Minikino Film Week 11 – KCrush Interview with ‘Water Sports’ Producer Alemberg M. Ang

Disclaimer: Some of the topics discussed would be mature and provocative in theme – the topics discussed are mature in nature.

Award winning production designer, writer and director Whammy Alcazaren (Bold Eagle, Whether the Weather is Fine) is a creative not afraid to push boundaries in his visual and narrative storytelling, and his 2025 short film Water Sports, which screened at Minikino Film Week 11 in Denpasar, Bali, is no exception.

In this visually unique and provocative film, two highschoolers, Ipe played by Elijah Canlas (Sunshine, Gameboys) and his boyfriend Jelson played by John Renz Javier (The Gospel of the Beast) are faced with the existential thought of what finding and holding onto love means at the end of the world. Though this is a narrative that has been explored countless times in other films, shows, and books, Whammy takes things a step further than most by focusing the story on two queer young men and their friends bravely facing their imminent doom in a Philippines washed in shocking shades of orange, yellow, and reds from the blazing sun beating down on an earth with no protective layers of atmosphere to provide a barrier from the scorching irradiated heat, and the irony that the very thing they and the earth are in desperate need of the most, water, will be their very destruction in the form of a tsunami.

Stranded in an isolated, crumbling school with no running water, an empty pool, and a teacher (Ricky Davao) showing no interest in his students, Ipe and Jelson both have deep conversations with each other, their few remaining classmates, and themselves about what’s the purpose of romantic and platonic love and relationships when the end to everything has already been determined and is fast approaching.

Water Sports is a short film that effectively uses what seem to be absurd visual tricks, vignettes, a score that can’t quite be followed, and unpredictable editing styles and scene transitions by filmmaker Carlos Francisco Manatad–or whose 2021 disaster feature film Whether the Weather is Fine, Whammy won multiple awards for his production design–to convey the chaotic reality being lived by these characters.

I use the word “seem”, because at first the editing and production design of the school and environment seem sort of haphazard, but with time it fairly obvious to anyone who spends a significant amount of time on social media, that all of the elements, perfectly capture the current state of the internet as it is now. So much of what we consume visually and audibly consists of fast moving images, reels, thoughts and sped up streams on consciousness, that over time it all just melds into an almost overwhelming and crashing down on you in cacophony of noise, emotions, and colours, much like the world ending tsunami forecasted to soon arrive.

Whammy being able to interpret all of this so concisely and correlate it to the film’s overarching theme of climate change, environmental conservation, queer identity, and teen angst is quite brilliant. Oh, and I can’t forget the religious context which is presented in many overt and subliminal ways. With Catholicism being the main religion in the Philippines since the arrival of the Spanish to the islands and their subsequent colonization, there’s no avoiding…or perhaps escaping might be a more apt term, the discussion of queer love in the context of religious conservatism and the guilt that stems from being taught that who you are and who you love is seen as a mortal sin that could cause you eternal damnation.

But as Jelson and Ipe ponder, if they’re existing in a world that’s been damned through the negligence of those who had the power to avert environmental destruction, what’s the point is denying oneself comfort and love in a world already literally on fire?

Whammy’s years as a production designer with a fine eye to getting every small detail right, come through very clearly in every scene of Water Sports. Every set piece serves a purpose and tells us what he’s thinking of and trying to convey to audiences. For the casting he wanted all of the young male actors to look alike and have similar body structures and makeup to encourage audiences to think about what facades teenage boys and young men are expected to project even as they’re facing mental and existential challenges.

In My KCrush interview with producer Alemberg M. Ang (Bold Eagle) at Minikino, we discussed a variety of topics including Alemberg’s process of give and take working with a filmmaker who has a very specific vision in and working to supporting that vision for a film like Water Sports, what makes the casting choices unique, and how audiences could perceive and interpret the provocative themes in the film that could be uncomfortable for some.

*All images courtesy of Dalyuyong Studios.

One interesting tidbit is that the name of Alemberg’s production company is Dalyuyong which means “large tidal waves that can be as massive as a tsunami” in Tagalog.

Credits for the video: Music – “Evening Melodies” by MsBlink
“Carmina Burana – O Fortuna” by Carl Orff (The song is permitted for non-commercial use under license Attribution-NonCommercial-NoDerivs 3.0 Unported (CC BY-NC-ND 3.0)

On Friday, November 7, 2025, the Asia Society Texas Center in Houston’s Museum District hosted its annual “Night Market” celebration. The festival brings the vibrant energy of street markets in East and Southeast Asia to the Gulf Coast, all while centering greater Houston’s diverse Asian and Asian American communities.

Credit: Asia Society Texas Center

From 6 p.m. to 10 p.m., the event transformed the Center’s outdoor parking lot and interior spaces into a lively village of flavors, artistry and connection. Guests of all ages could explore dozens of food and artisan vendors, enjoy dance performances, and some games for free. Inside the Center and for a small fee, there were anime screenings, more games, sumo-wrestling demonstrations! For those who have never experienced the beautiful museum, the Center offered after-hours art access.

Credit: “Pilot,” who’s been great behind the camera!

I was excited to experience this event through the eyes of my husband, Pilot, who continues to dive into these adventures with an open heart and mind. Being the foodies that we are, we were especially excited to try the cuisines! Although overall positive, it was a disappointment that two hours into the festival, several food options weren’t available. For the options that were available, such as Filipino and some Japanese and Korean fusion bites, the lines were painfully long. We opted instead for exploring more of the festival booths.

It’s been at least 10 years since I last enjoyed the festival and my understanding of the various communities and cultures represented have come a long way. This impact is the goal of the festival, actually. The Night Market supports the mission of the Asia Society Texas Center to elevate Asian and Asian American voices in Houston’s cultural landscape. There’s intentionality about placing a positive spotlight on cultural celebration, community entrepreneurship and cross-cultural exchange. The result? A festive, inclusive evening offering something for all ages.

Ashley Borjon, Host & Historian

Ashley is a content creator, educator, and public speaker. As an authority on the Hallyu phenomenon, she has collaborated on projects and events with various domestic and international companies and brands as a music historian. As the host of An Album a Day, she leads an English-language podcast promoting commentary on South Korean pop music. Learn more about her at https://www.a3daypodcast.com

#NightMarket #Houston2025NightMarket #Fillipino #Korean #Japanese NightMarketFoods #kcrush #foodies #festival #HoustonMuseumDistrict #EastandSouthEastAsia #kcrushmagazine #kcrushamerica #HoustonAsianFestival

“Cursed Bunny” by Korean author Bora Chung is a bold and unsettling short-story collection that blends horror, fantasy, and dark satire to expose the hidden anxieties of modern life. Longlisted for the International Booker Prize, this collection has captivated global readers with its imaginative plots and sharp social commentary.

The book contains several surreal and thought-provoking stories, all connected by themes of fear, power, and the unexpected cruelty embedded in ordinary situations. Among the most memorable is the title story, “Cursed Bunny,” where a family of curse-makers creates a vengeful object to fight back against a ruthless corporation. Through this tale, Chung cleverly reveals how injustice can twist generations and how revenge often comes at a heavy cost.

Other stories in the collection explore the burdens of social expectations, the pressures placed on women, and the blurred lines between the human and the monstrous. In “The Head,” a woman is stalked by a speaking, severed head emerging from her toilet — a bizarre yet powerful symbol of guilt and responsibility that refuses to be ignored. While each story is unique, they collectively paint a vivid picture of how people navigate fear, trauma, and societal pressure in unexpected ways. Translated into English by Anton Hur, the collection retains all the eeriness, humor, and cultural nuance of the original Korean text. “Cursed Bunny” is not just a horror collection; it is a daring reflection on the systems that shape our lives and the strange, often haunting ways people cope with them.

—-Karen Mwenda

#CursedBunnybyBoraChung #BoraChung #CursedBunny #AntonHurtranslated #koreanauthor #kcrush #horror #injustice #kcrushamerica #kcrushmagazine #koreanculture #koreanwriter #socialexpectations #burdens #humanversusmonstrous #shortstorycollection #InternationalBookerPrize #sharpsocialcommentary #fear #power #unexpectedcruelty #revenge

Fastest-rising, record-breaking, fifth-generation idol group fresh off MAMA Award Nomination for “Best New Artist”

(Courtesy of: Uncore Entertainment)

LISTEN TO ALBUM “BLACKOUT” HERE

WATCH MUSIC VIDEO “X” HERE

The dynamic, rising K-Pop powerhouse CLOSE YOUR EYES is ushering in a bold new chapter with the release of their highly anticipated third mini album, “blackout.” Following breakout hits, “All My Poetry” and “Snowy Summer,” the seven-member group deliver a musically rich project that blends R&B and house-inspired. This release redefines the boundaries of modern K-Pop while showcasing growth and artistry that have propelled them to global recognition. The latest release fresh off the heels from their nomination for “Best New Artist” at the prestigious upcoming MAMA Awards. The recognition is just one of many this year alone across multiple accolades, such as The Fact Music Awards – Hottest Award, Brand of the Year Awards – Rookie Male Idol, K-WORLD DREAM AWARDS – New Vision Award, and TikTok Music Awards – New Wave Artist Award.

Expanding the group’s artistic evolution, the album delivers an emotionally charged landscape that reflects vulnerability and strength. Centered on themes of one’s journey of growth, the project braves the power of transformation beyond past limitations.

Opening the album is “X,” a dynamic yet powerful R&B infused dance track characterized by its restrained bassline and diverse synth layers. The lyrics, written by member Jeon Min-wook, express a determined mindset to break through personal limits and move forward. The first collaboration track, “SOB,” features Grammy-Award winning producer, Imanbek, on a heavy bass with house-style drums. Built on a house-inspired dance-pop foundation, “CHIC” features striking synthesizer arpeggios and a catchy hook that highlight the group’s distinctive charm and playful individuality. Continuing with R&B influences on blended textures and keyboards is “2.0” – a transition between halftime and double-time rhythms in the chorus to create an engaging, pulsating contrast. “Who’s Day? (Jane Doe)” sensually portrays the allure and mystery of an unidentified figure from a dreamscape, closing the album with an air of intriguing falsettos. Closing the album is the English version of “X.”

The rising rookie septet has quickly established themselves as one of the most exciting new acts in the global music scene. Formed through JTBC’s survival show “Project 7,” CLOSE YOUR EYES, officially debuted on April 2, 2025 with their first mini album, “ETERNALT”, which sold 316k units in the first week of release. They continued to stack achievements with their second mini album “Snowy Summer”, which was released in July, selling over 200k albums on its first day of release. They also won first place on SBS M’s The Show and MBC M’s Show Champion concurrently, then later won a trophy on KBS’s Music Bank with the title track “Snowy Summer.’ Their speed to success made history, accomplishing a Music Bank win just nine days after their official debut, solidifying their place as the fastest fifth-generation group to win on the show and second fastest group in all-time history.

blackout Tracklist:

X
SOB
CHIC
0
Who’s Dat (Jane Doe)
X (English Ver.)

(Courtesy of: Uncore Entertainment)

About CLOSE YOUR EYES

CLOSE YOUR EYES (CYE) is a 7-member multinational K-pop boy group is comprised of Jeon Min-wook, Ma Jingxian, Jang Yeo-jun, Kim Sung-min, Song Seung-ho, Kenshin, and Seo Kyoung-bae. The group formed through the global audition show PROJECT7, produced by SLL and YGP. Chosen by over 17M global fan vote, including 91% from overseas, CYE debuted in 2025 with their new album ETERNALT, which sold 316K copies. The title track “All My Poetry” earned them their first music show win just 9 days after their debut, making them the one of the fastest groups to achieve this milestone in K-Pop history. Their followup release, “Snowy Summer”, continued to build on this momentum with multiple music show wins including “The Show”, “Show Champion”, and “Music Bank.” Known for their powerful performances, CYE quickly rose to become one of the most talked-about rookie groups. With stunning visuals, creative energy, and a commanding stage presence, they are leading the new wave of global K-pop.

Follow CLOSE YOUR EYES: Facebook | Instagram | Spotify | TikTok | X

#CLOSEYOUREYES #UnicoreEntertainment #JeonMinwook #MaJingxian #JangYeojun #KimSungmin #SongSeungho #Kenshin #SeoKyoungbae #PROJECT& #kcrush #kcrushmagazine #kcrushamerica #kpop #koreanpop #koreanentertainment #MAMAAwards #nomination #SLL #YGP #CYE #ETERNALT #MusicBank #kpopmusic #ShowChampion #blackoutbyCloseYourEyes #kpopnewboygroup #musicvideoblackout

“GO OFF” ARTWORK Courtesy of RIOT GAMES

Riot Games today unveiled the VALORANT Game Changers Championship 2025 music video “GO OFF,” featuring a reimagined version of the hit track “M.I.A” by global pop group, KATSEYE. “M.I.A (VALORANT Game Changers Version),” accompanied by a cinematic music video, is available now across all streaming platforms. Watch the cinematic music video HERE.

Music continues to play a vital role in shaping the VALORANT experience, and this year’s VALORANT Game Changers Championship anthem is a reflection of that dedication. The collaboration with KATSEYE celebrates the competitive spirit and energy that define VALORANT Game Changers.

“When Riot asked us to reimagine M.I.A for Game Changers, as a gamer I was like YES!” says Megan of KATSEYE. “That song has always been about confidence and showing up as your best self, and that message aligns so much with what Game Changers stands for. We wanted this version to celebrate every player who’s out there pushing limits and owning their power.”

“GO OFF” tells the story of determination and perseverance, told through the experiences of women in and around VALORANT. The video celebrates connections formed around Game Changers, reflecting a community that stands together and lifts each other up when it matters most.

“Working with KATSEYE to give “M.I.A” a Game Changers twist has been an incredible experience. Their energy and artistry perfectly match the spirit of VALORANT, and Megan’s connection as a player made the collaboration feel that much more authentic,” shares Jonny Altepeter, Lead Music Supervisor at Riot Games. “It’s inspiring to see artists who genuinely connect with our game come together to celebrate Game Changers, a program that continues to empower and elevate our community.”

The VALORANT Game Changers Championship 2025 finals will take place from November 28-30 at Riot’s very own LoL Park in Seoul. Since the program’s inception in 2021, VCT Game Changers has created new opportunities and exposure for women within VALORANT esports. Previous events were held in Berlin and São Paulo, with past anthems including “All Eyes On Me” featuring Jean Deaux and Whipped Cream, “VALORANT, LOUDER” with an original score by Karel Psota and “THE DRIVE” featuring PREDATOR by YONAKA.

ABOUT RIOT GAMES

Riot Games was founded in 2006 to develop, publish, and support the most player-focused games in the world. In 2009, Riot released its debut title, League of Legends, which has gone on to be one of the most-played PC games in the world. In the years that followed, Riot released VALORANT, Teamfight Tactics, Legends of Runeterra, and League of Legends: Wild Rift. Riot’s titles have led to the creation of some of the most-watched and widely recognized esports in the world, culminating in events like the League of Legends World Championship and VALORANT Champions Tour (VCT), which are watched by millions of fans each year. Riot has also expanded its IP through multimedia projects across music, comic books, board games, and Arcane, its Emmy-winning animated series.

About VALORANT

VALORANT is a competitive 5v5 character-based first-person tactical shooter developed and published by Riot Games for PC, Xbox Series X|S and PlayStation®5. VALORANT is a precise and lethal multiplayer game with high-fidelity gunplay, a diverse arsenal of guns, agents with unique abilities, and competitively tuned maps for unlimited hours of play. In VALORANT, players lock in their agent for the entire duration of the match and then attempt to win a round-based, attackers vs. defenders, best-of-24-rounds fight.

VALORANT is a free-to-play game and optimized to perform on a wide variety of PC and console platforms, allowing for a global audience to compete. Demonstrated by the game’s best-in-class game server quality, global infrastructure, and proprietary anti-cheat technology, Riot Games is committed to preserving the core tenets of the tactical shooter genre and upholding the competitive integrity of the gameplay experience across all available platforms.

Visit PlayVALORANT.com for more information and follow @VALORANT on social media.

About the VALORANT Champions Tour

VALORANT is the highly competitive, 5v5 character-based tactical shooter attracting millions of players around the world. To foster and support global competition, Riot Games operates the VALORANT Champions Tour (VCT), a year-long, global circuit composed of leagues and global events spanning EMEA, Asia, and the Americas. Teams compete through four international leagues and global Masters events with the goal to qualify for Champions, a two-week long tournament where a single team is crowned the VALORANT Global Champion.

About VALORANT Game Changers

Game Changers is an initiative created by Riot Games with the goal of creating new opportunities and exposure for women seeking to participate in VALORANT esports, through a combination of community events and top-tier competition. The program, which launched in February of 2021, created a space for players of diverse genders to compete at the highest level without fear of judgment while showcasing the diversity of the VALORANT community. Our goal is for Game Changers to become the stepping stone that pushes more women to compete within the International and Challenger Leagues.

About KATSEYE

KATSEYE – the first-ever global girl group formed using KPOP artist development methodologies – is “out to change the look and sound of modern pop as we know it,” as Vogue recently noted. Ranging in age from 16 to 22 and coming from immensely different cultures, the six members of KATSEYE are: DANIELA (Atlanta, GA USA); LARA (Los Angeles, CA USA); MANON (Zurich, Switzerland); MEGAN (Honolulu, HI USA); SOPHIA (Manila, Philippines); and YOONCHAE (Seoul, South Korea). Now based in Los Angeles, KATSEYE’s members emerged from 120,000 submissions that were narrowed down to a field of 20 contestants who participated in The Dream Academy, an intensive program developed jointly by HYBE and GEFFEN. Fans got to know the young women over the course of the 2023 audition program, which was seen on YouTube, Weverse and ABEMA (Japan).

The years-long process of creating this one-of-a-kind international girl group became the subject of Netflix documentary series KATSEYE: Pop Star Academy, directed by Nadia Hallgren (Becoming) and produced by HYBE, Interscope Films and Boardwalk Pictures.

KATSEYE released their first single “Debut” in June 2024 and released their debut EP, SIS (Soft is Strong), in August 2024. Their second EP, BEAUTIFUL CHAOS, released in June 2025 earned the group their first top 10 on the Billboard 200 chart at #4 and was preceded by a pair of singles “Gnarly” and “Gabriela” earlier in the year.

#KATSEYE #DANIELA #LARA #MANON #MEGAN #SOPHIA #YOONCHAE #VALORANT #GameChangers #kpop #videogame #MIAVALORANTGAMECHANGERS #kcruh #kcrushmagazine #kcrushamerica #gaming #GoOff #RIOTGAMES #kpopgirlsgroup #JonnyAltepeterLeadMusicSupervisoratRiotGames #BeautihfulChaos #GameChangersCommunity

(Courtesy of: Attrakt Entertainment)

K-pop sensation, FIFTY FIFTY, makes a bold return with their latest album, “Too Much Part 1,” now available on all streaming platforms. The project marks a new chapter in the group’s musical journey, capturing the modern sentiment of embracing love’s beginnings with fearless yet playful curiosity.

The new body of work brings to life the flutter, tension, and unpredictable energy that comes with overwhelming emotions. Inspired by motifs such as “a psychological game of confessing love as a playful challenge” and “the moment emotions burst into color,” the single perfectly balances raw intensity with FIFTY FIFTY’s signature vibrancy and playful charm. This release continues to pioneer “Fifty Pop,” a genre defined by honesty, energetic expression, and emotional nuance. “Too Much Part 1” invites fans to experience the excitement of love’s early moments, transforming vulnerability into a lively, colorful musical journey.

The main track being “Eeny meeny miny moe” is a thrill of a first crush turned into pop perfection. With a chanty hook, fluttering “Ba ba ba Badam” beats, and bright synths, the quintet makes the nervous excitement of young love irresistibly catchy. Skittlez makes emotions explode like a rainbow of candy in this playful, sensual track. Minimalist hip-hop vibes meet glossy vocals, making every lyric pop with color and energy. “Eeny meeny miny moe (Eng. ver)” is a global version of the hit that retains its cute, lively charm while adding a confident, universal pop flair. FIFTY FIFTY proves once again they’re masters of turning love, playfulness, and emotion into infectious music. The beloved girl group has been making significant strides in the global music scene. Their breakout hit, “Cupid”, not only became the longest-charting K-pop song in Billboard Hot 100 history at 25 consecutive weeks but also made them the first female K-pop act to reach the top 10 on the UK Singles Chart, peaking at number eight. The group further solidified their rising star status by winning the K-Pop Song of the Year for “Cupid (Twin Version)” at the 2024 iHeartRadio Music Awards. Further solidifying their position as a global force in the music industry, they captivated audiences with shows during their U.S. tour last year and an album release earlier this year.

LISTEN HERE

Watch “Eeny Meeny Miny Moe” Music Video HERE

The five-piece collective continues to expand their artistic horizons while staying true to the heartfelt storytelling that defines their music. With a variety of on-going music projects in the upcoming months, the group aspires to demonstrate their versatility as artists and work hard to build upon their growing success.

(Courtesy of: Attrakt Entertainment)

FOLLOW FIFTY FIFTY: Instagram | Spotify | TikTok

About FIFTY FIFTY

FIFTY FIFTY debuted in Nov 2022 and experienced a commercial breakthrough with their song “Cupid”, which became the longest-charting K-pop song in Billboard Hot 100 history at 25 consecutive weeks (peaking #17) and reached #2 on the Billboard Global 200. The song became popular on TikTok due to a dance trend launched by the group, with over 2 million video creations on the ‘twin’ version and more on sped-up audios. Rather than most K-pop groups which focus initially on the local market and Korean-language repertoire, FIFTY FIFTY’s songs leaned more heavily into Western pop sounds and English-language hooks, as seen in other tracks like “SOS” and “Gravity.” Just last year, they inked a U.S. record deal with Arista Records and released their comeback EP Love Tune. So far, the group has released two EPs – The FIFTY and Love Tune – along with one LP, The Beginning. They also contributed a song to the soundtrack of the blockbuster Barbie movie.

#FIFTYFIFTY #AttraktEntertainment #TooMuchPart1 #kcrush #Gravity #TheBeginningLP #kpop #SOS #kcrushamerica #kcrushmagazine #Koreanlanguagerepertoire #Skittlez #koreanmusic #newmusic #kpopidol #EenyMeenyMinyMoe #FIFTYFIFTYNewSong #FiftysPop #CUPIDbyFIFTYFIFTY

Late last week, BTS leader RM (Kim Namjoon) delivered a historic keynote speech at the APEC CEO Summit in Gyeongju, South Korea, becoming the first K-pop artist to address the global economic forum. His remarks centered on culture, creativity, and Korea’s growing soft power. RM said that K-pop’s success came from respecting diversity and embracing world cultures while maintaining Korea’s unique identity. Comparing Korean pop culture to bibimbap, he explained that K-pop blends “Korea’s unique aesthetics and emotions with global elements like hip-hop, R&B, and EDM,” showing that collaboration without borders creates harmony.

He described BTS’s own journey as an “experiment” — testing whether music sung in Korean could succeed globally. Facing early skepticism, the group overcame barriers through “borderless solidarity” through the power of their global fandom, ARMY, who communicated beyond language and nationality. RM emphasized that BTS’s story represents how art can unify people. He said that “ARMY was the power that broke down those barriers” and added that culture flows like a river — changing form but staying true to its source. His message of “no borders, no limitations” resonated at a summit largely focused on trade and cooperation, reminding leaders that creativity and cultural openness can also drive progress. RM’s APEC appearance was both a proud moment for South Korea and a powerful statement of K-pop’s influence on global dialogue, positioning culture as a bridge between nations.

— Karen Mwenda

#RM #BIGHITEntertainment #APEC #RMAPECSpeech #RMOctober2025APECSpeech #ARMY #kcrush #kpop #kidol #koreanculture #koreanpride ##BTS #kpopgloballanguage #RMsHistoricAPECSpeechPopCultureMeetsDiplomacy #Kim Namjoon #ComparingKoreanpopculturetobibimbap #APECCEOSUMMITKOREA2025 #tradeandcooperation #kcrushamerica #kcrushmagazine #AmericanandKoreanCultures #kpophasnoborders #koreanmusic #ARMYforBTS #koreanlanguage #GDRAGONAPECAmbassader #Koreanpopculture #KoreanKPopinfluence #GyeongjuSouth Korea

Before K-pop became a worldwide phenomenon, a few Korean-American artists were already helping bridge the gap between Korea and the United States. Their fluency in English, Western influences, and cross-cultural appeal helped shape the early sound and image of K-pop, paving the way for future generations of global idols.

1. Brian Joo – Fly to the Sky

Born and raised in New Jersey, Brian Joo debuted under SM Entertainment in 1999 as one half of the R&B duo Fly to the Sky. Known for emotional ballads like “Sea of Love” and “Missing You,” he became one of the first American-born singers to influence K-pop’s early R&B sound. He later continued as a solo artist and TV personality in Korea.

2. Danny Ahn – g.o.d

Danny Ahn, who grew up in Seattle, made his mark as the main rapper of g.o.d under JYP Entertainment in 1999. The group became one of Korea’s most beloved acts with hits such as “Lies” and “One Candle.” Danny’s smooth rap delivery and bilingual skills added a Western edge to g.o.d’s heartfelt music. Today, he is active as an actor, radio host, and variety show personality.

3. Jay Park – 2PM

Seattle-born Jay Park first debuted with 2PM under JYP Entertainment in 2008. 2PM is known for songs like “10 Out of 10” and “Again & Again”. His stage presence and B-boy background brought a new swagger to idol performance. After leaving 2PM, Jay built his own path as a solo artist and CEO of AOMG and H1GHR MUSIC, becoming one of the most influential figures in Korean hip-hop.

4. Amber Liu – f(x)

Amber Liu, who grew up in Los Angeles, debuted with f(x) group in 2009 under SM Entertainment and quickly gained attention for her unique tomboy style and laid-back confidence. With hits like “Electric Shock” and “Red Light,” Amber broke stereotypes in the K-pop scene and became a role model for individuality. She now continues to make music as a solo artist active in both Korea and the U.S.

5. Tiffany Young – Girls’ Generation

Raised in San Francisco, Tiffany Young debuted as a member of Girls’ Generation under SM Entertainment in 2007. Her powerful vocals and confident presence stood out in tracks like “Gee” and “I Got A Boy.” After years of success in Korea, Tiffany returned to the U.S. as a solo singer and actress, continuing to connect K-pop with Western audiences.

6. Jessica Jung – Girls’ Generation

Also from San Francisco, Jessica Jung also debuted with Girls’ Generation alongside Tiffany Young. She contributed to many of the group’s signature songs, including “Into the New World” and “Run Devil Run.” After leaving SM Entertainment, Jessica launched her own fashion brand, Blanc & Eclare, and continues to work as a singer, author, and designer.

7. Eli Kim – U-KISS

Eli Kim, who grew up in Washington D.C., joined U-KISS in 2008 under NH Media and helped the group gain international recognition with songs like “Man Man Ha Ni” and “0330.” His fluent English and multicultural background helped U-KISS build one of K-pop’s earliest global fanbases. He is now active as a television personality.

These early Korean-American idols were more than performers—they were cultural bridges who helped K-pop find its global voice long before it became a worldwide trend.

—-Karen Mwenda

#FirstAmericanFacesofKPop #KoreanAmericanIdols #kcrush #EliKim #UKiss #JessicaJung #GirlsGeneration #kpop #Korean #TiffanyYoung #GirlsGeneration #AmberLiu #fx #DannyAhn #god #JayPark #2PM #ElectricShock #NHMedia #JYP #kidol #SMEntertainment #HIGHERMUSIC #AOMG #ManManHaNi #BrianYoo #FlyToTheSky #SeaOfLove #MissingYou

(Courtesy of: A2O Entertainment)

Buy/Stream “PAPARAZZI ARRIVE” : [LINK HERE]

Watch “PAPARAZZI ARRIVE” : [LINK HERE]

The next-gen global girl group, A2O MAY, continues to make history standing out with an eventful weekend with many firsts for a Chinese idol group.

First, the rookie all-stars hosted their first live showcase and EP release party in the U.S. to over 1,000 fans at The Vermont in Los Angeles. They performed all their hit singles to critical acclaim for their stage persona, dance moves and live vocals. After the EP release event and showcase festivities, the group were invited by LINE Friends to perform at the prestigious Universal Studios CityWalk bringing over 500 fans.

The group made their highly anticipated return this weekend with their first EP, “PAPARAZZI ARRIVE,” out now on all digital streaming platforms. The 14-track release not only highlights A2O Entertainment’s original genre, “Zalpha Pop”—a fusion of Gen Z and Gen Alpha influences—but also showcases the group’s versatility through a dynamic mix of pre-debut songs, unit performances, and solo tracks. Built on a striking siren-like synth riff and dubstep-inspired electro beats, the song delivers a message of confidence and ambition through the group’s dynamic vocals.

In just a few short months, A2O MAY has broken records and defied expectations in the U.S. Their pre-debut single “Under My Skin” made them the first Chinese group to enter the U.S. Top 40 Radio Chart, where it remained for two consecutive weeks. Their official debut single, “BOSS,” has now charted five consecutive weeks – rising from #35 to #32 – marking their second U.S. Top 40 entry and the highest charting placement in history by a Chinese girl group. The track has also amassed over 30 million views across Weibo and YouTube, fueled by the viral Jump Rope Dance featured in its chorus. Released this past August, “B.B.B” topped the Daily New Songs Chart on China’s largest music platform, QQ Music, and earned A2O MAY the “Rookie Group of the Year ” award at the 2025 Weibo Music Awards, marking significant achievements for the group. With growing traction across both Asia and North America, A2O MAY is fast emerging as a leading powerhouse in global pop.

Backed by K-pop pioneer Soo Man LEE and launched under A2O Entertainment, A2O MAY is the first group to embody “Zalpha Pop”—a genre blending Gen Z emotions and Gen Alpha’s creativity. Their music fuses futuristic production with emotionally resonant storytelling, creating cultural bridges through sound and style. Highlighting their unprecedented debut, the group attended the star-studded Amazon Studios’ “Lee Soo Man: King of K-Pop” premiere in Los Angeles, the feature documentary chronicling the enthralling life of a bold visionary. The red carpet sparkled with icons including Girls’ Generation members and Taemin from SHINee, sharing the spotlight with the rising group primed for global dominance.

(Courtesy of: A2O Entertainment)

Buy/Stream “PAPARAZZI ARRIVE” : [LINK HERE]

Watch “PAPARAZZI ARRIVE” : [LINK HERE]

ABOUT A2O MAY

A2O MAY (AY-TWO-OH-MAY) is the first official girl group launched under A2O Entertainment, making their debut on December 20, 2024. The group is composed of five talented members — CHENYU (17), SHIJIE (18), QUCHANG (18), MICHE (20), and KAT (20) — who were selected from A2O Rookies’ HTG division. Hailing from Shanghai, Suzhou, and Hawaii, A2O MAY is a multicultural, bilingual group fluent in Chinese and English, representing a new generation of global idols. Each member brings a unique artistic identity shaped by passions such as fashion styling, piano, visual art, songwriting, and performance. A2O MAY is the first group to embody Zalpha Pop, a genre and cultural movement created by renowned producer Soo Man LEE, aimed at blending the emotional authenticity and storytelling of Gen Z and Gen Alpha. Their debut single, “Under My Skin,” captures this vision with a rhythmic, synth-driven sound and introspective tone, offering a powerful glimpse into the future of youth-driven global music. As pioneers of A2O’s artist ecosystem, A2O MAY continues to connect with fans worldwide through digital-first content, dynamic visuals, and an open, evolving narrative of growth, self-expression, and creativity.

More than a name, A2O MAY signals the beginning of a cultural shift. Inspired by the season of full bloom and sharing its sound with the Chinese character 美 (Mei), meaning “beauty,” the name reflects not only outer elegance but inner strength — the quiet power behind every transformation. More than artists, they are a bridge — connecting culture to culture, generation to generation, heart to heart. Step into the world of A2O MAY. The future begins in May’s full bloom.

#A2OMAY #UniversalCityWalk #A2OEntertainment #ChineseIdolGroup #girlgroup #kcrush #CPop #popmusic #ZalphaPop #CHENYU #SHIJIE #QUCHANG #MICHE # KAT #kcrushamerica #kcrushmagazine #Chinesegirlgroup #GenZ #GenAlpha #SooManLEE #2024Debut #aboutA2O

When Guardian: The Lonely and Great God — better known as Goblin — aired in late 2016, it wasn’t just another K-drama. It was a global phenomenon that blended fantasy, romance, and destiny with poetic perfection. Written by Kim Eun-sook (of Descendants of the Sun fame), Goblin became one of the most beloved and highest-rated dramas in Korean cable history. Eight years later, its characters — an immortal goblin, a grim reaper, and two fated lovers — still linger in fans’ hearts.

1. Gong Yoo

Gong Yoo played Kim Shin — the immortal Goblin cursed to wander the earth — which became one of his most iconic acting roles. Already a household name before Goblin, the series solidified his place as a Hallyu legend. After Goblin, Gong Yoo made a powerful comeback with the sci-fi film Seo Bok (2021) and headlined Netflix’s space thriller The Silent Sea (2021), where his intense, emotional performance drew global praise. Fans also caught a surprise cameo from him in the smash-hit Squid Game (2021), which went viral worldwide. In 2024, Gong Yoo returned to television in The Trunk, a mystery-romance series centered around a secretive marriage contract business. Despite maintaining an extremely private personal life, Gong Yoo continues to command international respect and remains one of Korea’s most bankable and admired actors.

2. Kim Go Eun

As Ji Eun Tak, the bubbly “Goblin’s bride,” Kim Go Eun captured hearts with her sincerity and emotional range. Goblin propelled her into global fame and opened doors to some of her most diverse and challenging roles yet. In The King: Eternal Monarch (2020), she starred opposite Lee Min Ho in a parallel-universe fantasy romance. She continued to prove her acting depth with Yumi’s Cells (2021–2022), a groundbreaking live-action and animation hybrid that depicted a woman’s emotional world through charming “cells.” Kim’s momentum carried into Little Women (2022), where she delivered a nuanced portrayal in a suspenseful modern retelling of the classic novel. She has also been active in film, fashion, and philanthropy, serving as a global ambassador for Chanel and supporting multiple social causes. Kim Go Eun’s ability to balance mainstream success with meaningful roles shows how much she’s matured since her days as the Goblin’s cheerful bride.

3. Lee Dong Wook

Lee Dong Wook’s transformation as the charming yet melancholic Grim Reaper, Wang Yeo, remains one of Goblin’s most memorable performances. The role revitalized his career, allowing him to explore an impressive variety of genres in the years that followed. He came back with Life (2018), a medical drama that showcased his intensity and leadership on screen. He then reunited with Goblin co-star Yoo In Na in the hit rom-com Touch Your Heart (2019) — a fan-favorite pairing that reignited their beloved chemistry. That same year, he took a darker turn in the psychological thriller Hell Is Other People (2019), proving his range beyond romance. Lee further expanded his fantasy repertoire with Tale of the Nine Tailed (2020) and its prequel Tale of the Nine Tailed 1938 (2023), both of which earned strong fanbases across Asia. His dynamic performances continued in Bad and Crazy (2021) and the action-thriller A Shop for Killers (2024) on Disney+. From fantasy to crime, Lee Dong Wook remains one of the most versatile and consistently respected actors of his generation.

4. Yoo In Na

Yoo In Na’s portrayal of Sunny — the witty, warm-hearted owner of a fried chicken shop and reincarnated queen — added emotional depth and humor to Goblin. Her heartbreaking chemistry with Lee Dong Wook’s Grim Reaper character became one of K-drama’s most iconic side romances. Following Goblin, Yoo In Na continued to shine in leading roles. She reunited with Lee Dong Wook in Touch Your Heart (2019), charming audiences with her comedic timing and elegance. She later starred in The Spies Who Loved Me (2020) as a wedding dress designer caught in a double life of espionage, and in Snowdrop (2021–2022), where she portrayed a mysterious doctor entangled in a political conspiracy. Beyond acting, Yoo In Na has maintained her popularity as a radio DJ and fashion personality, admired for her warmth, poise, and engaging voice. Despite her fame, she has kept her personal life remarkably private, focusing instead on her career and loyal fanbase.

A Legacy That Endures

Even years after Goblin’s finale, its stars continue to dominate the industry with projects that redefine their careers. Gong Yoo remains a cinematic powerhouse, Kim Go-eun a symbol of versatility, Lee Dong Wook a genre-bending actor, and Yoo In Na a timeless favorite in romantic dramas.

—-Karen Mwenda

#WhereAreTheyNow #Goblin #GoblinKdrama #CastofGoblin #kcrush #kdrama #koreandrama #GongYoo #KimGoeun #LeeDongWook #YooInNa #GuardianTheLonelyandGreatGod #kcrushamerica #kcrushmagazine #2016KDrama #drama

What You Need to Know:

Wild Rift marks five years since its global launch with in-game events, new content, and a music collaboration celebrating the evolution of both the game and its players.
“Miss This Life,“ performed by NINGNING of K-pop group aespa, is an upbeat, electro-pop track that parallels a player’s journey from college life to adulthood—reflecting both personal growth and the enduring stories of Wild Rift‘s champions.
The song will debut in-game and across major streaming platforms as part of the anniversary celebration, with a music video highlighting memorable champion moments and fan nostalgia.
Nidalee, the iconic huntress from League of Legends, makes her Wild Rift debut today, adding a dynamic new jungle experience for players.
Fan-favorite game mode, AAARAM, receives an update today with pro player-inspired Augments.
Wild Rounds: SMASH, Wild Rift’s grassroots competitive series, continues to grow—spanning over 20 regions and thousands of players worldwide, reflecting the game’s vibrant and expanding community ecosystem. The next installment will take place in Vietnam from November 14-16.

Quote from David Xu, Executive Producer of Wild Rift:
“Five years in, Wild Rift has become more than a mobile MOBA—it’s a place where players’ stories grow alongside their favorite champions and their epic outplays. NINGNING’s ‘Miss This Life’ captures that shared sense of nostalgia and progress perfectly, capturing the energy and emotion of endless discovery, and anticipation of what is to come —just like Wild Rift players have done over these five amazing years.”

ABOUT RIOT GAMES

ABOUT WILD RIFT

League of Legends: Wild Rift is a mobile strategy and action game, developed by Riot Games. Wild Rift brings the classic MOBA gameplay of League of Legends to mobile devices, with fresh controls and a streamlined feel designed for touchscreens. Players of every level can team up with friends, find their favorite champion, and go for big plays in the 5v5 battle to destroy the enemy base—free-to-play anytime, anywhere.

Critically acclaimed and topping mobile app stores across the world, Wild Rift promises to bring the magic of League to new audiences worldwide. Players will have a brand-new portal into the universe of Runeterra, a highly competitive experience, Riot Games’ chart-topping music, beloved and visually refreshed champions, and a broad and deep community of creators.

Learn more at wildrift.leagueoflegends.com, and follow @wildrift on Twitter and @playwildrift on Instagram.

ABOUT NINGNING

NINGNING made her debut in November 2020 as the member of the global girl group aespa. Known for her unique tone and expressive vocals, she has helped shape the group’s musical identity and captivates audiences with her strong yet emotional performances.

aespa, a combination of “ae”, which stands for “Avatar and Experience” and “aspect” meaning “two-sideness”, symbolizes “meeting of another self and experiencing a new world” and they have achieved million-seller status for seven consecutive releases and continues to affirm their global influence, earning “Group of the Year” at Billboard Women in Music 2025 and embarking on their third world tour, meeting fans around the world.

#aespa #NINGNING #kcrush #WILDRIFT #LeagueofLegends #RiotGames #playwildrift #DavidXu #gaming #videogames #kcrushamerica #kcrushmagazine #MOBAgameplay #newgame #VALORANT #newgame

(Credit: A2O Entertainment)

The next-gen global girl group, A2O MAY, makes a bold return with their first EP, “PAPARAZZI ARRIVE” releasing today on all digital streaming platforms. The 14-track release not only introduces A2O Entertainment’s original genre, “Zalpha Pop”—a fusion of Gen Z and Gen Alpha influences—but also showcases the group’s versatility through a dynamic mix of pre-debut songs, unit performances, and solo tracks. Earlier this year, the quintet captured international attention as the first Chinese idol group to perform at iHeartRadio’s renowned Wango Tango festival, marking both their U.S. stage debut and a simultaneous American television appearance on KTLA.

The debut EP PAPARAZZI ARRIVE is anchored by its title track, PAPARAZZI ARRIVE, a bold showcase of A2O MAY’s “Zalpha Pop.” Built on a striking siren-like synth riff and dubstep-inspired electro beats, the song delivers a message of confidence and ambition through the group’s dynamic vocals. The project also includes their pre-debut single “Under My Skin (A2O),” the bass-driven “B.B.B,” the performance-focused “BOSS,” and the soulful R&B track “MELODY,” reflecting the group’s versatility and musical range.

The release further highlights individual members through solo and unit tracks. MICHE & KAT present “SWEAT,” a Latin-inspired song available in both English and Spanish; CHENYU delivers emotional depth in “Someone You Loved;” QUCHANG showcases her powerful range in “Black Sheep;” and SHIJIE adds smooth R&B flair with “Trip.” To extend their global reach, the title track also appears in English and Chinese versions, positioning A2O MAY as a rising force with international ambitions.

Buy/Stream “PAPARAZZI ARRIVE” : [LINK HERE]

Watch “PAPARAZZI ARRIVE” : [LINK HERE]

ABOUT A2O MAY

A2O MAY (AY-TWO-OH-MAY) is the first official girl group launched under A2O Entertainment, making their debut on December 20, 2024. The group is composed of five talented members — CHENYU (17), SHIJIE (18), QUCHANG (18), MICHE (20), and KAT (20) — who were selected from A2O Rookies’ HTG division. Hailing from Shanghai, Suzhou, and Hawaii, A2O MAY is a multicultural, bilingual group fluent in Chinese and English, representing a new generation of global idols. Each member brings a unique artistic identity shaped by passions such as fashion styling, piano, visual art, songwriting, and performance. A2O MAY is the first group to embody Zalpha Pop, a genre and cultural movement created by renowned producer Soo Man LEE, aimed at blending the emotional authenticity and storytelling of Gen Z and Gen Alpha. Their debut single, “Under My Skin,” captures this vision with a rhythmic, synth-driven sound and introspective tone, offering a powerful glimpse into the future of youth-driven global music. As pioneers of A2O’s artist ecosystem, A2O MAY continues to connect with fans worldwide through digital-first content, dynamic visuals, and an open, evolving narrative of growth, self-expression, and creativity.

#A20MAY #A20Entertainment #CHENYU #SHIJIE #QUCHANG #MICHE #KAT #kcrush #jpop #ZALPHAPOP #PAPARAZZIARRIVE #newmusic #newdebutEP #Shanghai #Suzhou # Hawaii #BOSS #BBB #kcrushamerica #kcrushmagazine #UnderMySkin #Japan

The votes are in, the decisions have been made, and the time has come! Welcome to the official announcement of the winners for the 2024 KCrush America Music Awards!

2024 brought us another great K-Pop year, with artists pushing creative boundaries, breaking global records, and delivering unforgettable music. From the explosive debuts of monster rookies to the history-making comebacks of established legends, this past year was one for the ages. The KCrush America Music Awards are here to celebrate the very best of the best, as chosen by the fans.

A huge congratulations to all the nominees and a special round of applause for our 2024 winners!

Thank you to everyone who participated and voted in this year’s awards. It’s the passion of fans like you that makes the K-Pop community so incredible.

Were you surprised by any of the results? Did your favorite artists win? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below! Don’t forget to like this video and subscribe to our channel for more exclusive K-Pop content!

#KCrushAwards2024 #KCrushAmericaMusicAwards #KPopAwards #KPop #KPopWinners #KCrush #ArtistOfTheYear #SongOfTheYear #AlbumOfTheYear #KPop2024 #Congratulations

LISTEN HERE | WATCH HERE

Courtesy of THEBLACKLABEL

After expanding their musical universe with their debut EP album, MY EYES OPEN VVIDE, multinational girl group MEOVV return with the fiery banger “BURNING UP,” out now via THEBLACKLABEL / Capitol Records. Powered by soulful vocals and a pounding beat, the new single embodies blazing passion and relentless determination — capturing MEOVV’s message of fearlessness. Listen HERE and watch the accompanying official music video HERE.

“BURNING UP” was co-written by MEOVV members GAWON and NARIN alongside a cast of top-tier THEBLACKLABEL talent and international hitmakers including the label’s founder/mega-producer Teddy “TEDDY” Park, Malachiii, Teal Douville, Billy Walsh, Jesse Bluu, Zikai, 24, Vince, and Lento. Producers include TEDDY, Malachiii, 24, and Teal Douville. The epic dance cut kicks off with a Jersey club beat and a living rhythm made up of inhales and exhales. The pulsating synth lifts the group higher as they chant: “It’s like a wildfire, I’mma stay right by ya / Come take me up higher / Let it, let it, let it, let it burn.”

The “BURNING UP” video transfers that all sweltering intensity to the screen as MEOVV brings the heat wherever they go. The girls step out of flaming vehicles, set off sprinkler systems during a spicy food challenge, attempt to cool down in front of a massive fan, and dance under the spray of a fire truck. But nothing can extinguish MEOVV’s searing drive to keep pushing forward without a moment’s doubt.

The new single follows a string of milestones for MEOVV. Most recently, the group was added to the hotly tipped Fall 2025 Emerging Artists list from PEOPLE, who proclaimed, “K-Pop fan or not, MEOVV will be your latest obsession.” In August, the girls made their stunning live U.S. debut at KCON LA. The month before, they released their inaugural Japanese single, “ME ME ME,” in partnership with cosmetic brand KAO. And, of course, May brought the highly anticipated MY EYES OPEN VVIDE, a six-track EP that freely breaks down barriers between genres, moods, languages, and vocal styles — delivering an intimate yet expansive sound that captures MEOVV’s core duality: at times razor sharp, at others effortlessly smooth.

Overseen by TEDDY (BIGBANG, G-Dragon, 2NE1, BLACKPINK), MY EYES OPEN VVIDE is a sonic coming-of-age story that traces MEOVV’s journey as they open their eyes to the world, break down boundaries, and begin actualizing their dreams — as the world, in turn, opens its eyes to them. The EP launched the dynamic, rock-tinged pop epic “DROP TOP” and the laidback R&B track “LIT RIGHT NOW.” It also includes the Brazilian-funk-inspired resilience anthem “HANDS UP” — which earned MEOVV their first-ever music show win on Mnet’s M Countdown, a major milestone for any rookie group — alongside vulnerable pop/R&B song “TOXIC” and “BODY,” a rowdy, dance-inducing hit that doubled as a warning to would-be haters or rivals. Rounding out MY EYES OPEN VVIDE is MEOVV’s bold debut single “MEOW,” a body-banging explosion that roared onto Billboard’s World Digital Song Sales chart at No. 10.

Hailing from South Korea, the US, and Japan, MEOVV’s lineup includes SOOIN, GAWON, ANNA, NARIN, and ELLA — five stars who possess both uniquely compelling identities and an indestructible bond. After playing an integral role in shaping some of K-pop’s most iconic acts over the past couple decades, TEDDY hand-picked the members of MEOVV — his first girl group since debuting BLACKPINK — and is directing all facets of the creative and production. MEOVV launched in September 2024 and, a mere three months later, won “Favorite Rising Artist” at the 2024 MAMA Awards, Asia’s most prestigious music award show.

MEOVV has since earned a slew of critical acclaim from, among other outlets, Teen Vogue, PAPER, Hypebae, The Hollywood Reporter, Elite Daily, UPROXX, Clash, and Billboard, who raved, “MEOVV leaped onto the K-pop scene by showcasing a promising range and bold artistry set to claw out a legacy all their own.” With “BURNING UP,” MEOVV makes clear that the raging fires they’ve set around the globe so far are only the beginning.

(From left: GAWON, ANNA, ELLA, NARIN, SOOIN)

Courtesy of: THEBLACKLABEL

FOLLOW MEOVV

About MEOVV:

Fierce, feverishly buzzing, and fabulously chic, MEOVV are clawing their way to the top of K-pop’s new generation. Pronounced “meow,” the multinational quintet — SOOIN, GAWON, ANNA, NARIN, and ELLA — is the debut girl group from THEBLACKLABEL, creatively led by label founder/mega-producer Teddy “TEDDY” Park (BIGBANG, G-Dragon, 2NE1, BLACKPINK).

MEOVV have lived up to that lineage from their first single, “MEOW,” a bilingual pop anthem that earned 5.1M global streams on week one, roared onto Billboard’s World Digital Song Sales chart (No. 10), and whose video logged over 10 million YouTube views in 48 hours. Then came “BODY” — a warning to rivals complete with signature cat-claw choreo — and the R&B-infused “TOXIC,” revealing the group’s emotional side and incredible vocal range. Just three months after their debut, MEOVV displayed stage presence beyond their years at 2024’s MAMA Awards in Osaka, and took home the award for “Favorite Rising Artist.”

Standing for “My Eyes Open Wide,” MEOVV embodies the dynamism and authenticity of young stars in control of their artistry. The group’s members (who are already racking up writing credits) hail from South Korea, the US, and Japan, and possess both unique identities and an indestructible bond. Together they present a duality that’s at times razor sharp, at others effortlessly smooth, while they break down barriers and actualize their dreams. Armed with sweetly savage charms, MEOVV is pointedly yet softly piercing through hearts.

About THEBLACKLABEL:

THEBLACKLABEL is a South Korean entertainment company, record label, and creative agency founded by TEDDY in 2016 and home to acts such as TAEYANG, JEON SOMI, ROSÉ, ALLDAY PROJECT, and Vince.

#MEOVV #THEBLACKLABEL #THEBURNING #newsinglebyMEOVV #kcrush #GAWON #ANNA #ELLA #NARIN #SOOIN #kpop #kcrushamerica #kcrushmagazine #SouthKorea #popmusic #hallyu #multinationalgirlgroup #kpopgirlgroup #MyEyesOpenWide #RnB #TEDDY #TeddyPark #KAOcosmeticbrand #Malachiii #TealDouville #BillyWalsh #JesseBluu #Zikai #24 #Vince #Lento #girlgroup #kpopmusic #kpopindustry #kpopchoreo #kpopdance #kpopidol

Oh, to be an artist who’s lost the will to create! What trials the creative process can be when you possess more passion than you do money.

In his latest film (well at the time of writing this anyway) I Fell In Love with a Z Grade Director in Brooklyn, which had its world premiere at the 2025 Fantasia International Film Festival in competition in the Cheval Noir program, writer and director Kenichi Ugana takes his characters, Jack (Estevan Muñoz) a passionate young Native Brooklynite rookie filmmaker who believes he’s on the cusp of greatness, his very small and intrepid film crew, and famous Japanese actress Shina, played by Ui Mihara (We Were Aliens, Hide From the Rain), who’s lost her zeal for acting and wallet, on a chaotic journey through New York city streets and the slightly unhinged process of making a horror film with no budget.

Similarly to his previous film, 2024’s The Gesuidouz, I Fell In Love with a Z Grade Director in Brooklyn, provides a behind the scenes look into what the unpredictable, chaotic, and emotionally exhausting journey artists fully committed to their process is like. But unlike The Gesquidouz which is about a punk rock band now finding their path to stardom in Japan, I Fell In Love with a Z Grade Director in Brooklyn, centres around Shina, a young woman a veteran to the entertainment industry in her mid-twenties who having begun her career as a baby has spent more time in the spotlight than most performers decades older.

Becoming disillusioned with the film world, people’s lack of interest in her as an actress and perhaps feeling underestimated, she walks out of an interview with a journalist who hasn’t seen her film, quits her agency, and makes the spontaneous decision to head to New York with her boyfriend Ren (Katsunari Nakagawa).

Once in The Big Apple, Shina decides to take a walk along the Brooklyn Bridge because that’s the thing to do to truly feel the drama of the moment. When they stop to take a break, Ren asks her exactly what the plan is. Where does she intend to go, and more specifically where does she see their relationship going and what he is to her. When she can’t give a proper answer, Ren comes to the conclusion that the same way Shina feels unappreciated as an actress, he feels unappreciated by her and breaks up with her on the spot. It’s only after she’s spent some time lost in thought trying to figure out exactly what happened, that Shina realises she has no phone, money, or her passport because she had given them to Ren to hold and he had unintentionally walked off with them.

Alone, confused, perhaps heartbroken but definitely broke, and with no way to contact or communicate with anyone, Shina wanders through the night along the unfamiliar streets till she ends up at a bar decorated in punk rock paraphernalia. After a humorous exchange filled with miscommunication and misconceptions with the owner and patrons, She leaves and ends up having a comically sad drunken breakdown in the middle of the sidewalk, and here enters Jack.

Rather than being an altruistic chivalrous saviour determined to help this damsel in clear distress, Jack sees Shina’s emotional display as a sign of her theatrical star potential and future lead of his ghost love story. Through gesticulations and awkward use of a translation app Jak invites Shina back to his apartment for rest and a change of clothes. Somehow they come to an agreement for Shina to star in his ultra low budget horror about an unrelenting ghost haunting her former boyfriend, and thus begins Shina’s funny, endearing and inspiring foray into the American indie film world.

With the long-suffering help of Jack’s crew comprised of sound engineer Cassio (Madeline Barbush), cinematographer TJ (Lisa Carangdan-Sweeny), production assistant Ricky (Jordan Dallam), and lead actor Chip (Stephen Solomon), they stumble their way along despite multiple production setbacks, Jack’s own emotional breakdowns filled with verbose exclamations of his passion for the art of filmmaking and storytelling, and the occasional visit to the aforementioned bar. With each shaky step of progress Shina’s love for acting and self-confidence are gradually reawakened.

One of Ugana’s strong suits as a filmmaker is getting his performers to shine as brightly as they can not with grandiose monologues filled with overly complicated dialogue and sweeping soundscapes, but with the simplest backdrops, giving the actors the space to simply have fun, embrace the moment and trust the process, and that comes through in I Fell in Love with a Z Grade Director in Brooklyn with both Estevan and Ui.

Estevan clearly revelled at embracing the heightened emotions of Jack’s enthusiasm and blossoming feelings for Shina, and Ui’s own experience as a non-English speaker provided the authenticity needed to make Shina’s revelations that acting can be fun and rewarding even amidst her charming fish-out-of-water bewilderment caused by the language barrier and new environment, that perhaps an actor fluent in English may not have had.

Utilizing a similar guerilla style filmmaking to what Jack does within the film, Ugana’s directing methods offers a sense of levity that allows the film to be both comical with the more absurd scenes such as when Ui’s ghost haunts Chip, the beleaguered object of her obsession, and serious when addressing topics such as Shina questioning where her life is headed. and Jack’s moments of insecurity and doubt at becoming successful at the craft he dedicates so much to.

Ugana himself clearly had a blast making what could be called an a-typical New York love story but still pays homage to many of the hallmarks of the genre such as the grand dramatic declarations of love in a sunny park–which hilariously culminates in probably one of the bloodiest fake blood single take scenes in recent film history–while staying true to his Japanese horror film roots and inspirations. There are references to classics like The Grudge (2004), and I’m pretty sure One Cut of the Dead, the 2017 mockumentary by Shin’ichirô Ueda which also utilizes the ‘film within a film’ narrative style, and his own personal love of punk music.

In my interview with Ugana and Ui, who won the Outstanding Performance Award at Fantasia, we discussed the film being a discussion on what, falling out of love with your passion, how Ui’s own real life career almost mirrors Shina’s, and language barriers being an inspiration rather than a hindrance to the creative process.

Interpretation for the interview was conducted by Alexe Frédéric Migneault.

Carolyn Hinds
Freelance Film Critic, Journalist, Podcaster & YouTuber
African American Film Critics Association Member, Tomatometer-Approved Critic
Host & Producer Carolyn Talks…, and So Here’s What Happened! Podcast
Bylines at Authory.com/CarolynHinds
Twitter & Instagram: @CarrieCnh12

#FantasiaIFF2025 #IFellInLovewithaZGradeDirectorinBrooklyn #FilmmakerKenichiUgana #kcrush #filmfestival #ActressUiMihara #Japanesefilm #OutstandingPerformanceAward #StephenSolomon #LisaCarangdanSweeny #MadelineBarbush #kcrushamerica #kcrushmagazine #internationalfilmfestival #theatricalstarpotential #KatsunariNakagawa #NewYork #Brooklyn #punkmusic

Courtesy of KFestHouston on Instagram

Did you know that there are well over a dozen Korean interest festivals across the United States annually? It’s certainly a positive tradition and something that contributed to my growing interest in South Korean culture. This is why returning to the 16th annual Korean Festival presented by Kroger in Houston October 11 – 12, 2025, after nearly a decade felt like stepping into a familiar rhythm that’s pulsing with the same energy that first drew me to it between 2013 and 2015.

Once a modest community gathering tucked into the Houston Community College parking lot, the festival has thrived in the heart of downtown at Discovery Green. In those earlier years of my K-pop excitement, it was one of my favorite local events because it was a chance to immerse myself in Korean culture without boarding a plane to Los Angeles or New York for KCON. It was where I connected with other K-pop fans and friends, practiced the Korean I’d learned at the Korean Education Center, and watched the Hallyu Wave swell through Houston’s diverse cultural scene.

Back then, Korean pop culture was often labeled a “phenomenon.” Today, it’s simply part of the global entertainment landscape. The festival reflects this evolution perfectly — not just through music, but in an inclusive and welcoming atmosphere, multigenerational audience, and positive cultural exchange.

A Legacy of Connection

Organized by the Korean-American Society of Houston (KASH), the festival began in 2009 as a community-driven effort to unify Houston’s Korean population and introduce Korean culture to greater Houston. Now recognized as one of the region’s most anticipated multicultural celebrations, attendees journey far and wide to get in on the fun. Given that Texas is the country’s second largest state by both population and land, getting from one side of it to the Gulf Coast is a journey enough for some! KASH’s mission, and subsequently that of the festival, is:

To raise cultural awareness by sharing the delights of Korean heritage.
To promote community growth through involvement and youth leadership.
To bridge communities by collaborating with local organizations and individuals across Houston.

That dedication is evident in every booth, every performance, and every crowd member dancing along and enjoying the good energy. Especially exciting was the acknowledgement of attendees with different needs such as designating the first two hours on October 12 for attendees with different sensory needs and incorporating ASL interpreters. These conscious contributions is the type of togetherness that’s championed in the Korean proverb, “백지장도 맞들면 낫다,”(baekjijango matdeulmyon natda) – “even lifting a white sheet of paper is better together,” which can be compared to saying that the more effort put in on something, the easier it is for everyone.

Courtesy of KFestHouston on Instagram

The 2025 Lineup

This year’s two-day event continues the standard of highlighting Korea’s cultural duality of innovation and tradition in perfect harmony. There is something for the traditionalists and something for the noobs alike.

Speaking of newbies, I was unfamiliar with the headliner group of October 11, K-pop boy band Withus (위더스). The four-member group made their debut November 17, 2020, and made this event their U.S. debut performance! The gentlemen brought colorful choreography (and costuming) as they started their set with their 2021 song, “DOKKEBI; Ground,”and the mics were on! Fourth generation idols are known for complex choreography that could challenge the vocal performance but Withus delivered exactly what fans crave: sleek energy, audience engagement, and polished stage presence. They were especially charismatic during their fan engagement, speaking in Korean, English and a little bit of Spanish to entertain the fans!

Solo artist Hohyun, a returning performer, kept the crowd energized and created a new fan out of a group standing near me. His repeat appearance speaks to the relationships this event has built over time between artists, organizers, and fans who return year after year.

On the traditional side, Samulnori NEWDOT and Eolssu Hanmadong ground the weekend in Korea’s deep-rooted musical and performative traditions. I am a big fan of traditional South Korean music and deeply enjoyed the rhythmic power of the percussion and the colorful, coordinated performances. Unfamiliar attendees learned firsthand that Korean artistry has always been vibrant, long before K-pop became all the rage.

Courtesy of KFestHouston on Instagram

The Sights, Sounds, and Spirit of Discovery Green

Beyond the stage, the festival’s atmosphere captures the essence of cultural exchange. The scent from the food tents, the sounds of laughter and multilingual conversations, and the sounds of K-pop from eras gone by rang through the park. Even my best friend and I were shouting fan chants at the top of our lungs when we heard the chorus of the TVXQ’s legendary song, “Mirotic”! However, compared to my memory of past years, there wasn’t enough music. The event had its main stage and a side stage farther into the park but there wasn’t the overwhelming flooding of sounds like I recalled. Sunday was especially less noisy. It could have been because there was another festival sharing the grounds or that noise ordinances had changed, but I wanted more.

Nonetheless, returning after ten years feels like a full-circle moment. The festival’s expansion, its broader audience, and its intergenerational reach all point to a new era of cultural awareness — one where Korean culture is not just appreciated for its popular appeal, but embraced as part of Houston’s identity. It doesn’t just celebrate Korean culture – it celebrates connection between the past and present, between all of South Korea and Houston, Texas, and between the fans who first fell in love with the Hallyu wave and those discovering it today.

Ashley Borjon, Host & Historian

#KoreanFestivalHouston #kfesttx #kcrush #Koreanculture #hallyufestival #KoreanAmericanSocietyofHouston #kcrushamerica #kcrushmagazine #Houston #TexasAsianFestival #Koreantradition #Samulnori #NEWDOT #EolssuHanmadong #Hohyon #WITHUS

From the 11th of September to the 19th, aspiring, new, and veteran filmmakers from all across B, and all areas of world gathered in Denpasar, Bali for the very successful 11th Minikino Film Week (MFW) Bali International Short Film Festival.

Since 2002 film lovers of all ages, back grounds, and creative disciplines have gathered to combine their time, energy, and impressive efforts to create a festival that not only celebrates short films of every genre, narrative styles and art forms imaginable—truly, I saw animation styles there I’d never seen before on screen—but also serves to educate attendees about what it takes to make a film.

Lead by festival director Edo Wulian, program director Fransiska Prihadi, and I Made Suarbawa director of the Traveling Cinema Program, Minikino is a unique film festival that anyone lucky enough to attend that will remind you what it is that makes the medium of film such an enthralling magical experience to observe, but also remind and reveal how exhausting and challenging it can be to just even start the process of making a film.

At the opening ceremony held at the Dharma Negara Alaya cultural centre, the very first film shown was the 9 minute Canadian short Blitzmuzik written by Martin Amlot and Pier-Philippe Chevigny, and directed by Amiot about two soldiers from opposing sides, who upon finding themselves stranded in a house riddled with the scars of war, are left with nothing but the dust covered musical instruments inside when they run out of bullets.

What made Blitzmuzik an interesting choice to start the festival wasn’t only it’s anti-war message—especially resonate in our current global political climate with the genocides in Palestine, Sudan, and Congo, and the anti-corruption revolutions happening in Indonesia, Malaysia, and Myanmar, the latter countries from which filmmakers were in attendance—it was the demonstration of Audio Description for the blind and visually impaired and Closed Captioning in native Balinese and Indonesian languages, which members of the Minikino team also do themselves.

Before the presentation of the film, the lead Minikino Audio Visual Technician spoke briefly about what goes into doing AD for a film and their collaborations with the Blind and otherwise disabled community to ensure the best theatrical film experience possible for anyone wishing to take part.

There was also a screening of the Kornico Museum, a special cross-cultural multinational children’s workshop initiated by Minikino (Indonesia), SESIFF (South Korea), and Bogoshorts (Colombia) organizations.

The program, now in its 3rd year, culminated in a screening of the stop-motion animated film created by the young participants, and presentation of certificates and awards to those able to attend the festival in person. These segments of the opening ceremony and many others throughout the festival’s run, demonstrated how dedicated the team at Minikino are to providing a truly inclusive environment for local Balinese audiences as well as international visitors.

Throughout the festival various panels, discussions, and interactive events such as Roast Your Shorts-an open session where festival programmers, journalists, and film critics such as myself gave helpful feedback on some of the films directly to the filmmakers like director Coralie Wantanabe Prosper and actress Rei Wantabe of Kotowari, and alemberg Moa Ang producer of the Filipino short Water Sports.

There were walks through Denpasar neighbourhoods, parks where indigenous music competitions were being held, picnics, children’s art workshops and special screenings, and of course post-screening Q&As.

While attending Minikino Film Week, I had the pleasure of speaking to many people about their work, interests, and film and festival industry in their respective countries, among them were Matt Lloyd’s film programmer and festival director of the Glasgow Short Film Festival who also served as a member of the National Jury Board, and award-winning Irish-Canadian multi-disciplinary artist and filmmaker Holly Márie Parnel, whose short films Cabbage (2023) and Hole in the Stone (2025) inspired by her personal life, environment and community, were selected for the Bali-Glasgow Filmmaker Exchange. Joining the exchange program was Indonesian director Haris Yuliyanto with his short Fish, Please (Pelabuhan Berkabut) co-written with Jovan Ardiansyah.

During my discussion with Fransiska, Matt and Holly, they spoke about the collaboration between the two film festivals, how the national and international film and festival industries have changed from their perspectives, and what inspires each of them to keep making art and connections through film.

For a full list of festival award winners, visit the official Minikino Film Week 11 awards page at minikino.org/filmweek/mfw11-award-winners.

*Editorial note: Due to unavoidable circumstances some sections of the interview audio are slightly distorted, and please excuse my hands.

#MinikinoFilmWeek11 #KcrushIntervewWithFransiskaPrihadi #MattLloyd #HollyMarieParnell #kcrush #kcrushmagazine #kcrushamerica #Asianfilm #filminterview #GlasgowShortFilmFestival #DenpasarBali #newfilm #Bali #BaliInternationalShortFilmFestival #filmmakers #Indonesia #SouthAsia #EastAsia #Europe #theAmericas

Embark on an epic journey through five of the most compelling historical K-dramas. These popular series blend intense political drama and sweeping romance with fresh fantasy elements like time-travel. Prepare to be captivated by the fate of kings, queens, spies, and lovers whose struggles echo across the Joseon Dynasty with these historical kdramas.

1. Bon Appétit, Your Majesty

The series follows Yeon Ji Yeong, a South Korean French cuisine chef at the peak of her modern career, who unexpectedly time-slips back to the Joseon Dynasty during a solar eclipse. She finds herself in the royal court, where she is eventually appointed as a palace chef. She must cook for King Yi Heon, a young monarch known as a ruthless tyrant with an impeccable, demanding palate. Ji Yeong uses her innovative modern French techniques, blended with traditional Joseon ingredients, to survive palace politics and gradually earns the King’s trust. The drama is a fusion of culinary arts, palace intrigue, and a developing romance between the modern chef and the misunderstood king.

2. The Queen Who Crowns

This drama chronicles the fiery life journey of Queen Wongyeong, an intelligent and ambitious daughter of a prestigious noble family. She marries Yi Bang Won (later King Taejong, the third ruler of Joseon) and works fiercely as a “King Maker,” helping him navigate the complex political landscape and seize the throne from his half-brother. However, after Yi Bang Won ascends to power and becomes King, he begins to take multiple concubines and betrays the family and love he shared with Wongyeong. The series depicts the delicate balance of power, the escalating tension, and the ego clashes between the royal couple as they struggle to manage the state and their own fraught relationship.

3. Mr. Queen

Jang Bong Hwan, a modern-day male head chef at the Blue House (the Korean presidential residence), finds himself in trouble and nearly drowns in a swimming pool. When he wakes up, his soul has been transplanted into the body of Queen Cheorin in the Joseon Dynasty, just a day before her wedding to the reigning monarch, King Cheoljong. Trapped as the Queen, the chef must navigate the treacherous, corrupt world of 19th-century palace politics, which are ruled by the powerful Andong Kim clan. While trying to find a way back to his own time and body, he discovers that King Cheoljong is not the gentle puppet he appears to be, but a king secretly plotting against his political opponents, leading to a reluctant and chaotic romance.

4. Captivating the King

The story is a fictional historical drama set in the Joseon era. It centers on the cruel love story between King Yi In, a miserable monarch who is plagued by a sense of emptiness and is constantly in danger from political power struggles, and Kang Hee Soo, a beautiful and enigmatic baduk (Go board game) player. Hee Soo initially disguises herself as a man to become a spy, intending to approach the King to extract information and seek revenge for a past event. However, as she spends time with King Yi In, she unexpectedly finds herself genuinely falling in love with him, forcing her to confront the true motives behind her mission.

5. My Dearest

Set against the tragic backdrop of the Qing Invasion of Joseon in the 17th century, the series follows the intertwined fate of two main characters. Lee Jang Hyun is a mysterious nobleman who chooses not to marry or commit to anything, harboring a dark and complex past. He unexpectedly meets Yoo Gil Chae, a high-spirited, independent noblewoman who dreams of a romantic love she’s only read about. As the war breaks out and the country plunges into chaos and suffering, Jang Hyun and Gil Chae’s relationship deepens through shared hardships, tragedy, and long separations. The series depicts their epic, years-long struggle to survive the war’s consequences and find their way back to each other amidst a nation in turmoil.

—-Karen Mwenda

#5BestHistoricalKdramas #kcrush #BonAppétitYourMajesty #JoseonDynasty #TheQueenWhoCrowns #MrQueen #kdrama #hallyu #MyDearest #kcrushamerica #kcrushmagazine #kdramahistoricalkdramas #koreandrama #CaptivatingTheKing

Remember the global phenomenon that was Descendants of the Sun (DOTS)? Six years after its explosive 2016 run, this military-romance K-drama captivated millions with its high-stakes action, witty banter, and undeniable chemistry between its leads. Set in the fictional war-torn country of Uruk, DOTS launched its stars into unparalleled international fame. But where have our beloved Captain Yoo Si Jin, Doctor Kang Mo Yeon, and the rest of the Alpha Team been since their tours of duty ended? Let’s catch up with the main cast who stole our hearts.

1. Song Joong Ki

Song Joong Ki played the charismatic Captain Yoo Si Jin. After Descendants of the Sun, Joong Ki continued his reign as a top Hallyu star. He reunited with his co-star Song Hye Kyo, marrying her in 2017, though they later divorced in 2019. Professionally, he chose diverse and challenging roles, starring in the sci-fi blockbuster film Space Sweepers (2021) and leading the critically acclaimed drama Vincenzo (2021), where he played a charming Italian-Korean mafia consigliere. Most recently, he achieved immense success with Reborn Rich (2022), a fantasy-revenge drama that became one of the highest-rated cable dramas in Korean history. Song Joong Ki remains a powerhouse, constantly reinventing himself, a fact that is cemented by his skills in Hopeless (2023) and My Name Is Loh Kiwan (2024) films. In January 2023, Song Joong Ki announced his marriage to British actress Katy Louise Saunders and that they were expecting their first child. The couple welcomed a son in June 2023 followed by a daughter in November 2024. Song Joong Ki remains a major star but has largely kept his second marriage and family life private, contrasting with his first marriage.

2. Song Hye Kyo

Song Hye Kyo played Song Joong Ki’s on-screen love interest, the brilliant Dr. Kang Mo Yeon. Following Descendants of the Sun and her marriage to Song Joong Ki, Hye Kyo has continued to cement her status as a fashion icon and an acting veteran. She made a powerful return to the small screen with the melodrama Encounter (2018-2019) alongside Park Bo Gum. Following the divorce with Song Hye Kyo in 2021, Song Hye Kyo retreated somewhat from the public eye regarding her dating life. She resulted to focusing on her professional career. Her most notable recent work is the chilling revenge thriller The Glory (2022-2023), where she shed her usual romantic image to portray a victim of school violence seeking meticulous retribution. The drama was a massive hit for Netflix, showcasing her incredible range and proving her enduring star power. Song Hye Kyo is also expected to appear in the Dark Nuns film scheduled for release in 2025.

3. Jin Goo

Jin Goo played Sergeant Major Seo Dae Young. His stoic loyalty and heartfelt romance with Yoon Myeong Joo were a fan-favorite storyline. After Descendants of the Sun, Jin Goo diversified his roles, appearing in dramas like Untouchable (2017) and Legal High (2019). He also explored more gritty and action-oriented roles in films such as One Line (2017) and The Witch: Part 2. The Other One (2022). While perhaps not in as many leading roles as the Song-Song couple, Jin Goo consistently delivers strong, memorable performances, maintaining a steady and respected career in the industry. Jin Goo has also been cast in other projects including You’re Precious to Me (2021), A Superior Day (2022), Shadow Detective (2022), and The Auditors (2024). Jin Goo was already a married man before Descendants of the Sun aired. He married his non-celebrity girlfriend on September 21, 2014. The couple welcomed their first child, a baby boy, in June 2015m and a second child, a baby girl, in November 2016. Jin Goo maintains a very private family life and rarely discusses his wife or children in the media, choosing to focus public attention entirely on his professional acting projects.

4. Kim Ji Won

Kim Ji Won played the fierce and beloved Lieutenant Yoon Myeong Joo. Her “Goo-Won” couple storyline was as popular as the main lead’s (“Song-Song” couple storyline). After Descendants of the Sun, Kim Ji Won continued her ascent as a leading lady. She starred in the highly successful office drama Fight for My Way (2017) alongside Park Seo Joon, solidifying her romantic comedy credentials. She then took on a more complex role in the fantasy-historical drama Arthdal Chronicles (2019). Her most recent triumph was the slice-of-life drama My Liberation Notes (2022), where she received widespread critical acclaim for her nuanced portrayal of a woman seeking meaning and liberation from a mundane life. She is currently starring in the hit romantic comedy Queen of Tears (2024), proving her versatility and sustained popularity. Kim Ji Won has maintained a strictly professional image since her debut. There has been no confirmed public relationship or dating scandal throughout her career.

The main cast of Descendants of the Sun have certainly not rested on their laurels. Each actor has meticulously built upon their Descendants of the Sun fame, choosing diverse projects that highlight their evolving talents. Their journeys continue to captivate audiences worldwide, proving that their star power was anything but a temporary deployment.

—-Karen Mwenda

#DescendantsoftheSun #QueenofTears #KimJiWon #JinGoo #TheAuditors #kcrush #kdrama #SongHyeKyo #hallyu #TheGlory #DarkNun #SongJoongKi #koreanactor #koreanactress #kcrushamerica #kcrushmagazine #korea #koreanfashion #koreanculture #koreastopactors #koreastopactress #koreandrama #wherearetheynow

(Photo Credit: ABS-CBN Music)

Listen to “First Luv” HERE

Watch “First Luv” MV HERE

Chart-topping girl group, BINI, releases their radiant new single, “First Luv,” now available on all streaming platforms via ABS-CBN. Following a year of sold-out arena shows, international collaborations, and growing global recognition, this vibrant release solidifies BINI’s rise as one of the new generation’s global pop acts. They made history this month as the first Filipino group to be confirmed on the lineup for Coachella Valley Music & Arts Festival in 2026 alongside superstars Sabrina Carpenter, Justin Bieber, and Karol G. The inclusion of performing at their first-ever U.S. music festival marks a major step towards worldwide recognition.

The newest single takes center stage as a radiant, feel-good anthem that captures the magic of young love and the rush of butterflies that come with it. Following the success of their hit, “Shagidi,” which trended #1 in the Philippines and sparked a viral dance challenge that has generated millions of views across TikTok and YouTube, the track further solidified BINI’s reputation as a cultural force and rising name in global pop. Infused with pop elements and a touch of island rhythm, “First Luv,” delivers pure sunshine in audio form. Switching seamlessly between Tagalog and English, the lyrics paint a vivid picture of youthful romance, the exhilarating moments, and the thrill of wondering if someone special feels the same way.

BINI has added several major milestones to their growing international profile. In February 2025, they launched the “BINIverse World Tour” with a historic sold-out concert at the Philippines Arena in Bulacan, becoming the first Filipino act to achieve a solo sell-out in the world’s largest indoor venue with 50,000 capacity. The tour spanned Asia, Europe, and North America, with stops in Dubai, London, and multiple U.S. and Canadian cities. BINIverse, which released this past February, marked a milestone that expanded their reach and cemented their standing on the global stage.

Their recognition has grown steadily, with BINI named one of Spotify’s Breakout Artists of 2024, the only Filipino act on the list, and featured in GRAMMY.com’s “14 Pinoy Pop Acts You Should Know.” The group also collaborated with Spanish-Mexican singer BELINDA (11.2 million monthly Spotify listeners) on Blink Twice (Dos Veces Remix), marking the first collaboration between a Mexican artist and a Filipino group. Most recently, BINI earned three nominations at Brazil’s 2025 BreakTudo Awards and won “Female Group of the Year” at the 2025 Jupiter Music Awards, further solidifying their growing global presence.

Alongside these significant milestones, BINI became the first Filipino pop group to perform at KCON Los Angeles, the world’s largest Korean culture and music festival, captivating global audiences. They have also earned major accolades including MTV EMA’s Best Asia Act and continue to live up to their title as the Philippines’ ‘Nation’s Girl Group.’ As they enter their new era of music, the octet stands at the forefront of Filipino pop music’s international breakthrough, bringing Filipino music to bigger stages and broader audiences worldwide.

(Photo credit: ABS-CBN Music)

Listen to “First Luv” HERE

Watch “First Luv” MV HERE

About BINI

BINI is an eight-member Filipino girl group (Aiah, Colet, Maloi, Gwen, Stacey, Mikha, Jhoanna, and Sheena) redefining global pop with their radiant sound and powerhouse performances. Crowned the Philippines’ “Nation’s Girl Group,” they have achieved a string of historic milestones, from becoming the first Filipino act to sell out the 50,000-seat Philippine Arena with their BINIverse World Tour, to making history as the first Filipino group confirmed on the lineup of Coachella 2026 alongside international stars Sabrina Carpenter, Justin Bieber, and Karol G. With over 1 billion global streams, BINI has delivered viral hits like Shagidi, which trended #1 in the Philippines and sparked a dance craze across TikTok and YouTube, as well as fan favorites Blink Twice and Cherry On Top. Their collaboration with Spanish-Mexican star Belinda on Blink Twice (Dos Veces Remix) marked the first-ever partnership between a Mexican and Filipino pop act. Recognized as one of Spotify’s Breakout Artists of 2024 and featured in GRAMMY.com’s “14 Pinoy Pop Acts You Should Know,” the group has also earned major accolades including three nominations at Brazil’s 2025 BreakTudo Awards and winning “Female Group of the Year” at the 2025 Jupiter Music Awards.

From stages across Dubai, London, the U.S., and Canada, to appearances at KCON Los Angeles, BINI continues to captivate audiences worldwide. With honors including MTV EMA’s Best Asia Act and growing recognition in Billboard and GRAMMY features, they are at the forefront of the global rise of Filipino pop, bringing their music to bigger stages and broader audiences than ever before.

#BINI #CoachellaLineup #FIRSTLUVBINInewsingle #BlinkTwice #CherryOnTop #Filipinogirlgroup #Aiah #Colet #Maloi #Gwen #Stacey #Mikha #Jhoanna #Sheena #eightmemberFilipinogirlgroup #PPop #newmusic #kcrush #kcrushamerica #kcrushmagazine #FemaleGroupoftheYear #2025JupiterMusicAwards #PhilippinesNationsGirlGroup #hallyu #kcrushbringingeasttothewest #kcrushsince2014 #pidol #Asia

School settings in Korean dramas have always provided the perfect stage for youthful romance, intense rivalry, and thought-provoking social commentary. Over the years, several titles have captured both domestic and global audiences, blending coming-of-age stories with issues that resonate deeply among students everywhere. From heart-fluttering romance to survival against social hierarchies, here are five of the best school K-dramas that stand out for their unique storytelling.

1. True Beauty (2020)

Based on a popular webtoon, “True Beauty” follows Lim Ju Kyung, a high school student who hides her insecurities behind flawless makeup skills. While she is admired at school for her looks, she constantly fears her bare face being exposed. Things take a turn when she meets Lee Su Ho and Han Seo Jun, two classmates who slowly uncover her real self. More than a romance, the series highlights self-acceptance and the struggles of teenage identity in a beauty-obsessed society.

2. Study Group (2023)

“Study Group” tells the story of Gamin, a boy passionate about studying, who forms a study group not just for academics but also as a shield against the bullies that dominate his school. What begins as a safe space for learning transforms into a tight-knit circle where students band together for survival. This action-packed series mixes gritty fight scenes with the hope of achieving academic dreams, showcasing how determination and friendship can overcome violence.

3. Undercover High School (2023)

In “Undercover High School”, Jung Hae Seong is a National Intelligence Service field agent who infiltrates a high school to uncover crimes and corruption hidden beneath everyday student life. Posing as a student, he faces the same challenges as teenagers while chasing justice. The drama cleverly combines undercover police work with the intensity of adolescent struggles, drawing viewers into a story where double lives blur the lines between authority and youth.

4. Weak Hero Class 2 (2025)

The sequel follows Yeon Si Eun as he transfers to Eunjang High School, where he faces a powerful school gang called the Union. With the help of new friends, he uses strategy and resilience to fight back against systemic bullying and violence. The drama expands on the dark, realistic themes of survival and friendship introduced in the first season.

5. Hierarchy (2024)

Set in Jooshin High School, an elite institution that admits only the top 0.01% of society, Hierarchy unravels the dynamics of power, wealth, and status. New student Kang Ha challenges the system, uncovering secrets and sparking conflicts among the privileged. With its mix of romance, mystery, and social critique, the drama explores how inequality seeps into education and shapes the destiny of the young.

Conclusion

From lighthearted romance to dark explorations of youth struggles, these five K-dramas prove that the school genre continues to thrive. Each story not only entertains but also mirrors the challenges and dreams of students worldwide.

—-Karen Mwenda

#5BestSchoolKDramas #kcrush #TrueBeauty #StudyGroup #UndercoverHighSchool #kdrama #koreandrama #kpop #hallyu #WeakHeroClass2 #Hierarchy #kcrushamerica #kcrushmagazine #koreankdrama #koreanactor #koreanactress #kculture

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Minikino Film Week 11 – KCrush Interview with ‘Water Sports’ Producer Alemberg M. Ang

About CLOSE YOUR EYES

ABOUT RIOT GAMES

About VALORANT

About the VALORANT Champions Tour

About VALORANT Game Changers

About KATSEYE

1. Brian Joo – Fly to the Sky

2. Danny Ahn – g.o.d

3. Jay Park – 2PM

4. Amber Liu – f(x)

5. Tiffany Young – Girls’ Generation

6. Jessica Jung – Girls’ Generation

7. Eli Kim – U-KISS

ABOUT A2O MAY

1. Gong Yoo

2. Kim Go Eun

3. Lee Dong Wook

4. Yoo In Na

A Legacy That Endures

What You Need to Know:

ABOUT RIOT GAMES

ABOUT WILD RIFT

ABOUT NINGNING

ABOUT A2O MAY

A Legacy of Connection

The 2025 Lineup

The Sights, Sounds, and Spirit of Discovery Green

1. Bon Appétit, Your Majesty

2. The Queen Who Crowns

3. Mr. Queen

4. Captivating the King

5. My Dearest

1. Song Joong Ki

2. Song Hye Kyo

3. Jin Goo

4. Kim Ji Won

About BINI

1. True Beauty (2020)

2. Study Group (2023)

3. Undercover High School (2023)

4. Weak Hero Class 2 (2025)

5. Hierarchy (2024)

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