• ZEROBASEONE’s Ricky Finally Explains His Viral Airport Photo—Why He Didn’t Wear a Coat on a Freezing Day

    ZEROBASEONE’s Ricky has finally spoken up about his viral “airport photo” that left fans wondering why he braved the cold without a coat!

    On March 13, a new episode of Kim Jaejoong’s YouTube show JaeFriends was uploaded, featuring ZEROBASEONE’s Sung Han Bin, Han Yu Jin, and Ricky as guests.

    During the episode, Kim Jaejoong couldn’t hide his curiosity about Ricky. He said, “I really wanted to see him talk.”

    Then, he brought up the famous airport moment, saying, “I’ve seen that picture so many times. But seriously, why do you go around like that?”—making everyone burst into laughter.

    Ricky had previously gone viral when he was spotted at the airport last winter, wearing only a thin outfit while his fellow members bundled up in coats.

    The sight of him casually walking through the freezing weather without outerwear had fans both shocked and amused.

    Finally addressing the situation, Ricky said, “I’ve been wanting to explain that.” But before he could, Kim Jaejoong jokingly interrupted, “You’ll die like that.”

    Ricky laughed and then explained, “There are heaters inside the airport, and it’s warm on the plane too, so that’s why.”

    Kim Jaejoong wasn’t convinced and playfully scolded him, “Just wear a padded jacket in winter. Are you still trying to maintain your ‘cool’ image now?” Ricky admitted, “I’ve given up on that these days.”

    Fans found the exchange hilarious, with many saying they’re relieved Ricky has finally learned his lesson!

    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]