News

[K-enter] Park Chan-wook, will he take home the Golden Lion?

2025/08/28 15:39

Our first K-enter story today, news on legendary director Park Chan-wook. The 82nd Venice International Film Festival, regarded as one of the world’s top three film festivals, opened on Wednesday local time. Among Korean films, director Park Chan-wook’s "No Other Choice" is the only entry selected for the main competition section, which awards the Golden Lion for Best Film. This marks Park’s first appearance on the Venice competition lineup since “Lady Vengeance” in 2005. "No Other Choice" is adapted from American author Donald E. Westlake’s novel "The Ax", restructured into a story about an unemployed man preparing to re-enter the workforce, who ends up waging a desperate battle to protect his family. The 82nd Venice International Film Festival will run until September 6, with the awards ceremony taking place during the closing event. Next up, we have some news that will have the BTS' ARMY flocking to the movie theatres. South Korean cinema company Megabox as well as cinemas across the globe are launching "BTS Movie Weeks", a month-long cinematic event featuring four of the global supergroup’s live concert films. The worldwide ticket pre-sale has already begun, accompanied by the release of a trailer highlighting some of BTS’s most unforgettable moments on stage. The program includes: “BTS 2016 Live The Most Beautiful Moment in Life On Stage: Epilogue,” “BTS 2017 Live Trilogy EPISODE III THE WINGS TOUR THE FINAL,” “BTS 2019 WORLD TOUR ‘LOVE YOURSELF: SPEAK YOURSELF’ LONDON” and “BTS 2021 MUSTER SOWOOZOO”. All are monumental concerts from their career so far. I would advise visiting the weverse site for more on ticket sales and times as well as scheduled screening dates in your area. Lastly, let's end with some "Good News" on another Korean movie making it to an international film festival. It's always good news when Korean movies catch the eyes of international audiences and one of the latest to do so is Netflix's "Good News" which has been invited to the special presentation section of the 50th Toronto International Film Festival. "Good News" is set in the 1970s and follows the mission to land a plane hijacked by a Japanese communist group who plan to fly it to Pyongyang . The movie stars Sul KyungGu and is directed by Byun SeongHyun who have previously worked together on the hit 2022 political noir film "Kingmaker" which earned director Byun the Best Director Award at the "Baeksang Arts Awards" and "Grand Bell Awards." "Good News" will be released on Netflix on October 17. Thanks for that news Walter, stick around. We will now go over to our AI anchor Ari for more on the culture front. Ari, take it away!

K-wave AI News

2025/08/28 15:37

Hello and welcome to your AI guide to the latest cultural updates from Korea. Here's our top story. APEC member economies held their first-ever high-level dialogue on cultural and creative industries this week in Gyeongju. In a joint statement, they underscored the economic value of the cultural sector and pledged to foster innovation in creating and distributing related content through digital and AI technologies. Members also agreed to continue regional dialogue in the field. Culture Minister Chae Hwi-young hailed the elevation of culture as a core APEC agenda and the opportunity to showcase Korea's cultural strengths as major achievements of the inaugural gathering. Exhibitions exploring various transformations of ink wash painting will open this weekend in Jeollanam-do Province. Ink wash painting is a traditional East Asian art form that uses varying shades of black ink on absorbent surfaces. The Jeonnam International Sumuk Biennale will be held from Saturday through October 31 under the theme "Somewhere Over the Yellow Sea," spanning venues in Mokpo, Jindo, and Haenam. Over 80 teams from 20 countries are set to showcase a wide range of works that offer fresh interpretations of ink wash painting beyond the use of traditional black ink. Biennale Director Yoon Jae-gab, noting that most biennales worldwide remain under the influence of Western art, voiced hopes that the exhibitions would take the lead in advancing K-Art on the global stage. Also on Saturday, the 2025 Tour de DMZ International Road Cycling Tour will take place in Goseong-gun County, Gangwon-do Province. Launched in 2016, the cycling race is an annual international event held along the Demilitarized Zone dividing the two Koreas. More than 1,000 cyclists are expected to compete this year, along long-distance and medium-distance routes stretching 93 kilometers and 64 kilometers, respectively. This year's race includes sections along the Civilian Control Line, where bicycle traffic is normally restricted. Organizers described the race as a symbolic event promoting peace on the Korean Peninsula, expressing hopes it will also support balanced development in border areas and boost the local economy. That's all from me. Stay tuned to the Kulture Wave.

The beauty of emptiness and restraint: 'One Dance' returns for its fourth season

2025/08/28 15:36

A royal ritual reimagined on stage, "Ilmu," or "One Dance," blends tradition with modern artistry. The Seoul Metropolitan Dance Theater's striking performance is drawing full houses and preparing to tour beyond the capital. Our News Features reporter Byeon Ye-young tells us more. Dancers in perfect unison, creating geometric shapes that expand, contract, vanish, then reappear. 'Ilmu' , meaning "One Dance", is a modern take on the ancestral rites once performed for Joseon Dynasty kings and queens at Jongmyo Shrine. It's presented by the Seoul Metropolitan Dance Theater, reimagining Jongmyo Jeryeak , a UNESCO intangible cultural heritage. "It's a piece built on the idea of setting aside the individual, placing oneself within order, and joining a unified dance with the hope that everything will come together in harmony." This year marks its fourth run, following three successful seasons and sold-out shows at New York's Lincoln Center in 2023. The performance opens with the traditional Ilmu dance, shifts into contemporary dance, and concludes with a modern fusion that blends the two. What never changes are the principles of unison and multiplication. Dancers move together like a single breathing organism. "Even though our dancers are from different age groups, we move and even breathe together. What seems simple on stage actually takes a lot of work and focus, so I hope the audience can feel the effort and energy we put into that harmony." Every movement, down to the angle of the fingers, is intentional. As is the use of silence. At times, the only sounds are the slight rustle of fabric and the dancers' near-silent footsteps. The stage design is deliberately minimal, creating contrast with bold costumes inspired by 'obangsaek' , the five traditional colors of Korea. The beauty of emptiness and restraint is also what Director Jung Ku-ho wanted to highlight in the performance. "The stage often opens up a white space at the center as props and dancers gather, scatter, empty out, and regroup. We explored choreography that reflects this constant flow, pursuing the beauty of emptiness. The stage itself was also designed to highlight that sense of space." The four-day run in Seoul ended with every seat sold out. Next, "One Dance" will travel to Gangneung city and Daegu city to share its vision of tradition and modernity. Byeon Ye-young, Arirang News.

[Short-form] Seoul’s night is calling

2025/08/28 15:35

Discover the perfect spots to enjoy Seoul after dark, the magic hour loved most by visitors from around the world.

[NEWs GEN] From skincare to treatments: Unveiling the magic of Korea’s beauty industry

2025/08/28 12:33

From skincare to treatments: Unveiling the magic of Korea’s beauty industry 서울뷰티위크… 한국 미용·의료 기술의 현재와 미래

Guinness World Records celebrates 70th anniversary

2025/08/28 11:38

Finally, the Guinness World Records, a British record-listing platform, celebrated its 70th anniversary on Wednesday, marking seven decades since the first edition was published on August 27, 1955. To commemorate the milestone, the organization unveiled 70 new unclaimed record categories, inviting the public to attempt feats ranging from the fastest 400-meter sack race, furthest bottle flip, to the most high-fives in 30 seconds. The Guinness World Records' history began as a way to resolve pub debates and has since transformed into a global authority on extraordinary achievements, continuing to celebrate human ambition in different forms.

Gateway for young aspiring artists: 2025 ASYAAF

2025/08/28 11:36

The works of young, aspiring artists are on display here in Seoul.. as they seek to establish a firm foothold in the world of art. Our Ahn Sung-jin spoke to a few of them. Hidden artistic talent is now in the spotlight. Here at the 2025 Asian Students and Young Artists Art Festival, more than 5-hundred artists have put up their work. Celebrating its 18th anniversary this year, ASYAAF is Asia’s largest festival for young artists. It features contributions from across Asia, including Taiwan, Singapore and Japan. “With more than one thousand art works on display, the exhibition provides a glimpse into the creativity and dedication of these young artists.” "I first got to know about this exhibition when I was in college, and back then I thought one day I will also showcase my artwork. This is my first ever exhibition so I've put a lot of effort into it." For a lot of young new artists, ASYAAF is a stepping stone to a bigger stage to showcase their artwork to the public. "Until now I've only submitted work as a group, but I wanted to experience the larger world so I ended up participating in this art fair with the dream of becoming an artist. I'm still a bit nervous, but I'm so happy that I can display my own work in a space like this." And it's the vibrant energy and passion that attracts visitors to the exhibition every year. "I'm coming here almost every year with my friend, and I like how I can see a variety of young artists and their artwork." "I've started coming here after my friend introduced me. Since these artists are young, I think I get a lot of energy from them and it's also refreshing to see them." This year's ASYAAF is being hosted at Culture Station Seoul 284, the former Seoul Station building which celebrates its 100th anniversary The exhibition is divided into 8 different concepts such as departure and arrival, destination and transit and other themes linked to train travel. "For a lot of these young artists, they're just starting their career, and I think ASYAAF acts as a gateway for these artists. We get attention for nurturing these artists who come out to continue great work." The exhibition runs until September 7th, and not only gives visitors a chance to appreciate the artwork but also interact with these rising stars of the art world, so why not go and check it out. Ahn Sung-jin, Arirang News.

The beauty of emptiness and restraint: 'One Dance' returns for its fourth season

2025/08/27 22:43

A royal ritual reimagined on stage, "Ilmu," or "One Dance," blends tradition with modern artistry. The Seoul Metropolitan Dance Theater's striking performance is drawing full houses and preparing to tour beyond the capital. Byeon Ye-young tells us more. Dancers in perfect unison, creating geometric shapes that expand, contract, vanish, then reappear. 'Ilmu' , meaning "One Dance", is a modern take on the ancestral rites once performed for Joseon Dynasty kings and queens at Jongmyo Shrine. It's presented by the Seoul Metropolitan Dance Theater, reimagining Jongmyo Jeryeak , a UNESCO intangible cultural heritage. "It's a piece built on the idea of setting aside the individual, placing oneself within order, and joining a unified dance with the hope that everything will come together in harmony." This year marks its fourth run, following three successful seasons and sold-out shows at New York's Lincoln Center in 2023. The performance opens with the traditional Ilmu dance, shifts into contemporary dance, and concludes with a modern fusion that blends the two. What never changes are the principles of unison and multiplication. Dancers move together like a single breathing organism. "Even though our dancers are from different age groups, we move and even breathe together. What seems simple on stage actually takes a lot of work and focus, so I hope the audience can feel the effort and energy we put into that harmony." Every movement, down to the angle of the fingers, is intentional. As is the use of silence. At times, the only sounds are the slight rustle of fabric and the dancers' near-silent footsteps. The stage design is deliberately minimal, creating contrast with bold costumes inspired by 'obangsaek' , the five traditional colors of Korea. The beauty of emptiness and restraint is also what Director Jung Ku-ho wanted to highlight in the performance. "The stage often opens up a white space at the center as props and dancers gather, scatter, empty out, and regroup. We explored choreography that reflects this constant flow, pursuing the beauty of emptiness. The stage itself was also designed to highlight that sense of space." The four-day run in Seoul ended with every seat sold out. Next, "One Dance" will travel to Gangneung city and Daegu city to share its vision of tradition and modernity. Byeon Ye-young, Arirang News.

Gateway for young aspiring artists: 2025 ASYAAF

2025/08/27 19:39

Also on public display here in Seoul are the works of young aspiring Asian artists as they seek a firm foothold in the world of art. Our Ahn Sung-jin spoke to a few of them. Hidden artistic talent is now in the spotlight. Here at the 2025 Asian Students and Young Artists Art Festival, more than 5-hundred artists have put up their work. Celebrating its 18th anniversary this year, ASYAAF is Asia's largest festival for young artists. It features contributions from across Asia, including Taiwan, Singapore and Japan. "With more than one thousand art works on display, the exhibition provides a glimpse into the creativity and dedication of these young artists." "I first got to know about this exhibition when I was in college, and back then I thought one day I will also showcase my artwork. This is my first ever exhibition so I've put a lot of effort into it." For a lot of young new artists, ASYAAF is a stepping stone to a bigger stage to showcase their artwork to the public. "Until now I've only submitted work as a group, but I wanted to experience the larger world so I ended up participating in this art fair with the dream of becoming an artist. I'm still a bit nervous, but I'm so happy that I can display my own work in a space like this." And it's the vibrant energy and passion that attracts visitors to the exhibition every year. "I'm coming here almost every year with my friend, and I like how I can see a variety of young artists and their artwork." "I've started coming here after my friend introduced me. Since these artists are young, I think I get a lot of energy from them and it's also refreshing to see them." This year's ASYAAF is being hosted at Culture Station Seoul 284, the former Seoul Station building which celebrates its 100th anniversary The exhibition is divided into 8 different concepts such as departure and arrival, destination and transit and other themes linked to train travel. "For a lot of these young artists, they're just starting their career, and I think ASYAAF acts as a gateway for these artists. We get attention for nurturing these artists who come out to continue great work." The exhibition runs until September 7th, and not only gives visitors a chance to appreciate the artwork but also interact with these rising stars of the art world, so why not go and check it out. Ahn Sung-jin, Arirang News.

The beauty of emptiness and restraint: 'One Dance' returns for its fourth season

2025/08/27 19:38

Meanwhile the Seoul Metropolitan Dance Theater's FUSION of the past and present ON STAGE has prompted rave reviews. Our Byeon Ye-young has a glimpse. Dancers in perfect unison, creating geometric shapes that expand, contract, vanish, then reappear. 'Ilmu' , meaning "One Dance", is a modern take on the ancestral rites once performed for Joseon Dynasty kings and queens at Jongmyo Shrine. It's presented by the Seoul Metropolitan Dance Theater, reimagining Jongmyo Jeryeak , a UNESCO intangible cultural heritage. "It's a piece built on the idea of setting aside the individual, placing oneself within order, and joining a unified dance with the hope that everything will come together in harmony." This year marks its fourth run, following three successful seasons and sold-out shows at New York's Lincoln Center in 2023. The performance opens with the traditional Ilmu dance, shifts into contemporary dance, and concludes with a modern fusion that blends the two. What never changes are the principles of unison and multiplication. Dancers move together like a single breathing organism. "Even though our dancers are from different age groups, we move and even breathe together. What seems simple on stage actually takes a lot of work and focus, so I hope the audience can feel the effort and energy we put into that harmony." Every movement, down to the angle of the fingers, is intentional. As is the use of silence. At times, the only sounds are the slight rustle of fabric and the dancers' near-silent footsteps. The stage design is deliberately minimal, creating contrast with bold costumes inspired by 'obangsaek' , the five traditional colors of Korea. The beauty of emptiness and restraint is also what Director Jung Ku-ho wanted to highlight in the performance. "The stage often opens up a white space at the center as props and dancers gather, scatter, empty out, and regroup. We explored choreography that reflects this constant flow, pursuing the beauty of emptiness. The stage itself was also designed to highlight that sense of space." The four-day run in Seoul ended with every seat sold out. Next, "One Dance" will travel to Gangneung city and Daegu city to share its vision of tradition and modernity. Byeon Ye-young, Arirang News.

"KPop Demon Hunters" becomes most-watched movie ever on Netflix

2025/08/27 19:37

On the cultural front. "KPop Demon Hunters" now stands as the most-watched movie ever on Netflix. On Wednesday Netflix announced that its original animation has hit a total of 2-hundred-36 million views surpassing "Red Notice" released in 2021 to claim the number one spot. When compared to TV shows the film ranks third following "Squid Game Season 1" and "Wednesday Season 1" in that order.

[Features reporter] Gateway for young aspiring artists: 2025 ASYAAF

2025/08/27 16:39

Sung-jin you have an exciting art exhibition for us today? So this exhibition I went to showcases all these aspiring young artists and their hard work. I got to talk to a couple of them and surely I can say it was touching to see their passion and effort. Give a listen to what these young artists dream of. Hidden artistic talent is now in the spotlight. Here at the 2025 Asian Students and Young Artists Art Festival, more than 5-hundred artists have put up their work. Celebrating its 18th anniversary this year, ASYAAF is Asia’s largest festival for young artists. It features contributions from across Asia, including Taiwan, Singapore and Japan. “With more than one thousand art works on display, the exhibition provides a glimpse into the creativity and dedication of these young artists.” "I first got to know about this exhibition when I was in college, and back then I thought one day I will also showcase my artwork. This is my first ever exhibition so I've put a lot of effort into it." For a lot of young new artists, ASYAAF is a stepping stone to a bigger stage to showcase their artwork to the public. "Until now I've only submitted work as a group, but I wanted to experience the larger world so I ended up participating in this art fair with the dream of becoming an artist. I'm still a bit nervous, but I'm so happy that I can display my own work in a space like this." And it's the vibrant energy and passion that attracts visitors to the exhibition every year. "I'm coming here almost every year with my friend, and I like how I can see a variety of young artists and their artwork." "I've started coming here after my friend introduced me. Since these artists are young, I think I get a lot of energy from them and it's also refreshing to see them." This year's ASYAAF is being hosted at Culture Station Seoul 284, the former Seoul Station building which celebrates its 100th anniversary The exhibition is divided into 8 different concepts such as departure and arrival, destination and transit and other themes linked to train travel. "For a lot of these young artists, they're just starting their career, and I think ASYAAF acts as a gateway for these artists. We get attention for nurturing these artists who come out to continue great work." The exhibition runs until September 7th, and not only gives visitors a chance to appreciate the artwork but also interact with these rising stars of the art world, so why not go and check it out. Well Sung-jin, based on your coverage, it seems like it was quite crowded. What was it like there? Indeed Soa, it was bustling with people. Yesterday is when I visited which was right when the second half of the exhibition was opening up so not only was the exhibition very crowded but we also saw people queue up ahead of the opening hours just to get in there at the earliest opportunity. And what significance does ASYAAF have? So this exhibition is among some of the major art festivals in Korea including Frieze Seoul, Kiaf Seoul and several biennales that are held across the country, but for me the reason this stood out the most was because you really get a chance to interact with these young artists. As you may have seen with the interview, the artists there are very willing to interact with visitors and answer any questions, which I think shows their passion and love for art. Yeah, even I could really feel it through the screen. Thank you for that report Sung-jin. Pleasure as always!

[K-Correspondent] Vibrant celebration of hallyu unfolds at "K-Culture Festa in New York"

2025/08/27 16:37

For today’s K-Correspondent, we head over to New York, where the summer-long “K-Culture Festa in New York” is wrapping up, showcasing Korean culture from all aspects. Transcending genres and generations, the lineup of programs featured music, dance, movies, beauty, picture books and more, allowing New Yorkers and visitors from all around the world to enjoy Korean culture to the fullest. Let’s connect to Hwang Taehyun, Program Director of Film & Content at the Korean Cultural Center in New York to hear more. Hello Director Hwang / Taehyun! Q1. Let’s begin with a brief introduction of what the “K-Culture Festa in New York” is all about. Q2. Leading up to such a big K-culture event, how has the Korean wave developed in New York in recent years? Q3. So, how was the response towards the event, in particular that of the young New Yorkers who have already been used to enjoying Korean culture? Q4. One of the trendiest districts in Seoul these days for young locals and foreigners alike is Seongsu-dong, which is also a hot spot to experience K-beauty. I heard the Seongsu vibe was felt at the festival’s “K-beauty Pop-Up”? Q5. The event also featured a variety of music and dance performances. Please tell us about the performances and how the audience’s response was. Also, were there any specific criteria when it came to the selection of the lineup? Q6. Let’s now shift gears to the films at the festival As part of the 80th anniversary of Korea’s liberation, some movies related to the independence struggle were screened such as "Harbin" and "Dongju: The Portrait of a Poet". These films may be somewhat unfamiliar to locals, but I wonder what the audience thought about them, especially second or third generation Koreans. Q6-1. It’s also impressive that a Korean film was selected as the opening film for the 24th New York Asian Film Festival. Could you tell us about that significance as well? Q7. Finally, could you share with us any K-culture projects that the Korean Cultural Center in New York is hoping to undertake in the future? Also, how likely is it that large-scale events such as the “K-Culture Festa in New York” will be held regularly? Thank you Taehyun for connecting with us today, we wish you a successful wrap-up of the "K-Culture Festa in New York" this week. Thank you Walter as always, you'll be here another day tomorrow, so see you then. Thank YOU for spending the past half an hour with us on "the Kulture Wave", and please join us again tomorrow on Thursday, at 2 p.m. Korea time, and maybe one day here in Korea!

[K-Enter] KPop Demon Hunters: Most-watched film in Netflix history

2025/08/27 16:35

Time for K-enter with Walter Lee and Walter it seems we can't get enough of "KPop Demon Hunters." That's right Soa, I don't know how many more records are left to break for the movie. According to Netflix’s official site Tudum, "KPop Demon Hunters" has reached a total of 236 million views, becoming the platform’s most-watched film of all time. The previous record holder was the 2021 action thriller "Red Notice", starring Dwayne Johnson and Ryan Reynolds, which drew 230.9 million views. If you include television series in the tally, the film ranks third overall, behind "Squid Game" Season 1 which racked up 265.2 million views and "Wednesday" Season 1 with 252.1 million views. Earlier this week, we mentioned that North America had movie screenings of "KPop Demon Hunters" plus sing-alongs, well I am here to tell you that if you are a bad singer like me, you don't have to go outside to have your own sing-along because Netflix has also released a special sing-along version of "K-Pop Demon Hunters" for viewers to enjoy at home. Wow, that'll give me some opportunity to practice. Staying on the Netflix platform, you have another movie to talk about. "Mantis", an exciting new action movie has dropped its official teaser trailer on Wednesday and boy does it look exciting. After a long hiatus, elite assassin Han-ul better known as The Mantis , returns to the world of contract killing, only to discover that the head of MK Enterprise, a powerful crime syndicate, has been killed. Determined to start a new chance with other contract killers, he soon finds himself face-to-face with old rivals, including Jae-yi and the retired legendary hitman Dok-go . With the rules of the assassin underworld in shambles, the three are drawn into a ruthless battle for the top spot. "Mantis" comes out on September 26. Sounds like a movie to watch out for! Lastly to some K-pop news on IVE. Girl group IVE dropped their fourth mini-album "IVE SECRET" on Monday. The six-track record features the song "XOXZ" alongside "Wild Bird", "Dear", "My Feelings", "GOTCHA", "beats", and "Midnight Kiss". "XOXZ" is a term newly coined by IVE, carrying the meaning “Love you, good night, and see you in my dreams.” Member Jang Wonyoung contributed to the lyrics in collaboration with famous lyricist Seo Ji-eum . Fellow member Liz also took part in writing the lyrics for "Midnight Kiss". According to IVE's company Starship Entertainment, "IVE SECRET" explores the hidden flow of emotions beneath glamorous expressions. While staying true to their confident image, IVE also unveil a strikingly unexpected side. Thanks for that news Walter.

K-wave AI News

2025/08/27 16:34

Hello and welcome to your AI guide to the latest cultural updates from Korea. Here's our top story. The APEC High-Level Dialogue on Cultural and Creative Industries kicked off on Tuesday in Gyeongju. The three-day dialogue, the first APEC ministerial-level meeting on cultural industries, runs through Thursday with the goal of expanding cultural and economic exchanges across the Asia-Pacific. At a welcome dinner, Culture Minister Chae Hwi-young said the event marks the beginning of joint public-private efforts to strengthen APEC's cultural cooperation, stressing the growth potential of the creative industries. Top Korean entertainment leaders, including J.Y. Park, Chief Creative Officer of JYP Entertainment, were also in attendance. Gyeongbokgung Palace will host the "Suragan Royal Cuisine Experience" next month, offering visitors the chance to taste and make traditional palace dishes. Participants can choose between two programs: sampling royal cuisine at the "Sojubang," the palace kitchen, or enjoying royal desserts and snacks at the "Saengmulbang," where side dishes and confections were once prepared. Visitors can also try making royal dishes and desserts themselves, and take part in traditional Korean games. The event runs from September 17 to 26, with applications open from today through Ticketlink. A festival celebrating the wonders of nature and the healing charm of fireflies will take place next month in Muju. Muju-gun County in Jeollabuk-do Province announced that the 29th Muju Firefly Festival will be held from September 6 to 14 at venues including the Deungnamu Stadium and the Namdaecheon riverside. The festival will feature a diverse range of programs centered on firefly exploration, ecological camps, and various cultural and art events. A multimedia show with music fountains, a starlight bridge countdown, and fireworks is also in store. That's all from me. Stay tuned to the Kulture Wave.

Taylor Swift announces engagement to Travis Kelce

2025/08/27 11:39

American pop superstar Taylor Swift announced her engagement to NFL star Travis Kelce on Tuesday, sharing a joint post on social media featuring photos of their floral proposal. The post's caption, which earned more than 20 million likes, read, "Your English teacher and your gym teacher are getting married." Swift and Kelce, both 35, have been dating for two years since 2023, after Swift performed at Arrowhead Stadium, home of Kelce's Kansas City Chiefs. President Donald Trump congratulated the couple, saying, "I wish them a lot of luck."

BTS's "FAKE LOVE" surpasses one billion streams on Spotify

2025/08/26 19:41

In other news. K-pop boy band BTS's "FAKE LOVE" has surpassed one BILLION streams on Spotify as of this past Sunday. According to its agency Big Hit Music on this Tuesday this marks the group's fifth song to join the billion-stream club. Released in 2018 "FAKE LOVE" is a hip-hop song that has also made waves on the U.S. Billboard Chart and the UK Official Singles Chart.

[Short-form] Dongmyo– where the next fashion trends are born

2025/08/26 16:33

What do G-Dragon and Osaka Ojo Gang have in common? They’ve all shopped at Dongmyo! Step into the charms of the street flea market where a whole new world of fashion unfolds.

[K-Enter] BTS’ V throws first pitch at Dodger Stadium

2025/08/26 15:38

Starting off with some news of BTS' V crossing over into baseball? Not quite Soa. But BTS member V took the mound as the ceremonial first pitcher for a Major League Baseball game with the LA Dodgers. On Monday local time, he delivered the opening pitch at Dodger Stadium in Los Angeles, ahead of the match between the Dodgers and the Cincinnati Reds. The Dodgers currently feature Korean player Kim Hye-seong and MLB's biggest star Shohei Ohtani. News of V's participation had generated a huge buzz even before the game began with the Dodgers announcing his appearance on their social media. The Avengers in the world of baseball and K-pop. And speaking of some avengers here quite the super heroes let's move on to "KPop Demon Hunters" news. What's new? "Golden," from Netflix's "KPop Demon Hunters" , has returned to the top of the U.S. Billboard Hot 100 singles chart. On Monday local time, Billboard revealed in its chart preview that "Golden" climbed one spot from last week to secure its second overall week at No. 1, much like what happened with the UK Official Singles Chart "Top 100" that we reported on yesterday. Also, like the UK Official Singles Chart "Top 100", Huntr/x's "Golden," and Saja Boys "Your Idol," and "Soda Pop," reached the Top 10 in the U.S. charts, the difference being the inclusion of Huntr/x's "How It's Done" which also made the top 10 in the U.S. Billboard Charts and therefore making this the first time in its history that four tracks from a single soundtrack have simultaneously been in the Top 10 in the U.S. Next, let's go to Stray Kids! You have a little update on their latest album. According to JYP Entertainment and Hanteo Chart on Monday, Stray Kids' fourth studio album "KARMA" became a double million-seller within just a day of its release last Friday. "KARMA" also topped both the "iTunes' Worldwide Albums" and the "European Albums charts" for three straight days. On Spotify, the album racked up over 18.26 million streams on release day. Its main track "CEREMONY" drew more than 2.52 million streams, debuting at No. 27 on "Spotify's Daily Top Songs Global chart". Lastly, let's take a stroll. to a concert. Singer-songwriter Kim Dong-ryul is set to hold a solo concert titled "Stroll" at KSPO Dome in Seoul from November 8–10 and 13–16. These will be his first solo concerts in more than two years, with his last concert attracting 60,000 fans. Kim's agency, Music Farm said Kim will deliver a stage filled with deeper artistry and splendor. Kim debuted in 1993 as a member of the duo "Exhibition" and has been performing solo since 1998, with numerous well-known hits including "Reply," and "Thanks." Thanks for the news today, now we move on to our AI anchor Ari for more on the culture front. Ari!

K-wave AI News

2025/08/26 15:36

Hello and welcome to your AI guide to the latest cultural updates from Korea. Here's our top story. The Seoul Outdoor Library will reopen next week after its summer break. With foreign visitors making up 11% of total attendance in the first half of the year, the library plans to expand cultural exchange programs in the second half in partnership with several countries, including Ireland, Peru and China. International visitors can also enjoy over 2,000 foreign-language books, translated Korean novels, and a special "curation zone" featuring travel guides and information on Seoul's landmarks. The Seoul Outdoor Library will run from September 5 through November 2. Seoul's Dongdaemun Design Plaza, the city's iconic landmark, has welcomed over ten million visitors this year. With a busy lineup of exhibitions and events scheduled for the fall and winter seasons, annual attendance is expected to top 20 million. The DDP Design Museum, now hosting a special exhibition of contemporary art icon Jean-Michel Basquiat, is fully booked through March 2028. "Seoul Beauty Week," "Seoul Fashion Week," and the first-ever Asian edition of "Design Miami" are set for early September, while October will feature the city's signature design festival, "2025 Seoul Design Week." The highly anticipated "DDP Rooftop Tour" will officially launch in November and is expected to attract both local and foreign visitors. A special retrospective exhibition will open next week to mark the 50th anniversary of the passing of Korean cinema master Lee Man-hee. Lee, a leading figure in Korean film during the 1960s and 70s, is celebrated for his sophisticated direction and versatility across genres, including melodrama, war, noir, and thriller, which helped expand the expressive range of Korean cinema. Running from September 4 to 13 at Cinematheque KOFA, the exhibition will showcase Lee's signature works, featuring the first public screening of the 4K restored version of "The Soldier Without a Serial Number," along with 35mm screenings of "Assassin" and "Zero Hour." That's all from me. Stay tuned to the Kulture Wave.