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What is your role inside a closed world?

Broadcast on November 12, SBS' "Tails of Tales" tracked a horrific incident that unfolded within a closed world under the subtitle "Closed World - The Spirit Cafe Murder Case."

In 2012, a male university student was murdered in a park in Sinchon. Shockingly, the suspects who killed him were revealed to be an ordinary high school couple.

In particular, they committed a horrific overkill-style murder against the victim, leading to speculation that they harbored a deep grudge against him.

The three had met through an online music band community. The perpetrators admitted to their crime readily without grasping the gravity of the incident. Rumors also circulated that their crime was driven by passion.

However, a tip arrived for a reporter covering the case: a tip claiming that this murder was not about passion, but connected to a spirit cafe. The tip stated that "saryeong," which refers to the spirits of the dead, and a spirit cafe where people who believe in these spirits gathered, were linked to the murder case.

In fact, the suspects were members of a spirit cafe. Involved in this incident were not only the high school couple who were suspects, but also a fixer and a witch.

A dispute had broken out during music band activities between the victim, Young-hoon, and the suspect, Chang-sik. Afterward, inside the group chat room of the spirit cafe to which Chang-sik and his girlfriend Jae-hee belonged, a plan to murder Young-hoon was set in motion. And the witch referred to the victim Young-hoon as an "offering."

On the day he was murdered, Young-hoon sent a message to his friends: a message saying he was going to rescue his ex-girlfriend, So-young.

In fact, on the day he was murdered, Young-hoon met his ex-girlfriend So-young along with the suspect couple. And So-young was the witch who had first proposed killing Young-hoon.

The spirit cafe had the feel of a pseudo-religious cult. At the time, So-young was deeply immersed in spirits and the spirit cafe, and clashed with Young-hoon, who refused to believe in and rejected the spirits that were so absolute to her. As a result, the two ended up breaking up.

Afterward, Young-hoon sent messages containing insults directed at the spirit cafe for about three weeks. Thus, while it began as a conflict with So-young, the suspects Chang-sik and Jae-hee became entangled as well.

However, some time later, Young-hoon apologized to them, saying he was in the wrong. Yet at the same time, So-young, stating she wished he were dead, planned the murder together with the suspect couple.

Young-hoon, who met the three, wanted to turn back time somehow. But So-young quickly left the scene, and in her place, the fixer appeared. The fixer was another member of the spirit cafe from whom Jae-hee had requested help.

Young-hoon, who wanted to mend his relationship not only with So-young but also with Chang-sik, even bought a graphics card for him and went to the meeting spot. However, despite his pleading, "I was wrong, please spare my life," Chang-sik, together with the fixer, brutally murdered Young-hoon. In addition, So-young, who was not at the scene, shocked people by sending them a message saying, "Handle the job well, and let's split it fifty-fifty if a wallet turns up."

In 2013, a similar incident occurred in Hiroshima, Japan. A verbal argument broke out in a group chat room, and an enraged woman gathered people from the group chat room to kill the person who had argued with her.

There were seven accomplices in total, all of whom were people in the group chat room. Regarding this, an expert analyzed, "In a closed world like social media, peer pressure builds up and an audience is created. As a result, no one can escape. If you don't play the role demanded by the group, you get excluded from it, so you become immersed in the role you have taken on."

In fact, in the Sinchon case, it was Jae-hee who called the fixer, acting as the hidden architect of the incident. And the fixer, Yoon, participated in the crime for Jae-hee, the object of his attachment, and even lied by claiming that he had led the entire crime. Yoon took part in the crime out of a desire not to be abandoned by the group. Moreover, the fixer was a character he had created himself in order to become someone who was needed.

Furthermore, Jae-hee's boyfriend Chang-sik, far from showing remorse after the murder, reminisced about the killing. Regarding this, an expert analyzed, "There is a possibility that Chang-sik felt a sense of rivalry toward Yoon," adding, "For him, how skillfully he could kill a person likely became an important issue." The program then drew attention to the group that fueled each other's anger.

The perpetrators were minors under the Juvenile Act at the time. Accordingly, Chang-sik and Yoon were sentenced to 20 years in prison, Jae-hee received an indeterminate sentence of 7 to 12 years, and So-young was sentenced to 7 years in prison.

An acquaintance of Young-hoon who had tipped off the truth of the case shared that he was unable to say what he really wanted to say to So-young at the time, expressing sorrow by stating that he wanted to ask: "Was it really you guys who did it? Did you really have to go this far? Why do you think you have the right to take a life?"

In a post Young-hoon left on social media a few days before the incident, he was making a sincere apology to the three—at the very same time the three were planning his murder.

The broadcast also pointed out the bystanders who watched the situation unfold in a closed world. A closed world where going with the flow is easy, but going against it is not. With this, it provoked much thought by asking what you would do when words of condemnation are being poured onto a single person.

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

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Jang Hang-jun revealed the true story that inspired his next project.

On the November 12 broadcast of SBS's "The Great Hang-jun," actors Heo Sung-tae, Kwak Sun-young, and Lee Min-ki drew attention by participating in an audition for Jang Hang-jun's next project.

On this day, the three took part in a script reading for his next project "Saengsyokeu Talchul," which is based on a true story experienced by Jang Hang-jun.

Regarding the project, which will be filmed entirely on location in Spain, Jang Hang-jun explained, "It is a story about experiencing a series of shocks while enjoying a trip, and escaping the shocks thanks to saviors who appeared at that moment."

He then asked the three actors if they had ever experienced a particular shock. Kwak Sun-young drew attention by vividly sharing her own experience, saying she had survived an elevator fall.

Jang Hang-jun then revealed the real-life incident that formed the basis of the script for his next project. He said, "After wrapping up filming for 'Wang-sa-nam,' I went on a trip to Spain with the directing crew. We all agreed to go for a run together in the morning, but before running, I was unsure whether I had taken my blood pressure medication in the morning or not. But a staff member told me I hadn't taken it, so I took one."

He continued, "So I went running, and suddenly everything started spinning before my eyes. I went into a cafe to get some rest, but while drinking coffee, I collapsed. It turned out that happened because I had taken two blood pressure pills," and he also shared a photograph taken at the time.

In the photo taken by the directing crew when he collapsed, he was smiling even while lying on the ground, drawing laughter. Furthermore, Jang Hang-jun, who kept a smiling face even as an ambulance arrived and he was being carried away, astonished everyone by saying, "My mind became hazy and I saw a vision. A goddess was saying, 'Hola, hola? Does it hurt, does it hurt?' and in front of the goddess there were stairs, and there were a total of 1,693 steps. 1,693 was the final score for 'Wang-sa-nam.'"

During the script reading for Jang Hang-jun's next project, the three actors delivered lively performances. The producer immediately offered contracts, and Heo Sung-tae drew bursts of laughter by writing a message of gratitude to his benefactor, Director Kim Jee-woon, instead of signing the contract.

Meanwhile, at the end of the broadcast, auditions by actors Lee Jun-hyuk and Jung Man-sik were previewed. In addition, a phone call with actor Sul Kyung-gu, who served as a motif for the script of the next project, was teased, raising anticipation for the next episode.

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

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Lee Min-ki reenacted his viral acting scene.

On the November 12 broadcast of SBS's "The Great Hang-jun," actors Heo Sung-tae, Kwak Sun-young, and Lee Min-ki drew attention by taking part in an audition for Jang Hang-jun's next project.

During the audition that day, when asked about director Jang Hang-jun's reputation among people around him, Lee Min-ki drew laughter by saying, "I haven't heard anything."

Furthermore, when asked if there was anything he wanted to say to the master, he caught attention by answering, "It feels like everything is a joke, so I hope there is at least a bit of sincerity."

On this day, Jang Hang-jun brought up Lee Min-ki's acting in the drama "My Liberation Notes." He praised him, saying, "You deliver lines very quickly, and keeping the pace of the lines consistent to match the character is not easy."

Next, Kim Poong mentioned the viral video featuring Lee Min-ki's rhythmic, melodic delivery of lines that felt like listening to Jang Ki-ha rap.

In response, Lee Min-ki said, "To be honest, I thought that video was made through post-production. I was surprised myself when they said they only added music." He then drew attention by reenacting the viral lines on the spot.

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

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What is director Jang Hang-jun's reputation among those around him?

On the November 12 broadcast of SBS's "The Great Hang-jun," actors Heo Sung-tae, Kwak Sun-young, and Lee Min-ki (MINGI) drew attention by participating in an audition for director Jang Hang-jun's upcoming project.

Ahead of the actual audition that day, producer Song Eun-i asked the actors whether they had watched any of director Jang Hang-jun's works.

With no one answering first, assistant director Kim Poong asked, "Hands up if you enjoyed 'Wangsanam'?" However, not a single person raised their hand, and the three silent actors belatedly asked one another whether they had seen the film.

Watching this, Jang Hang-jun became agitated, saying, "Wait, how can you insult someone right to their face?" Song Eun-i and Kim Poong drew laughter by responding, "This is what the public's evaluation is like. It feels so refreshing (SIWON)."

Jang Hang-jun then warned, "I've said this repeatedly, but while it's not easy for me to make you stars, I can definitely drag you down," prompting bursts of laughter.

Song Eun-i then asked about director Jang Hang-jun's reputation among those around him. In response, Kwak Sun-young said, "I don't have many friends, but I heard that you make actors feel comfortable, and that they inevitably deliver performances beyond what they thought they were capable of," making Jang Hang-jun beam with satisfaction.

However, Song Eun-i and Kim Poong joked, "It gives them courage, thinking, 'If even he can direct, why not me?' And because actors realize they must stay completely alert, that is why performances beyond their normal limits come out."

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

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SBS's "Tails of Tales" will shed light on the 2012 Sinchon college student murder case that shocked the world and the reality of the "saryeong cafe" lurking behind it.

Airing on the night of November 12 at 10:20 PM, "Tails of Tales" is featured as the episode "Closed World – Saryeong Cafe Murder Case." On this broadcast, JENO of NCT DREAM, singer SUNG HANBIN, and actor Yoon Bok-in will appear as listeners.

The case began on April 30, 2012, when a 20-year-old college student was found dead in a park in Sinchon, Seoul, having been attacked over 70 times. The suspects arrested the next day were, surprisingly, a seemingly ordinary high school couple.

Through an email tip received by a reporter covering the incident, the shocking story came to light that behind this brutal crime existed an online "saryeong cafe" that revered the souls of the dead, along with a mysterious figure known as "the Witch" worshipped by members.

The broadcast vividly retraces the process through actual group chat logs showing how the murder was planned like a game and how collective psychology led to tragedy.

Listening to the story, the three listeners were unable to hide their shock. JENO, an avid viewer of "Tails of Tales," delivered a meaningful message, saying, "Whatever the reason, no one has the right to take a person's life." SUNG HANBIN also could not conceal his astonishment, stating, "It is terrifying to think that situations like this could happen around us."

In particular, Yoon Bok-in, who experienced something strange in the studio while trying out a spirit summoning ritual, expressed firm anger after hearing the full account of the case, saying, "Where does anyone get the right to do that? No one has the right to do that," which will add to the solemnity felt by viewers.

"Tails of Tales," which covers the tragedy born of the closed world of a chatroom, airs on November 12 at 10:20 PM. 

(SBS Entertainment News | Kang Sun-ae)

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Actor Kim Yun-seok shared specific details about what drew him to the story of the film "White Blast."

Attending the press screening and media conference for the film "White Blast" held on the afternoon of November 12 at CGV Yongsan in Seoul, Kim Yun-seok summarized the project: "You could say this film is a story about the newcomer and the person departing." He added, "It is also a story of the new generation and the older generation. Going further, you could see it as a condensed story of a father and a son."

Stationmaster Jeong Gap-soo of Seolo Station, played by Kim Yun-seok, gets entangled in unexpected events ahead of his retirement. Speaking about the complex inner world of Jeong Gap-soo, Kim said, "I think his final line speaks for everything he feels," adding, "I felt that this isn't just an individual's issue, but could also be an issue concerning the society we are moving toward."

In its opening, "White Blast" shows Jeong Gap-soo's daily routine for about five minutes. Depicting Gap-soo treating Seolo Station like his home, it lays the groundwork for the upcoming incidents and his psychological shifts. Up until the arrival of his successor, Lee Hyun-taek (Koo Kyo-hwan), the movie appears to be a simple crime thriller, but it soon veers off predictable paths to deliver plot twists and character subversions.

Explaining Jeong Gap-soo, Kim Yun-seok said: "To describe Jeong Gap-soo, imagine living in a place on a lease or rent, but your deposit has been entirely eaten up by monthly rent down to zero, and the landlord calls telling you to move out. You have to leave, but you have nowhere to go. What choices would this person make in that state? For someone to whom Seolo Station is everything, a replacement has arrived, and I acted while contemplating how he would feel watching that person treat what he holds precious as trivial. I tried to answer the question, 'What if you've now become a useless person?' through Gap-soo's psychological state. While the characters' actions in the film cannot be justified, I would be grateful if these questions resonate with the audience to some extent."

The original work behind "White Blast" is a play. Kim Yun-seok is a stage-actor-turned-film-star who worked for a long time at the theater company Hakchon. His feature directorial debut, "Another Child," was also based on a play. His eye for scripts and analytical skill, honed through directing and acting in theater, are widely known. At the press conference that day, he helped audiences understand the emotional shifts of the characters—which might not be fully untangled in a single viewing—by explaining them from the dual perspective of an actor and director.

Kim Yun-seok remarked carefully, "Back when I did theater, directors used to say, 'When human beings are on stage, how could it not be interesting?' They said that if it isn't interesting, then the approach itself is flawed and untrue. The idea is that if the diverse facets of humanity are properly conveyed, every story is engaging. The greatest weapon of 'White Blast' is the human element. If the fragile aspects of human nature are properly illuminated, I believe the audience will find it compelling."

"White Blast" is a mystery drama set in a rural train station isolated by heavy snow, where a mysterious dead body is discovered in front of stationmaster Gap-soo (Kim Yun-seok), who is facing retirement, and newly arrived successor Hyun-taek (Koo Kyo-hwan). The film hits theaters on November 18.

(SBS Entertainment News | Kim Ji-hye)

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Without settling for the explosive success of their previous release, the group ATEEZ is once again leaping toward greater heights, using the essence of "the stage and music" as their weapon.

On the afternoon of November 12, a press conference was held at Novotel Ambassador Seoul Gangnam in Gangnam-gu, Seoul, to commemorate the release of ATEEZ's 15th mini album "GOLDEN HOUR : Part.6."

On this day, leader HONGJOONG shared his thoughts on the comeback, stating, "It is already our 15th mini album, but every time we release new music, I still feel nervous and excited." He added, "At the beginning of this year, the members promised each other, 'Let's do three comebacks well.' Welcoming our 8th anniversary following our contract renewal holds special meaning, and we wanted to share our ambition that ATEEZ will continue to fiercely look upward and move forward."

The title track "UP" from the 15th mini album, set to be released on November 13 at 2 p.m., is a song featuring intense brass and explosive bass, capturing the determination to surpass their own limits without stopping.

MINGI, who took part in writing the lyrics, explained, "We unraveled the narrative of the past eight years in the lyrics, drawing from our debut album 'TREASURE' series all the way to the 'GOLDEN HOUR' series." SEONGHWA also showed confidence, saying, "It is a song that clearly brings out the story we have told from our debut until now, ATEEZ's ambition to rise even higher, and our pirate concept."

The performance for this song is also a standout highlight. YEOSANG, who took center stage for the dance break in the final chorus, emphasized, "During our last promotions for 'BAD,' SAN pulled off the killing part so well that it would be a lie to say I felt no pressure, but I prepared hard with a sense of responsibility." He added, "For this stage, every member is a killing part from beginning to end, so there won't be a single section to miss."

Earlier, ATEEZ's 14th mini album, released last June, surpassed 1.88 million copies in first-week sales, and the title track "BAD" sparked a social media challenge craze, greatly expanding their domestic public recognition. SAN, a key figure behind the challenge, said, "In the past, there were many times when we had to explain ATEEZ's overseas achievements ourselves, but now many people recognize us, so we are spending dreamlike days." He shared, "I poured my heart and soul into this album to become someone worthy of that love." WOOYOUNG also offered a cheerful word of gratitude, saying, "Small perks have emerged, like people recognizing us at restaurants and giving us complimentary service."

ATEEZ topped the Billboard 200, Billboard's main album chart, with their 2nd studio album, 11th mini album, and 14th mini album, recording their third total No. 1. In particular, by achieving the meaningful milestone of charting in the top 10 with nine consecutive albums, they set a remarkable record for the most Billboard 200 Top 10 entries among K-pop groups in the 2020s.

Even amid their dazzling achievements, the place ATEEZ is looking toward remains clear. HONGJOONG firmly stated, "The reason 'BAD' went viral was ultimately thanks to our stage performance videos." He added, "The essence we want to focus on is the stage and music. Without being shaken by the success of our previous work, we want to prove ourselves through good music and performances."

As the driving force that allowed them to reach their 8th anniversary without any member departures and make three comebacks in a single year, they pointed to their fandom, ATINY. YUNHO expressed his affection, saying, "With solid teamwork, we renewed our contracts, and a virtuous cycle continues where receiving immense love from our fans makes our desire to repay them grow even bigger." He added, "ATINY is our driving force and our strength."

Finally, as seniors who wrote the "miracle of an idol from a smaller agency," they did not forget to offer warm advice to junior idols. WOOYOUNG shared heartfelt encouragement, saying, "Everyone moves at a different pace, but my favorite saying is 'Let's not rush, but let's not give up.' If you put in endless effort, it will definitely happen. Because we were able to do it, anyone can do it."

Meanwhile, featuring a total of five songs, including the pre-release track "Drip" and the title track "UP," as well as "ANEMIA," "FAITH," and "Hollow Victory," ATEEZ's 15th mini album "GOLDEN HOUR : Part.6" will be released on various online music platforms on Friday, November 13 at 2 p.m.

[Photo = Reporter Baek Seung-cheol]

(SBS Entertainment News | Kang Sun-ae)

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Actor Kim Yun-seok candidly shared his thoughts after encountering various new forms of content recently.

Attending the press screening and press conference for the film "White Blast" held on the afternoon of November 12 at CGV Yongsan in Seoul, Kim Yun-seok answered a question about what he felt while coming across content in new media and formats. "I don't know the exact definition and scope of content, but recently I've been coming across YouTube and Shorts a lot. Especially while promoting this project, I filmed many Shorts, and I realized, 'People nowadays like this kind of thing,' and 'We are truly living in a fast-paced era,'" he said.

He continued, "Usually, content has a dramatic structure consisting of an introduction, development, turn, and conclusion, but nowadays it goes from development to development to development and then ends. Even without a definitive conclusion, people just enjoy it if the development is entertaining. It seems people consume such formats naturally and move on to the next development," sharing his perspective on the trends of YouTube and Shorts.

Kim Yun-seok said, "Rather than watching them with a mindset of learning, it made me realize, 'These are the things people like these days.' In the past, popular songs used to be at least four minutes, usually five minutes, but nowadays more songs wrap up in two and a half minutes. I view this kind of short pacing and energy from the perspective of diversity. In that sense, I wonder if our film's short running time could also be a great advantage."

The running time of the new film "White Blast" is 89 minutes. Considering that typical commercial films run for about two hours, this is very short. As a psychological drama depicting events unfolding in a confined space, the movie is characterized by maintaining tight mystery and suspense from beginning to end.

"White Blast" is a mystery drama that unfolds when a mysterious body is discovered at a rural train station isolated by heavy snow, in front of Gap-soo (Kim Yun-seok), a stationmaster nearing retirement, and his newly arrived successor Hyun-taek (Koo Kyo-hwan). Kim Yun-seok transforms into the stationmaster of Seol-o Station nearing retirement, delicately portraying the complex psychology of the human interior through his performance.

The film will be released on November 18.

(SBS Entertainment News | Kim Ji-hye)

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Director Hong Eui-jeong, who directed the film "White Blast," explained the process of stepping in as a co-director midway through filming.

Attending the press screening and press conference for the film "White Blast" held on the afternoon of November 12 at CGV Yongsan in Seoul, Director Hong Eui-jeong shared, "This project was a script held by the production company that made my first film ('Voice of Silence'). I found the original play and the screenplay fascinating, and after reading it, I had even shared my thoughts with them." She continued, "Director Park Seon-woo stepped down early on due to health reasons, and I received the offer to direct. Above all, I loved that the two actors were part of it. I joined afterward and took charge of the overall filming and post-production as well."

Addressing why the characters' motivations are not clearly explained in the film, she shared her artistic conviction as a filmmaker: "I gave a lot of thought to that aspect while making the movie. However, I was wary of audiences reaching overly obvious conclusions. Making sure they wouldn't arrive at them too easily was a difficult task. I felt that if the characters' motivations were explained explicitly, people would react with 'that makes sense,' and that would kill the mystery this film carries. Since the characters' actions cannot be justified in any way, I believed detailed explanations would become an obstacle, so in the end, I made the decision to provide only hints."

As the participation of Kim Yun-seok and Koo Kyo-hwan was the decisive reason she joined the project mid-production, she also expressed deep trust in the two actors. Crediting the cast for enabling her to incorporate moments that bring out laughter here and there while sustaining mystery and suspense from start to finish, she expressed her gratitude, saying, "Personally, I am very interested in the human reactions people show when placed in extreme situations. Watching the two actors, I felt they understood my intentions very well. For instance, even in a horrific situation, we were able to capture human reactions like swatting a mosquito if there is one. That was the direction I wanted."

"White Blast" is a mystery drama set at a rural train station cut off by a heavy snowstorm, where a mysterious dead body is discovered in front of stationmaster Gap-soo (Kim Yun-seok), who is facing retirement, and his newly arrived successor Hyun-taek (Koo Kyo-hwan). Director Park Seon-woo originally took the helm, but stepped down midway due to health reasons, after which Director Hong Eui-jeong came aboard as co-director to wrap up filming. Both Hong Eui-jeong and Park Seon-woo are credited as co-directors.

The film will hit theaters on November 18.

(SBS Entertainment News | Kim Ji-hye)

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Actor Kim Yun-seok spoke about the distinct individuality and charm of Koo Kyo-hwan, with whom he shared the screen in the upcoming film "White Blast".

Attending the press screening and press conference for "White Blast" held on the afternoon of November 12 at CGV Yongsan in Seoul, Kim Yun-seok praised his co-star: "There is a lot of talk about 'Teto' and 'Egen' these days, and I think Koo Kyo-hwan is someone much closer to an 'Egen.' It feels like he possesses an Egen power that Teto cannot handle. There is something about him that pierces right through your heart." He added, "Through Koo Kyo-hwan's gaze and physical presence, I felt a thrilling electric charge. It made me want to team up with him again in another great project."

Koo Kyo-hwan also expressed deep admiration for working with veteran actor Kim Yun-seok, sharing, "Every single moment was filled with awe. It was amazing just to face him directly, deliver my lines, and exchange dialogue back and forth."

He continued with heartfelt gratitude, "I remember feeling quite overwhelmed ahead of filming a monologue scene, and he gently told me, 'Today is your day.' He was my cheer captain, a respected senior, and a great elder figure to look up to."

The two previously appeared together in the 2021 film "Escape from Mogadishu" before reuniting for "White Blast". While they did not share many scenes in "Escape from Mogadishu" due to the large ensemble cast, "White Blast" features the two actors directly facing off for more than 80% of its running time, allowing audiences to fully relish the synergy between their contrasting acting styles.

"White Blast" is a mystery drama set in a remote rural train station cut off by a severe blizzard. The story unfolds as a mysterious corpse is discovered before stationmaster Gap-soo (Kim Yun-seok), who is on the verge of retirement, and his newly arrived replacement, Hyeon-taek (Koo Kyo-hwan). The film is set to hit theaters on November 18.

(SBS Entertainment News | Kim Ji-hye)

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Actor Kim Yun-seok explained the story and characters filled with twists and overturns in the movie "White Blast."

Attending the press screening and press conference for the film "White Blast" held on the afternoon of November 12 at CGV Yongsan in Seoul, Kim Yun-seok shared, "You could say this movie is a story about a new person and a departing person." He added, "It is also a story between the new generation and the older generation. Looking deeper, it can also be seen as an encapsulation of a father and son's story."

Regarding Jeong Gap-su, a character with a complex inner world, Kim Yun-seok said, "I think his final line speaks for everything he feels." He continued, "I thought that this might not simply be an individual's problem, but also an issue concerning the society we are moving toward."

Kim Yun-seok transformed into Jeong Gap-su, the stationmaster of Seol-o Station who is just one day away from retirement, delivering a performance with a wide emotional range.

"White Blast" is a mystery drama that unfolds as a mysterious body is discovered at a rural train station isolated by heavy snow, in front of Gap-su (Kim Yun-seok), a stationmaster facing retirement, and Hyeon-taek (Koo Kyo-hwan), his newly arrived successor. The movie is scheduled to hit theaters on November 18.

(SBS Entertainment News | Kim Ji-hye)

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Boy group ATEEZ named their fandom, ATINY, as the driving force that allows them to continue their relentless pace of comebacks.

On the afternoon of November 12, a press conference was held at Novotel Ambassador Seoul Gangnam in Gangnam-gu, Seoul, to celebrate the release of ATEEZ's 15th mini album "GOLDEN HOUR : Part.6."

Regarding the secret behind consistently promoting—reaching their eighth anniversary without any member departures and making comebacks three times a year—YUNHO shared his thoughts, saying, "Since our debut, we've been running relentlessly while making diverse attempts, and before we knew it, we reached our eighth anniversary and are releasing our 15th mini album."

He continued, expressing deep affection for their fans, "With solid teamwork among the members, we renewed our contracts previously, and we received a lot of love with our song 'BAD.' All of this is thanks to the great love ATINY has given us. I think it's a virtuous cycle created by the fans' support and our desire to repay that love and show great sides of ourselves. ATINY is our driving force and the strength that allows us to work hard."

Indeed, ATEEZ achieved their third career No. 1 on the Billboard 200, the main U.S. albums chart, with their second studio album, 11th mini album, and 14th mini album. In particular, they set a remarkable record for the most entries by a 2020s K-pop group by entering the top 10 of the Billboard 200 with nine consecutive albums. Their 14th mini album, released in June, exceeded 1.88 million copies in first-week sales, marking their seventh career million-seller.

As seniors who wrote the miracle of "idols from small and mid-sized agencies," they also offered heartfelt advice to junior idols. WOOYOUNG encouraged, "I think everyone's pace is different. My favorite saying is 'Don't rush, but never give up,' and if you don't give up and keep making endless efforts, it will surely happen." He added warm words of support: "Stay strong, junior idols from small and mid-sized agencies. Because we, ATEEZ, could do it, anyone can do it."

Meanwhile, ATEEZ's 15th mini album "GOLDEN HOUR : Part.6," featuring a total of five tracks including the pre-release track "Drip" and the title track "UP," which captures their ambition to break through limits, will be released through various online music streaming platforms on Friday, November 13, at 2:00 PM.

[Photo = Reporter Baek Seung-cheol]

(SBS Entertainment News | Kang Sun-ae)

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Group ATEEZ member SAN shared his overwhelming feelings as he experiences the group's explosive surge in domestic and international popularity.

On the afternoon of November 12, a press conference was held at the Novotel Ambassador Seoul Gangnam in Gangnam-gu, Seoul, to commemorate the release of ATEEZ's 15th mini album "GOLDEN HOUR : Part.6."

On this day, SAN opened by saying, "These days, I am truly living days like a dream." He said with deep emotion, "In the past, whenever we went to variety show filmings or interview sets, we often had to explain how well ATEEZ was doing overseas. Now, so many people recognize and love us just by hearing 'ATEEZ,' so I am spending dream-like days."

He continued with special determination, "I felt that I should become a person worthy of that, so I poured my entire soul into this album as well."

Previously, ATEEZ broke their own record as their 14th mini album, released last June, surpassed 1.88 million copies in first-week sales, achieving their seventh million-seller overall. The title track "BAD" also swept first-place trophies on music broadcast shows and sparked a challenge craze across social media. In particular, the point choreography section where SAN pops his chest while dancing drew massive attention online, contributing significantly to ATEEZ's mainstream recognition.

WOOYOUNG also added his cheerful thoughts, sharing, "I feel so grateful that the general public in Korea recognizes us so much through the 'BAD' album. There are little perks, like receiving extra service at restaurants because they recognize us, or being greeted warmly. We prepared diligently for this album as well so that we can become artists worthy of that."

Set to carry forward the success momentum of their previous work, this new release contains a total of five tracks, including the pre-release track "Drip," the title track "UP," as well as "ANEMIA," "FAITH," and "Hollow Victory."

The title track "UP" is a song combining powerful brass and explosive bass, capturing the ambition to not settle within an already established identity, but to push forward toward the highest place and beyond. SAN heightened anticipation by introducing it as "a song with the tenacity to overcome even our own limits without stopping."

Meanwhile, ATEEZ's 15th mini album "GOLDEN HOUR : Part.6" will be released on various online music streaming sites on Friday, November 13 at 2 PM.

[Photo = Reporter Baek Seung-chul] 

(SBS Entertainment News | Kang Sun-ae)

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SAN of the group ATEEZ poses for photos at a press conference celebrating the release of their 15th mini album "Golden Hour : Part 6," held on the afternoon of November 12 at Novotel Ambassador Seoul Gangnam in Gangnam-gu, Seoul.

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

(SBS Entertainment News | Baik Seung-Chul)

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YEOSANG of the group ATEEZ poses for photos at a press conference celebrating the release of the group's 15th mini album, "Golden Hour : Part 6," held on the afternoon of November 12 at Novotel Ambassador Seoul Gangnam in Gangnam-gu, Seoul.

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

(SBS Entertainment News | Baik Seung-Chul)

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JONGHO of boy group ATEEZ poses for photos at a press conference celebrating the release of the group's 15th mini album "GOLDEN HOUR : Part.6," held on the afternoon of November 12 at Novotel Ambassador Seoul Gangnam in Gangnam-gu, Seoul.

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

(SBS Entertainment News | Baik Seung-Chul)

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WOOYOUNG of the group ATEEZ poses during photo time at a press conference commemorating the release of the group's 15th mini album "Golden Hour : Part 6," held on the afternoon of November 12 at Novotel Ambassador Seoul Gangnam in Gangnam-gu, Seoul.

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

(SBS Entertainment News | Baik Seung-Chul)

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SEONGHWA of the group ATEEZ poses for photos at a press conference celebrating the release of their 15th mini album "GOLDEN HOUR : Part 6," held on the afternoon of November 12 at Novotel Ambassador Seoul Gangnam in Gangnam-gu, Seoul.

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

(SBS Entertainment News | Baik Seung-Chul)

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MINGI of the group ATEEZ poses for photos at a press conference celebrating the release of their 15th mini album "GOLDEN HOUR : Part.6," held on the afternoon of November 12 at Novotel Ambassador Seoul Gangnam in Gangnam-gu, Seoul.

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

(SBS Entertainment News | Baik Seung-Chul)

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On the afternoon of November 12, YUNHO of the group ATEEZ poses during a photo session at the press conference for the release of their 15th mini album, "GOLDEN HOUR : Part 6," held at the Novotel Ambassador Seoul Gangnam in Gangnam-gu, Seoul.

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

(SBS Entertainment News | Baik Seung-Chul)

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HONGJOONG of the group ATEEZ poses for photos at a press conference commemorating the release of their 15th mini album "GOLDEN HOUR : Part 6," held at Novotel Ambassador Seoul Gangnam in Gangnam-gu, Seoul, on the afternoon of November 12.

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(SBS Entertainment News | Baik Seung-Chul)

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Boy group ATEEZ poses during a photo call at the press conference commemorating the release of their 15th mini album "GOLDEN HOUR : Part.6," held on the afternoon of November 12 at Novotel Ambassador Seoul Gangnam in Gangnam-gu, Seoul.

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The Japanese animated film "Chiikawa the Movie: The Secret of Mermaid Island" has reclaimed the No. 1 spot at the box office.

According to the Korean Film Council's integrated computer network on November 12, "Chiikawa the Movie: The Secret of Mermaid Island" drew 19,659 viewers on November 11 alone to rank first at the box office. The cumulative audience reached 2,825,115.

"Chiikawa the Movie: The Secret of Mermaid Island" held the weekend box office's top spot for five consecutive weeks following its release, but as it entered the weekdays of its sixth week, it yielded the No. 1 position to "Final Interview" for two straight days. It also dropped to third place behind "Heart of Beast," but reclaimed the box office summit starting on Culture Day.

Second place at the box office went to "Fall: Red Point," which opened on November 11 and drew 18,209 viewers. Third place went to the rereleased "La La Land," which brought in 15,225 viewers.

"Final Interview," which had led the box office through November 11, dropped to fourth place with 12,811 admissions. Its cumulative audience stands at 203,887.

(SBS Entertainment News | Kim Ji-hye)

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"LIM YOUNGWOONG | IM HERO THE STADIUM 2," a film capturing singer LIM YOUNGWOONG's concert, has topped the ticket reservation chart.

According to the Korean Film Council's ticket reservation tally on November 12, "LIM YOUNGWOONG | IM HERO THE STADIUM 2" easily surpassed "White Blast" (9.6%, 25,558 people) with a 16.7% reservation rate and 43,000 reserved tickets. "White Blast" is also emerging as a highly anticipated release for November.

"LIM YOUNGWOONG | IM HERO THE STADIUM 2" is a live concert film that allows audiences to experience on a large screen with rich sound a special festival looking back on the 10-year narrative walked together with Hero Generation and promising a new 10 years, as well as the monumental moment of reaching a cumulative 1 million viewers. Despite being an exclusive CGV release, it claimed the No. 1 spot in ticket reservations with overwhelming figures, demonstrating LIM YOUNGWOONG's ticket power.

Currently, movie theaters are suffering from a severe drought of moviegoers. The daily number of theater visitors does not even reach 100,000. Attention is focused on whether the reservation figures for "LIM YOUNGWOONG | IM HERO THE STADIUM 2" will also be proven through opening-day attendance.

"LIM YOUNGWOONG | IM HERO THE STADIUM 2" will be released on November 18.

(SBS Entertainment News | Kim Ji-hye)

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Actor Cho Yeo-jeong expressed her deep respect for Jeon Do-yeon and Kim Hye-soo, praising them as seniors who "raise the ceiling for juniors."

Attending an interview for the film "Possible Love" on the afternoon of November 10 in Samcheong-dong, Seoul, Cho reflected on working with Jeon Do-yeon on the film "Possible Love" last year and with Kim Hye-soo on the drama "The Affair was Just the Beginning" this year. "I loved it because they are both seniors I admire so much. I wondered how I got to work with them back-to-back like this. They buy me lots of delicious food and treat me so kindly," she said.

She continued, "Their very presence gives something meaningful to their juniors. It is similar to how children watch and learn from the way their parents live. The fact that the two seniors continue to take on projects, perform, and exist as actors serves as a role model for their juniors. As I mentioned recently, I thought to myself, 'These are people who are raising the ceiling for their juniors.' Their presence alone is truly wonderful."

Cho also shared how she first connected with Jeon Do-yeon, with whom she collaborated for the first time in "Possible Love." Cho recalled, "A long time ago, senior Jeon Do-yeon won an award at an awards ceremony, and I congratulated her. Later, I reached out first and asked her to buy me a meal, so we had dinner together once. As a junior who admired her, I wanted to get closer to her. After that, we could not see each other because she was so busy, but whenever she released a new project, I always watched it and contacted her, saying, 'It is so great. I am cheering for you.' I also went to see her theatrical plays to greet her."

Cho explained that she is heavily influenced by her co-stars when taking on projects and acting. In that regard, working alongside Jeon Do-yeon had a positive influence on her own performance.

Citing a scene in "Possible Love" where Mi-ok (played by Jeon Do-yeon) comments on the clothes of Ye-ji (played by Cho Yeo-jeong) as an example, Cho said, "It was a really difficult scene, but when Do-yeon delivered the line, 'How much is this outfit?' I was in awe. Because she acted so naturally as Mi-ok, I naturally responded with, 'Don't ask. It will only hurt if you find out.' In that moment, I did not calculate how I should act. It just came out that way."

"Possible Love" follows two couples—a laid-off worker and his wife, and a documentary director and her husband—who cross paths to produce a documentary and confront their contrasting lives and hidden desires. It is director Lee Chang-dong's first new release in eight years. In the film, Cho Yeo-jeong portrays Ye-ji, a documentary director who reflects the persona of director Lee Chang-dong.

The film was released worldwide on Netflix on November 6. 

(SBS Entertainment News | Kim Ji-hye)

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Jang Nara and Kim Hyeyoon of "Good Partner 2" are set to transform from fierce courtroom rivals into dependable "good partners" who fill in each other's missing pieces.

On November 12, SBS unveiled two-shot stills capturing the dramatic relationship shift between Cha Eun-kyung (Jang Nara) and Kang Hye-sung (Kim Hyeyoon) in the upcoming Friday-Saturday drama "Good Partner 2" (written by Choi Yu-na, directed by Seo Min-jeong), which premieres on November 20.

"Good Partner 2" is a refreshing divorce drama that follows managing partner Cha Eun-kyung, for whom divorce cases are second nature, and experienced attorney Kang Hye-sung, who is genuinely devoted to divorce litigation, as they team up to become each other's "good partners." Writer Choi Yu-na, an actual divorce lawyer, returned to pen the script following Season 1, teaming up with director Seo Min-jeong to raise viewers' expectations.

The released stills vividly capture the duo's intense initial meeting alongside their transformed dynamic. Going head-to-head in a divorce lawsuit as attorneys from "Law Firm Libom" and "Law Firm Chunjung" respectively, the two engage in an unyielding battle where neither gives an inch. The sharp, piercing gazes between veteran Cha Eun-kyung and passionate attorney Kang Hye-sung—who refuses to back down for her client—generate palpable tension.

Subsequent stills capture a 180-degree shift in tone, making their previous fierce clash feel worlds away. Deep trust can be felt as the two exchange bright smiles while facing each other. Attention is focused on the professional womance of these two attorneys with contrasting mindsets and methods as they collide and discover common ground.

Jang Nara selected "veteran skill and passion" as key words to describe their chemistry, sharing, "Looking at Kang Hye-sung, I felt she had a lot in common with Cha Eun-kyung's past. Because they share both similarities and differences, it was truly enjoyable to act alongside her." Kim Hyeyoon also highlighted what viewers should anticipate, stating, "I hope viewers will focus on how they fill in each other's shortcomings, grow together, and become true 'good partners' to one another."

SBS's new Friday-Saturday drama "Good Partner 2" premieres on Friday, November 20 at 9:50 PM. 

(SBS Entertainment News | Kang Sun-ae)

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Group Forestella has finalized the schedule for an eight-city North American tour, becoming the first Korean group to take the main stage at Carnegie Hall in New York.

On November 11, Forestella unveiled a consolidated poster via their official social media channels announcing an eight-city run for their North American tour 2027, "BEYOND : ACROSS THE HORIZON."

Following the seven previously announced cities, the addition of a final stop in San Francisco accelerates their global activities on an even larger scale compared to their first U.S. tour in 2023.

Forestella will kick off their tour concert in Los Angeles on January 9 (local time) next year, followed by Dallas on January 16, Seattle on January 23, New York on January 30, Toronto on February 6, Washington, D.C. on February 13, Atlanta on February 19, and San Francisco on February 26.

Local ticket demand is also strong. The performance at the Yaamava' Theater in Los Angeles quickly sold out all seats, and tickets for the show at the Stern Auditorium / Perelman Stage—the main stage of Carnegie Hall in New York—have been selling rapidly since sales opened at 1 a.m. (KST) on November 11. By becoming the first group among South Korean singers to perform on Carnegie Hall's main stage, Forestella once again proved their status as the leading act in K-crossover.

Meanwhile, ahead of their North American tour, Forestella will first meet domestic fans by holding their 2026–27 concert "BEYOND : EDGE OF LIGHT" at KINTEX Exhibition Center 2 in Goyang, Gyeonggi Province, on December 24–25, and at the Daejeon Convention Center Exhibition Center 2 on January 3 next year.

[Photo = Beat Interactive]

(SBS Entertainment News | Kang Sun-ae)

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Actor Shin Hae Sun poses at a watch brand photo wall event held in Tongui-dong, Jongno-gu, Seoul, on the morning of November 12.

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(SBS Entertainment News | Baik Seung-Chul)

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Actor Shin Hae Sun poses at a photo call event for a watch brand held in Tongui-dong, Jongno-gu, Seoul, on the morning of November 12.

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

(SBS Entertainment News | Baik Seung-Chul)

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