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STRAY KIDS Announces June Comeback Date With ‘5-STAR’ Trailer

STRAY KIDS just confirmed a June comeback. The eight-member group dropped the awesome trailer for their upcoming album ‘5-STAR’.

STRAY KIDS Drops Edgy ‘5-STAR’ Trailer for June Comeback

JYP Entertainment‘s official YouTube channel dropped the cool ‘5-STAR’ trailer highlighting STRAY KIDS’ funky new concept. The trailer opens with Felix getting candy from a vending machine before stumbling upon a slogan that simply reads, “I Am Ground.”

Things get more interesting from there as the other members get their own spotlight. The trailer concludes with Bang Chan, Lee Know, Changbin, Hyunjin, Han, Felix, Seungmin, and I.N. in edgy outfits. It announces that STRAY KIDS’ comeback is on June 2, 2023.

‘5-STAR’ is the group’s third studio album following the release of ‘Go Live’ in 2020 and ‘Noeasy’ in 2021. The tracklist is still a mystery but “I Am Ground” is clearly a major clue. Stay tuned for more updates on this story.

STRAY KIDS Confirmed To Headline Lollapalooza in Paris

The June comeback is a welcome one for STAYs who have been waiting for new music from the idols since last year. It also coincides with STRAY KIDS being chosen to headline Lollapalooza in Paris in July. They will be the first K-pop group to serve as a headliner in a French music festival.

STRAY KIDS debuted in March 2018 with the EP ‘I Am Not’. The group started out with nine members until Woojin’s departure in 2019. Bang Chan, Lee Know, Changbin, Hyunjin, Han, Felix, Seungmin, and I.N. are known as a self-producing group. Their latest release is the Japanese-language album ‘The Sound’ which dropped on February 22, 2023.

The third STRAY KIDS full album ‘5-STAR’ is currently available for pre-order. The lead single has not yet been announced. ‘5-STAR’ drops on June 2, 2023.

STRAY KIDS will perform as one of the headliners at Lollapalooza in Paris on July 21, 2023.

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SinB and Umji Leave Heartbreaking Letters To Moonbin at ASTRO Member’s Memorial Space

SinB and Umji have finally visited Moonbin’s memorial space. The VIVIZ members both wrote heartbreaking letters for their good friend and fellow 98z liner.

VIVIZ’s SinB and Umji Pen Regretful Messages for Moon Bin

SinB and Umji penned emotional letters that they then left at Moonbin’s memorial space in front of the FANTAGIO building. Hwang Eunbi, who had been friends with Moon Bin for 18 years, reminisced about how he often scolded her.

“We’ve known each other for 18 years but I wonder why I was so embarrassed to say nice pretty things to you rather than grumbling at you. That’s what I regret so much,” SinB wrote. “I think I’ll regret that, be sad, reminisce, and feel sorry for a while and think of you all day long. I bet you’ll see me from there and sigh wondering why I’m being like that and feeling embarrassed. Please understand.”

She then promised to take care of Moonbin’s sister Moon Sua and his parents. SinB further expressed regret for not sharing her feelings.

“Bin. You are my precious friend that gave me so much strength and reassurance just by your presence. I’m sorry I am only saying that now…Wherever I am, if someone asks who is my best friend, I’ll confidently say it’s you!” she wrote. “Bin, who is so awesome and whom I am proud of, you’re so precious! I’ll come to see you often. Rest peacefully.”

Umji’s letter also reflected her disbelief over Moonbin’s passing.

“After a few nights of longing and regret, I’m trying to live a bit of a more colorful daily life! I still wake up in the morning hoping that it was all just a dream,” she wrote. “The days go by as I come back to my senses, I’ll drop by to say hello and talk to you with anyone who can remember you.”

“I don’t think you’ll have to worry about me much so I’ll be there with the people you worry about,” Umji added. “You can count on me like you always have! Bin-ah, you’ve worked so hard, rest well. Get some rest, & maybe come into other people’s dreams sometime, okay?”

SinB and Umji have been friends with Moonbin for a long time. However, the idols were unable to attend his funeral due to VIVIZ’s schedule. Still, Hwang Eunbi and Kim Yewon still found the time to visit Moon Bin’s memorial space.

In related news, Moonbin’s memorial space will be moved to the FANTAGIO building rooftop. Visitation to the new memorial space will also be extended until June.

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FANTAGIO Extends Moonbin’s Memorial Space Until June

The memorial space for the late ASTRO member Moon Bin is moving to a new location. FANTAGIO announced that they are moving the memorial place where fans can continue to leave good memories. The company also confirmed that the memorial will be kept up for an extended duration until June.

ASTRO Agency Extends Moonbin’s Memorial Space

FANTAGIO had previously announced that the memorial space for Moonbin will be open until April 30. However, a more recent statement confirms that the memorial, currently set up in front of the agency’s building, will be moved to a new location. This will allow them to keep the memorial open for a longer period.

“After taking into consideration the opinions of the many AROHA who found it difficult to visit the memorial space within the limited time period, we have decided to extend the visitation period until June 6, the 49th day since [Moonbin’s] passing, so that the memorial space can be used a bit longer,” the statement reads.

In the Buddhist tradition, there is a belief that it takes 49 days for the spirit of the deceased to reach the next realm. This belief is widely held in Korea.

Moonbin’s Memorial Space Moved To A New Location

FANTAGIO confirmed that the new memorial space will be on the rooftop of the agency’s building.

“We plan to prepare a new memorial space in a location where [mourners] can fully concentrate on mourning,” said the agency. “Starting from April 28, the memorial space that was located at the front door of the Fantagio building, inside the parking lot, and behind the building will be gradually moved to the rooftop of the company building.”

“As a result, the memorial space that we set up on one side of the parking lot will only be available for use until April 30, and we ask for your understanding in this regard,” it adds.

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.

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APINK Members Chorong, Bomi, Namjoo, and Hayoung Leave IST Entertainment

The members of APINK have made a decision about their future. Chorong, Bomi, Namjoo, and Hayoung have decided to leave IST Entertainment. Meanwhile, Eunji has chosen to stay with the agency to continue her solo promotions.

IST Entertainment Shares Updates On APINK’s Contract Renewal

IST Entertainment shared an official statement regarding APINK’s future. The statement confirmed that Chorong, Bomi, Namjoo, and Hayoung chose not to renew their contract.

“Ahead of the end of Apink’s exclusive contracts with our agency, we and the members put our heads together and carefully discussed the matter,” the statement read.

“It was ultimately determined that for the sake of each member’s new growth in the future, Park Chorong, Yoon Bomi, Kim Namjoo, and Oh Hayoung will end their beautiful 12-year journey with us, which began with their debut, at the end of April,” it continues.

APINK’s Eunji Renews Contract With IST Entertainment

The agency confirmed that Eunji renewed her contract and will continue to pursue solo activities.

“We recently renewed our contract with Jung Eun Ji, and we will be continuing our relationship,” it reads. “In addition to her activities as a singer, Jung Eun Ji also plans to greet you soon with a new acting project, and we plan to consistently support her so that she can stand out in a wide array of fields.”

IST Entertainment Clarifies APINK Disbandment Speculations

The statement further explained that APINK will not disband and will continue to pursue group activities.

“Regardless of their contracts, all of the Apink members are firm in their love of the group and their determination to continue their group activities, so they have promised to carry on with their group activities without disbandment,” it reads. “Our agency will cooperate with Apink after discussions regarding their future activities, and we plan to work together with them so that they can stay together as a group.”

IST Entertainment recently confirmed that the VICTON maknae line has chosen not to renew their contracts. Hanse, Byungchan, and Subin each shared their handwritten letters confirming their exit from the agency. Meanwhile, Seungwoo, Seungsik, and Sejun will complete their contracts with the agency. The hyung line’s contracts were moved to accommodate their military enlistment.

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aespa To Attend 76th Cannes Film Festival

aespa is heading for Cannes! Karina, Giselle, Winter, and Ningning will attend the 76th Cannes Film Festival next month. The girl group will be the first K-pop act to attend the prestigious annual event.

SM Entertainment Confirms Aespa’s Cannes Film Festival Appearance

SM Entertainment shared aespa’s upcoming appearance at Cannes Film Festival 2023. “aespa will be attending the Cannes Film Festival,” they announced.

The announcement confirmed that aespa will attend the event as the global ambassador of Chopard. The luxury Swiss jewelry brand has officially sponsored the Cannes Film Festival since 1997. This makes aespa the first K-pop group to attend the prestigious film festival officially.

Korean Musicians Confirmed To Attend Cannes Film Festival 2023

Karina, Giselle, Winter, and Ningning are not the only South Korean musicians who will attend the 76th Cannes Film Festival. f(x)’s Krystal will attend in support of her film ‘Cobweb’ which will screen Out of Competition. Rapper BIBI is also set to attend for ‘Hopeless’, Kim Chang Hoon’s feature film debut which will be screening in the Un Certain Regard section.

Will Jennie Attend ‘The Idol’ Premiere At The 76th Cannes Film Festival?

It has been confirmed that the HBO TV series ‘The Idol’ will premiere at Cannes this year. BLACKPINK’s Jennie, who appears in the show, is expected to make an appearance. However, the ‘Solo’ singer’s attendance has not yet been officially announced. She is currently touring with Jisoo, Rosé, and Lisa for the BORN PINK World Tour after headlining COACHELLA 2023. Stay tuned for more updates on this story.

aespa recently confirmed their next comeback with their third EP ‘MY WORLD’. The pre-release track “Welcome to MY World” will drop on May 2 followed by the album’s release on May 8, 2023. Karina, Giselle, Winter, and Ningning will then attend the 76th Cannes Film Festival which takes place in Cannes on May 16 to 27, 2023.

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NCT Dream’s Chenle To Sit Out Upcoming ‘The Dream Show 2’ Dates

Chenle is taking a short break to focus on his health. The NCT Dream main vocalist will not participate in the group’s upcoming ‘The Dream Show 2: In A Dream’ dates. Zhong Chenle is reportedly fighting off cold symptoms and will not perform in Singapore and Manila.

SM Entertainment Confirms Chenle Missing Upcoming NCT Dream Show Dates In Manila and Singapore

SM Entertainment shared the news through NCT’s official fan community. The agency confirmed that Chenle will take a break and will not participate in NCT Dream’s upcoming dates.

“NCT’s Chenle will inevitably be absent from the upcoming NCT DREAM TOUR ‘THE DREAM SHOW 2: In A DREAM’ scheduled for Manila on April 29 and 30 as well as Singapore on May 1 due to his poor health condition with cold symptoms,” the statement read.

The agency assured NCTZENs that the main vocalist will return for NCT Dream’s May dates as soon as he has recuperated.

“The decision was made for the recovery of Chenle’s health, so we ask for the generous understanding of fans,” the statement read. “Chenle plans to participate in the Macau concert scheduled for May 13 and 14 after taking enough rest.”

This isn’t the first time that Chenle missed group activities due to health issues. In March 2022, he suffered an ankle injury ahead of NCT Dream’s comeback. Chenle only participated in selected promotions where he did not have to undergo rigorous activities. He joined group activities a few weeks after the comeback in late March.

NCT Dream kicked off The Dream Show 2: In A Dream in support of their second studio album ‘Glitch Mode’ and the lead single of the same name. The group’s first date for the tour was at the Jamsil Olympic Stadium in September 2022. NCT Dream is currently in the Asian leg of the tour. They recently announced encore stops in Seoul from June 2 to 3, 2023.

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BIGBANG’s Taeyang Dishes On BLACKPINK Lisa’s YG Audition

Taeyang says he always knew Lisa is going to be a star. The BIGBANG vocalist revealed that he was present when the BLACKPINK maknae auditioned for YG Entertainment. He then confirmed that his “Shooong!” collaborator was destined for greatness.

Taeyang Shares Details on Lisa’s Audition for YG Entertainment

Taeyang was recently a guest on SBS Power FM’s “Cultwo Show” where he promoted his latest album ‘Down To Earth’. During the interview, Dong Youngbae was praised for the success of “Shoong! (feat. LISA of BLACKPINK)”. The vocalist humbly thanked the host and credited Lalisa Manoban as well.

“Thankfully, I achieved good results by collaborating with Lisa, thank you for helping me,“ he said.

He then admitted that he was present when a young Lisa auditioned for their agency YG Entertainment.

“I didn’t intend to be there. When I was working in the studio, I heard that someone from Thailand came to audition,” Taeyang shared. “After finishing working, I went down and observed the audition.”

“I don’t remember exactly, but she was an elementary or middle school student back then. She came from Thailand alone, so I felt a little bitter,” he added. “I remember the song she sang, ‘Baby,’ by Justin Bieber. As soon as I heard Lisa sing I knew right away that this young lady would be big in the industry in the future.”

The BIGBANG singer continued by expressing his joy that he got to collaborate with Lisa on his new album.

“I feel excited somehow because that girl is doing amazing, she really has a name in the industry,” Taeyang said. “I’m not just talking about her fame in Korea I mean globally. I’m glad to witness her success and see her succeed.”

Lisa and the rest of BLACKPINK recently headlined COACHELLA 2023 over two weekends. The group is also on the road for the BORN PINK World Tour which announced encore shows in North America.

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VERIVERY’s Dongheon Confirms Military Enlistment in 2023

As the oldest in the group, Lee Dong Heon will be the first member of VERIVERY to enlist for military service

Dongheon has finally confirmed his plans for military enlistment. The VERIVERY leader announced his intention to enlist for mandatory military service later this year.

Jellyfish Entertainment Confirms Dongheon’s Military Enlistment Plans

VERIVERY’s agency Jellyfish Entertainment shared the news with Xsportsnews.

“VERIVERY’s Dongheon will enlist in the military this year,” the company stated.

The agency continued that Lee Dong Heon’s enlistment date has not yet been confirmed. Nevertheless, they will share an update as soon as possible.

“We ask for your understanding that we are unable to provide you with an exact date of enlistment because we have not yet received the draft notice. He will faithfully carry out his national duty in accordance with his future date of enlistment,” they confirmed.

Dongheon will be the first member of VERIVERY to enlist for mandatory military service. He is the eldest member of the group and is already expected to enlist this year. Other members Hoyoung, Minchan, Gyehyeon, Yeonho, Yongseung and Kangmin are not yet due for enlistment.

Lee Dong Heon is the leader and main rapper of VERIVERY. He trained for five years before debuting with the group in January 2019. For now, his enlistment date has not yet been revealed. However, the rapper will enlist before the end of the year. Stay tuned for more updates on this story.

VERIVERY debuted as a seven-member group in January 2019 with the EP ‘Veri-Us’ and its lead single “Ring Ring Ring”. The idols produced their own music video for the track. VERIVERY is currently a self-producing group that works on their own albums and music videos.

In 2020, VERIVERY participated in Mnet’s reality television competition “Road to Kingdom”. They released the song “Beautiful-X” for the show’s finale where they placed fifth overall.

VERIVERY is currently set to perform in G-KPop Concert 2023 in Seoul’s Gangnam-gu district on May 5, 2023.

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Woozi Discusses Writing Process and Producing Music For SEVENTEEN

Woozi is opening up about his writing process and the importance of producing music for his group. The SEVENTEEN vocalist also discussed what it is like dealing with fellow members. Lee Jihoon revealed what Hoshi and Vernon are like as artists from a producer’s point of view.

Woozi Opens Up About Producing SEVENTEEN’s Songs

SEVENTEEN members Hoshi, Woozi, and Vernon recently featured in a stunning pictorial for Vogue Korea. In the accompanying interview, Lee Jihoon admitted he has an odd writing process.

“I have bad handwriting, so I write memos on my phone or computer instead of taking analog notes,” he said. “[I wonder], ‘What state was I in at the time to have written this?’ It doesn’t feel like me. I’m glad to leave [notes] like this. It’s like scribbling about me.”

Woozi also confessed that writing on his own is comforting for him.

“It’s embarrassing and embarrassing to say, but it’s definitely there. I am comforted by the lyrics I wrote. People will laugh when they see it, but it is a very moving moment for me. In fact, it often happens,” he said with a laugh.

Woozi Describes SEVENTEEN’s Vernon and Hoshi as Artists

The leader of SEVENTEEN’s Vocal Team also revealed that each member has their own distinct quality as an artist. He discussed Vernon and Hoshi in particular, confirming that he believes they are unique in their own way.

“Vernon is like a rock. No matter what part he is assigned, I believe that he will pull it off. He is sturdy, reliable, and makes me feel relieved,” Lee Jihoon said.

Of Kwon Soonyoung, Woozi said, “Hoshi is intense. As a producer, he keeps raising the expectations for the player. But Hoshi shows how he goes a step further than that. That is how much he is overflowing with passion. I admire him.”

SEVENTEEN is currently promoting their latest EP ‘FML’ and its two lead singles “F*ck My Life” and “Super”.

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BRAVE GIRLS Signs With Warner Music Korea As Full Group

BRAVE GIRLS is moving forward rather bravely. Minyoung, Yujeong, Eunji, and Yuna have signed with a new label and will return as a full group. In addition to that, the idols are set to debut under a new name.

BRAVE GIRLS Sign With New Agency As A Full Group

Warner Music Korea issued an official statement about BRAVE GIRLS joining the label.

“We have come to an agreement with the members while prioritizing full-group activities,” it reads. The label also confirmed that Minyoung, Yujeong, Eunji, and Yuna are discussing a new group name for their future promotions.

For now, BRAVE GIRLS did not reveal their new group name. In the meantime, Minyoung is hyping up the group’s upcoming return in a post on her Instagram account.

“We are preparing with the aim of greeting [fans] in the soon-approaching 2023 summer, and we will greet everyone with even better music and new sides of us. I am so grateful to the many fans who were sad and waited for news of us following the report of our disbandment,” she wrote.

BRAVE GIRLS debuted in April 2011 with the single album ‘The Difference’. Since their debut, the group has undergone numerous line-up changes before settling on the four current members. In 2021, the group gained a huge spike in popularity after their 2017 hit “Rollin'” went viral.

In February 2023, Minyoung, Yujeong, Eunji, and Yuna chose not to renew their exclusive contracts with Brave Entertainment. The agency then announced that the group has officially disbanded. However, the members will pursue their careers as a new group as they signed with Warner Music Korea.

The new group name for BRAVE GIRLS has not been announced. Likewise, Warner Music Korea did not reveal when the group will drop new music but fans believe they are preparing for a summer release. Stay tuned for more updates on this story.

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