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Kulture Issue_Traveling through the history of Jeju Island with "Jeju Dark Tour"

Kulture Issue_Traveling through the history of Jeju Island with "Jeju Dark Tour"

2025/06/12 14:00

This year has been designated as "Visit Jeju Heritage Year 2025", an initiative to promote tourism to the island with a focus on exploring its cultural heritage and history, including the Jeju Volcanic Island and Lava Tubes, the Jeju haenyeo culture and the Jeju April 3 incident. Recently, the "Jeju Dark Tour" program has been gaining popularity. This tour traces the painful periods of the island's history. We now connect to Phyu Sin Moe Htet, who's in the middle of this tour, as part of Jeju Free International City Development Center or JDC's "Global Friends" program. Hello! 1) First, could you please introduce yourself to "The Kulture Wave" viewers? 2) So, what's the "Global Friends" program about? Who's part of it, what do you do? 3) As a "Global Friends" member, you must have traveled to all corners of Jeju Island. Tell us about those places. Were there any places that really impressed you? 4) And where is it you are right now? 5) How was the experience in the tunnel? 6) The "Jeju Dark Tours" must be quite a different experience from other travel tours, as you get to explore the dark and painful past of the island, especially from the view of a foreigner. How do you feel about this tour? 7) Including the Dark Tours, Jeju Island is a location with an abundance of things to do, see, or eat. What would you recommend to your family and friends? 8) Finally, what are your plans after the tour? What else would you like to experience in connection with Jeju? Thank you for connecting with us today, and introducing us to the "Jeju Dark Tour", which seems to be a great opportunity to look back at and remember the suffering of the past while enjoying the peacefulness that we have today on the island. Enjoy the rest of the tour! Thank you Bella as always. We'll see you again soon.

[Short-form] Audio Content: The Trending Way to Unwind

[Short-form] Audio Content: The Trending Way to Unwind

2025/06/12 14:00

Give your eyes and mind the break they deserve, and escape with audio!

Brian Wilson, co-​creator of iconic 1960s band The Beach Boys, dies aged 82

Brian Wilson, co-​creator of iconic 1960s band The Beach Boys, dies aged 82

2025/06/12 10:00

Brian Wilson, the co-founder and frontman of the rock band The Beach Boys, died on Wednesday at the age of 82. Widely renowned for his genius songwriting, Wilson was known for his landmark tracks, including "Good Vibrations" as well as the 1966 album Pet Sounds. Wilson had battled dementia since early 2024, following the death of his wife. Beginning in 1961, the Beach Boys released a series of upbeat songs that celebrated aspects of California's youth culture, including surfing and romance. Tributes have poured in from across the music world, with Bob Dylan and Ringo Starr among those praising Wilson's enduring impact on music and culture.

BTS's Jungkook and Jimin officially discharged from military; full band reunion nears

BTS's Jungkook and Jimin officially discharged from military; full band reunion nears

2025/06/11 20:00

Two more BTS members, Jungkook and Jimin, returned from their mandatory military service on Wednesday. Now, it's just Suga that the ARMY are awaiting, to see all seven members on one stage. Our Park Hyo-been fills us in with more. As they stepped out of the car, Jungkook and Jimin were greeted with loud cheers—bouquets in hand, smiling at their fans. The pair enlisted together back in December 2023, served in the Army, and were officially discharged from mandatory military service on Wednesday morning. After a short salute, Jungkook thanked those he served with. "To our seniors and the officers who spent time with us — thank you so much for taking good care of us." Jimin expressed his heartfelt appreciation for the fans who waited for them. "With our service now behind us, I believe it's time to keep building the vision we've been working on. We'll do our best to come back with something even better." Fans from across the globe gathered near the base from early morning to welcome the two stars. Banners reading "Purple is Back" and "Jungkook's Moment Begins Now" lined the area, along with giant balloons. With Jin and J-Hope already discharged last year, and RM and V returning on Tuesday, only one member remains before a full reunion. SUGA, currently serving as a social service worker, is set to complete his duty later this month. As BTS celebrates the 12th anniversary of its debut this Friday, excitement is building for a long-awaited full-group comeback — possibly just around the corner. Park Hyo-been, Arirang News.

BTS members Jungkook and Jimin officially discharged; full BTS reunion nears

BTS members Jungkook and Jimin officially discharged; full BTS reunion nears

2025/06/11 17:00

On the K-pop front. The wait is nearing an end for BTS fans worldwide as all seven members are soon set to re-unite as a group. Earlier today two more members Jungkook and Jimin were discharged from their mandatory service while Suga ends his duty next weekend. Park Hyo-been reports. As they stepped out of the car, Jungkook and Jimin were greeted with loud cheers—bouquets in hand, smiling at their fans. The pair enlisted together back in December 2023, served in the Army, and were officially discharged from mandatory military service on Wednesday morning. After a short salute, Jungkook thanked those he served with. "To our seniors and the officers who spent time with us—thank you so much for taking good care of us." Jimin expressed heartfelt appreciation for the fans who had waited for them. "With our service now behind us, I believe it's time to keep building the vision we've been working on. We'll do our best to come back with something even better." Fans from across the globe gathered near the base from early morning to welcome the two stars. Banners reading "Purple is Back" and "Jungkook's Moment Begins Now" lined the area, along with giant balloons. With Jin and J-Hope already discharged last year, and RM and V returning on Tuesday, only one member remains before a full reunion. SUGA, currently serving as a social service worker, is set to complete his duty later this month. As BTS celebrates the 12th anniversary of its debut this Friday, excitement is building for a long-awaited full-group comeback—possibly just around the corner. Park Hyo-been, Arirang News.

[K-Enter] Jimin and Jungkook finish military service

[K-Enter] Jimin and Jungkook finish military service

2025/06/11 14:00

It's time for K-enter news with Walter Lee. Yesterday was all about RM and V's military discharge and today guess what? As we forecasted, the spotlight is on Jungkook and Jimin. Yes, six members down and one more to go. Jungkook and Jimin of BTS completed their mandatory military service at the 5th Infantry Division in Yeoncheon County on Wednesday. As both arrived to greet fans and the media, they were met with bouquets of flowers before saluting in front of the crowd. So let's see what the boys had to say during their first media appearance since their discharge. "ARMY, thank you so much for coming to see us on our discharge day. Today, June 11th, I have been officially discharged from the 5th Division. I hereby report my discharge." "You probably can't hear me, but thank you to the reporters who came from afar to see us, and also to all the fans who showed up. We're truly grateful. First of all, to ARMY, I want to say, from the COVID days to the military service, it's been quite a long time, and I'm so thankful that you waited for us. Now that we've been discharged, I believe it's time for us to continue drawing the picture we've been working on all along. We'll work hard to prepare even greater things and show you an even better version of ourselves." The final BTS member to be discharged is Suga that's going to be on June 21st. There's only a little over a week left before we finally get to see the boys back together again which will be a big moment for ARMY. But for now let's talk about a big moment for "MY", the fans of aespa. Girl group aespa is set to return with their new single "Dirty Work" and also have announced their third world tour. On Tuesday, aespa's official social media channels unveiled the logo poster for their upcoming world tour, "2025 aespa LIVE TOUR -SYNK : aeXIS LINE". The group will kick off the tour with a three-day concert from August 29 to 31 at the KSPO DOME in Seoul's Olympic Park. Following the announcement of their Japan arena tour, which includes 10 shows across 4 cities, aespa has now revealed plans for a world tour, raising anticipation for a year full of activities as they celebrate their 5th anniversary. Meanwhile, "Dirty Work" will be released on June 27 via various music platforms, along with a physical album release on the same day. Thanks for that news Walter and stick around. Now it's time for our AI anchor Ari to deliver her daily dose of K-culture news. Ari take it away.

K-Correspondent_Korean traditional drinks introduced in Canada

K-Correspondent_Korean traditional drinks introduced in Canada

2025/06/11 14:00

The deep taste and aroma of traditional Korean liquor combined with the flavour and beauty of hansik, or Korean food. Today, we introduce a special occasion where all of that came together in perfect harmony, in Ottawa, the capital of Canada. Let's connect to our K-Correspondent there, Timothy Ouellette, CEO of SommWise. Hello Timothy! Q1. Let's start off with a brief introduction of yourself and what you do, Timothy. Q2. Let's hear about that event you recently participated in, which was aimed at promoting traditional Korean alcoholic drinks? Q3. So, which alcoholic beverages (and food) have been introduced at the event? Q4. We've heard that traditional liquors have become very popular in Canada in recent years. How do you perceive that trend? Q5. More and more Korean restaurants and liquor stores that carry Korean alcoholic drinks can be found in Canada, is that right? Q6. While Korean spirits are great on their own, they often shine even brighter when paired with Korean food. Are Canadian consumers familiar with those combinations, such as makgeolli with jeon or soju with samgyeopsal? Q7. Would you have a personal pairing recommendation for Canadians as well as our global viewers? Q6-2. What about the combination of Korean drinks with Canadian food? Thank you very much for connecting with us today, Timothy. Thank you Walter, we'll see you soon.

BTS members Jimin, Jungkook discharged from military

BTS members Jimin, Jungkook discharged from military

2025/06/11 10:00

It's an exciting week for BTS fans,.. as members Jimin and Jungkook were discharged from the military this Wednesday morning. The two members, who enlisted together on December 12th, 2023, have completed their mandatory military service. BTS will soon be able to resume group activities with all the members, as RM and V were discharged just a day ago and Jin and J-Hope completed their service last year. Suga, the last remaining member still serving in the military, is set to be discharged on June 21st.

Members of BTS make their return after completing military service

Members of BTS make their return after completing military service

2025/06/10 20:00

Two BTS members, RM and V, completed their military service on Tuesday, which now leaves just three members still on mandatory duty. We may be just weeks away from seeing all 7 of them in one place. Ahn Sung-jin has more. The K-pop kings are making their return. From placards on buses to giant balloons in the sky, hundreds of fans have gathered to celebrate following the completion of mandatory military service. BTS members RM and V were discharged on Tuesday morning, with RM playing the saxophone and V dancing along. "I'll work hard on making a new album to get back on stage." "I have prepared myself physically and mentally, and I can't wait to be back with our fans. I want to say thank you to the Army for waiting for our military service to end." As the members thanked their fans and hinted at what's next, a reunion seems closer. Three more members are to return soon, with Jungkook and Jimin scheduled for discharge on Wednesday, and SUGA expected to follow later this month. Jin and J-Hope have already been discharged and are actively pursuing solo careers. The members began their military service during their career high, and fans will be waiting for their favorite stars to return. As the entire group will be free of social obligations, many are wondering what's next for BTS. Ahn Sung-jin, Arirang News.

BTS members RM and V discharged after mandatory military service

BTS members RM and V discharged after mandatory military service

2025/06/10 17:00

Much to the delight of BTS fans worldwide members RM and V were discharged from their military service earlier this morning. The two members came together to thank fans for their unwavering support. The remaining three members are also set to return with Jungkook as well as Jimin scheduled for discharge tomorrow that is Wednesday and SUGA later this month. Jin and J-Hope completed their mandatory service last year and have been pursuing solo music careers as anticipation mounts for the group's full return.

K-wave AI News

K-wave AI News

2025/06/10 14:00

Hello and welcome to your AI guide to the latest cultural updates from Korea. Here's our top story. President Lee Jae-myung congratulated the Korean original musical "Maybe Happy Ending" on winning Best Musical, the top honor at the Tony Awards, vowing stronger support for the arts and culture sector. Calling the historic win the result of the long-standing dedication, passion, and creative challenges of Korean artists, President Lee pledged to help artists pursue their dreams on the global stage. Culture Minister Yu In-chon also sent a congratulatory message, calling it an "achievement that captures universal human emotions while highlighting the artistic excellence of Korean musicals." "Maybe Happy Ending" became the most awarded production at this year's Tony Awards, sweeping six categories, including Best Musical, Best Book, Best Direction, and Best Original Score. An exhibition spotlighting the lesser-known artistry of the early Joseon period is now on view at the National Museum of Korea. Marking the 20th anniversary of the museum's relocation to Yongsan, a special exhibition titled "Art of Early Joseon: Masterpieces from the 15th and 16th Century" opened today. The show brings together over 690 representative works, including 16 National Treasures, from the first two centuries of the Joseon dynasty, spanning from ceramics, calligraphy, and painting, to Buddhist art. The exhibition also features 40 artifacts from five countries, including the United States and Germany, with half of them being shown to the Korean public for the first time. The exhibition runs through the end of August and is free of charge until this Sunday. Daejeon City has rolled out a new extended-stay tourism campaign ahead of the summer vacation season. It launched five themed travel packages this month, featuring a range of discounts and immersive tour experiences. The campaign offers discounts on accommodation throughout the city, along with half-price tickets to popular attractions such as O-World and the Daejeon Expo Aquarium. Visitors can also enjoy activities like hot air balloon rides and nighttime water boat tours, while sampling the city's distinctive local cuisine. That's all from me. Stay tuned to the Kulture Wave.

[K-wave] Korean Temple Food Festival returns after 10 years drawing crowds seeking tasty cultural experiences

[K-wave] Korean Temple Food Festival returns after 10 years drawing crowds seeking tasty cultural experiences

2025/06/10 14:00

Korean temple food was officially listed as a National Intangible Heritage last month, and a Korean Temple Food Festival took place this past weekend to celebrate that designation. The festival, in fact, returned after a decade, hopeful of a future UNESCO listing. Our Park Jun-han was there. From traditional steamed tofu to yuzu-flavored sweet rice, and shiitake mushroom stew. These foods are not just tasty vegetarian dishes — they also embody core Buddhist values. Temple food, known for creating mental and physical energy during training, respects life and avoids the use of the 'five pungent vegetables, namely, onions, garlic, chives, green onions, and leeks, which are believed to hinder spiritual clarity and inner peace. "I am currently at the Korean Temple Food Festival. Come along as I dive into the unique flavors and the timeless value of temple food." People from assorted backgrounds and a variety of countries gathered here in Seoul to celebrate and experience the excellence of temple food. They sampled dishes and even tried making some themselves. Some 20 thousand people took part in the event, over two days from Saturday to Sunday, with the majority of attendees in their 20s and 30s. With its health-forward approach and mild flavors, temple food has become a popular alternative for those avoiding strong flavors. "There's a recent trend like the slow aging diet and low-sodium diet. People these days want to live a healthy life, so I think these are the parts of what makes temple food so appealing." Of course, temple food is not just healthy, it is tasty and flavorful. "I was actually surprised because I've never tried temple food before. So I thought it would be like very bland, but it actually was very flavorful." Now that Korean temple food gained recognition as a National Intangible Cultural Heritage in May, efforts are underway to expand its reach globally. "Korean temple food, now recognized as a national intangible cultural heritage, is ready to inspire people around the world with its universal appeal, transcending religious boundaries, which is why we are actively promoting it overseas." Aiming for UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage recognition, the Jogye Order of Korean Buddhism is strengthening its global presence through cultural exchanges, Templestay programs, and academic initiatives, while championing core Buddhist values. Park Jun-han, Arirang News.

World News 4: Chinese trendy toy Labubu witnesses surge in popularity and prices amid panic buying

World News 4: Chinese trendy toy Labubu witnesses surge in popularity and prices amid panic buying

2025/06/10 10:00

Labubu dolls, a toothy plush toy from Chinese maker Pop Mart, have seen a surge in popularity, and price, worldwide. Created by Hong Kong artist Kasing Lung and marketed since 2019, Labubu shot to fame after being spotted with celebrities like Rihanna, Dua Lipa, and Blackpink's Lisa. Collectors, mostly adults, are drawn by the blind-box format of the collectibles, which offers randomly packed variants, some rare versions, fueling a global frenzy. Official retail prices range from about 20 to 30 U.S. dollars, but resale values have exploded from 100 to 7,000 dollars for rare editions.

Korean Temple Food Festival returns after 10 years drawing crowds seeking tasty cultural experiences

Korean Temple Food Festival returns after 10 years drawing crowds seeking tasty cultural experiences

2025/06/09 20:00

Korean temple food was officially listed as National Intangible Heritage last month, and the good old Korean Temple Food Festival took place this past weekend to celebrate that designation. The festival, in fact, returned after a decade, hopeful of a future UNESCO listing. Our Park Jun-han was there. From traditional steamed tofu to yuzu-flavored sweet rice, and shiitake mushroom stew. These foods are not just tasty vegetarian dishes — they also embody core Buddhist values. Temple food, known for creating mental and physical energy during training, respects life and avoids the use of the 'five pungent vegetables, namely, onions, garlic, chives, green onions, and leeks, which are believed to hinder spiritual clarity and inner peace. "I am currently at the Korean Temple Food Festival. Come along as I dive into the unique flavors and the timeless value of temple food." People from assorted backgrounds and a variety of countries gathered here in Seoul to celebrate and experience the excellence of temple food. They sampled dishes and even tried making some themselves. Some 20 thousand people took part in the event, over two days from Saturday to Sunday, with the majority of attendees in their 20s and 30s. With its health-forward approach and mild flavors, temple food has become a popular alternative for those avoiding strong flavors. "There's a recent trend like the slow aging diet and low-sodium diet. People these days want to live a healthy life, so I think these are the parts of what makes temple food so appealing." Of course, temple food is not just healthy, it is tasty and flavorful. "I was actually surprised because I've never tried temple food before. So I thought it would be like very bland, but it actually was very flavorful." Now that Korean temple food gained recognition as a National Intangible Cultural Heritage in May, efforts are underway to expand its reach globally. "Korean temple food, now recognized as a national intangible cultural heritage, is ready to inspire people around the world with its universal appeal, transcending religious boundaries, which is why we are actively promoting it overseas." Aiming for UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage recognition, the Jogye Order of Korean Buddhism is strengthening its global presence through cultural exchanges, Templestay programs, and academic initiatives, while championing core Buddhist values. Park Jun-han, Arirang News.

Meredith: Cinematic opera brings to life an epic scene from Korean War

Meredith: Cinematic opera brings to life an epic scene from Korean War

2025/06/09 20:00

Staying on the cultural front. June is known as month of patriots and veterans in South Korea, and a new opera sheds light on an act of wartime heroism. Our Park Hyo-been has this story. When history weeps, art remembers. Last Friday, in time for Memorial Day on June 6th, a new opera brought to life one of the most extraordinary humanitarian rescues ever recorded. "Meredith", South Korea's first cinematic opera, tells the story of the SS Meredith Victory, a U.S. cargo ship that saved more than 14,000 Korean refugees during the Hungnam evacuation in December 1950. "They must have felt such despair, not knowing what would happen to them." "I imagined it like escaping a burning building or clinging to a sinking ship." Designed to carry just 60 people, the ship took aboard desperate civilians fleeing war, leaving behind weapons and supplies to make room for more lives. There were no casualties — and remarkably, five babies were born during the three-day journey that ended on Christmas Day. The operation was later recognized by Guinness World Records as the largest evacuation by a single ship. "While saving lives seems like the obvious choice, the captain would have faced fear. Fears of disobeying orders and facing consequences. The fact that he put all that aside to help strangers from another country is incredibly brave." But "Meredith" is no conventional opera. Blending cinematic elements with classical opera, it offered a distinctive experience that set it apart from traditional productions. "We thought about how to capture the fear and the will to survive. That's why we used a lot of cinematic techniques and videos. It became what we call a 'cinematic opera.'" As Korea marks Memorial Month in June, "Meredith" offers more than a retelling of history. "Without history, we have no present. It's only through understanding our past that we can compare, reflect, and move forward." "I hope 'Meredith' helps audiences not only reflect on the tragedy of war, but also feel the power of humanity and community — and that it inspires a warmer society." In the coldest chapters of our past, it was courage and compassion that lit the way. And in remembering, we find not just sorrow, but the strength to hope again. Park Hyo-been, Arirang News.

Korean musical "Maybe Happy Ending" sweeps Tony Awards 2025

Korean musical "Maybe Happy Ending" sweeps Tony Awards 2025

2025/06/09 20:00

The Korean musical "Maybe Happy Ending" took home 6 honors at the 78th Tony Awards. This is the first time an original musical that was created AND premiered in Korea has won such recognition. Our Park Kun-woo has more. "The Tony award goes to 'Maybe Happy Ending'." A round of applause and a standing ovation --a truly happy ending for the first Korean musical developed locally to win such a prestigious honor. "We are so honored to receive this award for this magical, melodical, beautiful, heartfelt, humane musical that has been thrilling audiences at the Belasco Theater since last Fall." At the 87th Tony Awards held in New York on Sunday, "Maybe Happy Ending" took home six awards out of ten nominations, including the coveted Best Musical, Best Book, and Best Performance by an actor in a leading role. It was the most-awarded musical of the night, followed by "Buena Vista Social Club" with four wins, and "Sunset Boulevard" and "Stranger Things: The First Shadow" with three each. Co-created by Korean writer Park Chun-hue and composer Will Aronson, "Maybe Happy Ending" tells a futuristic story of robot aides discovering love in Korea. The musical premiered in 2016 at a 300-seat theater in Seoul, before making its English version debut last November at the Belasco Theatre. "Maybe Happy Ending" is seen as groundbreaking for being entirely created and first-staged in Korea, and it will continue its open-ended run with no scheduled closing date. On Monday, President Lee Jae-myung also vowed to strengthen support for the arts field, celebrating Sunday's win and expressing hope that more Korean creators can shine on the international stage. And with more and more Korean content winning the hearts of global audiences, expectations are rising for many more "happy endings" to come. Park Kun-woo, Arirang News.

SEVENTEEN bursts back on billboard with fifth album "HAPPY BURSTDAY"

SEVENTEEN bursts back on billboard with fifth album "HAPPY BURSTDAY"

2025/06/09 17:00

Also on the entertainment front. K-pop boyband SEVENTEEN is standing high on the Billboard 200 chart. According to Billboard's chart preview this past weekend the group's fifth full length album "HAPPY BURSTDAY" released to celebrate its 10th anniversary debuted at second place. This marks the seventh time SEVENTEEN has ranked within the chart's top ten.

Meredith: Cinematic opera brings to life an epic scene from Korean War

Meredith: Cinematic opera brings to life an epic scene from Korean War

2025/06/09 17:00

Staying with theatrical productions but moving to the stage here in the country. A beautiful opera based on an actual event that took place during the Korean War captivated audiences here this past weekend. Our Park Hyo-been has highlights. When history weeps, art remembers. Last Friday, in time for Memorial Day on June 6th, a new opera brought to life one of the most extraordinary humanitarian rescues ever recorded. "Meredith", South Korea's first cinematic opera, tells the story of the SS Meredith Victory, a U.S. cargo ship that saved more than 14,000 Korean refugees during the Hungnam evacuation in December 1950. "They must have felt such despair, not knowing what would happen to them." "I imagined it like escaping a burning building or clinging to a sinking ship." Designed to carry just 60 people, the ship took aboard desperate civilians fleeing war, leaving behind weapons and supplies to make room for more lives. There were no casualties — and remarkably, five babies were born during the three-day journey that ended on Christmas Day. The operation was later recognized by Guinness World Records as the largest evacuation by a single ship. "While saving lives seems like the obvious choice, the captain would have faced fear. Fears of disobeying orders and facing consequences. The fact that he put all that aside to help strangers from another country is incredibly brave." But "Meredith" is no conventional opera. Blending cinematic elements with classical opera, it offered a distinctive experience that set it apart from traditional productions. "We thought about how to capture the fear and the will to survive. That's why we used a lot of cinematic techniques and videos. It became what we call a 'cinematic opera.'" As Korea marks Memorial Month in June, "Meredith" offers more than a retelling of history. "Without history, we have no present. It's only through understanding our past that we can compare, reflect, and move forward." "I hope 'Meredith' helps audiences not only reflect on the tragedy of war, but also feel the power of humanity and community — and that it inspires a warmer society." In the coldest chapters of our past, it was courage and compassion that lit the way. And in remembering, we find not just sorrow, but the strength to hope again. Park Hyo-been, Arirang News.

Korean original musical 'Maybe Happy Ending' wins 6 awards at the 78th Tonys

Korean original musical 'Maybe Happy Ending' wins 6 awards at the 78th Tonys

2025/06/09 17:00

A Korean theatrical production has won this year's Tony Award for Best Musical. "Maybe Happy Ending" received ten nominations and is bringing home six of them also including Best Direction Best Performance by Lead Actor Best Book Best Original Score and Best Scenic Design. This South Korean show premiered here in Seoul in 2016 before making its English-language debut at Atlanta's Alliance Theatre in 2020. It took to the Broadway stage last November and raked in over one million U.S. dollars in revenue by the end of December. Set in a future Seoul the story follows Oliver and Claire two helper robots who assist humans as they learn about love.

[Kulture-Issue] A look into the global popularity of mystery K-dramas "Nine Puzzles", "Dear Hongrang"

[Kulture-Issue] A look into the global popularity of mystery K-dramas "Nine Puzzles", "Dear Hongrang"

2025/06/09 14:00

For today’s “Kulture Issue“ we want to analyze two Korean mystery series “Nine Puzzles“ and “Dear Hongrang“ that are currently the center of attention in the K-drama world. Let’s go deeper into the mystery genre and look into the factors behind the two dramas’ global popularity, with our culture critic, Professor Chie Hye-won at Kyung Hee University. Welcome Professor Chie! Professor Chie, before we get into today’s topic, there is something to celebrate that just came in earlier this Monday, or Sunday New York time, that you want to mention, which Walter also reported on in K-Enter. Q1. Let's now get into our main topic of mystery K-dramas "Nine Puzzles" has become the most watched Korean series on Disney+ this year. Please tell us a bit about this drama. Q2. What do you think is the strongest factor that draws viewers to the series and is there anything about it that makes it different from previous Korean mystery dramas? Q3. Let’s now go on to “Dear Hongrang“ or “Tangeum“ in Korean. This mystery melodrama is a Netflix series that continues to be in the top 10 of non-English shows. Q4. “Dear Hongrang“ is a historical drama, what’s called “sageuk“ in Korean. So, it might have been quite unfamiliar to the international audience, but yet we see this popularity. How do you explain that? Q5. So, what are the strengths of Korean mystery productions? Q6. Mystery or crime thrillers can be both engaging and at the same time exhausting for viewers. What do you think is the key to striking the balance between those factors? Q7. Are we expecting mystery productions to continue to emerge in the second half of the year? Anything we should look out for? Thank you Professor Chie as always, have a great start to the new week. Thank you Walter, we'll see you back tomorrow.

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