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Korea Herald
2 days ago
- Entertainment
- Korea Herald
Murder, mystery and make-believe: Inside Korea's booming role-play game cafes
Scripted murder mystery games thrive as young Koreans chase immersive thrills The lights are out, and the air is thick with tension inside an abandoned psychiatric hospital -- shuttered just a week ago after a devastating fire. Armed with only a flashlight, you step cautiously into the darkness to find three other suspects standing in silence, each tasked with uncovering the truth behind the murder of the hospital director. As you sift through the wreckage together for evidence, every second counts -- before one of you is accused of being the killer. This is not a real crime scene, nor is it the plot of a thriller film. It's the premise of a scripted mystery game -- an immersive role-playing experience offered at a venue in Seoul's Hongdae neighborhood. In this crime-themed role-playing game, four to seven people are each assigned a character with a rich backstory -- outlining why they might or might not be the killer -- complete with costumes. After reviewing their scripted alibis and understanding their roles, the players are led to a lifelike crime scene set where they have to search for clues and engage with one another to identify the culprit. Stepping into suspense In South Korea, these immersive game venues known locally as "crime scene" are steadily gaining popularity, offering a unique form of entertainment that blends elements of theater, role-play and classic whodunits. "After a routine week at the office, stepping into a new role with a different job and identity is refreshing," said Ji Jeong-hyeon, a 32-year-old office worker in Seoul. After her first try, she has been returning on weekends to "conquer" different plotlines at different venues. "It is exciting to be part of a suspenseful storyline where I can act and actively take part in the plot -- sleuthing like a real detective when I'm just another suspect, and embracing my alibi when I'm the murderer." Scripted murder games differ from escape rooms, which require players to solve puzzles and brainteasers to unlock doors and advance through a series of rooms until they finally break free. 'In traditional escape rooms, it can be frustrating when you cannot solve the puzzles. But crime scene games are more about sleuthing and unraveling the truth,' said Seo Ki-seon, an office worker in Incheon. 'The intense, dopamine-driven plots draw me in. The themes are bold and thrilling, and it's the dark twists in the characters' relationships that make it all the more fun." TV boost This immersive game traces its roots to Western detective games like Clue. In recent years, the format gained major traction in China under the name "Junbensha." In Korea, the scripted murder genre gained wider recognition through the entertainment show franchise "Crime Scene," which was first aired on JTBC in 2014. The show has built a steady fanbase over a decade, later moving to Tving, and is now set to return on Netflix with its fifth installment, "Crime Scene Zero." "We see a noticeable increase in users when the show airs. Since this upcoming season will be on Netflix, we are expecting a greater impact," Park Young-sup, CEO of IF Entertainment told The Korea Herald. IF Entertainment was the first to open a murder mystery cafe in Korea, Puzzle Factory, and now it runs seven such venues, mainly in Hongdae and Gangnam in Seoul. Most of the customers visiting Puzzle Factory are in their 20s and 30s. Business peaks during the vacation periods and holidays, since the game requires four to seven players. When Park founded the company in early 2016, inspired by the TV show, he struggled to attract customers as the concept was still unfamiliar to most Koreans. Things began to change in 2017 after the third season of "Crime Scene" aired. He is now preparing to open an eighth store in Seongsu-dong, a newly trendy area in Seoul. To write more gripping narratives for the game, Park said he stays open to a variety of content, including books, films, dramas and other games, while keeping a close eye on social trends. "I believe a good scenario should feel fresh while still resonating with a wide audience," Park said. Other companies are also jumping into the immersive gaming trend, blending escape room puzzles with live-action role-play. Last year, Lotte Cinema launched Live Cinema in the Hongdae neighborhood of Seoul, where participants enter a set and interact with professional actors to complete story-driven missions -- offering cinematic, hands-on experiences that blur the line between film and games. Dark fun and dopamine The experience does not come cheap. Prices typically range from 26,000 won ($19) to around 40,000 won per person for a 90-to-100-minute session, depending on the venue and complexity of the storyline. At Live Cinema, a single game costs between 220,000 won and 240,000 won for three to five players -- and sessions are often booked quickly. This willingness to pay for immersive entertainment points to a broader cultural trend that reflects a growing desire among consumers to step into the role of a main character -- like in a TV show -- seeking deeper, more interactive engagement rather than passive content consumption. 'People no longer find satisfaction in just reading mystery novels or watching films, they want to step into the story and become the protagonist themselves,' said Lee Eun-hee, a consumer science professor at Inha University. 'They will pay more for the immersive experience, and such personal involvement offers a thrill far beyond passive, one-way consumption.' Park echoed that view, adding that taking on a new role offers not only joy but also stress relief. "I think it is similar to immersive sports like tennis and golf. When you are focused on the ball, you forget everything else and simply enjoy the act of playing." herim@
Tatler Asia
2 days ago
- Entertainment
- Tatler Asia
What Korean dramas can teach us about modern fatherhood
The imperfectly evolving: Seo In-ho in 'Doctor Cha' Above Seo In-ho in 'Doctor Cha' (Photo: JTBC) Seo In-ho (played by Kim Byung-chul) in Doctor Cha (2023) starts as a rather flawed husband and father, entangled in an affair and seemingly oblivious to his family's emotional needs. However, as the drama unfolds, he undergoes a significant, albeit often comedic, transformation. While his journey is messy and filled with missteps, he eventually confronts his shortcomings and genuinely attempts to be a more present and supportive father to his children. His evolution shows that fatherhood is also about the willingness to learn, adapt and strive for improvement, even when it's uncomfortable. He offers a relatable, if sometimes frustrating, portrayal of a dad trying to find his way back to his family. Related: From panels to screen: Korean dramas based on webtoons to watch on the weekends The quietly resilient: Bong Gwi-ju in 'The Atypical Family' Above Bong Gwi-ju in 'The Atypical Family' (Photo: Netflix) Bong Gwi-ju (played by Jang Ki-yong) in The Atypical Family presents a unique take on fatherhood. A man with the ability to time travel, he loses his powers after his wife's death, succumbing to depression. His journey isn't just about regaining his abilities, but about rediscovering his purpose as a father to his daughter, Bok I-na. He is living proof of the quiet resilience of a father grappling with loss and mental health, demonstrating that true strength lies in confronting one's vulnerabilities for the sake of one's children. His efforts to connect with I-na and protect her, even in his weakened state, are truly poignant. The unexpected healer: Lee Jang-hyun in 'My Dearest' Above Lee Jang-hyun in 'My Dearest' (Photo: MBC TV) While not a biological father, Lee Jang-hyun (played by Namkoong Min) in the historical epic My Dearest becomes a profound father figure in the tumultuous backdrop of Joseon. His enigmatic nature and deep-seated trauma initially make him seem unapproachable, but his quiet acts of protection and selfless sacrifice for those he cares for, especially the younger, more vulnerable characters caught in the ravages of war, solidify his place. He exemplifies a paternal bond forged not by blood, but by shared hardship and unwavering compassion. The steadfast sentinel: Jang Ju-won in 'Moving' Above Jang Ju-won in 'Moving' (Photo: Disney+) In the fantastical world of Moving , Jang Ju-won (played by Ryu Seung-ryong) stands out as a father whose superhuman healing abilities are matched only by his unwavering devotion to his daughter, Hui-soo. A former black ops agent, Ju-won is a man of few words but profound actions. He runs a fried chicken shop to provide for Hui-soo, always putting her safety and well-being above his own. When danger looms, he transforms into a formidable protector, facing down any threat to his child with raw strength and relentless determination. His journey is one of sacrifice and unconditional love, proving that some heroes wear aprons and carry the weight of the world for their children. The quietly supportive: Lee Ik-jun in 'Hospital Playlist' Above Lee Ik-jun in 'Hospital Playlist' (Photo: TVN) Lee Ik-jun (played by Jo Jung-suk) in Hospital Playlist is a prime example of a modern, single father who excels at balancing a demanding career as a liver surgeon with devoted parenting. His relationship with his son, U-ju, is one of the most heartwarming aspects of the series. Ik-jun treats U-ju not just as a child, but as a trusted friend, engaging in playful banter, listening intently to his thoughts, and always making time for him despite his hectic schedule. Their daily video calls, filled with U-ju's adorable updates and Ik-jun's patient responses, paint a picture of a father who prioritises emotional connection and fosters an environment of open communication. He demonstrates that being a great dad isn't about grand gestures, but consistent presence and genuine affection. The unwavering protector: Sung Dong-il in 'Reply 1988' Above Sung Dong-il in 'Reply 1988' (Photo: iQIYI) Perhaps the quintessential K-drama dad, Sung Dong-il, playing a character bearing his own name, is the heart and soul of Reply 1988 . As the perpetually stressed but deeply loving father of three, he embodies the everyday struggles and profound joys of fatherhood in a working-class Seoul neighbourhood. His gruff exterior often masks a heart of gold, always ready with a witty retort or a surprisingly profound piece of advice. He may seem miserly, meticulously tracking every penny, but his sacrifices for his children are immense and often unspoken. His unwavering belief in his eldest daughter, Deok-sun, even when she doubts herself, is a testament to his profound paternal love. He's the sort of dad who might scold you for leaving the lights on but would secretly give you his last won for a treat. NOW READ 11 Korean dramas you loved—but didn't know were remakes From 'Buried Hearts' to 'Doctor Slump': Must-see Park Hyung-sik Korean dramas across genres 9 new, exciting Korean dramas to watch in 2025—from thrillers to tearjerkers
Asia Times
3 days ago
- Politics
- Asia Times
South Korea's new rogue ally status comes with different ideology
When the United States signed bilateral security pacts with South Korea in 1953 and with the Nationalist government on Taiwan in 1954, it had two core goals. Externally, the aim was to support staunchly anti-communist regimes as a bulwark against Soviet expansion. But as political scientist Victor Cha explains in his book Powerplay: The Origins of the American Alliance System in Asia , an equally important, if unstated, rationale for Washington's creation of deep bilateral alliances was to constrain anti-communist leaders, embroiled in civil wars and with questionable domestic political legitimacy, from going 'rogue' and recklessly pulling the United States into unwanted conflicts in Asia when the primary strategic concern was Europe.' In other words, these alliances weren't just about shielding allies from communist threats – they were about shielding the US from its own unpredictable partners. The pacts helped restrain Syngman Rhee in South Korea and Chiang Kai-shek in Taiwan, both of whom might have dragged the US into regional wars to shore up their domestic power. Today, with Lee Jae-myung in office, South Korea risks becoming a rogue ally again – but this time, the threat is not from anti-communist zealotry, but from ambitions that lean openly totalitarian. Unlike Rhee, Lee Jae-myung does not stand against communism. His political vision echoes that of Xi Jinping: a state centralized around one party, with no checks and balances, and power retained indefinitely. The pattern is unmistakable. On March 7, 2022, broadcaster JTBC released a phone recording from 2020, in which Lee Jae-myung's then-aide in Seongnam City said: We've got the Supreme Court line completely on our side. We're working the Supreme Court. We've already done too much groundwork. Once the Supreme Court justices are announced, we need to start working on them. Let me know then. We'll fully support it. In the same news article, a property developer involved in the Daejang-dong real estate scandal is quoted as having told prosecutors that a named businessman had gone to the Supreme Court regarding Lee Jae-myung's election law violation case and asked a former justice to help overturn the verdict. The article said that, since 2019, the businessman had been saying that the justice should be paid 5 billion won. In a separate call on June 24, 2020, Lee's former transition team member said: 'It looks like there's been a tentative internal vote on the governor's case at the Supreme Court. Seems like things are leaning in a favorable direction. Looks like the result will be out on July 16. It probably won't be unanimous. Maybe eight to five, for example.' The actual vote on July 16, 2020, confirmed this assessment: seven justices for acquittal, five for conviction and one abstention. On June 10 of this year, courts once again postponed multiple trials involving Lee Jae-myung, including cases tied to the Daejang-dong scandal and election law violations. Though the court cited constitutional grounds, critics see it as further proof of a judiciary increasingly aligned with political power. On June 2, during a YouTube appearance, Lee Jae-myung suggested there had been unofficial communication with the Supreme Court. 'This might be considered a kind of exclusive, but while I'm not directly contacted by the Supreme Court, there is communication. In a world where people live, it's impossible for there to be no contact,' he explained. 'From what I heard, the position was to quickly and cleanly wrap up the election law violation case.' He added, 'But then, one day, it suddenly changed.' On May 2, Park Jin-young, former deputy of Lee's think tank, said the judiciary should be elected – or perhaps abolished altogether. His remarks came in response to a Supreme Court decision unfavorable to Lee, revealing a growing hostility within the ruling bloc toward judicial independence. On May 25, Lee floated constitutional changes allowing presidential re-election – even for the sitting president – saying: 'The constitution states that it does not apply to the sitting president, but it can be theoretically debated whether past citizens can restrict the will of present citizens.' Also on June 10, Lee's ruling party pushed an 'Insurrection Special Counsel Bill' that could criminalize the opposition PPP and justify its dissolution. South Korea has seen leftists holding both the presidency and a National Assembly majority. But there is a fundamental difference between Lee and his predecessors. Previous leftist governments operated within South Korea's liberal democratic framework, even as they pursued their own agendas. Lee Jae-myung's camp, however, is pursuing something else entirely: subverting the very foundations of the Korean liberal democratic political system. This crisis is no longer theoretical – and public anxiety is growing. A well-established couple I know, highly respected in Korean society, are sending their children to Malaysia and planning to emigrate themselves. Just a few years ago, such a decision would have been unthinkable. Today, it feels like an act of survival. At the same time, China's influence over South Korea has grown steadily – often invisibly, but effectively. Behind the scenes, Beijing has quietly helped Lee's rise by shaping narratives, manipulating institutions and expanding its soft power reach. The US, meanwhile, is overstretched. With its attention divided among Ukraine, the Middle East, and the Indo-Pacific, it lacks the capacity – and perhaps the will – to check South Korea's internal unraveling. An American friend recently asked me if I could think of a solution. I said no. Back in 2016, I saw the impeachment of President Park Geun-hye not merely as a political crisis but as the opening salvo in an assault on South Korea's democratic identity – an attack orchestrated by forces aligned with Beijing and Pyongyang. To me, it marked the beginning of a second Korean War. Even then, I knew South Korea's conservative party was in free fall. I joined efforts to build a new party but it made no difference. The public continued to support the dominant conservative party, no matter how dysfunctional it had become. Currently, I see no viable political path forward. What's preventing South Korea from falling into Beijing's orbit is no longer internal resilience – it's the US and the international community. As mentioned earlier, one key reason the US maintains a military presence abroad is to exert influence – and South Korea is no exception. That's why it's a striking irony that, as a conservative who deeply values national sovereignty, I now find reassurance in that very presence. But even this source of stability is beginning to erode. South Korea cannot stop this trend alone. The international community – especially the US – must act to restrain Lee Jae-myung's ambitions. During the Moon Jae-in administration, the ROK-US Working Group helped restrict aid to North Korea. Reinstating similar frameworks could help contain Lee's growing alignment with the communist neighbors. Realpolitik is unforgiving. Every nation, understandably, acts in pursuit of its own interests. That's why I urge the US and fellow democracies to recognize the defense of South Korea for what it truly is – not an act of charity, but an act of self-preservation. South Korea stands on the front lines of the global struggle against Chinese totalitarianism. Its survival is inseparable from the fate of the free world. Hanjin Lew, a political commentator specializing in East Asian affairs, is a former international spokesman for South Korean conservative parties
The Review Geek
6 days ago
- Entertainment
- The Review Geek
Good Boy Episode 6 Preview: Release Date, Time & Where To Watch
Good Boy After 11 years, the police revive their special recruitment for former national athletes. Once hailed as heroes, these world-class medallists now face harsh realities. Despite financial struggles, unexpected tragedies, and discrimination within the force, the athletes, each with their own story, reunite as a special task force to take on major crimes with the grit and skills they've honed as athletes. If you've been interested in this K-drama, you may be curious to find out when the episodes are releasing. Well, wonder no more! Here is everything you need to know about Good Boy episode 6, including its release date, time and where you can watch it. Where Can I Watch Good Boy Season 1? Good Boy will be available on South Korean network JTBC at 10.40pm for Koreans, as well as streaming on Prime Video in select regions. Subtitles should ideally be dropping soon after release. Good Boy Episode 6 Release Date Good Boy Episode 6 will release on Sunday 15th June at approximately 4pm (GMT) / 12am (ET). English subtitles will likely take around 24 hours before showing up on Viki, but they do tend to be much more accurate than some of the other streamers. Expect each episode to be roughly 1 hour 8 minutes long, which is consistent with the time frame for the rest of tvN dramas. How Many Episodes Will Good Boy Have? Good Boy Season 1 will feature 16 episodes. They will be released every Saturday and Sunday, so you can look forward to bi-weekly releases. So with that in mind, we'll have 10 episodes left after this one. Is There A Trailer For Good Boy Season 1? Yes, there is and you can find it right here: What do you hope to see as the series progresses? What's been your favorite moment of Good Boy so far? Let us know in the comments below!
Pink Villa
7 days ago
- Entertainment
- Pink Villa
Hwang In Yeop and Squid Game star Lee Yoo Mi to play lovers in A Dream to You, know character details
New romantic comedy K-drama alert! The upcoming series A Dream to You tells the story of two individuals who discover love after devoting their lives to their careers. According to JTBC's June 9 reports, Hwang In Yeop and Lee Yoo Mi are the show's director's first preference as the leads. Both the actors have been offered the roles and they are currently engaged in discussions regarding the same. A Dream to You: Plot summary The South Korean rom-com series A Dream to You is set to captivate audiences with a heartwarming storyline. It revolves around the lives of a successful film director and a reporter, both in their 30s. They find love after years of pursuing their passions. It is penned by writer Jung Eun Bi m, known for her works in dramas like Beauty Inside and Doom at Your Service. A Dream to You: Character details True Beauty's Hwang In Yeop was offered the role of Woo Su Bin in January of this year. The character is a film director who has achieved immense success in his field. His backstory reveals a life controlled by his parents during his teenage years, but he breaks free from the mold in his twenties. By his thirties, Woo Su Bin has become an accomplished film director, having successfully fulfilled his aspirations. Hwang In Yeop's agency KN Studio briefly commented regarding his participation in the drama, stating, 'It's a project he's currently reviewing.' Recently, Squid Game fame Lee Yoo Mi was offered the role of Lee Jae, a reporter in her thirties who undergoes significant personal growth. As a teenager, Lee Jae is full of idealism and fearlessness, but the harsh realities of her twenties shatter her dreams. As she grows older, she feels like she has finally become a fully-fledged adult, having navigated the challenges of her career and life. A Dream to You will explore the journey of these two characters as they discover love and growth together. Lee Yoo Mi's agency is yet to share a response regarding the project's offer. The drama's production details are not yet out, but it is reported that the cast will be confirmed soon.
