Welcome to the Weekly Update – April 6 – 12. Two new dramas started up this week, and “Lovely Runner” in particular, seems to have peaked fans’ interests. Though there weren’t a lot of new music videos this week, there were some fun and unique new songs that are definitely worth a listen. I hope you had a great week. Until next time, enjoy your kdrama and ramen!
Casting News
Han Ye Ri and Chae Won Bin
Han Ye Ri and Chae Won Bin will join Han Suk Kyu in the upcoming psychological thriller “Such a Close Traitor”. The drama tells the story of a top profiler who uncovers a disturbing secret about his own daughter while investigating a murder case. Chae Won Bin will play the mysterious high school student who is the profilers daughter while Han Ye Ri will portray a police officer from the Criminal Behavior Analysis team. “Such a Close Traitor” will air some time later this year.
Choi Siwon, Jung In Sun, Lee Tae Hwan, and Jung Yoo Jin
Choi Siwon, Jung In Sun, Lee Tae Hwan, and Jung Yoo Jin will star in the upcoming romantic comedy “DNA Lover”. The story revolves around a genetic researcher who has made it her life’s work to discover her soulmate through genetic testing. But so far, she has only found herself in failed relationships. “DNA Lover” is scheduled to premiere June 1st.
Celebrity News
Park Bo Ram
Singer Park Bo Ram passed away on April 11th. Park Bo Ram debuted in 2014 and was in the process of preparing for a comeback to mark her 10th anniversary at the time of her death. She took part in several drama OSTs during the course of her short career. Her shocking death, after fainting at a social event, left many of her peers in the industry heartbroken. We wish her friends and family comfort during this difficult time.
Music News
DKZ
Like a Movie
DKZ dream of going to a sandy beach far away in their new single “Like a Movie”. This cheerful pop track is sweet and simple. Stripped back guitar allows the melodic vocals to be at the center. This kind of youthful boy band sound has seen a resurgence in K-Pop lately, with groups like TWS buidling their sound on the style. The MV shows the members recieving a mysterious book in the mail that transports them on the vacation of their dreams.
Rolling Quartz
Stand Up
Korean rock group Rolling Quartz drop the beat and repeat in their new single “Stand Up”. This glam rock track features thumping percussion and gritty electric guitar. The vocals are edgy with just a touch of tough grittiness. The enpowering lyrics and MV encourage fans to face their challenges and rise above their advensities.
EPEX
Youth2Youth
EPEX looks into their hearts for their new single “Youth2Youth”. This anthemic pop track is emotional and encouraging, as the lyrics celebrate the spirit of youth. The melodic chorus builds from just the band to a full back-up choir, giving it momentum and heartfelt energy. The MV shows the members dancing through the city, even as everything bursts into flames around them.
WOOAH
BLUSH
WOOAH doesn’t want to be woken up from their dream in their new digital single “BLUSH”. This chill pop track follows groups like New Jeans and IVE, to create a quiet, understated sound built on groovy, rhythmic beats and minimal drum and bass. The gorgeous MV features a colorful palette of clothes and elegant backdrops.
ONF
Bye My Monster
ONF suffers sleepless nights in their new title track “Bye My Monster”. This dramatic pop track combines delicate classical sounds, rooted in a sampling of Rachmaninoff’s Symphony No.2, with a heavier rock guitar chorus. The result is dynamic and compelling. The MV shows the members as they wage a war between their angelic selves and the monsters they are destined to become.
Drama News
Lovely Runner
The romantic fantasy drama “Lovely Runner” premiered on April 8th. A devoted fan is devasted to learn that her favorite idol has died. But a miraculous twist of fate takes her 15 years into the past, where she will have a chance to save the life of her favorite singer.
Blood Free
The Hulu sci-fi drama “Blood Free” started airing on April 10th. A genetically modified meat market is dominated by one powerful company. But there are those, both inside the company and on the outside, who begin to doubt the actions of the company and its leadership.