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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.

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

(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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Actor Byeon Wooseok has brilliantly opened the first chapter of his journey to meet fans across Asia, starting with his domestic supporters.

According to his agency, VARO Entertainment, Byeon held his global fan meeting tour, 2026 ByeonWooSeok Asia Fanmeeting Tour <The Secret Library> in Seoul, at the Jamsil Indoor Gymnasium in Seoul on July 4 and 5.

The event drew intense attention even before it began, as it is rare for an actor to hold a solo event at such a large indoor arena. Proving the immense ticket power of this popular actor, all seats were sold out early during the fan club pre-sale, and the spacious venue was filled with the cheers and enthusiasm of fans throughout the two-day event.

For this long-awaited meeting, which took place after about two years, Byeon showed great attention to detail, from the stage design to the setlist. He opened the show with Daybreak's "Flower Road," a song conveying his message to those who have shown him unwavering support, drawing loud cheers from the crowd. True to the "Secret Library" theme, the cozy stage setup resembling a study and segments inspired by book narratives helped the audience immerse themselves in his stories.

Through various sessions such as "Librarian's Secret Records," "Secret Chapter," and "Librarian's Recipe," he reenacted iconic scenes from his past projects and engaged in sweet interactions, such as cooking rolled omelets on stage to gift to fans. In particular, when he performed "Sudden Shower" and "No Fate," the songs most loved by fans, he stepped down from the stage to make eye contact with individual audience members, providing top-tier fan service. He brought the atmosphere to its peak with a performance of "Fate Line."

Having perfectly completed the first leg of his tour in Seoul, Byeon shared his emotional thoughts as the event concluded. He stated, "It has been two years since my last fan meeting, and I truly felt the love from the fans. I am so grateful and ask for your continued support." He added, "I will do my best to continue showing you my best self. I have made such happy memories today, and like the title of the tour, this moment will be included as a chapter in my life. Thank you so much, and whenever things get tough, I will think of today."

Having successfully fired the starting signal for his Asia tour in Seoul, Byeon is scheduled to continue meeting global fans by visiting major Asian cities including Bangkok, Yokohama, Taipei, Singapore, Manila, Jakarta, and Hong Kong.

[Photo = VARO Entertainment] 

(SBS Entertainment News | Kang Sun-ae)

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Following the passing of Kang Hee-sun, a legendary South Korean voice actor beloved for her iconic role as Bong Mi-sun (the mother in "Crayon Shin-chan"), her son has shared a poignant tribute to his mother.

Ahn Eun-seok, CEO of Born Film and son of the late Kang, took to social media on July 6 to express his gratitude to those who attended the three-day funeral service.

Sharing a photo of his mother’s portrait, Ahn wrote, "I want to sincerely thank the many voice actors, seniors from the Department of Broadcasting and Entertainment at Seoul Institute of the Arts, alumni from Joongkyung High School and Deoksu Elementary School, numerous acquaintances, and fans who came to pay their respects to my mother, a representative voice actor of South Korea who voiced the mother in 'Crayon Shin-chan', the subway announcement voice, and dubbed roles for Sharon Stone and Julia Roberts."

He added, "My mother would have been very happy. Thank you once again from the bottom of my heart," expressing his deep appreciation to those who offered their condolences for "Kang Hee-sun, my mother and the voice of Bong Mi-sun."

The portrait displayed at the funeral featured a ribbon inscribed with "The late Kang Hee-sun Maria" alongside the prayer, "Lord, grant her eternal rest." Bidding a final farewell, her son wrote, "Mom, please rest now without any pain."

Debuting in 1979 as part of the 10th class of the TBC Voice Actor Association, Kang established herself as one of the most prominent voices in the industry. Beyond her role as Bong Mi-sun in "Crayon Shin-chan", she was widely recognized as the voice of the Seoul subway announcements and the Korean dubbing voice for actors Sharon Stone and Julia Roberts.

In 2021, Kang was diagnosed with colon cancer that had metastasized to her liver and was given a terminal prognosis. However, she miraculously overcame the crisis after enduring multiple surgeries and chemotherapy. Even while battling the illness, she continued to record for "Crayon Shin-chan" movies and even recorded subway announcements from her hospital bed, leaving a lasting impression on many with her unwavering professional dedication.

Last year, Kang appeared on tvN's "You Quiz on the Block", where she shared her story of continuing to record out of love for her work despite changes in her voice due to the side effects of chemotherapy, earning the support and admiration of viewers. 

(SBS Entertainment News | Kang Kyung-youn)

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Actor Jung Eun-chae is set to transform into a veteran investigation team leader with an untouchable aura, promising a girl-crush action performance.

On July 7, the production team for the new SBS Friday-Saturday drama "Flex X Cop 2" (written by Kim Ba-da, directed by Kim Jae-hong), which is scheduled to premiere on August 7, released the first character stills of Jung Eun-chae. She plays Joo Hye-ra, the new partner and direct supervisor of the chaebol detective Jin Yi-soo (played by Ahn Bo-hyun).

"Flex X Cop 2" is a thrilling investigative drama featuring the collaboration between Jin Yi-soo, a chaebol detective who uses unprecedented methods thanks to his immense wealth, and the newly appointed violent crimes team leader, Joo Hye-ra. It is considered one of the most anticipated dramas for the second half of the year, expected to uphold the reputation of the "cider universe," a signature of the SBS Friday-Saturday lineup.

Jung Eun-chae, who joins the cast for the second season, plays Joo Hye-ra, a former core ace of the National Police Agency's counter-terrorism team who volunteered for the position of team leader of Violent Crimes Team 1 at Gangha Police Station. Notably, she was once known as the "devil instructor" at the police academy, where she strictly trained a young and immature Jin Yi-soo. Attention is focused on the subtle tension and unique chemistry between the two as they reunite as team leader and team member in the field.

In the photos released today, Jung Eun-chae perfectly embodies her character, drawing admiration. She effortlessly pulls off everything from a sharp police uniform to a chic leather jacket, boasting a unique "handsome-pretty" visual. Most of all, her intense gaze, which seems capable of overwhelming criminals in an instant, proves the deep expertise of a veteran investigator. The sight of her stepping off a heavy motorcycle while in her crisp uniform displays a powerful presence that rivals that of the chaebol detective Jin Yi-soo, who arrives at work in a flashy supercar, raising expectations for a "detective who outsmarts the chaebol."

The production team stated, "The moment we first met Jung Eun-chae, we knew she was 'Joo Hye-ra herself.' Beyond her visuals that blend handsomeness and beauty, her multi-dimensional charm—cool on the outside but passionate on the inside—was exactly what we were looking for in Joo Hye-ra." They added with confidence, "Her witty chemistry with Ahn Bo-hyun is also beyond expectations. You will be able to feel the class of a 'girl-crush veteran'."

"Flex X Cop 2", returning with an expanded worldview and thrilling catharsis, will premiere on Friday, August 7, at 9:50 PM, following the currently airing "Agent Kim Reactivated."

(SBS Entertainment News | Kang Sun-ae)

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A heartwarming and cheerful display of loyalty will grace the screen as comedian Shin Ki-ru steps up to comfort her close friend, comedian Heo Anna, who is struggling with deep grief after losing her pets.

On the SBS variety show 'You're my destiny', airing Tuesday, July 7 at 10:40 PM, the heartbreaking daily life of Heo Anna and her husband Oh Kyung-ju will be revealed. The couple has been suffering from pet loss syndrome after losing two precious pets just one day apart this past May.

Facing consecutive, unexpected goodbyes, Heo Anna confessed that she felt as though she had lost all ability to function in her daily life, saying, "I couldn't do anything for a month." Her husband, Oh Kyung-ju, tried his best to comfort her while watching her cry incessantly at the warmth and traces of their pets left throughout the house, but he ultimately felt helpless in the face of her persistent, deep sorrow.

To save the couple from their days filled with tears, their close friend in the entertainment industry, Shin Ki-ru, stepped in to help. Arriving with bags and a carrier in both hands, Shin Ki-ru presented a special healing cooking show just for the couple. A full-course meal, dubbed 'Ru-makase', was served continuously, featuring everything from mouth-watering dishes to popular recipes currently trending on social media. Heo Anna was finally able to forget her sorrow for a moment and show a bright smile, warming the hearts of everyone in the studio.

Meanwhile, during the broadcast, Shin Ki-ru also opened up about the truth behind the 'Han River Ramyeon Machine' controversy that heated up the internet three months ago, following her mother's funeral. At the time, news that she had installed a 'Han River Ramyeon Machine' at the funeral hall led to sharp criticism from some netizens, who asked, "How could you think about eating when your mother has passed away?"

Addressing this, Shin Ki-ru explained that it was prepared for the mourners who had traveled from afar to pay their respects despite their own grief. She moved the studio to tears by revealing her own hidden pain, sharing that she had actually lost her sense of taste at the time due to the immense shock and sorrow.

The honest story of these individuals, who shared the pain of loss and wiped away each other's tears, will be revealed on 'You're my destiny', airing today, Tuesday, July 7, at 10:40 PM. 

(SBS Entertainment News | Kang Sun-ae)

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The film "THE EYES", starring actor Shin Mina, has reclaimed the number one spot at the box office in its third week of release.

According to the Korean Film Council's integrated computer network for movie theater admissions on the 7th, "THE EYES" drew 43,650 viewers nationwide on the 6th. The total cumulative audience stands at 886,348.

Released on June 24, "THE EYES" created a stir in its second week by surpassing "Toy Story 5" to take the top spot. Although it briefly yielded the lead back to "Toy Story 5" over the weekend, it successfully reclaimed the top position on a weekday in its third week.

Showing strong momentum by overtaking "Toy Story 5" once again, "THE EYES" is now on the verge of surpassing 1 million admissions. Barring any unexpected changes, the film is expected to hit the 1 million mark within this week.

"THE EYES" is a suspense thriller that follows the story of Seo-jin, who is gradually losing her sight due to a genetic disease, as she uncovers the truth behind the mysterious death of her twin sister. It is a remake of the Spanish film "Julia's Eyes," featuring a compelling dual role performance by Shin Mina. 

(SBS Entertainment News | Kim Ji-hye)

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Co-ed group KARD, who enjoyed immense popularity overseas, particularly in South America, is set to conclude their group activities after nine years since their debut.

On July 6, their agency, DSP Media, announced through official social media channels, "KARD will release their first full-length album since debut, 'Where To Now? (Part.2) : NOWHERE', on July 28, followed by a world tour." The agency added, "After careful discussion with the members, we have agreed to conclude KARD's journey with these final activities."

The agency stated, "We sincerely thank the HIDDEN KARD (the official fandom name) who have been with KARD for a long time," and added, "We ask for your warm support and encouragement for the members as they embark on their new paths in their respective fields."

They further noted, "We hope that the new album and world tour, which the members have prepared with all their hearts, will remain as precious memories for the fans. We ask for your continued interest in these final activities, which will be filled with the most 'KARD-like' moments."

KARD is a four-member co-ed group consisting of BM, J.seph, SOMIN, and JIWOO, who officially debuted in 2017. They are considered a representative K-pop group that gained recognition abroad before making a name for themselves in Korea, thanks to strong interest from international music fans. With their unique composition as a co-ed group and a musical style blending Latin pop, moombahton, and EDM, they built a solid fandom centered in Central and South America as well as North America.

Photo=Baek Seung-chul

(SBS Entertainment News | Kang Kyung-youn)

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2PM showcased their undeniable variety show skills.

On the episode of SBS's "uh, but like, seriously!" aired on the 6th, 2PM visited Suzy's boarding house.

During the broadcast, Boom commented that it felt awkward to see 2PM dressed in casual, everyday clothes. He remarked, "They are always so flashy and full of energy, so this feels strange," and Lee Su-ji chimed in, "I feel like there should be a ripped shirt under those denim jackets."

Regarding 2PM, who debuted with "10 Out of 10" featuring unconventional lyrics and acrobatic choreography, the panelists commented, "Everyone is in such great shape. It’s amazing that you’ve been doing acrobatics since your debut." When asked why they started doing acrobatics, the members guessed the intention of producer Park Jin-young, saying, "I think we wanted to create a style that didn't exist at the time. We wanted to provide a different point of interest rather than just being an idol group that only dances."

They mentioned that despite the grueling nature of the acrobatics, no one could bring themselves to say they wanted to quit. "We got hurt a lot. We understood it because we were a dance group, but 2AM also practiced acrobatics. If you couldn't do it, you couldn't debut," they said, surprising everyone. Tak Jae-hoon then asked, "So, which group is more pitiful?" to which 2PM pointed out, "2AM is more pitiful. Why on earth would they practice something they didn't even need to do?" causing laughter.

Jun. K, who was named the king of self-management that day, explained the background behind his exceptional discipline: "I did one meal a day for three years. One day, I started thinking about why our fans love us, and as I gained realizations about that heart, I thought I should manage myself well as an idol," drawing admiration.

Ok Taec-yeon also showed his deep love for fans. Admitting that he used to feel awkward and shy about showing affection to fans, he revealed, "During video call fan signing events, I honestly couldn't do various requests properly because I was embarrassed. But one fan told me, 'Oppa, this is a paid service,' and that gave me a huge realization. Since then, I've been doing it without any trouble. I have the mindset that if the fans want it, I should do it for them," which caught everyone's attention.

On this day, Jun. K also shared an episode involving Ok Taec-yeon, who is often called the real-life Captain Korea. He said, "When I was a private, Taec-yeon was a corporal and a squad leader. He said he was coming to visit me. I was so happy and waiting for him, but instead of coming in casual clothes, Taec-yeon arrived driving in his military uniform with his squad leader insignia on. Seeing that, my fellow soldiers thought a high-ranking officer had arrived, so they saluted him." This story sent everyone into a fit of laughter.

Ok Taec-yeon explained that he had no choice due to his busy schedule, saying, "I was the most senior in our company. Since it was natural for me to receive salutes from my juniors, I just accepted the salutes from the sentries at the guardhouse." Jun. K added, "At the time, the soldiers in our unit even asked if Taec-yeon was quitting his celebrity career to become a career soldier," revealing the unintended misunderstanding that occurred.

The panelists then asked the unmarried members, excluding Ok Taec-yeon and Hwang Chan-sung, if they were dating and if they had any thoughts on marriage. They also asked who among the unmarried members would be the last to get married.

The members hesitated for a long time. Then Ok Taec-yeon said, "I don't think they can get married." When Jun. K replied, "We will eventually. Why wouldn't we be able to?" Ok Taec-yeon shouted "Fighting!" with a mischievous smile, drawing attention.

Meanwhile, at the end of the broadcast, 2PM, who are preparing for a full-group concert in Korea this August, performed a random play dance, drawing enthusiastic applause.

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

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NICHKHUN shared a story about being teased for his recent appearance.

On the episode of the SBS show "uh, but like, seriously!" that aired on July 6, 2PM visited Suzy's boarding house.

During the broadcast, NICHKHUN opened up about the difficulties he faced when he first came to Korea as a young person, noting that the language barrier was the hardest part. Tak Jae-hoon then asked, "They say you learn swear words first when learning a foreign language. Which member taught you the most swear words?"

NICHKHUN drew laughter by making an unexpected revelation, saying, "None of the members taught me any swear words. I learned them from 2AM's Lim Seul-ong."

The panelists then brought up his recent change in appearance, saying, "We saw that you were teased recently for gaining weight," and asked him for the reason behind it.

NICHKHUN explained, "At the beginning of the year, I didn't have many schedules and I went home, so I gained some weight." He added, "But after seeing myself on broadcast, I realized, 'I really am getting older.' It was a shock. I recently held a concert in Japan, and I only ate three eggs over three days," proving that the "Thai Prince" is still going strong.

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

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