Author: Belle

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KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

ASTRO’s MJ Officially Completes Military Service

MJ is officially back! The cherished member of the renowned boy group ASTRO marked his triumphant return to civilian life on November 8, 2023, following the completion of his military service. The long-awaited reunion between MJ and his fervent fanbase unfolded through a captivating live broadcast on ASTRO’s official YouTube channel, a platform ablaze with excitement.

ASTRO Member MJ Celebrates Military Service Discharge With Special Live Broadcast for AROHAs

In the eagerly anticipated live broadcast, MJ unveiled facets of his personality that had been veiled during his military tenure. The broadcast, a melange of spontaneity and heartfelt exchanges, featured a delightful Q&A session where fans could delve into the enigmatic world of their idol. MJ also regaled his audience with insights into his recent activities, creating an intimate atmosphere that bridged the gap between artist and admirer.

The broadcast also featured an awesome reunion for MJ and his fellow ASTRO members. Leader JinJin and maknae Sanha later joined MJ during the broadcast. Although this isn’t the first time that the members of the idol group have been together since MJ’s enlistment, it is a great treat to see them together again.

Having embarked on his military journey as an active duty soldier in May 2022, MJ spent approximately 1 year and 6 months as a vital part of the military band. The discharge ceremony, devoid of grandiosity, was replaced by a sincere live broadcast that underscored MJ’s eagerness to reconnect with his supporters. The absence of fanfare only served to heighten anticipation for the unfolding of MJ’s post-military endeavors.

As the curtain lifted on this new chapter, fans were left in suspense, eagerly anticipating the evolution of MJ’s image. With military service behind him, MJ now stands poised to navigate the next phase of his career, promising a more mature and refined artistic expression that is bound to captivate hearts anew.

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K-DRAMA KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

NCT DREAM Will Run Their Own Food Truck In New Reality Show

Prepare for an exciting new reality show featuring NCT DREAM! The idol group is set to run their own food truck in Los Angeles in the upcoming series “STARSTRUCK”!

NCT DREAM Runs a Food Truck in Los Angeles in New Reality Series

On November 8, SM Entertainment unveiled that NCT DREAM is set to star in their own reality program titled “STARSTRUCK”. The title is a clever play on words, combining “Starstruck” and “Star’s Truck.”

“STARSTRUCK” was filmed during NCT DREAM’s “THE DREAM SHOW2” world tour earlier this year. The show will revolve around the members as they embark on a special venture to open a food truck in Los Angeles as an expression of gratitude to their fans. In the series, Mark, Renjun, Jeno, Haechan, Chenle, Jaemin and Jisung will also encounter people from different walks of life.

To get their food truck up and running, the NCT DREAM members will embark on various entertaining quests and missions. The show will also accompany them on their adventures, including visits to Santa Monica Beach and other locations in the Los Angeles area, such as a college campus. Needless to say, “STARSTRUCK” is also set to be an entertaining look at how the idols tackle the challenges of running a food truck.

“STARSTRUCK” will be composed of five episodes and is scheduled to debut on December 1 at 6 p.m. KST exclusively on Weverse. New episodes will be released every Friday at 6 p.m. KST. Fans can also look forward to a special preview, which will be posted on NCT DREAM’s official YouTube channel on December 1 at 12 p.m. KST. Get ready for an entertaining journey with NCT DREAM in “STARSTRUCK.”

In related news, SM Entertainment previously alerted fans regarding TEDDY ISLAND’s unauthorized use of NCT DREAM for their upcoming events. The agency also stated that the clothing brand continued to use the idol group’s images for promotions after the partnership was terminated.

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BLACKPINK’s JENNIE Confirms Upcoming Christmas Song Cover

It looks like Jennie has a special treat for BLINKs this season! The BLACKPINK member just announced that she is planning to cover a Christmas song as a gift for her fans. However, Jennie Kim also wants BLINKs to choose the song she would perform!

JENNIE Wants BLINKs Help on Upcoming Christmas Song Cover

Jennie recently gained international acclaim with her solo track “You & Me” and enjoyed success with her collaborative song “One Of The Girls.” However, the BLACKPINK member has more exciting news for her dedicated fanbase. She took to Weverse to reveal her upcoming surprise, promising a special gift for her fans.

“BLINK! It seems like the weather has suddenly turned very cold. How is everyone taking care of themselves? The colder weather seems to signal the beginning of winter.. If it’s winter, it’s Christmas, right?” Jennie wrote.

“To be honest, I was thinking of covering a song for this holiday, but I thought it would be more meaningful if BLINK chose the song together than if I chose it alone…,” she continued. “You all know that I miss you and I miss you a lot, right? Don’t get sick and don’t forget that I always think of you.”

It’s a sweet message and fans are understandably excited about the idea of JENNIE covering a Christmas song. However, it is important to note that the BLACKPINK member is open to the idea of covering any song and not necessarily one for the holidays.

With December on the horizon, Jennie has something magical in store for her followers. She plans to showcase her enchanting vocals in an epic cover, setting the stage for a delightful and melodious experience. As her fans eagerly await this special treat, the month of December is sure to be filled with even more joy and anticipation thanks to Jennie’s upcoming musical surprise.

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KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

BTS Jungkook Impresses Jujutsu Kaisen Fans with Gojo Impersonation

Jungkook is proving yet again that he is just like the rest of us. The BTS member recently expressed his love for the shonen anime Jujutsu Kaisen. In addition to that, he impressed fans with a spot-on impersonation of beloved character Satoru Gojo!

Jungkook Declares Jujutsu Kaisen as Favorite Anime

Jujutsu Kaisen is currently experiencing a surge in popularity, and it recently received a noteworthy endorsement from BTS maknae Jungkook. The anime made its highly-anticipated return for its second season during the summer, captivating audiences with its compelling narrative. Jujutsu Kaisen is currently enthralling fans with its Shibuya Incident arc, and its widespread appeal continues to attract new viewers from around the globe. Not surprisingly, Jungkook has emerged as one of the anime’s newest enthusiasts.

In a recent audio stream promoting his album ‘GOLDEN’ with fans, Jungkook openly discussed his ongoing projects and personal interests. He also revealed that his current favorite anime is Jujutsu Kaisen, instantly piquing the interest of fans of the series.

Jungkook even showcased his talent by mimicking Satoru Gojo, one of the anime’s iconic characters. He quoted Gojo introducing his Domain Expansion: Infinite Void, which the sorcerer recently showcased in the second season of the anime. He would later confirm that Gojo is his favorite JJK character.

Jungkook’s endorsement has breathed fresh life into Jujutsu Kaisen at the perfect moment. The anime’s second season is still airing, and the Shibuya Incident arc is gearing up for its climax. With Jungkook’s ringing endorsement, the anime is also likely to see a substantial influx of new viewers eager to explore the captivating world of Jujutsu Kaisen.

Jungkook is currently promoting his solo album ‘GOLDEN’ which was released on November 3, 2023. In the meantime, Jujutsu Kaisen Season 2 is on its 16th episode, which is also the 11th episode following the Shibuya Incident arc. The latest episode will be broadcast on November 9, 2023.

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Jeon So Mi Picks Top 3 Most Beautiful Female Idols in K-Pop

There is little doubt that the K-pop industry is filled with gorgeous and talented women. But who does Jeon So Mi think are the prettiest? The “Dum Dum” singer has shared her top picks for the three most beautiful female idols and her choices are understandably relatable!

Jeon So Mi Shares Top 3 Most Beautiful Female Idols

On a popular online forum, enthusiastic netizens engaged in a spirited discussion, eagerly anticipating Jeon So Mi’s insights on her favorite idols in terms of beauty. These revelations came to light through a text message conversation she had with her dedicated fans via the Bubble platform.

“My top 3 beautiful idol according to my standards,” Somi wrote before admitting that, “It’s so difficult…?” Nevertheless, she confirmed that her top three most beautiful female idols are, “Jungyeon unnie, Joy sunbaenim, and Minnie”.

As it turns out, Jeon So Mi chose Jeongyeon of TWICE, RED VELVET’s Joy, and (G)I-DLE member Minnie. Her choices certainly reflect her preference for adorable eye-smiles and a reliable aura. It was also noted that Somi chose tall idols.

Jeon Somi certainly has no qualms about sharing details about her preferences and personal life with her fans. The “Gold Gold Gold” singer previously had netizens laughing about the casual way she confirmed that she isn’t dating anyone at the time.

During a live broadcast, Jeon Somi answered some fan questions after making undercooked pasta. When a netizen asked if she was dating anyone, the idol simply answered, “If I was, I wouldn’t be eating undercooked pasta by myself, yo.”

While Jeon So Mi is known for her openness and honesty, she has also made it clear that if she were in a relationship, she wouldn’t provide hints or confirmation unless the media uncovered it. This stance reflects the delicate balance celebrities must maintain between their public personas and personal lives, as they navigate the curiosity and scrutiny of fans and the media.

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KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

EXO’s D.O.’s New Agency Confirms Legal Action For Malicious Posts

D.O. poses in the teaser of EXO's 'Cream Soda' music video. Credit: Facebook/EXO

D.O. has found a new agency and they are immediately taking action to protect their artists. Company Soosoo has issued a statement confirming they are taking legal action against malicious posts about the EXO member and their other affiliated artists.

D.O.’s New Agency Announces Intentions to Take Legal Action Against Malicious Posts

On November 6, Company Soosoo issued a statement about their plans.

“In order to protect the honor of our affiliated artists, we plan to take regular legal action against the creators of malicious posts and comments containing baseless accusations, defamation, and malicious insults on online communities and social media,” the statement read.

“We will collect relevant information through our internal monitoring system, and we would be grateful if fans could also report malicious posts and comments when they come across them. Please report any such content to our dedicated email account at clean@companysoosoo.com,” it continues.

“We will continue our ongoing efforts to safeguard our artists’ rights and vigorously respond to illegal activities, including the spread of false information and malicious rumors,” the statement concludes.

On October 18, SM Entertainment also confirmed that D.O. would be leaving the agency. He would then join a new agency founded by SM’s former manager. SM Entertainment further clarified that D.O. will continue his EXO activities with SM while also carrying out acting and individual activities through Company Soosoo.

“D.O.’s exclusive contract with us will expire in early November,” the statement read. “Following thorough discussions with D.O., it has been decided that he will continue his EXO activities with SM, but will also proceed with his acting and individual activities through the newly established agency founded by his and SM’s former manager.”

D.O.’s latest project is the variety show “You Reap What You Sow” which also stars Lee Kwang Soo, Kim Woo Bin, and Kim Ki Bang. In the series, the four friends are seen navigating the challenges of farm life on a vast 500-pyeong (about 17,792 square feet) field.

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G-DRAGON Visits Police Station for Voluntary Questioning

G-Dragon has willingly presented himself at the Incheon Metropolitan Police Department for a thorough investigation regarding the allegations of drug-related charges. His decision to cooperate with the authorities follows a previous statement by his legal representatives announcing his intention to undergo voluntary questioning by the drug crime investigation team.

G-Dragon Attends Voluntary Questioning at Police Station

On November 6 KST, G-Dragon arrived at the police station to address these allegations directly.

During the investigation, G-Dragon vehemently refuted the accusations against him, asserting that the reports of his involvement in drug crimes were entirely baseless. He emphasized his intent to reveal the truth and undergo the voluntary questioning promptly, expressing his determination to prove his innocence. Moreover, when questioned about the claims of bleaching and dyeing his hair, the BIGBANG leader responded with a clear denial, stating that he had never undertaken such actions.

The development comes at a time when various personalities within the entertainment industry, including actor Lee Sun Gyun, are under investigation for potential drug-related offenses. Reports concerning Lee Sun Gyun’s involvement suggest that he may have been “tricked into drug use by a female manager of an adult entertainment establishment,” although further information remains pending as investigations continue. The situation underscores the ongoing scrutiny surrounding drug-related issues in the entertainment sector, with several individuals facing investigations to determine the veracity of these claims.

On October 25, it was reported that G-Dragon had been booked by the Incheon Metropolitan Police Agency under suspicion of violating the Act on the Control of Narcotics, Etc. He later issued an official statement through his legal representatives. Although the statement is brief, it assures VIPs that the BIGBANG member is innocent of the recent drug abuse allegations.

Later, G-Dragon’s lawyer Kim Soo Hyun shared a new statement about the drug-relation investigation.

“This is Kwon Ji Yong’s (G-Dragon’s) advisory counsel, lawyer Kim Soo Hyun of K1 Chamber LLP. As clearly revealed already, it is not true that Kwon Ji Yong used drugs,” the statement read.

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KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

PENTAGON’s Hongseok Leaves CUBE Entertainment

CUBE Entertainment has lost another PENTAGON member. Hongseok has just been confirmed to depart from the agency. This makes Yang Hong-seok the sixth member of the idol group to leave the company.

Hongseok Becomes 6th PENTAGON Member To Officially Leave CUBE Entertainment

On November 6, CUBE Entertainment issued a statement confirming Hongseok’s departure from the agency.

“We are here to inform you that PENTAGON member Hongseok and Cube Entertainment’s exclusive contract has been terminated,” the statement read. “We shared many conversations with Hongseok regarding his activities, and as a result, we made the decision to end our contract.”

“We are grateful for Hong Seok’s hard work, who debuted as a member of PENTAGON back in 2016, and for unsparingly showing his passion and talent as a member of CUBE Entertainment. We look forward to and cheer for Hong Seok’s even more brilliant steps forward,” it continues.

“Please show your warm support and encouragement for Hong Seok of PENTAGON even after his departure from CUBE Entertainment, who will be starting anew,” the statement concluded.

Since the announcement, Hongseok shared a message to his fans on his official Instagram account. “CUBE Entertainment about 9 years together. Thanks to you, I met a team called PENTAGON, I gained a brother. And most of all, meet the UNIVERSE,” he wrote. “It was a series of happy times. Staying cool in front of you, I’ll turn up, Always be grateful!”

On October 9, CUBE Entertainment confirmed that Yeo One, Yan An, Yuto, Kino, and Wooseok decided against renewing their contracts with the company. This makes Hongseok the sixth member of PENTAGON to leave the agency. However, Yeo One also assured fans that the group will continue promoting despite their departure from their former company.

In related news, all members of BTOB decided to leave CUBE Entertainment after 11 years with the company.

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BTOB Officially Leaving CUBE Entertainment

After a long wait, BTOB has finally made a decision about their contracts. All members of the idol group have decided not to renew their exclusive contracts with CUBE Entertainment. However, it has not yet been disclosed whether the group will continue to promote together with different companies.

CUBE Entertainment Confirm BTOB’s Departure

On November 6th, CUBE Entertainment disclosed that their longstanding contract with BTOB has reached its conclusion. After 11 years of collaboration, both parties have amicably decided not to renew the contract, marking the end of an era for BTOB’s journey under the agency.

“We discussed carefully with the members for a long time ahead of the expiration of our second exclusive contract with BTOB, and we made a mutual agreement to not renew our contract,” the statement read.

“With this, CUBE Entertainment and BTOB members Seo Eunkwang, Lee Minhyuk, Lee Changsub, Lim Hyunsik, Peniel, and Yuk Sungjae are wrapping up our 11-year work relationship,” it continued.

The company also expressed their appreciation for BTOB’s fans.

“We would like to thank BTOB for their proud achievements as a member of CUBE Entertainment for a long time, and we thank their fans MELODY for always being supportive of BTOB,” the statement added. “The relationship between CUBE Entertainment and BTOB has unfortunately come to an end here, but we will sincerely support the new growth and shining future of the BTOB members with endless possibilities.”

“Please show your unwavering love to BTOB who will be starting their new journey,” it concluded.

It was previously reported that the agency was hoping that all six members of BTOB would renew their contracts this year. On the other hand, it looks like the idols are ready to explore other possibilities.

The significant development reflects a bittersweet farewell for the group and the entertainment company, as they part ways with mutual respect and appreciation for the time spent together.

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BTS KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

BTS’s V Solo Album ‘Layover’ Celebrates 7 Consecutive Weeks On Billboard 200

V has achieved a historic milestone on the Billboard 200, solidifying his position as a record-breaking artist in the global music industry. The success comes with the BTS member’s solo album ‘Layover’, which continues to dominate global charts.

‘Layover’ Celebrates 7th Week in the Billboard 200

V made his solo debut with the album ‘Layover’ in September, which promptly landed on the Billboard 200 chart at an impressive No. 2. The remarkable achievement equalled the record set by his fellow BTS members Jimin and Suga as the highest-ranking Korean solo albums on the chart.

The latest feat ensured V’s status as the first K-pop solo artist to maintain a presence on the Billboard 200 for seven consecutive weeks. Since its debut, ‘Layover’ has retained a spot on the chart, and for the week ending on November 4, it impressively held position at No. 160.

‘Layover’ is only the second Korean solo album to have achieved such longevity on the Billboard 200. V’s bandmate RM previously charted for seven weeks with his solo album ‘Indigo’, albeit with non-consecutive weeks.

Beyond the Billboard 200, ‘Layover’ climbed to No. 13 on Billboard’s Top Current Album Sales chart and No. 18 on the Top Album Sales chart during its seventh week on both charts.

V’s title track “Slow Dancing” also maintained its presence on the Billboard charts as well. It ascended to No. 30 on the Billboard Global Excl. U.S. chart and No. 54 on the Global 200 chart during its seventh week. His pre-release single “Love Me Again” also saw success, re-entering the charts at No. 116 on the Global Excl. U.S. chart during its 11th week.

V’s impact as a solo artist extended to the Billboard Artist 100, where he secured the No. 83 position, marking his ninth appearance on the chart, showcasing the enduring influence of his solo work. V’s groundbreaking achievements underscore his status as an exceptional artist, not only within the K-pop realm but also on the international music stage.

‘Layover’ was released on September 8, 2023.

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