Month: December 2023

How South Korea’s stringent anti-drug laws played a role in the death of “Parasite” actor Lee Sun-kyun

Jae-Ha Kim

Following Lee Sun-kyun’s death, you are going to read a lot on social media and in newspapers about how South Korea has the highest overall suicide rate of all countries. And while someone will surely write a think piece about South Koreans being predisposed to dying by suicide, it’s important to remember how South Korea came to be an economic powerhouse and how its citizens’ well being was secondary to the country’s greatness.

Go Away With … Malea Rose

Jae-Ha Kim

“I’m currently planning a trip home to Kauai,” said Vie En Rose founder Malea Rose. “I haven’t decided my New Year’s Eve plans. I’m a last-minute gal. But I’ll be traveling to the most beautiful places in Thailand in February to visit the set of [the third season of] ‘The White Lotus.’ I’m super excited!”

“Gyeongseong Creature” (경성크리처)

Jae-Ha Kim

The gore in this K-drama is intense and unrelenting — so much so that it ironically begins to lose impact. But amidst all the violence are well-developed stories of families, love and patriotism — and that’s what prevents this series from being just another horror show.

Go Away With … Isa Briones

Jae-Ha Kim

“I’ve spent a couple holiday seasons in London when my dad [the actor Jon Jon Briones] was doing “Miss Saigon” in the West End,” said “Goosebumps” actress Isa Briones. “Christmas in London is so magical. Walking the Christmas light covered streets at night is … chef’s kiss.”

The Best K-Dramas of 2023, From “The Glory 2” to “Queenmaker”

Jae-Ha Kim

What a year for great K-dramas. With so many choices, it was difficult leaving out some of my favorites from this best K-dramas list. As for my top selections, I chose them because each is binge-worthy and features superb acting, well developed storylines that inform and celebrate, and explorations of real-life issues that may be specific to South Korea, but also share universal relevance.

Go Away With … Andrés Cepeda

Jae-Ha Kim

At the Latin Grammy Awards in November, Andrés Cepeda won his fourth trophy. His record “Décimo Cuarto” was honored as the Best Traditional Pop Vocal Album. The popular musician said that while he’s gearing up for his upcoming 2024 tour, he’s also looking forward to relaxing with his family during the last few weeks of 2023.

“Champion” (챔피언)

Jae-Ha Kim

If you watched Sylvester Stallone’s 1987 arm wrestling film “Over the Top” and hated it, don’t let that deter you from giving “Champion” a shot. Starring Ma Dong-seok (“Train to Busan,” “Eternals,” “The Roundup” films), the buff actor has a knack for comedy.

“Castaway Diva” (무인도의 디바)

Jae-Ha Kim

There is a lot to unpack in “Castaway Diva.” On the surface, it’s about a teenager who has been trapped on an island for 15 years, is rescued, and pursues her dreams of becoming a K-pop idol. And that is an interesting enough premise as it is. However, the real thrust of this K-drama is the long-lasting ramifications of abuse, even after the victims have grown up and have long been separated from the abusers.