https://en.fannstar.tf.co.kr FANNSTAR RSS Service - All Articles copyright (c) FANNSTAR fannstar@tf.co.kr Movie 'Assassins (The)' Spreads Historical Distortion Controversy... Actors and Advertisements Also HitRESCENE 's 'Ppongppong' Craze... 14.27 Million Views, a Hit "Proper Trot Vibe""Received DM DMs" Jang Hanbyul Surprising Confession... First Solo Concert Ticket Power "I want to forget everything now and go back to my basics to focus only on singing." Singer Suk Haeng, who returned to the stage after a 10-month hiatus, had a special time with her fans at Arte Seoul Muse Hall in Mokdong, Seoul, on September 30th at 7 PM. / Reporter Kang Il-hong[THE FACT|Reporter Kang Il-hong] Singer Suk Haeng, who returned to the stage after a 10-month hiatus, had a special time with her fans at Arte Seoul Muse Hall in Mokdong, Seoul, on September 30th at 7 PM.This performance held more meaning for Suk Haeng than just a concert. It was Suk Haeng's first official public appearance after suspending her activities for about 10 months following the so-called 'mistress controversy.'Moreover, as the court's first-instance ruling had just been announced, attention was focused on what Suk Haeng would say and how she would appear before her fans that day.The dinner show was sponsored by Suk Haeng's fan club, 'Suk Haeng Train.' After sharing a meal, fans listened to Suk Haeng's songs for about two hours, sending passionate applause and support.Notably, many acquaintances and fans who are close to Suk Haeng were present in the audience that day, and warm encouragement and support continued throughout the performance. Suk Haeng sang her songs 'Gasiri' and 'Don't Call Me a Flower,' among others, taking the stage after a long time.After finishing her songs, she poured out her pent-up emotions. "I prepared this concert myself from beginning to end." Suk Haeng said that she was so overwhelmed to be back on stage after a long time that she couldn't speak properly, and that although she usually doesn't cry on stage, her voice was choked up today.She added that she felt like she had gone through bad things to feel this emotion, and said, "But I want to forget everything now and go back to my basics to focus only on singing. I believe that's how I can repay my fans who have supported and loved me until the end."Warm applause and cheers poured from the audience towards Suk Haeng. This performance is an extension of the 'Suk Haeng Show,' which Suk Haeng has been doing for 11 years since her debut. It was a meaningful event for both Suk Haeng and her fans, as she resumed singing after a brief pause due to an unfortunate controversy.So, how does Suk Haeng feel about the controversy surrounding her and the recent court ruling? The reporter directly asked Suk Haeng about her current feelings immediately after the concert. Suk Haeng honestly shared her inner thoughts, albeit cautiously. "It was an incident that happened because I wasn't careful enough, and I want to take all the blame." She also stated that she believes she is a victim because she was deceived by the other party, but she decided to stop pursuing legal action to prove her innocence, as it didn't seem right to continue.And she left these final words: "I accept everything as fate and will rise again through my music."Previously, the Civil Division 7 of the Seongnam Branch of the Suwon District Court ruled in favor of the plaintiff in part on the 17th, in a lawsuit filed by the wife of a married man, Mr. A, against Suk Haeng for damages.Suk Haeng's side had argued that the man was already in a broken marriage and preparing for divorce, and that she believed him and dated him, thus considering herself a victim. However, Suk Haeng chose to resume singing rather than provide a detailed explanation of the legal battle.On the stage where she returned after 10 months, Suk Haeng showed not excuses but songs, and not appeals about the controversy but gratitude towards her fans. And she summarized her feelings as follows:"I accept everything as fate and will rise again through my music." For Suk Haeng, the stage on September 30th was not a declaration of a full return to activities, but rather the first step in resuming her paused singing career.How Suk Haeng will continue her activities while facing legal proceedings and public scrutiny, and whether this performance will lead to broadcast and full-scale public activities, remains to be seen.However, one thing is clear. After 10 months of silence, Suk Haeng has returned to the stage, and the first words she chose to say to her fans yesterday were not an explanation, but a promise to 'sing again.'From familiar songs like Jang Yun Jeong's 'Eomona' and Oh Seung-geun's 'What's Wrong With My Age?' that everyone has heard at least once, to Park Sang-chul's 'Ppongppong,' the trot reverse run by K-pop girl group idol star Sena has garnered immense attention. /YouTube CaptureTrot Sung by Sena Makes Korea Buzz! 'Ppongppong' Reverse RunThis week, the trot reverse run by a K-pop girl group idol star has garnered immense attention. The protagonist is Sena, a member of the group RESCENE.As of the 1st, Sena's trot medley video, released on the YouTube channel 'Hello Won-i, Please Take Care of Me' on the 18th, surpassed an astonishing 14.27 million views. It's truly a 'hit.'But the reason Sena's performance received such a hot reaction isn't simply because an idol sang trot. Above all, it's evaluated that Sena's hidden 'trot vibe' truly exploded.From familiar songs like Jang Yun Jeong's 'Eomona' and Oh Seung-geun's 'What's Wrong With My Age?' that everyone has heard at least once, to Park Sang-chul's 'Ppongppong,' the combination of her unique refreshing idol charm with the soulful flavor and excitement of trot has captivated not only the younger generation but also middle-aged and older adults familiar with trot.In particular, Park Sang-chul's 'Ppongppong' is at the center of this craze. A separate video edited from just the 'Ppongppong' part of Sena's medley has also surpassed 1.24 million views.In addition, the video of 'Ppongppong' sung by trot stars such as Lim Young Woong, Young Tak, Lee Chan-won, Kim Ho Joong, Jung Dong-won, Jang Min-ho, Kim Hee Jae on TV CHOSUN's 'Love Call Center' in the past is also gaining attention again. A song is coming back to life across generations.The interest from senior singers also continued. Jang Yun Jeong wittily praised Sena, saying, "You're like a tonic! Are you thinking of singing trot?" Park Sang-chul, the original singer of 'Ppongppong,' also welcomed the craze and sent a message of support for the dreams of junior singers.The trot performance shown by idol Sena is expanding beyond mere topicality into a music content that connects generations. What trot masterpieces will Sena's 'trot vibe' encounter in the future?Meanwhile, RESCENE is set to make a comeback with their mini 4th album 'PULSE' on November 3rd. Attention is focused on what kind of transformation Sena, who has made a strong impression on the public with trot, will show this time.The controversy surrounding the movie 'Assassins (The)' has now spread beyond a single film's historical interpretation to actors' advertisements, social media, and even politics. Content from critics and YouTubers who positively reviewed the movie has also been made private or deleted. /Hive Media Corp'Yook Young-soo's Assassination Incident' Becomes Political Debate... What is the Core of the Historical Distortion Controversy?The controversy surrounding the movie 'Assassins (The)' has now spread beyond a single film's historical interpretation to actors' advertisements, social media, and even politics. What exactly is the problem, and why is the controversy growing?There are three main points. First, the boundary between historical fact and cinematic imagination. 'Assassins (The)' is based on the assassination of President Park Chung-hee's wife, Yook Young-soo, in 1974, and unfolds the story by questioning the results of the investigation at the time.In particular, it dramatically suggests suspicions that the Korean Central Intelligence Agency may have been involved in the incident by tracking the number of gunshots, the shell casings, and the possibility of other forces behind the incident.The problem is that these scenes are based on actual historical events and real figures. The Park Chung-hee Presidential Memorial Foundation refuted the claim that the suggestion of doubt, such as 'there were six gunshots but only four shell casings,' does not match the situation at the time, based on investigation records.On the other hand, the production team claims that they extensively researched publicly available materials and records, and that it is a work of fiction combining actual events with fictional characters and situations, and that they never designated any specific individual as the mastermind. Ultimately, the core of the current controversy is the clash between 'freedom of creation or historical distortion.'Second, this controversy is expanding into a political factional conflict. Beyond historical verification of the movie, politicians are criticizing it, and some are even mentioning boycotts, shifting the movie debate into a conservative vs. progressive frame.In such cases, the focus of the debate easily shifts from whether specific scenes in the movie align with actual history to 'whose side are you on.'Third, the controversy is spilling outside the movie. The comment section of an advertisement featuring lead actor Yoo Hae-jin has been closed, and comments questioning the actors' appearances in the movie or their recommendations have continued on other actors' social media. Some critics and YouTubers who positively reviewed the movie have even had their related content made private or deleted.This raises another issue: 'Are criticism of the movie and attacks on individuals involved in the movie the same thing?' The historical interpretation of a movie can be criticized and verified. However, whether it is appropriate to attack an individual's advertisements or social media simply because they played a role or appeared in the movie is a separate issue.Ultimately, the 'Assassins (The)' controversy is not just about whether a movie is right or wrong. It is simultaneously being tested on how much historical facts can be used as material for creation, how much criticism of creative works is allowed, and where to draw the line when political debates spread to actors and the private sector.Therefore, this controversy is likely to continue to expand into a social debate where three issues collide: 'history and creation, freedom of expression and responsibility, and political factional logic,' rather than ending easily while the movie is being screened.Jang Hanbyul Popularity This Much? "DM Dashing"... First Solo Concert Sold Out in 2 MinutesThe charm of audition programs is the birth of stars. The presence of singer Jang Hanbyul, created by 'Moomyeong Legend,' is becoming a hot topic every day.From a surprising confession revealed on the show to a first solo concert sold out in just 2 minutes, MBN's 'Jeonseolui Sana-i,' which aired yesterday, the 30th, featured the TOP7 of 'Moomyeong Legend' and talented contestants from all over the country, presenting a 'Paldo Specialty Feast.'The protagonist who particularly caught the eye on this broadcast was Jang Han-byul. Jang Hanbyul, who participated in the 'Paldo Lovebirds' competition, made a surprise statement before facing his opponent: "After 'Moomyeong Legend,' I received DMs from female celebrities on social media."The unexpected confession by Jang Hanbyul instantly heated up the atmosphere on set. This scene showed how strongly Jang Hanbyul's name and charm were imprinted on the public through 'Moomyeong Legend.'However, there is another record that confirms Jang Hanbyul's popularity. It's ticket power. When ticket sales for Jang Hanbyul's first solo concert 'THE STAR IS BORN' began on the 29th, all seats were sold out in just 2 minutes.The concert will be held twice on October 31st at the Daehan Hall, Sejong University, Seoul, at 1 PM and 6 PM. What's even more eye-catching is that this isn't the first time. In July, the fan meeting also sold out all seats in 1 minute, and now the first solo concert has sold out in 2 minutes, once again showing the passionate interest of the fandom 'Eunhasu.'So, what is the reason for this interest in Jang Hanbyul? Above all, it's his talent. Jang Hanbyul gained recognition by reaching the TOP3 in 'Moomyeong Legend,' and recently won first place on KBS2's 'Immortal Songs' with Sung Ri.His broad musical appeal, capable of handling various genres from trot to rock, dance, ballad, and pop, is also undeniable. At his first solo concert, he is expected to showcase a variety of genres with a live band and special stages, further raising fans' expectations.From a surprise confession of receiving SNS DMs to a fan meeting sold out in 1 minute, and a first solo concert sold out in 2 minutes, Jang Hanbyul, who gained recognition through 'Moomyeong Legend,' will now meet fans on a stage bearing his own name.Attention is focused on what kind of performance Jang Hanbyul's first solo concert 'THE STAR IS BORN' on October 31st will present to captivate fans' hearts.eel@tf.co.kr]]> FANNSTAR Thu, 01 Oct 2026 00:00:00 +0900 Confirmed for Release This Winter... Launch Poster Revealed, Featuring a New Universe'Shinbyeong The Movie: Ghosts Live in the Military Hospital' has announced its release this winter and unveiled its launch poster. /KT Studio Genie[THE FACT|Reporter Park Ji-yoon] The universe of the drama 'Shinbyeong' is expanding onto the screen.Distributor KT Studio Genie announced on the 1st, "The movie 'Shinbyeong The Movie: Ghosts Live in the Military Hospital' (directed by Min Jin-ki) will be released in theaters this winter." Along with this, they released a launch poster featuring the visuals of the newly completed Shinbyeong squad, with the addition of actor Ryu Kyung-soo and TWICE member and actor Yoo Jeong-yeon. The film tells the story of the 'Shinbyeong squad,' who are hospitalized in a military hospital dreaming of a sweet break, confronting the horrific rumors of the military hospital they believed to be heaven and uncovering its secrets. Director Min Jin-ki, who led the drama 'Shinbyeong,' is directing.'Shinbyeong,' which first aired in 2022, is an IP (Intellectual Property) that has received so much love that it has now presented its fourth season. In particular, 'Shinbyeong 4: Sabotage,' which concluded on the 30th of last month, recorded the highest viewership rating in the series at 5.2% (based on Nielsen Korea's national paid households), showcasing the potential of Korea's representative military content.Meanwhile, 'Shinbyeong The Movie: Ghosts Live in the Military Hospital' is expected to offer a different kind of viewing experience and entertainment by continuing the charm of the drama 'Shinbyeong' series while presenting an independent story centered around new spaces and events unique to the movie.In addition, new characters appearing alongside the Shinbyeong squad, who have received much love through the drama, are also a point of anticipation for the movie. Ryu Kyung-soo plays Yoo Jae-hoon, a mysterious soldier hospitalized in the military hospital, and Yoo Jeong-yeon plays nurse officer Yoo Jeong-yeon, making her debut in her first screen acting challenge.The poster released today captures attention with the Shinbyeong squad standing against the backdrop of the Gukgun Yangcheon Hospital in an unusual atmosphere.In particular, the new story of the Shinbyeong squad, which will unfold against the backdrop of the military hospital, away from the Shinhwa unit, sparks curiosity. The face of Park Min-seok (played by Kim Min-ho), who looks back with a meaningful expression among the Shinbyeong squad looking at the military hospital, foreshadows an unpredictable military hospital life.In addition, the phrase 'Blockbuster-class horror comedy launch' makes us anticipate the genre variation that will unfold in the movie, along with 'Shinbyeong's' unique cheerful comedy.'Shinbyeong The Movie: Ghosts Live in the Military Hospital' will be released in theaters this winter.[Entertainment Department | ssent@tf.co.kr]jiyoon-1031@tf.co.kr]]> FANNSTAR Thu, 01 Oct 2026 00:00:00 +0900 Live on the official YouTube channel from 9 PM on the 2ndBand QWER will hold a special live broadcast titled 'Shonen Manga Infinite Train' on their official YouTube channel at 9 PM on the 2nd. The photo shows QWER members Magenta Chodan Hina Siyeon (from left) attending the 14th Busan International Comedy Festival (BICF) held on August 21st. /Reporter Song Ho-young[THE FACT|Choi Hyun-jung] Band QWER has completed preparations for the departure of 'Live Infinite Train'.According to its agency 3Y Corporation on the 1st, QWER (Chodan Magenta Hina Siyeon) will hold a special live broadcast titled 'QWER SPECIAL LIVE: Shonen Manga Infinite Train' on its official YouTube channel at 9 PM on the 2nd.This live performance is an extension of the special single 'Boyhood Comic' released on the 21st of last month, with a 'Mugen Train concept'. QWER plans to embark on a special journey with their fans during this live performance. Additionally, a secret guest is scheduled to appear at the live event on this day.'Boyfriend' was selected as the title track through fan voting, and it carries the message of moving towards dreams like the protagonist in a shonen manga.QWER is receiving critical acclaim for its unique, upbeat band sound and lyrics that offer empathy and comfort.QWER will hold their second tour 'ROCKATION : ROCKET LAUNCH!!' in Taipei on the 10th and 11th.[Entertainment Department | ssent@tf.co.kr]laugardagr@tf.co.kr]]> FANNSTAR Thu, 01 Oct 2026 00:00:00 +0900 Guseo Dae Hospital's genius surgeon, Gye Soo-jungFirst broadcast on October 9th at 9:50 PMSBS's new Friday-Saturday drama 'Doctor X: The Era of the White Mafia,' starring actress Kim Ji-won, will premiere on October 9th. /SBS[THE FACT | Reporter Moon Chae-young] Actress Kim Ji-won will showcase an unexpected clumsy side hidden behind her perfect surgical skills.The production team of SBS's new Friday-Saturday drama 'Doctor X: The Era of the White Mafia' (written by Pyeon Seong-geun, directed by Lee Jung-rim, hereinafter referred to as 'Doctor X') released stills on the 1st showing the genius surgeon Gye Soo-jung (played by Kim Ji-won), who is obsessed only with surgery, eating heartily.'Doctor X' depicts the activities of 'Doctor X' Gye Soo-jung, who breaks down great absurdities with her genius surgical skills, knowing neither failure nor compromise. It is based on the Japanese 'Doctor X' series, which was a mega-hit on TV Asahi.Kim Ji-won, returning to the small screen after two years, plays the role of Gye Soo-jung, a genius surgeon called the 'crazy in the operating room.' She is a 'medical dark hero' who overturns the corruption at Guseo University Hospital with her skills alone.SBS's new Friday-Saturday drama 'Doctor X: The Era of the White Mafia' has released stills featuring actress Kim Ji-won. /SBSIn the stills, Gye Soo-jung is completely focused on the food in front of her. From holding two banana milks in both hands and drinking them simultaneously to not letting go of her chopsticks even with her mouth full of food, the stills show Gye Soo-jung's various eating habits.This is a stark contrast to her usual demeanor in the operating room, where she allows no room for error. In reality, Gye Soo-jung has a surprising side where she cannot resist food. Her disarmed appearance elicits laughter.Director Lee Jung-rim said, "Kim Ji-won naturally showed the quirky and human side of Gye Soo-jung. Every time I saw her convincingly portray the huge gap in the character, I thought, 'How would this have been expressed if it weren't for Kim Ji-won?'"'Doctor X,' consisting of a total of 12 episodes, will premiere on October 9th at 9:50 PM.mcy21@tf.co.kr[Entertainment Department | ssent@tf.co.kr]]]> FANNSTAR Thu, 01 Oct 2026 00:00:00 +0900 [THE FACT | Kim Seong-ryeol Reporter] Actress Chae Soo-bin poses at the production presentation of Netflix's new series 'Recharge Me' held at Hotel Naru Seoul MGallery in Mapo-gu, Seoul on the morning of the 1st.ksr@tf.co.krphoto@tf.co.kr]]> FANNSTAR Thu, 01 Oct 2026 00:00:00 +0900 Actors Kim Young-kwang and Chae Soo-bin, and director Park Soo-won (from left) pose at the press conference for the new Netflix series 'Recharge Me' held at Hotel Naru Seoul MGallery in Mapo-gu, Seoul on the morning of the 1st. /Reporter Kim Sung-ryeol[THE FACT | Reporter Kim Sung-ryeol] Actors Kim Young-kwang and Chae Soo-bin, and director Park Soo-won pose at the press conference for the new Netflix series 'Recharge Me' held at Hotel Naru Seoul MGallery in Mapo-gu, Seoul on the morning of the 1st.'Recharge Me,' based on a web novel of the same name, is a romantic comedy that depicts the romance between Chaebol 3rd generation Baekhorang, whose artificial heart battery is depleted, and Na Bo-bae, who has electric abilities.'Recharge Me,' which captures the special romance between Kim Young-kwang and Chae Soo-bin in a total of 10 episodes, will be released on Netflix on the 9th. ksr@tf.co.krPhoto&Video Planning Department photo@tf.co.kr]]> FANNSTAR Thu, 01 Oct 2026 00:00:00 +0900 Concept film for double title track 'Kick Off The Wall' releasedOfficially released on the 6th at 6 PMGroup KickFlip has released the concept film for their double title track 'Kick Off The Wall (Feat. iann dior)'./JYP Entertainment[THE FACT|Reporter Choi Hyun-jung] Group KickFlip will present a new song filled with 'dynamic energy'.On the 1st, their agency JYP Entertainment posted the concept film for the double title track 'Kick Off The Wall (Feat. iann dior)' from their fifth mini-album 'KICK OFF THE WALL Pt. 1' on the official social media of KickFlip(Kyehoon Amaru Donghwa Juwang Minje Keiju Donghyeon).The video captured the free-spirited mood of KickFlip. The concept film, composed of fast-paced screen transitions and fragmented intersecting images, clearly conveys the song's individuality.While the other double title track 'Unfinished' depicted a narrative moving towards a single future, 'Kick Off The Wall (Feat. iann dior)' foreshadowed a more intense color, raising expectations for KickFlip's new music.'Kick Off The Wall (Feat. iann dior)' is a song characterized by an evolved group sound and dynamic energy, with Keihun and Donghwa credited. American singer-songwriter iann dior's featuring further enhanced its charm.KickFlip will release their fifth mini-album 'KICK OFF THE WALL Pt. 1' on music sites on the 6th at 6 PM.laugardagr@tf.co.kr[Entertainment Department | ssent@tf.co.kr]]]> FANNSTAR Thu, 01 Oct 2026 00:00:00 +0900 The only K-pop group to attend 'Reeperbahn Festival 2026'Local media continues to praiseGroup KIIRAS performed at 'Reeperbahn Festival 2026' held in Hamburg, Germany from September 16 to 19. / Lyn Branding[THE FACT|Reporter Choi Hyun-jung] German local interest in group KIIRAS is growing.According to Lyn Branding, their agency, on the 1st, KIIRAS (Lingling Kurumi Harin Kylie Doyeon Roa) performed at 'Reeperbahn Festival 2026' held in Hamburg, Germany from September 16 to 19.KIIRAS was the only K-pop group to participate in this year's 'Reeperbahn Festival', and after their performance, German local media are focusing on them and showing great interest.German music industry specialized magazine MusikWoche and German music and culture media DIFFUS highly praised KIIRAS's music and energy, explaining, "The energy shown by the six members is directly conveyed to the audience. Especially songs like 'KILL MA BO$$', which cheerfully add a Korean touch to American country music, are very enjoyable to listen to."In addition, German music specialized magazine Frontstage Magazine selected KIIRAS as 'the most interesting overseas artist met on the day of the performance' and praised them, saying, "As soon as the live stage began, it became clear that music and performance are inseparable for KIIRAS. The choreography, visuals, and music form a harmonious package, maximizing movement and energy."KIIRAS, who received significant attention in Germany for their first European performance, plans to expand their reach with overseas fans through more active global activities in the future.Having successfully completed their first European schedule, KIIRAS is currently preparing for a new album release.laugardagr@tf.co.kr[Entertainment Department | ssent@tf.co.kr]]]> FANNSTAR Thu, 01 Oct 2026 00:00:00 +0900 Held at Kyung Hee University's Peace Palace in Seoul on November 28General ticket sales open at 8 PM on the 1st... Actors, singers, and musical actors all gatherActor Kim Nam-gil will host the charity performance 'Universe Strongest Show' in 2026, with various artists participating again this year. /Gilstory[THE FACT|Reporter Kim Saet-byeol] A dazzling lineup of artists, including actor Kim Nam-gil, Ha Jung-woo, Shin Sung-rok, and Muji, will gather for a warm cause.Culture and Arts NGO Gilstory will hold the charity performance '2026 Universe Strongest Show - Gilliversal Studio' at the Peace Palace of Kyung Hee University in Seoul at 4 PM on November 28. In addition, general ticket sales will open at 8 PM on the 1st through Ticketlink.'Universe Strongest Show' is a talent donation performance organized by Kim Nam-gil and his fellow artists with the aim of 'donating by enjoying the performance.' First held in 2019, the performance has donated its annual profits to various public campaigns, and this year marks the sixth performance.This year's performance will be held under the theme of 'Gilliversal Studio.' It is expected to deliver laughter and emotion by showcasing the stages of various artists and sharing their stories, much like enjoying theme park attractions.To this end, a large number of actors, including Kim Nam-gil, Jeon Bae-soo, Park Sung-woong, Ha Jung-woo, Park Ji-hwan, Kim Sung-kyun, Yoon Kyung-ho, Choi Young-joon, Kim Joon-han, Lee Shin-ki, Lee Yu-mi, and Nam Da-reum, will be participating. In addition, singers Muji, Jo Jazz, Shin Ae Ahn, group URBAN ZAKAPA, musical actors Cha Ji-yeon, Shin Sung-rok, Kang Hong-seok, the Kinky Boots Angels, and broadcaster Hwang Je-seong will also join.Notably, artists who have received support through 'Universe Strongest Show' in the past will also perform on stage. This is an opportunity to show the audience the results of the support that has continued through the performance.The performance proceeds will be used for 'Together Na-gil,' which supports young creators preparing for independence, and the 'Reliable Day' campaign, which helps children and adolescents in crisis recover their daily lives. It supports the creative activities and growth of young creators preparing for independence, and supports the cultural and artistic activities and recovery of daily life for children and adolescents in crisis.Kim Nam-gil, CEO of Gilstory and actor, expressed his gratitude, saying, "It is most meaningful that the time spent laughing and enjoying together at 'Universe Strongest Show' has helped protect someone's daily life and continue their dreams." He added, "Thanks to my colleagues who willingly share their talents every time and the audience who fill the seats, I have been able to continue sharing."He continued, "I hope you will laugh and enjoy yourselves to your heart's content at this year's 'Gilliversal Studio'," and "I will make sure to deliver the support you send as the power to cheer on the challenges of young creators preparing for independence and the daily lives of children in need."Pre-sale tickets for Gilstory sponsors of '2026 Universe Strongest Show' will be held until 4 PM on the 1st, and general ticket sales will be held exclusively at Ticketlink from 8 PM on the same day.sstar1204@tf.co.kr[Entertainment Department | ssent@tf.co.kr]]]> FANNSTAR Thu, 01 Oct 2026 00:00:00 +0900 October 12 Release of Mini Album Vol. 4 'I SPY'NCT WISH has released teaser images for their 4th mini-album, 'I SPY'. The images capture the members' transformation from 'Confused Boy', who was bewildered by unfamiliar emotions, to 'Lover Boy', who has confirmed their love. /SM Ent.[THE FACT | Reporter Jung Byung-geun] Boy group NCT WISH will unfold a diverse first love narrative through their fourth mini-album, 'I SPY'.NCT WISH (SION YUSHI RIKU Sakuya Ryo JAEHEE) released teaser images for their 4th mini-album, 'I SPY', on their official social media at midnight on September 30th and October 1st. The images capture the members' transformation from 'Confused Boy', who was bewildered by unfamiliar emotions, to 'Lover Boy', who has confirmed their love.The six members exude a colorful space and a free-spirited atmosphere. The unique charm of NCT WISH, who has fallen in love, can be felt.This album organically connects NCT WISH's first love narrative through trailers, teaser images, and overall promotions, depicting a more mature NCT WISH by showing the stages from 'Confused Boy', who is learning about unfamiliar emotions for the first time, to 'Lover Boy', who realizes and enjoys love.NCT WISH plans to expand the story from the trailer and teaser images into the online space, adding to the fun of waiting for their comeback. They will release their fourth mini-album, 'I SPY', on the 12th at 6 PM. It will consist of a total of 6 songs in various styles, including the title track 'I SPY'.kafka@tf.co.kr[Entertainment Department | ssent@tf.co.kr]]]> FANNSTAR Thu, 01 Oct 2026 00:00:00 +0900 Greetings by letter... Only Tom Cruise to attend the visit scheduleAlejandro G. Iñárritu, director of the film 'The Digger', announced his absence the day before the visit event. / Warner Bros. Korea Inc.[THE FACT|Reporter Park Ji-yoon] The meeting between the director of 'The Digger' and Korean audiences has been canceled.Distributor Warner Bros. Korea Inc. announced on the 1st, "Alejandro G. Iñárritu, director of the film 'The Digger', will be unable to attend the visit event due to unavoidable circumstances." As a result, only Tom Cruise is scheduled to attend the visit events held on the 1st and 2nd.Director Alejandro G. Iñárritu sent his greetings to Korean audiences through a letter. He said, "I was eagerly awaiting the day I could meet you all during the 'The Digger' world tour, but due to unforeseen circumstances, I will not be able to travel to Korea to coincide with the tour schedule."He continued, "Korea holds a very special meaning for me, especially in relation to film. I have always been deeply moved by the incredible love, passion, and warm support that Korean audiences show for films and filmmakers," adding, "I was sincerely looking forward to meeting you again this time and sharing many stories about 'The Digger'."Furthermore, director Alejandro G. Iñárritu said, "Although I cannot be there in person, I believe Tom Cruise will be able to feel the amazing warmth and support you have shown us so far," and expressed his hope, "I hope Tom can share many stories and valuable experiences about the film that you have been curious about and looking forward to."He added, "I hope you can also feel how much your passionate interest and love for 'The Digger' mean to all of us. I send my respect and affection to you through Tom," and "I sincerely regret once again missing this precious opportunity to be with you. And I earnestly hope for an opportunity to meet you again in the future."'The Digger' is a film about the story that unfolds when a small crack in the Greenland glacier drilling facility of the eccentric billionaire Digger Rockwell (played by Tom Cruise) begins to trigger a catastrophic disaster that shakes the entire world. The film is set to be released on the 3rd.jiyoon-1031@tf.co.kr[Entertainment Desk | ssent@tf.co.kr]]]> FANNSTAR Thu, 01 Oct 2026 00:00:00 +0900 Character Teaser Video ReleasedFirst Broadcast on November 14The character teaser video for actor Jang Hyuk, who appears in KBS2's new historical drama 'Moomoo', has been released. /KBS[THE FACT|Reporter Choi Soo-bin] Actor Jang Hyuk stands at the center of a great war, shouldering the fate of Goguryeo.The production team of KBS2's new historical drama 'Moomoo' (written by Kim Ri-heon&Hong Jin-yi, directed by Kim Young-jo&Gu Seong-jun) released a character teaser for Yeon Gaesomun (played by Jang Hyuk) on the 1st.'Moomoo' is a work that depicts the desperate and lonely epic of leaders who risked everything for a single victory amidst 600 years of war and internal turmoil in the Three Kingdoms.The teaser video begins with Yeon Gaesomun looking at a sword with a blood-stained face. The line "A traitor who killed the king and stole Goguryeo" is added, foreshadowing Yeon Gaesomun's narrative, caught between absolute power and a great general.Next, Yeon Gaesomun, with the face of a stern ruler, looks down at the gathered soldiers, heralding an unprecedented great war. Tang Emperor Taizong Li Shimin (played by Yang Hyun-min), who confronts Goguryeo, appears, creating a tense confrontation with Yeon Gaesomun.In particular, Yeon Gaesomun declares, "Go ahead and try. I will tear the sky of Tang and extinguish the sun." His smile along with the powerful line makes us anticipate the fierce confrontation between the two characters that will unfold.As the war officially begins, the atmosphere intensifies further. Fierce advances of the Goguryeo army across the snowfields, Yeon Gaesomun's blood-soaked face after countless battles, and relentless action unfold one after another. We wonder what choices Yeon Gaesomun, born into a family that held military power for three generations, will make in the vortex of a great destiny.At the end of the video, Yeon Gaesomun plunges a blood-stained sword into the ground and shouts, "With the tip of this sword, I will awaken the spirit of Goguryeo." Attention is focused on Yeon Gaesomun's fierce journey to risk everything for Goguryeo and his own cause, and Jang Hyuk's passionate performance to portray it.'Moomoo', consisting of a total of 28 episodes, will premiere on November 14.subin7134@tf.co.kr[Entertainment Department | ssent@tf.co.kr]]]> FANNSTAR Thu, 01 Oct 2026 00:00:00 +0900 Band sound song with a refreshing sensibilityOfficially released on the 1st at 12 PMSinger Jeon Se-yeon will release her single 'Blue Season,' filled with refreshing sensibility, on the 1st at 12 PM. / Longplay Music[THE FACT|Choi Hyun-jung] Rookie singer Jeon Se-yeon will begin her full-fledged activities with the release of her new song.Her agency, Longplay Music, announced on the 1st, "Jeon Se-yeon will release her single 'Blue Season,' filled with refreshing sensibility, on music sites at 12 PM on this day."'Blue Season' is a song that highlights Jeon Se-yeon's unique cool vocals over a cheerful band sound. It depicts the excitement and curiosity of the very small moments when love begins, and the process of an ordinary day being colored like a season by someone, with fairy-tale-like lyrics.The music video, released along with the music, features Jeon Se-yeon singing against the backdrop of a rural train station, a blue beach, and a greenhouse where flowers are in bloom. The analog direction, starting with playing a cassette tape, combined with the refreshing scenery and Jeon Se-yeon's clear smile, provides a sensation like watching a youth film. Jeon Se-yeon is a rookie singer who possesses solid vocal skills, clear high notes, and deep sensibility. Starting with 'Blue Season,' she plans to sequentially release songs with a 'season' concept and then release an EP in early 2027.Jeon Se-yeon will release 'Blue Season' at 12 PM on the 1st and hold a live busking performance at the waterside stage of Moonlight Plaza in Banpo Hangang Park at 6:30 PM on the same day. She is also scheduled to perform on the 'Star Gazing, Moon Gazing' stage at Gwanghallu Garden in Namwon, Jeonbuk, at 6 PM on the 2nd.laugardagr@tf.co.kr[Entertainment Department | ssent@tf.co.kr]]]> FANNSTAR Thu, 01 Oct 2026 00:00:00 +0900 New song announcement for NovemberConcert 'FLY AWAY' to be held at KBS Arena on December 5Singer-songwriter Kim Kwang-jin will release a new song in November and hold a concert '2026 Kim Kwang-jin Concert FLY AWAY' at KBS Arena on December 5. / Yeum Culture&Contents[THE FACT|Reporter Choi Hyun-jung] Singer-songwriter Kim Kwang-jin will present a new song for the first time in 9 years.According to his agency Yeum Culture&Contents on the 1st, Kim Kwang-jin will release a new song in November, approximately 9 years after his last release, and hold '2026 Kim Kwang-jin Concert FLY AWAY' at KBS Arena on December 5.The concert title 'FLY AWAY' signifies embracing the musical journey Kim Kwang-jin has taken so far and heading towards new horizons.At this concert, Kim Kwang-jin plans to present a stage that encompasses his beloved music from over the years along with his new songs, creating an opportunity to experience his past, present, and future music.Furthermore, the new song to be released in November holds significance as it marks Kim Kwang-jin's first new music in approximately 9 years. It is said that Kim Kwang-jin is putting extra effort into the concert, given the long wait for his new music.A concert official stated, "This '2026 Kim Kwang-jin Concert FLY AWAY' is a performance where Kim Kwang-jin embarks on his next journey based on the music he has built up so far," adding, "It will be a time to fully experience Kim Kwang-jin's music with an expanded stage and enriched lineup."Details about '2026 Kim Kwang-jin Concert FLY AWAY' can be found on the official social media.laugardagr@tf.co.kr[Entertainment Department | ssent@tf.co.kr]]]> FANNSTAR Thu, 01 Oct 2026 00:00:00 +0900 Elementary school librarian Kang Ji-sun 役... Stills RevealedFirst broadcast on the 30th at 9:50 PMCharacter stills of actress Seo Hyun-jin, who will appear in MBC's new Friday-Saturday drama 'Liar', have been released. /MBC[THE FACT|Reporter Choi Soo-bin] Actress Seo Hyun-jin wavers between truth and lies.The production team of MBC's new Friday-Saturday drama 'Liar' (written by Baek Jae-young, directed by Jo Young-min) released character stills of actress Seo Hyun-jin, who plays the role of Kang Ji-sun, on the 1st.'Liar' is a story about two men and women who make completely opposite claims about a single memory, fiercely clashing towards the truth. The drama is also drawing attention as it reunites Yoo Yeon-seok and Seo Hyun-jin, who co-starred in the 2016 SBS drama 'Dr. Romantic', for the first time in 10 years.Kang Ji-sun, played by Seo Hyun-jin, is 'a woman who claims the truth'. As an elementary school librarian, she deeply delves into the intentions behind people's words. One day, cardiothoracic surgeon Min Joon-ho (played by Yoo Yeon-seok) appears before Kang Ji-sun, who was living an ordinary life, and after their perfect first date, an irresistible wave hits her daily life.The stills show Kang Ji-sun living a peaceful daily life. As an elementary school librarian, she continues her class with a warm smile. Her affectionate gaze and comfortable smile towards the children create a peaceful atmosphere.However, in the previously released teaser video, a completely different side of Kang Ji-sun was revealed. She sharply told someone, "I'm not lying." Curiosity is raised as to what triggered the normally peaceful Kang Ji-sun to fall into extreme emotional turmoil, and whose words are the truth between Min Joon-ho and Kang Ji-sun.The production team said, "Kang Ji-sun, played by Seo Hyun-jin, is a character who shows great emotional fluctuations. As such, it is a difficult character to act, requiring a lot of energy as an actress," adding, "Seo Hyun-jin has demonstrated powerful concentration in every shoot to portray Kang Ji-sun. You will be able to see why Seo Hyun-jin is a 'trustworthy actress'."'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, 01 Oct 2026 00:00:00 +0900 The story of "us" discovered in the time we spent togetherHwang Minhyun will release their new digital single 'OUR' on the 7th. This is their first new song in 8 months. /THE FACT DB[THE FACT | Reporter Jung Byung-geun] Singer and actor Hwang Minhyun is returning with a new song after 8 months.According to his agency Pledis on the 1st, Hwang Minhyun will release their new digital single 'OUR' at 6 PM on the 7th. 'OUR', the result of about 8 months since 'Truth' released in February, is an album where Hwang Minhyun looks back on the time that made him, recalls the traces of those who were by his side, and tells the story of "us" discovered within it.'OUR' will include a total of 3 tracks, including the title song. Pledis introduced, "It contains Hwang Minhyun's various sides, as well as the desire of 'us' to connect more deeply with each other."Hwang Minhyun released a video related to 'OUR' on their official social media at 10 PM on the 30th. It is a video where numerous words representing him, such as 'DOT' and 'Hwangdo', float in an infinite space. The scattered letters form a circle, emit light, and are then completed as the album title 'OUR'.The video heightened curiosity about the new album with its dreamy sound that strikes the listener's heart and sensual direction. Hwang Minhyun plans to expand his musical spectrum as a solo artist by challenging new vocal colors and genres through his new digital single.Following the release of his new album, Hwang Minhyun will meet global fans. He will hold a fan meeting 'Dohwongeong' from October 16th to 18th at the Woori Bank Hall in COEX Artium, Gangnam-gu, Seoul. Afterwards, he will visit Tokyo (October 21-22), Macau (November 7), and Taipei (November 27), meeting fans a total of 7 times.kafka@tf.co.kr[Entertainment Department | ssent@tf.co.kr]]]> FANNSTAR Thu, 01 Oct 2026 00:00:00 +0900 The story of two men who discover a mysterious dead body at an isolated train station due to heavy snow.The film 'Snowstorm', starring Kim Yun-seok and Koo Kyo-hwan, has confirmed its release in November and released a trailer. / Showbox[THE FACT|Reporter Park Ji-yoon] Actors Kim Yun-seok and Koo Kyo-hwan will visit theaters in November with 'Snowstorm'.Distributor Showbox announced on the 1st, "The film 'Snowstorm' (directed by Hong Eui-jeong and Park Sun-woo) will be released in November," and released a trailer. The video captures the fresh acting ensemble of Kim Yun-seok and Koo Kyo-hwan, who will lead the work, drawing attention.The film is a mystery drama that unfolds when a mysterious dead body is discovered in front of Gap-su (played by Kim Yun-seok), a station manager about to retire, and Hyun-taek (played by Koo Kyo-hwan), his new successor, at a rural train station isolated by heavy snow.Kim Yun-seok plays Gap-su, the station manager of Seol-o Station, which he has protected his whole life, and is about to retire. He is expected to captivate the audience by delicately portraying the subtle emotional changes of a character who faces unexpected events after welcoming his successor.Koo Kyo-hwan plays Hyun-taek, the new station attendant. He has always shown his unique color in every work with his unrivaled personality, and he is expected to show a new face this time as well.The trailer released on this day captures attention by showing Gap-su, the station manager of Seol-o Station, and his successor Hyun-taek heading to a tunnel for track inspection amidst a serene snowy landscape.Then, contrary to Hyun-taek's words as he looks around and says, "Nothing will happen," the two soon discover a mysterious dead body, and the situation takes an entirely unexpected turn with the addition of the meaningful copy, "It was all because of the snow."Here, Hyun-taek's meaningful line, "I won't tell anyone what happened here," hints that the relationship between the two will enter another phase, making the story even more intriguing.'Snowstorm' will be released in November.jiyoon-1031@tf.co.kr[Entertainment Desk | ssent@tf.co.kr]]]> FANNSTAR Thu, 01 Oct 2026 00:00:00 +0900 Mystery Hidden Behind 50 Times the Minimum Wage... Teaser Poster and Trailer ReleasedStarring Lee Jae-wook, Go Min-si, and Kim Min-ha... Composed of 8 EpisodesNetflix's new series 'Honey Job,' starring actors Lee Jae-wook, Go Min-si, and Kim Min-ha, will be released on the 30th. /Netflix[THE FACT|Reporter Kim Saet-byeol] 'Honey Job,' starring actors Lee Jae-wook, Go Min-si, and Kim Min-ha, is set to unveil.Netflix confirmed the release date for its new original series 'Honey Job' (written by Kyung Min-sun&Lee Shin-ji, directed by Kim Da-min) to be the 30th and released a teaser poster and trailer depicting strange incidents hidden behind high-paying part-time jobs.'Honey Job' is a horror series set in a peculiar employment agency that only introduces 'honey jobs' starting at 50 times the hourly wage. It tells the story of a young man, Hyuk-joon (played by Lee Jae-wook), being deployed to a nightmarish work environment.The teaser poster contains a dangerous warning hidden behind the ultra-high daily wage part-time job. Hyuk-joon, sitting covered in blood in the middle of a chaotic space, hints at the strange and dangerous situation he is in. The phrase written among the scattered furniture, "Guaranteed minimum hourly wage 50 times, would you like to accept the honey job?" alludes to the risks Hyuk-joon must bear in exchange for high compensation.The accompanying teaser trailer begins with Hyuk-joon, struggling with debt, visiting the employment agency as a last resort. In the shabby employment agency, Hyuk-joon is offered a part-time job at 50 times the minimum wage. The boss (played by Lee Hee-joon), to the intrigued yet suspicious Hyuk-joon, tempts him sweetly, saying, "What could be a better honey job than this?"However, the job, once started, is a series of challenging journeys. He is attacked by a swarm of moths at a convenience store visited late at night and encounters a bizarre clown, among other chilling incidents. Nevertheless, as his daily wage increases with each success, Hyuk-joon heads to another dangerous site.Attention is focused on whether Hyuk-joon, who has stepped into an irresistible sweet offer, can survive the nightmarish sites where his life is threatened as the hourly wage increases.'Honey Job,' composed of a total of 8 episodes, will be released in its entirety on Netflix on the 30th.sstar1204@tf.co.kr[Entertainment Department | ssent@tf.co.kr]]]> FANNSTAR Thu, 01 Oct 2026 00:00:00 +0900 'Made in Korea' Season 1 to Season 2... A Performance That Has Gone Through 9 Years of TimeWorked with Hyun Bin&Jung Woo-sung... "I wanted to play someone's younger sibling."Actor Woo Do-hwan met with to conduct an interview commemorating the finale of the Disney+ original series 'Made in Korea Season 2'. /Walt Disney Company Korea[THE FACT|Reporter Kim Saet-byul] Actor Woo Do-hwan has spent two seasons with 'Made in Korea.' At the same time, Woo Do-hwan also learned new things as an actor by contemplating the growth of a character over two seasons.Woo Do-hwan recently met with at a cafe in Samcheong-dong, Jongno-gu, Seoul, for an interview commemorating the finale of the Disney+ original series 'Made in Korea Season 2' (written by Park Eun-kyo, directed by Woo Min-ho, hereinafter referred to as 'Mainko2'). Playing Baek Ki-hyun in the drama, he shared various stories from participating in Season 1 and Season 2.'Mainko2,' which concluded its 6-episode run on the 23rd, is a noir drama depicting the journey of Baek Ki-tae (played by Hyun Bin), who goes on a rampage towards greater ambition. Season 1, released in December last year, was set in 1970s South Korea and built relationships between characters with their own desires and beliefs, centered around Baek Ki-tae. In Season 2, released on the 9th, 9 months later, the National Intelligence Service and the Joint Investigation Headquarters clashed in a vacuum of absolute power, and Jang Geon-young (played by Jung Woo-sung), who reappeared after 9 years, and Baek Ki-hyun, who tried to stop his brother's rampage, clashed with their own interests.Baek Ki-hyun, played by Woo Do-hwan, grew from a fresh second lieutenant in Season 1 to a security force lieutenant colonel in Season 2. The younger brother, who was intimidated by his older brother Baek Ki-tae but admired him more than anyone, begins to find his own voice after 9 years. In particular, in Season 2, he is constantly asked to choose sides between Jang Geon-young and Baek Ki-tae.Woo Do-hwan confessed with a laugh, "It was a season where Ki-hyun's choices were important, so I felt both pressure and responsibility. Jang Geon-young asked me if I had decided which side to take, and my brother also kept pressuring me over the phone, making me feel squeezed."In reality, the environment surrounding Ki-hyun was structured to pressure the character. Since he was being watched by various characters and had to take responsibility for his choices, it was important not to easily reveal Ki-hyun's inner thoughts."The director said he didn't want to see any wavering. He wanted it to be unclear which side I would take. I think he wanted me to maintain that stance until the end. I also thought it was right not to take my character lightly."Actor Woo Do-hwan played the role of Baek Ki-hyun in Disney+ original series 'Made in Korea' Season 1 and Season 2, playing a pivotal role and adding tension. /Walt Disney Company KoreaThe scene where he points a gun at Baek Ki-tae was approached in the same context. Woo Do-hwan interpreted it as a scene where Baek Ki-hyun was not trying to kill his brother, but telling Baek Ki-tae to stop in the strongest way he could. In fact, he did not perform the action of pulling the trigger. Ki-hyun's actions of telling his brother to leave for Japan and that he would take care of his sister and Min-ju were explained as containing his inability to let go of his family until the end.As such, Ki-hyun's emotions towards Baek Ki-tae coexist with love and fear. He was the eldest brother and someone he admired since childhood, but at the same time, he was a presence that constantly pressured him. Woo Do-hwan said, "I wanted to be a younger brother who was intimidated by his older brother," and set a greater distance between the brothers than in the actual script. He tried to use honorifics for the same reason."The original script did not use honorifics. They were closer brothers. I tried to portray a younger brother who was intimidated by his older brother. I also made mistakes, so I wanted to convey the feeling of wanting to run away just by looking at my brother's eyes, like a puppy with its tail tucked between its legs in front of a tiger."However, Ki-hyun did not become a soldier according to his brother's wishes from the beginning. Woo Do-hwan said, "I don't think he became a soldier just because his brother told him to," and added, "He grew up seeing his brother as a soldier, so he thought that image was cool and wanted to be like his brother." He continued, "He worked harder than anyone else and got the top grades, and only then did he hear proud words from his brother. Therefore, he must have realized that he had to become the best to receive love and recognition from his brother."Actor Woo Do-hwan revealed the points he focused on to express the 9-year time span and other aspects while playing Baek Ki-hyun. /Walt Disney Company KoreaIn that sense, the expression Woo Do-hwan chose for Baek Ki-hyun in Season 2 was 'Achilles' heel' rather than 'key man.' It meant he was less of a character holding the key to the incident and more of a weakness that Baek Ki-tae could not ignore until the end. For Baek Ki-tae, family was the reason he had lived this far and, at the same time, his greatest weakness. His younger brother, Baek Ki-hyun, was the one who touched that point.Woo Do-hwan said, "To Baek Ki-tae, who thinks he has lived this way for his younger siblings, Ki-hyun is, in a way, an obstacle. I thought he was a character who caused great concern for his brother."In Season 1, some viewers described Baek Ki-hyun as having 'middle school syndrome.' Woo Do-hwan acknowledged this, but pointed out that it was inevitable. Woo Do-hwan explained, "In Season 1, I definitely tried to make him seem immature. He's a second lieutenant who just got commissioned, in his early twenties. He was a young age who didn't know reality, so I think he could confidently say he wanted to go to war in front of his brother.""But I can't help it. I'm unconditionally on Ki-hyun's side. When people say they don't understand Ki-hyun's actions, I wonder why they don't understand. Isn't it natural? (laughs)"Actor Woo Do-hwan revealed the reasons why he wanted to be in the Disney+ original series 'Made in Korea' and what he learned through it. /Walt Disney Company KoreaThrough the two seasons, Woo Do-hwan gained more than just an understanding of the character Baek Ki-hyun. By observing the senior actors he worked with for a long time, he also thought about the path he wanted to take as an actor. He wants to be an actor who is continuously sought after in projects over time and who inspires trust just by his presence.Woo Do-hwan expressed his desire, "When I meet senior actors these days, I think it's cool that they remain irreplaceable actors, and I feel a lot of respect just by their presence. At the same time, I want to become an actor like that."As it was a series, his feelings of letting go were also special. Having contemplated one character for a long time, it was difficult to let go easily after filming ended. Woo Do-hwan said, "Through experiences with series like 'Project Wolf Hunting,' I've felt that the longer the time spent on a character and a project, the greater the attachment."Even after finishing the project, Woo Do-hwan did not solely focus on Baek Ki-hyun. He hoped that viewers would see the overall power of 'Mainko,' which was created by the clash of individual desires and beliefs, beyond the story of the character he played. This was his final greeting as an actor who had experienced both seasons."'Mainko' was a project where I learned so much, though it sounds cliché. I can't help but say this the most. Just having a good filmography as an actor is meaningful to me, and I even wonder if Season 2 will really be the end. I hope those who haven't seen it yet enjoy it. I don't even want to ask them to just look at Ki-hyun. I believe 'Mainko' has its own power. I think we're doing patriotism just by the title."sstar1204@tf.co.kr[Entertainment Department | ssent@tf.co.kr]]]> FANNSTAR Thu, 01 Oct 2026 00:00:00 +0900 'Never Again' Released Today (1st)Leo will release his new song 'Never Again' on the 1st and hold a fan meeting on the 3rd. /Sublime Management[THE FACT | Reporter Jung Byung-geun] Singer and musical actor Leo (Jung Taek-woon) is returning with a new solo song after about four years.Leo will release his new digital single 'Never Again' on various online music sites at 6 PM on the 1st. 'Never Again' is his first solo song in about four years since the release of his 3rd mini-album 'Piano man Op. 9' in 2022.In the song, Leo expressed his desire to end a relationship with a lover with whom he repeatedly met and parted. Leo wrote the lyrics and participated in the composition entirely on his own. His agency, Sublime Management, introduced the song by saying, "The emotions and message Leo wanted to convey are fully captured."Having debuted in 2012 as a member of the group VIXX, Leo has consistently showcased his voice through drama OSTs as well as group activities, and has been actively performing on musical stages. Recently, he met with audiences playing the role of the original character Cell 109 in the musical 'Yumi's Cells'.After the release of 'Never Again', he will hold a solo fan meeting on the 3rd at the Grand Auditorium of Sungshin Women's University's Unjeong Green Campus in Seoul.kafka@tf.co.kr[Entertainment Department | ssent@tf.co.kr]]]> FANNSTAR Thu, 01 Oct 2026 00:00:00 +0900 Documentary closely covering volunteer work and acting activities in AfricaKim Hye-ja: "Use me to convey hope to people."SBS's special documentary 'Kim Hye-ja's Well-being - Don't Die', which captures the life of actress Kim Hye-ja, will premiere on the 4th. /World Vision[THE FACT | Reporter Moon Chae-young] The story of actress Kim Hye-ja, filled with sharing and acting, will be revealed.International relief and development NGO World Vision announced on the 1st, "SBS's special documentary 'Kim Hye-ja's Well-being - Don't Die' will be released on SBS on the 4th and on Netflix on the 5th," and "It sheds light on the life of Kim Hye-ja, Goodwill Ambassador, who is 85 years old this year and celebrating 65 years of her acting career, and her long journey of sharing."'Kim Hye-ja's Well-being - Don't Die' began with a plan selected from World Vision employees' internal idea contest in 2024. It was completed over three years, closely covering Kim Hye-ja's last volunteer activities in Africa in 2025 and her acting activities for the movie 'Still Shining' in 2026.The title 'Don't Die' is a message Kim Hye-ja has actually conveyed throughout her life, meaning 'People going through difficult times are not alone. Hope can be found through mutual care and sharing.'Kim Hye-ja asked the production team, "Don't make me a hero, but use me to convey hope to people." In response, the documentary sincerely depicted Kim Hye-ja gaining the strength to live as she continued to share by meeting children in need.'Kim Hye-ja's Well-being - Don't Die' features directors Bong Joon-ho and Song Il-gon, who have a connection with Kim Hye-ja, as well as actors Go Doo-shim, Lee Jung-eun, Lee Se-young, Choi Kang-hee, Son Ho-jun, and Ryu Deok-hwan. Additionally, Han Lo-ro's 'To You' and Jeong Milla's 'Flower', whose works resonated with the film's purpose, were inserted as background music.World Vision President Cho Myung-hwan said, "This documentary, which captures Kim Hye-ja's acting career and her life of sharing as a World Vision Goodwill Ambassador, will show that we can all be reasons to live and hope for each other, beyond one person's good deeds."'Kim Hye-ja's Well-being - Don't Die' will premiere on SBS on the 4th at 11:05 PM. It will be available on Netflix from the 5th.[Entertainment Desk | __2__]mcy21@tf.co.krssent@tf.co.kr]]> FANNSTAR Thu, 01 Oct 2026 00:00:00 +0900 Officially released on the 12th at 6 PMGroup MEOVV announced their comeback by releasing TVING content on the 1st./THEBLACKLABEL[THE FACT|Reporter Choi Hyun-jung] Group MEOVV is returning with a new song that captures another charm.On the 1st, their agency THEBLACKLABEL released teasing content for the new single 'GO HARD' on MEOVV(SOOIN GAWON ANNA NARIN ELLA)'s official social media.The images show the members of MEOVV exuding their unique charm with glamorous visuals. They completed a free and hip atmosphere with styling that matched sporty tops and jackets with chic boots.The impactful album cover also catches the eye. The image of taut chains makes us look forward to the intense music that MEOVV will present.Previously, MEOVV released their second EP 'BITE NOW' in June and actively promoted with the title track 'DDI RO RI' and the B-side track 'Hit 'Em'.MEOVV will release their new single 'GO HARD' on various music sites on the 12th at 6 PM./THEBLACKLABELAttention is focused on what kind of performance MEOVV will show in 'GO HARD', which is being released four months later, as they expand their spectrum by showcasing energetic performances and diverse musical colors.MEOVV will release their new single 'GO HARD' on various music sites on the 12th at 6 PM.laugardagr@tf.co.kr[Entertainment Department | ssent@tf.co.kr]]]> FANNSTAR Thu, 01 Oct 2026 00:00:00 +0900 US and Mexico local media spotlightAlbum released in the US on the 2ndGroup ALPHA DRIVE ONE is expanding its global influence, receiving attention from US and Mexican local media. The photo shows ALPHA DRIVE ONE Junseo ARNO LEO SANGWON ANXIN XINLONG SANGHYEON (from left) attending the '2026 THE FACT MUSIC AWARDS(2026 THE FACT MUSIC AWARDS, TMA)' blue carpet on September 19. /Reporter Kim Sung-ryeol[THE FACT|Reporter Choi Hyun-jung] Group ALPHA DRIVE ONE is receiving attention from major North and Central American media outlets.According to agency Wakeone on the 1st, ALPHA DRIVE ONE (LEO Junseo ARNO SANGWON XINLONG ANXIN SANGHYEON) is solidifying its position in the global market by being featured in succession in major US and Mexican media, including US economic specialized magazines Forbes and BuzzFeed.Forbes highlighted ALPHA DRIVE ONE's achievements in its debut year, its growth trajectory confirmed at 'KCON LA 2026', and its upcoming official release of its second mini-album 'UNBREAKABLE : 少年BEAST' in the US.They described their activities since debut, which have continued without pause, with the expression, "ALPHA DRIVE ONE put their foot on the gas and never stopped."They also noted ALPHA DRIVE ONE's new look showcased in 'UNBREAKABLE : 少年BEAST' and its ability to demonstrate a wide range of musical colors.Forbes introduced the album as a work that captures a wide spectrum of colors, from powerful sound and cinematic performances to music spanning various genres, and expressed interest in ALPHA DRIVE ONE's next move.In addition, major US entertainment media outlets are also showing interest in ALPHA DRIVE ONE's charm. ALPHA DRIVE ONE appeared on BuzzFeed Celeb, sharing stories on various topics and showcasing a different sense of entertainment and unexpected charm that contrasts with their powerful stage performances.ALPHA DRIVE ONE is currently actively promoting in the US, increasing its presence. They unveiled the first live performance of their follow-up song 'Talk to me' through 'Live from Vevo Studios' and appeared as guests on the US morning show 'Good Day LA' and Apple Music radio to discuss their music, continuing their active promotions.ALPHA DRIVE ONE will officially release their second mini-album 'UNBREAKABLE : 少年BEAST' in the US on the 2nd. The photo shows ALPHA DRIVE ONE appearing on BuzzFeed Celeb. /BuzzFeed Celeb YouTube captureIn addition, ALPHA DRIVE ONE held their first performance in Mexico, drawing the attention of local fans. ALPHA DRIVE ONE captivated local fans by showcasing diverse performances at 'KOREA SPOTLIGHT' of 'K-EXPO MEXICO'.Mexican daily newspaper Excélsior and broadcaster TV Azteca's news channel 'adn Noticias' also focused on ALPHA DRIVE ONE.ALPHA DRIVE ONE, who is active on both domestic and international stages, will officially release their second mini-album 'UNBREAKABLE : 少年BEAST' in the US on the 2nd.[Entertainment Department | ssent@tf.co.kr]laugardagr@tf.co.kr]]> FANNSTAR Thu, 01 Oct 2026 00:00:00 +0900 'Assassination' 2nd place, 'Tazza: The High Rollers 2' 3rd placeThe Japanese animation 'Theatrical Version: Chikawa: The Secret of Mermaid Island' captivated 122,293 viewers on its opening day, topping the box office. /CJ ENM[THE FACT|Reporter Park Ji-yoon] 'Theatrical Version Chikawa: The Secret of Mermaid Island' immediately rose to the top of the box office upon its release.According to the Korean Film Council's integrated computer network for movie admissions on the 1st, 'Theatrical Version Chikawa: The Secret of Mermaid Island' (directed by Oikawa Kei), which was released in theaters the previous day, recorded first place at the box office by attracting 122,293 viewers. The cumulative number of viewers is 153,018.Notably, this figure surpasses 'Toy Story 5' (94,694 viewers), 'Super Mario Galaxy' (60,433 viewers), and 'Detective Conan: The Angel of Death on the Highway' (67,964 viewers), and is the highest opening score among all animated films released this year, drawing even more attention.'Chikawa (Chiikawa)' is a popular manga by Japanese illustrator Nagano, which began serialization on X (formerly Twitter). It depicts the joyful, poignant, and sometimes rough daily lives of unique characters.'Theatrical Version: Chikawa: The Secret of Mermaid Island' is based on the most popular episode serialized in 2023, 'The Siren Arc,' and Nagano himself participated in the script and supervision, fully capturing the charm and emotion of the original work.The film, which proved its unparalleled IP (Intellectual Property) power immediately upon its release, is an animation that depicts Chikawa and his companions embarking on a journey to an unknown island, tempted by a sweet offer of 100 times the reward, and uncovering a suspicious extermination mission to unearth the secrets hidden there.'Assassination' (directed by Hur Jin-ho) ranked second with 71,942 viewers. The cumulative number of viewers is 1,766,946, and it is heading towards surpassing 2 million viewers.Released on September 23rd, 'Assassination' is a mystery thriller that traces the suspicions and masterminds behind the assassination attempt that shocked South Korea on August 15, 1974, adding cinematic imagination to the remaining records and unresolved questions to this day. Director Hur Jin-ho, known for his delicate exploration of characters and events in films like 'The Last Princess' and 'Christmas in August,' took the helm.Previously, 'Assassination' had a strong start, attracting 134,460 viewers on its opening day to take the No. 1 spot at the box office, and surpassed 1 million viewers in just four days, continuing its box office success.However, some viewers who watched the movie raised suspicions of historical distortion regarding scenes suggesting the possibility of former President Park Chung-hee's side or the Central Intelligence Agency's involvement in the incident, and the film became the center of various controversies, with theories of Chinese capital also being raised.'Tazza: The High Rollers 2' (directed by Choi Gook-hee) ranked third with 57,855 viewers, 'The Resurrection Man: The Red' (directed by Baek) ranked fourth with 42,872 viewers, and 'Odyssey' (directed by Christopher Nolan) ranked fifth with 19,827 viewers.jiyoon-1031@tf.co.kr[Entertainment Department | ssent@tf.co.kr]]]> FANNSTAR Thu, 01 Oct 2026 00:00:00 +0900 Season 1 Team Manager → Season 2 PR Team LeaderFirst broadcast on October 11 at 9:10 PMGroup Seventeen member SEUNGKWAN expressed his feelings about joining MBC's new entertainment program, 'Rookie Director Kim Yeon-Koung2'. The photo shows them departing for Paris, France, via Incheon International Airport on the morning of January 20 for an overseas schedule. / Reporter Song Ho-young[THE FACT|Reporter Choi Soo-bin] Seventeen SEUNGKWAN will act as a strong supporter for Director Kim Yeon-Koung.The production team of MBC's new entertainment program 'Rookie Director Kim Yeon-Koung' Season 2 (hereinafter referred to as 'Rookie Director Kim Yeon-Koung2') released a written interview with Seventeen SEUNGKWAN, who is in charge of the PR team, on the 1st. Seungkwan said, "It is an honor to be able to participate again in a program that received so much love."'Rookie Director Kim Yeon-Koung2' is a club establishment project where Kim Yeon-Koung, who has become a '2nd-year veteran director', and 'Fil Seung Wonderdogs' move from UNDER to WONDER. While Season 1, which aired last September, depicted the club establishment process of volleyball legend Kim Yeon-Koung, who returned as a rookie director, this season portrays the team's challenges as they grow further amidst even fiercer competition.Boo Seungkwan, who was active as the team manager of 'Fil Seung Wonderdogs' last season, will take on the new role of 'PR Team Leader' this season, contributing to the journey towards establishing the 8th professional club. He said, "It is an honor to be able to participate again in a program that received so much love last year," and added, "There is an important gateway where we have to find actual club owners to establish the club. As the PR Team Leader, I will try my best to promote 'Fil Seung Wonderdogs' with all my effort."He continued, "While I just cheered hard in Season 1, in Season 2, I thought more about what I should do to help establish the club and did more research," adding, "I think I tried to help the players, director, and coaching staff focus on training."What was the chemistry with Director Kim Yeon-Koung, who has been with the show since Season 1? Seungkwan recalled, "We became very close while working together in Season 1, and after the program ended, we became close enough to call each other 'noona' (older sister)." He added, "However, when we started preparing for Season 2, I called her 'director' again."He continued, "It's truly admirable to see her sincerely lead the team with all her best, no matter when I see her by my side," and "Seeing her meticulousness and her efforts not to miss even the smallest details made me understand once again why she was called a legend since her playing days."Finally, he encouraged a lot of viewers to watch, saying, "It is a hot, fierce, and cold, yet warm program," and "If you want to feel passionate again, I highly recommend watching it."'Rookie Director Kim Yeon-Koung2' will premiere on October 11 at 9:10 PM.subin7134@tf.co.kr[Entertainment Department | ssent@tf.co.kr]]]> FANNSTAR Thu, 01 Oct 2026 00:00:00 +0900 Released first solo album 'DEAD:ALIVE' on the 12thSUNG HANBIN released the first concept photo for their first mini-album 'DEAD:ALIVE'. SUNG HANBIN revealed a scarred face and intense gaze through a cracked helmet visor. /The Live Label[THE FACT | Reporter Jung Byung-geun] ZEROBASEONE SUNG HANBIN conveyed the atmosphere of their first solo album with rough charisma and deep emotion.SUNG HANBIN released the first concept photo for their first mini-album 'DEAD:ALIVE' on their official social media at 30 PM last month. SUNG HANBIN revealed a scarred face and intense gaze through a cracked helmet visor. The image of them leaning against a red motorcycle in a free-spirited pose exudes unrestrained energy.In a cut with a red subject crossing, they captivated attention with a mesmerizing aura. In the close-up cut, the eyes revealed through their hair and the scars on their face left a rough yet sophisticated impression. The hand holding a small white flower among rose petals created a meaningful atmosphere, adding to the curiosity about the story depicted in the concept photo.SUNG HANBIN's first solo mini-album 'DEAD:ALIVE' is an album that depicts the process of 'self-transcendence,' growing into a new self by not stopping even in the face of fear and breaking all the limits that confined them. /The Live LabelSUNG HANBIN's first solo mini-album 'DEAD:ALIVE' is an album that depicts the process of 'self-transcendence,' growing into a new self by not stopping even in the face of fear and breaking all the limits that confined them. The title track 'UNDEAD' is a song that contains the strong will to willingly accept any pain and hardship for you and yourself.SUNG HANBIN, who showed a contrasting atmosphere with their captivating visuals from the first concept photo, plans to release various content sequentially. They will release their first solo album 'DEAD:ALIVE' at 6 PM on the 12th.kafka@tf.co.kr[Entertainment Department | ssent@tf.co.kr]]]> FANNSTAR Thu, 01 Oct 2026 00:00:00 +0900 'Grief' and 'deep sorrow' of 'separation from loved ones' captured in the moon, stars, rain, and snowA deep connection with historical drama theme songs, from 'Jang Nok-su' to 'Seo-gung' and 'A-ssi'Jeon Mi-kyung, who sang the tragic emotions of historical dramas with 'Jang Nok-su,' now sings of Danjong's final journey through 'Cheongnyongpo.' Recently, the recording of 'Cheongnyongpo' was completed, which begins with Danjong's departure on a 700-ri journey to Cheongnyongpo along the Gwangnaroo ferry route. /THE FACT DB[THE FACT|Reporter Kang Il-hong] Jeon Mi-kyung, who sang the tragic emotions of historical dramas with 'Jang Nok-su,' now sings of Danjong's final journey through 'Cheongnyongpo.'The new song 'Cheongnyongpo' (lyrics by Jeon Mi-kyung, composed by Lee Jong-hak), which perfectly matches Jeon Mi-kyung's musical style after a long time, is a song about the exile journey of Danjong, who lived a tragic life in the Joseon Dynasty.The recently completed recording of 'Cheongnyongpo' begins with Danjong's departure on a 700-ri journey to Cheongnyongpo along the Gwangnaroo ferry route. Jeon Mi-kyung's poignant voice captures Danjong's sorrow and longing as he was forced to embark on his exile journey, parting from his beloved Queen Jeongsun and leaving behind his loyal subjects and people.The first verse of the song focuses on the separation between Danjong and Queen Jeongsun. For Danjong, who thinks of Queen Jeongsun left in Hanyang, the 'moon' in the night sky symbolizes his beloved. The two, unable to meet again across the 700-ri distance, long for each other day and night, but the moon remains in the sky without any answer. The tears shed from their separation fall as rain in Cheongnyongpo.The second verse features Danjong's connection with his subjects and people. Danjong's heart collapses as he recalls the past days of laughter and tears, sharing joy and sorrow. The 'stars' in the lyrics represent the subjects and people who miss Danjong. Just as countless stars adorn the night sky, their hearts remain in various places, but they can only watch Danjong from afar and cannot soothe his sorrow.If the 'rain' in the first verse represents the tears of separation shed by Queen Jeongsun and Danjong, the 'snow' in the second verse symbolizes the deep, unmelted sorrow accumulated from their years together.Jeon Mi-kyung's first hit and signature song, 'Jang Nok-su,' was loved as the theme song for the drama of the same name aired on KBS 2TV in 1995. 'Jang Nok-su,' which begins with 'Oh, passing time, oh, flowing clouds,' remains Jeon Mi-kyung's representative song even after many years have passed. /KBS 'Gayo Stage'Jeon Mi-kyung is a singer with a particularly deep connection to the emotions of historical dramas. She has lent her voice to various historical drama-related works, including the OSTs for 'Im-i-yeo Im-il-lae-ra,' 'Seo-gung,' 'A-ssi,' and 'Yeoja-ui Bang,' as well as the theme song for KBS 2 Radio's 'Yeoin Yeoljeon.' This is because she has shown a unique strength in expressing the sorrow, love, and separation of historical figures.At the center of it all is undoubtedly 'Jang Nok-su.' Jeon Mi-kyung's first hit and signature song, 'Jang Nok-su,' was loved as the theme song for the drama of the same name aired on KBS 2TV in 1995. In the work, which dealt with the love and passion of Jang Nok-su, a concubine of King Yeonsan who was from a low-born background, and King Yeonsan's human anguish, Jeon Mi-kyung's resonant voice perfectly conveyed the unique, poignant, and deep emotions of historical dramas.'Jang Nok-su,' which begins with 'Oh, passing time, oh, flowing clouds,' remains Jeon Mi-kyung's representative song even after many years have passed. Later, it was re-examined when singers like Song Ga-In and Yang Ji Eun sang it again on trot audition programs.As the years deepen, Jeon Mi-kyung's voice remains deep and resonant. Her true talent shines even brighter when she sings emotions that have accumulated over time, such as love and separation, sorrow and longing. Attention is focused on how the sorrow of a historical figure will be revived with a resonant impact when met with Jeon Mi-kyung's poignant voice and mournful melody.eel@tf.co.kr]]> FANNSTAR Thu, 01 Oct 2026 00:00:00 +0900 Review Video Made Private... Direct Explanation on 'Conspiracy Theory' Remarks"Not endorsing the theory that former President Park Chung-hee was behind it... My cinematic judgment remains the same."On the morning of the 30th of last month, as controversy surrounding the film 'Assassination(s),' which deals with the assassination of Madam Yuk Young-soo, escalated, a trailer for 'Assassination(s)' is being screened on a large screen at CGV Yongsan I'Park Mall in Yongsan-gu, Seoul. / Reporter Seo Ye-won[THE FACT|Reporter Kim Saet-byul] Film critic Lee Dong-jin has directly addressed the privatization of the review video for 'Assassination(s)' and the related controversy. While clarifying remarks that were distorted in context, he made it clear that he would not change his existing evaluation and conviction regarding the film itself.On the 30th of last month, Lee Dong-jin posted a lengthy message on his blog regarding the review video for the film 'Assassination(s).'The review video, previously released on the YouTube channel 'B tv Lee Dong-jin's Paiakia' on the 25th of last month, was made private after internal discussions among the production team due to ongoing disputes about the film. Lee Dong-jin explained that he was informed of the video's privatization by the production team.At the center of the controversy was the remark, "It cannot simply be dismissed as a conspiracy theory," from the review video. Lee Dong-jin pointed out that misunderstandings arose because the statement was quoted out of context.Regarding the remark, he stated, "It was in the process of explaining how the film deals with points that were not easily resolved by the official announcements at the time, such as the whereabouts of the bullets fired at the National Theater on August 15, 1974," and "It did not mean that all hypotheses raised by the film were true, and it had no relation to the claim that former President Park Chung-hee was behind the assassination of Madam Yuk Young-soo."He also responded to the criticism that his past evaluation of the documentary 'The Road to Guantanamo' contradicted his current remarks. He explained that what he pointed out at the time were the problems that could arise when the boundary between actual events and reenactments by actors became blurred.In this regard, Lee Dong-jin emphasized, "While documentaries are based on actual events, 'Assassination(s)' is a fictional film with actors portraying characters," and "The same standard cannot be applied because the audience is aware that it is a dramatized story."However, he added that the extent to which the boundary between fact and fiction should be allowed in a fictional film based on historical events can be discussed, and the work can be criticized from that perspective.He also distanced himself from any connection to political stances. Lee Dong-jin said, "For the past 30 years, I have been criticized alternately by people with completely opposite views while reviewing films," and "The views expressed in this video have no relation to my views as a citizen on the political situation in Korea."He then made it clear that he had no intention of changing his previous evaluation. Lee Dong-jin stated, "My cinematic judgment on 'Assassination(s)' remains the same," and "I have no intention of retracting the evaluation made in the review or apologizing for it. However, I wanted to make it clear what I said and what I did not say."'Assassination(s),' released on the 23rd of last month, is based on the assassination of Madam Yuk Young-soo on August 15, 1974, and tells the story of the investigation into the suspicions and perpetrators of the incident at the time.The film, which reconstructs the actual event with added cinematic imagination, sparked controversy over historical distortion and political interpretation by hinting at the possibility of accomplices, contrary to the official investigation report at the time.sstar1204@tf.co.kr[Entertainment Department | ssent@tf.co.kr]]]> FANNSTAR Thu, 01 Oct 2026 00:00:00 +0900 A long-time couple since 2013, publicly dating since 2020Worked together on projects like 'Me:g' as lovers and creative partnersGu Kyo-hwan (left) and Lee Ok-seop have become legal spouses through marriage registration two years after publicly dating. The photo shows them walking the red carpet together at the 'Busan International Film Festival' in 2018. /Newsis[THE FACT|Reporter Kim Saet-byeol] Actor Gu Kyo-hwan and director Lee Ok-seop's legal marriage has been revealed belatedly.Gu Kyo-hwan's agency, Namoo Actors, announced in an official statement on the 1st, "Actor Gu Kyo-hwan and director Lee Ok-seop have trusted and relied on each other as lovers for a long time, and they became spouses by completing their marriage registration in 2022."The agency added, "The two have been by each other's side as the closest colleagues and family, and we ask for your warm blessings and support for their future, as they have always been a strong source of support for each other.""We will continue to strive to greet you with good works in our respective fields," the statement concluded.According to the agency, the two quietly completed their marriage registration in 2022 and did not hold a separate wedding ceremony, and there are currently no plans for a ceremony.Gu Kyo-hwan and director Lee Ok-seop, who are alumni of Seoul Institute of the Arts, met in 2013 and developed a romantic relationship. They publicly announced their relationship in 2020. Two years after going public with their relationship, they became a legal couple by completing their marriage registration in 2022.Beyond their romantic relationship, they have also worked together as long-time creative partners. The two collaborated on projects such as '4th Year Bo-kyung', 'Lovey-Dovey', 'Fly to the Sky', and 'Me:g'. They have also continued their creative activities by jointly running their production company 2X9HD.They continue to collaborate recently. They co-directed the film 'Your Country', starring Jang Do-yeon and Gu Kyo-hwan.Gu Kyo-hwan is also actively working as an actor. Following the film 'If We Were' released at the end of last year, he appeared in the films 'Swarm' and JTBC's 'Everyone is Fighting Their Own Worthlessness'. He is currently meeting audiences in the role of the protagonist Seok-hwan in the film 'Resurrection Man: The Red', which was released on the 30th of last month.sstar1204@tf.co.kr[Entertainment Department | ssent@tf.co.kr]]]> FANNSTAR Thu, 01 Oct 2026 00:00:00 +0900 September 30 Solo Concert... 2-Hour Performance Amidst Fan Support"It was my fault for not being more careful... I've decided to stop the legal battle.""I don't usually cry on stage, swayed by emotions, but today my voice is choked up." Suk Haeng held a solo concert at Arte Seoul Muse Hall in Mokdong, Seoul at 7 PM on September 30, meeting with fans. /Reporter Kang Il-hong[THE FACT|Reporter Kang Il-hong] Singer Suk Haeng returned to the stage after an approximately 10-month hiatus.Suk Haeng held a solo concert at Arte Seoul Muse Hall in Mokdong, Seoul at 7 PM on September 30, meeting with fans. The concert garnered attention as it was Suk Haeng's first performance since suspending official external activities following a controversy.The concert was held in a dinner show format, sponsored by the fan club 'Suk Haeng Train'. After having dinner together, the audience watched Suk Haeng's performance for about 2 hours. Many acquaintances and fans who are close to Suk Haeng attended, and there was continuous applause and support during the performance.Suk Haeng performed her songs such as 'Gasiri' and 'Don't Call Me a Flower'. During the concert, she also shared her feelings about being back on stage after a long time.Suk Haeng said, "I prepared this concert from beginning to end myself," adding, "I'm so emotional being back on stage after a long time that I can barely speak." She continued, "I don't usually cry on stage, swayed by emotions, but today my voice is choked up."She also stated, "I want to forget everything now and return to my original intentions, focusing only on singing," and "I believe that is how I can repay the fans who have supported and loved me until the end." The audience responded with applause.This concert was part of the 'Suk Haeng Show', which Suk Haeng has been holding for 11 years since her debut. As it was the first time meeting fans directly after her hiatus, attention is also focused on her future activities.After the concert, Suk Haeng met with reporters and shared her stance on the controversy surrounding her and the legal proceedings.Suk Haeng said, "It was something that happened because I wasn't more careful, and I want to take all the blame." She explained that she also believed she was a victim as she dated the person after trusting his explanation, but she decided to stop pursuing legal action to prove her innocence, feeling it was not the right way.After the concert, Suk Haeng met with reporters and shared her stance on the controversy surrounding her and the legal proceedings. She explained that she also believed she was a victim as she dated the person after trusting his explanation, but she decided to stop pursuing legal action to prove her innocence, feeling it was not the right way. /Reporter Kang Il-hongShe added, "I accept everything as fate and plan to rise again through my music."Previously, on the 17th, the Civil Division 7 of the Seongnam Branch of the Suwon District Court ruled in favor of the plaintiff in a lawsuit for damages filed by the wife of a married man, identified as Mr. A, against Suk Haeng.Suk Haeng's side had maintained that the man had explained that his marriage was already in ruins and he was preparing for a divorce, and that she had dated him believing this, thus considering herself a victim.This concert was the first time Suk Haeng appeared before fans in about 10 months while legal proceedings were ongoing. On this day, Suk Haeng expressed her intention to focus on her music and stage activities rather than providing specific explanations about the controversy.eel@tf.co.kr]]> FANNSTAR Thu, 01 Oct 2026 00:00:00 +0900 Season 2 follows Season 1Planning for Season 3... New story set in the 1990sMain characters, including Hyun Bin, Jung Sung-il, and Noh Jae-won, reuniteDirector Woo Min-ho, who directed Season 2 of the Disney+ original series 'Made in Korea' following Season 1, held a wrap-up interview. /The Walt Disney Company Korea[THE FACT|Reporter Kim Saet-byeol] "I felt that Baek Ki-tae couldn't end like this. So, I'm keeping Season 3 in mind."Director Woo Min-ho had already conceived of Season 3. While filming Season 2, he felt that Baek Ki-tae (Hyun Bin) couldn't be let go like this. Amidst viewers' curiosity and regret about Baek Ki-tae's life or death, the 'Made in Korea' series will eventually expand to a story set in the 1990s.Director Woo Min-ho recently met with reporters from at a cafe in Jongno-gu, Seoul, to conduct a wrap-up interview for the Disney+ original series 'Made in Korea Season 2' (written by Park Eun-kyo, directed by Woo Min-ho, hereinafter referred to as 'Mainko 2'). He, who directed the long journey from Season 1 to Season 2, shared various stories about the work.'Made in Korea,' which concluded on the 23rd of last month with its 6-episode run, is a story about Baek Ki-tae, who pursues wealth and power, and prosecutor Jang Geon-young (Jung Woo-sung), who chases him, set in 1970s South Korea. Season 2 depicted the shift in power, focusing on the confrontation between the Korean Central Intelligence Agency and the Defense Security Command, set in 1979, nine years later.At the end of Season 2, the development where the protagonist Baek Ki-tae seemed to exit futilely with the emergence of the new military regime shocked viewers. However, Director Woo Min-ho conceived of the next story through the two seasons and was already thinking about Season 3 by the middle of filming Season 2.Director Woo said, "The original script had Baek Ki-tae dying. But while filming, I couldn't just let him go like that," he said. "After discussing with the actors and the writer, we decided not to have him die but to have him disappear. We decided to consider Season 3. So, we are currently proceeding with Season 3."He expressed regret that viewers interpreted the final scene of Season 2 as Baek Ki-tae's death. He said, "I should have hinted at his return," and "Actually, I didn't intend to drag this story out. I think I made it futile because I wanted to quickly resolve Season 2 for Season 3.""To explain the final scene, Baek Ki-tae, who was not a necessary figure in that era, disappeared with the sound of a gunshot. But there might be an era that needs Baek Ki-tae. I wanted to bring him back then."The plan for Season 3 was not sudden. Director Woo said, "I thought about it from the time I was filming Season 2. When I had filmed about one-third of Season 2, I felt that Baek Ki-tae couldn't end like this," he said. "All the actors have agreed. Otherwise, we can't do it, right? How can we do it without actor Hyun Bin?"Director Woo Min-ho, who directed Season 2 of the Disney+ original series 'Made in Korea' following Season 1, held a wrap-up interview. /The Walt Disney Company KoreaThe timeline for Season 3 that Director Woo envisions is the early 1990s. He explained the reason for setting the background as "Because Baek Ki-tae has to get revenge."However, Season 3 will not be released immediately. Since there will be a time difference of more than 10 years between Season 2 and the early 1990s, changes in the characters will also be necessary. Director Woo said, "I have a project that I prepared for a longer time, and I think I will do that one right before this," and added, "The writer will be writing in the meantime, won't she?"Director Woo recalled his college days, saying, "There were the 'Orange tribe' (a term for wealthy young people in the 90s), and 90s fashion is back now. I also remember the music of Kim Gun-mo and Shin Seung hun that I listened to back then." However, he was reluctant to speak about specific historical events or backgrounds.Most importantly, there are characters who will meet again in Season 3. Director Woo revealed that he kept Cheon Seok-joong (Jung Sung-il) and Pyo Hak-soo (Noh Jae-won) alive in Season 2 with the next story in mind. To this, Director Woo left a lingering impression by saying, "They will meet again."The reason for envisioning the reunion of the three was their "chemistry." Director Woo said, "I liked their chemistry and wanted to see it again, so I will have them appear in Season 3."Above all, the actors who played the three also had great chemistry. Director Woo said, "Actor Jung Sung-il did well, but he's so good at playing villains, isn't he? The reason I had him shoot him in the ear was because I wanted to see how he would portray Cheon Seok-joong with one ear missing in Season 3."Regarding Noh Jae-won, who played Pyo Hak-soo, he said, "He is a very flexible actor. He is an actor who has little fear of new challenges and willingly takes them on." He added, "His acting rhythm also seems a bit different from other actors. It's not on the beat, but half a beat faster or slower. The other actors seem bewildered at first," he praised.Director Woo Min-ho explained the relationship between Hyun Bin and Woo Do-hwan in the Disney+ original series 'Made in Korea' by drawing parallels to the relationship between the KCIA and the Defense Security Command. /The Walt Disney Company KoreaHe also drew a line regarding the interpretation that Baek Ki-hyun (Woo Do-hwan) killed his brother Baek Ki-tae. Director Woo emphasized, "I don't think Baek Ki-hyun is the kind of character who would kill his brother," and "He might tell him to disappear or go to Japan, but he's not someone who would kill his brother."The choice he saw for Baek Ki-hyun is not a simple conflict between brothers. He was forced to choose between protecting his brother Baek Ki-tae and also protecting his sister Baek So-young (Cha Hee) and her child. Director Woo explained, "Baek Ki-hyun has to protect his brother, but he also has to protect his sister and nephew. Then he has to make a choice," he said. "In a situation where power is already shifting, he has to decide whether to go all out with his brother, risking his entire family, or persuade his brother to go to Japan."There was also a reason for changing the historical background in the transition from Season 1 to Season 2. The 12.12 military coup he encountered while filming Season 1 became the starting point for Season 2. Director Woo said, "It was so shocking that a coup, which seemed like something that would only happen in the 70s, could happen in the present day. That became the driving force for making Season 2," he said. "That's why I went to 1979."He said, "I wanted to show that the darkness and historical tragedy of that era can still happen today," and depicted the confrontation between the Korean Central Intelligence Agency and the Defense Security Command of that time as a relationship between brothers. "There was a dynamic of the declining KCIA and the rising Defense Security Command. Since the Defense Security Command was actually the new military faction, I symbolically divided them into the older brother representing the KCIA and the younger brother representing the Defense Security Command," he explained.Director Woo Min-ho also has his own principles for continuing to make period dramas. He said, "I believe we shouldn't tamper with the framework of major historical events," and "We shouldn't change historical facts like Ahn Jung-geun assassinating Ito Hirobumi." However, he explained, "I believe there is freedom of creation in dealing with the perspectives of other characters leading up to that event or the psychology of the people involved."Director Woo Min-ho, who directed Season 2 of the Disney+ original series 'Made in Korea' following Season 1, held a wrap-up interview. /The Walt Disney Company KoreaExperiencing a series for the first time in this work was also a new stimulus. Director Woo said, "Movies have to end within two hours, but 'Made in Korea,' with its 6 episodes for both Season 1 and Season 2, had room to tell more about the characters," and "The charm of a series is that you can connect with the audience. You can see how they react and reflect their feedback."His directing style also changed in the process. He said, "In the past, I was just busy filming according to the script and storyboard, but this time, I felt a sense of synergy with the staff working together," and "I realized that it gives me another kind of strength. When you make 6 movies, some succeed and some fail, and you get tired, but working on this project, I felt strength from being with my colleagues."He confessed, "As I'm doing a series for the first time, I've realized that while there are aspects that the public is satisfied with, there are also areas that seem lacking," and "I plan to make Season 3 while looking into those aspects." He added, "I will look into it more carefully in the future and do my best to reflect the audience's reactions sufficiently in Season 3."Thus, Director Woo has promised to meet again with Season 3. Attention is focused on how far the story of these individuals, who will meet again in the new era of the early 1990s, will unfold."I want to meet you all again, who have spent two seasons together. Even if you were a little upset watching the previous seasons, I hope you will understand through this interview, and I hope you will look forward to Season 3."sstar1204@tf.co.kr[Entertainment Department | ssent@tf.co.kr]]]> FANNSTAR Thu, 01 Oct 2026 00:00:00 +0900 Captain Joo Hye-ra of the Violent Crimes Unit 1 at the Seoul Gangha Police Station"A special experience through the work... it remains a good memory."Actress Jung Eun-chae met with to conduct an interview commemorating the finale of SBS's Friday-Saturday drama 'The Atypical Family' Season 2. /Project Hosu[THE FACT | Reporter Moon Chae-young] Actress Jung Eun-chae has successfully completed her role as the heroine in 'The Atypical Family 2'. Despite concerns about the previous season's popularity and the already established world, her decision to take on the role, trusting in the quality of the work, has brought her great joy. Jung Eun-chae has gained much, from reliable fellow actors to the rediscovered fun of action acting.Jung Eun-chae recently met with at a cafe in Gangnam-gu, Seoul, to conduct an interview commemorating the finale of SBS's Friday-Saturday drama 'The Atypical Family' Season 2 (written by Kim Ba-da, directed by Kim Jae-hong, hereinafter referred to as 'The Atypical Family 2'). Playing the role of Joo Hye-ra, the new team leader of the Violent Crimes Unit 1 at the Seoul Gangha Police Station, she shared various stories related to the drama.'The Atypical Family 2' is a thrilling joint investigation drama between the chaebol detective Jin Yi-soo (played by Ahn Bo-hyun), who overturns cases with his wealth when investigations stall, and the new team leader Joo Hye-ra. It is the sequel to Season 1, which aired in 2024 and recorded a peak viewership rating of 11% (based on Nielsen Korea's national household ratings).Season 2, consisting of a total of 14 episodes, concluded its broadcast with the final episode on the 19th. The viewership rating, which started at 6.1% for the first episode, soared to 11.8% in the 14th episode, surpassing the peak viewership rating of the previous season by 0.8%P.Jung Eun-chae is currently feeling the end of the drama through the reactions of those around her. She said, "My acquaintances and family told me they watched the finale intently until the end," adding, "I am just grateful that we were able to finish the work safely."In the drama, Jung Eun-chae's character, Joo Hye-ra, is a team leader detective who possesses skill, leadership, and charisma. Jung Eun-chae described Joo Hye-ra as "a team leader who leads her team members and a character who actively investigates cases," calling her "a charming character with a solid and strong side."Actress Jung Eun-chae played Joo Hye-ra, the new captain of the Violent Crimes Unit 1 at the Seoul Gangha Police Station, in SBS's Friday-Saturday drama 'The Atypical Family' Season 2. /SBSJung Eun-chae completed her portrayal of Joo Hye-ra by recalling the leaders she has encountered throughout her life. She stated, "As far as I feel, charisma is not outwardly expressed," adding, "I think she has a calm and rational personality.""I created Joo Hye-ra by thinking of the leadership figures I've personally observed. I especially wanted to express the charisma they exude subtly, without needing explicit explanation. The strength and experience that come from their background, and so on. The process of completing her piece by piece was enjoyable."She also hoped that Joo Hye-ra's professionalism would be evident externally. Jung Eun-chae said, "I actually hoped the costumes wouldn't be too flashy," and "I tried to maintain consistency in hairstyles and clothing colors." She aimed to minimize makeup, wanting the expressions to come alive from a face close to bare skin.While playing Joo Hye-ra, Jung Eun-chae found greater enjoyment in action filming. She discovered the pleasure of finding new aspects of herself captured by the camera without intention or calculation during action scenes. Jung Eun-chae said, "I felt catharsis watching my own facial movements, which I hadn't seen before."She also cited the sense of accomplishment that follows strenuous filming as a charming point of action acting. Jung Eun-chae, who usually feels a sense of regret on her way home after filming, experienced entirely different emotions with action filming.She explained, "I don't often feel a sense of perfection after filming, but with action scenes, even if they weren't perfect, I felt a sense of release if I had put in 120% effort." She added, "Although my body suffered, the feeling of 'I worked hard. I did my best. I put in the effort' after filming is a great charm.""There were quite a few action scenes. So, I was determined to give it my all without holding back. There were times when it was overwhelming, but I tried to push myself to my maximum potential. I got bruises here and there, but I'm glad the results turned out well. I filmed it diligently and enjoyably."Actress Jung Eun-chae expressed her gratitude to Ahn Bo-hyun, Kang Sang-jun, and Kim Shin-bi, with whom she worked in SBS's Friday-Saturday drama 'The Atypical Family' Season 2, calling them "family." /SBSHowever, playing Joo Hye-ra was not easy from the start. Joo Hye-ra is a new character introduced in Season 2. Therefore, she had concerns about integrating into the world of Season 1, which had already received much love.Jung Eun-chae said, "Season 2 was produced by the same cast and crew from the previous season," adding, "As a new addition, I hoped to be well-absorbed into their group." At the same time, she also pondered how to maintain the freshness unique to the new character, Joo Hye-ra. She explained, "I wanted to bring a new breeze into the drama with a natural flow."During this process, she received significant help from actors Ahn Bo-hyun, Kang Sang-jun, and Kim Shin-bi. Jung Eun-chae and the three actors, as members of the Violent Crimes Unit 1, shared hardships both within and outside the drama, positively influencing each other. Jung Eun-chae mentioned her fellow actors by name, expressing her gratitude to each one.First, she praised Ahn Bo-hyun as an actor who provides immense stability just by his presence. Jung Eun-chae stated, "As a co-star, he was a great support," adding, "Thanks to Ahn Bo-hyun, I was able to immerse myself more deeply in my acting. He played a leadership role on set, always creating a warm and comfortable atmosphere."Regarding Kang Sang-jun, she described him as "a multi-entertainer full of talent." She mentioned that he had the fewest NG takes on set, indicating he was a well-prepared and professional actor. She also called Kim Shin-bi "a talented actor who knows how to perfectly embody her unique color," expressing her desire to "work with her again in another project.""Since we are actors of similar age, it felt like I was with real friends. Being able to feel this way on set is a very special experience. Although I met all three actors for the first time in this project, later on, I could tell what kind of acting or reaction they would give just by looking at their eyes. Now, we are like family outside of the drama. (laughs) Many good memories remain."Actress Jung Eun-chae expressed her desire to act in works of various genres. She said, "I think it's okay to be less cool," hinting at diverse acting transformations. /Project HosuFinally, Jung Eun-chae expressed her determination to meet viewers again with a good project. She said, "Recently, I've come to think that 'authentic works ultimately survive'," adding, "I've always carefully chosen good projects, and it seems I was right, which has given me confidence.""Ultimately, I think the roots of the story are important in a work. And who you work with is also important. I've gained the resolve to continue to make bold choices for good projects without compromise. I'm glad this project also concluded well. With a grateful heart, I'm currently thinking, 'Let's do well again.'"In particular, she revealed a strong desire for her next project to be in various genres. Having consecutively played capable characters in recent works, she expressed a desire to portray ordinary, everyday stories and also expressed her willingness to take on cute and charming genres like romantic comedies."I've taken on cool characters consecutively, so I think it's okay to be less cool in my next project. I also feel like taking off the mantle and showing the face of a woman my age. I'm particularly curious about genres I haven't tried before, like romantic comedies. If I'm called, I'm ready to run anytime. I want to show new faces and acting without fear."mcy21@tf.co.kr[Entertainment Department | ssent@tf.co.kr]]]> FANNSTAR Thu, 01 Oct 2026 00:00:00 +0900 The same pace as the R-rated box office hit 'Yadang'The movie 'Tazza: The Song of Beelzebub,' starring Byun Yo-han (left) and Noh Jae-won, recorded a cumulative audience of 1 million viewers in just 8 days after its release. The photo shows them attending the press preview and conference for 'Tazza: The Song of Beelzebub' held at CGV Yongsan I'Park Mall in Yongsan-gu, Seoul, on the 9th. /Reporter Kim Sung-ryeol[THE FACT|Reporter Choi Soo-bin] The movie 'Tazza: The Song of Beelzebub' has reached the 1 million mark.According to the integrated computer network for movie tickets on the 30th, the movie 'Tazza: The Song of Beelzebub' (directed by Choi Gook-hee, 'Tazza 4') surpassed 1 million cumulative viewers in 8 days after its release. This is the same pace as 'Yadang,' an R-rated box office hit that drew 3.38 million viewers last year.The film is a crime movie about Jang Tae-young (played by Byun Yo-han), who thought he had everything in the world through his online casino business, and his friend with the same name, Park Tae-young (played by Noh Jae-won), who took everything from him, meeting again in the global gambling arena for a revenge match. It is based on the last installment of Huh Young-man's comic series 'Tazza' and is the fourth and final film in the 'Tazza' series.The box office success has continued since its release. The crime-entertainment film, which offers thrilling excitement, gained word-of-mouth and ranked first at the box office on the 28th. Despite the barrier of an R rating, it has continued its box office success by attracting 1 million viewers in just 8 days after its release.'Tazza 4' is currently showing in theaters nationwide.subin7134@tf.co.kr[Entertainment Department | ssent@tf.co.kr]]]> FANNSTAR Wed, 30 Sep 2026 00:00:00 +0900 The press call for "Opera" was held on the 30th, with performances until October 18th."It will make you look back on 'the most brilliant moments'."Actors Moon Tae-yu, Jo Byung-gyu, Baek In-tae, Jo Hwan-ji, Im Kang-sung, Kang Jung-woo, Jung A-in, and Baek Seo-jin (from left) attended the press call for the musical "Opera" at Samsung Hall, Ewha Womans University, Seodaemun-gu, Seoul on the afternoon of the 30th, and shared various stories. /Reporter Moon Chae-young[THE FACT | Reporter Moon Chae-young] The musical "Opera," which captures the happy times of French King Louis XIV, the legendary artists Molière and Jean-Baptiste Lully, is set to unveil. It is expected to touch the hearts of the audience with its elegant and splendid musical melodies. As director Choo Jeong-hwa has put a lot of effort into it for a long time, expectations are high as to whether it can leave a deep impression on the audience.The press call for the musical "Opera" was held at Samsung Hall, Ewha Womans University, Seodaemun-gu, Seoul on the afternoon of the 30th. Choo Jeong-hwa, the writer and director, Huh Soo-hyun, the music director, Kim Byung-jin, the choreography director, and actors Moon Tae-yu, Jo Byung-gyu, Baek In-tae, Jo Hwan-ji, Im Kang-sung, Kang Jung-woo, Jung A-in, and Baek Seo-jin attended the event. After showcasing parts of the performance, they answered questions from reporters and shared various stories."Opera" shows what is lost when art is possessed as mere decoration of power through the relationship between Louis XIV, the symbol of French absolute monarchy, and the two artists, Molière and Jean-Baptiste Lully. Based on the actual relationship between the three figures, it depicts the process of art being co-opted by power and corrupted by human desire.Choo Jeong-hwa, who is the writer and director of "Opera," which is premiering this time, said, "The fact that Louis XIV, Molière, and Lully lived in the same era and created works together was fascinating." She introduced the work by saying, "It started with the question, 'What kind of story was there between these three people?'"The musical "Opera" will be performed at Samsung Hall, Ewha Womans University until October 18th. /Orchard C&CFirst, Moon Tae-yu and Jo Byung-gyu play the role of the Sun King Louis, who tries to prove himself through art. They both said they strived to express Louis's 'loneliness' and 'deficiency.' Moon Tae-yu explained, "I brought out the various faces of Louis, who was not recognized as king for a long time." Jo Byung-gyu also revealed, "I tried to incorporate Louis's trauma well into the lines."Baek In-tae and Jo Hwan-ji portray Lully, an artist who dedicates his music to the king's love. Baek In-tae said, "Lully is a character in an environment where he cannot fully display his excellent talent," adding, "He has a desperation not to let go of Louis, his only hope." Therefore, Jo Hwan-ji said, "He is the character the audience can empathize with the most," and "He will be the most pitiable."Im Kang-sung and Kang Jung-woo play Molière, an artist who reflects the truth. Im Kang-sung said, "As an actor and creator, I envied Molière," and "His life, with his works passed down to later generations, seemed glorious." Kang Jung-woo explained, "I wanted to express Molière's humor well," and "I brought out my quirky side."Jung A-in and Baek Seo-jin were cast as Armande, who steadfastly protects the theater troupe. Jung A-in emphasized Armande as "a character who shows courage for love," and "The most important emotion for him is 'love'." Baek Seo-jin also said, "Armande is a woman with unwavering conviction," and "She is Molière's comrade who protects art amidst conflict and anguish."The musical "Opera" is based on the actual relationship between French King Louis XIV and artists Molière and Jean-Baptiste Lully. /Reporter Moon Chae-youngIn this "Opera," 'music' is particularly noteworthy. As the title suggests, beautiful opera melodies will be featured in the work presented by talented artists.Huh Soo-hyun, the music director, said, "At first, it was very difficult due to the weight of the title," and "I put a lot of effort into the instrumentation. We tried to arrange it with all classical instruments, but it was practically impossible, so we added string and percussion instruments to the band instruments."He added, "Lully was the best composer at the time," and "I listened to a lot of songs with a similar atmosphere to the Baroque music of the 17th century to compose the overall tone." Furthermore, he confidently stated, "As the characters create an opera in the latter part of the play, various musical colors are revealed compared to other musicals."Finally, Choo Jeong-hwa, the writer and director who prepared the work for a long time, revealed the points to watch in "Opera." She said, "'Opera' is a work that tells the story of the lives of Louis, Lully, and Molière," and "It will convey the message that 'nothing is more important than happiness in life' and at the same time make you look back on 'the most brilliant moments'."The musical "Opera" will be performed from October 1st to 18th at Samsung Hall, Ewha Womans University.mcy21@tf.co.kr[Entertainment Department | ssent@tf.co.kr]]]> FANNSTAR Wed, 30 Sep 2026 00:00:00 +0900 A showdown between a free-spirited genius chef and a perfectionist hard workerFirst broadcast on October 24th at 10:40 PMStill cuts of actors Ahn Hyo-seop (top left) and Jang Ryul, who will be working together in JTBC's new Saturday-Sunday drama 'Final Table,' have been released. /SLL, BA Entertainment, Film Company Doo-jung[THE FACT|Reporter Choi Soo-bin] Actors Ahn Hyo-seop and Jang Ryul will go head-to-head for the title of best chef.The production team of JTBC's new Saturday-Sunday drama 'Final Table' (written and directed by Kim Do-hoon) released still cuts on the 30th of Kang Han (played by Ahn Hyo-seop) and Cha Woo-jin (played by Jang Ryul), who will compete in cooking in different ways.'Final Table' is a drama that depicts a feast of spectacular food and intriguing stories by Korean chefs from all over the world for the 'The Table: K Chef 2026' competition to select the best Korean chef.Kang Han, played by Ahn Hyo-seop, is the head chef of the restaurant 'Familia,' a genius with innate aesthetic sense and excellent learning ability. As befits his free-spirited personality, he signs contracts with different restaurants each year rather than staying in one place. Thanks to this, he has his own unique style that encompasses culinary methods from various countries, not limited to one nation.On the other hand, Cha Woo-jin, played by Jang Ryul, has taken the opposite path. He is the head chef of 'Excepcion,' the best restaurant in Korea, having trained at a prestigious culinary school. He is a perfectionist who does not allow even the slightest mistake and has honed his skills through rigorous practice. Like his personality, his cooking is spectacular yet precise and strictly formal.Although the two have little in common, from their upbringing to their personalities and the cuisine they pursue, they share one commonality: their sincerity in cooking. They would go to the ends of the earth to obtain better ingredients, and they do not overlook even minor details, from the plating angle to the doneness of the food. The pride match between the two chefs, who have completed their own unique dishes in different ways, is highly anticipated.Above all, this is not the first time Kang Han and Cha Woo-jin have competed. The two previously clashed at a cooking competition held overseas. At that time, Kang Han took first place and Cha Woo-jin took second, making the results of their rematch in 'The Table: K Chef 2026' highly anticipated.'Final Table,' consisting of a total of 12 episodes, will premiere on October 24th at 10:40 PM.[Entertainment Department | ssent@tf.co.kr]subin7134@tf.co.kr]]> FANNSTAR Wed, 30 Sep 2026 00:00:00 +0900 Performance on the main stage from 7 PM on October 3rdSinger MUZI (left) and Lee Min-hyuk will co-star at 'EDC KOREA 2026' on the 3rd. / Brand New Music, BTOB Company[THE FACT|Reporter Choi Hyun-jung] Multi-tainer MUZI and BTOB member Lee Min-hyuk (HUTA) will co-star at the global EDM festival.Agencies Brand New Music and BTOB Company announced on the 30th that MUZI and Lee Min-hyuk will appear at the electronic music festival 'EDC KOREA 2026', held at the Inspire Entertainment Resort Discovery Park in Incheon on October 3rd.On this day, MUZI and Lee Min-hyuk will take the stage together at 'KINETIC FIELD', the main stage of 'EDC KOREA 2026', from 7 PM to 8 PM.In particular, for this performance, MUZI has prepared and will premiere a specially remixed version of Lee Min-hyuk's new title track 'Icy & Spicy' and album track 'KO' live.Expectations are high for how 'Icy & Spicy', with its powerful Afro House rhythm, and 'KO', an industrial hip-hop genre, will be reborn when they meet MUZI's electronic sound.Lee Min-hyuk also plans to showcase a special performance filled with explosive energy to match the festival atmosphere. Attention is focused on the synergy that will be created by the meeting of MUZI, the representative 'multi-tainer' of the music industry, and Lee Min-hyuk, the 'festival king'.'EDC KOREA 2026' will be held on October 3rd and 4th at the Inspire Entertainment Resort Discovery Park in Incheon.laugardagr@tf.co.kr[Entertainment Department | ssent@tf.co.kr]]]> FANNSTAR Wed, 30 Sep 2026 00:00:00 +0900 Attended the press call for 'Opera'... Plays Louis XIV"I did my best as I made a big decision to appear"Actor Jo Byeong-gyu said at the press call for the musical 'Opera' held at Samsung Hall, Ewha Womans University, Seodaemun-gu, Seoul on the afternoon of the 30th, "I prepared diligently as it is my first musical." / Orchard C&C[THE FACT | Reporter Moon Chae-young] Actor Jo Byeong-gyu revealed his feelings about performing on stage for the musical 'Opera' before his enlistment.At the press call for the musical 'Opera' held at Samsung Hall, Ewha Womans University, Seodaemun-gu, Seoul at 3 p.m. on the 30th, Jo Byeong-gyu said, "I am deeply moved that my first musical is 'Opera'," and added, "I did my best."'Opera' is a work that shows what is lost when art is possessed as an ornament of power, through the relationship between Louis XIV, a symbol of absolute monarchy in France, and the two artists Molière and Jean-Baptiste Lully. Jo Byeong-gyu plays the role of the Sun King Louis, who tries to prove himself through art.On this day, Jo Byeong-gyu said, "I wanted to appear in a work by Chu Jeong-hwa, who is in charge of writing and directing 'Opera,' since I was 21," and added, "Thanks to preparing with my favorite seniors, the stress of it being my 'first work' was less. I received a lot of help."However, he admitted to having concerns about singing. Jo Byeong-gyu reflected, "My singing skills were lacking, and I didn't know much about the musical genre, so appearing in this 'musical' was a big personal decision," and said, "I did my best and worked hard."He also shared his feelings about his upcoming military enlistment. Jo Byeong-gyu said, "After 'Opera,' I plan to temporarily step down from civilian status," and added, "As I have been acting for a long time, I am curious about myself as a person, not an actor, for about a year and a half. I will endure well and return safely."Jo Byeong-gyu debuted in 2015 with the KBS2 drama 'Who Are You: School 2015' and has since appeared in works such as 'Money Flower,' 'SKY Castle,' 'Arthdal Chronicles,' 'Hot Stove League,' and 'The Uncanny Counter.'The musical 'Opera' will be performed from October 1st to 18th at Samsung Hall, Ewha Womans University.mcy21@tf.co.kr[Entertainment Department | ssent@tf.co.kr]]]> FANNSTAR Wed, 30 Sep 2026 00:00:00 +0900 "I will continue to work together to promote the museum and our culture."BTS RM donated 100 million won through the National Museum of Korea Society, a museum support group. This will be used to purchase and donate museum collections in the future. /THE FACT DB[THE FACT|Reporter Park Ji-yoon] Group BTS member RM donated 100 million won for the purpose of purchasing National Museum of Korea collections.The National Museum of Korea announced on the 30th, "RM delivered a donation of 100 million won the previous day through the National Museum of Korea Society, a museum support group." This donation will be used by the National Museum of Korea Society to purchase and donate museum collections in the future.The National Museum of Korea Society is carrying out various support projects, including the purchase of relics, academic support, and the creation of museum facilities. In 2023, it purchased and donated the Joseon Dynasty's 'Mother-of-Pearl Lotus Vine Box' to the National Museum of Korea, and in 2024, it purchased and donated Hwang Ghiro's 'Choseo' from the early Joseon Dynasty.Previously, RM exercised a positive influence by donating 100 million won each to the Overseas Korean Cultural Heritage Foundation in 2021 and 2022, hoping it would help preserve, restore, and utilize overseas Korean cultural heritage.Furthermore, appointed as the global ambassador for the National Museum of Korea in June, he has shown his commitment to promoting interest in the museum and Korean culture through donations.RM stated, "I am happy to be able to support the museum as the global ambassador for the National Museum of Korea. I will continue to work together to promote the museum and our culture."In addition, a special exhibition 'RM x SFMOMA: Between You and Me' with RM and the San Francisco Museum of Modern Art (SFMOMA) will be held from October 3rd (local time) to February 7th of next year.This is the first exhibition to showcase RM's personal collection at a museum, and it is expected to attract more attention as approximately 180 works, including about 140 items he has collected, will be displayed together.jiyoon-1031@tf.co.kr[Entertainment Department | ssent@tf.co.kr]]]> FANNSTAR Wed, 30 Sep 2026 00:00:00 +0900 IDID celebrated their 1st anniversary since debut by revealing a photo shoot and interview in the October issue of the fashion magazine DAZED KOREA. Composed of Jang Yong-hoon, Kim Min-jae, Park Won-bin, Chu Yoo-chan, Park Seong-hyeon, Baek Jun-hyuk, and Jeong Se-min, IDID showcased various styling in this photo shoot. In the photo shoot, they created a chic and dreamy atmosphere by pulling off challenging makeup such as red-toned eyeshadow, white eyelashes, and bold eyeliner. They expressed a winter vibe with white outfits and emphasized a hip-hop personality with black styling. In the interview, IDID reflected on their activities over the past year and revealed that they appeared more relaxed than during the DAZED shoot before their debut. The members shared their thoughts, saying, ″Standing in front of the camera, I truly felt how much I have grown,″ and ″Standing here again after a year, I felt proud that there are many more faces we can show during that time.″ They also mentioned various efforts for musical growth, including studying composition and songwriting, learning English for global communication, and showing interest in styling. Additionally, they expressed their passion for teamwork and music. IDID debuted last September with their first mini-album I did it. and won first place on music shows just 12 days after debut. Since then, they have released the digital single PUSH BACK and the single album FLY!, winning rookie awards at major award ceremonies. IDID is scheduled to attend the Asia Artist Awards (AAA 2026) held at the National Stadium in Kaohsiung, Taiwan, this December.]]> FANNSTAR Wed, 30 Sep 2026 00:00:00 +0900 BTS member RM is revealing his personal art collection, which he has been gathering for about 10 years, for the first time at the San Francisco Museum of Modern Art (SFMOMA) in the United States. SFMOMA will hold a special exhibition titled ″RM x SFMOMA: Between You and Me″ from October 3 to February 7, 2027. This exhibition is the first time RM’s personal collection is showcased in a museum and marks SFMOMA’s first collaboration with a K-pop artist since its establishment. Approximately 140 pieces from RM’s collection, combined with SFMOMA’s holdings, will bring together a total of around 180 works. Many of the pieces collected by RM will be exhibited in the United States for the first time. The exhibition highlights universal themes such as nature, memory, and human existence across time and cultures through various media. It also offers a comprehensive view of the flow of Korean art from the 6th century to the present, including ceramics, calligraphy, paintings, and sculptures. Works by masters of modern and contemporary Korean art such as Yun Hyong-keun, Park Rae-hyun, Jang Uk-jin, Kwon Ok-yeon, Kim Yoon-shin, and Do Sang-bong will be displayed alongside SFMOMA’s collection, which includes pieces by Kim Whanki, Nam June Paik, Mark Rothko, Agnes Martin, Henri Matisse, and Georgia O’Keeffe. RM actively participated not only in lending works but also in the overall planning and curation of the exhibition. He collaborated with SFMOMA co-curators America Castillo and Kim Hyo-eun from the selection of works to the conceptualization of the exhibition, and personally wrote the exhibition texts and artwork descriptions in both Korean and English. Additionally, he prepared bilingual audio guides recorded in his own voice and the music played throughout the exhibition space. Through his agency Big Hit Music, RM stated, ″This is the first time I am sharing my collection under my own name. I believe it is rare for a collection amassed over a long time to honestly reveal the person behind it. In that sense, this exhibition will be quite an extended self-introduction.″ He added, ″My collection includes many works by modern and contemporary Korean artists. Some names may still be unfamiliar outside Korea, but I have collected them with the hope of adding a better perspective and sensibility, and this process has led to this exhibition.″ SFMOMA introduced the exhibition on its official website, saying, ″RM of the world-renowned pop group BTS has been collecting works that move his heart for nearly a decade. Now, about 150 pieces from his personal collection will be brought together with SFMOMA’s holdings, showing unexpected connections that link different artists, ideas, and cultures.″ Christopher Bedford, director of SFMOMA, explained, ″This project closely aligns with SFMOMA’s direction to expand global conversations around art. It creates space for new voices in the museum while inviting visitors who have encountered contemporary and Korean art through RM to this place.″ The museum stated that this exhibition offers an opportunity to closely examine what inspires RM and why. Visitors can explore his personal thoughts and stories about the works through exhibition texts written by RM himself and audio guides narrated in his voice. RM said, ″I hope people feel how fun and enjoyable it is just to go see an exhibition through this opportunity.″]]> FANNSTAR Wed, 30 Sep 2026 00:00:00 +0900 Lim Young Woong showcased a musical transformation with the new song ″Moise.″ ″Moise″ is a track that Lim Young Woong personally participated in writing and composing, included in the special digital album ″IM HERO 10.″ It features an exciting melody and heartfelt lyrics. Lim Young Woong introduced this song at the 2026 concert ″IM HERO - THE STADIUM 2,″ describing it as ″a song that fits perfectly on a festival day.″ Indeed, the music video focuses on the theme of ″gathering,″ as suggested by the title, portraying the entire village preparing for a festival together, with traditional festival scenes such as lion mask dances and pungmul performances presented in a modern way. The video begins with the phrase, ″The call from the eastern end, a tune of Korea, tonight Moise.″ The lyrics contain messages emphasizing community, such as ″Eolsu, good, Jihwaja, Korea is great,″ and ″From Hallasan to Seoraksan, brothers from every corner, let’s go, we are one.″ Rather than personal emotions like love or farewell, collective themes like ″Korea,″ ″brothers,″ and ″one″ are repeatedly expressed. The music video prominently features many people enjoying the festival together. As of the 30th, the official music video for ″Moise″ surpassed 2 million views on YouTube, achieving this milestone about two weeks after its release on the 15th. ″Moise″ is regarded as following a similar path to Cho Yong-pil’s representative song ″Let’s Go on a Trip,″ as it aims to be a festival song that everyone enjoys together across generations and regions. Released in 1985, ″Let’s Go on a Trip″ is a classic festival and travel song loved for its simple lyrics and lively melody. Hijacker Studio, which produced the ″Moise″ music video, explained that the core of the song is ″people coming together and becoming one,″ and they realized this concept through the visual world of ″a grand feast of Korea.″ Lim Young Woong also set new records with this year’s performances. At ″IM HERO 10 - THE STADIUM 2 IN GOYANG,″ held in September at Goyang Sports Complex, a total of 95,798 people attended over three days, bringing the cumulative concert audience to over 1 million.]]> FANNSTAR Wed, 30 Sep 2026 00:00:00 +0900 October 3rd at Cinemathque KOFA... Director Yeon Sang-ho to hold GVDirector Yeon Sang-ho's 'Train to Busan' will meet audiences again on October 3rd at Cinemathque KOFA in a 4K remastered version to commemorate its 10th anniversary. /Work Poster[THE FACT|Reporter Park Ji-yoon] Director Yeon Sang-ho's 'Train to Busan' will return to audiences to celebrate its 10th anniversary.The Korean Film Archive announced on the 30th, "A special screening to commemorate the 10th anniversary of the release of the movie 'Train to Busan' (directed by Yeon Sang-ho) will be held at Cinemathque KOFA at 4:30 PM on October 3rd," adding, "This screening will feature the work in a 4K remastered version."Released in 2016, 'Train to Busan' is a film that depicts the struggle for survival of passengers on a KTX train heading to Busan from Seoul amidst an outbreak of an unknown infection. The film was directed by Yeon Sang-ho and starred actors Gong Yoo, Jung Yu-mi, Ma Dong-seok, Kim Su-an, Kim Eui-sung, Choi Woo-shik, and Ahn So-hee.'Train to Busan' was invited to the Midnight Screening section of the Cannes Film Festival in 2016, and after its release in Korea, it achieved the feat of surpassing 10 million viewers, becoming the first Korean zombie film to do so.In particular, the film captivated audiences by depicting the rapidly spreading infection in the confined space of a train and the choices made by various characters in response to it. Since then, Director Yeon has built his own worldview by presenting zombie-themed works such as 'Peninsula' and 'Hellbound'.Meanwhile, 'Train to Busan', celebrating its 10th anniversary, is being re-released sequentially in overseas theaters, starting with the Philippines, followed by North America, Japan, and Italy, meeting audiences in foreign cinemas.In response, the Korean Film Archive has organized this special screening to provide domestic audiences with the opportunity to re-experience 'Train to Busan' in a 4K remastered version in theaters. Both audiences who watched it at the time of its release and those encountering the film for the first time can enjoy the movie on the big screen.Additionally, a GV (Guest Visit) session with director Yeon Sang-ho and film critic Kim Bong-seok will be held after the screening. They will discuss the production behind-the-scenes of 'Train to Busan' and its significance in the history of Korean genre films. Detailed screening schedules related to this can be found on the Korean Film Archive's website.jiyoon-1031@tf.co.kr[Entertainment Department | ssent@tf.co.kr]]]> FANNSTAR Wed, 30 Sep 2026 00:00:00 +0900 TWICE raised anticipation for the new year by releasing the teaser image for the 2027 season greeting ’Spotless.’ The season greeting teaser features member Tzuyu wearing a teal short-sleeve t-shirt paired with white panties. Tzuyu is shown with her long hair naturally down, holding several colorful envelopes in both hands, smiling and looking straight ahead in a room with floral wallpaper and a display cabinet in the background. The clean yet bright atmosphere stands out, capturing the fans’ attention. TWICE announced that pre-orders for this season greeting will be available from 2 PM on October 6 until midnight on the 14th. The season greeting, which receives great interest every year, is expected to be a special gift for fans. Meanwhile, TWICE is drawing attention not only for their active music activities but also for the individual pursuits of the members. Recently, Jeongyeon expanded her activities as an actress and released new profile photos, Jihyo showcased new attempts in stage costume choices, and Dahyun communicated with fans in various ways, including attending the official schedule of the Jecheon International Film Festival.]]> FANNSTAR Wed, 30 Sep 2026 00:00:00 +0900 LE SSERAFIM Sakura continues her global journey by being selected as a ’Friend of the House’ for the Italian luxury jewelry brand Damiani. Recently, Sakura shared posts on her SNS introducing Damiani’s beautiful jewelry and promoted related content published in the official digital magazine Elle Digital. She especially expressed her affection by recommending Damiani’s pieces centered around her favorite items. In the newly released photoshoot, she attracted attention by showcasing diverse styling under soft lighting inside a vehicle and natural light. Sakura wore various outfits including a white dress, beige dress, yellow jacket and dress, and black dress, accessorized with Damiani’s elegant necklaces, rings, earrings, and bracelets, creating a luxurious atmosphere. The sophisticated jewelry harmonizing with her pink hair highlighted her unique charm even more. Damiani’s ’Friend of the House’ plays a role in deeply connecting with the brand and widely promoting the beauty and value of its jewelry. With this selection, Sakura raises expectations for ongoing collaborations with the luxury brand and reaffirms her global influence as a K-pop star. Meanwhile, Sakura is actively performing on festival stages with LE SSERAFIM members and continues steady communication with fans by sharing various certification shots and on-site moments on SNS. Her activities in various fields are highly anticipated going forward.]]> FANNSTAR Wed, 30 Sep 2026 00:00:00 +0900 Trot singer Park Min Su has recently been actively communicating with fans by participating in the ’Blink Blink Challenge’ through SNS. Park Min Su captivated fans’ attention with bright and cheerful energy while taking on the challenge. In the video and photos of this challenge, Park Min Su wore a white top, a blue vest, and a yellow skirt, raising both hands and performing a lively dance, adding a sense of friendliness by smiling and looking straight at the camera. Filmed in an indoor hallway, the video conveyed a cheerful atmosphere, bringing joy to viewers. This challenge was made even more meaningful by the participation of Hong SeongYoon, who is gaining attention as the next-generation trot star. The two showed a natural and bright chemistry while coordinating with each other, receiving enthusiastic responses from fans. The ’Blink Blink Challenge’ is an SNS participatory content popular among trot fans, and through this participation, Park Min Su once again proved their own vibrant charm. Recently, Park Min Su has been actively engaging in music activities with the new song ’Blink Blink,’ consistently communicating with the public. Fans have shown a warm response to Park Min Su’s bright and lively appearance and cheerful participation in the challenge, expressing high expectations for future activities. Park Min Su will continue to communicate with fans with their unique energy going forward.]]> FANNSTAR Wed, 30 Sep 2026 00:00:00 +0900 Actress Kim Sa-rang recently revealed scenes of her visiting various locations during her trip to New York through her YouTube channel ’Kim Sa-rang sa rang.’ In the video, Kim Sa-rang enjoyed her travels by touring major landmarks such as New York’s ’9/11 Memorial’ and ’Oculus,’ as well as architectural works designed by Santiago Calatrava. The video also included scenes of her having a meal and conversation with a longtime acquaintance who is a landscape designer. On the evening of the fourth day of her trip, Kim Sa-rang attracted attention by visiting a famous local pizzeria. That day, she wore a black off-shoulder halter neck dress that created a sophisticated atmosphere. The deeply cut neckline and body-hugging silhouette emphasized her figure, and she naturally tied her long hair up, revealing her neckline and collarbones. Even in the ordinary scene of eating pizza, she created a photoshoot-like ambiance. Comparing the pizzas from two stores, Kim Sa-rang stated through subtitles, ″Since COVID-19, many night markets like this have really appeared in New York. It’s so nice to sit outside and chat on a pleasant night like this.″ She then visited a jazz bar with her acquaintances and shared her impression, saying, ″I think I spent today quite like a New Yorker.″ Meanwhile, Kim Sa-rang was born in 1978 and was selected as the winner of the 2000 Miss Korea pageant. The following year, she began her acting career with the MBC drama ’What Should I Do?’ She later appeared in films such as ’Who Slept with Her?’ and dramas including ’Secret Garden’ and ’My Dear Eun-dong.’ Since 2021’s ’Revenge,’ she has not been active in any notable projects.]]> FANNSTAR Wed, 30 Sep 2026 00:00:00 +0900 Jo Kwon recently revealed his muscular physique and shared an update on his recent life. Jo Kwon, formerly of 2AM, posted a photo and video on his SNS on the 28th with the caption ″run.″ The photo showed Jo Kwon running shirtless on the streets of Thailand. His defined muscles and tattoos on his arms and collarbone caught attention. Previously, Jo Kwon appeared on the MBN variety show ’Jeon Hyun-moo Project 4’ and revealed that his weight is 59kg, mentioning that even though he eats a lot, he always stays in the 50kg range. Additionally, Jo Kwon opened up about why his broadcasting activities had been scarce since April, explaining that during his military service, his mother underwent foot amputation surgery due to skin cancer, and his father had four surgeries for colorectal cancer, causing him to go through a difficult time due to his family’s health issues. He has since been focusing on caring for his parents.]]> FANNSTAR Wed, 30 Sep 2026 00:00:00 +0900 Pre-release of 'Looks Can Kill' on the 19th, release on the 26thGroup IVE has released their promotion scheduler and officially begun their comeback countdown. The photo shows IVE Rei Gaeul Jang Won-young, An Yu-jin Leeseo Liz (from left) attending the media showcase for their second full album 'REVIVE+' held on February 23rd. / Reporter Seo Ye-won[THE FACT|Reporter Choi Hyun-jung] Group IVE has heated up the comeback atmosphere by releasing a stylish schedule poster.On the afternoon of the 29th, their agency Starship Entertainment released the schedule poster for their new mini-album 'Looks Can Kill' on IVE (An Yu-jin Gaeul Rei Jang Won-young Liz Leeseo)'s official social media.The poster features IVE's promotion schedule in a banner format, combining bold fonts and intense colors, drawing attention.According to the schedule, IVE will release the tracklist on October 4th, followed by 'HERO IN EVERYWHERE' content on the 5th, and 'POST CREDITS SCENE : GIRL HERO' content on the 6th, before unveiling concept photos in various versions.Subsequently, on October 19th, the title track of the same name, 'Looks Can Kill', will be pre-released, and the new mini-album 'Looks Can Kill' will be officially released on October 26th.IVE is set to showcase a 'girl hero' concept in their new album 'Looks Can Kill'. / Starship EntertainmentIVE's new album 'Looks Can Kill' is a spin-off project based on the 'girl hero' concept. They will transform into six heroes, expanding on their previous Cupid and magical girl concepts with new characters and storylines.Having consistently shown new sides with each album through unique concepts and music, IVE is determined to deliver even more intense visuals and music, along with their signature confident message, in 'Looks Can Kill'.laugardagr@tf.co.kr[Entertainment Department | ssent@tf.co.kr]]]> FANNSTAR Wed, 30 Sep 2026 00:00:00 +0900 Singer Yang Joon-il recently communicated with fans by sharing various Instagram posts and photos through official SNS. In the released photos, Yang Joon-il was seen wearing a black jacket with see-through lace details directly on bare skin. Another photo captured Yang Joon-il smiling and enjoying the stage performance. In a recent post, Yang Joon-il wrote, ″NSM My Qs & Ks, Monday will pass quickly like a holiday. So October 10 will come quickly too,″ expressing anticipation for upcoming events. Yang Joon-il actively interacts with fans through a unique musical world and fashion sense.]]> FANNSTAR Wed, 30 Sep 2026 00:00:00 +0900 Actress Hwang Jung-eum revealed a photo of herself going out wearing socks with holes. On the 30th, Hwang Jung-eum posted a photo of herself getting into a car on her personal channel with the caption, ″Ha, is it Yebini or Yeju-ni?″ In the photo, Hwang Jung-eum is dressed comfortably for an outing, and the socks she is wearing have a large hole. Hwang Jung-eum mentioned one of her dogs, Yebin or Yejun, as the culprit who made the hole in the socks. Currently, Hwang Jung-eum is raising her two sons alone after divorcing her ex-husband and communicates with fans through her YouTube channel.]]> FANNSTAR Wed, 30 Sep 2026 00:00:00 +0900 Lim Young Woong demonstrated musical influence by simultaneously charting 14 songs on the Billboard Korea ’Global K-Songs’ chart. On the October 3, 2026, Billboard Korea ’Global K-Songs’ chart, Lim Young Woong set a record by entering 14 tracks. Among them, ″Love Always Runs Away″ ranked highest at 16th place and remained on the chart for 36 consecutive weeks. ″TtoTto″ reached 24th place, and ″Please Be Happy″ ranked 39th. ″Moise″ (72nd), ″Baila″ (74th), ″To Us Who Have Lived″ (75th), and ″I Hate You″ (77th) also made the rankings. Following these were ″Like Forever in a Moment″ (79th), ″Grains of Sand″ (80th), ″Our Blues″ (81st), ″New York″ (82nd), ″A Bientot″ (83rd), ″Melody for You″ (91st), and ″I Am HERO″ (100th). In particular, ″Our Blues″ stayed on the chart for 20 weeks, continuing its long-term success. This chart entry includes songs evenly from various periods, ranging from Lim Young Woong’s early representative works to tracks from the special album ″IM HERO 10.″ Lim Young Woong recently surpassed 3.2 billion cumulative views on YouTube and 14.6 billion cumulative streams on Melon. Through various musical activities and new projects, Lim Young Woong continues to engage with fans.]]> FANNSTAR Wed, 30 Sep 2026 00:00:00 +0900 Group CLOSE YOUR EYES's KENSHIN, SONG SEUNGHO, JEON MINWOOK, MA JINGXIANG, KIM SUNGMIN, JANG YEOJUN, SEO KYOUNGBAE (from left) pose at a press conference for their fourth mini-album '256th Note' held at the Mont Blanc Hall of The Riverside Hotel in Seocho-gu, Seoul on the afternoon of the 30th. /Reporter Park Sang-min [THE FACT | Reporter Park Sang-min] Group CLOSE YOUR EYES's KENSHIN, SONG SEUNGHO, JEON MINWOOK, MA JINGXIANG, KIM SUNGMIN, JANG YEOJUN, SEO KYOUNGBAE pose at a press conference for their fourth mini-album '256th Note' held at the Mont Blanc Hall of The Riverside Hotel in Seocho-gu, Seoul on the afternoon of the 30th. CLOSE YOUR EYES's new album '256th Note' is inspired by the 256th note, one of the shortest notes in existence, and is an album that expresses the 'fleeting emotions' felt by the members. The album includes a total of 7 tracks, including the pre-release song 'Open Your Eyes,' which lyrically expresses the free sense of jazz, the title track 'Drop That!,' 'Vibe Check,' 'Slowly Bleed,' 'Fool For You,' 'Baby Bossa Nova,' and 'Eternity.' CLOSE YOUR EYES members added authenticity by participating in the lyrics of many of the included songs. The new album will be released at 6 p.m. today through various music sites. psm27@tf.co.krphoto@tf.co.kr]]> FANNSTAR Wed, 30 Sep 2026 00:00:00 +0900 The only survivor of the camping school bus disappearance, Ryu Sun-woo... Stills revealedOpening October 21Character stills of actor Bae Hyun-sung, who appears in the movie 'Paradise', have been released. /CJ ENM[THE FACT|Reporter Choi Soo-bin] Actor Bae Hyun-sung will show a different side of himself than ever before in his first leading role on the big screen.Distributor CJ ENM released character stills of actor Bae Hyun-sung, who plays Ryu Sun-woo in the movie 'Paradise' (directed by Yeon Sang-ho), on the 30th. The photos capture the unknown atmosphere of Ryu Sun-woo, who has returned after a long absence.'Paradise' is a psychological thriller that begins when Ryu Sun-woo, who was presumed dead, miraculously returns to his mother Ryu So-young (played by Kim Hyun-joo), who lost her son in a camping school bus disappearance 9 years ago.Ryu So-young, who lost her son 9 years ago, has been enduring day by day by meeting her son, who stopped at the age of ten, within the AI (Artificial Intelligence) program 'Children of Paradise'. Then one day, Ryu Sun-woo, who was thought to be dead, returns home after 9 years, and Ryu So-young's daily life begins to shake.Ryu Sun-woo, played by Bae Hyun-sung, is the sole survivor of the camping school bus disappearance that shook the nation. Although he has returned to his mother's side after a long time, the traces of the innocent child that Ryu So-young remembers are hard to find. What he did and where he was during his lost time is shrouded in mystery, adding to the questions.Bae Hyun-sung, who is taking on his first leading role on the big screen with this film, focused on not easily revealing the character's inner thoughts. He said, "I felt the charm in the coolness of not knowing what Sun-woo was thinking. I wanted to create a coolness that emanated from a restrained attitude rather than an overtly scary one."Director Yeon Sang-ho praised him, saying, "Ryu Sun-woo had to be a mysterious character with both innocent and cool sides, and I thought Bae Hyun-sung could show those dual aspects. I was surprised by his concentration and his acting ability to instantly turn into a cool character."The stills capture the atmosphere of Ryu Sun-woo, whose inner thoughts are unknown, with different temperatures. First, Ryu Sun-woo, who quietly looks at his reflection in the mirror, shows little emotion. His calm expression and deep, sunken eyes add to the curiosity about the secrets he holds.Next, a scene of him standing alone in front of a fence in the middle of the night creates tension. Ryu Sun-woo, dressed in worn clothes, stares straight ahead in the darkness. It sparks curiosity as to why he is standing there and what connection it has to his time of disappearance.Bae Hyun-sung's movie 'Paradise', which will show a new face through his first leading role on the big screen, will meet audiences in theaters on October 21st.subin7134@tf.co.kr[Entertainment Department | ssent@tf.co.kr]]]> FANNSTAR Wed, 30 Sep 2026 00:00:00 +0900 Allegations of historical distortion and Chinese capital, followed by a police complaintAmidst continuous controversy, it regains the No. 1 spot at the box office, drawing attention.The film "Assassination(s)" is a work that uses the assassination of Madam Yuk Young-soo during the 1974 Liberation Day ceremony as its motif, filling the gaps in official records with cinematic imagination and presenting the story as a suspense genre. The photo shows actors Yoo Hae-jin, Park Hae-il, and Lee Min-ho (from left) posing at the press preview and conference for the film "Assassination(s)" held at Megabox COEX in Gangnam-gu, Seoul, on September 8. / Reporter Seo Ye-won[THE FACT|Reporter Park Ji-yoon] The film "Assassination(s)," which became the winner of the Chuseok holiday box office, is at the center of attention due to various negative controversies, including historical distortion and allegations of Chinese capital. As these controversies affect not only the cast but also related content, spreading widely, attention is focused on whether the film can continue its box office success despite the noise."Assassination(s)" (directed by Hur Jin-ho), released on the 23rd, is a mystery thriller that traces the suspicions and masterminds behind the shocking assassination of the First Lady on August 15, 1974, adding cinematic imagination to the remaining records and unresolved questions to this day.The film was directed by Hur Jin-ho, who has delicately explored characters and events through films like "The Last Princess" and "Christmas in August," and raised expectations with the collaboration of Yoo Hae-jin, the "No. 1 in cumulative audience for Korean films," Park Hae-il, and Lee Min-ho.Furthermore, it garnered significant attention from the production stage as it was motivated by the assassination of Madam Yuk Young-soo during the 1974 Liberation Day ceremony, an event that had never been covered in Korean cinema before. The incident was investigated as Moon Se-gwang, backed by North Korea and the General Association of Korean Residents in Japan (Chochongryon), attempted to assassinate former President Park Chung-hee but failed, and Madam Yuk Young-soo was fatally shot in the process. Moon Se-gwang, arrested at the scene, was sentenced to death.Director Hur, who dealt with this, illuminated the period from nine days before the incident to 90 days after, filling the gaps in official records with cinematic imagination and presenting the story as a suspense genre. Rather than pointing to a specific individual as the mastermind behind the incident, the film delves into the power dynamics and atmosphere of Korean society at the time through the police and reporters who investigate the questions and masterminds behind the officially known events.Some viewers who watched the film raised suspicions of historical distortion regarding scenes where some characters suggest the possibility of former President Park Chung-hee's side or the Central Intelligence Agency's involvement in the incident, and politicians also voiced their opinions to support these views. / Hive Media Corp.However, some viewers who watched the film raised suspicions of historical distortion regarding scenes where some characters suggest the possibility of former President Park Chung-hee's side or the Central Intelligence Agency's involvement in the incident. In addition, Jang Dong-hyuk, leader of the People Power Party, proposed a boycott, and the Park Chung-hee Presidential Memorial Foundation, the Yuk Young-soo Memorial Foundation, Rep. Na Kyung-won of the People Power Party, and broadcaster Hong Hye-geol publicly voiced their support with statements such as "historical distortion" and "insult to the deceased."Rep. Joo Jin-woo of the People Power Party also mentioned reports that Hive Media Corp. selected the consortium of Mirae Asset Securities PE and CLSA Capital Partners Korea as the preferred bidder and pursued investment of 40 billion won in 2023. He added, "This means it is directly linked to Chinese capital. While it is practically disguised as investment, we must also consider the possibility of Chinese backstage manipulation."Furthermore, Lee Jong-bae, former Seoul City Council member of the People Power Party, filed a complaint with the Seoul Metropolitan Police Agency against director Hur Jin-ho and the production team for defamation of fact under the Criminal Act. He pointed out that the film's title, "Assassination(s)" (plural), implies the possibility of other assassins besides Moon Se-gwang, stating, "It makes the audience perceive that former President Park Chung-hee was behind the assassination or involved in the crime."As controversies surrounding "Assassination(s)" continued through various online communities and some media outlets, the production company Hive Media Corp. released an official statement.Regarding the allegations of historical distortion, they stated, "This is a fictional film that reconstructs a historical event that occurred in 1974 based on various records related to the incident at the time, with added cinematic imagination. The film does not designate any specific individual as the mastermind behind the incident, nor does it present hypotheses and dramatic settings within the film as historical facts."They also denied the allegations of Chinese capital. The production company stated, "There is absolutely no inflow of Chinese capital into our company or in the production and investment process of 'Assassination(s).' 'Assassination(s)' is a work independently planned and produced with domestic capital under the leadership of domestic production staff and creators. While we respect criticism and diverse opinions towards the film, we hope that information that deviates from the facts will not be amplified and reproduced, as matters concerning investment and production capital are objectively verifiable facts.""Assassination(s)," released on the 23rd, surpassed 1 million cumulative viewers in just four days of its release, becoming the winner of the Chuseok holiday box office. However, attention is focused on how the various controversies will affect its future box office performance. / Hive Media Corp.However, the controversies that have erupted have not subsided easily, and malicious comments are pouring in not only for the film "Assassination(s)" itself but also for the actors who appeared in it, as well as actors who left recommendation messages such as Lee Young-ae, Kim Go-eun, and Park Byung-eun.Yoo Hae-jin, who plays the protagonist Cheol-gu, does not operate a personal social media account, so his commercial videos became targets. Eventually, Burger King blocked comments on the Yoo Hae-jin advertisement video uploaded to its official YouTube channel. Although no clear reason was given, it is known that some netizens demanded Burger King to terminate Yoo Hae-jin's contract, citing his appearance in "Assassination(s)," indicating that the repercussions of the controversy have extended to the advertising industry.Various content related to "Assassination(s)" also did not escape the impact of the controversy. The review video of "Assassination(s)" uploaded to the YouTube channel "Btv Lee Dong-jin's Fire-akia" received thousands of critical comments such as "The movie should be suspended" and "You are the same," and the production team announced, "Due to the ongoing debate surrounding the film, the review video has been made private." The YouTube channel "Jimoovi," with 4.18 million subscribers, also deleted related videos without specifying a reason.Meanwhile, "Assassination(s)," which had a pleasant start at the box office, attracting 134,460 viewers on its opening day, continued its box office run by surpassing 1 million viewers in four days. However, the film seemed to suffer a blow to its box office performance when it lost the No. 1 spot to "Tazza: One Eyed Jack" (directed by Choi Gook-hee) on the 28th, but it regained the top spot in just one day, showing a resilient box office performance.There are also opinions that freedom of creation should be respected, as numerous films dealing with historical events have met the public. While negative views and various controversies surrounding "Assassination(s)" continue, these disturbances may also act as elements that stimulate the curiosity of potential viewers. It remains to be seen whether this situation will become a brake on its box office success or rather a spark that ignites greater interest.[Entertainment Department | ssent@tf.co.kr]jiyoon-1031@tf.co.kr]]> FANNSTAR Wed, 30 Sep 2026 00:00:00 +0900 Broadcaster Joo Woo-jae, singer Jung Jae-hyung, broadcaster Park Kyung-lim, actor Cha Tae-hyun, actor Moon Geun-young, singer Jung Seung-hwan, and Roy Kim (from left) pose at the production presentation of SBS audition program 'Our Ballad 2' held at SBS in Yangcheon-gu, Seoul on the morning of the 30th. /Reporter Park Sang-min [THE FACT | Reporter Park Sang-min] Broadcaster Joo Woo-jae, singer Jung Jae-hyung, broadcaster Park Kyung-lim, actor Cha Tae-hyun, actor Moon Geun-young, singer Jung Seung-hwan, and Roy Kim pose at the production presentation of SBS audition program 'Our Ballad 2' held at SBS in Yangcheon-gu, Seoul on the morning of the 30th. 'Our Ballad 2' is an SBS ballad audition program that shares life ballads that have been with us at every moment in our memories and seeks voices that will re-sing the songs of that era. The previous season achieved results such as entering the Netflix Korean Series TOP10 and surpassing 100 million cumulative views of online clips. This season will showcase stages that span generations through various songs released over 40 years from 1985 to 2025. PD Ahn Jung-hyun said, "I hope viewers will discover new perspectives and stories from different generations through the contestants' songs." 'Our Ballad 2' will premiere on October 5th. psm27@tf.co.krphoto@tf.co.kr]]> FANNSTAR Wed, 30 Sep 2026 00:00:00 +0900 Actress Moon Geun-young poses at the production presentation of SBS audition program 'Our Ballad 2' held at SBS in Yangcheon-gu, Seoul on the morning of the 30th. /Reporter Park Sang-min [THE FACT | Reporter Park Sang-min] Actress Moon Geun-young poses at the production presentation of SBS audition program 'Our Ballad 2' held at SBS in Yangcheon-gu, Seoul on the morning of the 30th. 'Our Ballad 2' is an SBS ballad audition program that shares life ballads that have been with us at every moment in our memories and seeks voices that will re-sing the songs of that era. The previous season achieved results such as entering the Netflix Korean series TOP10 and surpassing 100 million cumulative views of online clips.This season will present a stage that spans generations through various songs released over 40 years, from 1985 to 2025. 'Our Ballad 2' will premiere on October 5th. psm27@tf.co.krphoto@tf.co.kr]]> FANNSTAR Wed, 30 Sep 2026 00:00:00 +0900 Singer Yoon Hang-gi poses at a press conference for the 'Yoon Hang-gi 65th Anniversary Tribute Concert' held at Korea Art College of Practical Studies in Jung-gu, Seoul on the morning of the 30th. /Reporter Song Ho-young Singers Jo Hang-jo, Yoon Hang-gi, and Yoo Hyun-sang (from left) pose.[THE FACT | Reporter Song Ho-young] Singer Yoon Hang-gi poses at a press conference for the 'Yoon Hang-gi 65th Anniversary Tribute Concert' held at Korea Art College of Practical Studies in Jung-gu, Seoul on the morning of the 30th.The concert, dedicated to Yoon Hang-gi, a first-generation singer-songwriter who left behind the hit song 'I Am Happy,' will feature singers Jang Mi-hwa, Choi Baek-ho, Kim Soo-hee, Jo Hang-jo, Yoo Hyun-sang, Jeon Young-rok, Insooni, Choi Hee-sun, and So Chan-whee.The Yoon Hang-gi 65th Anniversary Tribute Concert will be held at 6 p.m. on the 24th of next month at Mapo Art Center Art Hall Mac in Mapo-gu, Seoul. hysong@tf.co.krPhoto Video Planning Department photo@tf.co.kr]]> FANNSTAR Wed, 30 Sep 2026 00:00:00 +0900 [THE FACT | Reporter Song Ho-young] Singers Cho Hang-jo, Yoon Hang-gi, and Yoo Hyun-sang (from left) pose at the press conference for the 'Yoon Hang-gi 65th Anniversary Tribute Concert' held at Korea Art School of Practical Studies in Jung-gu, Seoul on the morning of the 30th.This tribute concert, dedicated to Yoon Hang-gi, a first-generation singer-songwriter who left behind 'I Am Happy,' will feature singers Jang Mi-hwa, Choi Baek-ho, Kim Soo-hee, Cho Hang-jo, Yoo Hyun-sang, Jeon Young-rok, Insooni, Choi Hee-sun, and So Chan-whee.The Yoon Hang-gi 65th Anniversary Tribute Concert will be held at 6 p.m. on the 24th of next month at the Mapo Art Center Art Hall Mac in Mapo-gu, Seoul.hysong@tf.co.krPhoto&Video Production Department photo@tf.co.kr]]> FANNSTAR Wed, 30 Sep 2026 00:00:00 +0900 Broadcaster Joo Woo-jae (left) ties actor Cha Tae-hyun's shoelaces at the production presentation of SBS audition program 'Our Ballad 2' held at SBS in Yangcheon-gu, Seoul on the morning. /Reporter Park Sang-min [THE FACT | Reporter Park Sang-min] Broadcaster Joo Woo-jae ties actor Cha Tae-hyun's shoelaces at the production presentation of SBS audition program 'Our Ballad 2' held at SBS in Yangcheon-gu, Seoul on the morning. 'Our Ballad 2' is an SBS ballad audition program that shares life ballads that were with us at every moment in our memories and seeks voices that will re-sing the songs of that era. The previous season achieved results such as entering the Netflix Korean Series TOP10 and surpassing 100 million cumulative views of online clips.This season will present a stage that spans generations through various songs released over 40 years from 1985 to 2025. 'Our Ballad 2' will premiere on October 5th.psm27@tf.co.krphoto@tf.co.kr]]> FANNSTAR Wed, 30 Sep 2026 00:00:00 +0900 Lim Young Woong, Melon Cumulative Streaming Surpasses 14.6 Billion Views... Another 'Great Record'Wednesday, September 30, Jang Hanbyul/ Lim Young Woong/ BTS/ Ko Young-wook/ Kim Jong Kook[THE FACT|Reporter Kang Il-hong] Tickets for singer Jang Hanbyul's first solo concert were literally 'instantly sold out.' But what's more surprising is that this isn't the first time. The fan meeting in July sold out all seats in 1 minute, and this first solo concert sold out all seats in 2 minutes. This moment truly confirmed the ticket power of the fandom 'Eunhasu.'Jang Hanbyul's first solo concert, titled 'THE STAR IS BORN,' will be held on October 31st at the Daehan Hall of Sejong University in Seoul, with two performances at 1 PM and 6 PM.Ticket reservations began at 2 PM on the 29th. All seats were sold out in just 2 minutes, and for the fans who were waiting for ticketing, it was literally a 'ticket war.'In particular, within the fandom 'Eunhasu,' there were reports of heated enthusiasm, with some even saying they would mobilize their children and grandchildren to get tickets. This shows how desperately fans wanted to see Jang Hanbyul's first solo concert in person.So, why are they so enthusiastic? The first reason is, of course, talent. Jang Hanbyul gained recognition by reaching the TOP3 in MBN's 'Muyeong Legend' and recently won first place on KBS2's 'Immortal Songs' after performing with Sungri.They reinterpreted Songgolmae's 'Accidentally Met You' with a performance that blended dance, rock, and trot, showcasing explosive vocals and stage presence.The second reason is their broad appeal that transcends genres. This concert will feature various genres, including trot, ballad, and pop, performed with a live band. In particular, a special unreleased stage, only to be revealed at the first solo concert, has been announced, raising fans' expectations.And the third, and most importantly, is the time they have built with their fans. After extensive stage experience, Jang Hanbyul is now embarking on their first solo concert under their own name. Therefore, this performance is not just a place to listen to music, but also a stage to confirm the journey Jang Hanbyul has taken with the fandom 'Eunhasu' and to announce a new beginning.Following the 1-minute sell-out of the fan meeting and the 2-minute sell-out of the first solo concert, this is a record that proves the phrase 'ticket power' attached to Jang Hanbyul's name is by no means an exaggeration. Now, there's only one thing left. How much passionate support will 'Eunhasu,' who secured tickets in 2 minutes, show at Daehan Hall on October 31st?Jang Hanbyul's first solo concert 'THE STAR IS BORN,' as the name suggests, fans are keenly watching to see if it will be another moment where a star shines.Records Continue... Melon Reaches 14.6 Billion Streams, Endless New Record StreakSinger Lim Young Woong has set another great record. On Melon, Korea's largest music platform, they have achieved cumulative streaming of 14.6 billion views, once again proving their endless streak of new records.According to the Melon Hall of Fame's artist section, Lim Young Woong's cumulative streams amount to a staggering 14.6 billion. This figure, which is the sum of all songs released by Lim Young Woong since their debut, reflects their consistent music power as a solo artist.Notably, Lim Young Woong further enhanced their musical journey by releasing the special digital album 'IM HERO 10' on the 8th. Immediately after the album's release, all of its tracks ranked on major music charts, and they quickly entered the top ranks on Melon TOP100 and HOT100.The title track 'TtoTto,' which Lim Young Woong participated in writing and composing, topped the Billboard Korea Global K-Song Chart, receiving a热烈 response. In addition, other tracks such as 'New York,' 'Baila,' 'Moise,' 'You Will Be Happy,' and 'To Us Who Have Lived' also appeared on the Global K-Song Chart, maintaining interest.This album consists of 6 new songs and 4 remake songs, totaling 10 tracks. In particular, the reinterpretation of their debut song 'Miwoyo' drew attention. 'Love Always Runs Away,' which was loved as an OST for the drama 'Young Lady and Gentleman,' was also included as a remake version.'Love Always Runs Away' is also a song that set another record by surpassing 1 billion cumulative streams on Melon in July. Lim Young Woong had already entered the 'Diamond Club' by surpassing 10 billion cumulative streams on Melon for the first time and in the shortest period as a solo artist.And now, they have added a new record of 14.6 billion views. With overwhelming streaming records confirmed by numbers, consistently loved representative songs, and challenges with new music, fans' interest is growing even more about how far Lim Young Woong's record streak will continue.'Arirang' Dominates Billboard for 6 Months... VMA 3 Wins Reconfirm Global PresenceBTS, BTS's global activities are once again shaking the world music market. Their 5th full album 'Arirang' has remained on the Billboard main album chart 'Billboard 200' for 6 consecutive months, showcasing their immense music power.According to the latest Billboard chart, 'Arirang' ranked 40th. Since its debut at number 1 in April, it has stayed on the 'Billboard 200' chart for an impressive 27 consecutive weeks. In particular, it held the top spot for three consecutive weeks from its initial entry, once again proving BTS's global influence.The long run of the title track 'SWIM' is also noteworthy. It ranked 22nd on the 'Global 200' and 7th on the global chart excluding the US. On the global chart, it has remained in the top 10 for 27 consecutive weeks since its debut at number 1. In addition, significant records have been added at global awards ceremonies.At the '2026 MTV Video Music Awards' (VMA) held on the 27th, BTS won 'Song of the Year' and 'Best K-Pop' for 'SWIM,' and also took home 'Best Group,' sweeping all three categories for which they were nominated.In particular, winning 'Song of the Year' is a first for a K-pop group, and it is evaluated as a case that once again demonstrated BTS's presence in the US mainstream music market. This 'Best Group' award also marks their 5th win in total.Returning as a full group after their military hiatus, BTS is now expanding their stage beyond charts and awards ceremonies to global tours. They will embark on the 'BTS WORLD TOUR 'ARIRANG'' South American tour, starting in Bogota, Colombia, on October 2nd.From the album's long-term success and global chart performance to awards at world-renowned ceremonies, BTS's 2026 activities are not just about 'returning to the top,' but are demonstrating with numbers and records that they are still a group with powerful influence in the global music market.Banished from Instagram and YouTube, now TikTok... How Should I Live Now?Ko Young-wook, a former member of the group Roola, who chose to face public disapproval rather than live a quiet life of repentance for his past wrongdoings, also drew backlash for trying to gain attention by arbitrarily targeting fellow celebrities.Ko Young-wook, a former member of the group Roola, has now been banned from TikTok as well. Ko Young-wook recently created a TikTok account and shared videos, attempting to reconnect with the public. However, the account was deleted on the 28th, just one day after its creation was revealed.TikTok Korea explained that account holders confirmed to have committed sex crimes against minors have their accounts, as well as any other accounts they may own, permanently suspended. Regarding this, Ko Young-wook stated, "Perhaps I should change my name to Gojeuneuk, clean up dog poop at home, ride my bike to go grocery shopping, and live a leisurely life by running in a quiet place."The next day, he expressed his complex emotions by mentioning rivers, clouds, emptiness, and silence. This is not the first time Ko Young-wook has faced such a situation. His Instagram account was deleted just one day after its creation in 2020, and his YouTube channel's activities were blocked in 2024.The background to this is his past conviction for sex crimes against minors, for which he received a prison sentence. Ko Young-wook was sentenced to 2 years and 6 months in prison, served his sentence, and was released in 2015. His electronic monitoring period also ended in 2018.Regardless of the fact that he has legally completed his sentence, the public's and platforms' perception of him remains heavy. In particular, activities that expose him to the public, separate from his freedom of expression, are inevitably judged alongside social standards for protecting victims and minors.So, what does Ko Young-wook need going forward? At least based on the situation so far, it seems more important to accept his past with gravity and demonstrate a lifestyle that does not harm others over a long period, rather than regaining public attention.Living quietly is also an option. And for that choice to be genuine, actions will be needed more than words, responsibility more than explanations, and restraint more than attention. Ko Young-wook's future life will ultimately depend on his own choices.However, it is clear that past wrongdoings do not automatically disappear with time, and it takes a long time to regain public trust once it has been broken.Stars Who Don't Spend Even When They Have Money... Kim Jong Kook&Jeon Won-ju&Seo Jang-hoon's Different SidesFor our last piece of news today, we will share the results of an unusual survey. What's the difference between frugality and stinginess? For starters, it has nothing to do with giving or sharing.Not spending money carelessly and saving it for necessary places is 'frugality,' but when one is so stingy that they give the impression of being excessively miserly even when spending, we often call them 'stingy person' or 'stingy woman.'Recently, interesting survey results were released. DC Inside conducted a survey on the topic, "Which star, no matter how much money they earn, would live without spending a single won on those around them?"Out of a total of 7,506 votes, the first place went to Kim Jong Kook with 1,214 votes (16%). Second place was Jeon Won-ju with 1,126 votes (15%), and third place was Seo Jang-hoon with 650 votes (9%). They were followed by Jang Won-young, Im Woo-il, and Kyuhyun. However, looking closely at this ranking, there is an interesting commonality.First, Kim Jong Kook. The image of frugality attached to Kim Jong Kook is closer to a style of concentrating money and energy on things they consider important, rather than simply not spending money.While showing considerable interest in exercise and self-management, their tendency to reduce unnecessary spending has been repeatedly exposed through various variety shows. In particular, by revealing their spending habit of saving most of their income, the image of a "person whose spending level is unlikely to change much even if they earn a lot of money" was created.Second place, Jeon Won-ju, is slightly different. For Jeon Won-ju, frugality and financial management are connected as a character. She is known not only for her thrifty lifestyle but also for her investment methods of holding assets such as stocks, real estate, and gold for long periods.In particular, the story of her holding SK Hynix stocks, which she purchased around 2011, until now has become a representative example showcasing Jeon Won-ju's economic sense. She has also emphasized her long-term holding principle on recent broadcasts. In other words, for Jeon Won-ju, there is an image of "a person who doesn't spend" along with the image of "a person who saves and turns it into assets."Third place, Seo Jang-hoon, is a different type. Seo Jang-hoon gives a strong impression of being someone who views money realistically, rather than emphasizing frugality. From his days as a basketball player until now, he has spoken relatively honestly about his financial sense and spending habits, and on broadcasts, he has shown a "realistic consumption attitude of distinguishing between what is necessary and what is unnecessary."And Jang Won-young's thorough self-management and clear-cut image, along with Im Woo-il and Kyuhyun's thrifty and rational spending habits shown on broadcasts, likely influenced these results.So, here's an important question: Do these people really not spend a single won on those around them? Of course, this survey did not confirm that. This survey was not an investigation of actual expenditure or relationships, but rather a vote on the "image of frugality" that the public perceives from each star.Ultimately, what this result shows is not "stars who don't spend money," but rather the public's image of "stars who seem unlikely to spend money carelessly."And this is precisely where the difference between frugality and stinginess arises. Frugality is an action that enhances the value of money, while stinginess can be an attitude of begrudging the act of spending money itself. It is more difficult than earning a lot of money to not be swayed by spending even when earning a lot. Perhaps the commonality among the stars people thought of in this survey is this.eel@tf.co.kr]]> FANNSTAR Wed, 30 Sep 2026 00:00:00 +0900 Expected to give birth to their first child after marrying in May 2025Broadcaster Bae Sung-jae (left) and Kim Da-young are expecting their first child. /THE FACTDB, Kim Da-young's Instagram[THE FACT|Reporter Choi Hyun-jung] Broadcaster Bae Sung-jae and his wife, announcer Kim Da-young, are becoming parents.Bae Sung-jae's agency, SM C&C, announced on the 30th, " 'The couple, Bae Sung-jae and Kim Da-young, are currently preparing to welcome a precious new life.'" Bae Sung-jae and Kim Da-young married in May 2025.SM C&C added, "Due to privacy concerns for the artist, it is difficult to provide details, including the expected due date," and requested, "We ask for your warm interest and support for Bae Sung-jae and Kim Da-young."Bae Sung-jae joined SBS as an announcer in 2006 after working as an announcer at KBS Gwangju Broadcasting Station. After leaving SBS in 2021, he has been active as a broadcaster, appearing in entertainment programs such as 'You Must Run' and 'Flame Band'.Announcer Kim Da-young joined SBS as a career announcer in 2021 and hosted 'SBS 8 News' weekday sports news and 'Sports Tonight'. She also appeared in the entertainment show 'Kick a Goal' and left SBS in April last year.laugardagr@tf.co.kr[Entertainment Department | ssent@tf.co.kr]]]> FANNSTAR Wed, 30 Sep 2026 00:00:00 +0900 A Hilarious Finale Befitting a Military Comedy, 'Shinbyeong'ENA's Monday-Tuesday drama 'Shinbyeong 4: Sabotage' recorded a viewership rating of 5.2% with its final episode aired on the 29th. /KT Studio Genie[THE FACT | Reporter Moon Chae-young] 'Shinbyeong 4' concluded in a cheerful and warm manner.The final 12th episode of ENA's Monday-Tuesday drama 'Shinbyeong 4: Sabotage' (written by Yoon Ki-young, directed by Min Jin-ki, hereinafter referred to as 'Shinbyeong 4'), aired on the 29th, depicted the unit members looking back on their time together following the sudden news of their separation due to the merger of the Shinhwa unit, as announced by Inspector Major Kim Ha-na (played by Gong Min-jeong).The viewership rating recorded 5.2%, an increase of 1.3%P from the 11th episode. This is not only the highest viewership rating for 'Shinbyeong 4' but also the highest rating in the entire 'Shinbyeong' series. (Based on Nielsen Korea's national paid household ratings)On this day's broadcast, Major Kim Ha-na appeared at the Shinhwa unit with an unusual presence. Battalion Commander Byun Hyuk-jin (played by Lee Hyun-kyun) could not hide his surprise at the appearance of a major-level inspector who arrived without prior notice. Major Kim Ha-na presented the 'Report on the Results of the Unit Merger Survey,' conveying the fact that the Shinhwa unit had been finalized as a target for merger.Upon receiving the news, the officers of the 2nd Company reflected on their military service thus far. Their memories, scattered throughout the Shinhwa unit, unfolded. Spaces where the unit members had been together, from the guardhouse to the smoking area, laundry drying area, administrative office, and barracks, were sequentially shown, adding to the regret of having to leave the unit.ENA's Monday-Tuesday drama 'Shinbyeong 4: Sabotage' episode 12 concluded with Park Min-seok welcoming new recruits. /KT Studio GenieFor a moment, they were overcome with emotion at the thought of it being the last, but upon hearing the news of new recruits arriving, the unit members rushed to the administrative office. The new recruits who arrived at the Shinhwa unit were, as expected, unusual. Characters with distinct personalities appeared, from a recruit possessed by a spirit to a recruit who was the son of a conglomerate family.'Shinbyeong 4' concluded with Park Min-seok (played by Kim Min-ho) greeting the new recruits with the words, "Let's do well from now on." Like his meaningful remark, "This is going to be fun," the story of the Shinhwa unit was completed in the most 'Shinbyeong'-like way until the very end.As such, 'Shinbyeong 4' demonstrated the true value of its cheerful hyper-realistic military comedy until the final episode. By adding imaginative twists to military stories that anyone might have heard before, it created laughter while also cheerfully and warmly depicting the process of becoming 'us.'In particular, this season, through the unexpected crisis of the Shinhwa unit's dissolution, made viewers reflect on the preciousness of everyday life and relationships that they had not realized due to familiarity, leaving a touching resonance beyond laughter. 'Shinbyeong 4,' once again proving its potential as a legendary 'Guntents' (military + content), is scheduled to return with Season 5.mcy21@tf.co.kr[Entertainment Department | ssent@tf.co.kr]]]> FANNSTAR Wed, 30 Sep 2026 00:00:00 +0900 ENA broadcast in the first half of 2027Hedge funder Kim Young-kwang&contract veterinarian Lee Joo-myungActors Kim Young-kwang (left) and Lee Joo-myung will appear in ENA's new Monday-Tuesday drama 'Queen of Training,' scheduled to air in the first half of 2027. /Wide S Company, Alien Company[THE FACT|Reporter Kim Saet-byul] Actors Kim Young-kwang and Lee Joo-myung will meet in the romantic comedy 'Queen of Training.'The production team of ENA's new Monday-Tuesday drama 'Queen of Training' (written by Lee Min-young, directed by Song Hyun-wook) announced on the 30th, "We have confirmed the casting of Kim Young-kwang and Lee Joo-myung," and "It is scheduled to be broadcast in the first half of 2027."'Queen of Training' is a romantic comedy that unfolds as Ma Ji-yong (played by Kim Young-kwang), a hedge funder (an investor who pursues high returns in the financial market and invests in various financial products) who is the top predator in the financial world, and Jo Woo-ri (played by Lee Joo-myung), a contract veterinarian working at the zoo he acquired, become entangled in an unexpected boss-subordinate relationship.Kim Young-kwang will play the role of Ma Ji-yong, a man like a wild beast. Ma Ji-yong is a hedge funder who handles astronomical funds and has a genius sense for money and investment. He is always on edge to survive in a fierce chaebol family, but he has a surprising charm of being a novice in love.Lee Joo-myung will play the role of Jo Woo-ri, a strong-willed veterinarian. Jo Woo-ri is the 'Queen of Training' who is excellent at soothing the hearts of animals and is a confident character who is not intimidated even in front of wild beasts. Her daily life will undergo a major change when she meets Ji-yong, a man like a wild beast.Attention is focused on the boss-subordinate romance and warm chemistry that these two individuals with unique charms will create.'Queen of Training,' starring Kim Young-kwang and Lee Joo-myung, will be broadcast as an ENA Monday-Tuesday drama in the first half of 2027 and will also be available on KT Genie TV.sstar1204@tf.co.kr[Entertainment Department | ssent@tf.co.kr]]]> FANNSTAR Wed, 30 Sep 2026 00:00:00 +0900 BTS V has been selected as the global ambassador for the British tech brand Nothing. Nothing appointed V as its global brand ambassador and unveiled the new product ’Headphone (1) Pro.’ Nothing is a British tech brand founded in 2020 by Carl Pei, manufacturing headphones, smartphones, wearables, and more. Carl Pei, co-founder of Nothing, explained the reason for selecting V as an ambassador: ″V has an instinctive sense of fearlessly trying new things. He constantly challenges new sounds and styles, following his creative instincts rather than already proven formulas. This is exactly the image we wanted to embody through Headphone (1) Pro.″ Nothing also used V’s meme with the phrase ″V stepped into the crowd wearing Nothing,″ and conveyed the message, ″Who was the first to experience this product?″]]> FANNSTAR Wed, 30 Sep 2026 00:00:00 +0900 Group Monsta X's SHOWNU (right) and HYUNGWON are posing for reporters and fans as they depart through Incheon International Airport on the morning of the 30th to attend Paris Fashion Week. /Incheon International Airport=Reporter Kim Sung-ryeol[THE FACT | Incheon International Airport=Reporter Kim Sung-ryeol] Group Monsta X's SHOWNU and HYUNGWON are posing for reporters and fans as they depart through Incheon International Airport on the morning of the 30th to attend Paris Fashion Week. ksr@tf.co.krphoto@tf.co.kr]]> FANNSTAR Wed, 30 Sep 2026 00:00:00 +0900 [THE FACT | Incheon International Airport=Reporter Kim Sung-ryeol] Group Monsta X's SHOWNU (right) and HYUNGWON are posing for reporters and fans as they depart through Incheon International Airport on the morning of the 30th to attend Paris Fashion Week.ksr@tf.co.krphoto@tf.co.kr]]> FANNSTAR Wed, 30 Sep 2026 00:00:00 +0900 Solo mini-album '二十七(27)' to be officially released on October 8Group (G)I-DLE's YUQI has released new concept photos for their second solo mini-album '二十七(27)'./Cube Entertainment[THE FACT|Reporter Choi Hyun-jung] (G)I-DLE's YUQI showcased a fresh visual at the age of twenty-seven.On the 29th, her agency Cube Entertainment posted new concept photos for YUQI's second solo mini-album '二十七(27)' on the official social media of (G)I-DLE (MIYEON MINNIE SOYEON YUQI SHUHUA).In the photos, Yuqi captured attention with her bright visuals. Yuqi added her unique lovely charm with fair skin, red blush, and a baby perm hairstyle, and her innocent appearance riding a bicycle and a swing on green grass brought smiles to viewers.Notably, following the previously released teasing content, Yuqi once again held a sunflower, adding to the curiosity.'二十七(27)', for which Yuqi wrote and composed all songs, is an album that captures Yuqi's twenty-seven-year-old sensibility, just like the album title. It includes a total of 6 songs, including the title track 'Stay', '快乐(Kuai Le)', 'Chamomile Tea', 'I Like You', 'Feels Right', and '银河之舞(Yin He Zhi Wu)'.Yuqi will release her new mini-album '二十七(27)' on October 8 at 6 PM on various music sites.laugardagr@tf.co.kr[Entertainment Department | ssent@tf.co.kr]]]> FANNSTAR Wed, 30 Sep 2026 00:00:00 +0900 Genius Surgeon Gye Soo-jung Role... Teaser ReleasedFirst broadcast on October 9th at 9:50 PMThe third teaser video for SBS's new Friday-Saturday drama 'Doctor X: Age of the White Mafia' has been released. /SBS[THE FACT|Reporter Choi Soo-bin] Actress Kim Ji-won shakes up the hospital's hierarchy.The production team of 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') released a third teaser video on the 30th, showing Gye Soo-jung (played by Kim Ji-won) performing surgery.'Doctor X' is a work that depicts the activities of 'Doctor X' Gye Soo-jung, who breaks down immense absurdity with her genius surgical skills, knowing neither failure nor compromise. It is based on the Japanese 'Doctor X' series, which was a mega-hit on TV Asahi.The teaser video begins with Gye Soo-jung quickly taking control of the operating room. However, soon after, a voice filled with dissatisfaction is heard saying, "You performed that surgery without permission," hinting that she has done something unusual at the hospital.Gye Soo-jung is unconcerned with the hierarchy at Gu Seo University Hospital. While calmly eating ramen despite the opposition of surrounding doctors, she boldly leads the surgery in the operating room. The addition of the phrase 'No failure, no compromise' foreshadows Gye Soo-jung's performance, proving her existence solely through her skills.Gye Soo-jung's veiled past is also partially revealed. As a significant narration flows, "An arrogant hand of God who enjoys weighing life and her own skills," the present, where she moves freely around the hospital, intersects with a past set amidst a dangerous explosion. It sparks curiosity about what story is hidden in the past that made the current Gye Soo-jung.Furthermore, Gye Soo-jung says, "As long as they are alive, I will save them," and prepares for surgery with solemnity. It makes one wonder what choices and actions Gye Soo-jung will take to shake up Gu Seo University Hospital.'Doctor X', consisting of a total of 12 episodes, will premiere on October 9th at 9:50 PM.subin7134@tf.co.kr[Entertainment Department | ssent@tf.co.kr]]]> FANNSTAR Wed, 30 Sep 2026 00:00:00 +0900 Group BTS's JIMIN and Jin, V (from left) arrived at Incheon International Airport on the morning of the 30th to attend an overseas schedule and are departing for Atlanta, USA. /Incheon International Airport=Reporter Kim Sung-ryeol[THE FACT | Incheon International Airport=Reporter Kim Sung-ryeol] Group BTS's JIMIN and Jin, V (from left) arrived at Incheon International Airport on the morning of the 30th to attend an overseas schedule and are departing for Atlanta, USA.On this day, Jin attracted attention by wearing a T-shirt with a photo of Jungkook, the youngest member, printed on it.Meanwhile, BTS will begin their South American tour, 'BTS WORLD TOUR ARIRANG', starting in Bogota, Colombia on the 2nd of next month. ksr@tf.co.krPhoto&Video Planning Department photo@tf.co.kr]]> FANNSTAR Wed, 30 Sep 2026 00:00:00 +0900 Son Ho-young is releasing a new song to celebrate the 20th anniversary of his solo debut. His agency Gemstone E&M announced that Son Ho-young will release a new digital single titled ″Go Around″ on various online music platforms at 6 p.m. on October 14. Son Ho-young has been active as a member of god since 1999 and debuted as a solo artist in September 2006 with his first full-length album ″Yes.″ He has continued his solo music activities steadily, and this new song is his first solo release in about five years since the single ″In the Flowing Time″ released in March 2021. According to the scheduler released at midnight on the 29th through his official SNS, Son Ho-young plans to sequentially release various teasing contents such as concept photos and lyric teasers before the release of ″Go Around.″ Additionally, keywords related to his solo concert were included in the scheduler for October 31 and November 1. Gemstone E&M stated, ″Son Ho-young, who is celebrating the 20th anniversary of his solo debut this year, has put the musical depth he has accumulated over a long time into the new song.″ In March of this year, Son Ho-young held a solo fan meeting titled ″HOurs″ at Yonsei University Centennial Memorial Hall Concert Hall, and in May, he met with fans at the Everland West Gate parking lot for a theme park project fan concert commemorating god’s 10,000 days since debut.]]> FANNSTAR Wed, 30 Sep 2026 00:00:00 +0900 Group ITZY YEJI arrived at Incheon International Airport on the morning of the 30th to attend an overseas schedule and posed for reporters and fans as they departed for Paris, France. /Incheon International Airport=Reporter Kim Sung-ryeol[THE FACT | Incheon International Airport=Reporter Kim Sung-ryeol] Group ITZY YEJI arrived at Incheon International Airport on the morning of the 30th to attend an overseas schedule and posed for reporters and fans as they departed for Paris, France. ksr@tf.co.krphoto@tf.co.kr]]> FANNSTAR Wed, 30 Sep 2026 00:00:00 +0900 ILLIT released the ’BURNING’ version concept film of their 5th mini album ’BREAK EVEN’ on the HYBE LABELS YouTube channel at 8 PM on the 28th. This video expresses the moment of realizing the sunk cost of emotions through the members’ vivid acting. The video begins with lightning striking a clear sky and the sound of thunder, heightening the tension. Yoona shows an angry expression with a wounded face, Minju holds a chainsaw with a blank expression and a crazed look, Wonhee wipes away tears before striking a teddy bear, and IROHA reveals suppressed emotions by smashing things here and there with a hammer. Classical music and escalating orchestral melodies blend with the members’ casual lines such as ″They said this is really the end this time″ and ″It’s a waste of time,″ creating a cold atmosphere of farewell. The phrase ″I’LL LOSE ALL MY PATIENCE. NOT WORTH IT.″ appears along with the subtitle ’FOUR STORIES,’ adding curiosity to the narrative of the new release. In this album, ILLIT reaches a turning point in the ’relationships’ that have been central to their musical narrative. The album title ’BREAK EVEN’ signifies the break-even point of a relationship with neither loss nor gain, containing a declaration to no longer invest heart and time in someone who does not reciprocate efforts. A representative described it as ″a new side of ILLIT who has boldly and openly pursued their feelings without hiding their affection.″ The title track ″I’ll Arrest You″ is a song where these emotions reach their peak, serving as a warning to the other party who made ILLIT misunderstand through habitual kindness, and expressing ILLIT’s autonomous attitude in choosing to end the relationship themselves. ILLIT plans to hold encore concerts at Incheon Inspire Arena on October 17 and 18, followed by the release of the 5th mini album ’BREAK EVEN’ on the 26th.]]> FANNSTAR Wed, 30 Sep 2026 00:00:00 +0900 Enhypen released ″Bloody Paradise x VELOCIDADE (PETERBLUE Remix)″ in collaboration with Latin pop group Santos Bravos on the 29th at 1 PM. Along with this track, a visualizer video was also uploaded to the HYBE LABELS YouTube channel. This song is a remix version combining Enhypen’s mini album 8 title track ″Bloody Paradise″ and Santos Bravos’ ″VELOCIDADE,″ arranged by DJ PETERBLUE, who maintained the original energy while creating a faster and more dynamic sound. Enhypen previously released six remixes with overall member participation and a version featuring Luiza Sonza. Through this new song, they are expanding their connection with listeners. With the mini album 8 ″THE SIN : BLISS,″ Enhypen achieved No. 1 on the US Billboard main chart ″Billboard 200,″ entered the ″Bubbling Under Hot 100,″ and recorded their highest team rankings on the ″Global 200″ and ″Global (Excl. US)″ charts. Santos Bravos is a five-member group that debuted in October 2025 through HYBE Latin America based on HYBE Chairman Bang Si-hyuk’s ″multi-home, multi-genre″ strategy and ″K-pop methodology.″ They have won trophies at various pop culture award ceremonies with their Latin pop reflecting diverse cultures.]]> FANNSTAR Wed, 30 Sep 2026 00:00:00 +0900 The group izna (Mai, Bang Jimin, Coco, Yoo Sarang, Choi Jeongeun, Jung Sebi) continues to grow, having recorded hundreds of millions of cumulative streams on global music streaming platforms. Their agency WakeOne announced that izna recently surpassed 200 million cumulative streams on Spotify. Prior to this, they had exceeded 400 million cumulative streams on YouTube Music. With this, izna has consecutively achieved hundreds of millions of streams on major global music platforms. Since their debut, izna has built their own musical world by challenging various concepts, expanding their fanbase in both domestic and international music markets through their signature sharp choreography, high-quality music, and performances. Currently, izna is holding their first concert tour, ″2026-2027 izna Concert Tour: WHO DAT GIRL?″. Starting the tour at Seoul Olympic Hall, izna will meet fans in 10 cities domestically and abroad, including Taipei on October 9, 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. Domestically, izna continues their activities by performing at university festivals one after another. They recently performed at Gachon University, Hanseo University, Yeoju University, and Kyung Hee University International Campus, and have upcoming performances at Korea University, Dongduk Women’s University, Jeonju University, Myongji College, Gyeongsang National University, and Hanshin University. izna was formed through the Mnet audition program ″I-LAND 2: N/a″ and debuted on November 25, 2024. A representative from the agency stated, ″Please look forward to izna’s future activities as they solidify their strong presence in the music market based on their outstanding live performance capabilities.″]]> FANNSTAR Wed, 30 Sep 2026 00:00:00 +0900 Lim Young Woong continues to set unparalleled records by surpassing 14.6 billion cumulative streams in the Melon Hall of Fame artist category. According to Melon on the 29th, Lim Young Woong holds the highest cumulative streaming numbers among all singers, including solo and group artists. As the first solo artist to enter the ’Diamond Club’ by exceeding 10 billion cumulative streams in the shortest period, Lim Young Woong has steadily broken records, reaching 14.6 billion streams. This achievement is significant because it reflects a consumption pattern where both existing songs and new releases are consistently streamed, rather than relying solely on hits from a specific period. Recently, to celebrate the 10th anniversary of their debut, Lim Young Woong released the special digital album ’IM HERO 10’ on the 8th. Immediately after its release, all tracks charted on major music platforms, and the album topped Melon’s TOP100 and HOT100 charts. The title track ″Again Again″ was written and composed by Lim Young Woong and reached number one on Billboard Korea’s Global K Song chart. ’IM HERO 10’ includes six new songs such as ″Again Again,″ ″Moise,″ and ″New York,″ along with four newly remade existing tracks like ″I Hate You″ and ″Love Always Runs Away.″ Lim Young Woong personally participated in writing and composing for this album, enhancing its completeness. Each time Lim Young Woong releases new songs, they rank high on the charts, while existing songs continue to be consumed steadily, maintaining long-term success.]]> FANNSTAR Wed, 30 Sep 2026 00:00:00 +0900 [THE FACT | Incheon International Airport=Reporter Kim Sung-ryeol] Group BTS JUNG KOOK arrived at Incheon International Airport on the morning of the 30th to attend an overseas schedule and is departing for Atlanta, USA.ksr@tf.co.krphoto@tf.co.kr]]> FANNSTAR Wed, 30 Sep 2026 00:00:00 +0900 BTS Jimin attracted great attention from fans worldwide by releasing his first video on his personal TikTok account. Jimin opened his TikTok account around the end of August and gained over 5 million followers without posting any content until the 28th. On the 28th, he uploaded his first video set to the background music of ″Be Mine,″ a track from his second solo album ″MUSE.″ In this video, Jimin showcased original choreography outdoors on a coastal road beneath seaside cliffs. The response was intense from the moment it was released. Within about 16 hours, the video recorded 10 million views and over 4.55 million likes, and by the afternoon of the 29th, in about 22 hours, it had over 5.3 million views and more than 371,500 comments. As of midnight on September 30, it had surpassed 15 million views and 6 million likes, with followers increasing to over 6.54 million. A cover video appeared less than an hour after the video was posted. Jimin’s ″Be Mine″ dance video was the first time he revealed a performance that had never been fully disclosed before, and Brazil Billboard introduced it as the unreleased choreography of ″Be Mine.″ Fans responded with comments like, ″His first TikTok is the ’Be Mine’ choreography,″ and ″Finally, we can see the ’Be Mine’ choreography.″ Fans also paid attention to Jimin’s use of the hashtag ″#thisisjimin″ in the video. TikTok Korea’s official account introduced Jimin’s first post with the comment, ″Jimin’s special trait: coming back with his first TikTok right after the holiday,″ and left a comment saying, ″Posting the first video to prevent Monday blues after the Chuseok holiday is truly thoughtful.″ On X (Twitter), the video was shared with related keywords such as ″THIS IS JIMIN,″ ″JIMIN ON TIKTOK,″ and ″JIMIN DANCING TO BE MINE.″ Fans from various countries including Brazil, Indonesia, Vietnam, the Philippines, Thailand, Türkiye, Kazakhstan, Iran, and Myanmar left comments.]]> FANNSTAR Wed, 30 Sep 2026 00:00:00 +0900 Singer Rosé exuded chic charm wearing a black leather jacket. She caught attention with a charismatic expression, resting her chin on one hand and gazing straight ahead with her lips closed, her long blonde hair naturally flowing inside the vehicle. In the photo with the car seat and window as the background, Rosé created an atmosphere of deep contemplation, showcasing a unique presence with intense yet sophisticated styling. Meanwhile, Rosé is making waves on global music charts with her new song ″new trick,″ a collaboration with Apple. The new track was released with a music video linked to the iPhone campaign ″Shot on iPhone,″ featuring a polished pop-rock sound that has garnered significant attention. The song quickly rose to number two on the Kpopit Board Global Chart, proving Rosé’s musical growth and worldwide influence. Rosé plans to continue communicating with her fans through various musical challenges and collaborations in the future.]]> FANNSTAR Wed, 30 Sep 2026 00:00:00 +0900 Seventeen Joshua is drawing fans’ attention by releasing the vertical video for his new song ″Baby Come Home (English Ver.).″ In the video recently released on Seventeen’s official SNS channels, Joshua poses looking sideways against a solid blue background while wearing a blue jacket. His short hairstyle and calm atmosphere stand out, naturally expressing the emotional mood of the new song. ″Baby Come Home (English Ver.)″ is a song that harmonizes Joshua’s soft vocal tone with an emotional melody, delivering a deep resonance to fans. As a member of Seventeen and as a solo artist, Joshua continues his music activities steadily, and this new song is receiving great attention from fans and music lovers alike. Seventeen actively pursues not only group activities but also individual activities of each member, showcasing diverse musical colors. Joshua is also expanding his musical scope while strengthening communication with global fans. The release of this English version is expected to foster more interaction with overseas fans.]]> FANNSTAR Wed, 30 Sep 2026 00:00:00 +0900 Singer Song Ga-In has attracted attention by sharing everyday photos that evoke a strong autumn atmosphere. Recently, Song Ga-In posted several photos on their SNS with the short caption, ″Is it autumn? 🤎.″ In the pictures, they wore a burgundy short-sleeve t-shirt and jeans, taking mirror selfies indoors or striking various poses while holding a smartphone, showing a natural side. In a space decorated with clean white walls and wooden floors, Song Ga-In created a comfortable yet sophisticated vibe by either looking straight ahead with lips closed or touching their hair while gazing at the camera. In particular, the calm autumn fashion featuring the burgundy t-shirt and the subtle expression harmonized to express the warmth of the season. Song Ga-In’s simple yet stylish styling was enough to capture fans’ attention. Meanwhile, Song Ga-In continues to receive steady love through various musical activities and TV appearances. This SNS post serves as both an update for autumn and a channel for communication with fans.]]> FANNSTAR Wed, 30 Sep 2026 00:00:00 +0900 Singer KWON EUN BI has revealed recent updates from their visit to Turkey. KWON EUN BI recently posted several photos on their SNS with the short caption ″Türkiye✈️.″ In the released photos, KWON EUN BI is seen wearing a white tank top and a black miniskirt, standing between bookshelves filled with books or looking at the shelves, relaxing inside a café, and more. The photos also include scenes of KWON EUN BI walking energetically with arms spread wide on a city street with a fountain, standing with arms crossed in front of a pink café exterior, and looking affectionately at a cat on the street. Through these photos, it can be seen that KWON EUN BI is enjoying a leisurely time while soaking in the local atmosphere during the trip. Especially, by featuring various locations such as a space full of books, a café, and city streets, KWON EUN BI is sharing a comfortable and natural daily life with fans. Meanwhile, KWON EUN BI has been actively continuing activities by participating in the Yeonji Daedongje ’Wolha Yeonhui’ stage held recently at Induk University in Nowon-gu, Seoul. On stage, KWON EUN BI captured the audience’s attention with outstanding performance and unique charm. This trip appears to be a time for recharging before upcoming activities.]]> FANNSTAR Wed, 30 Sep 2026 00:00:00 +0900 Singer Jisoo recently appeared at Dior’s 2027 Summer Season Collection event held in Paris, France, showcasing her unique elegance. Wearing a white blouse paired with a pink tulle skirt, Jisoo captivated attention with a calm yet sophisticated atmosphere on the white sidewalk lined with trees. Gazing straight ahead with a closed-mouth expression, she created a serene mood, holding a bouquet of flowers and naturally posing with one hand around her waist, enhancing her luxurious presence. She emphasized her feminine charm with a ribbon decoration in her long hair and completed the look by carrying a handbag. Through SNS, Jisoo shared a photo from the collection with the caption, ″Il y a des beautés que le temps n’effacera jamais (There are beauties that time will never erase),″ showing her deep connection with the brand. This event was the official launch for Dior’s 2027 summer season, attracting great attention from fashion figures worldwide. Meanwhile, Jisoo began her solo career last year, releasing the new song ″Click″ and gaining recognition for her musical abilities. Especially, her solo debut album ″ME″ achieved sales of 1.17 million copies, becoming a million-seller and ranking first in initial sales among female solo artists, drawing significant attention. She is establishing herself as a versatile artist by actively participating in major domestic and international stages and fashion events.]]> FANNSTAR Wed, 30 Sep 2026 00:00:00 +0900 [THE FACT | Incheon International Airport=Reporter Kim Seong-ryeol] Actress Kim Yoo-jung poses for reporters and fans at Incheon International Airport on the morning of the 30th before departing for Paris, France, to attend the '2026 Mesika High Jewelry Show'.ksr@tf.co.krphoto@tf.co.kr]]> FANNSTAR Wed, 30 Sep 2026 00:00:00 +0900 aespa KARINA is attracting attention by sharing enjoyable and natural daily life moments abroad. Recently, KARINA posted photos and writings capturing various moments, including eating tacos, on their SNS. In the photos, wearing a white and blue striped shirt and sitting inside a restaurant while enjoying tacos deliciously, a rarely seen simple charm stood out. Especially, KARINA directly expressed their love for tacos and communicated with fans with a witty comment, ″Luckily it’s abroad, if it were Korea, I would have taken it all.″ They also showed a friendly side by sharing a small everyday experience of tying their hair with a hairpin-like tool but having the style change every few minutes. They conveyed a warm personality by kindly responding to a fan asking for banana pudding information on the street. Adding a post about receiving compliments on their hairstyle from their older sister, a warm relationship with family was glimpsed. Wearing sunglasses and taking a mirror selfie on a shopping street, a natural atmosphere and relaxation were felt. The diverse daily life of KARINA captured in the SNS posts creates a friendly and comfortable charm different from their usual intense stage image, gaining fans’ positive responses. Meanwhile, KARINA is currently continuing active activities, and much attention is focused on their future steps.]]> FANNSTAR Wed, 30 Sep 2026 00:00:00 +0900 NCT member Johnny shared an update announcing his collaboration with the fashion brand Acne Studios. Recently, through his official SNS, Johnny posted a photo wearing a gray jacket and holding a drink in one hand, with a river and bridge at sunset in the background, showing a relaxed appearance. In this post, he greeted with ″Santé!″ and added the hashtags ’#NCT’, ’#JOHNNY’, ’#JOHNNYxAcneStudios’, and ’#AcneStudiosxJOHNNY’ to communicate with fans. The collaboration between Johnny and Acne Studios is raising expectations for diverse activities encompassing fashion and music. Meanwhile, Johnny started his solo podcast ″Journey with Johnny″ on the global music platform Spotify on September 16. This program, which releases new episodes every Wednesday, has established itself as a channel to share K-culture and personal experiences while connecting with fans worldwide. Recently, NCT has been carrying out various activities to celebrate their 10th anniversary, and Johnny is also actively continuing his work in music, fashion, broadcasting, and other fields.]]> FANNSTAR Wed, 30 Sep 2026 00:00:00 +0900 Singer Lizzy shared an update about spending her vacation in Busan. Recently, Lizzy posted on her SNS, ″Bukanga~ Bukanga~ Goodbye Bukanga! Goodbye Bukangi! Goodbye~ Bukangi bye-bye!! I love you Bukangi🤍🦈,″ along with a message set against the backdrop of Busan North Port. She also added hashtags such as ″#BukangiLover BusanUncle is next to me.. lololololol #Bukangi #NorthPort #Busan,″ creating a cheerful atmosphere. In the post, Lizzy repeatedly used the expression ’Bukangi,’ indirectly showing how she is enjoying a special vacation in Busan. This SNS post, which showed a bright and friendly side while communicating with fans, gives a sense of her natural and relaxed daily life. Previously, Lizzy has been communicating warmly with fans through SNS, maintaining a healthy appearance and bright energy. Meanwhile, Lizzy continues to receive steady love from fans while balancing her music activities and daily life.]]> FANNSTAR Wed, 30 Sep 2026 00:00:00 +0900 Aori revealed that she has checked all the past of her boyfriend, Korean medicine doctor Kim Hyung-bae. Recently, Aori invited Kim Hyung-bae, with whom she started a public relationship, to her YouTube channel, where they asked each other questions. The two honestly shared how they became close from their first meeting and about their dating process. Regarding the reason for going public with their relationship, Aori explained that her boyfriend enjoys helping with YouTube filming. Aori said, ″We went to Geoje Island to film together, but since I couldn’t reveal my boyfriend, I did it roughly, and he felt a bit disappointed.″ Kim Hyung-bae added, ″I was confident that we wouldn’t break up.″ When asked, ″You have been divorced once; wasn’t that a hurdle?″ Kim Hyung-bae replied, ″Honestly, I never thought about dating a divorced woman. I had never even considered it. But it was okay. I took it as having had a serious relationship once.″ When Kim Hyung-bae was asked about concerns regarding their public relationship, Aori said, ″Before going public, I asked if there was anything wrong in the past. I checked for school violence, delinquency, crimes, cheating history, and so on. I also thought that more verification would happen during the public relationship.″]]> FANNSTAR Wed, 30 Sep 2026 00:00:00 +0900 BTS RM will hold his first solo collection exhibition reflecting his artistic taste at the San Francisco Museum of Modern Art (SFMOMA). The special exhibition ″RM x SFMOMA: Between You and Me″ will be held locally from October 3rd to February 7th, 2027. This exhibition is the first collaboration with a K-pop artist since the founding of SFMOMA and was prepared based on RM’s consistent interest in contemporary art. Through his agency Big Hit Music, RM stated, ″This is the first time I am sharing my collection under my name. I think it is rare for a collection gathered by one person over a long time to show that person so honestly. In that sense, this exhibition will be quite a long self-introduction.″ He also said, ″My collection includes many works by modern and contemporary Korean artists. Some names may still be unfamiliar outside of Korea, but I have collected with the desire to add a better perspective and sensibility, and that process has led to this exhibition.″ About 180 works will be exhibited in total, of which approximately 140 are works collected by RM. The majority of the collection will be shown for the first time in the United States. The exhibition features masterpieces of modern and contemporary Korean art by artists such as Yun Hyong-keun, Park Rae-hyun, Jang Uk-jin, Kwon Ok-yeon, Kim Yoon-shin, and Do Sang-bong, alongside works by Kim Whanki, Nam June Paik, Mark Rothko, Agnes Martin, Henri Matisse, and Georgia O’Keeffe from SFMOMA’s collection. Through various genres including ceramics, calligraphy, painting, and sculpture spanning from the 6th century to the present, the exhibition highlights the flow of Korean art. It is the largest exhibition of modern and contemporary Korean art held in the United States. RM not only provided the artworks but also participated directly in the curation and exhibition planning stages. To aid visitors’ understanding, exhibition texts and artwork descriptions were written in both Korean and English, and bilingual audio guides recorded in his own voice are also provided. He personally selected the music played in the exhibition space. Christopher Bedford, director of SFMOMA, explained, ″This project closely aligns with SFMOMA’s direction to expand global conversations around art. While creating space for new voices in the museum, it invites visitors who have encountered contemporary and Korean art through RM to this place.″]]> FANNSTAR Wed, 30 Sep 2026 00:00:00 +0900 Sung Hyun-joo recalled her past connection with Heo Kyung-hwan, turning the scene into a sea of laughter. In the video released on the 28th on the ’Heartwarming Hyung Shin Dong-yup’ YouTube channel, KBS 22nd generation comedians gathered in one place to enjoy an MT (membership training). On that day, Sung Hyun-joo emphasized her connection with her colleague Heo Kyung-hwan, saying, ″Heo Kyung-hwan has become such a star now. Honestly, you can’t talk about him without mentioning me.″ She continued, ″When we did ’Korea’s Perfect Man,’ I was his co-star when he flubbed his lines seven times. During that corner when the rookie Heo Kyung-hwan was becoming a star, writer Lee Sang-deok gave us credit cards. He always told us to eat with this card after practice.″ Sung Hyun-joo revealed that they often gathered at her house in front of the broadcasting station when practice ended early. ″We often slept at my place. Sometimes,″ she mentioned, catching everyone’s attention. When Shin Dong-yup reacted, ″Are you really going to say that now?″ Sung Hyun-joo explained, ″We just slept. Slept on the floor.″ Heo Kyung-hwan started to say, ″I was so tired at Hyun-joo’s house that I...″ but stopped, and Sung Hyun-joo emphasized again, ″We slept!″ which caused laughter. When Heo Kyung-hwan said, ″If you say ’we slept’...″ looking embarrassed, Park Sung-kwang lightened the mood by saying, ″Stop! Stop talking! That’s enough.″ Park Young-jin joked, ″Did the two of you sleep together using the card that writer Lee Sang-deok gave?″ Sung Hyun-joo clarified, ″We didn’t sleep together; we just slept.″ Park Young-jin added, ″Writer Sang-deok played the role of a matchmaker,″ and Shin Dong-yup said, ″Let’s talk about old stories comfortably like they do in the U.S.,″ adding, ″Your husband will understand since it’s in the past.″ Sung Hyun-joo responded, ″Oh, of course.″ Later, when asked for more details, Sung Hyun-joo said, ″We slept. We did,″ then explained that Heo Kyung-hwan slept on the floor while she took a nap on the bed. She went on to say that Heo Kyung-hwan took off his socks, and she mistakenly put them in the washing machine with her laundry. When the washing machine made strange noises and stopped, an insole came out from inside the socks on Heo Kyung-hwan’s ankle.]]> FANNSTAR Wed, 30 Sep 2026 00:00:00 +0900 ENA·SBS Plus ’I am SOLO’ Season 32 featured Oksoon from Season 32’s divorced special, who shared a photo with Kwangsoo from Season 32 on her Instagram. Oksoon from Season 32 recently posted several photos on Instagram with the caption, ″Taking it easy in the lobby and taking pictures (let’s endure the beggar zone, so dark) Can you take some emotional photos in the hotel hallway with a good vibe? Thinking man.″ In the photos, Oksoon was sitting on a sofa wearing a beige half-zip top paired with light denim pants, posing with both arms raised above her head as if fixing her hair. A white inner shirt was visible under the top, and her black hair fell to her shoulders. Her natural expression and a checkered shoulder bag in white, blue, and orange colors caught attention. In the next photo, she stood in the hallway wearing the same outfit, with both hands raised beside her head. She looked straight ahead with her hair swept back and shoulder-length hair, carrying the checkered bag on one shoulder. The loose silhouette top and wide denim pants created a casual atmosphere. In another photo, Kwangsoo from Season 32 wore a light gray sweatshirt and light denim pants, sitting on a chair with one leg crossed over the other and his fingers near his cheek in a pose. In the last photo, Oksoon and Kwangsoo stood side by side in front of a mirror, posing together. Oksoon wore a beige half-zip and carried the checkered bag on her shoulder, while Kwangsoo wore a light gray top and stood close right behind her. The two revealed their casual and comfortable looks together. Oksoon and Kwangsoo from Season 32 chose each other in the final selection of the ’I am SOLO’ Season 32 divorced special aired last July, becoming the final couple. They revealed that they continue their real-life relationship after the broadcast, and through this post, they shared their daily life together again. Meanwhile, Oksoon, born in 1986, runs a Pilates Gyrotonic studio, and Kwangsoo, born in 1987, is a dentist.]]> FANNSTAR Wed, 30 Sep 2026 00:00:00 +0900 Actress Kim Yoo-jung strikes a pose for reporters and fans at Incheon International Airport on the morning of the 30th before departing for Paris, France, to attend the '2026 Messika High Jewelry Show'. /Incheon International Airport=Kim Sung-ryeol, Reporter[THE FACT | Incheon International Airport=Kim Sung-ryeol, Reporter] Actress Kim Yoo-jung strikes a pose for reporters and fans at Incheon International Airport on the morning of the 30th before departing for Paris, France, to attend the '2026 Messika High Jewelry Show'.ksr@tf.co.krphoto@tf.co.kr]]> FANNSTAR Wed, 30 Sep 2026 00:00:00 +0900 The film ″Assassin(s)″ continues its success by ranking first in ticket sales for Korean films in its second week of release. This work is a political thriller inspired by the assassination of the late Mrs. Yuk Young-soo at the Liberation Day ceremony on August 15, 1974, tracing the background and hidden suspicions behind the incident. Actors Yoo Hae-jin, Park Hae-il, and Lee Min-ho play the roles of a detective, a newspaper social affairs chief, and a rookie reporter, respectively, adding tension to the story. Directed by Heo Jin-ho, the film goes beyond simple historical reenactment to address issues of press freedom and information control, attracting audience interest. Surpassing one million viewers within four days of release, the film shows signs of long-term success despite criticism and accusations from political circles. Some, including the People Power Party, have raised controversy over historical distortion by suggesting hypotheses that power agencies or former President Park Chung-hee’s side may have planned the incident. On the 29th, former Seoul city council member Lee Jong-bae filed a criminal complaint against director Heo Jin-ho and the production team for defamation of the deceased. Lee claimed that the plural form in the film’s title and the depiction implying involvement of power agencies lowered the social evaluation of the bereaved families. The production team stated in an official statement that the work does not aim to confirm any specific historical conclusion or deny or distort existing facts. They emphasized that it is a feature film that adds artistic imagination to various historical records and clarified that they did not designate any specific individual as the mastermind behind the incident or present dramatic settings as historical facts. Director Heo Jin-ho explained that the term ″Central Intelligence Agency upper echelon″ in the film was not aimed at the president. Major overseas media have evaluated the film as ″a condemnation of a corrupt government that deceived its citizens″ or ″a political thriller depicting the structure of state power hiding the truth.″ Variety in the United States mentioned the fictional disclaimer at the beginning of the film and interpreted the conspiratorial elements as belonging to the realm of creation and fiction. The film ″Assassin(s)″ was released nationwide on the 23rd and is currently showing in theaters across the country.]]> FANNSTAR Wed, 30 Sep 2026 00:00:00 +0900 Singer IU personally revealed the reason why high-resolution photos from the European trip with Yoon In-na could not be released. Recently, during a chat event on Melon Musicwave, IU interacted with fans and received questions about the quality and originals of the European trip photos featured in a video with Yoon In-na. IU explained that the photos were stored on Yoon In-na’s old phone and had not been transferred to her recent phone, so the images were used by photographing the screen directly. IU said, ″The reason we can’t release the European trip photos in high resolution is that those photos are on In-na unnie’s phone, and she hasn’t been able to transfer them to her new phone recently, so we took pictures of the screen as it is.″ Earlier, on the 15th, IU posted a video on their personal account with the captions ″Sure YOO IN NA we best soulmate″ and ″Dear my crazy soulmate.″ The video was composed of photos and videos taken together over 15 years with Yoon In-na, set to IU’s new song ″Dear my crazy soulmate,″ capturing their friendship and memories. The video included various moments such as the two traveling together, posing side by side for the camera, and caring for each other. Especially notable were the photos taken during a European trip about 10 years ago, which appeared in the video. In the photos, IU and Yoon In-na enjoyed the trip with a youthful appearance different from now. Fans expressed curiosity about the original photos due to some images’ unclear quality, and IU’s explanation resolved their questions. It was reported that the photos were used in the video by photographing Yoon In-na’s old phone screen without any separate editing or restoration. IU’s new song ″Dear my crazy soulmate″ is dedicated to Yoon In-na, with IU personally participating in the lyrics writing. The song is included in IU’s new digital single ″From This Star,″ released on the 10th, and was released alongside the double title track ″From This Star.″ Both songs are known to have lyrics written by IU.]]> FANNSTAR Wed, 30 Sep 2026 00:00:00 +0900 Kim Sa-rang shared an update on SNS along with photos capturing memories from New York. On the 28th, Kim Sa-rang posted on her SNS, ″I want to go back to New York, eat pizza at a night market, and listen to good music at a jazz bar. There must be great jazz bars in our country too, right?″ along with photos. The photos show Kim Sa-rang eating pizza at an outdoor table in New York, wearing a black off-shoulder outfit that reveals her shoulder line while holding a slice of pizza. This scene also appears in a recent New York travel video she released on her YouTube channel. In the video, Kim Sa-rang says, ″Since it’s Friday night, I’m going to visit a few popular spots these days,″ as she visits a night market in New York. She created a relaxed atmosphere with a form-fitting black outfit and naturally tied hairstyle. Born in 1978 and currently 48 years old, Kim Sa-rang attracted attention with her natural appearance while eating pizza and looking at the streets. Netizens responded with comments such as, ″Dressing like this just to eat pizza?″, ″Even eating pizza at a night market looks like a photo shoot,″ ″Is she really 48?″, ″Her vibe is truly unique,″ ″She fits so well with New York,″ and ″Why does holding just one slice of pizza look so cinematic?″ Kim Sa-rang debuted as Miss Korea in 2000 and has appeared in various works including the dramas Millennium Love, The Slave Hunters, Secret Garden, and My Dear Eun-dong. In 2018, she was preparing to appear in Mr. Sunshine but withdrew and was replaced by Kim Min-jung; at that time, the production company and her agency stated that her departure was not due to screen time or conflicts. After a long hiatus from dramas and movies following TV Chosun’s Revenge in 2021, she appeared as a host on Coupang Play’s SNL Korea Season 7 last year.]]> FANNSTAR Wed, 30 Sep 2026 00:00:00 +0900 Lee Suhyun recently promoted the AKMU concert with a changed appearance. A video titled ″How to Enjoy the AKMU Concert to the Fullest″ was uploaded on AKMU’s official channel. In the video, AKMU introduced tips for attending their solo concert ″2026 Rumored Paradise,″ which will be held for three days from October 9 to 11 at the KSPO DOME (Olympic Gymnastics Arena) in Seoul. Lee Chan-hyuk and Lee Suhyun demonstrated dances such as ″Rumored Paradise″ and ″Falling″ in a cheerful atmosphere with modulated voices and B-grade sensibility. Then, Lee Suhyun appeared on stage with the line, ″There has never been a princess like this before. An icon of this era who has overcome hardships and adversity. The fry of this era. Lee Suhyun,″ and performed an act. In the video, Lee Suhyun’s sharp jawline and dress after her diet caught attention. Meanwhile, Lee Suhyun previously experienced a slump and was diagnosed with insomnia, depression, lethargy, social phobia, and panic disorder. During her hikikomori lifestyle, she gained a significant amount of weight due to binge eating. Later, she revealed her healing process through her channel, showing how she lost 30 kg over about two years through consistent exercise while living with her older brother Lee Chan-hyuk.]]> FANNSTAR Wed, 30 Sep 2026 00:00:00 +0900 Influencer Kim Ji-young, who appeared on ″Heart Signal 4,″ has shared an update after giving birth. On the 29th, Kim Ji-young posted on her SNS, ″This afternoon is my hospital visit. It’s my first ophthalmology outpatient appointment since giving birth, and I’m a bit nervous... Glaucoma, I hope nothing serious happens to you,″ along with a photo. In the revealed photo, Kim Ji-young wore a cropped t-shirt, showing off her slender figure just two months after giving birth. In another photo, she wore a slip dress, creating a natural atmosphere and revealing her shoulder line. There was also a shot of her going out for the first time in a while. Kim Ji-young married Trevari founder Yoon Soo-young in February and gave birth to their first daughter in July.]]> FANNSTAR Wed, 30 Sep 2026 00:00:00 +0900 A total of 48 teams to perform over two daysDiverse stages announced across 3 venues'Grand Mint Festival 2026' reveals timetable / Mint Paper[THE FACT|Choi Hyun-jung, Reporter] The autumn music festival 'Grand Mint Festival 2026 (hereinafter GMF2026)' has entered its final countdown.On the 30th, organizer Mint Paper released the timetable for 'GMF2026', which will be held on October 17th and 18th at Olympic Park in Songpa-gu, Seoul, via its official social media. A total of 48 teams will take the stage, with Lee So-ra, Lee Seung-yoon, Hong Isaac, Yoon Ha, Sipsyran (10CMxSorran), and Lee Seok-won serving as headliners.On the first day, October 17th, Lee So-ra, Lee Seung-yoon, and Hong Isaac will each perform as headliners. They will conclude the performances on the 'Mint Breeze Stage (88 Lawn Plaza)', 'Club Midnight Sunset (KSPO Dome)', and 'Loving Forest Garden (88 Lake Waterfront Stage)', respectively.On the 18th, Yoon Ha, Sipsyran (10CMxSorran), and Lee Seok-won will headline each stage. Along with them, a total of 48 artists will take the stage over the two days at 'GMF2026' to deliver diverse performances.Beyond the performances, opportunities for artists and fans to connect will continue. The special stage 'RADAR', set up between the KSPO Dome and the swimming pool, will feature various programs including live broadcasts, talks, and fan signing events.'GMF2026' will take place from October 17th to 18th in the Olympic Park area of Songpa-gu, Seoul. / Mint PaperOn the 17th, 'Sipsyran Live Broadcast Special Live' will be held, and on the 18th, 'Lacuna Returns' will be presented, offering a different side of the artists beyond their performances.The 'Close Signal Detection' program, allowing for close interaction with artists, will also be available. On the 17th, there will be fan signing events for Yeonjung, Hi-Fi Un!corn, and Sumi, as well as a high-touch and fan signing event for May 5th. On the 18th, there will be fan signing events for Shininyuryu and Far East Asian Tigers, and a high-touch event for ONEWE.In addition, 'GMF2026' will offer a variety of content, including artist and label merchandise, vinyl records, accessories, and photo zones.Detailed information about 'GMF2026' can be found on the official social media.laugardagr@tf.co.kr[Entertainment Department | ssent@tf.co.kr]]]> FANNSTAR Wed, 30 Sep 2026 00:00:00 +0900 Actress Son Ye-jin recently expressed concerns about the exposure of her son’s face and secret filming. On the 29th, during an interview for the Netflix series ″Scandal″ held in Samcheong-dong, Jongno-gu, Seoul, Son Ye-jin revealed that when she goes out with her family, many citizens recognize her and take photos, and she sometimes asks those who secretly film to delete the pictures. She explained that since she and Hyun Bin are actors known to the public, they accept a certain level of attention, but if their young son’s face becomes known, it could impose restrictions on his daily life. Therefore, she said she inevitably becomes more sensitive about the issue of her child’s face being exposed. Son Ye-jin has recently shared stories related to her son frequently through her personal channel and broadcasts. Her honest disclosure of her daily life as a mother and parenting experiences has received empathy and positive responses. During the interview that day, the topic of her son naturally came up, and she talked about various subjects, including her son’s future career possibilities. Meanwhile, some people expressed puzzlement over Son Ye-jin repeatedly mentioning her son in broadcasts and interviews. Some netizens pointed out that it seemed contradictory for her to feel burdened by public interest when she herself has repeatedly raised attention by talking about her son’s appearance, personality, and potential entry into the entertainment industry. Comments included, ″Wouldn’t it be better to talk less about her son usually?″, ″She is the one who talks about it the most actively,″ ″As the child grows, the parents’ remarks might become a burden,″ and ″It would be better to raise him quietly.″ However, it was also noted that sharing episodes about children on broadcasts with parental consent and secretly filming a young child’s face and posting it online without consent are separate issues. Son Ye-jin has maintained a wide range of acting activities for a long time and has continued working steadily even after marriage and childbirth. Recently, she has gained public empathy and positive responses by honestly sharing her life not only as an actress but also as a wife and mother.]]> FANNSTAR Wed, 30 Sep 2026 00:00:00 +0900 Choo Mo-bin, the eldest son of the couple Choo Shin-soo and Ha Won-mi, celebrated 365 days with his girlfriend Yeji by sharing a long letter and photos. On the 29th, Choo Mo-bin posted on his SNS a message titled ″365 Days with My Princess,″ along with photos with his girlfriend Yeji and a handwritten letter. The released photos captured their daily life, including close-up shots in a photo booth, a baseball stadium date, and scenes of them embracing on the street. In the letter, Choo Mo-bin recalled the moment he first met Yeji, writing, ″From the moment I first saw Yeji, I somehow felt that she would become a truly special person in my life.″ Their first meeting took place at a BBQ chicken restaurant, and Choo Mo-bin revealed, ″From the moment I met Yeji working at BBQ Chicken to the day of our first date, I definitely wanted to be in a relationship with her.″ Choo Mo-bin expressed his feelings over the past year, saying, ″My love for Yeji has grown day by day since the day we started dating, and it continues to grow even now.″ He also wrote, ″Even on the worst baseball game days of my life, the moment I look into Yeji’s eyes, my mood lifts, and all the negative thoughts in my head disappear,″ expressing how much strength his girlfriend gives him. He continued, ″She is my closest friend, the one who makes me smile, the person who brings me happiness, and my everything,″ and showed affection by saying, ″Yeji is the person who allows me to be ’Choo Mo-bin.’ Thanks to Yeji, my life has become complete.″ The letter concluded with a promise: ″No matter which direction our lives take in the future, as long as Yeji is by my side, I will feel that I am where I am meant to be,″ and ″I love Yeji, and I will continue to love her until the day I die.″ Meanwhile, born in 2005, Choo Mo-bin is currently active as a baseball player at Orange Coast College in the United States.]]> FANNSTAR Wed, 30 Sep 2026 00:00:00 +0900 Sam Okyere shared an update on social media after about four months. On the 29th, he posted photos from 10 years ago and the present on his SNS, writing, ″Sometimes, it is necessary to look back and reflect on life. There are 10 years between these two photos. Definitely, it has gotten better.″ The released photos show Sam Okyere wearing a brightly patterned outfit 10 years ago, posing with a woman, and now standing in front of the camera with the same woman in a more relaxed atmosphere. Both photos show bright smiles, illustrating the changes over 10 years. Sam Okyere left a caption meaning ″10 years ago and 10 years later″ along with several hashtags, and this post was his first in 121 days since May 31. Sam Okyere, a broadcaster from Ghana, has been active in Korea, appearing on JTBC variety shows such as ″Non-Summit.″ In 2020, he sparked controversy by pointing out that the graduation photo of Uijeongbu High School students’ ″Coffin Dance″ had potential racial insensitivity toward Black people. Subsequently, controversies arose over his use of the hashtag ″teakpop″ and gestures in past broadcasts that seemed to demean East Asians. After suspending his activities, he appeared on a broadcast after about two years and said, ″Before I start talking seriously, I want to apologize. I am sorry for disappointing those who liked and loved me during that time,″ adding, ″I sincerely want to offer my apologies.″]]> FANNSTAR Wed, 30 Sep 2026 00:00:00 +0900