Hwasa has officially cemented her status as a digital powerhouse. According to iChart data from December 23, her latest hit “Good Goodbye” has achieved a staggering 400 Perfect All-Kills (PAKs) since reaching the top spot on November 30.
This achievement makes Hwasa the first solo female artist of 2025 to achieve a PAK. She joins an exclusive list of 2025 chart-toppers, including IVE, G-Dragon, and HUNTR/X. Among domestic artists (excluding global group HUNTR/X), Hwasa currently holds the highest cumulative PAK count of the year.
The song has also entered the history books, climbing to No. 5 on the All-Time PAK list, trailing only legends like IU, BTS, NewJeans, and HUNTR/X. The track’s massive success is largely attributed to her viral performance at the 46th Blue Dragon Film Awards, which sparked a resurgence in popularity across all major streaming platforms.
K-Pop fans were thrilled as Ma Dong Seok and G-Dragon celebrated Christmas together, bringing a touch of aegyo to the holiday festivities. On December 25 KST, Ma Dong Seok gave fans a glimpse into the joyful gathering by sharing photos and videos on Instagram, captioned with “Merry Christmas with @xxxibgdrgn.” The holiday spirit was truly in the air as these two iconic figures came together.
Beyond the festive cheer, both stars have been keeping busy. Ma Dong Seok is currently captivating audiences with the tvN reality program ‘I Am Boxer.’ Meanwhile, G-Dragon recently concluded his ‘Übermensch’ world tour, which saw an impressive turnout of 825,000 fans worldwide, and made a notable appearance at the 2025 Melon Music Awards.
With such dynamic activities in their careers, it’s heartwarming to see these stars enjoy some downtime together during the holiday season, reminding fans of the close bonds within the K-Pop community.
Aespa’s Winter gracefully made her entrance into the limelight amidst a swirl of dating rumors involving BTS’s Jungkook. Her serene demeanor was noteworthy as she chose not to comment on the ongoing speculation during her appearance at the 2025 SBS Gayo Daejeon. This annual event, hosted at Incheon’s Inspire Arena, attracted heightened media scrutiny as whispers of alleged ‘couple tattoos’ between the idols flooded social media.
The event, co-hosted by IVE’s Yujin, NCT’s Jaemin, and DAY6’s Young K, saw Winter donning a pastel ensemble—a light mint, sleeveless dress layered with tulle that exuded elegance over flamboyance. This subtle fashion choice seemed intentional, possibly meant to avoid drawing attention to any tattoos that have been at the center of swirling rumors.
Many observed that Winter’s arms, frequent topics of online tattoo debates, were cautiously covered. Her careful movements reinforced the perception of deliberate concealment, sparking mixed reactions from fans and netizens alike. While some criticized the heightened scrutiny over her personal life, others focused on her fashion choices, noting how thoroughly any purported tattoos were hidden, possibly using tone-up cream.
Although neither Winter’s agency nor Jungkook has released any statements, Korean netizens have passionately commented on the situation. Opinions range from critiques on her skin-tone appearance to discussions on privacy and the pressures idols face. The sentiments reflect the ongoing tension between K-Pop idols’ public personas and personal lives.
Netflix is poised to electrify viewers with ‘Cashero’, a much-anticipated Korean drama launching today, the 26th, showcasing some of the hottest talents in the industry. This exciting new series stands out with its captivating storyline that merges everyday life with extraordinary superpowers. At its heart is an unassuming office worker with a disarmingly unique ability: the more cash he handles, the stronger he becomes. Navigating life as a civil servant with dreams of matrimonial bliss and home buying, he inherits a power with its own quirky twist money vanishes the moment it’s spent.
Front and center is Lee Jun Ho, lauded for his captivating roles, who steps into the boots of Kang Sang Woong, an unsuspecting superhero balancing the mundane and the magnificent. Known for the stunning success of his recent show ‘Typhoon Family’, Lee excels in portraying the transformation of an ordinary man thrust into extraordinary circumstances.
Joining the ensemble is the versatile Lee Chae Min, venturing into villainy for the first time as Jonathan, the sinister heir of the notorious “Criminal Society”. Though a newbie to playing antagonists, his performance has already been touted by critics to leave a lasting impression. At the show’s press briefing, Chae Min delved into his character: a relentless hunter within an organization deceptively cloaked as a common corporation.
Also marking her return is Kang Han Na, who embodies the character Joanna, an imperious yet charismatic criminal heiress locked in fierce rivalry with her brother Jonathan for supremacy. Set against a backdrop of opulence, her role is as compelling as it is intricate.
Lee Chang Min, known for his deft touch in dramas like ‘Agency’ and ‘Welcome to Waikiki’, directs this eight-episode masterpiece with his trademark wit and flair. Scheduled for a 5 PM release on Netflix, ‘Cashero’ promises a blend of humor, action, and touching human moments that are set to enthrall the audience worldwide.
Join the conversation and explore more as ‘Cashero’ unfolds with enticing characters, intriguing dynamics, and exhilarating action.
On December 25, Lizzy, the former sensation from After School and Orange Caramel, surprised fans with a series of delightful Christmas-themed snapshots.
In a cascade of joy and warmth, Lizzy adorned her social feed with vibrant images alongside a touching message: “Merry Christmas, everyone! I’ve been eating well these days, so I’ve gained a little weight.” The photos capture Lizzy relishing festive dining, striking poses by a twinkling Christmas tree, and cherishing serene moments with family.
Sporting a new short, permed hairstyle, Lizzy exhibited a softer, enchanting look, earning admiration for her refined facial features. The touching caption further read: “This Christmas feels even happier because I’m spending it with my mom and dad. My mom takes such good photos. Anyway, Merry Christmas to everyone! You all worked so hard this year, and I sincerely hope that only good things come your way next year. Have a wonderful day.”
Reflecting on a vibrant career, Lizzy debuted in 2010 with After School and won hearts with Orange Caramel, alongside Nana and Raina. However, in 2021, she faced a drunken driving scandal resulting in a substantial fine.
Since then, Lizzy has embraced personal growth and regularly updates her fans, sharing glimpses of both her artistic journey and personal milestones, as evidenced by her festive Insta-chronicle.
The Melon Music Awards (MMA) 2025 once again proved its place as a highlight of the K-pop calendar, delivering groundbreaking performances and unforgettable moments. From historic wins and major comebacks to rookie sensations, this year’s MMA offered a spectacle that resonated worldwide.
Here’s our rundown of the Top 5 performances from MMA 2025 that broke viewership records and left an indelible mark on fans everywhere.
JENNIE
Jennie’s landmark performance at MMA 2025 was nothing short of historic. Becoming the first soloist to secure the ‘Record of the Year’ Daesang, Jennie delivered magnetic performances of her hits “Seoul City,” “Like JENNIE,” and “Zen.” Her solo debut at a major awards show captured the hearts of many, climbing past 10 million views to become the show’s most-watched performance.
G-DRAGON
Reaffirming his legendary status, G-Dragon turned the MMA platform into his personal arena, delivering a riveting set from his album Übermensch. Concluding with his timeless hit “Crooked,” G-Dragon amassed 3.3 million views and further cemented his role as a pivotal K-pop figure.
EXO
EXO’s return to award shows in 2025 was a monumental moment. Performing favorites like “Monster,” “Growl,” and new track “Back It Up,” their stage marked the group’s first in eight years, earning significant acclaim and exceeding 3.7 million views, sparking an online frenzy.
aespa
With a blend of futuristic concept and polished choreography, aespa’s performances of “Drift,” “Rich Man,” and “Dirty Work” dazzled audiences. Their mesmerizing show secured 1.8 million views, further establishing their status as leading figures in K-pop’s new wave.
ALLDAY PROJECT
The rising co-ed group ALLDAY PROJECT, winners of the MMA ‘Rookie of the Year,’ impressed with vibrant renditions of “One More Time,” “Look At Me,” and “Famous.” Their dynamic stage, highlighted by a viral dance break, accrued 1.8 million views, showcasing their bright future in the industry.
MMA 2025 was a testament to the power and global draw of K-pop, with performances that not only captured high viewership numbers but also sparked conversations across the industry.
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Top 5 Unforgettable Performances that Dominated MMA 2025 ViewsTop 5 Unforgettable Performances that Dominated MMA 2025 ViewsTop 5 Unforgettable Performances that Dominated MMA 2025 Views
Taemin, the effervescent member of SHINee and a celebrated solo artist, has admirably wrapped up his Japan arena tour with an unforgettable finale, underscoring his reputation as an elite performer. The culmination of the ‘2025 TAEMIN ARENA TOUR ‘Veil’’ happened on December 24 and 25 at the GLION ARENA KOBE in Hyogo Prefecture. This marked Taemin’s first solo arena tour in Japan in five years, and the buzz it generated was palpable long before it commenced. Under the theme ‘Veil,’ the concerts journeyed through a mystical landscape where good and evil entwined, brought to life by Taemin’s signature dynamism and intricate stagecraft. His exhilarating presence resonated across five major regions: Kanagawa, Saga, Shizuoka, Chiba, and Hyogo.
The concert’s theatrical opening saw Taemin descending majestically from a cross-shaped structure, immediately enthralling the audience with the powerful ‘Heaven.’ The intensity only rose with performances of ‘Veil,’ ‘Bones,’ ‘Advice + IDEA,’ and ‘Shadow.’ Each act was a testament to his ability to capture and escalate the energy within the arena. Conceptually rich performances like ‘Guess Who’ and ‘Criminal’ plunged fans deeper into this sonic narrative. As the night continued, the mood shifted as Taemin’s choreography and emotive vocals shone through songs such as ‘Exclusive,’ ‘Door,’ and ‘Flame of Love.’ The enchantment escalated with fan-favorites ‘Into the Rhythm,’ ‘Tease,’ and ‘Famous,’ culminating in roaring standing ovations. The lively tune of ‘Mars’ created an intimate yet electrifying connection with the audience, a special highlight for his Japanese admirers.
Responding to passionate calls for an encore, Taemin returned with ‘Move’ and ‘Holy Water,’ solidifying his indelible impact. He shared heartfelt thoughts, “I was thrilled to share the ‘Veil’ experience with all of you. With your support, I am primed to forge ahead. Await me until our paths cross again.” Concluding with ‘FINALE,’ Taemin bid a poignant farewell to the tour. Taemin’s influence in Japan was undeniable, particularly evident with the Saga concert. It was a triumph of collaboration with local authorities, which included promotional campaigns featuring Taemin at transport hubs, custom food maps, and even a Taemin-decorated bus, setting a new benchmark for K-Pop soloists.
Furthermore, this tour marked Taemin’s inaugural inclusion of a live band, enriching the overall soundscape and concert experience. With the tour closed, Taemin’s sights are set on the United States. Ahead of his much-anticipated Coachella performance in 2026, he will headline a solo concert in Las Vegas on January 16 and take part in the GRAMMY Museum’s ‘Global Spin Live’ on January 20, propelling his international presence.
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Taemin Unleashes Unmatched Charisma at Japan Arena Tour FinaleTaemin Unleashes Unmatched Charisma at Japan Arena Tour Finale
Despite facing unexpected challenges and financial setbacks, actress Lee Young Ae has secured a nomination for the KBS Drama Awards with her role in ‘Eunsu’s Good Day‘. This news emerges amidst a blend of high anticipation and a lingering debate over the drama’s performance, which fell short of expectations in the rating charts.
The announcement on December 26th highlighted nominees such as Ahn Jae Wook and Uhm Ji Won from ‘Please Take Care of the Five Eagle Brothers!’, ‘Na Young Hee from ‘Cinderella Game’, alongside Lee Young Ae and Kim Young Kwang from ‘Eunsu’s Good Day’. These picks promise a thrilling awards season, igniting interest in who will take home the coveted honors.
Despite the buzz surrounding Lee’s return to a KBS drama after 26 years, ‘Eunsu’s Good Day’ and its counterpart, ‘Twelve’ starring Ma Dong Seok, stumbled under the weight of expectations. Positioned as part of KBS’s fresh Saturday–Sunday miniseries initiative, these dramas struggled to capture the anticipated audience size.
The financial implications for KBS were considerable. Reports indicate that KBS purchased ‘Twelve’ for 5.5 billion won per episode, only to recover approximately 2.6 billion won through advertising. This steep deficit led to a cumulative loss estimated at 18 billion won. Similarly, ‘Eunsu’s Good Day’ incurred substantial losses. KBS’s investment of 10.6 billion won per episode across 12 episodes culminated in a staggering 88 billion won shortfall, according to industry insiders.
The drama landscape was rounded out by top performers like ‘Please Take Care of the Five Eagle Brothers!’ which claimed a nationwide peak of 22.4% in viewership, outshining its competitors with its heartfelt depiction of familial bonds beyond blood ties. As KBS prepares for its year-end awards ceremony, airing live on December 31 at 7:10 p.m. KST, the absence of post-finale interviews from Lee Young Ae raises questions about her potential attendance.
Such dynamics position the 2025 KBS Drama Awards as a pivotal moment for the broadcasting giant, balancing critical acclaim with financial realities.
In the heart of Inchon at the Inspire Arena, ALLDAY PROJECT took the stage at the 2025 SBS Gayo Daejeon, stunning fans with their electrifying performances. The event was a spectacle of group and individual showcases, capturing the essence of K-pop’s rising stars.
The group took the spotlight performing “LOOK AT ME,” the title track from their debut EP. Clad in fashionable black-and-white outfits that combined elegance with hip flair, ALLDAY PROJECT wowed the audience with their remarkable chemistry and stage presence, showing a blend of unified energy that’s rare for such a new group.
Adding a personal touch, member Woochan stole the show with a solo performance of his self-composed song “Home Alone (Gayo Daejeon ver.),” bringing the audience into a frenzy with his unique style and emotional delivery.
ALLDAY PROJECT continues to solidify their status as a leading rookie group, garnishing attention at multiple prestigious events such as the 2025 KGMA, MAMA, AAA, and MMA. Their journey is one of meteoric rise, capturing hearts and collecting accolades every step of the way.
This Christmas season, fans’ hearts were warmed once more as singer and actress Hyeri celebrated a festive tradition with Miyeon from i-dle. For the third consecutive year, the beloved stars spent Christmas together, sharing this special time with their fans through Instagram.
On December 25th, Hyeri delighted followers by posting charming photos alongside Miyeon, affectionately captioning them ‘The princesses’ Christmas.’ The snapshots captured the duo in endearing poses, embodying their playful camaraderie and undeniable bond. Wrapped in cozy jackets and hats, the friends’ radiant smiles were unmistakable, bringing holiday cheer to all who saw them.
Echoing the sentiment, Miyeon shared the same enchanting images, perfectly captioned ‘Christmas date with sister for the third year.’ Their shared tradition has not gone unnoticed by fans, who celebrate their close-knit friendship. This connection was further showcased during their participation together on the variety show ‘HMLYCP’ in 2023, displaying their shared adventures and lighthearted moments.
As these two talented artists continue to inspire and entertain, their Christmas celebrations stand out as a testament to their friendship, bringing joy not just to each other, but to fans worldwide.
