Welcome to the Weekly Update – May 20 – 26. One short mini-drama premiered this week and I’m always happy to see Rain’s name show up in the casting news. Don’t forget to check out the charmingly sweet debut of Zico’s first group under the KOZ label, BOYNEXTDOOR. I hope you had a great week. Until next time, enjoy your kdrama and ramen.
Military News
Seo Kang Joon
On May 22nd, former idol and actor Seo Kang Joon officially finished his military service. Seo Kang Joon enlisted in November of 2021 and spent his time serving in the army. Rumor has it that the popular actor has been flooded with offers for new projects now that he is home. It seems likely that fans will be able to see him on the small screen very soon. Welcome home, Seo Kang Joon. You were missed!
Kim Jae Hyun
N.Flying’s Kim Jae Hyun officially began his military training on May 25th. Following his time in basic training, the singer will serve as a public service worker for the remainder of his service obligation. While fans are obviously sad to see him go, the good news is that Kim Jae Hyun is the final member of N.Flying to enlist, which means, upon his return the group will be back together for good. Be safe and hurry home, Kim Jae Hyun. You will be missed!
Casting News
Rain And Kim Ha Neul
Rain And Kim Ha Neul will be starring together in the upcoming Disney + action romance drama “Scandal of Hwain Family” . A former golf pro marries into a wealthy family and becomes the chairperson of one of the family’s charitable foundations. But when she is assigned a bodyguard, she becomes curious about what kind of family she has actually married into. “Scandal of Hwain Family” will air some time later this year.
Music News
ENHYPEN
Bite Me
ENHYPEN is looking for someone to save them in their new title track “Bite Me”. This funky pop track has a sleek, layered melodic style that is a bit different from a lot of the group’s other music, but there are still bits of the group’s familiar sound laced throughout. The MV continues with the group’s popular vampire concept. The darker tones and use of strong imagery fit perfectly with this “spooky” theme.
JOOHONEY
FREEDOM
MONSTA X’S Joohoney is flying free in his new single “FREEDOM”. This powerful anthemic track blends ballad, rap, and dance pop music to showcase the singer’s versatility. The lyrics are meant to express the frustrations and limitations of being an idol, as well as the sense of freedom that comes with maturity and experience. The MV also gives a visual representation of that journey from a dark cage to an endless staircase to the sky.
BOYNEXTDOOR
But I Like You
The first group debuted under Zico’s personal label KOZ Entertainment have finally released their first single. “But I Like You” is BOYNEXTDOOR’s pre-release single ahead of their album, set to drop on May 30. This sweet pop track has a fun, upbeat punk feel. The group’s vocal energy and charm carry the track along. The MV shows each of the member’s crushing on the same girl, as each one tries to figure out who it is she really likes.
KARD
ICKY
KARD gets intense with their new title track “ICKY”. This pop dance track has a catchy Latin Beat and some intersting trap elements. Vocally, this co-ed quartet has cornered an intersting section of K-Pop and this song continues to cater to that unique strength. The MV shows the group being lured into the lair of a terrifying monster in the body of singer Jiwoo.
Jay Park (ft. Zion T)
Candy
Jay Park is trying to fight his addiction in his newest single “Candy”. Collaborating with rapper Zion T, this breezy pop track has a light, simple melody that will have you singing along. The fun MV shows a time when candy has become illegal. But Jay Park continues to eat in secret until he is discovered by the authorities. The MV also features OH MY GIRL’s YooA as Jay Park’s love interest.
LE SSERAFIM
Eve, Psyche, & The Bluebeard’s Wife
LE SSERAFIM is a mess in their B-side single “Eve, Psyche, & The Bluebeard’s Wife”. This synth-heavy dance track relies on the hypnotic sounds of the 90’s. The intense energy gives the song a club feeling, while the MV is mostly based on intricate choreography and mesmerizing movements.
Dreamcatcher
BONVOYAGE
Dreamcatcher finishes their endless journey in their new title track “BONVOYAGE. This theatrical progressive rock track builds toward a high-energy finish that is vocally and visually explosive. This album finishes off the group’s Apocalypse trilogy. The MV shows the group finding hope and blooming flowers among the cement jungle of a dystopian city.
Drama News
One Day Off
The life drama “One Day Off” premiered on May 24th. This short drama consists of 8 30 minute episodes and follows a Korean Literature teacher at a local high school who spends her Saturdays going on day trips. During her travels, she will meet interesting new friends, taste great food, and see the beatiful sights that await in her own backyard.
Joseon Attorney: A Morality
The historical legal drama “Joseon Attorney: A Morality” ended on May 20th. A lawyer with greedy intentions somehow becomes a hero among the common people he serves. And as he experiences the kindness and gratitude of his clients, he begins to change his own perspectives on justice.
True to Love
The Amazon Prime rom-com “True to Love” finished airing on May 25th. A romantic novelist who sees herself as a coach for life and love becomes involved with a planner at her publishing company. But he isn’t interested in her or her coaching. At least that is what he keeps telling himself!