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Shin Ki-ru shared her personal journey of overcoming grief.

On the July 7th broadcast of SBS's You're my destiny, the daily life of the couple Heo An-na and Oh Kyung-joo was revealed.

In the episode, Shin Ki-ru visited Heo An-na's home to comfort her. Arriving with her hands full, Shin Ki-ru said, "An-na was having such a hard time, and I also lost my mother a few months ago. I remember that having someone by my side at that time, even if it seemed like a small thing, was a great source of strength, so I came to visit."

She added, "I heard An-na wasn't able to eat, so I wanted to feed her, eat something myself, and heal together," drawing attention with her goal.

Shin Ki-ru surprised everyone by revealing a feast of 10 servings of assorted jeon (pancakes) and 4kg of LA galbi, saying, "It's morning, so I prepared something not too heavy."

To Heo An-na, who said she felt depressed the moment she opened her eyes, Shin Ki-ru offered comfort, saying, "You can't just keep your eyes closed forever. The more you feel that way, the more you have to keep doing things." Shin Ki-ru, who recently lost her mother, also shared, "I kept traveling to avoid feeling sad. Whenever I had time, I went somewhere," catching the viewers' attention.

Watching this, Heo An-na mentioned that Shin Ki-ru had lost her sense of taste due to the grief of losing her mother. Shin Ki-ru responded, "I didn't even lose my sense of smell or taste when I had COVID-19. But perhaps because I was physically and mentally exhausted after sending my mother off, I lost my sense of taste." She continued, "After the funeral, I returned home and ordered sushi to eat. I ate tuna and then egg, but they tasted exactly the same. From that day on, I thought I would be in trouble if I stayed like this, so I ordered other foods to try and find my sense of taste. I kept ordering and eating stimulating foods, but I couldn't feel any flavor at all."

Shin Ki-ru then added, "But then I ate charcoal-grilled barbecue, and my sense of taste returned. You have to make an effort to overcome sadness. I ate 20 different foods in two days to find my taste back. I am the only one who can protect myself," she joked, bringing laughter to the set.

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

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A new team of bachelors has arrived.

On the July 7th episode of the SBS show High Valley, Top Hero, a fresh group of cast members made their debut, capturing viewers' attention.

The episode saw the departure of ZO ZAZZ and Hyun Bong-sik, with comedian Kwak Beom, rapper Nucksal, and singer Roy Kim stepping in to fill the void.

While traveling together, the three discussed their connections to Lim Young-woong. Kwak Beom shared, "I met Lim Young-woong when our teams faced off on the show Gentlemen's League. We were never on the same team, but we had a connection through a group dinner with about 100 people after filming."

Nucksal chimed in with a sharp remark, saying, "You must have been about 400 meters away from him then," noting that his own only interaction with Lim was a brief greeting on the same show.

Roy Kim added to the laughter by saying, "So it wasn't really much of a connection," before revealing his own special bond: "I actually produced a song for Lim Young-woong's album," which drew envious reactions from the others.

The trio arrived at their accommodation in a lively, talkative mood, with not a single moment of silence. Lim Young-woong and Heo Kyung-hwan naturally came out to greet the noisy newcomers.

When Roy Kim struggled to cross a shallow stream, Lim Young-woong kindly built a stepping stone path for him, creating a heartwarming moment.

Heo Kyung-hwan also poked fun at Kwak Beom's outfit, which seemed out of place for the mountain village, asking, "Did you ride a horse here?"

Once gathered, the group decided on a menu for lunch. Lim Young-woong and Heo Kyung-hwan, who had arrived two days earlier, prayed that the new members wouldn't suggest anything they had already eaten. However, to their dismay, the new members listed the exact dishes the two had already consumed, leading them to settle for stir-fried pork (jeyuk bokkeum) once again.

Kwak Beom took the lead in preparing lunch, cooking confidently based on his instincts rather than a recipe.

The finished stir-fried pork looked mouth-watering, and the members exclaimed, "You could sell this as is!" Despite the praise, Kwak Beom was skeptical, asking, "Are you all just trusting me without even tasting it?" to which the members replied with absolute confidence, "It’s definitely going to be delicious."

Still, they insisted on a taste test, and Nucksal took the role of the judge. As soon as he tasted it, his expression turned strange.

"It feels like an important guest is missing. Someone didn't show up," Nucksal remarked. Kwak Beom then tasted it himself, declaring, "I know what it needs," and proceeded to pour in a large amount of sugar, leaving everyone stunned.

Meanwhile, the end of the episode teased the unprecedented variety show skills of this new bachelor trio, raising anticipation for the next broadcast.

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

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Heo An-na could not hide her grief over the loss of her pets.

On the episode of SBS's You're My Destiny that aired on the 7th, the daily life of Heo An-na and her husband Oh Kyung-ju was revealed.

On this day's broadcast, Heo An-na caught viewers' attention as she sat blankly in the living room with a depressed expression. Later, she washed some bowls while holding back tears and placed pet treats inside them. She then set them in a corner of the living room. It turned out to be a space dedicated to remembering her pets who had passed away.

Heo An-na recently sent her 17-year-old dog, Yuri, and her 16-year-old cat, Hindol, across the rainbow bridge within just one day of each other. She was unable to hide her sorrow over the absence of these precious companions who had always been by her side.

Heo An-na expressed her heartbreak, saying, "I couldn't do anything for almost a month; I just kept crying." She recalled the moment of saying goodbye to them, adding, "The hospital told me there was no sign of improvement and to prepare for the end. I wanted to be with them for even a little longer, so I brought them home and let both of them pass away while lying on my chest."

Eventually, Heo An-na could no longer hold back her grief and burst into tears. She asked, "Will there ever be a day when I don't cry?" Her husband, Oh Kyung-ju, comforted her, saying, "You will get used to it little by little as time passes."

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

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The sign for the mountain jazz bar has officially been completed.

On the July 7 broadcast of the SBS show High Valley, Top Hero, the reconstruction of the jazz bar was finalized.

During the episode, LIM YOUNGWOONG and his friends finished the expansion work on the jazz bar and decorated the sign. ZO ZAZZ then asked Hyun Bong-sik to pick some perilla leaves, saying he would make mojitos.

Meanwhile, LIM YOUNGWOONG and Heo Kyung-hwan brainstormed names for the bar. Heo Kyung-hwan kept suggesting names based on his own catchphrases, bringing laughter to the group.

LIM YOUNGWOONG eventually caught everyone's attention by deciding on the name, "Saranghalkka BAR (Shall We Love Bar) – Isn't This the Taste?" Additionally, ZO ZAZZ painted portraits of the four members on the sign, and with their signatures added, the jazz bar's signage was complete.

Meanwhile, on this day, LIM YOUNGWOONG captivated viewers by singing songs such as Sung Si-kyung's "Hee Jae," "Boarder," and "Uphill Road," and delivered a stunning duet performance of "You in My Arms" with ZO ZAZZ.

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

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Hyun Bong-sik shared a story about his past part-time job experience.

On the episode of the SBS show High Valley, Top Hero that aired on the 7th, the cast members of High Valley, Top Hero were seen enjoying their final meal of pork cutlet curry rice.

On this day, LIM YOUNGWOONG and his friends took on the challenge of making pork cutlet curry rice by preparing the curry and pork cutlets themselves.

LIM YOUNGWOONG even tenderized the meat and coated the pork cutlets himself. However, seeing that the cutlets were thicker than expected, he expressed his regret, saying, "I should have pounded them a bit more... It's a shame."

As the oil began to boil in the cauldron, everyone gathered around to start frying the cutlets. The sound of the meat hitting the oil immediately brought smiles to the faces of the viewers.

Watching this, Hyun Bong-sik remarked, "It reminds me of when I worked part-time at a fried chicken shop," adding, "I wanted to do delivery, but they put me in the kitchen because I didn't know the area. That's when all these moles on my face appeared. The oil kept splattering on me," which drew laughter.

In response, Heo Kyung-hwan joked, "Think of how many roles you've been able to play thanks to that oil," to which Hyun Bong-sik playfully replied, "Thank you, chicken oil," drawing further attention.

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

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Actor Hojo Shin is heading to an international film festival with her latest short film.

The short film "IDOLS", starring Hojo Shin, has been officially invited to the 30th Fantasia International Film Festival, held in Montreal, Canada, starting on July 16. The film is set to have its world premiere at the event, which has been recognized as one of the world's premier genre film festivals since its inception in 1996.

"IDOLS" is the latest project from British writer and director Matt Halsall. It is a doppelganger thriller that follows a failed K-pop trainee who bears a striking resemblance to Korea's biggest superstar. The film offers a sharp look at obsession, identity, fame, and the price of success, set against the dark underbelly of the global K-pop phenomenon. Filmed in Seoul, the project vividly captures the unique atmosphere and reality of the K-pop industry.

Hojo Shin takes on a dual role in the film. She leads the story by simultaneously portraying Park Hye-mi, a superstar at the top of her game, and Kim Minha, a trainee who idolizes her. She is expected to drive the tension of the film by delicately distinguishing the emotions and psychology of two characters living vastly different lives at opposite ends of the fame spectrum.

"IDOLS" is a global project produced and invested in by the Japanese streaming platform Samansa, featuring a multinational production team. The film's quality is further bolstered by the participation of music director Mowg, known for "I Saw the Devil" and "Burning", and producer Pierce Conran, an expert in Korean cinema.

Hojo Shin recently received immense love from global audiences through the third season of the Netflix series "XO, Kitty". Having participated in both season 2 and season 3, she was praised for her role as Jiwon, where she showcased an expanded narrative and provided a stable, central performance as her character grew throughout the series.

With her appearance in XO, Kitty followed by the Fantasia International Film Festival invitation for "IDOLS", Hojo Shin continues to broaden her professional horizons.

Meanwhile, "IDOLS", starring Hojo Shin, is scheduled to meet global audiences for the first time as part of the official lineup at the Fantasia International Film Festival.

<Photo= IDOLS> 

(SBS Entertainment News | Kim Ji-hye)

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Former KBS anchor Kim Jae-won, who took early retirement from the network last year, has shared a heartwarming act of kindness by donating 10 million won to support children and residents affected by the earthquake in Venezuela.

The international relief and development NGO World Vision announced on July 7 that Kim, a former KBS anchor and current World Vision ambassador, donated 10 million won to support emergency relief efforts for the victims of the Venezuela earthquake.

The donation provided by Kim will be used for emergency relief supplies and restoration projects to help children and local residents who lost their homes due to the earthquake in Venezuela.

Kim Jae-won joined KBS as part of the 21st open recruitment class in 1995 and was beloved by viewers for nearly 30 years while hosting flagship programs such as "AM Plaza" and "Hometown Report". After taking early retirement from KBS in July of last year, he has been serving as a distinguished professor at Hansei University.

Alongside his broadcasting career, Kim has consistently engaged in charitable work. Since being appointed as a World Vision ambassador in 2023, he has visited the Bamba region in Kenya to meet with children and residents, and has continued to support the School Up project and tuition for sponsored children. He has also actively participated in supporting domestic and international disaster sites and vulnerable populations, including contributing to emergency relief efforts for forest fires in Gyeongsangnam-do and Gyeongsangbuk-do in 2025.

"I decided to participate in this donation with the hope that it will provide a small amount of comfort and hope to the children and residents of Venezuela who are going through a difficult time after losing their homes to an unexpected earthquake," Kim said. "Disasters are not just stories from distant lands, but matters that we should all pay attention to, and I hope many people will share their warm hearts to help our neighbors recover their daily lives."

World Vision Chairman Cho Myung-hwan stated, "Ambassador Kim Jae-won has been spreading positive influence by consistently practicing sharing, regardless of whether it is at home or abroad, wherever help is needed. We hope this donation will be of great help to the recovery of the daily lives of the children and residents affected by the earthquake in Venezuela." 

(SBS Entertainment News | Kang Kyung-youn)

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Director Jang Hang-jun, one of the film industry's most charismatic storytellers, is set to transform into a history detective who chases the secrets of the past.

On July 7, SBS Plus released the official poster for the new variety show "Time Tracker Sherlock", featuring director Jang Hang-jun, actor Bong Tae-gyu, and television personality Shin A-young, and announced that the show will premiere on Tuesday, July 14.

The new program, "Time Tracker Sherlock", is a full-scale historical tracking talk show that aims to fill in the blanks hidden within historical records. By uncovering behind-the-scenes stories buried behind a single line of history, the show promises to deliver fresh shocks and twists by allowing viewers to see familiar history from an entirely different perspective.

The main lead of the program is director Jang Hang-jun, who is armed with unparalleled wit and eloquence. As the director of the film "The King's Warden", which recently sparked a box office sensation by drawing nearly 17 million viewers, he plans to prove once again that historical dramas are his personal color. Known for showcasing extensive knowledge in the humanities and a knack for smooth storytelling, he is expected to serve as the central pillar of the show, fluently navigating between official history and unofficial accounts.

Joining him are actor Bong Tae-gyu, who brings sharp insight to every project, and television personality Shin A-young, who boasts an impressive background as a history graduate from Harvard University, adding depth and variety to the discussions. Furthermore, professional storyteller Sun Kim, who covers both Korean and world history, will join the cast, promising a perfect synergy of collective intelligence.

The official poster captures attention with director Jang Hang-jun wittily dressed in the signature look of the legendary detective Sherlock Holmes. Alongside director Jang, who shines with a sharp intuition behind his magnifying glass, the focused expressions of Bong Tae-gyu and Shin A-young as they track clues in their own ways stimulate curiosity. The intense tagline, "Awakening the secrets of history, a space-time transcending history talk show," further heightens anticipation.

SBS Plus's "Time Tracker Sherlock", which will make us reflect on our present by chasing the traces of the past, will air on Tuesday, July 14, at 10:30 PM. 

(SBS Entertainment News | Kang Sun-ae)

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"Rising Eagles 2" has kicked off its run with a bang, entering the Netflix Top 10 immediately after its premiere.

The SBS variety show, which aired its first episode on July 5, successfully secured a spot on the Netflix Top 10 Series in South Korea. By carrying the excitement of its terrestrial broadcast directly over to the OTT platform after just one episode, the show is signaling a new wave of popularity for sports variety programs this summer.

From the very first episode, "Rising Eagles 2" dialed up the intensity on the court with a surprise 1-on-1 showdown between KBL legend Jeon Tae-pung and the newly joined coach Kim Tae-sul. Jeon Tae-pung proved his class, showcasing flashy crossover dribbles and unpredictable footwork that rivaled his professional playing days to secure the win. Although he was defeated, Kim Tae-sul, known as the Computer Guard, displayed his enduring intelligence and seasoned play, delivering a level of immersion that went beyond typical variety show entertainment.

The performance of the three new members was just as impressive as the legends' return match. In the subsequent 3-on-3 match, Julien Kang drew admiration by acting as a human wall, using his overwhelming physique to perfectly guard the paint. The surprise star of the episode was CHANYEOL of EXO. With his sharp shooting instincts, CHANYEOL successfully landed consecutive surprise shots, scoring three goals on his own. This performance earned him high praise from head coach Seo Jang-hoon, who remarked, He is a player with a natural shooting touch. Adding to the team's strength was Jo Jin-se, who acted as a vital spark plug, hustling all over the court.

With these powerful new additions joining existing core members such as SHINee's MINHO, Son Tae-jin, Moon Su-in, and Kim Taek, the Rising Eagles are now one step closer to their ultimate goal for this season: conquering the national championship.

The reaction on online communities and social media was immediate and enthusiastic. Viewers shared comments such as, I never expected to see a 1-on-1 between Jeon Tae-pung and Kim Tae-sul in the first episode, The lineup feels much more solid now with Julien Kang's height and CHANYEOL's shooting, and It feels less like a variety show and more like a documentary where you can feel the sincere sweat on the court.

The production team stated, We are grateful to the viewers for their passionate support, including helping us enter the Netflix Top 10 right from the premiere. Please look forward to the intense challenges and heart-pounding matches the Rising Eagles will face against the strongest amateur teams in the country.

"Rising Eagles 2", which has captured both viewership ratings and buzz in just one episode, signaling the return of a hit sports variety show, airs every Sunday at 11:05 PM. 

(SBS Entertainment News | Kang Sun-ae)

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SBS's "The Ballad of Us", which sparked a heart-wrenching ballad syndrome across the nation last year, is officially opening applications for the 'Top-100 Ears' jury for its second season to help discover new stars.

"The Ballad of Us 2" is a large-scale audition project co-planned and produced by SBS and SM C&C. Starting today, July 7, the production team will begin accepting applications for the 'Top-100 Ears,' a viewer judging panel that will help discover budding stars.

Season 1 of "The Ballad of Us", which premiered last year, featured young participants with an average age of 18.2. They reinterpreted classic ballads from various eras with their own fresh and deep sensibilities, resonating with audiences of all generations.

During its run, the program consistently ranked first in its time slot for the 2049 viewership rating, a key indicator of popularity, and appeared in the top 10 on the global OTT platform Netflix in the Korean series category every week. Furthermore, it dominated both the music and video markets, surpassing 100 million cumulative views across digital platforms including YouTube. The 12 finalists, including winner Lee Ye-ji, Lee Ji-hoon, Cheon Beom-seok, and Choi Eun-bin, formed a powerful fandom, even selling out their nationwide tour concerts after the show concluded.

For this second season, which aims to continue the legacy, the role of the 'Top-100 Ears'—who will identify hidden gems from the perspective of the general public—is expected to be crucial. Anyone who loves popular music and is confident in their ability to identify a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, regardless of genre, can apply regardless of age or gender.

Applications will be accepted for approximately three weeks, from July 7 to Sunday, July 26. Detailed application procedures and guidelines can be found on the official SBS "The Ballad of Us 2" website. Those selected as the 'Top-100 Ears' squad through a lottery will be granted the opportunity to attend the first recording of the highly anticipated Round 1, held on August 8 and 9, where they will be the first to watch and evaluate the performances of the contestants.

"The Ballad of Us 2" will begin full-scale filming in August and is scheduled to premiere in the second half of this year.

(SBS Entertainment News | Kang Sun-ae)

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Individuals who are inexperienced in love but more sincere about dating than anyone else are returning to global screens with even bolder and more honest charms.

Today, July 7, Netflix will release episodes 1 through 4 of the reality dating show "Better Late than Single Season 2".

"Better Late than Single Season 2" is a makeover dating reality program that captures the vivid, first-time dating journeys of people who have never been in a relationship but have higher expectations for love than anyone else. Their clumsy yet sincere attempts at romance are set to resonate deeply with viewers, turning the audience into passionate supporters of these individuals as they navigate their first steps in love.

A previously released teaser video already set the internet abuzz by showcasing contestants with unexpectedly unique personalities.

The early episodes released today feature the nervous and exciting first meeting of the contestants, followed by a whirlwind of first dates. The pace is so fast that MC Lee Eun-ji, watching from the studio, jokingly remarked, "They are so busy, they might even get canker sores," raising expectations for the fun and fresh excitement their stories will bring.

The most compelling element of this season is the arrival of new contestants, who are set to shake up the dynamics. MC Car, the garden, who has been acting as a sharp observer, expressed his amazement by saying, "The new arrivals are really doing their part this time." The key point to watch is how these surprise additions will disrupt existing love lines. As the cast members collectively promised "fun beyond expectations," all eyes are on the unpredictable twists ahead.

Director Kim No-eun highlighted "the parade of strong characters and the surprise attack of powerful new arrivals" as the key points for episodes 1-4. Director Won Seung-jae added a viewing tip: "Please enjoy watching why these new contestants haven't been able to date until now, and look forward to their transformation."

"Better Late than Single Season 2", which promises an upgraded level of raw excitement, consists of 10 episodes in total. Following today's release of episodes 1-4, the show will air on Netflix every Tuesday for four weeks, with episodes 5-6 arriving on July 14, 7-8 on July 21, and 9-10 on July 28.

[Photo= Netflix] 

(SBS Entertainment News | Kang Sun-ae)

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Director Na Hong-jin has opened up about the casting process for his latest film, "HOPE".

On the afternoon of July 6, Director Na attended the press screening and conference for "HOPE" at Megabox COEX in Samseong-dong, Seoul. During the event, he discussed the casting of the three leads: Hwang Jung-min, with whom he is collaborating for the second time following "The Wailing", and Zo In-sung and Jung Hoyeon, both of whom are working with him for the first time.

Regarding his second collaboration with Hwang Jung-min, Director Na shared, "About 7 to 8 years ago, I cast Hwang Jung-min for a different project, but it didn't move forward. At the time, I was preparing a dark film that would clearly be rated for adults, but during the screenwriting process, the direction shifted into what is now 'HOPE'."

He continued, "He did not rush me. In fact, he called me first to ask if it was okay for him to film another project. I apologized to him then. About 5 to 6 years later, when the script was finally completed, I reached out to him again, and thankfully, he readily accepted."

Hwang Jung-min plays Beom-seok, a police officer working at the Hopo Port substation. Director Na remarked, "I wrote the character of Beom-seok with Hwang Jung-min in mind from the very first draft. It was an inevitable and natural casting choice."

The casting of Zo In-sung was heavily influenced by recommendations from acquaintances. Director Na stated, "Whenever actors around me talked about their experiences working with Zo In-sung, they only had good things to say. Director Ryoo Seung-wan also praised him highly, and watching his work, I thought, 'There must be something special about him.' I gained confidence that I could do well if I worked with him. After actually working together, his focus, his attitude on set, and his various qualities as an actor were truly respectable. I am so grateful, and we remain close friends to this day."

Jung Hoyeon was recommended by Hwang Jung-min. Director Na explained, "Hwang Jung-min suggested that I should meet Jung Hoyeon and have a conversation. I didn't know why he said that, but after meeting her and talking for about two hours, it was so much fun."

He added, "She naturally possessed the qualities I was looking for in the character. Even though she is a busy actor, I actively persuaded her to join, and that is how we came to film together."

"HOPE" is Director Na Hong-jin's first new film in 10 years. It tells the story of Beom-seok, the head of the Hopo Port substation in the Demilitarized Zone, who hears reports from local youths about the appearance of a tiger. As the entire village goes on high alert, he encounters an unbelievable reality. The film is set to be released on July 15. 

(SBS Entertainment News | Kim Ji-hye)

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From a mini dinner show that filled the mountains with deep emotion to an epic visit from new guests who turned the house upside down, the healing daily life of "High Valley, Top Hero" is back.

The third episode of the SBS variety show "High Valley, Top Hero", airing tonight, July 7, at 9 PM, will feature the bittersweet final night with the first guests, Hyun Bong-sik and ZO ZAZZ, as well as a lively first encounter with new guests who bring unimaginable energy.

In this episode, the bachelors of the mountain face a struggle as they prepare a heartfelt feast before saying goodbye. Contrary to their ambitious plans, the cooking process hits a crisis from the start, beginning with a spill and followed by pork cutlets that end up burnt to a crisp. Watching the chaos unfold, Heo Kyung-hwan couldn't hide his anxiety, saying, "I feel like I'm going to cry." Viewers are left wondering if the mountain dinner, prepared through such trials and errors, will successfully make it to the table.

After the eventful meal, a romantic second act begins. LIM YOUNGWOONG takes the microphone to celebrate the expansion of the (ZO) ZAZZ Bar. Accompanied by special cocktails crafted by ZO ZAZZ, LIM YOUNGWOONG holds an exclusive mountain dinner show, stating, "I will express my feelings for today through song." His world-class vocals, which instantly turned the mountains into a massive concert venue, along with a fantastic duet harmony performance with ZO ZAZZ, are set to provide a thrilling experience for viewers at home.

Following a night of comfort and emotion, another shift occurs in the mountain house. Comedian Kwak Beom, rapper Nucksal, and singer Roy Kim arrive as new guests, overflowing with energy. The three reveal their unexpected connections with LIM YOUNGWOONG, hinting at a unique chemistry. In particular, Kwak Beom and Roy Kim form a tight-knit bond as Marine Corps seniors and juniors, showing off their signature high-energy teamwork.

Watching their non-stop, loud conversation, Heo Kyung-hwan eventually breaks into a sweat, joking, "They are the noisy type," which brings laughter to the set. Furthermore, this trio of high-energy extroverts reportedly causes an unexpected major accident while preparing lunch, raising anticipation for the episode.

The third episode of "High Valley, Top Hero", featuring LIM YOUNGWOONG’s dreamlike (ZO) ZAZZ Bar mini-concert and the addition of these variety show cheat keys, airs tonight, July 7, at 9 PM. 

(SBS Entertainment News | Kang Sun-ae)

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Amidst the challenges currently facing terrestrial miniseries, "Agent Kim Reactivated" is rewriting K-Drama history with a phenomenal early run.

SBS Friday-Saturday drama "Agent Kim Reactivated" (written by Nam Dae-joong, directed by Lee Seung-young and Lee So-eun) has effortlessly surpassed the 20% viewership mark—often considered an insurmountable barrier—in just two weeks of airing. The fourth episode, which aired on July 4, recorded an average nationwide viewership rating of 21.6% and 22.7% in the Seoul metropolitan area, according to Nielsen Korea, with peak ratings soaring to 25.1%. This marks the first miniseries across both terrestrial and cable networks to break the 20% threshold in approximately two years.

In particular, this achievement reached within just four episodes sets a new record for the shortest time to reach such figures, far outpacing the growth trajectories of previous SBS hits like "The Fiery Priest", "Hot Stove League", and "The Penthouse: War in life". By the fourth episode, it recorded the highest figures among all SBS Friday-Saturday dramas to date, signaling the start of a true syndrome.

The 2049 viewership rating, a key metric for advertisers and a barometer for a show's actual buzz and trends, also soared to an average of 7.6% and a peak of 8.81%. This also set a new record as the highest figure for any program across all terrestrial and cable channels in the last two years.

Most notably, this success has sent shockwaves through the broadcasting industry by attracting a massive influx of young male viewers who had previously drifted away from television. The share of male viewers in their 30s increased nearly sixfold compared to the premiere, and the share of male viewers in their 20s surpassed 50%. By also capturing the core female demographic in their 30s to 50s and the trend-setting female demographic in their 20s, the show has established a perfect model of cross-generational success that breaks down barriers of gender and age.

Building on this momentum, "Agent Kim Reactivated" and its lead actor, So Jisub, swept the number one spots in both the drama and cast buzzworthiness rankings for the first week of July.

With this, SBS has firmly solidified its reputation as a powerhouse of drama production, following the success of the first half of the year's biggest hit, "My Royal Nemesis", with another massive jackpot in "Agent Kim Reactivated". Both works are demonstrating the power of K-content by dominating not only the domestic stage but also the top of the Netflix charts on global OTT platforms.

Hong Sung-chang, CEO of Studio S, the SBS drama production company behind these back-to-back hits, shared his pride, stating, "The formula that viewers will still gather in front of the TV if the content is entertaining has been proven." Regarding the essence of the show's success, he analyzed, "The power of a story that straightforwardly shows how far an ordinary person can go to protect their loved ones seems to have resonated with a universal consensus among viewers of all generations, and even globally, leading to such an enthusiastic response."

The home theater audience is already placing strong trust in the synergy between lead actor So Jisub and SBS. As an anecdote from the SBS Drama Media Day held last June—where So Jisub expressed his deep affection for the project by saying, "I really want to do a season two"—is being revisited, the desire for a follow-up season is growing among viewers even before the current season concludes.

The broadcasting industry is now focused on what unprecedented records "Agent Kim Reactivated", which has announced the birth of a unique IP and completely dominated the small screen, will set during the remainder of its narrative.

Meanwhile, "Agent Kim Reactivated", which continues its unstoppable run, consists of 10 episodes and airs every Friday and Saturday at 9:50 PM. 

(SBS Entertainment News | Kang Sun-ae)

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Singer LIM YOUNGWOONG has signaled another round of intense ticket competition, often referred to by fans as a bloody ticket war, with the announcement of his second stadium concert.

On July 7, LIM YOUNGWOONG shared the schedule for his 2026 solo concert, "IM HERO - THE STADIUM 2", along with ticket booking details via his official social media channels. According to the announcement, "IM HERO - THE STADIUM 2" will be held for three days from September 4 to 6 at the Goyang Stadium main stadium. Ticket sales will begin on July 16 at 8:00 PM via NOL Ticket.

LIM YOUNGWOONG's concerts have consistently sold out every seat for every show the moment tickets go on sale, leading to fierce competition among fans. In particular, his stadium concert held at the Seoul World Cup Stadium last year also sold out completely amidst explosive interest, raising expectations for equally intense competition for this upcoming show.

The official poster released alongside the announcement features LIM YOUNGWOONG holding a standing microphone, showcasing a deeper atmosphere and emotional visual that has further heightened fans' anticipation.

As this is LIM YOUNGWOONG's second stadium concert, he is expected to present an upgraded performance in every aspect, including the scale of the stage, production, and setlist.

Meanwhile, LIM YOUNGWOONG is currently meeting viewers through the SBS variety program "High Valley, Top Hero", where he displays a down-to-earth charm that contrasts with his charisma on stage.

LIM YOUNGWOONG's "IM HERO - THE STADIUM 2" will take place at the Goyang Stadium main stadium from September 4 to 6, with shows starting at 6:30 PM each day. 

(SBS Entertainment News | Kang Kyung-youn)

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Tablo of the group Epik High has shared a series of mysterious personal experiences, shedding light on the ghost stories that often circulate within the K-pop industry.

In an English-language podcast released on July 7, Tablo opened up about his encounters, stating, "I can only speak to my own experiences. I have seen what I believe to be ghosts on multiple occasions."

Recalling his pre-debut days with Epik High, he said, "We were practicing in a small studio apartment, and for a brief moment, I saw someone else behind one of my members. I still don't know if I actually saw a ghost, or if it was just because I was exhausted or in poor health."

He also shared inexplicable incidents that occurred during his music production process. "When we were recording Epik High's second album, I heard a woman's voice layered over mine during playback. The engineer heard it too, but we could never isolate the sound. Ultimately, that voice remains on the album," Tablo revealed.

He added, "A similar thing happened while I was making the 'Pump' mixtape. This time, it was a man's voice. You couldn't hear it when listening to the vocals alone or the instrumental alone, but when played together, the voice appeared. The engineer couldn't find the cause, so we just kept it in the final track."

Referring to these experiences, Tablo also mentioned a story involving JUNGKOOK of BTS. He noted that JUNGKOOK had previously shared that a mysterious, unrecorded voice was captured in the recording files for his solo track "Begin" from the "WINGS" album. "That is why I believe JUNGKOOK's story," Tablo said. "Because I have had very similar experiences myself."

Recalling the recording sessions for Epik High's fourth studio album, he continued, "I was working alone in the recording booth with the lights off when I felt someone tap my shirt from behind. I turned around, but there was no one there. I started recording again, and the same thing happened. The air conditioner was off, and there was no draft. The other members were all in the control room outside, so it wasn't a prank."

"I have also experienced sleep paralysis hundreds of times," he added. "The scariest experience was when I was living with Mithra and Tukutz. I couldn't move, but I saw both of them staring directly at me. When I finally managed to move, I looked over and they were just sleeping. It wasn't real, but in that moment, it was truly terrifying."

However, Tablo emphasized multiple times that he was not definitively labeling these experiences as ghosts, noting, "They could have been hallucinations or illusions." He also added that many of the ghost stories circulating in the K-pop industry are simply "unverified urban legends." 

(SBS Entertainment News | Kang Kyung-youn)

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Singer Lee Sora is breaking her seven-year hiatus, returning with a new track that captures the emotions of a midsummer night.

Lee Sora will release her new single, "Summer Breeze", on various online music platforms today at 6:00 PM. Excluding original soundtracks, this marks her first official new song in seven years since the release of "Song Request" in 2019.

"Summer Breeze" is a ballad that delicately captures the atmosphere of a summer night and the memories of love. While Lee Sora has long been loved for the melancholic sentiments of autumn and winter, she interprets the warm and refreshing essence of summer through her own unique color in this new track.

The new song began with an idea Lee Sora had while preparing for her spring concert this year: "What would it be like to sing a love song in the summer?" This led to a special collaboration with Choi Jung-hoon, the vocalist of the band Jannabi, whose musicality she had long admired.

In addition, singer-songwriter Jo Kyu-chan took charge of vocal directing, further refining Lee Sora's signature deep emotions, while Jung Ji-chan worked on the overall music production to enhance the quality of the track.

Lee Sora wrote the lyrics herself. She captured the lukewarm air of a summer night and the lingering images of love in poetic language, completing an atmosphere that feels like a scene from a movie.

"I didn't realize so much time had passed," Lee Sora said. "I am sincerely grateful to the fans who have waited for my music for such a long time without forgetting me, and to everyone who participated in this project."

As Lee Sora releases her first new song in seven years, featuring talented musicians such as Choi Jung-hoon, Jo Kyu-chan, and Jung Ji-chan, attention is focused on whether "Summer Breeze" will capture the hearts of listeners this summer.

Photo=Marehym Entertainment 

(SBS Entertainment News | Kang Kyung-youn)

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Actor Yeom Hye-ran is posing for photos during the hand-printing event for the 5th Blue Dragon Series Awards, held at CGV Yongsan I'Park Mall in Yongsan-gu, Seoul, on the morning of July 7.

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

(SBS Entertainment News | Baik Seung-Chul)

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Choo Young Woo, Kim Minha, Lee Kwang-soo, Yeom Hye-ran, Ju Ji-hoon, IU, Kian84, Lee Su-ji, MIMI, and Moon Sang-hoon are posing for photos during the 5th Blue Dragon Series Awards handprinting ceremony, held at CGV Yongsan I'Park Mall in Seoul on the morning of July 7.

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

(SBS Entertainment News | Baik Seung-Chul)

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Singer and actor IU is posing for photos during the handprinting ceremony for the 5th Blue Dragon Series Awards, held at CGV Yongsan I'Park Mall in Yongsan-gu, Seoul, on the morning of July 7.

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

(SBS Entertainment News | Baik Seung-Chul)

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Actor Kim Minha poses for photos during the handprinting event for the 5th Blue Dragon Series Awards, held at CGV Yongsan I'Park Mall in Yongsan-gu, Seoul, on the morning of July 7.

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Actor Lee Kwang-soo participates in a photo session during the handprinting event for the 5th Blue Dragon Series Awards, held at CGV Yongsan I-Park Mall in Yongsan-gu, Seoul, on the morning of July 7.

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

(SBS Entertainment News | Baik Seung-Chul)

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Broadcaster Kian84 is delivering his greetings while attending the handprinting event for the 5th Blue Dragon Series Awards, held at CGV Yongsan I-Park Mall in Yongsan-gu, Seoul, on the morning of July 7.

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(SBS Entertainment News | Baik Seung-Chul)

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Actor Ju Ji-hoon attends a photo session at the handprinting event for the 5th Blue Dragon Series Awards, held at CGV Yongsan I-Park Mall in Yongsan-gu, Seoul, on the morning of July 7.

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Actor Lee Kwang-soo is participating in a photo time at the hand-printing event for the 5th Blue Dragon Series Awards, held at CGV Yongsan I'Park Mall in Yongsan-gu, Seoul, on the morning of July 7.

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Singer IU is seen participating in a photo session at the handprinting event for the 5th Blue Dragon Series Awards, held at CGV Yongsan I'Park Mall in Yongsan-gu, Seoul, on the morning of July 7.

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Singer MIMI attends the handprinting event for the 5th Blue Dragon Series Awards, held at CGV Yongsan I'Park Mall in Yongsan-gu, Seoul, on the morning of July 7, where she poses for the press.

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Comedian Lee Su-ji poses for photos during the handprinting event for the 5th Blue Dragon Series Awards, held at CGV Yongsan I-Park Mall in Yongsan-gu, Seoul, on the morning of July 7.

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The 2nd GIFA Cup is set to begin on "Kick a Goal".

The upcoming episode of the SBS variety show "Kick a Goal", airing this Wednesday, July 8, at 9 PM, will unveil the opening match of the highly anticipated 2nd GIFA Cup, which returns with a brand-new format.

Following the conclusion of the intense 2nd G-League, the 2nd GIFA Cup—a tournament featuring high-stakes, single-elimination matches—is officially underway. This tournament comes with several changes that have already captured the attention of fans. All eight teams have fully renewed their home and away uniforms, visually maximizing each team's unique identity. Furthermore, the addition of new players to bolster team rosters promises an even higher level of competition.

The first match to open the curtains on this well-prepared cup tournament features FC Wonder Woman 2026 and FC World Class. This game is particularly heated, starting from the benches. With manager Kim Young-kwang, who previously led FC Gucheok Jangsin, taking the helm of the powerhouse FC World Class, a strategic showdown against manager Kim Byung-ji has been set, with both coaches putting their pride on the line.

As expected from a matchup led by legendary former goalkeepers, the battle between the two teams' goalies was also a point of pride. From the start of the match, Wonder Woman's Kisum and World Class's Kathy traded incredible saves and even exchanged sharp lob shots, controlling the flow of the game from the very back of their respective teams.

FC Wonder Woman 2026, which successfully rebounded with a dominant 8 to 2 victory against FC Gucheok Jangsin in the recent last-place decider match, threatens World Class with their red-hot offensive power. At the center of this is Mok Na-kyung, who is aiming for her first debut goal. Equipped with a heavy and accurate left-footed kick, Mok Na-kyung shook the World Class defense throughout the game with threatening infiltrations into open spaces and aggressive shots.

With the team's organization now bolstered by precision, Wonder Woman aggressively pressured the World Class goal with organic passing plays and lightning-fast transitions between offense and defense.

Who will be the first to advance to the next round of the tournament? The breathtaking match will be revealed on "Kick a Goal", airing this Wednesday, July 8, at 9 PM.

(SBS Entertainment News | Kang Sun-ae)

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