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Lucas Pens Heartfelt Letter to Fans After NCT and WayV Exit

Lucas has broken his silence following his exit from two SM Entertainment idol groups. Lucas Wong wrote a heartfelt letter addressed to fans after leaving NCT and WayV.

Former NCT and WayV Member Lucas Writes Heartfelt Letter For Fans 

On May 11, Lucas Wong posted a handwritten letter on his Instagram account. The heartfelt letter confirms that the rapper decided to leave NCT and WayV. He explained that it was a difficult decision because of how he felt about the members.

“I sincerely feel sorry for the members, and it is with a heavy heart that I leave behind a long-standing friendship,” Lucas wrote. “It has been nearly 8 years since I first joined the members, and I am deeply grateful for their care and support.”

He added, “I will cherish these memories and never forget. I hope that the members will remember me as Huang Xuxi, not just Lucas. I genuinely love them and will always support them from the bottom of my heart.”

Lucas further stated that “this is the right decision for the good of all.” He also shared that he is already looking towards the future.

“Moving forward, I intend to muster the courage to face the fans who have been waiting for me and to pursue individual endeavors,” Lucas wrote. “I believe the best way to repay the fans who support me is by continuing to deliver outstanding performances. I will strive to become a more mature Huang Xuxi and an even better Lucas.”

The final part of the letter is a message for his supporters.

“Lastly, I want to express my heartfelt gratitude to all the fans and everyone who has continually supported me,” Lucas wrote.

SM Entertainment previously announced that Lucas is leaving NCT and WayV to pursue a career as a solo artist. It is believed that Lucas Wong’s departure is connected to previous controversies connected to his personal life.

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RED VELVET Postpones Concerts After Wendy COVID-19 Diagnosis

RED VELVET is putting a stop to their upcoming show dates in Bangkok. The girl group postponed their forthcoming concerts in Thailand after Wendy tested positive for COVID-19.

RED VELVET’s Wendy Tests Positive For COVID-19

On May 10, SM Entertainment confirmed that Wendy tested positive for COVID-19. “Wendy felt unwell and underwent a rapid antigen test,” the agency announced. After the positive diagnosis, Shon Seung-wan halted all activities. She will not be able to host her SBS radio show “Wendy’s Young Street”.

Wendy has been in quarantine due to her condition and the rest of RED VELVET will be taking a break as well. Following the announcement, concert organizer SM True announced the indefinite postponement of the group’s upcoming ‘R to V’ concerts in Bangkok. The girl group was scheduled for two dates on May 13 and 14 at THUNDER DOME.

“Due to the artist’s health condition necessitating quarantine in accordance with the COVID-19 measures mandated by the South Korean government, as well as other factors and schedules that require further consideration and evaluation by all relevant parties involved, the concert has been postponed indefinitely,” the statement read.

“The company prioritizes the health and safety of the artists, audiences and staff, as a top concern,” it continues. “For a ticket refund, the company will promptly provide detailed information regarding the ticket refund process.”

RED VELVET Takes A Break As Wendy and Joy Recover From Health Issues

Wendy isn’t the only member of RED VELVET with health issues. Joy has been on temporary hiatus due to undisclosed health issues and the group has been promoting with four members. With Wendy unable to perform, it only makes sense that RED VELVET chose to postpone the shows.

For now, the new dates for the ‘R to V’ concerts in Bangkok have not yet been announced. However, REVELUVs are already hoping for an announcement in a fortnight. Stay tuned for more updates on this story.

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IU Songwriter Addresses Plagiarism Allegations on ‘Good Day’ and ‘The Red Shoes’

The songwriter behind IU’s greatest songs has finally addressed the recent plagiarism allegations. Lee Min Soo spoke up against the accusations against the songs “Good Day” and “The Red Shoes”.

IU Songwriter Lee Min Soo Addresses Plagiarism Accusations

On May 10, a Korean citizen filed a lawsuit alleging that IU plagiarized the works of other artists. The suit claimed that the “Blueming” singer had plagiarized a total of six songs. Since then, IU’s agency EDAM Entertainment has denied the allegations and the company is planning to pursue legal action.

But what does the songwriter behind the songs have to say about the accusations? Lee Min Soo, who worked on “The Red Shoes” and “Good Day”, addressed the allegations in an Instagram post.

“My heart is heavy that my first greeting after a long time is the start of such a difficult topic,” Lee wrote. “Yesterday afternoon, I read an article that ‘Good Day’ and ‘The Red Shoes,’ IU’s two songs that I wrote, were being accused of plagiarism.”

Lee continued, “I refuted the issue of ‘The Red Shoes’ through a press release when it was released in 2013 and have refrained from commenting further as it would be pointless. However, due to the recent criticism beyond reason towards the artist, I am carefully leaving this message.”

“I didn’t reference or have anyone else’s songs in mind when working on ‘Good Day’ and ‘The Red Shoes’,” Lee added. The post also expressed concern for IU and her fans.

“As the songwriter of ‘Good Day’ and ‘The Red Shoes,’ I hope this does not leave a scar on anyone’s heart, especially on IU’s heart and the hearts of those who love IU,” Lee concluded.

‘BBIBBI’ Composer Hits Back At Plagiarism Claims

Lee Jong Hoon, who wrote “BBIBBI”, also spoke up on the recent plagiarism accusations. The composer pointed out that the accuser should have targeted him instead of IU. Lee also stated that the artists of the plagiarized songs are the only ones who can make such allegations.

“Lastly, I did not plagiarize any other work while working on ‘BBIBBI’,” Lee wrote. “After listening to the ‘various’ songs in YouTube videos that ‘claim’ similarities, aside from the genre characteristics of hip hop/r&b, I was instead able to confirm differences and individuality in a lot of aspects, from chord progression, song structure, instrument arrangement, and more.”

IU’s latest film “Dream” also stars Park Seo Joon. The movie has been topping the Korean box office since its release in April.

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C.A.P. Apologizes After TEEN TOP Departure Announcement

The former leader of TEEN TOP revealed that fans blamed him for the group's problems

C.A.P. finally broke his silence about his departure from TEEN TOP. The main rapper issued an apology to fans after his agency announced that he is leaving the group. Bang Min-soo apologized for his actions during a controversial live stream that led to his exit from the idol group.

C.A.P. Leaves TEEN TOP Following Controversial Live Stream

TOP Media issued a statement confirming that C.A.P. is leaving TEEN TOP and that the idol group will continue with four members.

“After discussing with the TEEN TOP members, we have decided on the withdrawal of C.A.P [from the team],” it read. “Accordingly, TEEN TOP will reorganize into a 4-member group consisting of Chunji, Niel, Ricky, and Changjo.”

The agency also addressed C.A.P.’s recent outburst during a live stream.

“Once again, we deeply apologize for causing many people concern over C.A.P’s rash words and behavior,” the statement read. “We also feel responsible for this situation and promise to do our best to manage our artists well.”

Finally, TOP Media confirmed that TEEN TOP’s next comeback is being planned. “Regarding a possible group comeback, we will inform you after discussing the details with the members,” the statement read.

For his part, C.A.P. shared an apology on his Instagram account.

“Firstly, I want to apologize to the many people who were hurt by my words and actions. I was aware there could be controversy, but I only thought of myself and acted selfishly,” he wrote.

“I was aware I should feel apologetic about my actions toward the people who have trusted and supported me and also to the members who I have spent a long time and are closer than even brothers.”

“For a long time, I felt I was wearing clothes that didn’t fit,” Bang Soo-min added. “I wanted to take those clothes off now, so I ended up behaving improperly.”

“It’s my fault and due to my negligence. There is no room for excuses,” he continued. “I am sorry to the agency and to the younger members who understood my immature behavior, and I apologize to fans who must have been flustered as well.”

Earlier this week, C.A.P. held a live broadcast on his YouTube channel. When fans asked him not to smoke during the broadcast, Bang Minsoo became annoyed. The rapper expressed his frustration by using harsh words.

TEEN TOP previously announced that they are preparing for their first group comeback in four years.

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EXO Reunites To Send Kai Off To Military Service

EXO are supporting the next member to enlist for mandatory military service. All eight Korean members of the idol group were on hand to give Kai a proper send-off for his military enlistment.

EXO Reunited For Kai’s Military Send-Off

The official EXO Twitter account shared a new photo featuring all eight Korean members. Kai is shown surrounded by his fellow members who look happy to show their support.

EXO’s Chinese member Lay is notably absent in the new photo. Lay Zhang had previously decided not to renew his contract with SM Entertainment. However, he will continue to participate in group activities.

SM Entertainment previously confirmed that Kai is required to enlist for military service due to a new law. This would mean that Kim Jongin will not be able to participate in EXO’s upcoming comeback later this year.

Kai immediately expressed his disappointment in not being able to participate in EXO’s next comeback. He went live on Instagram to share his frustration with EXO-Ls.

“There’s so much that I had prepared. What a pity. That’s what’s upsetting” Kai said tearfully. “There’s nothing that I could do about this. I’m sad that I can’t show you what I prepared but I can just show it after I return.”

He also confessed that he would miss his fans when he goes to the military.

“It’d be nice if I could see your faces before I go. I think I’m going to miss you so much. I’m already missing you right now though,” Kai admitted.

Interestingly, the EXO main dancer claimed he would “blackmail” his agency to allow him to meet with his fans before his military enlistment. SM Entertainment announced Kai’s special fan meeting which would be open to EXO-Ls before he enlists for military service.

“I succeeded,” he told his fans on Bubble. “All I had to do was frown a little.”

Kai will serve as a public service worker starting May 11, 2023.

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Lucas Officially Leaving NCT and WayV

The former WayV member shared his support for NCT U's latest single 'Baggy Jeans'

Lucas is officially halting all group activities. SM Entertainment confirmed that Lucas Wong is leaving NCT and WayV to pursue a solo career.

Lucas’ Exit From NCT and WayV Officially Announced By SM Entertainment

SM Entertainment issued a statement regarding Lucas’ departure from the two groups he is part of. The statement is written in Korean, English, and Chinese.

“After our deliberate discussion with Lucas, we made a mutual decision to part ways with the group NCT and WayV to pursue his individual endeavours,” it read.

“We ask for your understanding and continuous support as this was a decision taken after much consideration of both the members and all the fans who supported”, the statement continued. SM Entertainment also confirmed that Lucas will officially pursue a career as a solo artist.

“Lucas is planning on showing his performances through a wide variety of individual works from now on,” it added. “Once again, we sincerely appreciate lavished love and support from all the fans and ask for your continuous support and interest in the future.”

Is Lucas Still A SuperM Member?

Interestingly, the statement makes no mention of Lucas’ third group SuperM. The supergroup consists of seven of SM Entertainment’s most versatile talents. SuperM is currently not promoting as fellow member Kai of EXO has enlisted for mandatory military service.

Prior to his exit from NCT and WayV, Lucas had been in hiatus since August 2021. He was initially set to release a new single with fellow WayV member Hendery. However, it was postponed as Lucas faced controversy over a cheating scandal.

Although Lucas has apologized to fans for the negative publicity, he also decided to halt group activities.

For now, Lucas is still officially a member of SuperM. However, SM Entertainment could issue a new statement soon. Stay tuned for more updates on this story.

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BEAT Interactive Addresses Social Media Accounts Impersonating A.C.E.’s Jun

BEAT Interactive is cracking down on fake fan accounts. The agency representing A.C.E. has issued a statement addressing social media accounts pretending to be the group’s leader Jun. The company will also take legal action against the fake Park Jun Hee account.

A.C.E.’s Agency Threatens Legal Action Against Fake Social Media Account Impersonating Jun

BEAT Interactive shared the statement regarding the fake social media account.

“Recently, we have been receiving reports regarding impersonating the accounts of Jun, a member of A.C.E.,” it reads.

“In response, we will report this as an abusive account and will take strong legal action against the users for impersonating the artist’s account if the deletion is not processed as soon as possible,” the statement continued.

The company also revealed that the impersonation account is “@hyun_jin121” and included a screenshot of the profile. Additionally, they urged CHOICEs to be vigilant and report any accounts impersonating the A.C.E. members.

“If you find any impersonation accounts, please report them to us via (info@beatkor.com),” the statement concluded.

Jun has not yet addressed the issue personally as he is currently serving in the military. Park Junhee enlisted for mandatory military service on February 7, 2022. He is currently serving as an active-duty soldier and will be discharged in August this year.

Jun is not the only member of A.C.E. who is currently serving in the military. The other four members of the idol group enlisted for mandatory military service between 2021 and 2022.

Donghun, Jun, Wow, Kim Byeongkwan and Chan will be discharged between late 2023 to early 2024. A.C.E. is expected to make a full group comeback once the final member Kang Yu Chan is discharged next year. However, BEAT Interactive has not yet released an official announcement about the comeback.

For now, the aforementioned Instagram account is the only one pretending to be A.C.E.’s Jun. Stay tuned for more updates on this story.

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BIGBANG’s Taeyang Reveals Inspiration For ‘Down to Earth’ Album

Taeyang is opening up about how ‘Down to Earth’ came to be. The BIGBANG vocalist is sharing the inspiration behind his latest album. Dong Youngbae also dropped the romantic teaser for the documentary following the album’s production.

Taeyang Discusses The Inspirations Behind His Latest EP ‘Down To Earth’

Taeyang recently spoke to Vogue Singapore where he spoke about the influences that led to ‘Down to Earth’. The ‘Wedding Dress’ singer pointed out that music from his childhood was a major inspiration.

“I am trying to express the music of the era I was most influenced by. Music in Korea from the ’80s to the ’90s is what I consider to be the golden era of Korean music,” he said.

Dong Youngbae also confirmed that he spent several years working on the EP. Even his military service influenced the album in its own way.

“I was mostly focused on my daily activities at the time and wasn’t able to listen to music nor gain any inspiration. Outside of my army duties, I was also going through some tough situations,” Taeyang said.

Despite all the trouble, he found inspiration in nature.

“I started to feel solace and comfort through the beautiful sunsets. As this became something I looked forward to daily, I started to reflect and look at my life from a different perspective, and began running every day when the sun was setting,” Taeyang said.

“I felt that my situation in life was similar to the setting sun because the sunset doesn’t greet the morning, it greets the night. I saw myself in the sunset because I was facing a dark situation in my life too,” he added.

The most important inspiration in ‘Down to Earth’ is undoubtedly Taeyang’s better half. Actress Min Hyo Rin makes an appearance in the teaser for the documentary covering the album’s production. In the teaser, Taeyang serenades his lovely wife by singing the EP’s title track “Seed”. Min Hyorin also gets emotional as she listens to her husband’s song.

The ‘Down to Earth’ documentary will be released on May 12, 2023.

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MONSTA X’s Joohoney Drops ‘LIGHTS’ Tracklist

Joohoney is sharing more details about his upcoming solo album. The MONSTA X rapper dropped the official tracklist for ‘LIGHTS’, his first solo album.

MONSTA X’s Joohoney Drops Moody Tracklist Teaser for Solo Debut ‘LIGHTS’

The official MONSTA X Twitter account shared a new teaser for Joohoney’s upcoming album. The poster features the tracklist for ‘LIGHTS’ as well as a cool image of Lee Jooheon.

‘LIGHTS’ will consist of six new songs “HYPE ENERGY,” “Voice,” “FREEDOM,” “Evolution,” “Monologue (ft. G-Soul),” and “Don’t Worry, Be Happy.” All titles listed in the tracklist are written, composed, and arranged by Lee Joheon himself. The lead single has not yet been specified.

MONBEBEs initially believed that ‘LIGHTS’ will be a full album. Nevertheless, an EP is a welcome content from Joohoney. After all, the album is getting a physical release, unlike the MONSTA X rapper’s previous mixtapes.

Lee Jooheon will share more details about the comeback this week. Fans are already looking forward to the concept photos and teaser video for the lead single. Stay tuned for more updates on this story.

Joohoney isn’t the only MONSTA X member who is preparing for a comeback. An earlier report confirmed fellow rapper I.M. will be releasing a new album in June. This will be Im Changkyun’s first comeback since leaving Starship Entertainment and signing with Sony Music Korea.

In related news, it was also confirmed that leader Shownu and lead dancer Hyungwon will debut as MONSTA X’s first unit group. This will be the group’s first official subunit. They will debut sometime in the summer.

The MONSTA X subunit will be Shownu’s first official activity since being discharged from military service in April this year. Son Hyunwoo enlisted for mandatory military service and July 22, 2021, and served as a public service worker for 18 months. He was officially discharged on April 21, 2023.

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BTS’ J-Hope Sends Sweet Message for Parents While in Military Service

J-Hope might be serving his country right now but he is always looking out for Mom and Dad. The BTS main dancer unveiled some cute artwork for Parents Day. The artwork also includes a sweet message for his mother and father.

J-Hope Shares Adorable Drawing and Heartfelt Message for Parents’ Day

The Camp is a special website where people can stay updated with loved ones serving in the Korean military. On May 7, the website shared a photo of J-Hope showing off an adorable drawing for Parents’ Day. The illustration also features a sweet message for Jung Hoseok’s parents.

“Mom, Dad, I’m greeting you in celebration of Parents’ Day,” he wrote. “Thank you for giving birth to and raising me. I love you. Your son, Hoseok.”

It’s a sweet message that would make J-Hope’s mother and father truly proud. In addition to that, the illustration is extra special as it was drawn by the “On The Street” rapper just for Mom and Dad.

Although J-Hope was able to share a heartfelt message to his parents, it looks like he is having trouble contacting his fellow BTS member. Jin previously posted a message under the rapper’s latest update on Weverse.

“Have you not been able to call? Because you have been reading the room. Have you received the letters that I have sent well?” Jin wrote under a fan’s comment. He also joked about keeping an eye on his dongsaeng.

“Are you hurt anywhere? Have you shaved your friends’ hair? Is the food that is served there good? There’s a long time to go until you get a vacation,” Kim Seokjin wrote. “I’m spending my military life looking at you.”

J-Hope enlisted for mandatory military service on April 18, about four months after Jin’s enlistment. He is then expected to be discharged by October 17, 2024.

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