Latest news with #JungIl-woo
Time of India
14 hours ago
- Entertainment
- Time of India
Korean Star Jung Il-woo proves why he is called 'Vietnam's national son-in-law' as he promotes 'Heading to Abandon Mom'
Actor Jung Il-woo arrives at Vietnam airport. Korean actor Jung Il-woo created quite the frenzy when he landed in Ho Chi Minh City last month. Earning the sweet nickname " Vietnam National Son-in-Law ," he flashed a big smile and shouted "Xin chao Viet Nam!" - and just like that, the airport turned into a buzzing party. Fans swarmed, airport staff dropped everything for selfies and autographs, and one devotee exclaimed, "I've been hooked since his 2011 drama '49 Days' - pinch me, is this happening?" Jung was in town from the 28th to the 31st, promoting the Korean-Vietnamese collab film ' Heading to Abandon Mom ', helmed by director Mo Hong-jin. Heartfelt Narrative Dive into the film, 'Heading to Abandon Mom' is a touching family saga. The plot centres on Hwan, a struggling street barber in Vietnam (brought to life by Tuan Tran), whose mother Le Thi Han (played by the talented Hong Dao ) grapples with dementia, drifting back to her vibrant younger days. Jung Il-woo stars as Jung-min, her youthful Korean ex-husband, infusing the story with a fresh cross-cultural flavour that's both tender and intriguing. And for an extra emotional punch, there's a surprise cameo from actor Ko Kyung-pyo as Jung-min's son Ji-hwan, gearing up for some serious heartfelt scenes. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Dolly Parton's No-Makeup Photos Will Make You Speechless The Noodle Box Undo Jung doesn't just act - he strums a guitar and croons the timeless Vietnamese tune "Le Da" (Stone's Tears) to charm the leading lady, mastering the lyrics in Vietnamese all by himself, no lessons needed. It's pure commitment, highlighting themes of family loyalty and the unbreakable role of mothers as life's steady anchors. Overcoming Hurdles In the movie, Jung's character masters Vietnamese with spot-on accents and tones, and the actor nailed it in real life - ditching tutors and learning directly from his co-stars. His on-screen love interest, Juliette Bao Ngoc, spilled the beans: "Korean lines were new territory for me too. We swapped tips, nailing emotions and pronunciations together - it created so many hilarious and memorable times!" Director Mo Hong-jin couldn't stop raving about Jung's initiative, like when he pitched switching lines to Vietnamese right on set, showcasing his deep dive into the role. Between takes, the energy spilled over into autograph marathons, with fans jamming two entire floors for the press conference and red carpet. Jung was all high-fives and beaming grins, even presenting peonies - flowers symbolising maternal love - to Hong Dao, affectionately known as Vietnam's "People's Mom." It's these light-hearted, barrier-busting moments that add a fun layer to the production, turning potential challenges into shared jokes and stronger bonds, much like impromptu jam sessions that unexpectedly steal the show. Peak Fan Madness: Record-Breaking Premieres, Box Office Wins, and an Inspiring Note The hype reached fever pitch at the red carpet event, where local stars surprised Jung with a basket of his favorite mangoes, and he returned the gesture with elegant flower bouquets. Crowds cheered for encore performances of his song, turning the night into a glamorous spectacle. The film didn't just shine in buzz - it dominated sales too: pre-bookings from the 30th to 31st sold out in 234 theaters across Vietnam, claiming the top spot in ticket charts. Adding to the triumph, the movie surpassed its break-even point right from the opening week, a speedy feat that underscores its massive appeal. According to industry insights from Sacnilk, such collaborative projects have boosted viewership by 20% in Southeast Asia, reflecting a growing trend for these cultural crossovers. Jung summed it up beautifully: "May this film remind us all of family's irreplaceable value." As he eyes his 20th debut anniversary next year, he shared, "I'm eager to share more diverse stories with fans - let's keep the journey going!" It's a perfect blend of success and sentiment, showing how one actor's charm can unite hearts and break records in unexpected ways.
Time of India
4 days ago
- Entertainment
- Time of India
Jung Il-woo gears up for 'Brilliant Days' release; his inspiring comeback story will help you beat those mid-week blues
Jung Il-woo in the drama 'Brilliant Days' Who knew a casual dip into school theatre could launch a star? Jung Il-woo sure didn't. As a reserved high schooler with zero acting ambitions, he joined the drama club on a whim and starred in "Our Twisted Hero" during a festival. The rush from the audience's cheers? Absolute magic, shattering his introverted ways and igniting a passion he never saw coming. His parents were his biggest cheerleaders, diverting academic pressures to his studious sister and urging him to chase what excited him. Fast-forward to cutthroat auditions, he beat 400:1 odds for a role in the hit sitcom "High Kick!", catapulting him to instant celebrity status. But here's the funny part - he initially figured every actor explodes after one project. However, that was not the case. His roaring 20s were the classic young adult grind, pushing limits. The Shocking Health Reveal Talk about a plot twist no one sees coming - at 27, Jung was hit with a brain aneurysm diagnosis, that pesky swollen vessel lurking like a silent alarm waiting to go off. This could've scored him a full military exemption in Korea, where service is a rite of passage, but he opted for alternative duty instead, spending time at a nursing home aiding dementia patients. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Jolie-Pitt Family Expresses Support For Shiloh's Change Drivepedia Undo The push? His mom's no-nonsense advice: "You still have to serve," coupled with his fear that hiding the condition would sabotage his career in the public eye. This unexpected halt became a blessing in disguise, prompting multiple soul-searching treks along the Camino de Santiago , where he reflected deeply and reshaped his frantic mindset into one of calm appreciation for the now. These days, he's acing management with regular check-ups, brushing off the odd headache like it's no big deal. Grand Return to the Screen After a solid three-year hiatus, Jung is back and better in "Brilliant Days," a charming family melodrama that dives into life's glittering highlights, whether from the past, present, or future horizons. He steps into the shoes of Lee Ji-hyuk, a sharp, all-around achiever who's nailed both career highs and romantic wins with cool precision. During a fun TV spot, he shared laughs about the role's appeal - imagine a character so driven and loyal, it'd be a total catch in real life, though maybe a tad busy with all those talents! The drama's vibe is all about universal 'brilliant' moments, like crushing a major milestone or savouring everyday joys, wrapped in heartfelt family ties and twists. Expanding on the fun, filming brought out his reflective side post-health scare, infusing the project with genuine depth and a witty nod to life's unpredictable rhythm, making it relatable for anyone who's ever hit pause and come back swinging.
Time of India
08-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Time of India
Korean Actor Jung Il-woo makes shocking comeback after 10-year brain Aneurysm Battle
The Comeback That Has Everyone Talking Imagine being told you have a "time bomb" in your head and still choosing to chase your dreams. That's exactly what Korean actor Jung Il-woo is doing right now. After a three-year hiatus from television, this 37-year-old heartthrob is making his grand return to KBS with the new weekend drama "Gorgeous Days" - and honestly, his story will give you all the feels. Jung Il-woo, who you might remember from romantic comedies like "The Moon Embracing the Sun" and "Cinderella and Four Knights," hasn't appeared on TV since his 2022 ENA drama "Good Job." But here's the kicker - this isn't just any ordinary comeback. It's his first KBS project in 16 years, and he's doing it while battling a condition that could literally be life-threatening. Living With a Time Bomb - The Real Struggle Ten years ago, when Jung Il-woo was just 27, his life took a dramatic turn during what should have been a fun trip. A traffic accident left him with more than just physical injuries - it led to a brain aneurysm diagnosis that has haunted him ever since. Think about it - you're in your prime, your career is soaring, and suddenly you're told you have what doctors call a "time bomb" in your brain. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Rensa dina ådror och lev längre! Beauty Ideas Läs mer Undo Jung Il-woo himself described the terrifying reality: "It's like a time bomb disease, so I was very scared and trembling with fear, not knowing when I might die". The actor still undergoes medical check-ups every six months, constantly living with the uncertainty that many of us can't even imagine. It's like having a sword hanging over your head 24/7, yet this guy chose to keep acting. That's some next-level determination right there. The Strategic Masterstroke Everyone's Buzzing About "Gorgeous Days" isn't just another weekend family drama - it's being positioned as a potential game-changer for KBS. The show, directed by Kim Hyung-seok and written by So Hyun-kyung, promises to be a multi-generational family melodrama that explores meaningful encounters across different time periods. Jung Il-woo will be starring alongside Jung In-sun, with a stellar supporting cast including Yoon Hyun-min, Lee Tae-ran, and Cheon Ho-jin. The expectations are sky-high, especially since the previous weekend drama "Please Take Care of the Five Eagles" broke the magical 20% viewership rating. But here's what makes this casting brilliant - industry insiders are calling Jung Il-woo a "strategic card" for KBS. One broadcasting official noted that he's "a rare male actor in his 30s who has recognition across all age groups from teenagers to people in their 50s". In an industry struggling with a shortage of quality male actors in the 30-40 age bracket, Jung Il-woo's return is being seen as a masterstroke. Breaking the Mold - From Rom-Com Prince to Serious Actor For years, Jung Il-woo has been typecast in romantic comedies, charming audiences with his boy-next-door appeal in dramas like "The Moon Embracing the Sun," "Please Take Care of My Lady," and "Cinderella and Four Knights". But weekend dramas are a completely different beast. These shows target the 50-60 age demographic and run for many more episodes than typical dramas, requiring actors to showcase a much broader range of acting skills - from everyday life scenes to intense emotional moments and complex relationship dynamics. For someone who's built his career on lighter, shorter formats, this is definitely uncharted territory. The preparation has been intense too. Despite his health condition, Jung Il-woo reportedly lost 5kg in just one month to get ready for the role. That's the kind of dedication that shows he's not just going through the motions - he's all in. This move feels a lot like what we see in Bollywood when actors like Shahid Kapoor or Ranbir Kapoor transition from romantic roles to more serious, challenging characters. It's that make-or-break moment that can either elevate an actor's career to new heights or... well, let's just say Jung Il-woo seems confident about which way this will go. The entertainment industry, whether in Korea or here, is brutal when it comes to health scares. We've seen how quickly careers can derail when actors face serious medical issues. But Jung Il-woo's story is different - it's about resilience, courage, and the refusal to let circumstances define your limits. His journey reminds us that sometimes the biggest battles are fought not on screen, but in real life, and the courage to continue despite uncertainty is what truly makes someone a star.
Tatler Asia
20-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Tatler Asia
10 Korean cooking shows worth bingeing
2. 'Chef & My Fridge' ('Please Take Care of My Refrigerator') (2014-present) In this beloved variety-meets-cook-off show, celebrity guests bring their actual home fridges (leftovers and all) and elite chefs must whip up a five-star dish from the odds and ends. Kimchi pancake with passionfruit vinaigrette? Why not. The fridges are chaotic, the hosts are sharp and the food somehow always hits the mark. Korean cooking shows are always a bit wild, but this takes the cake. 3. 'Stars' Top Recipe at Fun-Staurant' (2019-present) In this delicious celebrity showdown, stars compete to develop the next hit convenience store meal. It's absurd and MSG-level addictive. Watching celebs like Jung Il-woo or Lee Seung-gi get very serious about gimbap presentation is the kind of guilty pleasure we fully endorse. Bonus: the winning dishes get mass-produced and sold nationwide. 4. 'Korean Food Made Simple' (2014) Hosted by Korean-American chef Judy Joo, this one's for the home cooks who don't just want to watch food; they want to recreate it. With sleek visuals and recipes that balance traditional flavours with modern flair, it's part travelogue, part how-to and totally doable (with some gochujang and patience). 5. 'Three Meals a Day' (2014-2020) Camping meets cooking in this cooking show where the menu depends on what you catch, forage or haggle for. Each season sends a trio of celebrities to a rural or seaside location where they must cook every meal with minimal help. Firewood must be chopped, fish must be caught and rice must be coaxed from ancient pots. Cha Seung-won is the surprise culinary MVP here. It turns out he can cook everything. Three Meals a Day is rustic, charming and the ultimate slow TV. 6. 'Delicious Rendezvous' (2019-2021) Korean cooking shows almost always double as variety shows. The goal here is to highlight lesser-known local ingredients from Korean provinces, then turn them into mass-market hits. Starring Kim Hee-chul and chef Baek Jong-won, it's a blend of cooking, PR and regional pride, with plenty of chaotic shopping mall taste tests to keep things fun. Farm-to-table? More like farm-to-fame. 7. 'The Backpacker Chef' (2022-2024) Stars like Baek Jong-won and Ahn Bo-hyun travel to unexpected locations—think fire stations, army bases, remote villages—and are given mystery missions to cook massive meals with limited tools. It's part survival show, part pop-up banquet—and watching celebs sous-chef under pressure is surprisingly therapeutic. 8. 'Culinary Class Wars' (2024-ongoing) Welcome to the cooking show where elite chefs battle it out like it's the Olympics of plating. With Michelin and top chefs battling up-and-comers, this high-stakes competition delivers everything: stress sweats, sous-vide drama and enough kitchen egos to sauté a small army. There's teamwork, rivalry and genuinely stunning food. Who knew tension could taste so good? Don't miss: Why are people obsessed with Netflix's latest reality cooking competition, 'Culinary Class Wars'? 9. 'The Best Cooking Secrets' (2000-2020) Airing since October 2, 2000, The Best Cooking Secrets holds the title of South Korea's longest-running cooking programme. The 30-minute show focuses on teaching viewers how to prepare practical, everyday meals. Each week features a chef or celebrity who demonstrates different dishes. The host tastes the final product, offering insights and personal reactions. 10. 'Cook King Korea' (2014-2015) Above 'Cook King Korea' (Photo: SBS) This show pits celebrity chefs and challengers against each other in rounds of intense cook-offs, culminating in a final showdown judged by food experts. Cook King Korea has serious 'white coat tension' energy, with close-up shots of sweating brows, sizzling pans and countdown clocks. As far as Korean cooking shows, it's pretty standard, but we give it bonus points for the epic orchestral music.
Buzz Feed
14-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Buzz Feed
I Tried The Viral "Dalgona-Style" Coffee Shop In NYC
For me — and so many other people around the world — 2020 was an especially difficult year. The only thing that got me through the first few months of the pandemic was sticking to a routine every morning: waking up, journaling, and making myself a Dalgona-style iced coffee. Here's a little Dalgona Coffee 101 for those who aren't familiar with it: Dalgona Coffee is a style of whipped coffee, made of instant coffee, sugar, and hot water. It went super viral in 2020 after South Korean actor Jung Il-woo said in a video that the whipped coffee drink reminded him of Dalgona, a popular Korean street snack. It sounds silly, but the consistency of this routine kept me grounded amidst all the uncertainty of the world. I drank Dalgona iced coffee for months, even after lockdown measures were lifted and other coffee shops were reopened. Naturally, when I saw that a coffee shop known for its "Dalgona-style" coffee was blowing up on social media, I took it upon myself to review it for my fellow coffee lovers. Here's my honest review of Pull Tab Coffee, which has over 400 locations in China and just opened its first storefront in NYC: I stopped by the cafe in Bryant Park on a Saturday morning around 11 a.m., and luckily, the store wasn't too crowded. The shop itself is pretty small, with a few small tables for sitting. There were many menu items highlighted at the counter, so it took me some time to figure out what I wanted to order. The cafe's menu includes specialty Aerofoam drinks, classic espresso beverages, juices, teas, and baked goods. The shop is most known for its Aerofoam coffees, which are the shop's renditions of Dalgona coffee. As explained on the cafe's Instagram, Aerofoam is a layer of freeze-dried coffee that's turned "into an ultra-smooth, creamy textured espresso cloud that is poured on top of the milk of your choice." The foam is said to have a light, airy finish. Since I came to try the "Dalgona-style" beverages, I ordered the Iced Osmanthus Oolong Aerofoam and the Pull-Tab Duo, which included the shop's signature Aerofoam Coffee with Kaya Butter Toast. I opted for the "Classic" Kaya Butter Toast, but the cafe also sells Chocolate Butter Toast and Peanut Butter Butter Toast, if that's more your style. I also noticed a glass case filled with baked goods, so I decided to get an Oni Croissant, a savory pastry with chives and bacon. In total, my four items came out to just under $30. Everything looked SO delicious, so I was curious to see how it all tasted. First, I tried the Iced Classic Aerofoam coffee. This was essentially an upgraded, gourmet Dalgona coffee. Compared to the drinks I used to make at home, the foam had a strong coffee flavor, and you could taste the faintest bit of sugar – I'll admit it was slightly better than my homemade Dalgona drinks. However, the consistency of the Aerofoam was a little lighter than that of a Dalgona coffee, which made it more difficult to mix around than classic Dalgona coffees. For this reason, I actually liked the drink more after I drank all the foam, because the remaining milk had time to soak up the espresso bits, turning it into more of a cohesive coffee-milk drink. Rating: 7.5/10 From what I saw on social media, people recommended dipping the Kaya Butter Toast in the Aerofoam, so it only felt right to try this next. The toast was more like a sandwich with thick slabs of butter between layers of Kaya (Singaporean Coconut Jam). On its own, the Kaya Butter Toast was honestly pretty underwhelming. It tasted like standard butter toast — there was nothing special about it. The bread itself tasted like generic, grocery store bread, and I thought the bread would've been more fluffy or flavorful. Most disappointingly, the flavor of the Kaya was too subtle. For $6, I expected a lot more – I felt like I could've easily replicated this at home and made it better. However, I did like the pairing of the toast with the Aerofoam slightly better. The butter paired nicely with the coffee foam and brought out its rich espresso flavor. Rating: 6.75/10 People also mentioned the Oni Croissant in their social media reviews, so I had high hopes for how it would taste. Inside of the croissant, there was a creamy filling with chives and bacon. Overall, I liked this. The croissant was buttery and chewy, and had a glaze over it that made it sticky. The filling reminded me of a creamier quiche-like filling, and there was a good ratio of bacon to chives. Eaten together, the croissant and filling tasted like a decadent, flavorful, doughy sandwich of sorts. That said, I could really only finish half of this because it was pretty heavy, but it was 8/10 Last but not least, I tried the Osmanthus Oolong Aerofoam. Of everything I ordered, this drink was my favorite. Essentially, this drink is an iced Osmanthus Oolong Tea topped with the Aerofoam. Considering I'm less of a tea person than I am a coffee person, I was surprised that I ended up liking this the most. Compared to the classic Aerofoam, I found this to be way more flavorful, refreshing, and unique. The tea had a subtle sweetness to it that brought out the flavor of the coffee foam, and it was beautiful. Interestingly, the coffee foam tasted slightly more bitter in this than it did in the classic, but was still delicious. I also thought the Osmanthus leaves made the drink look so pretty, so that's a bonus. I had no complaints about this drink, truly. Rating: 9/10 Overall, I would recommend Pull Tab Coffee for anyone who's looking to get their Dalgona-style coffee fix. What do you think? Let me know in the comments! Whether you're looking to get your Dalgona coffee fix or just want to amp up your favorite morning bev, download the Tasty app to browse all of our favorite coffee recipes.
