Author: Belle

Categories
KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

SHINee Confirms June Comeback With New Album ‘HARD’

SHINee is getting ready for their next full album. Onew, Key, Minho, and Taemin are currently preparing for a June comeback with a new LP ‘HARD’. In addition to that, the group will hold their first offline concert in Seoul in almost six years next month.

SHINee Confirms June Comeback With Eighth Full Album ‘HARD’

The official SHINee Twitter account dropped the first teaser for ‘HARD’ along with a new logo and header. The new LP, which is set to be the group’s eighth full album, will be released on June 26, 2023.

This is awesome news considering that it has been almost two years since SHINee released any full-group content. The last group effort was the Japanese EP ‘Superstar’ back in June 2021.

SHINee clearly has big plans for their June comeback. SM Entertainment also confirmed that the group will hold a three-night concert series ‘SHINee WORLD VI [PERFECT ILLUMINATION]’. The concerts will be held at Seoul’s KSPO Dome on June 23, 24, and 25, 2023.

Taemin had already told SHAWOLs about the concerts during SHINee’s 15th-anniversary fan meeting. During the event, the “Move” singer confirmed that the group would be holding a concert next month. In addition to that, he teased that the upcoming June comeback will not be their only comeback this year.

SHINee recently held their 15th-anniversary fan meeting ‘Everyday is SHINee DAY: Piece of SHINE’ at the Jamsil Indoor Gymnasium in Songpa, Seoul. The event was initially set to be held at the Ilsan Korea International Exhibition Center [KINTEX].

However, fans were unhappy about the seating arrangements in the venue. After SHAWOLs boycotted the event, SM Entertainment decided to move the fan meeting to a new venue.

The three-night concert series ‘SHINee WORLD VI [PERFECT ILLUMINATION]’ will be held at Seoul’s KSPO Dome on June 23, 24, and 25, 2023. SHINee’s eighth full album ‘HARD’ will be released on June 26, 2023.

Categories
BTS KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

BTS Announces New Single ‘Take Two’ Featuring All 7 Members

BTS is releasing another full-member single this year. The new song “Take Two” will be dropped in time for the group’s 10th anniversary. That also means it will be one of the special treats for ARMYs in the upcoming BTS Festa 2023.

BTS Announces New Full-Group Single ‘Take Two’

BIGHIT MUSIC issued a statement about the new BTS single on Weverse. The agency confirms that RM, Jin, Suga, J-Hope, Jimin, V, and Jungkook participated in the production of “Take Two”.

“To celebrate their 10th anniversary, BTS will release the digital single ‘Take Two’ this coming June,” the statement read.

“All seven members participated in ‘Take Two’,” it continued. “The song conveys their appreciation toward ARMY for all the love you shower them with and their desire to always be together with you.”

“We sincerely express our gratitude to ARMY for making the 10th anniversary possible with your endless love for BTS, and we hope that ‘Take Two’ will become a precious ‘Gift’ from BTS to you all,” it added.

The statement also confirms that the new single will be released on Friday, June 9, 2023, at 1 p.m. KST.

ARMYs are certainly pleased with the announcement. There were previous concerns that BTS’ latest single “The Planet” might be the last full-group effort until 2025. However, BTS clearly wanted fans to get a special gift in time for their 10th anniversary.

The announcement of “Take Two” is the first major update for BTS Festa 2023, the month-long event when the group celebrates their anniversary. BTS previously unveiled a special map teasing the event’s timeline.

In related news, BTS leader RM will be officially appointed as the public relations ambassador for MAKRI on June 1. MAKRI stands for the MDA (Ministry of National Defense) Agency for KIA (Killed in Action) Recovery & Identification. The organization works to recover the remains of war heroes who lost their lives in the Korean War and returns them to their families.

Categories
KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

ASTRO’s Cha Eun Woo Pays Tribute to Moonbin In 10cm Cover

Cha Eun Woo dropped a beautiful gift for fans as well as a beloved friend. The ASTRO member paid tribute to Moonbin in a touching cover of 10cm’s “Stalker”.

Cha Eun Woo Covers Moonbin’s Favorite Song ‘Stalker’ By 10cm

The new cover was uploaded on Cha Eun Woo’s official YouTube channel. In the video, the “True Beauty” actor delivers a beautiful rendition of the 10cm song “Stalker”.

Fans were quick to note that the song was chosen as a tribute to the late Moonbin. The “Mermaid Prince” actor had always loved “Stalker” and would constantly sing it. AROHAs also noted that the video was uploaded at 2:23 a.m. KST, or 2/23, which is ASTRO’s debut date.

Cha Eun Woo himself made sure people understood that he was paying tribute to Moon Bin. Before the video was posted, Lee Dongmin had shared several photos of Moonbin in his Instagram Story.

Not surprisingly, 10cm was pleased with Cha Eun Woo’s cover. Kwon Jungyeol’s official YouTube channel left a comment on the video.

“Thank you for the wonderful call,” they wrote. Cha Eun Woo immediately pinned the comment on the post.

Moonbin’s body was found in his home in Gangnam on April 19, 2023, at 8:10 PM KST. His funeral was a private event attended by family and friends. All members of ASTRO were present for the funeral.

Since Moonbin’s passing, ASTRO’s agency FANTAGIO has set up a memorial space on their building’s rooftop. Although it was initially set up in front of the building, the company decided to move the memorial space to a new location. This way, fans can continue to pay tribute to Moon Bin until the first week of June.

In related news, Cha Eun Woo was recently confirmed to be in negotiations to star in a new drama “Wonderful World”. He is expected to work alongside veteran actress Kim Nam Joo and Kim Kang Woo.

Categories
KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

T.O.P Confirms BIGBANG Exit, Teases First Solo Project

T.O.P has confirmed that he is no longer a member of BIGBANG. The rapper addressed his departure from the supergroup and revealed he left back in 2022. In addition to that, Choi Seunghyun is currently working on his first solo project since leaving BIG BANG.

T.O.P Officially Announces His Departure From BIGBANG, Continues Teasing Solo Debut

T.O.P recently shared a post on his official Instagram account. The post features a video of the rapper playing the keyboards while the photo confirms he is “still working on my albums.”

It seemed like a typical T.O.P post until one fan asked an important question in the comments. “TOP DID YOU LEAVE BIGBANG?” they wrote. Interestingly, Choi Seunghyun replied to the comment with a firm confirmation.

“I’ve already withdrawn,” he wrote. In a second reply, T.O.P explained that this isn’t a fresh update.

“I’ve already told you guys that I’m leaving and I’m now facing a new chapter in my life since last year,” he wrote.

Although T.O.P insists this isn’t a recent update, fans were shocked by his confirmation. Back in February 2022, YG Entertainment announced that Choi Seunghyun had terminated his exclusive contract with the agency. However, T.O.P was still expected to join BIGBANG in their group activities.

In April 2022, T.O.P reunited with G-Dragon, Taeyang, and Daesung for “Still Life”, BIGBANG’s first comeback in four years. It was also the group’s first project as a quartet since former member Seungri retired from the industry. It would also become T.O.P’s last project with BIG BANG.

For now, YG Entertainment has not made an official announcement about T.O.P’s departure from BIGBANG. Likewise, Choi Seunghyun has not yet shared further details about his first solo effort.

Moreover, BIG BANG has not yet confirmed their plans for their next comeback. Stay tuned for more updates on this story.

Categories
KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

Lee Hyori Regrets Releasing ’10 Minutes’ 20 Years Ago

Lee Hyori admits that she regrets one of the biggest hits in her successful career. The “Bad Girls” singer revealed that she feels guilty about releasing “10 Minutes” back in 2003.

Lee Hyori Feels Guilty About ’10 Minutes’ 20 Years After Its Release

In a recent episode of “Dancing Queens on the Road”, Lee Hyori revealed she did some research for an upcoming performance. The former Fin.K.L member confirmed she was going to perform “10 Minutes” and needed a refresher. However, Hyori says she ended up realizing that the lyrics sounded wrong.

“I looked up old videos of ’10 Minutes’ because I had to perform it, and the lyrics are about trying to seduce a man with a girlfriend in 10 minutes,” she said.

Hyori then added, “They’re so mean.”

Lee Hyori admitted that this wasn’t an issue for her when she was younger. However, her outlook on the matter has clearly changed.

“I didn’t think about it in the past, but I feel so guilty trying to sing the song again in my mid-40s,” she said. “I have to express it with confidence, but it makes me feel like I should apologize.”

Hyori added, “I think to myself, ‘Can I do this?’ Why would you seduce a man with a girlfriend?”

“10 Minutes” was released on August 13, 2003. It was Lee Hyori’s debut single from her debut solo album ‘Stylish … E’ which won the Album Bonsang at the 2003 Golden Disc Awards. The song was a commercial hit in South Korea and it started several musical and fashion trends in 2003. Local media dubbed the song’s popularity as the “Hyori Syndrome”.

These days, Lee Hyori clearly has moved on from her man-stealing songs. She has settled down with Roller Coaster guitarist Lee Sang Soon since 2013. In addition to that, she is part of one of the most anticipated shows right now.

“Dancing Queens on the Road” follows Lee Hyori, BoA, Uhm Jung Hwa, Kim Wan Sun, Hwasa, and Hong Hyun Hee as they travel around the country on a concert tour.

Categories
KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

SEVENTEEN’s S. Coups Resumes Japan Activities

S. Coups is officially back to work. The SEVENTEEN leader has resumed group activities after taking a short break due to some health issues.

PLEDIS Entertainment Announces S. Coups’ Absence From Fan Meeting

On May 27, PLEDIS Entertainment issued a statement confirming that S. Coups will not participate in a fan meeting scheduled on that day. The agency revealed that Choi Seungcheol was not feeling well.

“As he is not feeling well, SEVENTEEN’s S. Coups will inevitably be absent from the Tokyo performance of SEVENTEEN 2023 JAPAN FANMEETING ‘LOVE’ on May 27,” the statement read.

“We apologize to fans and ask for your understanding,” it continues. “We will do our best to support S. Coups so he may recover his health as soon as possible.”

SEVENTEEN Quickly Reunites With Group Leader

Luckily, it looks like the SEVENTEEN leader quickly recovered from his illness. The group’s maknae Dino shared two selfies on Twitter confirming Choi Seungcheol resumed group activities the following day.

It is unclear why S. Coups was not able to join the rest of the group on May 27. However, Japanese CARATs were happy to see him reunited with the other SEVENTEEN members so soon.

There is a good reason why fans are concerned about S. Coups. Back in November 2019, the Hip-Hop Team leader announced that he is taking a break from the group. Choi Seungcheol was in hiatus for several months, eventually reuniting with his members on March 2020. However, SEVENTEEN was still unable to go on tour due to COVID-19.

SEVENTEEN is currently promoting their tenth mini album ‘FML’ and the singles “F*ck My Life” and “Super”. The group are also touring Japan for the “LOVE” fan meetings.

S. Coups, Jeonghan, Joshua, Jun, Hoshi, Wonwoo, Woozi, DK, Mingyu, THE8, Seungkwan, Vernon, and Dino recently celebrated an awesome milestone. SEVENTEEN celebrated the fifth anniversary of their Japanese debut on May 30, 2023.

Categories
KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

EXO-SC Chanyeol and Sehun on Their Decade-Long Career

Chanyeol and Sehun are looking back at their long career. The EXO-SC members discussed the secret behind their successful career that has lasted over a decade. Park Chanyeol and Oh Sehun also revealed how they truly feel about working together as a subunit.

EXO-SC Members Chanyeol and Sehun Answer Burning Questions About Their Career and Subunit

Chanyeol and Sehun recently completed the EXO-SC ‘Back-To-Back’ fan concerts. During a recent stop in Manila, the EXO members spoke with the press to answer some burning questions.

At one point, the idols were asked about the key to a long-lasting career. Both Chanyeol and Sehun agreed that it is important to just have fun.

“If we considered this as a job, we might have worn out a long time ago,” they said. “But because of the relationships between the members, I think we’re a family and very close friends, that’s why we’re having so much fun.”

The idols also shared some interesting secrets about themselves. Chanyeol shared his personal pre-stage preparations.

“Before taking the stage, I always warm up my voice and stretch, and most importantly, I pray before performing,” he said.

Meanwhile, Sehun admitted that he truly admires his hyung. When asked if there was anything that Chanyeol possessed that he wanted for himself, the EXO maknae‘s answer was simple.

“I want to have everything of him,” Sehun confessed. For his part, Chanyeol joked that he didn’t want anything that his dongsaeng possesses. However, he later admitted he admires Sehun’s manliness.

But what did the members of EXO-SC think when it was announced they would be a subunit? Sehun said he initially thought it was a joke.

“At first, I think, it wasn’t serious, but it really was real,” he said. Sehun then confessed he wants to continue working with his hyung on their subunit.

“Of course, I’m looking forward to doing more activities with Chanyeol in the future,” he said.

EXO is currently preparing for their next comeback without Kai, who recently enlisted for military service.

Categories
BTS KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

Bang Si Hyuk Reveals Why BTS Began Releasing English Songs

Bang Si Hyuk is finally revealing the truth behind one of K-pop’s great mysteries. The HYBE chairman shared the real reason why BTS started releasing English-language songs in 2020.

The Real Reason Why BTS Began Releasing English-Language Songs Revealed By Bang Si Hyuk

Bang Si Hyuk was interviewed by Rolling Stone as part of the magazine’s cover story on BTS. In the interview, the BIG HIT MUSIC founder discussed how HYBE decided that the supergroup should release an English song. The company then worked with UK songwriting duo David Stewart and Jessica Agombar for “Dynamite”.

So why did HYBE decide that it was time for BTS to record a song in the English language? Bang Si Hyuk revealed that COVID-19 was the main cause.

“‘Dynamite’ would not have been released if BTS had been on tour as scheduled,” Bang said. “The project was chosen to shift the mood as a response to the pandemic situation.”

Back in 2020, BTS was slated to support the ‘Map of the Soul’ album series with a concert series. The ‘Map of the Soul Tour’ was scheduled to begin in April of that year. However, it was postponed indefinitely due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

For Bang Si Hyuk, “Dynamite” was the perfect song to comfort ARMYs who were disappointed by the tour cancellation and COVID-19’s global impact. Moreover, Bang believed BTS’ message would be best conveyed in English.

“I thought it matched BTS, and that the song’s trendy vibes would be better expressed if sung in English,” he said.

Hitman Bang was certainly right about that. “Dynamite” debuted at number one on the US Billboard Hot 100 chart. It became BTS’ first chart-topper and they became the first all-South Korean act to earn a number-one single in the US.

The global success of “Dynamite” would then lead to a second English-language single for BTS. “Butter” was released in May 2021 and it also debuted at number one on the Hot 100.

Categories
KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

BLACKPINK’s Jennie Opens Up About Passing of Beloved Dog Kai

Jennie is finally opening up about a tragedy in her personal life. The BLACKPINK member shared her feeling about the recent passing of her beloved pet Kai. The “Solo” singer also revealed that her other dog Kuma and her mother are greatly affected by the loss.

Jennie Shares True Feelings About The Death Of Her Dog Kai

The dog Kuma was recently the special guest on “Kang Hyung Wook’s Dog Guest Show”. Jennie joined her pet in the episode and discussed several topics with the celebrity dog trainer.

At one point, Kang Hyung Wook asked if the BLACKPINK member had any questions about living with Kuma. Jennie then revealed that she was concerned about Kuma since the death of her first dog Kai.

“Actually…my first dog (Kai) recently died, and Kuma went through a lot,” she said. “I was wondering if there was anything I could do to comfort him.”

“Our family thought Kuma is very depressed…yet it feels like there’s nothing we can effectively do,” Jennie added. “He would mimic everything the other dog did.”

Kang Hyung Wook then assured Jennie that it would only be difficult for Kuma at first. However, the dog will eventually adjust to the change. The dog trainer then turned his attention to Jennie’s other family members.

“But it’s always a lot harder for people. Is your mom okay? It must be very hard for your mother…” he said.

“She is not okay,” Jennie admitted. “We stopped calling each other for a while and we just basically stopped talking.” She further explained that their interactions became too emotional to the point that they would simply cry at the slightest eye contact.

“It also took me a very long time to be able to talk about this openly,” Jennie confessed.

Luckily, Jennie is slowly opening up about her feelings about Kai, who she says was like a little brother to her.

https://twitter.com/BLINKSTATS/status/1662042918717206531

In related news, Jennie’s HBO series ‘The Idol’ premiered at the 76th Cannes Film Festival which she attended. The show will begin airing on the network on June 4, 2023.

Categories
KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

Rei To Resume IVE Promotions After Temporary Hiatus

Rei is finally ending her temporary hiatus. The IVE member will be reunited with An Yujin, Gaeul, Jang Wonyoung, Liz, and Leeseo for the group’s ongoing promotions.

Rei Finally Resumes Activities With IVE Following Temporary Hiatus In April

Starship Entertainment confirmed Rei’s return in an update posted on the group’s official fan cafe. The agency assured DIVEs that the main rapper is finally feeling better.

“Rei’s symptoms have recently improved greatly and she’s decided to re-join the team and resume activities,” the statement read. The company also confirmed they will continue to monitor Rei’s condition.

“While carrying out their future schedules, we will closely check the health statuses of IVE, including Rei, and do our best to care for our artists,” the statement continues.

“We ask for lots of support for Rei. Thank you,” it concludes.

IVE immediately posted a photo confirming that Rei has reunited with her fellow members. The picture features all six members of the group.

Starship Entertainment announced Rei’s temporary hiatus in April. The IVE rapper then assured her fans in a sweet letter that she shared on the group’s fan cafe.

“After I became a member of IVE, I diligently ran with the best five members hand in hand. Those who were always with me during happy and sad times were the members and DIVE. I have to halt for now but I am putting in the effort so that this time for myself isn’t meaningless,” she wrote.

Rei added, “I think about DIVE and the members every day. I want to know what you guys are doing, if you guys ate, or if there was anything interesting. Because you are all my most precious friends and family.”

IVE is currently promoting their first Japanese EP ‘Wave’ and its title track of the same name which was released on May 9, 2023.

Exit mobile version