Author: Belle

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2AM Jo Kwon Leaves CUBE Entertainment After 7 Years

2AM’s Jo Kwon has officially parted ways with Cube Entertainment after seven years of collaboration.

CUBE Entertainment Confirms Jo Kwon’s Departure After 7 Years

On June 17, Cube Entertainment released a statement announcing the expiration of their exclusive contract with Jo Kwon. The company expressed its appreciation for the time they spent working together and wished Jo Kwon the best in his future endeavors.

“We would like to officially inform you of information regarding Jo Kwon’s exclusive contract with Cube Entertainment,” the statement read. “After sufficient discussion with our artist Jo Kwon, our exclusive contract ended as of June 17, 2024. We would like to express our sincere gratitude to Jo Kwon, who has been active in various fields with constant passion and overflowing energy under our agency since 2018.”

“Cube Entertainment will always support Jo Kwon, who will begin a new journey,” it concludes.

Jo Kwon also took to his social media accounts to share the news with his fans, reposting Cube Entertainment’s statement. In his message, he expressed heartfelt gratitude towards the agency for their support over the years. He also thanked his fans for their continuous love and encouragement throughout his career.

“I will not forget the precious times I spent with Cube Entertainment. Thank you very much.”

Jo Kwon’s departure from Cube Entertainment marks the end of a significant chapter in his professional journey. Having debuted with 2AM in 2008 under JYP Entertainment, Jo Kwon has had a dynamic career, showcasing his talents not only as a singer but also as an actor and television personality. His versatility and charisma have endeared him to fans worldwide.

As he embarks on this new phase, fans are eager to see what Jo Kwon will pursue next. His departure from Cube Entertainment opens up new possibilities for collaborations and projects that will undoubtedly continue to highlight his diverse talents and dedication to his craft.

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MOMOLAND JooE Signs With Oneul Entertainment

MOMOLAND’s JooE has embarked on a new chapter in her career by signing with a brand-new agency. Oneul Entertainment has confirmed that the idol has signed with them as their first artist.

MOMOLAND Member JooE Signs Exclusive Contract with Oneul Entertainment

On June 17, Oneul Entertainment, a newly established company, announced that JooE had signed an exclusive contract with them.

“We are thrilled to have JooE as our first artist and plan to provide her with unwavering support so that she can engage in a wide array of activities,” the agency stated.

Oneul Entertainment was founded by Bang Seok Hyeong, a former general director at both Source Music and Abyss Company, bringing a wealth of industry experience to the new agency.

Expressing her excitement about the new beginning, JooE commented, “I am eager to showcase my diverse talents at this new home. I want to present better and more varied content to the general public.”

JooE’s Tough Start and Hopeful Future

JooE initially rose to fame as a member of MOMOLAND through the 2016 reality show “Finding Momoland”. She emerged as one of the show’s winners alongside Hyebin, Yeonwoo, Jane, Nayun, Ahin, and Nancy, forming the original lineup of MOMOLAND.

The group debuted with their mini album ‘Welcome to Momoland’ on November 10, 2016. MOMOLAND expanded to a nine-member group in 2017 with the addition of Daisy and Taeha. However, the group saw significant changes in its lineup over the years. Taeha and Yeonwoo departed in 2019, and Daisy left in 2020. Ultimately, MOMOLAND disbanded on February 14, 2023.

JooE’s move to Oneul Entertainment marks a significant step in her career post-MOMOLAND. Fans are eager to see how she will evolve and what new ventures she will undertake under the guidance of her new agency. The commitment from Oneul Entertainment to support her multifaceted talents suggests that JooE is poised for a promising future, offering a wide range of content and activities that will further endear her to the public.

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G-DRAGON Opens Up About Becoming a Visiting Professor

BIGBANG’s G-Dragon has made a striking appearance on the cover of ELLE Korea’s July issue, showcasing his signature style and charisma. The cover shoot highlights his iconic fashion sense, capturing the essence of his unique persona that has captivated fans worldwide. In addition to that, the BIGBANG leader opened up about his recent appointment as a visiting professor at a distinguished university.

BIGBANG Leader G-Dragon on Being Appointed as a Visiting Professor

In the accompanying interview, G-Dragon shared insights into his recent appointment as a visiting professor at the Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST). He expressed his excitement and honor at being given this prestigious role, emphasizing his commitment to contributing to the academic and creative community at KAIST.

G-Dragon discussed his vision for bridging the gap between the arts and sciences, hoping to inspire students to think creatively and innovatively in their respective fields.

“I was stunned and excited at the same time when I first visited the campus as it was a very new challenge even for me. KAIST is a place full of people who passionately explore their fields.” he said. “I thought that the way the students immersed [in their studies] to an extent that the boundary between academics and daily life is unclear looked similar to myself as a child, who contemplated and explored alone in the practice room.”

The Future Beckons

G-Dragon also reflected on his journey as an artist and the importance of continuously evolving and pushing boundaries.

“I tend to be curious about a variety of areas rather than just one specific field,” he said. “There is a desire in me, both as a creator and as a human being, to challenge something a little more unfamiliar than something outdated if possible. If the field is not my area of ​​expertise, I am willing to borrow the expertise of others. That way, it is possible to present a higher quality outcome.”

G-Dragon’s appointment at KAIST is not only a testament to his multifaceted talent but also an opportunity for him to influence the next generation of thinkers and creators. Fans of G-Dragon and readers of ELLE Korea can look forward to an engaging and thought-provoking interview that delves into his new academic role and offers a glimpse into his future endeavors.

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EXO Suho Opens Up About EXO-CBX vs SM Entertainment Situation

Suho is finally breaking his silence on the whole EXO-CBX vs SM Entertainment situation. The EXO leader recently shared his thoughts on the legal battle between his group members and their former company.

Suho Discusses Thoughts on EXO-CBX vs SM Entertainment Situation

On June 14, Suho met with TenAsia to share various stories about MBN’s “Missing Crown Prince”. When asked about his thoughts on the whole situation between Baekhyun, Xiumin, and Chen, and his current company, Suho chose his words carefully.

“I actually learned about the situation through the news. I was shocked and very upset. Above all, I was worried about the fans. Last year, our fans went through a similar situation. I remember how heartbroken and upset they were. With this happening again, I am also feeling uneasy, and I can tell that the fans are not feeling good about it.”

Suho also expressed his regret about how the legal dilemma would affect EXO fans.

“I want to take this opportunity to apologize to the fans for such an incident happening.” He added, “We were preparing a winter album. With Sehun and Kai expected to be discharged from the military next year, we were gradually making plans with SM Entertainment.”

The Ongoing Legal Battle

EXO’s Baekhyun Chen and Xiumin have previously taken a decisive step in their ongoing conflict with SM Entertainment. The EXO-CBX members have announced their plans to sue the agency over allegations of unfair profit distribution.

They also took the opportunity to apologize to their fans for the turmoil and uncertainty that the dispute has caused. As EXO-CBX and SM Entertainment prepare for their court showdown, fans and industry observers alike will be closely watching to see how this conflict unfolds and what implications it may have for other artists and agencies in similar situations. The outcome of this lawsuit could potentially reshape the dynamics of artist management and contract negotiations in the K-pop world.

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Sowon Says GFRIEND Has NOT Disbanded

Sowon just dropped some hopeful news for fans. The GFRIEND leader has revealed that the group has not disbanded and even teased the group’s possible reunion.

GFRIEND Leader Sowon Says Group Has NOT Disbanded

Sowon recently made an appearance in a YouTube video on the channel Kiu기우쌤, where she got her hair done by the renowned YouTuber-hairdresser Lee Sung Gyu. During this session, Sowon and Lee engaged in a heartfelt and candid conversation about the members of GFRIEND and their current activities.

Sowon spoke about how all the members recently attended a VIVIZ concert together. She expressed how enjoyable it was for all the members to reunite at the concert, noting that this was their first meeting in two months. This regular interaction demonstrates the strong bond that the GFRIEND members continue to share, despite their different professional paths.

Lee brought up the topic of fans who still hope for GFRIEND to reunite officially. Sowon clarified a common misconception by stating that GFRIEND never truly disbanded. Instead, their exclusive contract with Source Music had ended, which led them to pursue individual activities. She emphasized that the group’s spirit and connection remain intact.

Sowon also shared insights into how the members continue to support each other’s performances. They frequently exchange opinions and critiques, which helps them stay connected to their roots as performers. She mentioned that she personally continues to practice diligently, fueled by her conviction that she will one day perform on stage with GFRIEND again.

When is the GFRIEND Reunion?

When Lee suggested the idea of GFRIEND joining VIVIZ on stage for a performance during their concert, Sowon gracefully declined. She felt that it was important for the spotlight to remain on VIVIZ during their concerts. For a potential GFRIEND comeback, Sowon expressed her desire to go all out, hinting that a proper reunion would be a grand affair rather than a surprise cameo.

GFRIEND made their debut in 2015 with the iconic song “Glass Bead,” which quickly captivated audiences with its powerful choreography and perfect vocals. The group continued to dominate the charts with hits like “Me Gustas Tu,” “Time For The Moon Night,” and “MAGO.” Their final song, “MAGO,” was released in 2021 before they announced their departure from Source Music. Despite this, the group’s legacy endures, and their bond remains as strong as ever.

Sowon’s discussion with Lee Sung Gyu provided fans with a heartening update on GFRIEND, reinforcing the hope that the beloved group may grace the stage together again in the future.

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TripleS Fans React to Members Moving Out of Group Dorm

TripleS is facing yet another controversy. A few members have decided to move out of their group dorm, and some fans have surprising reactions to the news.

TripleS Members Face Backlash After Moving Out of Group Dorm

TripleS recently announced that during inactive periods, some members of the 24-member group would be choosing to live on their own rather than in the group dorm. The members planning to move out include Sohyun, Hyerin, Jiwoo, and Yooyeon. This decision has sparked anger among some fans of the group, resulting in a protest that took place at a recent TripleS fan meeting.

Photos from the fan meeting have emerged, showing one fan ignoring member Sohyun and refusing to interact with her. Screenshots of the boycott being organized have also been uncovered, with one fan instructing those attending the fan meeting: “Don’t talk to those members, don’t look at them, and when you sit in front of those members, turn your back to them.”

From the pictures of the fan meeting, it appears that at least one fan followed that advice. Once the protesting fan was identified, it was announced that he was blacklisted from attending any further TripleS fan meetings.

The situation highlights a growing tension between the group’s management decisions and the expectations of their fanbase. This tension has been exacerbated by the recent debut of TripleS as a full team with the release of their first studio album ‘Assemble24’ on May 8. The album contains ten tracks, with the lead single “Girls Never Die.” The announcement of the 24-member debut was accompanied by a photo featuring all the members, which further ignited fan theories and controversies.

Trouble for TripleS?

Fans theorized that the members were arranged in the photo according to who sold the most Objekts. Although MODHAUS hasn’t confirmed or denied this, fans compared the members’ positions in the photo to the Objekt sales data. They found that the members who were front and center in the photo had sold more than the girls placed at the back. This discovery sparked discussions within the fandom.

Some believed it wasn’t fair, while others considered it downright toxic. Concerns were raised about the impact the arrangement could have on the members, especially on TripleS’s maknae, SeoAh, who is only 13 years old. Moreover, there are those who say they’re having a hard time getting into TripleS because they feel overwhelmed by the number of members.

The backlash from the fans over the living arrangements and the perceived favoritism based on sales underscores the challenges that come with managing a large idol group. Balancing individual member activities and maintaining group cohesion while keeping fans satisfied is a complex task. For TripleS, finding a way to address these fan concerns and ensuring fair treatment for all members will be crucial for their continued success and harmony within the fandom.

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ENHYPEN Drops Trailer for 2nd Full Album ‘ROMANCE: UNTOLD’

Get ready for ENHYPEN’s return! The boy group has just confirmed a July 2024 comeback with a trailer for their upcoming album ‘ROMANCE: UNTOLD’!

ENHYPEN Releases ‘ROMANCE: UNTOLD’ Trailer

On June 17 at midnight KST, ENHYPEN officially announced the date and details for their highly anticipated comeback with an exciting trailer. The group is set to release their second full-length album, titled “ROMANCE : UNTOLD,” on July 12 at 1 p.m. KST. Fans can start pre-ordering the album beginning June 17, adding to the excitement and anticipation surrounding their comeback.

“ROMANCE : UNTOLD” promises to be a significant release for ENHYPEN, following the success of their previous works. The announcement has already generated considerable buzz within the fan community, with fans eagerly speculating about the album’s concept and the new music it will bring. The group’s previous releases have been known for their captivating storytelling and intricate choreography, and fans are looking forward to seeing how ENHYPEN will continue to evolve their artistic expression in this new album.

Making a Statement

In related news, BELIFT LAB, the agency managing ENHYPEN, has provided an update on its legal actions against malicious commenters and individuals targeting its artists, including both ENHYPEN and ILLIT. The agency reaffirmed its commitment to protecting its artists from online harassment and defamation. BELIFT LAB emphasized that it has been actively monitoring online platforms and collecting evidence against those who engage in malicious activities. The agency assured fans that it will take all necessary legal actions to ensure a safe and respectful environment for its artists.

The update from BELIFT LAB highlights the agency’s proactive stance in addressing the issue of cyberbullying and malicious comments, which have become increasingly prevalent in the digital age. By taking strong legal action, BELIFT LAB aims to set a precedent and discourage such harmful behavior within the fan community and beyond.

As ENHYPEN gears up for their comeback with “ROMANCE : UNTOLD,” fans can look forward to a new chapter in the group’s musical journey. The album’s release promises to deliver fresh, innovative music and performances that will further solidify ENHYPEN’s place in the K-pop industry. With pre-orders starting soon, the excitement and anticipation are sure to continue building as the release date approaches.

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BABYMONSTER Confirms July Comeback Date with ‘RSVP’ Teaser

Mark your calendars for BABYMONSTER’s highly anticipated return! The girl group has just revealed their July comeback date with a teaser for their next single.

BABYMONSTER Sets July Comeback Date

On June 17 at midnight KST, BABYMONSTER unveiled the first teaser for their upcoming single “RSVP”, which will be featured on their first full-length album set for release later this year. The new single, scheduled to drop on July 1 at 12 a.m. KST, marks an exciting milestone for the group and their fans.

BABYMONSTER burst onto the K-pop scene with their debut single “Batter Up” in November 2023. The group followed up with another hit, “Stuck in the Middle,” in February 2024. Although these initial releases showcased only six of the group’s members, Ahyeon rejoined BABYMONSTER ahead of their first EP release, ‘BabyMons7er,’ in April. This EP featured the titular single “Sheesh,” re-recordings of “Batter Up” and “Stuck in the Middle” with all seven members, and a special track titled “Like That” by Charlie Puth. The latter song was a gift to the group following a viral cover of Puth’s “Dangerously” sung by Ahyeon.

‘BabyMons7er’ was a significant success, recording over 460,000 pre-orders and debuting at number three on the Circle Album Chart. The single “Sheesh” achieved remarkable streaming numbers, becoming the highest entry for a K-pop girl group on Spotify in 2024. It debuted with 1.76 million streams on Spotify’s Daily Top Songs Global Chart, landing at the sixty-ninth spot.

When is BABYMONSTER’s Full Album Release?

The group’s impressive achievements have not gone unnoticed. Yang Hyun Suk, the founder of YG Entertainment, previously hinted that BABYMONSTER was gearing up to release their first full-length album around September or October of this year. This upcoming album is highly anticipated by fans who are eager to see what new musical directions and innovations the group will explore.

BABYMONSTER’s upcoming single and full-length album mark an exciting chapter in their career. Their previous releases have set high expectations, and the teasers for their new music have already generated significant buzz. As the release date approaches, fans around the world are eagerly awaiting what promises to be another groundbreaking project from the group.

With their new single set to drop on July 1 at 12 a.m. KST, BABYMONSTER is poised to continue their ascent in the K-pop world. This comeback not only highlights the group’s growth and evolution but also underscores their commitment to delivering high-quality music and performances that resonate with a global audience. Fans should stay tuned for more updates and prepare for an exciting summer with BABYMONSTER.

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RED VELVET Announce 10th Anniversary Fancon Tour ‘HAPPINESS: My Dear, ReVe1uv’

Red Velvet is gearing up for a grand celebration for their debut anniversary. The girl group has just announced their 10th anniversary fancon tour set for August!

RED VELVET Prepares for 10th Anniversary Fancon Tour

On June 14, Red Velvet confirmed their 10th anniversary fancon tour titled “HAPPINESS: My Dear, ReVe1uv.” The tour is set to commence on August 3 and 4 in Seoul at the Olympic Handball Gymnasium. This exciting announcement was made on June 14, sparking anticipation and enthusiasm among fans worldwide. The initial announcement also hinted at more dates and locations for the fancon tour, promising a memorable experience for ReVeluvs globally.

The fancon tour is designed to be a special celebration of Red Velvet’s decade-long journey in the music industry. Fans can look forward to a variety of performances that showcase the group’s diverse talents and extensive discography. Additionally, the fancon will provide an intimate setting for Red Velvet to communicate directly with their fans, making the anniversary celebration even more meaningful.

The Summer Comeback

In conjunction with the fancon tour announcement, Red Velvet has also revealed details about their highly anticipated comeback. The group will be releasing a new album titled ‘Cosmic’ on June 24 at 6 p.m. KST. To build excitement for the release, Red Velvet shared a “Travel Document” that outlines the promotion schedule for the upcoming album. This strategic move has only heightened the anticipation among fans who have been eagerly waiting for new music from the group.

‘Cosmic’ represents Red Velvet’s first comeback since their third full-length album ‘Chill Kill,’ which was released in November 2023. This album followed their 2022 releases: ‘Bloom’ and the mini-album ‘The ReVe Festival 2022 – Birthday.’ Each of these releases has also highlighted Red Velvet’s growth and versatility as artists, with ‘Cosmic’ expected to continue this trend. Fans are eagerly speculating about the themes, concepts, and musical styles that the new album will explore.

The combination of the fancon tour and the new album release underscores a significant period in Red Velvet’s career. As they celebrate a decade of success, the group also continues to push creative boundaries and engage deeply with their fanbase. The “HAPPINESS : My Dear, ReVe1uv” fancon tour also promises to be a heartfelt thank you to the fans who have supported them throughout their journey, while ‘Cosmic’ offers a glimpse into the future of Red Velvet’s evolving artistry.

Overall, the upcoming months are set to be monumental for Red Velvet and their fans. With a new album and a celebratory tour on the horizon, ReVeluvs also have much to look forward to as they join the group in commemorating ten years of musical excellence and cherished memories.

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EXO Baekhyun Chen and Xiumin Apologize to Fans for SM Lawsuit

EXO’s Baekhyun Chen and Xiumin have taken a decisive step in their ongoing conflict with SM Entertainment. The EXO-CBX members have announced their plans to sue the agency over allegations of unfair profit distribution.

Baekhyun Chen and Xiumin vs SM Entertainment

Earlier this week, the EXO-CBX members held a press conference to voice their concerns, accusing SM Entertainment of failing to honor an agreed-upon 5.5 percent music distribution fee for INB100. They further argued that SM Entertainment’s demand for 10 percent of their earnings from solo ventures was unjust. This press conference highlighted the deep-seated issues between the artists and their former management.

SM Entertainment responded with a counterclaim, stating that EXO-CBX had voluntarily terminated their exclusive contracts ahead of schedule. According to the agency, the trio had signed an agreement that stipulated they would remit 10 percent of their individual activity revenue to SM Entertainment as a condition for early contract termination. SM Entertainment asserted that there was no clause regarding a distribution fee in the final agreement, as the agency purportedly lacked the authority to determine such a fee.

The situation escalated further when SM Entertainment declared on June 13 that they would pursue legal action to ensure EXO-CBX adhered to the terms of their agreement. The announcement came after a series of additional statements from both parties, each attempting to clarify their stance and justify their actions.

EXO-CBX Statement Includes Apology to Fans

On June 14, Chen, Baekhyun, and Xiumin issued a new statement, revealing their decision to sue SM Entertainment over the disputed profit distribution. In their statement, the trio expressed their frustration with the agency’s practices and reiterated their commitment to seeking justice through legal channels.

“As SM has filed a lawsuit first, we will actively participate by revealing everything, including our negotiations from last year.

“Additionally, regarding the distribution of profits that we had always doubted, we will file a lawsuit against SM over the distribution of profits. Through this lawsuit, we will assert our just rights by receiving accounting and profit-distribution data as decided by the law and our exclusive contracts. We will also reveal to the court that SM’s profit-distribution system is wrong.

“Also, through our complaint to the Fair Trade Commission regarding the unfairness of our exclusive contracts, we will receive a proper judgment from the law.”

They also took the opportunity to apologize to their fans for the turmoil and uncertainty that the dispute has caused.

“To our fans who always send us love and support and should only receive joy [in return], we feel truly sorry for bringing you anxiety and disappointment due to the same issue as last year.

“In the future, we will minimize releasing official statements, and we will try to resolve this situation quickly.

“Also, we promise to remain a Chen, Baekhyun, and Xiumin who can forever be together with you through the precious memories we’ve made with you all.”

This legal battle marks a significant chapter in the ongoing struggle for fair treatment and transparency in the K-pop industry. As EXO-CBX and SM Entertainment prepare for their court showdown, fans and industry observers alike will be closely watching to see how this conflict unfolds and what implications it may have for other artists and agencies in similar situations. The outcome of this lawsuit could potentially reshape the dynamics of artist management and contract negotiations in the K-pop world.

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