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Actor Son Ye-jin, who has returned with "The Scandal," opened up candidly about life as a mother and the weight she feels as an actor.

During a round-table interview for the Netflix original series "The Scandal" held at a cafe in Jongno-gu, Seoul on September 29, Son Ye-jin welcomed reporters with honest and witty answers throughout.

When asked about a past appearance on the variety show "Chef & My Fridge," where she playfully bragged that her son had looks that made it "hard not to become a celebrity," Son Ye-jin burst into shy laughter. "Seeing what I said on a variety show in print felt completely different. Watching someone say it on video versus seeing it written down as 'It's hard for my son not to become a celebrity' are two very different things," she explained. "I realized words in print can be intimidating. I even regretted saying it because I worried I might come across as obnoxious."

When asked whether her perspective as an actor or her attitude toward life had shifted since becoming a mother, Son Ye-jin first expressed deep admiration for those balancing work and family. "I truly respect everyone who balances parenting and a career," she said.

"As a mother, even outside of active parenting hours, your brain has to run at full capacity thinking about your child. From small things like side dishes to preschool supplies, diaper counts, and what the next step is, there are simply so many details to manage," she shared. "When working, it's hard enough to go all-in on work alone, but you also have to keep using the rest of your mental energy to care for your child, which can feel overwhelming. I think that's why moms have it so tough," she added, praising the dedication of all working mothers.

She continued, "Fortunately, now that he is four years old, we can communicate, and he understands when he is being scolded. I'm thankful that he doesn't throw big tantrums. Even though parenting is hard, the happiness a child brings is incomparable, so I live with immense gratitude just to be able to spend time with my precious family."

With second-generation actors drawing attention in the industry lately, she was also asked how she would react if her son wanted to pursue acting in the future.

"I would be all for it," Son Ye-jin said. "In fact, children of actors often develop an interest or curiosity about this work before debuting. Because it's what their parents do, they see that world from a broader perspective and get curious about it." She added, "If he has talent, I think I would encourage him. If I don't see the talent in him but he still insists on trying, I would let him try first and help him pivot if it turns out not to be his path." She then joked, "From what I've seen so far, he is quite expressive. But during things like a Christmas concert, he freezes up completely on his own. It seems he has terrible stage fright."

As part of a celebrity couple, she also shared the challenges of dealing with privacy exposure during family trips. "When we go on family vacations, many people take photos, and I often approach them politely to ask if they could delete them," Son Ye-jin revealed. "For us, it can't be helped, but our child should still be able to move around comfortably without restrictions. When it comes to exposing our child's face, I inevitably become sensitive."

Meanwhile, "The Scandal," starring Son Ye-jin, tells the story of Lady Jo (played by Son Ye-jin), a woman whose extraordinary talents are stifled by the societal constraints placed on women in the Joseon era, and Jo Won (played by Ji Changwook), Joseon's greatest seducer, as they engage in a daring, dangerous love bet involving another woman named Hee-yeon (played by Nana). Based on French author Pierre Choderlos de Laclos's classic novel "Dangerous Liaisons," the work is a masterpiece that has been reinterpreted multiple times, including films such as "Valmont," "Cruel Intentions," and the 2003 movie "Untold Scandal" starring Bae Yong-joon, Jeon Do-yeon, and Lee Mi-sook.

Returning to historical dramas after 24 years, Son Ye-jin delivered an unconventional transformation as Lady Jo, who challenges Confucian Joseon taboos by proposing a bet of seduction. All eight episodes of the Netflix series "The Scandal" were released on September 18.

[Photo = Netflix]

(SBS Entertainment News | Kang Sun-ae)

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The father-in-law of singer and actor Lee Seung-gi has been sentenced to three years and six months in prison and taken into custody after being convicted at his first trial on charges of manipulating the stock prices of KOSDAQ-listed companies for illicit gains.

The 15th Criminal Division of the Seoul Southern District Court, presided over by Judge Noh Yoo-kyung, sentenced Lee, 59, to three years and six months in prison and a fine of 400 million won on September 29. The court also ordered him to forfeit approximately 125.5 million won. Lee, who had been standing trial while out on bail, was immediately taken into custody following the sentencing.

The court said, “The stock price manipulation in which the defendants participated is an act that harms the capital market by distorting the sound functioning of price formation, and the culpability is extremely serious. It is a typical crime that causes harm to numerous innocent investors and undermines investors’ willingness to invest.” The court added that Lee was highly blameworthy for participating in similar criminal activity again despite having a prior conviction for a similar offense.

Lee Seung-gi’s father-in-law was previously indicted in 2016 for allegedly making billions of won in illicit profits by artificially boosting the stock price of a company called Corebit through false disclosures of favorable developments, including an alleged investment by Hong Kong-based investors, during a capital increase. He was sentenced in the first trial in 2018 to four years in prison and a fine of 2.5 billion won. Although he was acquitted on appeal the following year, the Supreme Court overturned the acquittal and remanded the case in June 2025 for further proceedings on the basis that the lower court’s acquittal was erroneous.

Lee Seung-gi, who married actress Lee Da-in in 2023, announced in April 2025 that he would cut ties with his in-laws after it became known that his father-in-law had been indicted again for alleged unlawful conduct ahead of the retrial following the Supreme Court’s remand. At the time, he said through his agency, Big Planet Made, “The trust between our families has been damaged to a point where it is difficult to restore, and after much consideration, my wife and I have decided to cut ties with my in-laws. I deeply regret that I spoke without fully reviewing the issues surrounding my father-in-law last year. I believe that any unlawful conduct should be appropriately punished.”

Photo = Reporter Baek Seung-cheol

(SBS Entertainment News | Kang Kyung-youn)

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Actor Son Ye-jin, who returned to the screen in "The Scandal," shared glimpses of her everyday life with husband Hyun Bin.

During a round interview for the Netflix original series "The Scandal" held at a cafe in Jongno-gu, Seoul, on September 29, Son Ye-jin greeted reporters with her trademark candor and wit.

With her husband Hyun Bin's Disney+ series "Made in Korea 2" being released around the same time, public attention naturally focused on the couple's friendly showdown. Addressing this, Son Ye-jin confessed, "Honestly, neither of us has watched each other's work yet. I fall asleep every day with our child, completely passed out. To binge-watch a series, you really have to set aside an entire day. We keep checking the clock wondering when we'll ever find the time."

Regarding the overlapping release dates, she added, "That is not something actors have control over. We followed Netflix's schedule, and they followed Disney+'s schedule, so hearing about the release timings later was quite fascinating. Since they are streaming releases rather than linear broadcast dramas airing in the exact same time slot, I just viewed it as an interesting and fun situation."

When asked how it feels to headline the major lineups of the two streaming giants as South Korea's representative actor couple, Son Ye-jin smiled and said, "It is truly a blessing that our projects can meet viewers during such a major holiday like Chuseok."

In "The Scandal," Son Ye-jin portrays Lady Cho, a woman gifted with extraordinary talent who refuses to be confined by the rigid expectations placed on women in the Joseon era. The series follows the daring and dangerous wager of seduction between Lady Cho and Joseon's greatest playboy, Cho Won (played by Ji Changwook), and the story of Hee-yeon (played by Nana), a woman entangled in their bet.

Based on French author Pierre Choderlos de Laclos's classic novel "Dangerous Liaisons," the timeless narrative has been adapted numerous times, inspiring films such as "Valmont," "Cruel Intentions," and the acclaimed Korean feature "Untold Scandal" starring Bae Yong-joon, Jeon Do-yeon, and Lee Mi-sook.

Returning to the historical drama genre for the first time in 24 years, Son Ye-jin plays Lady Cho, who defies Confucian taboos by proposing a game of temptation. Despite her brilliant intellect, Lady Cho lived without a proper identity simply because she was a woman, until she shakes the social order by proposing a secret bet to Cho Won, her childhood study partner and cousin.

Given that "The Scandal" is an intense narrative confronting Confucian taboos in the Joseon era, it features bold premises and provocative scenes. When asked how her husband Hyun Bin reacted to her decision to join such a project, Son Ye-jin replied, "He doesn't really express things like that out loud. In that regard, he respects me deeply as an actor. We don't usually talk much about those details to begin with."

She also shared a behind-the-scenes story about the high-end honey that recently drew buzz during her appearance on the variety show "Chef & My Fridge." The honey Son Ye-jin revealed on the show, which had originally been gifted to Hyun Bin, made headlines when it was reported to cost around 2.5 million won.

"I didn't know the price either. When I found out how much it cost afterward, I thought, 'Did I make a mistake?'" Son Ye-jin said. "I had simply told my husband, 'I'm taking this with me,' and packed it. He told me I had tried a spoonful of it in the past, but I guess I didn't remember. I really had no idea it was that expensive. If I had known, I might not have brought it," she added, making everyone laugh.

Meanwhile, all eight episodes of the Netflix series "The Scandal," featuring Son Ye-jin's bold transformation, were released on September 18.

[Photo = SBS Entertainment News DB, Netflix] 

(SBS Entertainment News | Kang Sun-ae)

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Actor Chun Sin-hwan has taken promotion into his own hands to champion the upcoming film "Mash Ville".

Set to premiere on October 28, the movie features Chun as moonshiner Joo Se-jong. Ahead of the release, the actor has been actively meeting audiences face-to-face by taking part in various events that blend cinema with Western culture.

On July 25, Chun attended the domestic premiere screening and Western Cinema Party for "Mash Ville," held at Indie Space and Yeonnamjang in Hongdae. Organized around the film's defining Western aesthetic, the event allowed moviegoers to immerse themselves in its universe within a space redesigned to mirror the village in the story. Both the cast members and attendees embraced the theme by dressing up in full Western attire.

Chun also connected with audiences across the country. Starting with a live broadcast appearance on Mokpo MBC Radio's "Pleasant 2 PM" on September 11, he visited Mokpo Art Cinema on September 12 and Gwangju Independent Cinema on September 13 to hold intimate discussions about the project.

On September 19, he hosted a Q&A session and an "American Heritage" gathering at KT&G Sangsangmadang and House of Woomul in Hongdae. Following an engaging dialogue driven by questions from the audience, participants who share a love for Western culture bonded over curated costumes, props, music, and food.

"I am thrilled that so many viewers have already come out to support us even before the premiere," Chun shared. "Because this film is making its debut during a challenging period for the Korean film market, the cast has been hitting the pavement to organize special events where fans can experience this fusion of Korean Western culture firsthand. We plan to keep meeting viewers right up until the release, so please look forward to it."

Director Hwang Wook added, "My heart is full knowing we can finally present this film to the public, and that excitement carries into our promotions. Because this is such a unique title, we are putting every effort into making our promotional events just as enjoyable."

"Mash Ville" is an oriental Western action-comedy that follows chaos breaking loose in a lawless town when cult members gather 12 corpses for a ritual, bringing together nine individuals with conflicting agendas and one dead body. Alongside Chun Sin-hwan, the cast includes Park Jong-hwan, Park Sung-il, Kim Hyeong-gyun, Kim Hee-sang, Jin Mo, Hong Seong-oh, and Kim Hong-guk.

The film garnered international acclaim well before its domestic theatrical run. It won Best Director in the Cheval Noir competition at the 28th Fantasia International Film Festival and received invitations to prominent global events, including the Santa Fe International Film Festival, the Yubari International Fantastic Film Festival, and the Almería Western Film Festival.

Meanwhile, the team behind "Mash Ville" is scheduled to host another Q&A session with audiences in Busan on October 8.

(SBS Entertainment News | Kim Ji-hye)

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The official YouTube channel of the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport is seeing massive success thanks to a contestant from "I Am Solo".

On September 23, a promotional video titled "Would You Like to Join Me This Chuseok? I'll Guide You Through the Holiday Traffic Measures" was posted on the Ministry's YouTube channel. The video featured Kwangsoo, who is currently drawing major attention on the Season 33 "never-been-dated" special of SBS Plus and ENA's "I Am Solo".

Previously on "I Am Solo", Kwangsoo introduced himself as a Grade 5 civil servant under the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport, and a supportive video message from the Minister of Land, Infrastructure and Transport was even revealed on the show.

In the promotional clip, Kwangsoo captured viewers' attention with his signature clumsy yet charming appeal. He introduced himself, saying, "I am Deputy Director OOO from the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport, taking on the role of Chuseok holiday special traffic reporter." Although visibly nervous at first, he soon shook off the tension and calmly walked through key transportation service measures for this year's Chuseok holiday, including toll fee exemptions on expressways, a 10% discount on KTX fares, earlier openings of departure halls, and increased public transit services.

The public response to Kwangsoo's video has been explosive. While previous videos from the Ministry typically struggled to break past a few thousand views, this upload soared past 2.09 million views within just four days of its release. Online users shared enthusiastic comments such as, "They really used a cheat code," "I never would have watched this if it weren't for Kwangsoo," "Wait, didn't Kwangsoo say he was on a diet? Why does he look just as cute and the same?", and "It's so refreshing and not tiring like watching overexposed TV personalities. His delivery is sincere, pure, and clean, which gives him even more charm."

Meanwhile, Kwangsoo continues to receive overwhelming support from viewers on the Season 33 "never-been-dated" special of "I Am Solo" for his thoughtful actions and genuine charm. With the final selection of Season 33 set to air on September 30, all eyes are on whether Kwangsoo will finally break his "never-dated" streak through the final choice.

[Photo=Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport YouTube] 

(SBS Entertainment News | Kang Sun-ae)

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Actor Cho Yi-hyun poses during a photo call at the production presentation for the film "Final Interview," held on the morning of September 29 at Lotte Cinema Konkuk University in Gwangjin-gu, Seoul.

※ Please note: This article was translated by AI and may contain errors.

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Actors Cho Yi-hyun (from left), Kim Jaewon, Shin Seungho, Kang Youseok, and Bae Gang-Hee strike poses at the press conference for the movie "Final Interview," held on the morning of September 29 at Lotte Cinema Konkuk University in Gwangjin-gu, Seoul.

※ Please note: This article was translated by AI and may contain errors.

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Actor Kang Youseok strikes a pose during the press conference for the movie "Final Interview," held on the morning of September 29 at Lotte Cinema Konkuk University in Gwangjin-gu, Seoul.

※ Please note: This article was translated by AI and may contain errors.

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Actor Shin Seungho delivers greeting remarks while attending the press conference for the movie "Final Interview" held on the morning of September 29 at Lotte Cinema Konkuk University Entrance in Gwangjin-gu, Seoul.

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Actor Kim Jaewon attends a press conference for the movie "Final Interview," held on the morning of September 29 at Lotte Cinema Konkuk University Entrance in Gwangjin-gu, Seoul, where he poses for photos.

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Actor Bae Gang-hee strikes a pose during the photo call at the press conference for the film "Final Interview," held on the morning of September 29 at Lotte Cinema Konkuk University Entrance in Gwangjin-gu, Seoul.

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Group BTS clinched three awards at the 2026 MTV Video Music Awards (VMAs), taking home Song of the Year with "SWIM," the lead single from their fifth full-length album "ARIRANG," which was released following their military hiatus.

At the 2026 MTV VMAs held at the Peacock Theater in Los Angeles on September 27 (local time), BTS won Song of the Year and Best K-Pop with "SWIM," and also secured Best Group, sweeping all three categories in which they were nominated.

According to BigHit Music, this marks the first time in history that a K-pop group has won Song of the Year. Song of the Year is regarded as the grand prize category of the MTV VMAs.

Through their agency, BTS expressed their heartfelt gratitude: "'ARIRANG' is an album that represents a new beginning for us, which makes this award all the more meaningful. Being able to receive such an immense honor as Song of the Year with 'SWIM' is entirely thanks to everyone who has shown love for our music. We will continue to deliver great music and incredible stages together as seven."

Upon its initial release, "SWIM" drew divided opinions. As a comeback track following the group's military hiatus, it felt unfamiliar to listeners who were anticipating a more dramatic, high-energy dance track or Korean lyrics. The members themselves had a similar reaction when they first listened to the demo before completion. On Netflix's "BTS: The Return," the members also agreed that the track had a comparatively subdued feel.

Furthermore, "SWIM" is the first title track on a BTS full-length studio album sung entirely in English. Online reactions were split between disappointment over the absence of Korean lyrics and high praise found across overseas reaction videos. Given that the album's title is "ARIRANG," some questioned whether the track's nature aligned with the overarching identity of the album.

RM, who took part in writing and composing the song, explained his deep affection for "SWIM" during a live broadcast. Describing the track, he remarked, "While it sounds like a love song, it is also a song about life. With multiple meanings, 'you' could refer to our fans, a loved one, or my own life as I look upon it. I think it is a truly rare song that captures so many varied emotions, the joys and sorrows of life."

He further underscored the authenticity woven into the lyrics, adding, "It is a song that I personally hope receives even more love. I want 'SWIM' to endure for a very long time. To me, 'SWIM' is the song I want to hear in my grave."

Despite the mixed initial reception, "SWIM" soared to No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 (dated April 4) and No. 2 on the UK Official Singles Chart (dated March 27 to April 2), while holding the No. 1 spot on Spotify's Daily Top Songs Global for 25 consecutive days from March 20 to April 13. In addition to chart achievements, fan reactions gradually shifted as well. Listeners began praising the powerful synergy between the lyrical depth of "SWIM" and the 14-year narrative that BTS has walked through. Many fans expressed their growing devotion, noting that the more they replayed and reflected on the track, the more deeply captivated they became compared to their very first listen.

Alongside the Song of the Year honor, BTS also seized the Best Group trophy. BTS had previously claimed this award for four consecutive years from 2019 to 2022, and with this latest win, they lifted their fifth trophy overall in the category, extending their own record for the most wins in VMA history.

Beginning October 2 in Bogota, Colombia, BTS will kick off the South American leg of their "BTS WORLD TOUR 'ARIRANG'". The tour will feature a total of 14 performances across five cities, including Lima, Peru; Santiago, Chile; Buenos Aires, Argentina; and São Paulo, Brazil.

(SBS Entertainment News | Kang Kyung-youn)

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Director Jang Hang-jun, affectionately known as the "Maltese without tear stains," is returning with the aura of a master filmmaker in a brand-new SBS variety show.

On September 29, the team behind SBS's new variety program "Maestro Jang" released its first teaser, titled "Birth of a Master," ramping up anticipation for the upcoming premiere.

"Maestro Jang" follows Jang Hang-jun—whose past was at times pathetic and groveling, yet brighter than anyone else's—as he launches a secret audition project to cast top actors for his autobiographical film "Maestro Jang." The show is set to deliver delightful laughter to viewers through a witty, engaging talk format that captures the playful banter and chemistry between the master director and visiting stars.

In the released teaser, Jang bids farewell to his familiar, approachable image with a feisty warning: "A Maltese without tear stains?! Stop it." He then proclaims, "A master must not act rashly," preaching his eccentric "theory of mastery" with 200% swagger and director-level dignity, sparking bursts of laughter.

Jang further piques curiosity by invoking an array of global heavyweights, including Sandra Bullock, Leonardo DiCaprio, Matt Damon, and Christopher Nolan. "If you just follow my history, the modern history of the world unfolds," he boasts, packaging his personal journey into an epic saga on the scale of an The Odyssey. He further heightens intrigue by teasing a secret pitch for A-listers, saying, "I will make a casting offer they cannot refuse."

Highlighting the comedic chemistry between Jang Hang-jun, newly reinvented as a cinematic master, and the stars responding to his bold overtures, "Maestro Jang" will premiere on Thursday, October 15, at 9:00 p.m.

(SBS Entertainment News | Kang Sun-ae)

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Actor Kim Ji-won is set to redefine her career once again with "Doctor X: Mafia in White".

Scheduled to premiere on Friday, October 9, SBS's new Friday-Saturday drama "Doctor X: Mafia in White" (written by Pyeon Sung-geun, directed by Lee Jung-rim) is a thrilling medical noir chronicling Kye Soo-jung, known as "Doctor X: Mafia in White"—a rebel in the operating room who knows neither failure nor compromise as she shatters massive corruption with her genius surgical skills. Following hit series such as "Agent Kim Reactivated", "Taxi Driver", "The Fiery Priest", and "The Judge from Hell", anticipation is running high for the project as the first medical series in SBS's lineup of cathartic justice dramas and its biggest tentpole IP for the second half of the year.

Kim Ji-won, who has captivated viewers with multi-dimensional performances as Yoon Myeong-ju in "Descendants of the Sun", Choi Ae-ra in "Fight for My Way", Yeom Mi-jeong in "My Liberation Notes", and Hong Hae-in in "Queen of Tears", makes her small-screen return after two years. In this drama, she plays genius surgeon Kye Soo-jung, who brings down a massive cartel within the hospital with surgical skills that border on the divine. She is expected to showcase a rich acting spectrum, ranging from exhilarating moments of taking down corruption to deeply emotional, nuanced acting.

In particular, Kim Ji-won devoted extraordinary effort to bringing the physician character to life, directly learning and mastering surgical techniques from medical advisors. Director Lee Jung-rim praised her enthusiastically, saying, "During the surgery scenes, the medical doctors who came to advise on-site were impressed enough to applaud," adding, "It was hard to imagine anyone other than Kim Ji-won playing Kye Soo-jung."

Co-star Lee Jung-eun also expressed strong faith in their one-of-a-kind womance chemistry, noting, "Every time I made eye contact and acted alongside Kim Ji-won on set, the emotional flow filled in naturally. It truly made me think, 'She is an actor with incredible depth.'"

Marking the birth of Kim Ji-won's take on a medical dark hero, SBS's new Friday-Saturday drama "Doctor X: Mafia in White" premieres on Friday, October 9 at 9:50 PM. 

(SBS Entertainment News | Kang Sun-ae)

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SBS's signature busking variety show "The Listen" is returning this fall for its sixth season with an unprecedented lineup.

Premiering on Wednesday, October 7, SBS's "The Listen" is a music variety show that travels to every corner of South Korea, delivering top-tier live vocals and soulful busking performances.

Leading the season, powerhouse Korean vocalists Lee Young-hyun, Tei, DK (December), and Lee Seung-gi have officially joined the roster, providing a commanding presence on stage. Adding to the excitement, EXO's SUHO and ATEEZ's main vocalist JONGHO will set aside their intense performance routines to showcase their heartfelt, emotional vocals.

The female vocal lineup is equally spectacular. Unrivaled vocalists Lee Ye-joon, Shin Ye-young, YUJU, CHUU, and Lee Ye-ji will unite to present rich, intricate harmonies. In addition, trot stars Kim Hee-jae, Park Ji-hyun, and Song Min-jun will expand their musical horizons into emotional ballads, bringing a fresh, genre-crossing charm to the stage.

This season will also introduce a brand-new segment titled "Destined Busking," featuring entertaining hidden missions with the audience. On set, explosive humor erupted courtesy of former radio host Tei and veteran variety star Lee Seung-gi. Laughter also ensued as the cast reportedly broke a sweat trying to keep up with Lee Young-hyun's spirited enthusiasm. Furthermore, fans can look forward to rare co-ed unit performances never seen before, including Tei and YUJU, SUHO and Lee Ye-ji, as well as Lee Young-hyun and Lee Seung-gi.

Exciting new music releases are also on the way. On September 30 at 6 PM, the pre-release male ensemble track "In Trouble"—featuring Tei, DK, Lee Seung-gi, SUHO, JONGHO, Kim Hee-jae, and Park Ji-hyun—will drop, followed by SUHO's solo single "Let's Stay Well" on October 4 at 6 PM.

Bringing romance to autumn evenings, SBS's "The Listen" will air every Wednesday at 11 PM starting October 7. 

(SBS Entertainment News | Kang Sun-ae)

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"Nation's host" Yu Jae-seok has once again proven his reputation as a never-ending source of heartwarming deeds by personally cleaning up illegally dumped trash during filming.

On the September 29 broadcast of the SBS variety show "Whenever Possible," hosts Yu Jae-seok and Yoo Yeonseok, alongside guest actors Byun Yohan and Roh Jae-won, set out to fill in the spare moments of locals across the Incheon area.

While visiting a bus stop, Yu Jae-seok spotted a plastic water bottle abandoned alone on top of the shelter roof and immediately engaged his eagle eyes. "Ah, that is really not okay," Yu Jae-seok remarked, delivering a sharp, refreshing rebuke to the inconsiderate litterer: "I don't know if the person who threw this away is watching this broadcast, but you really shouldn't do this."

Yoo Yeonseok then looked at the water bottle and playfully let his imagination run wild, asking, "Could someone have tossed it while playing a game from 'Whenever Possible'?" The cast quickly sprang into action to remove the trash. Yu Jae-seok sparked laughter by drafting Yoo Yeonseok as a "human ladder truck," declaring, "I'll ride on Yeonseok's shoulders to climb up and clean it."

In the end, Yu Jae-seok, Yoo Yeonseok, Byun Yohan, and Roh Jae-won formed an impromptu "Illegal Trash Gap Disposal Squad" on the spot. Taking the initiative to retrieve the garbage, they reportedly added a touching good deed to a day full of fun and laughter.

Featuring Yu Jae-seok's sharp reality check and the dynamic presence of the "Incheon Tough Guy Duo" Byun Yohan and Roh Jae-won, this episode of "Whenever Possible" airs on Tuesday, September 29, at 10:10 PM following coverage of the 2026 Aichi-Nagoya Asian Games.

(SBS Entertainment News | Kang Sun-ae)

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Actor Park Shin-hye, who recently gave birth to her second child, a daughter, has shared an update showing her passionate support for the national baseball team from her postpartum care center.

On September 27, Park Shin-hye posted a photo on her social media showing herself watching a baseball game from the care center. The photo captured her television tuned to the SBS broadcast of the baseball final between South Korea and Japan at the 2026 Aichi-Nagoya Asian Games.

Well known as an avid baseball fan, Park Shin-hye celebrated the national team's gold medal victory in real time, adding enthusiastic captions such as "Let's win today" and "I believed in you. Let's protect this lead!" Fans were delighted to receive such a joyful update just five days after she gave birth.

Earlier on September 22, her agency SALT Entertainment announced in an official statement, "Park Shin-hye gave birth to a healthy baby girl, and a new family member has arrived for the couple, Park Shin-hye and Choi Tae-joon," adding, "Both mother and baby are currently in good health, and she is resting and recovering amidst the care of her family."

After dating for four years, Park Shin-hye married actor Choi Tae-joon in January 2022 and welcomed their first child, a son, in May of the same year. Following the birth of her first child, Park Shin-hye led a streak of consecutive hits including "Doctor Slump," "The Judge from Hell," and "Undercover Miss Hong." After announcing her second pregnancy in April, she safely welcomed her daughter into the world. She is scheduled to return to the small screen next year in SBS's "The Judge from Hell 2."

[Photo=SBS Entertainment News DB, Park Shin-hye Instagram]

(SBS Entertainment News | Kang Sun-ae)

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Singer Kim Ba-da, who was arrested by police in March on charges of possessing and smoking marijuana, has shared a handwritten letter of apology ahead of his scheduled free solo concert on October 10.

On September 28, Kim Ba-da released the handwritten apology through social media, writing: "Through the incident in March, I caused worry and pain to those who cared for and trusted me. Thinking of that breaks my heart as well." He continued, "I know that the passage of time does not mean everything naturally disappears. That is why during this past period, I looked back on my life and thought deeply about what kind of person I should live as."

He emphasized, "Ultimately, what I can do is slowly show you through my future actions, my life, and my music rather than through words," adding, "I feel more deeply than ever how grateful I am to be able to sing and stand on stage. I will live more prudently. I will strive to become a better person. I want to greet you again with sincere music."

In March, Kim Ba-da was arrested by police at a residence in downtown Sokcho, Gangwon Province, on charges of possessing and smoking marijuana. Police had obtained related intelligence and conducted a tracking investigation for about two months, with Kim Ba-da reportedly admitting to the allegations during police questioning.

Previously, on April 14, Kim Ba-da posted an apology on social media, stating: "I made the decision to part ways with my former agency, Another Place, and all the members. I deeply reflect on and feel truly sorry for my negligence in creating this situation," adding, "I will return with a good album someday."

Having debuted in the 1990s with the band The Bank, Kim Ba-da made a name for himself as the fifth lead vocalist of Sinawe. Since then, he has remained active as a rock vocalist across several bands, including Butterfly Effect, The Ratios, and Art of Parties.

(SBS Entertainment News | Kang Kyung-youn)

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The TikTok account of Ko Young-wook, a former member of the group Roo'ra who served prison time for sexual crimes against minors, was deleted just one day after its launch was revealed.

TikTok Korea stated on September 28, "After confirming the relevant details, we deleted Ko Young-wook's TikTok account this morning."

TikTok further explained, "Under our Community Guidelines, if it is confirmed that an account owner has committed a sexual offense against youth, not only that account but any other accounts owned by that user will be permanently suspended," adding, "This measure was also taken in accordance with our Community Guidelines."

Earlier, on September 27, Ko personally announced the launch of his TikTok account via his X page and attempted to engage with the public by posting videos of his daily life. However, news of the new account triggered fierce public backlash, and following swift action by TikTok, the account was forcibly removed in just one day.

This is not the first time Ko Young-wook's social media accounts have been shut down. In 2020, he opened an Instagram account, which was closed after just one day due to reports from users, and his personal YouTube channel launched in 2024 was also terminated for violating community guidelines.

Meanwhile, Ko Young-wook was arrested and indicted on charges of sexually assaulting and molesting three minors. In 2013, the Supreme Court sentenced him to two years and six months in prison, five years of public disclosure of his personal information, and three years of wearing an electronic tracking device. He completed his full sentence and was released in July 2015. 

(SBS Entertainment News | Kang Sun-ae)

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Actor Roh Jae-won exhausts Yu Jae-seok with an explosive competitive spirit on "Whenever Possible."

On the SBS variety show "Whenever Possible," airing on Tuesday, September 29, hosts Yu Jae-seok and Yoo Yeonseok are joined by actors Byun Yohan and Roh Jae-won as "gap friends" to explore brief moments of downtime across the Incheon area.

Having stayed calm throughout the opening, Roh Jae-won caught everyone on set off guard as the look in his eyes transformed completely the moment the game started. Even before the game setup was finished, he dove straight into action by tossing balls, relentlessly shouting "Challenge!" without catching his breath and shaking up the entire game floor.

Drained by Roh Jae-won's never-ending challenges, Yu Jae-seok stepped in to pump the brakes, sending the set into laughter: "That is an all-time competitive spirit. Jae-won is so bold compared to his skill level." Yu Jae-seok reportedly shook his head in amazement, adding, "I knew he was something special when I saw him in 'Squid Game,' but he really is incredible."

Roh Jae-won also proved his authentic Incheon roots, saying, "I went to middle school in Incheon and still live in Incheon today." Alongside Byun Yohan, he put on a memorable performance fueled by Incheon pride, raising anticipation for the broadcast.

This dopamine-packed episode featuring Incheon native Roh Jae-won, who even made Yu Jae-seok and Yoo Yeonseok yield, will be revealed on "Whenever Possible" on Tuesday night, September 29 at 10:10 PM, airing right after coverage of the 2026 Aichi-Nagoya Asian Games. 

(SBS Entertainment News | Kang Sun-ae)

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The main poster and trailer for the Netflix series "Take Charge of My Heart" have been officially unveiled.

Set to premiere on October 9, "Take Charge of My Heart" is a thrilling romantic comedy that revolves around Baek Ho-rang (played by Kim Young-kwang), a man whose artificial heart battery is running out of power, and Na Bo-bae (played by Chae Soo-bin), a woman with electric powers, under the guise of an electric recharge. Rom-com master Kim Young-kwang and the lovely, charming Chae Soo-bin are set to deliver an electrifying on-screen chemistry.

In the main poster released on September 28, third-generation chaebol Baek Ho-rang catches the eye with a cool, chic expression, remaining completely unshocked beside Na Bo-bae, who radiates pink electric currents. The unpredictable chemistry between the "power-drained human rubber glove" Baek Ho-rang and the "romance-drained human power bank" Na Bo-bae sparks immense curiosity.

The accompanying trailer features spectacular episodes that kick off when Na Bo-bae, who has lived a lonely life due to her ability to shock others, meets Baek Ho-rang—the only man immune to her electric touch. As his artificial heart battery steadily drains, Baek Ho-rang discovers that the closer he stays to Na Bo-bae, the faster his heart recharges. He promptly proposes a contractual cohabitation for recharging, pleading, "Just three months, please save my life."

When drama writer Na Bo-bae, whose romantic life has been completely drained, accepts the proposition to complete her "romance bucket list" for finishing her script, the dizzying everyday life between the two begins. On top of that, the appearance of top star Ji Eunho (played by Cha Woo-min), who is Na Bo-bae's number-one fan, hints at a high-voltage love triangle, while Choi Do-yoon (played by Jung Jae-kwang) and Han Seol-hee (played by Shin Do-hyun) also join the cast to ramp up expectations.

Infusing a familiar and beloved formula with a fresh fantasy twist, the K-rom-com "Take Charge of My Heart" will be released on Netflix on October 9.

[Photo = Netflix]

(SBS Entertainment News | Kang Sun-ae)

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Actor Byun Yohan showed extraordinary loyalty, revealing that he flew back to Korea in the middle of his honeymoon just to film "Whenever Possible."

On the upcoming September 29 broadcast of the SBS variety show "Whenever Possible," actors Byun Yohan and Roh Jae-won join hosts Yu Jae-seok and Yoo Yeonseok as "Gap Friends" to seek out everyday spare moments across Incheon.

The biggest highlight on set was undoubtedly the recent update from newlywed Byun Yohan, who recently tied the knot in an intimate, small-scale wedding with singer and actor Tiffany Young. Byun Yohan stirred up the atmosphere by revealing, "I was actually on my honeymoon, but I returned to Korea just to film 'Whenever Possible.'"

MCs Yu Jae-seok and Yoo Yeonseok responded to Byun Yohan's remarkable loyalty with admiration and cheers. In response, Byun Yohan playfully quipped with his signature candid humor, "If it hadn't been for this shoot, I would have continued my honeymoon," showing off both his affectionate, devoted side as a newlywed and his witty sense of humor.

Meanwhile, Yu Jae-seok brought plenty of laughs by playfully voicing his disappointment as an undisputed "top-tier host," asking, "Why didn't you invite me to the wedding?" This prompted a flustered Byun Yohan to break into a sweat and hurriedly explain, "It was truly a small wedding with only immediate family members," showcasing their delightful comedic chemistry.

Byun Yohan's loyal appearance—even pausing his honeymoon to return—along with his hometown chemistry as an Incheon native with Roh Jae-won, will air on "Whenever Possible" on Tuesday, September 29 at 10:10 PM, immediately following coverage of the "2026 Aichi-Nagoya Asian Games."

(SBS Entertainment News | Kang Sun-ae)

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Girl group KATSEYE appeared on the season premiere of NBC's "Saturday Night Live" (SNL), a stage predominantly graced by American stars, showcasing performances of their new tracks alongside a comedic sketch.

KATSEYE featured as the musical guest on the premiere of "SNL" Season 52, which aired on September 27 (KST), marking their very first appearance on the program since their debut. The group delivered performances of "Animal," the pre-release track from their third EP "WILD," and the title track "Hootie Frutti," while also participating in a comedy sketch.

During the "Animal" stage, the members took off their black jackets midway through the performance to reveal outfits adorned with feathers and jewels. Under striking red lighting, their bold facial expressions brought out the song's provocative mood. For "Hootie Frutti," they staged a vibrant performance on a set reminiscent of a tropical fruit juice bar, incorporating playful gestures as if picking and tasting fresh fruit.

In the comedy sketch, KATSEYE appeared in "The Debut: Dream Academy 2," a parody of the audition show that formed them, "The Debut: Dream Academy." In this comedic twist, the members—once contestants themselves—acted as judges auditioning hopefuls for a new girl group, delivering laughs as they earnestly cheered on clumsy and quirky auditionees.

Billboard highlighted KATSEYE's "SNL" appearance as a milestone reflecting their rapid rise. Noting their back-to-back guest spots on NBC's "The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon" and the "Today" show, Billboard emphasized their step onto the "SNL" stage and described them as "one of the most commercially successful girl groups in the world."

KATSEYE is also nominated in four categories at the 2026 MTV Video Music Awards, taking place on September 27 local time: "Best Group," "Song of Summer," "Best K-Pop," and "Best Choreography."

Later this year, the group will join the "2026 iHeartRadio Jingle Ball Tour." This year's lineup includes Olivia Rodrigo, Jonas Brothers, Hilary Duff, Alex Warren, and Charlie Puth. KATSEYE will perform at the tour's opening show in Dallas-Fort Worth on December 1.

Photo Credit: "Saturday Night Live" YouTube channel

(SBS Entertainment News | Kang Kyung-youn)

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Group IVE is set to return with a new album after roughly eight months following the conclusion of their second world tour.

Their agency, Starship Entertainment, consecutively released comeback teaser videos for the new mini album "Looks Can Kill" on its official social media channels. The video depicts projection mapping displayed across downtown skyscrapers to announce the new release. Alongside the new album logo, the text "IVE SPIN-OFF RELEASE 2026.10.19" appears, with Seoul landmarks emerging behind the high-rise buildings.

IVE will release a pre-release track on October 19 before dropping the mini album "Looks Can Kill" on October 26. This comeback arrives about eight months after the release of their second full-length album, "REVIVE+", in February. IVE achieved a Perfect All-Kill (PAK) as their double title track "BANG BANG" topped major domestic music charts, marking the group's sixth career PAK. On music broadcast shows, the group collected a total of nine trophies, securing eight wins with "BANG BANG" and one win with "BLACKHOLE."

IVE began their second world tour, "SHOW WHAT I AM," in Seoul and traveled to major cities across Asia, Oceania, and North America. They performed at venues throughout various regions, including Kyocera Dome and Tokyo Dome in Japan, and held concerts across eight cities in North America, including Toronto, Montreal, and Vancouver in Canada.

Photo = Starship Entertainment

(SBS Entertainment News | Kang Kyung-youn)

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Following singer-actor WOODZ (Cho Seung-youn), actor Shim Eun-kyung has also officially turned down an offer to appear in the joint Korean-Japanese production "Tamako."

Regarding her potential casting in the project, which is reportedly preparing for production around the theme of the atomic bombing in Japan, a representative for Shim Eun-kyung released an official statement on September 28, confirming, "She received an offer for the project, but has decided not to take the role."

Earlier on September 26, a media report claimed that Shim Eun-kyung and WOODZ would star in "Tamako" alongside Ando Sakura. The Korea-Japan co-production is known to depict the story of a boy who loses his parents to the atomic bomb dropped on Hiroshima, Japan, in 1945, follows a Zainichi Korean to South Korea, and lives through the Korean War.

In the film, the boy lives on the margins as neither fully Japanese nor Korean. In his old age, he longs to reunite with his first love, whom he met in Korea. The narrative unfolds as his daughter travels to Korea to fulfill her father's wish. Director Sakamoto Junji is set to helm the project, which is currently pursuing a joint Korean-Japanese production that blends real events with fiction.

Following initial reports, criticism surfaced across online communities regarding the handling of such subject matter in a joint Korean-Japanese project, with backlash also aimed at the actors named in casting reports. The Hiroshima bombing represents a tragedy of Japanese civilian sacrifice, but it is also a topic deeply intertwined with historical discussions of Japan's war of aggression and colonial rule. However, because the project has yet to begin filming, specific plot details remain unconfirmed.

WOODZ subsequently clarified his position during a live broadcast on September 27, stating that reports of his casting were false. "We had already declined the offer, and the articles came out during that process," he said. Shim Eun-kyung's side shared a similar stance immediately following the holiday. WOODZ took a thoughtful tone, adding, "I will consider, reflect, and think carefully before deciding anything." The specific reasons behind Shim Eun-kyung's decision to decline the role have not been disclosed.

(SBS Entertainment News | Kang Kyung-youn)

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"Love Options," a song by girl group BESTie, who disbanded in 2018, is staging an unexpected chart reversal by entering Melon's TOP100.

As of 9 a.m. on September 28, "Love Options" climbed to No. 64 on the Melon TOP100. Released in 2013, the song has broken into South Korea's largest music streaming chart 13 years after its release and eight years after the group disbanded. The track also placed at No. 7 on Apple Music Korea's TOP100 and No. 20 on YouTube Music's Weekly TOP100. It also made the charts in Singapore, Vietnam, and Taiwan, ranking in their respective TOP100s.

On the global music recognition platform Shazam, the track peaked at No. 1 on the South Korea chart and recently hit No. 1 on charts in Thailand and Vietnam as well. On the iTunes Taiwan chart, it reached No. 11. Cumulative streams on YouTube Music have surpassed 33 million, while the music video's view count has exceeded 19.3 million.

The song's resurgence began on short-form video platforms. Approximately 30,000 clips on YouTube Shorts, 570,000 on TikTok, and 40,000 on Instagram Reels have been created using the audio. "Love Options" features witty, straightforward lyrics about ideal partner traits, paired with an upbeat melody and an intuitive chorus. Online users who came across the content shared responses like, "It still sounds great and doesn't feel outdated at all," and "I can't believe it's already been 13 years."

BESTie debuted on July 12, 2013, as a four-member girl group under YNB Entertainment. Their group name is short for "BEST friend," reflecting their desire to be an approachable group like a close friend. During their career, they released tracks including "Pitapat," "Love Options," "I Need You," "Hot Baby," and "Excuse Me."

Following the disbandment, the members ventured onto separate paths. Hyeyeon transitioned into a trot singer, competing on "Miss Trot 2" in 2021 and earning the nickname "Trot Squirrel" for her cute looks. UJI has been active as a singer and musical actor, appearing in stage productions such as "Frida" and "Frozen." Dahye became a YouTube creator after parting ways with the group and drew widespread attention on "EXchange 3," which began airing in 2023. Haeryung transitioned into acting and is currently working under the stage name Han Da Ra.

(SBS Entertainment News | Kang Kyung-youn)

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Disney+'s "The Remarried Empress," based on the popular web novel of the same name, has released romance signal stills teasing the tangled emotions set to shake the imperial court.

Premiering on November 4, the Disney+ original series "The Remarried Empress" is an epic fantasy romance drama. It follows Navier (played by Shin Mina), the consummate empress of the Eastern Empire, who is handed a notice of divorce by Emperor Sovieshu (played by Ju Ji-hoon) after he becomes infatuated with Rashta (played by Lee Seyoung), an escaped slave. Rather than resisting, Navier agrees to the split on the condition that her remarriage to Prince Heinrey of the Western Kingdom (played by Lee Jong-suk) is approved.

The stills unveiled on September 28 capture the cracks forming in the once-unshakeable relationship between Empress Navier and Emperor Sovieshu. After coming to the rescue of Rashta, an escaped slave facing danger on the hunting grounds, Sovieshu falls helplessly for her honest and radiant charm. Rashta, completely unprepared for her sudden entry into the imperial palace, finds herself captivated by the emperor's devoted attention.

Meanwhile, the atmosphere shifts dramatically with the arrival of Prince Heinrey of the Western Kingdom, a figure long shrouded in rumors, visiting the palace as an envoy for the New Year's festival. Heinrey makes his presence known by courteously kissing Navier's hand, bringing a fresh wave of intrigue to the imperial court. The dramatic contrast between Sovieshu publicly holding Rashta's hand at a grand ball despite the eyes watching them, and Heinrey extending his hand to Navier as she stands alone, vividly highlights the shifting emotional tides.

Anticipation is running high for the synergy of its star-studded cast—Shin Mina, Ju Ji-hoon, Lee Jong-suk, and Lee Seyoung—and the nuanced, sweeping romantic narrative. The Disney+ original series "The Remarried Empress" will premiere on November 4 exclusively on Disney+.

[Photo = Disney+]

(SBS Entertainment News | Kang Sun-ae)

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YUQI of the group i-dle is set to release her second mini-album, "二十七(27)," featuring songs she fully contributed to writing and composing.

On September 27, agency Cube Entertainment unveiled the tracklist for YUQI's second mini-album through the official social media channels of i-dle. The album includes six tracks: the title track "Stay," along with "快乐," "Chamomile Tea," "I Like You," "Feels Right," and "银河之舞." Among these, "银河之舞" was performed on stage for the first time during i-dle's world tour "Syncopation" concert in Macau last month. The tracklist graphic features photos placed on paper that evoke the mood of each track, including a swing, chamomile, sunlight filtering through leaves, and sunflowers.

YUQI took part in writing the lyrics and composing every song on this release. Producers Siixk Jun and BOYTOY, who previously collaborated with her on her first solo mini-album "YUQ1" as well as multiple self-composed tracks, joined forces with her once again. Talented domestic and international songwriters also contributed, including Val Del Prete@NUMBER K, who has worked on tracks for numerous K-pop artists. The album's title is drawn directly from YUQI's age. The agency explained that the project encapsulates the emotions and everyday moments experienced by 27-year-old YUQI.

In 2024, YUQI sold more than 550,000 copies of her first solo mini-album, "YUQ1," and her debut single "Motivation," released the following year, surpassed 410,000 copies in first-week sales. She has also taken home Best Solo Artist honors at major award ceremonies.

YUQI's second mini-album, "二十七(27)," will be released across various digital music platforms on October 8.

(SBS Entertainment News | Kang Kyung-youn)

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Group BTS has won the grand prize equivalent Song of the Year at the MTV Video Music Awards (MTV VMAs) in the United States. The winning song is "SWIM", the title track of their fifth full-length album "ARIRANG", which was released on March 20.

At the 2026 MTV VMAs held at the Peacock Theater in Los Angeles on September 27 (local time), BTS took home both Song of the Year and Best K-Pop with "SWIM". As a group, they also claimed Best Group, earning a total of three awards.

Seven tracks were nominated for Song of the Year, including "SWIM", Ella Langley's "Choosin' Texas", HUNTR/X's "Golden", Madonna and Sabrina Carpenter's "Bring Your Love", Olivia Dean's "Man I Need", PinkPantheress' "Stateside + Zara Larsson", and RAYE's "Where Is My Husband!". In the Best K-Pop category, they competed against BLACKPINK's "Jump", CORTIS' "Red Red", KATSEYE's "Pinky Up", LE SSERAFIM's "Spaghetti (feat. j-hope)", and LISA's "Dream".

BTS previously became the first Korean act to be nominated for Song of the Year at the MTV VMAs in 2021 with "Dynamite", but did not win. Last year, BLACKPINK's ROSÉ became the first K-pop artist to win the category through her collaboration with Bruno Mars on "APT.", and with BTS following up this year, K-pop has secured the honor for two consecutive years.

Best Group is a category that BTS previously won for four consecutive years from 2019 to 2022, holding the record for the most wins in the category's history. With this latest win, they lifted the trophy for the fifth time overall.

After completing their mandatory military service, all seven members of BTS released their fifth full-length album "ARIRANG" on March 20 and are currently on their world tour, "BTS WORLD TOUR 'ARIRANG'". Beginning in Goyang, the tour is scheduled to continue through next year across Tokyo, North America, Europe, South America, and Asia. 

(SBS Entertainment News | Kang Kyung-youn)

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