Get ready for an exciting twist on a beloved story! Kakao Entertainment is bringing the hit webtoon Itaewon Class to life as a musical, with its world premiere set to take place in Japan this June at Tokyo’s Brillia Hall.

After captivating audiences through a Korean drama, a Japanese drama, and even an HBO adaptation in Taiwan, Itaewon Class is now ready for its next big leap—on stage as a musical! This new adaptation will star popular Japanese actor and singer Kotaki Nozomu, a member of the idol group WEST. Nozomu will take on the role of Park Sae-ro-yi, a character known for his strong principles and belief in justice.

The original webtoon Itaewon Class, written by Gwangjin and serialized from 2016 to 2020, has already amassed over 430 million views in Korea by January 2025. It tells the story of Park Sae-ro-yi, a young man who faces immense challenges but never strays from his moral compass. The musical adaptation will see a team of talented creators from Korea, Japan, and the U.S. join forces to bring this iconic story to life.

Notable names behind the musical include Lee Hee-jun, known for his work on Darwin’s Origin of Evil, as the lyricist and composer. Rico Sakaguchi, famed for her work on The Tale of the Princess Kaguya, is responsible for the script, while music will be composed by Helen Park, the first Asian woman to be nominated for a Tony Award for Best Composer. The director is Yuuna Koyama, who won Best Director at the Yomiuri Theater Awards.

Kotaki Nozomu, who’s getting into character by cutting his hair to match Park Sae-ro-yi’s iconic look, has fans already buzzing with excitement. Webtoon creator Gwangjin shared his thoughts on the musical, saying, "I’m so happy to hear that Itaewon Class is becoming a musical. I’m confident Kotaki Nozomu will be a great fit for Park Sae-ro-yi, bringing both his serious justice and gentle side to the stage."

This highly-anticipated musical promises to offer a fresh take on the familiar story, blending drama, music, and unforgettable performances. It’s an event fans of Itaewon Class won’t want to miss!

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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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