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Min Hee Jin Announces Resignation as ADOR Internal Director

Former ADOR CEO Min Hee Jin has officially announced her decision to leave HYBE. In her announcement of her resignation as ADOR internal director, Min expressed her disappointment in the controversial company.

Min Hee Jin Confirms ADOR Internal Director Resignation

On November 20, Min Hee Jin released a detailed statement confirming her resignation from her role as an internal director at ADOR, the HYBE sub-label she helped establish.

“HYBE’s actions in 2024 will be recorded as an unprecedented incident in K-pop history.

Over the past seven months, I have poured all my mental, economic, and physical resources into reviving ADOR, which was devastated by HYBE’s severe breaches of the shareholder agreement.

It was a hellish battle against the baseless violence of a group disguised as a large corporation, but I did not back down and made every effort.”

Her statement marked the end of her impactful tenure with HYBE, during which she played a pivotal role in shaping the label’s success, particularly with the rise of NewJeans.

In response, ADOR issued an official statement.

“We would like to convey ADOR’s position regarding Director Min Hee Jin’s resignation,” the statement read. “ADOR feels regrettable about the unilateral resignation notice from Director Min Hee Jin. Our company will do our utmost to support NewJeans so that they can continue to grow and develop further. Thank you.”

Earlier in August, ADOR announced that Min Hee Jin would step down as CEO, though she would continue to oversee the creative and production aspects of NewJeans, the highly successful girl group she was instrumental in launching. Despite this shift, Min Hee Jin’s departure from the CEO position sparked concern among fans and NewJeans members, who openly expressed their unwavering support for her.

On September 11, NewJeans held a live YouTube broadcast in which they issued a bold statement, urging HYBE to reinstate Min Hee Jin as CEO by September 25. The members emphasized her indispensable role in their artistic direction and career development.

Two days later, Min Hee Jin filed an injunction to be reinstated as both CEO and internal director of ADOR. However, her decision to leave HYBE indicates that these efforts did not materialize into a resolution. Fans now await updates on Min Hee Jin’s next steps and her potential plans outside of HYBE.

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FEATURES K-POP STYLE LATEST STORIES

Suzy Announced as New Global Ambassador For Celine

Suzy is officially the newest global ambassador for Celine! The renowned French luxury brand confirmed the news, celebrating their partnership with the beloved actress.

Suzy Confirmed as Global Ambassador for Celine

On November 15, Celine made the exciting announcement on their official social media channels, stating, “Celine is pleased to announce that Suzy Bae will represent the house as global ambassador.” Alongside the announcement, Celine unveiled Suzy’s breathtaking debut campaign photo, which instantly captivated fans and fashion enthusiasts worldwide.

In the photo, Suzy stuns in an all-black leather ensemble from Celine’s 2024 Winter Collection, exuding a bold, edgy vibe. The look is a striking departure from her signature elegant and sophisticated image, showcasing her versatility and ability to embody various fashion styles with ease.

Suzy, who first rose to fame in 2010 as a member of the K-pop group Miss A under JYP Entertainment, quickly transitioned into acting. Her breakout role in the hit drama “Dream High” (2011) and her debut film “Architecture 101” (2012) solidified her status as one of South Korea’s most beloved stars. Known as the “Nation’s First Love,” Suzy has since appeared in critically acclaimed series like “Vagabond”, “Start-Up”, “Anna”, and most recently, “Doona!”

Her personal style is also eclectic yet feminine, often featuring crop tops, varsity-inspired pieces, and floral mini dresses. Over the years, Suzy has also collaborated with numerous luxury brands, including Longines, cementing her position as a global fashion icon and a face to watch out for.

Suzy also joins an elite lineup of Celine global ambassadors, which includes BTS’s V, Park Bogum, and Danielle of NewJeans. As the newest face of Celine, Suzy’s partnership is also expected to further elevate the brand’s presence in the fashion world while showcasing her undeniable star power. Fans also eagerly await more stunning campaigns and collaborations from this exciting partnership. Stay tuned for more updates on this story.

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SMTOWN LIVE 2025 Star-Studded Lineup Revealed

The highly anticipated SMTOWN LIVE 2025 concert in Seoul has officially unveiled its exciting lineup, promising a spectacular celebration of SM Entertainment’s 30th anniversary.

SMTOWN LIVE 2025 Boasts Star-Studded Lineup

The grand event is set to take place over two days, January 11 and 12, 2025, at the prestigious Gocheok Sky Dome. Known for its star-studded rosters and jaw-dropping performances, SMTOWN LIVE 2025 is no exception, bringing together a stellar lineup of SM Entertainment’s current artists and trainees.

Fans can look forward to seeing legendary acts like H.O.T.’s Kangta, BoA, and TVXQ, alongside globally beloved artists such as Super Junior, Girls’ Generation’s Taeyeon and Hyoyeon, SHINee’s Key and Minho, Red Velvet, and EXO’s Suho and Chanyeol.

Additionally, the next generation of SM stars, including NCT 127, NCT DREAM, WayV, aespa, RIIZE, NCT WISH, nævis, and Raiden, will also grace the stage, showcasing their unique styles and powerful performances. Needless to say, it’s an event that brings together the biggest and brightest stars of K-pop’s most renowned company. Not surprisingly, fans are already looking forward to the concert event early next year.

Adding a fresh touch, performers from SM’s sub-labels, such as the promising SMTR25 (a group of 25 trainees), Mar Vista, SM Jazz Trio, and Min Jiwoon, will bring a variety of captivating performances, further diversifying the event’s offerings.

In a nostalgic twist, SM has teased appearances by members of the SMTOWN Family, featuring artists who have been part of the label’s illustrious 30-year journey. While specific names have yet to be revealed, fans are eagerly speculating on the possibility of seeing reunions with past SM legends.

With its blend of iconic artists, rising stars, and memorable tributes, SMTOWN LIVE 2025 promises to be a landmark celebration of SM Entertainment’s history and its continued impact on K-pop. Stay tuned for updates on additional performers and surprises as the event draws closer!

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Kim Junsu Agency Addresses Blackmail Controversy

Kim Junsu has addressed recent reports about being targeted in a shocking extortion case involving a female BJ (broadcast jockey). The renowned JX member and musical actor’s agency has issued a statement regarding the recent blackmail controversy.

Kim Junsu Addresses Blackmail Controversy

On November 13, it was revealed that police had requested an arrest warrant for Ms. A, a BJ on the streaming platform SOOP (formerly AfreecaTV). She was charged under the Act on the Aggravated Punishment of Specific Economic Crimes for allegedly extorting around 840 million KRW (approximately $602,323) from Kim Junsu over three years. The extortion reportedly involved 101 instances of threats, beginning in September 2020 and continuing until October 2023.

The case unfolded after Ms. A, who initially met Kim Junsu in 2019, secretly recorded their private conversations. She then used the recordings to threaten Junsu, claiming she would distribute them on social media unless he provided money and valuables.

On November 15, the Gyeonggi Northern Provincial Police Agency confirmed Ms. A’s arrest, adding that she has been forwarded to the prosecution for further investigation. A spokesperson for the police stated, “We are indeed investigating Ms. A; however, we cannot disclose additional details as the case is ongoing.”

Later that day, Kim Junsu’s agency, Palm Tree Island, released an official statement to reassure fans. The agency expressed its commitment to safeguarding Kim Junsu’s rights, stating it would actively cooperate with legal authorities to address the matter. It also emphasized that Junsu is doing his best to focus on his activities and thanked fans for their unwavering support during this difficult time.

“We want to make it clear that Kim Junsu is a definite victim in this case,” the statement read. “Upon discovering that there are multiple victims of Ms. A’s extortion and threats, Kim Junsu decided to take legal action to prevent further harm.”

Fans and industry peers alike have voiced their solidarity with Junsu, expressing hope for a swift resolution to the case.

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Seunghan Confirmed for Solo Debut After RIIZE Departure

Seunghan is officially gearing up to debut as a solo artist! The announcement comes almost a month since the shocking RIIZE departure.

Seunghan Preps for Solo Debut After RIIZE Departure

On November 15, SM Entertainment shared exciting news about Seunghan’s future endeavors, confirming that he will make his solo debut in the second half of 2025. This announcement marks a new chapter in his career following his departure from RIIZE earlier this year.

“Seunghan is currently preparing to debut as a solo artist in the second half of 2025, and is receiving full support and guidance across several aspects considered essential for a solo debut including systemized training, producing, management, and more. Moving forth, updates on Seunghan will be shared via his official social media accounts which launched today (November 15th, KST),” the statement read.

“Seunghan is determined to showcase a new side of himself as he embarks on his journey as a solo artist and carries out his talents and dreams. We kindly ask for your warm support and attention as he begins this new chapter,” it concluded.

Seunghan’s Rocky Journey

The unexpected news of Seunghan’s departure from RIIZE on October 13, 2024, shocked fans. The announcement came just two days after SM Entertainment initially confirmed his return to the group, leaving many with mixed emotions.

Seunghan later addressed the decision through a heartfelt letter, expressing the difficulty of parting ways with RIIZE. In his message, he conveyed gratitude to his fans and fellow members for their unwavering support during a challenging period. Despite leaving the group, Seunghan reassured fans that he would continue cheering for RIIZE as they pursue their own path.

Now, Seunghan is ready to embark on a fresh journey as a solo artist under SM Entertainment’s subsidiary, Wizard Production. While details about his debut concept and music style remain under wraps, fans are eagerly awaiting updates, excited to see how Seunghan will showcase his individuality and talent in his new chapter.

Stay tuned for more news on Seunghan’s solo debut in 2025!

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G-Dragon Reportedly Debuting New Single with BIGBANG Members at 2024 MAMA

Fans are buzzing with anticipation after reports surfaced on November 8, hinting that G-Dragon might unveil a new single at the 2024 MAMA Awards—and potentially reunite with BIGBANG members Taeyang and Daesung on the track!

Will G-Dragon Debut New Single With BIGBANG Members?

It has been reported that G-Dragon would premiere the new song live at the awards show. However, Galaxy Corporation, G-Dragon’s agency, was quick to respond with a brief statement, saying, “Nothing has been confirmed,” keeping fans in suspense about the exact plans for his upcoming performance.

This potential release would also mark another milestone for G-Dragon, who recently thrilled fans with his solo comeback track “Power”. The song quickly dominated iTunes charts across various countries, highlighting G-Dragon’s enduring appeal and influence in the music industry. Known for his genre-defying music and iconic style, G-Dragon has remained one of K-pop’s most celebrated artists, and fans worldwide are eager for any new project he may have in store.

Adding fuel to the excitement, it has been confirmed that G-Dragon will perform on stage at the 2024 MAMA Awards in Osaka, Japan, on November 23. This announcement has sparked speculation of a possible BIGBANG reunion at the prestigious event, as the group’s Chief Producer, Yoon Shin Hye, hinted that discussions regarding BIGBANG’s appearance are still ongoing. The idea of a BIGBANG reunion is especially significant for fans who have waited years to see the iconic group back together on stage, especially after the individual members have pursued various solo projects.

As fans await more updates from G-Dragon and Galaxy Corporation, excitement continues to build for what could be a historic moment at the 2024 MAMA Awards. With the possibility of new music and a reunion on the horizon, November 23 is also shaping up to be an unforgettable night for BIGBANG fans and K-pop lovers alike.

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KPOP ALBUMS KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

aespa Makes Billboard 200 History with ‘Whiplash’

aespa has once again made waves in the global music scene, setting a new record with their latest mini album ‘Whiplash’. Not surprisingly, the new album has made Billboard 200 history!

‘Whiplash’ Makes Billboard 200 History for aespa

Since their debut, aespa has consistently reached impressive milestones, charting every one of their releases in the top 50 of the Billboard 200, Billboard’s prestigious ranking of the most popular albums in the U.S. The release of ‘Whiplash’ has cemented aespa’s legacy, as it debuted at No. 50 on the Billboard 200 for the week ending November 9. This accomplishment marks aespa’s sixth consecutive album to chart in the Billboard 200 top 50, following ‘Savage’, ‘Girls’, ‘MY WORLD’, ‘Drama’, and ‘Armageddon’.

With this achievement, aespa has set a historic record, becoming the first K-pop girl group to score six top 50 albums on the Billboard 200. This milestone not only highlights their domestic and international popularity but also underscores their consistent impact on the Western music market. aespa’s achievement in this competitive chart proves the group’s ability to captivate a global audience, breaking boundaries for K-pop girl groups in the U.S.

The album’s title track “Whiplash” has also brought the group new personal records on Billboard’s global charts. In its second week, the song surged to No. 5 on Billboard’s Global Excl. U.S. chart, marking aespa’s first top-five entry. Additionally, “Whiplash’ peaked at No. 8 on the Global 200, making it their first track to reach the Global 200’s top 10. In parallel, aespa’s long-time hit “Supernova” continues to perform well, remaining on the Global Excl. U.S. chart at No. 96 for an impressive 25 weeks.

On Billboard’s World Albums chart, ‘Whiplash’ climbed to No. 2, demonstrating the album’s strong international appeal. It also debuted at No. 9 on the Top Album Sales, Top Current Album Sales, and Independent Albums charts, securing its position as the ninth best-selling album of the week in the U.S. In another win, aespa re-entered Billboard’s Artist 100 at No. 35, marking their 15th non-consecutive week on this chart, which ranks the most influential and popular artists globally.

aespa’s success with ‘Whiplash’ is a testament to their growing influence and the dedicated support from their global fanbase, MYs. Their ability to continuously push boundaries and break records has positioned them as one of the most prominent K-pop girl groups in the industry. Congratulations to aespa on their historic achievements and continued success!

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ASTRO Cha Eun Woo Tackles Rural Life In ‘Rented In Finland’ Teaser

tvN’s upcoming variety show “Rented in Finland” has dropped an enticing new teaser, giving viewers a glimpse into the refreshing yet challenging journey of four city actors—Lee Je Hoon, Lee Dong Hwi, ASTRO’s Cha Eun Woo, and Kwak Dong Yeon—as they dive into the rustic lifestyle of Lapland, Finland.

‘Rented in Finland’ Teaser Features 4 Actors Tackling Rural Life

The series follows the quartet as they experience the simplicity and unpredictability of rural life, far removed from their usual fast-paced urban environments. The teaser showcases the stunning landscapes of Lapland, with vast forests, serene lakes, and snow-covered fields providing a beautiful backdrop for the actors’ adventures.

As the group begins their immersion into this rugged setting, they quickly realize that their new “home” lacks many of the basic conveniences they’re accustomed to, like indoor plumbing and electricity. This unfamiliar environment pushes each actor to step outside their comfort zone, navigating daily challenges such as chopping wood for warmth, gathering water from a natural spring, and cooking meals over an open fire.

In one humorous scene, Lee Je Hoon is seen twerking energetically, much to the amusement of his co-stars. Another playful moment features Cha Eun Woo striking a “sexy” pose in wet clothes, only to be teased by Lee Dong Hwi for his attempt to look glamorous in such a rustic setting. These light-hearted interactions reveal a camaraderie that grows as the actors bond over shared struggles and silly antics, showing a side of themselves that city life rarely allows.

What to Expect in ‘Rented in Finland’

The teaser also hints at more profound, heartwarming moments as they connect with the locals and learn to appreciate the simple pleasures of rural living. Watching these actors tackle everything from laundry to firewood, viewers can anticipate a blend of comedy, culture shock, and personal growth as they adapt to this rugged lifestyle. The journey is expected to bring a sense of healing, not only for the actors but also for viewers who can vicariously experience the tranquility and beauty of Finland’s countryside.

“Rented in Finland” also promises a mix of laughter, unexpected challenges, and a newfound appreciation for rural life, capturing the genuine chemistry and humor between the four stars. Fans are also eagerly waiting to see these city dwellers navigate the Finnish wilderness and share memorable moments in this unique environment.

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FEATURES LATEST STORIES

Go Min Si Confirmed for New Yoon Ga Eun Film

Go Min Si has found her next project and it’s set to be a big one! The “Sweet Home” star has been confirmed for the new film from award-winning director Yoon Ga Eun!

Yoon Ga Eun Film Casts Go Min Si

Go Min Si is set to captivate audiences once again as she takes on the lead role in the upcoming film “Owner of the World” (literal translation). Her agency Mystic Story confirmed her casting on November 6, revealing that the actress will star in the film as Lee Joo In, an ordinary 18-year-old high school student whose life takes an unexpected turn after a mysterious incident. With its intriguing premise, the movie promises to deliver a compelling coming-of-age story filled with suspense and twists.

“Owner of the World” will be directed by Yoon Ga Eun, a renowned filmmaker celebrated for her sensitive storytelling and focus on youth-centered narratives. Yoon Ga Eun’s acclaimed works include “The World of Us”, a film that received accolades at international film festivals such as the Berlin International Film Festival and the Blue Dragon Film Awards. Her unique approach to storytelling often explores the inner lives of young people, making her an ideal choice to direct Go Min Si in this new film. Fans and critics alike are eager to see how this talented duo will bring Lee Joo In’s journey to life.

An Exciting New Project after a Stunning Performance

Go Min Si’s previous role in “The Frog”, a limited mystery thriller, also showcased her versatility and emotional depth as she portrayed Seong A, a guest with a mysterious background in a story that intersected different timelines. Her strong performance in “The Frog” also solidified her as one of the rising talents in the industry, known for taking on diverse and challenging roles.

While production and release dates for “Owner of the World” have yet to be announced, anticipation is also already building. Fans can also expect Go Min Si to bring her signature depth and nuance to this coming-of-age story, especially under the skilled direction of Yoon Ga Eun. Keep an eye out for more updates on this exciting project!

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Jinyoung Teases GOT7 Comeback After Military Discharge

Jinyoung has officially completed his mandatory military service as an active-duty soldier! Not surprisingly, one of the first things he teased at was a GOT7 comeback!

Jinyoung Says GOT7 Comeback is Happening Soon

On November 7, Jinyoung was discharged, marking the end of his time in the military and the beginning of a new chapter in his career. Fans were thrilled when fellow GOT7 members Yugyeom and BamBam made a surprise appearance to celebrate his return, showing the close bond within the group and their excitement to reunite.

In an interview after his discharge, Jinyoung hinted at exciting projects on the horizon, including GOT7’s long-awaited comeback. He shared that the group has already started discussing their next album. “We are working hard to prepare GOT7’s album,” he revealed, adding that the timing of the comeback is especially meaningful as some members are preparing for their own enlistments.

Jinyoung explained, “We want to release an album soon before [their enlistments] to repay fans.” The group’s commitment to staying connected with their fans, even amid personal schedules, has many eagerly anticipating what they have in store.

Jinyoung also offered insights into his post-military plans in acting. His new drama “Unknown Seoul” (literal title), co-starring Park Bo Young, is set to begin filming shortly. The project marks his first acting endeavor post-discharge, and he expressed excitement about returning to the screen. Additionally, fans can look forward to “The Witch”, a Channel A drama that Jinyoung filmed before his enlistment, which will soon allow viewers to see him in action once again.

As a special treat for fans, Jinyoung held a live broadcast at 7 p.m. KST to reconnect and express his gratitude. His return not only rekindles anticipation for GOT7’s comeback but also opens doors for his acting journey, promising an exciting time ahead for his fans. Welcome back, Jinyoung!

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