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Jo Yuri Grateful For ‘Squid Game’ Season 2 Casting

The former IZ*ONE member admitted that she is grateful and fortunate to be a part of the successful Netflix series
The former IZ*ONE member admitted that she is grateful and fortunate to be a part of the successful Netflix series

Jo Yuri is truly happy about her latest project. The former IZ*ONE member was recently cast as one of the new actors joining “Squid Game” Season 2. Not surprisingly, the idol spoke about the casting process and admitted she was grateful for the project.

Jo Yuri Admits Being Grateful For ‘Squid Game’ Season 2 Casting

Back in June, it was confirmed that Jo Yuri is one of the new cast members joining “Squid Game” Season 2. She will be joined by former BIGBANG member T.O.P., who will be returning to acting after a six-year hiatus. The rest of the new cast includes Park Gyu-young, Kang Ae-sim, Lee David, Lee Jin-uk, Roh Jae-won, and Won Ji-an.

Although their roles have not been announced, Jo Yuri has opened up about the casting in the Netflix series. In a new interview with Allkpop, the “Glassy” singer admitted she was thrilled to be chosen for the show.

“I was fortunate to have the opportunity to audition for this role, and being able to participate in such an incredible project alongside respected seniors is truly an honor,” Jo said. “I’m fully committed to giving my utmost to deliver my best, so I kindly ask for your ongoing support throughout the journey!”

Jo participated in Mnet’s reality television show “Idol School” where the nine final participants would debut with the newly formed girl group Fromis 9. Unfortunately, she finished in 15th place but Jo didn’t give up hope. She later Mnet’s reality television show “Produce 48” where she finished in 3rd place. As one of twelve successful participants, she went on to be a part of the newly formed girl group IZ*ONE.

Jo Yuri debuted as a solo artist with the single album ‘Glassy’ in October 2021. Since IZ*ONE’s disbandment, she also pursued acting, appearing in the web shows “Mimicus” and “Work Later, Drink Now”. She recently dropped her new album ‘LOVE ALL’ and the title track “TAXI.” The second mini-album was released on August 9, 2023.

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Hyoyeon Discusses Relationship With Other GIRLS’ GENERATION Members

HYO discussed how she and the other GIRLS' GENERATION members communicate

GIRLS’ GENERATION’s Hyoyeon recently offered an unfiltered glimpse into the current dynamics among the group’s members. HYO, who made her comeback with the single “Picture,” appeared on KBS CoolFM’s “Lee Eun Ji’s Music Plaza” on August 29. During her visit, she shared intriguing insights about her career and addressed listener questions.

Hyoyeon Talks About The Difficulties of Communicating With Other GIRLS’ GENERATION Members

One fan inquired about how her fellow group members reacted to her new single, leading Hyoyeon to candidly illuminate the group’s real dynamic. She disclosed that, in reality, they don’t closely monitor each other’s individual schedules due to their incredibly busy lives. This makes it nearly impractical to keep constant tabs on one another.

The revelation sheds light on the challenges of maintaining close connections within a highly active and dynamic group like GIRLS’ GENERATION, where each member is pursuing their individual endeavors. HYO’s candid response provides valuable insight into the realities of maintaining strong bonds within a large, busy group.

Interestingly, Hyoyeon admitted she has yet to hear from the other members of the group since her single’s release.

“This time, while preparing for my solo song, I didn’t say anything to them,” she told the host. “After the song was released, I told them it came out asked them to promote it, but there was no feedback… I met one of the members yesterday, and they said it was very cool.”

It may sound cold but the members of GIRLS’ GENERATION are clearly busy with their own schedules. Although it means they don’t bond like other groups, there is little doubt that their friendship is forever.

Hyoyeon also revealed that she doesn’t do a lot when she isn’t promoting as a solo artist. “During my off-season, I am just like anyone else – I even wear the same clothes for five days straight,” Hyoyeon said.

HYO’s new single “Picture” was released on August 22, 2023.

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BAEKHO Drops Intense ‘Elevator’ Teaser

The former NU'EST member feels the tension in the new 'Elevator' teaser

Former NU’EST member BAEKHO is intensifying excitement and intrigue surrounding his upcoming comeback through a remake digital single. He recently released a captivating “Elevator” teaser, featuring him exuding a powerful aura within an elevator, accompanied by an unidentified woman.

BAEKHO Feels The Tension In the New ‘Elevator’ Teaser

On August 30, BAEKHO dropped a new performance film teaser for “Elevator.” In the preview, the former NU’EST member shares a lift with a mysterious woman who can’t help but be drawn to the singer. She also takes glances at his physical attributes while pretending to be disinterested. The video then concludes with the two looking at each other.

It’s an exciting tease for things to come. Needless to say, LOVEs can’t wait for the release of the remake digital single.

Baekho thrilled fans with the announcement on August 21, disclosing his plans to release a remake of Park Jin Young’s 1995 hit, “Elevator.” Additionally, this song is notably famous for its provocative lyrics and has left an indelible mark on the music industry.

The singer’s decision to reinterpret this iconic song from the past has generated immense anticipation among fans and music enthusiasts alike. It’s also an opportunity for the singer to showcase his unique musical style and pay homage to a legendary artist in the K-pop industry.

Kang Dong-ho, who is better known as Baekho, is a versatile South Korean artist known for singing, songwriting, producing, and TV. He is NU’EST‘s lead vocalist and producer and decided to stay with PLEDIS Entertainment after the group’s disbandment in March 2022.

In October 2022, Baekho began his solo career with the release of “Absolute Zero.” Fans eagerly anticipated this new chapter, which allows Kang Dong-ho to showcase his creative musical talents beyond NU’EST.

Baekho’s remake single “Elevator” reimagines J.Y. Park’s infamous track and promises a fresh take on the iconic song. It will also be part of the ‘[bæd] time Project #1 initiative’ and is slated for release on August 31, 2023.

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FIFTY FIFTY To Pursue Exclusive Contracts Dispute with ATTRAKT

The members of FIFTY FIFTY are still determined to suspend their exclusive contracts

The members of FIFTY FIFTY have expressed their decision to pursue their dispute with ATTRAKT. Their decision comes after losing the legal battle to break out of their exclusive contracts with the label.

FIFTY FIFTY Officially Announce Decision To Appeal Judge’s Decision

On August 30 KST, FIFTY FIFTY’s legal representation the Barun Law Firm issued a statement indicating their intentions.

“We have reached a decision to file an appeal against the dismissal of our application for an injunction aimed at suspending the validity of the exclusive contracts,” the statement read. “The appeal will be officially filed soon”

“The court, in its ruling, pointed out the lack of transparency regarding the settlement structure for music and sound source income, as well as the details and items of the advance payment paid by the music producer for the creation of FIFTY FIFTY’s music. It was also unclear whether the CEO breached his duties in relation to this,” it continues.

“Despite the outcome of the provisional injunction, we are set to continue our fight on the major issues in the near future,” the statement added.

It was previously reported that FIFTY FIFTY are planning to appeal the decision. On August 28, a judge decided to reject an injunction aimed at suspending FIFTY FIFTY’s exclusive contracts with ATTRAKT. This decision was prompted by reports stating that FIFTY FIFTY had declined to engage in mediation court proceedings. When the group’s legal representative pursued a traditional trial, the judge swiftly dismissed the request.

Since then, ATTRAKT CEO Jeon Hong Joon disclosed his intention to shift his attention towards pursuing legal action against Ahn Sung Il. The Givers’ head has been accused of orchestrating FIFTY FIFTY’s attempted departure from ATTRAKT. This move signifies ATTRAKT’s commitment to seeking justice in this matter. Stay tuned for more updates on this developing story.

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SEVENTEEN’s Jun Reveals Heartwarming Story Behind ‘Lie Lie Lie’ Cover

Jun revealed the reason why he chose to cover Lee Juck's 'Lie Lie Lie' and it dates back to his pre-debut days!

JUN might be an established K-pop idol now but there was a time when the SEVENTEEN member was just a trainee with big dreams. Interestingly, Wen Junhui reflected on his past after delivering a sweet cover of Lee Juck’s “Lie Lie Lie.” The Chinese idol shared how the song helped him connect with a random stranger who left a lasting impression.

Jun Shares Why ‘Lie Lie Lie’ Has a Special Connection To Him 

In a recent episode of Lee Mujin‘s popular musical variety program “Leemujin Service”, JUN sang his own version of some classic songs. The second cover was Lee Juck’s “Lie Lie Lie” and the SEVENTEEN member shared why he chose to sing it.

According to JUN, he had trouble finding the confidence to sing when he was a trainee. In fact, he would often lose his voice when singing to a crowd. Since this would be a major hurdle for a K-pop idol, PLEDIS Entertainment decided to send Jun on a mission to face his fears.

He continued by sharing how he had to find someone in a crowd to listen to him sing. Although JUN was told he only had to sing the first verse, he admitted that finding a listener was difficult. The trainee was sent to the busy streets of Gangnam for almost an hour around lunchtime. Whenever he approached an individual, they would tell him they didn’t have time to listen.

Luckily for JUN, one older man stopped to listen to him. When the trainee declared that he would cover “Lie Lie Lie”, the man admitted that he was a Lee Juck fan. After listening to the future SEVENTEEN member, the man even gave some feedback. He reportedly praised JUN for his emotion but told him to practice his pronunciation.

JUN clearly appreciated the feedback and admitted he wanted to reconnect with his listener. “I wanted to thank him again if I have a second chance, but it’s hard to find him,” he admitted.

It’s a great story that confirms a kind gesture is always treasured. Hopefully, JUN will be able to reconnect with his random listener from his pre-debut days. In the meantime, SEVENTEEN is preparing for a comeback in October.

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Kwon Eunbi Fires Back At Sexually Charged Comments

Kwon Eunbi and her agency Woolim Entertainment are standing against the sexually charged comments about the idol

Kwon Eunbi is boldly confronting issues of sexual harassment, privacy invasion, and defamation. The former Iz*One member is taking a stand along with her agency in an effort to halt sexually charged comments about the idol.

Woollim Entertainment Shares Plans To Track Down Netizens Posting Malicious Comments About Kwon Eunbi

On August 29, Woollim Entertainment, Kwon Eunbi’s label, issued a statement expressing their growing concern regarding the surge of defamatory, false, and sexually explicit comments. First, the agency established that the “The Flash” singer has already made a name for herself as a soloist.

“Woollim Entertainment and Kwon Eunbi have been active and successful in solo activities, and she has established herself as an all-rounder artist thanks to the love of her fans,” the statement read.

“Recently, we have found several posts on online communities and social media pages that are defamatory, sexually vulgar and spread misinformation,” it continues. “We are aware of the inappropriate content of these posts and have collected evidence regarding this. We are releasing this statement after deciding that we are no longer able to stand idly by.”

The agency added that they will need the fans’ help in taking down the malicious comments.

“We will continue to monitor and collect evidence of malicious posts to protect our artists to the best of our abilities. Moving forward, we will take legal action on all malicious content that we find. To this end, we ask fans to help us by emailing these posts to us,” the statement added.

This cautionary note follows Kwon Eunbi’s remarkable surge in popularity during the summer. The exceptionally talented singer catapulted to superstardom due to her outstanding live performances at numerous summer festivals this year. It is hoped that this warning will serve as a deterrent against any future malicious comments aimed at the star.

Kwon Eunbi debuted as the leader of Iz*One in 2018. After the group disbanded, Woollim Entertainment announced that Eunbi would make her debut as a solo artist. She released her first mini-album “Open” and the title track “Door” on August 24, 2021.

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GIRL’ GENERATION’s Hyoyeon Shares Surprisingly Lazy Off-Season Habit

The GIRLS' GENERATION member admitted she is often laidback and mostly lazy during her off-season

Hyoyeon has just opened up about a surprising off-season habit. The GIRLS’ GENERATION member recently revealed that she is always prepared for a comeback. However, HYO admitted that she gets to relax when she isn’t promoting. Interestingly, her habit takes her laziness to another level.

HYO Reveals What She Does When She Isn’t Promoting

The artist, who made a recent comeback with her latest track “Picture,” appeared as a guest on KBS Cool FM’s ‘Lee Eunji’s Gayo Plaza’ on August 29 KST. During the program, she discussed her approach to her on-season versus her off-season.

HYO admitted that she works hard when it is time to promote a comeback. “During the active season, I place a high standard on my performance and can become quite sensitive,” she said. The GIRLS’ GENERATION idol then shared that she is very different when it’s time to relax.

“During my off-season, I am just like anyone else – I even wear the same clothes for five days straight,” Hyoyeon said.

The host Lee Eunji supported HYO’s claim. “I think it’s a style of recharging only during the off-season,” she said.

In response, Hyoyeon explained the lazy habit. “Exactly,” she said. “I just lie low, mostly staying at home. It’s a total homebody style.”

Hyoyeon recently made her triumphant return with her latest release, “Picture,” following her first solo mini-album, “Deep,” from the previous year. While her comeback had some initial hiccups, things have been running smoothly for the artist during her promotional activities. A remarkable achievement during this period was reaching the number one spot on iTunes charts in multiple countries, a feat that speaks to her widespread appeal as an artist.

Kim Hyo-yeon is also widely known as Hyoyeon or DJ Hyo. Her remarkable career began when she made her debut as a member of the renowned girl group GIRLS’ GENERATION in August 2007. The group achieved monumental success as one of the best-selling musical acts in South Korea. She is currently promoting under the name HYO.

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ONEWE’s Dongmyeong and Giuk Team Up for ‘SALTY BOY’ MV

Giuk and Dongmyeong of ONEWE have released the new music video for the subunit's upcoming second album 'XOXO'

Dongmyeong and Giuk from ONEWE have unveiled their captivating music video for “SALTY BOY.” The new song is set to be the title track of the ONEWE subunit’s second special album. Interestingly, the video highlights the unique energies of Son Dongmyeong and Lee Giwook.

ONEWE Sub-Unit Drops Official ‘SALTY BOY’ MV

On August 29, the official ONEWE YouTube channel uploaded the “SALTY BOY” music video. It follows Dongmyeong and Giuk as the duo spends time at an isolated roller rink. Needless to say, it creates a fitting backdrop for the song’s sentiment.

“SALTY BOY” serves as the title track for ONEWE’s 2nd special album, ‘XOXO.’ The song delves into the theme of unrequited affection. It perfectly captures the essence of being attracted to someone who appears indifferent or disinterested.

With this release, Dongmyeong and Giuk showcase their musical prowess and storytelling abilities. They manage to draw listeners into the emotional nuances of their track. The accompanying music video adds an evocative visual dimension to the song. It certainly enhances the overall impact of “SALTY BOY” as a compelling addition to ONEWE’s repertoire.

Son Dongmyeong and Lee Giwook, along with drummer Ju Harin, are currently the only active members of ONEWE. Singer Jin Yong Hoon enlisted for military service as an active-duty soldier on July 12, 2022. He was soon followed by guitarist Kanghyun (Kang Hyun Gu) who enlisted as an active-duty soldier on August 2, 2022.

It’s no surprise that Dongmyeong and Giuk decided to form a subunit together. They are best friends who also happen to be the two youngest members of the band. Giuk was formerly known as CyA but RBW Entertainment confirmed he will use his birth name for all official activities starting March 9, 2023.

‘XOXO’ was released on August 29, 2023. The special album contains two unit songs which are “SALTY BOY” and “Omnipresent” by Harin and Giwook.

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RIIZE’s Seunghan Cancels Activities For Health Reasons

Seunghan will not be participating in an upcoming recording for a music show broadcast. The RIIZE member has reportedly cited health reasons for not joining the rest of the idol group in their latest activity. Interestingly, Seunghan’s absence coincides with the recent release of pre-debut photos involving the idol and his suspected girlfriend.

Seunghan Bows Out of RIIZE’s Scheduled Activities Due to Health Reasons

On August 29, SM Entertainment announced that Seunghan will not be attending RIIZE’s pre-recording for Naver’s new music show “NPOP” later in the day. Although a reason was not immediately revealed, fans believed that it had to do with health reasons. Nevertheless, the rest of RIIZE were expected to participate. They will be promoting with the remaining six members.

A source from the agency has since provided some explanation. “Seunghan will be absent due to his poor health condition caused by a cold,” they elaborated.

Although SM Entertainment already shared the reason, people believe it has something to do with a recent post. An anonymous SNS user had shared a series of photos with no known source. They then accused RIIZE member Seunghan of visiting a hotel with an underaged girlfriend during his trainee days.

Both the agency and Seunghan have not addressed the allegations. In the meantime, the RIIZE member is taking his time to recover from his recent health issues.

RIIZE, a seven-member ensemble comprising Shotaro, Eunseok, Sungchan, Wonbin, Seunghan, Sohee, and Anton, recently pre-released the track “Memories” on August 21, achieving the impressive feat of topping the iTunes Top Songs charts in eight regions. The group is now fervently preparing for their eagerly awaited debut, set to occur with the release of their first single album, “Get A Guitar,” scheduled for release on September 4, 2023.

We extend our warm wishes to Seunghan for a swift and complete recovery.

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CL Ends Management Partnership with Konnect Entertainment

Former 2NE1 member CL concluded her two-year domestic management partnership with Konnect Entertainment

The collaborative domestic management partnership between the renowned artist CL and Konnect Entertainment has officially concluded. Both CL’s record label Very Cherry and Konnect Entertainment have confirmed the conclusion of their two-year partnership. Although this puts the idol in an uncertain situation, BLACKJACKs are hoping it means new content from the former 2NE1 member.

CL Parts Ways With Konnect Entertainment, Ends Management Partnership

On August 29, Very Cherry shared the news about CL’s domestic management partnership. The record label confirmed that the idol concluded the collaboration with Konnect Entertainment. “The partnership that has prevailed for the past two years has come to an end,” they said.

This partnership, initiated in July 2021, served as a platform for several significant projects, including the promotion of domestic broadcasting activities for ‘ALPHA,’ which marked CL’s debut solo studio album. The collaboration was instrumental in bringing CL’s music to a wider audience during this period.

With the closure of the partnership between CL and Konnect Entertainment, CL is poised to reconnect with her devoted fan base. A representative from Very Cherry, her record label, dropped hints about forthcoming plans,

“We are strategically planning to continue our activities through various forms of partnerships,” they said.

The Future for CL

This suggests that while one chapter closes, CL and Very Cherry are already looking ahead to new and diverse avenues for their artistic endeavors. CL’s fans can anticipate exciting developments as she explores fresh opportunities on her creative journey.

Last year, CL reunited with fellow 2NE1 members Bom, DARA, and Minzy to perform at the 2022 Coachella Festival. This would be the group’s first performance in over six years since the 2015 Mnet Asian Music Awards in December 2015.

In related news, fellow 2NE1 member DARA dropped her first solo album “Sandara Park”. This would be her first album release in South Korea and her first release overall in 14 years since the promotional single “Kiss” in 2009.

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