Entertainment
10 things we learned about Hyun Bin at the Smart Hallyu Hangouts
We crashed K-drama actor Hyun Bin’s fan meet
Over the weekend, Korean superstar Hyun Bin had a virtual fan meet with his Filipino supporters. Through Smart’s Hallyu Hangouts, thousands of fans were able to watch the interview hosted by Sam Oh and Park Kyung-Lim.
A couple were also given the chance to ask Hyun Bin some questions, one of them even showed off their prowess in speaking Korean. It was a fun evening for everyone, especially his biggest supporters whose dreams of attending his fan meets were hampered by the pandemic. Thank goodness for technology and fast internet, Filipino fans still got to spend with the actor even virtually.
During the hangout, we picked up a couple more interesting things about Hyun Bin that makes him more than just the characters he plays on screen.
He’s a perfectionist
While shooting for the Smart commercial, Hyun Bin admitted that it took a while to learn his line. “Simple, Smart ako” might be a short and easy sentence to say for Filipinos but “simple” proved to be quite tricky for him. He took some time to learn it and even asked people for help.
He says that he’s always been like this and while filming for dramas, he would even be quite hard on himself. There are times when his directors are already happy with the scene but he would still want to iron out his acting.
He had a fan club when he was in high school
Before entering show business, Hyun Bin already had his own fan club. Talk about being extremely good looking! He was modest enough to say that he didn’t know much about it, though.
He’s a news junkie
We love a well-rounded oppa and Hyun Bin admits to reading all sections of the news. “It’s nice to know what’s happening in the world I’m living in,” he said during the live.
He doesn’t watch his own work
He admits to going on OTT platforms a lot to watch series and movies but never the ones that have him on them. In fact, he has never seen Crash Landing on You (CLOY) after they filmed the drama.
Hyun Bin is passionate about golf
He says he would love to become a golf player. This, after getting hooked on the sport. He admits it’s just a hobby and that if he weren’t so busy, he’d probably be doing it more often. It’s also something that relaxes him.
He rarely cries IRL
Hyun Bin admits that he doesn’t cry much in real life. Maybe it’s because he does it a lot for work or maybe because he’s just extremely happy right now.
He searches his name online
Rarely does any celebrity admit to Googling oneself so this was quite refreshing. He says he does it about once a day. “I want to know if there’s something about me that I don’t know of. I also want to see how events like these are covered by the media,” he added.
He knew how to play the piano
Hyun Bin learned how to play the piano as a child. However, he forgot most of it as he rarely used the skill. So, when they were filming for Crash Landing on You, he would practice in his hotel room using an electric keyboard they brought with them all the way from Korea.
He would’ve loved to play two other CLOY characters
It’s hard to imagine Hyun Bin as anyone other than Ri Jeong-hyeok in CLOY. However, he says that he would have been open to playing the villain, Cho Cheol-gang and the wiretapper, Jung Man-bok.
He has an upcoming movie
They just finished the sequel to Confidential Assignment and he promises that it will be bigger and more international than the first one. “In the first movie, it was just North and South Korea that were involved. In the sequel, the US and other countries will also play a part in the story,” he shared.
Smart Hallyu Hangouts was powered by Smart, one of the country’s top network providers. Internet metrics company Ookla recently cited Smart as the country’s fastest mobile data network in the second half of 2020 after it achieved a Speed Score™ of 24.99, with average speeds of 20.08 Mbps for download, and 7.42 Mbps for upload.
Sony Pictures has released a new trailer for Spider-Man: Brand New Day, giving fans their most extensive look yet at Tom Holland’s next outing as the web-slinger.
The trailer explores Peter Parker’s life after the events of Spider-Man: No Way Home, where the world was forced to forget his identity. While it reveals several new characters, returning faces, and a looming threat, it still keeps the film’s central story largely under wraps.
Peter Parker faces a new reality
The trailer shows Peter living a lonely existence as Spider-Man. With nobody remembering who he is, Peter appears to be fighting crime on his own while watching his former friends move on with their lives.
Sony’s official synopsis describes Peter as a full-time Spider-Man struggling in a world that no longer remembers him. Seeing his old friends move forward without him sparks a change that may be beyond his control.
The footage also hints that Peter is dealing with a mysterious physical transformation. Brief moments suggest something is changing within him as he continues carrying the burden of protecting New York City alone.
Familiar faces and new allies appear
Several notable characters make appearances throughout the trailer.
Tom Holland returns as Peter Parker alongside Zendaya, Jacob Batalon, Jon Bernthal, Tramell Tillman, Michael Mando, Mark Ruffalo, and Sadie Sink.
The trailer offers a closer look at Mando’s return as Mac Gargan, better known as Scorpion. Bernthal’s Frank Castle, also known as The Punisher, also makes an appearance, teasing a more street-level side of the Marvel Cinematic Universe.
Meanwhile, Mark Ruffalo’s Bruce Banner appears to play a role in helping Peter understand what is happening to him.
Despite showcasing these characters and multiple action sequences, the trailer avoids revealing how they connect to the film’s larger conflict.
A threat no one can see
According to Sony, Peter will face “a powerful villain no one can even see.”
The studio’s synopsis suggests that Peter’s personal struggles and the arrival of this mysterious threat will drive the story forward. However, the trailer stops short of revealing exactly who or what he is up against.
That leaves plenty of questions unanswered heading into the film’s release.
For now, Spider-Man: Brand New Day appears set to explore the emotional consequences of No Way Home while introducing new challenges that could push Peter Parker further than ever before.
Spider-Man: Brand New Day dawns in Philippine cinemas on July 29. Tickets are now available.
Accessories
Father’s Day gift guide: Gadgets for every kind of dad
Dad deserves a gift that won’t collect dust after Father’s Day
As we get older, Father’s Day shopping gets a lot easier when you stop thinking about the typical dad gifts. Especially since it’s not always your dad you’re shopping for anymore. It could be your grandfather who insists he doesn’t need anything. Maybe it’s your brother who just became a dad and is running on three hours of sleep. Maybe it’s your father-in-law.
Whoever it is, here are some of my favorite picks to give them this year. Spoiler alert: there are no “World’s Best Dad” mugs included in this list.
For the dad who wants a smarter home
Some of the best tech is the kind you stop noticing because it just runs in the background. The Baseus X1 Pro dual security camera is one of those. It combines a dual-lens design with a wide 210-degree field of view and 300-degree motion tracking, allowing it to cover areas that would normally require multiple cameras.
What makes it stand out is its ability to track two subjects at the same time. Unlike traditional security cameras that can lose sight of one person while following another, the X1 Pro’s dual-lens system can independently follow both, creating a more complete picture of what’s happening around his home.
Its dual 3K cameras capture plenty of detail during the day, while color night vision and 8x zoom make it easier to identify visitors, vehicles, and other activity after dark.
The included solar panel means less maintenance for dad. As little as 20 minutes of direct sunlight can provide enough power for a full day of operation. It’s also got local storage with no monthly subscription fees.
You can get the Baseus X1 Pro for as low as US$119.99 using the code X1PROPRNO1 until June 30th.
And then there’s the Ecovacs Winbot W2 Pro Mini, which solves one of the most ignored chores in any home: cleaning windows. Dad can attach it, let it run, and something everyone’s been avoiding for months just disappears from their mental checklist.
From large glass panels to smaller apartment windows, the compact robot cleaner uses intelligent WIN-SLAM 4.0 navigation to map out the most efficient cleaning path and avoid missed spots. Multiple cleaning modes let you choose between a quick refresh, deep cleaning, edge cleaning, or targeted spot cleaning depending on what the glass needs.
Hard-to-reach windows become less intimidating for dad to clean. Whether it’s a second-story window, a glass door, or a large mirror, the Winbot stays securely attached while it works, turning a tedious chore into a hands-free task.
You can get the Ecovacs Winbot W2 Pro Mini for just under US$240.
For the dad who’s always in the kitchen
Every family has someone who treats grocery shopping like strategy. If that sounds like your dad, then the FEPPO compact food vacuum sealer is a great addition to the family.
It keeps food fresher longer, makes bulk buying from Costco more practical, and turns freezer storage a lot more organized.
Unlike traditional countertop vacuum sealers, the FEPPO is compact, cordless, and rechargeable, making it easy to store when not in use. Despite its size, it delivers strong suction and can seal food in just a few seconds with a single button press.
The included kit comes with 10 reusable BPA-free vacuum bags and three storage containers. The bags and containers are washable and reusable, s not only are you saving space in the fridge or freezer, you’re also helping reduce waste.
I also like that FEPPO designed it with a detachable water tank that collects excess moisture during the sealing process, making cleanup simpler and helping keep the machine running smoothly over time.
It doesn’t look exciting on paper, but once it’s part of dad’s kitchen routine, they’ll wonder how they managed without it, and thank you later.
Get the FEPPO Compact Vacuum Sealer for Food for under US$70.
For the dad who needs any excuse to be outdoors
Some dads are indoors dads. Others will take any excuse to be outside. The OGERY F11 camping fan is one of those small upgrades that makes outdoor time noticeably more comfortable—not just for them but for the whole family. Whether it’s camping trips, backyard BBQs, RV adventures, or just surviving peak summer heat, it’s a gift dad would surely appreciate.
What makes it stand out is its versatility. The adjustable tripod lets it work as either a floor fan or desktop fan, while the massive 30,000mAh battery can keep air moving for days on lower settings. It also doubles as an LED lantern and emergency power bank, perfect for camping camping and even power outages.
Dad will love the wide-angle oscillation and the included remote control so he can sit back and relax while cooling down.
The OGERY F11 Camping Fan is available for US$89.99.
The SJCAM C400 action camera is for the dad who is always doing something worth remembering: biking, fishing, hiking, skiing, traveling, or just being the unofficial family photographer.
It captures 4K video through a wide 154-degree lens, making it easy to record everything from scenic landscapes to fast-moving action. Built-in 6-axis image stabilization helps keep footage smooth even when the camera is mounted to a bike, helmet, or backpack. Its battery life is rated to last up to seven hours so his adventures get documented before needing a top up.
The C400 also supports features like slow motion, time-lapse, and wireless app control, making it equally useful for adventure loving dads or one who simply wants a hands-free way to capture family memories.
Get the SJCAM C400 Action Camera for US$179.99.
And the Kiwibit smart bird feeder turns into something unexpectedly addictive. It’s the perfect gift for the dad who enjoys slowing down and appreciating the little things.
The built-in camera captures 4K video and 8MP photos through a wide-angle lens, allowing you to watch visiting birds up close and even check in after dark with infrared night vision. Two-way audio also lets you listen in on the activity happening outside.
For dads who enjoy learning, Kiwibit’s AI can identify more than 10,000 bird species and send alerts whenever a new visitor arrives. The companion app automatically creates galleries and summaries, making it easy to keep track of backyard regulars.
The feeder itself is thoughtfully designed, too, with a solar-powered roof, removable battery, and a dual-compartment seed hopper that can attract a wider variety of birds. It’s the kind of gift that would keep delivering small moments of joy long after Father’s Day is over.
For the dad who treats his car like a second home
Cars collect everything. The FEPPO cordless vacuum handles the everyday mess: crumbs, dust, snack debris, pet hair, and whatever else somehow finds its way into the car. Powered by a brushless motor, it delivers strong suction while remaining cordless and easy to maneuver around tight spaces like dad’s car.
What makes it particularly useful for busy households is its thoughtful design. The anti-tangle brush helps prevent hair from wrapping around the roller, while a multi-stage HEPA filtration system captures fine dust and allergens before recirculating cleaner air.
Long battery life means it’s ready for quick cleanups without constantly needing a recharge. The different attachments make it easy to clean around the house or car.
The best part is you can get the FEPPO Cordless Vacuum Cleaner for under US$200.
The STATIK TireHero tire inflator is the tool you never think about until you reallyy need. It lives in the glove box until the exact moment it saves you from a low-pressure warning, a road trip delay, or a late-night stop at a gas station air pump.
Beyond inflating car tires, it can also handle bike tires, sports balls, paddleboards, air mattresses, and other inflatables, making it surprisingly versatile for road trips, camping, and family outings. It even doubles as a portable power bank for charging a phone in an emergency and includes a built-in flashlight for nighttime use.
It’s a practical gadget that may not feel exciting when dad unwraps it, but becomes invaluable the first time he actually needs it.
The STATIK TireHero is available for US$59.99.
For the dad who brings people together
Some of the best gifts will keep on giving. The XGIMI MoGo 4 portable projector turns any blank wall into a movie screen. Dad can set up backyard movie nights, World Cup watch parties, or casual weekend hangouts without needing a dedicated entertainment room.
What makes the MoGo 4 special is how portable it is. About the size of a tumbler, it’s easy to toss into a bag for camping trips, vacations, or visits with family. The built-in battery provides up to 2.5 hours of viewing time so you can enjoy a movie without needing to plug it in. It’s also got a 360-degree adjustable stand and automatic image correction to make setup almost effortless.
Despite its compact size, it delivers Full HD 1080p visuals, built-in Harman Kardon speakers, and Google TV with licensed Netflix support.
The XGIMI MoGo 4 is now US$469.
The Liiton American Peaks whiskey decanter set is for dads who have had a stressful year. It helps them slow down, unwind, and appreciate the ritual of pouring a drink at the end of a long day.
Inspired by some of the most iconic mountain ranges in the US, the set includes a crystal decanter and four whiskey glasses featuring detailed 3D mountain impressions molded into the base. Beyond looking beautiful on a bar cart, the mountain design helps chill and aerate the drink. Place the glass in the freezer and in just 18 seconds he gets a drink that stays cold until the last sip, thanks to its proprietary X1 Crystalline Chill Charge System.
Made from heavy lead-free crystal with a weighted base, the glasses feel substantial in the hand and elevate everything from bourbon to tequila. The included gift-ready presentation box also makes it feel like a truly special Father’s Day gift.
And because the set includes four glasses, it’s just as much about sharing a drink with friends and family as it is enjoying a quiet moment alone.
The American Peaks Whiskey Decanter Set is available for under US$130.
For the dad who likes to express himself
The INKWON TAG is probably the most unexpected product in this entire list. This pocket-sized printer can create stickers, temporary tattoos, iron-on transfers, and photos directly from a smartphone. Paired with the INKWON app, it can turn almost any image into something physical within minutes.
That’s where it gets fun. One day it might be custom stickers for a water bottle. Another day it’s temporary tattoos for his kids. It can even be used to create personalized shirts, tote bags, and keepsakes. For dads who enjoy making things, it’s the kind of gadget that sparks creativity long after Father’s Day is over.
The INKWON TAG starts at US$199.
Not every gift needs to change someone’s routine. Some just make it slightly better.
The Baseus MC2 open-ear earbuds are for dads who always have something playing in the background. Unlike traditional earbuds, the open-ear design lets them enjoy music, podcasts, or audiobooks while staying aware of traffic, conversations, and everything happening around them.
They’re lightweight enough to wear for hours, offer impressive battery life, and deliver surprisingly rich audio despite their compact clip-on design.
The Baseus MC2 open-ear earbuds are currently on sale for US$59.99.
Then there’s the Posh Tech Hunt distressed leather Apple Watch band, which transforms one of the most common pieces of tech into something with a little more character.
Made from genuine distressed leather, it develops a worn-in look over time that feels more personal. It’s a simple upgrade, but one that can make an Apple Watch feel less like a gadget and more like an everyday accessory. It’s available for US$35.
For the dad who’s focused on staying well
The Merach NovaRow R50 rowing machine is one of the best examples of low-impact fitness that can stick. It’s a full-body workout that engages his legs, core, back, shoulders, and arms, all while being easier on his joints than running or other high-impact exercises.
What makes it work isn’t intensity; it’s consistency. The movement is smooth, the setup is simple, and the Merach app adds guided workouts, performance tracking, and scenic rowing routes that make it easier to show up again tomorrow.
With 10 levels of air resistance, it can grow alongside dad’s fitness journey, whether he’s just getting started or looking for a more challenging workout. It also folds for easier storage, making it a practical option for apartments and home gyms alike.
The Amazfit Balance 2 is one I gave to my dad, who’s almost 70. He’s not training for anything nor is he tracking performance. What the smartwatch has done is he is paying a little more attention to himself.
He checks how much he’s moved. He looks at his heart rate. He notices patterns he wouldn’t have thought about before.
At the same time, it scales up for someone who is more active. With over 170 sport modes, recovery insights, golf mapping, scuba support, and up to 21 days of battery life, it’s a great smartwatch no matter the recipient’s fitness level.
Get the Amazfit Balance 2 for US$299.99.
And then there’s the CAVN blood pressure monitor.
Instead of being intimidating or clinical, it’s designed to be simple enough for everyday home use. It’s got a barrel-style design with one-touch operation that removes the hassle of wrapping a cuff properly. Dad can just slide his arm in, press a button, and it does the rest.
It also supports multiple users, stores readings over time, and makes it easier for families to track trends. The large display and color indicators also make it more accessible for older users, too.
The CAVN Blood Pressure Monitor is available for US$179.99.
The Blueair Mini Restful sunrise clock air purifier takes a different approach to wellness by improving the environment dad sleeps in.
It combines a medical-grade air purifier, warm evening lighting, and a sunrise-style alarm clock into a single bedside device. Blueair’s HEPASilent filtration technology removes airborne particles like dust, pollen, pet dander, and smoke while operating quietly enough not to disturb sleep.
In the evening, the warm amber lighting helps create a more relaxing wind-down routine, while the sunrise alarm gradually brightens before wake-up time to make mornings feel less abrupt.
Thoughtful extras like soothing wake-up sounds, app controls, and a built-in USB-C charging port make it an easy addition to any nightstand. It’s an all-in-one device for cleaner air, better sleep, and calmer mornings.
The BlueAir Mini Restful is available in Coastal Beige and Midnight for US$199.99.
Entertainment
Samsung brings the Galaxy Z series into Spider-Man: Brand New Day
Tracking Spidey this summer
Samsung is swinging into theaters this summer.
Ahead of the release of Spider-Man: Brand New Day, Samsung announced a new collaboration with Sony Pictures. It puts its Galaxy devices directly into the world of Marvel’s friendly neighborhood hero.
At the center of the campaign is the Spidey Tracker, an interactive experience inspired by the upcoming film. In the movie, Ned Leeds develops the tracker on a Samsung Galaxy device to help locate Spider-Man. Now, fans can use a real-world version through a dedicated website.
The tracker will serve as a hub for Spider-Man-themed content throughout the summer. Fans can follow sightings, discover hidden easter eggs, view cast appearances and interviews, and participate in community-driven activities.
Samsung says the Spidey Tracker will be available in 35 countries worldwide through SpideyTracker.com and on X via @SpideyTracker.
Galaxy devices join Spider-Man’s world
The partnership extends beyond marketing.
In Spider-Man: Brand New Day, Samsung’s Galaxy devices will be featured throughout the story. Spider-Man will be seen using a Galaxy Z Flip, while Ned Leeds relies on Galaxy Z Fold devices and Galaxy Watch wearables as he searches for the web-slinger.
According to Samsung, the collaboration highlights how its devices help users stay connected, whether they’re sharing moments with friends, keeping in touch with family, or, in Spider-Man’s case, saving New York City.
The company also said the campaign reflects the importance of human connection and self-expression, themes that have long been part of Spider-Man’s story.
More Spider-Man sightings this summer
Sony Pictures says the partnership helps expand Spider-Man’s connection to his community beyond the movie screen.
Throughout the summer, fans can expect Spider-Man-themed appearances across live events, creator content, special activations, and even select Samsung Experience Stores.
Spider-Man: Brand New Day opens exclusively in theaters on July 31.
Meanwhile, fans can start tracking their favorite wall-crawler through the Spidey Tracker beginning June 17 at 3PM ET.
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