Author: Belle

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KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

EXO Members Support Lay During ‘GRANDLINE 4’ in Seoul

The EXO members are proving yet again that they will always have each other’s back. Xiumin, Chanyeol, and Sehun have all been spotted attending fellow member Lay’s solo concert ‘GRANDLINE 4’ in Seoul this weekend!

EXO Members Attend ‘GRANDLINE 4’ in Seoul

Lay Zhang was recently in South Korea for the Korean leg of his ‘GRANDLINE 4’ world tour and the “Psychic” singer held a two-day concert in the country. Although fans were initially expecting to just see Zhang Yixing’s performance, they were also treated to awesome appearances from his fellow EXO members.

On the first day of the concert, Lay immediately noticed EXO maknae Sehun in the crowd. Lay even called out to his fellow member, thrilling the crowd with the interaction.

The second day of the concert tour brought in even more EXO members. This time, Xiumin and Chanyeol attended and even took awesome pictures with their Chinese member. Chanyeol shared a fun photo of himself with Lay Zhang in his Instagram stories.

Fans also spotted the EXO members having a meal together once the after-party has wrapped. It certainly confirms the bond between the idols continues to be strong despite Lay’s hiatus from group activities.

Lay had previously teased fans with a fun interaction with Chanyeol.  On April 21, Zhang Yixing went on Instagram Live as he was on his way to a music show appearance. As he was answering questions from fans, he was interrupted by a video call from fellow EXO member Chanyeol, who was in Japan for a solo schedule.

Although there was no interaction with the other active members of EXO, Eris were delighted to see Lay and Chanyeol having a great time in their video call. Fans are hoping that this is just the start of more interactions between the EXO members this year, especially since the group is expected to release a winter album.

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KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

Zico to Take Legal Action Against Rumors Involving the Late Goo Hara

KOZ Entertainment will be responding strongly to malicious rumors regarding Zico. The agency confirmed they will take legal action against those alleging the rapper’s involvement in the burglary of the home that belonged to the late Goo Hara.

KOZ Entertainment Announces Legal Action Against Rumors Alleging Zico’s Involvement in the Late Goo Hara Burglary

On June 24, KOZ Entertainment released a statement via Weverse addressing the false allegations and rumors surrounding their artist Zico and his involvement with the late Goo Hara.

“We confirmed that numerous malicious posts and comments defaming, insulting, and circulating false information about our artist Zico have been indiscriminately posted on various online communities and social media platforms.

“We will take strict measures against the authors of malicious posts based on the evidence collected through reports from fans and our own monitoring to protect the artist’s rights and interests. Even if it takes time, we will hold them accountable until the end. There will be no leniency or settlements under any circumstances.” – KOZ Entertainment

What Happened to Goo Hara’s Property?

The controversy stems from the June 23 episode of SBS’s “Unanswered Questions,” which focused on the tragic death of Goo Hara and the subsequent robbery at her residence. During the episode, it was revealed that a safe containing several of Goo Hara’s old phones was stolen. Her brother mentioned that he had removed all valuables from the safe before the robbery occurred.

The show unveiled a facial composite of the suspect, who is estimated to be at least 5’8″ tall (in the range of 170-180cm) and in his late 20s or early 30s at the time of the crime. This composite has reignited speculation and controversy, with some netizens claiming the sketch bears a resemblance to Zico. These accusations have led to a surge of online attacks against Zico, further fueled by past rumors connecting him to the Burning Sun scandal due to his friendship with Jung Joon Young and the infamous “Golden Phone.”

KOZ Entertainment’s statement condemned these baseless allegations, asserting Zico’s innocence and announcing plans to take strong legal action against those spreading false information. The agency emphasized the emotional distress and damage to Zico’s reputation caused by these rumors and highlighted their commitment to protecting their artist through all necessary legal means.

This proactive stance by KOZ Entertainment underscores their dedication to defending Zico against defamatory claims and ensuring that the truth prevails. Fans and supporters of Zico have also rallied online, expressing their support and urging others not to believe unverified rumors.

As the situation unfolds, KOZ Entertainment’s firm response also aims to curtail the spread of misinformation and uphold Zico’s integrity in the face of unwarranted accusations.

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KPOP ALBUMS KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

NCT 127 Confirm July Comeback with 6th Full Album ‘WALK’

Mark your calendars for NCT 127’s much-anticipated return! The idol group has just announced their upcoming comeback with their 6th full album!

NCT 127 Confirms 6th Full Album Release in July

On June 24 at midnight KST, NCT 127 thrilled fans by announcing the date and details for their upcoming comeback next month.

The group is set to make their return with their sixth full-length album “WALK” on July 15 at 6 p.m. KST. This comeback is especially significant as it marks their first major release since their winter special single “Be There For Me” in December of last year.

A Comeback Without Taeyong

The release of “WALK” will be a milestone for NCT 127, solidifying their status in the K-pop industry with a sixth full-length album. This comeback also carries a particular emotional weight as it will be their first without member Taeyong, who recently enlisted for military service.

On April 15, Taeyong bid farewell to his fans and fellow members as he embarked on his military duty. The farewell was a heartfelt and emotional moment, with the entire NCT 127 lineup coming together to show their unwavering support and love. The send-off was documented in touching photos shared by Taeyong on social media, accompanied by a heartfelt message expressing his determination to complete his service safely and his deep affection for his group members.

Fans are eagerly awaiting “WALK,” not only for the new music but also to see how NCT 127 will navigate this new chapter without Taeyong. The group’s previous works have also set high expectations, and the upcoming album is expected to showcase their growth and versatility. The anticipation for “WALK” is palpable, as fans look forward to experiencing NCT 127’s innovative sound and powerful performances once again.

As the countdown to July 15 begins, NCT 127’s comeback also promises to be a memorable and significant event for fans worldwide, celebrating the group’s resilience and unity despite the temporary absence of their beloved leader, Taeyong.

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FEATURES LATEST STORIES

Suzy and Song Hye Kyo Delight Fans with Adorable Selfies

Song Hye Kyo has confirmed her sweet friendship with Bae Suzy! The star of “The Glory” just shared adorable selfies with the “Doona!” actress!

Song Hye Kyo and Suzy Show Off Gorgeous Visuals in Adorable Selfies

On June 23, Song Hye Kyo delighted fans by posting several photos on her social media with the simple yet affectionate caption, “Pretty.” The released photos feature charming selfies with fellow actress Suzy, showcasing not only their stunning visuals but also their warm friendship, which quickly captured the attention of fans and netizens alike.

Suzy also reciprocated by sharing several photos taken with Song Hye Kyo on her social media accounts on the same day. Demonstrating their close bond, Song Hye Kyo filled the comments section of Suzy’s post with heart emojis, expressing her affection and support for her friend.

Are Suzy and Song Hye Kyo Working on a Project?

Currently, Suzy is busy filming the new Netflix original series ‘All The Love You Wish For,’ written by the acclaimed screenwriter Kim Eun-sook. Song Hye Kyo, who has a well-known professional relationship with Kim Eun-sook, is set to make a special appearance in the series, further heightening anticipation for the project.

‘All The Love You Wish For’ is a 12-episode fantasy romantic comedy that delves into the intense emotional struggles of Genie (played by Kim Woo-bin), who wields the extraordinary power of life and death, and Ga-young (played by Suzy), a character who lacks emotions. The series explores the complexities of their interactions as they grapple with three wishes that could turn out to be either blessings or punishments. This intriguing premise has already generated significant buzz, with the show scheduled to air in 2024.

The shared photos and the forthcoming series highlight the dynamic presence of both actresses in the entertainment industry. Fans eagerly await the on-screen magic that Suzy and Song Hye Kyo will bring to ‘All The Love You Wish For,’ and their off-screen friendship continues to endear them to their admirers.

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KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

GOT7 Youngjae Signs With AndBut Ahead of Solo Comeback

Youngjae has found a new agency to call home! The GOT7 member has officially signed with AndBut Company three months after parting ways with Sublime Artist Agency.

Choi Youngjae Signs Exclusive Contract with AndBut

On June 24, AndBut Company announced the signing of an exclusive contract with the multi-talented artist.

The agency expressed their excitement, stating, “We are happy to have signed an exclusive contract with Youngjae. We will not spare any support to help the multi-talented Youngjae maximize his abilities and strengths so that he can be loved by many people. Please show lots of support.”

AndBut Company is a new agency established by a former JYP Entertainment employee who has maintained a connection with Youngjae since his debut. The longstanding relationship likely played a role in Youngjae’s decision to join the new agency, as it provides a sense of continuity and trust.

Youngjae, who debuted as a member of the boy group GOT7 in 2014, has been active as a solo artist since 2021. He released his first full-length studio album, “Do It,” in November of last year, showcasing his versatility and talent as a solo performer.

Youngjae’s Fresh Start in 2024

Earlier on June 22, Youngjae dropped the first teaser image of his upcoming digital single, “T.P.O,” on his social media account, announcing his comeback for the first time in about eight months. This upcoming release is highly anticipated by fans, who are eager to see what new musical direction Youngjae will take.

The transition to AndBut Company marks a new chapter in Youngjae’s career, filled with opportunities for growth and exploration. The agency’s commitment to fully supporting his endeavors also suggests that fans can look forward to a range of exciting projects in the future.

Wishing all the best to Youngjae on his new start! This move is also expected to bring fresh and innovative content from the artist, further solidifying his place in the music industry.

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KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

RED VELVET Drops Ethereal ‘Cosmic’ MV Teaser and Images

Red Velvet has done it again. The girl group has entranced netizens with the ethereal ‘Cosmic’ MV teaser and images!

‘Cosmic’ MV Teaser and Images Mesmerize Netizens and RED VELVET Fans

Red Velvet has once again captured the public’s attention with the release of their latest teaser for the music video of “Cosmic,” the lead track from their eagerly anticipated mini-album. Released just yesterday, the teaser has quickly gained traction, becoming a hot topic among their fans and Korean netizens on various community sites.

The visually stunning teaser also sets an enchanting yet unsettling scene, reminiscent of the picturesque atmosphere seen in the movie “Midsommar.” Red Velvet, known for their ability to blend fairytale elements with dark and eerie themes, has once again created a unique and captivating aesthetic. The creative approach, intertwining beauty with horror, has drawn widespread intrigue and acclaim.

Fans and netizens alike have taken to social media and online forums to share their excitement and thoughts on the teaser. The group’s innovative take on a well-known narrative has not only stirred the curiosity of their existing fanbase but also attracted new followers. Many are now eagerly anticipating the full release of “Cosmic,” excited to see how the complete music video and album will also expand on the teaser’s themes and visuals.

Red Velvet’s ability to continually reinvent themselves while maintaining their signature style is also evident in this latest teaser. By blending whimsical and sinister elements, they have created a teaser that is both mesmerizing and haunting, leaving fans eager for more. This anticipation and excitement surrounding “Cosmic” and the mini-album also underline the group’s enduring popularity and their knack for pushing creative boundaries in the K-Pop industry.

Red Velvet‘s next EP ‘Cosmic’ and the title track of the same name will be released on June 24, 2024.

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KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

LOONA Heejin, Kim Lip, Jinsol and Choerry Win Contract Lawsuit Vs Blockberry Creative

LOONA’s Heejin, Kim Lip, Jinsol, and Choerry have successfully won their exclusive contract lawsuit against Blockberry Creative.

Heejin, Kim Lip, Jinsol, and Choerry vs Blockberry Creative

On June 21, the 11th Civil Division of the Seoul Northern District Court ruled in favor of the four members in their civil lawsuit filed in March 2023. Initially, the lawsuit progressed without Blockberry Creative’s response, but the label eventually engaged, and court hearings began in December 2023.

Prior to this ruling, Heejin, Kim Lip, Jinsol, and Choerry had secured a temporary injunction that suspended the effects of their exclusive contracts. The injunction freed them from restrictions on their entertainment activities, allowing them to continue their careers without Blockberry Creative’s interference. Following this, the four members joined a new agency, Modu House, and debuted as part of the reformed group ARTMS, which also includes Haesol, bringing the group to five members.

LOONA originally debuted in 2018 as a 12-member group, but internal disputes, particularly involving member Chuu, led to significant changes. Chuu faced financial settlement issues with Blockberry Creative, prompting her to pursue legal action. She won her first and second trials to dissolve her exclusive contract, although Blockberry Creative has appealed, and the final decision is pending from the Supreme Court.

These legal battles have led to a practical disbandment of LOONA, with several members pursuing legal action to suspend their contracts. The successful lawsuit by Heejin, Kim Lip, Jinsol, and Choerry marks a significant development in the ongoing conflict between LOONA members and Blockberry Creative.

This victory not only liberates the members from their restrictive contracts but also sets a precedent for other K-Pop artists facing similar issues. It highlights the growing awareness and assertiveness among idols regarding fair treatment and contractual rights within the industry. Fans of LOONA and the newly formed Artemis can now look forward to more unencumbered activities from these talented artists.

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KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

NewJeans Hanni Goes Viral with Adorable Photocards

NewJeans have done something right by releasing an album with set photocards. However, it looks like one member is getting more attention for her cute poses! Hanni’s adorable photocards are gaining attention, and fans are glad that they don’t have to purchase numerous albums to get one!

NewJeans Member Hanni Goes Viral for Adorable Photocards

These days, most K-Pop albums come with random photocards of the group members. While this practice adds an element of excitement for fans, it has also sparked controversy due to its implications. The practice encourages mass buying of albums, leading to excessive waste and artificially inflating K-Pop album sales numbers. Fans often buy multiple copies of the same album in hopes of collecting all the photocards, resulting in stacks of unwanted duplicates and environmental concerns.

In this context, it’s a refreshing surprise when a K-Pop group releases an album with set photocards, ensuring that fans know exactly what they’re getting. This approach not only reduces waste but also allows fans to enjoy the complete set without the pressure of buying multiple copies. NewJeans’ recent album is a prime example of this, much to the delight of their fanbase.

However, the excitement around NewJeans’ album isn’t just about the set photocards. The photocards of member Hanni have gone viral online due to their undeniable cuteness. Fans have been particularly captivated by Hanni’s short hairstyle, which is actually a wig. Since debuting the look last month, it has become a sensation within the NewJeans fandom. Hanni’s continued use of the wig for the group’s multiple single albums highlights its popularity.

The buzz around Hanni’s photocards is evident on social media, where tweets showcasing her new look have garnered significant attention. Some tweets have amassed as many as 2.4 million views and over 60k likes. This viral reaction underscores the impact of thoughtful album packaging and member styling in K-Pop.

By offering set photocards and leveraging popular looks, NewJeans not only cater to their fans’ desires but also set a positive example for sustainable practices in the industry. This strategy fosters deeper fan engagement while addressing environmental concerns, proving that thoughtful marketing can benefit both fans and the planet.

NewJeans recently dropped their single “Supernatural” on June 21, 2024.

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KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

Former C9 Entertainment Employees Expose Company in Scathing Reviews

C9 Entertainment—home to artists like Younha, CIX, and EPEX—is facing significant criticism for allegedly mismanaging its business operations. This scrutiny has been amplified by the actions of CIX fans, who have taken to social media to expose the company’s internal issues. Now, former C9 Entertainment employees are exposing the agency with scathing reviews posted on the internet.

Former C9 Entertainment Employees Speak Out Against Company

A CIX fan recently shared screenshots on Twitter from Job Planet, a workplace review website akin to Glassdoor. These screenshots contained negative reviews from former C9 Entertainment employees, painting a grim picture of the company’s internal workings. The reviews suggest a troubling work environment, raising questions about the company’s ability to support its artists effectively. These posts are part of the #TreatCIXBetter movement, which aims to hold C9 Entertainment accountable for what fans perceive as a lack of adequate support for CIX.

The reviews have led K-pop fans to question whether C9 Entertainment should continue discovering and promoting new talent. Despite these concerns, the company also announced in April 2024 that a new multicultural boy group is set to debut in late 2025, with lead roles in a TBS K-Drama. This ambitious plan has also been met with skepticism given the company’s current controversies and apparent internal issues.

Adding to the turmoil, C9 Entertainment faced backlash from viewers and fans after an episode of the YouTube show “No Bbaku Tak Jae Hoon” made inappropriate comments about Jeewon. The show implied that she would be fit for porn, also sparking outrage. C9 Entertainment’s response to the controversy also did little to appease Cignature fans, further tarnishing the company’s reputation.

These incidents have combined to put C9 Entertainment under intense scrutiny. Fans and industry observers alike are also calling for the company to address its internal issues and provide better support for its artists. The situation also highlights the broader challenges within the K-pop industry regarding artist management and the importance of maintaining a supportive and professional environment for all involved.

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K-DRAMA KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

EXO-CBX’s ‘Moon Lovers: Scarlet Heart Ryeo’ OST MV Hits 100M Views

EXO-CBX’s “Moon Lovers: Scarlet Heart Ryeo” OST track “For You” has achieved a remarkable milestone on YouTube! The music video for the beloved song has just reached 100 million views!

EXO-CBX ‘Moon Lovers: Scarlet Heart Ryeo’ OST Track Gets 100 Million Views

As of June 22 at approximately 10 p.m. KST, the music video for “For You”—sung by Chen, Baekhyun, and Xiumin—surpassed 100 million views. This milestone was reached about 7 years, 9 months, and 28 days after the video’s initial release on August 25, 2016.

“For You” is a beloved song from the soundtrack of the hit 2016 drama “Moon Lovers: Scarlet Heart Ryeo,” which featured EXO’s Baekhyun along with IU, Lee Joon-gi, and Kang Ha-neul. The drama tells the story of a 21st-century woman who time travels to the Goryeo Dynasty, becoming entangled in the power struggles and romantic entanglements of the royal family.

EXO-CBX’s Legal Fight

In related news, the EXO-CBX members—Baekhyun, Chen, and Xiumin—are currently involved in a legal dispute with SM Entertainment, their management agency. The conflict arose over allegations of unfair profit distribution, with the members accusing SM Entertainment of failing to honor an agreed-upon 5.5 percent music distribution fee for INB100. This issue led the idols to announce their intention to sue the agency.

In response, SM Entertainment has counterclaimed that EXO-CBX voluntarily terminated their exclusive contracts ahead of schedule, adding complexity to the ongoing legal battle. The dispute has also captured the attention of fans and the broader entertainment industry, highlighting the ongoing challenges and negotiations between K-pop artists and their management companies.

The milestone achievement of “For You” on YouTube also serves as a reminder of the enduring popularity and impact of EXO-CBX’s music, even amidst their current legal issues. Fans continue to show their support for Chen, Baekhyun, and Xiumin, celebrating their musical successes while also backing them in their fight for fair treatment.

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