• BTS Jimin Makes First Public Appearance in Military Uniform Since Enlistment

    BTS member Jimin made headlines as he appeared in his military uniform for the first time since his enlistment, delighting fans with his dignified presence.

    On the morning of the 12th, Jimin joined other BTS members to attend the discharge ceremony of Jin at the 5th Division Army Recruit Training Center in Yeoncheon-gun, Gyeonggi Province, as confirmed by BTS fandom ARMY.

    Jimin's appearance in military attire marked a significant moment, capturing the attention of fans who had been eagerly awaiting glimpses of him since his farewell letter upon entering training.

    ]Despite minimal communication since then, Jimin's strong presence at the ceremony was a moment of celebration for ARMY.

    The reunion with his BTS bandmates was filled with warmth and camaraderie, with smiles exchanged freely among them. Later in the day, Jimin reunited with all BTS members at HYBE headquarters.

    Currently serving in the 5th Division Artillery Battalion, Jimin is diligently fulfilling his military duties and is scheduled to complete his service, with a planned discharge on June 11, 2025.

    Source (1)

  • Director Kim Hyung Joo calls Yoo Ah In's drug scandal "irresponsible" as 'The Match' finally hits theaters after 4 years

    Director Kim Hyung Joo of The Match has finally shared his thoughts on Yoo Ah In’s involvement in a drug scandal, calling it a major disappointment, especially considering the actor’s role as the lead in the film.

    On March 19th, the director attended a press screening and briefing for The Match at CGV Yongsan I'Park Mall in Seoul. Alongside Kim, actors Lee Byung Hun, Ko Chang Seok, Hyun Bong Sik, Moon Jung Hee, and Jo Woo Jin were present to discuss the film.

    The Match revolves around the legendary Go player Cho Hun Hyun (played by Lee Byung Hun), who, after a loss to his disciple, decides to challenge the top players again, driven by his competitive spirit. The movie is directed by Kim Hyung Joo.

    Lee Byung Hun plays the iconic Go champion Cho Hun Hyun, while Yoo Ah In portrays his disciple, Lee Chang Ho.

    During the event, Kim recalled the casting process, saying, "When we were casting, Lee Byung Hun was cast first. Just having him felt like we had the world, and then, getting Yoo Ah In as a bonus made me even happier."

    Although filming wrapped up in 2021, Yoo Ah In's drug scandal led to the indefinite postponement of the film’s release. Now, nearly four years later, The Match is finally set to hit theaters on March 26th.

    Reflecting on Yoo Ah In's scandal, Director Kim openly shared his frustration, calling it "irresponsible and disappointing" for the actor to make such a mistake as the lead.

    He added, “Before being an actor, he made a mistake as a member of society and was punished, so I don’t think there’s much more to say.” Kim smiled bitterly as he spoke.

    Describing the challenges he faced due to the scandal, Kim compared the experience to being trapped in "a hellish tunnel."

    He said, "There was nothing I could do inside, so it was overwhelming. But now that we have the light of release, it feels like I can breathe. I’m deeply moved."

    The director also shared that because Yoo Ah In was the lead actor, the film had to be released as it was, without editing. This has led some people to feel uneasy about watching the film, given the actor’s scandal.

    When asked about this, Director Kim said, "Choosing and judging is up to the audience, so I can't force anything. But I hope they watch the movie as it is. I unintentionally got hurt before the release, so I hope people watch the movie warmly, as if applying ointment to a wound."

    The Match will officially be released on March 26th.

    Source: [1]