Jessi Apologizes for the Fan Assault Incident

Rapper Jessi has shared an apology statement after one of her fans was assaulted.

According to October 11^th reports, a young man was assaulted on September 29 after asking for a photo with Jessi. The reputable rapper, whose acquaintances had blocked the young fan, rudely told him off but Jessi intervened and apologized before walking away. Nonetheless, the young fan claimed that just as he was about to leave, a man approached him and suddenly assaulted him. He further claimed that Jessi did try to intervene at first but later retreated as things escalated.

Following an internet uproar connected to the incident, Jessi personally took to her social media platform to offer a statement of apology. In the October 12^th statement, Jessi confirmed that indeed the young fan requested a photo but because it was late at night, she politely declined twice. The statement further highlights that after the sudden twist of events from the assaulter left Jessi in shock making it impossible to show consideration to the fan.

Jessi added that irrespective of how the incident played out, she immensely regrets not stopping the injustice act. However, she clarified that her label contacted the victim’s mother after the incident and will ensure that the victim gets the proper apology and due compensation. The rapper ended by requesting individuals and parties to refrain from perceiving this incident from a one-sided angle. Jessi’s lawyer also confirmed in a news agency that the assaulter was not part of Jessi’s entourage, but a Chinese acquaintance of Jessi’s producer friend.

—-Karen Mwenda

 

#Jessi #Jessiapologizedforfanassaultincident #JessiFanAssaultIncident #kcrush #kpop #kpopidol #koreanrapper #kcrushamericamagazine #youngfanassault #apology #Jesifanrequestedphoto #Jessitriedtointervene #kpopfan #koreanculture #motheroffanwascontacted #breakingnews #Jessiapologies #kcrushmagazine

The Korean Indie world is often an untapped realm. With most focus on K-pop, this genre doesn’t get as much emphasis as it warrants. A band to watch within the Korean Indie genre is orange flavored cigarettes. They came onto the scene in 2021. With a few singles and two EPs on Spotify, they’re slowly increasing in visibility. 50k+ monthly listeners will likely only keep growing, as their sound is quality. Here’s a review of some of their most popular tracks.

Their biggest single is “orange flavored cigarettes”, a track that combines complexity and simplicity. It features a laid-back beat, strumming electric guitars, and a groovy bass. The lyrics relay a relatable conundrum: Our conversation looks like that ocean//Should I stay or should I leave//I can’t see the waves//Where have all your words gone.

This track has over a million streams on Spotify and is followed by “noah”, a song on its way to a million streams, sitting at just over 500k. The song continues the groovy vibe of their title track. No doubt that they’ll be known for this sound–it’s psychedelic funk in style. Chill and dreamy, it’s the perfect music to put on in the background for studying or on a road trip.

“melting tides” is more of the smooth, chill funk vibe. The female vocals are delicate, airy, and consistent throughout. It’s the perfect pairing as it melts into the melody instead of taking a spotlight. And that’s really the point of this musical style–it allows you to drift away. It’s blissful, a safe place to rest your mind and relax. But if fans also want to focus on the lyrics, they’re easy to follow: I feel like a fool cause of you//Why do I only think of you//I feel like I’m drowning in a pool//Oh please pull me in if you feel the same way about me.

Something to note is that this band sings in all English. That’s impressive for a South Korean based indie group that primarily tours nationally and in Japan. This makes their music more accessible to a global audience. However, these tracks really don’t need to be in a particular language; they’d be enjoyable regardless because of the way the vocals melt into the songs and there’s not a heavy lyrical focus. This also helps transcend borders.

“te amo” feels very upbeat compared to other tracks. It has an 80s feel to it. The vocals are more at the forefront than any of the previous songs. “te amo” also has a surprising rhythm change mid-song. The lyrics are not safe for children or the workplace, as there are some sexual references. However, there are a few tender lines as well: Whispering in my ears//Now we have no tears//We believe in us//To the end of the world.

“pepper” is a groovy, echoey psychedelic track. I particularly liked these song lyrics the most. They’re simple like the others, but relatable. I liked the lines: When that day comes will I regret this?//Too stupid to think about that question//You know, there’s always a “but”//You can stay if you like, not too far// You can stay if you like, not too close.

All in all, orange flavored cigarettes is definitely making moves in the indie scene. Their music is easy to enjoy and will be accessible to many people. I have no doubts they’ll only continue to grow! To keep up with orange flavored cigarettes, make sure to follow them on Spotify or sign up for their newsletter on their website.

 

—-Ellie Boyd

 

#OrangeFlavoredCigarettes #KoreanIndiegroup #kcrush #watchforOrangeFlavoredCigarettes #kindie #kgroup #kband #kindiesongsinEnglish #koreanindiemusicinEnglish #OrangeFlavoredCigarettesonSpotify #kcrushamerica #noah #meltingtidesOrangeFlavoredCigarettes #kcrushrecentarticles #kcrushnews #kcrushmagazine #Koreanindie

Idol marriages have become a ceremony worth looking forward to. Here are 5 idols set to walk down the aisle this October.

Secret’s Ji Eun and Youtuber Park Wi

Actress and former Secret’s Ji Eun walked down the aisle with YouTuber Park Wi on October 9. The ceremony, held in Gangnam, was hosted by TV personality Jun Hyun Moo and entertained by performances from the K-Pop R&B diva Insoon. Through his YouTube channel, Wiracle, Park Wi inspires others through his courageous journey after an accident that left him with quadriplegia. The couple, whose love story has been a beam of hope to many, received huge support from fans across the world.

Hyuna and Yong Jun Hyung

The two K-pop idols and former labelmates shared their marriage details in July. HyunA, a former 4Minute member and currently a soloist, walked down the aisle with Yong Jun Hyung, a former Highlight member, on October 11. The couple had a private ceremony surrounded by family and friends.

Jo Bo Ah

Actress Jo Bo Ah will be getting married to her non-celebrity boyfriend this October. Jo Bo Ah made the announcement in August days after her “Knock Off” drama was revealed.  XYZ Studio denied rumors of Jo Bo Ah’s pregnancy. Even after walking down the aisle, the actress promised to continue showering her fans with exceptional performances.

Jo Se Ho

Jo Se Ho will be tying the knot with his non-celebrity girlfriend this October. The comedian shared the news during an appearance on “You Quiz on the Block” talk show. This after the comedian confirmed his dating status back in January.

Moon Tae Yoo

In July, Queen of Tears K-drama actor Moon Tae Yoo shared that he would be getting married to his fiancée in early October. In a heartfelt letter, the actor shared a deep affection for his partner and praised her for making him a better person. The actor also asked fans to understand his fiancée’s privacy who prefers to stay out of the limelight.

We wish all these couples a prosperous future.

 

—-Karen Mwenda

 

#OctoberKoreanWeedings #2024KoreanWeddings #2024KpopWeedings #kweddings #kactorsweddings #kcrush #kpop #kdrama #kdramaactor #weddingsinkorea #kfashion #weddingfashion #MoonTaeYoo #kcrushmagazine #breakingnews #QueenofTears #JoSeHo #YouQuizOnTheBlock #koreancomedian #JoBoAh #HyunA #4Minute #YongJunHyung #Highlight #JiEun #Secret #ParkWi #YouTuber #marriageinoctober #Octoberweddingsinkorea #kidolsmarriages #kcrushrecentarticles

Seunghan is officially a RIIZE member again after going off the grid for 10 months.

In a hand-written comeback letter, Seunghan apologizes for having let the team down with his private life controversy. The star also confirmed that he had reflected on his actions throughout the hiatus and purposes to do all he can to redeem himself and help return the team to its former glory. Seunghan also apologized to the members, the group’s dedicated fans, and company staff as well.

On October 11, SM Entertainment also made an official statement confirming Seunghan’s return to RIIZE. In the letter, addressed to BRIIZE (RIIZE’s fan base) and all who support RIIZE, Wizard Production confirmed that indeed Seunghan was on hiatus due to his pre-debut days’ controversy. Nonetheless, the agency pleaded with the fans to give the star a chance and support the dreams of RIIZE as a whole team. Wizard Production, RIIZE group’s agency, also committed to ensuring that RIIZE repays fans and supporters with good music and performances.

 

—-Karen Mwenda

 

#Seunghan #SeunghanreturnstoRIIZE #RIIZE #SMEntertainment #BRIIZE #WizardProduction #kcrush #kpop #koreanpop #kpopidol #returningtogroup #hasreflected #returningafter10monthhiatus #kcrushmagazine #Seunghanwrotealetter #kmusic #koreanboygroupRIIZE #Seunghanhandwrittenapology

The “You’re Pitiful” hit-maker, FIESTAR, has finally reunited after 7 years thanks to Cao’s efforts.

Cao Lu

FIESTAR debuted in August 2012 under LOEN Entertainment consisting of Jei, Cao Lu, Linzy, Hyemi, and Yezi. However, the group was said to have disbanded in May 2018. All the while, Cao Lu, who was the lead dancer, vocalist, and face of the group, was not about to give in without a fight. Despite the backlash and negative comments she received during appearances after the disbandment, Cao Lu numbed the pain to achieve her mission.  Seven years after disbandment, Cao Lu was able to help revive FIESTAR.

It was revealed that Cao Lu used the money she earned to help buy back the group’s “You’re pitiful” song’s copyright. In an interview with the ‘Recent Olympics’ YouTube channel, Cao Lu confirmed that though she bought back the song, all proceedings would equally be shared amongst all FIESTAR members. In a more recent interview with the ‘No Back Tak Jae Hoon’ YouTube channel in September, Cao Lu appeared alongside Yezi for the first time in years. In the interview, Cao Lu stated that she is in Korea under a Travel Visa confirming that she could engage in profit-making activities. FIESTAR made an official reunion in August 2024.

We want to say congratulations and wish them much success!

 

—-Karen Mwenda

 

#FIESTAR #FIESTARComback #CaoLu #YourePitifulsongscopyright #RecentOlympicsYouTube #Yezi #kcrush #kpop #kpopgirlgroupreturn #2024kpopreturn #NoBackTakJaeHoonYouTube #Koreangroup #kgroup #FIESTERReunion #breakingnews #kcrushamerica #kcrushmagazine #successtoFIESTAR #happinessforFIESTAR #kcrushbreakingnews #kpopfashion #kpopmusic #kpopgirlgroupreturn #Jei #Hyemi #CaoLuhelpsFIESTARreturn

With mid-month around the corner, we have had outstanding comebacks from reputable individuals and groups in the K-pop industry so far. Some of them include CHEN (EXO) with “Beyond” MV, LEECHANGSUB with the ‘<1991>’ album, ATEEZ with the “Birthday” Japanese MV, LOCO with the” SEE YOU” farewell track to AOMG agency, BLACKPINK’s Lisa with “Moonlit Floor”, WOOOSUNG with the ‘4444’ album, and Yoon Seobin’s “Rizz” single. Below are some other notable comebacks to expect this October.

1. Jay Park

This RnB legend will make a comeback on October 8 with “Gimme A Minute” track under the album, ‘THE ONE YOU WANTED’. The track will also be featuring another RnB legend, CHUNG HA.

2. AB61X

This boy band will be releasing their 9^th EP titled ‘BORN LIKE THIS’ in October 10. The album will be released 6pm KST time.

3. BLACKPINK’s Jennie

BLACKPINK’s Jennie will be releasing the highly anticipated single in October 11. The single, titled “Mantra”, is making headlines as it’s expected to launch Jennie’s solo journey.

4. SEVENTEEN

This iconic boy band is set to make a comeback in October 14. SEVENTEEN with return with their 12^th mini album titled, ‘SPILL THE FEELS’.

5.CNBLUE

This pop boy band will return to the screens on October 14^th with their 10^th mini album. The album, titled ‘[X]’, will mark the group’s first comeback in 3 years.

6. ITZY

ITZY will make a comeback on October 15 with the “GOLD” MV and album release. This will be followed by the “Imaginary Friend” MV release in October 28.

7. KISS OF LIFE

The band will release the “R.E.M” MV and 3^rd mini album, titled ‘Love Yourself’, on October 15. This will be a follow-up to the pre-release done in October 4.

8. Billlie

Billlie will return with their 5^th mini album titled, ‘[appendix: Of All We Have Lost]’ on October 16. This will follow the album’s “Trampoline” MV pre-release scheduled for October 11.

9. AESPA

AESPA will make a comeback with their 5^th mini album titled ‘Whiplash’ on October 21. The girl group, which recently did the “SYNK: Parallel Line” world tour, will a few days release four solo tracks performed by the members during the tour in a few days.

10. ILLIT

ILLIT will return to the spotlight with the 2^nd mini album titled ‘I’LL LIKE YOU’ on October 21. Despite a previous cloud of plagiarism controversies, ILLIT is expected to set the record straight and reclaim their glory through this album.

11. PURPLE KISS

Renowned for their dancing concepts, PURPLE KISS is set to comeback with their 7^th mini album titled ‘[Headway]’. The group recently finished the “2024 BXX” world tour across 18 cities in promotion of the ‘BXX’ EP released in May 2024.

12. THE BOYZ

THE BOYZ will be coming back with their 9^th mini album titled ‘도화선’. The boy band recently finished the ‘ZENERATION II’ tour across the U.S.

 

—-Karen Mwenda

 

#OctoberKPopCombacks #NotableOctoberKPopComebacks #THEBOYZ #ZenerationIIWorldTour #PURPLEKISS #BXXalbum #ILLIT #ILLLIKEYOU2ndminialbum #AESPA #kcrush #kcrushamerica #kpopcombacksinOctober #kpop #kpopgroups #Billie #KISSOFLIFE #ITZY #GOLDbyITZY #CNBlue #XalbumCNBlue #SEVENTEEN #SPILLTHeFEELSbySEVENTEEN #BLACKPINKJennie #Jennie #AB61X #BornLikeThisbyAB61X #newmusic #newalbums #combacks #JayPark #GimmeAMinutebyJayPark #MantrabyJennie #TheOneYouWantedJayParkalbum #kcrushmagazine #kcrushtopentertainmentmagazine #koreansinger #koreanpop #hallyu #musicofkpopifols

Belift lab has denied claims that ILLIT girl band manager commented telling the girls to ignore NewJeans’ Hanni.

In a live broadcast on September 11, Hanni claimed that ILLIT’s manager had told one of the members to ignore her which gave room to harassment at work. Following this damaging allegation, Belift Lab, ILLIT’s agency released a statement refuting the claims.

Belift Lab claimed that such a case would never occur since ILLIT’s manager also speaks to NewJeans members in honorifics. Belift backed their claims with through CCTV footage showing an interaction between the two parties. In the CCTV, ILLIT members were seen giving a 90 degree bow greeting upon encountering Hanni in the building corridors.

However, CEO Min Hee Jin claimed that the respective video had been deleted. On their end, HYBE Entertainment’s security personnel claimed that the 30-day footage retention period was over hindering further retrieval.

 

—-Karen Mwenda

 

#BeliftLab #BeliftLabDeniedILLITsBullyingClaims #NewJeansHanni #Hanni #MinHeeJinCEO #HYBE #CCTVFootage #kpop #kpopgroup #kpopstories #kcrush #kcrushmagazine #kpopnews #ILLIT #harassment #bullyingallegations #ILLITsManager #newswithinkpop

Fans of Fromis_9 band’s Jiwon and TV personality Jun Hyun Moo have been in an internet frenzy with the rumors of the two influential figures probably dating.

This comes after Jiwon and Jun Hyun Moo were seen attending the 2NE1’s October 5^th ‘Welcome Back in Seoul’. The two were reported to have had several interactions, including the ‘Idol Star Athletics Championships’.

Nonetheless, the rumors were put out after Pledis Entertainment denied them. In a comment, the agency agreed that both celebrities are close friends given that they also share the same English teacher. The agency went on to clarify that the two are just friends and are not dating.

 

—-Karen Mwenda

 

#Fromis9Jiwon #Fromis #datingrumors #JunHyunMoo #aretheydating #kcrush #PledisEntertainment #kpop #tvpersonality #kculture #JiwonandJunHyunMoonotdatingaccordingtoPledis #2NE1WelcomeBackToSeoulConcert #sameEnglishTeacher #kcrushamerica #kcrushmagazine #breakingnews #kidolnews #whoisdatingwho2024 #IdolsStarAthleticChampionship

NCT member, Moon Taeil, has been undergoing grueling police investigations over the last few months for aggravated quasi-rape allegations.

After the August 12 police investigations, Taeil was referred to the Seoul Central District Prosecution office which is yet to officially summon him. The allegations stem from an incident in June where Taeil and two other non-idol acquaintances were accused of sexually abusing an intoxicated woman.

Despite the police investigations, SM had laid low regarding the matter even as Taeil continued his idol activities. However, SM Entertainment recently spoke on the matter stating that given the gravity of the issue, they have decided to discontinue Taeil from group activities. SM Entertainment also claimed that Taeil had also agreed to conclusions. If found guilty, Taeil could end up facing about a 7-year jail term or a life sentence.

 

—-Karen Mwenda

 

#MoonTaeil #NCT #NCTMoonTaeil #SMEntertainment #commentsonNCTTaeilsSexualControversy #kpop #kpopnews #breakingnews #kcrushamerica #kcrush #Taeilwilldiscontinuegroupactivities #sexualallegations #SeoulCentralDistrictProsecutionOffice #hasnotbeensummoned #allegations #kcrushmagazine

‘Love Next Door’ is a romantic comedy K-drama showing how fate can turn meaningless encounters into lifelong cherished moments while revolving around a childhood trios’ friendship over the years. Bae Seok Ryu is one of the trio friends whose perfect life abroad tumbles town at its peak landing her back to her village. Choi Seung Hyo on the other hand, is forced to change careers from a leg accident that happened at the peak of his career. Jeong Mo Eum is a free spirit whose obsession with superheroes lands her not only in the firefighting industry but also on a love roller coaster with a superhero reporter. Despite not having been a part of the trio’s childhood life, Kang Dan Ho ends up being entangled in the trio’s lives, especially given his great listening therapy skills.

Bae Seok Ryu (Jung So Min)

Bae Seok Ryu is a hardworking and talented being who works herself to the bone to be the best. Despite her hard work, which turns out to be a cry for attention, Seok Ryu falls from working in the best companies overseas and being engaged to being jobless and calling off her wedding. Seok Ryu, who is also severely battling post-cancer survival trauma, falls back on her two neighbors and long-lost friends for sanity and a sense of belonging.

Choi Seung Hyo (Jung Hae In)

Choi Seung Hyo is a kindhearted being whose swimming career was cut short from a lag accident in his high school years. To find meaning in life and in a bid to ease his secret childhood crush’s heart, Seung Hyo lands in the architectural field and ends up becoming one of the best in the industry. Behind the kind heart and heart-melting smiles, Seung Hyo hides lifelong scars from his parents’ unsettling relationship. Things get tricky when her secret childhood crush slides back into his neighborhood single after calling off her marriage. 

Jeong Mo Eum (Kim Ji Eun)

Jeong Mo Eum is a dedicated, lively, and outgoing being who is not shy about speaking her mind. Because of her childhood obsession with superheroes, Mo Eum finds herself in the firefighter’s field. Her unquenched obsession with superpower beings also spills over into her love life making finding a superhero partner a lifelong task. The return of her best friend becomes a solace to Mo Eum, especially since she just found the ideal superman reporter who seems way out of her reach. 

Kang Dan Ho (Yoon Ji On)

Kang Dan Ho is a protective father and a dedicated reporter with impressive listening skills. despite a previous tragic accident, Dan Ho has strived to become the most responsible person. Nonetheless, the scars left a deep trauma that only a dedicated fairy could heal. His good nature lands him in the path of a potential fairy but Dan Ho is torn between his fatherly responsibilities and allowing the fairy to break him out of his shell of scars.

My thoughts

Just like its title, ‘Love Next Door’ drama is all about the possibility of finding love next door and the tension that comes with the possibility of forever losing a cherished bond. The intensity of feelings, both love and tension, in this drama will keep you on your toes the whole time. The actors owned their characters to the core bringing the storyline to life.

 

—-Karen Mwenda

 

#LoveNextDoor #koreandrama #kdrama #koreanactors #kcrushmindmap #mindmap #kpop #hallyu #kactors #YoonJiOn #KimJiEun #JungHaeIn #JungSoMin #kdramamindmap #kdramareview #kcrushamerica #kcrushmagazine #kfashion

Former BTOB’s Ilhoon has been working hard to redeem himself from the 2020 drug controversy.

Ilhoon, who debuted in the entertainment industry in 2012 through BTOB boy band, has had his share of ups and downs over the last few years. Despite submitting about 88 self-reflection letters during his appeal process to plead for leniency, Ilhoon still received an imprisonment verdict. After faithfully paying his dues, Ilhoon is a free man courageously going against the norm and fighting to reclaim his glory.

Inspiration, Ilhoon’s Tiny Ark Exhibition

Upon his return, Ilhoon shared a heartfelt apology promising to live a better life. Despite the norm of cowing down after a controversy, Ilhoon took the bull by its horns and is now using his artistic talent to be a beacon of hope for others. Ilhoon opened his very first exhibition in Seoul early this month.

Titled ‘Tiny Ak’, this exhibition represented Ilhoon’s heart throughout his self-reflection period. The exhibition, held from the 4^th to the 6^th of October in Seungdong, Seoul, also showcases the artist’s unwavering love and respect for his fans. In a post during the exhibition, Ilhoon shared his heartfelt appreciation for all those who showed up. A more touching part was when he stated, “I was surprised that many people loved me more than I thought, and today is indeed a happy day that I will remember for the rest of my life”.

In addition to the exhibition, Ilhoon is also actively working hard to connect with fans through updated merchandise. The artist is selling various merchandise including t-shirts and photo books under the Tiny Ark brand. The merch was also available during the exhibition.

 

—-Karen Mwenda

 

#Ilhoon #BTOB #Ilhoonapology #Ilhoonmerchandise #kcrush #TinyArkExhibition #SeungdongSeoul #kpop #kpopidol #formeridol #IlhoonMJ #selfreflection #kcrushamerica #kcrushmagazine #TinyArkBrand #Ilhoonreturns #IlhoonmjFans

T-ara’s Jiyeon and baseball player Hwang Jae Gyun have filed for divorce.

The couple, who walked down the aisle in December 2022 four months after publicly acknowledging their relationship, have filed for divorce and will be undergoing mediation soon. The divorce was confirmed by media outlet reports on October 5. Divorce rumors started early in June after a commentator’s on-air hint. This was further fueled by Jiyeon’s halting YouTube activities and Hwang’s drinking gathering with other women.

On October 5, both parties released statements regarding the divorce rumors. Jiyeon’s attorney stated that the couple agreed to divorce after a period of separation and confirmed that they had submitted a divorce mediation request at Seoul Family Court. Jiyeon also posted apologizing for the unpleasant news and asked for understanding from fans. Hwang also commented outlining that the two agreed to divorce after much consideration due to personality differences. He also added that the two will continue supporting and cheering for each other in their future endeavors.

 

—-Karen Mwenda

 

#Jiyeon #JiyeonDivorce #Hwang #TARAJiyeon #SeoulFamilyCourt #kcrush #HwangJaeGyun #koreanbaseballplayer #kpop #kpopidol #HwangJaeGyundivorce #korea #koreanpopidol #kcrushamerica #kcrushmagazine #breakingnews #koreannews

September was all about ‘Love Next Door’, ‘No Gain No Love’, and ‘DNA Lover’ among others. The month of October kicks in with new hot dramas that will keep you on your couches all day. Below are some of the k-dramas to binge on this October.

1. Spice Up Our Love

‘Spice Up Our Love’ is a fantasy romance K-drama revolving around the life of an R-rated web novelist. The novelist’s fantasy life turns to reality as she finds herself entangled in an unprecedented romance brew. Nam Ja Yeon (Han Ji Hyun) is no longer just a writer but lives to test the theory as fate molds her into a female lead striving to stay afloat against the protagonist Kang Ha Joon (Lee Sang Yi) in the sea of love.

2. Family By Choice

‘Family by Choice’ is a romantic comedy-drama based on the famous ‘Go Ahead’ Chinese drama. The story revolves around Kim San Ha (Hwang In Youp), Kang Hae Jun (Bae Hyeon Seong), and Yoon Ju Won (Jung Chae Yeon). This trio, who despite not being related by blood, spent most of their teen life living like a family. The story highlights their reunion as mature adults ten years later. The ensuing storyline is a mystery worth unraveling.

3. My Merry Marriage

‘My Merry Marriage’ is a romance comedy drama highlighting the ups and downs of marriage life. The drama revolves around two childhood friends of different backgrounds. Maeng Gong Hee (Park Ha Na), a contract fashion designer, finds herself in a love rollercoaster with Jayce Fashion’s heir, Gu Dan Soo (Park Sang Nam).  A happy ending is a race against all odds as this young romance comes to terms with the reality of married life.

4. Doubt

‘Doubt’ is a psychological thriller drama about a father’s discovery of her daughter’s connection to a murder. Jang Tae Soo (Han Suk Kyu) is a top criminal profiler, who while on duty, discovers that his daughter Jang Ha Bin (Chae Won Bin) is a suspect in a murder case. The devoted officer’s life is shuttered into pieces as he is torn between loyalty to his country and his family.

5.  Dongjae, The Good or the Bastard

‘The Good or the Bastard’ is a crime investigative thriller drama that revolves around Seo Dong Jae (Lee Jun Hyuk), a prosecutor struggling to redeem his reputation after a corruption incident. Despite the change of heart, his desire to do good is constantly cowed down by those threatened by his path. Whether Soe Dong Jae is ready to risk all he has or will eventually bow down to pressure is an ending worth looking forward to.

 

—-Karen Mwenda

 

#October2024KDramasToBinge #TheGoodortheBastard #LeeJunHyuk #thrillerdrama #kdrama #kcrush #koreandramas #koreanweeklydramas #Doubt #HanSukKyu #ChaeWonBin #MyMerryMarriage #ParkHaNa #ParkSangNam #kcrushnews #FamilyByChoice #HwangInYoup #BaeHyeonSeong #JungChaeYeon #SpiceUpOurLove #HanJiHyun #LeeSangYi #FantasyRomance #Thriller #RomanceComedy #upsanddownsofmarriedlife #romancenovalwriterdrama #TeentoAdultdrama

Actor Choi Tae Joon gave an honest perspective about his marriage life with the iconic actress, Park Shin Hye.

On October 2, Choi Tae Joon appeared on MBC’s ‘Radio Star’ alongside other reputable figures in the entertainment industry. On being asked about his marriage, Tae Joon started by clarifying that he had no intentions of interfering in another person’s work through his words. Nonetheless, the star went on to comment that the two acting gurus rarely talk about work but focus more on home and family-related matters.

In another instance, Tae Joon stated that he never peeks into his wife’s drama scripts beforehand. Just like other viewers, he waits until the works are released and watches them as any other viewer. Given he and Park Shin Hye have different personalities, Choi admitted that indeed fights are inevitable, just as with other couples and individuals. The couple walked down the aisle in January 2022 and were blessed with a baby boy in May 2022.

We want to wish them continued success with their careers, relationship and family life!

 

—-Karen Mwenda

 

#ChoiTaeJoon #ParkShinHye #marriedlifewithParkShinHye #babyboy #MBCRadioStarappearance #kactorrelationship #kdrama #ParkShinHyemarriage #kcrush #kcrushamerica #ParkShinHyeHusband #TrueLove #HallyuActorsBeingHappy #happyinlove

The undisputably reputable Loco has officially left AOMG agency after 10 years.

The rapper debuted through Jay Park’s AOMG agency in 2012. On October 3, AOMG posted on their social media platforms thanking LOCO for contributing to the company’s success and wishing him luck in his upcoming endeavors.

On the same day, Loco released the “SEE YOU” single through which he pours out his heart thanking AOMG for supporting and empowering him throughout the decade.

Over the years, Loco has become a powerhouse including winning several awards, releasing several OSTs, and even working as a producer in various notable projects. Loco adds to the list of other artists who recently graduated from AOMG including Woo Won Jae and Simon Dominic.

 

—-Karen Mwenda

 

#LOCO #AOMG #LOCOleavesAOMG #LocothanksAOMG #JayParkAOMG #LocoRnB #LOCORap #LOCOOST #kcrush #LOCOnewbeginnings #LOCOleavesAOMGater10years #wishinghimwell #kcrushamerica #kcrushamericamagazine #KoreanRaper #KoreanRnB #uptodaynews

Lisa’s unquenching closeness to Frédéric Arnault and his family as well as the global star’s latest “Moonlight Floor” hit have fueled rumors of the two being a couple.

Rumors of Lisa and Frédéric Arnault surfaced early last year after the two were seen hanging out in Paris. The rumors started holding water after the two global influencers posted pictures with similar backgrounds in August of last year.

Early in February, Lisa was spotted in Miami Beach alongside Frédéric Arnault’s brother and sister-in-law. On October 1, Lisa attended Louis Vuitton’s show at Paris Fashion Week and was spotted candidly conversing with Frédéric Arnault’s parents.

Lisa’s latest hit, “Moonlight Floor, ” fueled the relationship rumors,” which she performed at New York’s, Global Citizen Festival 2024 on September 28. Part of the song’s lyrics, including “Green-eyed French boy got me trippin'” and “How your skin is always soft, how your kisses always hit”, solidify the relationship rumors given Frédéric Arnault is French.

What are your thoughts?

 

—-Karen Mwenda

 

#BLACKPINK #LISABlackPink #Lisadating #FredericArnault #LouisVuitton #LouisVuittonHeirDatingLisa #kcrush #pop #kpop #MoonlightFloor #LisaMoonlightFloor #GlobalCitizenFestival2024 #NewYork #FrenchFredericArnault #breaking #LisaNews #BlackPinknews #relationshiprumorsLisa #kcrushamerica #kcrushamericamagazine #LouisVuttonParisShow

Famously known for her villainous acting in Netflix’s 2022 K-drama, ‘The Glory’, actress Park Ji Ah has passed on.

Park Ji Ah is said to have passed on September 30 after collapsing from a stroke. The actress’s agency, Billions, reported that the legendary actress has been battling a cerebral infarction. Ji Ah made her last public appearance in May at “Wonderland” movie’s primer.

Park Ji Ah, who was 52 years old, has been in the entertainment industry for over 20 years. Her first significant appearance was in ‘Coastline’ (2002). In addition to other dramas and movies, Ji Ah’s fame also skyrocketed thanks to her impressive acting in the ‘Gidam’ 2007 horror film.

May her soul rest in peace!

 

—-Karen Mwenda

 

#ParkJiAh #ParkJiAhpassesaway #koreanactresspassesaway #kcrush #breakingnews #TheGloryactresspassesaway #Gidamhorrorfilm #Coastline #BillionsEntertainment #Wonderlandappearance #Netflix #NetflixKdrama #kdrama #koreandrama #kcrushnews #kcrushamericamagazine #kactress #kcrushInRemembrance

Premiering in the Toronto International Film Festival’s 2024 Centrepiece program, filmmaker Johnny Ma’s (Oldstone, 2016, To Live to Sing, 2019), latest film The Mother and the Bear is a cosmic fairytale, but not quite, exploration of what it means for a mother and widow to rediscover her femininity and personhood as a woman, as she discovers who her daughter is following an accident.

Veteran South Korean actress Kim Ho-jung (Queenmaker, 2023, A French Woman, 2022) plays Sara, a widow from Seoul who rushes to the snow covered city of Winnipeg, Canada after receiving the call that her daughter Su-mi (Leere Park) has fallen into a coma after an accident. As she spends time in Su-mi’s apartment looking through the signs of a life removed from what she believes of her daughter, Sara herself realises that she herself has turned into a woman she stopped recognizing years ago.

Sarah, believing that what Su-mi needs to have in her is a husband to be complete, she embarks on a personal quest to find a potential son-in-law. Which is much harder than she anticipated in a new city and era she doesn’t understand, but is perhaps just what she needs to learn about who she can be.

In my interview with Johnny, we discuss his real life inspiration for Sarah, the film’s fairytale elements and ties to Korean and East Asian folklore, and what made Kim Ho-jung perfect to play the character of Sarah.

 

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 http://Authory.com/CarolynHinds
Twitter & Instagram: @CarrieCnh12

 

#KCrush #TIFF24 #TIFF #The MotherandTheBearFilm #TorontoInternationalFilmFestival #MultinationalFilm #AsianCinema #KoreanActress #KDrama #KoreanDiaspora

Yoo Young, famously known for the ‘Yeolmu and Altari’ webtoon series has died.

Yoo Young joined the Kakao family a few years ago and has been entertaining millions through her webtoon artistry skills. ‘Yeolmu and Altari’ was launched on Kakao Webtoon in 2019 and quickly became a favorite read for many given its stance of raising awareness on raising kids who are abled differently.

Yoo Young was reported to have taken a recharge break a few days before the demise. The legend passed on in her sleep from a cardiac arrest.  As of now, there are 244 episodes of ‘Yeolmu and Altari’ with the latest release done about a week ago.

Yoo Young’s readers will forever be grateful for the smiles that she put on their faces.

 

—-Karen Mwenda

 

#YeolmuandAltariwebtoon #YooYoung #YooYoungpassesaway #kcrush #webtoon #latestrelease #Kakao #breakingnews #YeolmuandAltarilatestrelease #kcrushamerica #webtoonskils #YooYoungcardiacarrest

AKMU performing

Aespa and ZEROBASEONE wowed the crowd with a stunning performance both nights

Lauv was the surprised unannounced guest on day one who performed hit song with Lay Zhang

Krazy Super Concert, the two-day music festival made its way to Los Angeles area with a one-of-a-kind experience and stacked line-up of Asian-pop superstars and global artists from other regions. The concert’s inaugural series of concerts started in 2023 in New York. The two-day music festival was held at the Long Beach Arena. All attendees were encouraged to experience the variety of on-site activities such as food trucks and fan activations.

K-Pop mega girl group aespa performed at the Krazy Super Concert two-day music festival presented by One Pulse Group on Saturday and Sunday, September 14 and 15 at Long Beach Arena in Long Beach.

K-Pop superstar boy group ZEROBASEONE performed at the Krazy Super Concert two-day music festival presented by One Pulse Group on Saturday and Sunday, September 14 and 15 at Long Beach Arena in Long Beach.

CL performing

The full music artist lineup consisted of Alaina Castillo, AKMU, Lay Zhang, Lauv, SUMNI, ZEROBASEONE and aespa performing on September 14, while AGNEZ MO, ZEROBASEONE, aespa, Bambam, DK of iKon and CL performed on September 15. Artists like Lauv and Alaina Castillo hail from the U.S. and AGNEZ MO is from Indonesia who complete the global lineup while K-pop superstars ZEROBASEONE, aespa and Kim JungKook performed both nights. The event saw over 18,000 fans come together this past weekend.

Lay Zhang and Lauv performing

The Krazy Super Concert series will announce future events at a later time. For information, head to: https://www.krazysuperconcert.com/.

Credit: Nightmode Team/Tania Hauyon

 

#KRAZYSuperConcert #twodaymusicfestival #aespa #Bambam #DK #kcrush #AEROBASEONE #kpop #pop #kcrushamerica #kidol #Koreanpop #Lauv #AlainaCastillo #iKon #CL #westcoastmusicfestival #kpopstar #kcrushtopentertainmentmagazine #AGNEZMO #musicfestival #koreanmusic #LongBeachArena #LongBeach #Californiafestival #California #KRAZYfestival #AKMU #SUMNI #findinfoaboutKRAZYconcert

The iconic IU and Lee Jong Suk couple has been in the limelight for the last couple of months.

For a while, there have been rumors speculating that the couple is no longer together. IU and Lee Jong Suk went public with their relationship back in 2022 despite being friends since before 2012. The two ventured into the entertainment industry at 15 years old before IU became a K-Pop sensation and Lee Jong Suk a K-actor legend.

The sensational couple’s breakup rumors were shattered after Lee Jong Suk attended IU’s 2024 IU HEREH WORLD TOUR CONCERT ENCORE: THE WINNING” held on September 22 and 23. This concert marked IU’s 100^th solo concert even as she claimed the title for being the first female artist to have a concert at Sangam Stadium. Reputable K-Pop stars also attended in support of IU including BTS’ J-Hope and V.

 

—-Karen Mwenda

 

#IU #LeeJongSuk #BTSV #BTSJHOPEE #IUHEREHWORLDTOUT #THEWINNING #KPOP #kactor #kcrush #relationshipa #nobreakupforIUandLeeJongSuk #happycouple #kculture #kculture #kcrushamericamagazine #breakingnews #SangamStadium #longkpoprelationships