https://www.scmp.com/rss/507630/feed en https://assets.i-scmp.com/static/img/icons/scmp-meta-1200x630.png https://www.scmp.com Associated Press Associated Press Lee Soo-man resisted the title at first. “King of K-pop” sounded too brash, too nightclub-esque – like something you would see on a neon sign in Itaewon, a nightlife neighbourhood in the South Korean capital, Seoul. “I asked them, ‘Couldn’t it be Father of K-pop?’” said the 73-year-old, referring to Lee Soo Man: King of K-Pop, the title of an Amazon Prime documentary about his career. The producers insisted the bolder moniker would resonate better with American audiences. After some back and... https://www.scmp.com/lifestyle/entertainment/article/3331315/king-k-pop-lee-soo-man-talks-about-china-and-online-bullying-k-pop-stars?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/lifestyle/entertainment/article/3331315/king-k-pop-lee-soo-man-talks-about-china-and-online-bullying-k-pop-stars?utm_source=rss_feed Mon, 03 Nov 2025 08:24:29 +0000 The Korea Times The Korea Times Streaming on July 16, Low Life sees Big Bet director Kang Yoon-sung and Moving star Ryu Seung-ryong team up for what many hope will become Disney+’s next flagship Korean original. Also on the team is writer Yoon Tae-ho, who created the webtoons Moss, Misaeng and Inside Men. Set in 1977, Low Life follows the adventures of hardworking bumpkins who gather to claim a sunken ship containing treasure. “I was thrilled to work with the brilliant webtoon artist Yoon, director Kang, whom I’ve always... https://www.scmp.com/lifestyle/k-drama/news/article/3317620/disney-k-drama-low-life-movings-ryu-seung-ryong-and-big-bet-director-new-series?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/lifestyle/k-drama/news/article/3317620/disney-k-drama-low-life-movings-ryu-seung-ryong-and-big-bet-director-new-series?utm_source=rss_feed Thu, 10 Jul 2025 09:28:47 +0000 The Korea Times The Korea Times In the TvN fantasy romance drama Head Over Heels, high school student Seong-ah, who secretly works as a shaman by night, says, “When life wavers in the face of crisis, people seek out shamans.” She performs a ritual called cheondojae to send off spirits and holds exorcisms to drive away evil ghosts, but the overall tone of the drama is not entirely dark and gloomy. During the solemn cheondojae ritual, her watch alarm goes off, prompting her to hurry the ceremony, saying, “If I can’t finish the... https://www.scmp.com/lifestyle/k-drama/k-drama/article/3317310/how-k-dramas-are-making-shamanism-cool-gen-z-and-millennials?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/lifestyle/k-drama/k-drama/article/3317310/how-k-dramas-are-making-shamanism-cool-gen-z-and-millennials?utm_source=rss_feed Tue, 08 Jul 2025 04:15:08 +0000 Associated Press Associated Press K-pop superstar septet BTS will return in spring 2026 with a new album and world tour. Members Jin, RM, V, Jimin, J-Hope, Jungkook and Suga made the announcement on Tuesday during a live stream on Weverse, an online fan platform owned by BTS management company Hybe. It was the first time all seven members have broadcast live together since September 2022. “We’ll be releasing a new BTS album in the spring of next year,” the band said in a statement. “Starting in July, all seven of us will begin... https://www.scmp.com/lifestyle/k-drama/bands/article/3316571/k-pop-stars-bts-announce-new-album-and-world-tour-come-2026?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/lifestyle/k-drama/bands/article/3316571/k-pop-stars-bts-announce-new-album-and-world-tour-come-2026?utm_source=rss_feed Wed, 02 Jul 2025 02:35:11 +0000 The Korea Times The Korea Times Korean actress Jun Ji-hyun is set to leave her management agency Ieum Hashtag after three years, stirring anticipation in the entertainment industry as she prepares to enter the free-agent market. “Jun Ji-hyun’s contract expires early next month, and both sides have agreed not to renew,” an official from Ieum Hashtag said on Tuesday. Jun joined Ieum Hashtag in 2022. The agency was founded by the former CEO of Culture Depot, where Jun was previously managed for many years. Actress Kim So-hyun... https://www.scmp.com/lifestyle/k-drama/news/article/3315602/korean-actress-jun-ji-hyun-eyes-new-opportunities-she-parts-management-agency?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/lifestyle/k-drama/news/article/3315602/korean-actress-jun-ji-hyun-eyes-new-opportunities-she-parts-management-agency?utm_source=rss_feed Tue, 24 Jun 2025 11:45:07 +0000 The Korea Times The Korea Times Actor Lee Je-hoon is keeping his momentum strong after the Korean film Big Deal, with coming roles in highly anticipated new seasons of the dramas Signal and Taxi Driver. Speaking in a recent interview, Lee shared his thoughts on his latest work and his hopes for future projects that will resonate with viewers. Big Deal, which premiered on May 30, takes place during Korea’s 1997 financial crisis, and centres on the clash between Jong-rok (played by Yoo Hae-jin), a finance executive for whom... https://www.scmp.com/lifestyle/k-drama/news/article/3313797/after-big-deal-lee-je-hoon-talks-about-his-roles-new-seasons-signal-taxi-driver?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/lifestyle/k-drama/news/article/3313797/after-big-deal-lee-je-hoon-talks-about-his-roles-new-seasons-signal-taxi-driver?utm_source=rss_feed Thu, 12 Jun 2025 09:15:08 +0000 The Korea Times The Korea Times Actress Kim Da-mi has revealed that she and co-star Son Suk-ku ultimately decided against including a romantic element in their characters’ relationship in the Disney+ original series Nine Puzzles, even though they initially considered it. In a recent interview, Kim reflected on her role in the mystery thriller, which follows criminal profiler E-na (played by Kim), who reopens a decade-old unsolved case for which she was the only witness, and detective Han-saem (Son), who continues to suspect... https://www.scmp.com/lifestyle/k-drama/news/article/3313703/why-disney-k-drama-nine-puzzles-has-no-romance-between-kim-da-mi-and-son-suk-ku?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/lifestyle/k-drama/news/article/3313703/why-disney-k-drama-nine-puzzles-has-no-romance-between-kim-da-mi-and-son-suk-ku?utm_source=rss_feed Tue, 10 Jun 2025 08:15:07 +0000 dpa dpa Four singers from the Korean band BTS will complete their compulsory service in the South Korean military this week, increasing fans’ hopes that the globally popular K-pop band will make a comeback. The Yonhap news agency, citing the band’s management, reported that members RM and V would be discharged on June 10 and Jimin and Jungkook a day later after 18 months’ service. For security reasons, no public event is being planned to mark the occasion, it said. In South Korea, all able-bodied men... https://www.scmp.com/lifestyle/entertainment/article/3313523/will-bts-make-comeback-4-members-korean-boy-band-end-military-service-week?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/lifestyle/entertainment/article/3313523/will-bts-make-comeback-4-members-korean-boy-band-end-military-service-week?utm_source=rss_feed Mon, 09 Jun 2025 01:45:07 +0000 Tribune News Service Tribune News Service Something about K-pop always captivated Kiera Grace Madder. The 17-year-old singer has been a fan of its synchronised choreography, fashion-forward outfits and distinctive sound for as long as she can remember. So in 2022, when she learned that JYP Entertainment, one of the biggest K-pop talent agencies, had plans to make a group with North American-based talent, she jumped at the opportunity. She auditioned for a reality show and earned her place in an all-girl group called VCHA, with five... https://www.scmp.com/lifestyle/entertainment/article/3313112/teen-former-member-us-based-k-pop-group-vcha-sues-label-alleging-abuse-and-exploitation?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/lifestyle/entertainment/article/3313112/teen-former-member-us-based-k-pop-group-vcha-sues-label-alleging-abuse-and-exploitation?utm_source=rss_feed Sat, 07 Jun 2025 09:15:08 +0000 The Korea Times The Korea Times Netflix has released its official teaser trailer for season 3 of its global hit series Squid Game, intensifying fan anticipation ahead of its June 27 premiere. The upcoming season continues the story of Gi-hun (Lee Jung-jae), who re-enters the deadly competition with a personal motive but ends up losing his closest friend. The narrative also follows the enigmatic Front Man (Lee Byung-hun), who infiltrated the game in disguise, and the final fates of the remaining players who have endured the... https://www.scmp.com/lifestyle/k-drama/news/article/3312680/deadlier-games-shocking-twists-new-squid-game-season-3-trailer-released-netflix?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/lifestyle/k-drama/news/article/3312680/deadlier-games-shocking-twists-new-squid-game-season-3-trailer-released-netflix?utm_source=rss_feed Mon, 02 Jun 2025 01:45:08 +0000 The Korea Times The Korea Times K-pop girl group I-dle, formerly known as (G)I-DLE, are starting a new chapter. Their latest album, We Are, was released this week, their first since the group renewed contracts with their agency and officially changed their name. The five-member act – Soyeon, Minnie, Yuqi, Miyeon and Shuhua – debuted in 2018 with the breakout hit “Latata”. The group reaffirmed their future in 2024 when all members renewed their contracts with Cube Entertainment. On May 2, the band announced they would drop the... https://www.scmp.com/lifestyle/entertainment/article/3311008/g-idle-rebrand-i-dle-and-release-new-album-we-are-fronted-good-thing?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/lifestyle/entertainment/article/3311008/g-idle-rebrand-i-dle-and-release-new-album-we-are-fronted-good-thing?utm_source=rss_feed Tue, 20 May 2025 07:15:08 +0000 The Korea Times The Korea Times In today’s K-pop scene, most idol groups focus on delivering flashy performances to tracks prepared by professional songwriters and producers, which, unfortunately, leaves little room for the idols themselves to participate in the creative process. BoyNextDoor, a six-member boy band who debuted in 2023, have been striving to break free from that standard K-pop playbook. Under the guidance of rapper and producer Zico – also the head of the group’s agency KOZ Entertainment – BoyNextDoor have... https://www.scmp.com/lifestyle/entertainment/article/3310392/k-pops-boynextdoor-new-ep-no-genre-coming-lollapalooza-debut-and-connecting-fans?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/lifestyle/entertainment/article/3310392/k-pops-boynextdoor-new-ep-no-genre-coming-lollapalooza-debut-and-connecting-fans?utm_source=rss_feed Thu, 15 May 2025 10:15:07 +0000 The Korea Times The Korea Times Director Han Jun-hee is carving out a distinctive creative signature in Korean content with his unique approach to genre storytelling. From the gritty military drama D.P. to the high-school action series Weak Hero, Han’s works resonate with both domestic and international audiences for their complex narratives and sharp social commentary. Rather than relying solely on action, Han’s storytelling integrates layered plotlines. It blends suspense, drama and satire to highlight institutional violence... https://www.scmp.com/lifestyle/k-drama/news/article/3310031/how-weak-hero-and-dps-han-jun-hee-masterfully-draws-modern-audiences?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/lifestyle/k-drama/news/article/3310031/how-weak-hero-and-dps-han-jun-hee-masterfully-draws-modern-audiences?utm_source=rss_feed Wed, 14 May 2025 08:15:08 +0000 Mabel Lui Mabel Lui Back in early 2024, Edward Park was having dinner when he received a text from a friend. It read: “Hey, have you ever thought about being a K-pop idol?” “Here we go again,” he thought, letting out an audible groan. That is because the budding actor had already chased his K-pop dream: he spent three months in Korea when he was 17, honing his singing and dancing skills around the clock at a Seoul training centre that acted as a funnel for K-pop agencies. There, Park would sing “until my voice... https://www.scmp.com/lifestyle/entertainment/article/3309418/new-k-pop-boy-band-trio-rewind-talk-about-second-chances-and-resetting-their-careers?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/lifestyle/entertainment/article/3309418/new-k-pop-boy-band-trio-rewind-talk-about-second-chances-and-resetting-their-careers?utm_source=rss_feed Wed, 07 May 2025 23:15:08 +0000 The Korea Times The Korea Times Korean actor Park Bo-gum and singer-actress Hyeri are reuniting on Hyeri’s YouTube variety show “Hyell’s Club”, marking their first appearance together since the hit drama Reply 1988. According to industry sources,, Park and co-star Kim So-hyun will film an episode of Hyeri’s web show on May 8 to promote their upcoming JTBC drama series Good Boy, which premieres on May 31 on Amazon Prime Video. Fans are excited to see Park and former Girl’s Day singer Hyeri together again, as this year marks the... https://www.scmp.com/lifestyle/k-drama/news/article/3309387/good-boy-co-stars-park-bo-gum-hyeri-reunite-youtube-show-10-years-after-reply-1988?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/lifestyle/k-drama/news/article/3309387/good-boy-co-stars-park-bo-gum-hyeri-reunite-youtube-show-10-years-after-reply-1988?utm_source=rss_feed Wed, 07 May 2025 08:45:07 +0000 Reuters Reuters The five members of Plave, one of K-pop’s trendiest groups, have appeared on television, held concerts, and one of their songs has even secured a place in the prestigious Billboard Global 200, an international music chart. On paper, they seem like any other K-pop sensation, except that they are two-dimensional avatars. Their songs and content have racked up over 470 million views on YouTube. The band, consisting of Yejun, Noah, Eunho, Bamby and Hamin, say they want to be globally recognised like... https://www.scmp.com/lifestyle/entertainment/article/3309058/famous-bts-meet-plave-virtual-k-pop-boy-band-whose-real-identities-are-kept-secret?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/lifestyle/entertainment/article/3309058/famous-bts-meet-plave-virtual-k-pop-boy-band-whose-real-identities-are-kept-secret?utm_source=rss_feed Tue, 06 May 2025 03:15:08 +0000 The Korea Times The Korea Times Singer and actress IU has gifted fans a surprise set of selfies, sparking speculation about a potential comeback. Earlier this week, IU shared 17 photos to her personal social media account with the caption, “May is coming.” The post included a mix of behind-the-scenes moments on set and close-up selfies showcasing her flawless, make-up-free complexion. One image in particular captured fans’ attention: IU wearing a headset in what appears to be a recording studio, deeply focused on something... https://www.scmp.com/lifestyle/entertainment/article/3308616/iu-dropping-new-music-star-when-life-gives-you-tangerines-teases-possible-comeback?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/lifestyle/entertainment/article/3308616/iu-dropping-new-music-star-when-life-gives-you-tangerines-teases-possible-comeback?utm_source=rss_feed Thu, 01 May 2025 01:46:47 +0000 The Korea Times The Korea Times After making waves in a gritty, adult-rated school action drama on Korean streaming platform Wavve, the second season of 2022 sensation Weak Hero has found new life and greater exposure under the wing of streaming giant Netflix. Weak Hero Class 2 wasted no time igniting buzz with its April 25 release – not just in Korea, but across Asia and Latin America – signalling a dramatic leap from domestic hit to international phenomenon. The series soared to No 1 in Netflix’s non-English-language content... https://www.scmp.com/lifestyle/k-drama/news/article/3308462/netflixs-weak-hero-class-2-star-park-ji-hoon-finding-comfort-playing-deep-protagonist?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/lifestyle/k-drama/news/article/3308462/netflixs-weak-hero-class-2-star-park-ji-hoon-finding-comfort-playing-deep-protagonist?utm_source=rss_feed Wed, 30 Apr 2025 10:15:08 +0000 Bloomberg Bloomberg Nearly a decade after an unofficial ban on K-pop performances in mainland China was imposed, Beijing appears to be easing up on South Korea’s cultural phenomenon. A South Korean boy band, Epex, is now gearing up for a concert in Fuzhou in May, raising expectations that Beijing may ease restrictions on K-pop culture on the mainland, Yonhap News reports. The timing may be a coincidence, but it adds to growing evidence that China is seeking to improve relations with regional partners as countries... https://www.scmp.com/lifestyle/entertainment/article/3308356/mainland-china-host-first-k-pop-concert-k-wave-ban-began-2016?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/lifestyle/entertainment/article/3308356/mainland-china-host-first-k-pop-concert-k-wave-ban-began-2016?utm_source=rss_feed Wed, 30 Apr 2025 01:45:07 +0000 By Pyo Kyung-min What happens when Korean precision meets French flair in the music studio? The answer played out in Seoul, where the first-ever “Atelier K-pop” songwriting camp brought together music professionals from both countries for six days of creative collaboration. The camp, which ran from March 24 to March 29, marked a rare partnership between the French government and top K-pop publishing players, including Leeway Music & Media, Amplified and JYP Publishing. Jointly organised by the... https://www.scmp.com/lifestyle/entertainment/article/3306514/k-pop-songs-french-touch-how-new-songwriting-camp-brought-two-countries-together?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/lifestyle/entertainment/article/3306514/k-pop-songs-french-touch-how-new-songwriting-camp-brought-two-countries-together?utm_source=rss_feed Tue, 15 Apr 2025 08:15:07 +0000 This article contains spoilers. Park Hae-soo may be the most active actor in Korea today. His string of Netflix appearances, ranging from the global phenomenon Squid Game to Narco-Saints and Money Heist: Korea – Joint Economic Area, have earned him the nickname “Netflix’s civil servant”. Now, he has returned with another intense performance in the recently released Korean crime thriller series Karma, and is already preparing to meet viewers again through the coming Netflix mystery series The... https://www.scmp.com/lifestyle/k-drama/news/article/3306180/park-hae-soos-character-karma-new-netflix-k-drama-most-extreme-hes-ever-played?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/lifestyle/k-drama/news/article/3306180/park-hae-soos-character-karma-new-netflix-k-drama-most-extreme-hes-ever-played?utm_source=rss_feed Sun, 13 Apr 2025 23:15:08 +0000 The blue wedding car, adorned with decorations, rolled to a stop in front of the church. Dressed in a white gown, IU’s character Yang Geum-myeong beamed as friends cheered her on. Beneath a shower of confetti and balloons soaring into the blue sky, she smiled with joy. Watching from a distance, her former lover offered a quiet smile, lost in memories of the past. This touching scene from When Life Gives You Tangerines, a hit Netflix Korean drama series, captured the hearts of viewers. It was... https://www.scmp.com/lifestyle/k-drama/news/article/3305595/church-netflix-hit-when-life-gives-you-tangerines-draws-k-drama-fans?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/lifestyle/k-drama/news/article/3305595/church-netflix-hit-when-life-gives-you-tangerines-draws-k-drama-fans?utm_source=rss_feed Tue, 08 Apr 2025 08:15:08 +0000 Netflix released the official poster and trailer this week for its coming series Weak Hero Class 2, the sequel to the 2022 hit Weak Hero Class 1. The new season follows Yeon Si-eun, a model student who transfers to Eunjang High School burdened by trauma after failing to protect a friend from violence. Determined never to lose another friend, he finds himself standing against even greater violence. Portrayed by Park Ji-hoon, Yeon faces off against a mysterious new rival, Geum Seong-jae, played by... https://www.scmp.com/lifestyle/k-drama/news/article/3305168/netflixs-weak-hero-class-2-lee-jun-young-plays-park-ji-hoons-rival-new-school?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/lifestyle/k-drama/news/article/3305168/netflixs-weak-hero-class-2-lee-jun-young-plays-park-ji-hoons-rival-new-school?utm_source=rss_feed Sat, 05 Apr 2025 09:15:07 +0000 A young actress’ suicide in South Korea. Allegations of an underage relationship. These are part of a growing drama in the Asian entertainment world that raises questions about society’s treatment of celebrities in crisis, with harsh media and online commentary amplifying their lowest moments. This week, South Korean actor Kim Soo-hyun publicly denied allegations that he dated the late actress Kim Sae-ron when she was under the age of sexual consent. His emotional press conference followed Kim... https://www.scmp.com/lifestyle/k-drama/news/article/3305195/what-case-kim-soo-hyun-and-kim-sae-ron-says-about-how-south-korea-treats-celebrities?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/lifestyle/k-drama/news/article/3305195/what-case-kim-soo-hyun-and-kim-sae-ron-says-about-how-south-korea-treats-celebrities?utm_source=rss_feed Sat, 05 Apr 2025 05:15:08 +0000 This article contains spoilers By Park Jin-hai In the recently concluded Netflix sensation When Life Gives You Tangerines, singer-actress IU delivers a captivating performance by seamlessly embodying two distinct characters – the spirited young Ae-sun and, later, her ambitious daughter Geum-myeong – in a multigenerational story of life, love and resilience. Despite the challenge of playing dual characters, IU, real name Lee Ji-eun, skilfully captures the intricate nuances of both their... https://www.scmp.com/lifestyle/k-drama/artists-celebrities/article/3305003/what-iu-learned-when-life-gives-you-tangerines-about-life-and-love?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/lifestyle/k-drama/artists-celebrities/article/3305003/what-iu-learned-when-life-gives-you-tangerines-about-life-and-love?utm_source=rss_feed Fri, 04 Apr 2025 04:45:08 +0000 By Park Jin-hai Park Hae-joon, once infamously known in South Korea as the “nation’s adulterer” for his portrayal of an unfaithful husband in the 2020 drama The World of the Married, is reclaiming his screen persona – this time as the “nation’s romantic lead”. In Netflix’s acclaimed series When Life Gives You Tangerines, Park delivers a heartfelt performance as Yang Gwan-sik, a devoted husband and selfless family man. Park shared that he laughed and cried along with viewers while experiencing... https://www.scmp.com/lifestyle/k-drama/news/article/3304921/when-life-gives-you-tangerines-park-hae-joon-how-k-drama-made-him-better-husband?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/lifestyle/k-drama/news/article/3304921/when-life-gives-you-tangerines-park-hae-joon-how-k-drama-made-him-better-husband?utm_source=rss_feed Thu, 03 Apr 2025 04:44:33 +0000 The Korean teenage action drama Weak Hero Class 1 is experiencing a dramatic resurgence three years after its original release – this time on Netflix. Initially premiering on Korean platform Wavve in 2022, the series is earning widespread international attention for its gripping performances and tightly woven storytelling. The show ranked No. 3 globally on Netflix’s TV chart as of March 27, according to streaming analytics platform FlixPatrol. Since its release on Netflix, Weak Hero Class 1 has... https://www.scmp.com/lifestyle/k-drama/news/article/3304566/weak-hero-class-1-sees-big-resurgence-after-netflix-debut-3-years-after-initial-release?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/lifestyle/k-drama/news/article/3304566/weak-hero-class-1-sees-big-resurgence-after-netflix-debut-3-years-after-initial-release?utm_source=rss_feed Mon, 31 Mar 2025 20:15:07 +0000 Korean actor Kim Soo-hyun tearfully denied allegations that he dated the late Kim Sae-ron when she was a minor, during a press conference this afternoon held three weeks after the deceased’s family made the claims. Kim Sae-ron committed suicide aged 24 on February 16, which also happens to be Kim Soo-hyun’s birthday. The controversy began when Kim Sae-ron’s family revealed through a YouTube channel called “Garo Sero Yeonguso” – an ultra-right channel run by an ex-journalist – that the two had a... https://www.scmp.com/lifestyle/k-drama/k-drama/article/3304604/kim-soo-hyun-tearfully-denies-dating-kim-sae-ron-when-she-was-minor?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/lifestyle/k-drama/k-drama/article/3304604/kim-soo-hyun-tearfully-denies-dating-kim-sae-ron-when-she-was-minor?utm_source=rss_feed Mon, 31 Mar 2025 11:30:56 +0000 Actor Lee Jun-young is emerging as a scene-stealer in the second act of Netflix’s When Life Gives You Tangerines, captivating global viewers with his impressive performance. In episodes five to eight of the series, released on March 14, Lee plays Park Young-beom, a pure and devoted young man who only has eyes for one woman. His portrayal of a lovestruck yet earnest character has drawn praise for its warmth and sincerity. When Life Gives You Tangerines tells the life stories of Ae-soon and... https://www.scmp.com/lifestyle/k-drama/k-drama/article/3302934/lee-jun-young-shines-when-life-gives-you-tangerines-new-netflix-korean-drama?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/lifestyle/k-drama/k-drama/article/3302934/lee-jun-young-shines-when-life-gives-you-tangerines-new-netflix-korean-drama?utm_source=rss_feed Wed, 19 Mar 2025 10:15:08 +0000 Korean actress Lee Si-young, 42, is in the process of divorcing her husband after eight years of marriage. Her agency, Ace Factory, confirmed the couple had “mutually agreed to part ways and are currently proceeding with the divorce process”. It added: “As this is a personal matter, we ask for your understanding that we cannot respond to further inquiries.” Lee married restaurateur Cho Seong-hyun, who is nine years her senior, in 2017 and gave birth to their son the following year. She had... https://www.scmp.com/lifestyle/k-drama/news/article/3302703/sweet-home-actress-lee-si-young-divorce-restaurateur-husband-after-8-years-marriage?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/lifestyle/k-drama/news/article/3302703/sweet-home-actress-lee-si-young-divorce-restaurateur-husband-after-8-years-marriage?utm_source=rss_feed Mon, 17 Mar 2025 09:53:48 +0000 Korean actress Seo Yea-ji has addressed rumours linking her to actor Kim Soo-hyun. “As a human being, I also feel overwhelmed, exhausted, fed up, sad and suffocated. I endure and endure …,” Seo posted to her online fan community. “Can we just … stop now? I have no connection to him or his cousin,” she continued, adding: “I don’t even know why I have to clarify this.” A screenshot shared with her post showed an internet user asking whether she had an affair with Kim while he was in a... https://www.scmp.com/lifestyle/k-drama/news/article/3302321/k-drama-actress-seo-yea-ji-denies-she-dated-kim-soo-hyun-says-rumours-making-her-fed?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/lifestyle/k-drama/news/article/3302321/k-drama-actress-seo-yea-ji-denies-she-dated-kim-soo-hyun-says-rumours-making-her-fed?utm_source=rss_feed Fri, 14 Mar 2025 03:45:10 +0000 A model student, once focused only on studying, now conquers his school with his fists. Despite this, his goal remains solely to get into university. This storyline, combined with upbeat and rhythmic action, quickly gained word-of- mouth popularity and made Study Group a K-drama hit on Korean television channel TVing, despite its “not suitable for teenagers” rating. Director Lee Jang-hoon, who helmed the project, recently shared his thoughts on the success and potential for a second... https://www.scmp.com/lifestyle/k-drama/k-drama/article/3301322/study-group-director-mulls-season-2-after-k-drama-series-set-high-school-becomes-hit?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/lifestyle/k-drama/k-drama/article/3301322/study-group-director-mulls-season-2-after-k-drama-series-set-high-school-becomes-hit?utm_source=rss_feed Sat, 08 Mar 2025 03:15:08 +0000 K-pop star Taeil has been expelled from his group, NCT, after being indicted for sexual assault, music label SM Entertainment said. Taeil, 30, (real name Moon Tae-il) is accused of sexually assaulting an intoxicated woman with acquaintances last June. According to legal sources, the Seoul Central District Prosecutors’ Office’s Women and Children’s Crime Investigation Division 1 indicted Moon and two accomplices on February 28 on charges under the Act on the Punishment of Sexual Crimes. In a post... https://www.scmp.com/news/asia/east-asia/article/3301079/k-pop-star-taeil-kicked-out-nct-group-after-being-indicted-sexual-assault?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/news/asia/east-asia/article/3301079/k-pop-star-taeil-kicked-out-nct-group-after-being-indicted-sexual-assault?utm_source=rss_feed Wed, 05 Mar 2025 01:45:44 +0000 By Baek Byung-yeul Dahyun, best known as a vibrant member of the K-pop band Twice, has taken a leap into the world of acting, making her debut in recently released teen romance film You Are the Apple of My Eye. Revealing her goal as an actress, she expressed her desire to bring joy and comfort to audiences, adding that she will continue to keep balancing acting and singing. “I always like to watch dramas and movies and have received great energy from actors’ performances. Like these great actors... https://www.scmp.com/lifestyle/k-drama/k-movies/article/3300546/twice-singer-dahyun-bringing-joy-her-acting-debut-you-are-apple-my-eye?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/lifestyle/k-drama/k-movies/article/3300546/twice-singer-dahyun-bringing-joy-her-acting-debut-you-are-apple-my-eye?utm_source=rss_feed Mon, 03 Mar 2025 03:15:07 +0000 Actor Choi Woo-shik recently shared his thoughts on acting and the challenges of his youthful image, revealing that he is ready for a new chapter in his career beyond the youthful roles that have defined him so far. In an interview, Choi discussed his latest Netflix original series, Melo Movie. Directed by Oh Choong-hwan of Hotel Del Luna, and penned by Lee Na-eun, known for Our Beloved Summer, the romance drama portrays young adults experiencing love, dreams and personal trauma. The story... https://www.scmp.com/lifestyle/k-drama/k-drama/article/3300473/parasites-choi-woo-shik-netflixs-melo-movie-looking-young-his-no-1-romantic-film?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/lifestyle/k-drama/k-drama/article/3300473/parasites-choi-woo-shik-netflixs-melo-movie-looking-young-his-no-1-romantic-film?utm_source=rss_feed Sun, 02 Mar 2025 11:15:08 +0000 By Pyo Kyung-min Few things hit harder than a song packed with confidence and self-affirmation. Add a message of female empowerment and solidarity, and it becomes more than music – it is a statement. Only a handful of K-pop artists are currently conveying this message, one of the most prominent being Blackpink’s Jennie. Her latest singles, “Mantra” and “ExtraL”, the latter featuring Grammy-winning rapper Doechii, are unapologetic in their themes of self-determination and female... https://www.scmp.com/lifestyle/k-drama/artists-celebrities/article/3300524/extral-mantra-singles-blackpinks-jennie-spark-feminism-debate-south-korea?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/lifestyle/k-drama/artists-celebrities/article/3300524/extral-mantra-singles-blackpinks-jennie-spark-feminism-debate-south-korea?utm_source=rss_feed Sat, 01 Mar 2025 03:15:08 +0000 Korean actress Park Bo-young, 35, appeared with a serious expression in the recently released Netflix drama Melo Movie. Playing Kim Mu-bee, a film crew member, Park portrays a character who is cynical and emotionally guarded, speaking only when necessary and in a low, restrained voice. When Go Gyeom, played by Choi Woo-shik, a cheerful and outgoing character, shows interest in her, she asks him earnestly: “Isn’t it exhausting to always pretend to be so cheerful?” Park sat down for an interview... https://www.scmp.com/lifestyle/k-drama/k-drama/article/3299570/korean-actress-park-bo-young-loving-herself-chemistry-choi-woo-shik-melo-movie?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/lifestyle/k-drama/k-drama/article/3299570/korean-actress-park-bo-young-loving-herself-chemistry-choi-woo-shik-melo-movie?utm_source=rss_feed Sun, 23 Feb 2025 10:15:07 +0000 Korean actor Lee Min-ho, currently starring in Netflix drama When the Stars Gossip, has denied rumours he is dating Park Bom, a member of K-pop group 2NE1. The rumours began after Park began sharing photos of Lee on social media last September, referring to him as “my husband” and drawing public attention. On February 13 and 15, she again mentioned him through a secondary account, posting: “He really is my husband.” Although the posts were later deleted, she continued to insist that the rumours... https://www.scmp.com/lifestyle/k-drama/news/article/3299582/actor-lee-min-ho-denies-he-dating-k-pop-star-park-bom-2ne1-after-husband-posts?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/lifestyle/k-drama/news/article/3299582/actor-lee-min-ho-denies-he-dating-k-pop-star-park-bom-2ne1-after-husband-posts?utm_source=rss_feed Fri, 21 Feb 2025 05:52:52 +0000 By Park Jin-hai The Netflix drama Love Scout wrapped up on February 14, having earned praise for its refreshing take on romance by subverting traditional gender roles. The drama challenged long-standing male-centric narratives, featuring a strong woman CEO and a supportive male secretary – a rare dynamic in Korean television. At the heart of the office romance is Han Ji-min as Kang Ji-yoon, a successful CEO of a headhunting company, and Lee Joon-hyuk as Yoo Eun-ho, her thoughtful and highly... https://www.scmp.com/lifestyle/k-drama/news/article/3298940/how-love-scouts-lee-joon-hyuk-relished-male-secretary-role-netflix-k-drama-romcom?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/lifestyle/k-drama/news/article/3298940/how-love-scouts-lee-joon-hyuk-relished-male-secretary-role-netflix-k-drama-romcom?utm_source=rss_feed Mon, 17 Feb 2025 08:15:06 +0000 By Pyo Kyung-min Marking their departure from their agency and the start of independent activities, members of K-pop group NewJeans have rebranded as NJZ, a move that adds new complexity to their ongoing legal battle with Hybe Labels’ subsidiary Ador. While entertainment and legal professionals are hesitant to paint a rosy picture for NJZ, the five members – Minji, Hanni, Danielle, Haerin and Hyein – show no signs of looking back. On February 7, the group revealed their new name and announced... https://www.scmp.com/lifestyle/k-drama/bands/article/3298688/extremely-risky-njz-formerly-newjeans-pursue-new-direction-amid-legal-disputes?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/lifestyle/k-drama/bands/article/3298688/extremely-risky-njz-formerly-newjeans-pursue-new-direction-amid-legal-disputes?utm_source=rss_feed Fri, 14 Feb 2025 11:15:08 +0000 Actor and DKZ K-pop boy band member Park Jae-chan has shared stories from the filming of Check-in Hanyang, recalling the fun atmosphere on set with his fellow cast members. In an interview, Park talked about his experience shooting the drama, screening on Netflix. Check-in Hanyang is a historical drama set in the largest inn of Joseon era Korea (1392-1897), Yongcheonru, where young men navigate life as apprentice servants. Park plays Go Soo-ra, an upright and principled young man. It was his... https://www.scmp.com/lifestyle/k-drama/news/article/3298454/dkzs-park-jae-chan-shirtless-scene-check-hanyang-hanging-his-co-stars?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/lifestyle/k-drama/news/article/3298454/dkzs-park-jae-chan-shirtless-scene-check-hanyang-hanging-his-co-stars?utm_source=rss_feed Thu, 13 Feb 2025 10:15:09 +0000 Kai of the K-pop boy band Exo is returning to civilian life and his fans after completing his military service in South Korea. Kai completed his alternative service as a social service worker on February 10. He enlisted in May 2023. He underwent five weeks of basic military training before being assigned to his social service duties. With Kai completing his service, Sehun is now the only remaining Exo member yet to be discharged. Sehun is set to complete his service on September 20. As... https://www.scmp.com/lifestyle/k-drama/artists-celebrities/article/3298041/exo-hint-something-great-full-group-comeback-kai-completes-military-service?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/lifestyle/k-drama/artists-celebrities/article/3298041/exo-hint-something-great-full-group-comeback-kai-completes-military-service?utm_source=rss_feed Mon, 10 Feb 2025 07:30:10 +0000 By Baek Byung-yeul Yoon Sung-hyun, director of Korean zombie drama Newtopia, has expressed confidence that the series will appeal to international viewers, particularly those who prefer a lighter approach to the zombie genre, blending humour with horror. “There are many international fans who are familiar with the lighter zombie genre. Like [American-Canadian director] George Romero’s zombie movies, our drama also has parts that show a narrative related to zombies with a lighter feel. “I expect... https://www.scmp.com/lifestyle/k-drama/news/article/3297428/newtopia-starring-blackpinks-jisoo-will-appeal-fans-zombie-humour-says-director?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/lifestyle/k-drama/news/article/3297428/newtopia-starring-blackpinks-jisoo-will-appeal-fans-zombie-humour-says-director?utm_source=rss_feed Fri, 07 Feb 2025 01:45:08 +0000 By Pyo Kyung-min Blackpink’s Jisoo is set to embark on a solo fan meeting tour across Asia following the release of her new album, Amortage, set to drop on February 14. Her agency, Blissoo, said on February 5 that Jisoo will kick off promotions with a special fan meet event, “Soo in Love”, at CGV Cheongdam CineCity cinema in Seoul’s Gangnam district, coinciding with the album’s release date. After two sessions in Seoul, the event will expand into an Asia tour throughout the first half of the... https://www.scmp.com/lifestyle/k-drama/artists-celebrities/article/3297541/jisoo-blackpink-visit-hong-kong-macau-manila-and-more-fan-meet-tour?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/lifestyle/k-drama/artists-celebrities/article/3297541/jisoo-blackpink-visit-hong-kong-macau-manila-and-more-fan-meet-tour?utm_source=rss_feed Thu, 06 Feb 2025 01:56:24 +0000 By Baek Byung-yeul Netflix aims to solidify its streaming service leadership with various Korean series, shows and movies this year, including the highly anticipated Squid Game season 3, Culinary Class Wars season 2 and Physical: Asia featuring Filipino boxing legend Manny Pacquiao. “Our goal this year is to be there in those special moments when people find their favourite content in their busy lives,” Kang Dong-han, vice-president of Netflix Korea, said, unveiling a release line-up including... https://www.scmp.com/lifestyle/k-drama/k-drama/article/3297458/netflix-leans-korean-made-shows-and-films-2025-including-physical-100-follow?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/lifestyle/k-drama/k-drama/article/3297458/netflix-leans-korean-made-shows-and-films-2025-including-physical-100-follow?utm_source=rss_feed Wed, 05 Feb 2025 21:45:08 +0000 South Korean actress Lee Joo-sil, a star in the second season of Squid Game,” has died. She was 81. The veteran actress collapsed in cardiac arrest at home in Uijeongbu, South Korea, on February 2, three months after being diagnosed with stomach cancer, The Korea Times reported. She was brought to a hospital but could not be revived. Lee played Park Mal-soon, the doting mother of undercover detective Hwang Jun Ho (Wi Ha-joon) and stepmother of Hwang In-ho (Lee Byung-hun), in the first two... https://www.scmp.com/lifestyle/k-drama/news/article/3297257/squid-game-2-actress-dies-3-months-after-stomach-cancer-diagnosis?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/lifestyle/k-drama/news/article/3297257/squid-game-2-actress-dies-3-months-after-stomach-cancer-diagnosis?utm_source=rss_feed Tue, 04 Feb 2025 03:50:08 +0000 By Pyo Kyung-min K-pop icon G-Dragon surprised fans with the announcement of his first concert in years during a performance by bandmate Taeyang, marking his long-awaited return to the stage. The BigBang rapper made an unannounced appearance at Taeyang’s “2025 Tour ‘The Light Year’ Encore” concert, held on February 1 at Inspire Arena on Yeongjong Island in Incheon, South Korea, joining fellow bandmate Daesung. The news of G-Dragon’s concert came from Daesung, who was the first to take the stage,... https://www.scmp.com/lifestyle/k-drama/artists-celebrities/article/3297239/g-dragons-k-pop-concert-comeback-march-revealed-bigbang-bandmate-taeyangs-show?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/lifestyle/k-drama/artists-celebrities/article/3297239/g-dragons-k-pop-concert-comeback-march-revealed-bigbang-bandmate-taeyangs-show?utm_source=rss_feed Tue, 04 Feb 2025 01:15:08 +0000 By Park Jin-hai As the heroine of recently ended Netflix Korean drama series The Tale of Lady Ok, Lim Ji-yeon captivated audiences with her wide-ranging performance in its narrative of a lowly slave’s growth during Korea’s 1392-1910 Joseon dynasty. Having made a strong impression with her previous antagonist role in Netflix’s 2022 series The Glory, the 34-year-old actress landed her first title role in this drama. The drama follows the story of Gu-deok (Lim), who escapes her abusive master’s... https://www.scmp.com/lifestyle/k-drama/k-drama/article/3296602/tale-lady-ok-star-lim-ji-yeon-why-period-k-drama-made-big-mark-her-career?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/lifestyle/k-drama/k-drama/article/3296602/tale-lady-ok-star-lim-ji-yeon-why-period-k-drama-made-big-mark-her-career?utm_source=rss_feed Wed, 29 Jan 2025 04:45:07 +0000 By Baek Byung-yeul Korean actor Ha Jung-woo describes his upcoming thriller Nocturnal as a raw and intense take on the familiar theme of revenge, and promises that its director, Kim Jin-hwang, will bring a fresh perspective. “The revenge plot isn’t new, but I believe that even the same theme can provide new enjoyment depending on how the works change in form and background,” Ha said in a recent interview. He expressed great interest in the director’s unique vision, which was a significant factor... https://www.scmp.com/lifestyle/k-drama/k-movies/article/3296458/ha-jung-woo-new-thriller-nocturnal-social-media-and-how-he-chooses-roles?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/lifestyle/k-drama/k-movies/article/3296458/ha-jung-woo-new-thriller-nocturnal-social-media-and-how-he-chooses-roles?utm_source=rss_feed Mon, 27 Jan 2025 23:15:07 +0000 Korean actor Kim Soo-hyun has addressed dating rumours involving his Queen of Tears co-star Kim Ji-won, months after speculation began. Messages Kim Soo-hyun exchanged with fans on the communication platform Bubble surfaced online last week, as reported by Newsis and other outlets. According to the messages, a fan made a playful suggestion to the actor: “Marry (Kim) Ji-won quickly ... Make your relationship public and show everyone how much you love each other. Announce to the world that you’re... https://www.scmp.com/lifestyle/k-drama/news/article/3296480/queen-tears-star-kim-soo-hyun-addresses-rumours-he-dating-korean-actress-co-star?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/lifestyle/k-drama/news/article/3296480/queen-tears-star-kim-soo-hyun-addresses-rumours-he-dating-korean-actress-co-star?utm_source=rss_feed Mon, 27 Jan 2025 20:15:08 +0000