Colleagues of late comedian Park Ji-sun visit memorial on 6th anniversary of her death

Colleagues of the late comedian Park Ji-sun visited her memorial columbarium on the sixth anniversary of her death, sharing their enduring affection for her. Yang Sang-guk posted a photo Monday on Instagram Stories showing Park's KBS 22nd-class cohort gathered in front of the columbarium where she rests. The group, dressed in black, could be seen smiling as if greeting her. "It's already been five years," Yang wrote. "I got to see Ji-sun and the classmates — laughing and crying, all thanks to her." Yang added, "Everyone in our class is doing well, so please cheer us on." The photo included KBS 22nd-class comedians Yang Sang-guk, Jo Yun-ho, Kim Ji-ho, Song Jung-geun, Jang Hyo-in and Heo Mi-yeong. Earlier, on Oct. 5, the YouTube channel "Jjanhan Hyeong Shin Dong-yeop" revealed that several of Park's 22nd-class colleagues have maintained a years-long relationship with her father. Jang Hyo-in, Seong Hyeon-ju and Lee Gwang-seop appeared in a video titled "The Reality of the Legendary 22nd-Class MT, Part 2" and shared memories of Park. Jang said she still stays in touch with Park's father, who has asked to be informed whenever there are significant life events among the group. "Every time we have a class gathering, I contact her father in advance," Jang said. "I want him to know that we haven't forgotten Ji-sun and still remember her." Jang added that Park's father always asks to be kept informed of any milestones. "He says, 'I feel like I should do the things Ji-sun would have done. Don't leave me out as if she's gone — let me fill her place,'" she said. Park's father reportedly keeps his daughter's mobile phone active and in his possession. Park Ji-sun, a Korea University College of Education graduate, died in November 2020. Known for her sharp wit and warm, approachable image, she was beloved by many fans. If you're thinking about self-harm or suicide, dial the Suicide Prevention Hotline at 109, available 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Please request a translator for English-language services.

Nov. 2, 2026

Yoo Jae-suk jokes Haha is 'trying to tank' career with new song 'Gukbap'

Broadcaster Yoo Jae-suk quipped that fellow entertainer Haha was "trying to tank" his career after learning about Haha's new song — titled "Gukbap." According to broadcasting sources Monday, the release came up in conversation among cast members on Sunday's episode of the SBS variety program "Running Man." "Gukbap," released in late October, was written and co-composed by Haha, with singer Kwon In-ha featured on the track. Haha said the song was about telling someone: "Someday, far in the future, when you've made it big and we meet again, I'll gladly buy you a warm bowl of gukbap." Yang Se-chan joked that "they say a song follows its title," a riff on the Korean expression for flopping — and Yoo piled on, saying, "I'm telling you, it's going to tank." Haha fired back: "It's fine if it tanks. All that matters is cheering on their dreams." When Haha performed "Gukbap" on the show, Ji Suk-jin responded with great enthusiasm. Yoo remarked, "The best reaction among us is from the one in their 60s," to which Ji replied, "It's really good. I thought I was going crazy."

Nov. 2, 2026

RESCENE's Woni explains mid-performance exit: 'Shrunken outfit left me unable to breathe'

Woni, a member of girl group RESCENE, has explained why she left the stage mid-performance. On Saturday, RESCENE performed at the opening ceremony of the APEC Summit Memorial Hall at Gyeongju EXPO Grand Park in North Gyeongsang Province. During the event, Woni was seen repeatedly adjusting her outfit after finishing the "Love Attack" stage. Woni then suddenly stepped off the stage during the subsequent "Runway" performance, with the other members covering her parts to keep the show going. Woni rejoined after fixing the costume and completed the rest of the set. After the performance, Woni addressed the situation through a fan communication platform, saying she had taken the stage in an outfit that had shrunk in the wash and stepped away briefly after experiencing difficulty breathing. "Since I was going to Gyeongju today, I thought I wouldn't be able to wear the outfit for more than a few hours, so I said I wouldn't put it on until I got there. I should have tried it on and checked it myself," Woni said. "But in the meantime, someone had sent the outfit to be washed and it shrank a lot. So when we all arrived, I changed into it and realized it had shrunk, but I couldn't just perform in my own clothes, so I decided to go ahead with it anyway — and then I couldn't breathe. I was really shocked." Woni also reassured fans that she is now doing fine. Meanwhile, RESCENE is set to release its fourth mini album "PULSE" on Tuesday and continue comeback activities.

Nov. 2, 2026

Roy Kim addresses misunderstanding over wedding performance promise

Singer Roy Kim has directly addressed a misunderstanding that he had promised to perform at the wedding of actor Ji Ye-eun and dancer Bata, only to go back on that promise. On Friday, Roy Kim said during an Instagram Live broadcast, "Since the 'Jim Jong-kook' episode, articles and short clips about the wedding performance have been flooding in." What bothered Roy Kim, he said, was being portrayed as someone who had made a promise and then broken it. "What's certain is that I never made such a promise," Roy Kim said. "It was (Kim) Jong-kook who made the promise." Roy Kim said there has been no shortage of casual, dismissive remarks made about him. "I try not to let those things shake me, but when they do, I hope you all will help me through it," Roy Kim said. "There are moments when I think, 'That's not what happened — how can people see it that way?' and my faith in humanity just drops. It drops endlessly," Roy Kim said, adding that the only way to restore that faith was to look out at the audience at concerts. Roy Kim also urged people to be mindful when criticizing others. "Please be careful with your keyboard, keeping in mind that the arrows you shoot can come back around," Roy Kim said. Earlier, on Oct. 22, Roy Kim appeared on Kim Jong-kook's YouTube channel "Jim Jong-kook" and opened up about the burden of receiving too many wedding performance requests. "If I sing at someone's wedding, people who are just as close to me feel hurt and say, 'Aren't we just as close?' Or they badmouth me behind my back for not doing it," Roy Kim said. Kim Jong-kook then asked whether Roy Kim had not once promised Ji Ye-eun a wedding performance during filming of SBS's "Running Man," to which Roy Kim responded with apparent surprise: "Did I say that?" Kim Jong-kook called Ji Ye-eun directly to ask, and Ji Ye-eun said, "It's true — the promise was made over gukbap," before joking, "So why did you offer back then? Are you going back on your word?" Roy Kim tried to smooth things over, saying, "It's not that I don't want to do it." The clip spread online, prompting speculation that Roy Kim had reneged on a promise. It is Kim Jong-kook who will perform at Ji Ye-eun's wedding. Ji Ye-eun revealed the wedding lineup on "Running Man," which aired Saturday: Yoo Jae-suk will serve as emcee, Kim Jong-kook will perform, and We Dem Boyz — the dance crew Bata belongs to — will put on a celebratory stage. Song Ji-hyo and Ji Suk-jin also volunteered to sing, but Ji Ye-eun turned them down with a smile, saying she wanted to "keep the quality high." Ji Ye-eun and Bata, both born in 1994, went public with their relationship last April. The wedding will be held Dec. 12 at an undisclosed venue in Seoul.

Nov. 2, 2026

Wife unaware of pregnancy loses 12 kg, gives birth in 30 minutes; Oh Eun-young calls it 'child abuse'

A couple's story is set to be revealed — a wife who lost weight while unknowingly pregnant, gave birth without warning, and has since struggled to control her emotions. The pair, dubbed the "SOS couple" after reaching out to producers with the plea "please save our child," will appear on MBC's Oh Eun-young Report: Marriage Hell, airing Monday afternoon. The wife had gone unaware of her pregnancy for about nine months due to polycystic ovary syndrome and the absence of symptoms. Mistaking her weight gain for ordinary causes, she took diet pills and lost 12 kilograms. At nine months along, the wife said she felt "a hard lump inside my stomach" and suspected uterine or ovarian cancer. "I went to the emergency room because of the pain, and they told me I was 35 weeks and two days pregnant," she said, adding that she delivered by emergency cesarean section within 30 minutes. The trouble began after the couple became parents with no preparation. The wife reached out to the production team directly, saying "the most dangerous time for my child is when the two of us are alone together." Footage shown on the program captured the wife losing control of her emotions in response to the baby's crying and lashing out in anger. MC Jang Dong-min described the scene as "like a horror movie," while So Yu-jin said she felt like calling the police, expressing distress at what she witnessed. Psychiatrist Oh Eun-young, who observed the footage, declared outright that "it is child abuse," and said protective measures following proper procedures would continue even after the broadcast ended. The wife subsequently reported her own abusive behavior to police at the production team's request.

Nov. 2, 2026

Actor Lee Mi-sook confesses stock investment wiped out savings: 'My whole house is gone'

Actor Lee Mi-sook has opened up about painful losses suffered after recently diving into stock investment. On Friday, a video titled "Misuk's Sister War Season 2 — Jeyuk or Sundubu, That Is the Question" was uploaded to Lee's YouTube channel "Lee Mi-sook — Sookseureo-un Misuk-ssi." In the video, Lee is seen shopping at a supermarket with older sister Lee Mi-kyung when a crew member approaches. Lee's expression stiffens as Lee snaps, "Don't bother me right now. Because of stocks, I'm completely—" Lee then quips to the crew member, "The house I was going to buy you? Gone." When asked why Lee had jumped into stocks so late after avoiding them for so long, Lee said, "If you don't invest in stocks, you feel like a criminal." "I'm easily swayed, and I just can't stand watching other people make money — even if it means I crash and burn," Lee said, drawing laughs. Lee then headed to the snack aisle, saying, "Let's just buy some chips." At one point, Lee turned to the camera and told viewers, "Subscribers, unintentionally, we'll be taking a week off." But Lee quickly changed course, saying, "I tried to take a week off, but I just can't. I have to keep going." The video did not reveal which stocks Lee had invested in or the extent of the losses. Lee had earlier shared plans to buy a home for retirement. In a video posted to the same channel last August titled "Misuk's Home-Buying Journey — A Townhouse Tour That Will Make Your Eyes Pop," Lee toured a townhouse in Gwangju, Gyeonggi Province, with the same sister. "I'm going to end my days in Gwangju. I'll bring my mother here too," Lee said at the time, adding, "I really like big houses and big cars." Lee also outlined retirement plans, saying, "I've already taken out a lot of insurance, and I want to give all my assets back to society before I die." Born in 1960, Lee made a debut in the 1979 film "Momo Is Carefree" and has appeared in films including "Whale Hunting" and "The Affair," as well as the drama series "East of Eden" and "Hyena." Lee opened a YouTube channel last April to share glimpses of daily life.

Nov. 2, 2026

Rapper Yang Hong-won deletes wedding caption, shares song about relationship that won't 'easily end'

Rapper Yang Hong-won, embroiled in infidelity allegations shortly after his wedding, has deleted a controversial caption from his Instagram and continued posting on SNS without addressing the allegations. As of Monday, the caption Yang had posted alongside wedding photos — "Hyeonju, I love you. I still feel like I'm walking into a Cheonho-dong motel" — had been removed. The wedding photos taken with his wife, former model Won Hyeon-ju, remain. Comments have been disabled on some posts related to Won. Earlier, on Saturday, Yang shared a video on his Instagram story featuring the song "WNBA" by American rapper Drake. The video showed lyrics including: "I feel like we're drifting apart," "I'm on my way to you — I want to see you in person and say what I need to say," "We're not the kind that can easily end," "Whether at home or far apart, this isn't it," and "You're the one person I truly can't explain." Yang offered no additional comment. That same day, photos and videos purportedly showing Yang in the Hongdae area of Mapo-gu, Seoul, for Halloween spread online. The footage showed Yang strolling with companions and greeting fans who recognized him with a smile. Amid the controversy, Yang's song "Rose," released about seven years ago, has been climbing back up music charts. The track features Won Hyeon-ju's name in its lyrics. Yang registered his marriage with Won in 2023 and the couple welcomed a daughter in November the following year before holding a wedding ceremony on Oct. 18. Five days later, on Oct. 23, a person identified only as A, who claimed to be an acquaintance of Yang, posted on SNS alleging that Yang had entered a motel with another woman, sharing video footage and recorded phone calls as purported evidence. Yang's agency, AP Alchemy, acknowledged that Yang had accompanied the woman to a motel but rebuffed the infidelity allegations. According to the agency, Yang had been drinking at the accuser's home after a performance and left at the accuser's request. The agency said "there was absolutely no intimate conduct inside the room," adding that the accuser "attempted to extort money by threatening the artist and the woman involved, and when that failed, made false disclosures." The agency said the woman who accompanied Yang has filed complaints against the accuser on charges of blackmail, violation of the stalking punishment law, and defamation based on false statements.

Nov. 2, 2026

Lee Young-ja, 58, says she overworked her body to save money: 'It doesn't listen to me anymore'

Broadcaster Lee Young-ja has opened up about neglecting her health in her younger years while chasing financial stability. In a video posted Sunday to her YouTube channel "Lee Young-ja TV," Lee prepared kimchi ingredients — trimming cabbages she had grown herself along with various other produce — while reflecting on the lifestyle lessons and physical changes she has experienced since moving to the countryside, according to Insight. Lee encouraged younger generations to try rural living, saying she had started "too late." "If a three-day, four-night stay feels like too much, I'd recommend trying even a five-day, two-night experience in the countryside," she said. "Things that feel like a big deal in the city don't seem like much at all when you're out in nature." Lee then identified her health as the one area of life that has slipped beyond her control with age. "When I was young, material things, friendships and my relationship with my parents didn't go the way I wanted — but those things tend to sort themselves out as you get older," she told the production crew. "Money, family — they've all fallen into place. The only thing that no longer does what I want is my body." Describing how even routine movements like running or standing up from a seated position have become a struggle due to knee and leg pain, Lee added, "When I was young, I didn't even notice the pain — I didn't pay attention to it. I overworked my body to save money. Even Steve Jobs couldn't do anything in the face of his health, could he?"

Nov. 2, 2026

'If we had a time machine, we would have had 10 kids': Actors Jin Tae-hyun, Park Si-eun regret delaying parenthood

Actors Jin Tae-hyun and Park Si-eun say they regret waiting too long to start a family and are urging engaged couples to have children as early as possible. On Friday, the couple shared their thoughts on family planning in a video titled "Park Si-eun Jin Tae-hyun's Marriage School, Lesson 2: The Earlier the Better — Responsible Family Planning," posted to their YouTube channel "Park Si-eun Jin Tae-hyun's Little TV." "If you've made up your mind not to have children, don't — it's a choice the two of you make together," Jin said. "But speaking from experience, do it early. Have a baby early and have it soon." Park said the two were already starting from a late point. "I was 36 and Tae-hyun was 35 when we got married. The starting line was already very late," Park said. "And even then, we thought we should enjoy our newlywed life a little longer before having a child. We were really immature." When Park added that they did not actually begin trying for a child until their 40s, Jin chimed in: "We were out of our minds." Park recalled advice from sunbae that went unheeded at the time. "They told me, 'Si-eun, once you're married, have a baby first. You know how work always comes in right when you're trying to get pregnant? Have the baby first anyway.' It didn't really sink in back then," Park said. "Now I understand why they said it." Jin acknowledged that social norms have shifted — "Society has changed, and people in their 30s are still considered young" — but warned that the body tells a different story. "Even in your 30s, your body is already aging. Everything starts to decline in your mid-30s, and your 40s are a battle to hold on to your youth," Jin said. Park said the physical advantages of having children young are undeniable. "It's much easier to get pregnant when your body is healthy, and younger parents have far more energy when raising a child," Park said. "I really recommend enjoying about a year of newlywed life and then having a baby." Jin said full support goes to couples who conceive before marriage and go on to have the child. "But if you had no plans to marry and a pregnancy brings you to it, you have to be ready to commit with your life and see it through to the end," Jin said. "Without that sense of responsibility, it can truly become hell." Toward the end of the video, Jin urged viewers not to make the same mistake. "If you're getting married, try to have a child as early as you can. Time does not come back," Jin said. "We realized that far too late." The couple added: "If we had a time machine and could go back to when we were 35 and 34, we think we would have had about 10 kids." "We've decided to channel that love elsewhere," Jin added, "but if it's possible, having children and raising them well is so much better." Jin and Park married in 2015 and announced a pregnancy in 2022, but lost the baby 20 days before the due date. The couple continued trying for a child afterward, but Jin said in January this year that "we have decided to stop dreaming and hoping for a child of our own." The two welcomed a college-age daughter into their family in 2019, and in January last year took in two more daughters — one a marathon runner and the other a nursing student — and now live together with all three.

Nov. 2, 2026

Comedian Lee Kyung-shil reveals why she cut off son after learning of premarital pregnancy

Comedian Lee Kyung-shil has revealed why she temporarily cut ties with her son after learning he had gotten his girlfriend pregnant before marriage. In a video published Sunday on the YouTube channel Jisik Inside, Lee spoke about her son's premarital pregnancy, saying he told her he was going to be a father at 23 before even completing his military service. "I hated the idea of my son becoming the head of a household so quickly," Lee said. Lee initially tried to talk him out of going through with the pregnancy, but ultimately could not change his mind. Lee resolved that she needed to make him understand that actions come with responsibility. "I had no choice but to be cold about it," Lee said, adding that she did not see the grandchild until the baby was 100 days old. "But watching my son and daughter-in-law, I could see they were raising the child beautifully." Lee said she came around four months into the estrangement. "My daughter-in-law must have suffered so much emotionally. When I hugged her, she cried," Lee said. "We've been getting along happily ever since." Host Han Seok-jun then asked whether Lee thought of the daughter-in-law as a daughter, to which Lee drew a line. "You shouldn't think that way," Lee said. "I'm a daughter-in-law myself, but I don't think of my mother-in-law as my own mother — so how could a daughter-in-law ever become a daughter?" Lee said. "You have to be even more careful. Even if I say one word to my daughter-in-law, I think it through first. I send text messages instead of calling, because phone calls can get emotional. I reread every particle and conjunction before I send."

Nov. 2, 2026

Singer Kim Jang-hoon, 64, stunned by national pension estimate: 'That much?'

Singer Kim Jang-hoon was left speechless after learning how much national pension he stands to receive. A preview clip featuring Kim aired at the end of Sunday's episode of SBS's My Little Old Boy, teasing the singer's appearance in the next showing. Kim appeared in the preview shouting from early in the morning as part of an unusual vocal warm-up routine. Seo Jang-hoon reacted to the exercise, saying it was "a little scary." Kim then had a phone conversation in which he asked, "Am I even old enough to collect national pension?" Upon learning that the age to start receiving benefits was approaching, Kim asked, "How much would I get?" After being told the estimated monthly amount, Kim exclaimed, "Per month? They give you that much?" Kim then called Ha-ha to ask for a favor — an introduction to a woman. "Set me up with someone," Kim said. "I am ready to meet someone." Ha-ha suggested that Kim visit the district office, joking that half the people at the kiosks there were women and that it could naturally lead to what Koreans call "jamanchoo" — pursuing chance encounters — drawing laughs.

Nov. 2, 2026

Choi Su-jong says last kiss with Ha Hee-ra was 'this morning'

Actor Choi Su-jong has once again shown why Choi is regarded as one of South Korea's most devoted husbands. Choi and fellow actor Ha Hee-ra will appear together on KBS 2TV's "Okdapbang-ui Munje-aduel," a TV quiz show, airing Tuesday. During the episode, Choi reflects on the four miscarriages Ha experienced and expresses gratitude toward her. "Watching Ha Hee-ra care for the babies even after each miscarriage, I always thought she was remarkable," Choi said. Choi added that he wants to do everything he can for Ha, explaining why he has continued to show affection over the years. Choi also surprised the show's hosts by revealing that the couple still share a morning kiss every day, even 33 years into their marriage. When asked when the last time was, Choi answered, "This morning." "I kiss Ha Hee-ra every morning," Choi said. "Today, too, I kissed Ha Hee-ra because Ha Hee-ra's profile looked so beautiful." Choi also revealed that holding Ha's hand while sleeping has become a habit since they married, and shared a recent anecdote about reaching for her hand. Choi and Ha married in 1993 and have a son and a daughter. The couple has long been regarded as one of the entertainment industry's most beloved pairs.

Nov. 2, 2026

Actor Lee Dong-gun explains why his Jeju cafe closed after 18 months

Actor Lee Dong-gun has spoken out about closing the cafe he operated on Jeju Island after roughly a year and a half. On Sunday's episode of the SBS variety program My Little Old Boy, Lee was shown visiting the new studio of space designer Yu Jeong-su alongside fellow actors Im Won-hee and Jo Jin-se. Yu introduced the studio, which is equipped with plants and a swimming pool, and opened up about the demands of maintaining it. "I spend all day cleaning and it never ends," Yu said. The conversation prompted Lee to reflect on running the cafe in Jeju. "The first thing I did when I got to the cafe was clean the pond," Lee said. When Im raised the subject — "I heard there were rumors your Jeju cafe went under" — Lee set the record straight. "I'm just preparing to move it to Seoul," Lee said. "I ran it on Jeju Island for almost a year and a half, but going back and forth turned out to be a lot harder than I expected." Lee added that the strain went beyond the commute. "I felt I was doing my best but still couldn't satisfy people, and that wore on me — so I talked it over with Yu," Lee said. "I decided I'd rather work harder somewhere closer, in Seoul, so I'm getting ready for that." Lee opened the cafe in Aewol-eup, Jeju Island, in April last year, but suspended operations in July this year for what he described as reorganization. Two months later, a different store moved into the space, making it clear the cafe had permanently closed. The sudden closure had fueled speculation, which Lee's comments on Sunday appeared to put to rest.

Nov. 2, 2026

Singer Shim Su-bong apologizes again at concert over remarks targeting Kim Da-hyun

Singer Shim Su-bong has again apologized over remarks targeting fellow singer Kim Da-hyun that sparked a public controversy. Shim issued the apology to the audience at the "2026 THE Shim Su-bong SHOW" nationwide tour concert held at Baekun Art Hall in Wonju on Saturday, according to Star Today. It was Shim's first official public appearance since the controversy erupted in September over remarks directed at Kim. Pausing mid-performance, Shim said the comments stemmed from personal shortcomings and expressed remorse. "They were words that should never have been said, and they came entirely from my own inadequacy and failings," Shim said. "I have spent this time in reflection and repentance, and I will continue to live with that attitude going forward." Shim also addressed Kim directly. "I know it must have been very difficult, but I hope you will pull yourself together and grow into a wonderful musician," Shim said, adding, "Above all, I will hold close in my heart the deep love of the audience and fans who came to my concert even amid all of this, and I will cherish it for a long, long time." The controversy began when Shim, performing at the 10th Jinan Highland Trot Music Festival in Jinan-gun, North Jeolla Province, on Sept. 20, made remarks about the singer who had performed just before taking the stage. "She seems like a young woman who doesn't know what singing is, or what life is," Shim said, adding, "Please don't put that performer on before me." Kim had been the act immediately preceding Shim that evening. As the backlash grew, Shim offered an initial apology, saying, "I did not know exactly who the singer before me was, and it was absolutely not said to embarrass any specific person." Shim acknowledged, however, that "it was clearly wrong of me, as a senior, to say something that would hurt a younger singer's feelings."

Nov. 2, 2026

T-ara's Soyeon announces pregnancy four years after marriage: 'I'm going to be a boy mom'

Soyeon, a former member of K-pop group T-ara, has announced a pregnancy with soccer player Jo Yu-min four years after their marriage. According to Sportv News, Soyeon shared the news Sunday on social media, saying she wanted to deliver "precious and joyful news" on the couple's fourth wedding anniversary. "Our baby will be born soon. I've actually been waddling around with a big belly," Soyeon wrote, sharing ultrasound photos. Soyeon also reflected on the difficult period Jo had endured. After their wedding, Jo spent four years chasing a second World Cup appearance after completing the first. "He made it onto the final roster for the 2026 World Cup, and just as we were about to celebrate, he had to return home after sustaining an injury during a group-stage match in the United States," Soyeon said. "While we were getting through the biggest trial of his career together, God gave us a precious life on a day we never expected. I think it was a miracle," Soyeon said, adding that she had been "grateful every day since learning of the baby's existence and enjoying this time with our little one." Soyeon added the hashtags "#YearOfTheSheepMom #BoyMom — that's me," confirming the baby is a boy. Soyeon married Jo, who is nine years her junior, in 2022.

Nov. 2, 2026

Cha Ye-ryun's agency denies school violence allegations as backlash spreads to family

School violence allegations against actress Cha Ye-ryun have spread beyond Cha herself, drawing in her husband, actor Joo Sang-wook, and the couple's family. On Sunday, Joo's social media accounts were flooded with comments demanding a response to the allegations against Cha or outright criticizing the couple. Online users wrote remarks such as "Looks like you married the wrong person — from debt fraud to school violence," "It seems like you were deceived into this marriage," "What would you do if your daughter got bullied?" and "Now I understand why your daughter is scared of her mom." Some online posts have gone so far as to mention the couple's young daughter. The controversy began with an exposé posted on an online community forum in recent weeks. The author claimed to have been repeatedly bullied and assaulted by an actress during middle school. Although no name was mentioned directly, clues including the actress's birth year and the school attended led online users to identify Cha as the person in question. In response, Cha's agency, HB Entertainment, shrugged off the allegations, saying an internal review had found them groundless. Despite the denial, additional claims continued to surface online from users identifying themselves as former classmates. Some alleged that Cha had belonged to a so-called "iljin" — a clique of school bullies — during her school years, and called on Cha to apologize to the alleged victim. Voices defending Cha also emerged. Another user who said they attended the same school said Cha "was not the kind of person who went around hitting or harassing anyone." No objective evidence verifying the claims in the exposé has been made public as of Monday. Cha married Joo in 2017 and gave birth to their daughter the following year.

Nov. 2, 2026

Actor Kim Gwang-gyu fulfills dream of owning Seoul home after 28 years

Actor Kim Gwang-gyu has fulfilled a dream 28 years in the making: owning a home in Seoul. Kim appeared Saturday on MBC's "Nol-myeon Mwo Hani?," a TV variety show. Kim opened up about plans that preceded the move. "About a year ago, I started thinking about opening a small noodle shop — the ingredients are cheap and I figured I could learn the recipes," Kim said. "Being alone at home makes me feel down, so I thought it would be nice to meet new people and talk." In response, Yoo Jae-suk turned to Heo Gyeong-hwan and said, "I don't know about others, but you should look after Gwang-gyu." Heo replied, "Can't you move somewhere nearby so it's easier for me to check on you?" Kim then revealed the move had already happened. "I moved. I took out a loan and bought a place — a fully older-build apartment," Kim said, disclosing the new address was in Yeonhui-dong. Yoo added, "Honestly, it would be great if Songdo were included in that area, but it's hard to come out there for schedules."

Nov. 2, 2026

Actor Park Ha-sun explains why she is leaving radio show after 6 years: 'I'm not quitting because I've grown to dislike it'

Actor Park Ha-sun has explained why she is stepping down from SBS Power FM's "Cinetown with Park Ha-sun" after six years as host. Park shared a handwritten letter on Instagram on Sunday, writing that the show Park had long wanted to host was "already approaching its sixth year" and that, while "truly heartbroken," Park had decided to "step away for now." Park said she had chosen to pause the live radio program because of a packed schedule: three regular variety shows, one seasonal variety program, an ongoing theater run and a drama series in production — with multiple additional projects lined up through next fall. "I'm not leaving because I've grown to dislike radio," Park wrote, adding that Park looked forward to meeting listeners again someday. "Until then, I'm setting down the DJ mic for now, but I'll keep working hard in a new form." After thanking the manager and production staff individually, Park addressed listeners — known as "Teriuses" — saying Park was grateful to everyone who had tuned in every day at 11 a.m. and offered warm words of comfort and encouragement both online and off. Agency says Park to focus on acting Blitzway Entertainment announced on Oct. 14 that Park had decided to leave the show after sufficient discussion with the production team in order to focus more on acting, Yonhap reported at the time. Cinetown launched in 1999 and airs daily from 11 a.m. to noon as a film music specialty program. Park took over as DJ on Nov. 2, 2020, and became known as the "Candy DJ" for a warm and candid hosting style. Park has also appeared recently in the stage production "Kkotui Bimil" and the variety show "Ihon Suryeo Kaempeu," a divorce-counseling reality program. News of Park's departure drew an outpouring of support in the comments, with fans writing messages such as "You worked so hard," "Six years of happiness for my ears," "Thank you for everything," and "I'll look forward to the day we meet again."

Nov. 1, 2026

Former Big Bang member T.O.P. apologizes as 20-year fan site shuts down

T.O.P. (Choi Seung-hyun), a former member of K-pop group Big Bang, said Sunday that the administrators of his fan site Choisunghyun.com "showed me more devoted love and support than anyone else over a long period of time, and were a great pillar of strength," as the site announced it would shut down after 20 years of operation. Choi made the remarks through an Instagram post, saying it had taken time to speak up because of the need to choose words carefully given the circumstances. "It's late, but I want to convey my sincere feelings directly," Choi said. "I want to express my heartfelt gratitude to the Choisunghyun.com team for the 20 years we spent together," Choi said. "Even in moments when I found it hard to believe in myself, they believed in me and always gave me the warmth and precious encouragement that allowed me to make music again." Choi added that the time and effort the team had poured into keeping the site going, along with the genuine support from fans, were things Choi would carry for life. "It is thanks to that strong support that I was able to get to where I am today," Choi said. Choi expressed hope that the team's dedication would not be obscured by misunderstandings or speculation, and that it would be remembered for what it truly was. "I know all too well that the attention and love you have given me are not things to be taken for granted, and I will carry that gratitude deep in my heart for the rest of my life," Choi said. Choi also offered a direct apology. "I sincerely apologize to the Choisunghyun.com administrators and fans who were misunderstood and hurt because of me," Choi said. Earlier, the Choisunghyun.com team announced on Oct. 10 through its Instagram account that it would cease operations. "We have concluded that we can no longer overlook T.O.P. and TOPSPOT PICTURES' disregard for reality, evasion of responsibility, and attitude of taking fans' dedication for granted," the statement read. The team added that fans' love and support were not something to be used when convenient and ignored when not. "If distortion of facts or malicious criticism and threats directed at us continue, we will not avoid them regardless of who is behind them. We will respond clearly, one by one, based on the materials and evidence we have kept," the statement said.

Nov. 1, 2026

Actor Kim Yong-gun explains why he could not attend late Choi Bool-am's funeral: 'Every day weighs on my heart'

Actor Kim Yong-gun, who played the eldest son to the late Choi Bool-am's father figure in the MBC drama series "Jeonwon Ilgi" (1980–2002), expressed deep regret over being unable to visit the funeral home for Choi, who died Thursday. "Next month there is a wedding in the family, and after hearing the sad news, while we were in the middle of preparations, I received calls from several people saying it would be better not to attend a funeral," Kim told Yonhap by phone. "I don't necessarily believe such things, but it weighed on my heart. It is hard to put into words how I feel about not being able to see him off." "When I heard the unexpected sad news, I should have rushed over immediately, but I could not — and every day since has weighed on my heart," Kim said. "It was no ordinary person. We spent so many years together as father and son, as sunbae and junior. I should have been there." Kim's son, actor Ha Jung-woo, is set to marry fellow actor Cha Jeong-won on Dec. 13. Those around Kim discouraged the visit to the funeral home, citing a folk belief that attending a funeral before one's own or a family member's wedding brings bad luck. "Even though I could not go in person, I prayed with all my heart," Kim said. "Just last night I prayed: 'Please go somewhere comfortable and rest well. I don't know when it will be, but I will follow you someday — please rest in peace, hyungnim.'" "Twenty-two years is a long time, but he was truly like an older brother, a sunbae, and a father to me," Kim said. "He was someone truly special to me." Kim also recalled visiting Choi in the hospital. "He told me, 'I'm in rehabilitation now, so let's meet soon — let's get a few people together and have a glass of soju,'" Kim said. "I told him, 'Of course, hyungnim — you have to get back on your feet.' But at some point I could no longer reach him. I thought he must be having a very hard time, and I just waited, hoping for good news." Choi Bool-am, widely celebrated as the nation's archetypal father figure, died Thursday night at a hospital in Gangseo-gu, Seoul, at the age of 87, while receiving inpatient treatment. After undergoing surgery for a herniated disc in March last year, Choi had difficulty moving around and stepped down from the KBS 1TV current affairs and culture program "Hansik Ilgi." Choi had since been working on rehabilitation, but the condition deteriorated sharply in recent weeks. The funeral is being held under the auspices of ChildFund Korea. A funeral committee has been formed with ChildFund Korea Chairman Hwang Young-ki serving as chair, and includes former Prime Ministers Lee Su-seong and Lee Nak-yeon, former lawmaker Hong Moon-jong, Father Kim Seong-eun, Han Il-su of the National Assembly Legislative Policy Research Institute, and Yang Ok-gyeong as representative director. 'Jeonwon Ilgi' cast mourns Tributes continued to pour in as fellow actors made their way to the funeral home. Actors Kim Hye-ja, Yoo In-chon, Ko Doo-shim and Im Ho were among those who paid their respects, joined by cast members from "Jeonwon Ilgi." Kim Ji-young and Nam Seong-jin, who played the characters Bokgil and Yeongnam respectively alongside Choi in the series, also attended. The two, who were a romantic couple in the drama, married in real life as well. "The late Choi was someone so precious and dear to us — it is heartbreaking to know we can never see him again," Kim Ji-young said. Nam Seong-jin said: "I hope people will remember him as a great elder who was a role model for everyone, who always shared warmth and looked after everyone with affection." Song Il-gook, who appeared in a minor role in "Jeonwon Ilgi" during the MBC talent days, also paid tribute. "For more than 40 years, the teacher stood by children in need and said that an actor's dignity is completed through the way one lives," Song said. "He showed us that through his own actions. I will work hard to carry on the teacher's warm heart and spirit of giving."

Nov. 1, 2026