the release of 'Still'. / FNC EntertainmentQ. What are your goals for this album's promotions?Lee Seung-hyub: "I hope we can be a source of strength and energy for N.Fia and everyone who listens to our music."Cha Hun: "Our unchanging goal is to bring comfort and happiness to many people through our music. Personally, I'd like to achieve first place, of course."Kim Jae-hyun: "I just hope people recognize the sincerity of our N.Flying."Yoo Hwe-seung: "Rather than major achievements, I want to safely and healthily build precious memories with N.Fia, one by one."Seo Dong-sung: "My goal is to become like gasoline for those who are currently in the state of embers."Q. Lastly, is there anything you'd like to say to N.Fia?Lee Seung-hyub: "Our ninth mini-album is finally out. I'm so happy to be releasing this album with you all. We'll be N.Flying that sings passionately in your hearts. Fighting!"Cha Hun: "Thank you and I love you always. You must have been looking forward to this as much as we were, so I hope this album makes your day a little happier. I love you."Kim Jae-hyun: "Thank you always, and your constant support allows me to sing and play with all my heart. Drums and drumsticks are very important to me, but without N.Fia, none of it would mean anything. You've become that important to my life. Thank you for always adding fuel to the embers within me."Yoo Hwe-seung: "N.Fia! I hope you listen to this album a lot and find comfort. Please look forward to this promotion as well."Seo Dong-sung: "Just as N.Fia is our strength, we want to be N.Fia's strength. Thank you always."[Entertainment Department | THE FACT]laugardagr@tf.co.krssent@tf.co.kr]]> FANNSTAR Thu, 08 Oct 2026 00:00:00 +0900 The Growth Story of Imperfect YouthsScript Reading Scene RevealedActors Kang Hoon, Lee Yi-dam, Yoon Ga-yi, Moon Hee, Kim Jeong-jin, and Jo Hyun-chul (from left) will work together in tvN's new Friday-Saturday drama 'Hot Goodbye'. /tvN[THE FACT|Reporter Choi Soo-bin] Actors Kang Hoon and Jo Hyun-chul will portray the passionate growth story of imperfect youths.tvN announced on the 8th, "The new Friday-Saturday drama 'Hot Goodbye' (written by Ahn Ah-reum, directed by Jung Ji-hyun) will premiere on November 6th." Along with this, the script reading scene of the main actors, including Kang Hoon and Jo Hyun-chul, was revealed, raising anticipation.'Hot Goodbye' tells the story of a growth journey where a 'trio of unknown comedians' who were running towards their dreams meet an 'unidentified mysterious woman' and find their own tomorrows. It is expected to unfold the process of youths who have fiercely run for their dreams, overcoming failures and frustrations to move towards a new tomorrow, with cheerful laughter and deep empathy.Kang Hoon plays Kang Tae-gu, the leader and breadwinner of the comedy trio Asura. Kang Tae-gu has endured 10 years of obscurity with passion and responsibility for comedy, but he faces a reality he can no longer ignore, marking a turning point in his life.Jo Hyun-chul transforms into Kim Nam-il, the witty member of Asura. Kim Nam-il, who has been in a long-term relationship with his beloved girlfriend Lee Na-yeon (played by Moon Hee) for 10 years, struggles between comedy and love.'Hot Goodbye,' featuring actors Kang Hoon, Jo Hyun-chul, Kim Jeong-jin, Yoon Ga-yi, Moon Hee, and Lee Yi-dam (from top left, clockwise), will meet viewers on November 6th at 10:30 PM. /tvNKim Jeong-jin meets viewers as Han Jun-seo, the frugal and 'stingy' member of Asura. Han Jun-seo is infinitely kind to Kang Tae-gu and Kim Nam-il, who are like family, but he rarely opens his heart to others.Lee Yi-dam plays Go Eun-young, a passionate fan of Asura. Go Eun-young, who had lived shut off from the world, unknowingly gets drawn into the increasingly strange comedy trio Asura and undergoes changes.Moon Hee plays Lee Na-yeon, Kim Nam-il's girlfriend, and will have a romantic chemistry with Jo Hyun-chul. Yoon Ga-yi plays Go Ji-young, Go Eun-young's younger sister and a free spirit, adding vitality to the drama.The production team stated, "'Hot Goodbye' is a story of youths overcoming failures and frustrations together. The story of youths who fiercely chase their dreams, hurt wholeheartedly, and prepare for their new tomorrows in their own ways will provide unique fun and realistic empathy."'Hot Goodbye,' consisting of a total of 12 episodes, will premiere on November 6th at 10:30 PM.subin7134@tf.co.kr[Entertainment Department | ssent@tf.co.kr]]]> FANNSTAR Thu, 08 Oct 2026 00:00:00 +0900 November 13 at 2 PM, 'GOLDEN HOUR : Part.6' to be releasedAnnouncing the start of new musicGroup ATEEZ will make a comeback on November 13 with 'GOLDEN HOUR : Part.6'. The photo shows ATEEZ YUNHO SEONGHWA San YEOSANG HONGJOONG WOOYOUNG JONGHO Mingi (from left) attending the blue carpet at the '2026 THE FACT MUSIC AWARDS(2026 THE FACT MUSIC AWARDS, TMA)' held on September 19. / Reporter Kim Sung-ryeol[THE FACT| Reporter Choi Hyun-jung] Group ATEEZ will decorate the end of 2026 with a new album.KQ Entertainment announced on the 8th that ATEEZ (HONGJOONG SEONGHWA YUNHO YEOSANG San Mingi WOOYOUNG JONGHO) confirmed their comeback on November 13 by releasing a spoiler video for their new album 'GOLDEN HOUR : Part.6' on their official social media.The video captured attention with surreal scenes centered around a ship, the symbolic object of ATEEZ, with a skull reflected on a monitor in an frozen space and a giant ship appearing in an everyday space, creating an unfamiliar landscape and leaving a strong impression.In particular, the scenes after the crash sparked curiosity about what happened before. The image of a ship moving through giant waves then hints at the future of ATEEZ, embarking on a new voyage after overcoming upheaval.The phrase 'CRASH TO BEGIN' was also inserted into the video, adding to the anticipation for ATEEZ's new music.ATEEZ reached the top of the Billboard 'Billboard 200' chart for the third time with their fourteenth mini-album 'GOLDEN HOUR : Part.5', released in June. The album set a new personal record for first-week album sales in the U.S. with 223,000 copies and achieved first-week sales of 1.88 million copies.ATEEZ has announced the start of new music with 'GOLDEN HOUR : Part.6'. / KQ EntertainmentIn addition, the album's title track 'BAD' has been ranking high on various music charts and is continuing its long-term success, topping SBS 'Inkigayo' for two consecutive weeks in September, about three months after its release.ATEEZ will release their fifteenth mini-album 'GOLDEN HOUR : Part.6' on November 13 at 2 PM on various music sites.laugardagr@tf.co.kr[Entertainment Department | ssent@tf.co.kr]]]> FANNSTAR Thu, 08 Oct 2026 00:00:00 +0900 2nd teaser released... Confrontation surrounding the truthThe first broadcast will be on the 30th at 9:50 PM.The second teaser video for MBC's new Friday-Saturday drama 'Liar' has been released. /MBC[THE FACT|Choi Soo-bin Reporter] Actor Yoo Yeon-seok and Seo Hyun-jin's sweet first meeting turns into a nightmare.The production team of MBC's new Friday-Saturday drama 'The Liar' (written by Baek Jae-young, directed by Jo Young-min) released the second teaser video of Min Joon-ho (played by Yoo Yeon-seok) and Kang Ji-sun (played by Seo Hyun-jin) on the 8th.'Lie' 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. It is also drawing attention as a work that reunites Yoo Yeon-seok and Seo Hyun-jin, who co-starred in the 2016 SBS drama 'Dr. Romantic' and are now working together after 10 years.The teaser video begins with Kang Ji-sun looking at the crashing waves. Then, Min Jun-ho and Kang Ji-sun enjoy their first date in a romantic atmosphere. However, the mood takes a sudden turn when Kang Ji-sun says, "I can't breathe." On the other hand, Min Jun-ho pleads, "You're trying to push all the responsibility for impulsive actions onto me," raising questions about what happened between the two.Then, the real clash between Min-jun-ho and Kang Ji-sun begins. Kang Ji-sun, with a confident tone, says, "It's all a lie," and Min-jun-ho, with unwavering eyes, insists, "I have never lied," creating a stark contrast.Min Jun-ho explodes, "What on earth do you want from me?" and Kang Ji-sun quietly murmurs, "I wanted to put everything back in its place," adding to the tension. In particular, the subtitle "The hidden truth and lies of that night, one of them is lying" appears, sparking curiosity about whose words are true."Liar," consisting of a total of 12 episodes, will premiere on the 30th at 9:50 PM.[Entertainment Department | ssent@tf.co.kr]subin7134@tf.co.kr]]> FANNSTAR Thu, 08 Oct 2026 00:00:00 +0900 Released new album 'file. 07' on the 14thParticipated in writing and composing all songsSinger YUJU has released concept photos for her new album 'file. 07'. /At Area[THE FACT|Choi Hyun-jung] Singer YUJU is heating up her comeback by showing off a completely changed visual.Her agency, At Area, released concept photos for her fourth mini-album 'file. 07' on YUJU's official social media on the 6th and 7th.YUJU maximized her visual with smoky makeup and a blue satin dress, boasting a graceful silhouette. The dark lighting and blue background created a cool yet dreamy atmosphere, delivering a powerful image.Along with this, various objects such as tangled red threads, various forms of flowers, and masks appeared in the concept photos, adding to the curiosity about the narrative contained in this new album.'file. 07' is an album completed with the theme of unfinished emotions that remain the longest and deepest. The album includes a total of six tracks with diverse moods, including the title track 'Mise' (Unresolved), 'Without Knowing How Scary It Will Be After That', 'Love Gamer', 'SOS', 'Rock Bottom', and 'P.S.'. YUJU is credited with writing and composing all songs.YUJU will release her fourth mini-album 'file. 07' on music sites at 6 PM on the 14th.laugardagr@tf.co.kr[Entertainment Department | ssent@tf.co.kr]]]> FANNSTAR Thu, 08 Oct 2026 00:00:00 +0900 Top players from previous seasons to competeBroadcaster Jang Dong-min, actor Ha Seok-jin, Super Junior SHINDONG, and rapper Nucksal (from top left, clockwise) will appear in Netflix's new variety show 'Devil's Plan 3'. /Netflix[THE FACT|Reporter Choi Soo-bin] 'Devil's Plan' is returning for its third season with an even stronger lineup.Netflix announced on the 8th, "The new variety show 'Devil's Plan' Season 3 (hereinafter 'Devil's Plan 3') will be released in the fourth quarter," and revealed the player lineup.'Devil's Plan,' which premiered in 2023 with its first season, is a brain survival variety show where players from various professions live together to determine the ultimate brain. Each season has delivered thrilling entertainment to viewers with intense brain battles, as well as alliances and betrayals for victory, and unpredictable twists.This season, a total of 16 players will compete, from previous winners to strong contenders in brain survival. With the largest number of participants in the series' history and a gathering of exceptionally skilled individuals, a more intense competition is expected.First, Jang Dong-min, the 'God of Survival,' is diving back into the game. Following his record of five consecutive survival wins starting with 'The Genius: Black Garnet' and continuing with 'Betting on Fact,' there is much anticipation for his performance this season.Hong Jin-ho, who transformed from a world-class professional gamer into a top professional poker player with accumulated prize money of 3 billion won, has also thrown his hat in the ring. Furthermore, the reunion of Jang Dong-min and Oh Hyun-min, known as the 'Legendary Alliance' of brain survival, is set to heighten expectations.Players who performed well in 'Devil's Plan' are also returning to compete. Ha Seok-jin, a previous winner, along with Kim Dong-jae and Jeong Hyun-gyu, will join to prove their skills. Rapper Seo Chul-gu, a prodigy who entered university early at the age of 16, and Yuri Sa, with an IQ of 156 and in the top 1% of Mensa, will also appear.In addition, Super Junior SHINDONG, Google employee and Seoul National University Ph.D. graduate Hyun Kyung-ryeol, singer John Park, broadcaster Jae Jae, rapper Nucksal, Seoul National University alumnus and star instructor Lee Do, singer-songwriter Stella Jang, and hidden strong contender Jeong Won-young will join to engage in fierce brain battles.Director Jeong Jong-yeon stated, "We are back with the most powerful cast in the franchise's history," adding, "I hope you look forward to the performances of the players who are appearing in a survival show for the first time amidst competitors who are full of previous winners."'Devil's Plan 3' will be released on Netflix in the fourth quarter of this year.subin7134@tf.co.kr[Entertainment Department | ssent@tf.co.kr]]]> FANNSTAR Thu, 08 Oct 2026 00:00:00 +0900 A live-action film based on the manga of the same name by Tatsuki FujimotoA story of friendship, separation, and moving forward despite it all"Look Back," opening on the 8th, is a work that depicts the beautiful friendship of two girls connected by their passion for drawing. /Megabox JoongAng(주)[Reporter Park Ji-yoon] I encountered the live-action film "Look Back" without having seen the original manga or animation. As I followed the beautiful scenery and delicate visuals, I found myself slowly drawn into the two girls as they expanded each other's worlds. Their journey, as they grow together and face an unexpected separation, then move forward while carrying the pain of loss, makes one feel why this story has been loved for so long.The film "Look Back" (directed by Hirokazu Kore-eda), opening today (the 8th), is a work that depicts the beautiful friendship of two girls connected by their passion for drawing, and is based on the manga of the same name by the genius Japanese manga artist Tatsuki Fujimoto."Look Back," which was previously adapted into an animation and grossed 2.04 billion yen worldwide, now meets audiences once again as a live-action film. The work unfolds the process of Fujino (played by Nanase Furi), who serializes four-panel comics in the elementary school newspaper and is confident in her drawing skills, feeling inferiority after encountering the manga of her classmate Kyomoto (played by Okada Luka), who is absent from school, and dedicating herself to improving her drawing skills."Look Back" is based on the manga of the same name by the genius Japanese manga artist Tatsuki Fujimoto, and was adapted into an animation last year, grossing 2.04 billion yen worldwide. /Megabox JoongAng(주)However, Fujino eventually quits drawing as the gap in skill between herself and Kyomoto fails to narrow. Time passes, and at the request of a teacher, she visits Kyomoto's house to deliver her graduation certificate, only to discover for the first time that her friend, who admired her but was afraid to venture out into the world, had been confined to her room.Fujino, who gets along well with friends and goes out often, and Kyomoto, who is isolated from the world and stays in her room, influence each other while working on manga together, each focusing on what they do best. Thus, the two build precious memories and grow, but Kyomoto, wanting to study art more professionally, goes to art school, while Fujino enters society, and they each walk their own paths.Then, one day, a tragic event occurs to Kyomoto, and Fujino begins to attach "what ifs" to all her actions, imagining different endings, and falls into deep loss and guilt. After briefly looking back, she accepts reality and moves forward again, cherishing the time spent with Kyomoto and the meaning of that encounter in her life.The story, centered around two budding girls, deals with innate talent and the effort to catch up, the admiration for someone, and an irreplaceable friendship.Director Hirokazu Kore-eda vividly portrays the friendship of the two girls with beautiful visuals and child and adult actors who boast an astonishing resemblance. /Megabox JoongAng(주)It explores how meeting someone can change a person's life, and it delves into the passion for one's favorite work through efforts that surpass mere jealousy of innate talent, easily handling the complex emotions that everyone has likely felt at some point in their lives.And it is director Hirokazu Kore-eda who beautifully captures this with his unique sensibility. Filming on location for a year in Nikaho City, Akita Prefecture, the hometown of original author Tatsuki Fujimoto, he delicately portrays the emotional lines of Fujino and Kyomoto, which are all the more brilliant because they represent the unrepeatable time of youth, with an analog sensibility. In particular, he captures the changes of the four seasons, which seem to breathe with life, quickly and vividly, completing the protagonists' brilliant yet poignant moments with a heightened sense of immersion.Furthermore, the child and adult actors who play Fujino and Kyomoto convey the characters' various emotions in detail through subtle facial expressions and deep gazes. They also boast an astonishing resemblance, naturally depicting the passage of 13 years and the changes in their relationship.Although the meaning of the title was not easily discernible at first glance, after watching the film, the meaning embedded in the title naturally resonates with the audience. "Look Back," which leaves a lasting, gentle impression even after the end credits roll, is rated for all audiences and has a running time of 100 minutes.jiyoon-1031@tf.co.kr[Entertainment Department | ssent@tf.co.kr]]]> FANNSTAR Thu, 08 Oct 2026 00:00:00 +0900 Best Actor Award for 'The King and the Man'... Production Company CEO Accepts on His Behalf'Assassins' Faces Historical Distortion Controversy and Threats to Personal Safety... Busan Schedule CanceledActor Yoo Hae-jin received the Best Actor Award for the film 'The King and the Man' at the 35th Buil Film Awards ceremony held on the 7th. / Reporter Seo Ye-won[THE FACT|Reporter Kim Saet-byeol] Actor Yoo Hae-jin received the Buil Film Awards Best Actor trophy for the movie 'The King and the Man'. This honor comes amidst his recent decision to completely cancel his Busan schedule due to controversies surrounding historical distortion in his latest film and threats to his personal safety.The 35th Buil Film Awards ceremony took place on the 7th at Signiel Busan in Jung-dong, Haeundae-gu, Busan, during the 31st Busan International Film Festival (BIFF). On this day, Yoo Hae-jin was selected as the Best Actor winner for 'The King and the Man'.However, Yoo Hae-jin was unable to attend the awards ceremony as he had canceled his Busan International Film Festival schedule due to the historical distortion controversy surrounding his current film 'Assassins' and threats to his personal safety.Consequently, the award was accepted on his behalf by Im Eun-jeong, CEO of Ondaworks, the production company of 'The King and the Man'.On stage, CEO Im stated, "Actor Yoo Hae-jin could not be here today due to his filming schedule," and expressed gratitude, "I would like to thank the Buil Film Awards jury for this precious award, Director Jang Hang-jun, all the staff and cast, and the distributor Showbox. Most importantly, I want to send my deepest thanks to the audience who loved the movie. I will deliver this award to actor Yoo Hae-jin."'The King and the Man', which brought Yoo Hae-jin this honor, is a story set in Cheongnyongpo in 1457, depicting the young King Danjong Lee Hong-wi (PARK JI HOON), who was exiled after being ousted from the throne, and the village chief Um Heung-do (Yoo Hae-jin), who stays by his side. Directed by Jang Hang-jun, the film was released in February and became a box office sensation, drawing 16.92 million viewers.Meanwhile, Yoo Hae-jin is currently facing difficulties due to external controversies surrounding the recently released film 'Assassins'. Released on the 23rd of last month, 'Assassins' is a story that traces the mastermind behind the assassination of First Lady Yuk Young-soo on August 15, 1974. However, after its release, criticisms arose that the reconstructed events distorted historical facts, leading to a heated controversy.The controversy escalated to threats against the actors' personal safety. Starting from the 4th, a protest was held in front of Yoo Hae-jin's home by conservative groups demanding a halt to the screening, and threatening remarks followed online. In response, the Seoul Seongbuk Police, at the request of Yoo Hae-jin's agency, provided him with a smart watch and increased patrols around his residence on the 6th as part of personal protection measures.As a result of these repercussions, Yoo Hae-jin and the production staff, including the director, canceled all their scheduled events in Busan, including the opening ceremony and outdoor stage greetings of the 31st Busan International Film Festival (BIFF), for safety reasons.sstar1204@tf.co.kr[Entertainment Department | ssent@tf.co.kr]]]> FANNSTAR Thu, 08 Oct 2026 00:00:00 +0900 '256th Note' sells 710,000 copies in the first week of releaseAlso stands out on music chartsGroup CLOSE YOUR EYES has broken its own record by selling 710,000 copies of its fourth mini-album, '256th Note,' in the first week of release. The photo shows Kenshin SONG SEUNGHO JEON MINWOOK MA JINGXIANG KIM SUNGMIN JANG YEOJUN SEO KYOUNGBAE attending the '256th Note' release showcase held on September 30. / Reporter Park Sang-min[THE FACT|Reporter Choi Hyun-jung] Group CLOSE YOUR EYES has once again broken its own record.According to its agency Uncore on the 8th, CLOSE YOUR EYES (JEON MINWOOK MA JINGXIANG JANG YEOJUN KIM SUNGMIN SONG SEUNGHO KENSHIN SEO KYOUNGBAE) sold 710,000 copies of its fourth mini-album, '256th Note,' released on September 30, in the first week of release.This surpasses the previous record of 570,000 copies sold in the first week of its predecessor 'blackout.''256th Note' is also making waves not only in album sales but also on various domestic and international charts. '256th Note' ranked 62nd on the Worldwide iTunes Album Chart, and the pre-release track 'Open Your Eyes' reached 35th on the Melon Latest Release Chart.The title track 'Drop That!' is also showing its power on music charts, ranking 26th on the Melon Latest Release Chart, 78th on the HOT100 chart, 3rd on the Bugs Real-time Chart, and 56th on the Daily Chart.Having achieved 710,000 copies in the first week of sales and writing a new chapter in the group's history, CLOSE YOUR EYES is set to continue its active promotions with 'Drop That!'laugardagr@tf.co.kr[Entertainment Department | ssent@tf.co.kr]]]> FANNSTAR Thu, 08 Oct 2026 00:00:00 +0900 Son Ho-young will release the new song ″Go Around″ through various online music sites at 6 PM on the 14th. This song is a solo new release after about five years, with Son Ho-young personally participating in the lyrics writing. On the 7th and 8th at midnight, Son Ho-young revealed two lyric posters of ″Go Around″ through official SNS. The posters included some lyrics such as ″Find my love,″ ″Finding my way again, going further,″ and ″Accustomed to the silence that has become familiar.″ This new song is a track in which Son Ho-young, celebrating the 20th anniversary of his solo debut, sincerely expresses his experiences and feelings in the lyrics. Rather than finding a perfect answer or a predetermined path, it conveys a message to find one’s own way, offering warm comfort and encouragement to those tired of everyday life. Son Ho-young captured moments of spending leisurely time away from the noise of the world in the lyric posters. With a bright smile, he took in the scenery for the camera or leaned by the window to create a calm atmosphere, delivering healing that matches the autumn season. As a member of the national group god, a solo artist, and an all-around entertainer active in various fields such as music, performances, broadcasting, and musicals, Son Ho-young plans to embody freedom and confidence in himself through music and stage after 20 years of journey. Son Ho-young is scheduled to meet fans by holding the 2026 solo concert ″HORIZON″ at KBS Arena in Gangseo-gu, Seoul, on October 31 and November 1.]]> FANNSTAR Thu, 08 Oct 2026 00:00:00 +0900 The unit JX, consisting of KIM JAEJOONG and Kim Junsu, will hold the JX 2026 TOUR CONCERT at Incheon Inspire Arena from the 9th to the 11th. JX returns with their second tour in about two years, showcasing a deeper ’JX Core’ in this concert. The two artists are preparing a concept and composition distinct from their first solo concert ’IDENTITY,’ held in 2024 to celebrate their 20th debut anniversary. They have hinted at intense visuals and chemistry through posters and pre-teasers. This tour was made possible by the continuous requests from fans, and KIM JAEJOONG and Kim Junsu are responding to fans’ expectations by expanding the scale of the performances. The Incheon concerts sold out all seats for every show, proving JX’s ticket power. JX plans to add new energy to familiar hits through live performances with a band session. The two artists will reminisce with fans through a stage that condenses their respective musical journeys and deliver unique emotions with a diverse setlist. The JX 2026 TOUR CONCERT will continue after the Incheon shows with performances in Kobe on November 3rd and 4th, Macau on the 7th and 8th, Osaka on the 14th and 15th, Taipei on the 21st, and Yokohama on December 4th, 5th, and 6th.]]> FANNSTAR Thu, 08 Oct 2026 00:00:00 +0900 In response to allegations of staging related to Kim Min’s episode of living in an old house on ’I Live Alone,’ both Kim Min and MBC have issued separate clarifications. The production team of MBC’s ’I Live Alone’ stated to Xportsnews on the 7th that Kim Min is indeed living in the house featured in the broadcast, and that the production team did not set up or stage any situations. They also explained that regarding questions about the use of the generator, the footage shows the actual use of the generator in accordance with the housing environment, and there was no staging for the broadcast. On the broadcast on the 2nd, Kim Min revealed his daily life living in an approximately 90-year-old old house in Dongducheon. He attracted attention by showing how he uses a generator to supply electricity and repairs the house himself. After the broadcast, some viewers raised suspicions of staging based on differences between the house seen on road view and the broadcast footage, as well as the presence of nearby utility poles. In response, Kim Min denied the allegations in an interview with Star Today on the 6th, saying, ″There was absolutely no manipulation or setup.″ While expressing gratitude for viewers’ various curiosities, he also said he felt heavy-hearted due to unexpected stories that emerged. Previously, ’I Live Alone’ also faced authenticity controversies over Jun Hyun-moo’s impromptu trip to Kazakhstan. The production team explained that although they received cooperation from the Almaty Tourism Board in Kazakhstan at the time, there was no financial sponsorship or production funding support.]]> FANNSTAR Thu, 08 Oct 2026 00:00:00 +0900 Fin.K.L member Sung Yuri shared an update on social media on October 7. Sung Yuri posted a photo with the caption, ″The stick is more flexible than expected.″ The released photo shows LEE HYO RI stretching, while Lee Jin and Ok Joo-hyun are seen teasing LEE HYO RI from beside and behind. Sung Yuri added the phrase, ″Another peaceful close-up coverage scene today,″ to the photo. Fin.K.L is preparing for a full-group comeback after 21 years. Debuting in 1998, Fin.K.L is a representative first-generation K-pop group loved for songs like ″Eternal Love,″ ″To My Boyfriend,″ ″Blue Rain,″ and ″Now.″ Group activities will resume for the first time in 21 years since the release of the digital single ″Forever Fin.K.L″ in 2005.]]> FANNSTAR Thu, 08 Oct 2026 00:00:00 +0900 Han Ga-in revealed the reading habits and daily life of her two children. In a video posted on the YouTube channel ’With Sean,’ Han Ga-in stated that when she creates a routine, her children follow it exactly, and that they ask detailed questions about their schedule every morning. Han Ga-in said that her hobby is checking diaries, and explained that her children also look at and check their diaries every day. Because of this, she said they live a predictable life, which is comfortable. However, she added that she does not get stressed by unexpected situations related to her children. She revealed that she talks with her eldest daughter, who is approaching puberty, like friends and that they respect each other, mentioning that there might not be a significant puberty phase. She also said that both of her children are smarter than she is, and although she did nothing special, she wanted to give them the habit of loving books. Han Ga-in explained that when her children are bored, they read books, and they also read in the morning or at night. Reading books to her children is part of their daily routine, and when she scolds them, if she says, ″I won’t read a book to you today,″ the children sometimes cry. Han Ga-in said, ″Books contain much more knowledge than I do, and the children already know that when they read books when they are bored, there are enjoyable and fun things.″ Han Ga-in married actor Yeon Jung-hoon in 2005 and has one son and one daughter. It has been revealed that both children were diagnosed as gifted in the top 1% and enrolled in a gifted education center.]]> FANNSTAR Thu, 08 Oct 2026 00:00:00 +0900 JTBC’s ″Tokpawon 25si″ showcased childhood photos of the cast members in the October 7th broadcast. In the episode, Yang Se-chan drew attention by mentioning a past photo of Jeon Hyun-moo, saying he resembled Son Ye-jin. Jeon Hyun-moo expressed confidence about his appearance, saying, ″At that time, I could compete. The girls were jealous of me. They pinched me and ran away.″ Lucky also commented that Jeon Hyun-moo’s face has changed a lot after seeing the photo. Jeon Hyun-moo joked that his face started to change when environmental pollution became a social issue in the second year of middle school, and Lee Chan-won added, ″Along with rapid economic growth and environmental pollution.″ Sun Kim’s kindergarten photo showed him wearing a tie and attending a private kindergarten. When Sun Kim asked for compliments on his childhood appearance, Jeon Hyun-moo and Yang Se-chan responded that he looked wealthy rather than handsome. When asked if the person in the photo was a bodyguard, Sun Kim explained it was a teacher. Chuu revealed a childhood photo with a smile similar to her current one. The cast members said Lucky’s appearance had changed after seeing his childhood photo, and Lucky mentioned the influence of the air in India. Kim Sook shared a photo from when she was 16, reminiscent of a horror movie poster, and confessed she had many complaints during puberty.]]> FANNSTAR Thu, 08 Oct 2026 00:00:00 +0900 Actors Discover a Body in a Snowstorm at Seol-o Station... Opening in NovemberThe movie 'Snowstorm' has released its first press stills ahead of its November release. /Distributor: Showbox[THE FACT | Reporter Chae-young Moon] Actors Kim Yun-seok and Koo Kyo-hwan encounter a mysterious body at a remote train station isolated by snow.Distributor Showbox released the first press stills for the movie 'Snowstorm' (directed by Hong Eui-jeong&Park Sun-woo) on the 8th. The stills capture a variety of scenes, from the first meeting of Gap-su (played by Kim Yun-seok) and Hyeon-taek (played by Koo Kyo-hwan) to the moment they discover an unknown body during the handover.The film is a mystery drama that unfolds when a body is discovered in front of Gap-su, a stationmaster nearing retirement at a rural train station isolated by heavy snow, and Hyeon-taek, his new replacement.In the stills, Gap-su is preparing for his last day at Seol-o Station, which he has managed his whole life, when he meets Hyeon-taek, a new station attendant who arrives through the snow, and begins the handover. Gap-su looks at Hyeon-taek with a sharp gaze while holding documents, and Hyeon-taek, observing his demeanor, hands over a radio.Gap-su and Hyeon-taek continue the handover on the snow-covered tracks, isolated from the outside world, with a subtle tension. However, when the two discover an unknown body lying on the tracks, an unexpected storm hits the peaceful Seol-o Station.Stills showing Chief Choi (played by Park Soo-young), who has worked at Seol-o Police Box for a long time and is close with Gap-su, and Officer Yang (played by Noh Yoon-seo), who has recently been assigned, having a serious conversation also hint at unusual changes coming to Seol-o Station.'Snowstorm' will be released in November.mcy21@tf.co.kr[Entertainment Desk | ssent@tf.co.kr]]]> FANNSTAR Thu, 08 Oct 2026 00:00:00 +0900