Upcoming Appearance Schedule

Seo In-guk will be appearing in a show from 11:30 AM to 12:30 PM.

There is a schedule at Megabox in Sinchon on January 20th, Tuesday. It would be great to check out the theater in Sinchon!

Film Quotes

'Don't make me the bad guy again.'

'This is both the end and the beginning.'

Kwon Sang-woo Stage Greeting Schedule

Kwon Sang-woo's stage greeting schedule:

- January 17th, Saturday at Lotte Cinema, Gwangjin 4:05 PM - 5:55 PM

- January 17th, Saturday at Lotte Cinema, World Tower 5:45 PM - 7:35 PM

- January 18th, Sunday

- January 19th, Monday at Megabox Coex, Heartman 2:50 PM

What Is a Stage Greeting?

Stage greetings involve the director, cast, and production team coming on stage before and after the film screening to express gratitude and introduce the film, as well as engage in a Q&A session with the audience. This event aims to maximize enjoyment through interaction.

Key Features of the Stage Greeting

Key features of the stage greeting:

Participants: Key figures involved in the film, including the director, lead actors, and staff.

Purpose: To enhance interest in the film, address audience curiosities, and share affection for the work.

Content: Conducted before and after the film screening.

Participants introduce themselves briefly and express gratitude.

A Q&A session is held (Guest Visit).

There may be events like photo opportunities or poster giveaways.

Difference from Western practices: In the West, such events are commonly referred to as 'Q&A Sessions,' while the Korean term 'stage greeting' is a Konglish expression.

Seo In-guk and Park Hyo-shin Collaboration History

Seo In-guk showcased his loyalty by participating as a special guest at Park Hyo-shin's concerts, particularly the 2009 'Gift Live Plus' and the 2010 'Gift2 Live Tour.' During this time, he performed his hit song 'Aegiya,' receiving great responses from Park Hyo-shin's fans.

Participation Details

Participation period: Late 2009 - 2010

Participated performances:

2009 Gift Live Plus

2010 Gift2 Live Tour (Seoul performance and nationwide tour)

Main activities: Performed as a guest artist

Audience reactions: Received enthusiastic responses, enhancing the enjoyment of Park Hyo-shin's concerts.

Additional Music Performance History

Music performances:

2011 0402: 110402 Cyworld Festival

This was our siblings' stage at the Cyworld 1st Festival, with a dance team participating between Part 1 and Part 2 of the indie band performances.

It was the first and last time experiencing the festival with Supreme Team, UV, and Sistar.

In later news, there was a Cyworld Empathy Festival on November 19, 2011, at Korea University's Hwajung Gymnasium. I wonder why we weren't there?

A Historic Collaboration with Chung Myung-Hoon and Dresden Staatskapelle

Lim Yoon-Chan will perform Schumann’s Piano Concerto under the baton of conductor Chung Myung-Hoon alongside the Dresden Staatskapelle in Germany.

The Dresden Staatskapelle, with its 478-year history, stands among the most respected orchestras in the world.

Following the Dresden performance, Lim is scheduled to return to Korea to meet domestic audiences.

The Youngest Van Cliburn Winner Who Shook the Classical World

In 2022, Lim captured global attention by winning the Van Cliburn International Piano Competition as its youngest champion.

This historic achievement marked a turning point, instantly placing him among the most talked-about pianists of his generation.

Since then, his performances and recordings have continued to draw praise from critics and audiences alike.

Early Life and an Unexpected Beginning with Piano

Born in 2004 in Siheung, Gyeonggi-do, Lim began playing the piano at the age of seven.

His start was surprisingly casual. His mother suggested he choose between taekwondo, swimming, and piano, and he selected piano simply because it seemed the easiest.

What began as a light decision quickly turned into a defining path.

From Local Academy to Gifted Education

Lim started lessons at a local piano academy, where his rapid progress became immediately apparent.

After watching a documentary about the Arts Center’s gifted academy, he expressed a strong desire to attend.

Despite limited information at the time, his mother supported him, and in 2012, he passed the entrance exam and began formal training.

Competition Wins and Rapid Growth

Within months of joining the academy, Lim won first place at the 2012 Music Journal Competition.

He followed this with another first-place finish at the 2013 Music Chunchoo Competition.

His teacher, pianist Kim Kyung-Eun, recalled how he caught up to peers with years of experience in just one year.

Official Debut at a Remarkably Young Age

In 2015, at just ten years old, Lim became the youngest pianist to pass the Kumho Talent Audition.

This marked his official debut and was followed by first-place wins at the Mozart Korean Competition and the 2016 Yewon Music Competition.

Although he enjoyed sports like baseball and soccer in elementary school, piano soon became his clear focus.

Mentorship, Discipline, and Orchestral Debut

Lim’s development continued under Professor Son Min-Soo, who recognized his exceptional potential during an audition at the Korea National University of Arts.

Under this guidance, his practice hours increased dramatically.

In 2017, he performed with an orchestra for the first time, marking another major step in his growth.

International Stage and Artistic Maturity

In 2018, Lim entered his first international competition, the Cleveland International Piano Competition.

He won second place along with a special award, signaling his readiness for the global stage.

After graduating from Yewon School, he chose not to attend high school and instead focused entirely on competitions and performance.

Albums, Pandemic Challenges, and Continued Momentum

In December 2020, despite the pandemic’s impact on live performances, Lim released his first album through a KBS series spotlighting young musicians.

In 2021, he enrolled at the Korea National University of Arts and performed with the Busan Philharmonic Orchestra.

His debut album released in November 2022 received widespread critical acclaim.

Looking Ahead: A Global Career at Just 20

Lim Yoon-Chan has since transferred to the New England Conservatory to continue his studies.

At only 20 years old, he has already achieved milestones that many musicians pursue for a lifetime.

With major collaborations, international stages, and growing artistic depth, his future in classical music appears exceptionally bright.

A special guest at Solago Myeongdong

The atmosphere at Solago Myeongdong GDR Academy felt especially energetic with the visit of Ryu Ji-gwang.

Known for his strong stage presence, he brought the same focus and enthusiasm to his golf practice.

Focused training with professional guidance

Under the careful guidance of coach Yoo Jun-sun, the training session was structured and intensive.

Ryu Ji-gwang showed impressive physical strength and a clear determination to refine his golf technique.

Energy, discipline, and steady improvement

Even with a packed schedule, his commitment to consistent practice stood out.

Moments like this show how discipline in training translates across different fields, from music to sports.

Support for future growth

The academy looks forward to welcoming him again and supporting his continued progress in golf.

Solago Myeongdong GDR Academy remains committed to providing a professional and motivating environment for all trainees.

Academy location and hours

Location: B1, 9 Chungmuro 2-gil, Jung-gu, Seoul.

Weekday hours are from 06:00 to 22:00.

Weekend hours are from 08:00 to 21:00.

Anshin Shinrong Geonwoo

Good.

We went on a school trip!!

Math + Trip - individually, not the most exciting words, but together they create synergy.

It's like Ace crackers + instant coffee - a surprisingly good combo.

Honestly! The bus was uncomfortable.

I don't even sit this straight in class... As someone who takes express buses every week, I'd give the bus a 3 out of 5. The facilities get a 1, but the driver's music selection adds +2.

Day 1: Everland!

As soon as we arrived, we bought matching headbands and began our walking labor.

10,000 won for a headband is excessive.

Actually, I was debating getting a headband, but while I was choosing, I accidentally got a little ice cream on this goat headband, so I had to buy it.

I think it suited me! Even though I'm a carnivore lol.

For the record, I'm covering my face a lot today because my friends didn't give me permission to post their faces. (Hmph)

The rides that our group of scaredy-cats rode were:

Royal Jubilee Carousel (you probably don't know it, haha)

Dragon Coaster

Bumper Cars

Horror Maze

Fun House?

That's it.

The three of us rode the carousel in a carriage.

Our roles were king, queen, and concubine (I was the king).

But is it okay for the queen and concubine to ride together? Anyway, I sat with the concubine.

Sorry, Queen...

And to prevent my friends from getting into car accidents later, I caused a lot of collisions with the bumper cars that day (a preemptive good luck charm).

I was driving with one hand, lol.

We kept eating something.

Nom nom nom.

Eating, looking around, and riding rides - repeating this made it not too tiring and super fun, haha.

Oh-o-Chu (Korean Fish-shaped bread with red bean paste) was so delicious.

But why is Everland so expensive??

Like, a churro is 500 million won, a chocolate latte is a billion won.

My wallet got lighter, making it easier to walk.

Mყ ρeɾfect subject...

Jungmin is so pretty.

Queen!

I took it!!

Ah...so pretty.

Jungmin posted the photo I took on her story.

Woohoo.

I feel like a photographer.

(Oh yeah, my mom keeps nagging me about using ㅅ as a final consonant incorrectly, so I'm trying to fix it)

I'm the type to take mirror selfies whenever I see a mirror.

I didn't have Polaroid film, but I used what I had and took a lot of aesthetic photos for my friends.

Pretty friends. I'll devour you like an apple.

Waaaang

The overall vibe was like this.

So even when we were waiting for rides, we took pictures and played around, so it wasn't boring and it was good.

Seeing both Everland in the bright sunlight and Everland at night.

By the time I took this picture, my legs weren't my legs anymore. Ah, so tired.

Wait a minute?! While we came to eat dinner, Bung Eun-chae, who we met naturally, had a doppelganger?!?

A huge discovery

It's this BungBung Eun-chae. So cute. You cute thing.

Aigiyowo

The accommodations we arrived at after thoroughly enjoying Everland.

Honestly, it wasn't that great (the ceiling was low, I thought my head would touch it).

Mirror selfie with my roommates

lol...to be honest, I went to play in another room.

We talked a lot until 4 AM and then just fell asleep there.

There were definitely four of us talking, but some kids with yellow feet came in the middle, turned everything upside down, and left.

The next day (1 hour of sleep) I ate breakfast.

Strangely, my stomach doubles in size whenever I go to a buffet. I ate 3 plates.

My favorite picks: plum juice, milk

Day 2!! We went to the Folk Village, but I had to go home separately, so I didn't really see anything... So I won't write about this content.

And I got lost on the way (1 hour ago)

It's not Singil Intercity Bus Terminal, it's Singil Yeongdeok Intercity Bus Terminal, but the terrible blog has false information.

Anyway, anyhow, butthead, I'm on my way home.

I'm going to sleep now.

Bye bye

September 19-28

11 AM - 9 PM

Near Exit 3 of Seongsu Station

A whopping ₩113,000 tumbler!

How can a tumbler be so expensive?

It's pretty, though, and you can get it engraved.

Seongsu-dong is so crowded!

Waited for about 10 minutes, maybe.

Had to prove I followed them on Instagram to get in.

Once you get inside, there's Jennie (or at least, images of her).

They let people in groups of 10, but it's so crowded that it's hard to take pictures at first.

After listening to a brief explanation, if you go up to the second floor, there's more Jennie.

The pop-up size isn't that big.

That's pretty much it.

It is pretty. I think I'll buy my first Stanley today.

Waiting to do the first event.

The wall has this vibe.

It's a flower-drawing activity, but nothing special.

If you draw, it appears on the wall. It's like a photo wall where you can take pictures with your flower as the background.

If you verify your flower drawing, you get to draw a random ball.

I got 4th place: a keyring.

The person next to me got a scarf. It was pretty.

고민하다가

Deciding what to buy...

The small one's capacity is too small.

The one that separates in the middle, the space you can put things in is smaller than I thought.

The price is too cruel!

I recommend paying first.

Engraving takes 15 minutes.

KakaoTalk registration complete!

Participating in Event 2 while waiting.

Post on your story or feed and take a Photoism picture.

They have flower props.

Click, click! Two pictures come out.

When you get the KakaoTalk notification that the engraving is complete,

go back outside to the entrance and pick it up.

If you take pictures again when you come down, there are fewer people.

Show them the engraving and they re-wrap it.

The Zara packaging box is almost like a liquor box.

I think the shopping bag is prettier.

I like this detail.

This is what it looks like when you unwrap it.

The Capybara keyring is tucked in here.

Very cute.

I really like the engraving.

You can't choose the font or specify the location.

Vertical engraving is possible on the small bottle.

It's expensive, but it's pretty! Cheers!

I'll use it diligently at the office!

More Images:

Hello, everyone! This is DJ Jjobby from Jjobby’s Music Salon.

We're back with another session of 'Legendary Albums of the 90s'!

MZ Generation, do you really know hip-hop?

Korea’s hip-hop history isn’t that long, but there are a number of pioneers who are always mentioned—Seo Taiji, Deux, Drunken Tiger, and more.

But for me, the true beginning of authentic Korean hip-hop starts with Uptown.
When I first heard Uptown’s music, the raw hip energy made my heart thump. Many Korean artists who gained popularity through hip-hop at the time often blended it with Korean musical styles. But Uptown was different—aside from the Korean lyrics, they delivered the real deal, a direct import of American hip-hop culture. They were true pioneers.

Today, I’d like to introduce the debut album of Uptown—a group that could be called Korea’s Gutenberg of hip-hop.

Album Introduction

Uptown’s 1st album was released in 1996. The title track “Come Back to Me” still makes hearts race to this day. Even after all these years, the vibe is timeless.

While Uptown later went through some lineup changes, their debut members were:
Jung Yeon-jun (leader, producer, vocalist), Yoon Mi-rae, Steve Kim (Kim Sang-wook), and Carlos Lee (Lee Hyun-soo).

Many people in their 20s and 30s may know that Yoon Mi-rae was in “Tashannie,” but not everyone realizes that her official debut was actually with Uptown.

Except for Jung Yeon-jun, all the original members were from the U.S. Jung, deeply immersed in hip-hop, went to the U.S. to study real hip-hop culture and sound. After two years of production, the album was finally born.

Track List

1. Don’t Rush – Lyrics: Jung Yeon-jun / Composer: Jung Yeon-jun

2. Come Back to Me – Lyrics: Jung Yeon-jun / Composers: Jung Yeon-jun, Kim Hong-soon

3. With You – Lyrics: Jung Yeon-jun / Composers: Jung Yeon-jun, Kim Hong-soon

4. Before It’s Too Late – Lyrics: Jung Yeon-jun / Composers: Jung Yeon-jun, Kim Hong-soon

5. Even When We’re Together – Lyrics: Jung Yeon-jun / Composers: Jung Yeon-jun, Kim Hong-soon

6. Bye Bye – Lyrics: Jung Yeon-jun / Composer: Jung Yeon-jun

7. Don’t Forget Me – Lyrics: Jung Yeon-jun / Composers: Jung Yeon-jun, Kim Hong-soon

8. My Desire – Lyrics: Shim Aria / Composers: Kim Hong-soon, Shim Aria

9. Look Back – Lyrics: Jung Yeon-jun / Composers: Jung Yeon-jun, Kim Hong-soon

10. I Knew from the Start – Lyrics: Jung Yeon-jun / Composers: Jung Yeon-jun, Kim Hong-soon

11. Stay – Foreign Track

12. Come Back to Me (Remix)

13. Bye Bye (Instrumental)

Check Point

When we talk about Uptown, we can’t leave out Yoon Mi-rae. She debuted with Uptown at just 17 years old and was active through the 1st and 2nd albums. After leaving the group, she was replaced by Park Tam-hee in the 3rd album—but Yoon Mi-rae’s legacy was simply unmatched.

While most of the members were from overseas, the one who created that authentic R&B and hip-hop flavor—Jung Yeon-jun—was a local Korean. The irony is beautiful.

In 2001, Uptown disbanded due to two members, Steve and Carlos, being wrongfully accused of drug-related charges. Eventually, they were cleared of all charges, but it was too late—the group had already been dissolved. A heartbreaking end.

Hidden Gem

The hidden track to listen for on this album is the very first song, “Don’t Rush.”
While “Come Back to Me” is a high-energy, danceable beat, “Don’t Rush” delivers a slow, groovy, sticky kind of hip-hop. Jung Yeon-jun’s soulful vocals really shine in this track, while Yoon Mi-rae plays a smaller role.

It’s easy to overlook Jung because of Yoon Mi-rae’s massive talent, but his singing on this album? Totally underrated.

Final Thoughts

Doomchit! Doom-doomchit!
If you’ve been craving some classic old-school hip-hop, don’t hesitate—spin Uptown’s 1st album. It still oozes groove, soul, and hip-hop flavor.

Since Uptown disbanded, Jung Yeon-jun spent many years producing church music, and most recently, he’s become a professor at Yonsei University.

That’s amazing—but wouldn’t it be even better if he dropped another old-school hip-hop masterpiece just once more?

We previously reported its debut at #6 on the Billboard Hot 100 in mid-July, and now it's claimed the top spot!

The Hot 100 is considered the chart of charts for musicians worldwide, a dream destination for many. The competition is fierce, and rankings fluctuate rapidly. Notably, this is the first time a K-pop song with a female lead vocalist has reached #1 on the Billboard Hot 100. Previously, BTS and members Jimin and Jungkook achieved the top spot as soloists or in units, but there hasn't been a female-led vocal performance that has reached the peak.

As of August 14th, Huntrix's 'Golden' sits atop the Billboard chart.

Huntrix's 'Golden' initially entered the chart at #81 on July 5th and steadily climbed the ranks, boosted by the popularity of 'Demon Hunters'. The ascent went from #23 → #6 → #4 → #2 → #2… and finally reached #1 in its seventh week.

Although Huntrix is a virtual K-pop girl group,

the artists who actually sang the songs are:

Lee Jae (Rumi part) – Former SM Entertainment trainee, born in Seoul

Ray Ami (Joy part) – Born in Seoul

Audrey Nuna (Mira part) – From New Jersey

They all share the common trait of being Korean-American. Thanks to this, their pronunciation, emotional delivery, and musical style blend Korean and American sensibilities seamlessly.

Following Huntrix's 'Golden', songs by Saja Boyz are also charting high on the Billboard Hot 100.

Saja Boyz's 'Your Idol' is at #8, and 'Soda Pop' is at #14, following 'Golden'.

Huntrix's other songs also made the charts: 'How It's Done' is at #19, 'What It Sounds Like' is at #25, and 'Takedown' is at #29.

The Vocal Craze Spreads with the 'Golden Challenge'

The highlight of this song is its explosive high-note section. Beyond just being 'cool,' it has become a vocal skill measuring stick among K-pop fans.

Renowned singers such as Bada (S.E.S), Lee Hae-ri (Davichi), Solar (Mamamoo), Lily (NMIXX), Ahn Yu-jin (IVE), Sohyang, Ailee, and Kwon Jin-ah have all eagerly taken on the 'Golden Challenge,' which has spread worldwide through social media.

Seoul Becomes a 'Holy Land' for Fans Worldwide

The popularity extends beyond music into tourism.

Namsan, Bukchon, and the Han River, which appear in KDH, have become 'must-visit courses' for foreign fans, and the National Museum of Korea and merchandise stores are packed with people. Even the Korean tiger and magpie characters in KDH are incredibly popular.

K-pop is now breaking boundaries not only on stage but also on screen and in the virtual world. That's why we're curious about the next steps of 'K-Pop Demon Hunters' and Huntrix.

This article provides key information about Teddy Park and THEBLACKLABEL, including details on how to (or if you can) buy THEBLACKLABEL stock, and how to use the TBL SHOP store.

Teddy Park Profile

Korean Name: Park Hong-jun (박홍준)

Born: September 14, 1978, in Daechi-dong, Seoul

Height: 176cm

Family: Parents, younger sister

Education: Diamond Bar High School (Graduate), Myongji University, College of Humanities (English Language and Literature/Bachelor's)

Debut: November 1, 1998, with the group 1TYM

Nicknames: Team Leader Park (called by Yang Hyun-suk), Papa Teddy (called by 2NE1 members)

Teddy, formerly a producer at YG Entertainment and currently the chief producer at THEBLACKLABEL, has produced for BIGBANG, 2NE1, Jeon Somi, BLACKPINK, and more, helping to bring K-pop sound to the global stage.

Since his YG days, he has been called a 'guru of music' and is a name that always comes up when discussing the top producers from the big 3 entertainment companies in Korea.

THEBLACKLABEL

Overview

CEO: Jung Kyung-in

Type: Unlisted corporation, entertainment agency, hip-hop label

Founded: 2016

Founder: Park Hong-jun (Teddy)

Business: Music production and entertainment management

Location: Hannam-dong, Yongsan-gu, Seoul (Itaewon)

Artists: Jeon Somi, Taeyang, Rosé, VINCE, Bryan Chase, LØREN, MEOVV, ALLDAY PROJECT, Lee Jung

Producers: Teddy, KUSH, 24, R.Tee, JuniorChef, VVN, Nohc, Dominsuk, Danny Chung, IDO (ZHUN·YUHAN·NHD)

Actors: Ella Gross, Park Bo-gum, Lee Jong-won

TBL SHOP

TBL SHOP is the official merchandise store for THEBLACKLABEL artists. It offers limited-edition items that connect the artists' worldviews with fans' sensibilities.

Main Items:

Clothing (T-shirts, hoodies, hats, etc.)

Albums and photobooks

Posters, photocards, limited edition goods

Tips:

Sign up for membership: Required for order and delivery tracking.

Set up release notifications: Follow Instagram, Twitter to check for special features and release schedules.

Check the detailed page: Prevent omissions of components, sizes, and special features.

Purchase through official channels: Prevent damage from fakes and unofficial products.

THEBLACKLABEL Unlisted Stock Status

THEBLACKLABEL is currently an unlisted company, traded only on over-the-counter (OTC) stock trading platforms and some securities companies' unlisted stock services. There is talk of a potential IPO (Initial Public Offering), and the industry estimates the company's value at around 1 trillion won.

Precautions for OTC Stock Trading:

Low liquidity, low transparency, large stock price volatility, and limited public information.

Risk of fraud or false listings when trading through unofficial routes.

Before investing, it is essential to check the Financial Supervisory Service's electronic disclosure and corporate IR materials.

Consulting with an expert is recommended for those without over-the-counter investment experience.

Music Strategy

During his time at YG, Teddy oversaw the concept and songs of BIGBANG, 2NE1, and BLACKPINK, and has recently been focusing on artists under THEBLACKLABEL.

However, YG previously had the problem of longer comeback cycles due to its high dependence on Teddy. Recently, the trend has been to diversify the structure with artist-specific self-production and collaboration with overseas composers. Currently, he continues to produce music targeting the global market, focusing on BLACKPINK, Jeon Somi, and Taeyang.

THEBLACKLABEL directly communicates with fans through TBL SHOP, increasing brand value by combining music and merchandise. At the same time, it has potential investment attractiveness in the unlisted stock market.

Teddy Park's overall producing capabilities, which have shaped the flow of K-pop, and the brand strategy based on the global fandom are the biggest reasons to keep an eye on THEBLACKLABEL in the future.

You can find popular characters like Huntrix, Sajaboyz, Rumi, Jinwoo, and Duffy. This theme can be downloaded from the Galaxy Store between August 13th and September 12th.

K-Pop Demon Hunters is projected to surpass 'Red Notice' and become Netflix's all-time most successful movie.

The theme song 'Golden' from the Netflix animated film 'K-Pop Demon Hunters' has topped the US Billboard main singles chart.

Following its number one ranking on the UK Official Singles Chart, K-Pop Demon Hunters has achieved a rare feat by dominating both the UK and US charts, setting a remarkable record in the K-pop industry.

As Kim Gu, a Korean independence activist, said: "I want our country to be the most beautiful in the world. I don't want it to be the richest. The only thing I want infinitely is the power of a high culture." His wish is coming true.

The popularity of K-Pop Demon Hunters has led to a surge in tourists visiting the Seoul locations featured in the movie. Here are some of the must-visit spots, along with recommended restaurants and cafes.

However, areas like Seongsu, Bukchon, and COEX are so well-known that it's impossible to recommend just a few restaurants. They are battlegrounds for talented chefs and amazing cafes. Just head to a place with a long line, a great interior, or a beautiful view, and you can't go wrong.

COEX K-POP Square 3D Billboard (Gangnam)

The core stage of the movie's intro. The COEX K-POP Square, famous for its breaking wave 3D billboard, is where the Huntrix teaser scene was filmed.

Subway: 3-minute walk from Exit 6 of Samseong Station (Line 2) / 13-minute walk from Exit 7 of Bongeunsa Station (Line 9)

Photo Tip: Capture a movie-like atmosphere during sunset or the blue hour with the reflection of the glass facade.

Nearby Restaurants: Too many to list! Hoho Restaurant, serving Japanese home-style meals, is quite popular. For Korean snack food, try Side Show Tteokbokki. If you're tired of the greasy food in COEX, Seong Si-kyung's Cheonggukjang (fermented soybean stew) restaurant near the old Seoul Hospital across the street offers a home-cooked meal option.

Cafes: Again, too many to list! However, Postonez, a cafe in a renovated house near the KEPCO construction site across from COEX, has a great atmosphere.

Bukchon Hanok Village (Anguk)

The scene where Rumi and Jinwoo have a conversation.

Bukchon, with its serene Hanok alleys and traditional tiled roofs, served as the backdrop for emotional scenes in the movie.

Subway: 10-minute walk from Exit 2 of Anguk Station (Line 3)

Photo Tip: Capture the essence of traditional beauty by visiting in the early morning when there are fewer tourists.

Nearby Restaurants: Michelin Guide-listed restaurants include Samcheongdong Sujebi (handmade noodle soup), Hwangsaengga Kal-guksu (knife-cut noodles), Anam Gukbap (rice soup), Kkotbabe Pida (unique menu, a bit pricey), and Halmae Jip (pork feet, potato stew). Other Michelin Guide restaurants include Moulin (French cuisine), The Green Table (French cuisine), Restaurant Joo Eun, Gaeseong Mandu Goong, Imun Seolleongtang, Onjieum Restaurant, and Horapa (Thai food).

Cafes: Cafe Jo Gyeong De, Orchid Gomet Anguk, Osulloc Tea House Bukchon, Neol Dameun Gonggan, Onion Anguk, Coffee Saneun Sesang, Blue Bottle Studio Seoul. Mostly selected for their scenic views.

Naksan Park Fortress Wall (Hyehwa)

The fortress scene where Rumi and Jinwoo had a quiet conversation.

A scenic spot with a blend of fortress walls and city views.

Subway: 10-minute walk from Exit 2 of Hyehwa Station (Line 4)

Photo Tip: Capture the serene atmosphere created by the curved fortress walls during sunrise or the blue hour.

Nearby Restaurants: Hyehwa Kal-guksu (perilla seed noodle soup, dumplings), Daehakro Yeonhui Gimbap (traditional gimbap, tteokbokki).

Cafes: Slow Park (rooftop view of the fortress), Daehakro Jageun Coffee Jip (quiet atmosphere, brewing specialty).

Cheongdam Bridge & Janyang Station (Hangang River View)

The subway demon battle scene over the Han River.

The 'Ttukseom Park Station' scene in the movie was actually filmed near Janyang Station and Cheongdam Bridge.

Location: Cheongdam Bridge, Jayang-dong, Gwangjin-gu, Seoul

Subway: 6-minute walk from Exit 2 of Jayang Station (Line 7)

Photo Tip: Recommend a layered shot of Cheongdam Bridge + Olympic Stadium from the riverside.

Nearby Restaurants: Since it's under the bridge, Seongsu-dong is nearby! (Restaurants omitted).

N Seoul Tower (Namsan)

The 'Beacon of Light' in the movie.

Taking a picture when the light color changes can produce a dramatic night view.

Transportation: Exit 2 of Chungmuro Station (Line 4) → Namsan Circular Bus 01 / Exit 6 of Dongdae Entrance Station (Line 3) → Bus 01

Photo Tip: If the weather is nice, any spot with a city view will be great.

Nearby Restaurants: There aren't many notable restaurants near the tower itself, and the options vary depending on the route you take to get there, so it's hard to recommend just a few.

For example:

Northern Route: Mongmyeoksanbang (Michelin-recommended bibimbap), Namsangol Sanchaejip (traditional Korean cuisine)

Itaewon Route: Brown Donkatsu, Buddha's Belly (Thai food)

Seoul Station Route: Eunho Restaurant (oxtail soup), Iiene (ramen), Namsan Donkatsu, etc.

Cafes also vary depending on the route you take up the mountain.

Tertre: Namsan view rooftop cafe

Seoul Ludens: Night views and cocktails available

Other locations featured in the film include Gyeongbokgung Palace and Myeongdong.

The group Stray Kids has unleashed a wave of excitement among global fans by releasing the music video teaser for their title track, 'CEREMONY,' ahead of the release of their 4th full album, KARMA, on August 22nd! Set in the near future of 2081, the teaser showcases an overwhelming scale and stylish visuals, once again proving their prowess as K-pop champions. Let's dive into what charms it holds!

2081 'KARMA SPORTS,' The Beginning of a Grand Universe

Released on August 15th through JYP Entertainment's official social media channels, the 'CEREMONY' music video teaser expands the KARMA album's universe set in 2081. It unfolds the story of Hyunjin, I.N, Bang Chan, Lee Know, Seungmin, Han, Changbin, and Felix, who, as 'KARMA SPORTS' champions from 2074 to 2080, aim for another victory in the 2081 competition. The teaser begins with their grand entrance as champions, raising anticipation for the narrative to come. This universe is connected to Stray Kids' unique storytelling, maximizing fans' immersion.

Unique Character Transformations for Each Member

The eight members captivate viewers with their transformations into distinct characters in the teaser:

Felix: Exudes an intense aura in a classic study adorned with trophies.

I.N: Shows the dignity of a champion with a gleaming gold medal around his neck.

Changbin: Displays charisma as he steps into the ring wearing a flashy jacket.

Bang Chan: Appears as a leader surrounded by a marching band and supporters.

Han: Continues the scene of bursting a ball in a trailer, conveying intense energy.

Lee Know: Flaunts a relaxed charm in a racing jacket.

Hyunjin: Completes a dynamic image with a fierce sprint.

Seungmin: Shows off the look of a sports star wearing a hockey helmet.

Each member's individuality harmonizes with the story within the universe, and fans have reacted enthusiastically, saying, "Each member's character is so perfect," and "I'm dying to know the story."

Overwhelming Visuals and Powerful Sound

Stray Kids' music videos are always known for their stylish direction. This teaser also delivers overwhelming immersion with futuristic computer graphics and large-scale artwork. In particular, the release of a portion of the 'CEREMONY' song further heightened expectations. The shouts of celebration, "Hip hip hooray," echo over an intense beat, foreshadowing a victory ceremony. Fans have expressed their anticipation for the full song, saying, "It already smells like a masterpiece," and "Just the teaser is a treat for the ears."

A Full Album in 2 Years, A Work by 3RACHA

KARMA, the 4th full album being released approximately two years after ★★★★★ (5-STAR) in June 2023, includes a total of 11 songs, including the title track 'CEREMONY.' The group's in-house production team 3RACHA (Bang Chan, Changbin, Han) participated in the entire album's creation, further enriching Stray Kids' musical identity. The album celebrates their global world tour success and growth as K-pop champions, and the theme of 'KARMA' unravels causality and fate through the unique concept of sports. The album will be officially released on August 22nd at 1 PM KST (August 22nd at 12 AM EST).

Having successfully completed the *Stray Kids World Tour [dominATE]* with 54 shows in 34 regions worldwide, Stray Kids is ready to shake the global stage once again with this album.

Feel the Stray Kids comeback fever heated up by the 'CEREMONY' teaser tonight! Let's join their celebratory ceremony on August 22nd!

‘INTO THE WISH : Our WISH’

Experience the magic of NCT WISH's first solo concert tour, 'INTO THE WISH: Our WISH,' in Seoul!

Venue: INSPIRE ARENA

Dates:

October 31, 2025 (FRI) 7PM

November 01, 2025 (SAT) 5PM

November 02, 2025 (SUN) 4PM

Due to overwhelming fan interest, an additional show on October 31st has been added before ticket sales even begin!

Ticketing Information:

Fan club pre-sale: August 18

General sale: August 20

Tickets will be available through Melon Ticket. Prepare for a fierce competition!

Regarding Inspire Arena Seating:

Many fans have shared their positive experiences at Inspire Arena, praising its surprisingly good sightlines and excellent acoustics.

One fan mentioned that a seat in Section 413, Row A on the 4th floor is equivalent to Row A in Section 309 on the 3rd floor based on the concert layout.

Some fans mentioned that the front row (Row A) on the 4th floor has a glass fence, which might slightly obstruct the view due to the reflection of light sticks. However, most agree that it's not significantly distracting.

If you prefer an unobstructed view without a glass fence, it's recommended to avoid rows 1-3 on the 4th floor (equivalent to the 3rd floor on the Wish concert seating chart).

However, other fans found the front row comfortable as there was nothing blocking their view.

Inspire Arena is known for its convenient transportation options, especially the Kakao shuttle bus, which makes traveling to and from the venue much easier.

Despite the cost of the shuttle, many fans prefer Inspire Arena over venues like Gocheok Dome due to its better acoustics and sightlines.

NCT WISH's third mini-album, 'COLOR,' is generating even more excitement for this first solo concert!

Starting with the Seoul concerts, the tour will continue to 14 locations worldwide, including Ishikawa, Hiroshima, Kagawa, Osaka, Hokkaido, Fukuoka, Aichi, Hong Kong, Taipei, Kuala Lumpur, Macau, Bangkok, and Jakarta. More tour locations are expected to be announced, highlighting NCT WISH's growing global presence.

While he receives a lot of love and attention from fans every year on his birthday, this year was particularly extravagant and special.

The reason? A star-studded birthday party attended by his closest friends and fellow celebrities.

The most eye-catching part of the birthday party was undoubtedly Hong Jin-kyung’s presence.

Hong Jin-kyung brought specially made *pa-kimchi* (scallion kimchi) for G-Dragon and posted a photo on social media with the caption, “Pa-kimchi only for one person!”

As the CEO of a kimchi business, the handmade *pa-kimchi*, made with true sincerity, seemed like a particularly meaningful gift.

Furthermore, a photo of G-Dragon tasting the kimchi and smiling was released, leading fans to exclaim, “That’s so thoughtful!” and “This is the definition of a luxurious Korean gift.”

The party was packed with A-list stars. From comedian Jo Se-ho to the rising star Dex, actor Jung Hae-in, and even Seventeen members Boo Seungkwan, The8, and Hoshi were all there. Even Code Kunst joined in, making it feel like the ultimate celebrity get-together.

Hong Jin-kyung even shared a photo of herself cheek-to-cheek with Jung Hae-in, which became a hot topic on social media.

Fans expressed their envy, saying, “This is a combination you wouldn’t see unless it’s G-Dragon’s party.”

Interestingly, G-Dragon and Hong Jin-kyung’s connection didn’t just begin at this party.

The two first met on the MBC entertainment show Good Day earlier this year, where Hong Jin-kyung cooked for G-Dragon, fully expressing her admiration as a fan.

The fact that their connection led to this birthday party shows that you never know where life will take you.

Another heartwarming moment was the photo shared by fellow BIGBANG member Taeyang.

Taeyang posted a four-cut selfie with G-Dragon on social media, showing the two laughing and joking together, looking incredibly close and sweet.

Fans responded with comments like, “Min Hyo-rin (Taeyang’s wife) must be jealous,” and “BIGBANG’s friendship is unwavering,” welcoming the chemistry between the two.

Until recently, it was hard to imagine seeing BIGBANG perform as a full group, but with the members appearing as guests at each other’s performances, it’s welcome news for fans.

And of course, you can’t talk about G-Dragon without mentioning his love for his fans. He showed his generous fan love once again.

To reciprocate the ‘birthday cafe events’ prepared by fans across the country, he pre-paid for 188 drinks each at 17 cafes, totaling 2632 drinks. This was truly a fan service on another level.

Fans were once again touched by his sentiment of “I will always return the love I receive.”

There was also another small behind-the-scenes story from this birthday party. G-Dragon's 'same-age best friend' Kwanghee couldn't attend, but instead, he posted a photo he took with GD on his SNS, conveying a "Happy Birthday" message. This also brought laughter.

At 37, G-Dragon is still active on the global stage.

He is currently continuing his global world tour Übermensch, including Seoul, Osaka, and Macau, and is scheduled to tour the United States and Europe soon.

He spent the day before his birthday with fans on stage, and his birthday with close friends and sharing his heart with fans, so it seems he had a happier birthday than anyone else.

In conclusion, G-Dragon’s birthday was not just a simple party, but a special time where friendship, love for fans, and the importance of relationships all came together.

From *pa-kimchi* to four-cut selfies and 2632 drinks for fans… there’s a reason why people say ‘G-Dragon class’.

G-Dragon truly showed that a birthday is ‘a day that shines brighter thanks to the people you’re with’.

Yonghoon's birthday cafe tour continues!

We're at Seven Rock because my friends booked accommodation until today. It's only right to make the most of it in this short amount of time!!!

We visited the Hotel Del Luna Cafe & Gallery in Hongdae.

It's way too hot today...

Jin Yonghoon of ONEWE, born on a hot summer day.

I think it was hot last year too, but this year is especially scorching! Panting, I found the banner!!!

Heading up to the 2nd floor.

Yonghoon greets us at the top of the stairs!

I liked that the banner and poster Yonghoon on the outdoor banner were different from the ones on the banner, so there were different photos~~~

This outfit is from the Friendly Radio broadcast on March 27, 2025!

The school uniform suits him so well.

I really enjoyed the 2-hour broadcast that day!

The outfit was pretty and the radio show was fun, so I watched it live. It's already summer.

Coming to Jin Yonghoon's birthday party.

I'm so proud, I need to pat myself on the back!

LOL. My friends and I came to Seoul solely for this birthday cafe tour.

Ordered a drink and looked around.

The birthday cafe, Hotel Del Luna Cafe & Gallery, had a really well-done exhibition zone, just like the name suggests!

Albums and photos were displayed on the central pillar of the cafe.

Epilogue 817's lucky draw prizes, from bandanas to gym sacks, T-shirts, slogans, special features, and past season's greetings were on display.

The lighting and artificial forsythia decorations were bright and lovely.

The bandana is in Yongstar's colors: black and pink!

The season's greetings photos are so handsome....

There's a reason why the classic look is so popular. A plain white tee is so pretty.

Name tags were prepared to match the broadcasting club concept!

The yellow name tags went well with the forsythia decorations and were cute.

We're joined by various Yonghoons, from Yonghoon busking in Seoul Forest to Yonghoon busking at the Hyundai Department Store pop-up, Wonderland Yonghoon, and Symphony of Dreams Yonghoon.

A beam projector was set up on one wall of the cafe to watch fancams together.

But there were so many Weves (fandom name) that I only filmed the camera LOL.

Trying my luck with the lucky draw here too!!!!

The moment to test my luck has arrived~~~

But I have bad luck.... I decided to only pick one.

Putting all my luck on one card????

I asked the cute organizers if I could take a picture to write a lucky draw review and they made a heart gesture.

I won a polaroid! LOL

I never win the big prizes.

The stamp they put on the lucky draw was so cute that I took it with me.

I ordered a strawberry latte and a Yongstar cookie for dessert!!!

The detail on the cookie is amazing!

It's totally Yongstar.

They perfectly drew Yonghoon's acoustic guitar on the cookie! I saved it because I didn't want to eat it, then I went home and split it in half with my dad.

The freebies also come in a transparent pouch.

Wait a minute!!!! The receipt says "Cashier Jin Yonghoon"?

Such a thoughtful detail!

Enjoying the photos on the wall while drinking my strawberry latte.

Mmm~~~ a feast for the eyes.

And the celebrity congratulations that are always at birthday cafes.

But why is Ahn Ki-joon here...? LOL

My friend who's a Detective Conan fan would love this, so I took a picture and sent it to her.

But when did this character play the guitar? LOL

It was funny to see an unexpected character.

They decorated the inner room nicely too????

It's like they moved the Friendly Radio broadcasting studio here!

If you look closely, there's a microphone and name tags!

There are also school uniforms prepared.

There are also forsythia decorations here.

The birthday cafe at Cafe Del Luna had an event frame~~~

I always take pictures of everything!!!! Since the Weves worked so hard to make it, I should take pictures!

And they're having an event? You never know, you might get lucky, so it's worth a try.

Oh, I accidentally captured the hand fan I put there LOL.

It's a pretty wooden machine.

Usually, these photos come out in pairs so I take them with a friend, but this time Yonghoon oppa is there so I took a solo photo.

Choose your frame carefully!

There were black and white frames!

I personally prefer the black one, so I took it with the black frame~~~

Black and pink are Yongstar editions.

I took the picture after giving a pose, peeking to see when Yonghoon oppa was coming out in the frame.

Failed to adjust the distance, so only Yonghoon oppa came out super big.

LOL. It's always hard to adjust.

Turns out there was a mark on the bottom telling you where to take the picture.... I didn't know????

But isn't it cute because it's big?

I was going to upload the QR code, but strawberry latte leaked in my bag and I was cleaning it up, so it expired.

I put it in my bag to eat later because I was full, but I guess I didn't close it tightly????

I saved the cute receipt...

Thankfully, the picture was fine, even though the edges were wet!

The last part of the birthday cafe is, of course, writing a letter, right?

I wrote a letter here too!!!! I'm writing N number of letters because I'm on the Yong Cafe tour, but the more letters, the better, right~~~????

Hehe, I congratulated him here too????

Episode 3.

Space Travelers Transform into the 'Nice and Good Spot Expedition Team'

Unveiling the Secrets of Seongsu-dong, a Neighborhood Known for Its Charm!

Seongsu-dong, a long and flat land, was incorporated into Seoul in 1949 due to a major administrative reorganization.

In the Joseon Dynasty, it was a plain used for raising horses. During the Japanese colonial period, it was a racetrack. Before the creation of Seoul Forest, it was also used as a golf course.

Seongsu-dong developed into a manufacturing hub in the 1960s (designated as a semi-industrial area).

New York's SoHo also transformed from a factory district into a fashion mecca.

Located in the southern part of Seongsu Station is Yeonmujang-gil Road.

It is said that the name comes from the fact that it was once a Yeonmujang (a place for practicing martial arts).

In the mid-Joseon period, Wangsimni was a royal hunting ground used to train horses.

When training the king's horses, there were various flags, including the 'dukgi,' a flag to pray for victory.

It is said that 'Dukdo,' the place where the 'dukgi' was planted, is now 'Ttukseom.'

1. Seongsu-dong

(Tamburins Seongsu Flagship Store + Dior Seongsu)

Tamburins Seongsu Flagship Store

A Dramatic Transformation of a Printing House

It is said to have a similar feel to the Apple Store located in Manhattan, New York.

And the building facing it. Dior Seongsu

The Rebirth of a Former Parking Lot

2. Seongsu, Korea's Brooklyn (Daelim Warehouse, Seongsu Yeonbang)

First,

Seongsu-dong Daelim Warehouse Gallery

The building, which was a rice mill in the 1970s,

Since 2011, it has been used for fashion shows of famous brands such as Chanel.

A gallery cafe, pop-up store, performance venue, etc.

Daelim Warehouse, the beginning of a trendy spot, beautifully renovated from a factory.

The Tate Modern, a modern art museum located in London, England,

It is said to have been remodeled from the former Bankside Power Station.

New York's High Line Park is also a park created by remodeling a formerly abandoned commercial railway.

This is called upcycling, which revives spaces and gives them new life.

Seongsu, called Korea's Brooklyn, with various factories being renovated.

Next is

Seongsu Yeonbang

A chemical factory built in the 1970s,

A place that was renovated and reborn in 2017.

Two separate buildings connected by a bridge into one space.

The space between the two buildings was a parking lot, but now it has been transformed into a garden.

Episode 4.

In Search of Nice and Good Spots with Um Ji-yoon & Jo Jin-se to Haebangchon!

Haebangchon with many stairs and slopes

A special road that only people can walk on

So the key is that you can see everything from Bukhansan Mountain to Gwanaksan Mountain.

Haebangchon. The area around Yongsan 2-ga and part of Huam-dong.

A village that was formed after 1945, when displaced people who had lost their homes like war refugees settled down.

It was called 'Haebangchon' because it was created right after liberation.

And,

Japan built shrines in a row on Namsan Mountain, where the entire Hanyang could be seen at a glance at the time.

Joseon Shrine on Namsan (currently the Ahn Jung-geun Memorial Hall built in its place)

Gyeongseong Shrine right next to it

Finally, the stone staircase leading to the Gyeongseong Gokoku Shrine (remains as the current 108 Sky Stairs, which is also said to be the dividing point between Huam-dong and Haebangchon).

1. Comfort Seoul

Originally a cliff.

Two roads (Sowol-ro and Duteopbawi-ro) that were disconnected due to the cliff

It has become a building that connects the two roads.

It is said to be a rare case of realizing the public good through private property.

2. Shinheung Market + Cloud

Shinheung Market, built on a narrow site because the market could not be built due to the narrow site.

The market is surrounded by buildings and has four entrances, making it easy to enter from any location.

Cloud, a market arcade

The current Cloud roof was installed over the former Shinheung Market, which was originally covered with asbestos slate.

Study is done!!

Actress Bang Hyo-rin, born on February 28, 1995, is 30 years old this year. She is a South Korean citizen with a height of 168cm and weighs 50kg. She graduated from Sejong University with a degree in Film Arts and is currently under TEAMHOPE. Her MBTI personality type is known to be INFP.

She began her acting career in 2015 with the leading role of a young girl in the short film 'Let Me In,' and subsequently built her filmography by appearing in 'To Lowell' (2017), 'Partly Cloudy' (2020), and 'How to Kill That L' (2021). In 'How to Kill That L,' she played the role of Ji-young and won the Best Actress award at the 11th Seoul International Pride Film Festival. In 2023, she gained significant attention for her role as Hwang Sun-woo in the independent film 'Hail to Hell.'

Her drama debut was in the 2025 Netflix original series 'Aema,' where she was cast as the lead, Shin Ju-ae, marking her first leading role in a drama. 'Aema' is set in the film industry of the early 1980s and depicts the fierce challenges and desires of a rookie actress. Bang Hyo-rin starred alongside Lee Hanee, Jin Seon-kyu, and Jo Hyun-chul. Director Lee Hae-young, who directed the series, expressed great admiration for her performance during the audition, saying, "It's been a long time since I've encountered true acting." In the series, Ju-ae dreams of becoming an actress and leaves her hometown, working as a tap dancer before being discovered by a rookie director and rising to fame as an actress. Bang Hyo-rin vividly portrays the character's confident charm.

Lee Hanee, who starred alongside her, also praised Bang Hyo-rin's acting, saying, "She is an amazing actress, hard to believe it's her first role," and expressed high expectations for her potential to become a superstar through 'Aema.' Following the filming of 'Aema,' she was cast as the lead role of Bae Nu-ri in the Disney+ original series 'Knock Off,' continuing her streak of success.

Starting with short films and venturing into independent films and global OTT original series, Bang Hyo-rin is gradually solidifying her position as an actress, growing into a confident and principled performer, much like the characters she portrays.

The Netflix series 'Aema' is a six-part drama released on August 22, 2025, and is a unique genre piece that blends comedy, historical drama, and drama with an erotic atmosphere. It is directed by Lee Hae-young, who has directed films such as 'Like a Virgin,' 'Festival,' and 'Phantom,' and is notable as his first drama directorial work. The series was co-produced by The Lamp and Kick and was filmed for approximately six months from September 2023 to March 2024.

The main cast includes Lee Hanee, Bang Hyo-rin, Jin Seon-kyu, and Jo Hyun-chul. Notably, Lee Hanee took on her first Netflix original series through this project, and Bang Hyo-rin garnered attention for her unconventional casting as it was her first drama appearance and her first leading role. Jin Seon-kyu and Lee Hanee are working together for the fifth time, following the film 'Extreme Job,' the dramas 'Melo is My Nature' and 'One the Woman,' and the film 'King of Kings.'

'Aema' is set in the Korean film industry of the early 1980s and fictionalizes the story of the filming process of the film 'Madame Aema,' which aimed to frankly portray female desire. In the series, Ju-ae, played by Bang Hyo-rin, dreams of becoming an actress and leaves her hometown, working as a tap dancer in a nightclub. She is then spotted by rookie director In-woo (played by Jo Hyun-chul) and cast in the film. She steps into the competitive film industry, receiving the spotlight alongside top star Hee-ran (played by Lee Hanee).

The work is motivated by the real film 'Madame Aema', but the settings and characters are almost all virtual. For example, Ahn So-young, the main character of the actual 'Madame Aema,' was already a three-year-old actor and won the New Actress Award, but Ju-ae in 'Aema' is an unknown newcomer who has just passed the audition. Also, unlike the actual director Jeong In-yeop, In-woo in the play is set as a new director challenging his first directing, and producer Jungho and top star Heeran are also all created characters. Therefore, rather than directly reproducing historical facts, it is right to see it as a virtual drama set in the film industry of the time.

Netflix rated this work as suitable for viewers aged 18 and over, and is attracting the attention of domestic and foreign viewers with its combination of delicate historical drama directing and fiction comedy.

The Netflix series 'Aema' does not simply reproduce an erotic film of an era. Motivated by the film 'Madame Aema', which was released in 1982 and caused a social syndrome, the work contains the power, exploitation, and suppressed voices of women hidden behind it.

'Madame Aema' was a symbolic work representing the heyday of Korean eroticism films at the end of the 20th century. 12 theatrical versions were produced, and if you include overseas versions such as 'Paris Emma', 'Gypsy Emma', and similar products such as 'Dracula Emma' and 'Emma and Byeon Gang-se', more than 20 films were released in theaters. Even Hong Kong erotic films that had nothing to do with it were given the name 'Gangshi Emma', and 'Emma' itself was a keyword of the times and a symbol of male desire.

Director Jeong In-yeop, who was in charge of directing Kim Ki-young, said that he was shocked by an erotic film he saw during his training in the United States and made 'Madame Aema' after returning home. However, the production process was not smooth. It was promoted in line with the Chun Doo-hwan regime's policy of deceiving the people, but the title 'Aema (愛馬)' was caught in government review and was changed to 'Aema (愛麻)', and 36 scenes in the scenario had to be revised. Nevertheless, the film received an explosive response, attracting 310,000 people in Seoul alone and becoming the biggest hit of the year. The anecdote that movie theater ticket window was broken due to the crowd of moviegoers shows the status of 'Madame Aema' at the time.

However, behind the splendid box office success was an ugly reality intertwined with power and capital. Producers exploited actresses and even paid sexual favors to those in power, and the human rights of new actresses were ignored on set. Even the posters for the four films released in 1990 had the phrase 'Women's Film Equality' prominently displayed, but in reality, they stood on a contradictory structure that ignored women's rights and dignity inside and outside the film.

The Netflix drama 'Aema' pays attention to this point. While fictionalizing the dark side of the film industry at the time, the work puts women who lost their voices in the male-centered and violent production system at the forefront. In the play, actresses unite to expose Chungmuro's old bad practices, thereby revealing the structural contradictions of the film industry in the 1980s.

In reality, it was young filmmakers who dreamed of new films who broke down the backward production system of Chungmuro in the 1980s. Among them, there were many female filmmakers who had been alienated and excluded from the previous generation, and they played an important role in opening the Korean film renaissance in the mid- to late 1990s. The fact that many masterpieces were created by young female producers is something to look back on now.

Netflix's 'Aema' is not just a historical drama, but contains a critical awareness of reflecting on the crisis of the current content industry by looking back on the past. In the end, the people we should listen to now may not be the established generation who hold vested interests, but the younger generation who are constantly creating new stories and challenging themselves.

Finally... the moment we've all been waiting for is here! Our youth, our band, DAY6, is celebrating its 10th anniversary with a commemorative pop-up store, <DAY6.zip>! 🎉 The name itself, implying that the past 10 years of memories have been 'zipped' into one place, is enough to bring tears to your eyes, isn't it? I can already hear the hearts of My Days all over the country racing.

Unfortunately, this pop-up will be 100% online reservation-only through Naver, with no on-site reservations available. Which means, a reservation war reminiscent of 'ticket-picking' is expected! So...

Today, to save your precious time and money, I've compiled all the information from A to Z for a successful DAY6 pop-up reservation! If you read this post carefully, anyone can increase their chances of success by 200%!

Here are the valuable memories.

1. DAY6 10th Anniversary Pop-Up <DAY6.zip> Basic Information

First, we need to know the basic information accurately, right? I'll organize it clearly for you.

Pop-Up Name: DAY6.zip : The Home of Our Decade

Duration: September 1st (Mon), 2025 ~ September 7th (Sun), 2025

Location: G Square, 35, Dosan-daero 15-gil, Gangnam-gu, Seoul

Operating Hours:

Mon~Thurs: 10:00 ~ 23:00

Fri~Sun: 09:00 ~ 23:00

(60-minute viewing per session)

This is another valuable memory.

2. DAY6.zip Pre-Reservation Method A to Z (Including Success Tips!)

Now, this is the really important part. Grab your highlighters and follow along! This DAY6 pop-up reservation will be conducted through Naver Reservation. You can only book once per ID, so be very, very careful.

✅ Reservation Opening: August 25th (Mon), 2025 at 6 PM (18:00)

✅ Reservation Site: (Naver Reservation Virtual Link) [DAY6.zip Naver Reservation] <--(Bookmark this so you can click frantically when it opens!)

Here are some interesting images.

DAY6 Pop-Up Reservation Success Tips! You'll definitely fail if you don't know these.

Naver Login & ID Verification in Advance!

You'll be late if you try to log in when the reservation time is near. Check that you are logged in on both PC and mobile at least 10 minutes beforehand, and complete the ID verification required for Naver Reservation in advance.

Here is a hopeful tomorrow.

Checking Server Time is Not Optional, It's Essential!

Keep a server time check site like 'Naverism' open, and as soon as it hits 18:00:00, refresh (F5) and click the reservation button. Success and failure are determined by a difference of 1 second!

Here's a touching scene.

Register Payment Method in Advance (Naver Pay)

In case payment is required during the reservation process, register your card or bank account with Naver Pay in advance. Be prepared to pay immediately with just a password!

Challenge Simultaneously on PC and Mobile!

Connection speed may vary depending on your internet environment and device speed. If possible, try simultaneously on PC and mobile to increase your chances.

"I really want to succeed in the DAY6 pop-up reservation, should I book for my companion as well?"

This reservation is only allowed once per person, and it is highly likely that only the person who made the reservation can enter. Transferring tickets is also not allowed, so if you have a friend who wants to go, they must try to book themselves! ID checks are also expected to be thorough, so be sure to book with your own ID!

3. Program & Goods List Preview

The official goods list hasn't been released yet, but since it's under the title of '10th Anniversary', it's expected that a legendary MD will be released. Perhaps limited edition goods commemorating DAY6's 10th anniversary will be released like crazy?

Also, all visitors will receive a 'DAY6.zip Can Badge 2 Types + Sticker 1 Type + Photo Card 4 Types Set' as a gift, so... isn't this a profitable deal just by succeeding in the reservation? Generous JYP... I love you...❤️

4. In Conclusion...

So, we've covered everything about how to pre-book the DAY6 10th Anniversary Pop-Up Store <DAY6.zip>. Let me emphasize again!

Reservation Opening: August 25th (Mon) at 6 PM!

Location: Gangnam G Square!

What to Bring: Fingers for frantic clicking and the passionate heart of a My Day!

Let's all succeed in our reservations and meet in a special space filled with 10 years of memories! I sincerely wish success to all My Days who read this post. If you have any questions, feel free to leave a comment!

If this post was helpful, please give it a like and leave a comment! ❤️

Was Prince Yeonsan truly a

foodie?

The portrayal of Prince Yeonsan

as a 'foodie' in dramas

has historical basis.

He wasn't just a

foodie, but he actually

wielded tyranny through food.

Obsession with Health Foods

He constantly demanded

deer tails and tongues

from local government offices.

If the quality was poor,

he would even dismiss

the officials.

Love for Precious Fruits

He forced the tribute

of fruits like tangerines, yuja, and kumquats,

regardless of the season.

He also

ate green grapes in ice

while composing poems.

Devouring Beef

He personally abolished

the ban on cattle slaughter (Ugeumnyeong),

which was the lifeline of agriculture.

It is even recorded that

he slaughtered 10 cows a day,

and even ate

the placenta of pregnant cows.

Pheasant Dishes

In the 10th year of Yeonsan's reign alone,

a whopping 40,000 to 50,000 pheasants

were presented as tribute.

He even distributed the pheasants

that the palace couldn't consume

to his officials.

Thus, his gourmetism

transcended luxurious tastes

and drove the lives of the people

into ruin.

It was tyranny.

Are the Literati Purges Fiction?

Historical Truth and Reinterpretation

The literati purges (Sahwa) during

the reign of Yeonsangun

represent an era of dramatic purges.

In particular, the Gapja Sahwa

had a strong character

of a pro-government coup

to strengthen power.

However, some settings

appearing in 'Chef of a Tyrant'

are closer to fiction.

The Yasa of the 'Blood-Stained Skirt'

The setting that Yeonsangun

saw his mother,

Yun's blood-stained

skirt and was enraged

is a Yasa

not found in the Annals.

Actual Record

Yeonsangun dragged

Royal Noble Consort Jeong and

Royal Noble Consort Eom, concubines of

his father Seongjong, and

killed them brutally in

Changgyeonggung Palace.

He told his two half-brothers

that they were criminals

who killed his mother and ordered them

to beat his mother directly.

He also dug up the graves

of dead officials and

ground their bones into powder.

In the Gapja Sahwa alone,

239 people were punished,

and thousands of people

were victimized by association.

The Muo Sahwa

The Muo Sahwa that occurred earlier

was an incident in which

the Sarim faction was purged

as Kim Jong-jik's 'Eulogy for Emperor Yi'

was interpreted as

criticizing Sejo's seizure of the throne.

As Hayden White argued, history,

depending on records and interpretations,

is a 'narrative.'

The Sahwa also

shows the gap between

the Annals and media representation.

Finally.

At the boundary of history and creation

The setting of dramas that

depict Yeonsangun as a 'foodie'

has historical basis,

but his gluttony was also

a symbol of tyranny that

tormented the people.

Also, the Sahwa is consumed

dramatically in the media,

wearing the clothes of

Yasa and fiction,

but the actual record

was rather more brutal

and shocking.

Even if we acknowledge

the possibility that

the Annals of Yeonsangun were

exaggerated by the forces

that deposed him,

we must maintain a

critical perspective

between records and

representation.

History is not just a

fact of the past,

but also how we

reinterpret it today.

In that respect,

the 'Chef of a Tyrant' controversy

can be seen as a good opportunity

to confirm the depth

of our historical understanding.

Today, I'm sharing my review of the Netflix series 'Aema,' which I've been eagerly anticipating! I've watched all six episodes and am ready to give my honest, subjective opinion.

(Perhaps my expectations were too high... I'll be completely candid.)

The film that inspired 'Aema,' 'Madame Aema' (1982), was a highly controversial yet successful work in Korean film history. As an erotic melodrama, it sparked significant social debate while simultaneously achieving box office success. This led to a surge of similar films in the genre.

However, behind its popularity were issues like unfair treatment of actors, the sexual objectification of women, and censorship.

The drama 'Aema' delves into these aspects, focusing not just on the making of a film but also on shedding light on the realities of the 1980s Korean film industry.

Basic Information

Genre: Period Drama, Comedy, Black Comedy

Release Date: August 22, 2025 (Netflix)

Episodes: 6

Director/Writer: Lee Hae-young

Cast: Lee Hanee, Bang Hyo-rin, Jin Sun-kyu, Jo Hyun-chul, and others

Director: Lee Hae-young

Notable Works:

Like a Virgin (2006) - Director

FESTIVAL (2010) - Director, Writer

The Silenced (2015) - Director, Writer

Believer (2018) - Director, Writer

Phantom (2023) - Director, Writer

Main Characters & Cast

Jung Hee-ran (Lee Hanee): A top star who refuses to star in 'Madame Aema' and fights against the dark realities of the film industry.

Shin Ju-ae (Bang Hyo-rin): A rookie actress cast as the lead in 'Madame Aema,' who dreams of becoming an actress but faces the harsh realities of the industry.

Gu Jung-ho (Jin Sun-kyu): The president of Shinsung Films, the production company behind 'Madame Aema.' He is willing to do anything for success and clashes with Hee-ran.

Kwak In-woo (Jo Hyun-chul): The rookie director of 'Madame Aema,' who struggles between his ideals and reality and helps Hee-ran and Ju-ae form an alliance.

'Aema' is a black comedy set against the backdrop of the 1980s military dictatorship and the production of the legendary film 'Madame Aema,' which was born out of sexual oppression and control.

The series goes beyond the making of a film to depict the unjust realities women faced at the time and their journey to take control of their lives.

Top actress Jung Hee-ran (Lee Hanee) refuses to star in 'Madame Aema' due to its explicit content.

In response, producer Gu Jung-ho (Jin Sun-kyu) casts rookie actress Shin Ju-ae (Bang Hyo-rin) to keep Hee-ran in check.

Ju-ae joins 'Madame Aema' with the dream of escaping her difficult circumstances and succeeding as an actress, but she experiences sexual exploitation and inhumane treatment on set.

Seeing what Ju-ae is going through, Hee-ran is reminded of her own past and decides to help Ju-ae.

The two women understand each other's pain and form a bond, striving to create an artistic work out of the film 'Madame Aema' rather than just a simple erotic movie.

In this process, Hee-ran and Ju-ae become each other's protectors, confronting the unfair system of the 1980s Chungmuro head-on.

Personal Thoughts

The unique concept was promising, but the disappointments outweighed the positives...

What struck me most about 'Aema' was the sense of disconnect between the actors' performances.

There was a lack of coherence between Hee-ran (Lee Hanee) in the beginning and Hee-ran at the end, and the acting tones felt mismatched.

Lee Hanee's powerful presence is evident in the early part of the series, but that faded in the later episodes.

(I usually love Lee Hanee so much, but in this work, I felt that only her 'prettiness' remained, which was disappointing.)

The character of Ju-ae could have showcased fresh charm and confidence, but due to a disconnect between the direction and the acting, she ended up being a flat and unfulfilling character.

She tried hard to be three-dimensional, but she wasn't, and she didn't come across as very appealing.....

The overall direction also felt unbalanced, with the initial humor clashing with the message the series wanted to convey later on.

I really loved the movie Like a Virgin, and I usually enjoy movies with diverse attempts!

As the series progressed, I understood the message it was trying to convey, but it felt more like an empty shell than genuine.

Of course, the mise-en-scène of the period drama, the unique setting of the 80s film industry, and some of the innovative scenes were definitely visually appealing!

However, the overall script lacked excitement, and the intention to deliver a message felt too overt, reducing its appeal to me.

Overall Impression

The premise of 'Aema' was fresh, and there were definitely stylish scenes despite being a period drama.

However, the acting, direction, and script completeness were disappointing.

I watched it until the end because many of my favorite actors appeared in it, but it didn't provide the emotional resonance or enjoyment I had hoped for.

While I appreciate the unique attempt, I believe that a more genuine narrative and tighter direction could have made it a much more memorable work.

Ah, it's just so disappointing....

I tend to be more disappointed and upset when there are many personally good scenes...

That's exactly how I felt about Aema...

2025 Kkumui Sup Band Concert, Autumn Edition, to be Held in September

– A band concert embracing the autumn season, performing at the Kkumui Sup Art Center on September 27th.

– Following the Spring Edition in April... Featuring bands Dasutt and JKC (Jackingkong).

– Benefit from various ticket discounts, including Seoul City policy discounts, youth & young adult discounts, and BandCon Relay discounts.

Concert Title

2025 Kkumui Sup Band Concert – Jackingkong & Dasutt

Venue

Kkumui Sup Art Center Performance Hall (173 Wolgye-ro, Gangbuk-gu, Seoul)

Date & Time

September 27, 2025 (Sat) 5:00 PM

Tickets

All Seats: ₩66,000

Age Limit

Elementary school students and older (born before 2018)

Reservations

Sejong Center Ticket, Interpark Ticket

The Sejong Center for the Performing Arts will host the <2025 Kkumui Sup Band Concert – Autumn Edition> at the Kkumui Sup Art Center on Saturday, September 27th. Following the 'Spring Edition' in April, this second performance is carefully curated with two teams of distinct musical styles to deliver the unique emotion of indie music and the vibrancy of live performance.

This is a special opportunity to experience the performances of two teams with diverse personalities, 'Dasutt' and 'JKC (Jackingkong)', in one place. The participation of young musicians who are leading the new wave of the indie scene adds to the anticipation.

Sensory Two Teams, Harmony of Diverse Music

Band 'Dasutt' is an indie band that sings sincerely about the emotions of everyday life and youth with lyrical rock sounds and emotional vocals. Their representative songs such as 'Youth', 'Ya, Ya', and 'Life!' delicately capture the emotions in repetitive daily life, resonating deeply with the youth generation. Their music, completed with restrained composition and refined melody, shines even more on stage. 'Dasutt', which continues to have a deep exchange with the audience through narrative performances that follow the flow of emotions, is revealing a distinct presence in the indie scene with their own color.

Meanwhile, band 'JKC (Jackingkong)' delicately unravels the emotions of the city and everyday life with a sophisticated and dreamy sound based on jazz pop. They realize the atmosphere of space with sound, and lead to deep immersion with sensual sound design and compositions that live with blank space.

In particular, on stage, they captivate the audience's five senses with a performance that feels like experiencing the space beyond hearing. Recently, they have been expanding their musical spectrum through collaboration with various genres, and are attracting attention as a band that represents contemporary sensibilities with emotional stage production and elaborate composition.

Seasonal Performance Series in the Urban Forest

'Kkumui Sup Band Concert' is a series-type Sejong Center for the Performing Arts planning performance with carefully selected indie bands that contain seasonal emotions, and presents new musical inspiration to the Gangbuk area every season. By illuminating the emotion and diversity of indie music, you can meet the changing trends of contemporary band music every season. This performance actively reflects the spatial characteristics of Kkumui Sup Art Center, where nature and band music meet in the city center, so that the performance itself becomes a cultural experience and a new way to feel the season. In addition, it is expected to contribute to revitalizing the local culture by creating a cultural base that anyone can sympathize with and participate in in the process of citizens encountering high-quality performances close to their daily lives. The Kkumui Sup Art Center, where the performance is held, is located in Buk Seoul Dream Forest, the largest park in northeastern Seoul, and is attracting attention as a venue where you can deeply experience music in nature.

Ahn Hosang, President of the Sejong Center for the Performing Arts, said, “This performance will be a special time for the audience to experience an emotional refreshment in their daily lives by combining the emotion of the season and the sincerity of band music.” , “We hope to broaden the cultural enjoyment opportunities of local residents through performances with nature in the city center.”

Reservations start on Thursday, August 7th, and various discounts are also offered so that anyone can enjoy the performance at a reasonable price. There are discounts for teenagers and young adults, discounts for Seoul City policy cardholders, and BandCon Relay discounts for existing audiences. Details can be found through the box office.

❚ About Kkumui Sup Art Center

A relaxing space with room in the city. The <Kkumui Sup Art Center>, operated by the Sejong Center for the Performing Arts, is an attractive space where you can enjoy various performances and exhibitions in nature. It consists of a performance hall and an art gallery, and the observatory with a panoramic view of Seoul is truly a romantic spot. Standing on the 3-story, 49.7m high observatory, you can see a panoramic view of the beautiful scenery of Bukhansan, Dobongsan, and Suraksan to the north, and Namsan and the Han River to the south. The Kkumui Sup Art Center Performance Hall is the optimal place for comprehensive component performances, and the height between seats is about 10cm higher than other theaters to minimize visual obstruction. Thanks to the close distance between the seats and the stage and the structure without a stage, two-way communication between performers and audiences is possible.

"Expanding the 'Kill Boksoon' Universe, the Return of Another Killer"

About the Movie

In 2023, the Netflix movie 'Kill Boksoon' gained worldwide attention. With its unique universe and distinctive characters, it pioneered the "Korean-style killer universe." Now, the spin-off 'Mantis' is finally unveiling, poised to continue that world.

Set to be released simultaneously worldwide on Netflix on September 26, 2025, this film promises intense visuals and a narrative that encompasses the action crime noir genre.

Synopsis

'Mantis' begins with the story of Hanwool (Im Si-wan), an A-list killer known as Mantis, who returns from a long vacation. However, upon his return, he faces a reality where the rules of the contract killing industry have collapsed, plunging the world into chaos. Moreover, his agency, MK Ent, is on the verge of ruin following the death of its leader.

Hanwool faces a crossroads: whether to leave the company and seek a new path, or to take up his blade again and rise to the top of the industry. The film develops a tense triangular dynamic of "legend vs. current strongest vs. new generation," as he confronts his rival Jaei (Park Gyu-young) and reunites with Dogo (Jo Woo-jin), a retired legendary killer.

Main Cast

Im Si-wan / Hanwool (Mantis): An A-list killer at MK Ent. Returning from vacation, he faces a crumbling company and is confronted with new choices.

Park Gyu-young / Jaei: A long-time friend and rival of Mantis since their trainee days. Despite her outstanding skills, she has been pushed aside in the industry's harsh reality.

Jo Woo-jin / Dogo: A retired legendary killer and Mantis's mentor. He reasserts his influence in the industry after the death of Cha Min-kyu, shaking up the new order.

Furthermore, Jeon Do-yeon and Seol Kyung-gu from the previous film, 'Kill Boksoon,' are rumored to make special appearances, further heightening fans' anticipation.

Key Viewing Points

1. Expanding the 'Kill Boksoon' Universe

A solo movie about the killer 'Mantis,' who was only mentioned by name. It showcases the power of a universe where a single line expands into a new story.

2. Stylish Action

The name 'Mantis' comes from his fighting style, which involves freely wielding two white daggers. The film will feature action with a more martial arts-inspired flavor than the previous installment.

3. Drama of Generational Shift

The multi-layered conflict structure involving legends, the present, and rising generations elevates the psychological tension beyond simple action.

4. The Charm of New Faces

Expectations are high for the chemistry between Im Si-wan, Park Gyu-young, and Jo Woo-jin, as the three actors work together in earnest for the first time.

Movie Information

Title: Mantis

Release Date: September 26, 2025

Genre: Action, Crime, Noir

Runtime: 111 minutes

Rating: Adults Only

Director: Lee Tae-sung (Assistant Director of 'Kill Boksoon,' feature debut)

Screenwriter/Creator: Byun Sung-hyun (Director of 'Kill Boksoon,' participating in writing and production this time)

Anticipation

If 'Kill Boksoon' showed potential with its intense universe, 'Mantis' will be a challenge to further expand that world and enhance its completeness. In a contract killing industry where all the rules have been broken, who will rise to the new No. 1 position? A brutal but captivating battle begins. The Netflix original movie 'Mantis' is preparing to captivate the world on September 26th.

Today, my wife and I took a trip to Yangyang Small Cinema. Watching a movie in the cozy atmosphere that you can't find in large multiplexes was, as always, a special experience.

Our choice for the day at Yangyang Small Cinema was 'The Devil Moves In'.

The reason we chose it was simple: I kept hearing that short review, "I laughed and cried."

I was curious how funny and touching it could be to warrant such a reaction. And since I needed to go to Yangyang anyway because I was short on cabbage seedlings, I decided to catch a movie as well.

The projection room at Yangyang Small Cinema.

The movie starts with lighthearted humor. I chuckled at even the smallest jokes, and I even laughed along with the young audience members around me.

But before I knew it, the story gently tugged at my heart. Suddenly, a tear or two welled up. A strange rhythm of laughing, then crying, then laughing again continued. And that rhythm seems to be the charm of this movie.

The 'devil' in the title wasn't the scary being we imagine, but rather a character symbolizing reconciliation with the wounds of life.

Thanks to that, the movie felt more warm than scary, and it was funny one moment and serious the next.

As we left Yangyang Small Cinema, my wife and I said the same thing at the same time: next time, let's watch 'Zombie Daughter'!

If I had to summarize my thoughts in one line:

A small but weighty story seen in a small theater. I think it will stay with me for a long time.

I'm glad that Yangyang Small Cinema exists so that I can sometimes see movies that are released at the same time as the big theaters.

Park Chan-wook is undeniably a master filmmaker.

He is a self-proclaimed master, and along with Director Bong Joon-ho, one of the most internationally recognized Korean directors. He has been actively working in Hollywood, even creating the film 'Stoker.' However, his main stomping ground is, of course, South Korea. This time, he's brought a project he's long wanted to do: 'No Other Choice.'

He originally wanted to make it earlier, but he couldn't secure the level of production costs he wanted. Now, he's finally been able to make it. With a star-studded cast including Lee Byung-hun and Son Ye-jin, it premiered at the Venice Film Festival and is receiving positive reviews. It is scheduled for release in Korea on Wednesday, September 24th, which is sooner than expected.

It seems the plan is to release it at the end of September and attract audiences through the Chuseok holiday.

I will definitely be watching it on opening day. I like Director Park Chan-wook's films, and 'No Other Choice' is a movie with my favorite, brutal subject matter. However, contrary to rumors, there are no overly violent scenes or highly explicit scenes. I expected as much, as it's rated for ages 15 and up.

Meta Score: 88/11 Reviews

Rotten Tomatoes: 100% Tomatometer/17 Reviews

Rotten Tomatoes Top Critic Reviews:

'No Other Choice' is not only Park Chan-wook's funniest film but also his most human. That's quite an achievement considering it's a violent comedy.

Whatever flaws there may be in this film's execution, the fact remains that even a mediocre Park Chan-wook film contains more than many other directors' best works.

With humor as black as black bean noodles, this film is an outstanding work that could become Park Chan-wook's masterpiece. That's a great compliment considering it's from the director who made 'The Handmaiden.'

The blend of social criticism and quirky violence isn't quite as good as Bong Joon-ho's 'Parasite,' but it's still thrilling.

'No Other Choice' is certainly very funny, but it also movingly deals with the desperation of the long-term unemployed and the unnecessary cruelty of the corporate world. It is also a warning.

Another piece of evidence that Park Chan-wook may be the most elegant film director alive has been added.

While this may not be Park Chan-wook's best work, it is currently the best of the competition entries at the Venice Film Festival so far.

It's a rare film that makes you feel empathy for the protagonist, but doesn't make you cheer for his actions, and Lee Byung-hun's flexible acting as Mansu plays a key role in maintaining Director Park Chan-wook's tragic yet comedic atmosphere.

Venice Film Festival Red Carpet Photos

Netflix September New Movie Recommendations

Overexcitement

Currently, the domestic media is even looking forward to the Golden Lion Award, but I think this is an attitude to be wary of. Not all of the films in the competition have been revealed yet, and there has never been a good precedent for being so excited. In the past, there were rumors in the media that Director Lee Chang-dong's film 'Burning' could also receive the Palme d'Or at the Cannes Film Festival, but it ended up empty-handed.

After all, film festivals are given by the judges as they please, so it's impossible to predict in the first place.

I don't know if it's an overwhelmingly good work, but looking at the reactions to the movie 'No Other Choice,' I don't see any stories of it being such a masterpiece. It's a film by Director Park Chan-wook and it's worth watching, but it doesn't feel like a movie that's worth getting excited about. Of course, I'm going to watch it in theaters no matter what.

Still, it's much more reassuring than having a lot of negative reactions.

Now all that's left is to see it in theaters. Personally, because it's a Lee Byung-hun movie, I think it will easily surpass 3 million viewers in Korea. It's a combination of Director Park Chan-wook and actor Lee Byung-hun, so I think North American distributor Neon will join the Oscar race to get it nominated for an Oscar. I hope it wins an award at Venice first.

Please.

Anticipation is building for how the actors will showcase new facets of their abilities and how their narratives will intertwine. Let's delve into the key aspects revealed in the newly released materials.

Ahead of its theatrical release on September 11th, 'The Ugly' has pre-released stills showcasing 'Two Faces' of its characters.

'The Ugly,' set to premiere on September 11th, tells the story of Lim Young-gyu, a blind man who becomes a master of seal engraving, and his son, Lim Dong-hwan, as they unravel the mystery surrounding his mother's death, buried for 40 years.

The film, which is already garnering attention for its ensemble cast with actors known for their wide acting spectrum, is heightening anticipation with the release of the 'Two Faces' stills, capturing the characters' multifaceted nature.

Two Sides of the Characters Revealed in Detail

Park Jung-min takes on his first dual role in 'The Ugly,' playing both the past father, Lim Young-gyu, and the present son, Lim Dong-hwan. He is said to deliver a diverse performance, transitioning between the 1970s and the present day.

One still shows Lim Young-gyu from the past, a blind man diligently carving seals with a bright smile. Another reveals Park Jung-min's acting prowess, showcasing an expression filled with shock and rage.

The stills of Lim Dong-hwan, the son of the seal engraving artisan Lim Young-gyu, capture the dramatic changes in his face as he gets closer to the mystery and truth surrounding his mother's death, arousing curiosity.

Kwon Hae-hyo, portraying Lim Young-gyu, a legendary blind seal engraving master, exudes seasoned charisma in one still, contrasting sharply with another where he displays heightened emotions.

The contrast emphasizes the elements that arouse the audience's curiosity. Meanwhile, stills of Jung Young-hee, appearing somewhat subdued and diligently writing something, have also been released.

Although her face is obscured by her hair, the similar composition creates a completely different atmosphere, drawing attention to the mystery surrounding Jung Young-hee in the film.

Lim Sung-jae transforms into Baek Ju-sang, the president of Chungpung Clothing, a garment factory located in the Cheonggyecheon area in the 1970s. He appears as a well-regarded president who takes photos of people around him.

A scene capturing a moment of tension with a hardened expression has also been revealed, raising expectations for his performance in 'The Ugly.' Lastly, Han Ji-hyun, playing Kim Soo-jin, a documentary PD, appears as a broadcasting PD chasing sensational scoops.

She gradually becomes genuinely committed to her investigation as she approaches the mystery and truth surrounding Jung Young-hee, showcasing a wide acting range.

'The Ugly,' promising transformative performances from the actors, is set to captivate theater audiences upon its release on September 11th.

The questions posed by the story are likely to linger. The variations in expressions and emotions on screen will slowly resonate in the audience's memory.

The weight of choices encountered at the end of the pursuit sparks curiosity. The moment the gazes of each character intersect, another interpretation will be born.

Movie Information

Name: The Ugly (2025)

Genre: Mystery, Drama, Thriller

Director: Yeon Sang-ho

Screenwriter: Yeon Sang-ho

Original Work: Yeon Sang-ho - Graphic Novel 'The Ugly'

Producer: Yang Yu-min

Cinematographer: Pyo Sang-woo

Production Design: Lee Mok-won

Editor: Park Ju-ae

Music: Chae Min-joo

Martial Arts Director: Baek Nam-jun

Lighting: Song Hyun-seok

Set Decoration: Kim Jung-hoon

Props: Park Jun-yong, Yu Cheong

Costume Design: Kim Kyung-mi

Makeup: Jo Tae-hee

Sound: Kang Bong-sung

Visual Effects: Hong Jung-ho, Lee Ji-yeon

Sound Recording: Kim Seok-won

Color Grading: Lee Kyung-jong

Producer: Jo Eun-hye

Cast: Park Jung-min, Kwon Hae-hyo, Shin Hyun-bin, Lim Sung-jae, Han Ji-hyun

Filming Period: July 27, 2024 - August 2024

Production Company: WOWPOINT

Distributor: Plus M

Release Date: September 11, 2025

Running Time: 103 minutes (1 hour, 42 minutes, 52 seconds)

Production Cost: 200 million KRW

Rating: Rated 15+ by KMRB

Let's go suck some money out of Naver (the big corporation)!!

Truthfully, I've never won anything doing this.

I'm just thinking of it as motivation to write something.

​

This terrarium was a gift from my sibling to cheer me on while I was preparing for a job change.

So thoughtful, right?! It's displayed nicely in my cabinet.

A day when I ate something delicious:

Mad for Garlic's Garlic Something Pizza.

Found this while digging through my fan-sign albums.

Guess who I got it from.

Wuhahaha...

It's true that summer is the season that never ends, like a pain in the ass,

But conceptually, and in a curated photo, it's beautiful.

Can you catch Tamama with a Poké Ball?

I'm gonna catch it.

Wow, this place was so good.

Itaewon's Yasanghae.

My certifications expired while I was preparing for my job change, so I'm back to studying again...

Seeing things like this, it's not bad, but why am I so insecure?

I'm really into the "SsengJeng" ship these days.

When people around me consume "SsengJeng", I guess it resonates with me too.

I used to just brush it off, but there's definitely a delicious narrative there.

But fundamentally, I dedicate 90% of my attention to Jungwon.

I love you so much, my Jungwon????????????

Actually, I wanted to be someone who takes photos like this.

I don't have a particular longing for a camera, but

It's so pretty.

Whenever I see this outfit, I want to eat sliced fruit.

While eating Jungwon's favorite snack!, I paid for the WORK_THE_LINE Japan broadcast.

So damn expensive. This is such a rip-off for K-pop fans.

I went to VR concert!

It was such a surreal experience, lol.

I dragged along a friend who isn't really into this stuff,

And they seemed pretty satisfied??

I guess there were quite a few cases like that.

This is P1Harmony's Most Wanted final concert, lol. I don't think there will ever be a concert as thrilling as this...

The setlist was packed, the performance was energetic, and the fans were going wild.

I took this because it said I entered the A2ME area..

But, can you even see anything? The quality is terrible.

Enhypen's Jungwon came to 11 live broadcasts throughout August, even while touring Japan, the Americas, and Europe..

Is he even human?

What's really amazing is that he doesn't seem to be doing anything forcefully.

It seems like it's his natural disposition... It hasn't changed for years.

I went to see Nassy Band too, hehe.

The fans were doing Ganggangsullae in the standing area, and the band members came down and jumped around with them. I couldn't join, but it looked fun.

Tamama!!!!!!!

Bbokmeo, ha... I love it!!!!

I went all over Coex, Hongdae, and Yongsan that day.

Crazy Nien... I can't believe I did all that to collect photocards.

And I didn't even get the one I wanted the most.

I shouldn't be involved with collecting pieces of paper.

Anyone want to see the chicken I ate, lol.

All or nothing, a rush of excitement, lol.

Ah, I really love it.

I bought lenses.

My eyesight is terrible, right??

I liked them when I put them on.

I should wear them often... hahaha...

​

Anyway, that's how it was.

And as an additional issue, it seems like I succeeded in my job change?

But... life is still just as difficult.

Ugh, it sucks.

lol, Seoul, the city of cold bastards.

Aaaaah.

Life is pain, that's true.

But it's a waste of time to whine.

A fan who has an ultimate bias like Yang Jungwon shouldn't avoid reality.

I'll try to be strong (solemnly).

We are poor. Let's live!!!!

Jungkook went live for his birthday! I've been so busy lately, so I only caught snippets of the full stream.

Our Jungkook even treated us to a #Golden karaoke version by Kid Laroi & Justin Bieber. It's such a high-pitched song that even Jungkook struggled a bit. Probably because it's a song originally sung by women. By the way, Kid Laroi & Justin Bieber's Golden hit #1 on the UK charts! Seems like Kid Laroi & Justin Bieber are really famous these days. Even the little kids in my neighborhood love Kid Laroi & Justin Bieber - just like Jungkook? Hehe

We shouldn't be going to Jungkook's house just because it's his birthday!

Apparently, Jungkook was watching on CCTV when someone tried to break into his house last time.

Jungkook even said ARMYs are like family and friends, trying to understand. Still, how absurd must that be for Jungkook to have thoughtless fans like that. Even if you have fantasies, don't act on them!

Apparently, Jungkook's basement looks like this. What a nice house. Hahaha

He's a world star, after all. ^^

Happy birthday, Jungkook!

Birthday Ads

These are Jungkook's birthday ads. You can probably find them anywhere in Hongdae or Gangnam.

Someone was trying to film Jungkook's birthday ad when suddenly Jungkook's father came and took a video himself!

The ARMY who saw Jungkook's father was so surprised and posted about it on social media.

Seeing his father is still something to celebrate. Congratulations! ^^

V's Birthday Wishes for Jungkook

This is an interview with V, asking to focus on Jungkook since it's Jungkook's birthday.

It's so nice to see them sitting together like this. Was this during the album work in LA?

He wanted to wish Jungkook a happy birthday early, but he was late.

I guess he felt like taking extra care of the youngest member on his birthday.

Jungkook did a live stream for ARMYs on his birthday without being asked. I hope he has days like today every day. I hope nothing bad happens, and I hope that Team BTS has no problems. I hope for a peaceful life without any loud or bad stories. I hope that the Bangtan members and ARMYs have plenty of happiness.

Today, I'm bringing you news about <Jungkook>, which has been a hot topic lately!

Since this is a subject that many people are interested in,

I tried to prepare it as quickly as possible!

(Writing a post is always hard, but I did it quickly ㅠㅠ)

So, let's jump right into the topic!!

​

1. Jungkook's 'GOLDEN' Achieves Record-Breaking Sales

Jungkook's 'GOLDEN' has set a new standard for solo K-pop artists, achieving album sales of 9.2 million copies and establishing Jungkook as the record holder in this category. This monumental figure of 9.2 million units is a clear indication that a solo project, backed by a dedicated global fandom, can define an era in music.

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2. 'GOLDEN' Spends 600 Days on Apple Music Charts

Jungkook also made history on the Apple Music Worldwide Album Chart, charting for 600 consecutive days, the longest duration for any K-Pop solo artist. The consistency of this achievement showcases sustained audience engagement across continents and time zones.

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3. 'GOLDEN' Dominates Charts Worldwide

Jungkook's 'GOLDEN' solidified its global presence by reaching number one in 106 countries on the iTunes Worldwide Album Chart. This top spot in such a broad geographic range reflects its widespread and diverse appeal, transcending language and genre barriers.

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4. Spotify Success

According to Spotify data, the cumulative streams for Jungkook's 'GOLDEN' have surpassed 6 billion, an impressive figure that demonstrates the album's continued popularity and how streaming translates into real-world cultural presence.

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5. UK Charts

In the UK Official Albums Chart Top 100, Jungkook's 'GOLDEN' remained for 8 weeks, marking the first K-pop solo act to achieve that duration on the chart. The eight-week performance resonated strongly with listeners in the UK and around the world.

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6. Beyond the Numbers

Support from the global fanbase demonstrates the power of digital platforms and social media in elevating a K-Pop solo artist to global heights. Through conversations, memes, live streams, and direct fan engagement, 'GOLDEN' has continued to evolve into a living, breathing phenomenon.

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7. A Golden K-Pop Artist

Jungkook’s ‘GOLDEN’ is more than just a chart-topper; it’s a turning point for K-Pop solo artists on the global stage. The blend of explosive sales, record-breaking chart runs, and relentless streaming success paints a picture of an artist deeply connected to fans worldwide. As Jungkook continues to break boundaries, ‘GOLDEN’ remains a shining example of ambition, artistry, and unstoppable momentum.

​

Golden blends genres, artistry, and personal storytelling across cultures, reflecting Jungkook's growth as a musician. This musical journey showcases a mature persona, where fans know that this is only the beginning and look forward to what's next.

​

Additional Milestones

Jungkook's 'GOLDEN' entered the European Album Charts and remained there for 500 days, an impressive feat that surprised fans and industry insiders alike. This longevity in a crowded market shows that the album maintains its intercultural appeal and power beyond the initial hype.

Jungkook spent 600 days on the US Apple Music Pop Album Chart, which highlights how this album resonated with listeners in one of the world's most influential markets. Continued visibility on Apple Music reinforces Golden's universal appeal.

On the Spotify Weekly Global Album Chart, Jungkook's Golden charted for 95 consecutive weeks, the longest run ever by an Asian solo artist. This milestone demonstrates the power of an album that endures in streaming popularity and a fan base that rediscovers the music every week.

On the Billboard 200 chart, Jungkook remained on the chart for 25 weeks, becoming the first Asian solo artist to consistently chart. This achievement suggests a major breakthrough for non-Western solo artists, one of the most influential rankings in the music industry.

Sales on Release Date: Jungkook's 'GOLDEN' sold over 2 million copies on its release date and exceeded 250,000 copies in its first week, making it the first solo album to cross that threshold in more than a decade since the chart system changed. These figures show the excitement, which leads to greater expectations than actual performance.

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Ticket Sales and Anticipated Competition

Ticket reservations begin at 8 PM on the 4th. Given the rapid sell-out of tickets for Kim Dong-ryul's previous concerts, fierce competition for tickets is expected this time as well. Kim Dong-ryul's agency has officially stated that, “As this is his first solo concert in two years, 70,000 fans are expected to put in tremendous effort to secure tickets,” anticipating a highly competitive environment. Fans are already actively sharing information and strategies on social media in preparation for the ticket sales. Some are even checking the server time of the reservation site and practicing the payment process in advance. Furthermore, international fans have also completed technical preparations, such as setting up VPNs, in anticipation of online ticket purchases, and are sharing various tips for success in securing tickets.

Kim Dong-ryul's Performance Characteristics and Charms

Kim Dong-ryul is renowned for his outstanding musicality and deeply emotional voice. His songs, with their profound lyrics and melodies, have been beloved by the public. In his live performances, he captivates audiences with his unique charisma and moving performances. He sufficiently demonstrated these charms at his previous 2023 concert ‘Melody,’ where the audience was amazed by his musical capabilities and stage presence. In particular, Kim Dong-ryul is generating excitement by announcing new arrangements and special guest appearances for this concert. Interest is also high for the new songs he will be showcasing in addition to his existing hit songs. He has expressed his ambition to provide the audience with an unforgettable experience through a highly polished stage that combines music, lighting, and video. Kim Dong-ryul is also known for his thorough self-management and continuous creative activity, and he has consistently made new attempts throughout his long career. His songs embody the joys and sorrows of life, and he has always been highly regarded for his ability to deeply resonate with and comfort his fans through this.

Communication with Fans and Heightened Expectations

Kim Dong-ryul recently unveiled the concert poster through his social media accounts, communicating directly with his fans. He conveyed the message, “I apologize for making you wait so long. I look forward to seeing you soon,” and fans responded with enthusiastic reactions. This direct communication has further heightened fans' expectations, and they are already practicing the songs they will sing together at the concert and imagining the concert atmosphere with excitement. On various online communities and social media platforms, fans are creating a festive atmosphere by sharing their own memories or anecdotes related to Kim Dong-ryul, and some are showing themselves preparing outfits or support tools to wear on the day of the performance. In this way, fans are filled with the expectation that they will experience not just a concert, but a cultural festival.

Conclusion and Future Outlook

In conclusion, Kim Dong-ryul's 2025 concert is being evaluated as an important event that will remain in the history of Korean popular music, going beyond a simple performance. As it has recorded an enormous number of approximately 70,000 spectators, this is likely to be one of the largest scales in Korean concert history. In addition, through its successful hosting, Kim Dong-ryul's position will be further solidified, and it is expected to have a positive impact on his future activities. Even after this concert ends, Kim Dong-ryul's musical journey will continue, and I believe that he will continue to create original and moving works. And fans will be ready to support and encourage his activities and be with him at all times. I hope that more joy and achievements await on the road that Kim Dong-ryul and his fans walk together.

I'm a WISHZENNI who is unbelievably obsessed with both Sansan Gear AND NCT WISH!!

Because a fateful event has occurred: Sansan Gear and NCT WISH are collaborating!

Please behold my adorable fake 'Chu' dolls, Kuri-chu and Pang-chu, and Sansan Gear's backpack from last year.

Pink-haired Pang-ie's wallet and bag are legendary!

First, let me briefly introduce Sansan Gear, one of the main players in this collaboration.

Sansan Gear is a brand that originated in Seoul in 2019.

It's a brand that showcases a unique style by blending subculture and outdoor vibes.

Especially known for its clothing and accessories with striking technical details, it's frequently mentioned among fashion enthusiasts.

Such a unique brand like Sansan Gear meeting NCT WISH only heightens the anticipation!

Image of Daeyeong's bag, big enough to fit a piano (they probably won't sell this, though).

Now, NCT WISH, the other collaboration partner, needs no introduction.

Debuting in 2024, they're simultaneously targeting Korea and Japan,

rapidly expanding their fandom and becoming a top-tier idol group!

(Full of personal affection)

Remember the lightweight padding craze last winter?

Many brands, including Musinsa and Uniqlo, participated in the lightweight padding war,

but there was one brand that steadfastly boasted insane resale prices....

That was the Sansan Gear padding worn by Si-on!!!

It caused a huge sell-out frenzy, and it seems like that event may have led to this collaboration!

(Just my conjecture, but it feels very plausible)

NCT WISH was also showing off their trendy sensibility with 'WISHCORE,' using wings and stars.

So the Sansan Gear x NCT WISH project is bound to be highly anticipated!

As a bag fanatic, I can't help but buy these bags.

What's in the Collaboration Item Lineup?

The most curious thing is, of course, what will be released?

The Sansan Gear x NCT WISH collaboration collection has been revealed as 'Wish gear : HEARTSTRINGS'.

You can check out the product lineup on Sansan Gear's official Instagram.

Crossbody bag

Hat

Wallet (with photocard slots!!)

Carabiner (wing design detail)

Handkerchief (Bandana?)

Bag (Backpack, Crossbody)

Collar T-shirt

Pants

Hoodie

It's so comprehensive and delicious...

In addition to that, there are also clothing items like bolero jackets and long-sleeved t-shirts, so you can create a full coordinated outfit!

The crazy charm of this Sansan Gear x NCT WISH collab is that it has everything from practical items to merchandise vibes...

The crossbody bag is also simple and so pretty. The Maeda X Sansan combo feels so similar and awesome.

What is the Release Schedule?

Not everything has been revealed yet.

Detailed specifications, actual wearing shots,

and pop-up store (not confirmed) schedules are

scheduled to be released on September 9th.

Recently,

there was a 'sweeping' incident at the Seongsu NCT WISH pop-up.

If WISH Sansan does a pop-up this time,

the crowds will be insane!

As someone who likes both NCT WISH and Sansan Gear,

I'll have to run to the opening twice as early

(Please just open pre-orders, please)

To summarize,

Sansan Gear x NCT WISH is a special collaboration between a Seoul-based unique brand and a global idol group.

The release schedule is September 9th!

People who like fashion,

and WISHZENNIS, you definitely shouldn't miss it?!

My wishlist items this time are

Wallet (seems like I can put photocards in it, delicious)

Crossbody bag, and Backpack.

Since it's a brand collaboration,

I don't think there will be events like giving away photocards,

but who knows?

More details will be revealed tomorrow,

so I'll let you know again!

Let's run to the opening together this time and

Conquer those must-have fashion items!

I love WISH.

I love Sansan.

It's beautiful to see her working as an artist who brings good fortune through clovers in her artwork.

Clover refers to various perennial or annual plants belonging to the genus *Trifolium* in the legume family. One leaf represents hope, two leaves represent faith, three leaves represent love, and four leaves represent luck.

I've maintained a connection with her as her former elementary school teacher, sharing stories about life.

She is incredibly talented, gifting a meaningful bicycle artwork that celebrates my Grand Slam of cycling across the country, thinking of her teacher.

Artist Profile:

• Freelance Calligrapher
• Invited Artist, Han Peninsula Art Exhibition
• Member, Korean Writers' Association
• Steering Committee Member and Judge, National Emotional Poetry for the Disabled
• Bundang Branch Manager, Korea Women's Development Association

Publications:

• Essay: *I Decided to Live Shamelessly*
• Poetry Collections: *Wrapping Around Emotions* (Vol. 1), *Time Blooming into Flowers* (Vol. 2), *On the Road, There is Wind, Flowers, and You* (Vol. 3)

Exhibitions:

• 1st Exhibition: Designing Emotions
• 2024 Yeoncheon Chrysanthemum Poetry Exhibition
• Yeoncheon Jaein Falls Poetry Exhibition
• Poetry Exhibition by Geul Beot Literary Society
• 2025 Clover Story Solo Exhibition

Here are some images from the exhibition:

Accommodation near Paradise City

Hello!

This is Oceanside Hotel : )

These days, there are so many concerts, performances, and festivals happening in Incheon!

Especially, the Madly Medley Festival in October is generating a lot of buzz.

The Madly Medley concert, held over two days on October 18th and 19th, 2025, boasts a spectacular lineup, from folk singers your parents loved to G-Dragon on the first day!

One of the biggest advantages of this Madly Medley concert is that you can enjoy various genres of music, including rock, hip hop, folk, and ballads, all in one place.

This festival, open to all ages, will be held at Paradise City.

On Saturday the 18th, musicians like GD, Kim Chang-wan Band, E SENS, C Jamm, 015B, and Black Nut will be performing, offering a variety of genres from K-pop to hip hop and electronic music.

On Sunday the 19th, Kim Kwang-jin, QWER, and Shinpparami Baksa will take the stage, showcasing diverse performances.

Especially, with G-Dragon's appearance at this performance, we think that even more people will gather.

That's why many people are looking for accommodation near Paradise City in advance.

We already have many customers who have booked our hotel for the Madly Medley performance.

The distance from Paradise City, the venue, to our hotel is only a 7-minute drive, which is very close.

We are receiving good feedback from customers as a cost-effective accommodation with spacious rooms.

If you are planning to enjoy this performance, how about a stay at Oceanside Hotel?

Exciting news for K-Pop Demon Hunters fans! The official light sticks are finally being released!

(Where to buy and how much?)

This is the idol light stick that every K-Pop Demon Hunters fan knows and loves.

The idol light sticks that only existed in the animated series are now officially on sale!

As a symbol of the fandom, this "light stick" will be a lasting memory for those immersed in the world of K-Pop Demon Hunters.

(Still debating whether to buy it... haha)

The official light sticks for "Huntress" and "Lion Boys," the main groups in Netflix's K-Pop Demon Hunters, are finally being released as real products, and I couldn't be more excited!

The Huntress light stick is priced at ₩79,000. The pattern on the top subtly reminds me of traditional Korean hanok windows with their wooden bars.

heh

The Lion Boys light stick is also priced at ₩79,000. It features an illustration of a fierce jaguar? Leopard? Lion??

You can purchase the K-Pop Demon Hunters light sticks at the official Netflix Shop.

But at some point, it stopped being a fun drum lesson and started feeling like homework.

I began to feel this inexplicable pressure.

My teacher kept pushing me to improve, but my skills didn't seem to be progressing, and I wasn't as motivated as before.

I thought it might be time for a break...perhaps a drumming slump?

I considered taking the next quarter off, starting after September.

But after filming a video last week, I felt lighter.

The thought of finally saying goodbye to those two tough songs and learning something new sparked excitement again.

So, it seems I'm somehow getting through this crisis! Haha.

I initially learned Pentagon's 'Spring Day,' but it was quite long and challenging.

As a safer choice, I filmed a video of 'Soda Pop'. The first time I watched it with my daughter, I didn't think much of it, but I cried the second time I watched it alone.^^;;

Among the many great songs from the K-Pop Demon Hunters movie,

Saja Boys' 'Soda Pop' seemed perfect for drumming.

It's filled with a refreshing and mood-boosting melody.

It seemed like K-Pop Demon Hunters was more popular overseas than in Korea.

But now, companies like Paris Baguette seem to be using it for marketing.

I heard a K-Pop Demon Hunters themed zone is opening on the 26th.

It coincides with the Chuseok holiday, and I don't know how long it will be open, but it sounds fun.

It's been so long since I've been to Everland...

Cheerful song, but my expression is stiff. lol

It's a bit unfortunate that you can't see my left hand drumming very well. -_-;;

For their first meeting, we headed to a kids' cafe.

Our destination today was Sindorim!

Wow! It's been a while since I visited Sindorim.

We found Monster Park in Homeplus, accessible from Sindorim Station, Exit 1. Just head to the basement level where the supermarket is.

I heard it was a great value kids' cafe, so it was my first time visiting.

This place accepts the Seoul-type Kids Cafe voucher. If you use them, I recommend this place!

Dodam and I paid with Seoul Pay and entered!

Here's what I think about Monster Park:

• The space is small.
• But there are plenty of fun activities.
• You can easily keep an eye on your kids.
• The snack bar is full of treats that kids love.
• The best part is that you can play all day for the price of 2 hours at other places!

Wow, it's really a great value!

It was a bit awkward when the friends and sisters first met.

So we all started playing according to our own preferences.

Dodam kept playing at the fish catching area.

He really loves fish!

After playing, we had a late lunch.

They have those instant ramen machines you often see by the Han River. Today, we picked Jjapaghetti!

We cooked it and ate it!

Dodam finished a whole bowl of ramen!

Amazing!

I think I lost half my mind. I barely ate anything. It was hard to keep it together with so many kids!

Hahaha.

But the kids enjoyed their delicious lunch!

After snacks, let's go play again!

It would be nice if the kids could play together on their own...

But they still need mom! Our chat is far away.

So, let's play with the kids again!

After playing like this, the kids were very close when it was time to say goodbye. They were so cute.

It was great that the kids met, so I hope we have another chance to meet next time.

At Monster Park, we played really hard from 1 PM to 6:30 PM.

No wonder the kids became close! It was so nice to play with the kids and their aunts!

But the aunts are getting old... our stamina was depleted.

Dodam, who had been running around, fell asleep as soon as he got in the car.

We burned through the whole day!

Hoping for an early night!

Thank you, Monster Park!

Parking:

If you use this place, you get a 3-hour free parking coupon. Free parking is available if you have a receipt for 50,000 won or more. Since there's a Homeplus, it's perfect to shop and leave!

Fees:

(Refer to the Naver image for details.)

Here are the prices. Take note!

K-Pop Demon Hunters, 2025

Directed by Maggie Kang

K-Pop Demon Hunters, also known as KDH, has recently surpassed the highest number of views on Netflix and is gaining phenomenal popularity not only in Korea but also worldwide. Rather than knowing the work itself first, I encountered the high popularity of the work through numerous parodies, cover videos, and word of mouth. So, I was curious. What aspects have captivated people so much? Therefore, this week's movie is the currently most popular animation, <K-Pop Demon Hunters>.

Interpreting K-Pop Demon Hunters, it means K-Pop demon hunters. As the title suggests, it tells the story of exorcising evil spirits through K-Pop. It is largely divided into two categories: the Huntress, who are the hunters, and the evil spirits.

Among them, Lumi, a member of Huntress, has the identity of Huntress but actually has an evil spirit mark. This is because she was born between an evil spirit father and a human mother. She hides her identity and experiences conflict due to her identity, but eventually achieves the exorcism of evil spirits as Huntress, which is her own will.

People empathized with the main character, Lumi. This is because it was a story that applied to young people who feel like they don't belong anywhere, immigrants, teenagers experiencing identity confusion, and people working hard for their dreams. Lumi is in the process of moving towards her goal, but she conflicts with the things that block her. But even so, she moves forward with hope. She says,

"The funny thing about hope is that no one can feel it for you. You have to feel it yourself."

Lumi talks about hope. She is the most hopeful character in the play, and hope is the driving force of her life. In fact, there is a contrasting figure who clearly shows the difference in perspective on hope. That is Jinwoo, a member of the evil spirit K-Pop group, the Lion Boys. Jinwoo recalls his past mistakes and says that he can never go back. There is no hope for him. In the latter part, the above line becomes a foreshadowing.

Even at Lumi's words to have hope, Jinwoo continues to participate in the will of the evil spirits to ruin the world, and eventually disappears at the hands of Huntress.

Hope is something that only I can give myself. Others can never plant hope in my heart. Hope is literally the belief that something will be achieved, it is my state of mind. Lumi showed that if you think you can, you can, and the movie says through Jinwoo that if you think you can't, you can't.

How should I have hope? To have hope, you must first have a dream. You must have a goal to achieve. This is because hope is the belief that you can reach that destination. Without direction, hope is in vain. Also, it is necessary to consider which is more life-efficient, having hope or not having hope. In that case, the direction of having hope is the one that creates much more momentum in life. I must think that I will definitely do well and succeed. As long as I live, I might as well say that I must have hope. Hope is the fuel of life. Just as a car moves forward with gasoline and electricity, life moves forward with hope as fuel.

I wanted to give a message to overcome the fear within me and find confidence in myself. Lumi had the mark of a demon that she had to hide and live with, and Jinwoo has fear within him. What I wanted to say with the two characters was that everyone has parts they want to hide inside, but they should always try to overcome them. I wanted to say that even if we cannot completely eliminate the anxiety and fear we have, we must develop the inner strength to acknowledge it.

What made KDH more interesting to me as a Korean was that things familiar to me appeared. The main character sits on the floor instead of the sofa and eats gimbap and cup ramen. There is always a sheet of tissue paper under the spoon, and Naksan Park, which I often go to, appears. (Even the shape of the fortress walls of Naksan Park, the nature of the land, the shape of the hurdles dividing the boundary between grass and concrete, and the buildings visible behind Naksan Park were so similar to the real thing.) Ttukseom Park is located on the subway, and there is a pink seat for pregnant women inside the subway. The scenery was so familiar to me as a Korean, so I was very interested. (In fact, there is a psychological term called 'simple exposure effect' that people feel high favorability towards things they see often.)

It had the function of newly introducing Korean culture to foreigners, and Koreans were able to feel familiar things and increase their interest.

K-Pop Demon Hunters once again showed that one movie can change things. The success of KDH has greatly increased the number of tourists visiting Korea. Hanbok experiences increased by 30%, and visits to public bathhouses increased by 84%. The number of Korean-related search terms on Google has increased 10-fold, and the number of monthly visitors to the oriental medicine clinic, which is the actual background, has increased more than 3-fold. Among foreigners, there is a travel package called the KDH pilgrimage that bundles Namsan Tower, Naksan Park, Myeongdong, and Hanok Village, which are the settings for the appearance.

When Korean immigrants brought gimbap to school as children, they were discriminated against for smelling bad. But now, foreign children ask their parents to make gimbap for them. One movie has changed the culture and the world.

I dream of living wonderfully with wonderful people in a wonderful world through acting. Conveying a message to the world through a work and having it reach people has an enormous ripple effect. I reconfirmed a similar appearance of my dream coming true through KDH. I feel once again how powerful a work has. I will definitely live wonderfully with wonderful people in a wonderful world through my acting and through the works I do.

I heard my friends say they enjoyed it about five hundred times. I was curious why kids were so enthusiastic about it, so I decided to watch it.

Hmm... the songs and visuals are certainly appealing to kids. They're quite vibrant!

The storyline of good triumphing over evil, a line that's often blurred these days, combined with the narrative of Jinwoo and Lumi's hatred, misunderstanding, and forgiveness, seems to have resonated deeply with children.

Among the many popular characters in the cartoon is "Duffy".

Doesn't its appearance seem familiar?

This character is inspired by "Hojakdo", a type of Korean folk painting featuring tigers and magpies.

There's a key point that makes this character so popular.

The cute part is the scene where it tries to put an overturned flower pot back up.

That's where kids got the impression that Duffy is a kind tiger.

This class will focus on drawing Duffy in the style of a folk painting!

We used kraft paper to express it like a folk painting.

And with Duffy is his partner, Seoshi (the magpie).

After drawing with a brush pen, we painted the blue Duffy using opaque gouache paints.

We used various pens to express Duffy's characteristics in detail.

We added a warm atmosphere to the overall painting by expressing the yellow moonlight with pastels, and that’s it!

The yellow color added warmth to the painting.

Adding yellow to the outside of Duffy to better express the moonlight shining behind him gave the painting a deeper sense of space.

Duffy has even appeared in my house and the hamster's house!

We used warm lighting indoors to express the color yellow.

When drawing, it's very important to draw images that you like.

This is because it increases interest, and interest is deeply related to consistency.

When pleasant memories accumulate, you enjoy the process and gain the power to continue steadily.

Want to improve your drawing skills? Then start by drawing what you like the most!

Just like these children!

Being happy has more power than working hard.

Because if you enjoy it, it's not difficult and you can finish it quickly!

Joining Jang Dong-gun as a Neighbor in Ultimate Luxury

Wow, this is incredible news!

Global superstar BTS's V (Kim Taehyung) has reportedly purchased the ultra-luxurious 'PH129' apartment in Cheongdam-dong, Gangnam, Seoul, while serving in the military with only a month left until his discharge.

Did everyone see the news?

A whopping ₩14.2 billion (approximately $10.6 million USD) paid entirely in cash, without any loans!

The ultimate 'Young and Rich' flex!

I was speechless when I saw the article.

We work so hard, but why can't we live in a house like that?

The reason isn't just about financial power; it's also V's smart investment foresight.

Today, we'll delve into the latest trending reactions to the purchase news,

The overwhelming appeal of PH129,

And the true meaning behind V's investment!

₩14.2 Billion Cash Flex! 'Captain Korea' V's Bold Choice

This news, reported on September 24th, continues to be a hot topic on social media as of September 28th.

The timing of the purchase during his military service makes it even more dramatic.

Mortgage rate is 0%!

It has been revealed that the transaction was entirely in cash, ₩14.2 billion, without any bank loans.

Isn't that what you call a 'real flex'?

The contract was signed in May of this year,

And the ownership transfer was completed on September 17th, with the full balance paid.

The sales contract is presumed to have been processed through a proxy or by using vacation time during military service.

Unlike the other BTS members who reside in the Yongsan-gu area, such as Hannam The Hill and Nine One Hannam,

V stands out by uniquely choosing the luxury energy of Cheongdam-dong.

Key Points: V's PH129 Purchase

✅ Price: ₩14.2 Billion (101 pyeong/approx. 3,600 sq ft)

✅ Feature: All-Cash Purchase (0% Loan)

✅ Timing: During Military Service (Balance Paid in Full on September 17th, 2025)

Fan reactions are explosive.

With humor like, "V is neighbors with Jang Dong-gun and Ko So-young! Let's film a drama,"

And admiration like, "Captain Korea builds muscle and wealth while serving in the military!"

The atmosphere is one of acknowledging his awesomeness.

PH129, Cheongdam-dong VVIP Community and Overwhelming Appeal

PH129, formerly known as 'The Penthouse Cheongdam,'

Just how amazing is this place that it costs ₩14.2 billion?

In fact, this place is more than just an expensive apartment; it's a 'symbol of Cheongdam-dong.'

Completed in August 2020, this apartment is

A private residential space with only 29 units.

The most notable feature is that all units are designed with a duplex structure.

The unit V purchased has 5 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, and a ceiling height of a whopping 7 meters (approximately 23 feet)!

Plus, it boasts a fantastic view of the Han River.

PH129 Features Summary

✅ Maison-Type Duplex Structure: All units offer a penthouse-level sense of space.

✅ Tight Security for Privacy: 24-hour concierge service and thorough privacy protection.

✅ World-Class Neighbors: Home to Jang Dong-gun and Ko So-young, golfer Park In-bee, and others.

✅ Overwhelming Amenities: 5 parking spaces per household, healthcare, sauna, and library.

Another premium here is the VVIP community.

Jang Dong-gun and Ko So-young already own a unit worth over ₩15 billion,

And golf legend Park In-bee also lives here.

Furthermore, rumors are circulating that V's close friend, actor Park Seo-joon,

Lives nearby,

Raising fans' expectations for private meetings and parties!

A Stage for the 'Return of the Emperor'

V's Cash Investment Strategy

V already owns a luxury house in Yongsan-gu.

This PH129 purchase is interpreted not as a simple relocation,

But as an asset diversification and securing a future vision.

Why Cheongdam-dong's ultra-expensive housing?

As of September 28th, ultra-expensive apartments in Gangnam are

Considered safe assets that guarantee stable value appreciation.

Especially rare complexes like PH129 continue to command a premium.

Meaning of V's Cash Investment

• Interest Expense Savings: No interest burden of hundreds of millions of won since there is no loan.

• Securing Asset Stability: Top-class tangible assets less affected by financial market fluctuations.

• Quick Transaction Completion: Swift acquisition of ownership with cash transactions without complicated procedures.

Moreover, the timing of his upcoming discharge makes it even more meaningful.

He has secured the optimal private space in advance of his solo activities and BTS's full comeback.

Seeing this, I think V is truly a young and rich person who doesn't miss out on work, investment, or self-care.

Conclusion: V's New Chapter in Cheongdam-dong, We Support Him!

V's bold investment decision to purchase PH129 in Cheongdam-dong

Gives us a lot to think about.

It can be seen as securing a definite stage

For the new golden age that V will unfold after his discharge.

Imagining V gaining inspiration from the duplex with a 7-meter ceiling and a view of the Han River at a glance,

Doesn't it make you look forward to future activities more?

I was also motivated to work hard!

What do you think?

Leave a comment saying, "I want to go on a V house tour!"

Overview of Services

When considering a change to your hairstyle, length and volume are often top of mind. There are several ways to achieve the desired look.

Hair augmentation is a technique that naturally integrates with your existing hair to enhance areas lacking volume, making it perfect for a subtle style change.

Hair extensions can instantly add length and fullness.

It’s important to understand that each procedure requires different preparations and maintenance. It's always best to get detailed information beforehand.

The initial consultation involves a thorough assessment of your hair and scalp condition, as well as your usual styling habits, to determine the most suitable materials and methods.

Matching the curl pattern and color are also important. The priority is always to create a natural blend.

The duration of the procedure varies depending on the technique used, so it's advisable to confirm the estimated time when booking your appointment.

The cost will also vary depending on the materials used and the amount of work required. Requesting a clear breakdown of costs can help reduce any potential burden.

Location and Accessibility of the Gangnam Branch

The salon is conveniently located at 3rd floor, 301ho, 22, Gangnam-daero 162-gil, Gangnam-gu, Seoul, making it easily accessible.

Public transportation is readily available in the area, and parking is usually provided for those driving.

As parking availability can vary, it's always wise to inquire in advance and plan accordingly.

A Glimpse into the Salon: Ambiance and Waiting Area

The interior boasts a clean and comfortable ambiance, complete with a designated waiting area for clients.

For longer procedures, comfortable seating and beverage services are often available, allowing you to relax.

The separate restrooms for men and women is a thoughtful consideration for privacy.

Complimentary Wi-Fi access is available, which allows you to stay connected or take care of work during your wait.

The Hair Transformation Secret in Gangnam

Procedure Flow and Time Allocation

The procedure typically follows a sequence of consultation, preparation, the main procedure, and finishing touches.

Hair augmentation requires detailed application and attachment work, which can be time consuming. It’s advisable to plan your schedule accordingly.

Hair extensions provide instant length, but the attachment method will affect the longevity and maintenance requirements. Make sure to listen carefully to the stylist’s explanation.

You will also receive styling tips to help you maintain your new look at home.

Hygiene is a fundamental aspect of the beauty industry, so always be sure to check that the tools and materials are properly stored.

Check whether the salon uses dedicated equipment and follows a systematic disinfection process.

The quality and source of hair used for extensions can vary, so prioritize salons that emphasize quality assurance and proper care.

If you experience any discomfort during the procedure, be sure to inform the stylist immediately.

Aftercare Tips and Maintenance Period

After the procedure, minimize the use of heat styling tools and use dedicated products to gently care for your hair. This will help maintain the hair and its bond for longer.

Regular treatments and gentle brushing habits will prevent damage.

The longevity of the procedure varies depending on individual hair condition and lifestyle, but following proper maintenance procedures will ensure your satisfaction for an extended period.

Scheduling follow-up appointments to check your hair is also recommended.

Convenience of Booking and Payment

A streamlined booking system helps reduce wait times and allows you to manage your schedule effectively.

Accepting multiple payment options is an added convenience, and requesting a transparent breakdown of the estimated costs beforehand promotes trust and stability.

When making inquiries online or by phone, providing your key requirements in advance can help ensure a more efficient appointment.

The nearby commercial district offers ample opportunities for dining or shopping.

Easy access to public transport simplifies travel, and confirming parking availability in advance reduces any inconvenience for those driving.

The availability of cafes and convenience stores nearby is helpful for spending your waiting time, which can aid in scheduling.

Costs vary depending on the materials used, complexity of the procedure, and time required. Consider different options to ensure you make the right choice for you.

Simple length extensions and complex volume enhancements vary in price depending on your requirements. Be clear when discussing your desired outcome.

Balancing budget and expectations is key to maximizing satisfaction.

Hair augmentation and extensions can be a transformative experience that boost your confidence.

A tailored approach to your needs and preferences is paramount. Thorough information gathering and consultation will ensure you get great results.

Control V Hair Extensions & Hair Augmentation in Gangnam offers a variety of convenient amenities. The address is 3rd floor, 301ho, 22, Gangnam-daero 162-gil, Gangnam-gu, Seoul.

Before embarking on this transformation, take note of any questions that come to mind. This is useful when consulting with the stylist.

I guess I'm not a big eater because I never need to use the second tier.

It's fun decorating my lunchbox! Hehe

I quickly saved the stat comparison.

I wonder how that one trophy difference will play out?

---

le 23, septembre (mardi)

Tsk.

Okay, okay, Dembele is a winner, got it.

But honestly, Haphinha at 5th is just not right.

Even if he's missing one championship,

isn't that too harsh for the Champions League top scorer?

Pedri at 11th is also ridiculous, lol

---

Please, let no eyes be unwatched and no ears be unheard of Flow!

---

le 24, septembre (mercredi)

I saw Minji just to say goodbye?!

And I think this place is seriously over-treating.

---

Wearing shorts in this weather to go to the hospital. jpg

I've been going to the hospital almost every week since the end of last month. For different things each time. Is this some kind of unlucky streak? And I've lived without allergic reactions to anything except one specific antibiotic, so I've always called myself a drug addict lol. But recently, I had itchy eyes as a side effect of an antiviral, and even after getting a knee shot, it felt stiff for a while and then even the upper part of my thigh didn't feel like my own leg. Maybe that's why the depression was worse than when I failed at ticketing, failed an exam, or heard about my ex's success (which I haven't experienced yet).

As soon as my appointment was over, it started raining, so at first I just thought I was really sensitive to the weather? I met another new side of myself today, and I'm still developing my ego... I didn't think it would be a side effect, but after coming home and greeting Chuwi happily for about 10 minutes, I didn't even want to turn on the lights and just wanted to sink into the sofa.

Then I just started crying. I hate being sick.

I need a hug~

---

le 25, septembre (jeudi)

Morning walk, tot tot tot

Evening walk, tot tot tot

It was a happy library talk where I laughed and cried for the first time in a while.

I almost cried again listening to Director Hwang Seul-gi tell the story of the Han River fireworks scene and the last scene.

I didn't realize the mother didn't want her daughter to bear the burden of her life. ㅠㅠ

I hope Hongi and Seohi are both happy.

It was more enjoyable because I was with familiar faces.

---

le 26, septembre (jeudi)

I'm curious, I'm curious, I wondered if it would smell like sesame, but after reading the reviews, it said it was the coziness of hugging a puppy after a puppy bath, I'm so so so so curious. The success of marketing must be able to draw out someone's memories.

It wasn't something I should have put off, but I finally met Hyejin, because I was too busy (not me), and talked.

My mouth is watering just looking at the pictures. Jeolla green onion kimchi with frozen pork belly, the owner of Makchang is a true connoisseur.

---

le 27, septembre (samedi)

My name isn't even on it, but I bought it out of curiosity.

It's always sold out when I go, so the scarcity is no joke, so I wanted to eat it even more... When I actually ate it after a long time, I wondered if Kancho was always this soggy lol

I came to the hospital ㅠㅠㅠ

Samsung Fire, please deposit my insurance money quickly

---

A Buddhist was singing a song about a genuine case,

and showed me that he finally put on a genuine iPhone case.

Looking at it, it seems pretty?

But Daiso was also pretty at first ㅎㅎ

---

It must be a holiday

There are many meat gifts

I hope it will be a meat meal forever

---

Scones gifted by Hyejin

I hope it's a scone restaurant that even gourmand Jessica recognizes

---

It's beer and it's 5.7 degrees

It's beer and it's over 10,000 won

But it's worth it

---

I'm finally out of Daiso, okay!

Smile

---

I really wanted to buy one of the clothes that went into Busan,

How did you know my heart

I bought a Musinsa x Busan I Park windbreaker

The sleeves are too 파이야 though lol

I like it so-so, it will be my short autumn uniform

---

Did lowering my expectations help because the reviews were so bad? It felt like a really popular commercial movie for a Park Chan-wook film. The actors really brought the artificial and contrived comedy acting to life.

I enjoyed it quite a bit, and I could feel the character's passion, but after watching it, my own fandom doesn't come out... So I feel like it's a pity that I only needed to see it once. I, who am crazy about physical media, almost cried when the scene of the trees falling came out at the end, but even in the midst of it, I shouted in my heart, “I can’t help it.” I felt that was the core of the movie. I really can't help it.

---

le 28, septembre (dimanche)

It's blueberries

Korean beef short ribs are delicious

---

I think I felt more attached to Eun-joong and Sang-yeon because they were almost the same age. There's a point of comfort just from living in the same era. The process of accumulating all those clumsy and shaking moments and becoming Eun-joong and Sang-yeon was a total of 15 episodes, so I had no choice but to watch them for a long time, but it was worth spending a fairly long weekend.

---

Mom? Why are you watching football? Look at Chewii.

I was going to watch someone else's game to finish the weekend, but

The puppy brought all the toys he has and wants to play a game.

---

Weekly Diary

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More Images:

K-Pop Demon Hunters

Climate

Winter

Assumed to be Spring (no autumn foliage)

Imagery of Nature

Natural coldness, glacial terrain, snowfields, lakes

Combined with a modern metropolis

Korean mountains and the Han River

Unique Korean landmarks

Geographical Setting

Arendelle, a fictional Nordic kingdom

Present-day South Korea, Seoul

Time Period

1800s

Present (2020s)

Themes

Familial love

Secrets to hide

Hidden abilities

Friendship (with a team)

Protecting the weak

Secrets to hide, flaws

Image

A land of ice

A beautiful fairy-tale world

Appearance of princesses and princes

Fantasy world

Korean culture

The city of Seoul

Glamorous and exciting K-Pop

Active K-Pop fan culture

Subjects

True love

Accepting one's flaws

Self-affirmation

Protagonist's Occupation

Princess, Queen

K-Pop singer, Hunter

Protagonist's Family Background

Parents passed away when they were young.

Protected by the kingdom's traditions and lineage.

Parents passed away when they were young, and raised by her guardian, Celine.

Protagonist's Secret

Ice magic, freezing anything she touches

A hybrid of demon and human. Hiding a mark

Protagonist's Personality

Elsa - Hides and suppresses her secrets

Anna - Longs for the outside world and is innocent

-> Both grew up isolated, so they lack social skills...

Rumi - Hides her secrets, stays true to her mission, loves her fans, and is highly skilled as a singer.

-> Professional. Workaholic.

Spatial Background

Palace - Snowy Mountains - Ice Castle - Palace

Private jet - Stage - Home - City - World of Evil Spirits - Broadcasting - Korean medicine clinic - Bathhouse - Subway - Concert hall... Shows all the famous places in Seoul

Male Protagonist

Kristoff

Simple and handsome, not a hero or a knight. Not an ordinary commoner either, just an ice seller whose only friend is a reindeer.

(Outsider)

-> Lower status and poorer than the woman

※ Hans

Villain. A character to break the clichés

(A prince, but the mastermind)

Jinwoo

The typical handsome man. Villain. Has a sad story and cannot escape from the villain boss.

Grim Reaper and popular singer. Sings, dances, and receives love from the public.

(Insider)

-> Equal status, skills, and abilities to the woman.

Role of the Male Protagonist

Ally, Helper

Accompanies Anna, the second protagonist, on her journey to find Elsa, the first protagonist.

Journey partner and romantic interest

Villain but also romantic interest. Professionally, a rival.

His life is completely changed by the protagonist Rumi, and he even sacrifices himself.

Undergoes a dramatic transformation.

Center of the Story

The love of a younger sister going to find her older sister with special abilities.

The process of the protagonist, who hides a secret of her birth, defeating evil with her friends and revealing and accepting her own secret.

Story Crisis

Younger sister Anna finally finds her older sister after many twists and turns, but her older sister doesn't want to go back.

Anna turns to ice because of Elsa.

The moment the secret is revealed and the flaw she tried so hard to hide is exposed to the world.

Her friends turn away.

Story Climax

True love was not romance with a man, but the love of sisters.

Jinwoo's sacrifice.

Rumi's awakening. Harmonizing with her flaws, secrets, i.e., darkness

Touch of the Story

Olaf

-> Adds warmth and humor to the story with his innocence

-> Becomes a lubricant connecting the sisters (Olaf was created by Elsa's ability)

Deoph and SeoShi

-> They don't have lines, but they relieve the tension in the story and relax the antagonism towards the male protagonist Jinwoo.

-> Plays a role in maintaining the connection between Rumi and Jinwoo even when there is no contact with Jinwoo.

Songs

Disney style

Sung by a famous musical singer

Various genres of K-Pop songs

Sung by K-Pop producers and singers

(Not a famous singer)

Creator's Intention

Set in Scandinavia to create a story using ice magic.

Motivated by Andersen's fairy tale 'The Snow Queen'.

I wanted to use Korean culture as the subject matter, so I created a story centered on K-Pop, which is unique to Korea, against the backdrop of Korea. That's why the historical accuracy is so good.

Because of a song I happened to hear, 'Let it go', I got a chance to compare <Frozen> with <K-Pop Demon Hunters>.

Conceal, don't feel, don't let them know

Well, now they know

Huh? Isn't this part similar to K-De-Heon? When I thought about it, I realized that the two works have similarities and very different points.

So I decided to compare them.^^

<Frozen> was produced in 2013 and <K-Pop Demon Hunters> in 2025. It is a work that came out 12 years after Frozen. Is that why? I feel that many things have been improved and greatly developed. The stories are complex, and the characters are strong and capable individuals who are directly confronting the complexities of modern society.

That's why I think there was more catharsis and it was more fun to watch and listen to.

The protagonists have professional jobs, so it was realistic

Can't you feel how much Korea has developed and how much the cultural paradigm has changed in 12 years?

I also realize Korea's charm and cultural power. I think it's thanks to Director Maggie Kang's passion for wanting to use 'Korea' as the subject matter. From the beginning, the planning intention was for Korea!

I think that comparing <Frozen> and <K-Pop Demon Hunters> shows how different the power and passion are when a specific culture is used as a 'motif' versus when a member of that country's culture directly tries to deal with and express that culture.

Both works are fun and moving, but I think <K-Pop Demon Hunters> is overwhelming in terms of cultural vitality, sense of realism, and sense of reality!

Conceal, don't feel, don't let them knowWell, now they know

K-content is now presenting new motivations and methodologies for learning Korean, transforming the global landscape of Korean language education.

Bridging Language Barriers and Connecting Cultures: K-Content Success Stories

The recent global popularity of the Netflix series 'When Life Gives You Tangerines' and the animated series 'K-Pop Demon Hunters' ('Kedeheon') are prime examples of how skillfully K-content overcomes language barriers. Despite 'When Life Gives You Tangerines' having a title based on Jeju dialect, it resonated universally by being translated to suit the sentiments of each country, such as "When Life Gives You Tangerines" and "If Life Gives You Tangerines." Immediately after its release, it ranked in the Netflix Top 10 in 41 countries and topped the Global Non-English TV category, proving its impact. Judges praised it for "expanding regional uniqueness into universal emotions, showcasing the cultural diversity and potential for expansion of K-content." This drama sparked explosive overseas interest in Jeju tourism, with mentions of 'haenyeo (female diver) experience' increasing by 970% in Taiwan and 'Seongsan Ilchulbong (Sunrise Peak)' increasing by 425% in Singapore. This clearly demonstrates the power of K-dramas to imprint specific regional cultures of Korea on people worldwide.

'K-Pop Demon Hunters,' with its unique setting of a K-pop girl group fighting demons, also achieved a remarkable feat by surpassing 300 million cumulative views within three months of its release, the first among Netflix content. The OST, 'Golden,' simultaneously topped the Billboard Hot 100 and Billboard 200 charts in the United States. Videos like "Foreign babies babbling with 'Golden' even before they can speak" went viral globally, making the K-pop craze palpable. The sing-along screenings held in 1,000 theaters in North America were sold out in two days, and spontaneous choir performances in downtown New York showed that K-pop had expanded into a massive cultural experience. These K-contents generate curiosity about Korean lyrics and dialogue, playing a crucial role in providing a strong motivation to learn Korean voluntarily.

The success of 'Kedeheon' has also had a significant ripple effect on the overall economy. According to the Korea Tourism Organization, the number of foreign tourists visiting Korea in July increased by approximately 23% compared to the previous year, with cumulative tourists exceeding 10 million in 2025. In particular, the number of foreign visitors to major filming locations in Seoul, such as Naksan Park, Namsan Tower, and Bukchon Hanok Village, has noticeably increased, and more than half (52.4%) of the related search terms on Google Trends were specific locations in Korea. The National Museum of Korea recorded its highest number of visitors in 20 years, and sales of 'Mutez (a combination of museum and goods)' increased by 34%, with items such as 'magpie tiger badges' and 'black hat gat strings ballpoint pens' selling out. This clearly shows that K-content leads to economic value creation beyond cultural interest.

Changing Korean Language Learning Paradigm: The Age of Digital and Immersion

In the past, Korean language learning often relied on textbooks and academies, but now, voluntary and immersive learning is possible through K-content. Following along with dialogues while watching favorite dramas and memorizing K-pop song lyrics to learn pronunciation continuously provide interest and motivation for learning. This has evolved into active cultural experiences of learning that go beyond passive memorization.

In line with this trend, Korean language learning content is evolving into more diverse and technology-friendly forms. Smart content with voice recognition technology, learning programs developed through global collaboration, and the development of paid services through online platforms provide a more convenient and effective learning environment for learners around the world. Developing a global Korean language education system that utilizes digital Korean Wave cultural content has now become a necessity, not an option, and this is contributing to maximizing learners' experiences of encountering and using Korean in real life.

K-Culture, Leaping into a National Strategic Industry: Government Support and the Future

The success of K-content is now recognized as a core strategic asset that will determine the future of the nation. The government is actively promoting policies to cultivate K-culture as a national strategic industry and expand cultural influence (soft power) to the world. The President emphasized that "the power of culture is a new growth engine that allows Korea to stand tall in the world" and promised stable support for the creative activities of cultural artists.

In fact, the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism's budget for 2026 is ₩7.7962 trillion, an increase of 10.3% compared to the previous year, which supports the goal of national strategic industrialization of the content industry to usher in an era of ₩300 trillion for K-culture. A Presidential Committee on Popular Culture Exchange has been newly established to establish public-private cooperation strategies, expand investment in strategic and fund of funds for content artificial intelligence (AI) transformation innovation, and strengthen support for game, broadcasting video, film, and other fields, as well as AI utilization technology. Expanding support to various cultural and artistic fields such as the creation of the K-Game Larchiveum and expanding support for K-Musical and K-Literature will drive the qualitative and quantitative growth of Korean cultural content.

With the synergy of active government support and dynamic creative activities from the private sector, K-content is proving to be a growth industry that creates new business models. At the '2025 Canada K-Expo' held in Toronto, Canada, the 'K-Style' exhibition, experience, and performance combining K-content, K-food, and K-beauty were very popular, effectively conveying the convergence charm of Korean culture. This shows that K-content is expanding beyond Korean language learning to a deeper understanding and experience of the overall Korean lifestyle.

Sustainable K-Culture and the Future of Korean Language Learning

The global trend of Korean language learning driven by the K-content craze is establishing itself as a sustainable cultural engine beyond a temporary fad. Just as K-dramas drive Korean tourism demand and movies featuring K-pop attract hundreds of millions of overseas viewers, K-brands are now wielding the power to transform the lives and cultures of people around the world.

Learning Korean is now more than just learning a foreign language; it is an expression of the desire to understand one's favorite content more deeply and actively participate in Korean culture. In the future, where the scope of K-culture is expanded through organic cooperation between the government and the private sector, and digital technology makes learning more convenient, Korean proficiency will become even more important as an essential competency that enhances global competitiveness beyond individual cultural enjoyment. With the whole world falling in love with Korean, the future of Korean language learning that K-content will open up is even brighter and more hopeful.

K-Pop Demon Hunters = KDH

Hello, I'm Ellua.

I finally got around to watching K-Pop Demon Hunters yesterday.

While watching KDH, I wondered how much economic impact it actually has on our country.

Today, I've summarized the economic, tourism, and export ripple effects of the K-content industry, focusing on this particular work.

<What is K-Pop Demon Hunters?>

A Global Success Story of K-Content

- Production: Sony Pictures Animation × Studio Mir (Korean Co-production)

- Distribution: Netflix (Global Release)

- Success: Ranked #1 on Netflix globally within a week of release.

- Key Features: ‘K-Worldview Content’ combining K-pop, traditional culture, and female heroes.

This work isn't just a simple animation.

It's evaluated as a symbolic result of the K-content industry's global competitiveness and the spread of the Korean Wave (Hallyu).

<Economic Ripple Effects of K-Pop Demon Hunters>

Approximately 1 Trillion KRW in Production-Induced Effects from a Single Piece of Content

According to an analysis applying the industry-relatedness coefficient from the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism and the KDI,

the domestic economic effect of K-Pop Demon Hunters is estimated to be around 1 trillion KRW.

Category

Content

Estimated Scale

Direct Revenue

Domestic portion of OST, Copyright, Merchandise, etc.

150 - 200 Billion KRW

Production-Induced Effect

Chain Effect of the Content Industry (Coefficient 2.1)

300 - 400 Billion KRW

Tourism & Consumption Effect

Consumption and Visits Centered on the Fandom

Approx. 500 Billion KRW

Total

—

Approx. 1 Trillion KRW

‘An Era Where One Piece of K-Content Changes a Portion of GDP’

K-Pop Demon Hunters is considered a model for the economic capitalization of Korean IP.

1. K-Content Export Effect: Growth of the Music & Copyright Industry

K-Pop Demon Hunters' OST, ‘Golden,’

shook the global OST market by entering the Billboard charts.

- 6.8% increase in overseas streaming listens on Spotify, Apple Music, etc.

- Increased royalty income for Korean composers and producers

- Korea Music Copyright Association (KOMCA) saw a 38% increase in overseas copyright revenue compared to the previous year.

K-Pop OSTs are now an ‘exportable music product’ and a core driver of the Hallyu economy.

2. Hallyu Tourism Effect: Increased Seoul Tourism Centered on the Fandom

Namsan Tower, Hongdae, Gyeongbokgung Palace, and Hanok (traditional Korean house) Streets, which are the backdrops in the movie,

have emerged as new ‘K-tourism destinations’ among fans.

- As of July 2025, Seoul saw 1.36 million foreign tourists (up 22% from the previous year)

- Surge in Hallyu experience programs, merchandise shops, and food/accommodation consumption

- Spread of 'Pilgrimage-style tourism' centered on fans

The tourism effect of K-Pop Demon Hunters alone is about 500 billion KRW.

This is a ripple effect that leads to consumption of K-food, fashion, and beauty products, not just simple visits.

3. Consumer Goods Effect: KDH Collaboration Merchandise and Brand Marketing

K-Pop Demon Hunters has brought a strong economic effect to the consumer goods industry through brand partnerships (IP licensing).

- Collaboration products released with Nongshim, Innisfree, Kakao Friends, etc.

- Sales of photo cards and limited-edition merchandise → Over 20 billion KRW in revenue

- Increased brand awareness and overseas consumer preference

KDH has proven the model where ‘content is brand.’

4. IP Expansion Effect: Ripple Effect into the Digital Industry

- KDH character NFTs, metaverse exhibitions, and mobile game launches are planned.

- Secondary IP creation revenue accounts for over 37%.

- Increased awareness of Korean game and animation technology

This is a prime example of how the K-content IP business is expanding beyond simple film revenue into digital assets.

5. Job Creation and Industrial Growth Effects

- Approximately 1,000 jobs created in animation, translation, marketing, OST production, etc.

- Revitalization of domestic small and medium-sized content production companies

- Strengthening of the creative ecosystem centered on freelancers and young people

K-Pop Demon Hunters has become a prime model for a structure where content creates jobs.

<Risks and Challenges: A Domestic Recirculation Structure is Key>

Problem

Description

Necessary Response

Revenue Leakage Overseas

Production and Distribution Primarily Overseas

Need to Expand Domestic IP Ownership

One-Off Consumption

Consumption Structure Centered on Fandom

Series/Sustainable Content Strategy

Overheating Merchandise Issues

Side Effects of Random/Resale Markets

Strengthen Consumer Protection Standards

Limitations on Creator Compensation

Contracts Centered on Global Capital

Strengthen the Rights of Domestic Creators

<Implications: Strategies for Sustaining the Economic Effect of K-Content>

- K-Content must be recognized as an export industry.

→ Hallyu content is not just culture, but an export asset.

- Securing domestic IP rights is key to revenue recirculation.

→ The contract structure must be improved from the production stage.

- Building a Hallyu ecosystem that connects tourism, consumption, and brands.

→ True economic effects are created when culture, industry, and consumption are connected.

- Designing a sustainable fan experience.

→ The focus must shift from inducing overconsumption to 'participatory fan experiences'.

<Conclusion>

K-Pop Demon Hunters is not just a simple movie.

It is a prime example that proves Korean content can move the global economy.

Domestic Economic Effect of One Piece of Content: Approximately 1 Trillion KRW

→ Culture is industry, and creation is competitiveness.

K-pop Demon Hunters

When I first tried to buy tickets, I accidentally booked for October 10th (Friday) instead of the 11th (Saturday). I thought I couldn't make it to Yeongjongdo by 7 PM since my class ended at 5 PM on Friday, so I didn't deposit the money and canceled it...ㅜ But it turned out it was a holiday weekend, and a week before, there was an announcement that Friday's class was canceled!! So I got a resale ticket!! (at face value, of course) Originally, it was a 2-day concert, but Doyoung added another show because he didn't want anyone to miss out!! (Wish could open up more seats too, just give us concerts every weekend for a month) I was scheduled to go to the second show and managed to get a general admission ticket on the first floor!!

Ugh...

But on the way there, several unfortunate events occurred: the battery cover of my light stick keyring disappeared...and the light stick button was pressed in my bag, so I was walking around with a bag emitting neogreen light...Walking around with the light stick on is...okay, but I can't get the battery cover separately, so that's too bad ㅜ

Arrived at Inspire Arena, struggling

Left home at 2:30 PM and took bus 1113-1 > transferred to Line 5 at Gangdong Station > transferred to the Airport Railroad at Gongdeok Station > took the free concert shuttle at Airport Cargo Terminal Station and arrived around 5:30 PM after a 3-hour journey....

And I didn't know any of the fan chants, so I searched for them on the way there, and it was fun watching Doyoung lecture us himself...but it was difficult....

The firefly chant had a clear pattern, okay okay.

But Hello Universe had all sorts of unpredictable variations, so it was a bit confusing ;;

I thought it would be awkward to eat in the middle, so I packed a lunch box, but when I tried to tear open the spoon's plastic wrapping, it broke! I broke the spoon...... I didn't think of going to a convenience store there and just picked up the round part with my hand and ate rice like an Indian ㅎㅎ

Dress code: blue

Received the ticket and had time to take pictures

neo culture technology

These days, you can connect your light stick to the SM Town app, and they use the light sticks for stage effects during concerts.

The admission gifts were a four-leaf clover cushion and a Biodance toner pad/serum/mask set...! Doyoung's consideration for us to sit comfortably because our butts would hurt from sitting for hours at the concert... And Biodance is a brand Doyoung mentioned he liked in his content, and he became a model for them because of that and received sponsorship~

I ate my lunch box outside, went to the bathroom, took pictures, and settled in about 5 minutes before the start, and the view was so, so good~~~ And because it was 360 degrees, the audience seats beyond the stage also lit up with light sticks, and it was pretty.

But... I brought the wrong charging cable for my power bank, so I couldn't film much because of battery issues... I wasn't planning on taking great videos anyway because my phone is old (S21), but I was so sad because it was at 35% even before the concert started ㅜ Last time at the Wish concert, it was at 20% at the beginning, so my phone died after the halfway point, and I couldn't film anything, but today, I saved as much as possible to prevent such a disaster.

Setlist ramblings

???? Hello Universe

As soon as Doyoung appeared, people's names were pouring out on the screen... Is this the names of the people who booked the concert???? It wasn't booked under my name, so my name wasn't there, which was a shame ㅜ The song title is Hello Universe, and Doyoung's universe is the fans, so he did this production, and he appeared saying, "Hello my universe, Czennies~!" During the ments, he said that like the name of the concert is Yours, the main characters of this concert are us, and from the beginning, I was overwhelmed by the message Doyoung wanted to convey..!

???? Dallas Love Field

Oh-eh-oh~ oh-eh-oh-oh-oh~ oh-eh-oh~

Oh-eh-oh~ oh-eh-oh-oh-oh~ oh-eh-oh~

The sing-along part is so melancholic and exciting.

And after the song ended, I thought the lighting + light stick light show was amazing.

???? Firefly

There was an event to turn on phone lights (like fireflies), but I couldn't do it because of battery issues ㅜ Too bad.. but it was pretty.

???? Back to You

It wasn't originally on the setlist, but they added it because Chef of a Merciless Restaurant did well ㅋㅋㅋ I like Doyoung riding the wave~

Doyoung's Jazz Bar

???? Perfume

When is DoJaeJung coming back~~~~~~~

But the sing-along was so fun~ And I was grateful that Doyoung suddenly played the piano.

???? Bicycle

Suddenly, Doyoung appeared riding a bicycle in the air ;;

And soon after, a giant Doyoung bread appeared and started a chase (cute)

???? Time Machine

He told us to sing Taeyeon's part, but it was too high for me, so I just sang it an octave lower ^^

???? All Light (The dazzling you shines like a wind blowing in)

My favorite song from this 2nd album. It's a song where everyone sings along from beginning to end, so it was so, so exciting!!

???? Ment Time

His face is his face. He said that the pretty cameras that Aespa uses were used for this concert, so it came out pretty, and it actually did.

???? Dong Kyung & Stillness

These songs were given by Jawooim's Kim Yuna and YB's Yoon Do Hyun, respectively, and I like them because the lyrics are poetic and the melodies are lyrical. But the songs and lyrics had their styles embedded in them, which was amazing. Below are my favorite lyrics!

???? Deep Sleep

Love me, wake me up and fly high

Fly more freely

These lyrics aren't the original lyrics, but he said they were what he wanted to say to us and what he wanted us to say to ourselves. We sang this part infinitely, and it was so sad... Why doesn't he ask us to wait for him while he's in the military and keeps cheering us on..

???? Sing-Along Event - Sandbox

Sing-along events are so good... About 10,000 people singing one song and filling the venue with their voices was so beautiful and overwhelming.

???? Encore Entrance Song - WITHOUT YOU

I didn't expect this at all...! It was the song that Doyoung first came out into the world with as NCT U, and he said it was a song he wanted to sing at a moment when he could take a break from living so hard. I became an NCT fan around 2020~2021 and listened to all their songs, and I never thought I would hear it at a concert like this, especially with Doyoung singing it solo... But my mouth just followed along;;

???? Encore Exit Song - I'll Wait For You In The Future

Doyoung said that some people say it's tacky to say things directly, but he prepared this song as the last song. I'll wait for the 3rd album and the next concert!

Finally, he said that he would support whatever his fans do and that he hoped everyone would gain strength from today's performance and continue to pursue their dreams without giving up. I only thought about preparing fan chants and cheering with my light stick, but I never thought I would receive support for 3 hours straight. The messages of support in the songs and the words he directly conveyed were so sincere that I might still be suffering from the aftereffects? ㅠㅠ

I took the Kakao shuttle to Jamsil and took public transportation home, and it was 1 AM.... But on the bus screen...

ㅠㅠThis consideration to take care of us until the end... It was the best performance ever

Overall performance review

Doyoung's live singing was crazy (P). The songs have a lot of high notes and diverse genres (band, ballad, dance, jazz), but he handled them all, and he just tore through the entire 3-hour performance from beginning to end with live singing without any AR. And the songs are so good ㅠㅠ Please keep releasing albums 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10. Keep singing forever. And the ment time was so fun. Is M-byuh an ISFJ? So he's realistic, warm, and witty, so it wasn't boring at all.

Can't leave out Inspire Arena... It's perfect except for the location. It's a hotel, so the building is pleasant, the bathrooms are clean, and Doyoung prepared cushions, but the chairs are also very comfortable (^^). And the sound, screens, lighting, and stage equipment were all high quality. It was beautiful to see them use the light sticks to make it look like it was snowing or like waves were crashing, and I could feel the effort they put into the productions, like actually snowing when they sang "Snow Flower."

And it was 360 degrees, but you could see that they were paying attention to every side. He greeted each of the four sides four times and thanked them four times and apologized four times (ㅋㅋㅋ). And he sang the songs really fairly. Later, during the ment, I heard that the director?? producer?? calculated the percentage of time he was looking at each side while preparing.

The only regrets are that my phone has an old, low-quality camera and that my battery was low, so I couldn't film much... I want to upload videos and photos when I write my blog, but it's quite annoying to scrape them from here and there; And I regret not seeing the stage as a whole because I was on the first floor. If I had the time and money, I would have watched the last show on the 3rd floor one more time... The reason I specifically wanted the last show and not the first show is because the guest at the last show was Wish, Jungwoo, Mark, Johnny... No, Taeyong at the second show was also a great guest, but.. Wish... Jungwoo..ㅜ

It was a really satisfying and lingering concert! I want to see the next album and concert soon! But! Let's meet in the future in a year and a half.

The following are the rest of the images from the concert:

According to Netflix's official ‘Tudum’ site on October 13th, KDH has accumulated 320 million viewing hours, maintaining its position as the number one most-watched Netflix film of all time, even four months after its release.

In particular, scenes featuring characters enjoying K-food like Kimbap and cup noodles, along with traditional Korean patterns and accessories such as 'gats' (traditional Korean hats), have created a global sensation, leading to explosive sales of collaboration products with retail companies. The five types of KDH collaboration convenience meals launched by GS25 last month in partnership with Netflix surpassed 1 million units in cumulative sales in just over a month.

GS25 effectively capitalized on the ‘KDH effect’ by including random seals in convenience meals and utilizing store wrapping and life-size standees featuring characters from the show. Specifically, in four specialized stores with high foreign visitor traffic, such as Incheon Airport T1 and T2, convenience meal sales increased by 67.3% in the two weeks following the launch.

CU has also seen a surge in sales figures from foreign customers since the KDH craze began. In July and August, when KDH's global popularity took off, the number of transactions using international payment methods increased by 185% compared to the same period last year. During the same period, Kimbap sales increased by 231%, ramen sales by 99%, ready-to-eat meals by 143%, and snack sales by 53%. Furthermore, as a scene of the main character eating an entire roll of Kimbap in one bite went viral as a meme, CU launched a ‘K.Tong.Bulgogi Kimbap’ (K.Whole.Bulgogi Kimbap).

Fueled by this K-food craze, Seven-Eleven reported that foreign Kimbap sales at airport stores increased by 120% from July to October 12 compared to the previous year.

The demand for experiencing Korean culture has also increased since the KDH craze. Following the release of KDH, the cumulative number of visitors to the National Museum of Korea this year increased by 77% compared to the previous year, and sales of the goods brand ‘Myutzu’ (a combination of museum and goods) also increased by 73%. The 'Tiger and Magpie' badge, inspired by Joseon Dynasty paintings of magpies and tigers, has become a sold-out item due to word-of-mouth, as it resembles the characters 'Duffy (Tiger) and Seo (Magpie)' in the show.

As a result, the National Museum of Korea's official cultural product brand ‘Myutzu’ is expected to record its highest-ever sales this year. According to the National Museum of Korea Cultural Foundation on October 10, Myutzu's cumulative sales from January to August this year reached 21.8 billion won, exceeding last year's performance (21.3 billion won), and are expected to reach 30 billion won by the end of the year.

Collaboration with KDH has become an essential strategy not only in the retail industry but also across consumer goods industries such as food, fashion, and leisure. In the food industry, companies such as Nongshim and Paris Baguette have launched collaboration products, and related companies such as 8Seconds and Everland are engaging in extensive collaborations.

The retail industry is also evaluating that K-content has expanded from ‘content to watch’ to ‘experiential content’ that can be eaten, worn, and experienced thanks to KDH. An industry insider said, “Due to the KDH craze, sales are increasing not only for official collaboration products but also for products that incorporate related elements. It is expected to lead to continued interest in K-culture in general.”

These days, with the cool breeze brushing against my skin, I often feel that the year is coming to an end.

Now that it's mid-October, the end of the year doesn't seem so far away.

As you reflect on the year, why not treat yourself to a special day by enjoying a concert?

Here's a guide to the Color in Music Festival 2025, along with information on BOYNEXTDOOR, Jannabi, WOODZ, and TWS concert schedules and ticket booking for the latter half of 2024.

We've compiled the concert news and ticket information for music fans in the second half of 2024. Check out the schedules and booking details for performances by BOYNEXTDOOR, Jannabi, WOODZ, TWS, and more, and get ready to enjoy a fantastic show!

Color in Music Festival 2025: The Ultimate Guide

Introducing Color in Music Festival 2025

The Color in Music Festival 2025 is a large-scale festival where music and color come together, featuring a vibrant color party for artists and audiences of various genres. In 2025, it will be held at Paradise City in Incheon, promising an even more special atmosphere and a variety of side events.

Event Time Information

November 1st (Sat), 2025 ~ November 2nd (Sun), 2025

Starts at 2 PM

Location

Paradise City, Incheon

Main Programs & Lineup

Live performances by popular domestic and international musicians

November 1st: Kwon Jin-ah, Kyuhyun, Song So-hee, Ahn Shin-ae, WOODZ, Lee So-ra, Lee Chan-hyuk, Jannabi, Crush, Peppertones

November 2nd: Dynamic Duo, BOYNEXTDOOR, BIBI, Young Posse, Yoon Mi-rae, Tiger JK, TWS

Ticket Booking Information

Booking Site: tikcetink.com

Discount Information

- 10% discount for Incheon citizens

Important Notes

A maximum of 4 tickets can be purchased per person.

Refunds and changes after booking are subject to the booking site's policy.

Tickets will be sold at the on-site ticket booth based on availability.

Transportation Information

Using Public Transportation

Airport Railroad: Get off at Paradise City Station on the Incheon Airport Railroad and walk for 5 minutes.

Bus: Get off at the Paradise City Bus Stop (lines 111, 303, 306, etc.).

Using Personal Vehicle

Parking available within Paradise City (parking fees apply separately).

Expect congestion on the day of the event; using public transportation is recommended.

Shuttle Bus

Shuttle buses operate from Incheon International Airport and major subway stations in Seoul (Seoul Station, Hongik University Station) to the venue.

The shuttle bus schedule and boarding locations can be found on the official website.

Conclusion

Color in Music Festival 2025 offers a special experience where music, art, and color come together.

Check ticket booking and transportation information in advance to prepare for a more enjoyable festival!

We are TNS Vocal Dance Academy, located in Jungang-dong, Changwon.

Your go-to Changwon Dance Academy and Audition Academy!

Today, we're excited to share some news!

During the second week of October, TNS Vocal Dance Academy hosted exclusive in-house auditions with famous entertainment agencies!

Curious to know which top entertainment companies visited TNS this time?

Let's find out!

Hi-Up Entertainment In-House Audition

On Thursday, October 16th at 6:30 PM,

TNS Vocal Dance Academy hosted an in-house audition with Hi-Up Entertainment!

Hi-Up Entertainment is home to the amazing STAYC!

Please note that the Hi-Up Entertainment in-house audition held on Thursday, October 16th was a private audition exclusively for TNS students.

And there's more! Another audition was held this week!

Drumroll please...

Jellyfish Entertainment In-House Audition

On Friday, October 17th at 6 PM,

TNS Vocal Dance Academy hosted an in-house audition with Jellyfish Entertainment!

Jellyfish Entertainment is home to the talented 4-member boy group VIXX!

VIXX has been loved by many for a long time. The members are N, Leo, Ken, and Hyuk!

Kim Sejeong, from Produce 101, I.O.I, and Gugudan, is also an artist under Jellyfish Entertainment!

Kim Sejeong is active in various fields such as singing, dancing, and acting, showcasing her outstanding talent.

Also, the popular group these days from Boys Planet 2, VERIVERY, is a 7-member boy group under Jellyfish Entertainment!

VERIVERY are capable in various areas such as writing lyrics, composing music, choreographing dances, filming and editing videos.

The team consists of 7 members: Dongheon, Hoyoung, Minchan, Gyehyeon, Yeonho, Yongseung, and Kangmin!

EVNNE, a project group from Boys Planet, consists of 7 members: Keita, Park Hanbin, Lee Jeonghyeon, Yoo Seungeon, Ji Yunseo, Moon Junghyun, and Park Jihoo.

The members of EVNNE belong to various agencies, but EVNNE's activities are managed by Jellyfish Entertainment!!!

In addition to that, Son Chamchi, Nam Bora, Kim Dayeon, Park Geonwook, etc. are also artists under Jellyfish Entertainment

The Jellyfish Entertainment in-house audition was a private audition, and only TNS students were eligible to apply.

TNS Audition Class Recruitment

For those who dream of becoming idols and singers!

Why do so many friends choose TNS in Changwon?!

TNS hosts an average of 9 in-house auditions per month, including those with major agencies!

❗️Offers the chance to participate in an All-Kill United Audition with 100 companies twice a year!❗️

❗️TNS cumulative number of successful applicants exceeds 1300!❗️

❗️Over 1000 1st-round acceptances!❗️

❗️Over 200 final acceptances!❗️

❤️TNS from Changwon has produced artists for 10 consecutive years!❤️

(Oh My Girl's Mimi, Everglow's Mia, BAE173's Mujin and Youngseo, TripleS' Kim Nakyoung, B wave's JiEon, Odd Youth's Yeeum, and more than 30 others)⠀

TNS Vocal Dance Academy

☞ Consistently produces trainees who pass auditions at major agencies

☞ Vocal + Dance curriculum specialized for audition preparation

☞ Provides various opportunities such as video shoots and performances

In-House Audition with Hi-Up Entertainment

In-House Audition with Jellyfish Entertainment

My main focuses are idols and web novels.

So, who's my favorite idol?

It's Kim Gun-woo from AlphaDriveOne!

Besides that, I have over 2000 gorgeous pictures of him.

Actually, I wasn't someone who got deeply into idols before...

But since most of my friends were watching 'Boys2Planet,' I decided to give it a try, and I became completely hooked.

Following an idol survival show in real-time was harder and crueler than I expected.

Still, I was able to endure it because I got excited and happy every time new photos were released.

And I went to a support cafe for the first time!

It was a new and great experience, probably because it was my first time at a support cafe. I can't believe I found someone I like this much...

I'm not a big fan of AlphaDriveOne's name, which sounds kind of corny, but since my favorite is in that group, I'll keep supporting them.

Their self-produced content (자컨) was just released, and it's fun, so check it out if you're interested!

I usually read webtoons habitually, but these days I'm only reading one or two web novels over and over.

Specifically, Baek Deok-soo's novels:

<If I Can't Debut, I'll Die> and <Even if I Fall into a Horror Story, I Have to Go to Work>.

I love these two works so, so, so much.

They have creative concepts with unique and quirky characters leading to imaginative stories that you can only understand if you read them.

They are just really fun.

I started reading them last year, and now my love for these two novels has grown so big that it's hard to handle.

I want to collect unofficial merchandise, but I'm trying hard to save money and resist.

However, I accidentally saw the movie, 'Yeon's Letter,' and loved it so much that I ordered the package.

It made me realize that Korea can make good animation too.

I watched it without knowing who the voice actors were, but I was surprised to find out that Lee Su-hyun was the voice of Sori.

I hope everyone gets a chance to watch it.

I'm planning to watch it again. (I love re-watching things, I've seen 'Demon Slayer' 3 times).

Actually, I'm preparing for the GED (검정고시) after dropping out of school in August.

Considering I'm studying, I'm still spending money and having fun (I started a part-time job at Burger King in the middle but quit after 2 weeks...)

Anyway, I'm trying to do what I can right now.

This was written without much order, but I'm really happy that I can watch and enjoy the things I like.

Of course, I need to know how to control myself, haha.

It's been so long since I've written a blog post, so it feels a little awkward and strange.

I'll try to come back sooner next time.

Short update over.

First, let's explore the culinary world. With the upcoming Vegetarian Festival (October 19th to 29th), 7-Eleven in Thailand is preparing over 323 diverse vegetarian (J-food) menu items. Isn't that amazing? This goes beyond just vegetarian options; it's an effort to capture taste, convenience, and value for money, all tailored to the modern lifestyle.

They offer a wide variety of options, including ready-to-eat meals, frozen foods, healthy drinks, snacks, and desserts. They carefully select menus from famous brands, freshly prepare them daily with fresh ingredients, and provide healthy options. This is great news not only for vegetarians but also for anyone seeking a healthy diet. The 24/7 delivery service via the 7-Eleven TH app provides ultimate convenience for busy individuals. As I learn baking, I'm also researching various ingredients and trends. Seeing such a large-scale introduction of vegetarian menus makes me look forward to an even more diverse food trend in the future.

Next, I have some gourmet news from Taipei, Taiwan. Ahead of the 2025 ITF Taipei International Travel Fair (November 7th to 10th), the Grand Hotel Yuanshan in Taipei and Kaohsiung will be offering accommodation and dining vouchers at discounts of up to 75%. You can't miss out on this incredible discount!

What particularly catches my eye is Chef Xu Yaoguang's 'Golden Dragon Peking Duck 4-Person Set', a master of Cantonese cuisine. You can enjoy Peking duck in six different ways, from carving the duck on-site to duck sushi, duck legs, duck stir-fry, duck silk noodles, and duck bone broth. It makes my mouth water just imagining it. Also, Chef Dai Licheng's 'Yuanshan Classic 4-Person Set', a master of Jiangsu-Zhejiang cuisine, is also highly anticipated.

Chef Liao Jianhao, who is in charge of Western cuisine, presents the 'Yuanshan Steak House Seafood & Meat 2-Person Set'. It features Australian 150-day champion Angus ribeye steak served with lobster shrimp and abalone. It promises to be the ultimate gastronomic experience. In addition, they sell vouchers for unique cocktails using local Taiwanese liquor (Yushan Dongding Brandy, 58-degree Kinmen Kaoliang Liquor, etc.), so you can perfectly enjoy a 'slightly tipsy' experience with your meal. I dream of developing a cocktail that complements my baking someday.

Now, let's move on to music. The first performer lineup for the 2025 MAMA Awards, a festival for K-POP fans around the world, has been revealed! The award ceremony, which will be held for two days on November 28th and 29th at the new Kai Tak Stadium in Hong Kong, will center around the concept of 'Heung', which is a Korean joy and excitement.

The first lineup includes 17 prominent teams, including Stray Kids, IVE, and ENHYPEN, who are making waves on global charts, as well as RIIZE, ZEROBASEONE, BABYMONSTER, BOYNEXTDOOR, Super Junior, and TWS. In particular, the news that ALPHA DRIVE ONE, formed through the survival program 'Boys Planet II' and scheduled to debut in 2026, will perform in advance excites fans even more.

MAMA started in 1999 as Korea's first music video awards ceremony and has now established itself as the largest forum for K-POP culture and a music festival. We can expect high-intensity choreography, stadium-scale visuals, and musical moments that will dominate TV and social media. Ticket reservations start today (October 17th), so those interested should hurry. I should also add MAMA award-winning songs to my baking playlist to ignite my passion!

Finally, here's the most dramatic comeback news from the fashion industry. After being canceled in 2019, the Victoria's Secret Fashion Show has successfully returned in its original format for two consecutive years. The show had once gone down the path of 'cancellation' due to the former CMO's remarks that it would not include transgender or plus-size models.

However, after Hillary Super took office as CEO, the 2024 and 2025 shows finally found a formula that combines inclusivity and va va voom sex appeal. Models of various races and body types appear, showing efforts to overcome past controversies.

Ironically, the show returns to an American society where gender ideology is becoming more conservative, emphasizing childbirth and childcare for women, and the pressure for thin bodies is increasing again due to the spread of GLP-1 drugs. In this social atmosphere, Victoria's Secret has attempted to maintain its past splendor (clique lighting, stilettos, voluminous hair) while showcasing not only lingerie but also jeans, sportswear, and even neat silhouettes that could be worn at a piano recital. In particular, Karol G's passionate performance heated up the runway even more. It is once again realized that fashion is a mirror reflecting the times.

Today, we've looked at the delicious vegetarian trend, the feast of gourmet cuisine, the spectacular K-POP festival, and the complex comeback story of the fashion industry. These three – cooking, music, and fashion – are the greatest sources of inspiration in my life. Especially after seeing the passionate stage of MAMA, I solidify my dream of one day creating a wonderful space where my desserts and music come together. I hope you all have a passionate day with your favorite music! See you in the next post!

Hasn't Boys Planet 2 been over for three weeks already?

Why are they still acting up instead of accepting the results?

As you know, Boys Planet concluded a few weeks ago with its final episode, forming an 8-member debut group.

They're preparing for their debut under the name Alpha Drive One, also known as ALD1.

But now, they're demanding that one or two Alpha members be added to the already finalized 8-member lineup?

What's the point of having a survival show then?

The purpose of a survival show is to vote and select a fixed number of members based on popularity.

Why are they refusing to accept the results and demanding additions?

In the past, during Wanna One, X1, and ZEROBASEONE, there were also instances where fans of eliminated contestants protested to create derivative groups.

JBJ was the most successful spin-off from Wanna One, followed by groups like EVNNE.

It seems like they're pushing for "Flare" this time.

But I understand supporting derivative groups.

CJ Mnet seems willing to support these spin-offs.

The problem isn't the derivative groups; it's the Alpha members' fans demanding to put their favorite members into the already formed debut group!

It's such an absurd and ridiculous request.

The final rankings were:

1st: Lee Sangwon, 2nd: Zhao Uanxin, 3rd: Hsu Hsin Lung, 4th: Kim Gunwoo, 5th: Zhang Jiahao (Arno), 6th: Rio, 7th: Jung Sanghyeon, 8th: Kim Junseo.

Yoo Gangmin was 9th and Choi Lipwoo was 10th.

Some of their fans are making questionable demands.

Some say: Dismiss Jung Sanghyeon because of his good chemistry with Choi Lipwoo.

Some say: There are too many Chinese members (3).

Some say: One of the Chinese members should be eliminated and replaced with a Korean member to balance the ratio.

And so on...

Ultimately, they staged a protest with funeral wreaths in front of the Mnet building.

Mnet officials tried to prevent the installation of the wreaths, leading to fights and police involvement.

Especially in foreign countries, the "funeral wreath" culture is seen as very bizarre.

They question why wreaths used for funerals are being used for protests.

The reaction to the funeral wreaths during the RIIZE Seunghan controversy was also negative.

The so-called 'S-tier' or Daesang (Grand Prize) contenders are usually announced in later lineups. Last year, it was Rosé and Bruno Mars. Even G-Dragon, despite being virtually confirmed, was mentioned vaguely as being 'in discussions' for an appearance.

Fans often assume that the presence of a Daesang-level nominee guarantees them winning an award.

In 2024, aespa's appearance after missing the 2022-2023 MAMAs was widely predicted. While AILLIT's 'Magnetic' or TWS's 'plot twist' were strong contenders based on scoring, MAMA ultimately chose aespa.

As expected, the debut group from Boys Planet, ALPHARD ONE, is naturally included in the lineup. Whether they will unveil a new song here is uncertain, but considering the precedents of fromis_9 and IZ*ONE, it's possible.

As a side note, Zhang Jiahao even changed his stage name to Arno to remove the Chinese feel. Similarly, Seventeen's The8 was originally Xu Minghao. But while Xu Minghao is familiar, calling Zhang Jiahao 'Jiahao Zhang' still sounds too Chinese, making the name change a desperate measure.

With Mnet's 30th anniversary and BLACKPINK's Singapore concert initially scheduled for November 29-30, their attendance was a point of interest. However, an unscheduled concert was added on November 28, confirming that BLACKPINK won't be at MAMA this year.

Settling for second best? BabyMonster, unlikely to win major awards, has joined the lineup. It's unlikely YG is trying to appease Mnet. For Yang Hyun Suk and his brother, known for their business-minded decisions (including scrapping the MIXNINE debut group), participating is beneficial if it's more advantageous.

Moreover, instead of sending TREASURE, who are popular in Japan and considered a MAMA regular, to Hong Kong, they might have decided that having BabyMonster attend is a better option.

BOYNEXTDOOR is now attending as a contender for major awards. After playing a supportive role for the past two years, they're now powered by 'I Love You.'

As I mentioned in a previous post, when things weren't going well for them, HYBE, their parent company, took the drastic measure of replacing the executives, giving Zico a harsh lesson.

Desperation or grit? Some might see it as old-fashioned or excessive. But the saying 'When you are in extreme circumstances, you find a way out' isn't a famous saying for nothing.

Unsurprisingly, anything related to 'Street Fighter' is a regular at MAMA. I remember the 2022 MAMA when Lim Young-woong sang and Monika danced, each just doing their part.

Ah! TXT, like senior member, attended every year,but this year they are absence, so maybe they would do a collaboration performance? Still, it's better than not attending at all.

It's only the first day... what about the Rookie Award? Agencies may not care about awards anymore and attend based on their own needs, but that applies to younger idols.

Even with Lee Soo-man gone, SM's China dream continues. Whether they win awards or not, I hope they create a buzz with amazing performances! Good luck!

As I mentioned in a previous post, there's the relationship between The Black Label and Mnet. Plus, they're nominated for Best Vocal Performance, and likely to win.

Attending for the second year in a row, following last year. While winning major awards might be difficult, in a business relationship where they drink and play golf together, as Min Hee-jin said, it's better to show up if there's something to exchange.

While there are various opinions about the Chinese member 'Han Jin,' it's not enough to cause public concern. Regardless of awards, buzz, or experience, it's natural for idols to continue showcasing their performances to the public.

BoA, TVXQ veterans graced the MAMA stage in the 2020s, and now it's Super Junior's turn.

From here, it's Day 2... Considering the collaboration between Mnet and The Black Label, their appearance is natural, and an award can be expected.

Even though it's Hong Kong, there's no reason to miss MAMA, which is popular in China. Plus, it's their first appearance, making it difficult to refuse.

Attending for the second year in a row following last year, but the atmosphere is not that good.. Still, I hope they cheer up. The common thing among people who stan small- to medium-sized idol groups is that it feels wasted here, I couldn't imagine that I felt that in Mnet survival show.

The key was when they would debut. Finally debuted this year. In the first year of debut, three album releases easily achieved million-seller.

Not a 3-year attendance hell... (Still 2 years left? from Stray Kids, ENHYPEN, etc.)

Returning to the MAMA lineup after 3 years... It feels like they're one step closer to Album of the Year, but we'll have to wait and see. It seems that the effect of boycotting for the past two years is now visible. Feeling that this year's album award is one step closer.

What more needs to be said? Haha

As the first K-pop girl group to walk the Victoria's Secret runway, TWICE completely revolutionized the show with their daring lingerie looks and intense performances.

Momo, in particular, kept the buzz going even after the show by personally posting behind-the-scenes photos.

This performance was truly historic. The event host celebrated TWICE's 10th anniversary, calling them “one of the greatest K-pop girl groups of all time,” and even mentioned their participation in a Netflix OST. This marks the second time a K-pop artist has been invited after BLACKPINK's Lisa last year, and the first time for a girl group.

Nayeon, Jihyo, Momo, and Tzuyu took to the stage with confident gazes and relaxed expressions, completely dominating the atmosphere of the global runway.

On this day, TWICE performed their 4th full-length album title track, 〈This Is For〉, and ‘Strategy’ from the Netflix animation <K-Pop Demon Hunters> live.

Amidst the models' walks and flowing music, TWICE perfectly proved their presence as singers and performers. In particular, Momo's dance was praised for showing artistic delicacy and grace, going beyond the category of 'idol stage'.

The highlight of the stage was undoubtedly the outfits. All four TWICE members showcased lingerie looks with pink as the main color, and the word “daring” was the most fitting.

Jihyo showed off her intense charisma with a black see-through top and mini skirt.

Nayeon completed a lovely yet sexy mood with a lace-accented pink set.

Tzuyu revealed her healthy charm with a pink bralette and mini skirt.

Momo perfectly pulled off the 'Victoria's Secret Angel' concept by wearing a gray-toned bodysuit with a gray fur gown.

In particular, Momo, Jihyo, and Tzuyu directly revealed behind-the-scenes photos of the stage, once again showing off their confident moments on the Victoria's Secret stage.

This Victoria's Secret Fashion Show was more than just a fashion event; it was a stage that captured music, diversity, and female agency.

In addition to TWICE, Missy Elliott, Madison Beer, Karol G, and other artists appeared, and legendary Angel models such as Bella Hadid, Gigi Hadid, and Adriana Lima returned to the stage.

In the midst of that splendid stage, TWICE opened a new chapter as a name representing K-pop. In particular, this performance, celebrating their 10th anniversary, imprinted the message “a group that is still evolving” on the world.

TWICE heralded the beginning of their 10th anniversary by releasing their special album <TEN: The Story Goes On〉 on the 10th. It's hard to believe it's already been 10 years, but I hope they continue to sing for a long time with even better performances ♡

📅 October 18 (Sat) - October 19 (Sun), 2025

📍 Grass Square, Seoul Botanic Park, 161 Magokdong-ro, Gangseo-gu, Seoul

🎫 Free Admission / Open to All Ages / Families, Couples, and Friends are All Welcome!

👨‍⚕️ Heo Jun: The great name who protected the health of humanity.

Gangseo-gu, Seoul – the very place where Heo Jun, the legendary Korean Royal Physician, was born, and where his masterpiece, 《Dongui Bogam》, was written!

The Heo Jun Festival is Gangseo's signature annual fall festival, commemorating his humanitarian spirit and the value of Korean medicine. 🌿

🎉 "A time where health, culture, and enjoyment come together as one!"

✨ Bigger and better than ever before!

The 2025 Heo Jun Festival expands to cover the entire Seoul Botanic Park + Magok Central Road! 🎊

Expect more attractions, food, and hands-on activities than ever before!

🤖 Plus, this year features 'AI Healthcare,' 'Healthy Pleasure' zones, and 'Korean Medicine Experience Zone'!

A new concept of medical and health festival where tradition meets cutting-edge technology.✨

📌 Main Programs Overview

✔️ ① Medical & Experience Zone

AI Healthcare Experience – Experience the future of medical technology firsthand.

Healthy Pleasure Zone – Enjoyable ways to become healthier.

Heo Jun Dongui Bogam Zone – Herbal exhibition + constitution test.

Herbal Flower Garden Photo Zone – Capture Instagrammable moments in a healing flower garden. 🌸

✔️ ② Performance Programs

🎶 October 18 (Sat) 19:00 Heo Jun Concert

✨ Line-up: K.Will / Kim Hee-jae / Kim Wan-sun / Seol Ha-yoon

🎵 October 19 (Sun) 19:00 Heo Jun Concert

🎤 Kim Hyun-cheol's Cheerful Orchestra LIVE

🥁 Pre-show performance (18:30~) and opening performance!

Seoul Botanic Park transforms into a concert hall under dazzling lights! 🌟

✔️ ③ Side Events & Family Experience Programs

🎭 Heo Jun Gala Parade – Performance + parade festival highlight.

👶 Heo! Junior Contest – An adorable children's stage.

🦑 Heo Jun Squid Game / Random Game / Random Dance – Bursting with MZ generation vibes!

💃 K-POP Diet Dance – Have fun and exercise!

🎨 Cultural Artist Festa / Challenge! I'm also a Superstar

🏮 Heo Jun Lantern Street – A street of twinkling lights at night. ✨

🍔 Food Zone & Local Merchant Experience Booths are also abundant!

Enjoy Gangseo's delicious food and various experiences. 😋

🚗 Traffic Control Information (Please Check!)

With the expansion to Magok Central Road this time, some sections will be controlled.

✅ Parking lots around the festival venue are expected to be full early!

✅ Highly recommend using public transportation (5-minute walk from Magoknaru Station on Subway Line 9)

In a nutshell:

Autumn in Seoul, the spirit of Heo Jun awakens! ✨

Heal at the 2025 Heo Jun Festival, filled with health, music, and light! 💖

The moment all K-Pop idol fans have been waiting for is finally here! It's more important than the year-end – the 2026 Season's Greetings (SiGs) pre-orders have begun. This year, with the release of SiGs from SM artists like NCT, RIIZE, and aespa, fans' hearts are already racing.

But, the price is always a concern, right? We buy them every year, but getting discounts on merch is a golden rule!

So, after a lot of searching, I'm sharing a super-useful tip! It's the 2026 Season's Greetings pre-order benefits offered by Ably and Ktown4u. You can get up to an 8% discount coupon on Ably, while others pay the full price.

This discount is for a limited time only, so don't miss out! I'll break down everything, from how to get the coupon using NCT SiGs as an example, to which groups get the 8% discount!

1. [Limited Time] 8% Coupon! Hurry for Ably's SiG Discount Benefits!

You can only receive unreleased special gifts when you purchase Season's Greetings during the pre-order period. The key to this Ably Ktown4u pre-order is securing the 'discount benefits' in advance.

Benefit Type

Discount Rate

Applicable Groups (Representative)

Pre-order Deadline

Maximum Discount Coupon

8% (Up to ₩10,000 off)

RIIZE, aespa

December 31, 2025

Basic Discount Coupon

5% (Up to ₩10,000 off)

NCT, Girls' Generation, Red Velvet, etc.

December 31, 2025

✨ Tip: RIIZE and aespa have the biggest discount because you can get an 8% coupon! Other groups can get a 5% coupon, which means you can buy it for ₩2,450 cheaper than the original price (₩49,000). That's enough to save for a photocard! ✨

✨ Coupon benefits are for a limited time only! Hurry and get the coupon to apply it before the discount disappears. If you're going to buy your favorite artist's SiG anyway, check out the chance to get a discount right now!

2. [Comparative Analysis] SiG Discount Rates and Applicable Amounts by Group

Season's Greetings prices vary by group (₩49,000 or ₩129,000). Check the actual applicable amount by discount rate and don't miss out on the groups that get up to ₩10,000 off!

Group and Price

Applicable Coupon

Discount Amount

Final Purchase Price

NCT DREAM/127 (₩49,000)

5% Coupon

₩2,450

₩46,550

RIIZE/aespa (₩129,000)

8% Coupon

₩10,000 (Maximum)

₩119,000

Girls' Generation (₩49,000)

5% Coupon

₩2,450

₩46,550

✨ I tried it myself!

I'm planning to buy NCT DREAM SiG, and when I applied the 5% coupon, it was immediately discounted by ₩2,450. I felt good pre-ordering because even a few thousand won off is a win! Especially for products over ₩100,000 like RIIZE SiG, you can get ₩10,000 off with an 8% coupon, so you should definitely take advantage of it.

3. Pre-Order Checklist! From How to Get Coupons to Shipping

For those who are new to the Ably app or unfamiliar with Ktown4u pre-orders, I'm sharing a checklist that I always check before purchasing.

Coupon Download and Immediate Use: Coupons may have a short expiration date after download. Therefore, once you receive the coupon, complete the payment immediately to avoid missing out on the discount!

Product Check: Make sure your favorite group's SiG is available, such as TVXQ!, Super Junior, Girls' Generation, Red Velvet, NCT, aespa, or RIIZE.

Pre-order Deadline: The pre-order itself continues until December 31st, but hurry because the discount benefits may end sooner!

✅ Groups You Shouldn't Miss

NCT 127, NCT DREAM, NCT WISH, RIIZE, and aespa SiGs have huge fandoms!!

If you're looking for these groups, don't miss out on the chance to get a discount!

✨ [Final] Why You Absolutely Need to Get the Coupon Benefits Right Now

If you're a fan, Season's Greetings are a must-have item. But if you're going to buy it anyway, it's better to buy it cheaper than others.

If you miss this 8% coupon, you'll end up paying full price for the same product. It's much better to save that money and buy another photocard, and use it for your fan activities! Many fans are already taking advantage of SiG discounts on Ably Ktown4u.

Don't be a fool and suffer the 'loss of only buying at full price while everyone else is getting a discount'! Get the limited-time coupon benefits and pre-order your favorite SiG at a lower price!

Please note that if you purchase an item through the posted coupon code, a portion of the profit generated from the item purchase will be distributed to the author.

I'm in love with Jeon Yijeong!

Jeon Yijeong ♥ Shin Damin

His personality is amazing, and he's even more gorgeous! Plus, we're the same age!

Seriously, he's so handsome. Just the right amount of rebellious charm...

Today, I'm excited to share a song called "Moonlight" with you!

This song encourages you to seize the moment and not let it go to waste.

It's about cherishing this very moment, shining as bright as the moonlight, and moving forward without hesitation, full of hope and courage. It's an upbeat and refreshing track.

✧⁺⸜₍ᐢ.????.ᐢ₎⸝⁺✧

Just close your eyes and give it a try! Who knows, today might be the last day.

-June-

<Moonlight Song Information>

Artist: NCT DREAM

Release Date: 2024.06.05

Album: Moonlight

Genre: J-Pop

(*ᵔᢦᵔ*)･:* .♬

Passing today, Good-bye

Wave your hand (Oh yeah Oh yeah ey)

Count 1, 2, 3 now

Oh Tune in on

What do you see at that moment?

Oh

Light shining through the window

Oh

Bathing and illuminating Reflection

Gradually overlapping wavelengths

Dreams awaken

All shining bright

Yeah, Like a crystal

Dancing in the moonlight

A bursting moment

(Oway Oway O Oway Oway)

Singing to the night sky

A connected world

(Oway Oway O Oway)

Yes, wherever you are

The feeling in your heart

Even more with your whole body

Shout it out Ah Ah Ah

Let's illuminate the sparkling 'now'

Dancing into the moonlight

Frequencies of dream

Now, take a step forward

Liberation from gravity

Imagination goes on forever

Na na na na na na

Fly freely to the top

Yo Now is the time

Here we go

There's no 'next time'

In my dictionary

The law of attraction

To the future and not the past

Let's go!

Oh

Even if you wander in a thick fog

Oh

You will surely overcome it

What was reflected was

Unfading dreams and future

Yeah, Like a crystal

Dancing together in the moonlight now

A bursting moment

(Oway Oway O Oway Oway)

Singing to the night sky

A connected world

(Oway Oway O Oway)

Yes, wherever you are

The feeling in your heart

Even more with your whole body

Shout it out Ah Ah Ah

Let's illuminate the sparkling 'now'

Shine brighter

Dancing into the moonlight

Let our dreams shine brighter

The truth (Hey)

In front of my eyes

(Don't worry about that)

No matter what happens

Travel A level you can overcome

Revel in the moment more Yeah

Spread your thoughts Dancing in the moon

Dancing in the moonlight

I won't regret it

Dancing in the moonlight

The bursting moment

(Oway Oway O Oway Oway)

Singing to the night sky

The world that connects

(Oway Oway O Oway)

Yes, wherever you are

The feeling in your heart

Even more with your whole body

Shout it out Ah Ah Ah

The shining 'now'

Let's make it shine brighter

Dancing into the moonlight

So that our dreams can shine brighter

RIIZE Sohee - Love on the Canvas

Lyrics & Song Information

Lyrics by SAMIN, Dongkyung

Composed by SAMIN, JUHWAN, Dongkyung

Arranged by JUHWAN

As the OST Part.2 for TVING Original <Transit Love 4>, RIIZE's Sohee has released 'Love on the Canvas'.

This song marks Sohee's first foray into OSTs, depicting the fluttering excitement of first love like a painting.

It expresses the clumsy and awkward, yet all the more special, emotions of youth with Sohee's refreshing voice,

conveying the warm message that "Every moment with you becomes a painting."

The melody flowing over the clear and transparent tone gently dyes the heart, like a scene in the spring sunshine.

Sohee, who has already gained attention as RIIZE's vocalist through various cover songs and collaborations, has expanded her musical spectrum once again with this song.

<Love on the Canvas> intertwines with the stories within <Transit Love 4>, deepening the memories and emotional lines of first love.

You can feel the moment when a page of youth is beautifully completed through Sohee's voice.

Love on the Canvas Lyrics

Our season

The spring day it started

Our season

The memories remain

When I saw you at the end of our classroom

Scattering wind, my heart too

The two of us

Spreads like paint

Why suddenly you gave me jelly

I'm so curious about its meaning

I can't stop drawing you

Why when we walked side by side for the first time

Tell me, how were you then?

One by one Love on the canvas

Every day is 'bout us

This rainbow filled with only us clumsy two

Our pastel-colored canvas

Everything was new, uh

You and me contained like a painting

It's our love on the canvas

Ah- Wish list written together

Between the gaps of the two of us painted densely

I feel you, you feel me

Eyes Trembling in my eyes

Tell me you felt the same way back then

One by one Love on the canvas

Every day is 'bout us

This rainbow filled with only us clumsy two

Our pastel-colored canvas

Everything was new, uh

You and me contained like a painting

It's our love on the canvas

Shy every day

One step behind

I only watched

But now I can say to you

Our pastel-colored canvas

Everything was new, uh

You and me contained like a painting

It's our love on the canvas

My love on the canvas

On the 16th, the first episode of their self-produced content, 'ONE DREAM FOREVER,' was released on ALDI ONE's official YouTube channel.

The first episode featured the members introducing profiles they wrote themselves.

A 'Perfect Pitch Game' was held to select the daily MC, and Junseo took on the role. Despite it being his first time, he showcased stable hosting skills and wit, acting as a reliable eldest brother.

During the profile introductions, unexpected requests for rigorous verification from the members sparked laughter.

Gunwoo appealed to be the 'alpha' of the team, saying his favorite thing to do is 'play.' However, his studious side couldn't be hidden, and the members requested him to revise his character.

ALPHA DRIVE ONE's youngest member, Sanghyeon, stated that he was confident in his 'cute and sexy concept.' When a request for a 'Chains' cover came in, he immediately performed a lovely dance.

Shinrong showcased his attractive low voice and finger performance.

Sangwon (Lee Sangwon) is a fashionista who loves reading, music, and coffee.

Anshin (Zhou Anxin) and Rio stepped up as the team's mood makers #1 and #2.

Arno (Zhang Jiahao) showed off his unique flexibility.

Junseo, the 'clear-sky boy,' enjoys working out at home.

The eight members, united by diverse charms and tastes, showed enjoyable and delightful synergy.

The everyday stories and TMI shared while reading each other's profiles added friendliness and empathy.

The members' sincere stories were also revealed.

Arno revealed, "I wear the necklace my mother gave me on every important day," expressing his affection for his family.

Junseo shared his sincere wish, "I want to work with the members for a long time and create special memories like a world tour."

The second video uploaded on ALDI ONE's official channel was 'Boys 2 Planet Archive Exhibition Visit Behind.'

ALPHA DRIVE ONE members spent a pleasant time reminiscing about their memories at the exhibition, which contained the emotions and traces of 'Boys 2 Planet.'

They took selfies in front of their photos and looked at the diaries they wrote during the show, recalling how they felt back then.

They also created short-form videos, providing great laughter through humorous scenes.

ALPHA DRIVE ONE is showcasing their self-produced content even before their debut, offering a glimpse into the members' cheerful chemistry and diverse charms.

The playful and human sides, as well as the entertainment skills, of the members that fans were curious about, have raised expectations for future episodes and their debut.

Released: October 17, 2025

Wedding Impossible OST Part.3

To the End of the World

Hope they use one of these two as the album cover... These photos are so good.

The lyrics are so sweet and ticklish! lol

It's even better because Wish sings it together!

Personally, I feel like Sion, Jaehee, and Ryo fit the song perfectly.

I love the drama so much, I'm even more satisfied! ✨️✨️

Hopefully, with its sweet and fluttery vibe, it will be a song that sticks with even the ears of drama fans. ????‍♀️????‍♀️????‍♀️

It's dropped a bit since yesterday, but I'm still proud to see it on the HOT100 with Surf.????

I hope they release more OSTs! ☺️

It would be awesome if they sang it at the concert too.

To the End of the World OST MV

I thought it would be great if they did an OST, but it's even better because it's for a drama I really like! ????

By the way,

The kids seem so excited these days preparing for the concert!

If they're being so strict about spoilers and keeping it a secret even on live broadcasts, how fun are they planning to make it? ???? lol

It's really not long now, I'm so excited.

I'm just waiting for this these days... It's my joy now.

The Japanese album is released in January, I wonder if they'll pre-release something.

Trailers are already being released, so it's fun to watch!! I hope they perform it at the concert...????????

He's finally coming! It's none other than G-DRAGON!

He's scheduled to put on a special performance in Gyeongju in the second half of 2025, coinciding with the APEC Summit!

And this stage isn't just any solo performance. The lineup is incredible:

🌟 G-Dragon – The legendary return, a master of the stage 🌟

🌟 IVE – The girl group that has captured the global fandom 🌟

🌟 RIIZE – The ambition of the next-generation boy group ⚡

🌟 NMIXX – A unique musical universe

🌟 HATS TO HÆRTS – A rising rookie to watch

With a lineup like this, the crowd that day will be beyond imagination, right?

So, the big question on everyone's mind:

Will it be first-come, first-served, or advance registration?

The answer hasn't been revealed yet, but

considering the explosive popularity of K-POP and the need for smooth event management, it's highly likely that it will proceed with 'advance registration'.

It will be even more competitive if it is free to watch, so

it's a good idea to prepare in advance!

Today, we'll provide you the most important things:

✨ Performance schedule and location

✨ Registration method

✨ Transportation & viewing tips

You might really regret missing it... Pay attention! ✨

✨✨APEC Concert Expected Pre-Registration Guide✨✨

G-Dragon's APEC Gyeongju Performance: Schedule and Location?

G-DRAGON's huge stage is finally happening!

The official name is 'G-DRAGON APEC 2025 K-POP Special Stage (tentative)', and

it is scheduled to be held around October 31, 2025.

The venue is likely to be near Cheomseongdae or Bomun Lake Resort, symbols of Gyeongju,

so be sure to check the exact location in advance through the APEC official website and the Gyeongju City Culture and Arts Team announcement!

Since you don't buy a ticket,

if you go to the wrong place, you may not be able to enter and end up in tears...!

Not Ticketing, But Free Pre-Registration! How Do I Do It?

G-Dragon's performance is highly likely to proceed with a free pre-registration method rather than paid ticketing.

Last year, the APEC K-Pop performance was only open to pre-registered attendees.

The information you need is simple.

Category

Details

Registration Information

Name / Mobile Phone Number / Identity Verification

Entry Method

QR code issuance → On-site verification and entry

Important Notes

One registration per person, unregistered attendees are not allowed

Due to the nature of the event, on-site waiting may not be possible.

So, be sure to remember these tips!

✅ Bookmark the APEC official website

✅ Subscribe to Gyeongju City's social media and newsletter

✅ Check in advance to make sure your phone authentication works

✅ Be sure to check the waiting list right before the performance

Transportation: What's the Most Efficient Way?

Fans will be flocking to Gyeongju from all over the country!

Traffic congestion is expected on the day of the performance.

The most recommended route is the KTX + shuttle bus combination.

Transportation

Details

KTX/SRT

Get off at Singyeongju Station, about 2 hours from Seoul

Shuttle Bus

Expected to take about 15-20 minutes to the venue, free operation is possible

Express Bus

Use Gyeongju Express/Intercity Bus Terminal, then take a local bus/taxi

Local Bus

Check major routes to Cheomseongdae and Bomun Lake Resort

Car/Taxi

High possibility of vehicle entry restrictions, temporary parking lot + shuttle may be available

And…

Aim to arrive at least 2 hours in advance.

There are many variables such as shuttle waiting, entry lines, and security checks!

What Essentials Should I Bring on the Day of the Performance?

Due to the nature of the outdoor performance, weather variables cannot be ignored.

The daily temperature range in Gyeongju at the end of October is large.

A warm outer jacket is essential, and it may be useful to bring a raincoat.

Also, check which items are allowed and prohibited inside the venue.

Allowed?

Items

Allowed

Personal mat, cushion (must check official announcement)

Likely Prohibited

Drones, tripods, drinks, etc. may be restricted

Be sure to check the advance notice and leave unnecessary items behind.

In particular, if drinks are prohibited, it is also necessary to check whether water is supplied on-site.

Why Is Entry Difficult Even Though It's Free? Due to the First-Come, First-Served System!

No matter how free it is, there are definitely entry restrictions.

In particular, if the number of pre-registered people exceeds the limit, it may be operated on a waiting list basis.

Looking at last year's cases,

"A friend who didn't bring a QR code was blocked from entering right in front of my eyes."

"I registered, but I arrived late and couldn't get in."

There were various stories.

So, here's a summary of the important points!

Don't be relieved just because you registered, NO

QR code screenshot backup is essential

Secure extra time on site that day

Pre-registration schedule might pop up unexpectedly! The only fans that will be able to get in will be the ones who have prepared! The pre-registration will open like lightning without warning! If you don't prepare now, you won't see G-Dragon!

Finally, remember this!

Tens of thousands of people will gather just because of the name G-Dragon.

When combined with a world-class event like APEC,

it can be a 'once in a lifetime' opportunity.

So, what should you do now?

Visit the APEC official website frequently

Apply as soon as the pre-registration schedule is announced

Create a checklist for transportation, attire, items, etc.

On the day of the performance,

I hope you can face the scene of watching G-Dragon's stage under the starlight of Gyeongju.

Saturday, October 18, 2025

2025 'NCT DREAM' <THE DREAM SHOW4 : DREAM THE FUTURE> Singapore DAY1 on Saturday, October 18, 2025.

Week 3 October Pop-Up Information

ENHYPEN WORLD | TWS | ATEEZ 8 ROOM

Hello,

I'm Miley! ???

Today, I'm going to share the pop-up event information for the 3rd week of October at The Hyundai Seoul Department Store.

????Location

108 Yeoui-daero, Yeongdeungpo-gu, Seoul

466m from Exit 1 of Yeouinaru Station (Line 5)

⏱️ Operating Hours

Mon - Thu: 10:30 - 20:00

Fri - Sun: 10:30 - 20:30

* Restaurant Hours: 10:30 - 22:00

* Closing days may vary each month.

???? Information

Wireless internet ∙ Baby care facilities (playroom)

Separate restrooms for men and women ∙ Parking for disabled

ENHYPEN WORLD

Oct 17 (Fri) ~ Nov 02 (Sun) | 5th Floor, Epic Seoul

The first Korean pop-up store for ENHYPEN's cinematic adventure game 'ENHYPEN WORLD: Eternal Moment'! Discover exclusive merchandise and benefits in the 'Fier Town' space.

TWS

10/16 (Thu) ~ 10/22 (Wed) | B2 Floor, POP-UP@ICONIC

TWS (Tourus)'s 4th Mini Album 'play hard'

POP-UP is now open!

Meet the Tourus Mini 4th album and merch, as well as exclusive pop-up benefits and stamp events!

*Special Promotion*

• TWS 4th Mini Album 'play hard'

(play mode / hard mode) When purchasing 1 album, you will receive 1 random unreleased selfie photo card (1:1 presentation of the number of albums purchased)

• TWS 4th Mini Album 'play hard'

(Compact Ver:) When purchasing 1 album, you will receive 1 random unreleased selfie photo card (1:1 presentation of the number of albums purchased)

• When purchasing albums and merch for over 70,000 won,

1 random TWS unreleased selfie photo card will be given to customers

(Duplicated presentation of 1 card per 70,000 won / Example: 2 cards will be presented when purchasing over 140,000 won)

• A stamp board will be presented when visiting the pop-up (1 per person)

• When 3 out of 4 stamp event missions are completed,

1 of 6 random TWS acrylic keychains will be presented (1 per person)

ATEEZ 8 ROOM

10/14 (Tue) ~ 10/26 (Sun) | B1 Event Hall

Team of Eight, Party for One

To celebrate its 7th anniversary, ATEEZ members prepared a special space '8 ROOM' on the B1 floor of The Hyundai Seoul.

We are opening an exclusive pop-up store.

*Special Promotion*

ㆍAll pop-up store visitors

: Postcard & Photocard & Stamp Card Gift

ㆍWhen the stamp mission event is completed

: 1 set of 8 photo cards will be given away

ㆍUpon successful 25.7kg Challenge

: 1 Lucky Draw entry ticket will be given away

ㆍWhen purchasing more than 50,000 won of MD products

: 1 Lucky Draw entry ticket will be given away

That's all for the pop-up event information for the 3rd week of October at The Hyundai Seoul Department Store.

Going home first (work is in Yangju, home is in Nowon) would have added another 30 minutes to the trip.

As soon as the concert dates were announced, I booked a room with a non-refundable policy for two nights (Friday and Saturday). The room was in the 40,000 won range per night, so it was a great deal.

The rain was pouring like crazy on the way here, but I talked on the phone with an online acquaintance from the same industry.

I was worried I'd get sleepy on the drive, but talking on the phone for an hour made the trip fly by. Is this real life?

(Those who know me know I rarely talk on the phone. I'm not phonophobic, but I just don't like phone calls.)

I watched a movie on Netflix that was so good that I went to bed at 2:30 AM and woke up at 8:00 AM to eat breakfast and head out.

The accommodation was cheap, but far away, so I drove for about 30 minutes and arrived at Incheon Asiad Main Stadium, where the concert is being held.

There were so many cars that parking took quite a while, and it was almost full by 10:30 AM. Ugh...

I thought about going to a nearby cafe if I had some time in between, but I don't think I'm brave enough to move the car...

I forgot my glasses cleaning cloth and went back to get it, intending to move the car, but I ended up even farther away. ㅜㅜ

But it seems better because it's right in front of the Star Creator Zone (슈스제), one of the event zones. But is that a line at 11 AM?!

I ate breakfast, but I didn't have coffee, so I went to Mega Coffee first. Caffeine is essential.

I want to relax at the cafe, but I really want to participate in the Star Creator Zone event, so I decided to stand in line. ㅜㅜ

There are opening times, and the Star Creator Zone event starts at 2 PM, but registration for the waitlist starts at 12 PM.

I know how the system works since I tried the Spotify event last time, so I think an hour and a half will be enough time to wait.

There seem to be hundreds of people in front of me, and everyone has blankets and chairs. Should I bring a blanket tomorrow?

This isn't what I wanted to do while waiting for the Star Creator Zone event. I hope I can get it.

The Mapo pop-up was a total fail, so I'm trying to go to the on-site merchandise pop-up, but reservations for that also started today at 11 AM.

I really don't understand why I can't even buy merchandise with my own money freely, and fandoms are scary.

Stray Kids isn't even the best K-pop group in the world, but is this situation real? My reservation was exactly at 11 AM.

And it closed in less than a minute. Haha... I'll do proxy buying. If you're there on site, please contact me. lol

Considering I was frantically searching for where to make a reservation at 10:58 AM, I think I did pretty well. Haha...

Considering that the reservation itself is only possible if you are nearby, it's really amazing. ㄷㄷ

This is the concert arrival story of a late-blooming fan. Idol culture is really dynamic. ㅎㅎ

Instead of feeling frustrated or tired, learning about a new culture on site is so much fun.

And I realized that preparation is always essential, so if you're going to wait in advance, a blanket or cushion is a must.

I want to be reborn as a "J" (presumably referring to a dedicated fan) through this opportunity, but I wonder if it's possible? -_-

But at 11:35 AM, a notification popped up to enter the merchandise pop-up. I'll stay in the Star Creator Zone line. ㅜㅜ Next update soon...

I just didn't have the energy to visit both, so I decided to skip the Myteez pop-up and only go to the ATEEZ 7th Anniversary pop-up, '8 room'.

By the way, the reservation system has changed to Naver Reservations, which feels even harder...

I never imagined I'd be running around Seoul so much because of pop-up stores! LOL

Merch Lineup

I was planning to fill up ₩100,000 with the ATINY ring and trading cards, but they changed the limit to one trading card per person per day after the first day...sigh.

I was surprised to hear that the pop-up at The Hyundai was on B1 (1st basement floor) instead of B2 (2nd basement floor), but when I got there, the TWS pop-up was being held where idol pop-ups are usually held on B2.

After verifying my identity, I got a wristband and an entry freebie photo card. If you collect all the stamps, you get a photo card set (there's a stamp in each room, so make sure to get them).

The newsletter was sold out, so I couldn't buy it ㅠㅠ They didn't have purchase limits at first, but they introduced them starting on the 17th.

Can Tissue

You can enter the rooms in any order, it doesn't matter.

There was a bit of a line for San's room because of the hand grip strength tester.

This was probably Wooyoung's room...

This is Hongjoong's room. Make sure to take a photo with the receipt photo booth!

Jongho's room. There were headsets, so I could listen to about two songs.

Yunho's room - the macarons are so cute...

Yeosang's room ㅋㅋㅋㅋㅋㅋㅋㅋㅋㅋㅋㅋㅋㅋㅋㅋㅋㅋㅋㅋ You could leave a message on a star-shaped post-it note here.

I failed San's hand grip strength test, so I only got one lucky draw...

I got Wooyoung for the instant photo!

The trading cards were also all about Wooyoung. 3 out of 5 cards were Wooyoung!

I was too lazy to trade, so I just went home~

Ahead of MMA2025, which will be held on Saturday, December 20th at Gocheok Sky Dome in Seoul,

Melon's pre-event, the 'Favorite Artist Point Exchange,' is generating a lot of buzz.

This event isn't just a simple vote.

It's a new way for fans to express their love by writing their 'stan story' (how they became a fan) and gifting points to their favorite artists, making it a special opportunity to showcase their fandom.

100 lucky participants will even receive tickets to MMA2025, so fans shouldn't miss out!

What is the 'Favorite Artist Point Exchange'?

The 'Favorite Artist Point Exchange,' launched by Melon on October 1st, is a pre-event where you can directly write about the charms of your favorite artist and support them with points.

It's easy to participate:

Select your favorite artist on the Melon app or website.

Enter your 'stan point' – the reason you started liking the artist.

Click 'Earn' and capture a screenshot for verification.

Upload it to social media with a hashtag and post the verification on the event page in a comment!

Paid members can participate 3 times a day, while free members can participate once a day.

Each participation earns both you and the artist 10 points.

What are the benefits for the TOP 3 artists in the point rankings?

The TOP 3 artists with the most 'stan points' in this event will receive various promotional benefits to prove their fans' love.

The 1st place artist will be featured in:

Outdoor advertisements in Seoul

KakaoTalk banner ads, regardless of whether they win an MMA award.

This is a prestigious opportunity to widely announce the results of their honorable fandom both online and offline.

The 1st to 3rd place artists will have their 'stan points' shared via:

Melon app main banner

Melon's official social media accounts

Providing an opportunity for both fans and artists to gain recognition.

Over 6 million points accumulated! Who are the hottest artists right now?

As of October, the accumulated 'stan points' have exceeded 6 million!

The enthusiasm for participation is immense.

The artists currently fiercely competing for the top spots are:

Ranking Artists

Remarks

Lim Young-woong

Proving the power of a fandom spanning all age groups.

G-DRAGON

Brand power still strong even before comeback

PLAVE

A new wave of AI-based boy groups.

RIIZE

Rookie sensation, exploding global fandom.

BOYNEXTDOOR

Simultaneous praise for performance and musicality.

What benefits do participants receive?

100 participants who accumulate 'stan points' will be randomly selected to receive

MMA2025 Gocheok Sky Dome tickets (1 ticket per person).

Winner Announcement: November 10th (tentative)

Location: MMA2025 Venue

Benefit: VIP-level experience to enjoy MMA in person.

Meet MMA in Tokyo, Japan!

For the first time ever, a pop-up exhibition will be held in Tokyo, Japan.

'MARUI × MMA EXHIBITION' will be held

From October 17th (Fri) to 26th (Sun) at Shibuya MODI in Tokyo,

Featuring content that traces the history of MMA and immersive experience spaces.

This signals MMA's full-scale expansion as a global K-POP awards show.

A final word

An event where fans can directly fill in their favorite artist's 'stan points' with their own hands,

And a chance to see the MMA stage in person.

That's exactly what the 'Favorite Artist Point Exchange' currently underway is all about.

Don't miss out by October 31st!

Capture the moment!

Enjoy your time!

How splendid!

So mysterious!

Gifs!

Get ready for ATEEZ's 7th Debut Anniversary!

[A TO Z] Promotion Map is here!

From October 22nd to 23rd, we're setting sail on a cruise at Yeouido!

On the 23rd, catch "A to Z on screen with CGV."

October 24th brings us to Namsan Tower and... 2018?

I'm so excited about all these events! ❤️

First on the schedule:

ATEEZ 7th Debut Anniversary

[A TO Z : Anchor, Encore]

Is this cruise one-way only?

Operating Dates: October 22, 2025 - October 23, 2025

Reservations open in 10 minutes!

Let me quickly share the cruise reservation details.

Cruise Times:

Session 1: 10:00 AM

Session 2: 12:00 PM

Session 3: 3:00 PM

Session 4: 5:00 PM

(*4 sessions each day/ Approximately 50 minutes each)

Ticket Booth Hours:

Session 1: 08:00 AM - 09:30 AM

Session 2: 10:00 AM - 11:30 AM

Session 3: 01:00 PM - 02:30 PM

Session 4: 03:00 PM - 04:30 PM

-Boarding queue will open 50 minutes before the departure time for each session.

-Boarding will begin 10 minutes before the departure time for each session.

Please note that boarding times may change depending on on-site conditions.

-You will receive a wristband and a boarding form at the ticket booth. Please fill out the boarding form in advance and submit it when boarding each session.

*Failure to submit the boarding form upon boarding may restrict your participation in the event.

-Marketing filming may take place during some sessions, and the faces of some event participants may be recorded or exposed in the video.

This event will not feature artist participation.

This event will be held at the Yeouido Cruise Terminal!

It is only available through online pre-booking.

Wait, I have to stop writing! I don't have much time left, I need to book my spot first! I'll continue writing later.

Good luck with your reservations, ATINYs!

Did everyone succeed?

Is anyone going to the 2nd session on the 22nd? ^-^

I originally wanted to go to the 3rd session, but it's fully booked...

I was supposed to go with a friend, but I haven't heard from them, so I think they forgot.

Please leave a comment or message if you want to join me! TT

It's also the day of the 8IGHT ROOM popup! This is fate!

Let's board the ship together, swab the deck, and then go our separate ways...

I will continue to update this post if there are any new developments.

Additional Images:

Although the 'Tyrant's Chef' pop-up store that I introduced last week has ended, I'd like to introduce other pop-up stores worth visiting at The Hyundai Seoul in October.

First up, it's something that's been on my wishlist for ages: The Harry Potter Maho-dokoro pop-up!

Harry Potter Maho-dokoro Pop-up

✔️ Dates: September 16, 2025 – November 30, 2025

✔️ No pre-booking required.

✔️ Location: 5th Floor, The Hyundai Seoul

The space is smaller than expected, and it's super crowded. Sadly, many items were sold out.

There's also a pop-up that opened today:

It's the TWS pop-up!

TWS Pop-up

✔️ You can see new album merchandise in person at the Iconiq Zone on B2 floor.

✔️ Dates: October 16, 2025 – October 22, 2025

✔️ Anyone can enter after registering in the on-site waiting system.

✔️ Events: Number Quest (a simple game), an audio zone where you can listen to TWS's music and voices, and a message zone where you can leave messages of support for the members.

There's also a stamp event where you can earn special rewards by participating in missions and collecting stamps.

Don't forget to get your special rewards!

To celebrate the release of their 4th mini album, 'Play Hard,' the TWS pop-up is being held. If you're interested, I recommend visiting and taking commemorative photos!

There is also the ATEEZ 8ROOM POPUP.

ATEEZ 8ROOM POPUP

✔️ Pre-booking required.

✔️ Dates: October 14, 2025 – October 26, 2025

And the Crocs Case pop-up!

Crocs Case Pop-up

✔️ Pre-booking & On-site waiting possible.

✔️ Dates: October 3, 2025 – October 22, 2025

Hope this helps!

While the museum is currently trending, I was concerned that my elementary school-aged children might find it boring or difficult to understand.

So, to make our history more engaging and accessible for them, I booked a docent tour tailored to their level.

That day, the blue autumn sky was beautiful, and the weather was perfect.

Here's my review of the National Museum of Korea docent tour! ♡

We traveled by subway.

Take Exit 2 of Ichon Station (Line 4)

The Museum Trail moving walkway made access easy.

It's open from 7 AM to 11 PM.

(Please note that the Museum Trail is closed on museum closure days.)

Taking the escalator up, you'll find the National Museum of Korea on your left.

Walking up the stairs, we headed to the Permanent Exhibition Hall on the right. (Admission is free.)

If you have a bag, you can enter by lining up at the security checkpoint on the right.

After passing through security, there are restrooms immediately to the right, so it's a good idea to prepare the kids before the tour.

(Please note that food other than bottled water is not allowed.)

The meeting point is in front of the Stele of King Gwanggaeto.

Our tour was at 1:30 PM.

We met our teacher and friends who would be studying together. We put on the transmitter/receiver and earphones needed for the docent tour, and we were ready to go!

The tour lasted 120 minutes, and we agreed to meet back at the Stele of King Gwanggaeto at 3:30 PM.

Have fun! ♡

*The museum was dry and somewhat warm inside.

Even though it was early October, I was sweating even when standing still in long sleeves.

I recommend dressing the kids as lightly and comfortably as possible, making sure they drink plenty of water before the tour, and not bringing a bag (to avoid being burdened).

While the kids were on their tour, I explored the museum.

The first floor features exhibits from prehistoric times to the modern and contemporary eras.

The second floor houses the Contemplation Room, and the third floor displays Moon Jars.

First, I went up to the second-floor Contemplation Room, which I had been wanting to see.

The Contemplation Room is a space where two National Treasure Pensive Bodhisattva statues are exhibited together.

There's a limit to the number of people allowed in at once, so you have to wait in line to enter. When I went, the wait time was about 10 minutes.

There were a lot of people around, but I wanted to focus solely on the Pensive Bodhisattva statues, so I edited the photos I took myself.

Inside, you can encounter the Pensive Bodhisattva statues displayed in a quiet and mystical space.

It felt like being in the universe or in the deep contemplative space of the human mind.

The two Pensive Bodhisattva statues each had a different appearance, but I could see smiles on their faces as they contemplated with their eyes closed.

The Pensive Bodhisattva statue on the right was slightly larger.

As I walked around it, it felt more three-dimensional and like I was floating in a dream, detached from reality.

You can observe it from 360 degrees, so you can even see the back.

I also took a video where there weren't many people.

Enjoy! ♡

The ceiling was designed with a subtle and sparkling Milky Way effect, which enhanced the immersion.

The Contemplation Room was such a great space that I want to visit it again when it's quieter and spend more time gazing at the statues. 😍

Next, I'll go see the Moon Jars on the third floor.

The Moon Jars are located in the ceramics exhibit, which features Buncheong ware and white porcelain.

At the entrance, there's a "Moon Jar You Can See With Your Hands" corner where you can experience the texture by touch.

When my fingertips first touched it, the cool and moist feeling of the smooth curves felt pleasant.

It was quite a large Moon Jar, big enough to hold in one's arms. The elegance of the white porcelain and the glossy surface gave a comfortable feeling, and the smooth texture was lovely.

Inside the third-floor exhibition hall, there's a space decorated like a potter's workshop.

It was nice to be able to watch a video that explained the pottery-making process.

Next, let's explore the trendy Museum Shop.

I planned to buy each of the kids a souvenir as a reward after their docent tour, so I visited in advance to check it out.

(There's also a museum shop inside the Permanent Exhibition Hall, but it's small, so I recommend using the one near the entrance for a proper look.)

The Museum Shop is on the right side of the entrance.

It was fun to see the real items of the popular goods that sell out as soon as they arrive and to browse the unique and stylish merchandise. 😍

I bought a keyring as a gift and a mother-of-pearl lacquer magnet.

I'll post a separate review of the Museum Shop visit with the kids later. ♡

As I was looking around, it was time to meet the kids.

Today's docent tour covered the Joseon Dynasty.

(Kids' photos will be available on the cafe later.)

They must have been busy with the tour, but I'm so grateful that they remembered to take photos.

They even thoroughly reviewed the activity sheets. 😍

Thank you to Teacher Star Butterfly for the docent tour filled with love and care. ❤️

I hope we have the chance to meet again in the future.

The kids' reactions after the tour were better than expected, which made me feel so proud.

They confidently quizzed us and seemed to have developed an interest in history, which made me very satisfied. They want to take tours on other historical periods as well, so I'm planning to try again. :)

Now that the docent tour is over, it's time to go to the Museum Shop with the kids to choose their gifts! 😍😍😍

I'll also post a review of our Museum Shop visit with the kids. :)

I had a lot of concerns while planning our visit to the National Museum of Korea with elementary school kids, but the docent tour was very satisfying.

I hope my review is helpful. Thank you.

National Museum of Korea

Visiting Hours

●Mon, Tue, Thu, Fri, Sun 10 AM - 6 PM (Last admission 30 minutes before closing)

●Wed, Sat 10 AM - 9 PM

●Outdoor Exhibition Area (Garden) 7 AM - 10 PM

Admission Fee: Free (Special exhibitions require a fee)

I can't sleep... and there's nothing much to do, so I thought I'd write a blog post.

I woke up at 5 AM today, got ready, and headed out. I was so tired, haha.

I took the 6:40 AM bus and arrived in Seoul around 9 AM! Then, I went straight to Sinchon!!

Once I got to Sinchon, I went to the Hyundai Department Store. I went down to the basement, and wow, there was a huge line for Pishik University (a comedy group)! At first, I thought an idol group had arrived.

I walked further and spotted Lee Jinwoo!!!! He's so pretty...

I had to wait for 30 minutes, and I kept making eye contact with Lee Jinwoo and Shin Yechun. I was so happy.

I went into the pop-up store and just grabbed everything I wanted. I originally expected to spend around 60,000 won, but since they had goods from the 4th-anniversary pop-up, I bought those too, and it came out to 170,000 won... But I'm still happy. I'm the type of person who spends 200 on idols, lol.

Anyway, I bought everything, pulled random photo cards, and filled out three event entry forms and even bought some on behalf of my Twitter friends!

It's so pretty!

This is a doodle signed polaroid ??? The form that I entered with said this polaroid was up for grabs

Please ㅠㅠ I want this

I wrote "O X EN, wishing you all the best!" on a post-it note.

They said they would deliver it to the members, so I kept it short and simple.

I came out of the pop-up store and took pictures.

Then, I went to Animate in Hongdae.

Animate is always a happy place to go. It has so many things I like.

I didn't realize the Love Live! corner in Animate was so big, lol. It was bigger than I thought, so I was surprised.

Then, I went to eat at Atteutte!, but... oh no...

It was too crowded, and there were no seats... so I couldn't eat there..

I wanted to eat mackerel..

So, I went to a pork cutlet restaurant near Animate instead.

It was delicious!!! The soup was especially tasty.

I looked at the random photo cards I pulled at the pop-up earlier.

I pulled a total of 5 cards, and there were 100 limited-edition cards released each day, with a different design each day. Out of those 100, 10 were signed!

And guess what? I got a signed photo card! Thank you so much!

????????????????????????????????????????????????????

And... what did I do then?

I chilled at a Gma.. cafe for a bit and did a photo card opening there.

Then, I got on the bus to go home.

Ah, but I'm starting to get motion sickness, so I'll stop here. Bye!

The legendary Trainee A members reunited at this year's MAMA Awards!

These are the friends who shared the same dream and endured the hardships of trainee life together.

To see them overcome their individual difficulties and come together in one place... (So touching!)

First, let's take a look at the Trainee A members.

Trainee A was a pre-debut boy group trainee team under Big Hit Music (now HYBE), aiming to debut in 2022. The name wasn't official; it was a temporary name meaning 'Trainee A.'

However, due to member changes and project termination, their debut was canceled in December 2022.

The group, consisting of Inhyuk, Rio, Sangwon, Junil, James, Jihoon, and Wochan, was first revealed in March 2021.

They diligently built their narrative for about two years, revealing their debut preparation process through social media.

But as mentioned before, due to member changes and project termination, their debut was canceled in December 2022. They announced the termination of their SNS channels on December 23, 2022, shocking many fans.

Even before their debut, they had over 1 million YouTube subscribers, so the fans' disappointment was immense.

Now, they are succeeding in their debuts one after another, and interest in the legendary Trainee A is growing again.

They started activities by revealing the debut lineup with 7 members, but with Lee Rio's departure, they prepared as a final 6-member group, or so it was said.

The members at the time of the debut cancellation were Inhyuk, Rio, Sangwon, Junil, James, Jihoon, and Wochan.

December 23rd will be the 2nd anniversary of Trainee A's official disbandment. ㅠㅠ Still, it's fortunate that everyone is succeeding in their debuts, a beautiful ending.

So, what are the members up to now?

Yochi - POW (GRID Entertainment) debuted in 2023

Rio, Sangwon - ALPHADRIVE1 (GRID Entertainment) to debut in 2026

Jihoon - TWS (Pledis Entertainment) debuted in 2024

Wochan - ALLDAY PROJECT (The Black Label) to debut in 2025

James - CORTIS (Big Hit Music) to debut in 2025

JJ - SMTR25 (SM Entertainment)

Debuts began in 2023, and as of 2025, all members except JJ have successfully debuted.

Sangwon and Rio are scheduled to debut as ALPHADRIVE1 through Boys2Planet, so almost all the members will finally be on stage.

JJ is said to have appeared at the SM 30th Anniversary concert not long ago, so might he debut soon?

They are all gathering at this year's 2025 MAMA Awards.

Of course, there are some differences in the stage schedule between the first and second days, but something is deeply moving.

The members must feel very emotional too.

MAMA~

Why don't you plan a special stage?

This is a sure thing!

A guaranteed hit!

If you have any sense, you should proceed immediately!

September 25th, tears were streaming down my face.

I cried a lot watching Mo!

Now, only you are left...

I shed tears for the first time here,

and finally, after confirming his debut as #1,

I burst into tears for the second time during his acceptance speech.

It took a long, long time~

It was a complete waterfall.

I'll slowly believe in you from now on~

I was so proud. ㅎㅎㅎ

Let's meet for a long time as Lee Sangwon of ALPHADRIVE1!

This contract is 5+1, a total of 6 years.

At least one audition group will continue to come out every two years...

Wake One!

If you hide our kids and don't show them, we won't let you get away with it!!

ZEROBASEONE's contract is also 2 and a half years, so it ends early next year.

ZEROSEs are very interested in whether they will renew their contracts...

This contract is surprisingly long.

I thought that ALPHADRIVE1's activities would guarantee individual activities under the original agency, but that's not the case... Really, Wake One!

You guys have to do well!

(Actually, I was a little expecting this too... It would be so great if the 03z had a unit activity!)

It's good that the kids are worldwide, but show them a lot on the domestic stage too!

First of all, Mnet~MAMA~

Let's go for a Trainee A special stage~~

According to an analysis by Hanwha Investment & Securities, SM Entertainment's Q3 revenue reached approximately ₩349.9 billion, with an operating profit of ₩48.3 billion, aligning with market expectations.

This success is attributed to album releases and world tours by popular groups such as NCT DREAM, aespa, and RIIZE!

Especially, MD (merchandise) sales—specifically, the sale of goods and the operation of pop-up stores— significantly boosted performance.

2. MD and IP Revenue: SM's Secret Weapon

SM Entertainment is now more than just an album-selling company.

It is generating revenue through various brand collaborations, leveraging its own characters and content (IP), such as collaborations with Teenieping and Battlegrounds.

➡️ In essence, they've created a virtuous cycle of “Content → Character → Merchandise → Global Sales!”

3. Western Market Penetration: Still a Challenge

However, expanding into the US and European markets remains a significant challenge.

While aespa and RIIZE are touring, the scale is still small, and fandom growth is primarily concentrated in Asia.

SM Entertainment is aiming for a renewed global stage challenge next year through its new group ‘SMTR25.’

4. Future Stock Price Outlook

Current Stock Price: ₩121,100

Target Stock Price: ₩190,000

Potential Upside: Approximately +57%

The low PER (Price-to-Earnings Ratio) and stable MD revenue structure suggest significant medium- to long-term growth potential.

In other words, the formula “Fandom Creates Money” remains valid.

This pop-up store, the first featuring the 'MIGHTEEZ' character IP, reimagines the individual personalities and vibes of ATEEZ members with IPX's creative touch, initially unveiled in June. 'MIGHTEEZ' characters are imbued with unique superpowers gifted by each ATEEZ member, symbolizing limitless potential (Mighty) and ATEEZ's identity (TEEZ).

Running from October 11th to 19th, 'Press, Start! Enter the MIGHTEEZ POP-UP' is set to become a new point of connection, expanding the MIGHTEEZ universe into the daily lives of K-POP fans and visitors. The pop-up adopts a 'game' concept that matches MIGHTEEZ's special abilities, allowing fans to explore the MIGHTEEZ world as if they were navigating game stages. The immersive experience is enhanced with a main photo zone featuring real-time camcorder streaming on TV, soft-textured statues, a message zone with messages directly from the members, and a hand-printing zone with their signatures.

This pop-up is significant as the starting point for the long-term MIGHTEEZ IP business that IPX and ATEEZ will develop together. Following ATEEZ's 'GOLDEN HOUR : Part.3' mini album pop-up stores held in LINE FRIENDS SQUARE Sinsa, Japan, the US, and China in June, IPX's strong K-pop IP business capabilities and ATEEZ's global fandom have come together, successfully concluding the event with enthusiastic fan support.

The MIGHTEEZ pop-up garnered significant anticipation among fans even before its launch, with ATEEZ members expressing their interest. ATEEZ member San was seen wearing a 'saniyo' keyring at a concert, and directly mentioning his character in communications with fans, showing his deep affection. Due to ATEEZ and fans' genuine enthusiasm, pre-reservations for visiting the pop-up on October 2nd sold out in approximately 5 minutes.

IPX is actively pursuing wide-ranging collaborative projects with K-POP artists, using 'K-POP SQUARE Hongdae' as a base. Following the 'zeroni Home Party' pop-up with ZEROBASEONE in June, they showcased G-DRAGON's official IP 'ZO&FRIENDS' pop-up in July, reflecting his unique imagination and personality, and unveiled new TRUZ products to commemorate TREASURE's comeback in September. Furthermore, they successfully held the official collaboration character IP 'Dreamiez' pop-up with NCT DREAM, proving their capabilities in the K-POP IP business sector.

MIGHTEEZ, starting with this pop-up, plans to expand into various projects on the global stage. IPX aims to create a differentiated IP culture that grows with the K-POP fandom.

An IPX representative stated, "We hope that fans will have a meaningful experience communicating with the artist in a new way within the unique world of MIGHTEEZ through this 'Press, Start! Enter the MIGHTEEZ POP-UP'. We hope that the special stories that MIGHTEEZ will create will be delivered to fans around the world with positive energy and joy, and IPX will continue to lead the global IP business targeting domestic and international K-POP fandoms."

Meanwhile, 'Press, Start! Enter the MIGHTEEZ POP-UP' is being held simultaneously at K-POP SQUARE Hongdae and Shinsegae Centum City Hyper Ground in Busan. It will continue to meet overseas fans through pop-ups held sequentially in China, Hong Kong, the United States, Japan, and other locations.

About IPX (formerly LINE FRIENDS)

IPX is the new company name of 'LINE FRIENDS', a global character brand that started with original character stickers such as Brown, Cony, and Sally from LINE, a mobile messenger used by over 200 million people worldwide. IPX announced its new name in 2022 and is accelerating the global expansion of its IP business, encompassing both online and offline channels, by diversifying its IP portfolio targeting all age groups and advancing its digital IP business and retail business. In addition to providing various IP experiences such as BT21 (BTS), ZO&FRIENDS, ZEROBASEONE, minini, WADE, JOGUMAN, DINOTAENG, and MNH, it is targeting 50 million MZ generation fans worldwide through strategic partnerships with global companies such as Netflix original content production, Supercell's 'Brawl Stars', HoYoverse's 'Genshin Impact', and Nexon's 'KartRider' IP business. Currently, it has entered 18 countries and regions around the world, including Seoul, New York, LA, Tokyo, and Shanghai, and operates 8 online commerce platforms.

Located near my home, just a 5-minute walk from the subway station, was where I found these SKZ Pepero. The Pepero section in the supermarket was bustling as always, and the vibrant packaging of the Stray Kids Pepero made the display even more lively. The limited-edition packaging featuring Stray Kids member photos was especially eye-catching. The energetic atmosphere reminded me of an idol goods store, and I couldn't help but feel excited.

The Pepero display was like a mini-concert venue. Among the colorful stacks of Pepero boxes, the SKZ Pepero stood out. The packaging, showcasing the members' personalities and visuals, made a statement. It felt like a pop-up store designed to stimulate fandom and deliver a special experience. The collectibility factor was so strong, I felt like I would regret it if I didn't buy this SKZ Pepero.

After much deliberation, I chose Nude Pepero. I love the clean taste of Nude Pepero, and with the special touch of Stray Kids, I couldn't resist. Upon opening, I found the long, stick-shaped biscuit filled with chocolate. The crispy biscuit made a delightful sound, filling my mouth with a savory and sweet flavor. I happily enjoyed it, temporarily forgetting about Nude Pepero's calories.

Generally, Nude Pepero is considered plain, but this one had a fantastic flavor, perfectly balanced with chocolate – not too sweet, not too bland. Nude Pepero calories are about 475kcal per 100g, but I believe that delicious things have zero calories, so I enjoyed it thoroughly. I think sometimes we need these happy indulgences. For those on a diet, forget about Nude Pepero's calories for a moment and enjoy the happy moment!

Honestly, this Nude Pepero not only tastes great, but the fact that it's Stray Kids Pepero makes it worth collecting. I can confidently say it's a great option for gifting to acquaintances. If you want to convey your heart to your loved ones this Pepero Day, how about giving a thoughtful gift with special SKZ Pepero? I'm already excited to think about gifting it to my friends! I hope that those of you reading this will try this special Nude Pepero! I'll be back with another delicious snack review next time! Pepero Day's protagonist is me! My honest review of Stray Kids Pepero.

1. Sweetness and Accessibility: Top-notch!

2. The Charm of the SKZ Pepero Packaging

3. Crispy on the Outside, Sweet on the Inside: The Infinite Charm of Nude Pepero!

4. Enjoy Pepero Day Sweetly with SKZ Pepero!

Reason: I was a Lip Woo stan on Boys Planet 2! ㅠㅠ

Here's a collection of information on the Taiwanese heartthrob Lip Woo's perfume / sunscreen / hand cream / bag / keyring / hoodie.

Le Labo Another 13 50ML

₩310,000

He likes woody scents, so he's a fan of Le Labo Another 13.

Another 13 is one of Le Labo's best-selling fragrances!

Jo Malone Wild Bluebell & English Pear & Freesia

₩239,000

Wild Bluebell has a clean scent.

English Pear & Freesia is said to have a sweet scent.

Beyond Classic Hand Cream Deep Moisture Olive

₩5,000

This Beyond hand cream is said to smell like soap.

He has dry hands, so he applies hand cream often.

Uriage Xemose Stick Lèvres

₩13,000

Xemose is a highly moisturizing lip balm from Uriage.

It's fragrance-free, making it a good lip balm for everyday use.

Melixir Vegan Airfit Sunscreen

₩30,000

It's a gentle, moisturizing sunscreen that doesn't leave a white cast.

I heard it's Sephora's #1 sunscreen.

Filluminate DFAO Applique Hoodie - Dark Green

₩69,000

He was wearing a Filluminate hoodie!

A man who looks good in green - Choi. Lip. Woo.

NOISE LEATHER BIG CROSS TOTE BAG - BROWN

₩144,000

When I checked the official website, it's currently on sale for ₩69,000.

Lip Woo has also posted about this bag on his Instagram.

GODASHIN Cats Keyring (Tricolor)

₩35,000

A cat-like man carrying a cat keyring...?

Hope to see him more often on broadcasts...♡

⬇️ You can watch Lip Woo's 'What's In My Bag' video at the link below ⬇️

Winter captivated everyone with her radiant and clear beauty, dominating real-time search rankings on social media and portal sites.

Her presence was more than just an appearance; it was hailed as a fashion performance that perfectly embodied the brand's elegance and concept.

The event celebrated the launch of the 'Bee de Chaumet' collection by the French luxury jewelry brand, Chaumet.

Winter embodied the 'elegance of the bee' with her fair skin, a subtle blue-toned dress, and gold accessories as key accents.

Her style perfectly expressed the theme of harmony between purity and sophistication, going beyond mere glamour.

RIIZE members Sungchan and Anton also attended the event, proving the global influence of K-POP stars.

It is said that the reporters' shutters went wild when Winter smiled slightly and made eye contact during the photo session.

Fans reacted explosively on social media, commenting, "Winter is truly a human diamond" and "Her real-life beauty is even more stunning than in photoshoots."

At this event, Winter proved her presence not just as a guest, but as a K-pop icon and a muse for luxury brands.

She has been invited to numerous global brand events, continuing her rise as a fashion icon.

Like her name 'Winter', her calm and clear image, along with her elegant visuals, perfectly matched Chaumet's sophisticated world.

Winter also attended the 20th Breast Cancer Awareness Campaign charity event 'LOVR YOUR' held at the Four Seasons Hotel in Jongno-gu, Seoul on the afternoon of the 15th.

Today, I'm excited to share my experience of taking a walk in Naksan Park, Seoul, during the refreshing autumn weather!

Perhaps because it was featured in the Korean dating show 'Transit Love' ( 환승연애 ), I spotted quite a few foreigners. Even though it was past 9 PM, there were still a good number of people enjoying the park.

Let's start with some information about Naksan Park's parking lot!

⚠️ Naksan Park Parking Lot ⚠️

I arrived around 9 PM on a Saturday night (weekend) and didn't get a parking spot until 9:30 PM ㅠㅠ. The one-lane road was a complete mess with cars trying to enter and exit simultaneously, creating a deadlock situation.

Eventually, the cars trying to enter had to back up to allow the exiting cars to leave. I think around 40 cars came out all at once!

The parking lot isn't very big, maybe around 30 spaces. The difficulty level is quite high! I'd give it five stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️. I saw quite a few people struggling to park. I recommend beginners come on foot!

The parking fee is ₩150 per 5 minutes, which is ₩1800 per hour. Strangely, we were charged ₩2100 for 53 minutes... ?????‍♀️???????‍♀️. I'm not sure why, but it was cheap enough, so we just paid and left.

The parking spaces are very narrow, making it difficult to park larger vehicles, or really park in general. Everyone seemed to be trying 5-6 times to get in!

Remember to pay at the payment kiosk *before* heading to the exit!

If you go up the stairs from the parking lot, you'll find the central square, restrooms, and a small shop. This is the first and last restroom you'll encounter, so use it if you need to!

Also, there are many uphill sections, so I wouldn't recommend bringing young children or elderly people. I heard there's a parking lot on flat ground, so it might be better to use that one.

Naksanjeong Pavilion is just a small pavilion with not much to see. You need to go to Observation Platforms 1, 2, and 3 to see the fortress wall trail and the fortress night view we're looking for!

During this past Chuseok holiday, I took my parents-in-law on a trip to Seoul. We went to Namsan, Gwangjang Market, and other places, and there were a lot of Chinese tourists everywhere!

Today at Naksan Park, there were many Japanese tourists dressed up nicely, taking pictures everywhere. There were also couples being lovey-dovey and families walking their dogs, making it a heartwarming autumn evening!

Come to think of it, there were many people taking pictures of the night view from one particular spot. I guess that's the location that appeared in 'Transit Love'! I didn't think the night view was that impressive.

I thought the Seoul night view from Namsan was prettier. However, the fortress walls at Naksan Park were great ❤️.

Taking pretty pictures of the fortress walls is really difficult ㅋㅋ. I barely managed to get one decent shot before heading home~

My review of Naksan Park:

The entrance fee is really cheap, but I *don't* recommend the Naksan Park parking lot ❌. I recommend using the Korea National Open University parking lot (₩2000 for 30 minutes) or other parking lots on flat ground nearby!

The Naksan Park fortress wall trail is really beautiful ❤️. It's best viewed from a distance~~ The fortress wall with the lights is a work of art! It's a great place for a walk or a run in the autumn weather!

See you in my next post 👋

Because G-Dragon was the headliner, I arrived a little late and caught 015B's performance. He was so cool!

ADP is a new group, so they only had two songs, which was a shame.

Youngseo's live singing was surprisingly good, and I was amazed by Bailey's dance moves.

Woohan is so handsome...

Annie and Tarzan are my favorite members, so I loved everything about them.

After the All Day Practice performance, they were preparing the band.

I was going to go to the hotel to rest and re-enter, but I managed to get a pretty good spot, so I just enjoyed the show.

My legs are killing me now, so I really want to use my Folio massage machine. ㅠ

G-Dragon as the headliner, seriously… I went crazy! ❤️‍????

My thought after the concert: I'm definitely going to the encore concert in December! (This is my review)

Even the entrance was legendary.

I have a lot of videos, and I'm going to release them clip by clip. ㅎ^_^

If you're curious, come check out my clips!~~ (I've already uploaded my favorite video -????)

Rushed "What's in My Blog" published, done! ✔️

The products on display were truly captivating for any fan! I was especially thrilled to see a wide range of specially produced merchandise from my favorite groups, SEVENTEEN and IVE, which made me stop in my tracks. Dear My Muse isn't just a place to buy things; it's truly a 'holy ground' for K-Pop fans. In line with the 'K-Pop Demon Hunters' culture, which is currently trending among Gen Z, it's rapidly becoming a popular spot for sharing 인증샷 (proof shots) on social media. Seeing so many people posting photos with their favorite artists, I could really feel the enthusiasm!

The store offers MD (merchandise) for various groups, allowing you to shop according to your preferences. They carry official merchandise from various groups such as IVE, SEVENTEEN, aespa, Stray Kids, and more! There are options to satisfy fans of all ages and tastes. Another surprising fact is that the proportion of foreign visitors is quite high!

Thanks to the K-Pop boom, it seems many overseas tourists are visiting. Riding the K-Pop wave, it's a popular destination for overseas fans and a must-visit course for tourists. They seem to naturally include Dear My Muse Yongsan as an essential part of experiencing Korean culture. The photo zones and interior design are also aesthetically pleasing, creating a great atmosphere for taking pictures with a space decorated with a focus on characters.

Thanks to its easy-to-find location and diverse product range, the time I spent here always felt too short. I won't forget the fun memories I shared with friends on a beautiful day! If you have the time, I highly recommend visiting. You can have a moving shopping experience and have a great time with good people!

'K-Pop Demon Hunters' (or 'K-De-Heon' for short) is an action-fantasy animation set against the backdrop of Seoul's most famous landmarks.

The series beautifully captures the harmony of tradition and modernity in Seoul, making these locations perfect for a quick stop and photo opportunity during your bike ride.

Recently, I took a Brompton bike tour from Namsan Tower to Gwanghwamun, Cheongwadae (the Blue House), and Buak Mountain. If you have time, I highly recommend visiting Bukchon Hanok Village and Naksan Park nearby.

1. Namsan Seoul Tower – An Iconic Point of K-De-Heon

Located at 105, Namsan Park Road, Jung-gu, Seoul, this is a quintessential photo spot offering a panoramic view of Seoul and one of 'K-De-Heon's' symbolic climax settings.

From the Namsan Tower Observatory, situated approximately 480m above sea level, you can witness the interplay of light and shadow across Seoul. During the day, you'll be treated to expansive views of the Han River and the cityscape, while at night, the city lights are simply breathtaking.

While it's a popular uphill cycling route, many runners are also frequenting the Namsan circular road for running.

2. Gwanghwamun Square – The Heart of Seoul

Address: Area of Sejong-daero, Jongno-gu, Seoul

Coming down from Namsan via Namdaemun, you'll immediately arrive at Gwanghwamun Square.

This central stage, showcasing Seoul's energy and tension, features the statues of Admiral Yi Sun-sin and King Sejong the Great side-by-side. It's a bit surprising it didn't make an appearance in 'K-De-Heon'!

Lively during the day, the square transforms into a futuristic space at night, thanks to its media art lighting.

Right in front of Gwanghwamun Square stands the statue of Admiral Yi Sun-sin.

A short walk towards Gwanghwamun from the Yi Sun-sin statue will bring you to the statue of King Sejong the Great, the fourth king of the Joseon Dynasty (reigned 1418-1450).

Thank you, King Sejong, for creating 'Hangeul,' a UNESCO World Heritage!

In front of Gwanghwamun, there's a Haechi statue that resembles Duffy the Tiger, the most popular character in 'K-De-Heon.'

The Haechi is an imaginary animal from ancient East Asian legends, known for its ability to distinguish between right and wrong. The original term is said to be 'Haetae.'

Entering Hyojaro Road on the left side, facing Gwanghwamun, allows you to enjoy a traditional Korean landscape within the city.

On the way to Cheongwadae, look forward to the autumn foliage and the magnificent views of Buak Mountain.

3. Bukchon Hanok Village – Escape from Gwanghwamun to a World of Tradition

Address: 37, Gyedong-gil, Jongno-gu, Seoul

Just a short ride north from Gwanghwamun along Samcheongdong-gil, you'll find Bukchon Hanok Village, full of traditional charm.

Scenes depicting tranquility and mystery also appeared in the narrative of 'K-De-Heon.'

The sunlight shining through the tiled roofs and Hanok alleys, along with the distant view of city buildings, is the essence of 'Seoul-ness.'

4. Naksan Park – A Fantasy Landscape on Seoul's Fortress Wall Trail

Address: 41, Naksan-gil, Jongno-gu, Seoul

Naksan Park, which connects east from Bukchon, is a backdrop that impressively expresses the contrast between dark and light scenes in 'K-De-Heon.'

During the day, you can see Dongdaemun and the city at a glance along the fortress wall trail, and at sunset, the city's sunset light pours over the park. It's a great spot to stop for a rest and take pictures during your ride.

To wrap up your ride, enjoy 'K-Chimaek' (Korean fried chicken and beer), something that foreigners admire and are enthusiastic about! Haha.

The Seoul locations in 'K-Pop Demon Hunters' are not just filming locations, but spaces where Seoul's past, present, and future coexist.

Connecting them by bike allows you to visit them all in one day, capturing completely different atmospheres at each location.

Especially during the fall to early winter, the combination of fallen leaves and lighting maximizes the 'K-De-Heon' atmosphere.

If you want to spend a movie-like day in the city, I highly recommend this course!

**The Korean flag patches are velcro attachable.

**Decorate your own Brompton bag.

**Use cooling/warming stem bags to keep items cool in the summer/warm in the winter.

Today, I want to share my experience exploring a Seoul hotspot with my sisters.

We visited Cafe San 1-1, near Naksan Park, famous for being a backdrop in the Netflix animation 'K-Pop Demon Hunters' (Kededeon).

It's easily accessible from Hyehwa Station. We visited with high expectations, drawn by the promise of romantic views of Seoul, just like the characters in the animation.

As we walked along the Naksan Park Fortress Wall, a filming location for Kededeon, we saw many foreign tourists, proving its popularity.

Cafe San 1-1 Atmosphere with Namsan View in Hyehwa

San 1-1 is located near the end of Ihwa Mural Village and the Naksan Park Fortress Wall.

You can park at the Korea National Open University parking lot and slowly walk up the stairs, enjoying the murals along the way.

The cafe has three floors, each with its own unique concept and charm.

The first floor had a mysterious atmosphere, like entering a cave, with lush plants and stone wall decor.

The sound of cool water added to the unique experience.

Even the bathroom view was amazing!

The second floor had a mix of terrace and indoor space, offering views of both Namsan Mountain and the surrounding rocks.

The third-floor terrace offered fantastic panoramic views of Namsan Mountain and downtown Seoul.

Sitting on the outdoor terrace, enjoying the cool breeze and looking down at Seoul, I felt like I was escaping from my complicated daily life and relaxing.

When we visited, there were many foreign tourists who had visited Naksan Park, a filming location for Kededeon, creating a lively atmosphere.

I was impressed by the thoughtful touches, like providing essential items for customers.

San 1-1 Menu with Namsan View in Hyehwa

They offer a variety of food and drinks.

We ordered mango juice, iced Americano, iced vanilla latte, tiramisu, and premium ice cream waffle.

Mango Juice: ₩8,500

Iced Americano: ₩6,500

Iced Vanilla Latte: ₩7,500

Tiramisu: ₩9,000

Premium Ice Cream Waffle: ₩17,000

The iced Americano was clean and refreshing, perfect for enjoying with the view.

The sweet mango juice and smooth iced vanilla latte were also a hit with my sisters.

The desserts exceeded our expectations.

The moist and soft tiramisu melted in our mouths.

The premium ice cream waffle, with crispy waffle, sweet ice cream, and generous whipped cream, was delicious.

Thanks to the delicious drinks and desserts at Cafe San 1-1, our conversation with my sisters was even more enjoyable.

Naksan Park Fortress Wall, Filming Location for K-Pop Demon Hunters

Cafe San 1-1 is located near Naksan Park, the filming location for Kededeon, making it very accessible.

I recommend following our course: starting at Hyehwa Station, taking photos along the Naksan Park Fortress Wall (the Kededeon filming location), and then relaxing at the cafe while enjoying the beautiful Namsan view.

We were also excited to discover that the cafe was offering a special event: Write a review and receive two theater tickets!

Hyehwa Station is close to Daehakro (University Street), which is great for watching plays, so enjoying the amazing view and delicious desserts at the cafe, and then getting to enjoy a bit of culture as well, was really great.

If you are planning to visit Naksan Park, the filming location for Kededeon, don't miss this event!

They even give you a coupon for 30% off drinks for life!

I'm not sure how they make a profit with that,,

But it's a great event, so make sure to take advantage of it!!????

San 1-1 Location and Parking with Namsan View in Hyehwa

Address: 25, Naksanseonggwakseo 1-gil, Jongno-gu, Seoul

Hours: Mon-Fri 12:00 - 23:00, Sat-Sun 10:00 - 23:00

Parking: Please use nearby parking lots

895m from Exit 1 of Dongdaemun Station (Lines 1 & 4)

Korea National Open University Parking Lot - ₩400 per 5 minutes

Since I was planning to see a play, I parked at the Korea National Open University parking lot, which is closer to the theater.

If you're only visiting the cafe, there is the Naksan Park Public Parking Lot, which is closer.

However, keep in mind that the number of parking spaces is limited and the road up is narrow.

Naksan Park Public Parking Lot (Source - Kakao T) - ₩300 per 10 minutes

If you are looking for a special cafe in Hyehwa, I highly recommend Cafe San 1-1 near Naksan Park, the filming location for Kededeon, with its fantastic Namsan view.

It's a place that satisfied everything: a great view, delicious food, and an amazing event.

It was a perfect day where I could make happy memories with my sisters.

I will be back soon to see another play.

On the afternoon of the 23rd, Park Bom posted on her personal social media account, "Park Bom. I'm angry, but I was too lazy to really get started. I hope everyone is happy," along with three captured images of a memo.

In the post, she directly mentioned YG, causing controversy by saying that they "made my appearance look like crap."

She stated, "YG has never supported any plastic surgery.

I paid for one or two procedures myself. In short, I went on stage at a commoner level," addressing rumors and misunderstandings regarding plastic surgery.

She continued, "I went to a dermatologist, but I ended up paying for everything myself," claiming that she received no appearance management support from YG.

She added, "They told me they were sorry on the stairs. They said they sold me using plastic surgery as a topic," expressing considerable displeasure.

Park Bom's outburst extended to her music production.

She claimed, "I wrote all of YG's songs, but you can't find my name in the credits no matter how hard you look," raising concerns about payment and copyright issues.

"They confined Park Bom, calling her 'one-eyed,' and wrote all the songs. Except for one song."

She also lamented about her past activities, saying, "You only break even if you're really good at singing. They never let me shoot a magazine."

Previously, on the 22nd, Park Bom caused a stir by posting a photo of a complaint filed against YG's Yang Hyun Suk on social media.

She wrote 'Plaintiff: Yang Hyun Suk' and 'Charge: Fraud and Embezzlement,' claiming that she had not received the earnings that should have been paid fairly.

However, the following day, her agency, D-Nation Entertainment, attempted to defuse the situation, stating, "The complaint has not actually been filed."

They also stated that "Park Bom has currently suspended all activities and is focusing on treatment and recovery."

A Rough Voice, Comment

Park Bom's harsh voice after a long silence.

It contained a mixture of hurt and sincerity.

Hopefully, some peace will come to her now.

This time, it's not just a simple complaint, but a confession filled with the wounds and anger she's suppressed for years.

Park Bom surprised fans by posting a scathing criticism of YG Entertainment on her SNS.

"They made my appearance like a byungshin [a Korean slang term]."

This short but powerful statement gives a glimpse into the weight of the years she has endured.

[1] Park Bom Exposes YG: “They Got Me Plastic Surgery to Make Fun of Me?” Shocking Revelation

On the night of the 23rd, Park Bom uploaded a screenshot of a memo to her SNS.

It contained shocking content: “YG made my appearance like that to make fun of me.”

She wrote, “YG has never given me plastic surgery. I paid for it myself once or twice, and I went on stage with a normal look.”

She added, “Once, they suddenly apologized to me. When I asked why, they said they used me as a subject for plastic surgery jokes.”

The sentence contained **‘memories of ridicule’ and ‘traces of shame.’**

The reason she expressed it as 'made me like a byungshin' might not be just because of her appearance, but because of her anger at the 'system that consumed that appearance as a laughing stock.'

[2] Park Bom Exposes YG: “I Wrote Most of YG’s Songs, But My Name Isn’t in the Credits”

In this post, Park Bom also expressed her frustration about her music work.

She stated, “Park Bom wrote the entire YG song. I was locked up and wrote all the songs, but you can’t find my name in the credits even if you look closely.”

She added, “Even if I just did songs to death and did well, it was just breaking even.”

Although it is only one sentence,

It contains the deep frustration of an 'artist who was not recognized only by her songs'.

In fact, Park Bom swept the music charts with numerous hit songs such as 'You and I' and 'Don't Cry', but her relationship with her agency remained an uncomfortable shadow for a long time.

[3] Park Bom Exposes YG: “Who Did You Give All 4321 CFs To? What Am I?”

In this expose, Park Bom also mentioned the issue of profit distribution.

She expressed her frustration, saying, “I’ve received 4321 CFs so far, but who did you give them all to? 61 came in my name, but who did you give them all to? What am I?”

In fact, YG was a large agency that generated huge advertising revenue during the heyday of 2NE1, the group to which Park Bom belonged.

Nevertheless, the fact that she used the self-deprecating expression “What am I?” can be read as meaning that she was not recognized as a 'subjective presence' for all those years.

[4] Park Bom Exposes YG: Extension of the 'Yang Hyun-suk Lawsuit' Controversy

This incident did not happen overnight.

The day before, Park Bom had posted a 'screenshot of a complaint' against Yang Hyun-suk, YG's chief producer, on her SNS.

He announced a lawsuit against YG Entertainment for fraud and embezzlement, saying he had not received settlement money.

That amount was a whopping '6427e trillion won'.

Although it was a somewhat unrealistic number,

It was a symbol that showed how extreme his anger was.

However, the next day, her agency D-Nation Entertainment released an official statement saying,

“The complaint has not actually been filed,

and settlements related to Park Bom's activities have already been completed.”

It also added, “Park Bom is currently suspending all activities and focusing on treatment and recovery.”

[5] Park Bom Exposes YG: Public Reaction “I Feel Bad Now, Who Will Protect Her?”

Immediately after Park Bom's post was uploaded,

Numerous opinions poured out on online communities and SNS.

Some sympathized with her courage, saying, “It may be an internal report on YG,”

But the majority were reactions that worried about 'mental instability'.

In recent months, she has been posting irregular posts and making sudden remarks on SNS,

It has caused concern among fans.

Someone said this:

“Park Bom doesn’t seem to be fighting now, but hurting.”

Like that saying,

There is more 'hurt' than 'anger' in her sentences.

[6] Park Bom Exposes YG: “I’m a Person with a Broken Heart”

In a past interview, Park Bom confessed that she suffered from **ADD (Attention Deficit Disorder).**

She said, “I had to take medicine since middle and high school,”

“It’s a disease that’s not well known in Korea,

and I’m being treated with ADHD medication instead.”

The fact that she made this confession again shows that the pain in her heart has not yet been completely healed.

An artist who tried to heal herself with music.

But the wounds she received on that path were too great.

Park Bom's latest expose

It's not just a story to be consumed as 'controversy'.

It is also a time when serious support is needed for her mental health and human recovery.

????️ Summary: Park Bom Exposes YG

Park Bom still remains in the memories of many people

It remains as that warm voice of 'You and I'.

But behind that, there was a human being who always had to fight loneliness.

This expose is not just simple anger,

It may be her last request for help.

That's why I hope someone doesn't lightly consume her story,

I hope they listen to it sincerely.

Like her song—

I hope that one day, Park Bom will be able to smile again, saying, “I’m okay.”

His honest views on relationships and humorous remarks sparked laughter from fans.

"A white lie? It's okay if I tell one, but I get upset when I receive one."

In Kim Ji-seok's YouTube content 〈Love This Way and That Way〉 released on the 23rd,

Kim Ji-seok and YouTuber Go Malsuk shared their relationship stories on the topic of 'Should I Use a Matchmaking Service at 32?'.

On this day, Kim Ji-seok honestly revealed, "I'm selfish in that it's okay if I tell a white lie, but I can't tolerate it when the other person tells a white lie to me."

He added with a laugh, "When I do it, it's consideration for the other person, but when I receive it, I feel somehow upset."

"Men Don't Want to Show Weakness... But What if Their Girlfriend Did?"

Kim Ji-seok mentioned a story, saying, "I heard that a boyfriend went to the emergency room alone in the early morning because he was sick, without telling his girlfriend. Should she feel upset about this?" he asked.

When the other participants unanimously said, "Upset," he

explained, "I probably would have gone alone without contacting her either.

That's a man's instinct. They don't want to show weakness."

However, when asked, "What if your girlfriend was sick and went alone without contacting you?",

he immediately burst into laughter, saying, "Upset, of course! Why didn't she call me? I'm faster than an ambulance!"

This remark heated up the comment section, leading to reactions such as "Real Boyfriend Material Explosion."

"Wedding Imminent?" Sweet Updates with Lee Joo-myung

Meanwhile, Kim Ji-seok overcame a 12-year age difference with actress Lee Joo-myung and

officially acknowledged their relationship last August.

Lee Joo-myung drew more attention by moving to Kim Ji-seok's agency after the relationship was made public.

Recently, the two became a hot topic with sightings of them traveling in Hawaii,

and with a ring that looked like a couple ring spotted on Kim Ji-seok's fourth finger,

some speculate that "a wedding is imminent."

Kim Ji-seok, a Sincere Actor, Empathizes with Real Relationship Emotions

Kim Ji-seok is eliciting empathy from viewers with his sincere and pleasant charm, just like the image he shows in variety shows and dramas.

Leaving behind a buzzword of "Boyfriend faster than an ambulance,"

his realistic relationship emotions are still being talked about in 2025.

이미지 목록

From Lisa and Jisoo's cowgirl concept to a heartwarming backstage moment with Rosé.

"Kick-off in Asia with Kaohsiung Blinks: BLACKPINK goes Cowgirl!"

BLACKPINK's Lisa and Jisoo have once again captivated fans worldwide.

On the 23rd, Lisa shared behind-the-scenes photos from their Kaohsiung performance on her social media, writing, "Kick-off in Asia with Kaohsiung Blinks."

In the photos, Lisa is seen wearing a striking black leather top and shorts, showcasing her slim waist and toned legs.

Holding a wide-brimmed cowboy hat and posing with Jisoo, they perfectly embody a sexy and charismatic 'cowgirl concept'.

✨ "BLACKPINK's chemistry shines even offstage" ✨

The following photos captured the warm atmosphere backstage.

Lisa and Rosé are seen affectionately embracing each other, smiling warmly.

Rosé leans her head on Lisa's shoulder, showcasing the comfort of their long-lasting friendship.

On stage, all four BLACKPINK members embraced each other, waving to the fans.

With the packed audience as their backdrop, they completed a touching ending scene.

The atmosphere at the venue was electric.

Amidst the cheers of Taiwanese BLINKs, the members hugged each other after the performance, sharing their overwhelming emotions.

Comment from Gwaja (Snack):

"These girls can raise the temperature of the stage with just leather outfits.

Lisa and Jisoo's cowgirl concept wasn't just an outfit, but a 'performance in itself'.

BLACKPINK is still the only team that turns the stage into a 'fashion show'." ✨

Instead of the jovial personality he showcased on variety shows, he now stands out as a 'traveler living at his own pace'.

“The boundary between work and travel has disappeared”… Noh Hong-chul’s new daily life.

On the 22nd, Noh Hong-chul shared his recent travels through his social media.

In the revealed photos, he was seen working on his laptop in a hotel room overlooking skyscrapers,

and enjoying yogurt at a beachside cafe at sunset.

Short hair, unadorned attire, and a simple smile.

Each of his photos conveyed the message of “a life of gratitude for small moments.”

“I’ve changed, and the world has changed, so now it’s sweet.”

Noh Hong-chul shared this sentiment in a post accompanying his photos.

“I used to envy people who worked while traveling, but now that I’ve changed and the world has changed, I realize it’s possible for me too. It feels so sweet.”

He added, “I’m grateful that I know what I like.”

After 'Infinite Challenge'… Living as a 'Fun-chaser'

Once called a 'genius of variety' through MBC's , Noh Hong-chul is now focusing on travel, talk concerts, and personal projects rather than broadcasting.

He introduces himself as a “fun-chaser, an experientialist, and an optimist,”

choosing things he truly enjoys over the gaze of others.

His lifestyle, where the lines between work and play are blurred,

is often mentioned as a 'work-life balance role model' by the 2030 generation.

“Happiness is not far away.”

Noh Hong-chul emphasizes the joy in small daily routines rather than extravagance.

His social media is consistently filled with precious moments such as alleys in unfamiliar cities, motorcycle trips, and short conversations with friends.

He left a smile, saying, “I’m aging according to plan,”

but within that, one can feel the 'courage to live at one's own rhythm'.

Her honest explanation, coming after a full 9 years, is drawing a lot of attention from fans.

"Gain and I are close now," Seo In-young confessed.

Recently, Seo In-young communicated with fans through a personal SNS live broadcast.

During the broadcast, one fan asked, "What's your relationship with Gain like these days?"

Seo In-young smiled and responded, "Gain and I are still close. I acted too rashly back then, and there were aspects where I wasn't mature enough as a senior colleague."

She continued, "We've already resolved that issue well, and I hope it won't be made into an issue anymore," drawing a line and denying the feud rumors head-on.

She also added meaningfully, "Actually, nothing much happened. There will be an opportunity to talk about it in detail on YouTube."

The feud rumors began with the 2016 'Radio Star' broadcast.

The rumors of a feud between the two trace back to a 2016 MBC 〈Radio Star〉 broadcast.

At the time, Gain said, "In the early days of our debut, In-young unnie described Narsha unnie as cute, but at first, I felt a little hurt because In-young unnie, who was younger than me, said that." (Unnie is a Korean term used by females to address older sisters or female friends)

In response, Seo In-young explained, "At that time, I really just felt she was cute, but I didn't know she would take it that way,"

but Gain frankly revealed, "I was angry at the time," creating a somewhat tense atmosphere in the studio.

Seo In-young reacted immediately, saying, "You were even angry? Tell me more,"

and after this scene was broadcast, it sparked controversy over her attitude, spreading the feud rumors between the two.

A war of words on SNS at the time... and the change after 9 years.

Immediately after the broadcast, Seo In-young indirectly expressed her discomfort through her SNS.

She said, "The expression 'I was angry' to someone right next to you wasn't appropriate to say on a broadcast,"

and "I didn't understand why they had to bring up something that had already been resolved."

But 9 years later, Seo In-young looked back on the situation with a more mature attitude, saying, "I was immature back then too. I think it was a time when both Gain and I had wounds."

"All misunderstandings are over"... Will they reunite on YouTube?

With Seo In-young's recent remarks, the long-standing misunderstanding seems to be coming to an end.

She emphasized that there are no more problems between the two, saying, "Gain and I are already getting along well."

Fans are reacting with comments such as, "I want to see the two of them on TV together now," and "It's great to see them becoming true adults as time passes."

There is growing anticipation as to whether the two will be seen together again on Seo In-young's YouTube channel soon.

Warm memories

Valuable experience

Attractive photo

Dreamlike moment

Fantastic scene

Touching scene

Impressive appearance

Happy moment

Mysterious appearance

Great photo

The Aesthetics of Black and Emotional Chicness

In this season's photoshoot, Nana showcases the ultimate power of monochromatic styling. By flawlessly pulling off various looks—including mannish suits and edgy leather jackets—she creates a chic yet dreamy atmosphere that resonates with modern sensibilities. Her restrained expressions and focused energy perfectly embody the 'deconstructivist sophistication' that the fashion brand aimed to convey for 25FW.

Key Seasonal Items and Silhouette Emphasis

Nana stylishly matches the season's core accessories, bringing attention to the structural beauty of the Half-Moon Attache Shoulder Small and the Torque Pocket Tote Piccolo with its striking laser charm embellishments. The naturally draped Half-Moon Groovy Hobo Large further emphasizes a free-spirited yet high-fashion aesthetic, proving Nana’s versatility in handling both structured and flowing designs.

Harmony in Deconstruction: Nana’s Unique Style Language

The 25FW campaign sees Nana opting for a freer, more structural aesthetic compared to conventional glamour. She masterfully completes a balance of boldness and elegance, mixing oversized set-ups with flowing draping details. One of the most striking visual combinations includes her pairing a vibrant red leather jacket with a classic camel-colored bag, showcasing her ability to handle daring color contrasts with ease.

A Multi-faceted Career in Film and Music

Beyond the fashion world, Nana continues to receive massive acclaim for her transformative acting. Her intense performance in the Netflix drama 'Mask Girl' left a lasting impact on global audiences. Currently, she is expanding her reach with the highly anticipated film 'Omniscient Reader's Viewpoint' and the release of her first solo album, 'SEVENTH HEAVEN 16,' proving her prowess as both a top-tier actress and a dedicated musician.

The Definition of Urban Sophistication

Industry insiders and fans alike have noted that Nana’s fashion sense is always one step ahead of the trends. As an ambassador, she brings a structural and experimental edge to the brand, interpreting each piece with a professional model-like execution. For the 2025 season, Nana stands as the definitive face of urban sophistication, merging the worlds of high-concept art and wearable luxury.

Which of Nana's 'Deconstructivism' looks from this campaign speaks to your personal style the most—the sharp mannish suits or the flowing oversized drapes? With her success in 'Mask Girl' and her new solo music, what are you most excited to see from her in 2026? Let us know your thoughts on Nana's evolution!

She showcased a stylish look, pairing a white dress with a red striped shirt draped over her shoulders and accentuating it with a black Prada bag. This casual yet sophisticated ensemble highlights her unique elegance within a comfortable silhouette.

Karina's clear skin, illuminated by the sunlight, and her lavender-colored nails harmonized to complete a sensual summer mood. Her smile, glimpsed through the hair fluttering in the breeze, was as warm and refreshing as a scene from a movie.

Choa Reveals an Astounding 51% Gold Return

Choa, formerly of the girl group Crayon Pop, has showcased her financial acumen as a 'Gold Tech expert' by disclosing her impressive gold investment returns.

She recently shared her unique investment philosophy on her social media, stating:

"Ever since we started dating, I've been telling my husband that for birthday gifts, 'I don't need anything else, just stocks or gold investments,' and he said he's never met anyone like me before."

Unlike most women who might desire luxury bags or accessories for their birthdays, Choa requested stocks and gold as gifts, surprising her husband.

"Feeling Proud of My Gold Returns Lately"

The photo Choa shared revealed an impressive gold return rate of over 51%, sparking envy.

"Feeling Proud of My Gold Returns Lately"

Choa expressed her satisfaction with the soaring gold prices. A 51% return is a substantial figure compared to typical bank deposit or savings interest rates. The same profit couldn't have been achieved by depositing the money in a bank during the same period.

Kim Gura Turns 100 Million Won into 340 Million Won in 5 Years

Broadcaster Kim Gura is also known to have made a considerable profit through gold investment.

Kim Gura recently appeared on a YouTube show and revealed that he purchased 100 million won worth of gold five years ago, which has now surged in value to over 300 million won, causing astonishment.

"A few years ago, the price of gold rose significantly to around 200 million won. I thought, 'I should sell it,' but my wife told me to 'just leave it alone.'"

Kim Gura considered selling when the gold price reached 200 million won, but his wife advised him to hold onto it.

"Recently, the gold became worth 340 million won."

Following his wife's advice, the gold price eventually rose to 340 million won. This represents a profit of more than three times the initial investment in just five years. Kim Gura praised his wife's remarkable investment sense.

Shin Gi-ru Earns 250,000 Won in Just Ten Days

Comedian Shin Gi-ru also recently experienced the 'taste of gold.' She bought a gold bar during the Chuseok holiday and enjoyed a price increase just ten days later.

"During the Chuseok holiday, gold was 690,000 won per don (3.75g). Ten days later, it's now 780,000 won. They even say it's 800,000 won per don if you want to buy it now."

The gold that Shin Gi-ru purchased during the Chuseok holiday cost 690,000 won per don. However, it rose to 780,000 won in just ten days, and the price to purchase new gold had risen to 800,000 won.

The gold purchased for 2,050,000 won had increased to 2,300,000 won as of the YouTube upload date, resulting in a profit of 250,000 won in ten days.

International Gold Prices Steadily Rising

With the recent steady increase in international gold prices, gold's value as an investment vehicle is once again gaining attention.

Gold is traditionally classified as a 'safe asset.' Investors tend to move funds into safe assets like gold when economic uncertainty rises or the stock market becomes unstable.

The recent uncertainty in the global economy, inflation, and geopolitical risks have increased demand for gold, leading to price increases.

Surge in Interest in 'Gold Tech'

As stories of celebrities like Choa, Kim Gura, and Shin Gi-ru profiting from gold investments circulate, public interest in 'Gold Tech' is also increasing.

'Gold Tech' is a neologism combining gold and 'jaetech' (a Korean term for wealth management), referring to wealth management methods using gold. You can invest in gold through various methods, such as gold bars, gold savings accounts, and gold ETFs.

Pros and Cons of Gold Investment

Pros:

• Value as a safe asset
• Inflation hedge effect
• Consistent long-term value increase
• Possibility of holding as a physical asset

Cons:

• No interest or dividend income
• Short-term volatility
• Storage and management costs
• Transaction fees

Cautions When Investing in Gold

Experts advise paying attention to the following when investing in gold:

• Long-term investment perspective: Gold is suitable for asset preservation through long-term holding rather than short-term profit.
• Diversification: Investing all assets in gold is risky. It is desirable to include gold as part of a portfolio.
• Purchase timing: Gold prices fluctuate, so it is important to purchase at an appropriate price.
• Investment method selection: You must choose an investment method that suits you, such as gold bars, gold savings accounts, or gold ETFs.

Celebrity Investment Craze

As in Choa's case, interest in smart investment is increasing among celebrities. In the past, they focused on spending their income, but now more and more celebrities are interested in investing and asset management.

Younger generation celebrities, in particular, are showing interest in various investment destinations such as real estate, stocks, and gold, and are preparing for economic independence.

It remains to be seen how public interest in 'Gold Tech' will change along with the trend of gold prices in the future.

Challenges a 50,000 KRW Grocery Shopping Mission on YouTube 'Free Woman'

Actress Han Ga-in, a 20-year housewife, visits Mangwon Market

Actress Han Ga-in embarked on a realistic grocery shopping mission at a traditional market.

The YouTube channel 'Free Woman Han Ga-in,' released on the 23rd, featured a video titled 'How a 20-Year Housewife Like Han Ga-in Gets the Most Out of 50,000 KRW at Mangwon Market.'

Han Ga-in said, "Today is a big day. I'm here to check out Chuseok prices and do some shopping."

She added, "I like coming to traditional markets. It's my mom's healing place."

"I don't have enough money..." 100% realistic empathy

Entering the market, Han Ga-in said, "I don't usually buy vegetables at department stores. The price difference is huge," and stopped in front of a snack bar.

While eating tteokbokki, she borrowed cash from the production crew, saying, "I don't have money today. I'll pay you back."

The production team suggested a mission to "go grocery shopping with 50,000 KRW," and Han Ga-in immediately started shopping.

After buying tteokbokki, fish cakes, songpyeon (rice cakes), and vegetables, half of the budget disappeared in an instant.

She conveyed the sad reality, saying, "I don't have money anymore. It disappears so quickly. It'll be over if I buy jeon (pancakes) and kimbap."

"Consumer Spending Coupon for People's Livelihood Recovery? I received it during the first round."

When the production team asked, "Did you receive the Consumer Spending Coupon for People's Livelihood Recovery?"

Han Ga-in replied, "I received it. I received it during the first round."

Afterward, she heard the price in front of a snow crab store and turned away, saying, "I only have 20,000 KRW."

Finally, after purchasing traditional sweets and jeon (pancakes),

She revealed her honest feelings, saying, "I feel small because I don't have money."

In the end, Han Ga-in, who even grabbed some puffed rice with the remaining budget,

Couldn't hide her surprise, saying, "I didn't know 50,000 KRW would disappear so quickly."

A Comment from Gwaja (Snack)

It was nice to see the realistic 'housewife Han Ga-in' rather than the glamorous actress Han Ga-in.

Han Ga-in in the market was no different from us.

To portray Seon-hee, the character losing her sight in 'The Invader,' Song Ji-hyo had in-depth discussions with the director. Having no pre-existing vision problems, Song Ji-hyo strived to realistically depict the character's suffering. She revealed that during filming, she experienced blurred and dim vision while using magnifying glasses, and that her eyes actually felt strained due to prolonged use. This experience demonstrates how deeply Song Ji-hyo immersed herself in the character and highlights the physical impact that filming can have on actors. Song Ji-hyo shared behind-the-scenes stories from the filming of 'The Invader' in a lighthearted manner.

Since her debut in 2003 with 'Wishing Stairs,' Song Ji-hyo has been recognized for her acting skills through numerous hit dramas such as 'Princess Hours' and 'Jumong.' As a long-time cast member of the popular variety show 'Running Man,' she has built a friendly and honest image. To further solidify her position as an actress, Song Ji-hyo is constantly taking on new genres and characters. She is being praised for expanding her limits through acting transformations she had not attempted before, such as the mysterious character in the movie 'Intruder' and the witch character in the drama 'Come to the Witch's Restaurant.' 'The Invader' is expected to be another significant milestone in Song Ji-hyo's journey of acting transformation. There is growing anticipation for the new sides of Song Ji-hyo that she will showcase in the future.

Song Ji-hyo's reflections on starring in 'The Invader' offered a glimpse into her serious attitude and passion for acting. Going beyond simply playing a character, her efforts to understand the character's emotions and even experience physical changes demonstrate her veteran actress qualities. In particular, her honest confession of experiencing vision deterioration proves her deep immersion in the character and will give the audience a more realistic sense of immersion. The humorous way Song Ji-hyo recounted her experience of seemingly experiencing vision deterioration through 'The Invader' seems to reflect her personality of not losing positive energy even during a difficult filming process. It is hoped that Song Ji-hyo will continue to challenge herself with diverse characters and genres and further solidify her own acting style. The movie 'The Invader' itself is also expected to leave a deep impression on the audience through its interesting story.

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In the released pictorial, Han Ji-hyun perfectly pulls off a variety of looks, from a bold red dress to a black cutout dress that accentuates her silhouette. She exudes a free and vibrant energy in the red fringe dress, and a classic yet elegant charisma in the velvet long dress. In particular, her deep gaze and controlled expression capture attention, conveying her inner strength as an actress.

In the interview, Han Ji-hyun shared her honest concerns and growth as an actress, saying, "There are many more days when acting doesn't go well. But the emotions of that day create the next scene. Even if it's not perfect, that moment becomes practice for the next." She added, "Seeing the audience's expressions made me want to continue doing this work well," revealing her warm desire to leave good memories for the audience through her acting.

Jin has expressed his desire to create precious moments with fans through this concert.

He said, "I hope it will remain a happy memory in your minds," expressing his excitement for meeting fans.

It is said that this encore concert will feature a stage where Jin can interact even more closely with his fans.

The medley song list has also been revamped, including songs that haven't been performed in a long time, raising fans' expectations.

Reflecting on the journey of the 'Run Seokjin EP Tour,' which began at the Goyang Stadium last June and spanned 18 shows in 9 cities, including Japan, the United States, and Europe, Jin said, "It was a burden because it was a show I was leading alone, but ARMY's support was a great source of strength."

Jin conveyed his longing to see the fans, saying, "I am preparing to the best of my ability."

He wants to have a fun time with fans at the concert, emphasizing that 'Run Seokjin' is best enjoyed while running and having fun.

He also reminded fans to take care of their stamina since they are naturally good at running and playing.

Talking about the most anticipated moment of the encore fan concert, he said he is looking forward to communicating with fans during the corner where they sing and guess the song titles.

Some fans felt disappointed that fans didn't sing well at the last performance, but Jin thought they sang really well.

Moments with fans will remain a special memory for Jin as well.

This performance is an extension of Jin's first solo fan concert tour, and he says it was a truly happy experience to meet ARMYs in each city.

He said he learned a lot about how to lead the stage stably and gained confidence thanks to ARMY's enthusiastic support.

Finally, Jin emphasized the moments that fans can create together as the key to enjoying the concert 100%.

He believes that "the audience's cheers complete the performance" and hopes to create happy memories with fans.

Jin's heartfelt encore fan concert will surely be an unforgettable moment for many fans.

Jin's preparation and determination ahead of the special meeting with fans will be touching to many.

We hope the concert will be a success and that many fans will experience happy moments running and enjoying themselves with Jin.

This encore fan concert, prepared with various productions and Jin's sincere heart, will be a precious time with beloved fans.

We hope you will all enjoy the moment together and leave with happy memories.

Today, news of actress Moon Geun-young's recent activities has stirred up memories for countless fans.

Rather than under the dazzling spotlight, this actress shines brightest in natural light.

Moon Geun-young shared a selfie with a warm smile on her social media, accompanied by the caption: "Curly, curly, naturally curly hair."

[1] Moon Geun-young's Natural Curls Catch Attention – ‘Not a Hippie Perm, It’s My Real Curls’

In the photo, Moon Geun-young's bare face showcases her naturally wavy, curly hair.

Someone asked, “Is that the trendy hippie perm?” But Moon Geun-young replied with a smile,

“No, these are my natural curls.”

The ease and confidence in her response warmed the hearts of fans even more.

Her hair, as seen in the mirror, was as natural as the morning waves sparkling under the sunlight. Without elaborate styling or artificial curls, the sincerity within was all the more beautiful.

“I felt good drying my hair, so I took a selfie after a long time.”

As she said, the mood of the day was reflected in every strand of her hair.

[2] Moon Geun-young's Natural Curls Catch Attention – Still a Lovely 'Nation's Little Sister'

Moon Geun-young first captured viewers' hearts in the early 2000s with her role as the younger version of Song Hye-kyo in the drama 'Autumn in My Heart.'

After that, she showcased diverse characters in numerous works such as 'My Little Bride,' 'Cinderella's Sister,' and 'Painter of the Wind.'

She earned the title of 'Nation's Little Sister' not just for her cuteness and innocence, but because of the warmth and sincerity she radiated.

Whether in front of the camera or during interviews, Moon Geun-young has always been an actress who feels like a real person.

And even in this recent update featuring her natural curls, that sincerity still shines through.

[3] Moon Geun-young's Natural Curls Catch Attention – Beauty That Shines More Without Pretense

While many actors try to live within a perfect image, Moon Geun-young is an actress who embraces 'imperfection.'

Her natural curly hair feels like a symbol of 'herself as she is' that she shows to the world.

In the photo, Moon Geun-young is smiling with a barely-there makeup look under the soft sunlight.

When she sends an unadorned gaze towards the camera, one can feel a solidity that has deepened over time.

From 'Nation's Little Sister' to 'Actress Moon Geun-young,' she is now someone who knows how to gracefully embrace the passage of time.

[4] Moon Geun-young's Natural Curls Catch Attention – Reviewing Next Project after ‘Hellbound 2’

Moon Geun-young made a special appearance in the Netflix series 'Hellbound 2' last year, meeting viewers after a long time.

Although it was a brief appearance, her presence was powerful.

She expertly portrayed the emotional arc of a character trying to convey “sincerity” in a chaotic world.

As she describes herself as a 'quiet person,' her acting always leaves a 'great resonance.'

It is known that Moon Geun-young is currently reviewing her next project.

Insiders say that she is “considering a project with deep lyricism and humanity after a long time.”

[5] Moon Geun-young's Natural Curls Catch Attention – Fans Talk About 'Moon Geun-young's Charm'

Fans left thousands of warm comments on her recent photo.

“Still beautiful. Even better because it’s natural.”

“Actress Moon Geun-young hasn’t changed even as time has passed.”

“Even the curly hair is art… that smile is still the same.”

In fact, Moon Geun-young's charm lies not so much in 'beauty' itself, but in the power of the sincerity she conveys.

She once said in an interview:

“If people cried watching my acting, it's not my acting, but their own hearts that were moved.”

Like that saying, Moon Geun-young's presence is ultimately an actress who moves people's hearts.

[6] Moon Geun-young's Natural Curls Catch Attention – Her Quiet but Solid Time

Moon Geun-young once said on a broadcast that “life in the entertainment industry was like a huge school to me.”

She is still walking the path of an actress slowly but steadily.

Having lived in the spotlight since childhood, she now seems to have learned to love ‘herself’ with her natural curly hair.

Fans know that her beauty comes from sincerity, not pretense.

In that short line, laughing and saying “Curly, curly curly hair,” both the depth of time and the purity of a girl were contained.

???? Summary: Moon Geun-young's Natural Curls Catch Attention - Key Summary

Issue: Moon Geun-young reveals her natural curly hair

Point: Selfie revealed: “Not a hippie perm, these are my natural curls.”

Reaction: Fans: “Still like the Nation's Little Sister”, “More beautiful because it’s natural”

Current Status: Reviewing next project after special appearance in Netflix’s ‘Hellbound 2’

A warm smile that doesn't change even as time passes.

Moon Geun-young is still the 'Nation's Little Sister' in our memories, and now an actress who has returned with 'natural maturity.'

Perhaps her curly hair is a symbol that captures the curves of life as they are.

Curly, but therefore more beautiful –

Isn't that the power that the name Moon Geun-young holds?

Recently, a video titled 'Hong Jin-kyung's Daughter Ra-el, Who Went to Study Abroad, Reveals Shocking Recent News for the First Time (Singing Skills, Diet Secrets)' was released on the YouTube channel 〈Study King Genius Hong Jin-kyung〉, attracting great attention.

Update on Studying Abroad: "More Friends and Harder Studies!"

Ra-el, now 16 years old, is studying abroad and recently started living in a dormitory.

She said, "I'm making a lot of new friends and studying hard," showing a more mature side of herself.

In particular, she received an offer to join an advanced math class after achieving top grades. However, Ra-el added a realistic reason, saying, "I was worried that my grades might drop if the pace was too fast," which brought laughter.

Self-Introduction in Four Languages? Multilingual Skills 'Catching the Eye'

Ra-el also showcased her impressive language skills while interacting with friends from various countries.

In the video, she introduced herself in four languages and sang a birthday song, showing a glimpse of her global sensibility.

Hong Jin-kyung smiled contentedly, saying, "My daughter seems much freer and brighter abroad."

Shopping Instead of the Hospital? A Cute 'Misunderstanding Incident' with Mom

However, studying abroad wasn't always smooth sailing.

Ra-el revealed an anecdote about going out, supposedly to go to the hospital, but enjoying some shopping with the extra time.

Hong Jin-kyung said, "The school was turned upside down that day. I was really surprised when she came in after 9 PM," but Ra-el pleaded her case, saying, "I was marked absent, so I didn't have to go to the last class, so I just stopped by for a bit."

In the end, Hong Jin-kyung replied to the school, saying, "I understand my daughter's position. I would have done the same," and thankfully, the situation was resolved smoothly.

Fun Mother-Daughter Chemistry: "Ra-el is Honest Like Her Mom"

This video went beyond just revealing recent updates, showcasing the honest and witty conversations between mother and daughter, bringing laughter to viewers.

Many netizens reacted to Ra-el's bright appearance, saying, "She's completely grown into a young lady now," and "I can feel Hong Jin-kyung's genes directly."

The Future is Even More Anticipated for Hong Jin-kyung and Ra-el

Hong Jin-kyung said, "I'm supporting my daughter as she finds her dream and grows," and "Please look forward to content featuring Ra-el directly in the future."

Ra-el's story of studying abroad and her honest charm continue to attract the attention of many.

40th Anniversary 'Powerhouse 40' Revealed

On the 23rd, the 'Golden Disc Awards' unveiled the 'Golden Disc Powerhouse 40' list, selecting key figures who have marked a significant chapter in the 40-year history of Korean popular music, in celebration of its upcoming 40th anniversary in 2026.

The Golden Disc Awards, Korea's representative music awards ceremony that began in 1986, has been a part of the development of Korean popular music for 40 years. This 40th-anniversary selection is a moment to look back on that history and honor the significant individuals.

50 K-Pop Experts Directly Involved

The credibility of the selection was enhanced by the direct participation of 50 K-pop experts as 'Golden Disc Powerhouse Selection Committee' members, including music producers, composers, lyricists, media/content personnel, journalists, and critics.

The fact that the selection was based on the evaluation of experts, rather than public votes, indicates that the assessment focused on historical significance and influence in music, as well as commercial popularity.

'Golden Disc Powerhouse 40' Full List

The following individuals have been selected for the 'Golden Disc Powerhouse 40' (in Korean alphabetical order, followed by English alphabetical order):

Singers: Kim Gun-mo, Kim Kwang-seok, Kim Wan-sun, Kim Hyun-sik, Na Hoon-a, TVXQ (Dong Bang Shin Ki), Deux, Deulgukhwa, BoA, BLACKPINK, BIGBANG, Seo Taiji, Girls' Generation (Sonyeo Shidae), Shin Seung-hun, Shin Hae-chul, PSY, IU, Yoo Jae-ha, Lee Moon-se, Lee Hyo-ri, Lim Young-woong, Cho Yong-pil, G-Dragon, god, H.O.T., BTS (Bangtan Sonyeondan)

Composers/Producers: Kim Min-ki, Kim Eana, Kim Hyung-suk, Park Jin-young, Shin Jung-hyeon, Yoo Young-jin, Yoon Il-sang, Kenzie, Teddy

Planners/Producers: Kim Chang-hwan, Bang Si-hyuk, Yang Hyun-suk, Lee Soo-man, Lee Young-hoon

A Comprehensive Compilation of 40 Years of Korean Pop Music History

The 'Golden Disc Powerhouse 40' is significant in that it represents a comprehensive compilation of the past 40 years of Korean popular music history. It can be interpreted as an indicator to look back on the past, examine the present, and illuminate the future.

The list includes a diverse range of individuals, from those who pioneered new music genres or created music that represented an era, to those who built the systems of the industry and promoted Korean pop music culture to the world.

Singers Account for the Largest Proportion

Singers account for the largest proportion of the list. From idols representing each generation, such as TVXQ, BTS, BLACKPINK, Girls' Generation, god, and H.O.T., to singers who are widely loved by people of all ages, such as Na Hoon-a, Shin Seung-hun, PSY, IU, Lim Young-woong, and Cho Yong-pil, the selection is well-rounded.

The list includes representative K-pop groups from each generation, from first-generation idols H.O.T. and god to second-generation TVXQ, BIGBANG, and Girls' Generation, and third-generation (and beyond) BTS and BLACKPINK.

Hit Song Composers

Composers who wrote hit songs that swept through an era, such as Kim Min-ki, Yoo Young-jin, and Teddy, were also named to the list.

Yoo Young-jin is the representative producer of S.M. Entertainment, creating hit songs for H.O.T., BoA, TVXQ, Girls' Generation, and more. Teddy is the core producer of YG Entertainment, composing songs for BIGBANG and BLACKPINK.

Kim Min-ki is a legendary singer-songwriter who created timeless masterpieces in Korean pop music history, such as 'Achimisul' (Morning Dew).

Producers Who Led K-Pop Growth

Many producers who contributed to the growth of K-pop and the expansion of its global influence, such as Park Jin-young, Bang Si-hyuk, Yang Hyun-suk, and Lee Soo-man, were also named to the list.

Lee Soo-man, the founder of S.M. Entertainment, laid the foundation for K-pop by producing H.O.T., BoA, TVXQ, and Girls' Generation. Yang Hyun-suk founded YG Entertainment and raised BIGBANG and BLACKPINK.

Park Jin-young is the CEO and producer of JYP Entertainment, successfully launching Wonder Girls, TWICE, and Stray Kids. Bang Si-hyuk founded Big Hit Entertainment (now HYBE) and made BTS a global superstar.

Legendary Musicians

Legendary musicians in Korean pop music history, such as Shin Jung-hyeon, Cho Yong-pil, and Seo Taiji, were naturally included.

Shin Jung-hyeon is considered the godfather of Korean rock music, laying the foundation for Korean popular music in the 1960s and 70s. Cho Yong-pil, known as the 'King of Singers,' has maintained his top position for over 40 years.

Seo Taiji debuted in 1992 with 'Nan Arayo' (I Know) and completely changed the paradigm of Korean pop music. He is evaluated as the beginning of K-pop and the starting point of modern Korean pop music.

The Late Kim Kwang-seok, Yoo Jae-ha, etc. Were Also Selected

Musicians who have already passed away were also named to the list in recognition of their musical achievements.

Kim Kwang-seok is a folk singer who is still widely loved for songs such as 'Saranghaji Man' (Though I Loved You) and 'Seoreun Jueume' (Around Thirty). Yoo Jae-ha left only one album but left immortal masterpieces such as 'Saranghagi Ttaemune' (Because of Love).

Kim Hyun-sik and Shin Hae-chul were also named as musicians who left a significant mark on their respective eras.

The 40th Golden Disc Awards to be Held in Taipei in January 2026

Meanwhile, the '40th Golden Disc Awards,' marking its 40th anniversary, is preparing a more splendid and abundant lineup and stage than ever before.

The awards ceremony will be held at the Taipei Dome in Taipei, Taiwan on January 10, 2026. This overseas event shows that K-pop's influence is expanding beyond Korea to the entire Asian region.

As it is a special year for the 40th anniversary, there is also anticipation that some of the individuals selected for the 'Powerhouse 40' will present special performances.

Additional Images

His recognition for contributing to the development of Korean pop culture and the spread of the Korean Wave (Hallyu) holds great significance in itself.

G-Dragon was awarded the Order of Cultural Merit along with voice actor Bae Han-seong and the late Jeon Yu-seong at the '16th Korean Popular Culture and Arts Awards' held at the National Theater Haeoreum Theater in Jung-gu, Seoul on the 23rd.

This award, hosted by the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism and organized by the Korea Creative Content Agency, is one of the most prestigious government honors in the field of popular culture and arts.

It is designed to promote the pride of popular culture artists and enhance their social standing.

The Order of Cultural Merit received by G-Dragon is the second highest-ranking honor in the field of culture and arts, awarded to individuals who have had a significant national impact and social contribution in various fields such as popular music, performance, broadcasting, and art.

Through this award, he has further solidified his status as a timeless cultural icon.

In his acceptance speech, he shared the journey of how his past dreams have become his current reality, saying, "I've been dreaming ever since the day I went to an audition led by my mother when I was six years old."

He particularly mentioned that he achieved his dream of becoming a singer in his teens, received various commendations in his 20s, and now, in his 30s, he has received the Order of Cultural Merit, expressing his anticipation for his 40s.

G-Dragon also stated, "I am proud to be a singer," expressing his gratitude for being able to do what he loves.

He said that he has become one of the stars he dreamed of, and added that he would like to share this honor with the members of BIGBANG, who will be celebrating their 20th anniversary next year.

He also emphasized the importance of showing a certain image to the audience on stage and believes that the power of music can be felt beyond language barriers. His words, "I want to be remembered as an artist who has established a style as a specific individual transcending eras and generations," left a deep impression on many.

G-Dragon has been appointed as the promotional ambassador for the 2025 Gyeongju APEC Summit, taking the lead in promoting Korea, and is further expanding his influence through the world tour 'G-DRAGON 2025 WORLD TOUR [Übermensch]' targeting the global audience.

His activities, encompassing major cities in Asia as well as the Americas and Europe, are making a significant contribution to enhancing the status of K-POP.

As such, G-Dragon's growth goes beyond individual success and plays an important role in leading the globalization of Korean pop culture.

His music and activities inspire many and serve as a wonderful example of how dreams can become reality.

His last message, "I hope you all have good dreams today," reminds us all once again of the importance of dreams.

I sincerely hope that we can create a world where we can share our stories and support each other on the journey towards our dreams.

They manage groups formed through Mnet survival programs, including Kep1er, ZEROBASEONE, ILY:1 (Izu:na), and Alphadriveone.

Established in 2021 through the merger of CJ ENM's subsidiary agencies, Wake One is now under fire.

Despite numerous reports of problematic behavior by its managers, Wake One is accused of neglecting the issues and, even more bafflingly, mistreating its own idols.

The circumstances surrounding Yun Jiyun's departure from ILY:1 remain unclear.

While the agency cited health reasons, fans have alleged that it was due to abuse and harassment by a manager.

Evidence presented includes a viral video where...

The ILY:1 manager is seen reacting sensitively to Yun Jiyun in seemingly unremarkable situations, darkening her expression, and engaging in unnecessary physical contact.

Further accusations come from a ZEROBASEONE fan account, criticizing Wake One for not dismissing a manager who allegedly harassed and mistreated ZEROBASEONE members Ricky, Han Yujin, and Jiyun.

One video shows the manager touching Han Yujin's butt in a public place.

In another video, the manager massages ZEROBASEONE's Chinese member Ricky's shoulders, with his hand slipping far down his back, causing the idol to flinch.

Fans claim this is an example of inappropriate physical contact.

Yun Jiyun, who went on hiatus in February 2025 and left ILY:1 six months later in August, did not even leave a farewell handwritten letter to her fans.

The members also have not mentioned Jiyun at all.

Considering this, can we believe Wake One's claim that it was due to health reasons?

A Moment for an Icon Representing South Korea

Singer G-Dragon (Kwon Ji-yong) became the youngest recipient of the Order of Cultural Merit at the Korea Popular Culture and Arts Awards.

On October 23, 2025, at the awards ceremony held at the National Theater of Korea in Jangchung-dong, Seoul, he marked a symbolic moment as a figure representing K-POP.

"I've been dreaming the same dream since I was six years old."

At the 16th Korea Popular Culture and Arts Awards, G-Dragon was awarded the Order of Cultural Merit along with voice actor Bae Han-seong and the late comedian Jeon Yu-seong.

He greeted the audience with a calm demeanor and a bright smile on the stage.

"I am G-Dragon, the youngest recipient."

G-Dragon recalled his journey from childhood to the present.

"The first place I went with my mom when I was six was an audition. I've been dreaming the same dream ever since."

He strived to become a singer in his teens, experienced the world stage in his twenties, and received the Order of Cultural Merit in his thirties.

He smiled, saying, "I'm even more excited for my forties."

"I want to share this honor with my BIGBANG members and fans."

He confessed, "I am so proud of being a singer, and I sincerely love what I do."

He also mentioned his seniors, fans, and BIGBANG members as the reasons for his growth.

"Next year is BIGBANG's 20th anniversary. I want to share this honor with the members, and I sincerely thank the fans."

G-Dragon said he is currently on a world tour and described every stage as a "dreamlike reality."

"If you have a good dream, it can become a reality. I may be the youngest this year, but I have some experience now. I hope everyone has good dreams."

Amidst the laughter of the audience, it was a moment that revealed his composure and philosophy.

Gwaja's Comments

G-Dragon was still 'a person who speaks of dreams.'

His every word still resonates with the sentiments of a generation.

In the released photos, Taeyeon showed off her unique, pure, and sophisticated beauty while holding a cushion and lipstick from Gucci's Flora collection. Under blue-toned lighting, she enhanced the luxurious atmosphere by wearing a gray tweed dress with subtle pearl accents. Her neatly tied hair and natural makeup perfectly captured Gucci Beauty's trendy mood.

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To achieve a sophisticated and subtly charming look like Taeyeon, try matching a luxurious textured tweed dress with gold point jewelry, and finish with a natural coral lip.