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New Horror Film 'Passenger' Reveals Behind-the-Scenes Chills Director André Øvredals new film, Passenger, promises a terrifying experience set against the backdrop of a highway road horror. Lotte Entertainment released a behind-the-scenes video titled Unending Terror on June 10, showcasing the making of Passenger. The film follows a young couple who, after witnessing a horrific car accident on a remote highway, find themselves pursued by a mysterious malevolent spirit known as the Passenger after they get back on the road. The newly released video features footage shot on actual roads and in remote forests in Washington. The cast and crew shared their experiences of transforming familiar spaces into settings of unfamiliar terror and recounted strange occurrences during filming. Lead actor Lou Lou Bell stated, Just the fact that we were filming on real roads was frightening. We had no idea who or what we might encounter. Melissa Leo added, I’ve been on a few road trips, but nothing this chaotic before. The eerie atmosphere surrounding the filming locations adds to the films horror. Co-writer Zachary Donohue recalled, We shot in a remote forest in Washington, and it was genuinely creepy. Staff members revealed that the area was known for being the hunting ground of a notorious American serial killer, contributing to the unsettling ambiance. During filming, there were reports of inexplicable events. Producer Walter Hamada remarked, There were so many strange occurrences that everyone thought we were haunted. Director André Øvredal noted, This is not your typical horror film. Many people experienced terrifying events during production. Actor Jacob Scipio mentioned, In the end, we even asked the producers to bring in a priest to bless the set, hinting at the tension captured in the film. Passenger is generating interest with its theme of highway ghosts, following the Roadview Ghost from The Silent Sea. The film aims to transform the familiar setting of highways into a stage for horror, continuing the trend in the genre this summer. A representative from Lotte Cinema stated, Since the film deals with fear on highways, a familiar space for everyone, it is sure to chill not only the characters but also those planning road trips this summer. We hope for great anticipation. Passenger is set to be released exclusively at Lotte Cinema on June 24. June 11, 2026 10:03 -
President Yoon Suk Yeol Holds Summit with Belgium and EU to Strengthen Diplomatic Ties President Yoon Suk Yeol Holds Summit with Belgium and EU to Strengthen Diplomatic Ties President Yoon Suk Yeol is set to hold a series of summits with Belgium and the European Union (EU) on June 10 (local time) as part of his European tour following the G7 summit. The president will first meet with Belgian Prime Minister Alexander De Croo in the morning, followed by an audience with King Philippe. This marks the first meeting between the leaders since Yoon took office, and discussions are expected to focus on enhancing trade and expanding cooperation between small and medium-sized enterprises. In the afternoon, Yoon will meet with António Costa, the President of the European Council, and Ursula von der Leyen, the President of the European Commission. The talks will address strengthening economic exchanges with the EU, as well as expanding cooperation in security areas such as drug trafficking, terrorism, and transnational crime. Additionally, the situation on the Korean Peninsula and in the Middle East, along with strategies for energy and mineral supply chains, are anticipated to be on the agenda. Election Commission Confirms Lack of Manual for Handling Ballot Shortages The Central Election Commissions investigation committee held its first meeting on June 10 to address the shortage of ballots during the June 3 local elections, confirming that no manual existed for the commissions response to such shortages. Chairman Cho Hyun-wook emphasized the need for accountability, stating, We will hold responsible parties accountable and propose reforms to ensure the integrity and reliability of the election management system. He also requested clarification from the commission regarding the reasons behind the reduction in ballot printing and whether potential issues were considered during the guideline dissemination. Cho further sought details on the decision to begin counting votes before all ballots were cast, the individuals involved in that decision, the minutes from the commissions meetings regarding ballot printing reductions, and the commissions response to the 26 polling stations that temporarily halted voting. Kakao Workers Strike for First Time, Additional Walkout Planned Labor disputes at Kakao are escalating as the company faces its first-ever strike. The labor union announced plans for an additional strike on June 29, indicating that the gap between management and workers remains wide. On June 10, the Kakao branch of the National Chemical Fiber Food Industry Workers Union held a strike rally in front of the Kakao headquarters in Pangyo, Seongnam. The union conducted a four-hour strike from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. (excluding lunch). According to the union, over 1,000 employees logged off from the company’s internal systems to participate in the strike. Including affiliates such as Kakao Pay, Kakao Entertainment, DK Tech, and XL Games, the total number of participants is estimated to be around 1,500. Five corporate unions with strike authorization participated in the action. In preparation for the strike, Kakao coordinated with the Ministry of Science and ICT to review its emergency response system and focused on maintaining essential personnel. Despite the strike, all of Kakaos services continued to operate normally without disruption. Rising Jeonse Loan Rates Exceed 6%; Yoon Points to Housing Price Increases As mortgage rates approach 8%, the upper limit for jeonse loan rates has also surpassed 6%. With interest rates rising, the burden on vulnerable borrowers is increasing. President Yoon Suk Yeol recently identified jeonse loans as a contributing factor to rising housing prices, raising concerns about further interest rate hikes. As of June 10, the jeonse loan rates from major banks, including KB Kookmin, Shinhan, Hana, Woori, and NH Nonghyup, ranged from 4.11% to 6.71%. This marks an increase from the previous month’s rates of 3.77% to 6.27%, with the lower limit rising by 0.34 percentage points and the upper limit by 0.44 percentage points. As market interest rates climb rapidly, the lower limit for jeonse loans has exceeded 4%, while the upper limit has surged into the high 6% range. Variable-rate jeonse loans are also nearing 6%, with rates recorded between 3.15% and 5.85%.* This article has been translated by AI. June 10, 2026 22:12 -
Kakao Faces First Strike as Labor Dispute Escalates Kakaos labor dispute is showing signs of escalating. Following the companys first-ever strike by its labor union, an additional strike is planned for the 29th, indicating that the gap between management and labor remains wide. On June 10, the Kakao branch of the National Chemical Fiber Food Industry Workers Union held its first strike rally in front of the Kakao office in Pangyo, Seongnam. The union conducted a four-hour strike from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. (excluding lunch). Slogans such as Lets secure job stability, Irresponsible management must resign, and Victory in the Kakao strike to achieve joint negotiations were chanted. Over 500 participants marched from Pangyo Station Square to H Square, wearing matching black T-shirts and carrying white umbrellas. According to the union, more than 1,000 employees logged off from the companys internal system to join the strike at Kakaos headquarters alone. Including subsidiaries such as Kakao Pay, Kakao Entertainment, DK Tech, and XL Games, the total number of participants is estimated to be around 1,500. Five corporate unions with dispute rights participated in the strike. In response, Kakao has implemented emergency measures. The company, in collaboration with the Ministry of Science and ICT, reviewed its emergency response system and prepared plans focusing on essential personnel to minimize service disruptions, given that services like KakaoTalk and KakaoMap are closely tied to daily life. Despite the strike, all of Kakaos services continued to operate normally without any disruptions. This strike is significant as it marks the first labor action since Kakaos establishment. The union has been advocating for measures to alleviate job insecurity stemming from the sale of subsidiaries, spin-offs, and restructuring, as well as the establishment of a joint negotiation system. Conversely, the company maintains that it cannot fully accommodate the unions demands due to the internal and external business environment. Negotiations continue even after the second labor committee mediation failed, but the divide between the two sides remains substantial. The core issue of the labor dispute centers on compensation. The union demands a performance bonus equivalent to approximately 10 million won, which is about 13-14% of operating profit, along with an additional 5 million won in restricted stock units (RSUs). The company has not budged on its stance that these demands could impose a financial burden, and disagreements over performance compensation remain unresolved. During the rally, the union also addressed the recent departure of Chief Product Officer Hong Min-taek. The union stated, The investigation into related matters should not cease just because the responsible party has left the company, emphasizing the need for thorough accountability. Kakao has stated that it will continue negotiations with the union. However, with the union announcing an additional strike, the labor dispute that began with the companys first strike is expected to persist for the foreseeable future. June 10, 2026 15:24 -
Actress Choi Soo-young and Jung Kyung-ho End 14-Year Relationship Actors Jung Kyung-ho and Choi Soo-young have ended their public relationship of 14 years, prompting renewed interest in a fortune-tellers predictions about their marriage prospects. On June 10, various online communities highlighted comments from a shaman who had previously predicted a crisis in the entertainment industry involving Park Na-rae. In December, the fortune-teller conducted a divination for Jung Kyung-ho and Choi Soo-young, providing insights based solely on their birth dates. The fortune-teller stated, While they seem comfortable together like friends after a long relationship, I dont see a marital connection. It may be difficult for them to reach marriage, and I suspect they will separate soon. The fortune-teller added, The woman desires marriage, but the man is hesitant due to family issues. If they break up, the man’s marriage prospects will be delayed, but the woman will quickly find another partner to marry. This prediction has drawn significant attention online. Reactions from netizens included comments like, Its chilling, It could just be coincidence, and Ultimately, what matters is the feelings of the individuals involved. Meanwhile, a representative from Choi Soo-youngs agency, Saram Entertainment, confirmed to Sports Seoul on June 9 that Choi Soo-young has indeed recently broken up with Jung Kyung-ho, adding, The two have decided to remain good colleagues. A representative for Jung Kyung-ho also confirmed to Sporty News on the same day that Jung Kyung-ho and Choi Soo-young have recently separated. They have grown distant and decided to end their relationship. Born in 1983, Jung Kyung-ho debuted as a KBS talent in 2003 and has appeared in popular dramas such as Im Sorry, I Love You, Prison Playbook, Life on Mars, and Crash Course in Romance. He is currently filming a new romantic comedy for ENA titled Romance in Trouble. Choi Soo-young, born in 1990, debuted as a member of Girls Generation in 2007 and has since expanded her career into acting. She has starred in dramas like 38 Task Force, The Man Who Sets the Table, Run On, and Nam Nam, and recently announced her participation in a new weekend drama on KBS2 titled Schools Back. Jung Kyung-ho and Choi Soo-young, who met as seniors and juniors in the Theater and Film Department at Chung-Ang University, have been regarded as a prominent couple in the entertainment industry. Fans are expressing their disappointment at the news of their transition from romantic partners to colleagues.* This article has been translated by AI. June 10, 2026 14:54 -
Watchdog cracks down on unfair K-pop membership practices SEOUL, June 10 (AJP) - Unfair practices are rampant among paid memberships offered by major entertainment agencies and K-pop fandom platforms, the Korea Fair Trade Commission (KFTC) said on Wednesday. After surveying about 18 entertainment agencies and six fandom platform operators, the commission found a range of unfair clauses and binding terms, prompting it to request revisions, which the companies agreed to make voluntarily. Such memberships usually offer benefits like early access to tickets for concerts and fan-meet events, as well as exclusive merchandise purchases, and members-only content. According to the KFTC, these memberships are typically priced at around 50,000 won (about $34) and are often sold through global platforms dedicated to K-pop stars. The most commonly cited issue was restrictions on refunds. For example, Big Hit Music, a label under South Korean entertainment behemoth HYBE, and Starship Entertainment were among those that restricted refunds after seven days or once any membership benefit had been used. The KFTC said such terms were unfair, pointing out that fan club benefits depend heavily on an artist's activity and may vary depending on when a member joins. Under the revised terms, fans who sign up will be eligible for a full refund within seven days if they have not used any benefits. If more than seven days have passed, or if benefits have been used, agencies must refund the remaining amount after deducting a cancellation fee, usually 10 percent of the membership fee and the value of any benefits already used. The KFTC also found clauses that broadly exempted companies from responsibility, allowed services to be changed or suspended for vague "business reasons," or permitted user contracts to be terminated without clear grounds or prior notice. The KFTC also took issue with clauses that broadly exempted agencies from responsibility, allowing them to suspend or terminate services or membership benefits for vague “business reasons” without clear justification or prior notice. SM Entertainment, for instance, had a clause stating that canceling a renewed membership would not restore any remaining period from the previous membership. Other issues included clauses that allowed agencies to broadly delete user posts, automatically treat members as agreeing to revised terms, and set vague rules for handling sensitive personal data. "With the surging global popularity of K-pop, we proactively conducted the survey to identify unfair practices in relevant industries," said Kwak Go-eun, an official at the KFTC. "This will help protect consumer rights by ensuring that K-pop fans can use these services in a fairer and more transparent way as K-pop-related businesses continue to grow." June 10, 2026 14:28 -
Korean Entertainment Firms Face Scrutiny Over Fan Club Membership Terms The Fair Trade Commission has identified unfair terms in the membership agreements of entertainment companies and fan platforms operating paid fan club memberships. On June 10, the commission reported that it found 77 instances of unfair clauses across eight categories in the terms of service from 24 companies, including SM Entertainment and Big Hit, as well as Weverse Company and Kakao Entertainment.Paid fan club memberships allow consumers to pay a fee for benefits such as early access to concert tickets and exclusive communication opportunities with artists. Consumers must purchase these memberships through platforms where the specific artist is available, leading the Fair Trade Commission to investigate potential coercive trading conditions.The investigation revealed unfair terms in four areas: unreasonable refund restrictions, unjust exemption from obligations and responsibilities, limitations on users rights, and other unfair clauses. Specifically, while refunds are allowed within seven days of payment, the terms restrict refunds if benefits have been utilized or prohibit refunds and cancellations due to change of mind.The commission explained that imposing refund restrictions violates Article 6 of the Terms and Conditions Act, which states that customers should not bear excessive liability for damages. Gwak Go-eun, head of the commissions special transaction terms division, stated, The benefits of paid fan club memberships are tied to the artists activity schedule, so the benefits available can vary depending on when a person joins. If members are dissatisfied with the benefits provided, they should be able to withdraw and receive a refund.In response, the companies have agreed to allow full refunds within seven days if there is no usage history. After seven days or if there is usage, they plan to refund the remaining amount after deducting a cancellation fee and the amount used.Additionally, a clause from SM Entertainment that stated the remaining validity period of a membership would not be restored after canceling a renewal payment was also flagged. The commission deemed this clause to unfairly reduce the companys obligation to restore the contract, violating Article 9 of the Terms and Conditions Act.Other problematic clauses included one from YG Entertainment that made refunds impossible if a members withdrawal prevented the provision of content related to changed members, and another from Kakao Entertainment that exempted the company from responsibility for service interruptions.The Fair Trade Commission believes that consumers who were unable to receive refunds after joining paid fan clubs will benefit from the new refund policies based on elapsed time or usage. It also anticipates that increased accountability among businesses will minimize refund demands through improved service quality.Gwak warned, If entertainment companies and platforms fail to comply and rectify these issues, we will proceed with corrective recommendations and orders. If improvements are not made, we will consider filing complaints.* This article has been translated by AI. June 10, 2026 12:09 -
Samsung Heavy Industries Chooses Cooperation Over Legal Dispute as Fair Trade Commission Initiates Agreement Procedure The Fair Trade Commission (FTC) has initiated an agreement procedure regarding a cooperation plan worth 11.3 billion won ($8.5 million) from Samsung Heavy Industries, which is under investigation for alleged violations of subcontracting laws. According to relevant authorities on June 10, the FTC is looking into Samsung Heavy Industries practice of issuing contracts late after subcontractors began work on ship processing tasks necessary for loading hull structures. Samsung Heavy Industries has been entering into basic subcontracting agreements with subcontractors based in its shipyard on an annual basis. During the contract period, Samsung provides the subcontractors with work drawings and necessary facilities and materials, while the subcontractors carry out the work when feasible. The issue arose from delays in issuing written contracts during individual contract transactions. Article 3 of the subcontracting law stipulates that the primary contractor must provide the subcontracting agreement without delay after agreeing on key contract terms before work begins. In response, Samsung Heavy Industries opted to improve its business relationships with subcontractors rather than contest the legal judgment. In December of last year, the company applied to the FTC to initiate the agreement procedure. This procedure allows a business accused of legal violations to propose corrective measures, which the FTC can accept to conclude the case. Samsung Heavy Industries proposed a cooperation plan totaling 11.3 billion won, which includes an increase of about 3 billion won in support funds and the establishment of new holiday return and vacation allowances worth approximately 5.3 billion won. The plan also includes improvements to contract management systems, the full use of standard subcontracting agreements, and training for employees and partners to enhance business order. The FTC has determined that Samsung Heavy Industries corrective measures meet the requirements to initiate the agreement procedure. Following the initiation of the FTCs procedure, if the agreement is finalized after a consultation process, no penalties such as fines will be imposed. This marks the second time an agreement procedure has been initiated regarding Article 3 of the subcontracting law since May of last year, when five entertainment companies, including Hive and SM, agreed to implement standard contracts and establish a cooperation fund of 1 billion won. An FTC official stated, We will work quickly with Samsung Heavy Industries to specify the corrective measures and prepare a provisional agreement plan. We plan to present the final plan to the committee after gathering feedback from stakeholders and consulting with relevant agencies.* This article has been translated by AI. June 10, 2026 10:03 -
Samsung Harman Launches JBL Pop-Up Event in Seongsu-dong JBL, a brand under Samsung Electronics subsidiary Harman, is hosting a pop-up event to celebrate the launch of its new bookshelf speakers and AI-based microphones. The event marks JBLs 80th anniversary with the introduction of limited-edition speakers aimed at the premium audio market.The pop-up event will take place on June 19-20 at Tilt Table in Seongsu-dong, Seoul. Attendees will have the opportunity to listen to and experience JBLs latest audio products firsthand.The highlight of the pop-up is the limited-edition bookshelf speaker, the JBL L100 Classic 80. This collectors edition commemorates JBLs 80 years of technological heritage and is limited to just 800 units worldwide. Each unit features a commemorative plaque signed by Chief System Engineer Chris Hagen, enhancing its exclusivity.JBL will also unveil its AI-based wireless microphone, the JBL EasySing Mic, along with the portable JBL EasySing Mic Mini.The EasySing Mic incorporates on-device AI vocal removal technology, allowing users to reduce the original artists voice in real-time while enjoying music playback. This feature enables a more natural singing experience, especially when paired with JBL PartyBox speakers for enhanced sound.The EasySing Mic Mini is a pocket-sized device designed for portability and versatility. It includes vocal separation capabilities and a Voice Boost feature that enhances clarity, making it suitable for both singing and content creation.An industry insider noted, As AI technology rapidly integrates into audio devices, the market is evolving beyond simple sound equipment to enhance content creation and entertainment experiences. JBLs expansion of AI-enabled products is expected to strengthen its competitiveness in the premium audio market.* This article has been translated by AI. June 10, 2026 09:24 -
From chicken to K-pop: why Jensen Huang fell for Korea's soft power SEOUL, June 09 (AJP) — Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang surely knew how to mix business with pleasure. He returned home Tuesday with deals on not just memory chips for Nvidia's next-generation Rubin and Vera platforms, but also bags of HBM chip snacks to munch on and the lingering aftertaste of chicken, soju and Korean hospitality. Since his arrival last Friday, Huang dominated headlines and social media feeds, shuttling between beer and soju gatherings with Korean tech giants, a baseball stadium appearance complete with a ceremonial first pitch, meetings with esports icon Faker and ordinary pedestrians, a brief dance to a K-pop hit and an enthusiastic discussion of singer Hwasa. While his meetings with business leaders focused on the future of artificial intelligence and multibillion-dollar partnerships, many of the moments that resonated most with the public reflected his enthusiasm for Korean culture and soft power. Food topped the list. "I love to eat," Huang told reporters. "I thought my favorite food in Korea was fried chicken, but I was wrong." He had discovered samgyetang, Korea's traditional ginseng chicken soup, and samgyeopsal, the country's ubiquitous pork barbecue. The food tour began almost immediately after his arrival. On his first evening, Huang was joined by SK Group Chairman Chey Tae-won, LG Group Chairman Koo Kwang-mo and Naver founder Lee Hae-jin for a barbecue dinner in Seoul's Hongdae district, with hundreds of fans and reporters closely following and livestreaming what was being served. Reflecting on the meal during his appearance on tvN's popular talk show "You Quiz on the Block," Huang joked, "I ate most of it, because I'm the oldest." Afterward, he greeted citizens outside the restaurant, signing autographs and handing out HBM Chip snacks. The images quickly went viral. Convenience store chain Seven Eleven said sales of the snack jumped 704 percent during June 6-7 compared with a week earlier. The following day, he was photographed enjoying samgyetang with family members at a well-known restaurant in central Seoul. Korean media soon noticed a pattern: wherever Huang went, chicken seemed to follow. During a previous visit to Seoul in October 2025, he attended a chimaek gathering with Samsung Electronics Chairman Lee Jae-yong and Hyundai Motor Group Executive Chair Chung Eui-sun at a chicken restaurant in Gangnam. That theme resurfaced at Jamsil Baseball Stadium, where Huang threw out the ceremonial first pitch before a Korea Baseball Organization game. "Nothing is better than chimaek," he said, using the popular Korean term for fried chicken and beer. Even after a schedule dominated by AI, semiconductors and business meetings, food remained on his mind. Speaking at the Shilla Hotel after a private meeting with Samsung Electronics DS Division Vice Chairman Jun Young-hyun at the Guest House, Huang enthusiastically revisited his first meal in Korea. "A little sesame oil, a little bit of salt. Come on, that's incredible," he said, smacking his lips at the memory. Food, however, was only one part of the story. Later on "You Quiz on the Block," Huang surprised viewers by dancing to "Golden," the hit soundtrack from Netflix's animated film "KPop Demon Hunters." "Who doesn't love Golden?" Huang said with a smile. He also expressed admiration for singer Hwasa. "I do also love Hwasa," Huang said. "She's a very good dancer, a good singer." He even referenced her songs "Good Goodbye" and the newer "So Cute," surprising host Yoo Jae-suk with his familiarity with her music. He was pleased with an observation from fortune teller Park Sung-jun, who interpreted his facial features on the show — saying his high forehead signified extraordinary intelligence and his nose indicated lifelong prosperity. Huang responded with characteristic humor. "Your nose is not big enough," he told the host. "My nose is extraordinary tycoon - "New Korea fashion: Jensen nose," he joked. His up-close show appearance was notable for another reason. Despite being one of the world's most recognizable technology executives, Huang chose a Korean variety show for his first appearance on an entertainment program. His interest in Korean culture extended beyond food and K-pop. Shortly after arriving in Seoul, Huang visited T1 Base Camp and met legendary esports player Lee Sang-hyeok, better known as Faker. Days later, he appeared at Jamsil Stadium wearing a Doosan Bears jersey bearing the number 93, a tribute to Nvidia's founding year. Taken together, the images formed a striking contrast to Huang's public image as the face of the global AI boom. Rather than appearing only in boardrooms and conference halls, he spent much of his visit engaging with the cultural experiences that millions of people around the world increasingly associate with South Korea. For Huang, those experiences were not separate from the country's technology ambitions. He told reporters what he had told Korea's deputy prime minister for science and ICT Bae Kyung-hoon - that Korea's cultural strengths are one reason the country is uniquely positioned for the AI era. "I told the deputy prime minister that this is Korea's moment and that this moment must take advantage of Korea's culture," Huang said. "Korea's culture is very, very adaptable to technology. The culture is very accepting of new technology. In the last 25 years, so much technology came into Korean culture and it was adapted so easily." "The culture is perfect for new technology, artificial intelligence." He also pointed to Korea's geopolitical position and openness to global partnerships. "If there's a country that represents lovers, not fighters, it would be Korea," Huang said. The comment drew laughter, but it also reflected a recurring theme throughout his visit: that Korea's appeal extends beyond manufacturing and technology. For Huang, the country's competitive advantage lies equally in its people. "There's a culture of Korea that is about knowledge and wisdom and dedication and suffering. You have to protect that," he said. As artificial intelligence makes computing power and even intelligence itself increasingly accessible, Huang argued that character becomes the true differentiator. "Intelligence is now a commodity because of artificial intelligence. Running fast is a commodity." "Intelligence plus character is not a commodity." "The character is suffering, the ability to suffer. I have a deep ability to suffer. Nobody can suffer better than I can." Then he turned the observation toward Korea itself. "No country can suffer better than Korea." "The grandparents, your parents created everything that we see today from their suffering, from their resilience, from their incredible desire to create this future for you." "This is the national character of Korea." "If you combine that with AI, incredible things can happen." June 9, 2026 17:52 -
Choi Soo-young and Jung Kyung-ho End 14-Year Relationship Actors Jung Kyung-ho and Choi Soo-young have ended their public relationship of 14 years, drawing attention to the reasons behind their breakup. A representative from Choi Soo-youngs agency, Saram Entertainment, confirmed to Sports Seoul on June 9, It is true that Choi Soo-young recently broke up with Jung Kyung-ho. They have decided to remain good colleagues. Similarly, a source from Jung Kyung-hos side mentioned to Sportivi News on the same day, Jung Kyung-ho and Choi Soo-young have recently separated. They have grown distant and decided to end their relationship. The couple first met as seniors and juniors in the Theater and Film Department at Chung-Ang University and publicly acknowledged their relationship in 2012. Given their long-term relationship, the news of their breakup has come as a shock to many fans. Born in 1983, Jung Kyung-ho debuted as a KBS talent in 2003 and has received consistent acclaim for his roles in dramas such as Im Sorry, I Love You, Prison Playbook, Life on Mars, and Crash Course in Romance. He is currently filming a new romantic comedy for ENA titled Romance in the Moonlight. Choi Soo-young, born in 1990, debuted as a member of Girls Generation in 2007 and has since expanded her career into acting. She has appeared in dramas like 38 Task Force, The Man Who Sets the Table, Run On, and Nam Nam, and recently announced her participation in the new KBS2 weekend drama I Went to School. Jung Kyung-ho and Choi Soo-young have been regarded as a prominent couple in the entertainment industry, often expressing their affection for each other publicly. The news of their transition from a romantic relationship to colleagues has left many fans feeling disappointed. June 9, 2026 16:36 -
Behind the Scenes of 'Wild Thing': Kang Dong-won, Um Tae-goo, and Park Ji-hyun Become 'Triangle' Every production has numerous perspectives. Although the director and actors share the same space and time, their experiences may differ greatly. Behind the Scenes focuses on the vivid realities beyond the A-cut captured on screen. It reconstructs the moments of the B-cut that were even more intense than the completed frames through interviews with the director and actors. (Editor’s Note)The film Wild Thing tells the story of Triangle, a mixed-gender dance group that once dominated the music scene but disbanded due to an unexpected incident. Now, 20 years later, they are given a chance at a comeback. Kang Dong-won, Um Tae-goo, and Park Ji-hyun portray the groups leader Hyun-woo, rapper Sang-goo, and center Domi, respectively.In Wild Thing, the stage is not just a backdrop. The three actors were required to act and perform simultaneously. Memorizing choreography and coordinating movements was not enough; they had to sing, dance, and engage with the audience while being aware of the camera. What they faced in front of the camera was not just the singer persona but the reality of being on stage.Seeing myself dance was incredibly satisfying. Especially towards the last performance, I thought, Wow, Im really doing well. I practiced hard, even after filming, going to practice at night. As we continued filming the stage scenes, I gained more stage experience. By the end, I felt like I had developed a stage presence. At first, I was so focused on not missing the choreography, but as it became second nature, I could pay more attention to the lines. Initially, I was overwhelmed with singing, dancing, engaging the audience, and watching the camera, but as I got used to it, my dance lines improved, said Kang Dong-won.Park Ji-hyun, who plays the center Domi, identified confidence as the most crucial quality needed on stage. She noted that the center position was unfamiliar and burdensome for an actress with limited stage experience.I thought I needed confidence because I was the center. I was worried since I didnt have much stage experience and there were so many visually stunning people around. But I decided to approach it with a fresh perspective and confidence. I watched many artists perform to try to eliminate self-consciousness and just enjoy the moment. Initially, I focused on not making mistakes in the choreography, but I realized I should immerse myself in the performance, Park Ji-hyun explained.For Um Tae-goo, who plays the rapper Sang-goo, the stage represented a different kind of unfamiliarity. Sang-goo is more of an aspiring rapper than a polished one. Um Tae-goo trained for five months at JYP Entertainment, learning rap and dance, mastering vocalization, rhythm, and gestures.With rap, I relied 100% on my teacher. I followed their instructions closely. My character wasnt a skilled rapper, but I thought that if I worked hard for five months, I could make it work even if I wasnt perfect. I practiced vocalization and rhythm with my teacher, and eventually, I found myself unconsciously mimicking their gestures and speech patterns. It felt great when that came out naturally. There’s no end to it, so I just kept working hard without thinking about limits, Um Tae-goo shared.While the three actors approached the stage differently, their focus in the practice room converged. Kang Dong-wons dedication left a strong impression on his colleagues. Park Ji-hyun recalled being amazed by Kang Dong-wons practice of breakdancing and headspins.Dong-won was truly impressive when it came to dance. I saw him practicing breakdancing and headspins in the studio, and I couldnt believe how quickly he mastered them. It was incredible. I wondered how much effort he must have put in to achieve that in such a short time. He would arrive at the studio three to four hours early, drenched in sweat. He practiced individually and then spent another three to four hours with us, so it seemed like he was practicing for six to seven hours a day. It’s not just about effort; he really knows how to use his body, and I thought he would have excelled in dance if he had pursued that path, Park Ji-hyun remarked.Kang Dong-wons goal was not to mimic but to create a genuine performance. While Wild Thing is a comedy, his approach to the stage was serious.For the first performance, my goal was to do so well that it would be funny. I aimed to showcase my dance lines so that those who were dancers before becoming singers wouldn’t feel embarrassed. I wanted them to think, Yeah, I used to do that. I hoped the audience would find it amusing, thinking, Why is he doing so well? Why is it funny? Kang Dong-won explained.To make Triangles stage appear authentic, each actor needed their own references. Kang Dong-won recalled the charm and seriousness of first-generation idols he had seen on TV during high school, while Park Ji-hyun drew inspiration from Fin.K.L and Lee Hyori to express Domis freshness and intensity.I wanted to recreate the image I saw on TV when I was in high school. It was so cool back then. I had never thought about becoming a dance singer, but I wanted to replicate that feeling. The script matched that sentiment, and I wanted to capture the essence of first-generation idols. I wanted them to think, That’s how we were, Kang Dong-won said.I liked both g.o.d and Fin.K.L when I was younger, but I focused on Lee Hyori. The character Domi in the film, as well as Triangles transition from a fresh and pure concept in their first album to a bold and flashy performance in their second, reminded me of her. When she was with Fin.K.L, her image was similar to the first album, but in her solo career, she adopted a sexy and intense concept. I thought it would be great for Domi to embody both aspects, Park Ji-hyun added.After accumulating references and practice, the real variable emerged on stage. Um Tae-goo, who had revealed little during rehearsals, showcased a completely different persona once the cameras were rolling. Park Ji-hyun described that moment as feeling like she had been blindsided.Tae-goo was someone who didn’t show much during practice, but once he was on stage, he transformed into a different person. Dong-won said I was a natural on stage, but I think Tae-goo is the true stage natural. I felt blindsided. I thought I would just wink from my part, but he winked a million times during the rap part. I felt like, He took my moment. He was flying on stage, and his cuteness rivaled that of active idols, Park Ji-hyun said.That part was something that changed on the spot. I was discussing with the teacher about making it cuter, but I had no gestures prepared, so I was worried. I thought, If it’s not cute, I might as well not do it. It was terrifying because it would be strange for someone who had never made that expression to suddenly do so. But I think I just went for it. I did everything I could think of that was cute. The actions themselves weren’t prepared at all, Um Tae-goo reflected.Kang Dong-won aimed to create a funny yet impressive performance based on his memories of first-generation idols, while Park Ji-hyun infused confidence into Domi, and Um Tae-goo added Sang-goos awkwardness and unexpected charm. The song, dance, expressions, and gestures crafted by the three actors brought the fictional group Triangle to life on stage. The humor in Wild Thing was built upon their serious preparation.* This article has been translated by AI. June 9, 2026 16:09 -
South Korea Strengthens International Cooperation Against Copyright Crimes The South Korean government is enhancing its international investigative cooperation with key countries such as Thailand, Vietnam, and the Netherlands to effectively combat overseas copyright infringement crimes. On June 9, the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism and the Korea Copyright Protection Agency held the 2026 International Cooperation Meeting on Copyright Protection Enforcement at the Lotte Hotel in Seoul. The meeting was attended by representatives from law enforcement agencies in five countries: Thailand, Indonesia, Vietnam, the Philippines, and the Netherlands, as well as officials from Interpol, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (HSI) Korea office, the Ministry of Justice, the Daejeon District Prosecutors Office, and the National Police Agency. Private sector participants included the Copyright Overseas Promotion Association, Naver Webtoon, Kakao Entertainment, and the Motion Picture Association of America. Participants shared updates on copyright infringement incidents occurring in major consumer markets for K-content and engaged in in-depth discussions on international cooperation strategies. They reviewed changes in South Koreas copyright protection policies, law enforcement cases, and the status of infringement responses by the Korea Copyright Protection Agencys overseas offices, as well as reported on the closure of illegal K-content distribution sites and arrests of infringers in Vietnam and Thailand. Notably, during the K-Webtoon infringement response meeting, attendees assessed the progress of international cooperation cases under Interpols I-SOP initiative for online copyright infringement and discussed plans for joint operations to apprehend infringers in the future. The I-SOP initiative refers to the international cooperation project where the Ministry of Culture and the National Police Agency of South Korea collaborate with Interpol to address the distribution of online pirated content. Since establishing the international cooperation investigative framework in 2022, the Ministry has successfully apprehended one operator of Nunu TV in 2024 and two operators of illegal streaming sites residing in Vietnam in early 2025. Additionally, at the end of that year, they captured a heavy uploader who had fled to Vietnam and repatriated them to South Korea. The Ministry stated, Online copyright crimes can cross borders with just one click, making it difficult to resolve them through a single countrys response. We will strengthen our cooperation with the National Police Agency, Interpol, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (HSI), and overseas investigative agencies to build a sustainable and robust international investigative network.* This article has been translated by AI. June 9, 2026 13:03 -
I-DLE to release ninth EP 'We made' in July SEOUL, June 08 (AJP) - K-pop girl group I-DLE will return with its ninth EP, "We made," on July 6, its agency Cube Entertainment said Monday. The agency unveiled a teaser for the album through the five-member group's official social media channels at midnight. "We made" marks I-DLE's first release in six months since the digital single "Mono (Feat. skaiwater)" in January, and its first EP in a little over a year since "We are" in May last year. The teaser uses thermal camera and X-ray imagery to visualize how love registers in the body, tracing heat from the chest to the fingertips and into the minds of two figures facing each other. The album logo uses a distortion effect that echoes the emotional intensity of the visuals. Formed in 2018, I-DLE garnered immediate recognition, winning their first music show award just 20 days after debut and going on to receive multiple rookie awards at major year-end ceremonies that year. The group is widely regarded as one of the most successful K-pop girl groups outside of the industry's major labels. Before the EP's release, I-DLE will perform in Singapore, Yokohama and Hong Kong as part of its fourth world tour, "2026 I-DLE WORLD TOUR [Syncopation]." June 8, 2026 16:33 -
Sooja from 'I Am Solo' Surpasses 160,000 Followers on Social Media Sooja, a participant in the 31st season of I Am Solo, has seen her social media follower count exceed 160,000 as of June 8. This achievement appears to make her the most followed participant from the SBS Plus and ENA reality show. In comparison, Ok-soon, known for her resemblance to BLACKPINKs Jisoo from season 22, has 131,000 followers. Currently, Kyungsoo, who is married to Sooja, supports her influencer activities. On June 6, Sooja posted several photos on her social media account, sharing a quote from poet Jin Eun-young: Days that remind me of a lover as lovely as green. In the photos, Sooja is seen wearing a white blouse paired with a skirt, while Kyungsoo is dressed in all black, both surrounded by flowers and looking happy, evoking envy among viewers. The couple met while filming I Am Solo season 31. During the show, Sooja faced bullying allegations from fellow female contestants, including Ok-soon, Young-sook, and Jung-hee, which sparked public outrage. Young-sook competed with Sooja for Kyungsoos affection, but ultimately, Sooja and Kyungsoo chose each other, forming a couple. Netizens have expressed their support for the couple, especially considering the emotional distress Sooja experienced, including a hospital visit during filming. Kyungsoo drew attention by posting supportive messages for Sooja following the controversy. On June 3, he shared on his social media, From the moment I received the call to join Solo Country until the moment I left, I spent five days and six nights immersed in the experience. I realized many shortcomings about myself while reflecting on my appearance through the broadcast and thought I needed to become a better person. Of course, there were edited scenes for entertainment and many moments I wanted to clarify, but I believe that every moment, whether disappointing or joyful, ultimately represented who I am. I sincerely thank the viewers who believed in me and watched over me with warm eyes despite the numerous misunderstandings surrounding season 31. Sooja, I’m embarrassed, but thank you for believing in me from start to finish, and I’m sorry. You worked hard during the show. Let’s meet more beautifully in the future.* This article has been translated by AI. June 8, 2026 16:15 -
Ministry of Science and ICT Prepares for Kakao Union Strike to Ensure Service Stability The Ministry of Science and ICT is taking steps to ensure service stability in anticipation of a strike by the Kakao union. On June 8, the ministry held a meeting with Kakao officials at the Government Sejong Center to discuss measures for maintaining service continuity and stability ahead of the unions planned strike on June 10. The meeting included Choi Woo-hyuk, head of the ministrys Information Protection and Network Policy Office, and Seo Young-hoon, Kakaos vice president. The two sides discussed strategies for the stable operation of key digital services, including KakaoTalk and KakaoMap, as well as emergency response systems. They agreed to maintain a cooperative framework to continuously monitor service operations and ensure prompt communication and response in the event of any disruptions. Choi emphasized, The stability of digital platform services used by a large number of citizens is a very important issue, urging efforts to secure service continuity and stability to prevent any inconvenience to the public. Meanwhile, the Kakao Community Labor Union plans to hold a partial strike and rally in the Pangyo area of Seongnam, Gyeonggi Province, on the morning of June 10. The strike will involve unions from five subsidiaries, including Kakao, KakaoPay, Kakao Entertainment, DK Tech, and XL Games. The union is demanding that 10% of operating profits be allocated for performance bonuses and that the compensation system be made more transparent.* This article has been translated by AI. June 8, 2026 14:33