Author: Belle

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Cube Entertainment Confirms New Boy Group

CUBE Entertainment has confirmed that they are preparing for the debut of a new boy group! The upcoming idol group will be the agency’s first since they launched PENTAGON in 2016.

New Boy Group Confirmed by CUBE Entertainment

CUBE Entertainment is gearing up for the much-anticipated debut of a new boy group tentatively named nowadays in early 2024. The exciting development comes as per an exclusive report by JTBC, and it has sparked significant buzz among K-pop enthusiasts.

The group is slated to consist of five members, and they’ve been diligently preparing for their debut since mid-October. Notably, the members selected for the venture encompass a mix of talents, including those who have already made a name for themselves through prior activities and fresh, unrevealed trainees. The combination of experience and new talent hints at an intriguing dynamic for the upcoming group.

Furthermore, there’s an interesting twist to their debut, as they have been shooting their debut content in the United Kingdom. This choice of location adds a layer of mystique to their upcoming release and raises questions about the creative direction and international appeal of nowadays.

This highly-anticipated debut represents a significant milestone for CUBE Entertainment. It marks their first boy group debut since the introduction of PENTAGON back in 2016, underscoring the importance and excitement surrounding the new group.

CUBE Entertainment has yet to officially comment on JTBC’s report, leaving fans eager to hear more about the group’s concept, music style, and the individual members who will comprise nowadays.

As 2024 approaches, K-pop fans around the world are sure to keep a close eye on CUBE Entertainment and the burgeoning boy group’s journey towards their debut. The fusion of experienced talent and fresh faces, coupled with international influences, suggests that nowadays has the potential to make a significant impact on the K-pop scene.

In related news, CUBE Entertainment confirmed that Yeo One, Yan An, Yuto, Kino, and Wooseok decided against renewing their contracts with the company.

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TXT Soobin’s Breakfast Date with Bebe Rexha Sparks Collab Speculations

Is it time for an awesome K-pop collaboration? Soobin from the popular K-pop group TXT and the internationally acclaimed pop sensation Bebe Rexha recently enjoyed a delightful breakfast date in South Korea. Their friendship has been a long-standing one, and every time they reunite, it serves as a touching reminder of the deep and authentic bond they share, making them the epitome of friendship goals. But did it also confirm that the two are working on a new project?

TXT’s Soobin Reunites with Bebe Rexha on Breakfast Date

Soobin’s admiration for Bebe Rexha dates back to his early debut days, and he hasn’t hesitated to express his desire to meet her. His fanboy moments over the years have endeared him to fans, making him relatable and endearing in the eyes of many. In a fortunate turn of events, 2022 brought them together during a livestream, an event that sent ripples of excitement through Soobin and his fellow bandmates.

Fast forward to the present, and it’s evident that their friendship has blossomed beautifully. Bebe Rexha took to her TikTok to share glimpses of their most recent get-together, and she couldn’t help but sing praises for the breakfast date. Who wouldn’t want to brag about such a cool hangout with a friend? The photos they shared are nothing short of adorable, capturing the essence of their genuinely charming friendship.

The internet is now abuzz with love and admiration for both these stars. Fans of TXT, known as MOAs, and Bebe Rexha’s loyal supporters are overflowing with joy over the wholesome posts shared by the singer. It’s no secret that Soobin is a massive Bebe Rexha fan, and this meet-up undeniably means the world to him. The pictures and posts shared by Bebe Rexha stand as a testament to the humble and down-to-earth nature of these stars, who, despite their demanding schedules, carved out time to celebrate their friendship.

As the news of the heartwarming breakfast date spreads, the happiness it has brought to fans is immeasurable. But could it also mean that TXT and Bebe Rexha are working on a collaboration? For now, neither have confirmed a new project but fans are happy to see a true and meaningful friendship between the artists.

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aespa’s Karina Seemingly Shades Other Girl Groups for Infighting

Karina recently spoke about the relationship she shares with the three other members of aespa in a high-profile interview. However, netizens believe that the idol’s comments threw some shade at other girl groups!

Karina Discusses Her Relationship with Other Aespa Members

In the latest episode of Rolling Stone‘s “Musicians on Musicians” video series, aespa and international artist Grimes interviewed each other. At one point, Grimes asked Karina about working with three other members.

“How is it like working with all four of you and negotiating and all that?” the Canadian singer asked. “In many ways, it’s great but every time I do have a creative partner, it is so fulfilling, but sometimes you fight.”

Interestingly, Karina pointed out that she considers the other aespa members as family and that they naturally get along well.

“Even though all four of us have different personalities, I think we come together well. And we just get along well as people,” she said. “And because we understand each other well, even without saying anything, we also work well together.”

Karina then continued by sharing how other idols tend to fight with their members. Although she didn’t specify any names, many believe she was referring to other girl groups.

“Honestly, if you look at other K-pop groups, people fight a lot, and there are a lot of teams that don’t work well together. But even from the beginning, we didn’t have those issues,” she said. “And if a conflict arises, we try to resolve it immediately. So I think we’re able to work well without any issues.”

It’s an interesting comment but not exactly fresh news. After all, disagreements are natural in any group of people who must work together to achieve a goal. If anything, Karina’s comments confirmed that the members of aespa learned to accept each other’s personalities and worked out their differences.

aespa is currently preparing for their fourth EP ‘Drama’ which is set for release on November 10, 2023.

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Former EXO Member Kris Wu Reportedly Writing Songs in Prison

It looks like Kris Wu is staying active musically amidst his current incarceration. A panelist on a Chinese television program has sparked controversy by claiming that the former EXO member is composing music and participating in talent competitions while in prison.

Kris Wu’s Alleged Prison Activities Revealed

The update regarding Kris Wu’s activities came to light through screen captures from the television show that were shared on Twitter. According to the post, the former EXO member “is writing songs with positive vibes and participating in prison talent shows.”

Kris Wu’s legal issues began when a 19-year-old Chinese college student made allegations against him on July 8, 2021. The student accused Wu of engaging in a pattern of sexual assault involving multiple women and girls, some of whom were underage, while they were unconscious and under the influence of alcohol. According to the victim, she was sexually assaulted while intoxicated in December 2020 when she was 18 and claimed to speak on behalf of at least seven other victims. Two of the victims were reportedly minors at the time of the alleged crimes.

The Fall of Kris Wu

Wu vehemently denied the allegations, leading to investigations by the Beijing Public Security Bureau and other authorities. The scandal resulted in various companies, including Porsche, Bulgari, and Lancôme, severing ties with the artist. They either dropped him as a brand ambassador or suspended existing endorsement deals.

Wu was subsequently detained by police in July 2021 and was formally arrested the following month. The legal proceedings surrounding the case continued, ultimately resulting in a verdict. On November 25, 2022, the Chaoyang District People’s Court in Beijing sentenced Kris Wu to a total of 13 years in prison, with additional deportation from China upon completing his sentence. He faced charges related to rape and group lewdness and was also fined ¥600 million yuan (approximately US$84 million) for tax evasion.

The recent television program’s claim about Kris Wu’s involvement in music and talent competitions during his incarceration has stirred public debate and raised questions about the accuracy of the information. It remains to be seen how this situation will develop and whether further details about Kris Wu’s activities will emerge.

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Stray Kids Earn 2nd US Gold RIAA Certification For ‘5-STAR’

Stray Kids has achieved a remarkable feat in the United States, as their latest album has been officially certified gold by the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA). This prestigious certification is granted when an album reaches over 500,000 units sold in the U.S. Amazingly, this is the second time that the idol group has earned gold RIAA certification in the span of three years!

Stray Kids Confirms Gold RIAA Certification for ‘5-STAR’

The album in question is “★★★★★ (5-STAR)” and it holds a special place in Stray Kids’ discography. Notably, this marks the group’s first album to receive the gold RIAA certification, signifying a significant milestone in their international success. Not surprisingly, they excitedly posted about the certification on social media.

The latest accomplishment is particularly noteworthy because it adds to Stray Kids’ previous RIAA certification for their 2020 hit song “God’s Menu” which achieved gold status earlier in the same month.

By achieving this latest certification, Stray Kids joins an exclusive club of K-pop artists who have received recognition from the RIAA. They are only the second K-pop act, following the immense global success of BTS, to earn gold RIAA certifications for both an album and a single. This achievement underscores Stray Kids’ growing influence in the U.S. music market.

Furthermore, Stray Kids’ gold RIAA certification for “★★★★★ (5-STAR)” places them among the elite K-pop acts that have achieved this distinction. Prior to Stray Kids, only BTS and TXT had albums certified as gold in the United States. This accomplishment solidifies Stray Kids’ position as a major player in the international music scene.

The remarkable achievement is a testament to Stray Kids’ talent and the dedicated support of their global fanbase. The group has made substantial strides in the U.S. music industry, and their success continues to reach new heights. Congratulations to Stray Kids for this well-deserved recognition and their exciting accomplishment in the United States!

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Wonbin Dishes on Favorite RIIZE Member and Other K-Pop Group Biases

There is little doubt that RIIZE has been making waves in the K-pop industry as one of the fifth-generation boy groups under SM Entertainment. Still, they all started out as fans who had biases in other idol groups. But which K-pop stars do Wonbin look up to? The idol dished on his favorite members and even revealed which member of RIIZE he admires!

RIIZE’s Wonbin Reveals His NCT, WayV, SEVENTEEN, and TXT Biases

In a recent video call event, a fan decided to inquire about Wonbin’s biases from other boy groups, including those outside the SM Entertainment umbrella. When asked about his favorite member from NCT Dream, Wonbin promptly responded with Mark‘s name. Continuing the inquiry, the fan wondered about members from NCT’s other subunits, NCT 127 and WayV. Wonbin revealed that Taeyong and Xiaojun were his favorites from these respective groups.

The fan then expanded the scope to non-SM Entertainment idols, beginning with the Pledis Entertainment group SEVENTEEN. To this, Wonbin expressed his fondness for Hoshi. Transitioning to TXT, he indicated Yeonjun as his favorite member.

Lastly, the fan asked Wonbin to name his favorite member from his own group. In good spirits, Wonbin humorously declared Sohee as his favorite RIIZE member within their own group. Still, fans believe that he gets along well with Shotaro, Eunseok, Sungchan, Seunghan, and Anton.

Wonbin’s responses shed light on his passion for K-Pop, revealing his appreciation for members from various idol groups and confirming that he has his biases just like everybody else. With his evident enthusiasm for the genre, fans can hope to see him collaborating with some of his favorite artists in the future.

RIIZE officially debuted with the single album ‘Get a Guitar’ in September. They are currently preparing for their first comeback with the single “Talk Saxy” on October 27, 2023.

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BTS V Shares Cheerful Update Following Stalker Scare

A BTS stalker took things a little too far and immediately learned the consequences of their actions. The woman has reportedly been arrested for stalking BTS member V in his private residence. Nevertheless, Kim Taehyung remains cheerful, assuring ARMYs with wholesome posts.

BTS Stalker Arrested for Trying to Invade V’s Privacy

Seoul’s Gangnam Police have taken action regarding a disturbing incident of stalking involving BTS’s V. Reports from October 27 reveal that a woman in her 30s is under investigation for stalking the renowned K-pop artist.

The incident unfolded when the woman allegedly followed V into an elevator at his place of residence. Shockingly, it is reported that she had been waiting for V in the parking lot of his residence and subsequently pursued him into the building. The unsettling episode concluded with the woman fleeing the scene. However, she left behind a rather concerning piece of evidence – a marriage license application bearing her name.

Since the incident, BIGHIT Music confirmed the news and assured ARMYs that actions will be taken against the stalker.

“In response to stalking crimes which threaten the safety of our artists and intrude on their privacy, we are exercising a zero tolerance rule,” the statement read.

The distressing news has understandably sent shockwaves through the global BTS fan community, prompting fans to express their deep concerns and frustrations on social media platforms.

BTS V Breaks Silence Since Stalker Incident

In response to the incident, V took it upon himself to provide assurance to his devoted fans regarding his well-being. He shared updates on his current status and safety through both Weverse and Instagram, aiming to allay concerns and fears about the situation.

BIGHIT MUSIC previously issued an official statement, making it abundantly clear that they are taking robust legal measures against individuals who have committed various malicious online activities directed at BTS. These actions range from defamation, stalking, and sexual harassment to disseminating false information and posting hate comments. The label has made it unequivocal that they will not tolerate any violations of the group’s artistic and personal rights.

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G-Dragon Breaks Silence on Drug Abuse Allegations

G-Dragon has finally spoken up about his recent controversy. The BIGBANG leader officially addressed the drug abuse allegations and assured fans that he had done nothing wrong.

BIGBANG Member G-Dragon Issues Statement Regarding Drug Abuse Allegations

On October 27, G-Dragon 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.

“This is G-Dragon,” the statement read. “First of all, it is not true that I used drugs. Additionally, I would like to clarify that I have nothing to do with the news reports about violating the Narcotics Act that was released by the media.”

“However, I know that many people are concerned, so I will actively and fully cooperate with the investigation being conducted by the authorities,” it concluded.

This is the first time that G-Dragon has addressed the issue after it was reported that the police were looking for him. 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. Importantly, the police clarified that this case is distinct from that of actor Lee Sun Gyun, who is presently under investigation for drug use and recently withdrew from a television drama.

Since then, those who are associated with G-Dragon have shared various statements. Chanel, who the BIGBANG member has been representing as their global brand ambassador, was one of the first to comment on the issue.

“We are aware of the ongoing issue that is G-Dragon’s case,” Chanel’s statement read. “However, we have no official position to share at this time.”

YG Entertainment also issued a statement and confirmed that G-Dragon is no longer signed with the label. “[G-Dragon] is currently not affiliated with our agency as an artist, making it challenging for us to issue an official response,” they said.

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LE SSERAFIM’s Kim Chaewon to Resume Schedules Next Week

Kim Chaewon is ready to resume activities! The LE SSERAFIM member has been confirmed to join the rest of the group in their schedules starting next week.

Kim Chaewon Will Officially Resume LE SSERAFIM Activities Starting Next Week

On October 26, SourceMusic officially confirmed that Kim Chaewon will be resuming her schedules with LE SSERAFIM starting next week. The agency also explained that the idol was ill, which led to her absence in the previous week.

“Kim Chaewon has been taking a break from her activities while recovering from the aftereffects of the Influenza A virus since last week,” the statement read. “Medical experts have now concluded that she may resume her schedules beginning next week, and so she will return to activities on Wednesday, November 1.”

“Source Music will continue to provide support for its artists so that the artists may greet fans with a healthy image,” it concluded.

This is an awesome update considering that LE SSERAFIM is set to release a digital single titled “Perfect Night.” The release comes as part of a special collaboration with the video game “Overwatch 2” and is scheduled for October 27, 2023. As part of this exciting collaboration, the group will also be performing at the highly anticipated video game convention ‘BlizzCon 2023,’ taking place at the Anaheim Convention Center, with their performance set for November 4, 2023. With Kim Chaewon’s return, the idol will be able to perform the new song with the rest of the group.

This isn’t the first time that Kim Chaewon has fallen ill this month. LE SSERAFIM previously cancelled their “FLAME RISES” concerts in Bangkok, Thailand in the first week of October. Although the concerts were scheduled to take place on October 7 and 8, the dates were ultimately cancelled after three members including Kim Chaewon, Huh Yunjin, and Kazuha were diagnosed with Type A influenza.

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‘Persona: Sulli’ Finally Gets Netflix Release Date

It has been a long wait but Sulli’s final project finally got a Netflix release date. “Persona: Sulli” is officially confirmed for its streaming premiere in November. 

“Persona: Sulli” Netflix Release Date Finally Revealed

Mystic Story, the production company, has officially announced the release of “Persona: Sulli”. The highly anticipated dual-part project is set to premiere in November. The global streaming release on Netflix will begin on November 13, featuring both a short drama film titled “4: Clean Island” and a comprehensive documentary film titled “Dear Jinri”.

“4: Clean Island” unfolds a captivating narrative centered around a unique pig at an unconventional immigration checkpoint. The short film follows the pig named 4 as it dreams of relocating to Clean Island, considered the purest place on Earth. However, it must first confess its sins to continue its journey.

The film stars Choi Jinri (Sulli), Hwang Miyoung, and Park Gabi, promising powerful performances that will leave a lasting impact. The script for “4: Clean Island” is penned by Kim Jihye, who is also renowned for her work in the film “Wish” and the drama “Lost”. The co-direction is managed by Hwang Soo-ah, a director with extensive experience in music videos and films, including “Why Did You Come to My House?”

Sulli Documentary Gets Netflix Release Date

The second part of “Persona: Sulli” is titled “Dear Jinri”. The documentary explores the life of Choi Jinri, offering an exploration of her journey as an actress and artist. It also delves into her thoughts, contemplations, and experiences throughout her 20s. The documentary features interviews that provide a unique and intimate perspective on Sulli’s life.

“Dear Jinri” is directed by Jung Yoon-suk, a highly acclaimed director with a presence at various film festivals. He is als known for his works, including “Non-Fiction Diary”, “Bamseom Pirates Seoul Inferno”, and “Eyebrows”.

Prior to its Netflix release date, “4: Clean Island” also had a limited screening at Laika Cinema in Seodaemun Gu, Seoul, in September. “Dear Jinri” was also invited to the Wide Angle Section’s Documentary Showcase at the 28th Busan International Film Festival where it had its world premiere.

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