BTS’s Jimin continues to shine on the global stage! He was recently named one of The Hollywood Reporter’s "Music Platinum Players," a prestigious list highlighting top musicians around the world.

In the newly released feature, Music Platinum Players: 25 Stars Lighting Up the Culture, from Beyoncé to Chapel Roan, Jimin shares the spotlight with music icons like Beyoncé, Taylor Swift, Bad Bunny, and Sabrina Carpenter.

The Hollywood Reporter praised Jimin’s musical success, noting, "Though he is currently fulfilling his military duties and not active in promotions, his release MUSE charted at No. 2 on Billboard’s 200, one of the main charts."

Jimin made history as the first K-pop artist to have two albums—FACE and MUSE—reach No. 2 on the Billboard 200. His achievements don’t stop there. The title track from MUSE, Who, debuted at No. 14 on the Billboard Hot 100 and topped both the Global 200 and Global (excluding the U.S.) charts, cementing his status as a global pop sensation.

Jimin’s solo career, launched as part of BTS’s Chapter 2, has been met with widespread acclaim. The New York Times named him the only music artist in their "20 Firsts That Happened in 2023" list, celebrating his record-breaking No. 1 debut on the Billboard Hot 100 as the first Korean soloist. CNN also weighed in on his impact, saying, "While the BTS members have embarked on solo projects, none have achieved as much success as Jimin."

Jimin’s track Like Crazy was also spotlighted by GRAMMY.com in their "15 K-pop Songs That Defined 2023" list, with the outlet commending his artistic growth and versatility through standout collaborations. "Jimin’s latest work reflects personal introspection and reveals a new musical identity," they remarked, calling him the "main pop boy."

Even while serving in the military, Jimin’s influence in the music world remains stronger than ever. With his solo projects continuing to receive international recognition, fans are eagerly awaiting his return to the stage!

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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.

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