Singer Kim Ji-hyun says she was deceived into making notorious film 'Summertime'

Rula member Kim Ji-hyun has said she was deceived into making "Summertime," the film she considers the darkest chapter of her career. Kim, 54, appeared Wednesday on "Daktershin," a YouTube channel run by fellow Rula member Shin Jung-hwan, in a video titled "Even the charismatic Kim Ji-hyun can't handle this." "I've been fooled so many times because I'm too easily swayed," Kim said. "But the biggest con wasn't financial — it was something tied to submitting a film to the Venice Film Festival." She was referring to "Summertime," released in 2001. The film drew wide attention at the time because Kim — then a top star — chose it as her acting debut and appeared in bold nude scenes, with promotional copy billing it as "more exciting than pornography." It was widely panned for its poor quality and drew only about 80,000 admissions, making it a box-office failure. The controversy damaged Kim's image so severely that she was unable to continue acting. Actors Ryu Su-young and Choi Cheol-ho, who also appeared in the film, have similarly regarded it as an embarrassing footnote in their careers. When Shin teased her by calling it "a masterpiece," Kim pushed back. "I studied theater and film," she said. "I read the script before agreeing to do it." Shin noted that "the exposure was intense because you were such a big star back then," to which Kim replied with frustration, "I said yes because of the work itself, but people ignored the work and only looked at my body." Shin kept up the ribbing, saying friends of his still bring up the film. "They say it straightened out their wayward teenage years and call you their guardian angel," he said. Kim said she had agreed to the project only because she was told it would be submitted to the Venice Film Festival. "That's the con that makes me the most furious," she said. She added with a tinge of bitterness, "It's a memory of having done a film when I was young, but I never had another notable project after that. I really thought I was going to make it."

Sept. 17, 2026

'My memory keeps getting worse': Kang Ju-eun moved by mother's confession ahead of move-in

Broadcaster Kang Ju-eun, a former Miss Korea, traveled to her hometown in Canada ahead of moving in with her parents for the sixth time, sharing a warm glimpse of her family bond. A vlog titled "The Kang Ju-eun family reunites! A week with our still-sweet parents" was posted Wednesday on her YouTube channel "Kkang Ju-eun." In the video, Kang revealed that her parents would be moving from Canada to South Korea the following month. "This will be the sixth time we've lived together. I can't believe it," she said, unable to hide her excitement. She also expressed gratitude toward her husband, actor Choi Min-su, who had first proposed the idea of living with her parents. "No matter how hard living with my husband has been up until now, I'm so grateful for him," she said. Although her parents were soon to join her in South Korea, Kang made the trip to Canada to see them in advance. "My parents tell me, 'We're coming soon, don't bother coming,'" she said, "but since my mom and dad are in Canada, my heart always wants to go." Arriving at her parents' Canadian home for the first time in three months, Kang reunited with them in a warm embrace. She then toured the garden they had lovingly tended and shared a meal with them, enjoying a rare stretch of unhurried time together. The family visited a well-known steakhouse, where Kang reflected, "My parents really only make up their minds to go out when I'm here." She added with a tinge of regret, "Opportunities to sit together like this don't come around very often." Her mother welcomed the moment warmly. "Whenever I'm with our Ju-eun, flowers always seem to bloom," she said. During their cheerful conversation, Kang's mother grew upset, saying her memory had been getting worse. Kang gently reassured her. "You don't have to remember everything. Today is what matters," she said. "What's important is this moment right now — not what you did on Wednesday or Tuesday." "Time spent together like this feels like a treasure," she added. "Because we live so far apart, it's not something we can do often, so I'm just grateful to be here together." On her last day in Canada, the weight of parting hung heavy. Riding to the airport, Kang said, "My heart is always so heavy when I leave. It doesn't feel like a happy thing." She added, "After going back and forth between Canada and Korea for more than 30 years, I should have become an expert at these emotions — but it never gets easier." Kang won the Miss Korea Canada title in 1993, and it was through that pageant that she met Choi Min-su; the two married the following year. A mother of two sons, she is currently active as a home shopping show host and YouTube creator.

Sept. 17, 2026

Comments disabled on Song Ji-eun's tearful video amid husband Park Wi's ongoing controversy

Amid unrelenting public anger over the controversy surrounding YouTuber Park Wi, 39, his wife Song Ji-eun, 36, appeared on a Christian broadcast program — drawing a fresh wave of criticism that ultimately led the video's comment section to be disabled. Song, a former member of the girl group Secret, appeared Monday on "Saereopge Hasoseo," a CBS TV YouTube channel program released that day. The show is a Christian testimony program hosted on a rotating basis by composer Joo Young-hoon, Song Ji-eun, comedian Lee Jeong-su and others. In the video, Song was moved to tears while listening to a believer recount the loss of her 17-year-old son. She also said, "I am so grateful to be living with the hope that I, too, can become a footprint that leaves the fragrance of Jesus in the lives of my family and in the lives of others." The comment section quickly filled not with responses to the broadcast's content but with remarks about the "Park Wi controversy." Many viewers criticized Song for appearing on air while her husband had remained silent for more than three weeks since the controversy erupted. Because the video featured the personal story of a private individual, the volume of comments focused on the couple's controversy appears to have prompted the disabling of the comment function. The production team did not publicly explain its specific reason for closing the comment section. Park became embroiled in controversy last month after releasing CCTV footage of himself falling from his wheelchair while boarding a KTX train. The footage showed a social service worker who was assisting Park accidentally catching the wheelchair's wheel on a ramp, causing the fall. Critics accused Park of using his influence as a YouTuber with about 1 million subscribers to engage in gapjil — the abuse of power — and to impose private sanctions against the service worker. The backlash was particularly sharp because Park, a quadriplegic YouTuber, had built his following by advocating for the care and protection of society's most vulnerable. Many expressed disappointment that he had acted as the more powerful party in the situation. However, as criticism has continued for more than three weeks — with even minor past remarks and actions being dug up — some have begun to argue that the backlash has gone too far. The controversy pushed Park's YouTube subscriber count below 1 million, and some of his scheduled speaking engagements were canceled. The couple had served as Seoul Metropolitan Government ambassadors and appeared regularly on broadcasts and at speaking events, but following the controversy they stepped down from their ambassador roles and lost further engagements. Shortly after the controversy broke, Park deleted the CCTV footage and said he had "acted without thinking it through," but he has since maintained silence, posting no new content on his YouTube channel for more than three weeks. Park and Song married in October 2024.

Sept. 17, 2026

Broadcaster Jo Hye-ryeon opened 5 shaved-ice franchise stores, then closed them all: 'It was just too cold in winter'

Broadcaster Jo Hye-ryeon, 56, has revealed that she once opened five shaved-ice franchise stores more than a decade ago, only to shut them all down. Jo shared the story Wednesday on her YouTube channel "Johyeryeon: Jo Hye-ryeon," in an episode featuring a reunion with fellow broadcaster Kim Gu-ra, a friend of 30 years. Jo made her debut in 1993 as a KBS special recruit, while Kim debuted the same year through an SBS open audition. The two said they grew close working together on the MBC variety show "Sebaekwi" (2008–2015) and the SBS program "Bungeo-ppang" (2009–2015), and reflected on the years that had passed. When Jo said, "Gu-ra used to have no warmth back then. I didn't have any emotional breathing room either," Kim shot back, "Didn't you used to run five shaved-ice stores at once?" — bringing up just how stretched Jo had been. "I did. And I lost it all," Jo said with a rueful laugh, adding, "It was just too cold in winter" — a nod to how hard it was to keep a shaved-ice business running through the off-season. Jo operated five stores across Gyeonggi Province in the early days of the Sulbing franchise's expansion, more than a decade ago. In a separate YouTube appearance a few months earlier, Jo had also mentioned the venture, saying, "I opened my first store in Incheon when there were only 13 locations nationwide." She said she got in as an early mover, with customers lining up outside, and was so excited that even during church services her mind was entirely on the store. "Greed kicked in, and every time I saw a second floor I started looking for a spot to open another store. That's how I ended up with five," she said. But the expansion proved too ambitious. "In winter, it's cold, so people just don't eat it," Jo said, explaining that she could not survive the slow season. "As time went on it got really hard, and I ended up selling them off one by one at a loss. That's how I learned about life," she said.

Sept. 17, 2026

Taeyang's older brother Dong Hyun-bae: 'I have never relied on my younger brother financially'

Dong Hyun-bae, an actor and the older brother of BIGBANG member Taeyang (real name Dong Young-bae), drew a line against the perception that he has leaned on his younger brother financially — and said he wants to build a legacy as an actor in his own right, not simply as "Taeyang's older brother." On Wednesday, Dong posted the first video on his YouTube channel "Unknown Actor Dong Hyun-bae," titled "I Have Been Trapped for 20 Years." In it, he said even close friends introduce him in private as "Taeyang's older brother." "I don't mind it — it's the truth," he said. "Even my maternal uncle refers to me that way." Dong said he had unknowingly internalized the constraints that came with that label. "Without realizing it, I kept thinking, 'I can't do this, I can't do that' within the frame of being Taeyang's older brother," he said. "It wasn't just my burden — I felt I had to protect my family. I think I lived that way for 20 years without fully knowing it." Asked whether he had ever received financial help from Taeyang, Dong acknowledged receiving support from his parents but was firm on one point. "Of course my parents have helped me financially," he said. "But I have never relied on my younger brother. He is still my younger brother." Dong said he served as student body president in middle school and was a strong student in high school. He recalled that when his younger brother was training as a singer, the family atmosphere was one of "let's have only one person pursue the arts." His own ambitions were sparked after watching the musical "Footloose." "I could not forget the roar of the audience," he said. "Acting was the only thing that made me competitive." Dong said he has auditioned more than 500 times and regularly distributes his profile every quarter. He added that he had auditioned for "Inside Men" and "The Outlaws." "Acting is all I have," he said. "I believe that someday I will be able to prove myself." Dong also spoke candidly about making ends meet. "I still work part-time at a gelato shop run by a close friend, and I have taught acting at a hagwon and given private lessons. I have even done shifts at Coupang Inc," he said. "Strangely, work tends to come up just when things get really hard." He acknowledged that his best-known credit to date remains his association with his brother's fame. "The thing I am most known for is still being Taeyang's older brother, and if I had to name a signature work it would be 'Eojjeoda Sajang,'" he said. "There are so many roles I want to play — I want to try romance, I want to try playing a villain." He added: "But right now, I am just grateful to be acting at all. I simply want to act. That makes me happy." "Eojjeoda Sajang" is a tvN variety program on which Dong appeared as a guest in 2021. Dong made his debut in the 2006 film "Hwaryeonhaji Aneun Gobaek." He has since appeared in the JTBC drama series "Hello, My Twenties!" (2016), KBS2's "Choegoui Hanbang" (2017), SBS's "The Last Empress" (2018), OCN's "Trap" (2019), and the films "Prison" (2017), "Irregular Special Agent" (2017) and "Park Hwa-young" (2018).

Sept. 17, 2026

Singer Kim Heung-guk reveals shaved head: 'Stress took all my hair'

Singer Kim Heung-guk, 67, revealed his shaved head Thursday, announcing he had become a promotional model for a hair-loss treatment for the first time in his life. Kim posted a photo of himself without his trademark hat, saying he had "suffered emotionally for a long time because of hair loss." Though he had long worn hats to conceal the condition, his hair loss had advanced to the point where almost none remained. "When I debuted in the early 1980s, I had a really full head of hair — thick enough to go well with my mustache," he said. "After 'Horangnabi' became a big hit and my broadcast schedule became relentless, my hair started falling out little by little." "I lived as a 'goose father' for a time and went through various social controversies, and the stress was considerable," he said. "My hair fell out a lot because of it. Eventually it felt like almost all of it was gone." "Now that I've even become a model for a hair-loss treatment, I want to be a source of hope for people dealing with hair loss across the country," Kim said. Kim debuted in 1985 with his first album's lead track "Tteonagan Naenim" and went on to win wide popularity with songs including "Horangnabi," "59-nyeon Wangsimni," "Jeong-a" and "Heundeul Heundeul." Long known for his conservative views, he continued political activities — including attending rallies in support of former President Yoon Suk Yeol after Yoon declared emergency martial law — and drew criticism under the nickname "Insurrection Butterfly." Last year, he announced he was stepping back from all political activity to "return to my main work."

Sept. 17, 2026

Broadcaster Lee Geum-hee's mother dies at 93

Broadcaster Lee Geum-hee has lost her mother. According to broadcasting industry sources, Lee's mother, Kang Sun-sik, died Monday at the age of 93. At the time of her passing, Lee was in Uzbekistan filming a documentary special for Hangul Day. Following her family's wishes, she completed the scheduled shoot before returning to Korea, where she set up a memorial altar Thursday. "My mother passed away just before her 93rd birthday," Lee said. "I share this news with a heavy heart and ask that you pray for her peaceful rest." According to Lee's autobiographical essay collection "I Don't Want to Stand Out," her mother raised five daughters largely on her own — taking up hairdressing, sewing and other work to make ends meet while her father earned a modest salary as a low-ranking police officer. Lee, the fourth of the five daughters, grew up singing and playing at her mother's side, and has described her mother as the greatest pillar of her life. The memorial is being held at the funeral home of Cheongu Sacred Heart Hospital in Galhyeon-dong, Eunpyeong-gu, Seoul. Condolence visits are available from 10 a.m. Thursday. The coffining ceremony is scheduled for 10 a.m. Friday, and the funeral procession will depart at 7 a.m. Saturday. Meanwhile, Lee's KBS Cool FM radio program "Saranghagi Joeun Nal Lee Geum-hee-imnida," a daily music and talk show, pre-recorded its broadcasts for the duration of the mourning period.

Sept. 17, 2026

Child actor Kim Yu-jeong says she cried when she turned 20: 'I was scared of becoming an adult'

Actor Kim Yu-jeong, who began her career as a child performer, has revealed she cried on the day she turned 20. The confession came Wednesday on KBS 2TV's "Gurumi Dasi Geurin Dalbit" (Redrawing "Love in the Moonlight"), a reunion special marking the 10th anniversary of the drama series "Love in the Moonlight." The show's main cast — Park Bo-gum, Kim Yu-jeong, Jin Young, Chae Su-bin and Gwak Dong-yeon — traveled to Hongcheon for a two-day, one-night trip to celebrate the milestone. After rafting in Hongcheon and stopping at a market before preparing dinner, the cast members reflected on their time together and reminisced about the past. Park Bo-gum asked Kim, who said she was 17 when "Love in the Moonlight" was filmed, whether turning 20 had felt any different. Kim responded by bringing up the 2017 KBS Drama Awards, saying, "That was when we went to the KBS awards ceremony to present the grand prize. Do you remember?" Kim went on to say, "That was the day I turned 20. Midnight passed while we were in the waiting room on Dec. 31. After the ceremony, I went to Itaewon with my mom and sister and had a drink. I cried then. Because I didn't want to turn 20." Gwak Dong-yeon reacted with surprise, saying, "Really? I couldn't wait to become an adult." Kim replied, "I was a little scared of becoming an adult." Kim made her debut in a commercial in 2003 at age 4, then began her acting career the following year in the 2004 film "DMZ, Bimujang Jidae." "Love in the Moonlight," a youth Sageuk drama that aired in 2016, served as the springboard for her transition to adult roles.

Sept. 17, 2026

Seola bids farewell to Starship Entertainment after 15 years with handwritten letter

Seola, lead vocalist of girl group Cosmic Girls, has written a letter marking her departure from Starship Entertainment after 15 years with the agency. "I have decided to leave Starship Entertainment, with whom I spent 15 years, and make a new beginning," Seola said Thursday on her Instagram account. "From the moment I first connected with Starship to becoming the Seola I am today, we have passed through so many seasons together," she wrote. "The time I spent nurturing my dreams as a trainee, the moment I first stood on stage as a Cosmic Girls member, the moments I was able to share music under my own name — looking back, Starship was always there beside so many of my firsts and precious memories." She went on to say, "Within those 15 long years, there was so much to learn — days of joy and overwhelming emotion, and days when things did not go as I had hoped. But through all of that time, I was able to learn and grow so much. I believe all of those moments made me who I am today." Seola also expressed gratitude to everyone at the agency. "Above all, I sincerely thank everyone at Starship Entertainment who stayed by my side through it all, sharing in my worries, putting in the effort, and helping create so many moments together," she said. "I will cherish the time and the feelings we shared for a long time to come." She also addressed her fans, known as "Woojung." "I also want to make sure I say this to Woojung, who have always stood by my side," she wrote. "It is because of the love and support you have sent me that I was able to keep doing the music I love and stand on stage without wearing out through all this time. I am truly grateful and happy that the path I have walked is filled with miracles shared with Woojung." "Starting down a new path still feels a little unfamiliar and nerve-wracking for me," Seola said, "but I will walk forward one step at a time, at my own pace, with all my heart." Meanwhile, Starship Entertainment also posted on its Instagram account the same day. "We sincerely express our gratitude to Seola, who has been with Starship for so long," the agency said. "We will long remember every moment and precious memory we shared. We will wholeheartedly cheer for every step Seola takes as she embarks on this new journey, wishing her happiness and all good things."

Sept. 17, 2026

Lee Jae-si, daughter of soccer star Lee Dong-guk, explains why she gave up her New York move

Lee Jae-si (19), daughter of former national team soccer player Lee Dong-guk, has explained why she decided to take a leave of absence from her university just three days before she was set to leave for the United States. A video titled "I took a leave of absence" was posted to Lee's YouTube channel on Wednesday. In the video — her first upload in about seven months — Lee said she had completed her studies at the Korean campus of her school. "It's not an official graduation; I finished the Korean campus program," she said. "The plan was to go to the New York campus and study for two more years, but I ended up taking a leave of absence." Reflecting on her time as a student, Lee said she had enrolled at 18, about two years earlier than most of her peers. "If I just went straight to New York, I felt like I'd be missing out on experiences I could only have in Korea," she said. "I thought it would be fine to go after gaining a year of real-world experience first." Her family's advice also played a role in the decision. "My whole family tried to talk me out of it — they kept telling me to go to New York a little later," Lee said. "Most of my classmates are older than me, and they kept saying New York will always be there, so it's not too late to go after building up some experience in Korea and figuring out a clearer direction." Even so, she initially held firm on going to New York — until practical concerns got in the way. "The exchange rate was going crazy at the time," she said. "I thought, if I go to New York like this, it's going to wipe out my family." She added that, as the eldest daughter, she could not bring herself to let that happen. "Rent in New York is expensive, and everything there costs so much," she said. Lee ultimately decided to delay her move to New York by a year and gain work experience in Korea instead. She was candid about her current situation, saying she is "basically unemployed right now." Lee enrolled in 2024 at the Songdo campus of the Fashion Institute of Technology (FIT), a prestigious fashion school based in New York, and recently completed the program with strong grades. Her plan to continue at the New York campus was abandoned just before her departure — a fact that came to light through a social media post by her mother, Lee Su-jin. Her mother said she had told Lee that spending two more years solely for a diploma might not be the right call, and that the time and money could instead be invested in broader experiences. "I had a long talk with her, saying that if she combined the two years of real-world experience she had already built up with studies alongside peers her own age, she would be a completely different person by then," the mother said. "In the end, Jae-si came around to my way of thinking."

Sept. 17, 2026

Girls' Generation's Hyoyeon says her email and Instagram have been hacked — and she's considering letting it slide

Girls' Generation member Hyoyeon has revealed that her email and social media accounts have been repeatedly hacked. A video titled "6th-Generation Idol Hyorysu Leader Hyoyeon Special Guest" was uploaded Wednesday to the YouTube channel Chimchakman, in which Hyoyeon spoke candidly about her personality and career. When asked whether there were any misconceptions she wanted to clear up, she said, "Not really — I just think the best way to live in this world is to have nothing to be ashamed of." She then unexpectedly disclosed that she had been targeted by a hacker. "I've been getting hacked a lot lately," she said. "There's someone who keeps breaking into my email and Instagram." She added that after changing her password repeatedly, she had started to see the situation differently. "After changing my password over and over, I thought — as long as they don't delete my account, maybe I'll just let them run it with me," she said, drawing laughs. "They want to see me that badly, so I'm thinking of just leaving it." She also noted, "I even have accounts I made just to look at compositions — but they kept trying to hack those too. And they actually succeeded on a few." In response, Chimchakman joked that she should post a message on the hacked account saying, "Looks like we're in this together — please leave your contact information, and I'll reach out when I need help with account management." Hyoyeon played along, saying she could ask the hacker to update her profile photo whenever she was too busy. Hyoyeon drew a line, however, saying, "I know it comes from a place of love, but when it goes too far it becomes uncomfortable — we both need to keep a little distance." Chimchakman added, "Please give the hacked accounts back."

Sept. 17, 2026

Five years after school violence allegations, actor Ji Soo says 'my heart has become a little Filipino'

Actor Ji Soo, who stepped back from domestic activities following school violence allegations, appeared on a Philippine talk show to discuss his life there and his views on romance. On Monday, a video of Ji Soo appearing on the talk show "Kalurks" was posted on YoüLOL, the comedy channel of Philippine broadcaster GMA Network. The drama series Ji Soo is currently appearing in is also a GMA production. Asked how long he had been working in the Philippines, Ji Soo said, "My heart has become a little Filipino," adding, "I've been here for about two years now, and it feels like a second home." He described his character in the series as "a Korean character — someone who wants to start a new life but carries a mystery." When asked whether he finds Filipino women attractive, Ji Soo said, "Of course." Asked whether he would be open to dating, he said, "Very much so. I don't look at nationality. Love is possible anywhere." Ji Soo made his debut in the 2015 MBC drama series "Angry Mom" and went on to take lead roles in SBS's "Moon Lovers: Scarlet Heart Ryeo," JTBC's "Strong Woman Do Bong-soon" and OCN's "Bad Guys: Vile City," among others. School violence allegations surfaced in 2021 while the KBS2 drama series "River Where the Moon Rises" was airing, and Ji Soo withdrew from the production. The series had broadcast six of its 20 episodes at the time, and filming had been completed through episode 18, forcing the production company to reshoot the entire series. The production company filed a damages lawsuit against Ji Soo's agency at the time. A ruling ordering the agency to pay approximately 880 million won ($643,000) plus accrued interest was recently finalized. Ji Soo said in October 2023 that he had resolved the misunderstanding with the person who first raised the school violence allegations.

Sept. 17, 2026

Actor Lee Jun-young, on military duty, spotted at beef festival singing 'Honey'

Actor Lee Jun-young, a former member of K-pop group U-KISS currently serving in the military, has drawn attention after a video of him performing at a regional festival went viral. Lee took the stage Sunday as a member of the 35th Infantry Division military band at the 20th Jangsu Hanwoo and Apple Festival in Jangsu-gun, North Jeolla Province. Dressed in the band's red jacket with gold trim and white trousers, Lee joined his fellow band members at the microphone. Looking slightly fuller in the face, Lee initially stood at attention with a composed bearing — but his demeanor shifted the moment the opening notes of singer Park Jin-young's "Honey" began to play. He broke into dance moves in sync with the music, belting out "Honey" with a bright, carefree expression as he threw himself into the performance. As he grew more absorbed in the song and dancing, the crowd erupted in cheers. After the video spread across social media and online communities, fans flooded the comments with reactions: "I heard he said he wasn't going to do singer activities anymore, so I'm so happy to see him singing and dancing after enlisting," "Even with a buzz cut, there's no hiding how handsome he is," "He seems to give his all wherever he is," "His dance moves are on another level — must be because he was a dancer," and "He seems born for military life." Lee enlisted in the Army as an active-duty soldier on July 21 and began his service. Before enlisting, he posted a handwritten letter on social media to announce the news, writing: "Until I got my enlistment date, I kept thinking, 'What's the big deal? I'll just go.' But when it comes down to it, once I actually had the date in hand, I found myself thinking more than I had in a long time. I'll come back healthy, and true to myself." Lee is scheduled to be discharged on Jan. 20, 2028. Meanwhile, Lee is currently appearing in the tvN drama series "Four Hands," which he finished filming before enlisting, playing Choi Jeong-yo, a piano prodigy. The character has long turned away from his own talent due to a difficult upbringing, and his rivalry with piano virtuoso Kang Bi-o — played by Song Kang — has been generating buzz. Lee debuted with U-KISS in 2014 and launched his acting career in earnest in 2017 with the tvN drama series "Avengers Social Club." He has since built his profile as an actor through a range of projects including "Mask Girl," "Weak Hero Class 2" and "Jeju Haenyeo."

Sept. 17, 2026

Rapper Kim Sang-min of Swings' label arrested again on cannabis charges while on probation

Kim Gamjeon, a rapper signed to Indigo Music — the hip-hop label founded by rapper Swings — has been taken into custody on charges of using liquid cannabis while on probation. His real name is Kim Sang-min, 22, and his stage name is an abbreviation of a Korean phrase meaning "he can be called a legend." According to legal sources Thursday, Judge Yang Eun-sang of the Seoul Western District Court issued an arrest warrant Wednesday against Kim on charges of violating the Narcotics Control Act. Judge Yang determined that Kim posed a risk of flight and destruction of evidence. Kim was arrested by police Monday on suspicion of using liquid cannabis. The arrest came while he was serving a suspended sentence handed down for a previous cannabis-smoking conviction. This marks at least the third confirmed instance of Kim facing cannabis-related charges. He was accused of smoking cannabis with an acquaintance in a Seoul parking lot in May 2024 and was sentenced in December of that year to eight months in prison, taken into custody in the courtroom. That sentence followed an earlier deferred prosecution for a similar offense, making it his second known violation. An appeals court reduced his sentence in April last year to eight months with a two-year suspension, and he was released. He has now found himself behind bars again on cannabis charges roughly one year and five months later. Kim joined Indigo Music, where Swings serves as head, in 2022.

Sept. 17, 2026

(G)I-DLE's Miyeon endoscopy video controversy referred to police

A controversy over alleged illegal medical advertising in a YouTube video featuring (G)I-DLE member Miyeon has been referred to police for investigation. The Yongsan-gu Public Health Center in Seoul said Wednesday it had asked police to investigate whether the YouTube channel "Jeondosa" had violated medical advertising regulations. "It was difficult to determine whether the medical institution was involved in the medical advertising that appeared in the YouTube video, or whether any compensation was provided," the health center said in a response to a complaint, adding that it had decided to refer the matter to police. The health center also issued an administrative order requiring the medical institution featured in the video to immediately stop using the designation "specialized hospital." The video, posted to the Jeondosa channel on Sept. 1, showed Miyeon undergoing a health checkup and a sleep endoscopy at a medical facility in Yongsan-gu, Seoul. Critics noted that the footage exposed the institution's name, medical staff and interior — details that could constitute medical advertising under the Medical Service Act. A complainant identified only as A filed a petition through the government's public grievance portal on Sept. 7, noting that the facility was classified as a clinic, not a specialized hospital, in official health insurance records. A also asked authorities to verify whether the label "health checkup center — gastroscopy and colonoscopy specialized hospital" was appropriate. In response, the production team issued a statement the following day saying it had not been commissioned to produce advertising or promotional content for the medical institution and had received no monetary compensation or financial support of any kind. The team added that it had paid for the checkup and medical services out of pocket. Even after the statement and subsequent edits, critics pointed out that the video still showed the facility's name, endoscopy pricing and the names of affiliated medical institutions without any masking. Under Article 56 of the current Medical Service Act, medical advertising by anyone other than the operator, head or a licensed practitioner of a medical institution is prohibited. Even when a licensed practitioner advertises, content that exposes direct medical procedures — such as surgical scenes — is banned. Violations can carry a prison sentence of up to one year or a fine of up to 10 million won ($7,310).

Sept. 17, 2026

Actor Shin Hyun-joon mobbed by fans at Lima airport as 'Stairway to Heaven' fever grips Peru

Security personnel deployed at Jorge Chavez International Airport as crowds surge Local fans chant character name 'Han Tae-hwa' from the 2003 drama series A video of actor Shin Hyun-joon receiving an idol-level welcome in Peru has gone viral in South Korea. Shin recently traveled to Peru to attend events tied to the renewed popularity of "Stairway to Heaven," an SBS drama series that aired 23 years ago and has found a wide new audience in the South American country. Shin documented the trip himself, posting videos of his airport arrival, photos from a fan meeting and footage of his sightseeing around the country on his personal social media accounts. In the videos, security personnel were deployed as Shin arrived at Jorge Chavez International Airport in Lima, with so many fans crowding the terminal that he could barely move. He appeared wearing a white short-sleeved T-shirt printed with the word "PERU." Fans screamed and pulled out their phones to film him, chanting "Han Tae-hwa" — the name of the character Shin played in "Stairway to Heaven." Even with security guards flanking him closely, Shin made a point of shaking hands, posing for photos and blowing kisses to the crowd. "I sincerely thank everyone who came out to the airport to greet me," Shin wrote on social media. "I am truly sorry and it breaks my heart that I could not hold each of your hands or take photos with each of you." He added, "My dear Peruvian fans who came all the way to the airport and welcomed me so warmly — I am genuinely, deeply grateful. I will never forget your love." He also shared several photos of himself walking the streets, shopping and taking in the sights during his stay. "The most beautiful thing I found in Peru was the people," Shin said. "Wherever I went, they greeted me with warm smiles, said hello first, and welcomed me with sincerity." He added that the streets were clean and full of energy, and that he could feel Peru's distinct character and culture throughout the city. He went on to say, "Above all, what will stay with me the longest is the warmth of the Peruvian people. If you want to encounter beautiful nature, experience a unique culture, and meet warm-hearted people, I urge you to visit Peru at least once." "Stairway to Heaven," the 2003 SBS drama series, still enjoys strong popularity in Peru. Shin played Han Tae-hwa, a man who shows devoted love for the female lead, played by Choi Ji-woo. South Korean internet users who watched the airport video reacted with a mix of awe and humor. "This has to be a hidden-camera prank," wrote one. "You really never know what life holds — this is why you give every moment your best," said another. Others called Shin an "Arabian prince" and hailed his "second golden age," while some marveled at the unexpected comeback: "Who would have thought 'Stairway to Heaven' — a global star joins the ranks, better late than never." Several noted the surreal quality of the moment: "A reverse-hit on the other side of the planet, in Peru of all places — even Shin must be bewildered."

Sept. 17, 2026

RESCENE's Minami mocked by Japanese friends over 'gyaru' look

RESCENE member Minami has revealed that her Japanese friends mocked her over her gyaru image. Minami appeared on MBC variety program "Radio Star" on Wednesday alongside Lee Hyung-taek, Lee Hye-jeong and Jo Jun-ho. During the show, host Kim Gu-ra brought up the topic, saying he had heard Minami was being "ridiculed" by people in Japan. In response, Minami said her Japanese friends had reached out to tease her, asking, "You've been getting popular lately — are you suddenly doing gyaru now?" She went on to say that when she had told her friends back in Japan she was going to audition to become a K-pop idol, they were shocked to see her appear in a gyaru look. "Gyaru" is a Japanese pronunciation of the English word "girl" and refers to women who adopt a bold, distinctive fashion and makeup style. The subculture was popular among Japanese youth in the 1990s and 2000s. Minami then shared how desperate she had felt at the time, recalling that her friends had said, "Are you crazy?" — to which she had replied, "I have to do something like this to stand out." RESCENE had gone largely unnoticed for two years after its debut before Minami's gyaru concept and the "Geoje Yaho" meme went viral on YouTube. Minami said she had never encountered gyaru culture while living in Japan and had first gotten into it after coming to Korea, explaining why her friends were so surprised. Her mother also played a role in shaping the gyaru concept. Minami said her mother had taught her a great deal as she developed her content, adding that her mother even gives her tips on eyeliner technique — a remark that drew laughter from the studio. The show also touched on her catchphrase "Geoje Yaho." Minami said fans request it so often that she shouts it about 30 times a day, and explained that "yaho" is a casual, friendly greeting used in Japan. She then declared that she felt she had done "yaho" enough and would shout it one last time on Thursday's show before "graduating" from the phrase — prompting fellow panelist Yoo Se-yoon to intervene, saying, "Don't graduate from 'yaho.' I'm still doing my gelada baboon bit," drawing more laughter.

Sept. 17, 2026

Kim Gura aims to retire at 60: 'I don't plan to work until I die'

Broadcaster Kim Gura has said he plans to retire at 60. A video titled "Jo Hye-ryeon's candid confession after meeting Kim Gura alone for the first time in 30 years" was posted Wednesday on the YouTube channel "Jo Hoe-ryeon: Jo Hye-ryeon." The two met at a restaurant and talked about their broadcasting careers and retirement. Jo Hye-ryeon reflected on their longevity in the industry. "Looking back, I'm so grateful that we're both still going strong in 2026," she said, adding that she believed she could continue working for more than 20 years if she took care of her health and managed her image. Kim shook his head in disagreement. When Jo asked whether he had said he was thinking of stopping, Kim said his goal was to retire at 60. "You always have to think about life after retirement — 'I'm going to work until I die' is not the way," he said. "I'll work hard until I'm 60, and after that, if opportunities come my way, I'll take them." This is not the first time Kim has mentioned a retirement target. In 2024, he said on another YouTube channel, "I think there needs to be a point when you retire. My goal is 60. By then, I don't think I'll want to live so intensely anymore." Born in October 1970, Kim is 55 this year. He made his debut in 1993 as a second-round recruit comedian at SBS but spent years in obscurity. After building a following through internet broadcasting, he broke into terrestrial television in 2004 with KBS 2FM's "Gura's Music Plaza." He has since become one of South Korea's most recognizable hosts, appearing on programs including "Star Golden Bell," "Star Junior Show Bungeo-ppang," "Hwang Geum Eojang Radio Star," "Sebakwi," "Sseoljeon," "My Little Television," "Dongsang Imon 2 — You Are My Destiny" and "Late Night Ghost Story Club."

Sept. 17, 2026

Ko Ji-yong seeks court order to block ex-wife from posting son's photos, but Heo Yang-im publishes new vlog anyway

Ko Ji-yong, a former member of the K-pop group Sechs Kies, has filed an injunction against his ex-wife Heo Yang-im — a family medicine specialist — seeking to bar her from interfering with his visitation rights and from posting photos and videos of their son Seung-jae online. Yet on the very day Ko's agency announced the legal action, Heo uploaded a new vlog featuring the boy. Heo has also filed her own lawsuit against Ko demanding unpaid child support, signaling that the legal dispute between the two is now fully under way. Heo posted a video titled "Heo Yang-im Vlog 004" to her YouTube channel "Coque de Heo Yang-im" on Wednesday. The video showed Heo attending an obesity medicine conference as a panelist, dining out with Seung-jae and watching a fireworks display with him from their home. In the video, Seung-jae said Thursday was "the first day I ever tried tofu," to which Heo corrected him: "You had tofu? It was mushrooms." She then asked how the mushrooms tasted, and Seung-jae said, "They're good with sauce, but not on their own. They're mushy — like konjac jelly." Back home, Heo watched the fireworks outside the window with Seung-jae and said, "It's beautiful." Seung-jae told her, "I think you like fireworks because they look like something out of a dream." On the same day, Ko's agency Mountain Movement Story released a statement saying Ko had filed an injunction with the court against Heo, seeking to prohibit interference with his visitation rights and to ban the posting of photos and videos of the child. Through his agency, Ko said that after their agreed divorce on April 24, 2024, he was rushed to hospital on May 9 with liver cirrhosis and shock, and had to prepare for the possibility of death. "Even during our marriage my illness was getting worse, but we reached an amicable agreement," he said. "For about two years I fought alone, going in and out of hospital multiple times, between life and death." Ko's side said that throughout this period he had been in conflict with Heo over child support payments and visitation rights. According to his agency, Ko has seen his son only about six times in the roughly two years since their April 2024 divorce. Heo had already filed a child support lawsuit against Ko on Sept. 5. YouTuber and former journalist Lee Jin-ho said in a video posted Wednesday that Heo filed the child support suit against Ko on Sept. 5. Lee said Ko had agreed at the time of their April 2024 divorce to pay Heo 1.89 million won ($1,380) per month in child support, but had in practice only made payments in August and September this year. Lee said the total unpaid child support stood at around 40 million won, and the claim including interest amounted to around 50 million won. Before filing the lawsuit, Heo also applied for a provisional seizure of Ko's assets, and his bank accounts and insurance policies are understood to have been frozen. Ko married Heo in 2013 and appeared with his son Seung-jae on the KBS 2TV program "Superman Returns," winning wide public affection, before the marriage ended in 2024. The two reached an amicable divorce two years ago but have since been at odds over visitation rights.

Sept. 17, 2026