AJU PRESS ASIA FIRST NEWS AGENCY

Journalist

Choi Song-hui
  • Cannes Highlights Hirokazu Kore-edas New Film The Sheep in the Box Exploring Family in the AI Era
    Cannes Highlights Hirokazu Kore-eda's New Film 'The Sheep in the Box' Exploring Family in the AI Era Korean filmmaker Hirokazu Kore-eda, celebrated at Cannes, questions the meaning of family through the coexistence of humans and humanoids in his latest film, 'The Sheep in the Box.' Known for exploring relationships beyond blood ties in works like 'Shoplifters' and 'Monster,' Kore-eda delves into themes of love, loss, and the complexities of living together in this new project.On June 4, a press screening and conference for 'The Sheep in the Box' took place at Megabox COEX in Gangnam, Seoul. Kore-eda and actress Rimu Kuwaki attended the event to discuss the film.'The Sheep in the Box' tells the story of a 7-year-old humanoid that enters a household to replace a deceased child, exploring the joy of becoming a family and the anxiety of potential abandonment. This film marks Kore-eda's tenth entry into the Cannes Film Festival, where it has been invited to compete in the official selection.Kore-eda cited the rise of generative artificial intelligence (AI) as a catalyst for the film's concept. He explained, "The idea for the film came about two years ago. I heard about a business in China that uses generative AI to resurrect deceased individuals. During a work trip to China, I met the founder of this business, who showed me how they create AI representations using photos and videos left on the deceased's phones. This inspired the film's narrative."Kore-eda expressed curiosity about how audiences would receive the film, stating, "This is not a story where everyone lives happily ever after. It shows the remaining children and the departing adults, who do not know how the humanoid children will live. They will have to imagine and feel what is invisible. I wanted to convey that imagination to the audience."He emphasized that the relationship between humans and humanoids should not be viewed merely as a conflict between technology and humanity. Instead, he connected it to the dynamics of marriage, noting, "I thought about how difficult and interesting it is for two different beings to coexist. Just as glass and wood can harmonize, I wanted to express the coexistence of humans, plants, and humanoids in various ways. In the film, the mother who lost her child regrets harsh words spoken to her child, while the father regrets things left unsaid. They start as a couple with different regrets but live together in the same box, imagining their lost child, Kakeru. I wanted to convey something through the relationships of these disparate beings."At the center of the film is Rimu Kuwaki, who was selected from a competitive pool of 200 candidates. Kore-eda shared that he made the casting decision based on his first impression, saying, "I had a gut feeling about this child."He added, "We held multiple auditions, and the final decision was made with the consensus of the entire staff. The pivotal moment was a scene in the bathhouse towards the end of the film, where she acted alongside Daigo, who plays Kensuke. That performance solidified my decision to cast her."Kuwaki recalled the moment she learned she got the role, saying, "My family jumped for joy together. My dad, mom, and sister cried a lot. At first, I thought, 'Why are they crying so much?' But later, after my mom explained, I was so happy that I almost cried too."Kuwaki also praised Kore-eda's directing style, stating, "He told me to act naturally, to be myself. Other directors often give specific instructions, but Kore-eda made it comfortable by saying to just be yourself. He joked that it was okay to do it casually, but I think it was more than that."Kore-eda explained that he aimed to draw out natural performances from the young actors rather than giving detailed directions. He said, "In fact, there was no directing or instruction regarding the actors' performances. We practiced while Daigo and Kuwaki were conversing and waiting. Ayase also joined in, and when the atmosphere was right, we started filming."He praised Kuwaki's quick thinking, noting, "She has a rare quality. After the first take, she had the ability to change the mood or dialogue in the second take, showing a playful sense and adaptability. She acted with great enjoyment, which made me feel she was not just a child actor."Kuwaki's improvisation impressed Kore-eda, who recalled a scene in the bathhouse where she says, 'Please keep it a secret.' He noted, "There’s a line where she asks, 'What should I do?' while teasing her dad, and that was not something I directed. I was surprised she delivered it that way."In closing, Kuwaki expressed her gratitude, saying, "Thank you for watching 'The Sheep in the Box.' I believe this film is about love. It’s a movie that makes you think and reflect multiple times. I hope you watch it thoughtfully."Kore-eda also encouraged viewers to imagine the unseen elements of the film, stating, "Movies are made from what is visible, but the unfilmed parts are also important. Just as architecture suggests that the essence lies in the unseen, I was conscious of that while making this film."He added, "While the film shows various visible elements like forests and instant noodles, I hope you also imagine what is not visible."Meanwhile, 'The Sheep in the Box' is set to be released in South Korea on June 10.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-06-04 17:18:00
  • Can AI Films Find a Place in Established Film Festivals?
    Can AI Films Find a Place in Established Film Festivals? Artificial intelligence (AI) is no longer a distant concept in the film industry. With feature films created using generative AI now screening in theaters and discussions about the ethics of AI in filmmaking gaining traction at international film festivals and film markets, the industry is facing new standards.The Bucheon International Fantastic Film Festival (BIFAN) is a key example of this shift, having established a new section called 'Bucheon Choice: AI Films' last year, officially recognizing AI films as part of its screenings and competitions. This marks a significant step in questioning how AI films can be introduced and evaluated within existing international film festivals.BIFAN's initiative continued at this year's Cannes Film Market. Shin Chul, the executive director of BIFAN, was invited to present on 'BIFAN's AI Leadership Strategy' during the 'Cannes Next' program, which took place during the 79th Cannes Film Festival.This program brought together media, technology, investment, and policy stakeholders to discuss Asia's AI-driven cultural ecosystem. BIFAN shared its experiences and insights on operating an AI film section with international film industry representatives. Shin also participated in the 'AI for Talent Summit,' a key event at the Cannes Film Market, contributing to discussions on the evolving role of AI in the film industry.Cannes is approaching the topic cautiously. There remains a careful atmosphere regarding how to handle works where AI takes the lead in creation within major competition categories. However, discussions around AI production, investment, copyright, and creative ethics are expanding at the film market. The industry is navigating a path between using AI as a production tool and recognizing AI as a creative entity.As AI films begin to enter traditional film festivals, the next question is about evaluation criteria. The mere technical novelty of being created by AI is insufficient for acceptance within the language of film festivals. It is essential to assess the possibilities and limitations demonstrated by AI feature films that have been screened in theaters, as well as how they can navigate issues of creative ethics and rights.In South Korea, AI feature films have already begun to screen in theaters. In May, two films, 'I Am Popo' and 'The Man in Hanbok,' both created entirely with generative AI, premiered simultaneously. 'I Am Popo' tells the story of an AI robot born to serve humans who kills a potentially criminal human, while 'The Man in Hanbok' depicts a fictional historical drama where the Joseon scientist Jang Yeong-sil meets Leonardo da Vinci in Renaissance Florence. These films illustrate that AI filmmaking is no longer limited to short experiments but has entered the realm of feature narratives and theatrical releases.However, alongside their potential, limitations have also emerged. Both films attracted only a few hundred viewers, indicating limited commercial impact. Beyond technical experimentation, the challenge remains of how convincingly these films can engage audiences. Generative AI struggles to maintain consistent facial expressions and backgrounds over extended periods, and producing feature films requires numerous repetitive tasks and scene-by-scene adjustments.'Intermediate Realm,' directed by Kang Yoon-sung and noted as South Korea's first feature film utilizing AI, also showcases both potential and limitations. Kang revisited a screenplay he had prepared 25 years ago, modifying it with AI technology in mind, and visualized characters like the Twelve Zodiac Gods and Yeomra, the King of the Underworld, which were challenging to realize with existing budgets and technology. In an interview, he stated, "A screenwriter always thinks about the budget first. Using AI breaks that constraint. The moment you think, 'Is this possible?' you can envision a new world."However, for AI films to be accepted into established film festivals, technical feasibility alone is insufficient. Creative ethics and rights issues must be addressed first. The controversy surrounding the short film 'Meter Reader,' which used AI to replicate the face and voice of actress Yeom Hye-ran, directly highlighted this issue in the South Korean film industry. While the production team claimed they had obtained permission for the use of her likeness, her agency stated there had been no prior consultation or approval, leading to the video's removal from public view.Similar controversies are occurring internationally. In Hollywood, the emergence of the AI actor 'Tilly Norwood' has sparked backlash from industry professionals, including actors and directors, who fear that human performances and images could be replaced by cheap data. The American actors' and broadcasters' union is advocating for the introduction of a so-called 'Tilly Fee,' which would require AI actors to be compensated at rates comparable to human actors.Despite these challenges, creators are not entirely rejecting the use of AI. If proper consent, compensation, and rights protection are ensured, AI can enhance production efficiency and broaden creative expression. The issue lies in the fact that sufficient standards to support these possibilities have yet to be established. For AI to become a collaborator with creators, the sources of training data, rights compensation, and the scope of consent from actors and performers must be clarified.Film critic Yoon Seong noted, "Relying solely on the technical marvel of AI films looking 'just like real people' may be a one-dimensional approach. Ultimately, storytelling is what matters in film. The advantage of AI lies in its ability to attempt scenes that are physically difficult to realize without significant budgets, so how that technology is utilized to create unique characteristics in a work is crucial."He added, "For now, I believe it is appropriate to evaluate AI films in a separate section. The technology is not perfect, and there are points where immersion is broken compared to live-action films. However, we must now view the issue as how to utilize and tool AI within the films we know, rather than whether to recognize AI films as films at all."AI films are no longer confined to the realm of 'possibility.' They are already being created, screened, and becoming topics of discussion at film festivals and markets. What is now needed is to move beyond mere admiration for technological novelty to examine the completeness of these films as works, the involvement of creators, and issues of copyright, likeness rights, and industrial responsibility. As AI films begin to find their place within established film festivals, these festivals are becoming arenas to test both the potential and standards of this new medium.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-06-04 13:00:00
  • Wild Thing Draws 160,000 Viewers on Opening Day, Surpassing The King and the Clown
    'Wild Thing' Draws 160,000 Viewers on Opening Day, Surpassing 'The King and the Clown' The film 'Wild Thing' had a strong debut, attracting 160,748 viewers on its opening day. According to the integrated ticket sales network on June 4, 'Wild Thing' surpassed the opening day attendance of this year's top-grossing film, 'The King and the Clown,' which had 117,783 viewers on its first day. Despite being shown on a relatively limited number of screens, 'Wild Thing' achieved a high seat occupancy rate, securing the top spot at the box office for new releases. The film garnered attention prior to its release for its blend of 2000s pop music nostalgia and comedy, and early audience reactions have been positive. Audience feedback has been encouraging. 'Wild Thing' boasts a CGV Egg Index of 95%, a score of 9.2 on Lotte Cinema, and 9.01 on Naver, indicating strong ratings across major ticketing and review platforms. Viewers have commented, "It made me laugh and cry purely from its charm," "I laughed out loud for the first time in four years," "Just when I thought it would turn left, it made an unexpected U-turn," and "It's the essence of comedy that can make you laugh without a care in the world," reflecting their satisfaction with the humor and storyline. 'Wild Thing' is a comedy about a once-popular mixed-gender dance group, 'Triangle,' which was abruptly disbanded due to an unforeseen incident. The film follows the group's members as they embark on a reckless challenge to seize a second chance after 20 years. Actors Kang Dong-won, Um Tae-goo, and Park Ji-hyun portray the members of 'Triangle,' with supporting performances from Oh Jung-se and Shin Ha-kyun adding to the comedic dynamic. The film's nostalgic references to 2000s pop music and K-pop stage concepts, combined with the actors' performances, have captured the audience's interest in the early days of its release. Meanwhile, on the same day, 'The Army' maintained its position at the top of the box office, drawing 331,490 viewers and bringing its cumulative audience total to 4,043,759. 'Back Room' attracted 114,110 viewers, with a cumulative total of 572,775.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-06-04 08:39:00
  • Goonche, Surpasses 4 Million Viewers in 14 Days Amid Global Success
    'Goonche', Surpasses 4 Million Viewers in 14 Days Amid Global Success ‘Goonche’ has surpassed 4 million viewers just 14 days after its release. The film is breaking records for the fastest box office success in South Korea this year, while also achieving the top opening box office in major Asian markets, indicating a strong global performance.According to the Korean Film Council's integrated ticketing system, as of 5:12 PM on June 3, ‘Goonche’ recorded a cumulative audience of 4,001,31. It reached this milestone just 14 days after its release on May 21, marking the fastest 4 million viewer count for a film released in 2026.‘Goonche’ achieved 1 million viewers on its fourth day, 2 million on the fifth day, and 3 million on the tenth day, continuing to set records for the shortest time to reach 4 million viewers. It surpassed the break-even point within ten days of its release and is now ranked second among the highest-grossing films of 2026.The film depicts survivors trapped in a quarantined building facing unpredictable forms of infected individuals amid an unidentified infection crisis. Directed by Yeon Sang-ho, known for expanding the zombie genre with films like ‘Train to Busan’ and ‘Peninsula,’ it features a cast that includes Jeon Ji-hyun, Koo Kyo-hwan, Ji Chang-wook, Shin Hyun-bin, Kim Shin-rok, and Go Soo.Interest from the international film community was significant even before its release. ‘Goonche’ was officially invited to the Midnight Screenings section of the 79th Cannes Film Festival, where it was first showcased to global audiences. Following its screening in Cannes, it garnered attention for its genre thrills and contemporary themes of collective intelligence and infection, creating buzz before its domestic release.In addition to its domestic success, ‘Goonche’ is also performing well internationally. It topped the opening box office in key Asian regions including Malaysia, Taiwan, the Philippines, Singapore, and Hong Kong.In Malaysia, where it opened on May 22, it surpassed ‘Parasite’ within three days to become the third highest-grossing Korean film, accumulating approximately 15.8 million ringgit (MYR) as of May 30, ranking second behind ‘Train to Busan.’ In Taiwan, it recorded approximately 110 million New Taiwan dollars (TWD) by May 31.The film is also seeing success in the Philippines, where it opened on May 27 and earned about 68.5 million pesos (PHP) within five days, ranking second among the highest-grossing Korean films after ‘Train to Busan.’ In Singapore, it recorded approximately 715,000 Singapore dollars (SGD) by May 31, positioning itself among the top Korean films at the box office.In Hong Kong, it opened on May 28, earning about 1.4 million Hong Kong dollars (HKD) on its first day, setting the highest opening box office record for a Korean film since ‘Peninsula’ in 2020. By May 31, its cumulative earnings reached approximately 6.4 million Hong Kong dollars.With a rapid increase in audience numbers in South Korea and ongoing interest in Yeon Sang-ho's K-zombie genre abroad, attention is focused on whether ‘Goonche’ can maintain its box office momentum both domestically and internationally.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-06-03 17:45:00
  • Jeon Ji-hyun Returns to the Screen After 11 Years with Goonche
    Jeon Ji-hyun Returns to the Screen After 11 Years with 'Goonche' Jeon Ji-hyun, who captivated audiences with her role in the film 'Assassination,' has made her return to the screen after 11 years. Her latest film, 'Goonche,' directed by Yeon Sang-ho, has been officially invited to the Midnight Screenings section of the 79th Cannes Film Festival. Through her character, who embodies cold rationality, responsibility, and decisive action, Jeon aims to re-establish her presence that audiences have been eagerly awaiting."It's been 11 years since I last appeared on screen. The COVID-19 pandemic caused the film industry to slow down significantly, which naturally reduced opportunities to review scripts. During that time, I focused on series work, but I found the script for 'Goonche' to be intriguing. After working on longer series, I felt a bit bored, but reading Yeon Sang-ho's script reignited my desire to make a film. It was a movie I wanted to see myself. It was intense and thrilling," she said.This marks Jeon Ji-hyun's first official invitation to the Cannes Film Festival. Although she had previously visited as an ambassador, this is her first time walking the red carpet for a Korean film in which she starred. "The Cannes I visited before wasn't really Cannes," she remarked."It's a dream for every filmmaker to showcase their work at Cannes, and 'Goonche' was presented there for the first time. This is my first time attending Cannes with a Korean film. Although I've been there as an ambassador, this is my third visit, and the previous times didn't feel like Cannes. Haha. This time, I was able to take fun photos with Go Kyung-pyo, and I felt empowered as an actress. It was our own red carpet, and I was so excited. There was tension, but also moments of relaxation, and since I am comfortable with Kyung-pyo, we took playful photos together. The positive reactions and the promotional opportunities for the film were just perfect."Jeon Ji-hyun is known as a master of genre films, having excelled in works such as 'Blood,' 'The Thieves,' 'Berlin,' 'Assassination,' and dramas like 'Kingdom: Ashin of the North,' 'Jirisan,' and 'North Star.' She expressed her desire to work with leading creators in Korean genre films, stating, "I want to be an actress who is not limited to a specific genre.""I don't think being confined to one genre makes an actress a good one. Since childhood, I believed that an actress should act well, and I pondered what sets me apart from other actresses. I realized that the market needs to be broad. I thought that if I could work beyond Korea and in a wider world, it would be different. So, I took opportunities to work overseas when I could. This led me to action roles, as I believe there are enough aspects to connect with audiences through action without relying solely on dialogue. I think those elements have helped me in doing a zombie film," she added.One intriguing aspect of 'Goonche' is the dynamic between the ex-wife and current wife working towards the same goal. Jeon Ji-hyun admitted that she initially found this relationship setup unfamiliar. However, after watching the completed film, she found the structure of pursuing a common goal, despite being in different places, to be fascinating."At first, I wondered if such a setup was necessary. It can be uncomfortable for the ex-wife and current wife to drive the story together. The husband acting as a mediator might also seem strange. But after filming and seeing the finished product, I found it interesting to explore that relational dynamic. The fact that they are in different places but moving towards the same goal was compelling. Beyond the relationships, I appreciated the shared objective. I think the director's intended message about relationships comes through in this aspect," she explained.Kwon Se-jeong is a central character who guides the audience through the film. However, Jeon Ji-hyun believes that this character should be seen as someone who makes judgments and choices alongside the audience, rather than just being labeled as a strong female character."Compared to the female characters in Yeon Sang-ho's other works, I feel that 'Goonche' hasn't showcased enough yet. Kwon Se-jeong adapts to situations, but I felt there was a lack of agency in solving events. Kwon Se-jeong is the center of the film, guiding the audience and prompting them to ponder and understand her choices, so I felt a bit disappointed that I couldn't fully express myself as an actress in this character," she noted.Meeting audiences again through film after a long time, Jeon Ji-hyun expressed surprise at the changed theater culture. Unlike past stage greetings, she noted the energy created by the interaction between audiences and actors."I was surprised during the stage greetings. Nowadays, it feels more like a fan meeting. In the past, we would greet the audience in front of the screen and say, 'See you next time,' but now there's a culture of interaction that impressed me. I was truly touched by the orderliness and manners of Korean audiences. It feels like the culture has matured significantly," she said.Her return to film is also connected to changes in the film industry. The production environment has shifted since COVID-19, leading to fewer opportunities to review scripts and a natural focus on dramas and series. Jeon Ji-hyun mentioned that she considers the audience's time and money when choosing films."The film industry has changed significantly. After COVID-19, the production environment has altered, which has naturally led to a focus on dramas. With films, I feel a greater sense of responsibility. I believe I need to create works that audiences want to see, rather than just what I want to do. It's not easy for them to take the time and spend money to watch a film. I feel I have to take on that responsibility. I always want to make films that I want to see. While it may not always align, I felt that when I saw Yeon Sang-ho's work, it matched my desire. That was a significant factor for me," she explained.After meeting audiences again through film, Jeon Ji-hyun's thirst for the screen has grown. Although she hasn't been inactive during the past 11 years, reflecting on that time has left her with a sense of regret."Having made a film after a long time has made me want to work on films more frequently. I want to meet movie audiences again. I didn't think much about it being 11 years, but now that I realize it, I feel a bit regretful about the time I spent not making films, even though I wasn't completely inactive," she said.Kwon Se-jeong was a character that Jeon Ji-hyun could portray at this stage in her life. She expressed her desire to take on roles that reflect her age and emotions she can understand now."I don't think I could have played the character of Kwon Se-jeong if it weren't for this moment in my life. I wanted to portray a character that fits my age. I still feel the same way. I want to explore emotions that I can express and understand now," she concluded.'Goonche' also holds the potential for expanding the K-zombie genre. Jeon Ji-hyun believes that compared to the sci-fi genre, zombie films have already established themselves as a genre that audiences can accept and enjoy."There is a K-zombie genre. I feel that while sci-fi is still somewhat challenging for audiences to accept and realize, zombie films have already found their footing. I believe it is a genre that can resonate and be enjoyed. I think there will be opportunities to challenge it in the future," she said.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-06-03 16:30:00
  • Entertainment Industry Encourages Voter Participation Ahead of Local Elections
    Entertainment Industry Encourages Voter Participation Ahead of Local Elections On June 3, as local elections approached, the entertainment industry continued its efforts to encourage voter participation. Stars shared selfies of their early voting and urged their followers to vote, while discussions about the political implications of social media posts and clothing colors emerged, creating a cautious atmosphere.Jin of BTS, who recently returned to Korea after performing in Las Vegas as part of their world tour 'ARIRANG,' cast his vote at the third polling station in Hannam-dong, Yongsan-gu, Seoul.Actors So Yoo-jin and Yoon Jong-hoon, broadcaster Jang Sung-kyu, and musical couple Kim So-hyun and Son Jun-ho, along with actors Jin Tae-hyun and Park Si-eun, also shared photos of their voting experiences, encouraging participation with messages like "Vote completed," "Everyone, please vote," and "Let’s share our precious votes."During the early voting period, participation from the entertainment sector continued. Singer Lee Seung-hwan, actress Kim Gyu-ri, and singer-actor Harisu posted their early voting selfies on their personal social media accounts on May 29 and 30. Members of the group Cortis, Martin and Joo-hoon, as well as If I members Won Hwa-yeon, Tae-rin, Ra-hee, and Kasia, also participated in early voting and shared their photos. Notably, Martin and Joo-hoon, both born in 2008 and voting for the first time, posted a photo holding their early voting confirmation on Weverse, expressing, "We’re adults now."Broadcaster Park Myung-soo discussed the importance of voting on his radio show. On May 29, during KBS Cool FM's 'Park Myung-soo's Radio Show,' he stated, "Voting is a duty that we must fulfill as citizens," and urged listeners to choose someone who can help the country prosper.Alongside the push for voter participation, incidents related to social media posts during the election season continued. On May 30, singer Lee Young-ji posted a recent photo with her hair dyed red and wearing a red shirt, accompanied by the song 'RED RED' by Cortis. After some online users suggested that the post evoked the colors of a specific political party, Lee Young-ji deleted the post.The following day, she apologized on social media, saying, "I uploaded a story that was not timely, and I understand it surprised many. I was aware of the importance of the timing but let my desire to communicate take precedence over that."Promise Nine's Baek Ji-heon also appeared conscious of her outfit's color during a live broadcast on the first day of early voting. Wearing a dark blue top, she remarked, "It’s election season, right?" and changed into a darker outfit to avoid any potential misunderstandings.Every election season, the colors of celebrities' outfits, hand gestures, and numbers are often interpreted politically. For instance, a past photo of Koyote's Shin Ji making a V sign circulated as a show of support for a specific candidate, and Aespa's Karina faced controversy for wearing a red jumper with the number 2. As similar interpretations arise during each election, some celebrities have shown caution regarding their social media posts and outfit colors during this election period.The 9th nationwide local elections took place on June 3 from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. Early voting was conducted over two days, on May 29 and 30.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-06-03 15:27:00
  • PLAVE Concert Film DASH: Quantum Leap Premieres Today
    PLAVE Concert Film 'DASH: Quantum Leap' Premieres Today Virtual idol PLAVE's Asia tour encore concert film is now in theaters.The live performance film 'PLAVE Asia Tour DASH: Quantum Leap Encore in Cinema' premiered on June 3.This film captures the encore performance of PLAVE's Asia tour 'DASH: Quantum Leap,' featuring their sold-out concert at Gocheok Sky Dome in Seoul, marking a milestone as the first virtual idol to perform there.The film generated significant interest from fans, recording approximately 30,000 ticket pre-sales on May 20, just two weeks before its release. It showcases key moments from the tour, including the title stage, exclusive concert performances, and heartfelt fan songs that concluded the Asia tour.Additionally, the film includes special extra content to enhance the audience's experience. It is available in various formats, including 2D, 4DX, Ultra 4DX, and ScreenX. Theaters are also hosting special events, including giveaways for opening week audiences and a photo zone at CGV Yongsan I-Park Mall.PLAVE continues to achieve success in music and global charts. Their mini-album 'Caligo Pt.2,' released on April 13, surpassed 1.25 million copies in initial sales, setting a new record for the group. They also made their mark on the U.S. Billboard charts, entering the 'Billboard 200' and 'Billboard Artist 100,' confirming their global influence.As a virtual artist expanding their presence in the K-pop market, PLAVE reconnects with fans through this concert film following their music and performances. 'PLAVE Asia Tour DASH: Quantum Leap Encore in Cinema' is currently screening at CGV theaters nationwide.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-06-03 14:15:00
  • BTS Expands World Tour with Additional Concert in Australia Amid Billboard Success
    BTS Expands World Tour with Additional Concert in Australia Amid Billboard Success BTS continues to break records on the Billboard charts while expanding their world tour with an additional concert in Australia. Their North American tour, major award wins, and global chart success have contributed to the sustained popularity of their fifth studio album, 'Arirang.'On June 2, BTS announced through the global fan platform Weverse that they will add a performance in Melbourne on February 10, 2027, as part of their 'BTS World Tour: Arirang.' Initially scheduled for two shows at Marvel Stadium on February 12 and 13, the additional concert was added in response to local fan support. This brings the total number of performances in the tour to 86 across 34 cities.This will mark BTS's return to Australia nearly 10 years after their last visit in May 2017 for the '2017 BTS Live Trilogy: Episode III. The Wings Tour.' The upcoming tour will include stops in Melbourne and Sydney, with the Sydney concerts set for February 20-21, 2027, at Accor Stadium. This venue is known for hosting major artists like Adele and Oasis, and BTS will be the first Korean act to perform there.As the global tour expands, BTS's chart performance remains strong. According to the latest Billboard chart released on June 2, the title track 'SWIM' from 'Arirang' has maintained its position at number one on the 'Global (Excluding U.S.)' chart for four consecutive weeks. This marks the eighth time the song has reached the top, extending its record for the most number one hits on this chart in 2026.'SWIM' has tied with BTS's previous hit 'Dynamite' for the longest duration at number one. Billboard reports that BTS has a total of eight number one songs on this chart, double the number achieved by artists like Bad Bunny and Taylor Swift, who have four each. The album features 13 tracks that have remained on the chart for 10 weeks.The song has also seen success on other charts, climbing six spots to number four on the 'Global 200' and rising 11 spots to number 44 on the 'Hot 100.' It also ranks at 17 on 'Adult Contemporary,' 13 on 'Pop Airplay,' 18 on 'Adult Pop Airplay,' and 25 on 'Radio Songs.'The album 'Arirang' continues to perform well on the charts, securing the ninth position on the main album chart 'Billboard 200' for 10 consecutive weeks in the top 10. It also ranks fourth on 'Top Album Sales,' 18th on 'Top Streaming Albums,' and sixth on 'Vinyl Albums,' rebounding seven spots from the previous week. The track 'MIC Drop' has re-entered the 'World Digital Song Sales' chart, marking a total of 164 weeks on the chart.BTS recently concluded the first leg of their North American tour on May 28 at Allegiant Stadium in Las Vegas. This tour included 15 performances across five cities, all of which sold out, drawing approximately 840,000 fans.The North American tour received significant media attention. Consequence, a U.S. music publication, described the Las Vegas concert as a “triumphant return,” highlighting BTS's ability to connect with audiences in large venues. A standout moment was the performance of 'Body to Body,' during which the audience sang along to the Korean folk song 'Arirang.'The Hollywood Reporter referred to BTS as a “global powerhouse,” noting their energetic performances captivated local audiences. Forbes covered key moments from the concert alongside the city-wide campaign 'BTS The City Arirang - Las Vegas,' emphasizing BTS's influence extending beyond the concert venue.BTS's award recognition also continues. On May 25, they won the prestigious 'Artist of the Year' award at the American Music Awards, marking their second win in this category after their first in 2021.Looking ahead, BTS is set to perform at the '2026 iHeartRadio Music Festival' on September 18 at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas, joining a lineup that includes Cardi B and Snoop Dogg. The festival will be broadcast live across more than 150 iHeartMedia radio stations and on Disney+ and Hulu.Additionally, BTS will hold 'BTS World Tour: Arirang in Busan' at the Asiad Main Stadium in Busan on February 12-13, celebrating their 13th anniversary with domestic fans.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-06-03 09:54:00
  • June Movie Releases Target Nostalgia with Wild Thing, Toy Story 5, and Supergirl
    June Movie Releases Target Nostalgia with 'Wild Thing,' 'Toy Story 5,' and 'Supergirl' June brings a wave of familiar titles to theaters, appealing to audiences with a mix of nostalgia. From a comedy rooted in 2000s pop culture to beloved animated franchises and a new hero from the DC Universe, these films aim to attract viewers of all ages.The first film to hit theaters is "Wild Thing," set to premiere on June 3. This comedy follows the fictional three-member dance group "Triangle," which once dominated the music scene but disbanded due to unforeseen circumstances. Now, 20 years later, they embark on a reckless challenge to seize a second chance at fame.Actors Kang Dong-won, Um Tae-goo, and Park Ji-hyun portray the members of "Triangle." Kang plays Hyun-woo, the leader and dance machine; Um takes on the role of Sang-goo, an overly passionate rapper; and Park plays the center, Domi. Oh Jung-se adds comedic flair as Seong-gon, a ballad singer who has been stuck at number two for 39 weeks."Wild Thing" goes beyond merely recreating the past music scene. It tells the story of individuals who enjoyed their prime two decades ago and now confront their realities as they return to the stage, blending humor with themes of redemption. The film is produced by About Film, known for hits like "Extreme Job," and directed by Son Jae-gon, who has helmed projects such as "Sweet, Savage Family" and "The Villainess."Music and performance are key highlights of the film. It features songs like "Love Is," the debut track of "Triangle," and the title track from their second album, "Shout It Out," along with Seong-gon's ballad, "I Like You," creating an authentic representation of the music industry. The film's production team includes K-pop composers like Shim Eun-ji, who has worked with groups such as TWICE and SHINee, and choreographer Yang Wook, known for his work on "Ssak3."The cast underwent rigorous training, resembling that of actual idol trainees. Kang mastered hip-hop, breakdancing, and headspins, while Um trained in rap at JYP Entertainment's headquarters. Park, as the center of "Triangle," learned choreography and stage gestures, and Oh prepared for Seong-gon's performances. Elements like Y2K styling and a 4:3 aspect ratio in the music video evoke the nostalgia of the 2000s music scene.Another major animated franchise returns with "Toy Story 5." This installment sees Woody, Buzz, Jessie, and other toys unite for a new adventure when Bonnie's new smart tablet, LilyPad, creates a crisis. Directed by Andrew Stanton, who won Academy Awards for "Finding Nemo" and "WALL-E," and co-directed by McKenna Harris of "Elemental," the film explores the relationship between toys and technology.Stanton describes the film as a reflection on the reality that children no longer play with toys, rather than a simple conflict. The voice cast includes Tom Hanks as Woody, Tim Allen as Buzz, and Joan Cusack as Jessie, with Greta Lee from "Past Lives" voicing the new character, LilyPad.The DC Universe also introduces a new character with the film "Supergirl," which is set to be released in June 2026. The first poster and trailer have been unveiled. Directed by Craig Gillespie, known for "Cruella," this film continues the narrative of the DC Universe following "Superman."The lead role of Supergirl is played by Milly Alcock, who gained attention from the HBO series "House of the Dragon." Jason Momoa, known for his role in "Aquaman," also stars, generating excitement among DC fans. The film promises a fresh take on the superhero genre, incorporating traditional elements like the suit and cape with modern visuals such as sunglasses, headsets, and trench coats.From "Wild Thing" to "Toy Story 5" and "Supergirl," these films aim to engage both existing fanbases and new audiences, setting the stage for an exciting summer at the box office.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-06-02 06:03:00
  • BTS Transforms Las Vegas with The City Campaign
    BTS Transforms Las Vegas with 'The City' Campaign BTS has once again transformed Las Vegas, the largest entertainment city in the U.S., with its global urban campaign, 'BTS The City Arirang - Las Vegas' (referred to as 'The City Las Vegas'). This initiative goes beyond a simple performance, turning the entire city into an immersive experience and showcasing BTS's influence in the global entertainment market.The 'The City' project reimagines urban spaces by projecting the artists' stories, creating a musical experience throughout the city. BTS first introduced this project in Las Vegas in 2022. Returning after nearly four years, 'The City Las Vegas' has significantly expanded in scale and participation, aptly named 'Global The City 2.0.'According to the Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority, BTS is the first artist to prompt a city-wide activation, moving the entire city for a single artist's campaign, excluding major sporting events like the Super Bowl and Formula One. This marks a significant moment as Las Vegas organized a city-wide campaign centered around a single artist's performance and message.This year's campaign saw a substantial increase in partners and venues compared to 2022. Key commercial areas, including the Strip and downtown, participated, with a total of 38 local hotels and resorts joining as partners. The number of participating venues has doubled from 26 to 60 since four years ago.Large digital billboards and lights across the city were illuminated in BTS's colors. Fifty digital marquees and ten landmark lightings combined to showcase images from BTS's new album 'Arirang' throughout Las Vegas.The Fremont Street Experience, a downtown landmark, also joined the campaign. The ceiling screen, known as the largest digital screen on Earth at approximately 420 meters long, displayed the message 'LAS VEGAS WELCOMES BTS,' transforming the night sky into a welcoming message for the group.The campaign duration was extended this year. While the 'The City' takeover occurred just one day before the concert in 2022, this year it spanned four days during the concert period. Every night at 11 PM, major landmarks were illuminated in red, the key color of BTS's new album 'Arirang,' showcasing a spectacular light display across Las Vegas.The food and beverage partnerships also expanded. In addition to the existing 'After-party,' two new 'Welcome Parties' were introduced to enhance the atmosphere before the concert. The culinary program, previously centered around Mandalay Bay, has now expanded throughout Las Vegas. Visitors experienced K-food and BTS-themed meals at ten locations, featuring Korean cuisine, bakery items, and desserts.This year's 'The City Las Vegas' campaign combined performances with urban, tourism, food and beverage, digital billboards, and lighting infrastructure, creating a festival atmosphere in Las Vegas through an unprecedented scale of urban engagement for a single artist.Additionally, BTS announced the upcoming '2026 BTS FESTA' to celebrate their debut anniversary. This year's theme, '13(B)TS,' signifies a new beginning as BTS and their fans, ARMY, reflect on their 12-year journey together. Starting on the 4th, a family photo will be released, followed by a performance video for 'Hooligan,' the 'Run BTS 2.0' series, and the new song 'Come Over.'On the 12th and 13th, BTS will hold the 'BTS WORLD TOUR ARIRANG IN BUSAN' at the Busan Asiad Main Stadium. This marks the group's first concert in Busan since the 'Yet To Come in BUSAN' concert in October 2022, which was held to promote the city's bid for the 2030 World Expo. The upcoming performances sold out quickly.Meanwhile, BTS concluded their first North American tour on May 28 at Allegiant Stadium in Las Vegas. The tour included 15 performances across five cities, including Tampa and Mexico City, drawing approximately 840,000 attendees with all shows sold out.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-06-01 14:00:00