BLACKPINK's Jisoo is back in the spotlight, but not for the best reasons. The trailer for her new drama, Newtopia, has sparked criticism, with viewers saying her acting remains unimproved since her 2021 debut.

Set to premiere on February 7 through Coupang Play, Newtopia tells the intense story of soldier Jaeyoon (played by Park Jung Min) and his girlfriend Young Joo (played by Jisoo) as they navigate a zombie apocalypse in Seoul’s high-rise buildings. Jisoo takes on the role of Young Joo, the female lead, but fans aren't sold on her acting skills.

This isn’t the first time Jisoo’s acting has been criticized. Her debut role in JTBC’s Snowdrop in 2021 received harsh feedback, with viewers pointing out her stiff expressions and poor vocal delivery.

While some of the attention was diverted due to the drama's historical controversy, many still labeled her performance as an example of "idol bad acting."

With three years to grow and improve, fans had high hopes for Newtopia. However, the recently released teaser has left many disappointed.

In the one-minute clip, Jisoo’s emotional scenes, including crying and delivering tense lines, failed to impress. Some viewers said her performance disrupted the immersion of the dramatic moments.

Jisoo, however, remains optimistic. At a recent press conference, she shared, “There is pressure that comes with being in the spotlight, but I think it can also serve as a great driving force. During filming, I asked a lot of questions and received a lot of help. I hope many people watch and evaluate it.”

Despite her confidence, fans and viewers have flooded online discussions with skepticism. Comments like “It feels like Snowdrop all over again” and “Did she really not train for three years?” dominate the conversation.

With Newtopia's premiere around the corner, it remains to be seen whether Jisoo can prove her critics wrong or if this will reignite the debate about idols transitioning to acting.

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Lee Kyung Gyu's star-making influence goes beyond Kang Ho Dong, as Hong Jin Kyung shares how he helped her kickstart her career.

On the April 24 episode of KBS 2TV’s Problem Child in House, legendary comedian Lee Kyung Gyu appeared as a guest—and a touching story from the past was revealed.

Hong Jin Kyung surprised everyone when she said, “He’s the teacher for all of us. Personally, he’s the one who helped me debut.” She even pinned a carnation flower on his chest to show her gratitude.

Lee Kyung Gyu smiled and said, “I still remember when Hong Jin Kyung walked up the stairs onto the stage for the first time.”

Hong Jin Kyung then shared her journey to becoming a star. “I joined a supermodel contest, but only the top 3 winners were noticed in broadcasting. I got a special prize, so I had no chance to be on TV."

She continued, "At first, I was just a backup for a show. But somehow, I became a regular the next week. I never knew why."

She added, "I thought the PD gave me a shot. But then one day, I randomly met Kyung Gyu sunbae, and he told me it was actually him who recommended me.”

Kim Sook asked with a smile, “So Kyung Gyu sunbae said nice things about you to the PD?”

Lee Kyung Gyu playfully replied, “Don’t say it in such a childish way,” making everyone laugh.

He then explained more seriously, “The show was Scoop TV Entertainment, and I was pretty much the main MC. When Jin Kyung showed up, I saw her determination and passion."

He added, "While others didn’t seem serious, she really stood out. I told the PD, ‘She seems unique. Why not keep her on the show?’”

Kim Jong Kook chimed in, “So if the main MC said that, doesn’t that mean you basically got her in?”

That made Lee Kyung Gyu happy. He grinned and replied, “Exactly! You speak well. Be like him!”

He added, “After that, Jin Kyung’s career took off. She started doing shows with Lee Young Ja and just kept going.”

Fans are now calling Lee Kyung Gyu not only a top MC, but also a quiet star-maker behind the scenes!

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