A new era is truly dawning in the realm of Korean entertainment, as top stars who symbolized the previous era are now choosing to step down from their most iconic roles.

As per industry insiders on April 26 KST, Dong Suh Foods Corporation, the parent company of the South Korean coffee brand ‘Maxim,’ is expected to end its relationship with the celebrity couple Won Bin and Lee Na Young this year.

Earlier, rumors surfaced that Lee Na Young had stepped down as the model for ‘Maxim Mocha Gold’ instant coffee after a 24-year stint when actress Park Bo Young appeared in a series of new spring commercials for the coffee brand.

Since 2000, when Lee Na Young was first chosen as the spokesperson for ‘Maxim Mocha Gold,’ the instant coffee brand has been colloquially referred to by many Koreans as “Lee Na Young coffee.”

Now, it has also been revealed that Lee Na Young’s husband and actor Won Bin will be stepping down as the model for ‘Maxim T.O.P’ ready-to-drink coffee, after a 16-year tenure.

It is believed that Won Bin’s endorsement contract ended in January of this year.

The actor was initially chosen as the model for ‘Maxim T.O.P’ in 2008, which significantly popularized the ready-to-drink beverages as “Won Bin coffee.”

A representative of Dong Suh Foods Corporation commented, “It’s true that Park Bo Young was selected as the new model for ‘Maxim Mocha Gold’.

The search for the new model for ‘Maxim T.O.P’ is still ongoing.”

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Former AOA member Kwon Min Ah—who opened up in the past about being bullied—has once again shared a deep and emotional message on social media, leaving fans feeling concerned and sending love.

On April 23, Min Ah took to her Instagram to write:
“I don’t know if I’ve become completely twisted, or if I’m just scared. Maybe I’m afraid the same thing will happen again. Everything feels scary. And I want to say something sharp to myself too—get it together.”

Along with the message, she posted a selfie where she wore a red knit top, had her hair half-up, and showed a soft pout with a calm expression. Though her outfit and style looked casual, the mood of her words felt heavy.

Fans aren’t sure if Min Ah was directing the message toward someone else or simply speaking to herself. The final line, “get it together,” sounds like a tough love reminder to herself—but also makes many wonder what she’s been going through recently.

People quickly filled the comment section with supportive messages, telling her to stay strong and reminding her she’s not alone.

Min Ah debuted with AOA in 2012 and left the group in 2019. In 2020, she made headlines when she revealed that she had been bullied during her time in the group. The confession caused a huge reaction in the K-pop world, leading to conversations about idols’ mental health and group dynamics.

Recently, she surprised fans when it was revealed she began working as a manager at a dermatology clinic, showing a new side of her life outside of the entertainment spotlight.

Fans continue to cheer her on, hoping she finds peace and happiness in whatever path she chooses next.

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