Rookie group ILLIT (Yoona, Minju, Moka, Wonhee, Iroha) has released new concept photos that are full of youthful charm, exciting fans worldwide. On the 1st (KST), ILLIT’s agency, Belift Lab, shared the "TO" version concept photos and film for their upcoming mini 2nd album I'LL LIKE YOU, set to drop on the 21st. The "TO" version gives off a dreamy vibe, expressing the feeling of wanting to be with someone, even in dreams.

In the "TO" version, the members show off a lovable and youthful image, wearing different styles of school uniforms like cardigans and hooded zip-ups.

Each member displays her own unique charm in these looks. The setting includes heart-shaped balloons floating outside a familiar subway station, giving off a slightly surreal and mysterious atmosphere. The girls are seen resting on each other while sleeping or gazing at the sky from a window, bringing a mix of bright yet sentimental feelings.

The concept film that was released alongside the photos also highlights ILLIT’s playful and quirky side. In the video, Iroha falls asleep on the subway and ends up in a mysterious box where she reunites with the other members. Together, they go to school, run around, listen to music, and take photos in a photo booth, showcasing the bond of teenage friends. With dreamy visuals that mix reality and fantasy, the film has received lots of love from fans all over the world. Compared to the mischievous vibe of the "WITH" version that was shared earlier, this new content has fans even more excited for the upcoming album.

Meanwhile, ILLIT’s debut track "Magnetic" continues to stay strong on the charts. According to Billboard’s latest rankings (October 5), the song from their first mini-album SUPER REAL ME is still holding its place, ranking 88th on the 'Global Excl. U.S.' chart and 166th on the 'Global 200' chart. "Magnetic" first entered these charts on April 6 and has stayed there for 27 weeks, proving ILLIT’s growing presence in the music scene.

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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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