Journalist

Choi Song-hee
  • Latest song by SM founders rookie girl band makes US radio chart
    Latest song by SM founder's rookie girl band makes US radio chart SEOUL, December 9 (AJP) -Multinational girl band A20 MAY's latest song has been included in this week's top 40 chart compiled by U.S. Mediabase. Their song "PAPARAZZI ARRIVE" reached No. 39 on the chart released on Sunday, which is calculated based on the most played songs on radio stations in North America. The quintet with Mandarin-speaking and Chinese-American members, groomed by Lee Soo-man, the founder of SM Entertainment who later left his namesake company amid allegations including tax evasion and unfair business practices, have already made multiple entries on the chart with their debut single "Under My Skin" in April and their follow-up song "BOSS" in June and July. The girls are set to perform at iHeartRadio Z100's annual holiday concert Jingle Ball in New York slated for Dec. 12, along with big names like Ed Sheeran, MONSTA X, and Nelly. * This article, published by Aju Business Daily, was translated by AI and edited by AJP. 2025-12-09 11:06:55
  • Park Chan-wooks film earns multiple Golden Globe nominations
    Park Chan-wook's film earns multiple Golden Globe nominations SEOUL, December 9 (AJP) - Award-winning director Park Chan-wook's latest film "No Other Choice" has been nominated for the annual Golden Globe Awards. According to nominations for the prestigious awards unveiled on Monday with winners to be revealed next month, Park's 12th feature will compete against "Blue Moon," "Bugonia," "Marty Supreme," "Nouvelle Vague," and "One Battle After Another" in the category of "Best Motion Picture – Musical or Comedy." The film is also up for an award given to the best non-English language film, while lead actor Lee Byung-hoon is vying for "Best Performance by a Male Actor in a Motion Picture – Musical or Comedy." Lee will compete with Ethan Hawke ("Blue Moon"), George Clooney ("Jay Kelly"), Jesse Plemons ("Bugonia"), Leonardo DiCaprio ("One Battle After Another"), and Timothée Chalamet ("Marty Supreme"). Netflix's hit anime "KPop Demon Hunters" also earned three nominations – "Best Motion Picture – Animated," "Best Original Song -Motion Picture," and "Cinematic and Box Office Achievement." The Hollywood remake "Bugonia," based on the 2003 South Korean film "Save the Green Planet!," received nominations for "Best Motion Picture – Musical or Comedy," "Best Performance by a Male Actor in a Motion Picture – Musical or Comedy" (Jesse Plemons) and "Best Performance by a Female Actor in a Motion Picture – Musical or Comedy" (Emma Stone). The 83rd Golden Globe Awards will take place in Los Angeles on Jan. 11 next year. * This article, published by Aju Business Daily, was translated by AI and edited by AJP. 2025-12-09 09:11:22
  • Rosé named Varietys Global Hitmaker of the Year for her viral song
    Rosé named Variety's 'Global Hitmaker of the Year' for her viral song SEOUL, December 8 (AJP) - K-pop girl band BLACKPINK's member Rosé has been included among American weekly magazine Variety's annual "Hitmakers" list, her agency said on Monday. She was awarded "Global Hitmaker of the Year" at the magazine's ninth annual "Hitmakers" gathering in Los Angeles last Saturday, which recognizes the "artists and collaborators behind the year's 25 most popular songs." "Rising star Rosé, who fielded a big hit with 'Apt.' in tandem with Bruno Mars, also reflected on how quickly success can strike. The collaboration with the veteran hitmaker led to 'an absolute explosion of surprises and an overwhelming amount of love.' And she admitted that gaining international recognition has been 'a tiny bit of a mindfuck,'" the magazine said. In her acceptance speech, Rosé called the past year a "whirlwind of unimaginable events," adding that watching the song's popularity soar was a "real joy." Since its release in October last year, the catchy song has gone viral worldwide, becoming the longest-running K-pop song on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. * This article, published by Aju Business Daily, was translated by AI and edited by AJP. 2025-12-08 10:43:00
  • BTSs RM confesses thinking of disbanding group thousands of times
    BTS's RM confesses thinking of disbanding group "thousands of times" SEOUL, December 07 (AJP) - BTS leader RM confessed he had repeatedly questioned whether the K-pop superstar group should disband or suspend its activities altogether, despite the seven members all having finished their military service by June this year, implying deep internal pressure and a series of undisclosed circumstances that prevented the group from returning sooner. During a Weverse live session on Saturday, RM directly addressed fans wondering about the group’s long silence. “Many people ask, ‘Why did you waste the second half of 2025?’ or ‘Why didn’t you do anything?’” he said. “I also wanted to pursue various activities after being discharged, but there were circumstances I can’t talk about. I don’t have the right to explain everything, so I can’t disclose it all.” Rapper Suga was the last of the bandmates to be released in June, following RM, V, Jimin, and Jung Kook earlier in the year and Jin, the eldest who was discharged in June 2024, and j-hope in October in the same year. BTS has not held a concert since October 2022, marking the longest hiatus of the group’s career. After concluding the “Permission to Dance” tour and releasing a series of solo projects, all seven members entered South Korea’s mandatory military service between late 2022 and 2024. Their enlistments halted group activities at a time when BTS was at the height of global influence, driving billions of dollars in cultural exports, tourism and global attention to South Korea. For years, BTS’s military service had been the subject of national debate over whether cultural contributions could warrant exemption. HYBE ultimately confirmed in October 2022 that the members would serve without exception. Their staggered schedules ensured a full-group comeback would not occur until all had been discharged in 2025. With all seven now having completed their service, fans widely expected a swift reactivation of BTS as a full group. RM, however, indicated the path has not been simple. “I couldn’t sleep. The pressure is huge.” RM described the emotional weight of preparing for a return on such a massive scale. “I want to perform right away, but preparing for it requires so much, and the personal pressure is huge,” he said. “Since last month, I haven’t even been able to sleep. I was thinking about whether I should get a prescription for sleeping pills." He apologized for the extended wait. “I’m truly sorry for making you wait so long. But we have our reasons, and we can’t come back easily until we can present something you’ll be satisfied with,” he said. “Considering the scale and all the circumstances involved, this may sound like an excuse, but I ask for your understanding. We will return. There may be times when it’s not exactly what you hoped for, but I will do my best.” RM confirmed that the group’s new album—planned for release next spring—is nearly complete, with the members practicing daily and filming content throughout December. “Our comeback is soon,” he said. “We will be practicing and filming this month.” The livestream took a more vulnerable turn when RM revealed he had repeatedly questioned the future of the group. “I’ve wondered thousands of times, ‘Would it be better for the team to disband or go on hiatus?’” he said. “But the reason we’re still together is because of the love between the members and the respect we have for our fans.” His remarks offered a rare glimpse into the strain of managing expectations of a global fanbase while navigating military obligations, creative direction and personal well-being. “I love you in my own way.” RM ended the livestream with a message to ARMY. “I love you all. I hope you really know that,” he said. “Even if that love doesn’t come back to me in the same way, I’ll keep loving you in my own way.” With the full group reunited and their comeback preparations underway, BTS’s return next spring is poised to be one of the most closely watched events in the global music industry—marking the end of a three-year military hiatus and the beginning of the group’s next chapter. 2025-12-07 16:56:31
  • BLACKPINKs Jennie sets new milestone with four RIAA certifications
    BLACKPINK's Jennie sets new milestone with four RIAA certifications SEOUL, December 2 (AJP) - K-pop girl group BLACKPINK's member Jennie has earned another "gold" certification for a song from her first full-length solo-debut album. According to the U.S. Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA)'s latest list released this week, "ExtraL" from her album "Ruby" received the honor. This brings Jennie's RIAA certifications to four, the most among K-pop solo artists, including three tracks from "Ruby." Previously, she received a "platinum" certification for "One Of The Girls," a collaboration with Canadian singer-songwriter The Weeknd and French-American actress Lily-Rose Depp, as well as “gold” certifications for "Mantra" and "Like JENNIE." The RIAA awards certifications based on album sales - gold for 500,000 units, platinum for 1 million, multi-platinum for 2 million, and diamond for 10 million. * This article, published by Aju Business Daily, was translated by AI and edited by AJP. 2025-12-02 15:06:33
  • Stray Kids achieve eighth consecutive No. 1 on Billboard 200
    Stray Kids achieve eighth consecutive No. 1 on Billboard 200 SEOUL, December 1 (AJP) - K-pop boy band Stray Kids' latest album topped the Billboard 200 albums chart this week, surpassing American singer-songwriter Taylor Swift's "The Life of a Showgirl," which had held the top spot for seven weeks. "Stray Kids claim their eighth No. 1 on the Billboard 200 albums chart as 'Do It' debuts atop the ranking dated Dec. 6," the American music chart said on Sunday, adding, "With an eighth No. 1, Stray Kids extend their record for the most No. 1s among groups this century (since 2000)." The album, which marks the octet's eighth consecutive No. 1 debut, contains five tracks that encourage acting boldly with strong confidence while enjoying the moment. * This article, published by Aju Business Daily, was translated by AI and edited by AJP. 2025-12-01 14:39:51
  • Stray Kids earn six new RIAA certifications
    Stray Kids earn six new RIAA certifications SEOUL, November 27 (AJP) - K-pop boy band Stray Kids received six new certifications from the U.S. Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA) on Wednesday. They earned a "gold" certification for their latest album "Karma," after selling over 500,000 copies in the U.S. since its release in August this year, bringing their total certified albums to six, including the previous ones like "Ate," "Maxident," and "5-Star." They also received four more certifications for their singles such as "Case-143," "Chk Chk Boom," "Lalalala," and "S-Class." Additionally, "God's Menu," the lead track from their album "Go Live" released in June 2020, earned their first “platinum” certification after selling over one million copies there. Originally created to recognize artists and track recording sales, the certification programs "have come to stand as a benchmark of success for any artist - whether they've just released their first song or a greatest hits album," according to the RIAA. Meanwhile, Stray Kids continue to make history on the Billboard 200 chart, as "Karma" ranks 45th this week, marking 13 consecutive weeks in the top 100. * This article, published by Aju Business Daily, was translated by AI and edited by AJP. 2025-11-27 16:46:08
  • Koreas acting community bids final farewell to beloved actor Lee Soon-jae
    Korea's acting community bids final farewell to beloved actor Lee Soon-jae SEOUL, November 27 (AJP) - Veteran actors and young aspiring performers bid a final farewell to their beloved teacher and role model Lee Soon-jae, whose passion for acting endured until illness forced him off the stage at age 90. The funeral was held at 5:30 a.m. Thursday at Seoul Asan Medical Center, attended by family members, fellow actors, longtime students, and colleagues from across the entertainment industry. Jeong Bo-seok, who played Lee’s son in the sitcom “High Kick,” presided over the ceremony before a crowd that filled the 120-seat funeral hall, including students from Gacheon University where Lee taught acting for decades. “How I wish this were just a scene from a drama,” said actor Kim Young-chul — often remembered for his kingly roles in historical series — as he recalled how Lee helped him stay grounded in his acting journey. “I’ll miss you dearly. I will never forget you, my dear teacher.” Actress Ha Ji-won also shared her tribute, remembering Lee as “a true artist” who constantly questioned, challenged, and inspired himself and those around him. A seven-minute memorial video featured Lee laughing in his signature deep roar when asked whether he enjoyed acting. “What do you think? I’m still acting,” he replied — a line that drew teary smiles from the mourners. Lee was laid to rest at Eden Paradise in Icheon, Gyeonggi Province. Born in 1934 in North Hamgyong Province, Lee debuted in 1956 and rose to become a beloved “national actor” through iconic roles in “What Is Love,” “Hur Jun,” and “High Kick.” He was the oldest recipient of last year’s KBS Drama Awards. Even into his late 80s, Lee remained devoted to the stage, most recently performing in “Waiting for Godot.” The government posthumously awarded him the Geumgwan Order of Cultural Merit on Nov. 25, honoring his lifetime contribution to Korean performing arts. * This article, published by Aju Business Daily, was translated by AI and edited by AJP. 2025-11-27 11:30:04
  • K-pop hitmaker Kim Hyung-seok bids to chair Korea Music Copyright Association
    K-pop hitmaker Kim Hyung-seok bids to chair Korea Music Copyright Association SEOUL, November 25 (AJP) - Veteran K-pop composer Kim Hyung-seok (59), the creative force behind some of Korea’s most iconic ballads, has officially announced his candidacy for the 25th chairman election of the Korea Music Copyright Association (KMC). Kim, whose three-decade career shaped the sound of Korean pop through hits for Lee Moon-sae, Jang Hye-jin, Shin Seung-hun, Kim Gun-mo, Jo Sung-mo, Park Jin-young, Kim Kwang-seok, and many more, said he decided to run after reviewing the association’s internal reports. “It’s time to show results, not just talk,” he said. His campaign centers on restoring trust in the organization and ensuring fair, transparent compensation for music creators. “I hesitated at first,” he admitted. “But after examining the financial statements and reports, I realized the situation was dire. There’s too much leakage and too many outdated systems. ” He is pitted against composer Lee Shi-ha, best known as a member of rock duo The Cross and the creator of hits such as “Don’t Cry.” Lee currently serves as a board director of the Korea Music Copyright Association and recently appeared as a witness at the National Assembly’s Culture, Sports and Tourism Committee audit, where he addressed issues such as Chinese copyright fees, OTT royalty collection, and industry transparency and also argues for sweeping reform at the copyright body. Calling the KMC “a large organization burdened by antiquated structures,” Kim criticized inefficiencies that persist despite rising copyright collections. “The association should protect creators’ rights,” he said. “But the current system makes it hard to trust it with money.” If elected, Kim’s first priority would be commissioning external consultants to conduct an independent audit of the KMC’s finances and internal processes, with results made fully public to members. He also promised to open up major meetings through online broadcasts, mirroring government transparency practices. “The association feels like a closed room because nothing is disclosed,” he said. “We need sunlight.” Kim laid out a broad reform agenda aimed at positioning the KMC for a rapidly changing global music market. He stressed the need for updated standards in overseas copyright collection, arguing that the global success of K-pop is not reflected in the revenues actually returned to creators. To address this, he proposed establishing a Korean Music Licensing Collective to streamline foreign royalty management and help usher in what he calls a “1 trillion won collection era.” The candidate also pointed to ongoing conflicts with OTT platforms and domestic music services, arguing that revenue distribution should be tied to total sales, not simply the number of user accounts. “Fair sharing should match the actual value created,” he said. Looking ahead, Kim urged the KMC to prepare for the coming AI-driven music era. Without proactive measures, he warned, global IT platforms could end up defining how AI-generated music is managed—and monetized. “We must decide how to record and manage AI compositions,” he said. “If we delay, platforms will set the standards, and creators will pay the price.” Beyond structural reforms, Kim also emphasized the importance of creator welfare. He proposed establishing a foundation to support composers, nurture new talent, and strengthen global networks for Korean creators. “The goal is simple,” Kim said. “Creators deserve the royalties they have rightfully earned. That’s why I am running for chairman.” * This article, published by Aju Business Daily, was translated by AI and edited by AJP. 2025-11-25 07:29:33
  • Korea-Japan joint titles emerge as new streaming sellers
    Korea-Japan joint titles emerge as new streaming sellers SEOUL, November 21 (AJP) - In October, Netflix’s charts delivered an unusual pairing at the top: the Korean film “Good News” and the Korea–Japan co-produced drama “Anonymously Yours”. Despite their different genres, both titles underscore a fast-rising trend — Korean and Japanese creators increasingly joining forces in writing, directing, casting, and financing. “Anonymously Yours,” a romance series adapted from the 2010 French–Belgian film Les Émotifs anonymes, is directed by Japan’s Tsukikawa Sho, written by Korea’s Kim Ji-hyun, and produced by Yong Film. Starring Han Hyo-joo and Oguri Shun, the series premiered on Oct. 16 and immediately climbed to No. 1 on Japan’s Today’s Top 10 Series, while also entering the Top 10 in Korea and Netflix’s global non-English TV rankings. The Korea Creative Content Agency’s Tokyo office notes that co-produced titles are now in structural demand across both markets. Japanese broadcasters are aggressively partnering with Korean studios to compete with global OTT players and to expand export pipelines, while Korean producers gain access to Japan’s stable primetime slots and extensive library of adaptable IP. As major OTTs and terrestrial broadcasters line up more joint projects, the “Korea–Japan collaboration” tag is becoming a recognizable programming category in itself. Released on the same day, “Good News” — a dark comedy loosely inspired by the 1970 Yodo-go hijacking — brought together Korean actors Sol Kyung-gu, Hong Kyung, and Ryu Seung-bum with Japanese stars Yamada Takayuki and Kasamatsu Sho. Directed and written by Byun Sung-hyun, the film satirizes Cold War-era bureaucracy between the two countries and entered Netflix’s global non-English film Top 10 following strong reviews. Netflix’s portfolio already includes multiple Korea–Japan collaborations, from crime thriller “Road” to the youth drama “Soulmate” and “Gas Human,” a new adaptation of the 1960 Japanese sci-fi classic. The trend extends beyond Netflix: Coupang Play recently released the joint drama “Love After,” while Disney+ is preparing “Merry Berry Love,” co-produced by CJ ENM and Nippon TV. The surge in co-productions reflects a broader shift in Northeast Asia’s content ecosystem — one where cross-border storytelling, shared financing, and mixed casts are emerging as strategic tools to reach global audiences. * This article, published by Aju Business Daily, was translated by AI and edited by AJP. 2025-11-21 10:01:33