Welcome to the Weekly Update – August 27 – September 2. After a quiet couple weeks, this week has an explosion of star-studded casting announcements. And in case you aren’t ready to let go of bright sun-shiny days, there were several new summer music videos this week. I hope you had a great week. Until next time, enjoy your kdrama and ramen!
Casting News
Song Kang Ho
After being the first Korean to win Best Actor at the Cannes International Film Festival, Song Kang Ho will be returning to the small screen for the first time in 32 years to appear in the upcoming life drama “Uncle Samsik”. The story follows 2 friends during the turbulent 1960’s, as they navigate the pitfalls of life and friendship together.
Jang Dong Yoon, Seol In Ah, and Chu Young Woo
Jang Dong Yoon, Seol In Ah, and Chu Young Woo will be starring together in the upcoming school drama “Oasis”. Set between 1980 and 1990, this “historical” drama follows 3 friends as they make their way through this tumultuous time in Korean history. “Oasis” will air some time in the first half of 2023.
Hyeri, Lee Jun Young, Song Duk Ho, Han Dong Hee, Tae In Ho, Lee Kyu Han, and Oh Dae Hwan
Hyeri, Lee Jun Young, Song Duk Ho, Han Dong Hee, Tae In Ho, Lee Kyu Han, and Oh Dae Hwan have all been confirmed to appear in the upcoming fantasy drama “Ildangbaek Butler”. A young man who runs an errand business gets mixed up with a funeral director who talks to the dead and works to grant their final wish. Together they will move and heaven and earth to help their customers. “Ildangbaek Butler” will be premiering in October.
Jang Keun Suk, Heo Sung Tae, Lee Elijah, Lee Sung Wook, Lee Seung Joon, Park Myung Hoon, Oh Yeon Ah, and Lee Won Jong
This loaded cast will all be appearing in the upcoming crime drama “Chronicle of Crime”. The 12 episode series will examine cold criminal cases that resurface as current investigations. “Chronicle of Crime” will premiere some time next year.
Celebrity News
Yoo Joo Eun
Actress Yoo Joo Eun passed away on August 29th at the age of 27. Her older brother shared the news with her fans through her Instagram account. Yoo Joo Eun starred in tvN’s “Big Forest” and TV Chosun’s “Joseon Survival Period.” May her friends and family find peace at this difficult time.
Music News
TEMPEST
Can’t Stop Shining
The rookie group Tempest is lighting it up in their new single “Can’t Stop Shining”. This bright pop track features light, layered vocals and lively synths to create a fun, uplifting vibe. The performance based MV has the group dancing through sparkling stages and sandy beaches.
Rocket Punch
Flash
Rocket Punch is ready for action in their new single “Flash”. This catchy electropop track gives a heavy bass beat that seems straight out of a dance club. The blend of melody and chant-like verses give the song a bit of interesting vocal variation. The MV picks up on the flash theme, as the band members strike a pose for the camera.
KEY
Gasoline
It’s time for SHINee’s KEY in his title track “Gasoline”. This hip-hop dance track is brash and edgy from start to finish. The deep bass beats accented by brass flourishes makes the song stomp and thump in all the right places while giving it a hint of mysterious otherworldliness. The MV shows KEY as some kind of god-like creature who seeks the worship and adoration of his people.
MAMAMOO+ (ft. BIG Naughty)
Better
MAMAMOO’s sub-unit, MAMAMOO+ made up of bandmates Moonbyul and Solar, are hitting the road in their debut single “Better”. This chill pop track features a guest rap break from fellow musician BIG Naughty. The minimalistic instrumentation allows the duos airy vocals to carry the light, upbeat mood of the song. The MV shows Moonbyul and Solar getting away for a road trip, where they pick up BIG Naughty on their way and the trio go to a run down old amusement park before taking him home.
Even of Day
Darling on the Beach
Following on the heels of ONF’s surprise release during their military enlistment, DAY6’s sub-unit Even of Day’s, has also released a pre-recorded anniversary song for their fans. This silly, pop rock track embraces the sound of summer in a last sunny hoorah. Vocally the song has plenty of melody and harmony to remind us of their strong group chemistry. The MV shows the trio at the beach as they compete for a mystery woman’s attention.
Billie
RING ma Bell (what a wonderful world)
Billie is going to another world in their new single “RING ma Bell”. The boistrous and enthusiastic stadium rock style track relies on bold, aggressive vocals and heavy guitar and percussion to pound the tune home. The MV shows the band in some dangerous alternate world where menacing masked enemies seem to have control.
Drama News
Alchemy of Souls
The wildly popular romantic fantasy drama “Alchemy of Souls” aired its finale on August 28th. The drama follows the twisted fates of a group of young mages as they master their skills and fulfill their destinies. The second part of this drama, made up of 10 more episodes, is set to air beginning on December 10th.