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  • Justin Bieber Is Back in Seoul After 13 Years, Just in Time for a Popup

    Justin Bieber Is Back in Seoul After 13 Years, Just in Time for a Popup

    As of October 23, 2026, Canadian pop star Justin Bieber, 32, has arrived in Seoul with his wife, Hailey Bieber. It's his first known trip to Korea since his first concert there in 2013, and it lines up with the Seoul popup for his brand, SKYLRK.

    About 13 yearsGap between Bieber's Korea visits
    4 daysSeoul popup run (22nd–25th)
    4thWhere this sits among SKYLRK's physical stores

    Key points

    • Right after landing with Hailey, Bieber posted several photos on social media with the caption "Made it to Seoul."
    • His last Korea visit was for that first concert in 2013, and there's no record of a separate trip since.
    • The SKYLRK popup runs from the 22nd through the 25th in Seongsu-dong, with Seoul-exclusive merch on sale.
    • Whether Bieber will show up at the popup hasn't been officially confirmed. For now, it's just speculation.

    Justin Bieber has officially hit Seoul. He and his wife, model Hailey Bieber, came through the airport arrivals hall, and he wasted no time opening his social media accounts. The post, captioned "Made it to Seoul," included a shot of the city skyline from a car window and a close-up selfie.

    This visit has been a long time coming. Bieber first came to Korea for his debut headlining show in 2013, and there's no record of a separate trip since. Fans have waited nearly 13 years, so news of his arrival quickly blew up online.

    The timing lines up with an event for SKYLRK, the fashion and lifestyle brand he launched last year. The Seoul popup opened on the 22nd and runs through the 25th in Seongsu-dong, a former factory district now known as Seoul's trendiest neighborhood. It's the brand's first physical event in Korea, with limited-edition items you can only get in Seoul. According to some reports, it's the fourth store after Tokyo, Indio in the US, and New York. On opening day, visitors reportedly lined up hours before the doors opened.

    Bieber married Hailey in 2018, and the couple welcomed their first son in 2024. Hailey is also the founder of the beauty brand Rhode. Media outlets have floated the idea that Bieber might drop by the popup in person, but no specific schedule has been announced.

    In Korea right nowKorean fans are freaking out over the surprise arrival. The Seongsu-dong popup drew a line before it even opened, and the big question now is whether Bieber will actually appear. Some see it as a sign of how far Seongsu-dong has come: a global star showing up for a brand event, not a concert, suggests the neighborhood has become a proving ground for international fashion labels.

    FAQ

    Why did Justin Bieber come to Korea this time?

    Reports say the trip lines up with the SKYLRK popup his brand is hosting in Seoul's Seongsu-dong. No concert dates have been announced.

    How long does the SKYLRK Seoul popup run?

    It opened on the 22nd and runs through the 25th in Seongsu-dong. It includes limited-edition items sold only in Seoul.

    Is this Bieber's first time in Korea?

    No. He played his first show there in 2013, and this is the first confirmed visit since then.

    📎 원문 보기 · Sources

    조선일보 기사 이미지Justin Bieber Is Back in Seoul After 13 Years, Just in Time for a Popup조선일보 · Oct 23, 2026저스틴 비버, "서울 왔어요" 아내와 13년만에 방한…한국 도로 풍경·셀카 기습 공개Read the full story & photos at the source →
    헤럴드경제 기사 이미지Justin Bieber Is Back in Seoul After 13 Years, Just in Time for a Popup헤럴드경제 · Oct 23, 2026“Made it to Seoul”…저스틴 비버, 13년 만에 아내 헤일리와 깜짝 내한Read the full story & photos at the source →
    SPOTV NEWS 기사 이미지Justin Bieber Is Back in Seoul After 13 Years, Just in Time for a PopupSPOTV NEWS · Oct 23, 2026저스틴 비버, ♥아내와 13년 만에 깜짝 내한…"서울 도착" 직접 인증Read the full story & photos at the source →
    문화일보 기사 이미지Justin Bieber Is Back in Seoul After 13 Years, Just in Time for a Popup문화일보 · Oct 23, 2026깜짝 내한한 저스틴 비버…“서울에 도착했다”Read the full story & photos at the source →

  • BTS ‘SWIM’ Video Nominated at Poland’s Camerimage

    BTS ‘SWIM’ Video Nominated at Poland’s Camerimage

    As of October 22, 2026, BTS's 'SWIM' music video is a nominee for Best Music Video at Camerimage, the cinematography-focused film festival in Toruń, Poland. Winners will be announced at the closing ceremony on Nov. 14.

    300 entriesApproximate total submissions in the music video category
    18 videosNumber of finalists selected
    100 millionYouTube views passed within a month of release

    Key points

    • The festival announced its music video competition nominees on Oct. 19 (local time), and 'SWIM,' the title track of BTS's fifth studio album 'Arirang,' made the list.
    • The field was narrowed from roughly 300 entries to 18 finalists, and BTS was reportedly the only K-pop act included.
    • The 34th Camerimage runs Nov. 7–14 in Toruń, Poland.

    Camerimage is an international film festival launched in 1993 that spotlights the craft and visual artistry of cinematography. Its prestige in the field is high enough that people in the industry sometimes call it the Oscars of cinematography. Music videos get their own competition, with winners chosen on the quality of the camerawork and direction.

    In this year's lineup, BTS will compete against Harry Styles' 'American Girls,' Ariana Grande's 'Hate That I Made You Love Me' and Madonna's 'Confessions II,' among others. The nominated videos will get special screenings at the festival's main hall, CKK Jordanki, in Toruń.

    'SWIM' dropped in March with the song and video released together, and it crossed 100 million YouTube views on April 15. The video was shot against the wide-open ocean in Lisbon, Portugal, starring Hollywood actress Lili Reinhart and directed by Tanu Muino. The seven members appear as presences standing alongside a character trying to push through hardship.

    Critics said the video turned the song's message, to love life and keep moving forward, into something that plays like a short film. At Camerimage, it is entered as a work by cinematographer Nikita Kuzmenko and director Muino.

    In Korea right nowKorean media are stressing that the video's visuals, not just the song's popularity, are now being recognized on an international stage. Coverage also highlighted that BTS shares the list with global pop stars. With results due at the Nov. 14 closing ceremony, attention is turning to whether the nomination becomes a win.

    FAQ

    What is Camerimage?

    It's an international film festival in Poland, launched in 1993, that focuses on the art and technology of cinematography. This year is its 34th edition.

    When will the winners be announced?

    The festival runs Nov. 7–14, and results, including Best Music Video, will be revealed at the closing ceremony on Nov. 14.

    What is 'SWIM'?

    It's the title track of BTS's fifth studio album 'Arirang.' The song and its music video were released together in March this year.

    📎 원문 보기 · Sources

    SBS 뉴스 기사 이미지BTS ‘SWIM’ Video Nominated at Poland’s CamerimageSBS 뉴스 · Oct 22, 2026BTS 스윔, 폴란드 영화제 최우수 뮤직비디오 후보 올라Read the full story & photos at the source →
    이투데이 기사 이미지BTS ‘SWIM’ Video Nominated at Poland’s Camerimage이투데이 · Oct 21, 2026방탄소년단, ‘촬영계 오스카’ 노린다⋯‘스윔’ MV 국제영화제 후보 지명Read the full story & photos at the source →
    텐아시아 기사 이미지BTS ‘SWIM’ Video Nominated at Poland’s Camerimage텐아시아 · Oct 21, 2026방탄소년단, '촬영계 오스카' 수상 도전…전 세계 300편 중 최종 후보 | 텐아시아Read the full story & photos at the source →
    브릿지경제 기사 이미지BTS ‘SWIM’ Video Nominated at Poland’s Camerimage브릿지경제방탄소년단 ‘SWIM’, 폴란드 국제영화제 최우수 뮤직비디오 후보Read the full story & photos at the source →

  • Korea Tops 17M Visitors in 9 Months; Spending Up 47.7%

    Korea Tops 17M Visitors in 9 Months; Spending Up 47.7%

    As of October 22, 2026, about 17.1 million foreign tourists have visited South Korea from January through September, according to the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism. The ministry expects the total to pass last year's full-year figure before the end of this month.

    17.11 millionForeign visitors to Korea, January–September this year
    21.5%Growth in visitors versus the same period last year
    15.9 trillion wonForeign visitors' tourism-related card spending, January–September
    28.2%Share of all arrivals who came through airports and ports outside the Seoul metro area

    Key points

    • About 17.1 million foreign visitors came to Korea in January–September, roughly 3 million more than a year earlier, a 21.5% increase.
    • Foreign visitors' card spending on tourism-related purchases over the same period was about 15.9 trillion won, up 47.7%, more than double the growth rate in visitor numbers.
    • About 3.24 million foreign visitors arrived through airports outside the Seoul metro area, a 37.4% jump.

    According to tourism data the ministry released on Oct. 22, more than 3 million additional foreigners entered Korea through September compared with the same period last year. Last year's full-year total was about 18.94 million, and this year's running count has already passed 90% of that. With a gap of just over 1.8 million left, the ministry projects Korea will beat last year's annual record within October. September alone brought in about 2.06 million visitors, up 21.1% from a year earlier.

    By country, Greater China led the growth. Chinese visitors numbered about 5.47 million, up roughly 29%, while Taiwan sent about 1.86 million, up more than 30%. Add Hong Kong and the Greater China total comes close to 8 million. Japan contributed about 3.12 million, up 16.9%, and arrivals from the Americas rose 12.0% and from Europe 20.0%, so most regions are trending up.

    Spending jumped, too. Foreign visitors' card spending was about 15.9 trillion won, more than 5 trillion won above the same period last year. Visitor numbers rose by about a fifth while spending climbed nearly half, which suggests each traveler is spending more.

    Travelers are also fanning out beyond the capital. About 3.24 million foreigners, around 19% of the total, arrived through airports outside the Seoul metro area, including Gimhae, Jeju, Cheongju and Daegu. Another 1.58 million or so came through seaports such as Busan and Yeosu, bringing the airport and port total to about 4.82 million. One caveat: these figures track where people entered the country, so they may not match where visitors actually stayed or spent money.

    In Korea right nowThe tourism ministry credited the results to a mix of efforts, including wider awareness, easier travel and stronger content. Kang Jeong-won, head of the ministry's tourism policy bureau, said there will be a press briefing soon to walk through this year's results and next year's policy direction. In Korea, the next thing to watch is whether the spending boom and the spread beyond Seoul actually show up in local economies, not just in visitor counts.

    FAQ

    Has Korea already passed last year's total visitor count?

    Not yet. The January–September total is about 90% of last year's full-year figure, and the ministry expects it to be passed in October.

    Which country sent the most tourists?

    China, with about 5.47 million visitors, followed by Japan at about 3.12 million and Taiwan at about 1.86 million.

    Are more visitors going beyond Seoul?

    Arrivals through airports outside the Seoul metro area rose 37.4%, faster than the overall growth rate. But the data tracks entry points, so it may not reflect where visitors actually stayed.

    📎 원문 보기 · Sources

    머니투데이 기사 이미지Korea Tops 17M Visitors in 9 Months; Spending Up 47.7%머니투데이 · Oct 22, 20269월 누적 외국인 관광객, 1700만명 돌파…중국인만 547만명 왔다 - 머니투데이Read the full story & photos at the source →
    동아일보 기사 이미지Korea Tops 17M Visitors in 9 Months; Spending Up 47.7%동아일보 · Oct 22, 2026작년보다 5.1조 더 썼다…올해 외국인 관광객 1700만 명 돌파Read the full story & photos at the source →

  • LG Innotek, Nvidia Co-Develop Robot and Car Sensing

    LG Innotek, Nvidia Co-Develop Robot and Car Sensing

    As of October 22, 2026, LG Innotek is developing visual sensing technology with Nvidia for robots and self-driving cars. The Korean components maker debuted related products at Nvidia's event in Berlin and says it will extend the partnership to parts for humanoid robots.

    3 megapixelsResolution of the camera module shown at GTC Berlin
    4 companiesOutside partners LG Innotek has signed for physical AI so far (3 if you exclude Aeva)

    Key points

    • LG Innotek showed off new sensor products on Oct. 20 at Nvidia's GTC Berlin tech event in Germany, and made the announcement official on Oct. 22.
    • The display included a camera module in the 3-megapixel class and a multimodal vision system that combines several sensors to read the surrounding environment.
    • The two companies plan to widen their work to cover humanoid vision systems and sensing for robot hands, and to unveil products compatible with Nvidia's next-generation AI platform at CES and GTC next year.

    At the center of the deal is Nvidia's Holoscan Sensor Bridge (HSB), a data-transfer technology for sensors. Normally, what a camera or sensor picks up passes through the central processor (CPU) before reaching the graphics processor (GPU) that handles AI computing. HSB skips that detour and sends the data straight through. Less waiting in the middle means less time between a robot or self-driving car seeing what's in front of it and deciding what to do.

    LG Innotek showed camera modules and a combined vision system built on the technology at the event. The company thinks the payoff will be biggest for robots, which have to react in real time when a person or obstacle suddenly moves. Next, it plans to apply the same approach to the vision devices that serve as a humanoid's eyes and to the sensing tech used in its hands.

    LG Innotek built its name on smartphone camera parts and has been pushing that optical design know-how into mobility and robotics. On the self-driving side, it formed a strategic relationship last year with U.S. lidar maker Aeva, and this year it began development work with Applied Intuition and Kakao Mobility. In robotics, it is co-developing components with Boston Dynamics, and it is reportedly also in mass production of camera modules for a North American customer.

    CEO Moon Hyuk-soo called the collaboration a chance to introduce the company's differentiated multi-sensor technology to the global market. LG Innotek wants to be a one-stop supplier that covers not just camera sensing but also communications components and semiconductor substrates, and it says it intends to get to the physical AI market first.

    In Korea right nowIn Korea, the news is being read as a sign that LG Innotek, long known as a smartphone camera supplier, is shifting its center of gravity toward robots and autonomous driving. With smartphone growth cooling, the big question is whether physical AI (AI that acts in the real world through robots and machines) can become a new profit engine. The Nvidia tie-up is also seen as a way to open doors to overseas robot and vehicle makers.

    FAQ

    What is HSB technology?

    It's an Nvidia communications technology that sends data from cameras and other sensors straight to the AI-computing GPU without going through the CPU. Less lag means faster reactions from robots and self-driving cars.

    When will the new products be unveiled?

    The two companies plan to show sensors that work with Nvidia's next-generation AI platform at CES and GTC next year.

    What kind of company is LG Innotek?

    It's an LG Group components maker that built its business on smartphone camera modules. More recently it has been applying multi-sensor technology, including lidar and radar, to robots and autonomous driving.

    📎 원문 보기 · Sources

    경향신문 기사 이미지LG Innotek, Nvidia Co-Develop Robot and Car Sensing경향신문 · Oct 22, 2026LG이노텍, 엔비디아와 로봇 ‘눈’ 개발한다…피지컬 AI 시장 공략Read the full story & photos at the source →
    동아일보 기사 이미지LG Innotek, Nvidia Co-Develop Robot and Car Sensing동아일보 · Oct 22, 2026엔비디아와 피지컬 AI 맞손…LG이노텍, 로봇용 센싱 솔루션 개발Read the full story & photos at the source →

  • ENHYPEN Logs 8th Week on Billboard 200 at No. 122

    ENHYPEN Logs 8th Week on Billboard 200 at No. 122

    As of October 21, 2026, ENHYPEN's mini album "THE SIN : BLISS" has charted on the US Billboard 200 for eight straight weeks. It sits at No. 122 on the latest chart, dated Oct. 24, and at No. 2 on World Albums.

    8 weeksConsecutive weeks on the Billboard 200
    No. 122Latest Billboard 200 rank
    No. 66Artist 100 rank
    37Total world tour shows

    Key points

    • "THE SIN : BLISS" ranked No. 122 on the Billboard 200 dated Oct. 24.
    • The album first entered the chart dated Sept. 5 at No. 1 and has stayed on for eight consecutive weeks.
    • It also placed No. 2 on World Albums and No. 9 on Top Album Sales.
    • On the Artist 100, the overall artist chart, ENHYPEN rose three spots to No. 66.

    Billboard released its latest charts on Tuesday, Oct. 20, US time, and ENHYPEN's eighth mini album, "THE SIN : BLISS," landed at No. 122 on the Billboard 200, the magazine's main album chart. The album debuted at No. 1 on the chart dated Sept. 5 and hasn't dropped off once since, which adds up to about two months on the list.

    It kept racking up numbers on the genre charts, too. The album ranked No. 2 on World Albums, which tracks non-English-language music, and No. 9 on Top Album Sales, which counts physical copies and other sales. On the Artist 100, which blends album and track sales, streaming, radio play and social media activity, the group climbed three spots from the previous week to No. 66.

    The group is currently on its "BLOOD SAGA" world tour, with 37 shows planned across 22 cities worldwide. From December through February, the tour hits four cities in Japan, including Tokyo and Osaka. After stops in Jakarta and Singapore, it moves on to five European cities, including Milan, Paris and London, through March 2027.

    In Korea right nowIn Korea, the focus right now is less on where the album landed at launch and more on how long it has stuck around. Eight straight weeks on the chart after a No. 1 debut is being read as a sign of steady fan buying. News of the Japan and Europe tour dates is also underscoring how the group keeps its global momentum going.

    FAQ

    What is the Billboard 200?

    It's the US flagship album chart, ranking the most-consumed albums in the country each week. ENHYPEN has now charted on it for eight straight weeks with this mini album.

    ENHYPEN started at No. 1, so why is the album at No. 122 now?

    Album consumption tends to peak in the first week of release, so rankings usually slide afterward. The notable part is that the album has stayed on the chart for eight weeks without a break.

    Where is ENHYPEN performing next?

    The group plays four cities in Japan from December through February, then heads to Jakarta and Singapore, followed by five European cities through March 2027.

    📎 원문 보기 · Sources

    조선일보 기사 이미지ENHYPEN Logs 8th Week on Billboard 200 at No. 122조선일보 · Oct 20, 2026엔하이픈, 美 '빌보드 200' 8주째 롱런Read the full story & photos at the source →
    MK스포츠 기사 이미지ENHYPEN Logs 8th Week on Billboard 200 at No. 122MK스포츠엔하이픈, 美 ‘빌보드 200’서 두 달째 롱런…8주 연속 차트 진입 - MK스포츠Read the full story & photos at the source →
    아주경제 기사 이미지ENHYPEN Logs 8th Week on Billboard 200 at No. 122아주경제 · Oct 21, 2026엔하이픈, 미니 8집으로 美 '빌보드 200' 8주 연속 차트인…'월드 앨범' 2위 | 아주경제Read the full story & photos at the source →
    텐아시아 기사 이미지ENHYPEN Logs 8th Week on Billboard 200 at No. 122텐아시아 · Oct 21, 2026엔하이픈, 1위로 시작해 8주째 빌보드 지켰다…장기 흥행 계속 | 텐아시아Read the full story & photos at the source →

  • Korea’s Oct. 1–20 Exports Double to $61.6B on Chips

    Korea’s Oct. 1–20 Exports Double to $61.6B on Chips

    As of October 21, 2026, South Korea's exports for Oct. 1–20 totaled about $61.6 billion, more than double the same stretch a year earlier. Shipments rose 105.4%, driven almost entirely by semiconductors, and the trade balance came in about $14.5 billion in the black.

    About $61.6BExports, Oct. 1–20
    222.5%Growth in semiconductor exports
    44.7%Chips' share of total exports
    About $14.5BTrade surplus, same period

    Key points

    • According to preliminary Korea Customs Service data, exports for Oct. 1–20 reached about $61.6 billion, up 105.4%.
    • Semiconductor exports hit about $27.5 billion, more than triple last year's level, and made up 44.7% of all exports.
    • Adjusted for working days, average daily exports came to about $4.74 billion, topping September's record.
    • Imports over the same period were about $47.1 billion, leaving a trade surplus of about $14.5 billion.

    The Korea Customs Service released preliminary export and import figures for the first 20 days of October on Wednesday. Exports came to about $61.6 billion, up more than $30 billion from the same point last year. It's the biggest total for this stretch of any October on record.

    The engine was semiconductors. Chip exports reached about $27.5 billion, more than triple last year's figure. That pushed chips to 44.7% of all exports, up from 28.4% a year earlier. Computer peripherals jumped more than 400%, and petroleum products, passenger cars and steel products all grew by double digits or more.

    One caveat: this year's window had more working days. It counted 13, versus 10.5 last year, a gap of 2.5 days. Even so, average daily exports rose 65.9% to about $4.74 billion, topping September's previous record of roughly $4.6 billion.

    By destination, exports to China reached about $16.7 billion and exports to the US about $10.8 billion, each up in the 150% range. Shipments to Vietnam, the European Union and Taiwan also grew. Imports rose 42.8% to about $47.1 billion, with chips, crude oil, gas and machinery all higher. With exports far outpacing imports, the surplus came to about $14.5 billion.

    Cumulative exports from January through Oct. 20 stand at roughly $876 billion, leaving about $124 billion to reach the $1 trillion mark. If the current pace holds, forecasters expect Korea to top $1 trillion in annual exports for the first time ever before the year is out.

    In Korea right nowIn Korea, the hot question right now is when annual exports will cross $1 trillion. The pace is so steep that people are talking about the full-year target based on partial-month data, not just monthly totals. At the same time, with chips now above 40% of all exports, there's fresh attention on how much Korean trade rides on a single industry.

    FAQ

    Why does everyone track average daily exports?

    Mid-month figures can cover a different number of working days each year. This year's window had 2.5 more days than last year's, so comparing raw totals could make the gain look bigger than it is. Adjusting to a daily average evens that out, and exports still rose 65.9%.

    Are these numbers final?

    No. They're preliminary, customs-clearance-based figures from the Korea Customs Service, and they may shift slightly in the end-of-month tally and later releases.

    Is the $1 trillion annual export mark guaranteed?

    No. Cumulative exports stood at about $876 billion as of Oct. 20, so many observers see the milestone as likely, but it still depends on how the rest of the year plays out.

    📎 원문 보기 · Sources

    동아일보 기사 이미지Korea’s Oct. 1–20 Exports Double to .6B on Chips동아일보 · Oct 21, 202610월 1~20일 수출, 전년보다 105% 급증…“반도체 222%↑”Read the full story & photos at the source →
    파이낸셜뉴스 기사 이미지Korea’s Oct. 1–20 Exports Double to .6B on Chips파이낸셜뉴스 · Oct 21, 202610월1~20일 수출 616억 달러,105.4%↑...10월 동기 '역대 최대'Read the full story & photos at the source →
    Korea’s Oct. 1–20 Exports Double to .6B on Chips세계일보 · Oct 21, 202610월 중순 수출 616억달러, 작년의 2배…일평균 또 역대 최대Read the full story & photos at the source →
    이투데이 기사 이미지Korea’s Oct. 1–20 Exports Double to .6B on Chips이투데이 · Oct 21, 202610월 중순 수출 616억불 105%↑⋯반도체 222% 급증 [종합]Read the full story & photos at the source →

  • CU Debuts Barcode-Scanning Smart Cooker Oct. 22

    CU Debuts Barcode-Scanning Smart Cooker Oct. 22

    As of October 20, 2026, Korean convenience store chain CU will roll out the "Smart Cooker" on Oct. 22, an industry first that combines microwave heating, air frying and oven baking in one machine. CU is installing about 500 units first, in areas like college neighborhoods and studio-apartment districts, and scanning a product's barcode automatically triggers the right recipe.

    500 unitsInitial Smart Cooker rollout at CU
    About 1,000Recipes stored in the machine
    12 itemsDedicated products launching in phases
    90%+Employees in internal tests who said it tasted better

    Key points

    • The Smart Cooker reads a product's barcode and automatically runs a preloaded cooking program.
    • It holds about 1,000 recipes, continuously updated over Wi-Fi.
    • CU will first install about 500 units in areas with many single-person households and roll out 12 dedicated products over time.
    • In internal tests, more than 90% of participating employees said the food tasted better than with the old method.

    BGF Retail, the operator of CU, announced on the 20th that it will bring in the Smart Cooker starting Oct. 22. The machine packs microwave heating, hot-air frying and oven roasting into a single unit. Customers scan a product's barcode and a preset recipe kicks in, so there's no need to set the time or temperature by hand. Product managers write the cooking programs to suit each item, and new products and recipes are added over Wi-Fi.

    Until now, convenience store appliances have mostly been about reheating boxed meals and frozen food. The Smart Cooker also handles items that need a crispy finish, like frozen chicken, pizza and baked goods. It can even combine methods, quickly heating food first and then crisping the surface with hot air or the oven.

    CU will start with about 500 units in college districts, studio-apartment clusters and areas near officetels (apartment-style small units), where young people in their 20s and 30s and people living alone are concentrated. Based on performance and customer response, it plans to expand to more stores. The chain will also launch 12 dedicated products designed for the machine, including baked goods, pizza, pasta and chicken, in stages. A company representative described the move as part of its food-tech strategy.

    Maeil Business Newspaper also covered what rivals are up to. GS25 is using a wider range of breads, like salt bread and ciabatta, in its sandwiches, and is expanding its bite-size mini gimbap (Korean seaweed rice roll) lineup. The reasoning: about a quarter of sandwich sales from January to September came during morning hours. 7-Eleven, meanwhile, saw chicken purchases by foreign tourists jump more than 60% from a year earlier over the same period, with nighttime sales surging in particular, so it launched chicken wing pieces at 3,500 won (about $2.50).

    In Korea right nowIn Korea, a growing number of people live alone and the cost of living keeps climbing, and analysts say that has turned convenience stores into go-to spots for quick meals. A retail industry source said that price and speed used to be the selling points, but now the competition is about reaching the quality of a specialty bakery or restaurant franchise. The question is whether a move that changes even the cooking equipment will push food competition across the industry higher.

    FAQ

    How is the Smart Cooker different from a regular convenience store microwave?

    It doesn't just reheat. It combines microwave heating, hot-air frying and oven functions, and applies a recipe for each product automatically. Scan the barcode and the time and temperature are set for you.

    Where can I use it?

    Starting Oct. 22, about 500 units will be installed first in college districts, studio-apartment clusters and areas near officetels. CU plans to add more stores depending on the response.

    What kinds of food can it cook?

    It's aimed at frozen chicken, pizza, baked goods and similar items. Twelve dedicated products, including pizza, chicken, bakery items and pasta, will launch in phases.

    📎 원문 보기 · Sources

    매일경제 기사 이미지CU Debuts Barcode-Scanning Smart Cooker Oct. 22매일경제 · Oct 20, 2026“전자레인지 띵~은 옛말”... 편의점 먹거리는 고도화 중 - 매일경제Read the full story & photos at the source →
    파이낸셜뉴스 기사 이미지CU Debuts Barcode-Scanning Smart Cooker Oct. 22파이낸셜뉴스 · Oct 20, 2026CU, 조리 방식도 차별화…'스마트쿠커' 업계 첫선Read the full story & photos at the source →
    서울경제 기사 이미지CU Debuts Barcode-Scanning Smart Cooker Oct. 22서울경제 · Oct 20, 2026CU, 편의점서 맞춤 조리까지…업계 최초 ‘스마트쿠커’ 도입Read the full story & photos at the source →
    CU Debuts Barcode-Scanning Smart Cooker Oct. 22뉴스1 · Oct 20, 2026CU, 바코드 찍으면 자동 조리…'스마트쿠커' 500대 도입Read the full story & photos at the source →

  • Kim Yoo-jung’s “100 Days of Lies” Hits 10.6% for tvN

    Kim Yoo-jung’s “100 Days of Lies” Hits 10.6% for tvN

    As of October 20, 2026, tvN's weekend drama "100 Days of Lies" peaked at 10.6% in the Seoul metropolitan area with its Oct. 18 episode, topping every channel in its time slot. The spy romance, set in colonial-era Seoul and starring Kim Yoo-jung as a pickpocket-turned-informant, is one of tvN's 20th anniversary specials.

    10.6%Peak household rating, Seoul area
    9.8%Average household rating, Seoul area
    9.0%Average household rating, nationwide
    20thtvN anniversary special title

    Key points

    • Episode 4, which aired on the 18th, peaked at 10.6% and averaged 9.8% in the Seoul area, per Nielsen Korea.
    • It ranked No. 1 in its time slot across all channels, including terrestrial networks, and led the 2049 demographic (viewers aged 20 to 49).
    • "Signal 2," originally the big draw of tvN's 20th anniversary lineup, has been postponed indefinitely.
    • The drama is directed by Yoo In-sik and written by Ryu Bo-ri.

    Episode 4, which aired on the 18th, peaked at 10.6% among households in the Seoul area, with an average of 9.8%. Nationwide, it averaged 9.0% and peaked at 9.8%. Both figures beat the show's previous records.

    The episode ranked first in its time slot across all channels, including terrestrial networks, and topped the 2049 demographic, tvN's core target audience. Two weeks after premiering, the show is on a clear upward trend.

    Part of the buzz comes from its status as a tvN 20th anniversary special. The original flagship of the celebration was supposed to be "Signal 2," the sequel to the cult hit "Signal." But its schedule was pushed back indefinitely after lead actor Jo Jin-woong's past misconduct came to light and he announced his retirement. Some in the industry see "100 Days of Lies" as effectively filling that gap. Director Yoo In-sik pushed back at the press conference, saying the changes to the other project have nothing to do with this one and that the drama was prepared on its original timeline.

    The story takes place in 1930s Seoul, then known as Gyeongseong under Japanese colonial rule. Lee Ga-gyeong (Kim Yoo-jung), a famous pickpocket, becomes an informant for an independence group called Gukgudan and goes undercover as an interpreter at the Japanese colonial government. Park Jin-young plays Sato Hideo, a man with a double identity who creates tension for her, while Kim Hyun-joo, Lee Moo-saeng and Jin Seon-kyu play figures on both the group's side and the government's. In episode 4, the group's second assassination attempt goes sideways, and Ga-gyeong's cover is closer than ever to being blown.

    In Korea right nowKorean TV watchers tend to talk about the "Signal" sequel's absence and this show's success in the same breath. A Money Today column praised the script, direction and acting, singling out a structure where different lies tangle together to build tension while the characters' true feelings slip through. The lighter tone of a spy drama set in the colonial era also seems to be driving word of mouth.

    FAQ

    What is "100 Days of Lies" about?

    It's a tvN weekend spy romance set in 1930s Seoul, following a pickpocket named Lee Ga-gyeong who becomes an informant for an independence group and infiltrates the Japanese colonial government.

    What does the 10.6% rating mean?

    It's the peak household rating in the Seoul area, as measured by Nielsen Korea. The same episode averaged 9.8% in the Seoul area.

    Is this drama a replacement for the "Signal" sequel?

    Not officially. The director says the two projects' schedules are unrelated, but because both are part of the 20th anniversary lineup, some in the industry see it as filling the gap.

    📎 원문 보기 · Sources

    매일경제 기사 이미지Kim Yoo-jung’s “100 Days of Lies” Hits 10.6% for tvN매일경제 · Oct 20, 2026‘시그널2’ 아쉬워할 새 없네…10.6% 찍고 tvN 살린 김유정 드라마 - 매일경제Read the full story & photos at the source →
    머니투데이 기사 이미지Kim Yoo-jung’s “100 Days of Lies” Hits 10.6% for tvN머니투데이 · Oct 20, 2026'작·감·배' 완벽한 삼박자, '100일의 거짓말'에 빠져드는 이유 [드라마 쪼개보기] - 머니투데이Read the full story & photos at the source →

  • EJAE Marries Sam Kim at Her Grandfather’s Old Seoul Home

    EJAE Marries Sam Kim at Her Grandfather’s Old Seoul Home

    As of October 20, 2026, EJAE, the singer-songwriter who rose to global fame through the music of Netflix's "KPop Demon Hunters," is officially married to producer and songwriter Sam Kim. The ceremony took place on Oct. 17 at Stage28 in Seoul's Godeok-dong neighborhood, the former home of her maternal grandfather, veteran actor Shin Young-kyun.

    Oct. 17Wedding date
    2017Year the couple first met
    About 1 monthHow much earlier than originally planned

    Key points

    • EJAE and Sam Kim married on Oct. 17 at Stage28 in Godeok-dong, Gangdong District, Seoul.
    • The couple had originally planned a November wedding in California, but moved it to Seoul and pushed the date up.
    • The venue sits on the site of veteran actor Shin Young-kyun's old home and now houses the Shin Young-kyun Arts and Culture Foundation.
    • The news came out through U.S. fashion magazine Vogue and EJAE's Instagram.

    Vogue broke the news first, and EJAE followed up by posting photos from the day on her Instagram. The images show the couple in a white wedding gown and a tuxedo, smiling in front of guests, sharing a kiss, and dressed in traditional Korean wedding attire.

    Stage28 stands on land where Shin Young-kyun once lived. Today it's home to the Shin Young-kyun Arts and Culture Foundation. In her Vogue interview, EJAE recalled that her grandparents lived there when she was young, and she still remembers playing in the garden for hours and walking the hill behind the house with her grandfather. One outlet reported that the venue also hosted her brother's wedding, but other outlets haven't confirmed that detail.

    Reports point to a packed schedule as the reason for the change in date and location. After the success of "KPop Demon Hunters," EJAE has been busy with promotions and award-show appearances. Media accounts say the couple chose Seoul because it let them honor her Korean roots and family memories. According to some reports, the event was kept low-key and family-focused, with no public announcement.

    The two first met in 2017 at a session set up for music work. They stayed creative collaborators before becoming a couple, and got engaged in June last year. EJAE is a songwriter and singer who trained at SM Entertainment, one of Korea's biggest K-pop agencies. She co-wrote, composed and sang the film's signature track "Golden," which won the Grammy for Best Song Written for Visual Media. Her credits also include K-pop hits like Red Velvet's "Psycho" and aespa's "Drama."

    In Korea right nowIn Korea, the wedding has become more than a personal milestone. People noticed that a star of a global hit chose Seoul over an overseas venue, and specifically the old home of her grandfather, a giant of Korean cinema. Local media also noted that EJAE and her fiancé attended an arts awards ceremony at the same venue on the 15th.

    FAQ

    When and where did EJAE and Sam Kim get married?

    They married on Oct. 17, 2026, at Stage28 in Godeok-dong, Gangdong District, Seoul. Photos were released around Oct. 20.

    Why is the wedding venue so special?

    It sits on the former home of EJAE's maternal grandfather, veteran actor Shin Young-kyun, where she spent time with her grandparents as a child. The Shin Young-kyun Arts and Culture Foundation is based there now.

    What is EJAE best known for?

    She's known for writing and singing key songs in Netflix's "KPop Demon Hunters." Her track "Golden" won the Grammy for Best Song Written for Visual Media.

    📎 원문 보기 · Sources

    조선일보 기사 이미지EJAE Marries Sam Kim at Her Grandfather’s Old Seoul Home조선일보 · Oct 20, 2026‘케데헌’ 이재, 외조부 신영균 옛 자택 부지서 깜짝 결혼Read the full story & photos at the source →
    동아일보 기사 이미지EJAE Marries Sam Kim at Her Grandfather’s Old Seoul Home동아일보 · Oct 20, 2026‘케데헌’ 이재, 외조부 신영균 옛 자택 부지서 깜짝 결혼식Read the full story & photos at the source →
    경향신문 기사 이미지EJAE Marries Sam Kim at Her Grandfather’s Old Seoul Home경향신문 · Oct 20, 2026‘케데헌’ 이재, 외조부 신영균 옛 자택서 결혼Read the full story & photos at the source →
    SBS 뉴스 기사 이미지EJAE Marries Sam Kim at Her Grandfather’s Old Seoul HomeSBS 뉴스 · Oct 20, 2026'케데헌' 이재, 샘 킴과 한국서 '깜짝 결혼'…외조부 신영균 옛 자택 부지서 가족식Read the full story & photos at the source →

  • IVE Pre-Releases ‘Looks Can Kill’ From ‘Girl Hero’ EP

    IVE Pre-Releases ‘Looks Can Kill’ From ‘Girl Hero’ EP

    As of October 19, 2026, IVE released the title track of its fifth mini album (EP), 'Looks Can Kill,' to streaming platforms at 6 p.m. KST today as an early drop. The full album arrives October 26, and the theme this time is an IVE-style 'girl hero.'

    5thMini album in IVE's discography
    Oct. 26Full album release date
    ~8 monthsGap since 'REVIVE+' in February

    Key points

    • The title track 'Looks Can Kill' was released early at 6 p.m. KST on October 19, with the full album's songs following on October 26.
    • The concept is a hero who overpowers opponents just by showing up, with the message that everyone is the main character of their own life.
    • Lyrics were written by Seo Ji-eum, Lil Cherry and member Rei, and the track is electronic dance pop.
    • It's IVE's first comeback in about eight months, since 'REVIVE+' in February.

    IVE is leading its comeback with the title track. 'Looks Can Kill' hit streaming sites at 6 p.m. KST on October 19, and the fifth mini album, which shares the name, follows a week later on October 26. Putting the flagship song out first is a classic way to build hype before the full release.

    The core idea of this album is the 'girl hero.' Starship Entertainment, IVE's label, says it started from the image of a hero who subdues opponents with presence alone and wove that through the whole project. The self-confidence theme the group has carried since debut now expands into a message that anyone can be the lead in their own story. In the music video, the six members each transform into their own version of a hero.

    On the credits side, Seo Ji-eum, Lil Cherry and member Rei co-wrote the lyrics. The genre is electronic dance pop, with a thick, gritty bass line, dynamic drums and heavy synths building a swaggering mood.

    There's a shift in the arc, too. On 'REVIVE+' in February, IVE showed a more mature, charismatic side with 'Black Hole' and 'Bang Bang.' Before that, the group won fans by trying on different characters, from the magical girl of the 'Accendio' era to the teen queen of 'Love Dive.' The 'girl hero' concept is being read as a move away from the dreamy, lovable image toward something stronger and bolder.

    In Korea right nowKorean outlets are highlighting that IVE has added a new face, the hero, to its collection of 'girl characters.' Some fans are calling it a complete 180 from the group's usual image, and attention is turning to how much wider IVE's musical range gets when the full album lands on the 26th.

    FAQ

    When can I listen to 'Looks Can Kill'?

    The title track has been available on Korean streaming sites since 6 p.m. KST on October 19. The full album comes out October 26.

    What does the 'girl hero' concept mean?

    It pairs the idea of a hero who dominates just by existing with IVE's trademark self-confidence and agency. The message is that anyone can be the main character of their own life.

    How does this comeback differ from IVE's last one?

    Where February's 'REVIVE+' leaned mature and charismatic, this release goes for an energetic hero image, showing a very different side of the group.

    📎 원문 보기 · Sources

    동아일보 기사 이미지IVE Pre-Releases ‘Looks Can Kill’ From ‘Girl Hero’ EP동아일보 · Oct 19, 2026아이브, 이번엔 ‘걸 히어로’다…‘룩스 캔 킬’ 선공개로 컴백 예열Read the full story & photos at the source →
    SBS 뉴스 기사 이미지IVE Pre-Releases ‘Looks Can Kill’ From ‘Girl Hero’ EPSBS 뉴스 · Oct 19, 2026아이브, 새 앨범 발매 전 '룩스 캔 킬' 선공개Read the full story & photos at the source →