News

[K-enter] Korean stars donate to support wildfire relief efforts

2025/03/27 14:00

Bella, today we start on a somber note. Korea is still battling the wildfires in the southeast of the country. The little rain we are seeing today is not enough to stop the fires. During this difficult time, Korean celebrities have shown support for relief efforts? Korean celebrities have come forward to show support for the wildfire relief efforts by making donations. According to the Korea Disaster Relief Association on Wednesday, singer-actress Lee Ji-eun, better known by IU, donated 200 million won, which is about 136-thousand US dollars, expressing hopes that this contribution would be a small help to those affected. JYP Entertainment, an agency for K-pop idol groups TWICE, Stray Kids and ITZY, also donated 500 million won. In addition, singer-actress Suzy, NCT member Mark and trot singer Lee Chan-won each donated 100 million won. There are many more celebrities showing support for the victims of wildfires, including broadcaster Yoo Jae-suk, actress Kim Ji-won, singer Taeyeon, and virtual idol group PLAVE. Now we move onto our next story. It’s an impressive achievement by Korean content on Netflix? Not one, but two Korean original works on Netflix have topped the global weekly charts. First, the mystery thriller “Revelations,” starring Ryu Jun-yeol and Shin Hyun-bin, claimed No.1 on the Global Non-English Movies chart, with 5.7 million views. The film is a story that revolves around a pastor and a detective, each driven by their own beliefs, as they pursue a missing person case that forces them to confront their own demons. Also topping the Netflix chart is “When Life Gives You Tangerines.” It has claimed the top spot in Netflix’s Global Top 10 Non-English Shows category with 5.5 million views. The series tells the adventurous life story of ‘the remarkable rebel’ Ae-sun and ‘unyielding iron’ Gwan-sik on Jeju Island. Since its premiere on March 7th, the series has earned positive reviews for its heartwarming narrative, bringing both laughter and tears. The series is set to release its final act this Friday, tomorrow. Great achievements for both dramas and movies on Netflix. Our last story is on another film that's currently running in the theaters here in Korea, but there's great news for global viewers? Korean thriller film “Streaming,” released last week domestically, has achieved pre-sales in 98 overseas countries and territories, gaining a hot response globally. “Streaming” has completed pre-sales in Japan, Hong Kong, Thailand, Cambodia, Indonesia and France, among others. Release dates have been confirmed for March 27th in Singapore, April 17th in Malaysia, and September 26th in Japan, bringing much anticipation. “Streaming,” starring Kang Ha-neul, is a story about a crime streamer with the highest number of subscribers discovering clues in an unresolved serial murder case and broadcasting the process of tracking the perpetrator in real time. Excited to see Korean films expand globally. Thank you Bella for today’s stories.

Mr. Pugsley Addams, Guinness World Record holder for domestic cat with longest tail

2025/03/27 10:00

In the U.S. state of Minnesota, a two-year-old Maine Coon named Mr. Pugsley Addams has set a new Guinness World Record following an official announcement on Wednesday for the longest tail on a living domestic cat. The cat has a tail that measures an impressive 46.99 centimeters long. The feline's owner noted that Pugsley's tail drew attention during his initial veterinary visits, prompting the official measurement. Described as having a mischievous yet affectionate nature, Pugsley was named after a character from the American sitcom "The Addams Family."

[K-Correspondent] How the Korean Wave is appealing to Gen Z in Japan

2025/03/26 14:00

Once a week we connect live to a correspondent overseas who fills us in on K-culture issues in their respective country. Today, we connect with Japan, where a huge enthusiasm for K-pop, K-drama and K-food is said to be present among Generation Z. Let’s connect with our K-correspondent in Japan, Tamayo Muto, a journalist, to find out more. Hello Tamayo! Q1. Tamayo, please introduce yourself to our viewers and tell us about your interest in Korea (Korea’s culture). Q2-1. The Korean wave appears to be very popular among the trend-conscious Generation Z in Japan these days. (Those born in the late 1990s to early 2010s)Tell us a bit about the love for 'hallyu' among this group, (as a Gen Zer yourself ) and also which aspects of Korean culture are especially popular and why? Q2-2. What do you think are the unique characters that describe Generation Z in Japan? Q3. K-pop in particular seems to be very popular. Who are the hottest Korean groups right now? (Who is YOUR favorite idol these days and why?) Q4. We hear there is also a big desire among young people to learn the Korean language? Q5. Recently, there has been an increase in young Japanese travelers visiting Korea? What are some of the latest travel trends and are there any must-visit places or must-buy items? Q6. Are there any places in Japan you would like to recommend where you can experience aspects of hallyu to the fullest?

[K-enter] LE SSERAFIM's 'HOT' sweeps the charts… ranked in 10 Billboard categories

2025/03/26 14:00

Time for our daily dose of K-enter news with Walter Lee. Starting off with news on the exciting girl group LE SSERAFIM. The "fearless" girl group LE SSERAFIM have made it to number nine on the Billboard 200 chart with their 5th mini-album "HOT." That's according to the latest Billboard rankings on the main album chart. The album "HOT" also topped the Top Album Sales, Top Current Album Sales, and World Albums charts. Meanwhile, the title track "HOT" ranked No. 9 on the "Bubbling Under Hot 100 chart", which lists the top 25 songs that have not yet entered the main Hot 100 chart. The title track "HOT" also ranked No. 21 on the "Global (Excl. U.S.) chart" and No. 45 on the "Global 200 chart". And it claimed No. 1 on the "World Digital Song Sales chart." LE SSERAFIM also secured the No. 8 spot on the Artist 100 chart, which comprehensively evaluates the activities of musicians worldwide. They achieved the highest ranking among K-pop artists. If this impresses you then get ready as the group is set to embark on their first world tour, "EASY CRAZY HOT", starting in Incheon on April 19 and April 20. Now, moving over to news on Kim Soo-hyun, are there any updates regarding the ongoing scandal involving the actor and the late actress Kim Sae-ron. Actor Kim Soo-hyun , who has been accused of dating the late actress Kim Sae-ron while she was underage, will not be attending his scheduled fan meeting in Taiwan. The event organiser, 7-Eleven Taiwan, stated through its official social media that the fan meeting of Kim Soo-hyun at the "Kaohsiung Cherry Blossom Festival" on the 30th has been canceled. A total of 200 participants had been selected through a lottery system to attend the fan meeting. This event attracted significant attention as it would have been Kim Soo-hyun’s first public appearance since the allegations about his relationship with Kim Sae-ron surfaced. However, due to the controversy surrounding his personal life, all scheduled events have been canceled or postponed. Last but not least, ending off with some K-movie news? The main trailer for the occult action film "The Holy Night: Demon Hunters", starring Ma Dong-seok, has been released. "The Holy Night: Demon Hunters" follows the story of a city plunged into chaos by a cult that worships evil. A trio of demon hunters, known as The Holy Night, consisting of leader Bau , Sharon, played by Girls' Generation member Seohyun , and Kim Goon , take on missions to eliminate the forces of darkness. From the tone of the trailer it does feel like a typical Ma Dong-seok movie where he is this super strong character who can take on anyone, but this time it's not criminals it's the supernatural. "The Holy Night: Demon Hunters" is set to premiere on April 30. Thanks for the news Walter, stick around.

Spring happiness brought by "Happy Donut Man" and "Happygraphers" exhibitions

2025/03/25 20:00

In other story. Happiness is the shared theme of TWO separate exhibitions that seek to ensure you usher in this year's spring with a smile. Lee Eun-jin has more. Large colorful donuts collectively show off their individuality. It took ceramic artist Kim Jae-yong 4 years to bake, grind, color and add sparkle to these donuts that fill the wall of this exhibition. In the center of the exhibition hall, there is a "study" of donuts. Inspired by the painting chaekgado, which depicts a scholar's books and belongings of the Joseon Dynasty, the artist put donuts of different sizes and colors together on a shelf, portraying people exhausted from daily life, leaning on each other. But of all things, why such sweet delightful donuts? "Why not chase the dream? Why do we eat something sweet just because we crave it? It's not healthy. Thinking of this metaphor, the donut concept was born." The kinds of donuts vary there are tall trophy-like chrome donuts, and the donut at the entrance that depicts our busy lives running restlessly. "I wanted to tell myself and society that just running mindlessly may lead to losing more." This deliciously healing exhibition 'Run Donut Run' at Hakgojae Gallery is free to visit, and will run until April 5th. Another happy exhibition There is a hat hidden on the outer walls of buildings in this section, and sometimes it's the keys of a piano. These are photographic works by Spanish "happygraphers" Anna and Daniel. They took a creative and imaginative approach to capturing moments of happiness. For a single cut, they've traveled long harsh roads, climbed sand mountains, and waited endlessly for sunrises and sunsets. "They will paint walls, or cut paper to make shapes, and become the prop to the artwork, or to the natural scenery. They plan it meticulously." The "happygrapher" duo use props and interplay with the human body to convey images of joy and positivity. The interactive photo exhibition at the Hangaram Art Museum, located in the Seoul Arts Center, will run until the end of the month. Lee Eunjin, Arirang News.

Spring happiness brought by "Happy Donut Man" and "Happygraphers" exhibitions

2025/03/25 17:00

On the cultural front. Happiness is the shared theme of TWO separate exhibitions that seek to ensure you usher in this year's spring with a smile. Lee Eun-jin has more. Large colorful donuts collectively show off their individuality. It took ceramic artist Kim Jae-yong 4 years to bake, grind, color and add sparkle to these donuts that fill the wall of this exhibition. In the center of the exhibition hall, there is a "study" of donuts. Inspired by the painting chaekgado, which depicts a scholar's books and belongings of the Joseon Dynasty, the artist put donuts of different sizes and colors together on a shelf, portraying people exhausted from daily life, leaning on each other. But of all things, why such sweet delightful donuts? "Why not chase the dream? Why do we eat something sweet just because we crave it? It's not healthy. Thinking of this metaphor, the donut concept was born." The kinds of donuts vary there are tall trophy-like chrome donuts, and the donut at the entrance that depicts our busy lives running restlessly. "I wanted to tell myself and society that just running mindlessly may lead to losing more." This deliciously healing exhibition 'Run Donut Run' at Hakgojae Gallery is free to visit, and will run until April 5th. Another happy exhibition There is a hat hidden on the outer walls of buildings in this section, and sometimes it's the keys of a piano. These are photographic works by Spanish "happygraphers" Anna and Daniel. They took a creative and imaginative approach to capturing moments of happiness. For a single cut, they've traveled long harsh roads, climbed sand mountains, and waited endlessly for sunrises and sunsets. "They will paint walls, or cut paper to make shapes, and become the prop to the artwork, or to the natural scenery. They plan it meticulously." The "happygrapher" duo use props and interplay with the human body to convey images of joy and positivity. The interactive photo exhibition at the Hangaram Art Museum, located in the Seoul Arts Center, will run until the end of the month. Lee Eunjin, Arirang News.

[K-wave] Spring happiness brought by "Happy Donut Man" and "Happygraphers" exhibitions

2025/03/25 14:00

As we welcome spring, our hearts and minds could also use a little brightening up. Here are two happiness-themed exhibitions that are sure to make you smile. A solo exhibition by an artist dubbed the "Happy Donut Man" and a photo exhibition by a Spanish duo of "happygraphers." Lee Eun-jin tells us more. Large colorful donuts collectively show off their individuality. It took ceramic artist Kim Jae-yong 4 years to bake, grind, color and add sparkle to these donuts that fill the wall of this exhibition. In the center of the exhibition hall, there is a "study" of donuts. Inspired by the painting chaekgado, which depicts a scholar's books and belongings of the Joseon Dynasty, the artist put donuts of different sizes and colors together on a shelf, portraying people exhausted from daily life, leaning on each other. But of all things, why such sweet delightful donuts? "Why not chase the dream? Why do we eat something sweet just because we crave it? It's not healthy. Thinking of this metaphor, the donut concept was born." The kinds of donuts vary there are tall trophy-like chrome donuts, and the donut at the entrance that depicts our busy lives running restlessly. "I wanted to tell myself and society that just running mindlessly may lead to losing more." This deliciously healing exhibition 'Run Donut Run' at Hakgojae Gallery is free to visit, and will run until April 5th. Another happy exhibition There is a hat hidden on the outer walls of buildings in this section, and sometimes it's the keys of a piano. These are photographic works by Spanish "happygraphers" Anna and Daniel. They took a creative and imaginative approach to capturing moments of happiness. For a single cut, they've traveled long harsh roads, climbed sand mountains, and waited endlessly for sunrises and sunsets. "They will paint walls, or cut paper to make shapes, and become the prop to the artwork, or to the natural scenery. They plan it meticulously." The "happygrapher" duo use props and interplay with the human body to convey images of joy and positivity. The interactive photo exhibition at the Hangaram Art Museum, located in the Seoul Arts Center, will run until the end of the month. Lee Eunjin, Arirang News.

Londoners use app to spot large Easter egg artwork around the city

2025/03/25 10:00

Finally, in the UK, London has turned into an open-air gallery with the launch of The Big Egg Hunt 2025 which runs from March 24 to April 27 ahead of Easter. The event features over 100 artist-designed egg sculptures, each standing about 60 centimeters tall, scattered across iconic locations within the city. Organized by the wildlife charity Elephant Family, the initiative, launched in 2021, aims to raise awareness and funds for Asian wildlife conservation projects. Participants can download The Big Egg Hunt app to track eggs they've discovered through QR code scans and unlock rewards along the way.

[Short-form] Trending K-food Among Foreign Tourists

2025/03/24 14:00

Explore some of the most popular Korean cuisines as foreign tourists go beyond bibimbap and galbi to uncover a broader array of authentic Korean flavors

[Kulture Issue] Implications of rising global video streaming platform production fees

2025/03/24 14:00

Recently, global video streaming platforms have been raising their production costs dramatically, affecting the content industry around the world, including Korea. Will these higher costs lead to significantly improved content quality or just become a bigger burden to content makers and users? Let’s discuss this issue with culture critic Professor Chie Hye-won at Kyung Hee University’s Arts and Cultural Management Program. Welcome Professor Chie! Q1. Let’s start with an example of a recent high-cost Korean drama, “When Life Gives You Tangerines“ on video streaming giant Netflix. How big of a budget are we talking about? Q2. What other Korean dramas were big budget productions? How did they turn out? (Were they all successful?) Q3. What’s the reason behind the rising production costs and how is the growing investment in Korean content by global producers affecting the domestic content production landscape? Q4. Spending more money on a production surely contributes to higher quality. but is it really necessary? What's your assessment Professor Chie? Q5. Skyrocketing actor salaries are also a major part of production costs. How are big budgets for superstars affecting production companies' budget allocations as well as staff pay levels? Q6. What about underfunded video streaming services or production companies? How do they keep their competitiveness in the Korean drama industry?

[K-enter] NewJeans (NJZ) temporarily suspend activities

2025/03/24 14:00

It's time for our daily dose of K-enter news with Walter Lee. Starting off with some big news on NJZ or NewJeans. NewJeans or NJZ have come back into the spotlight again, performing at a concert in Hong Kong. However, it might not have been the ending that fans wanted. On Sunday, after their set at the AsiaWorld-Expo in Hong Kong, NewJeans announced to the crowd that the performance might be their last for a while, adding that they have decided to suspend all activities in compliance with a court ruling in South Korea. In a controversial move by the group, the venue displayed the name "NJZ" instead of NewJeans on stage, and official merchandise was sold under the NJZ name. Also ADOR had sent staff to Hong콩 in an attempt to support the members as their agency, but they reportedly could not meet with the NewJeans members on-site. Sounds like an uncomfortable situation indeed, now going back to what's happening here in Korea with the court case. What exactly has the court ruled on? And did the group have anything to say about the matter? On Friday, the Seoul Central District Court accepted ADOR’s injunction request against all five members of NewJeans, preventing them from engaging in independent activities such as signing advertising contracts without the agency’s consent. As a result, NewJeans cannot operate independently until the first trial of the main lawsuit is concluded. As a protest against this lawsuit, all members have expressed their determination not to return to ADOR, even if it means suspending their activities scheduled under the agency. On Saturday, the group shared their disappointment over the court’s decision in an interview with Time magazine, making remarks that seemed to criticize the ruling. Their comments, which included references to Korean society and implied they were being portrayed as revolutionaries, sparked online controversy. A court hearing is scheduled for April 3. for the members to appeal their injunction. We have been keeping a close eye on this story so I am sure we will see more developments. Let's move on to something a little lighter with the boy group NCT Wish. Over the weekend, NCT Wish, the Japanese sub group of NCT, wrapped up their Seoul leg of their Asian tour titled "2025 NCT WISH ASIA TOUR LOG in SEOUL" which was held at the Olympic Handball Gymnasium in Seoul, with all three shows completely sold out. The concerts were also live-streamed, allowing fans from around the world to join in with the experience. Following this, at midnight on Monday, they released some additional teaser content on their official social media channels, revealing a detailed promotion schedule and further building anticipation for their new music. NCT Wish will continue their Asia tour with stops in Macau, Manila, Hong Kong, Singapore, Taipei, Jakarta, and Bangkok.

[Features reporter] How a journey through Korean history landed in Germany

2025/03/24 14:00

What do you have for us today? I recently found out that Korean cultural treasures are making a surprise appearance in Germany, with happiness at the heart of the story. They're currently on display in Dresden, also known as the cultural center of Germany. First, take a look. This gold crown and belt from Korea's 5th century Silla Dynasty, are making a rare visit to Germany, for the first time in over 60 years. These national treasures are part of the "100 Ideas of Happiness. Art Treasures from Korea," an exhibition at Dresden Royal Palace, a result of years of collaboration between the National Museum of Korea and Staatliche Kunstsammlungen Dresden, one of the most prestigious museum networks in the world. The partnership began in 2017 when SKD showcased its prized collections to Korea. Now, the favor is being returned, with over 1-hundred-80 objects spanning from the Three Kingdoms Period to the Joseon Dynasty, making their way to Germany. Claudia Brink and Baik So-jin are the curators. "We start with works coming from the fifth and sixth century and up to the 19th and 20th century. And also, lots of genres, so we have sculpture, we have metal work, goldsmith work, precious objects, paintings, calligraphy." "From my field, that this opportunity to present the Korean heritage in this volume, really it's impossible. We had like this kind of like a comparable size of exhibition in 1999 in Essen and that was kind of like the last biggest exhibition in Germany." Though these artifacts differ in shape, size, and era, they share a common theme: happiness. "Figurative earthenware from the Three Kingdoms period reflects wishes for a good afterlife. The Korean folding screen from the GRASSI Museum of Ethnology in Leipzig, '100 Signs of Happiness and Long Life,' captures traditional Korean ideas of joy and fortune. We wanted to introduce Korean cultural heritage and also share a message of hope and resilience." This isn't just East meets West. It's a bridge between cultures, told through a story that never gets old. And in times like these, who couldn't use a little extra happiness? An exhibition with happiness at its heart is something we could all use more of these days. Yoo-jin, your report mentioned that this is the largest Korean culture exhibition to take place in Germany in well over two decades. Tell us more about its significance. Sure. One thing I'd like to highlight is the significance of the venue itself: the Dresden Royal Palace. The palace was nearly destroyed during World War II but has since been beautifully restored. According to Curator Kim from the National Museum of Korea, the fact that Korean culture is now being showcased in a space so cherished across Europe is a sign of just how far Korean culture has come. It's truly spreading its wings across the continent. As for the exhibition itself, it runs until August 10th, and several events are planned along the way. One highlight is Korean Week, from May 26th to June 1st, where visitors can try on hanbok, Korea's traditional attire, and experience a modern art performance inspired by Korean themes. More details will be announced soon. And just a quick note for anyone planning a visit. It's open daily from 10 AM to 5 PM, except Tuesdays. And Yoo-jin, I hear this exhibition isn't the only cultural moment where Silla's golden crown is making an impression. That's right. If you found Silla's gold crown and belt featured in my report intriguing, you might want to check out BLACKPINK Jennie's music video for her recent track, "ZEN." Released in late January, it features a dazzling costume inspired by the Silla gold crown, which is what you're seeing on the screen right now. The designer says the outfit includes over one-thousand handcrafted metal embellishments, which is a bold fusion of heritage and modern style meant to highlight Jennie's unique charisma and connect past and present through fashion. It is a stunning reinterpretation of tradition. Yoo-jin, thank you for your report today.

K-pop girl group NewJeans temporarily halt entertainment activities

2025/03/24 10:00

The K-pop girl group NewJeans who recently renamed themselves as NJZ have announced the temporary suspension of all entertainment activities. NewJeans announced during their Sunday night performance at Hong Kong's 'ComplexCon' that they would pause all activities for a while, saying it a necessary decision. Their agency, ADOR, which is in a contract dispute with the group expressed regret and hopes to communicate with the members soon. On Friday, Seoul Central District Court accepted an injunction request filed by ADOR, and blocked the group from acting independently.

Seoul District Court bans NewJeans from acting independently

2025/03/21 20:00

K-pop girl group NewJeans, can not engage in independent activities under its new name NJZ. On Friday, the Seoul Central District Court accepted an injunction request filed by ADOR, its contractual agency, and blocked the group from acting independently. The group has been in a contract dispute with ADOR, since November last year and began charting an independent path under the new name NJZ. In response, ADOR filed the injunction request in January, to stop the group from signing its own advertising deals, and from performing live and engaging in other entertainment activities.

[Arts & Culture] How a journey through Korean history landed in Germany

2025/03/21 20:00

Time now for our Arts and Culture segment. Joining me in the studio is our culture correspondent Song Yoo-jin. Welcome! Good evening. What do you have for us today? I recently found out that Korean cultural treasures are making a surprise appearance in Germany, with happiness at the heart of the story. They're currently on display in Dresden, also known as the cultural center of Germany. First, take a look. This gold crown and belt from Korea's 5th century Silla Dynasty, are making a rare visit to Germany, for the first time in over 60 years. These national treasures are part of the "100 Ideas of Happiness. Art Treasures from Korea," an exhibition at Dresden Royal Palace, a result of years of collaboration between the National Museum of Korea and Staatliche Kunstsammlungen Dresden, one of the most prestigious museum networks in the world. The partnership began in 2017 when SKD showcased its prized collections to Korea. Now, the favor is being returned, with over 1-hundred-80 objects spanning from the Three Kingdoms Period to the Joseon Dynasty, making their way to Germany. Claudia Brink and Baik So-jin are the curators. "We start with works coming from the fifth and sixth century and up to the 19th and 20th century. And also, lots of genres, so we have sculpture, we have metal work, goldsmith work, precious objects, paintings, calligraphy." "From my field, that this opportunity to present the Korean heritage in this volume, really it's impossible. We had like this kind of like a comparable size of exhibition in 1999 in Essen and that was kind of like the last biggest exhibition in Germany." Though these artifacts differ in shape, size, and era, they share a common theme: happiness. "Figurative earthenware from the Three Kingdoms period reflects wishes for a good afterlife. The Korean folding screen from the GRASSI Museum of Ethnology in Leipzig, '100 Signs of Happiness and Long Life,' captures traditional Korean ideas of joy and fortune. We wanted to introduce Korean cultural heritage and also share a message of hope and resilience." This isn't just East meets West. It's a bridge between cultures, told through a story that never gets old. And in times like these, who couldn't use a little extra happiness? An exhibition with happiness at its heart is something we could all use more of these days. Yoo-jin, your report mentioned that this is the largest Korean culture exhibition to take place in Germany in well over two decades. Tell us more about its significance. Sure. One thing I'd like to highlight is the significance of the venue itself: the Dresden Royal Palace. The palace was nearly destroyed during World War II but has since been beautifully restored. According to Curator Kim from the National Museum of Korea, the fact that Korean culture is now being showcased in a space so cherished across Europe is a sign of just how far Korean culture has come. It's truly spreading its wings across the continent. As for the exhibition itself, it runs until August 10th, and several events are planned along the way. One highlight is Korean Week, from May 26th to June 1st, where visitors can try on hanbok, Korea's traditional attire, and experience a modern art performance inspired by Korean themes. More details will be announced soon. And just a quick note for anyone planning a visit. It's open daily from 10 AM to 5 PM, except Tuesdays. And Yoo-jin, I hear this exhibition isn't the only cultural moment where Silla's golden crown is making an impression. That's right. If you found Silla's gold crown and belt featured in my report intriguing, you might want to check out BLACKPINK Jennie's music video for her recent track, "ZEN." Released in late January, it features a dazzling costume inspired by the Silla gold crown, which is what you're seeing on the screen right now. The designer says the outfit includes over one-thousand handcrafted metal embellishments, which is a bold fusion of heritage and modern style meant to highlight Jennie's unique charisma and connect past and present through fashion. It is a stunning reinterpretation of tradition. Yoo-jin, thank you for your report today. My pleasure.

How Korea’s story of happiness is being told in Germany

2025/03/21 17:00

Korea's cultural treasures are making an unprecedented appearance in Germany with happiness at the heart of their show. Our correspondent Song Yoo-jin reports. This gold crown and belt from Korea's 5th century Silla Dynasty, are making a rare visit to Germany, for the first time in over 60 years. These national treasures are part of the "100 Ideas of Happiness. Art Treasures from Korea," an exhibition at Dresden Royal Palace, a result of years of collaboration between the National Museum of Korea and Staatliche Kunstsammlungen Dresden, one of the most prestigious museum networks in the world. The partnership began in 2017 when SKD showcased its prized collections to Korea. Now, the favor is being returned, with over 1-hundred-80 objects spanning from the Three Kingdoms Period to the Joseon Dynasty, making their way to Germany. Claudia Brink and Baik So-jin are the curators. "We start with works coming from the fifth and sixth century and up to the 19th and 20th century. And also, lots of genres, so we have sculpture, we have metal work, goldsmith work, precious objects, paintings, calligraphy." "From my field, that this opportunity to present the Korean heritage in this volume, really it's impossible. We had like this kind of like a comparable size of exhibition in 1999 in Essen and that was kind of like the last biggest exhibition in Germany." Though these artifacts differ in shape, size, and era, they share a common theme: happiness. "Figurative earthenware from the Three Kingdoms period reflects wishes for a good afterlife. The Korean folding screen from the GRASSI Museum of Ethnology in Leipzig, '100 Signs of Happiness and Long Life,' captures traditional Korean ideas of joy and fortune. We wanted to introduce Korean cultural heritage and also share a message of hope and resilience." This isn't just East meets West. It's a bridge between cultures, told through a story that never gets old. And in times like these, who couldn't use a little extra happiness? Song Yoo-jin, Arirang News.

Aespa takes home four awards at MTV VMAs Japan, setting record for female artists

2025/03/21 17:00

Meanwhile over in YOKOHAMA this past Wednesday. K-pop girl group Aespa clinched four awards at the MTV Video Music Awards Japan. The four-member group was named "Artist of the Year" and also won "Best Group Video" for their track "Whiplash". The group also received "Best Dance Video" for "Supernova" and "Best K-pop Video" for "Armageddon". This marks the first time in the award's history that a female artist has claimed four awards.

[Short-form] The Golden Bat Statue in Hampyeong

2025/03/21 14:00

Explore how the dazzling golden bat statue in Hampyeong went from being a major headache to a major tourist spot!

[K-enter] G-Dragon announces 2025 world tour details

2025/03/21 14:00

Time for the latest K-entertainment news with Bella Kim. Bella, let's kick off with an event that many K-pop fans have been eagerly waiting for! G-DRAGON has revealed the details of his 2025 world tour. He posted a poster containing the first part of the schedule for the “G-DRAGON 2025 WORLD TOUR (Übermensch)” on his official fan social media. According to the poster, after his concerts in Korea at the end of this month, G-DRAGON will head to Tokyo, Japan, on May 10th and 11th. The tour poster shows concerts in eight cities across Asia, including the Philippines, Malaysia, and Hong Kong. There is also a growing anticipation for additional tour dates and locations to be announced later on. Meanwhile, the tickets for G-Dragon’s concerts in Korea, set to take place at Goyang Stadium on March 29th and 30th, were sold out as soon as ticket sales opened. Fans who successfully bought the tickets will have a blast. Next up, a K-pop girl group that's doing amazing in a neighboring country? We are talking about K-pop girl group aespa, who proved their worth as a ‘global hitmaker’ by taking home a series of awards in Japan. On Wednesday, aespa attended the MTV “Video Music Awards Japan 2025” held at K Arena Yokohama. They won a total of four awards, which is a first for a female artist. The awards include ‘Artist of the Year,’ ‘Best Group Video,’ ‘Best Dance Video’ and ‘Best K-pop Video.’ Aespa made their official debut in Japan with the single “Hot Mess” last July and have proved their popularity in Japan with two arena tours. They also set a record as a first overseas female artist to perform at Tokyo Dome for two consecutive years. Meanwhile, in August, aespa will perform on Tokyo stage of “Summer Sonic 2025,” a large-scale urban music festival in Japan that attracts more than 200-thousand people every year. Aespa keeps taking it to the "Next Level"! Our last story for today is on an occult animation film that's been doing amazing in Korea, (450,000 viewers) and is now ready to meet more viewers overseas? The occult animated film “Exorcism Chronicles: The Beginning,” will be released in Southeast Asia. The film will first premiere in Vietnam on March 21st, followed by Indonesia on March 26th and Thailand on April 24th. On top of Southeast Asia, the film has also been sold to 12 other countries overseas, including countries in North and South America, Germany, Turkey and Switzerland. The movie is based on the 1994 hit novel of the same name, which depicts the start of an epic battle between exorcists and an ultimate evil. Can't wait for the global response. Thank you Bella for today’s stories.

Cartoon dog Snoopy dons Chanel and Balenciaga for 75th birthday

2025/03/21 10:00

Paris is hosting a unique exhibition titled "Snoopy In Style: A History of Peanuts and Fashion" to celebrate the 75th anniversary of the Peanuts comic strip. The exhibition runs from March 22 to April 5 showcasing Snoopy's influence on fashion over the decades. Ahead of the exhibition, dozens of dolls of the cartoon beagle dog wearing designer clothes were on display in Paris on Thursday. Visitors can explore original comic strips, designer collaborations, and fashion items featuring Snoopy and his sister Belle in the exhibition. The exhibition highlights partnerships with renowned designers such as Karl Lagerfeld and Giorgio Armani.