Sunday, August 16, 2026

Kim Jaejoong recently revealed a darker side to growing up handsome.

On August 15, Kim Jaejoong made a guest appearance on the Youtube channel 'Kkondaedaehee.' During the episode, when Kim Daehee asked, "You've been handsome since you were young, right?" Jaejoong replied, "No," and added, "I was cute as a baby, but I became kind of ugly in middle school."

Jaejoong continued, "My face started looking better after I entered high school. I never really went through any particularly noticeable changes during puberty," before recalling:

"Life was too hard for me to even notice puberty." 

 

Jaejoong shared that his teenage years were filled with struggles and targeted bullying from older students. He recalled, "I kept wondering, 'Why did they hit me so much?'," and added:

"During my school years, the older kids would always pick on kids who were pale or looked different from them. If you didn't look down, they would drag you into back alleys."

Furthermore, Jaejoong shared a specific incident when older students targeted him: "They tricked me by saying that a pretty girl liked me. They told me to follow them to the rooftop."

These experiences eventually affected the way Jaejoong carried himself. He revealed, "I have a forward-head posture because I spent so much time walking around while looking at the ground to avoid making eye contact," and added, "I would even take long detours between home and school to avoid running into them."

Because of the trauma he went through while growing up due to his noticeable appearance, Jaejoong admitted:

"I really root for people who are naturally good-looking. There are a lot of difficult things that can come with it. It can be inconvenient."

He added, "People around you are constantly taking photos. You can't always eat however you want, and you have to manage your facial expressions while eating." 

Kim Jaejoong Opens Up About the Dark Side of Growing Up Handsome

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Former NewJeans member Danielle recently made a rare public appearance in South Korea by participating in a marathon charity run held to commemorate Liberation Day.

On August 15, posts and videos of Danielle running near World Park in Sangam-dong, Mapo-gu, Seoul for the '2026 815 Run' quickly spread across social media. One fan who shared a video wrote, "Danielle crossed the finish line at today's run."

The 815 Run is an annual charity run organized by Habitat for Humanity Korea to mark Liberation Day while raising money to improve the living conditions of descendants of Korean independence activists. Participants run an 8.15 km course, with all registration fees and corporate sponsorships going directly toward housing projects for these families.

This marks Danielle's second time joining the event, following her participation in the event last year. Singer Sean previously revealed that Danielle reached out to him the day before the run to express her support for the cause before completing the 8.15 km course.

Danielle has also taken part in international running events. Last month, she competed in the China Airlines Half Marathon in Australia, finishing the 21.0975 km race with an impressive time of 1 hour, 49 minutes, and 13 seconds.

Her rare appearance comes amid an ongoing legal dispute with her former agency, ADOR. Back in December 2025, ADOR officially terminated Danielle's exclusive contract while filing a damages lawsuit against her, one of her family members, and former ADOR CEO Min Heejin, seeking approximately 33 billion KRW (around $23 million) in compensation.

During the fourth hearing held on July 23, the two sides continued to clash over how damages from the group's hiatus should be calculated. ADOR argued that revenue losses caused by all five members pausing their activities should be included in the claim. On the other hand, Danielle's side argued that she should not be held responsible for losses caused by the other members' inactivity.

The court has also started a formal financial appraisal process, with the first report scheduled to be submitted by September 10.

Former NewJeans Member Danielle Spotted at the Liberation Day Charity Run


Actress Hayoung, who has recently been identified as a descendant of a pro-Japanese collaborator, is reportedly facing a difficult situation while filming SBS' upcoming drama 'There Is a Chance of Winning.'

According to a report from MyDaily on the 16th, Hayoung is continuing to film the drama set to air next February despite the contorvesy surrounding her great-grandfather's alleged pro-Japanese ties.

The situation escalated during filming on August 13, when Hayoung reportedly broke down in tears and was unable to control her emotions on set. Ultimately, filming was forced to pause temporarily. She had to take several hours to rest and compose herself before returning to finish filming.

The controversy first surfaced on August 10, just one day before Hayoung’s birthday. The production team had originally prepared a birthday cake for her on August 11, but the celebration was quietly canceled following the controversy. 

This naturally leaves SBS in a difficult spot. With nearly 90% of filming complete and ten of billions of KRW already invested in the drama, replacing the lead actress is nearly out of the question. Accordingly, SBS has not changed its decision regarding her casting. The broadcasting station previously stated:

"We are aware of the issue and are closely monitoring how the situation develops. If there are any developments to share in the future, we will let you know."

However, SBS cannot simply ignore the public sentiment either. The drama is scheduled to premiere in February 2027, around the time of March 1st Independence Movement Day. Furthermore, because 'There Is a Winning Chance' is a remake of a Japanese drama, there are concerns that the controversy surrounding Hayoung's great-grandfather could draw more criticism and pottentionally affect advertising deals.

Moreover, reports that Hayoung 'cried on set' and 'was emotionally shaken' might backfire. While the public can understand her emotional distress, forcing a high-budget production to halt creates new issues. Rather than generating sympathy, these reports could spark further backlash for causing trouble for the crew.

The controversy itself centers on her great-grandfather, Ahn Sangho, who worked as a doctor during the Japanese colonial era and has been accused as a pro-Japanese collaborator.

Things became even more controversial after attention was turned to Kim Yongsook's 1983 historical book, 'A Study of Court Customs in the Joseon Dynasty.' The book describes Ahn Sangho's wife as 'the daughter of a Japanese general serving under the Japanese Government-General of Korea at the time.'

Meanwhile, some of Hayoung's commercial endorsements and media appearances are already taking a hit. Promotional videos featuring the actress for an electronics brand and a clothing brand have been set to private, while an episode of KBS' 'Problem Child in House' where she discussed her great-grandfather has also been removed from its VOD services. Pre-shot promotional content for her upcoming Netflix series 'Our Sticky Love' is also reportedly unlikely air.

Hayoung Reportedly Breaks Down in Tears on Set Amid Great-Grandfather Controversy

Saturday, August 15, 2026

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EXID's Hyelin has revealed that she is currently running a taco restaurant in Anguk, Seoul.

On August 14, the Youtube channel 'Human Story' uploaded a video titled 'Why EXID's Hyelin, a Former Top Girl Group Member, Now Works at a Restaurant."

In the video, she introduced herself, saying, "I'm Hyelin, the lead vocalist of EXID. These days, I'm working as a DJ and doing musicals. I'm also the owner of a taco restaurant in Anguk." 

When the production team asked whether she had quit being an idol, Hyelin simply replied, "No, I haven't." She revealed that she is still active in the entertainment industry while taking on the restaurant business as a side venture.

Hyelin explained that the idea came partly due to the unstable income that comes with working in the entertainment industry. She shared:

"With broadcasting, there are seasons when you're active, but it's not a job where you can always work. The income isn't consistent either, so it made me feel anxious."

She added, "While looking for a way to have a more stable life, I naturally got into the restaurant business because I've always liked food and restaurants." She also explained why she chose tacos, saying, "I didn't know anything at first, so I couldn't just start on my own. I got connected with a taco brand owner through a gathering. That's how we ended up starting this business together."

Hyelin was also pretty open about the numbers. She revealed, "The sales fluctuate, but on average, we make around 140 million KRW (around $98,800) a month." She continued, "After taking out all expenses, I get about 40 million KRW (around $28,200). But it's too much for me to manage everything alone, so I'm running the restaurant with help."

But for Hyelin, this is not just about having another source of income. She admitted, "Honestly, all I've ever done until now is dance and sing. I was worried, thinking, 'What am I gonna do for a living if I can't be an idol anymore?'". She continued, "So this challenge gives me hope that says, 'Hyelin-ah, you can do other things too.' It feels like I'm discovering something new about myself, and that makes me happy."

EXID's Hyerin Opens Up About Her New Career as a Taco Restaurant Owner

Former Cheongju City Council member Choi Youngjung has had his detention extended by prosecutors following accusations of having sexual relations with a minor and producing sexually exploitative material.

On August 14, the Cheongju District Prosecutors' Office extended Choi Youngjung's detention, moving his release deadline from August 15 to August 25. He is facing multiple charges, including statutory rape of a minor and Violations of the Act on the Protection of Children and Youth Against Sexual Abuse. 

Prosecutors reportedly requested the extension because they determined that they needed more time to look into possible additional offenses and further establish the existing charges. 

Before officially charging him during this extended time, prosecutors plan to conduct a second forensic examination on the phone Choi Youngjung voluntarily submitted following the police search. 

So far, police have identifired two victims, with no additional victims confirmed so far. Working separately from prosecutors, police are looking into other possible crimes. They plan to forward any case files to prosecutors if further victims or charges are found. 

According to police, Choi Youngjung is accused of having sexual relations with a middle-school student on three occasion over one year, starting in October 2024, including in a vehicle and at a motel. He is also accused of asking the victim to take and send nude photographs. 

Furthermore, Choi Youngjung also allegedly offered the victim extra money if she brought along a friend or older sister, showed her a video of himself having sexual relations with another woman, and had sexual conversations with her, including sending messages that appeared to suggest having sexual relations with a woman of another nationality together.

He is also accused of committing a sex crime against another minor around the same period.

The case grew after police found photographs of a woman in what appeared to be a school uniform on the phone that Choi Youngjung voluntarily turned in. Suspecting she might be another victim, police searched his council office, home, and other locations on July 15. 

Choi Youngjung is also suspected of trying to destroy evidence, including replacing his phone while under investigation and deleted some data from the results of a private forensic examination of the phone he had voluntarily submitted after the search. 

Meanwhile, Choi Youngjung has denied all accusations, saying, "I did have sexual relations with her, but I did not know she was a minor."

Former City Council Member Faces Extended Detention Over Sex Crimes Against Minors

Friday, August 14, 2026

Actress Ji Yeeun, who is currently in a public relationship, opened up about her views on dating and marriage. 

On August 12, Youtube channel 'Okikiㅇㅋㅋ' posted a video titled 'The Traits of Someone Who Imagines a Situationship Alone,' where Ji Yeeun, Gabi, Kinky, and Junbbang Jogyo discussed various aspects of love, relationships, and breakups. 

During the chat, the group talked about whether they ever mistake basic kindness for romantic interest. Ji Yeeun honestly admitted, "I do it all the time. If someone is slightly nice to me, I wonder, 'Does he like me?'" When asked how far her imagination runs when she takes an interest in someone, she replied, "I only picture us actually dating."

Despite her active imagination, Ji Yeeun admitted that she remains passive when expressing her feelings. She confessed, "I can't say anything. I can't even show that I like them. I don't do anything." When Gabi asked how she had managed relationships in the past, she replied, "That's why it takes me a very long time. The other person has to approach me first. I'm shy, and I also have quite a bit of pride."

When Gabi asked, "If you start dating someone, do you imagine getting married?" Ji Yeeun replied:

"If we're dating, then yes. But it has to be after some time. I don't date someone with marriage in mind in the first place."

Her answer revealed her approach to relationships. Rather than dating with marriage as the immediate goal from day one, she prefers to take her time to properly get to know her partner first, balancing the thrill of new romance with a realistic pace. 

Meanwhile, Ji Yeeun is currently dating dancer Vata. Both born in 1994, the two originally met through church and initially became friends before developing a romantic relationship. 

When dating rumors surfaced in April, Ji Yeeun's agency confirmed the news, stating, "The two, who were previously colleagues, are now seeing each other with positive feelings. We ask for your warm support as they continue their relationship."

Ji Yeeun Opens Up About Her Honest Approach to Dating and Marriage

Thursday, August 13, 2026

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IVE’s Jang Wonyoung caught fans' attention after sharing a strict personal routine she sticks to after every performance, no matter how tired she is.

Jang Wonyoung shared this information in a recently uploaded video on IVE’s official Youtube channel, titled 'Jang Wonyoung: Lie-Down Interview.' In the video, which was filmed after completing a concert in Montreal, she took her time to answer questions from fans while lying down.


When asked about her post-performance routine, Jang Wonyoung shared her strict hygiene habits before resting or having a meal. She revealed, "First, I come back to the hotel and go straight to the bathroom. I cleanse my face thoroughly and take a shower for almost an hour," and added:
"I’m the type of person who can’t feel satisfied unless my body is 100% clean, so I wash myself again and again and scrub. I consider showering time important."

She also pointed out, "Honestly, even lying down on the bed right after a concert like I’m doing now is something I normally wouldn’t do, but I lay down just this once for DIVEs."

She went on and shared, "Once I become fragrant again, that's when I'll check my phone or have a meal. Some people get hungry after a concert and eat first, but I’m not like that," and added:
"I absolutely need to feel clean before I can do anything else."

Meanwhile, IVE recently concluded the North American run of their world tourwith a finale at Rogers Arena in Vancouver, Canada, on August 9. Keeping up their momentum, IVE will resume tour activities across Asia starting in September.

IVE's Jang Wonyoung Reveals She Showers for an Hour After Every Concert

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JYP Entertainment has officially announced that Gunil is leaving Xdinary Heroes and ending his contract with the agency.

On August 13, JYP Entertainment released a statement addressing the sudden decision, saying, "Regarding the recent issue involving Gunil, we are deeply aware of the seriousness of the situation and have had long discussions with the artist." They continued:
"As a result, we determined that it would be difficult for him to continue participating in the group's activities. We have mutually agreed to terminate his exclusive contract. As of today, Gunil has left Xdinary Heroes and will be concluding his activities with the group. We sincerely apologize for bringing such sudden and concerning news.

While JYP Entertainment referred it as a 'recent matter,' the issue comes from online claims made by an individual identified as A, who claimed to be Gunil's ex-girlfriend.

Based on her posts and a leaked phone call recording, A claimed that Gunil cursed at his fans every single day when they were together and that his on-screen personality is completely different to how he acts in real life. The controversy mainly centers on the claims of him badmouthing his fans off-camera. However, these are one-sided allegations from A and have not been proven true.


Following Gunil's departure, Xdinary Heroes will now move forward as a five-member band.
To reassure fans, JYP Entertainment stated, "We will fully support the remaining members so they can focus on their music in a stable environment."

Gunil Leaves Xdinary Heroes and JYP Entertainment Amid Recent Controversy

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SHINee's Onew and his agency, Griffin Entertainment, have responded to allegations involving unlicensed medical treatment.

On the evening of August 12, Griffin Entertainment issued a statement clarifying, "In the past, Onew visited a hospital after being introduced by an acquaintance and received treatment for the purpose of skincare." They added:
"At the time, Onew believed the individual in question was a licensed doctor or a medical professional at the hospital. There were no circumstances that would have led him to question the validity of the person’s medical license or the legality of the treatment procedures."
The agency's response was released after the Seoul Gangnam Police Station questioned Onew as a suspect for allegedly violating the Medical Service Act.


Investigators are currently looking into how Onew received medical treatment from a woman identified as A, who did not hold a valid medical license. The main point of the investigation is to determine whether Onew was aware that A didn't have a valid medical license when he received the treatment.

 Meanwhile, police are also investigating A for running a major illegal medical operation. She is accused of administering IV drips and prescribing medication to celebrities in private places like apartments and cars, without a medical license. The allegations surfaced after former managers of TV personality Park Narae exposed the situation.

 Following those initial reports, authorities banned A from leaving the country late last year, executed a search and seizure warrant at her residence, and brought her in for formal questioning in February. Since then, police have questioned multiple celebrities as suspects, including Park Narae, SHINee's Key and Onew, TV personality Jeon Hyunmoo, and Youtuber Picky Eater Haetnim, to determine if they were aware that A wasn't a licensed medical professional.


 Onew was first questioned by police about the situation back in May. During the interview, he explained the facts fully and cooperated completely with law enforcement.

Griffin Entertainment previously addressed this matter when the claims first surfaced last December. The agency explained that Onew had visited the hospital where A worked in April 2022 through a friend's recommendation. They pointed out that given the size and professional look of the facility at the time, it was almost impossible for Onew to suspect anything illegal was going on.

As the police investigation continues, Griffin Entertainment repeated Onew's consistent statement. They maintained that Onew went in purely for standard skin treatment and was completely unaware of any medical law violations. The agency also strongly asked the media and fans to avoid spreading false rumors and unverified speculation until official police results are revealed. 

SHINee's Onew Responds After Being Questioned by Police Over Unlicensed Medical Treatment