Find out the cast and summary of Korean movie “Yaksha: Ruthless Operations” with Sol KyungGu, Park HaeSoo, Yang DongGeun, EL, Song JaeRim, and GOT7’s JinYoung.
Carinne, Staff Writer 3 min to read ·
Published : Apr 8, 2022
NetflixKr
“Yaksha: Ruthless Operations” is an action film that depicts a close battle between the NIS's secret operation black ops team led by their leader called “Yacha” in Shenyang, China, the biggest battleground for spies, a special prosecutor, and agents from various intelligence agencies.
The leads in the film are Sol KyungGu, Park HaeSoo, Yang DongGeun, EL, Song JaeRim, and GOT7’s JinYoung.
Sol KyungGu has mostly appeared in films such as “The Book Of Fish”, “Man Of Men”, and “Birthday”, and was in the 1999 drama “Happy Together.”
Park HaeSoo has most recently appeared in the dramas “Chimera”, “Squid Game”, “Racket Boys”, “Prison Playbook”, and will be appearing in the upcoming Korean adaption of “Money Heist.”
Finally, actress EL who has acted in dramas “Dr. Brain”, “When The Devil Calls Your Name”, “Matrimonial Chaos”, and “Ambergris” will be starring in this drama as well.
Here is more information.
Yaksha: Ruthless Operations (2022)
NetflixKr
Information
Title: Yaksha: Ruthless Operations / Yacha / 야차
Director: Na Hyeon
Writer: Na Hyeon, Ahn SangHoon
Network: Netflix
Runtime: From April 8
Genre: Action, Crime, Adventure
Language: Korean
Summary
“Yaksha: Ruthless Operations” follows the story of a Black Ops spy team led by the so-called “Yacha”, named after a ferocious spirit, as they take on a breathtaking intelligence operation with intelligence agents from around the world.
Cast
NetflixKr
Sol KyungGu as KangIn
KangIn is the leader of the National Intelligence Service’s covert operations team the "Black Team." He is a ruthless person who does not hesitate to do anything illegal in order to carry out a perfect mission.
NetflixKr
Park HaeSoo as Han JiHoon
JiHoon, who was demoted to become a special inspector by the Seoul Central District Prosecutor's Office, is suspicious of the Black Team’s operations. He is tasked with monitoring the Black Team’s every move and persistently follows them during their operations.
Overseas Fans Name Their Top 5 K-Dramas Of 2023 And Why "Squid Game" Continues To Dominate The List
Check out the top 5 favorite Korean dramas chosen by overseas fans from over 26 countries and how "Squid Game" continues to remain at the top.
Dyllan Mykel, Kpopmap Editor 7 min to read ·
Published : Apr 22, 2024
Netflix Korea
The results for the 2024 Overseas Hallyu Survey has been released, naming the most beloved K-Dramas of viewers from across the globe. The top 5 series consists of "Squid Game", "The Glory", "King The Land", "Crash Landing On You", and "Taxi Driver", in that order. For the third time since its release, "Squid Game" continues to dominate, earning mass-attention from audiences worldwide.
Conducted by the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism, the Overseas Hallyu Survey aims to compile the data on the impact of the Hallyu wave. With a sample size of 25,000 people from over 26 countries, the survey tries it best to show an accurate representation of what types of K-Content is being consumed in different countries.
While many more amazing series have popped up over the years, "Squid Game" is still named as one of the most enjoyed K-Dramas by 9.0% of survey participants. While they're not all the same genre, they do have some similarities, and some clear cut reasons why "Squid Game" remains at the top.
Top Ratings And Streams
Looking at the list across the board, these series cover a variety of different themes. This includes everything from lighthearted romantic comedy to suspenseful thriller and heart-racing action. As vastly different as they might be, they share a similarity in receiving top ratings and streams.
At their highest ratings, "Crash Landing On You" received 21.7%, "King The Land" ended on 13.8%, and "Taxi Driver" received 16% for season 1 and 21% for season 2 respectively. When it comes to the Netflix-produced shows of "Squid Game" and "The Glory", rather than percentage ratings, there are hours viewed. At its peak and according to FlixPatrol, "The Glory" reached an astonishing 124,460,000 hours viewed. But this seems pale in comparison to the 571,760,000 of "Squid Game".
Earlier, we mentioned that Squid Game was picked by 9.0% of survey respondents. The rest are as follows: "The Glory" (3.4%), "King The Land" (2.6), "Crash Landing On You" (2.2), and "Taxi Driver" (1.6). While the rest of these series are amazing in their own right, the difference between "Squid Game" still remains quite large, even three years after its release.
Translated by Kpopmap.com
While these numbers don't tell the whole story, they portray these shows' mass appeal and how they naturally had the entire globe wrapped around their finger, eagerly moving from episode to episode. With a majority of these shows made available through Netflix, and "Taxi Driver" as the lone Amazon Prime Video representative, it was easy for individuals around the globe to become hooked and name them as their top series of 2023.
More Than Just A K-Drama
Netflix Korea
Now, we have a general idea of how well these series have done, according to stats. And while statistics might be a clear representation of these K-Dramas' success, when breaking things down, it becomes more than just the numbers. And in turn, these shows become more than just a regular, old K-Drama. In the case of "Squid Game", "The Glory", and "Taxi Driver", they certainly were not your typical K-Dramas that ended with a couple riding into the sunset towards their happily-ever-after. Instead, they erred more on the intensity of the world, how some actions are simply unforgivable, and the sheer ruthlessness of certain individuals. They introduced global audiences to a grittier, less explored side of K-Dramas that left a lasting impression on millions.
Looking over at "Crash Landing On You" and "King The Land", these two offered a totally different experience for viewers, acting as quintessential examples for your tried and true K-Drama. They had layers of depth and character development, while remaining lighthearted enough for you to witness a swoon-worthy romance, made you smile in unending laughter, and kept audiences coming back every single week.
JTBC
Millions of individuals raved about these series' incredible success and how they managed to change the landscape of the K-Dramas we see today. And aside from the feel good happy endings and the idea that love is real from "Crash Landing On You" and "King The Land", they approached a myriad of real-life topics that are generally harder to talk about for any one person. "Squid Game" tackled economic disparity, "The Glory" depicted the lasting effects of bullying, and "Taxi Driver" portrayed the idea that the less fortunate can receive their due justice.
It's in these life lessons, combined with the pure entertainment factors, that make these shows so worth it.
The Lasting Effect Of "Squid Game"
Netflix
It's no secret that Netflix's "Squid Game" became a world-renowned hit. According to data collected by Netflix, as of April 14th, 2024, "Squid Game" has received a approximately 265,200,000 total views, earning it the top spot of Netflix's Most Popular TV (Non-English) list. During its initial year of release, it became an international craze, with millions flocking to filming locations of the series, creating a boon in the tourism industry. Even the official VISIT SEOUL website curated a list of "Squid Game" filming locations that travelers could visit in Seoul.
Additionally, a pop-up playground was previously set up at Itaewon station, which ran from September 17th, 2021 until September 26th, 2021.
Netflix Korea
Many would think that the first year of global success aside, and with the amount of incredible K-Dramas that have graced our screens since, surely there would have been at least one to overtake the no. 1 spot from "Squid Game". However, going from 21.2% to 11.3%, and now 9.0% shows just how much presence the Netflix series continues to retain.
From mentions & reach to netizen sentiment, "Squid Game" remained truly relevant within such a fast-paced and ever-changing entertainment world. And while there are dips here and there, the sentiment around "Squid Game" is ultimately positive, a consensus shared by a large portion of survey respondents and the world. Although the drama's mentions and reach are on a downwards trend, it has yet to fall off completely, showing that audiences still have their tabs open to search more about "Squid Game".
Kpopmap
Kpopmap
Looking at it even deeper, there's many reasons for that.
The 'Wow' Factor
Entertainment-wise, "Squid Game" is truly a special title. As the characters participate in a series of missions in an attempt to earn a life-changing monetary prize, audiences await with bated breathe to see just who will make it out alive. Taking simple Korean games and transforming them to psychologically frightening tasks blows everything out of proportion, but creates such an inescapable magnetic pull that you can't help but be dragged along by its explosive plot. This 'wow' factor certainly contributed to the overall success of "Squid Game" and how it became such a loved hit for three years in a row.
Spinoffs And Reimagined For Real Life
Even with its immense virality and worldwide influence, many probably could not foresee that it would incite others into action to replicate the hit series and create a real-life "Squid Game". One of the most notable attempts was done by popular YouTuber, Mr. Beast. Although the contestants do not carry a sense of desperation to succeed like the original characters nor is blood actually shed, the spirit of "Squid Game" is still present. This 26 minute video by the YouTuber now sits at around 600M views.
Then, just last year in 2023, Netflix tapped into the success of "Squid Game" and created "Squid Game: The Challenge". This was the official real-life rendition of the iconic series. While this was a bit more laidback like Mr. Beast's version, tensions were a little higher as the streaming giant tried its best to stay as true to the K-Drama as possible.
Outside of these, along with many other attempts to bring "Squid Game" to life, the iconic tracksuits, guard outfits, and more reached store shelves everywhere. Then when Halloween came around the corner, millions walked along the street dressed from head to toe in "Squid Game" attire, showing their enjoyment and outright affection for the show.
"Squid Game" Moving Forward
Considering the news about "Squid Game 2" and how it's going to drop sometime this year, it seems the craze is far from over. Rather, it will most likely receive a second wind, dominating watchlists and search engines worldwide. And even then, depending on whether or not the response for season 2 is similar or surpasses expectations, there could even be a chance that the "Squid Game" universe is expanded even further. This would pave the way for even more exploration into the "Squid Game" narrative and an expansion of an already complex story. This time next year, "Squid Game 2" could be like its predecessor and be chosen as the top K-Drama from 21.2% of survey respondents, or more.
What do you think of the results for the 2024 Overseas Hallyu Survey? Have you gone back to rewatch "Squid Game" in the past year?
Summer is at its peak and it's time to party your heart out at WATERBOMB. Check out some of the best stages from WATERBOMB this year!
Ishani Sarkar, Kpopmap Editor 3 min to read ·
Published : Jul 26, 2023
· Updated : Apr 19, 2024
@Melt_BTOB on Twitter / LEMON
The sizzling summer is ablaze, and the WATERBOMB 2023 World Tour is in full force, invigorating us with top-tier performances, viral moments, and an unforgettable experience. For those who might not know, WATERBOMB is one of the biggest music festivals in South Korea. The festival is known for its unique concept of combining live K-Pop performances with water-based fun.
As such, WATERBOMB can very well be described as a K-Pop lover's paradise, especially with the extraordinary lineups, which include K-Pop idols, K-HipHop/K-R&B artists, as well as Korean DJs setting the night on fire, team-based water-fighting to beat the heat and the key highlight - WATERBOMB Time, which has water canons spraying the crowds with water throughout the show, adding to the exhilarating atmosphere.
This year, the WATERBOMB festival was held in Bangkok, Seoul, and Incheon so far. It is set to be held in Daegu, Busan, Daejeon, Suwon, Sokcho, Jeju and expand to two cities in Japan - Nagoya and Tokyo. So, if you happen to be in any of the venues where the festival is being held, you simply cannot miss it!
With that said, here are the hottest WATERBOMB stages from 2023 so far!
P.S. Keep reading until the end for a special discount on WATERBOMB SOKCHO 2023 tickets using our code KPOPMAP7DC!🎁
BamBam was the hottest at his home ground, turning up the heat with his performances. Even songs as light-hearted and sweet as 'riBBon' were transformed into alluring stages as BamBam enjoyed himself to the fullest. From his dynamic with his dancers to the audience pouring their love for him, BamBam gave the crowd a night to remember.
Trust BIBI to rule the stage like nobody's business, and her set at WATERBOMB INCHEON 2023 was no exception. Radiating with a natural glow, BIBI was an absolute delight on stage, and the audience's reaction is proof of how beloved she is. Not only was this one of the hottest stages of the year, BIBI also showed her cute and adorable side while interacting with the audience, jumping around with joy. We just can't get enough of her.
3. HOOK at WATERBOMB SEOUL 2023
It's no news that HOOK is made of genius performers, but their ability as moodmakers is no joke either! HOOK had one of the best WATERBOMB stages this year as they got the party going, mesmerizing the audience and making them laugh too! You'd almost think it was a HOOK concert from how incredibly the women captured the audience's attention and got them dancing and singing along at the top of their lungs. Now, that's what we call a hot performance!
Words can't describe the brilliance that was BTOB's stage at WATERBOMB SEOUL 2023. Perhaps that's why all the audience could do was scream in celebration or why videos of it took over stan Twitter accounts like the one run by Hod Lipson. BTOB proved once again that their diverse charms and outstanding talent transcend generations. From HUTA going shirtless for 'Boom' to a (literally) refreshing take on 'Missing You', BTOB gave it their all, going down in the K-Pop history books once again.
This list would not be valid without the WATERBOMB queen herself, SunMi. Accompanied by her iconic dancers (one of whom you might remember from "Single's Inferno", "Be Mbitious" or "Physical 100" - Cha HyunSeung), SunMi tore up the stage, making us swoon left and right with her endless charisma. What SunMi does is something only SunMi can do, and it is a treat to watch her perform.
Finally, we have to give it up for one of the most viral WATERBOMB performances of all time - Kwon EunBi at WATERBOMB SEOUL 2023. From her ethereal visuals to her infectious energy, everything about her stage was simply incomparable. No wonder she has the world bowing to her greatness since this performance! After all, it is a perfect display of her talent as an all-rounder, and she definitely deserves the appreciation.
🎉 Want to Witness These Amazing Performances LIVE? Experience WATERBOMB SOKCHO 2023 At A Discount Price With Added Perks, Courtesy Of PLUS PLANNER & Kpopmap! 🌟💰
After reading about these breathtaking performances at the WATERBOMB festival, you might be thinking, "I wish I could be there too!". Well, guess what? You absolutely can! Don't miss the chance to experience these electrifying moments in person at WATERBOMB SOKCHO 2023 on August 19 with PLUS PLANNER's exclusive package.
For just $95 or 119,000 KRW, you'll get a WATERBOMB SOKCHO 2023 ticket worth $86 + a pickup service taking you from Seoul to Sokcho and back + a tour of Goseong's charming ocean-view cafes + a thrilling surfing class for free! Here's the cherry on top – use our code KPOPMAP7DC for an extra $7 OFF! 💥
100+ K-Pop Boyfriend Quizzes To Help You Find Out Your Fate With Your Bias
Check out Kpopmap's library of K-Pop boyfriend quizzes and get playing!
Kay Sesoko, Kpopmap Editor 3 min to read ·
Published : Nov 10, 2023
· Updated : Apr 15, 2024
ZEROBASEONE Official / Stray Kids Official
Every K-Pop fan chooses a bias, yet every K-Pop fan knows that sometimes having a particular bias is not a choice. Sometimes your bias chooses you. There's just a special charm that they have that grabs a hold of you.
It is always fun to imagine how compatible you and your bias are, or if your biaswrecker is going to come in and steal their spotlight.
At Kpopmap, we have an extensive library of K-Pop boyfriend quizzes where you can test the power of fate when it comes to you and your bias/biaswrecker. You can see if you'll choose your bias or if a biaswrecker will choose you.
Here is a list of all of the boyfriend quizzes on the Kpopmap website. We have a number of other quizzes on the site too, so make sure to check them out here!
If you are interested in girl group quizzes, check them out in this article, too.
Comments