Steve Yoo's fans push to end 20-year entry banFans of singer Yoo Seung-jun, also known as Steve Yoo, have once again called on President Lee Jae-myung to lift the performer’s long-standing ban from entering South Korea. In a statement released on Aug. 12 through the DC Inside online community’s “Yoo Seung-jun Gallery,” fans argued that the spirit of forgiveness and reconciliation, promoted during the Liberation Day special pardons, should be applied to all citizens equally. Referring to recent high-profile pardons, the statement read, “Those who disrupted the fairness of college admissions with forged documents, and those who misused donations intended for comfort women survivors for personal purposes — betraying the trust of victims and donors — have been pardoned and reinstated under the banner of national unity. We are not criticizing these decisions, but asking for the same principles and values to be applied equally to all.” The remarks appeared to reference former Justice Minister Cho Kuk and former lawmaker Yoon Mee-hyang, who were included in the latest Liberation Day pardon list. Cho was convicted in DecembAug 13, 2025By Xportsnews
Sean shares morning run photo with NewJeans’ Danielle, Park Bo-gumNewJeans member Danielle is in full training mode for her first running competition. On Monday, singer and philanthropist Noh Seung-hwan, also known as Sean, posted on his personal account, “Unknown Crew early morning run. With Bo-gum, Danielle, and coach Lee Yeon-jin, the 8.15 km was over in the blink of an eye. Running together is so much fun.” He added, “Even during his Asia fan meeting tour, Bo-gum comes out to run whenever he has free time. Danielle is so into running now that I’m looking forward to her first race this fall.” In the photo, Sean, actor Park Bo-gum and Danielle pose for a post-run snapshot. Their flushed faces and sweaty appearance showed the effort they put in during the session. Danielle’s passion for running had been shared by Sean before, and recently she confirmed her participation in an upcoming race, drawing attention from fans. Meanwhile, NewJeans is currently in a legal dispute with its agency, ADOR. Following a court decision to grant ADOR’s injunction request to maintain its status as the group’s management company and block advertising contrAug 13, 2025By Xportsnews
ASTRO’s Cha Eun-woo wows in uniform as military training photos surfaceASTRO member and actor Cha Eun-woo’s life in military training has been revealed, sparking buzz online. On Wednesday, the Army Training Center’s official website released recent photos of Cha, who enlisted late last month. In the images, he sits in perfect posture while wearing his uniform, exuding a dignified presence. Even in fatigues, his sharp features stood out, living up to his nickname of “face genius.” Fans who saw the update left playful comments. “He looks like a model in anything,” “It’s like a movie scene,” “Looking forward to his military drama filmography,” “Feels like he went to shoot a K-drama” and “Discharge him immediately," they wrote. His fellow ASTRO members have also shared tidbits about his time in training. “On Saturday, Eun-woo suddenly messaged our group chat asking MJ how he got through (military service) and telling us to save him. Even with his good stamina, it must be tough. But it seems like he’s adapting well," band member Yoon San-ha recently said on a fan communication platform, hinting at the intensity of the training. ChaAug 13, 2025By Xportsnews
BTS’ V shares quirky sleep thoughts and melatonin habit after military serviceBTS member V has shared an update on his life after completing his mandatory military service. On Aug. 11, fashion magazine W Korea uploaded a video on its YouTube channel titled “First reveal! V’s cherished items he brought all the way to Paris. The story behind BTS’ V crying at J-Hope’s concert.” In the clip, V introduced the personal items he carries in his bag. Taking out digestive medicine, he said, “I tend to eat in a hurry, so I often get indigestion. I take this whenever that happens.” Speaking about melatonin, V said, “During my military service, when the lights went out at 10 p.m., I would sleep really well. After my discharge, having the freedom to go to bed whenever I want, I end up sleeping late. If I re-enlisted and had to sleep at 10 p.m., I think I could. Seeing how I can’t sleep like this in society, I think it’s that I’m choosing not to sleep.” When asked about his own routine for a good night’s sleep, V said, “Close my eyes and think about nothing,” but then admitted, “All sorts of thoughts come to mind. I tend to overthink. Recently, I wAug 13, 2025By Xportsnews
Korean rock icon Kim Tae-won denied US visa — is it really 40-year-old marijuana charges keeping him out?Rocker Kim Tae-won has been denied a U.S. visa, thwarting his plan to attend his daughter’s wedding in America. The Monday episode of TV Chosun’s “Chosun’s Real Romantic” showed Kim’s second attempt to secure a U.S. visa. Ahead of the interview, he practiced with a lawyer, simulating possible questions. Kim was caught twice — in 1987 and 1991 — for marijuana use, making it difficult for him to enter the U.S. The lawyer, however, told him the marijuana record was “not a direct reason” for refusal. “The U.S. often forgives such offenses after enough time has passed. The real problem may have been your interview attitude,” the lawyer said, encouraging Kim to prepare thoroughly. Kim had planned the trip to attend the wedding of his daughter, Seohyun. The ceremony could not be held in Korea due to the groom’s mother suffering a stroke. While other members of Kim’s band, Boohwal, had met Seohyun and her fiancé Devin during a U.S. tour, Kim has yet to meet his future son-in-law. On the day of the visa interview, Kim brought glasses instead of sunglasses and reviewedAug 12, 2025By Xportsnews
'Brighter than the sun’: BLACKPINK celebrates 9th anniversary with heartfelt messages and unreleased photosBLACKPINK marked their ninth debut anniversary, Aug. 8, with loving messages, nostalgic photos, and a show of deep appreciation for fans. Jennie shared on her personal social media, “9 years together with these beautiful ladies,” while Jisoo wrote, “Already 9 years old,” reflecting on the group’s journey since their debut in 2016. Rosé expressed her emotions more poetically: “Tonight we turned nine. We’re setting the world on fire and shining brighter than the sun. Happy 9th anniversary to the members and to BLINK. I love you so much it almost hurts.” Lisa added, “Thank you BLINK for being a part of our world. Happy 9th anniversary. Love you, JenChuLiChaeng,” referring to the members’ nicknames. To mark the occasion, the members released previously unreleased group photos, much to the delight of fans, and left heart emojis on each other’s posts, showcasing their continued bond and friendship. BLACKPINK debuted in August 2016 with the hit single “Whistle,” and quickly rose to global fame with a string of smash hits including “Playing with Fire,” “BoombayaAug 9, 2025By Xportsnews
Fans bite staff, cancel flights: BTS’s V, NCT speak out on growing crowd chaosA growing number of incidents involving unruly fan behavior at public events are raising safety concerns and drawing criticism — not just from bystanders, but also from the idols themselves. On Aug. 6, 80 contestants from Mnet’s “Boys 2 Planet” performed their signal song “Hola Solar” during a break at the Doosan-LG baseball game at Seoul’s Jamsil Baseball Stadium. However, the crowd's attention quickly turned from the stage to the audience, as some fans engaged in disruptive behavior. According to eyewitness accounts and videos circulating online, certain fans ignored their assigned seats, crossed over safety barriers to film up close, and crowded the performance area — actions that risked potential accidents. One report even alleged that a fan bit a safety officer during the chaos, while others forced security staff to the ground. After the performance, large groups exited without cleaning up their trash, further fueling criticism. This is not an isolated case. Airports have long been plagued by similar disorder during celebrity arrivals and departures. The large crowdAug 9, 2025By Xportsnews
Retired golf star Pak Se-ri recalls dating Hong Kong tycoon heirRetired golf star Pak Se-ri has confirmed past dating rumors involving the son of a Hong Kong billionaire, revealing new details during a recent television appearance. On the Wednesday episode of the tvN STORY program “Table Tales,” Pak joined special guest Jang Seo-hee and fellow panelists Hwang Chi-yeul, Park Ji-hyun and Kim Poong. Pak shared candid memories of her past relationships during the show. When asked about her dating life, she said, “I had someone throughout my time as a professional golfer,” drawing attention with her honesty. “At the height of my career, when I wasn’t doing well in tournaments, people would gossip and say, ‘She’s distracted by romance,’ and I hated that,” she explained. “Even though I was in a relationship, I couldn’t do simple things like hold hands in public. But if I had a boyfriend now, I’d hold hands and walk around freely.” The conversation soon turned to a high-profile dating rumor that once linked her to the heir of one of the world’s top 20 richest families. Pak acknowledged the relationship with a smile. “He was verAug 7, 2025By Xportsnews
Park Bom suspends 2NE1 activities due to medical advice calling for restSinger Park Bom has announced a temporary suspension of her activities with 2NE1. On Wednesday, her agency, D-Nation Entertainment, posted an official statement on social media. “We inform you that Park Bom will not be participating in 2NE1’s upcoming activities,” it said. The agency explained that the decision was made after medical professionals advised Park that she needed more rest. “After long discussions, we have made this unavoidable decision,” it said. “We ask fans for their warm support for Park Bom’s recovery,” the agency added. “We would also appreciate your encouragement for Sandara Park, CL and Gong Minzy, who will do their best to ensure Park’s absence is not felt.” Park has recently faced a string of online controversies, including speculation over her changing appearance and public scrutiny related to her weight loss and rebound. Meanwhile, the remaining three members of 2NE1 are scheduled to perform without Park at Waterbomb Bali 2025 this September in Indonesia. This article from Xportsnews is translated by a generative AI system and edited by The KoAug 6, 2025By Xportsnews
As One's Lee Min dies suddenly at 46Lee Min, a member of the female R&B duo As One, has died unexpectedly at the age of 46. According to music industry sources on Wednesday, Lee was found dead at her home on Tuesday afternoon. A representative from her agency, Brand New Music, confirmed the news to the Hankook Ilbo. “It is true that Lee Min has passed away,” it said. “The police are currently investigating the exact circumstances. The company is also still trying to understand the situation." Born in 1978, Lee Min was a Korean American who debuted in 1999 with As One’s first album “Day by Day.” The duo gained popularity with hit songs such as “Want and Resent,” “Day by Day,” “You’re Welcome” and “Do You Have to Be Sorry.” She had remained active until recently, releasing new single “Happy Birthday To You” as part of As One this past June, and appearing on KBS2’s “The Seasons: Park Bo-gum’s Cantabile.” News of her death has shocked fans, with tributes pouring in across social media. This article from the Hankook Ilbo, the sister publication of The Korea Times, is translated by a geneAug 6, 2025By Hankookilbo
